Circus School, top-notch dining, mini golf, and a Kids Club your kids will love—you’ll find this and so much more at your new favorite all-inclusive resort
Keeping kids active, engaged, and feeling like an important part of the vacation equation is what Club Med does best. Newly opened Club Med Marbella neighbors the Sierra Blanca Mountains and sandy Mediterranean beaches on southern Spain’s Costa del Sol and it has already topped our list of best all-inclusive resorts for families. It’s admittedly a haul for American families because of a lack of direct flights, so read on and we’ll show you why it’s worth the trek. But, also keep in mind you can expect to find the same exceptional focus on service, infusion of local culinary and cultural influences, and range of activities across Club Med’s 70 outposts in 26 countries.
Pools & Water Play Options at Club Med Marbella
Maria Chambers
In their family-focused properties, Club Med does a fantastic job of providing multiple water play areas that focus on kids-only, adults-only, and ones that are fair game for all. Club Med Marbella is a 30-minute stroll via vibrant city streets to the sea and there are five freshwater options onsite that range from a nicely outfitted splash zone with slides and aquatic games to a zero-depth entry lagoon pool. Adults can escape to the quiet-as-a-library Zen pool perched atop a hill with views of the city, Sierra Nevada Mountains, and the Mediterranean or the sleek indoor/outdoor spa pool with cozy loungers and cabanas.
Club Med has had 70 years to perfect its Kids Club programming and its breadth of experience and constant honing of offerings are apparent.
Kids Club staff doesn’t approach this as a mindless babysitting gig. They dive in and really get to know each child: their strengths, dislikes, and what tickles their fancy. They’ve been trained to observe and react to the needs of each child.
Kids ages 4 mos.-17 yrs. participate in drop-off programming which includes an array of activities, including a wide range of sports, interactive games, swimming and water play, performance art, and group outings.
Climb to the tippy top of a two-story platform and take a leap on a flying trapeze, testing your boundaries and impressing the kids with your sense of adventure. Trained staff guides flyers each step of the way in this ridiculously fun (and slightly terrifying) family bonding activity.
Maria Chambers
There’s Just So Much to Do at Club Med Marbella
If kids need a break from getting pruney in the pool and showing off their agility at Circus School, there are many other ways to tire them out. Next to the splash zone is a large playset, mini golf course, and a tot-sized zip line. Around the property, you’ll also find archery, table tennis, tennis, golf, volleyball, basketball, bocce, a mini soccer pitch, and fitness classes.
Maria Chambers
The Abundance of Food
The quality, range, and availability of food can make or break an all-inclusive experience. Club Med nails it every time by giving vacationers a taste of local cuisine, while also having a decent selection of expected staples for American travelers.
Club Med Marbella has two restaurants onsite. Tierra Gourmet Lounge is a traditional sit-down restaurant with table service that has a bar, wine tastings, coffee and late breakfast, and pre-dinner tapas stations. Suenos is a buffet-lovers dream come true with daily fish, meat, and pasta specials and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There is also a special corner in Suenos dedicated to the appetites of young kids with soft foods and a room onsite filled with jars and pouches of baby food, toddler crackers, a bottle warmer, a microwave, a hot plate, and a refrigerator.
We’re in the era of “there’s an app for that” and Club Med is all in. Download the app for a village-level schedule of activities and classes, a property map, spa and dining reservations, and practical need-to-know info.
Club Med is known for its theme nights, so pay special attention to the “dress code” section. Heads up, you may think you won’t want to participate, but you will. It’s fun to look around at other guests’ interpretations of themes and feel a sense of cozy togetherness with other families.
Maria Chambers
Last, But Not Least: The Staff at Club Med Marbella
Club Med doesn’t refer to their properties as resorts or hotels, they’re villages. And, they use the it-takes-a-village approach when creating truly memorable experiences. You get the vibe the staff enjoys being there. It’s normal to see them before or after shifts interacting with guests, sitting for a meal, chatting up kids they know from Kids Club, and doing their best to make each guest’s experience better. It’s a beautifully unique element to a stay at Club Med.
Creating a baby registry for your first time (or even your third) can feel both exciting and overwhelming. With so many options available, from bottles and diapers to monitors and car seats, you may be uncertain of what to choose.
The First Years, whose mission is to encourage parents and caregivers to embrace every first moment of their newborn’s life, offers a wide range of high-quality, long-lasting products that’ll make your transition to parenthood a breeze. We’ve selected the top five items that are a must for your baby registry and will give you more bang for your buck.
Bathing your bundle of joy for the very first time is a monumental milestone in parenthood. While you may be excited for this moment, it can be tricky (and nerve wracking!) to hold onto your little one’s slippery body. With The First Years Sure Comfort Folding Bather, you can easily and safely wash your baby in the bathtub and in most kitchen sinks with its no-slip seat and raised mesh sides. The inclined bather, which is available only at Target, can also be used from the time of the baby’s birth up until they’re 15 pounds or begin sitting up unassisted.
Sit or Stand™ Potty & Urinal – 2-in-1 Potty Training System
When creating a baby registry, moms and dads tend to select items geared towards the first 12 months of their infant’s life. It can be a good idea, however, to add a few products that your baby will need as they continue to age. For instance, the Sit or Stand™ Potty & Urinal is great to have on hand when your toddler begins to show readiness for the potty-training stage. This 2-in-1 system is great for boys and girls alike, functioning as both a potty and a urinal that’s easy to empty and clean, features a built-in splash guard and can be adjusted to three different height options. Your child can successfully practice using the potty in a sit or stand mode, free of accidents.
A baby’s hungry cry can be stress inducing no matter the time of day. With The First Years Gentle Warmth™ Digital Bottle Warmer on hand, you can keep your infant happy and fed and make your life go a little more smoothly–especially when it’s 2 a.m. and you’re exhausted. Through its digital touchscreen, the bottle warmer quickly heats up breast milk, formula and even baby food jars based on the heating time and temperature you select. You can also sterilize multiple pacifiers at once, so you’ll always have them on hand whenever your baby gets fussy.
Once your baby makes their debut, you’ll want to do everything in your power to keep your newborn safe and healthy. By adding The First Years Modular Steam Sterilizer to your parenting arsenal, you’ll be able to kill 99% of common germs with natural steam in minutes. Through multiple tray compartments, you’ll have plenty of space for sanitizing bottle nipples, breast pump accessories, pacifiers, teethers and bottles, to name a few. The modular design also doubles as storage, saving counter space in your kitchen and keeping your baby’s products sterilized for an entire day. Available only at Target!
One of the most exciting moments of parenthood is introducing your baby to a world of foods and flavors–will they love or hate peas and carrots? Are bananas their favorite over apples? Experiment with different vegetables, fruits, meats and cereals with The First Years First Fresh Foods Blender & Steamer. Touting a powerful motor that allows you to process your own baby food to the perfect consistency, the blender can hold up to three-and-a-half cups of food, so you can quickly and efficiently meal prep for the week.
Keeping your baby healthy and safe involves more than babyproofing. And new technology is here to help. Check out these recently released products that make your life with baby easier, healthier and safer. From thermometers and baby monitors to sanitizers and air monitors, they’re guaranteed to bring you peace of mind.
Sleek Socket Outlet Covers
Hide unsafe outlets with this clever cover! This ultra-thin cover connects to an extension cord with a power strip or surge protector. Keep those cords away from your baby and create a sleeker-looking living space at the same time.
Make sure the items your kids put in their mouth are clean with this compact UV-C sanitizer. It's sleek and small enough to live on your kitchen counter for easy cleaning of toys, bottles and pacifiers—even stuffies and electronic gadgets. This ultraviolet sanitizer and dryer uses ultraviolet C lights to kill germs and bacteria in minutes, without the use of water or heat. Use the sanitizer or dryer on their own or use both combined. When you're not using the sanitizer for baby gear, pop in your cell phone, makeup brushes, shaver or toothbrushes for a cleaning.
Designed by a pediatric ear, nose and throat specialist, the NozeBot takes cleaning boogies to a whole new level. This nasal aspirator uses hospital-grade suction to safely and hygienically clean your child's nose when they're sick. You place two fingers in the ingeniously designed nosepiece, leaving three fingers to help stabilize your child's head. It's portable and rechargeable, and the nosepiece and tubing are dishwasher-safe.
The easiest way to log feedings, diapers, sleep, nursing, pumping and more! Push a button to sync with the app and add any notes in the app at your convenience, so you can track baby's routine and be better prepared for meetings with the pediatrician, lactation consultant or sleep consultant. There's even a miscellaneous button you can use for medication, baths, tummy time or other baby-related tasks you want to keep track of. Attach this user-friendly device to the wall in baby's nursery or bring it with you around the house to help you remember to use it. When you no longer need it, send it back through the company's buyback program.
Available at talli.me, $99 for a new tracker; $69 for a reconditioned tracker; $169 for a two-pack.
Little kids are lightning fast and have a knack for playing with exactly what you don't want them to. Avoid an unfortunate or dangerous situation with the Ally lockable storage container. In it, you can hide away your meds, supplements, passport, valuables, fancy chocolates and anything else you want to keep away from curious kids. The small size (9.25” x 6” x 3.5”) means you can easily tuck it away on a shelf or in a drawer, even the fridge or freezer, but it's sleek enough you won't mind keeping it on display. You choose your three-digit code and can reset it as needed if mombrain makes you forget. Comes in berry, navy and cream and makes an amazing baby shower gift.
Watch Your Mouth USB Safety Cover from Geddy's Mom
Playing with the free end of a plugged-in USB charger can be dangerous for kids, causing electrocution burns in more than 200 kids under age 5 each year. As a doctor of dental surgery, Dr. Sarah Shell had seen the traumatic injuries. And she and her neurologist husband had seen their own son put the loose end of a plugged-in charger in his mouth. So they worked with a team of other doctors, designers and engineers to create a product to keep kids safe. Just snap this safety cover over the free metal connector end of any standard USB cord and you keep curious fingers away from it. The plastic cover has a child-resistant lock and no small parts.
Baby Brezza Formula Pro Advanced WiFi Baby Formula Dispenser
This is a game-changer for formula feedings: Thanks to the Baby Brezza app (iOS and Android), you can mix water and formula to the perfect consistency from your phone! Meaning, you can prep a bottle for your child from bed, from work, from the car, or wherever else you happen to be. Get alerts on your phone that tell you when the bottle is ready, when you're low on formula or water, or when there's no bottle in the machine. Choose from three temperature settings, and whether you want it to dispense 2-10 ounces of liquid. It works with all bottles and virtually all formula. brands.
Give your baby a warm bottle of formula or breastmilk wherever you are, thanks to this portable, battery-operated bottle warmer. Great for road trips, park visits, camping and all of your daily excursions, the Baby's Brew warms your child's bottle in just 5-10 minutes and keeps it warm for 8-12 hours. Liquids can be warmed to four different temperatures, and it's compatible with many bottle types, either with or without an inexpensive adapter (check the website to find out if you'll need one). The warmer is sold on its own ($75) or in a set with a formula dispenser (pictured; $85).
No more waking a sleeping baby to take a temperature reading or getting up every hour to feel their forehead. Apply the small silicone patch (FDA approved and made with medical-grade adhesive) to your baby's armpit and this wireless thermometer will beep and blink red LED lights if their temperature rises above 100°F. Thanks to a 24-hour battery life, temps will be monitored all night long. The device also notifies you about low battery, disconnection and if the device falls off your baby. The large, backlit temperature reading is easy to see in the dark, or you can move the device to whatever room you're in to track the readings.
Here's what makes this air purifier a game-changer: It uses a separate sensor you can place across the room that measures air quality so the purifier can adapt to clean the air more effectively. The filtration system captures pollutants, allergens, VOC gases, airborne viruses and microscopic particles from every direction and then uses UV-C light to destroy germs and viruses trapped in the filter. Once the air is cleaned, the purifier pushes it out in two directions, so the filtered air flows throughout the room. TruSens also sells filters for specific concerns: pets, odor and allergy & flu. The unit comes in three sizes, for small, medium and large rooms.
Reduce the risk of forgetting your baby in the car with this alert system from American Home Safety Products. Clip this sensor to the straps of your car seat and attach the alarm to the keychain with your car keys on them. If you step more than 10 feet away from your car, an alarm will sound to let you know your baby is still strapped in to the carseat. This alert system comes with one sensor and two alarm key fobs.
This combination video and breathing wear monitor has everything you need for baby’s optimal sleep. The overhead camera allows you to see all that is going on in and around the sleep space and includes two-way audio. The camera also reads the fabric patterns on the included electronic-free breathing wear and sends real-time alerts right to your smartphone. There is a wall mount and a floor stand that keep cords safely out of reach and allow for easy portability when you're on the go. The app can show you all you need to know about baby’s sleep patterns and offers tips for making sure everyone has a good night. The Nanit Plus camera works with Amazon Echo and Echo Spot, and the complete baby monitoring system is eligible for purchase with FSA/HSA healthcare benefits. Add Nanit Pajamas ($29.99) to monitor baby's breathing motion in real time without wires or sensors. The pajamas work exclusively with Nanit cameras.
What sets this breathing monitor apart is the fact that there is nothing for baby to wear. To monitor baby's every breath, the camera checks for movements 20 times per second, detecting motions too small to be seen by the human eye. The HD video streams to your smartphone or tablet and sends notifications for sleep apnea, if breathing falls outside the normal range, and for when baby falls asleep and wakes. There is no need for special sleepwear and the monitor is designed to work when baby is swaddled or in a sleep sack and when baby is in different sleeping positions. Other features include two-way audio, night vision and remote viewing.
Rest assured that the air baby is breathing is safe and healthy with the Airthings Wave Plus indoor air quality monitor. Its sensors check the air for serious air pollutants, like radon, carbon dioxide, and total volatile organic compounds. It also monitors temperature, air pressure and humidity, so you can keep conditions optimal for baby. The app dashboard on your smartphone provides alerts and advanced analytics of air quality and offers tips for improving it. The battery is designed to last for up to two years.
There are so many new things to adapt to with a newborn, like a sleep schedule for one, but top of the list is getting their belly full of milk. Even if you’re breastfeeding, chances are you will need a bottle sometimes—so you can hand off a nighttime feeding and can get some much-needed rest. Figuring out how to feed your baby is not quite as simple as you may think, and questions start popping up: “What is the safest bottle, plastic or glass?”, “What if my baby won’t take a bottle?”, “What if I never sleep again!?” (you will!).
When it comes to bottles, plastic is lightweight, hard to break and less expensive. So what’s the catch? It’s more difficult to sanitize and can absorb odors and discolor. Even BPA free-plastics are coming under scrutiny since it’s not clear if they can leach estrogenic compounds or if microplastics can be ingested, which is stuff you don’t want in your baby’s system. Glass won’t absorb odors or leach chemicals, is easier to clean and long-lasting—but is heavy and breakable. If only there were a way to combine the superpowers of these materials and eliminate the negatives… The baby experts at Chicco figured it out, so you don’t have to stress!
ChiccoDUO™ is the first-of-its-kind hybrid baby bottle offering the wellness benefits of glass and the convenience of plastic in one incredible bottle. ChiccoDUO bottles are lightweight, unbreakable, and your baby’s milk only touches pure glass—it’s the best of both worlds! Read on to discover four reasons why this is the baby bottle of the future. (And it just may help you get a little more sleep, too.)
How did Chicco invent this all-mighty bottle? By utilizing an advanced, patented technology used in medical and pharmaceutical products that permanently bonds micro-thin layers of glass to the interior of a crystal-clear, premium plastic exterior. This Invinci-Glass™ inner layer shields milk from plastic. Every aspect of the bottle and nipple was developed and tested for their safety, function, ease of use, comfort, and baby and parent acceptance. During a multi-year process, an international interdisciplinary team of engineers, award-winning scientists, designers, researchers and neonatologists transformed a medical technology into a breakthrough baby bottle, meeting or surpassing all FDA and CPSIA standards.
2. Functionality
Chicco knows babies—they've been crafting innovative baby products and making life easier for parents since 1958. The invention of the ChiccoDUO bottle was born from years of experience and research in the infant feeding category, hearing and understanding parents' needs and the know-how to bring powerful patented technology to a beautifully designed baby bottle. Like glass, it harbors none of the unpleasant odors or aftertastes of typical plastic bottles—it stays clear, won't stain or discolor and lasts longer. But, unlike glass, it's breakproof and lightweight. We'll leave the specifics of how they came up with this to the scientists—we just know it's pure genius.
We love simplicity—with a baby, you have enough to do! Hand washing tons of parts (and trying to piece them together in the middle of the night) is a nightmare. ChiccoDUO saves the day again: It's dishwasher, sterilizer and bottle warmer safe with only four simple parts to handle. The logo, measurements and decorations are laser-etched, so there's no ink, fading, and no chipping. These innovative bottles stay crystal-clear, with quality that lasts so well, you can probably pass these down to your sibling who is not ready for the whole "baby thing" quite yet...
4. Ideal Latch
Is this the Ferarri of baby bottles? We think so! Its sleek, lightweight design is expertly crafted to be comfortable for you to hold and ideal for your baby to latch correctly (which is huge because if they're not happy, no one is, mama!). It features Chicco's Intui-latch™ anti-colic nipple with a textured skin-like feel that positions the baby's tongue and lips for a natural, intuitive latch. The breast-like flow is easy for your baby to control for seamless and stress-free breast-to-bottle transitions. Tested with proven results: The Intui-Latch™ Nipple is baby-approved with a 9 out of 10 infant acceptance rate in consumer usage testing—amazing!
‘Tis the season to be traveling! Nearly half of Americans plan to travel over the holiday months, many of them with children. Every parent understands the stress of long car rides and tedious air travel. Not to worry: As the host of Refinery29-featured travel blog Bubbly Moments, I have some of the solutions parents need when traveling—especially with a newborn.
1. Plan Ahead. Book a direct flight or at least one with a longer layover. Nothing is more hectic than racing to the gate after an emergency diaper change. Create a packing list and have a second person check it over to make sure nothing is missing (especially essentials like milk storage bags, formula, bottle warmer, baby carrier, and pacifiers).
2. Pack Light. You can purchase diapers, ointments, and other disposables just about anywhere. For things you can’t buy on the fly, explore compact or travel-friendly options—you won’t regret investing some extra money in order to save time and stress!
3. Call Ahead. Request a bassinet or Pack ‘N Play on long-distance flights and at your hotel or Airbnb. Unless you’re taking a road trip, you do not want to drag these things with you, particularly if TSA asks you to unfold it in the middle of a chaotic security line.
4. Press Play. A phone app like White Noise Ambience offers dozens of soothing sounds, from “Country Meadow” to “Bathtub Running.” Spotify Premium features baby-friendly music playlists you can listen to offline in Airplane Mode. Moshi Twilight Sleep Stories shares calming bedtime tales narrated by celebrities.
5. Bring Backup. A family trip requiring your constant supervision can leave you needing a vacation when you get home. If you have a nanny or regular babysitter, consider asking them to travel with you. Traveling with extended family can also be a cost-saving alternative.
You can embrace more peace and joy this holiday season—even in the midst of hectic family travel plans!
* This article was written by Emilia Taneva, host of top-ranked blog Bubbly Moments, where she shares time-tested tricks to ensure more peace, less chaos during holiday family travel.
Ruthi Davis is a the Founder of Ruth Davis Consulting LLC with over two decades of success in advertising/marketing, media/publicity, business development, client relations, and organizational optimization for a variety of clients. Ruthi is a proud mom and influencer in the parenting and family market as founder of the Superfly Supermom brand.
Being a new mama is exciting, but it can be overwhelming, too, especially here in NYC. But have no fear, new parents; help is here. From the best spot to see a movie, fix the stroller, or find like-minded parents, to the must-visit playspaces and smart ways to find a sitter, Red Tricycle can help you navigate new motherhood with ease. Take the below advice as you embark on the important task of raising a savvy city baby.
1. Need to get out of your apartment already? With two Manhattan locations, apple seeds is an-all-in-one playspace that offers cute classes for kids of all ages, starting with newborns. Try Developmental Movement or Songs for Seeds. Your baby can have fun and you can talk to another human (adult). This play space also operates an adorable hair salon/children’s book and toy store called DoodleDoo’s if you’re in the market for a trim and a new toy.
2. Spilled milk and slush-stains taking over your stroller?NYC Tot Squad is a mobile, eco-friendly cleaning service for strollers, car seats and more, and they recently opened a service center in Chelsea’s Buy Buy Baby!) It’s amazing how dirty these must-have baby items can get after spills, winter weather and normal wear and tear. CleanBeeBaby can sanitize and deep clean your soiled baby gear at a local store or play space or make a house call if you’re in Manhattan.
3. Need a reliable, experienced sitter?New York is full of childcare services staffed with pros that will keep your babe safe while you work/do errands/administer self-care, and occupy and entertain your child when they are a bit bigger, too!
4. Miss going to the movie theater? No, you don’t have to give up your cinema habit. Lots of movie theaters cater to families and kids, and Williamsburg’s Nighthawk Cinema even hosts movie screenings for parents and their babies. They show current releases, so you can catch up on the “it” flicks even though this is a big year for you.
5. Need advice about car seats? Call the Car Seat Lady! Even if you don’t have a car, you need a car seat to leave the hospital. The Car Seat Lady has a wealth of knowledge on everything from the best seats for traveling with to the best Zip Cars to rent if you’ve got a baby on board. She’ll also show you how to install seats correctly in both your own car and rental cars. A must-contact if you’re worried about safety on the road.
7. Wishing you had a bra that actually fits? How many bra sizes have your worn in the last year? Keep up with your changing needs at expert fitters Rigby & Peller. It is the place to shop for bras. By taking your exact measurements, trained stylists find you comfortable lingerie that actually fits and flatters.
8. Want some adorable/cool duds for the kid? The baby doesn’t care what it wears. In fact, as soon as it can, it is going to start trying to take it all off. But if you care, NYC is a bonanza of adorable baby and kids boutiques selling one of a kind items. So grab your infant and get ready to browse through the likes of Torly Kid and Babesta downtown, Picnic in Cobble Hill and Smoochie Baby in Williamsburg.
9. Building Baby’s library? Books of Wonder , which caters to young bibliophiles, is a NYC institution, and opened an Upper West Side location as a companion to original downtown store. Inside, you’ll find current and rare books for kids of all ages as well as events ranging from writer launch parties and teen author festivals to story times.
10. Need a doula? Your personal network is probably the best way to start, whether that’s your friends or OB/GYN, but The NYC Doula collective is a great resource, and helps make the cost of of doula accessible thanks to different pricing tiers. Birth Day Presence in Park Slope has a similar system.
11. Clueless about breast pumps? Even before your baby needs clothes, furniture or brain-boosting activities (remember, Kindergarten admissions is a scant five years away!), they need to eat. If you choose to formula feed, you’ll need bottles, nipples, a scrub-brush that can go deep, and possibly even a bottle warmer. For those you can go chain, like Babies-R-Us or even your local CVS or Duane Reade. But if you’re nursing, you’ll probably want more personalized attention to help you pick a bra, breast-pump, lotion and pillows. For that, check out The Upper Breast Side, Yummy Mummy or Wild Was Mama.
12. In search of some Mommy & Me exercise? Harlem Yoga Studio is dedicated to being affordable and accessible to all moms and their babies, while The Yoga Room in Astoria and Long Island City brings a similar service to Queens, Bread & Yoga serves Inwood, and Brooklyn has Shanti Baby Yoga. Feel like swimming instead of omm-ing? Imagine Swimming and Take Me to the Water have locations around the city, while 92nd St. Y and 14th St. Y fulfill the needs of those looking for more than just swimming lessons, with other family programming. And don’t forget the gyms that offer childcare (that’s the “Just Me” part).
13. Looking for a place to connect with other families in Brooklyn? Check out The Great Room, a new spot in the Columbia Waterfront District founded by two therapists (and moms) who wanted “to provide a cozy, warm and safe space for parents to connect with each other, share resources, support others and be supported.” Drop-in with or without your kid for $10 and enjoy free coffee and tea, a play area for kids, a work area for parents, information and resources for families and a rotating roster of experts on parenting issues to consult with informally. Plus!: classes and activities for kids (sensory play, singalongs, play groups, Spanish) and adults (yoga, childbirth education, financial planning, breastfeeding support group, creative writing, infant/child nutrition, etc.) And there’s more: they’ve got a great outdoor space (with a play area for kids) and will host your party or event, too!
The Great Room
194 Columbia St.
Columbia Waterfront District
718-797-2469
Online: thegreatroom.org
14. Need some postnatal recovery help? Check out an Everyday Athlete Postnatal Strength Session. It offers exercises, tips, and strategies to getting back to feeling like your pre-pregnancy self again!
16. Have a budding gymnast? Jodi’s Gym offers two sessions offered for youngsters (9-14 months) with adult supervision – Teeny Tumblers, where you and Baby move and groove to music, and Jammin’ at Jodi’s, where you sing along while exploring musical instruments and props. Both classes are 45 minutes.
244 East 84th St.
Upper East Side
212-772-7633
Online: jodisgym.com
18. Wish you had a few new mom friends? The city has no shortage of groups for new moms. Find one based on your neighborhood – HRP Mamas or Park Slope Parents, for example. Or, pick one based on your situation such as New York Newcomers or Executive Moms. Pick the perfect match from Red Tricycle’s list of NYC’s top parenting groups.
19. Looking to boost your baby’s skills? Based in Brooklyn, Bright Start Babies offers a variety of classes for expectant mothers, adoptive families, babies and children ages 6 weeks to 10 years old. Classes are held at TrueNorth Wellness and cover everything from tummy time and hugging to yoga and baby massage.
20. Want to show the world that you’re a NYC-proud parent? For hip, Big Apple-inspired baby clothes and accessories, swing by Piccolini for New York-themed chunky books, Tee’s, rattles, toys and more. Proceeds from many store items go to charity; and the store’s collection of girly accessories and rock band tees is gush-worthy.
230B Mulberry St.
Little Italy
212-775-1118
Online: piccolininyc.com
21. Thinking about going the cloth diaper route? Check out NYC’s cloth diaper service, Diaperkind.
22. Pining for a pre-natal massage?We have plenty of suggestions on where you can get that tension kneaded away. If you’re near Park Slope and ready for a pre or post-natal massage from a specially trained masseuse, doula Lena DeGloma of Red Moon Wellness is your go-to woman. Good to know: Besides having magical hands, DeGloma also teaches holistic birth education classes for couples seeking a home or hospital birth and offers birth tub rentals.
23. Looking for an easier way to get from Uptown to Downtown?Kid Car New York transports kids (solo, or with parent) safely throughout Manhattan in a large vehicle (read no stress about fitting your stroller in the trunk) with car seats. Other company options include car seat rental, seat checks, and pick up of a specific car seat (belonging to customer) to be used in a Kid Car. This means you don’t have to fumble to get your car seat into a cab fast or haul that stroller up and down the subway stairs. (Lyft and Uber now also offer a car seat option. Read our review of Lyft’s here!)
24. Don’t know what to do with that baby wrap? At Wild Was Mama in Greenpoint, besides finding eco-friendly baby and lifestyle clothing and accessories, you can try on any baby carrier in the store. If you go before baby arrives, you can test the carriers with baby dolls to simulate real-life baby wearing. The laid-back, friendly staffers are always ready to help you get the right fit and teach you new ways to wear wraps. Tons of other stuff happens here, too, from parent meetups to classes to singalongs, this is a must-go for all new parents!
26. Need a mommy makeover? Manhattan mom and makeup artist Debra Rubin-Roberts, launched Mommy Makeup, a cosmetics line catered to busy moms; a full face can be applied in just a few minutes (ahhh…some alone time…) and the web site also has informative skincare videos.
27. Broken stroller? If your stroller breaks, have no fear – it can be repaired. Enter Stroller Spa. Based in Manhattan and Brooklyn, Stroller Spa not only rents strollers to visiting moms, but will repair yours if it’s broken, too.
28. Need a baby kimono? Of course you do! Just when you thought you couldn’t coo enough over baby clothes, along comes Lucky Wang. Their insanely adorable baby kimonos can be worn every season, alone or layered with other garments and has easy-to-tie ties and snaps. Various locations, Manhattan
29. Desperately seeking sleep? Aren’t we all? If you’re looking for a night nanny, post-baby, so you can score some extra shut-eye, contact Gentle Hands. The company’s Night Nannies help parents guide their baby to sleep throughout the night and help care for baby while you get some much-needed rest.
30.Ready to let the kid roam? Check out our favorite indoor playspaces in around the city, as well as our guides to those in Brooklyn and Queens. The options are (almost) infinite!
Did we miss anything? What do you think new NYC moms need to know about?
No parent ever reaches their child’s first birthday and says, Wow, that was easy! Babies are a joy, but this parenting thing is no joke. While you bond with your babe, here are 10 genius products and services that will make your life together easier. You’re welcome!
1. Supportive pillow for breastfeeding and bottlefeeding
Feeding a baby, whether by breast or bottle, looks so much easier in the movies. Holding baby at the right angle for reducing gas or reflux may not be the most comfortable for your arm. That’s why we love the Milk Boss Infant Feeding Pillow. This ingenious pillow positions baby at the correct angle and offers them a cozy spot for post-feeding burps. Its firm texture and cool interior feels good on your arm, and its petite size means you can take it on trips and daily outings.
2. A stair barrier for every staircase
Some staircases just weren’t designed for traditional baby gates. The Stair Barrier solves that problem by using straps and dual-sided buckles to attach to staircases up to 100” wide, even ones that have funky angles. Whether you’re attaching it banister to banister or banister to wall, it’s quick to install with the included instructions and requires no drilling to banisters (minimal drilling to the wall side, if you’re going banister to wall). The barrier is retractable (no awkward stepping over it), and it comes in a range of elegant fabrics. It also rolls up like a yoga mat so you can bring it to grandma’s house.
3. Bulk items delivered to your door
Babies need lots of stuff, but they make it so hard to leave the house and buy it. So, imagine if Costco and Amazon had a baby. That’s Boxed.com. You can purchase bulk items (including lots of baby stuff) on your phone or through the website at reasonable prices and have them delivered to your door. Shop the site with no membership fee, or upgrade to the new loyalty program, Boxed Up, where, for $49 a year, you get free priority shipping, price-matching and other perks like special promotions.
4. Breastmilk shipped home from your travels
Working moms love Milk Stork, a service that lets you mail home breastmilk from anywhere in the United States. The company also offers TSA-approved carry-on totes if you prefer to fly home with the milk yourself. No more pumping and dumping on work trips. No need to stress about how you’ll bring home milk on the plane. With Milk Stork’s delivery service, you receive a cooler at your hotel so you can pump in the privacy of your hotel room. Mail the pre-labeled, postage-paid package and receive shipping notifications via email so you’ll know when the milk has arrived.
5. Spill-proof cups
Our little scientists love to throw, bang and knock over their cups, so a leak-proof, spill-proof cup really has to live up to its name. This one does. The NUK Everlast 360 cup (above, $7.99, holds 10 ounces) has a twist-on lid with reinforced double seals. Listen for the click and you’ll know it’s sealed. The lid allows your child to drink from any edge and seals up tight when they’ve stopped drinking. It’s great for travel, everyday outings or keeping in the crib to quench a sleepytime thirst.
6. Engaging educational toys that grow with your child
Not sure what toys to buy for your child, and when to buy them? With the Monti Kids subscription service, you receive shipments of high-quality, developmentally appropriate toys every three months. The toys are introduced in a specific sequence so babies can apply what they’ve learned from one toy to the next. You’ll know these toys are building your baby’s language, motor, cognitive and social skills and fostering their creativity and problem-solving ability; your baby will just know the toys are fun to play with.
7. Organized pouches for all of baby’s needs
Diaper bags quickly turn into black holes where you can never find anything. The Easy Baby Travelers starter set comes in 4 different colors or patterns and are marked with the contents: Dress Me, Change Me and Feed Me (there are two in a set, one insulated to keep bottles and snacks chilled). These clever pouches turn any bag into a diaper bag and let you bring only what you need when you’re on the go.
8. A baby seat to keep your child supported and cozy
Playmats are great, but sometimes babies want to see the world from an upright position, and this infant chair gives them 360 degrees of support when they do. Designed for babies 3-11 months who can hold their head up, the Hugaboo Baby Seat lets your little one explore their surroundings from a safe seated position. The leg and back support prevents tipping forward or sliding out, and two toy attachments means even more entertainment. Added bonus: It’s machine-washable.
9. Remote control bottle warmer
Say the words “remote control bottle warmer” to a new mom and watch her face light up. Anyone who has fumbled through a middle-of-the-night feeding knows that simplifying the bottle-warming step is a game-changer. Your baby will get a warm bottle faster, and you buy yourself a few more minutes to snooze or take care of a diaper change. The First Years’ 4-in-1 Remote Control Bottle Warmer also heats baby food jars.
10. A teething scarf for comfort with chic style
Teething toys can easily get lost in your bag or dropped on a dirty floor. The Boppy Teething Scarf sneaks a food-grade silicone teether onto a stylish infinity scarf you’ll wear long after baby has all their chompers. Handy for travel and running errands, this machine-washable scarf also protects your outfit from the drool that comes along with teething. Available in four colors/patterns: gray-and-white stripes, solid blush pink, heathered black and gray, and white with black circles and squares.
You’ve birthed a human being, survived sleepless months, and figured out how to change a diaper in the dark, swaddle a baby, and maybe even take a shower. With all of that under your belt, it’s time to face your next challenge: returning to work. Most moms who’ve been-there-done-that will tell you the transition can feel a little bumpy at first but gets easier. Here are our best tips for helping you get back into your work groove.
1. Find the right childcare. Daycare, in-home daycare or nanny; that is the question. Knowing your little one is well taken care of will give you peace of mind to help you refocus on work. Moms who’ve been there recommend making a short list of what’s most important to you: Does your job require a lot of overtime, making schedule flexibility a top priority? Do you want to be able to see your baby during the day? Budget, work schedule, faith, language preference, food habits, and more can all influence your childcare decision, so make a list to help filter the options you’ll be considering.
If you’re looking for a nanny, cast a wide net between personal referrals, sites like Care.com and SitterCity, and a nanny agency in your area. If you’ve decided on daycare, start your research as soon as possible, ideally before your little one is born. Some daycares have extensive wait-lists, and you’ll want to visit your top choices, speak with other parents, and mine the internet for other sources of feedback.
2. Build your support network.
Does your company have a women’s or mom’s network? If so, you’ll have a readymade resource for all your new-mom questions about separation anxiety (yours and your child’s) and how to juggle everything on your plate. If not, build your own network with work peers, ideally a mix of new moms going through similar issues and old pros who can offer proven advice. Or join a local moms group (look for groups in your neighborhood or through your religious organization). Having a few trusted mom friends to reach out to will help you get through the tough times—and they’ll be there to cheer you on when you land that big client or get your first post-baby promotion!
3. Stock up on essentials.
Yes, we’re telling you to shop. Before you return to work, buy the basics you’ll need for the next 6 months, from diapers and wipes to paper towels and dish soap. That way, you don’t have to think about those things as you ramp back up at work. If you can automate deliveries via a service like Amazon’s Subscribe & Save, do it. Then, make a list of the gear you’ll need to feed your baby for the next 3-6 months. And that brings us to our next two tips….
4. If you’re pumping, increase your comfort level.
Buy a stash of nursing pads, milk storage bags, a cooler and ice packs. Also, look for items to make pumping at work more comfortable for you. Think: Freemie concealable collection cups, an inflatable foot rest, a bowl to wash pump parts in, sterilization bags, or a nursing cover for privacy.
5. If you’re formula-feeding, increase your convenience level.
Once you find a brand you and your baby like, purchase several months’ worth to avoid the dreaded realization that you’ve just finished your last can. Buy bottles in bulk to allow you to go 1-3 days between washing a batch. For extra convenience, look into products like the Mixie Baby Bottle, which allows you (or daycare or your nanny) to mix water and formula on the go, and the Tommee Tippee bottle warmer, an easy way to warm up your baby’s bottle when away from home.
photo: iStock
6. Look after yourself.
To feel your best, ensure you’re eating well. Keep a water bottle with you at all times, and stock your desk with healthy snacks like nuts, low-sugar snack bars, and dried fruit. To avoid the dreaded “I have nothing to wear” crisis each morning, consider a clothing rental service like Rent the Runway or Le Tote to stock your closet while your body is still finding its stable post-baby size.
Then, make a short list of three things that help you feel peaceful in a day—yours might be “make bed, dry hair, sit at the table for dinner” or “pray/meditate before baby wakes, take vitamins, read one chapter of a book.” Make every effort to conquer this list. You’ll be surprised how much of a confidence boost this can give you, no matter how small its items might be. And that confidence will translate into your work as a mother and employee.
Above all, give yourself grace. It may take time, but you will find your groove as a working mom. We’re cheering for you!
An NYC mom’s life can be easily divided into two parts: Before and After (Baby). Some of the things you need for one will still serve you well in the other. (For instance, don’t expect to walk out of the hospital and junk all your maternity clothes.) Others only truly make sense once you become a dazed and confused new parent (see: NoseFrida, nursing pads, etc.) Consider the resources below a starter kit in the world of NYC parenting, and keep in mind than in many cases, your favorite store can hook you up with a great class, where you can find an amazing doula, who will refer you to a fantastic support group, etc. — and that many of these places do several things, very well.
Maternity Clothing Looking for some basics? Check out national chains like Destination Maternity. Want something Brooklyn funky and a carrier to go with it? Wild Was Mama is a good bet. Upper East Side upscale? Veronique Maternity. And if you don’t want to spend a ton of money on clothes you’ll only be wearing for nine months (okay, a year – maybe two, tops), hit Jane’s Exchange, Manhattan largest mom and baby consignment store. You can even pretend you’re doing it to preserve the environment for your future generation!
Prenatal Exercise Most doctors will tell expectant mothers to continue doing whatever exercise they feel comfortable with (though check with yours to make sure, first). Popular options for the active mama-to-be include the Prenatal Yoga Center, Brooklyn’s Karma Kids Yoga or Bend & Bloom, Aquamom, Complete Core by Solange and even prenatal kickboxing! Not an extrovert? (Though, frankly, meeting other pregnant ladies is the best part of taking classes): Homebodies offers private training sessions for your body in the comfort of, well, your home.
Doulas Your personal network is probably the best way to start, whether that’s your friends or OB/GYN, but The NYC Doula collective is a great resource, and helps make the cost of of doula accessible thanks to different pricing tiers. Birth Day Presence in Park Slope has a similar system.
Nursing & Feeding Supplies Even before your baby needs clothes, furniture or brain-boosting activities (remember, Kindergarten admissions is a scant five years away!), they need to eat. If you choose to formula feed, you’ll need bottles, nipples, a scrub-brush that can go deep, and possibly even a bottle warmer. For those you can go chain, like Babies-R-Us or even your local CVS or Duane Reade. But if you’re nursing, you’ll probably want more personalized attention to help you pick a bra, breast-pump, lotion and pillows. For that, check out The Upper Breast Side, Yummy Mummy or Wild Was Mama’s Greenpoint or Park Slope locations.
Baby Clothes
The baby doesn’t care what it wears. In fact, as soon as it can, it is going to start trying to take it all off. But if you care, NYC is a bonanza of adorable baby boutiques selling one of a kind items. So grab your infant and get ready to browse through the likes of Wyatt Lily uptown, Torly Kid downtown, Smoochie Baby, Baby Mama and Sweet William in Brooklyn.
Baby Gear The baby also doesn’t care where it sleeps or what it goes out riding in, either. However decorating a nursery is part of the fun – for mom and dad! Though carrying the gear home is the slightly less fun part of the experience. Fortunately, Albee’s let’s you try out in store – then delivers. Determined only organic materials will touch your baby’s skin? See Giggle’s three NYC locations. Hit Brooklyn Fare (which also has a Manhattan location, go figure) for organic baby food, and click this link for even more options. Feeling less than confident about your ability to properly install a car-seat, fix a stroller or thoroughly clean a floor mat or high-chair? Tot Squad has a Midtown East drop-off location, or they’ll come to your home to get the job done!
Support Groups If you avoided making friends in your prenatal classes, you might want to give this new motherhood thing a go on your own. But for those who believe it takes a village (to raise a mom), consider a Moms Group. They come in all flavors (and neighborhoods and ethnic groups) from first-time pregnant moms to moms over 35 to moms of multiples. See a more comprehensive list, here.
Mommy & Me The yoga, swimming and kickboxing that you did while pregnant? You can do it with baby in tow! (Well, okay, maybe not the kickboxing). Harlem Yoga Studio is dedicated to being affordable and accessible to all moms and their babies, while The Yoga Room in Astoria and Long Island City brings a similar service to Queens, Bread & Yoga serves Inwood, and Brooklyn has Shanti Baby Yoga. Feel like swimming instead of omm-ing? Imagine Swimming and Take Me to the Water have locations around the city, while 92nd St. Y and 14th St. Y fulfill the needs of those looking for more than just swimming lessons, with other family programming. And don’t forget the gyms that offer childcare (that’s the Just Me part).
You loved traveling before becoming a parent and there’s nothing stopping you from continuing your passion now. Sure, flying with a baby in tow isn’t always easy, but the light at the end of the tunnel is much needed rest and relaxation and an awesome hotel that’ll cater to your new “I’m with Baby” lifestyle. Check out the following eight baby-friendly hotels that’ll treat your tot like a superstar from pureeing special orders at mealtime to loaning you a bevy of toys and gear so you won’t tip the airport’s luggage scale.
Great Wolf Lodge
Think indoor water parks arn’t baby-friendly? All 12 of Great Wolf’s properties feature a zero-depth entry wading pool perfect for the littlest water lovers. They can sit and splash, crawl or practice their walking while staying cool. Big brothers and sisters will find an array of activities and water park features they’ll love, too. Pack ‘n Plays are available and every room includes a microwave and refrigerator, making mealtimes easy. Features available at some Great Wolf properties include a small-scale water slide area, evening story times, a Forest Friends Show, an outdoor play area and more.
Rates vary by location. For more information visit greatwolf.com.
Springhill Suites by Marriott
Budget-friendly and baby-friendly too, Springhill Suites get points for their layout and amenities. You’ll love that every room has a separate living room area (which you can use as Baby’s bedroom) along with a microwave and fridge perfect for dealing with bottles, baby food and pumping. The Tots Travel Too program means your baby will get a Coverplay play yard crib cover and fitted sheet, a bathtub squirt toy and a pad of DwellStudio designed disposable bibs. The same disposable bibs will be available at the daily free breakfast. In addition to a travel crib for Baby, you can also request night-lights, toiletries and outlet covers. You can find locations all across the country.
Rates vary by location. Visit marriott.com for more information.
Photo of Fairmont Pacific Rim: Trish Friesen, Trip Styler
Fairmont Hotels
Another top hotel chain for the littlest travelers is the Fairmont. Several outposts of the hotel chain feature great baby perks including the Fairmont Kea Lani and the Fairmont Pacific Rim in Vancouver. They will provide everything from a bathtub and Diaper Genie to diapers and a bottle warmer. Big siblings will get a stuffed animal, backpack and coloring book upon arrival.
Rates vary by property and rooms. Visit fairmont.com for more information.
Club Med
A total of 37 of Club Med’s all-inclusive, action-packed resorts offer a Club Med Baby Welcome service for littles 4 to 23 months old. The resorts will provide baby necessities including baby bathtubs, changing pads, cribs and even strollers. Restaurants boast a baby area, with highchairs a-plenty, serving fresh produce. You can also use bottle warmers and baby food makers 24/7 to prep your little one’s meals. Babysitters are available as well, even for the littlest guests, through the Pyjamas Club because sometimes, you need to enjoy a date night while away!
All-inclusive rates vary from $401 per person to $1,798 per person; kids under age 4 are free. Visit clubmed.us for more information.
Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa St. Lucia
Looking for a little R & R in the Caribbean? Head south to St. Lucia. The Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa caters to families in the family-friendly Splash wing of the hotel. Every room has a mini-refrigerator to keep bottles and baby food cold, and cribs are available. At restaurants, highchairs are plentiful and chefs will accommodate food requests including pureeing food. The zero-entry Splash pool with fountains and waterfalls is perfect for babies whether they’re sitting, crawling or beginning to walk. Older babies and toddlers will love playing with buckets and fountains in the WaterWorks area. Older kids will love the properties water park and paintball.Need a moment to yourself? The CocoLand Kidz Klub has a special area for kids under age 3 and gives parents a free rental cellphone to keep in close contact with caregivers. Plus, you can get to St. Lucia with a direct flight from several East Coast cities including New York, Philly, Charlotte, Atlanta, Miami and Toronto.
Rooms range from $228-$619 per person, kids under age 4 stay for free. Visit cbayresort.com for more information.
Loews Hotels
Several Loews hotels around the country offer a Loews Loves Kids program featuring a well-stocked kid’s closet that can help you pack lightly when traveling with Baby. Locations in Miami, Boston, San Diego and Tucson for example have baby bathtubs, toys, books, childproofing needs, potty seats, night lights, car seats, strollers and more. Cribs, of course, will be provided too. If you’re looking for a babysitter, the Concierge can help and they also have a list of nearby kid-friendly attractions and necessities (doctors, pharmacies, etc).
Rates vary by property and rooms, but kids under 18 always stay free. Visit loewshotels.com for more information.
Generations Spa Resort & Hotel Riviera Maya
Aside from the gorgeous beach front location boasting suites with private swim-ups or infinity plunge pools, this hotel goes out of their way to make all family members feel welcome. The hotel’s special “Just Bring the Baby” amenities include the usual cribs and Pack n’ Plays plus baby monitors, baby food, changing tables, bottle warmers, strollers, bath tubs and even baby bath robes. Adorable! Babies and toddlers will love playing with you at the on site Eko Kids Club, which is stocked with toys, a ball pit, slides and more. Older kids, ages 4 to 12, can play their supervised while you enjoy some alone time. Visit the resort in September and you can bring along Baby’s grandparents for free.
All-inclusive rates start at $235 per person. Visit karismahotels.com for more information.
Have you traveled with your baby? What’s your favorite baby-friendly hotel?
