ML Interest Tag: ice-packs

10 Summer Safety Tips for Babies in Cars

by Eva Ingvarson Cerise

If you’re spending time in the car this summer, arm yourself with water, snacks and some very good advice. Read on for our top 10 tips on keeping babies and toddlers safe in the car on warm summer days.

photo: iStock

1. Get your car seat inspected.
More than half of all car seats are installed incorrectly, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. And since people tend to spend more time in the car during the summer, it’s a good time to find the nearest car seat inspection station, usually at a local police or fire department. The experts there will inspect your car seat and show you how to install it properly, usually at no charge.

2. Cool the car down quickly.
A hot car is uncomfortable for everybody, especially kids. If you’re getting into a scorching car, crank up the air conditioning and open the windows first to push out that hot air. After a few minutes, when the car is cooler, get in and roll up the car windows and let the AC keep working its magic. Also, when placing your child in the car seat, watch those metal buckles, which can get blazing hot on warm days. When your car is parked outside, keep the metal parts out of direct sunlight, tucking them into the car seat straps or placing a towel or light blanket on top of the metal when your child is out of the car seat.

3. Inspect your tires.
How are tires like babies? They’re both prone to blowouts, and tires are more likely to have them during the summer months. Blame the combination of hot weather, longer drives and cars packed full of road-trip gear. Regularly check your tire pressure and the condition of your tires to stay safe.

photo: Quinn Dombrowski via Flickr

4. Pack extra liquids.
On hot days, kids need lots of liquids to stay hydrated. Keep bottles of breast milk or formula in coolers with ice packs. And if your baby is drinking water, always pack more than you think you’ll need. Breastfeeding moms need lots of water too!

5. Keep cars locked with car keys out of kids’ reach.
Babies love playing in cars and fiddling with car keys, especially hitting the lock button to hear the beep it makes. To avoid having them lock themselves inside the car when you’re outside of it, or climbing into the car when you’re not there to supervise, always keep cars locked, even in the garage, and store keys out of reach from tiny hands. This is important year-round but especially so on hot days when temperatures inside the car can get dangerously high.

6. Don’t cover the car seat with a blanket.
A blanket may help your child fall asleep in the car seat, but even a thin muslin covering can make the temperature under that blanket way too hot. You also want to be able to see your child while you’re driving, which brings us to our next tip….

7. Install a backseat mirror.
Set up a mirror that allows you to see your child’s face from the driver’s seat when they’re in a rear-facing car seat. That allows you to keep an eye on them to make sure they’re comfortable and not overheating.

photo: Sharon McCutcheon via Unsplash

8. Adjust your car seat straps.
If you dressed your baby in bulky clothing on cooler days, the car seat straps may be too loose once your child is in light summer outfits. Straps should be tight enough that you can only fit one finger underneath them, and the buckle should sit across the armpit. Adjust the straps each time you place your child in the seat to make sure they fit comfortably.

9. Never leave your child alone in the car. For real.
Even if you only have a quick errand, even if your baby has finally fallen asleep, even if you crack the window open for air flow, you should never leave your child unattended in a car. A child’s body temperature heats up more quickly than an adult’s, and even a few minutes alone in a hot car can be life-threatening.

10. Check the back seat.
Forgetting a child in a car seat is many parents’ worst fear. To avoid it, leave your shoes, wallet or smartphone in the back seat so you have to go back there to retrieve them before you leave the car. Or, let technology help. The CoPilot Carseat Alert System uses a sensor that clips on to your car seat and a key fob to alert you if you walk away from the car without unbuckling your child first. The eClip ($49.95) from Elepho is a small device that attaches to your car seat and syncs up to an app that reminds you to get your child if you move more than 15 feet away from the car. And if you use the Waze app for driving directions, turn on the Child Reminder feature, which instructs you to check for your child as the last step in the directions.

—Eva Ingvarson Cerise

featured photo: iStock

 

RELATED STORIES:

10 Top Tips for Road Trips with Babies

The Best Infant Car Seats

Be Sun Smart With Baby: 10 Summer Safety Tips to Follow

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

Pumping Essentials for Moms Returning to Work

by Katie L. Carroll

Going back to work can be hard for any new mom, and being a breastfeeding mom who has decided to pump at work presents its own set of challenges. But have no fear! We’ve gathered what you need to know, what you need to have, and the easiest ways to get it done when pumping at work.

photo: Willow

Know Your Rights

We hope you have a supportive work environment for pumping breast milk, but it’s always good to know your rights. Federal law in the U.S. requires employers to provide break time and a private space that is not a bathroom for breastfeeding mothers with a child under one year. There are exceptions noted in the law that you should be aware of, for example with companies that have fewer than 50 employees. Many states have their own laws that must be met, so check with your HR department to understand your rights.

What You’ll Need

The Right Pump. From medical-grade rentals to manual pumps, there are lots of pumps to choose from. Many are covered by insurance, so looking up what models are included in your plan is a great place to get started. Some things to consider as you’re choosing a pump: Efficiency is one of the most important features, like that provided by a double electric pump, meaning you can pump both breasts at the same time. If you’re going to be lugging the pump around all day, you’ll want a small, portable model. Depending on where you’ll be pumping, you may need a battery-operated pump versus a corded one. Some other factors to take into consideration are how loud the pump is and whether it has a hands-free option. Check out the Willow (pictured above), an innovative hands-free pump that fits inside your bra without any external tubes, cords, or bottles.

Pumping Accessories. Once you have the pump, you’ll need the right parts and accessories:

  • A bag for carrying everything to and from work is key. There are bags specifically for breast pumps, or you can use a fashionable bag that’s big enough to fit the pump plus all the extras, like your cords and battery packs. The Sarah Wells collection comes in a variety of stylish patterns, and the bags are super functional with thermal-lined pockets and space for a laptop.
  • Most pumps include standard-size breast flanges (the plastic piece that fits over your nipple to create a vacuum and extract your milk), but you may need to purchase a different size for your best, and most comfortable, results. Talk to a lactation consultant if you think your flanges are the wrong size.
  • Depending on your method of pumping, you’ll want to have plenty of leak-proof storage bags or pumping bottles on hand.
  • Plus, you’ll want room for all your personal and sanitizing products.

photo: Larken

Other Essentials. Clothes can make the difference when pumping at work. Wear nursing tops or button-downs that give you easy access; a non-nursing dress you have to remove can leave you chilly or overexposed. Disposable or reusable nursing pads will keep your clothes dry and stain-free if you happen to leak, but it’s always good to have an extra shirt at work in case of leaks and spills. Hands-free bras, like the Larken X Nursing and Hands-Free Pumping Relaxed Bra (pictured above) have slits where you can insert the flanges for full use of your hands while pumping. Also, have your favorite nipple cream handy to prevent sore nipples. We like Earth Mama’s Organic Nipple Butter, which can be used directly on the breast or flanges and doesn’t need to be washed off before nursing.

Getting the Job Done

Starting Early. As for the actual deed of pumping, you’ll want to begin a few weeks before you go back to work. Start with replacing one nursing session a day with pumping and then feed baby with a bottle to get them used to the bottle. Try having another caregiver do the bottle feeding to mimic what it’ll be like when you’re at work. Aim for completely emptying both breasts every time you pump. Slowly replace more nursing sessions at home until you’re up to the number of feeding sessions you’ll be gone for each day. This will give you and baby time to adjust to the new routine and allow you to test out the best methods and equipment for successful pumping. You’ll also want to build up a stash for that first day and to have as a backup.

Working on a Schedule. Once at work, marking your pumping time on a calendar will help keep your milk production up by ensuring you don’t miss any sessions. If your calendar is public, you can use a generic title like “Meeting” followed by your baby’s initial. In the beginning, you’ll need about 3-4 pumping sessions for a typical work day. Designate enough time to fully empty your breasts and include time to clean your pump.

More Tips. The more relaxed you can be, the more likely you’ll pump well. Easier said than done when adjusting to life as a working mom. Be gentle with yourself as pumping can be fickle and you won’t always have your most productive session. Have a picture or recording of baby handy because it can actually stimulate milk letdown. Sometimes a distraction, like a book or video, will help get the milk flowing. Eventually, the act of pumping itself should become the stimulus and you won’t need those tricks. Lactating is dehydrating and hungry work, so make sure to have healthy snacks and plenty of water with you while you pump.

photo: Kiinde

Storing Milk. It’s important for baby’s health and safety that breastmilk is stored in a safe manner while at work. The best place is in the refrigerator with each storage bag labeled with the date, amount of milk, and baby’s name if the bags will be used by a daycare or more than one mother is storing milk in that fridge. The Kiinde Twist Pouch (pictured above) allows you to pump, store, warm, and feed all with one pouch. The next best thing is storing milk an insulated cooler or compartment with ice packs until you can put it the refrigerator or freezer at home. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), freshly expressed milk can be stored at room temperature for 4 hours, in the refrigerator for 4 days, and in a freezer for 6-12 months.

Cleaning Up. Equally as important as storing milk properly is sanitizing the parts and supplies. Always wash your hands before pumping and when handling pump parts. The CDC recommends a specific cleaning method that requires hot water, liquid soap, a scrub brush, and an area to air-dry your supplies after each pumping session. A dishwasher is a good option if you have access to one. If you can’t properly wash your supplies or don’t want to deal with cleaning everything several times a day, pack multiples of anything that comes in contact with your breast or breastmilk (such as the flanges and hoses). Then sanitize all the parts at home. Another option is the Medela Quick Clean Micro-Steam Bag, which disinfects pump parts in the microwave in just 3 minutes.

Travel Considerations

If you have to travel for work while pumping, plan ahead to figure out how you’ll be able to clean the parts and store your milk. A car charger and adapter that is compatible with your pump works well for road trips. A breast pump is considered a medical device for air travel, so it doesn’t count against your carry-on baggage. There is no specific limit on how many ounces of milk you can take on a plane, but you’ll need to store it properly. As with any liquid, you may have to take it out of your cooler during security screenings. Shipping breastmilk straight to your home is also possible with services like Milk Stork. You can supply your child with milk while you’re away, and you don’t have to carry multiple ounces back on the plane.

—Katie L. Carroll

featured image: Jens Johnsson via Unsplash

RELATED STORIES:

New Mom’s Survival Guide for Going Back to Work

18 Must-Haves Nursing Moms Need

Pump More & Have Less Stress with this Genius Hack

 

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

First Aid for Babies: 8 Quick Tips to Keep Kids Safe

by Meghan Yudes Meyers

Most parents wish they could bubble-wrap their newborns and keep them sealed and safe in blister packs until they’re 18. That’s not exactly practical (you already have to wrestle with diapers, why add an extra layer of plastic?), so we’ve outlined all you need to know to prevent common injuries—and what to do in the event of a real emergency. Read on for practical, quick tips to help you keep your little one safe and sound.

photo: Sharon McCutcheon via Unsplash

1. Keep a Well Stocked First Aid Kit

Being prepared for an emergency can avert a serious crisis. From dealing with minor injuries to a major medical episode, a first aid kit can help avoid a trip to the pediatrician in non-threatening situations or buy you time in the case of something more serious. Basic first aid kit essentials for babies include a nasal aspirator, antibiotic ointment, alcohol-free cleansing wipes, sterile bandages, a cold pack, antihistamine cream and scissors (to remove clothing or a diaper).

photo: iStock

2. Protect Your Baby from Choking

Being prepared for a choking incident is key. Preventing one in the first place is even better. Use a small-object tester, like this one from KidCo, to determine if items are large enough for your little one to handle without risking a choking hazard. When your baby starts eating solids, be aware that they are still learning to chew, so steer clear of foods that can be dangerous if swallowed whole, such as popcorn, whole grapes, hot dogs, nuts, and chunks of meat or cheese. Even if you took a CPR class while pregnant, you can brush up your CPR skills by taking a class at your local Red Cross. And print the Red Cross’s quick reference on pediatric first aid, CPR and AED and post it on your refrigerator.

photo: Rawpixel via Pexels

3. How to Regulate a Fever

Hot, flushed skin and sweat can be telltale signs your infant has a fever. In most cases, a fever is not dangerous; it’s the body’s way of fighting infection. If your baby does not seem uncomfortable, you can let the fever run its course. If your child is crying, make him or her more comfortable by removing a layer of clothing or letting your child wear just their diaper. Breastfeeding or bottle-feeding will also help regulate their temperature. If these things don’t help, draw a lukewarm bath. Fifteen minutes in tepid waters can bring a fever down. If your child is over 6 months old, you can give pain medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help reduce the fever. It’s always a good idea to check in with your pediatrician, especially if your baby is under 3 months and has a temperature over 100.4 degrees. Fevers that get too high can result in a febrile seizure, convulsions caused by a spike in body temperature.

4. How to Manage a Febrile Seizure

If your baby is extremely hot to the touch and is also displaying one of the following—arching the back, balling up fists, rolling back their eyes and/or making small jerky movements or twitching—they may be experiencing a febrile seizure. Watching your child seize is frightening, but fortunately, you can get the seizure to stop by lowering the body temperature. This should be done gradually, so avoid cold towels or ice packs that could shock the system. Instead, use common practices to regulate a fever like a tepid bath, removing garments or breastfeeding (see above for more info).

photo: GooseEgged

5. How to Manage a Head Bump

Before babies can walk, you can avoid minor injuries by making sure they’re in a safe and secure place. Never leave an infant on an open surface (like a bed or changing table) they can roll off! If your child does fall from a low surface, you probably won’t need to rush to the ER (but call your pediatrician if you’re concerned). In fact, most bumps are not serious and can be treated with a bag of frozen peas or a cold compress. We love the ice packs for kids from GooseEgged (above), and your kids will too. They’re super cute and attach with an adjustable velcro strap, so they stay put to help your child heal. If your baby is vomiting, lethargic, has labored breathing and/or has experienced unconsciousness, that indicates a serious head injury and you should call 911.

photo: Picsea via Unsplash

6. How to Remove a Hair Tourniquet

Little limbs are prone to getting hairs and fine fibers spooled and twisted around them. The most common culprit is hair, but fur, carpet threads, cotton fibers, and other threads can all cause restrictions. These tiny little tourniquets wrapped around appendages often do not make themselves known until a body part becomes swollen and red. The best way to remove a hair tourniquet is with a hair removal cream like Nair. But if the threads are cotton, polyester or rayon, you may need to use tweezers. If you can’t remove the thread, take your child to the ER. A tourniquet can cause edema and, if not removed in a timely fashion, can result in the loss of a limb.

photo: iStock

7. How to Treat Burns

Burns are common among young children. There is probably a common culprit lurking on your dining room table: the coffee cup. Hot liquids are the number one reason babies and small children are treated for a burn in the ER. Closely supervise your child when your liquid fuel is out. But should they get hurt, immediate action is key. Cool the skin with cold water. Do not use ice; extreme temperatures can damage the skin. Then top with plastic wrap, which keeps water locked into the wound and keeps air out, which reduces pain.

8. When to Call Poison Control

Babies explore the world through their senses. This often means tasting and mouthing on things. Unfortunately, our homes are filled with all sorts of potential dangers. Household plants, medications, cleaning products—even make-up—can be harmful to an infant. When in doubt, call the National Center for Poison Control (800-222-1222). Program this into your phone so you can reach them quick. The call is free, and medical experts are on hand to help walk you through your next steps. If your child is not breathing or is vomiting, call 911 first.

—Meghan Yudes Meyers

RELATED STORIES:

Long-Term Play Projects to Keep Them Busy All Winter

20 Epic Indoor Forts You’ll Want to Live In

9 Fun & Easy STEM Projects Using Everyday Items

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

Here Are 50 Baby Registry Essentials That Will Save Your Sanity

By Kristin Van de Water

I was among the first of my friends to have kids, which meant navigating the baby gear scene somewhat blindly. I walked through the aisles of Babies ‘R’ Us and Buy Buy Baby scanning whatever seemed useful, but not having much product advice beyond what my mom found useful 25 years ago. It wasn’t until I joined a playgroup of other new twin moms and took some parenting classes at the 92nd Street Y that I could chat about and see park blankets, pacifiers and push toys in action.

Raising kids inevitably means acquiring stuff. When you live in a two-bedroom apartment, in New York City space is at a premium. If something is no longer useful, I happily toss it or pass it along to a friend. I’ve compiled a list of sanity-saving gear for the first five years. These 50 products are worth the precious square footage they take up. If only I knew about them when registering!

Essentials for Sleep

  1. Summer Infant SwaddleMes and Halo SleepSacks: Velcro makes for a great “baby burrito.” I find that swaddled babies sleep longer because their flailing arms don’t startle baby awake. Thanks, Dr. Harvey Karp and The Happiest Baby on the Block!
  2. MAM pacifiers and clips: Because there is no “upside-down,” baby can more easily pop these pacifiers back in. Glow-in-the-dark versions are brilliant. Clip a pacifier to baby’s car seat and carrier so you don’t have to fumble to find it.
  3. Brookstone sound machine: My baby lets out a contented, sleepy sigh when she hears that rumble.
  4. Blankets and Beyond security blanket animals: Introduce a lovey to your baby that you can replace if lost. Take a picture of all lovies with their labels visible to simplify your hunt for a replacement later on.
  5. Carter’s Zip-Up Sleep & Play: Because who wants to search for snaps during the 3 a.m. diaper change?

Essentials for Food

  1. Medela bottles: I pumped right into these and used them to feed my twins. The tops have just the nipple and a ring. Less parts = less dishes.
  2. Nursing pillows: Double Blessings for twins, Boppy for singletons. These double as tummy time supports and lounge chairs.
  3. Medela Easy Expression Bustier: Hands-free pump bra so you can relax, be productive, or just imagine you’re Madonna while pumping.
  4. Tovolo silicone ice cube tray: Freeze homemade baby food purees. Pop out and store frozen cubes in Ziplocs. Defrost a cube or two for a quick meal.
  5. Green Sprouts waterproof bibs: Rinse off and hang to dry for the next meal.
  6. Fisher-Price SpaceSaver high chair and portable booster seat: These buckle onto regular adult chairs. The high chair cover easily snaps off to machine wash. Portable option is useful for long trips or dinner at a friend’s house.
  7. Munchkin SureGrip straw cups: We used these to transition off milk bottles at a year and still use them at 5 years.
  8. Munchkin Snack Catcher: Minimize spills and encourage independence.
  9. The First Years Take & Toss plastic bowls, sippy cups, straw cups, and divided plastic plates: We use these daily for cereal, water, smoothies and meals. Avoid the dreaded, “Mom! My food is touching!”
  10. Contigo water bottles: My favorite yet in the battle against leaks.
  11. Beech-Nut fruit/veggie purees in disposable pouches: I use these on-the-go snacks to keep my baby awake in the stroller while rushing home for a nap. They are also good for incorporating vegetables that baby would spit out if served straight up.
  12. OXO Tot dishwasher basket and drying rack: For the abundance of bottles, sippy cups, pacifiers, pump parts, straws and small accessories that are now part of your life.
  13. IKEA adjustable-height toddler table and chairs: Great for meals and activities as kids grow.

Essentials for Travel

  1. Lillebaby Nordic carrier: Great for naps on-the-go and for boarding airplanes with pre-walkers.
  2. Baby Jogger City Select double stroller: As a city family, our stroller acts as a car. The sturdy wheels can handle snow, rocks, curbs and stairs. We’ve used various combinations and directions of car seats, stroller seats and a glider board.
  3. Summer Infant 3D Lite: This lightweight umbrella stroller folds easily as we hop on the bus.
  4. Graco Snap N Go stroller frame: The infant car seat easily clicks in, which is great for those first few months before baby can sit up in a regular stroller seat.
  5. Graco Nautilus 65 LX 3-in-1 Harness Booster: This car seat transforms into two stages of booster seats for your growing child. My kids love to store their treasures in the cup holder and side cubbies.
  6. JJ Cole BundleMe stroller bunting: Keeps baby cozy with just a light jacket. I wish I could crawl into this “stroller sleeping bag” on blustery mornings!
  7. Aden + Anais muslin blanket/nursing cover: An airy cover-up for babies who are nursing or sleeping in a carrier or stroller.
  8. PackIt freezable lunch box: Built-in ice packs save me a step on busy mornings.
  9. Graco Pack N Play: Sets up in a minute. The basic version is affordable enough to keep one at each grandparent’s.
  10. Usborne wipe-clean activity books: Keep kids busy on airplanes and cars and while waiting at the doctor’s office or restaurants.

Essentials for Health and Safety

  1. DenTek Kids floss picks: These plus power toothbrushes and fluoride toothpaste are my best friends in the fight against cavities.
  2. Summer Infant Ultimate Crib Sheet: This pad snaps to crib slats for easy changing, so there’s no need to hoist up the mattress. This is especially helpful when kids get sick or wet the bed at night. The three layers serve as a sheet, absorbent mattress pad, and waterproof pad.
  3. Crib that converts to a toddler bed with side rail: Encourage independence, save your back and prevent falls. This setup can easily last for four years.
  4. Safety 1st Finger Pinch Guard: Having these on my doors has saved us from many tears! Easily removable.
  5. Puddle Jumpers: Life jackets that let kids practice their swimming strokes.

Diapering and Potty Essentials

  1. Walmart Parent’s Choice diapers: Best deal out there. Size 1s are less than 10 cents each! With a wetness indicator strip, there’s no guessing whether baby needs a change.
  2. Babies ‘R’ Us disposable changing pads: These are especially helpful when public restrooms don’t have changing tables and who knows what’s on the floor. I keep one on my changing table at home in case of a blow-out.
  3. Aquaphor Healing Ointment: Skin protectant for diaper rash, drool rash, chapped lips, irritated skin and minor cuts.
  4. Playtex Diaper Genie: I spent an entire year with three kids in diapers. Tossing diapers in the outdoor trash just wasn’t going to happen and this was great at locking away odors.
  5. Babies ‘R’ Us diaper booster pads: Add absorbency to nighttime diapers.
  6. Baby Bjorn Potty Chair: With my twins, it was useful for each to have his own potty so we could have “potty parties” together. My third went right for the regular toilet seat with the help of a step stool.

Essentials for Play

  1. Fisher-Price Rainforest Bouncer: A great place to set baby down during your speed shower.
  2. Infantino Twist and Fold Activity Gym and Play Mat: This easily collapses to store under a couch.
  3. Lamaze toys: These colorful, textured toys clip onto car seats and strollers so they don’t fall overboard like our Sophie La Girafe did.
  4. Fisher-Price Jumperoo: Gives baby a new vantage point and works the leg muscles.
  5. Land’s End and KEEN water shoes: Sturdy treads prevent playground wipe-outs during sprinkler season.
  6. Micro Kickboard Mini Scooters: Three wheels help new balancers. A solution for longer walks as you transition out of the stroller.
  7. JJ Cole Outdoor Mat: This water-resistant blanket folds compactly into its own bag and is perfect for the park or beach.

Essentials for School

  1. Skip Hop Zoo backpacks: The smallest doubles as a safety harness. The regular size works well for preschool.
  2. Pottery Barn whiteboard calendar: Home base for coordinating school events, playgroups, playdates, birthday parties, babysitters, date nights, Sunday school volunteering, work commitments, doctor’s appointments, vacations, visitors and community events for our family of six.
  3. Plastic homework folders: Protect papers from that inevitable water bottle spill.
  4. Inchbug labels: Dishwasher- and washing machine-safe adhesive name labels. Perfect for labeling clothes, backpacks, folders, water bottles, lunchboxes and shoes. Reusable Orbit Labels are great too.

Expecting moms: I hope you’ll use this as a registry cheat sheet. New moms: I hope this will save you time as you weed through the gazillion products in the baby gear industry. Veteran moms: Thanks for chatting up your gear with me. Let me guess, did you just nod your head as you checked off all of these beloved items stocked in your own home?

Featured Photo Courtesy: tung256 via Pixabay
Kristin Van de Water
Tinybeans Voices Contributor

Kristin Van de Water is a former journalist and teacher who relies on humor, faith, and her mom crew to get her through the day. Raising four kids in a two-bedroom NYC apartment, Kristin is always on the lookout for life hacks to save time, space, money, and her sanity.

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

6 Ways Sun Basket Will Save Your Life

by Ayren Jackson-Cannady
Partner Content

If visions of soggy cheese pizza dance through your head when you hear the phrase “meal-from-a-box,” you’re in for a satisfying surprise with Sun Basket. The good-for-you meal kit service delivers (in a box) sustainably-sourced, organic ingredients and delicious, easy recipes. Read on to find out how Sun Basket is giving fast food a brand new image while helping to make you a whole lot healthier.  

1. Healthy Menus for Picky Palates
Whether you’re following a Paleo diet, your mini is gluten-free, or your family is exploring vegetarianism, there’s a recipe for you. How it works: Choose 2 or 4 recipes from their Family Menu, designed to feed four people ($9.99/serving). Best part? You can mix and match recipes to suit your family’s needs.

2. Undercover Veggies
Each kit includes one recipe per week created by Chef Tyler Florence of the Food Network, who is known for sneakily hiding veggies in kid-appealing dishes. Think: summer squash and black bean tacos with cabbage slaw and turkey and spinach meatballs with corkscrew pasta and marinara.

3. Pure Produce, No Fillers
Sun Basket, which currently ships to most zip codes in the United States, minus AK, HI, MT, and parts of NM, fills each kit with certified USDA organic ingredients, free from hormones, toxic fertilizers, pesticides and genetic engineering. The result is a completely natural product that you’ll leap to share with the littles.

4. Less Cook Time, More Decompress Time
Since each Sun Basket meal can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, you have more time to squeeze in a heart-saving workout or soul-saving hugs from your kids. Or, you can take a nap…that’s good for your health, too!

5. Nutritionist-Approved
In addition to being designed by award-winning Chef Justine Kelly, all recipes are vetted by an in-house nutritionist. All meals are between 500–800 calories, and balanced with nutrient–dense produce, whole grains, protein and good fats.

6. Teeny Carbon Footprint
It’s no secret that by saving Mama Earth we’re saving ourselves. Sun Basket agrees, which is why their packaging is 100 percent recyclable and compostable. For example, the insulation is made from recycled water bottles and the ice packs are made from a gel that’s 98 percent water and 2 percent organic cotton!!

Have you tried Sun Basket? Tell us about your experience below!

— Ayren Jackson-Cannady

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

25 Parenting Hacks You Need in Your Life

by Allison Sutcliffe

There’s a reason why everyone says being a parent is the toughest job you’ll ever love. Because it’s true! But it doesn’t have to be. Lighten the load of your tough job with creative life hacks for moms and dads. You can thank us later.

Get the “Right” Foot Every Time

Allison Sutcliffe

Ah, sweet children. It’s a wonder their feet aren’t warped from shoes forever being put on the wrong foot. Help your little ones determine left from right with stickers. Cut one in half and place each half inside the soles of your kiddo’s shoes, so that when they’re paired correctly, the sticker looks whole. We love the simplicity of this visual aid.

Tie It Once

Pixabay

Getting shoes on the right feet is just the first hurdle. Getting kids to tie them quickly is the second. Sure, you could take the Velcro route, but you don’t need to if you replace your kid’s original sneaker laces with elastic ones. Here’s the best part: when you’ve got time to spare, kids can still practice their skills. But when you don’t, they can just slip them on. It’s almost too easy!

File It, Baby

Allison Sutcliffe

Between all the squirming and the fear of accidentally taking off the tip of your kid’s finger, using clippers to cut baby fingernails is pretty much madness. Take the pressure off by using a nail file instead. This hack lets you breathe easy.

Change Into Jammies after Swimming

Jason via flickr

Summer is still a little while away, but if you’ve got little swimmers in the fam, pool time is all the time. Changing out of swimwear can be difficult, which is why we suggest getting it over with right after your kids get out of the water. Keep an extra set of jammies in their swim bag or in the car so they can change ASAP after pool time is done.

Enjoy a Quiet Meal

saritarobinson via flickr

Sure, there will be a time where you’re desperate to get your tween to talk to you over a meal, but for now, peace and quiet during the breakfast rush is your goal. Turn on a family-friendly podcast over eggs and cereal to calm the chaos before school. We’ve got a few suggestions that are great for families, so everyone’s ears are happy.

Carabiner Hair Tie Holder

Jennie Rosenbaum via flickr

Every parent has experienced that constant search for hair ties. No matter how many packs you buy, eventually they’ll all be gone, and you’ll be back at the drugstore buying more. With this cool hack, you can save yourself headaches and money. All you need is a carabiner—open the clasp to store hair ties, and close it create the ultimate hair tie holder.

Sweep Your Kid's Room for Favors and Gifts

Jenn Durfey via flickr

With all of the awesome parties, fairs and fads for kids, yours have probably started to collect a gazillion random things. So, how do you keep your house clean with all of this stuff? We recommend doing a sweep of your little one's rooms when they're at school to get rid of the extra party favors, stray stickers and play dough clumps that are constantly multiplying in every corner of your house.

Frozen Sponge Ice Pack

The Best Hobbies Blog via Instructables

Packing lunch for your kids is usually part of the morning routine, and one of the most important items you need is an ice pack. Save money by skipping the blue plastic inserts, and use a frozen sponge to keep your youngsters’ lunches nice and frosty, instead. Put a wet sponge in a plastic bag and freeze: this technique will give you the perfect DIY ice pack.

Keep Cupholders Clean

Allison Sutcliffe

If you’ve ever wondered where lost Minifigs go, we’re pretty sure they’re all hiding inside your kid’s car seat base, refugees from closed cup holders of day’s past. Keep your Minifigs safe, and simplify cleaning car seat cup holders by using cupcake liners. They easily lift out when too many crumbs or leftover Cheerios fill them up, or forgotten toys need rescuing. It’s an easy clean solution.

Always Have Birthday Gifts

Erik Przekop via flickr

Birthday parties for kids are awesome! But, every parent has experienced the panic of being invited to the last minute birthday party or forgetting about a shindig your little ones are attending. We suggest ordering birthday gifts as soon as you RSVP or keeping a stash of gender-neutral gifts handy just in case!

Give Kids a Helping Hand

Pixabay

Your little ones want to get in on the game, but fanning cards can be so tough for little hands. The next time you sit down to family game night and your kids need a cardholder, use a modified egg carton to make one. Use an X-Acto knife to cut a slit in the top of each egg well on an upside down egg carton. The kids can slide in their cards lickety-split, and it’s time to play!

Barbie Organizer

A Girl and a Glue Gun

If you're looking for a creative way to organize your kiddos' dolls we've found an awesome hack just for you. Follow this unique tutorial from A Girl and a Glue Gun to create a Barbie organizer that's similar to an over-the-door shoe organizer, but it is customized to fit the height and width of each doll. It does require sewing skills, but you'll have an amazing storage system that's guaranteed to save you serious cleaning headaches. 

Let Them Cut Cake

Pixabay

Your toddler is all about being independent and doing it himself. And you’re totally on board … unless he’s wielding your incredibly sharp knives. Keep little fingers safe and still build their confidence when you let kids use a pizza cutter to cut up quesadillas, grilled cheese, pancakes, whatever foods need to be cut “just right.” What a great way to practice life skills!

Hooks to Secure Your Fridge Door

ytdk

With a bunch of little tykes running around, safety is every parent's number one concern. One of our favorite life hacks for moms and dads is using a rubber bracelet and a pair of command hooks to secure your fridge door. Put one large command hook on the door and one on the body of the fridge. Then hook the bracelet around those two hooks, and you’ve got an awesome kiddie-proof fridge door that will keep everyone safe. Want other kitchen hacks? Click here. 

Key Ketchup Placement

Pixabay

When it comes to dressing up your kids' hot dogs, a mess is inevitable. Ketchup squirting out the back end while simultaneously ending up on their face. It’s like a horror show of a different variety. That’s why we love this ingenious hack—put the ketchup under the hot dog, not on top and definitely not on the side. With nowhere to go the ketchup stays put, and you’ve got less mess.

Keep a Donation Bag in Your Closet

Howard Lake via flickr

Cleaning out the closet is everyone’s spring cleaning nightmare. But, there’s a simple way to make the process a little smoother. One of our favorite life hacks is to keep a donation bag in the closet where you can put all of the items you’re planning to donate. It'll make it a lot easier to organize and separate when you’re ready to refresh your closet.

Chore Baskets

Margo via Joyful Homemaking

When your kids get a little older, having them help with chores around the house is important. This cool life hack for moms makes it easy for everyone to help out. From Joyful Homemaking, all you really need are plastic shower caddies, zip ties and a printer. The goal is to put all of the cleaning supplies each person needs in their basket and put a little list on the outside of it, so everyone knows which chores they need to complete.

Pick it up Quick

Allison Sutcliffe

If you cringe when your kid mentions glitter, we’re right there with you. But rather than feeling like you live in a fairy wonderland every time you craft with this seemingly impossible-to-cleanup substance, do what we do. Use a lint roller to get on top of it when craft time is over. We bet you’ll find less of the sparkly residue in your sink, on your floors and in crevices you didn’t even know existed after you use this simple hack.

Keep Birthday Cards on Hand

Open Grid Scheduler / Grid Engine Follow via flickr

We talked about gifts, but don’t forget about the cards. Birthday cards are sweet keepsakes for kids, and it’s always nice to include them with gifts. Since they’re so small, it’s easy to keep a selection of gender neutral cards on hand for those last minute invites.

Plastic Bins for Toy Storage

Mike Mozart via flickr

We know every household needs storage. With all of the toys, sports gear and dress-up costumes lying around the house, finding a place to put everything is a daily struggle. One of our favorite parent hacks is using dollar store plastic bins to store toys. These inexpensive containers are a life saver especially when it comes to storing tiny things like LEGO, doll clothes and toy cars. See our other favorite toy storage hacks by clicking here. 

Binder Clip as a Sponge Stand

Horia Varlan via flickr

One of the most popular places for bacteria to hang out in your kitchen is on your sponge. How does this happen? The biggest culprit is moisture. The sponge collects dirt and grime and stays sopping wet for a long time. One way to avoid the extra moisture all together is by putting a binder clip at the bottom of the sponge and using it as a makeshift stand. This allows the sponge dry out, so it stays free of bacteria.

Cookie Cutter Cabinet Locks

Kara Aycoth

If you're a new parent, and especially if you have toddlers running around, baby-proofing the house is a must. One of the most common items you need to secure is all of your cabinets, but there's no need to invest in expensive cabinet locks. Use this awesome hack from Kara Aycoth: Take cookie cutters and slide them over both handles to create fun and super cute locks.

Keep a Box for Kiddie Art

Gverds via flickr

If you have a creative child, you're always surrounded by kiddie art. But, what happens when there are drawings covering the walls, fridge and tables? We recommend keeping a box on hand to keep all of your favorite pieces.

Wine Rack for Craft Storage

Dean Wissing via flickr

We know you love your wine rack. But, with a few easy steps, you can transform it into a helpful craft corner for the kiddos. Take a few red plastic cups and place them at the same angle as a wine bottle inside the metal rungs. Use the cups to store everything from markers to glitter glue, tape and much more. 

Frozen Balloons

Brit Co

If you're heading to the beach this summer, you're definitely going to want to use this awesome hack from Brit & Co. Instead of putting loose ice in your cooler, try freezing water balloons in there instead. They double as ice packs to keep food and drinks cold, and you can use them for a pretty amazing water balloon fight at the end of the day. 

—Allison Sutcliffe & Natasha Davis

 

RELATED STORIES:

23 Life-Saving House Cleaning Hacks

10 Hacks to Keep Your Kitchen Organized

Top Hacks to Stay Clean & Organized Beyond Spring

19 Genius Toy Storage Hacks Because You Have WAY Too Many Toys

 

Featured photo: iStock

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

How to Overcome These 7 New Mom Challenges

By Samardeep Sood

Being a mother is a blissful experience, and sometimes daunting! If you are a new inexperienced mother, life becomes thrilling cum challenging.

The good part, these challenges will help you learn a lot at the same time. A new mommy is usually overprotective and goes an extra mile to ensure the best for her kid. Maybe, that is why mothers are always deeply attached with their kids and cannot let anyone throw shade on them.

Are you a new mother? I understand, how you are being up all night and still going through the day, ensuring that your baby sleeps in peace. Worry not, here are some tips to make your motherhood more ecstatic.

Given below are the 7 problems that every new mother faces and some tips of how to cope up with the same.

1) Sleep Deprived

I know I know! You are sleep deprived. You are making sure that your baby sleeps with a smile. But when you try to hit the sack, you suddenly hear baby cries. You need to get up and sing a lullaby to your baby. Sweet enough for the onlookers, this repetitive cycle can be very tiresome and might even take a toll on the mother’s health.

If being a mother is a bliss, then getting solution to the related challenges is a boon. You must seek help. Not sleeping is not possible and might lead to abrupt mood swings. Continuous lack in sleep can also lead to mental and emotional disturbances. You need to make sure to ask for help.

Ask your friend, a family member, or trustworthy neighbour to spend some time with the baby and till then you must sleep. Sleeping in bits and snatches can also make up.

2) Breastfeeding Problems

You are not used to it! You never had a baby and the baby doesn’t know anything either. What to do now? Breastfeeding is one of the most common problems every new mother goes through. Many problems like generation of milk, baby not latching, painful feeding, and others arise. But, you simply cannot stop the process.

In this case, you need to see a latching consultant or should ask an experienced mother for help. You must talk it out and call them when trying to breastfeed the baby. They’ll be able to notice the flaws or the problems and can help you. Take your time in excelling in this and let the experts guide you. Sometimes, you just more time to get used to it.

3) Lack of ‘ME’ Time

After giving birth to a baby, you are going to miss your ‘ME’ time with your friends and family. And, you must get prepared for the same. Do not get scared! You can still have the time of your life with a baby besides you.

Try inviting your friends home. They are your friends, so they should better understand your state. If you want to go out, look for places you can take your baby along. A lot of mothers do this and this doesn’t let your ‘ME’ time go in waste.

Also, ask your husband or a family member to babysit for sometime. There might be lesser occasions than before, but you won’t regret it. Also, you must consider meeting friends who already have kids or are about to. They’ll understand your part and won’t press you down for anything.

4) You Feel Out of Shape!

Stretch marks and the stubborn fat! You do not feel like being in your own skin. You feel like an unknown person altogether. And, watching television and celebrities with the perfect body shape after giving birth to babies adds a lot more to existing breakdown.

But, it is okay! It takes around a year to get back in shape with mild regular workout. Prior to that, you need that extra fat, to be true. You need it to be energetic and keep the baby healthy with all the proper nutrition.

Even a personal trainer and full-time babysitter can’t fetch those luring results instantly, but that doesn’t mean you lose hope and stop try. Do whatever you want even; what if you’re the mother of a toddler? Just keep following the tiny bits and you’ll be there.

P.S. Do not forget the motherly glow that you’ll get on your skin!

5) It Pains

After going through an extensive pain, everything seems uncontrollable. You feel that you won’t be able to get out of the pain and it’ll stay with you forever. After going through c-section, surgeries, vaginal stitches, etc., you barely feel in a good state. That hurts.

However, you’ll be fine. All this is temporary and the pain will go away. In case of extreme discomfort, visiting your gynecologist is recommended. Also, ice packs and medicinal pads are prescribed for initial days; they can bring relief.

6) “Baby Blues”

You are hormonal which making you low every now & then. This feeling is termed as “baby blues”. You’ll feel like being stuck in something that doesn’t seem to end. Progesterone levels will decrease and you will be acquainted with mood swings.

And, all this with lack of sleep will mess up things.

Don’t worry it’s a matter of a couple of weeks. With support of family and friends, you can get through. There are many online & offline communities and forums too that help new moms feel good. Do not worry, you are not alone.

7) Ambiguity About What the Baby Wants

You’ll have to deal with this one, but again, just for sometime. Your kid won’t say thanks to you every time you are cleaning his face or wiping his poop. The baby won’t tell you whether he/she needs food or wants some warmth. Baby will just cry & you’ll have to figure out the reason. This might sound so difficult to you, doesn’t it?

“It gets better,” they say. Yes, It will. You’ll ultimately know what your baby wants for the moment. You get to know some fixed expressions and conditions that help you get through it. After all, you have gave birth to the baby so you’ll eventually get acquainted with his quirks and expressions. That’s why, it is said that mothers know their kids the best.

Your baby will smile when happy and no feeling will be better than that. Trust me! When your baby will smile at you for the first time, you’ll feel that all the hardships have paid off.

Then, the long due acknowledgements won’t matter. As, the connect will finally be there!

Take a Note

New mother? Have a newborn besides you being all cranky and crying every now and then? I hope this helps to make you feel tad bit relaxed.

Do not worry! In some time, you’ll be back to pavilion with the best version of yourself and a blessing in your hand. Don’t bother if your night parties are being missed for changing diapers. Trust me, you’ll find the worth.

Samardeep Sood is an experienced lifest‌yle writer who loves contributing to parenting blogs. The 26 YO blogger studies human psychology and loves sharing views on the same.

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

New Mom’s Survival Guide for Going Back to Work

by Elizabeth Carr

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.

photo: STIL via Unsplash

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!

photo: Anastasia Shuraeva via Pexels

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!

—Elizabeth Carr

 

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

Panda Plates: A New Meal Delivery Service Just For Kids

by Mimi O'Connor

You know that feeling after a long day at work or wrangling a toddler and a newborn and you’re so psyched to make the kids dinner? No? That doesn’t sound familiar? Surprise: you’re not alone! And Panda Plates, a new meal delivery service just for kids wants to help make dinnertime a little easier in your house.

photo: Panda Plates

Ding Dong: It’s Dinner Time! 
Panda Plates founder Joanna Parker is also a mom of three kids, so she feels your pain. She started the kids meal delivery service late last year, initially doing all the cooking, packing and delivering herself.

Demand grew, Parker brought on executive chef John Bauer, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America to refine the recipes, and Panda Plates now services New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, and can even deliver as far south as Maryland and Washington, D.C.

Quinoa Pizza Cups photo: Panda Plates

The Panda Pledge
Panda Plates promises to “take care of the hard part so you can enjoy parenthood.” Which in this case, means prepping healthy meals your kids will also actually like and eat. (Sounds nice, right?)

One way that’s accomplished is by taking “taste profiles” kids (almost) universally love., i.e. pizza, chicken nuggets, and creating a healthy version of them. Meals are created using fresh and seasonal ingredients, and each week’s menu typically features at least one beef, one poultry, one fish and a few vegetarian options. (Parents can also specify any food allergies or special dietary requirements.)

 Chicken Pops photo: Panda Plates

How it Works
Like meal delivery services for grownups, Panda Plates is a weekly subscription, currently offering plans for three, four, or five nights per week. Once registered, parents log on to the Panda Plates site to review the week’s menu offerings and select the meals they’d like delivered. (Going out of town? No problem; you can skip a week.) Meals are delivered to your door on Mondays, complete with preparation instructions on cute little cards (some are heated in the over, others can be zapped in the microwave) and lots of ice packs to keep things fresh. Most plans cost $9.95 per meal plus shipping.

Black Bean Cigars photo: Panda Plates

What’s For Dinner?
Many of the Panda Plates dinner choices sound pretty tempting to “big kid” palettes, too. We’re talking “Crunchy Salmon Bites” (with a lemon yogurt dip, Israeli Couscous, and roasted asparagus bites); “Chicken Pops” (with applesauce for dipping, steamed broccoli florets, and baked sweet potato fries); “Edamame Dumplings” (with steamed brown rice, sautéed green beans, and a honey soy dipping sauce), and “Honey Salmon Cubes” (with sesame broccoli florets and sticky brown rice).

This fall, the service is rolling out menu options that incorporate internationally-themed dishes to help introduce children to new spices and flavors (toned down for junior taste buds). The dishes will also incorporate an educational component, with maps and interesting facts about the countries and cultures included.

Crunchy Salmon Bites photo: Panda Plates

Focus Group of One (OK, two…)
Sounds great, but will the kids eat it? We did a highly-scientific test of several entrees over the course of a week with the help of a four-year-old with a reasonably developed, but not extra-adventurous palette.

We sampled the honey salmon cubes (which the child repeatedly referred to as “chicken”, despite being told otherwise), chicken pops, which are served on neat-o sticks for fun, spinach egg muffins, and beef tacos with diced corn and cherry tomatoes.

Our taste-tester ate, and liked everything, with the exception of the beef tacos, which just seemed to be a finicky kid thing. (We ate them; they were delicious. And we sampled most everything else, too and found it tasty and fresh.) Not only did our guinea pig repeatedly give the thumbs up, she requested more.

Panda Plates
Online: pandaplates.com

Would you try a meal service for kids? Tell us in the comments below! 

—Mimi O’Connor

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

Now Shipping: NYC’s First Organic Meal Delivery Service for New Moms

by Mimi O'Connor

One of the ironies of trying to eat well when you’re breastfeeding a newborn, is that of course, it’s one of those periods in life when orchestrating any meal — let alone a really healthy one — is a bit of a challenge. Barley + Oats, New York’s first organic meal delivery service for new mothers, is hoping it can help the parents of newborns out with this dilemma, while also supporting things important to new moms like milk production and hormonal balance. We got a real live new mom (who also happens to write about food) to give the service a whirl — read on to get her take on Barley + Oats!

photo: Barley + Oats

Introducing, Barley + Oats (No, not the singing guys)
Founded by health food enthusiast, new mom and Natural Gourmet Institute grad Ashly Yashchin (the idea for the company came to her when pregnant with her first son) Barley + Oats creates and delivers freshly prepared snacks and meals for expecting, new and nursing mothers. In addition to being organic, the food is dairy, wheat, soy, caffeine, peanut and refined-sugar free, and made with lots of lactogenic ingredients to help increase the quantity and quality of breast milk. The service also promises micronutrient-dense offerings with a focus on vitamins and minerals for newborn growth and postpartum health; foods rich in fatty acids to support mood stabilization, and preparation geared towards aiding digestion and nutrient absorption. (And yes, that photo above is exactly what we looked like in the weeks following the birth of our child.)

photo: Barley + Oats

A Little, A Lot, for a Week or a Few Months
Barley + Oats is ready to meet your culinary needs, be they modest or full-service, with options ranging from relatively affordable to top dollar/great for a group gift-level. Offerings include snack packs with items such as oatmeal raisin kale cookies, creamy hummus with flax crackers and caramelized fennel and apricots; lactation oatmeals, granolas and cookies, and full meal plans for just mom or a family of two — or even four! Craving some bone broth? They’ve got that, too. Barley + Oats also offers lots of non-edible baby gift packages with cute, often organic items like Estella yellow cab security blanket and Metrocard rattle, postpartum bath herbs, books from eco-conscious publisher Homegrown and nursing pillows.

photo: Barley + Oats

Thoughts From Guinea Pig Mom
At home in Park Slope breastfeeding her two-month-old boy, our new mom was happy to introduce some new fare into her meal routine. (She admits to eating a lot of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for a quick and easy lunch and cobbling together breakfasts during those initial weeks.)

Her overall assessment was, “it’s like spa food for moms”, and she appreciated knowing that whatever she was reaching for was healthy. She reported getting lots of fresh seasonal produce such as such as figs, tomatoes and kale in her snacks and meals, and thought the food looked — and tasted — homemade. Favorites included many of the breakfast items (coconut yogurt/granola, oatmeal), the lactation cookies and fresh juices.

Adjustments she’d make included increasing the size of the lunch portions (“nursing makes you hungry!”) and packaging that could go right into the oven to make it even more new mom-friendly. (She also noted the use of a lot of coconut, which wasn’t an issue for her, but may be for someone else.)

Additionally, she felt the reheating and serving instructions were clear, enjoyed the nutritional info provided on the packaging and appreciated the refrigerated bag and ice packs that came with delivery.

photo: Barley + Oats

The Essential Info
Snack Packs can be ordered for periods of 5 to 30 days (starting at $150) and meals are available for periods ranging from 5 to 20 days with the five-day “After Hours” dinner plan costing $175. (Customers may order either a single meal plan, such as lunch, or a a plan with more than one and snacks.)

Orders are billed up front at time of purchase and may be paused or canceled up to the Friday before delivery. Barley and Oats currently delivers to all locations in Manhattan and many in Brooklyn. (See a full list of the Brooklyn neighborhoods here.) Not in the delivery area?; Write them and they’ll do their best to get to you. The good news: the lactation snacks and gifts are shipped nationwide.

Online: barleyandoats.com

Have you tried Barley + Oats? Give us your review in the comments below! 

—Mimi O’Connor

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement