New Breastfeeding Support Group!

When it comes to feeding your newborn baby, most will agree that "breast is best." In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months. In addition to containing all the vitamins and nutrients your newborn needs, breast milk is packed with disease fighting substances that protect your baby from illness. Breastfeeding protects your baby from gastrointestinal trouble, respiratory problems and ear infections. Breastfeeding can prevent your baby from developing allergies. Several studies have found possible connections between breastfeeding and higher IQ's. Researches have concluded that early breastfeeding is linked to a reduced risk of obesity. Studies have shown that breastfeeding may lower your baby's risk of SIDS and developing childhood leukemia as well as protect your baby from developing type 1 diabetes and high blood pressure later in life.

Breastfeeding isn't just good for your baby, it's good for you as well. Breastfeeding burns calories, which in turn helps you lose the pregnancy weight you gained. Also, nursing triggers the release of the hormone oxytocin, which will lower your stress levels. Oxytocin also helps your uterus contract back to size after birth, resulting in less postpartum bleeding. Breastfeeding for at least a year can protect you from breast and ovarian cancer. Lastly, breastfeeding can improve your bone density which can reduce the risk of osteoporosis later in life.

However, as great as breastfeeding is for you and your baby, it's not always easy. Sometimes babies have problems latching, and sometimes mothers have problems producing, and sometimes it's very easy for both mother and baby, but naturally you may have a lot of questions. That is why we are starting a breastfeeding support group, here our store.

Bring your baby to these special groups to share and learn in a friendly supportive atmosphere. Discussions are facilitated by a lactation consultant and broach many topics including postpartum adjustment, feeding, burping, sleeping, gas and colic, normal newborn behavior, soothing fussy babies and breastfeeding. Expectant mothers are also encouraged to attend prior to giving birth.

The breastfeeding support group is FREE and will take place at our store on Tuesdays from 10:30 A.M to 12 P.M. No registration is necessary. Contact us, or visit our website for more information.

Portrait Days Are Coming!

In search of the perfect Father's Day gift? Look no more! Now, through May 25th, receive a complementary Firefly Photography photo shoot and 8x10 portrait of your child when you make a purchase of $200 or more at Nurture.

Your child's portrait will arrive just in time for Father's Day!

Space is limited so be sure to shop soon to take advantage of this exclusive offer.

Portraits will be taken on May 26th and 27th.

Appointments will be made at the store, at time of purchase.

Weigh Less, Live More and Eat Chocolate!

Have you not “bounced back” since having children? Do you have nagging pounds you just can’t seem to shed? Have you tried diets and failed?

Join us for a FREE seminar this Tuesday, May 11th at 10:30am. Certified Health Coach Emily Kaplan shares 8 ways to drop pounds, why diets clearly don’t work and how you can eat CHOCOLATE everyday! Emily specializes in helping women who are chronic dieters and moms who want to learn to prioritize their health. You can learn more about her at www.emilythehealthcoach.com

Free Baby Wearing Workshop, This Saturday!

There are many reasons to wear your baby in a baby-carrier. Do you have a fussy baby? Well studies show that the more babies are held, the less they cry. Does your baby have an older sibling? You may need a baby-carrier so your hands can be free to push your older child on the swings, or chase him around the park. Do you want to loose that last bit of pregnancy weight? Well, carrying your baby is not only good for baby, it's good for you too! The added weight of the baby while you are walking can turn an ordinary stroll into a muscle toning work out. Are your arms just tired and you need a free hand? Whatever your reason, if you would like to find the best baby carrier for you and learn more about baby wearing then come to our Baby Wearing Workshop this Saturday, May 8th, 10-11:15am.

Topics will include:

• The many benefits of baby-wearing
• How a sling can make your life easier (especially if you have more than one child)
• The best baby-carrier for you
• How to figure out these sometimes confusing and intimidating contraptions!

At the workshop you will be able to:

• Try on different carriers
• Talk to a seasoned "expert"
• Become more confident with baby-wearing
• Bring your own carrier and get help

This workshop will be given by Katie Culver, Ph.D. This workshop is FREE so grab your Mommy friends and come on down!