Having a baby born 14 weeks early was hard, but it would have been even harder had it not been for our amazing family, friends, and community who supported us and helped us through those 108 days! People did things for us that I would never had imagined! Even complete strangers wrote messages to us and prayed for us daily. I realized that during a time like this people just want to help in any way. Sometimes they don't know how they can help, but they just want to feel like they contributed something. Many people say, "If you need anything, please let us know". We all have been there, it's hard to accept or reach out for help, but it's also hard to know how you can help someone during a difficult time. I have compiled a list of some of the amazing acts of kindness and ways you can help a NICU family during their time of need, or even things you can do for any new mother. Sometimes lending a helping hand can mean more than a gift and will be greatly appreciated. Especially when the family has other children at home. Here are some ideas....
1. Drop off some grocery necessities....milk, eggs, bread, pasta, peanut butter, frozen pizzas, soda, etc. Things you think the family uses and especially when they are short on time.
2. Make up a hospital care package....magazines, instant coffees, tea, snack bars, nuts, crayons and color books (for kids), goldfish crackers, etc. Families spend a lot of time in the cafeteria for snacks and meals and have a lot of downtime. This makes for less of those trips!
3. Make up some frozen meals. Time for Dinner www.timefordinner.com is a nice local (St. Louis) business where you can make yummy meals to freeze. Or you can just make your own. These come in handy now or later for the family! Our friends emailed out a calendar on www.signupgenius.com for friends and family to sign up to bring us meals. So greatly appreciated during our NICU stay!
4. Offer to send over a cleaning lady or service. We are both so fortunate that our mothers happen to do this for a living, but I can't say how nice it was to come home to a sparkling clean and sanitized house with our baby. Yard maintenance is another great idea if it's summer. Especially when the family is so short on time!
5. Sign the family or baby up for masses. Especially if the baby is sick and needs the prayers. We had several people enroll our baby in a Membership of Adoration that would dedicate 9 masses to her over the course of a year. A very thoughtful and meaningful gift. You may also add the family or baby to the prayer chain at your church or start a perpetual rosary...another amazing gesture that was started for our baby!
6. Plan a day to take the other children to do something fun and let the parents spend alone time or spend time at the hospital. This also does so much for the siblings who are going through a rough time and need the extra attention.
7. Send the family stationary, thank you cards, or stamps! With a new baby or a NICU stay the family has many thank you notes to write and this eliminates a few stops for them. A great gift idea!
8. Deliver a hot meal or have a meal delivered from a restaurant. Arrange the date ahead of time so the family knows. How nice it is to come home from a long day and have a hot meal delivered to your door!
9. Give a baby care package with diapers, wipes, and other baby care items that can be used later at home. You can never have enough diapers! Of course gift cards for these things are handy too.
10. Give the parents a nice journal, daily devotional, or other easy reading material. It is nice to have somewhere to keep thoughts or log of what's happening day to day and other meaningful but easy reading materials that can be picked up and read at any time and keep your thoughts positive.
11. Gather a few people to pay a month of tuition for the family, buy them a gas card, or help them financially in another way. Not only do medical bills start piling up, but when a parent is unable to work and has gas and food expenses that they wouldn't normally have, money gets tight! We were fortunate in that a good friend is involved with a foundation www.maggiewelby.org that helps with education expenses when families go through medical issues or hardships. What a burden lifted!
These are just some of the generous gifts and gestures we received during our difficult time that really made a difference! We were overwhelmed with the generosity of others and are ever so grateful. Sometimes you want to help someone, but you just don't know how. I hope this will give you some ideas if you should ever need them!
Showing posts with label kids. Show all posts
Showing posts with label kids. Show all posts
Friday, February 15, 2013
Monday, February 11, 2013
The Guilt of Giving Up!
I am feeling really very sad and frustrated and am having the hardest time making this decision, but I think it has been decided that I must give up on the breastfeeding and pumping. I have been pumping now for 4 months all in hopes of eventually breastfeeding once Adison got home from the hospital. I never was a good pumper. With my other babies I breastfed exclusively until I had to go back to work and when I did the pump just didn't cut it. I dried up like that. I always felt I did a pretty good job giving them a good start. We lasted about 3-4 months and I had no problem switching to formula. This time is much harder!
At first with her being only 2lbs and in the NICU I felt it was my duty to supply her what she needed. I rented a hospital grade pump which has been $60 a month for the last 3 months. I felt this was the only thing I could do for her, so keeping up with pumping every 3 hours was hard, but sooo worth it to me. I've been telling myself that if we can make it through the NICU stay then when she gets home we can really breastfeed. I was looking forward to this because number one I think it's the healthiest for mom and baby, two... I love the bonding, three...it's free...how can you beat that? and four... I love the ease of it! Middle of the night feedings are so easy when you just have to bring the baby to your bed and whip it out. No warming bottles and cleaning them....it's the easiest and most natural way. Don't think I'm some crazy pro-breastfeeding mom who doesn't think it's okay to feed formula. I think whatever works for you is what you should do. I just happen to like breastfeeding for me! So, I've been through 2 rounds of prescription Reglan to keep up my supply when its fallen off. I've tried the pumping every two hour thing and I've drank so much water I'm about to drown. I just can't keep it up. Since she has been home I've tried getting her to breastfeed. She does okay, but she's not great with feeding from the bottle as it is, so the let down of the breast drowns her. She latches great, but she gets fussy with me because there isn't much there and then she gets too much. It's been a rough road, but I didn't want to give up so easily! I just finished the Reglan again two days ago and the very next day already my supply dropped drastically. I think its time to stop, I just feel so guilty!
In one way, I think if I stop it will take some stress off of me. I've been a crazy lady trying to mix bottles, feed her, and pump. It takes me an hour at night to go through the whole routine and I'm hurting for some sleep! Maybe I use this time to sleep and actually be happier during the day. I can also get rid of the pump and the $60 a month, which will probably be the same as formula. I just hate to lose out on the bonding time that we didn't get while she was in the hospital! For 3 months I only got to see my baby for an hour or two a day. I had to ask nurses if I could feed her. I just wanted this time at home with her to nurse her when I wanted and feel the bond I felt with my other girls. I know I need to get over this feeling and I will feel so much relief after I get over the guilt.
I spoke with my doctor today and told him I just can't keep up. He reminded me of how hard it is to pump for such a long time and how well I have done. He reassured me that I have given her the best during the time it really mattered. She has gotten a great start with breastmilk those first 4 months and there is no harm in switching. My husband also made me feel better about it and has supported my decision. I really don't have much of a decision to make...my body has pretty much made it for me. I'm sure there are other moms who have been through too. It's just part of being a mother with expectations. I just need to channel my guilt into something else. I hope we can bond through cuddling and bottle feeding. This has been such a long hard 4 months. I'm looking forward to getting rid of the stress of feeding and start enjoying other things about my baby girl.
At first with her being only 2lbs and in the NICU I felt it was my duty to supply her what she needed. I rented a hospital grade pump which has been $60 a month for the last 3 months. I felt this was the only thing I could do for her, so keeping up with pumping every 3 hours was hard, but sooo worth it to me. I've been telling myself that if we can make it through the NICU stay then when she gets home we can really breastfeed. I was looking forward to this because number one I think it's the healthiest for mom and baby, two... I love the bonding, three...it's free...how can you beat that? and four... I love the ease of it! Middle of the night feedings are so easy when you just have to bring the baby to your bed and whip it out. No warming bottles and cleaning them....it's the easiest and most natural way. Don't think I'm some crazy pro-breastfeeding mom who doesn't think it's okay to feed formula. I think whatever works for you is what you should do. I just happen to like breastfeeding for me! So, I've been through 2 rounds of prescription Reglan to keep up my supply when its fallen off. I've tried the pumping every two hour thing and I've drank so much water I'm about to drown. I just can't keep it up. Since she has been home I've tried getting her to breastfeed. She does okay, but she's not great with feeding from the bottle as it is, so the let down of the breast drowns her. She latches great, but she gets fussy with me because there isn't much there and then she gets too much. It's been a rough road, but I didn't want to give up so easily! I just finished the Reglan again two days ago and the very next day already my supply dropped drastically. I think its time to stop, I just feel so guilty!
In one way, I think if I stop it will take some stress off of me. I've been a crazy lady trying to mix bottles, feed her, and pump. It takes me an hour at night to go through the whole routine and I'm hurting for some sleep! Maybe I use this time to sleep and actually be happier during the day. I can also get rid of the pump and the $60 a month, which will probably be the same as formula. I just hate to lose out on the bonding time that we didn't get while she was in the hospital! For 3 months I only got to see my baby for an hour or two a day. I had to ask nurses if I could feed her. I just wanted this time at home with her to nurse her when I wanted and feel the bond I felt with my other girls. I know I need to get over this feeling and I will feel so much relief after I get over the guilt.
I spoke with my doctor today and told him I just can't keep up. He reminded me of how hard it is to pump for such a long time and how well I have done. He reassured me that I have given her the best during the time it really mattered. She has gotten a great start with breastmilk those first 4 months and there is no harm in switching. My husband also made me feel better about it and has supported my decision. I really don't have much of a decision to make...my body has pretty much made it for me. I'm sure there are other moms who have been through too. It's just part of being a mother with expectations. I just need to channel my guilt into something else. I hope we can bond through cuddling and bottle feeding. This has been such a long hard 4 months. I'm looking forward to getting rid of the stress of feeding and start enjoying other things about my baby girl.
Monday, October 22, 2012
How Preemie Moms are Chosen
a friend emailed this to me the other day! Thanks Karin!
How Preemie Moms Are Chosen~
(Erma Bombeck)
Did you ever wonder how the mothers of premature babies are chosen?
Somehow, I visualize God hovering over Earth, selecting his
instruments for propagation with great care and deliberation. As he
observes, he instructs his angels to take notes in a giant ledger.
"Armstrong, Beth, son. Patron Saint, Matthew.
Forrest, Marjorie, daughter. Patron Saint, Celia.
Rutledge, Carrie, twins. Patron Saint...give her Gerard. He's used to
profanity."
Finally, he passes a name to an angel and smiles.
"Give her a preemie." The angel is curious. "Why this one, God?
She's so happy."
"Exactly," smiles God.
"Could I give a premature baby a mother who knows no laughter? That
would be cruel."
"But does she have the patience?" asks the angel.
"I don't want her to have too much patience, or she'll drown in a sea
of self-pity and despair.
Once the shock and resentment wear off, she'll handle it.
I watched her today. She has that sense of self and independence so
rare and so necessary in a mother.
You see, the child I'm going to give her has a world of its own.
She has to make it live in her world, and that's not going to be easy."
"But Lord, I don't think she even believes in you."
God smiles. "No matter, I can fix that. This one is perfect She has
just the right amount of selfishness."
The angel gasps, "Selfishness?! Is that a virtue?"
God nods. "If she can't separate herself from the child occasionally,
she will never survive.
Yes, here is a woman whom I will bless with a child less than perfect.
She doesn't know it yet, but she is to be envied.
She will never take for granted a spoken word.
She will never consider a step ordinary.
When her child says momma for the first time,
she will be witness to a miracle and know it.
I will permit her to see clearly the things I see--
ignorance, cruelty, prejudice--
and allow her to rise above them.
She will never be alone.
I will be at her side every minute of every day of her life
because she is doing my work as surely as she is here by my side."
"And what about her Patron Saint?" asks the angel, his pen poised in
the air.
God smiles. "A mirror will suffice."
(Erma Bombeck)
Did you ever wonder how the mothers of premature babies are chosen?
Somehow, I visualize God hovering over Earth, selecting his
instruments for propagation with great care and deliberation. As he
observes, he instructs his angels to take notes in a giant ledger.
"Armstrong, Beth, son. Patron Saint, Matthew.
Forrest, Marjorie, daughter. Patron Saint, Celia.
Rutledge, Carrie, twins. Patron Saint...give her Gerard. He's used to
profanity."
Finally, he passes a name to an angel and smiles.
"Give her a preemie." The angel is curious. "Why this one, God?
She's so happy."
"Exactly," smiles God.
"Could I give a premature baby a mother who knows no laughter? That
would be cruel."
"But does she have the patience?" asks the angel.
"I don't want her to have too much patience, or she'll drown in a sea
of self-pity and despair.
Once the shock and resentment wear off, she'll handle it.
I watched her today. She has that sense of self and independence so
rare and so necessary in a mother.
You see, the child I'm going to give her has a world of its own.
She has to make it live in her world, and that's not going to be easy."
"But Lord, I don't think she even believes in you."
God smiles. "No matter, I can fix that. This one is perfect She has
just the right amount of selfishness."
The angel gasps, "Selfishness?! Is that a virtue?"
God nods. "If she can't separate herself from the child occasionally,
she will never survive.
Yes, here is a woman whom I will bless with a child less than perfect.
She doesn't know it yet, but she is to be envied.
She will never take for granted a spoken word.
She will never consider a step ordinary.
When her child says momma for the first time,
she will be witness to a miracle and know it.
I will permit her to see clearly the things I see--
ignorance, cruelty, prejudice--
and allow her to rise above them.
She will never be alone.
I will be at her side every minute of every day of her life
because she is doing my work as surely as she is here by my side."
"And what about her Patron Saint?" asks the angel, his pen poised in
the air.
God smiles. "A mirror will suffice."
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Buying and Selling Breastmilk!?
I knew that women donated their breast milk, but the concept of buying and selling breastmilk through classified ads is something I have been hearing more about recently and I honestly was a little surprised by! Really....you just go on craigslist and buy some random woman's breastmilk to feed your baby?? I don't know why this seems somewhat strange to me! Anyone else?
I only found one posting locally on craigslist for breastmilk, but I did a search and there are plenty of sites out there where you can buy and sell breastmilk only!
Here are a couple:
http://www.onlythebreast.com/
http://www.sellingbreastmilk.com/
You can also donate to a milk bank. Milk banks use the donated milk to sell to hospitals for ill or premature babies in the NICU (something I didn't know...hmmm). They also use the milk to produce their own nutritional formulations that the hospitals will use.
So who can donate?
Almost any nursing mother can donate. If you are healthy with a good medical history, you are a likely candidate. You will need to complete a medical survey, get medical confirmation from your doctor and your baby's pediatrician, have your blood tested for diseases and give a cheek cell sample, all at no cost to you. You will be informed of any test results that would indicate a health problem so that you can follow up with your doctor. If all of your results are fine, you can begin to donate breast milk.
I am definitely a fan of breastfeeding! I did it with both of my children, but only lasted about 4 months with each. It seemed that as soon as I went back to work and started pumping I stopped making milk. I also have a theory that women with small breasts simply don't make as much! :) I even tried a prescription last time because I really really wanted to last longer, but I was only getting 1 oz every time I pumped! It didn't help much. After having the bottle and having to work so hard to get anything from me, my daughter didn't want anything to do with me!
I still am not sure I would buy someone else's milk?? I really can't fully wrap my brain around it. How do you feel about it? I'm curious if others would buy? I think I would sell my milk in a heartbeat! I totally get it...free money...why not? The ABC piece I watched (link below) said that a woman can make $20,000 a year selling her breast milk! Are you kidding?? You've got to watch this! I also don't mean to judge, but I think these women prove my theory. These women all look to have huge breasts! Not fair!
http://abcnews.go.com/US/moms-sell-excess-breast-milk-cash-internet/story?id=13768179
Another article...
http://www.breastfeed.com/news/selling-breast-milk
I only found one posting locally on craigslist for breastmilk, but I did a search and there are plenty of sites out there where you can buy and sell breastmilk only!
Here are a couple:
http://www.onlythebreast.com/
http://www.sellingbreastmilk.com/
You can also donate to a milk bank. Milk banks use the donated milk to sell to hospitals for ill or premature babies in the NICU (something I didn't know...hmmm). They also use the milk to produce their own nutritional formulations that the hospitals will use.
So who can donate?
Almost any nursing mother can donate. If you are healthy with a good medical history, you are a likely candidate. You will need to complete a medical survey, get medical confirmation from your doctor and your baby's pediatrician, have your blood tested for diseases and give a cheek cell sample, all at no cost to you. You will be informed of any test results that would indicate a health problem so that you can follow up with your doctor. If all of your results are fine, you can begin to donate breast milk.
I am definitely a fan of breastfeeding! I did it with both of my children, but only lasted about 4 months with each. It seemed that as soon as I went back to work and started pumping I stopped making milk. I also have a theory that women with small breasts simply don't make as much! :) I even tried a prescription last time because I really really wanted to last longer, but I was only getting 1 oz every time I pumped! It didn't help much. After having the bottle and having to work so hard to get anything from me, my daughter didn't want anything to do with me!
I still am not sure I would buy someone else's milk?? I really can't fully wrap my brain around it. How do you feel about it? I'm curious if others would buy? I think I would sell my milk in a heartbeat! I totally get it...free money...why not? The ABC piece I watched (link below) said that a woman can make $20,000 a year selling her breast milk! Are you kidding?? You've got to watch this! I also don't mean to judge, but I think these women prove my theory. These women all look to have huge breasts! Not fair!
http://abcnews.go.com/US/moms-sell-excess-breast-milk-cash-internet/story?id=13768179
Another article...
http://www.breastfeed.com/news/selling-breast-milk
Monday, October 1, 2012
Alternatives to Halloween candy?
Are there equally as fun alternatives to halloween candy, or are you just being no fun if you don't give candy??? I know I hate when my kids bring home all that candy that I'm just going to throw away 2 days later, but I'm probably not the norm! I don't want to give out apples or anything, but every year I go through this..."what can I give that will be fun, but isn't candy?"
Here are some of my suggestions. Take em or leave em, but I do think some kids (especially the little ones) will go for some of this fun stuff instead of the candy!
Stickers
Halloween pencils
Temporary tattoos
Fruit snacks
Microwave popcorn
Spider rings
Glow braclets
Erasers
Pretzels
Juice boxes
Playdoh
Hot Chocolate (depending on weather)
Bubbles
Coins (fake or real!)
Silly Bands
Sidewalk Chalk
Crayons
Bouncy Balls
Have other suggestions? Leave your comments!!
Stickers
Halloween pencils
Temporary tattoos
Fruit snacks
Microwave popcorn
Spider rings
Glow braclets
Erasers
Pretzels
Juice boxes
Playdoh
Hot Chocolate (depending on weather)
Bubbles
Coins (fake or real!)
Silly Bands
Sidewalk Chalk
Crayons
Bouncy Balls
Have other suggestions? Leave your comments!!
Thursday, September 27, 2012
Baby names on the rise!
This was a very interesting article on www.disneybaby.com... baby names on the rise! We all know whats popular right now and last year, but whats up and coming?? I was excited about this! Surprised by some and not at all by others!
I think I already know 3 Amelias and 3 Harpers, but I was shocked to see Charley and Mila on the list! Two of my favorites! I also know several Kinley, Kinsleys, but was surprised to see Olive, Juniper and June?? Hmmm?
Boy names...I know plenty of Jacksons and Henrys, so surprised those are on the "names sure to sky rocket list!" But surprised by Asher (my fav on my boy list) and Milo?
Well...here they all are....
Girl names sure to sky-rocket:
I think I already know 3 Amelias and 3 Harpers, but I was shocked to see Charley and Mila on the list! Two of my favorites! I also know several Kinley, Kinsleys, but was surprised to see Olive, Juniper and June?? Hmmm?
Boy names...I know plenty of Jacksons and Henrys, so surprised those are on the "names sure to sky rocket list!" But surprised by Asher (my fav on my boy list) and Milo?
Well...here they all are....
Girl names sure to sky-rocket:
- Amelia
- Charlotte/Charley (sure to be a Top 10 soon)
- Scarlett
- Harper (the fastest-rising girl name in the Top 100)
- Penelope (especially now that a certain Kardashian, possibly responsible for the “Mason” boom, named her daughter Penelope. Sigh.)
- Adele
- Estelle/Stella
- Briella/Brielle (the fastest-rising girl name of 2011)
- Mila (another name that skyrocketed last year — presumably because of a Ms. Kunis)
- Aubrey/Aubree
- Molly
- Violet
- Lucy
More girl names on the rise:
- Isla and other short -ah ending names: Aria, Luna, Cora, Eva, Nora, and Clara (in the tradition of Emma, Olivia, and Ava).
- Elsie, Elise, Eliza and Eloise (the new El- names?)
- Ivy
- June
- Juniper
- Olive
- Names ending in -lyn or -lynn (Evelyn, Raelynn, Emmalynn, Addilynn, etc.). This is a huge trend.
- Names ending in -anna (Audrianna, Lilliana, Aviana, etc.)
- Alice
- Bryn
- Harlow
- Kinsley/Kinley/Kensley
- Vera
- Ember and other “Em-” names like Emery and Emerson
- Milania
- Bristol
- Kennedy
Boy names sure to sky-rocket:
- Brantley (the fastest-rising boy name in 2011)
- Jackson and all of its alternative spellings: Jaxon, Jaxen, Jaxon
- Declan (the next Aiden?)
- Grayson/Greyson
- Elijah (already ranks in the Top 20, but it’s steadily climbing to the top along with Liam)
- Levi
- Henry
- Oliver
- Isaiah
- Asher
- Silas/Sylas
- Milo
- Wyatt
More boy names on the rise:
- Iker (the fastest-rising boy name of 2011)
- Raylan/Rylen
- Maximiliano
- More “X” names: Felix, Axel, Jax, Rex, Dexter, Dax, and Lennox.
- Harvey (It’s still in the 800s here in the States, but it just entered the U.S. Top 1,000 last year after the name ranked in England’s Top 50. The next name import?)
- Flynn
- Jasper
- Atticus
- Abram
- Abel
- Cato and other “-O” ending names: Arlo, Hugo, Theo, and Nico
- Kayson
- Archer
- Kingston
- Surnames (in addition to Jackson): Hayes, Parker, Lennox, Sullivan, and Edison.
- Zeiden
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Paleo for Kids?
Is eating Paleo safe for kids and babies? Allow me to answer a question with a better question: Is eating a Western diet safe for kids? No, it’s not. And yes, eating Paleo is.
Why Wouldn’t It Be?
The top reasons I’m assuming people think eating Paleo might be dangerous for their child or baby are these:
Bottom line.... Yes, Paleo is safe for your kids and babies!!
Why Wouldn’t It Be?
The top reasons I’m assuming people think eating Paleo might be dangerous for their child or baby are these:
- Not enough nutrients
- Too much meat
- Not enough dairy (in other words, not enough calcium)
- Too much meat
- Not enough sugary snack foods?
Bottom line.... Yes, Paleo is safe for your kids and babies!!
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
WE DO NOT NEED DAIRY!
I love this article on the green smoothie girl website! Explains why humans do not need dairy. People usually look at me like I'm crazy when I say it. Pleae read. For more nutrition myths visit her website here: http://greensmoothiegirl.com/nutrition-manifesto/nutrition-fact-and-myth/
Myth #8: “Milk and dairy build strong bones.”
The most powerful industry in America is the dairy industry, earning over $50 billion and spending over $200 million annually to spread the lie that dairy products nutrition is necessary for human children’s health. They’re smart enough to target mothers (and they started, very successfully, with our grandmothers), because they can create habits for life if a child is drinking cow’s milk at an early age.
So, while for many this will be a revelation, it shouldn’t be: our mothers were conned! The idea that the milk of another species is an appropriate and necessary source of calcium is a serious thinking error that has led to cancer, heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and autoimmune disease in epic numbers.
Ask yourself why the U.S. consumes more than double the amount of milk and dairy than the #2 milk-drinking country—and yet has one of the highest rate of osteoporosis (and massive dental decay, despite the best dental-care system) in the world. The other highest osteoporosis countries are—that’s right, the other highest milk-drinking countries (in Europe and Scandinavia). Africa doesn’t drink the milk of cows and has essentially no brittle bones. Drinking milk is not leading to strong bones and teeth–it never did, except for baby cows.
Colin T. Campbell, PhD, one of the most preeminent nutrition researchers in the world, conducted the most comprehensive, longitudinal research study in history (still ongoing) known as the Oxford-Cornell China Project. The New York Times dubbed it “the Grand Prix of Epidemiology.” Published in 2004, The China Study examined dietary habits and disease rates in 6,500 adults in China over almost 30 years.
Campbell started with animal studies duplicated by other researchers all over the world and progressed to his enormous human population. The researchers documented massive evidence that casein (the protein in milk) is linked to high rates of disease when ingested at a rate of 20 percent of the diet, which is the American average. He documents very low rates of those same diseases in subjects eating only 5% or less animal protein. The protein in all the studies, animal and human, was casein. Eight thousand statistically significant correlations resulted from this study. (“Statistically significant” means the likelihood the finding is due to chance is less than 5 percent.) These findings definitively decimate American mothers’ nutrition beliefs that feeding their children dairy products will build strong bones and good health.
Human calcium deficiency diseases are extremely rare for anyone on any type of natural diet. Our need for calcium is relatively low, in fact, and mothers needn’t worry about pushing on their children massive amounts of cow’s milk (often genetically modified and full of hormones and antibiotics).
I raised all four of my children without cow’s milk, and only one of them has ever broken a bone (when she was pushed off the top of a slide, and she healed very quickly), despite all of them being competitive athletes and therefore constantly in injury-prone situations. I personally have never drunk a glass of cow’s milk in my life, and at 40, I was measured to have the bone mass of a 20-yr. old. I did feed my children a little raw goat’s milk and homemade goat yogurt as they were being weaned from breast milk, and I continue to do so. Goat milk more closely resembles human breast milk; it also has a smaller fat molecule that permeates the human semi-permeable membranes without being mucus forming. Additionally, fermented milk proteins like kefir and yogurt are predigested and often cause no problems even for those who are lactose intolerant. I asked Dr. Campbell personally about his opinion of goat milk, as well as of kefir and yogurt, and he said that his research did not address it.
Cow milk’s large fat molecule is acid- and mucus-forming in humans; thus we are all “lactose intolerant” to one degree or another. Our grandparents, with their strong genetics, withstood it well. Unfortunately, our own children with three generations of weakened genetics, are not faring so well. Every time I see a child with green snot running from his nose, I wish I could in some socially acceptable way beg his mother to get her child off cow’s milk.
I have counseled willing mothers about this many times, and every time the mothers reported that the mucous problems disappeared or decreased as they eliminated dairy products. Related asthma and allergies dramatically decreased as well. (Eliminating sugar at the same time, as well, is a very wise idea. It, too, is highly acid—and therefore mucous-forming.)
Fact: Baby humans need human breast milk until their eyeteeth come in at about 18 months (at which time they begin producing digestive enzymes to break down table food). Only baby cows need cow milk. Nothing replaces human breast milk for infants 0-18 months. The best alternative, if breastfeeding is impossible, is raw goat milk (and definitely not soy milk). Get your calcium from leafy greens, as the dairy products nutrition is bioavailable to cows but not humans.
Dairy won’t give you strong bones OR teeth, sorry.
Myth #8: “Milk and dairy build strong bones.”
The most powerful industry in America is the dairy industry, earning over $50 billion and spending over $200 million annually to spread the lie that dairy products nutrition is necessary for human children’s health. They’re smart enough to target mothers (and they started, very successfully, with our grandmothers), because they can create habits for life if a child is drinking cow’s milk at an early age.
So, while for many this will be a revelation, it shouldn’t be: our mothers were conned! The idea that the milk of another species is an appropriate and necessary source of calcium is a serious thinking error that has led to cancer, heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and autoimmune disease in epic numbers.
Ask yourself why the U.S. consumes more than double the amount of milk and dairy than the #2 milk-drinking country—and yet has one of the highest rate of osteoporosis (and massive dental decay, despite the best dental-care system) in the world. The other highest osteoporosis countries are—that’s right, the other highest milk-drinking countries (in Europe and Scandinavia). Africa doesn’t drink the milk of cows and has essentially no brittle bones. Drinking milk is not leading to strong bones and teeth–it never did, except for baby cows.
Colin T. Campbell, PhD, one of the most preeminent nutrition researchers in the world, conducted the most comprehensive, longitudinal research study in history (still ongoing) known as the Oxford-Cornell China Project. The New York Times dubbed it “the Grand Prix of Epidemiology.” Published in 2004, The China Study examined dietary habits and disease rates in 6,500 adults in China over almost 30 years.
Campbell started with animal studies duplicated by other researchers all over the world and progressed to his enormous human population. The researchers documented massive evidence that casein (the protein in milk) is linked to high rates of disease when ingested at a rate of 20 percent of the diet, which is the American average. He documents very low rates of those same diseases in subjects eating only 5% or less animal protein. The protein in all the studies, animal and human, was casein. Eight thousand statistically significant correlations resulted from this study. (“Statistically significant” means the likelihood the finding is due to chance is less than 5 percent.) These findings definitively decimate American mothers’ nutrition beliefs that feeding their children dairy products will build strong bones and good health.
Human calcium deficiency diseases are extremely rare for anyone on any type of natural diet. Our need for calcium is relatively low, in fact, and mothers needn’t worry about pushing on their children massive amounts of cow’s milk (often genetically modified and full of hormones and antibiotics).
I raised all four of my children without cow’s milk, and only one of them has ever broken a bone (when she was pushed off the top of a slide, and she healed very quickly), despite all of them being competitive athletes and therefore constantly in injury-prone situations. I personally have never drunk a glass of cow’s milk in my life, and at 40, I was measured to have the bone mass of a 20-yr. old. I did feed my children a little raw goat’s milk and homemade goat yogurt as they were being weaned from breast milk, and I continue to do so. Goat milk more closely resembles human breast milk; it also has a smaller fat molecule that permeates the human semi-permeable membranes without being mucus forming. Additionally, fermented milk proteins like kefir and yogurt are predigested and often cause no problems even for those who are lactose intolerant. I asked Dr. Campbell personally about his opinion of goat milk, as well as of kefir and yogurt, and he said that his research did not address it.
Cow milk’s large fat molecule is acid- and mucus-forming in humans; thus we are all “lactose intolerant” to one degree or another. Our grandparents, with their strong genetics, withstood it well. Unfortunately, our own children with three generations of weakened genetics, are not faring so well. Every time I see a child with green snot running from his nose, I wish I could in some socially acceptable way beg his mother to get her child off cow’s milk.
I have counseled willing mothers about this many times, and every time the mothers reported that the mucous problems disappeared or decreased as they eliminated dairy products. Related asthma and allergies dramatically decreased as well. (Eliminating sugar at the same time, as well, is a very wise idea. It, too, is highly acid—and therefore mucous-forming.)
Fact: Baby humans need human breast milk until their eyeteeth come in at about 18 months (at which time they begin producing digestive enzymes to break down table food). Only baby cows need cow milk. Nothing replaces human breast milk for infants 0-18 months. The best alternative, if breastfeeding is impossible, is raw goat milk (and definitely not soy milk). Get your calcium from leafy greens, as the dairy products nutrition is bioavailable to cows but not humans.
Friday, September 7, 2012
Names, Names, Names....
Why is it so hard to name a baby?? I've been gathering names since before this child was conceived, but now that we actually know she is a girl and its time to give her a name, I can't fall in love with one!! I think I'm one of those obsessive mothers who has to find the absolute PERFECT name! Nothing too common, nothing too girly, nothing to trendy. I guess you could say I'm picky!
I have a Taylor and a Parker (both girls), so you can already see I like the unisex names. I like a strong name, but something still cute for a little girl. So far my family isn't loving the unisex names I've chosen for this baby. Charlee, Evyn, Emerson, and Cameron to name a few. And others that I like such as Adison, Halle, and Kyla maybe too popular?
I've been through numerous books like 50,001+ best Baby Names and sites like Nameberry, Parents, and Baby Center, but I'm still in search of the perfect one!
If you have a unique and not too feminine girl name that you think would be the perfect one...email me! gofitmomstl@gmail.com I need your help!!!
I have a Taylor and a Parker (both girls), so you can already see I like the unisex names. I like a strong name, but something still cute for a little girl. So far my family isn't loving the unisex names I've chosen for this baby. Charlee, Evyn, Emerson, and Cameron to name a few. And others that I like such as Adison, Halle, and Kyla maybe too popular?
I've been through numerous books like 50,001+ best Baby Names and sites like Nameberry, Parents, and Baby Center, but I'm still in search of the perfect one!
If you have a unique and not too feminine girl name that you think would be the perfect one...email me! gofitmomstl@gmail.com I need your help!!!
Sunday, September 2, 2012
Its ANOTHER GIRL!!!
I'm still slightly in shock. After following all the "directions" on how to conceive a boy, we are again having a girl!
I would be lying if I said I wasn't slightly dissapointed. It makes me feel totally guilty too. We are so lucky to have 2 healthy children, have never had trouble conceiving, and have another healthy baby on the way, but there is still a small part of me that doesn't understand. Every person I know is having a boy and we are having our 3rd girl! My husband was pretty quite in the ultrasound after she told us it was a girl. He was clearly upset. I stayed very positive and the tech proceded to show us some 3D images of her just to cheer him up. Very nice of her, but I don't know that it worked!
Later we get home to "reveal" to our kids and my mom only to give more dissapointment! My 5 year old was mad. She said, "I don't want a sister! I wanted a brother!" and then stormed off! Oh goodness. So, I've been trying to stay so positive for this poor little girl. I don't want her to think no one wants her!! I know it will take a little time and we will all be very excited. My husband has already commented that "he will try one more time"!!! "You will?? With who?", I said. Sometimes I feel like I'm crazy for having 3 kids! I guess only time will tell. For now I am ready to start planning for this next little bundle.
Oh, important updates that I keep forgetting about...
My due date has been pushed back to Jan 23 from the 18th. This was due to the baby's measurements.
And, my placenta is low!?? I've done some reading and now I'm totally freaked about placenta previa (which is what it is called if it remains where it is). The doc says that 80% of the time the placenta will move away from the cervix, but I will be having another ultrasound in 2 months to check it again. Complications that come from placenta previa...bleeding, early delivery, and C-SECTION!! NO! Please say a prayer that it moves!
Here are a few pics from the reveal:
Later we get home to "reveal" to our kids and my mom only to give more dissapointment! My 5 year old was mad. She said, "I don't want a sister! I wanted a brother!" and then stormed off! Oh goodness. So, I've been trying to stay so positive for this poor little girl. I don't want her to think no one wants her!! I know it will take a little time and we will all be very excited. My husband has already commented that "he will try one more time"!!! "You will?? With who?", I said. Sometimes I feel like I'm crazy for having 3 kids! I guess only time will tell. For now I am ready to start planning for this next little bundle.
Oh, important updates that I keep forgetting about...
My due date has been pushed back to Jan 23 from the 18th. This was due to the baby's measurements.
And, my placenta is low!?? I've done some reading and now I'm totally freaked about placenta previa (which is what it is called if it remains where it is). The doc says that 80% of the time the placenta will move away from the cervix, but I will be having another ultrasound in 2 months to check it again. Complications that come from placenta previa...bleeding, early delivery, and C-SECTION!! NO! Please say a prayer that it moves!
Here are a few pics from the reveal:
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Kid School Snack Ideas
Besides packing school lunches (that will be the next posting) I was told that my kindergartener needs to also bring a morning snack everyday. Last year they had a snack calendar and you brought snack every 12 days for the whole class. Good and bad I guess. You didn't have to pack one everyday, but you also didn't know what the other parents were sending! Trust me...not usually good stuff!
I've put together a list of healthy snack ideas to send your little ones to school:
1. grapes
2. strawberries
3. clementines
4. string cheese
5. yogurt cup or tube
6. peanut butter on celery
7. applesauce
8. air popped popcorn
9. pretzel sticks
10. banana
11. apple slices with peanut butter
12. almonds
13. sunflower seeds
14. dried fruit
15. homemade trail mix
16. black olives (what kid doesn't love those!)
17. cantelope
18. watermelon
19. raisins
20. graham crackers
21. goldfish crackers
22. carrot sticks
23. cherry tomatoes
24. peaches and cottage cheese
25. mandarin oranges
26. pickles
27. turkey and cheese roll up
28. cheese quesadilla
29. cheese and triscuit crackers
30. peanut butter in triscuit crackers
31. rice cakes
32. banana or pumpkin bread
33. blueberries
34. dry cherrios or other healthy cereal
35. guacamole and crackers
36. fruit and cheese kabobs
37. hard boiled egg
38. hummus with veggies
39. apple chips
40. cherries
41. protein bars
42. homemade granola
43. mini whole grain bagel with cream cheese
44. pumpkin seeds
45. yogurt parfait
46. beef jerky
47. pretzels with nutella or peanut butter
48. kale chips
49. salsa with baked tortilla chips
50. cashews
I've put together a list of healthy snack ideas to send your little ones to school:
1. grapes
2. strawberries
3. clementines
4. string cheese
5. yogurt cup or tube
6. peanut butter on celery7. applesauce
8. air popped popcorn
9. pretzel sticks
10. banana
11. apple slices with peanut butter
12. almonds
13. sunflower seeds
14. dried fruit
15. homemade trail mix
16. black olives (what kid doesn't love those!)
17. cantelope
18. watermelon
19. raisins
20. graham crackers
21. goldfish crackers
22. carrot sticks
23. cherry tomatoes
24. peaches and cottage cheese
25. mandarin oranges
26. pickles
27. turkey and cheese roll up
28. cheese quesadilla
29. cheese and triscuit crackers
30. peanut butter in triscuit crackers
31. rice cakes
32. banana or pumpkin bread
33. blueberries
34. dry cherrios or other healthy cereal
35. guacamole and crackers
36. fruit and cheese kabobs
37. hard boiled egg
38. hummus with veggies
39. apple chips
40. cherries
41. protein bars
42. homemade granola
43. mini whole grain bagel with cream cheese
44. pumpkin seeds
45. yogurt parfait
46. beef jerky
47. pretzels with nutella or peanut butter
48. kale chips
49. salsa with baked tortilla chips
50. cashews
Monday, August 20, 2012
The First Day!
I'm documenting this because this is one of those monumental days for every mother. Your 1st child goes off to Kindergarten!
Mine went today. I didn't cry....at first. She looked so cute and it was a little of a rushed morning and of course they run you out of school, otherwise you might try to stay the whole day and take pictures. It wasn't until I got home and opened the envelope the teacher gave me on my way out the door. It reads:
The First Day
I gave you a little wink and smile as you entered my room today,
For I know how hard it is to leave and know your child must stay.
You've been with her for five years now and have been a loving guide,
But now, alas, the time has come to leave her at my side.
Just know that as you drive away, and tears down your cheeks may flow,
I'll love her as I would my own and help her learn and grow.
For as a parent, I too know how quickly the years do pass,
and that is was once my turn to take my child to class.
So please put your mind at ease and cry those tears no more,
for I will love her and take her in, when you leave her at my door.
Mrs. King
That was very sweet and sums it all up...how fast time goes and how sometimes we just have to let go and let them grow! (sniffle, sniffle) :)
The First Day
I gave you a little wink and smile as you entered my room today,
For I know how hard it is to leave and know your child must stay.
You've been with her for five years now and have been a loving guide,
But now, alas, the time has come to leave her at my side.
Just know that as you drive away, and tears down your cheeks may flow,
I'll love her as I would my own and help her learn and grow.
For as a parent, I too know how quickly the years do pass,
and that is was once my turn to take my child to class.
So please put your mind at ease and cry those tears no more,
for I will love her and take her in, when you leave her at my door.
Mrs. King
That was very sweet and sums it all up...how fast time goes and how sometimes we just have to let go and let them grow! (sniffle, sniffle) :)
16 weeks!
Feeling great and feeling the energy return. Like I mentioned before I was extremely tired in the beginning. I'll take it over puking, but I felt so lazy! Working out in the heat...no thanks! Thankfully the weather has been awesome and my energy is back, so I'm ready to get back into my regular fitness routine. Still completely clueless whether there's a boy or a girl in there?? My attitude says I must be having a 3rd girl because thats just my luck, but I followed all the instructions on conceiving a boy! :)- I mean I did it all, so it must work right??? Well soon we shall find out! The date for ultrasound is Aug 30th. I've been 2 seconds some days from walking into an Ultrasona and forking over $100 just for them to the tell me the gender, but I'm doing my best to keep my mind occupied until my free ultrasound date :)
Sunday, August 12, 2012
Here's our recipe of the day...
It was another Pinterest Sunday! A kinda rainy blah day, so we decided to make playdoh!
Ingredients: 1 C Flour
1 C Water
1/4 C Salt
1 TBSP Vegetable Oil
2 tsp Cream of Tarter
Food Coloring (actual coloring or a kool-aid packet will do)
Sparkles (If you wanna be a fun mom!)
Sauce Pan and Wooden Spoon Little helping hands.
Steak is for dinner...but making playdoh sure is more fun!
Ingredients: 1 C Flour
1 C Water
1/4 C Salt
1 TBSP Vegetable Oil
2 tsp Cream of Tarter
Food Coloring (actual coloring or a kool-aid packet will do)
Sparkles (If you wanna be a fun mom!)
Sauce Pan and Wooden Spoon Little helping hands.
Steak is for dinner...but making playdoh sure is more fun!
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
Ahhh Vacation!
I'm back from a week at the beach and I feel totally refreshed! Although I do enjoy the trips that include lots of walking and full schedule, the ones that include nothing but beach are awesome too! We stayed at a very nice Holiday Inn Resort on Pensacola Beach. I would highly recommend it for an family with small children! Daily they had Pirates on the pool deck playing pirate games and having a treasure hunt and a mermaid that swam in the pool and did the little girls make-up! How cool is that? They also had arts and crafts and every evening was a "dive in" movie for the kids! They put up a big screen at 8pm with a kids movie and free popcorn! We had never been to Pensacola before, but the beach was a small island that had everything in one place and within walking distance of our hotel. Even the restaurants were awesome and kid friendly with playground out in the sand and live music. Just a perfect place for a family getaway. And...I know it sounds far, but the drive is almost under 12 hours. Thats not too bad! We left at 2am and arrived at 2pm with only a few stops. The kids slept a lot of the way.
Here is the link to the resort if you are interested http://holidayinnresortpensacolabeach.com/
I recommend checking it out for your next vaca with the kiddos. And here are a few pics...
Here is the link to the resort if you are interested http://holidayinnresortpensacolabeach.com/
I recommend checking it out for your next vaca with the kiddos. And here are a few pics...
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Nintendo Wii in Schools? Good or Bad?
I am doing some research on the Nintendo Wii in schools. As you may know, I teach PE two days a week at St. Mary Magdalen. We are working on our Cardiovascular Unit and just finished Jump Rope for Heart and Aerobic videos. While watching the kids following a (really bad) hip hop video I thought about Just Dance. Its a ton more fun and the coreography is 10 times better! So...I decided to bring the Wii in tomorrow for classes. Of course the kids couldn't be more excited! I'm now the best teacher EVER! But, should I continue to use the Wii more for sports and other games? Can I use it to incentivize the students to participate and behave well? I feel like I'm on to something, but as a parent, would you agree?
I have to say when it first came out I thought, "Nope...its still a video game and kids need to go out and play and get their eyes off the TV!" But then, my neice brought hers over one night and we all played Just Dance (even my dad)! We were sweating and I realized....this is a workout! I haven't played many other games on it, but I did change my mind a bit about it.
Here is one of the articles I found on the Wii in schools. Let me know what your thoughts are. Is the Wii appropriate in schools?
I have to say when it first came out I thought, "Nope...its still a video game and kids need to go out and play and get their eyes off the TV!" But then, my neice brought hers over one night and we all played Just Dance (even my dad)! We were sweating and I realized....this is a workout! I haven't played many other games on it, but I did change my mind a bit about it.
Here is one of the articles I found on the Wii in schools. Let me know what your thoughts are. Is the Wii appropriate in schools?
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Kid Friendly Super Bowl Snacks
This article has a couple cute ideas for kids....and a few that my kids probably wouldn't touch! (like lettuce wraps!)
http://www.parents.com/recipes/entertaining/cooking/super-bowl-snacks/
http://www.parents.com/recipes/entertaining/cooking/super-bowl-snacks/
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Monday, January 30, 2012
My plate illustration
We've been talking alot about the new my plate recommendations. I am a huge fan of the change! Half or your plate fruits or veggies! This is a great little illustration.
Friday, November 4, 2011
The 20 Best Snacks for Kids!
Cheese
The protein in this kid-friendly snack keeps energy levels high until dinnertime. We like to stick salt-free pretzel sticks into cubes of low-fat cheese to make "satellite snacks," but you can also make cheese more interesting to kids by cutting it into fun shapes with a cookie cutter and making kabobs with your favorite fruit.
Peanut Butter
This versatile childhood favorite has plenty of protein and fiber. For a change, try making silly PB&J sandwiches with toasted mini waffles or rice cakes instead of bread.
Healthier Baked Goods
Your child will never guess you're sneaking fruits or vegetables into her diet when you bake them into yummy muffins or breads. Banana bread, zucchini muffins, and carrot bars are a few of our favorites for kids.
Whole Grain Cereal
With vitamins, calcium, and fiber, a bowl of enriched whole grain cereal with milk and fruit is a power-packed snack or healthy start to the day.
Quesadillas
You can mix anything with a calcium-rich cheese quesadilla: chopped vegetables, leftover cooked chicken, or even shrimp. Don't forget to buy a chunky veggie salsa -- with the folate in the corn, the lycopene in the tomatoes, and the fiber in the beans, this snack packs a nutritional punch.
Yogurt
Low-fat yogurt is an excellent source of calcium, and children love it dressed up. To add taste and nutritional value, whip up a yogurt parfait with berries and granola or make a homemade fruity yogurt pop that beats sugary store-bought frozen treats any day.
Eggs
One egg provides a 4-year-old with almost one-third of her protein requirements for the day. Keep a bunch of hard-boiled eggs in the fridge (they last for seven days), or scramble an egg and roll it up in a flour tortilla.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet spuds are some of the most nutritious vegetables around: They're packed with vitamin A and are good sources of B6, C, and folate.
Hummus
Made from pureed chickpeas, hummus is an excellent dip for kids. It has an appealing nutty flavor, is thick enough not to be messy, and contains folate, vitamin B6, and iron. Serve hummus with cut-up vegetables or salt-free crackers for dipping, or use it to make a pita bread sandwich.
Noodles
Pasta is a fabulous source of complex carbohydrates. Pick some in your child's favorite shape, and cook up a batch to keep in the refrigerator. At snacktime, microwave a half-cup serving tossed with veggies or cooked chicken and jarred tomato sauce.
Pears
Rich in fiber and available year-round, pears come in many delicious varieties. Serve up equally nutritious canned pears with a small bowl of low-fat cottage cheese or pack a juicy whole pear in your child's lunch box.
Smoothies
Kids go crazy over these delicious sippable treats, and they're packed with nutrients. Use nonfat vanilla yogurt, 100 percent orange juice, and a banana as the smoothie's base, then experiment with a combination of cut-up fresh or frozen fruit. It's a great way to sneak two or three servings of fruit and fiber into your child's diet.
Snack Mix
Toss together a healthy combo of nuts, pretzels, whole grain cereal, banana chips, and popcorn for a handy, portable snack. Nuts contain must-have minerals such as magnesium, iron, and zinc.
Low-Fat Ham
It tastes just as good as regular ham, but the low-fat version is much healthier and a great way to boost your child's protein intake. Roll up a slice on its own or with a piece of cheese, make mini crustless ham sandwiches, or try our Ham and Cheese Crepes with diced ham, melty cheese, and tomatoes baked inside.
Raisins
Raisins have a lot of good things going for them such as fiber, potassium, and vitamins. Even if your picky eaters aren't going for a handful of raisins out of the box, we have a super yummy raisin snack they won't be able to pass up. Kids will love to dip and swirl apple wedges or carrot sticks for a healthy and delicious scoop of creamy covered raisins.
Apples
Apples are the go-to healthy fruit, but if you're feeling the boring apple blues and want to switch up your applesauce routine, try this delicious Instant Apple Crisp to get the vitamin C and fiber you've come to count on from apples. For an added treat, sprinkle with fresh blueberries and a dollop of low-fat vanilla yogurt.
Whole Grain Waffles
For a fun alternative to peanut butter and jelly, try whole grain waffles for a boost of iron and vitamins B6, B12, and A.
Strawberries
If you feel like all your kids eat are bananas and apples, try introducing vitamin C-packed fresh strawberries to their diet. For a perfect snack when you're short on time, try this vitamin- and protein-rich snack with only three ingredients. To add an extra-healthy option, choose whole wheat crepes.
Oatmeal
What kid doesn't love cookies for snacktime? Instead of buying the high-sugar, high-fat varieties from the store, bake up a batch of our low-fat Oatmeal Cookies and feel better about serving cookies and milk. The best part is you can add in whatever you want -- try raisins, cranberries, dried apricots, or nuts to boost the nutritional value and taste.
Tomatoes
Your kids will love this fruity combination of tomatoes, cantaloupe, apples, and a hint of lime. If you want to tone down the heat, use just one seeded jalapeno or none at all. Packed with lycopene from the tomato, vitamins A and C from the melon, and fiber from the apple, this healthy and delicious snack is a big winner.
Originally published in the March 2002 issue of Parents magazine, Updated 2010.
The protein in this kid-friendly snack keeps energy levels high until dinnertime. We like to stick salt-free pretzel sticks into cubes of low-fat cheese to make "satellite snacks," but you can also make cheese more interesting to kids by cutting it into fun shapes with a cookie cutter and making kabobs with your favorite fruit.
Peanut Butter
This versatile childhood favorite has plenty of protein and fiber. For a change, try making silly PB&J sandwiches with toasted mini waffles or rice cakes instead of bread.
Healthier Baked Goods
Your child will never guess you're sneaking fruits or vegetables into her diet when you bake them into yummy muffins or breads. Banana bread, zucchini muffins, and carrot bars are a few of our favorites for kids.
Whole Grain Cereal
With vitamins, calcium, and fiber, a bowl of enriched whole grain cereal with milk and fruit is a power-packed snack or healthy start to the day.
Quesadillas
You can mix anything with a calcium-rich cheese quesadilla: chopped vegetables, leftover cooked chicken, or even shrimp. Don't forget to buy a chunky veggie salsa -- with the folate in the corn, the lycopene in the tomatoes, and the fiber in the beans, this snack packs a nutritional punch.
Yogurt
Low-fat yogurt is an excellent source of calcium, and children love it dressed up. To add taste and nutritional value, whip up a yogurt parfait with berries and granola or make a homemade fruity yogurt pop that beats sugary store-bought frozen treats any day.
Eggs
One egg provides a 4-year-old with almost one-third of her protein requirements for the day. Keep a bunch of hard-boiled eggs in the fridge (they last for seven days), or scramble an egg and roll it up in a flour tortilla.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet spuds are some of the most nutritious vegetables around: They're packed with vitamin A and are good sources of B6, C, and folate.
Hummus
Made from pureed chickpeas, hummus is an excellent dip for kids. It has an appealing nutty flavor, is thick enough not to be messy, and contains folate, vitamin B6, and iron. Serve hummus with cut-up vegetables or salt-free crackers for dipping, or use it to make a pita bread sandwich.
Noodles
Pasta is a fabulous source of complex carbohydrates. Pick some in your child's favorite shape, and cook up a batch to keep in the refrigerator. At snacktime, microwave a half-cup serving tossed with veggies or cooked chicken and jarred tomato sauce.
Pears
Rich in fiber and available year-round, pears come in many delicious varieties. Serve up equally nutritious canned pears with a small bowl of low-fat cottage cheese or pack a juicy whole pear in your child's lunch box.
Smoothies
Kids go crazy over these delicious sippable treats, and they're packed with nutrients. Use nonfat vanilla yogurt, 100 percent orange juice, and a banana as the smoothie's base, then experiment with a combination of cut-up fresh or frozen fruit. It's a great way to sneak two or three servings of fruit and fiber into your child's diet.
Snack Mix
Toss together a healthy combo of nuts, pretzels, whole grain cereal, banana chips, and popcorn for a handy, portable snack. Nuts contain must-have minerals such as magnesium, iron, and zinc.
Low-Fat Ham
It tastes just as good as regular ham, but the low-fat version is much healthier and a great way to boost your child's protein intake. Roll up a slice on its own or with a piece of cheese, make mini crustless ham sandwiches, or try our Ham and Cheese Crepes with diced ham, melty cheese, and tomatoes baked inside.
Raisins
Raisins have a lot of good things going for them such as fiber, potassium, and vitamins. Even if your picky eaters aren't going for a handful of raisins out of the box, we have a super yummy raisin snack they won't be able to pass up. Kids will love to dip and swirl apple wedges or carrot sticks for a healthy and delicious scoop of creamy covered raisins.
Apples
Apples are the go-to healthy fruit, but if you're feeling the boring apple blues and want to switch up your applesauce routine, try this delicious Instant Apple Crisp to get the vitamin C and fiber you've come to count on from apples. For an added treat, sprinkle with fresh blueberries and a dollop of low-fat vanilla yogurt.
Whole Grain Waffles
For a fun alternative to peanut butter and jelly, try whole grain waffles for a boost of iron and vitamins B6, B12, and A.
Strawberries
If you feel like all your kids eat are bananas and apples, try introducing vitamin C-packed fresh strawberries to their diet. For a perfect snack when you're short on time, try this vitamin- and protein-rich snack with only three ingredients. To add an extra-healthy option, choose whole wheat crepes.
Oatmeal
What kid doesn't love cookies for snacktime? Instead of buying the high-sugar, high-fat varieties from the store, bake up a batch of our low-fat Oatmeal Cookies and feel better about serving cookies and milk. The best part is you can add in whatever you want -- try raisins, cranberries, dried apricots, or nuts to boost the nutritional value and taste.
Tomatoes
Your kids will love this fruity combination of tomatoes, cantaloupe, apples, and a hint of lime. If you want to tone down the heat, use just one seeded jalapeno or none at all. Packed with lycopene from the tomato, vitamins A and C from the melon, and fiber from the apple, this healthy and delicious snack is a big winner.
Originally published in the March 2002 issue of Parents magazine, Updated 2010.
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