First Rule of Potty Club: We Do Not Talk About Potty Club

By

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February 23, 2016

1. The first rule of potty club: Do not talk about potty club.

The more I talked, the more stressed I was.

We started potty training just before my daughter’s third birthday. It felt late — check Google and you’ll find 2-year-olds who trained themselves. I read articles and polled friends about timing and methods. We waited for signs of readiness from my daughter (knowing her body, dressing herself, discomfort with wet diapers). We taught her about her body, where food goes, why pee and poop need to come out. We chose a summer holiday weekend and let her be naked. We encouraged her to sit on the potty at regular intervals but never forced her to go. It worked for a few days. There was the sweet tinkle sound in the toilet, and we thought we had it made.

2. The second rule of potty club: Setbacks happen.

And then all of sudden, she gave up. The power struggle kicked in. Weeks became months. Yes, my daughter knew how to use the potty. But she simply didn’t want to. She used a potty at school; maybe it was the routine and all her friends. I talked with her pediatrician who said some kids take longer. I read parenting blogs and online forums that said kids who are older than 3 or 4 and are not potty trained are the result of a failure in parenting — those parents are too lazy. I felt like a failure. Incentives didn’t work, schedules didn’t work — I even offered Disney World and told her they only had big bathrooms there. She said she didn’t really want to visit Mickey. My kid LOVES Mickey.

3. The third rule of potty club: What works for one child/family doesn’t work for all. Do what feels right for you.

Finally I asked my daughter why she didn’t want to use the potty. She told me she wasn’t ready. She said when she turned 4 she would be ready. That felt like an eternity. It felt like every other kid was using the potty already. I felt embarrassed she was still wearing pull-ups. So back to our wise pediatrician. She suggested taking a break, getting out of the control cycle, and following my daughter’s lead. So we let it go; we stopped talking about the potty. We stopped asking her or reminding her to go. We let her wear pull-ups to pee or poop, which she’d ask for (otherwise wearing underpants). I confess I even let her pee outside a few times because it was summer and she thought it was fun. I had nothing to lose.

4. The fourth rule of potty club: Listen to Queen Elsa and “Let it go…”

A few days after her fourth birthday, my daughter had to go to the bathroom. She asked for a pull-up. I nonchalantly suggested using the travel potty. And she did. No questions. No tears. No drama. A week later she pooped in it and I wanted to throw a super pooper party for one!

5. The fifth rule of potty club: The cliche is true, with rare exception — your kid won’t go to kindergarten in diapers.

Joining the potty club for me, as a mom, was worse than breastfeeding struggles and worse than sleepless nights. The power struggle and pride was real (all in my head). But it taught me invaluable lessons about my child and myself — though she be but little, she is fierce. And I’m sure glad I don’t have to do it again!

Don’t Fear a Big Baby

By

Caitlin

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February 22, 2016

When I became pregnant with my second child, I was 5’3″ and weighed 118 pounds. Growing up, I was always the shortest kid in class and was prominently featured in the front row of all group photos. I do not share this about myself to be vain; I want to emphasize the fact that I am little. I have been a short, small girl for my entire life. And yet, somehow, last September this little woman managed to push out a 10-pound baby.

One of my last bump pictures — 38 weeks along.

Throughout my entire pregnancy, my child was incredibly comfortable. He got himself into position when I was 25 weeks along and stayed there. I only felt him move about once a day — he was content to stay perpetually snuggled. He was so comfortable, in fact, that he didn’t feel the need to make an exit until he was 11 days overdue.

Those 11 days were the longest of my life. Every morning as my husband kissed me goodbye on his way to work, we both had the same thought: “Crap — still pregnant.” For the last month of my pregnancy, my back ached and my knees hurt. To say I was ready for my baby to come was a total understatement.

And yet, I was also not interested in evicting him before he was ready. When I gave birth to my first child, I went into labor naturally and my labor progressed so quickly that I had no choice in pain meds. By the time the midwife came to check me, I was fully dilated and there was no time for an epidural. I had a relatively easy labor — I pushed for 40 minutes, and my recovery was easy. I had hopes that my second labor would be just the same. They say second babies come out much more quickly, so the second time around I was willing to wait to go into labor naturally because I believed a quick, easy labor awaited me.

Turns out, I was right. When I finally did go into labor, it was quick and easy. My son was born three hours after we arrived at the hospital, with only 10 minutes of pushing. I have never in my life felt such an overwhelming sense of relief as when that warm, sweet baby was placed on my chest. After waiting so long to meet this little man, I had no desire to let him go.

My midwife, however, had a much different reaction. As soon as she caught him, she said with surprise, “That’s a big baby! I’m going to need that baby weighed!” Of course, I didn’t believe her. I thought perhaps my son had needed those extra days in utero so he could get to maybe 8 pounds. After all, his older brother was born at 7 pounds, 14 ounces. And no way could this little girl give birth to a big baby. Heck, even at 41 weeks and four days pregnant, I really didn’t look exceptionally big.

We had our skin-to-skin time, and when it was time for my son to be weighed I heard cries of surprise from across the room. “Honey, you’re going to want to see this,” my husband said to me. They turned the scale toward me, and this is what I saw:

Ummmmm… what?!

My mouth gaped open. Did that scale say what I think it said — 9 pounds and 11.7 ounces?! You have got to be kidding me!

The pediatric nurse said to me, “You realize that we round up, right? So that’s 9 pounds, 12 ounces. Plus, he pooped before we weighed him, so you gave birth to a 10 pound baby.”

Me?! The girl who was always the shortest in class? The asthmatic kid on the playground? The woman who in her entire life has never run for more than a mile? Never did I imagine I would give birth to a 10 pound baby. As I stared at that scale, I felt like a superhero.

I’m sure some women are absolutely horrified at the idea of being 11 days overdue and giving birth to a 10 pound baby. They would much rather be induced than wait an extra week and a half for their baby to be born. Frankly, I can’t blame them! I also realize that every woman is different, and every situation is different. My story is not a prescription for every big-baby delivery. After all, this was my second labor and delivery. And I give a lot of credit to my midwife for my easy birth. She kept me on my feet as long as possible, and she let me labor and push in the position I was most comfortable.

However, if you’re like me, and your hope is to go into labor on your own, I encourage you to wait for your baby to arrive. As I have heard several midwives say, “When the apple is ripe, it will fall from the tree.” This proved to be true for me. As a result, my labor, delivery, and recovery turned out to be an absolute breeze, and my son was beyond worth the wait.

And yes, big babies can be born from small women. No need to be afraid.

Two Words to Empower You at Home and at Work

By

erineby

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February 21, 2016

How to get your way when you’re nice

Nice is in my nature. I give people the benefit of the doubt. I hold doors. I was raised on “yes, ma’am” and “no, sir.” I smile when I’m uncomfortable or upset. I’m empathetic to the point that I’ll consider others’ feelings before my own. In other words, I’m painfully nice. Nice to the point that I’ve had to study and figure out ways to empower myself with niceness so I don’t become a doormat that others will gladly walk over. I’ve had to carefully consider ways to give myself leverage and gravitas that don’t feel like a total departure from my nature.

At this point in my life, I find myself in two notoriously difficult positions: mom of a boundary-testing 3-year-old boy, and partner/creative director of an advertising agency. And I’ve noticed some astounding similarities between the two groups I deal with most often — my kids, and my colleagues and clients. In the end, they both want what they want, when they want it. In fact, that goes for every single human being on this planet.

If you’re painfully nice, like me, this is a problem. Because you’ll want to give your kids, colleagues, clients, and everyone else exactly what they want. Except sometimes you can’t — or shouldn’t. And that’s when you need to know the following tips on how to give yourself power in these situations.

Say “yes” more

OK. I know this seems counterintuitive. Shouldn’t you be saying “no” more? Actually, saying “yes” more is the end result of getting good at picking your battles. When you say “yes” more often, it makes your “no” much more powerful. The next time you tell your kid she can’t wear purple shorts with an orange raincoat, moon boots, and a bike helmet to school, ask yourself if it’s something you need to say “no” to. If you’re likely to give in when pressed on the issue, skip saying “no” altogether and just go straight to “yes.” When you say “no,” mean it. Never go back to “yes” after “no.” If you do, you’re teaching your audience that you never really meant “no” to begin with.

Don’t say “no”

This is not the same thing as saying “yes” more. I mean try to avoid the actual word “no.” If I start out rejecting a request with the word “no,” the only thing the audience hears is the “no,” and he or she stops listening and starts pushing back. Remarkably, adults and children react to “no” in almost exactly the same way. Adults are just better at moderating their responses. Defensiveness is natural when presented with “no.” Instead, if I start by re-stating the request or offering an alternative to the request, the audience can actually take in and accept what I’m saying.

Sometimes, you can even get to “no” by saying “yes.”

For example:

Child (before dinner): Can I have a cookie?
Response option 1: No, we’re just about to have dinner.

All the child hears in this case is “no.” Whining, tantruming, and general evening-ruining commences. Maybe you cave and give him the cookie to end the pain, ultimately undermining yourself.

Response option 2: “Yes, you can have a cookie after dinner. First we are going to eat a super yummy dinner to make our bodies strong.”

The child hears a “yes” in this case. There is less to complain about. And it’s clear that you expect them to eat dinner first in order to get the cookie.

Make sure you’re asked to begin with

Both at work and at home, if you are a person who generally says “yes,” people are likely to ask more of you. If your knee-jerk reaction is “no,” you won’t be asked as often. After all, it’s easier to ask forgiveness than permission. So, by using “yes” and “no” to your advantage, you can both empower yourself and ensure you’re the one making the decisions to begin with.

How do you say “no”? Tell us in the comments below.

Celebrate Women with Flowers

By

Morgan Sheena

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February 19, 2016

flowers pic 1 — This post is sponsored. However, everyone loves flowers and we would not promote or work with a business we did not believe to be reputable or relevant to our readers.

Seeing my son walk into the house with a bouquet of flowers that he and his father picked out always brightens my day. I love the look and smell of flowers and how they brighten up any area. In fact, I’ve been known to grab some flowers on my own, just as a nice way to treat myself. Think of a special woman in your life — whether she’s a friend, a parent, a teacher, or a co-worker, chances are she deserves some flowers!

Did you know March 8 is International Women’s Day? International Women’s Day is a wonderful way to celebrate the women in your life — and their accomplishments. Whether those accomplishments are social, economic, political, or cultural, sending flowers flowers pic 3 is a beautiful way to let the successful women in your life know you respect and appreciate them. Flowers are so much more than for just saying thanks or for Valentine’s Day!

A recent survey indicates that more than 40% of women have recently achieved a personal milestone (whether at home or at work), overcome a health issue, or learned a new life skill. Commemorating these beautiful moments lets the women in your life know you love and respect them. In fact, Rutgers University recently conducted a study showing that flowers help improve emotional health, have an immediate impact on someone’s happiness, and help strengthen connections with family and friends. So basically, flowers boost happiness! Why not make the amazing women in your life happy and send along a beautiful arrangement?

With so many local florists all over the Boston area, there are countless choices to help send a special message to the women in your life! With just a little bit of information, you and your florist can create the perfect arrangement to celebrate the amazing women you know!

Talk to your florist

Florists know a lot more about flowers than what looks pretty together. They know just how flowers can truly make an impact on the receiver. And they may have some great ideas you haven’t thought of. Listen, have fun, and be creative!

Consider the achievement of the woman in your life

Does her milestone call for something extravagant or something a little more fun and simple? Does she like classic or trendy?

Tell the florist about her

Think of anything about her that the florist might want to know — favorite colors, smells she loves or hates, her affinity for sparkle or baby’s breath. The more the florist knows, the better the arrangement will look!

Where will the arrangement go?

Is her home modern or more traditional? Is this going on a desk in a shared office space? This will help your florist know the best arrangement to put together!

Check out the Society of American Florists to find a florist, to learn about flowers and their meanings, and to get inspired!

Pleasing Picky Palates :: 4 Sources for Toddler Food Inspiration

By

rachelbrothers

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February 18, 2016

Raise your hand if your child eats cheesy carbs at least once a day. Just me? I didn’t think so. My son loves grilled cheese, mac and cheese, and, his favorite, black bean quesadillas, but we all know it’s important for all of us to eat a varied diet full of healthy foods. While I try to feed my son what we eat (to mixed results), I also try to make some toddler-friendly foods just for him. Here’s where I go for inspiration:

Weelicious

We love Weelicious for easy recipes we can all enjoy. There is also a handy feature where you can search for a recipe by entering an ingredient and who you are cooking for (say, baby or the entire family). Their weekly emails are chock full of inspiration too.

Veggie-Dinner-Strata-1 — Veggie dinner strata, courtesy Weelicious.

Easy Toddler Food (Instagram)

I think bento lunches are as cute as the next person, but, let’s be honest, I will probably never make a hard boiled egg look like a fish or carve a Hello Kitty tomato. But, I can totally cut cheddar cheese into a star shape. The Easy Toddler Food Instagram account is run by a real-life mom, and it’s fun and accessible. These meals are geared toward older toddlers and preschoolers.

10724915_1719209074973948_1831748963_n — Afternoon snack ideas, courtesy Easy Toddler Food.

Baby Food Universe (Instagram)

The Baby Food Universe Insta account is where I turn for foodie toddler inspiration. Asparagus frittatas? Sure! Apple, sweet potato, and lentils? Sounds great! This account is also full of great tips like adding frozen puree cubes to hot foods to both cool and flavor them. Genius! (Also, check out Kids Food Universe, run by the same mom, for even more ideas.)

12545324_596164820530929_288863657_n — Quinoa cakes, yogurt, and heart-shaped salad, courtesy Baby Food Universe.

Local moms and Facebook groups

My local moms board is also a great source of food ideas. We started a subgroup on Facebook just to talk about dinners and meal planning. The local component is fantastic — I’ve learned so much about toddler-friendly takeout at local restaurants because we can’t always cook at home.

Does my son always gobble up toddler meals? Well, no. But I feel more satisfied if I know I’ve served him something new and interesting. And, if all else fails, just make a green smoothie and hide as many veggies as possible, then pat yourself on the back (while scrolling Instagram for more inspiration for tomorrow).

Royal Treatment or Prisoner?

By

tessma

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February 17, 2016

My husband and I recently moved to Boston from China. With me being pregnant, it was quite a struggle to persuade my mum that pregnant women in Boston receive regular checkups before delivery and that doctors will try their best to save my life if they ever need to. Don’t laugh — pregnant women are a highly protected species in China! Once pregnant, we suddenly become the most vulnerable and important people on earth.

In most cases in China, you would have your mother or mother-in-law living with you 24/7, to take care of you, of course. Making you three meals a day (or as many meals as you want), cleaning, carrying your bag while out — basically, treating you as a queen. She also keeps an eye on you and shares her experience from her or maybe her mum’s generations. Here are some of the things she may impose on you:

The low-tech life

Limit your computer and cellphone use and stay away from your printer, microwave, and Wi-Fi router, because the radiation from those devices could harm the baby. Anti-radiation clothes are almost a necessity for pregnant women — and prices range from 50RMB to 10,000RMB, which is roughly $7.50 to $1,515!

To eat or not to eat?

Got a craving for watermelon? How about papaya? Too bad! These foods are thought to increase the chance of miscarriage in China. Also, crab, coffee, tea, cold drinks, and ice cream are strictly forbidden for pregnant women. Different geographical areas have their own dos and don’ts, too. For example, brown sugar is considered very healthy for pregnant women in some areas, but it’s considered dangerous in other places because it boosts blood circulation. Many people give away their dogs or cats once pregnant.

Let go of your looks

You can forget about how you look. Why bother? You are not a woman anymore, you are a pregnant woman! No make-up, no perming or dying your hair, no nail polish, no perfume, no high heels.

Trust me, if you don’t follow these rules, it causes endless disputes and grief. I’ve been there, with my own mother. I can’t help wonder why our world changes so drastically when we got pregnant, especially when most of the rules we must follow seem ridiculous and unfounded. It’s hard to say whether we are being treated as royal or as prisoners. Is it because the older generation did it, and they turned out OK, so we have to? Is it a struggle of control? Or is it fear, because we are often told we would regret it later in our lives if we don’t follow these rules?

So, what dos and don’ts do you agree or disagree with here in America?

2016 Boston Summer Camps

By

Boston Moms

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February 16, 2016

Tenacre

Location: 17 Old County Road | Wellesley, MA | 01913

Dates: Sunday, June 28 – Thursday, August 20

Camp Website

Tenacre is proud to be the best first camp experience for your child! Voted #1 day camp in Wellesley, the foundation of the camp’s success is the quality of its experienced staff, nurturing environment, and excellent swim program; most 3- and 4-year-olds swim 1:1. Boys and girls ages 3-12 can enroll for up to nine weeks, June 27 through August 26. Daily full-day hours are 8:25 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. After-camp child care is offered daily as a convenience to camp families from 3:15 p.m. until 6 p.m. The staff encourage growth while also making every child feel safe in a fun-filled atmosphere. The facilities keep campers active and engaged with heated outdoor pools, air conditioned rooms, and beautiful playing fields. Activities include daily swim instruction, clay, crafts, music, sports, nature, science, archery, ropes course, and more. The camp is situated in a friendly, caring, elementary school. Have fun, make new friends, and learn to swim at Tenacre this summer!

Camp Wingate*Kirkland

Location: 79 White Rock Road | Yarmouth Port, MA | 02675

Dates: Overnight Camp, Full Season: 6/29-8/16
First Session: 6/29-7/23
Second Session: 7/24-8/16
Mini Camp 1: 6/29-7/13
Mini Camp 2: 7/24-8/7
Day Camp: 6/22-8/26

Camp Website

Camp Wingate*Kirkland is a co-ed program for overnight campers ages 7-15 and day campers ages 4-12. Located on beautiful Cape Cod, Camp W*K is a place where campers feel supported and empowered. They belong to a community that fosters respect for everyone, regardless of their differences. Campers design their own summer through a unique daily choice program that offers both traditional camp activities such as athletics, waterfront, arts and crafts, and performing arts, as well as zany stuff like zombie hunters, merry unbirthday, and balloon animal hospital. Camp W*K is peanut, tree nut, and sesame free.

Jewish Community Centers of Greater Boston Camps and School Vacation Programs

Camp Website

When school’s out, the fun begins. JCC day, overnight, and specialty camps (arts, science, sports, and technology) and summer programs provide a fun, safe, and nurturing environment for campers looking to make new friends, learn new skills, and develop self-confidence. JCC camps and summer programs are located in Brookline, Hingham, Newton, Sharon, and Dover, MA, and in Bridgton, ME. Everyone is welcome!

JCC Grossman Camp – June 27-August 26
JCC Kaleidoscope Creative Arts & Science Camp – June 27-August 19
JCC Camp Kingswood – June 29-August 17
JCC Sports Camps – June 20-September 2
Empow Camp – August 22-September 2
JCC Early Learning Centers Summer Programs – June 20-August 26
Kids’ Choice End of Summer Vacation Program – August 22-September 2

Beaver Summer Camp

Location: Chestnut Hill, MA

Dates: June 27 – August 19

Camp Website

Give Beaver a summer, and they’ll give you a happy, confident child. For the past 80 years, Beaver Summer Camp at Beaver Country Day School has been a destination for campers looking to make friends, gain independence, build new skills, and have the time of their lives. Children ages 3-15 make unforgettable memories while participating in programs designed to grow as they grow. Beaver offers two-week general camp sessions for ages 3-15 that include swimming in three outdoor pools and participating in more than 35 different activities, ranging from woodworking and fine and performance arts to rock climbing and archery. Beaver also offers one- to two-week specialty camps for ages 6-15 that revolve around the arts, sports, or day trips. Activities include mastering the trapeze, camping under the stars, perfecting their penalty kicks, and more. Beaver’s experienced, nurturing staff lead all activities and help campers gain skills and foster friendships in a safe and fun environment.

LINX Camps

Location: 45 Dana Road | Wellesley, MA | 02482

Dates: Week of 6/20 – Week of 8/29

Camp Website

LINX Camps proudly serves Metrowest MA with more than 40 premier camps, including junior (half and full day), general, adventure, fine arts, leadership, performing arts, sports, and STEMM (science, technology, engineering, math, and movie making). LINX Camps is focused on building a community, one camper at a time. Their award-winning camps provide a traditional day camp experience (like a sleepaway camp) that builds community and character while allowing kids to explore their interests. LINX knows it’s important to offer a safe and comfortable camp environment in which all campers, no matter their age or chosen program, feel confident tackling new challenges, trying new activities, and building lasting friendships. Theme Fridays, opening and closing ceremonies, and camp-wide spirit cheers are just a few of the community-building aspects of LINX Camps that all of camp families have the chance to enjoy and share with each other for a lifetime.

Mass Audubon’s Wild at Art Summer Camp

Location: Mass Audubon’s Museum of American Bird Art | 963 Washington Street | Canton, MA

Dates: June 27 to August 19

Camp Website

Give your child the chance to experience the transformative power of art and nature. Mass Audobon’s unique camp setting — part wildlife sanctuary, part art museum — inspires creativity, promotes well-being and enhances connections to nature. They provide a safe, fun-filled camp experience specially designed to foster children’s creativity, sense of wonder, and bond with nature. Campers (ages 4-13) will create art in the mediums of printmaking, painting, ceramics, and much more, and programs intertwine art, science, engineering, and nature for stimulating camp weeks that support school curriculum. This year highlights include: 1) building a digital camera to create wild art, 2) “that’s wild” camp sessions, which are exciting nature explorations enhanced with creative art activities, 3) “full steam ahead” sessions, which are thoughtfully designed to be fun, engaging, and inspiring explorations of nature, science, and art, and 4) art immersion camp sessions that are focused on painting, pottery, ceramics, and printmaking.

Fessenden

Location: West Newton | MA

Camp Website

What sets the Fessenden day camp apart?

Excellent aquatics program
Dedicated, mature staff
Traditional camp activities with new and exciting offerings
Awesome state-of-the-art facilities

We welcome you to take a tour with one of our directors so you can see for yourself!

Dexter Southfield

Location: 20 Newton Street| Brookline

Dates: June 20 to August 12

Camp Website

Dexter Southfield Summer Camps offer a unique selection of programs for children ages 3.5-16 years old on a hilltop campus in Brookline, MA. If you are an athlete, a scientist, an artist, or enjoy a little of everything, Dexter Southfield has a camp for you! Buses provide transportation from 25 towns, including downtown Boston, Brookline, Cambridge, and Wellesley. Healthy snacks and lunch are also provided. Please join Dexter Southfield at a winter open house on February 27 from 2 to 4 p.m.

Camp Resolute

Location: Bolton, MA

Dates: July 10 to August 19

Camp Website

Camp Resolute invites you to join them this summer for an adventure of a lifetime. Camp Resolute has day camp and resident camp opportunities that offer something for everyone. The key to the success of Camp Resolute is dedication to each camper. Flexibility is their word to live by, and they deliver the finest program available for your youth. Join Camp Resolute this summer!

Steve and Kate’s Camp

Location: 102 Pilgrim Road | Boston
5 Cadbury Road | Cambridge

Dates: June 20 – August 19

Camp Website

At Steve & Kate’s, campers step into a world packed with possibilities — for experiencing new opportunities, for expressing themselves, for exploring their passions and infinite potential. The results are unexpected and surprisingly rich. One camper dives deep into the story of a stop-motion animation. Another discovers a passion for dance, or a craftiness for fashion. You can buy a membership for the whole summer or stock up on day passes and use them when you need them. Oh, and lunch is included. Ta-da! Camp simplified.

International School of Boston

Dates: 5 weeks, June 20 – July 22

Camp Website

This summer give your children a day camp experience they will never forget. The International School of Boston’s French Immersion Summer Camp engages children in a wide array of activities, all designed to enhance their skills in spoken and written French, as well as their comprehension of the language. Under the guidance of French-speaking teachers, campers participate in recreational, creative, and academic activities, all contributing to their education in French. The program welcomes campers who are new to the language as well as French speakers. Our campers go beyond immersion: They virtually “swim” in French!

Everwood Day Camp

Location: Sharon | MA

Dates: June 20th–August 26th

Camp Website
Voted #1 Day Camp in Massachusetts, Everwood Day Camp is situated along the glistening shores of Lake Massapoag in Sharon, Mass. Everwood Day Camp offers campers ages 4-15 a summer of adventure, sports, arts, and outdoor activities in a authentic New England summer camp environment that’s uniquely suited to encourage their growth. At Everwood, campers experience all the fun and friendship of camp life, plus the support of a community that’s committed to providing skills for life. We see the summer experience as an opportunity to learn modern skills, including communication, collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking, all through the camp experience. Transportation to and from the Greater Boston and Providence areas is included in our tuition. Everwood Day Camp—this is the way summer is supposed to be.

The Coastal Ocean Science Academy

Location: Northeastern University Marine Science Center | 430 Nahant Road | Nahant MA

Dates: Littorina (Middle School): July 11-15th, Chondrus and Pagurus (High School): August 8th-19th

Camp Website

The Coastal Ocean Science Academy (COSA) is a marine science summer day program that aims to introduce and connect young people to local marine and coastal habitats and the factors that shape them, through field research and data collection at the Northeastern University Marine Science Center (NUMSC) in Nahant, as well as various offsite field trip locations. We are offer a 1-week middle school program and a 2-week high school program and both run from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. each day, and they begin/end each day at the NUMSC. Fees include all equipment, student materials, t-shirt, transportation to off-site field locations, entry for all fee-based field experiences, daily lunch, and snacks. Optional daily transportation to the Marine Science Center from Boston, Lynn and Revere MBTA stations is available for an additional fee.

Pompositticut Farm Day Camp

Location: 25 Lewis St | Hudson

Dates: Session 1 – June 27th – July 8th, Session 2 – July 11th – 22ed, Session 3 – July 25th – August 5th, Session 4 – August 8th – 19th

Camp Website

Pompositticut Farm Day Camp is the only ACA accredited camp in Hudson, Massachusetts. As a full service day camp for co-ed children ages 4-16, Pompositticut offers 2 week sessions including daily English Horseback Riding Lessons as part of the all-inclusive tuition. Stimulating curriculum creates an enriching summer for children through our Adventure Ropes Course, Red Cross Swimming, Theater-Dance-Music, Game-On, Creative Arts, Rocketry, Nature, and Archery Programs. Our specialty programs include Soar More, an all-day concentrated Adventure Ropes program, and Express Yourself, a comprehensive dance experience, which allow for further in-depth learning. Additionally, Pompositticut offers 2 diverse teen programs, Jr. Leader and Jr. Wrangler, and 2 intensive all day equestrian programs, Short Stirrup & Heels Down.

Listing in Boston Moms Blog Summer Camp Guide is a paid advertising opportunity. Interested in participating in this guide? Email us at [email protected] for more information!

5 Unexpected Beauty Tips to Survive Winter in New England

By

erineby

-

February 16, 2016

It’s hard to feel hot when you’re freezing.

It doesn’t get much grittier than a Boston winter. As a born-and-bred Texan, I admit I have some seriously thin blood. I’m the girl in the parka if it’s below 55ºF. But I’ve developed some coping mechanisms since I moved here that help me look my best, even if I’m a chapped, snotty, smeary mess from December through March.

We all know the basics. “Don’t forget moisturizer!” “Wear chapstick!” Duh. But sometimes those simple tips aren’t enough to combat the inevitable snowpocalypse.

Here are five tips vetted by women from some of the roughest, coldest places in the U.S. They may surprise you, but they’ll definitely work.

1. Stop washing your hair

As an avid daily morning shower-er and blow-dryer, I balked when I heard about the no-‘poo movement. “Don’t wash my hair? Yuck, no thanks.” Until I actually tried it. As a nursing mom during winter months, my hair is more fragile and prone to breaking and falling out than ever. So, I started just using cleansing conditioner every day when I shower instead of regular shampoo, and within a week I noticed less breakage. It was a little oily at first until my body caught up with my plan, but now I shampoo just once a week and have way less damage.

It’s awesome. And it smells amazing. If you’re not ready to take that leap and are a daily hair washer, try shampooing one day and conditioning for the next two, for example. I love Wen, but Sally Beauty Supply has some other cleansing conditioners I haven’t tried.

2. Steal your kids’ stuff

Ready for a tip that’ll save you money, time, and pain? I have sensitive skin, which is the WORST EVER for Boston winter weather. I end up flaky, red, and chapped unless I’m very gentle with my skin. I’ve tried the whole gamut of “sensitive” or “moisturizing” face washes from Neutrogena to Clearasil to Aveda. One day, I was in the shower, and in a true mom moment I realized I was out of face wash and I was a mess of mascara running down my face. On the ledge of the bath tub was my son’s Johnson & Johnson baby wash.

I didn’t want to wash my face with a harsh adult body wash, so I tried it and I’ve never gone back. It takes off my makeup with one washing and is super, super gentle. Bonus: It smells terrific (especially the lavender variety), and you probably already have a bottle in your home. Now I pay about a quarter of what I used to pay for face wash, and my complexion is better than it has ever been.

3. Your face doesn’t matter as much as you think it does

Your face produces more oil than most parts of your body, so even the driest complexions can withstand a little weather. But if you’re like me, your hands are the real weak link. I often have problems with dry cuticles and cracking, bloody knuckles during winter months. Ouch. One of the easiest way to keep your hands looking gorgeous during the rough winter is with these babies. I love Tweezerman beauty tools, and these are my absolute favorite.

The first place dryness shows on my hands is around my cuticles, which can be painful, too. Whatever you do, don’t push back and clip off your cuticle. It’s there for a reason. Just trimming the dry skin around your fingers and nail bed and adding a clear coat of polish will go a long way to looking manicured on a budget. Also, the best time to throw on some lotion is before you put on your gloves. It seems counterintuitive, but that way, your hands won’t be slippery and it’ll give the lotion time to do its job and sink in. I prefer L’Occitane hand cream or CeraVe healing lotion.

4. Forget your eyes

This may sound crazy because, like many women, you likely spend much of your morning makeup time on your eyes. But once you get out in that frigid wind and your eyes start tearing up, before you know it you’re a mess from wiping the tears away. Why bother? A terrific look for winter is a strong brow and lip, and it’s way easier to maintain. A nice brow enhancer and a true red lip can go a long way to looking polished, even in the bitterest of months. To me, Bobbi Brown is the quintessential brand for these products. Here are some great tutorials to achieve the perfect brow, and lip. For a bolder look, here’s a tutorial on how to get a lovely statement lip.

5. Go small

Mini touch-ups can help you weather the storm throughout the day. I like to keep a small makeup bag at the office so I can reapply a little powder or tinted lip balm or lotion when I come in from the cold. It’s also super convenient on meeting days to have a little concealer, a small brush, blush, and Kleenex on me to make sure I’m not streaky from a trip out to grab a sandwich at lunch time. Many brands sell mini versions of their products, but my favorite small-space touch-up items are Bare Minerals, Benefit, L’Occitane, and Senna.

Being a Party Pooper :: Alternatives to the Big Birthday Party

By

Allison Goldberg

-

February 15, 2016

“Every party has a pooper, that’s why we invited you — party pooper, party pooper!”

Is it just me, or does everyone feel like their once-active social life has been replaced with a calendar full of children’s birthday extravaganzas? Don’t get me wrong — celebrating a birthday is a big deal. I’m just wondering who made the rule that all birthday parties have to be the same? It’s as if someone sat down with every mother, gave them all a birthday outline, and forbid them to stray from it.

You arrive at the event space, sign a waiver for your child to continuously risk his life for the next hour, and watch as the kids are herded in like animals. You then stand around with the other parents making small talk, surrounded by the smell of sweaty feet, watching your child dodge one near-death experience after another.

As you do everything you can to not be “that” parent — you know, the one who follows her child everywhere yelling, “Be careful!” — you stand there, poker face on, squirming in your own skin. You finally find the parents you actually like, and while chatting it up you realize you haven’t seen one blurry glimpse of your child in at least seven and a half minutes, and you start frantically searching from trampoline to trampoline, bouncy house to bouncy slide, or ball pit to climbing structure, eventually diving into the obstacle bouncy house after you’ve convinced yourself your pride and joy has been trampled.

Of course you soon learn you missed the whistle and the kid has already moved into the bad pizza/overdone birthday cake room.

But a birthday doesn’t have to be that concocted, smelly-feet, 20+-guest-list (plus parents and uninvited siblings) formula we have all followed (myself included). Instead, let’s think a little outside the box. Tone down the guest list, do something unique, and get some better food on the menu. There are many ways to stray from the rules with only a few friends or (gasp!) no friends, while still creating a memorable day for your birthday boy or girl.

The age rule

Invitations can get out of hand quickly — you invited Sammy and Joey, so how could you not invite Johnny? Before you know it, the small birthday party you thought you were planning turns into the Golden Globes. But it doesn’t have to. As your children get older, let them invite as many friends as they are in years to your house or to a special activity.

Staycation

There is nothing more exciting to a child than going on vacation and walking into a hotel room, but who says you have to get on a plane to have that experience? You can get some great deals on apps like Hotel Tonight. Stream a movie, jump on the beds, and light that candle on the birthday cake. The glamour and excitement of hotel living will, without a doubt, create a birthday night to remember!

Family party

This is an especially great option for those with younger children (calling all moms about to throw a big bash for your baby’s first birthday!). Larger parties are often overwhelming and end in tears, so opt for something not so stress inducing and more enjoyable for everyone — especially the young birthday child. Order some balloons and invite grandparents and other close relatives for a quiet brunch and intimate affair.

Sleepover party

This is geared toward older children, and it’s a great time to implement the age rule. Wait until the kids are old enough and everyone has experienced plenty of sleepovers — this way no one asks to call their mom at midnight, and parent involvement can be limited. There’s not much planning necessary other than to expect a lot of giggling and hope they go to sleep at some point.

All-about-me celebration

A birthday is all about celebrating the individual, so why not give your birthday boy or girl an entire day planned around him or her. Start off with a special birthday breakfast, then let the child choose some exciting activities, and end the day with an extra large piece of birthday cake. I don’t know one child who wouldn’t love a whole day dedicated to them.

An event to remember

Instead of making the birthday party the event, take your child to an event to remember. Maybe there’s a sports team they’ve been cheering on from home, or maybe you could introduce them to the magical world of theater through Wheelock Family Theater, or maybe Disney on Ice or their favorite band is in town. Whatever the special event you take your child to, an experience like this is something your child will speak of for years to come.

Traveling with Kids :: Airplane Etiquette

By

erineby

-

February 12, 2016

I think I speak for most parents when I say that flying with young children was seriously overlooked as a circle of hell. Being strapped down inside a claustrophobic steel tube hurling though the sky for hours with kids who inevitably want to play, pee, eat, make a mess, and otherwise be kids is not fun. To make matters worse, you have the sanity of airport staff, flight crew, and fellow passengers to worry about, too.

Here are some tips on airline etiquette to make it easier on those around you when you travel. In return, you’ll avoid any side-eye or snide remarks that might spoil your trip.

Travel to the airport

If you’re taking a taxi, make sure the taxi dispatch knows in advance that you have kids, car seats, and several bags so they factor in time when scheduling other pick ups. The last thing you need at 5 a.m. is a grumbly cabbie. And though it should go without saying, tip him.

Check in

Check in before you arrive at the airport to save time. Make sure everything you need on the plane is already in the appropriate carry-on so you’re not digging through bags while others wait. You can choose to check car seats and strollers free of charge or you can gate-check them.

Security

I know it’s next to impossible, but try to be prepared when you come to the front of the line. Families notoriously have a ton of stuff to unload and carry, so it’s only polite if you see a rushed business person or seasoned traveler behind you tapping his foot to let him go ahead while you wrestle your toddler out of his jacket. No time lost.

Tips: You are allowed to go through the metal detector with baby carrier (Bjorn, Ergo, Moby) but not a stroller. Plan accordingly if you don’t want to wake a sleeping little one. Also, your kids can keep their shoes on. Thanks to the TSA for throwing us that bone.

Boarding

Board first as “passengers traveling with kids” so you can get situated without holding everyone else up. Or board last so that, again, you’re not making people wait. The perk of boarding last is that the kids have to spend a little less time sitting down on the plane.

In flight

The ten commandments of in-flight kid behavior:

Thou shalt not kick the seat in front of you
Thou shalt not color on or otherwise mar the tray table
Thou shalt not stand in your seat
Thou shalt not hang in the aisle lest the beverage cart smite your limbs
Thou shalt not throw the ice you’re given in your beverage cup
Thou shalt not scream
Thou shalt not pull the hair in front of you
Thou shalt not bang the tray table
Thou shalt inform an adult of the need to pee, poo, or throw up before it happens
Thou shalt nap, please, for God’s sake

Tip: Stock up on inexpensive, small-space playthings like short books, play dough, scratch-off coloring books, and sticker books. When my kids see the new stuff, they get so excited that they forget to act up.

Disembarking

Wait for rushed passengers to get off first, especially anyone with a connecting flight.

Mostly, it’s about planning ahead and being aware of the needs of those around you. Which are good rules to live by generally. And if you happen to be alone and you see a family struggling during travel, offer to help or at least give them a smile or gesture of solidarity. We all know it sucks.

Let’s just rejoice that we survived the holiday season and be grateful that we have some time to brace ourselves for summer travel.

Rethinking Romance :: A Thank You to My Husband

By

Allison Goldberg

-

February 11, 2016

Romance has changed a lot since the carefree days of being newly married and child free. The days of dining out on a whim or booking a spontaneous romantic weekend getaway are a distant memory. If it weren’t for the occasional social media post popping up on my news feed — from friends who have not yet had children — those days would be forgotten altogether. As I live my wonderful, yet chaotic, sleep-deprived life, I can’t help but feel a pang of jealousy viewing a friend’s glamorous child-free vacation, exciting late Saturday night out, or, better yet, relaxing Sunday morning in. The romance in these posts is easy to spot and isn’t lost in the everyday disorder that comes with the territory of having three little ones at home. With these posts bringing up memories of how connected we used to be, I can’t help but question, “Where has our romance gone?”

But when I take a second to breathe and actually look at the big picture, the romance in our relationship isn’t gone. It just looks a whole lot different. Our romantic gestures may no longer be exotic and overt. In their place are the small, everyday, relevant reminders of just how much we love each other. They may not be as grand, but they are just as romantic — and definitely worth recognizing and appreciating.

With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, I thought I would say a big thank you to you, hubby, and all the amazing little things you do for me that have given romance a new meaning.

Thank you for getting me Starbucks on the weekends. You know that my grande, one pump of vanilla, soy latte is my one vice, and you get it right every time.

Thank you for always encouraging me to go out with my girlfriends — sometimes it’s hard for me to remember that I used to have a social life.

Thank you for celebrating everything about our relationship. Receiving a card on the day we met seven years ago made my day.

Thank you for letting me choose the movie most Friday nights and for watching so many chick flicks (although we both know you secretly like them).

Thank you for still opening my car door on the rare occasion we do go out for date night.

Thank you for loving every meal I cook for you, even when we’ve had chicken three nights in a row.

Thank you for saying “goodnight” and “I love you” every night before bed no matter what is going on in our lives.

Thank you for the random texts and phone calls throughout the day just to say hi.

Thank you for always making sure I have a fresh glass of water on my bedside table, even though I never drink it.

Thank you for being in a good mood 99% of the time (the 1% being when a Boston sports team loses).

Thank you for the times you’ve made me breakfast in bed. You know the way to my heart, and it starts with pancakes! (For future reference, it ends with shoes, handbags, or jewelry.)

Thank you for the days you bring home flowers just because.

Thank you for playing Scrabble with me even though I beat you every time.

Thank you for not chewing ice cubes out of your water glass because you know it drives me crazy.

Thank you for coming home from work every night in time for our family dinner.

Thank you for telling me I look cute when I haven’t slept all night, washed my hair, or put on makeup.

Thank you for our beautiful life together, our wonderful home, our three precious children, and for keeping the romance alive even if it looks vastly different than it did only a few years ago.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Don’t Take Away Our Hospital Nurseries

By

Morgan Sheena

-

February 10, 2016

I have given birth at two different Boston-area hospitals, and both experiences came with a myriad of choices left to me, my husband, and our care teams. But one thing I never had to worry about was the availability of a hospital nursery.

I distinctly remember touring both hospitals while pregnant and having the nurseries pointed out to us as part of the tour. It was simply a part of the childbirth and postpartum experience — you could have a nurse take your child to the nursery at any time during your hospital stay, if you chose to. Which I did.

When planning what I wanted for my birth experiences, I didn’t even consider the issue of rooming in versus the nursery, because it wasn’t something I had to worry about. Now, as I get ready for the birth of my third child, things are a little different.

Many Boston-area hospitals are doing away with nurseries as part of a national initiative to encourage bonding and breastfeeding by having moms and newborns stay together throughout their entire hospital stay. Though hospitals do make exceptions for medical reasons, mothers are encouraged to “room in” with their newborns at all hours. And in some hospitals, mothers aren’t only encouraged to room in — they’re forced to, as nurseries are no longer an option.

I absolutely understand the point of rooming in. I get the need to bond, to learn your newborn’s cues, to become comfortable with breastfeeding. What I don’t get is the need to force this on women. Having my daughter Olivia with me after my C-section would have been a danger to her and to me. Getting in and out of bed was enough work on its own, and I was so grateful to have the nurses available to take care of my baby when I could barely take care of myself.

After four days in the hospital, I came home somewhat rested, comfortable with the duties of taking care of a newborn with a toddler at home, and well on my way to a happy breastfeeding relationship. While in the hospital, I had chosen to send my baby to the nursery for a few hours at a time so I could get a little bit of sleep without waking up to every newborn sound. And I don’t feel it impeded our bonding in any way. I felt the same way after having Aaron, my first child. After giving birth, I was sad to part with my newborn but so grateful he could go to the nursery so my husband and I could have a bit of recovery sleep before we dove headfirst into learning how to be parents.

As women, we are in a scary time. It seems as if our choices are being limited or removed completely. While the push toward baby-friendly hospitals is a beautiful thing, the needs of the mother should also be taken into consideration. As moms, we have the right to have a say. We should call the shots in our care —before, during, and after labor. We can decide what is best for ourselves and our babies. And we can decide whether or not we want to room in or send our babies to a nursery for a few brief hours. For the hospital to dictate that what we are doing is right or wrong is pushing us in the wrong direction.

I know many moms who did not feel they received the support they needed while in the hospital, whether they roomed in or not. Perhaps focusing on how to better help mothers feel prepared for what is to face them at home — rather than forcing initial bonding — would be a better use of time, energy, and resources. Moms need care, both emotionally and physically. Let’s not take that away.

Please, Boston hospitals, don’t take away our choice.

1. The first rule of potty club: Do not talk about potty club.

2. The second rule of potty club: Setbacks happen.

3. The third rule of potty club: What works for one child/family doesn’t work for all. Do what feels right for you.

4. The fourth rule of potty club: Listen to Queen Elsa and “Let it go…”

5. The fifth rule of potty club: The cliche is true, with rare exception — your kid won’t go to kindergarten in diapers.

How to get your way when you’re nice

Say “yes” more

Don’t say “no”

Make sure you’re asked to begin with

How do you say “no”? Tell us in the comments below.

Talk to your florist

Consider the achievement of the woman in your life

Tell the florist about her

Where will the arrangement go?

Local moms and Facebook groups

The low-tech life

To eat or not to eat?

Let go of your looks

So, what dos and don’ts do you agree or disagree with here in America?

Tenacre

Camp Wingate*Kirkland

Jewish Community Centers of Greater Boston Camps and School Vacation Programs

Beaver Summer Camp

LINX Camps

Mass Audubon’s Wild at Art Summer Camp

Fessenden

Dexter Southfield

Camp Resolute

Steve and Kate’s Camp

International School of Boston

Everwood Day Camp

The Coastal Ocean Science Academy

Pompositticut Farm Day Camp

It’s hard to feel hot when you’re freezing.

1. Stop washing your hair

2. Steal your kids’ stuff

3. Your face doesn’t matter as much as you think it does

4. Forget your eyes

5. Go small

“Every party has a pooper, that’s why we invited you — party pooper, party pooper!”

The age rule

Staycation

Family party

Sleepover party

All-about-me celebration

An event to remember

Travel to the airport

Check in

Security

Boarding

In flight

Disembarking

Happy Valentine’s Day!

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