Our brand is one of looking the other way, using platitudes to ignore what is often happening right under our noses, and sometimes by our own hand. It’s part preservation, part ignorance, part performance, part cowardice. For many Indigenous and POCs, this is a more mentally taxing brand of racism because navigating it is like walking through a dark room. You cannot see the walls, though they are there, you can’t see where there are holes in the ground, though they are there, and you cannot see if you’re about to walk off the ledge, though it is there. Over a lifetime, it chips away at mental health, emotional well-being, confidence and light. It leaves a desolate climate for the hope that better days are possible.

It’s long past time for a change. When the swell quiets again, it will be the time for the actual work to begin. To give our children, all of our children, a future better than the present, we must start now. We ask you today to reject the notion a problem isn’t real because it does not affect you personally. Resist the urge to gaslight or play ‘devil’s advocate’ when a person tells you about their experiences. Reject the reflex that allows you to view someone as ‘other’ and label as not belonging in spaces you deem as yours. Expel the idea that to stand up for the rights of someone else, somehow weakens yours.

A commentary released this week  described racism like air. The moment we are born, we gulp it in. It is around us, within us, built into the systems we all use, but do not enjoy the same level of access and protection. Empathy, self-awareness and reflection are the first steps. Action is the next, and it is an ongoing journey. It is relentless, sometimes uncomfortable, often thankless, lonely and fundamental if things are to ever change. No one left behind means we do not forge forward until we can all come along. So, take the first step today. It may be small, but the path will lead to a better place for all. We are already proud Canadians, we love our country and its people. You can love something and still agree that it could be better. Let’s make it so, together.

Watch and Listen

The Social: #ShareYourChair Edition 

Trevor Noah

Tracy Moore

Heather McGhee TED Talk “Racism has a cost for Everyone”

Baratunde Thurston TED Talk “How to Deconstruct Racism, One Headline at a Time”

Read

Letters to America from Black Canadians

Anti-Racism 101

Guide to Allyship

A Summer Reading List for Those Looking to Educate Themselves on the BLM Movement

10 Books About Race Non-Black People Should Be Reading Right Now

These 17 books, docs and podcasts will help you educate yourself on race issues

Anti-Racism Resources for Parents and Kids

Anti-Racism Books for Children and Teens

31 Children's books to support conversations on race, racism and resistance

Talking to Kids About Racism, Early and Often. These books can help start the conversation

Act

How to talk to kids about race, and why you should start now

15 Classroom Resources for Discussing Racism, Policing, and Protest

How to Talk to Kids about Race and Racism

Resources for Ending Anti-Black Racism

How to build an actively anti-racist company

Motherhood is an action, a thing you can see and feel. If a child is part of your life, in the glow of your love, on your mind, in your care or heart, you have mothered. She is a shoulder to cry on or the hug you didn’t know you needed. She is a trusted ear, or a co conspirator of laughter to whisk troubles away. To the grandmothers, aunts and women who step up regardless of bloodline, we thank you. You show us a mother’s love is broader than genes and wider than geography. Sometimes it is them who raise us, stepping into the role again, out of love. To those of you making the journey alone, shouldering dual roles, we surround and honour you. Even when our mothers are no longer here, the imprint on our hearts is forever, because there’s no forgetting profound love. 

Mother. Mommy. Mama. Mère. Ina. 母亲. Ahm. Maji. Madar. Mai. Mae. Ema. Madre. 어머니  Whatever way you say ‘mother,’ the definition is love. 

Today, I hope that you’ll add yourself to that extensive list of people you care so deeply for and love to the moon and back. You know, the one where you’ve listed the needs of your family, friends, job or career, and community. Add yourself to the top spot. The physical and emotional labour of motherhood is real, and just as muscles require rest and treatment to replenish, so your soul does too.

This Mother’s Day, and every day, I wish you contentment, peace, wisdom, patience, strength, resolve and, most of all, love. 

Sincerely,

Claire

💝 Thank you moms, for holding it down, all day, every day. 

Treat Yourself like the Queen you are 

(or, yes, put down the laundry basket or laptop and do one of these things instead)

👑 Have your favourite meal or treat delivered. When kids are very young...or let’s face it...even when older, it can be a pipe dream challenge to get a great meal that you didn’t have to make or supervise.  And since we can’t go to restaurants for the time being, just go on ahead and get what you want, already made, delivered to the door. And we said to get what YOU want, in case others have suggestions. 😉

👑 Treat yourself to a virtual wine tasting or watch party. For the tasting, just use whatever wines or spirits (or juice!) you have on hand, schedule a call with your mom or your friends and let the fun commence! For the watch party, try Netflix Party  or Facebook for super easy setups. Pick a movie you all love (or love to hate), and watch in harmony. 

👑 From the hilarious to the sublime, here are 11 books that should be on every mom’s bookshelf

👑 Since we can’t travel right now, Airbnb is offering one-of-a-kind virtual experiences. From cocktail-making classes to cooking with a family on the other side of the world, you can have a unique experience right from the couch or kitchen counter. With many reasonably priced options, you can gift this to yourself sans guilt. 

👑 Get an early Spring fix by taking a virtual tour through the world’s most beautiful gardens:

• Claude Monet's garden in Giverny, Normandy

• England's famed Kew Garden

• Keukenhof in Amsterdam

👑 Have a virtual bingo night using MyFreeBingoCards.com. Bonus experience points for combining this with that wine-tasting. 

Virtual events

We’ve created a hub for all online events! Go to lifewithababy.com/online to find the list of upcoming events and links to past videos. 

New Webinar! 

Pregnant? Questions about your health? Dr. Cecilia is back Wednesday, May 13 to chat and answer questions about: 

• What naturopathic medicine is and how to access it

• What foods to eat and avoid 

• Key vitamins and minerals

• Blood test markers to look out for

• Midwifery vs OB care

• Acupressure points & homeopathic remedies for labour induction and pain

• C-section preparation and healing

• Things to consider for your birth plan

Register Today!

Our friend Adrian Drew of Investors Group Wealth Management is making a special series of COVID-19 related financial seminars available to Life With A Baby members. 

Check out the schedule below, and register for as many as you like here. Be sure to list Adrian Dew in the “IG Advisor” field on the form! (It’s how we say thanks!)

Register Today!

Just for You 

Connect With Us!

Talk of making the journey back to 'normal' has us all thinking - what's normal anyway? Will life ever look like it once did? Do we want it to? What would I keep from this time versus what I hope we leave behind? 

I think we understand that no, things couldn't possibly go back to the way they were, not exactly anyway. We are all dreaming about what our new world will look like, what we'll do first, and how we want to move forward when it's all behind us. 

There hasn't been much time for reflection, what, between homeschooling, working (from home or out because you're essential), strategic trips to get essentials, and trying to get a little fresh air. But, I'm trying to give myself permission to dream. I'm taking those few moments of quiet to file what I loved and what I'll leave. I am trying my best to register these thoughts to draw from when the hustle and bustle returns. 

What about you? Maybe no one has asked you what you want recently, so I am. Think about what you'll do differently, if possible, what you want to cherish or implement, and what truly matters most. What if it's this process or reordering and reframing that becomes the one silver lining in an otherwise not-so-great time? I think, if we can do that, we will have all won. 

Sincerely,

Claire

🧡 To the teachers, helping us to teach our kids, sometimes while still teaching and caring for yours - we thank you. 

New Giveaway! 

Enter for your chance to win an indoor/outdoor play tent with a ball pit*!

To enter, follow us on Instagram @lifewithababy and our friends @inventivekidz. Next, find and like this post and comment with the first outside activity you'll do once distancing is over! Contest starts May 4, 2020 and closes May 18, 2020 at Midnight; winner announced May 19, 2020. Go for it! 

*prizing provided by Inventive Minds Child, Youth and Family Support Centre. 

Virtual events

We’ve created a hub for all online events! Go to lifewithababy.com/online to find the list of upcoming events and links to past videos.

Missed a virtual event? 

Here are links to past videos: 

• A Natural Approach to Your Baby’s Health with Dr. Cecilia de Martino

• Setting Up a Positive Home Learning Environment

• Why Focusing on Your Sleep During COVID-19 is Important with Alanna McGinn

• Parenting Through the Storm with Ann Douglas

• Managing Anxiety

• Having a Baby during COVID-19 - What to expect
  
  

Parent S.O.S

• As we are being required to wear masks more and more in public, here’s a great how-to video on handling your masks
  
  
• We’re all hesitant to use resources we formerly took for granted - like going to the dentist for something other than an emergency or routine maintenance. While dental offices remain closed, you can still get help. If you have questions or concerns about your family's dental health, visit hellodent.com where, you can find a dentist near you and book an online appointment for questions, assessments and referrals. 

• Wellness Together Canada provides free online resources, tools, apps and connections to trained volunteers and qualified mental health professionals when needed. Click here to get started. 

• Between the enchanting sounds and the visual of their incredible coordination, this virtual concert by the Metropolitan Opera is everything you need right now. 

• This one is for the ladies. Let us rejoice in the collective act of letting go (of the constraints of beauty) and gaining ourselves in the process. From the New York Times: FOMO Is Over. Give In to the Joy of Letting Go.

This One’s For the Kids 

• Fun + Math = abcya.com! Find fun math games for learning through play! Our fav is Multiplication Space Race, but with all the choices - you’ll find your fav in no time ;) 
  
  
• If you’re looking for learning resources outside of your child’s online curriculum (or perhaps just alternatives), check out Amazing Educational Resources. It’s an incredible database of free courses, worksheets and more on subjects of all kinds from Preschool to Adult, including resources for learning challenges and enriched learning. 

• Keeping the kids interested, learning and practicing their school instrument might be harder than baking your first sourdough. Make Music Fun has assembled a list of free online music lessons to keep your young musician engaged. 
  
  
• Since the kids can’t play with neighbourhood kids or see their friends at school, many are without playmates (besides their parents). Even kids with siblings in a different age group can feel the same as being an ‘only’ right now. Here are some games and activities that are perfect for one! (and you can join in too :) )

Just for Fun 

Connect With Us!

Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

 Checking in on how our families and we are doing is now a natural and regular occurrence. I’m finding staying strong is our fresh challenge. I think the entire world is asking: can we stay the course and persevere? One of the hardest things to do is carry on when you can’t see how the story ends. 

We’re discovering the power of quiet strength. Showing strength isn’t as much about grand feats of force or might, but in the small, sometimes imperceptible actions that show stamina, courage and resilience. There is strength in kindness, patience, tenderness, empathy and understanding. Vulnerability and seeking the help we need is powerful. There is strength in letting go. 

Flexing those physical and mental muscles feels good. They also need to rest and recover, especially when they’ve been firing on full blast. Give yourself permission to let others be strong for you, too. You are strong. You’ll be even stronger tomorrow.

Sincerely,

Claire

🧡 To the grocery, delivery, and food service workers - we thank you for keeping us all going. 

Virtual events

Business Owners In Canada: Navigating Covid-19 Economic Volatility & Government Relief Programs  ONTARIO ONLY Wednesday, April 29 7PM EDT and Thursday, April 30 2PM EDT

At this webinar, IG Wealth Management will discuss foundational investment principles that are important to your long-term financial well-being, both as a business owner and personally. They will also share deeper context into the Federal Government’s recently announced economic support measures for individuals and businesses.Register here 

Mobile Meetup Friday, May 1 at 3:30PM EDT
Are you feeling Isolated? Join us for an online chat. Think of it as a coffee date, but from the comfort of your own home, or comfortable space. Grab a cup of tea or coffee, and log in to the video chat with other parents in a casual atmosphere. Register here 

Weekly Parent Connection Online Thursday, May 7 11AM EDT

Calling all parents. Join Heather Boyd, for weekly online meetings to discuss parenting, discipline, child development and attachment in these novel times.  This is very kid-friendly! If you need to tune in with your children you can - we will love seeing them! Register here

Mommy & Me Fitness Online ONGOING

It doesn't matter if you are 6 weeks, 6 months or 6 years postpartum - this workout is for you! Register here. 

Missed a virtual event? 

Here are links to past videos: 

• A Natural Approach to Your Baby’s Health with Dr. Cecilia de Martino

• Setting Up a Positive Home Learning Environment

• Why Focusing on Your Sleep During COVID-19 is Important with Alanna McGinn

• Understanding the COVID-19 Stimulus package with Adrian Drew

• Parenting Through the Storm with Ann Douglas

• Managing Anxiety

• Having a Baby during COVID-19 - What to expect
  
  

Parent S.O.S

This One’s For the Kids 

• LEGO is hosting weekly live shows Tuesdays at 11am ET / 4pm GMT where kids can create alongside a Master Model Builder! Head over to their Instagram page @lego to catch the show and find lots of other fun stuff too. 
  
  
• The Built By Kids tagline is “empowering our kids who will build our future.” Sounds like a plan! The site has a range of DIY projects that teach necessary skills. They’ve got projects such as fixing toys and equipment like a scooter, simple cooking tasks, and useful crafts and general problem-solving knowledge like “how to pick the best campsite for your family” (very handy for when isolation is over). Now sit back and wait to be helped at every turn by your very efficient children! 
  
  
• As always, public libraries are here to save us all. Nearly every municipal library system has implemented weekly or daily online programming for kids. From storytimes, to circle times, to sing-alongs, to book lists, to scavenger hunts, our beloved librarians have us covered. Visit your local library's website to find information and schedules. 
  
  
• Have a budding creative on your hands? Try these 50 crafts and activities. The next challenge will be finding the space to display the new masterpieces : ) 

Just for Fun 

This might make you cry a bit but with pure joy ; ) Click here or on the pic to watch the video.

Connect With Us!

Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

There are plenty of reasons to cry. They don’t need to be listed because you already know, plus, they’re different for everyone.  

But sometimes these days, you just have to laugh. 

You may laugh at the absurdity of it all. Catch a glimpse of your ‘interesting’ work-from-home outfit in the mirror. Maybe, thanks to an ill-timed pass, your coworkers now know what your spouse looks like in their robe. It could be because your grocery cart is 50% potato chips. Perhaps, it’s the aggressive quest by your grey hairs to be respected at last. Or, it could be because you’ve been immortalized as a potato, like our friend on the left. Legendary.

We don’t have the answers, and we certainly don’t know what to do much of the time, especially when hit with more bad news. Despite it, I invite you to look for reasons to laugh. Laugh until you cry and back again. Laugh big, often and from your gut because laughter has the power to heal like nothing else. 

Sincerely,

Claire

🧡 To our healthcare workers, for your tireless efforts and sacrifice, thank you. 

CONTEST ALERT!

🌟Enter to W I N🌟

No movie theatre, no problem! Our friends at Inventive Minds Child, Youth and Family Support Centre are giving away a Vankyo Multimedia Portable Projector Prize Pack to recreate family movie night at home! 

The prize pack includes: 

⭐ Multimedia Projector

⭐ Handy carrying case

⭐ YLife 120 inch Projector Screen 

⭐ Mounting materials

Here’s how to enter for your chance to win: 

🎈Head over to Instagram and follow @inventivekidz

💙Like this post 

💬Comment on the post with your favourite at-home Family Night activity

 @  Tag a friend

🌟Bonus: Score an extra entry by repeating the steps on the Inventive Minds Child, Youth and Family Support Centre Facebook page! 

The winner will be drawn at random and announced on April 30th, 2020 - so you’ve got until April 29th at midnight to enter! Good luck🤞

Virtual events

Weekly Parent Connection Online Thursday, April 23 11AM EDT

Calling all parents. Join Heather Boyd, for weekly online meetings to discuss parenting, discipline, child development and attachment in these novel times.  This is very kid-friendly! If you need to tune in with your children you can - we will love seeing them! Register here 

Mobile Meetup Friday, April 24 at 3:30PM EDT
Are you feeling Isolated? Join us for an online chat. Think of it as a coffee date, but from the comfort of your own home, or comfortable space. Grab a cup of tea or coffee, and log in to the video chat with other parents in a casual atmosphere. Register here 

Mommy & Me Fitness Online ONGOING

It doesn't matter if you are 6 weeks, 6 months or 6 years postpartum - this workout is for you! Register here. 

Missed a virtual event? 

Here are links to past videos: 

• A Natural Approach to Your Baby’s Health with Dr. Cecilia de Martino

• Setting Up a Positive Home Learning Environment

• Why Focusing on Your Sleep During COVID-19 is Important with Alanna McGinn

• Understanding the COVID-19 Stimulus package with Adrian Drew

• Parenting Through the Storm with Ann Douglas

• Managing Anxiety

• Having a Baby during COVID-19 - What to expect
  
  

Parent S.O.S

• Getting through the work week is…..a challenge. TED Talks of course always has great informative and motivational videos available and they’ve created a playlist to help us all manage both now, and later. Check it out

• You’ve probably seen the rash of videos showing many ways to make your own facemask. Many of you are already adept sewers and are doing amazing custom designs! If you struggle in this area (like us), here’s a method using just an old t-shirt and hair elastics. No sewing required. You're welcome. 

• Though they may have been thinking about it, some preteens and teens have really just started asking questions or expressing feelings about what’s going on, out loud. Some younger children are now beginning to show some signs of worry, fear or sadness. For tips for talking about those feelings, Very Well Mind this great article: How to Talk to Your Kids About Coronavirus (COVID-19).

• A few tips we picked up this week: 

• Have you checked your local municipality website lately? Most have created pages or micro-sites with up-to-date info on guidelines, bylaws, social support services, advice and recommendations to help navigate daily life in your area. 

• Many car insurance companies have created options for relief as we all #stayhome. Check the website or give them a call to ask what they have available to help you manage costs.

• Wish you could get a refresher on subjects now that you’re a teacher? Lucky for all of us, Crash Course has hundreds of quick and easy videos to give you just the brush up you need to teach history by this afternoon. We won’t tell. Oh, and you can use these with or for the kids too. 

This One’s For the Kids 

• Get those wiggles out!Go Noodle is a free service providing movement and mindfulness video games. 
  
  
• If the kids (or you) are getting tired of the same old rudimentary colouring pages, visit Open Culture for access to hundreds of free downloadable colouring pages and books from world-class libraries and museums. 
  
  
• The International Children's Digital Library provides free access to an enormous collection of books for ages 3 to 13. Titles come from around the world in many languages, including Dutch, Farsi, English, Arabic and many more! Start browsing here.  
  
  
• Daily Hive has put together a fun video: “8 Fun Toddler Activities During Self Isolation”. It is useful, and adorable.

Just for Fun 

Connect With Us!

Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

This. Sure, we miss going to the mall, sporting events, getting a massage. We miss running to the market to satisfy a craving, stopping for hot chocolate, or a tasty dinner with a side of laughter with friends. We miss all of those not-so-little things a lot. What we miss most, though, is each other. Human touch, affection and embrace just….feels so good. As we cuddle those we can touch a little tighter and longer, we long for the touch of those we can’t. 

The challenge now is to create as close to that feeling as we can, virtually. Is it a mid-day text or call? A compliment on the fly? A donation of funds or good to a cause you believe in? Having a meal delivered to someone? Sharing a skillset, knowledge or resource? We all have something to give. It doesn’t matter the size, type, or delivery. You make the world a better place just by being in it, so let ‘em have it. 

Sincerely,

Claire

🧡 Thank you frontline workers

Virtual events

Webinar: A Natural Approach to Your Baby’s Health with naturopathic doctor Cecilia de MartinoThursday, April 16 @ 11AM EDT

We should always be thinking about optimizing our health because it is our biggest asset. It has become especially important while we navigate our lives during this pandemic. 

In this talk you’ll learn:

• What naturopathic medicine is and how to access it

• Nutrition for mom and baby

• Health Boosting Activities

• Supplements for mom and baby

• Dealing with an ill baby (fever, middle ear infection, allergies) 

Register here

Weekly Parent Connection Online Thursday, April 16 11AM EDT

Calling all parents. Join Heather Boyd, for weekly online meetings to discuss parenting, discipline, child development and attachment in these novel times.  This is very kid-friendly! If you need to tune in with your children you can - we will love seeing them! Register here 

Mobile Meetup Friday, April 17 at 3:30PM EDT
Are you feeling Isolated? Join us along with Emily Pollak and other parents for an online chat. Think of it as a coffee date, but from the comfort of your own home, or comfortable space. Grab a cup of tea or coffee, and log in to the video chat with other parents in a casual atmosphere. Register here 

Mommy & Me Fitness Online ONGOING

It doesn't matter if you are 6 weeks, 6 months or 6 years postpartum - this workout is for you! Register here. 

Missed a virtual event? 

Here are links to last week’s videos: 

• Setting Up a Positive Home Learning Environment

• Why Focusing on Your Sleep During COVID-19 is Important with Alanna McGinn

• Understanding the COVID-19 Stimulus package with Adrian Drew

• Parenting Through the Storm with Ann Douglas

• Managing Anxiety

• Having a Baby during COVID-19 - What to expect
  
  

Parent S.O.S

• There may be a few things you don’t miss, but one thing we all miss is human contact. We’ll never take a warm embrace  with our family and friends for granted again. This article by Ishani Nath shares some wonderful tips for ways to compensate in a healthy way. 

• While we’re on the subject, even in a full house, we can experience loneliness. VeryWellMind.com has put together a comprehensive read about why that is, and how to cope. Some highlights we love: 

• Do something meaningful such as using your skills to volunteer or enrolling in a course

• You can’t play or watch the professionals right now so sign up for online sports like a Fantasy Football League or join an online forum for a subject or activity you’re interested in or want to learn more about

• Create something. Whether it’s journaling, colouring, drawing, writing short stories, or redecorating a room by moving around what’s already there, this can be a welcome distraction that results in something you will enjoy for years to come

• Practice self-compassion

• Read the article here

• You’re probably video-conferenced out, with many of us participating in multiple calls per day. And, we know you’re likely using video to talk to your parents, grandparents and siblings too, which is excellent. Have you tried doing it with your friends? Some of our staff and community managers tried it this week - and let us tell you - you can’t go wrong with this. If you can take a 30-minute break to talk with your friends - to just talk about everything and nothing, it can do wonders for your soul. 

This One’s For the Kids 

• The James Dyson Foundation (Yes, that Dyson) has assembled some very cool engineering challenges for kids of all ages to keep those brains engaged while they’re busy having fun. Check it out. 

• Author and illustrator E.B. Goodale has joined the ranks to offer live drawing lessons twice per week for toddlers! Visit her Instagram page to join in the fun. 

• Outsource bedtime stories a few nights a week to your fav celebrities. With a wide range of beloved stories read by the likes of Betty White, James Earl Jones and Wanda Sykes, we may just curl up and listen too. Storyline Online. 

• Did you know that YouTube has a curated library of kid-friendly educational videos? Who knew it wasn’t just video game tutorials. The range of subjects and sources is dizzying, and there’s something for toddlers to young adults. Start here. 

Just for Fun 

Connect With Us!

Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

We've had access to the wisdom and advice of the fantastic practitioners who’ve joined us online this week. I recall a moment of clarity when one articulated what it is we're experiencing. Grief. We have suffered a collective loss on many levels, and the whole world is feeling the stages of grief. We each miss our usual way of life, and we miss each other. What we're feeling is ok. It's ok to be sad, afraid, nostalgic, angry, confused, and even happy. There's no blueprint for this. 

By now, you may have reached the final stage of grief, which is acceptance. Understanding that this is the way of life for the next while, figuring out what works for you and your family, and even finding silver linings in unexpected places. Through the awkward homeschooling, endless cooking and cleaning (seriously, what is up with that?), and the hilarity of finding 'balance' right now, I have begun to find beauty in imperfection. So, I challenge you to try the same. We won't manage it every day, and you may not be there yet, but even the tiniest move in a positive direction is a big win. Celebrate those wins often and don't hold back, you deserve it. 

Sincerely,

Claire

P.S. We’re sending a special ‘thank-you’ to all of our frontline healthcare workers and researchers, and to those making it possible for us to have the supplies and resources we need to take care of our families. The world is a better place because of you, and we are eternally grateful for your sacrifice. 

Virtual events

This week’s Webinar with Health Nexus: 

Join us for an informative webinar and learn how to work with your children at home and/or find some time to get your own work done.

Margaret Boersma, from Creative Education in Action, works as a teacher trainer, speaker and educational consultant in a number of countries. She will be a guest on Setting up a Positive Home Learning Environment to give you insights and practical ideas to support your children in their learning while at home. She will also announce some practical help coming soon to directly support you and your children on-line.

WHEN: Wednesday 1:00 – 1:45 PM EDT

REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1425578804066433550

WHY:

Parents need support; children need to learn.

• Destressing when work, parenting and teaching is all on you

• How children learn

• Setting up positive learning environments

• Learning through the arts is fun

• Social and emotional learning – taking care of self and contributing to others

Weekly Parent Connection Online Thursday, April 9th 11AM EDT

Calling all parents. Join Heather Boyd, for weekly online meetings to discuss parenting, discipline, child development and attachment in these novel times.  This is very kid-friendly! If you need to tune in with your children you can - we will love seeing them! Register here 

Mobile Meetup Friday, April 3rd at 3:30AM EDT
Are you feeling Isolated? Join us along with Emily Pollak and other parents for an online chat. Think of it as a coffee date, but from the comfort of your own home, or comfortable space. Grab a cup of tea or coffee, and log in to the video chat with other parents in a casual atmosphere. Register here 

Mommy & Me Fitness Online ONGOING

It doesn't matter if you are 6 weeks, 6 months or 6 years postpartum - this workout is for you! Register here. 

Missed a virtual event? See last week’s videos below

Why Focusing on Your Sleep During COVID-19 is Important with Alanna McGinn: Watch the video here. 

Understanding the COVID-19 Stimulus package with Adrian Drew: Watch the video here. 

Parenting Through the Storm with Ann Douglas: Watch the video here

Managing Anxiety: Watch the video here

Having a Baby during COVID-19 - What to expect: Watch the video here

Parent S.O.S

You’ve probably either settled into some kind of routine or decided to abandon all normalcy.  There is a third option which lands somewhere in between. Either way, we’re pretty sure finding ways to relax, unwind, or regain some semblance of me-time is a top need. This week, we searched for ways to help you do just that. 

• If you maybe it feels like you’re not doing enough, we’re just gonna slide this NY Times article ‘Stop Trying to be Productive’ across the proverbial table. Worth the read. 

• Frazzled? Silly question? Same. Turn this aptly-named ‘Balm for Corona Anxiety” Spotify playlist up in your earbuds for instant relaxation. 

• Meditation is a skill you can learn, and having help makes it much easier to avoid thinking about your grocery list instead. UCLA Health has a series of free mindfulness meditation exercises you can do on your own. Find links here, or download the UCLA Mindfulness App on itunes or Google Play. 

• This is technically for the kids, but also totally for you. Audible has made all children’s books free to stream as long as schools are closed. Enjoy them together or let them enjoy while you enjoy something….else.

This One’s For the Kids 

• The beloved folks at Dictionary.com have created a free program offering daily ELA Learning activities for Preschoolers and Kindergarteners. Lots of other goodies on the site as well. Enjoy! 

• We gave you the wrong link last week , so let’s try this again! - Math, but make it fun! Cool Math Games disguises math learning for every age and stage with truly fun video games! 

• Lunch Lady’s Jarrett J. Krosoczka hosts ‘Draw Everyday with JJK’, a basic illustration lesson every weekday at 2pm EST on YouTube. These are a bit more nitty gritty, as JJK, the kid who loved to draw and grew up to be an artist, shares practical tips on penciling, inking, and drawing faces. Bonus - JJK is the author and illustrator of the Star Wars Jedi Academy series, so get ready to perfect your Yoda. Find the full playlist of video lessons here. 

• For children dependent on specialized routines, the complete change in our daily schedules is especially difficult to navigate. Autism Speaks! Canada has put together resources to help those caring for a child or adult with autism during this disruptive time. 

Just for Fun 

I think we’re finally coming to terms. Across the country, we’re all trying to do our part because we get it - we can’t do this alone. We’re in it together for the next while, and we’re learning fast. 

This upcoming week, you’re probably preparing to fully take on the teacher role for your own kids. Even if you’re a teacher by day, this is different. Remember, this is simply the next step in your journey to learning how strong and adaptable you and your family are. Even so, go easy on yourself. We’re all being asked to do a lot, at the same time, very suddenly. Practice speaking to yourself as positively as you would if a friend reached out for reassurance. Go easy on others too, some are having a harder time adjusting. You can help by sharing your own tips for making this work as best you can. 

On our end, we’ll continue to pull out the stops, calling on experts and pooling resources to assemble a dream team of support. Check out our listing below of virtual events happening this week and new resources.   Last week we held a webinar on managing anxiety. You can see the video here 

This is the village, and together, we’ll make it through. 

Sincerely,

Claire

Virtual events

Why Focusing on Your Sleep During COVID-19 is Important, Monday, August 30th at 1pm

Sleep is such a critical element when it comes to good overall health. Unfortunately, disrupted sleep, lack of sleep and sleep disorders can put our safety at risk, affect our mental health, and can weaken our immune system at every age. Any doctor or professional will tell you the best way to stay healthy during this time is by getting the right amount of sleep and eating well. Alanna McGinn will discuss 5 ways to help your family sleep well during the COVID-19 Pandemic and answer your sleep questions. Register here https://www.lifewithababy.com/event-3802689  

Understanding the COVID-19 Stimulus package Tuesday, March 31 at 1PM EDT

Besides concerns about health and safety, COVID-19 has left us with questions about the economy, our personal finances, and what our government has in place to help. Join Adrian Drew, Senior Consultant, Investors Group Financial Services Inc., as he walks us through the COVID-19 Stimulus Package, including tax benefits and financial support for individuals and businesses. Register here. 

This week’s Webinar with Health Nexus: Being Pregnant and Having a Baby during the COVID-19 Pandemic - Wednesday, April 1 at 1PM EDT
A midwife and lactation consultant will discuss current information and tips on how to navigate pregnancy, birth, newborn care and breastfeeding during this time. Register here. 

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Infant Massage Workshop, Thursday, April 2nd at 1pm
Did you know Infant Massage helps to increase communication and bonding between caregiver and baby? It also helps to promote regular sleeping patterns and to relieve colic and gas. Join us as we walk you through Infant Massage techniques, learning your babies cues and having a great time relaxing together.  Register here 

Coffee & Chat Friday, April 3rd at 3:30am PM
Join us along with Emily Pollak and other parents for an online chat. Think of it as a coffee date, but from the comfort of your own home, or comfortable space. Grab a cup of tea or coffee, and log in to the video chat with other parents in a casual atmosphere. Register here. 

HOPE: A Group For mothers experiencing a Postpartum Mood or Anxiety Disorder:

Online PMAD Support Group -  Facilitated by a social worker and LWAB mom Friday, April 3 11-11:45 AM EDT 

This group will give you the opportunity to connect with other women and get support and education regarding postpartum mood, strategies for coping, resources and referrals. 

Register here

Mommy & Me Fitness Online - ONGOING

It doesn't matter if you are 6 weeks, 6 months or 6 years postpartum - this workout is for you! Register here. 

Last week:
Managing Anxiety Webinar with Health Nexus  Watch the video HERE
We’ve teamed up with Best Start by Health Nexus to provide you with some resources, and information on managing anxiety while social distancing.  We’ll also have a session specifically for dads by Brian Russell from Dads Today on helping new moms at home as they navigate this period after giving birth.

Parent S.O.S

Finally we have a proper school curriculum! Of course, there are still a few leftover hours in the day no curriculum can cover. Here are this week’s tools and resources to help keep the kids off of your video conference call:

• Our friends at Best Start create a number of resources to help manage emotional and mental health and in particular for expectant and new mothers. If you are expecting or a new parent, the Managing Depression: Self Help Skills Workbook is a great resource to help navigate this confusing and uncertain time. 

• If your feelings of stress or anxiousness is becoming too much to manage, Bounce Back may be able to help. They provide virtual Cognitive Behavioural Therapy sessions, workshops and tools for youth 15-18 and adults 19+. 

• Is it just us or are the kids eating All. The. Time? No time like the present to get them learning how to fix their own meals and snacks. Tasty has you covered with these 52 (!) kid-friendly options. These are also great with zero kid involvement (we won’t tell). 

• You’ve probably gotten your share of work from home tips, from the sensible to the silly. Charity Village has been virtual since its start in 1995. Save to say they really know how to make work-from-home, well, work. Check out these best practice tips. 

This One’s For the Kids 

• The YMCA of Greater Toronto has put together a daily schedule of fun activities for the whole family! Visit their Facebook Page to catch the daily Live broadcast 

• Math, but make it fun! Cool Math Games disguises math learning for every age and stage with truly fun video games! 

• Beloved author and animator Mo Willems is hosting a daily doodle class! Follow his Instagram page for info and find the daily lunchtime lessons here. 

• Finally, a podcast for kids, by kids answering the top question of all time - “Why”? Look for “But Why: A Podcast For Curious Kids” on your platform of choice. The podcast and the accompanying site are full of great info and should hold them for at least long enough for you to make another sandwich. 

Just for Fun 

Connect With Us!

Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

How many months in a week? 

Top question of the year - or is it just me?! We are officially all with the new normal. This week, we had the pleasure of having author and speaker Ann Douglas lead a conversation on Facebook about parenting through difficult times. In her book Parenting Through the Storm, she outlines how her family made it through a tough period and made it out to the other side. She includes terrific tips on how to do so in your own life, and in an easy-to-understand way. If ever this was relevant, it’s now. Head over to our Facebook page to watch the video. 

Let me say this, you’re doing a fantastic job. You’ve been thrown a whammy and kept moving, and for that, you ought to be proud. We’ve seen a growing swell of kindness and community that makes even the most stoic tear up. What a beautiful lesson for our children to learn in real-time. I appreciate this chance to spend higher-quality time with my kids and watch them discover new things about themselves, including how resilient they are in the process. 

Let this be our common theme this week - be kind to yourself and to each other. 

We know the importance of the village and while we cannot be with each other in person, yet. We have some great upcoming events and ways for us to connect online. 

Coffee Chat & Selfcare Wednesday, March 25th at 10:30am
Join us along with Emily Pollak and other parents for an online chat. Think of it as a coffee date, but from the comfort of your own home, or comfortable space. 

Grab a cup of tea or coffee, and log in to the video chat with other parents in a casual atmosphere.  Register at https://www.lifewithababy.com/event-3793820



Managing Anxiety Webinar with Health Nexus
We’ve teamed up with Best Start by Health Nexus to provide you with some resources, and information on managing anxiety while social distancing.  We’ll also have a session specifically for dads by Brian Russell from Dad Central Ontario on helping new moms at home as they navigate this period after giving birth. Tomorrow  Mar 25, at 1:00 PM to 1:45PM EST.  We will record this webinar and share for those who cannot make it live.   Register here https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2897729215925164045

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Online PMAD Support Group HOPE: A Group For mothers experiencing a Postpartum Mood or Anxiety Disorder  : Online Support Group Confidential group - register and then details on how to participate will be emailed out for privacy of everyone https://www.lifewithababy.com/event-3799569

Understanding the COVID-19 Stimulus package

Besides concerns about health and safety, COVID-19 has left us with questions about the economy, our personal finances, and what our government has in place to help. Join Adrian Drew, Senior Consultant, Investors Group Financial Services Inc., as he walks us through the COVID-19 Stimulus Package, including tax benefits and financial support for individuals and businesses. Register here https://www.lifewithababy.com/event-3799581

Parent S.O.S

A week in, you’re probably slowly getting better at knowing what you and your family need to manage every day. Give yourself a pat on the back because that’s no easy feat. Be kind and patient with yourself, your partner, your parents, your kids. You’ve got this. Check out this week’s tips you can put into practice today: 

• Our founder, Claire Zlobin hopped on Drop of Golden Sun to talk about why Your Family Needs a Mental Health First Aid Plan First 

• It’s a confusing time with daily and sometimes hourly updates from local and federal government. Get the facts and apply for assistance (when available) from the Government of Canada. 

• One of our beloved Community Managers, Jill Franks, founder Wholesome Habits Health and Fitness Coaching is hosting live at-home HIIT workouts on Facebook!  Bonus - you can do these with the kids buzzing around! 

• This Globe and Mail article lists some great ideas for what to do with the kids by age group

This One’s For the Kids 

Avoid the “I’m bored” mantra and help kids work through their own feelings with these great resources:

• Right now it’s tough for kids to navigate their feelings too. The #FromFeartoHope Workbook is a wonderful guide about how to help them work through the feelings a crisis can bring - and it’s free to download. 

• ...and check out this resource from Kids Help Phone for help with pre/teens and mental health resources

• The Toronto Songwriting School has generously created a listing of musicians and schools offering free online sing-alongs, livestream concerts, and impromptu performances to keep the joy of music flowing. Check back often! 

• Check this GREAT video for kids about social distancing and hand-washing from TVO Kids

• Stuck for arts and crafts ideas? Check out this free resource for easy step-by-step videos

Just for Fun for all of us working from home while also homeschooling our kids and pretending this is all A-OK! 

With SO much love from all of us at LWAB. This too shall pass. With lots of love from our families to yours. 

Connect With Us!

Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

We are officially in strange times. While we’re now required to be closer than ever to ourselves and our families, we are also more physically isolated than ever from each other. But that doesn’t mean we’re in this alone.

We‘ve got our village, and we’re here to make sure we all make it through this as best we can. So every week, we’ll share this special newsletter full of tips, information, resources and fun. Stay tuned on our Facebook pages and Managing the Motherload group to stay connected to each other. Let’s make sure the kids (and everyone else) are all right. We’re in it together! 

Sincerely, 

Claire

Parent S.O.S

To say this is a stressful or anxiety-inducing time is an understatement. The good thing is there are great resources to help manage these genuine feelings. Check out the below for tips you can put into practice today: 

• Managing Anxiety: A Guide

• Trusted info for COVID-19 Prevention and Risks Management from The Government of Canada

• You can’t go to the gym or get your steps in at the mall, so instead here’s a list of free apps to sneak in some exercise while you’re at home social-distancing

This One’s For the Kids 

March Break, Summer break and even family vacation never required this level of sustained togetherness! We are in unusual times. Extraordinary times call for exceptional measures. Check out these free resources to keep the kids busy (and out of your hair - for a bit anyway). 

• Life With A Baby Simcoe is doing a LEGO challenge! Follow along on their Instagram page for daily activities

• 20 days of fun curriculum from Scholastic Learn From Home 

• A Collection of Homeschooling Resources from Mommy Gearest

• TVO Kids has a great collection of age-appropriate shows and videos online and here’s a kid friendly video about viruses and hygiene

Just for Fun 

Connect With Us!

Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn