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Some of these items simply make nursing easier and more comfortable; others are essential items to turn to if you encounter any breastfeeding challenges. As you’re probably learning, there are so many breastfeeding products out there, and it can be overwhelming to consider which you actually need and which may just sit in a closet collecting dust. Don’t worry—we’re here to help! Here is a list of the most useful items nursing moms might consider purchasing, why they’re helpful, how they are used, and in what situations you may find yourself needing them....

Even though “mommy brain” may sound like a fictional condition or a convenient excuse for forgetfulness, it is actually a true condition backed up by science. In fact, research shows that a mother’s brain is impacted by having children, sometimes in long-lasting ways. For instance, a study by the University of British Columbia demonstrated that motherhood has a permanent impact on your cognitive function. Meanwhile, a study in Nature Neuroscience found that even two years after pregnancy, women had gray matter brain changes....

During the second trimester of pregnancy, women take a routine diabetes test that helps determine if they have gestational diabetes. It is important to know what you should eat before a pregnancy glucose test because food does affect blood glucose levels. What is a Pregnancy Glucose Tolerance Test? A glucose test is a test that measures how well a person’s body can absorb glucose when he/she is given a specific amount of sugar....

Acknowledge Your Feelings It’s normal to have regrets. In fact, every person looks back on their life and regrets something. The key is deciding how you are going to deal with those regrets. Even though you may not be able to completely change your situation, how you respond to your circumstances is what’s really important. For some people though, this is easier said than done. So, if you find that your regrets are pulling you down, or if you are struggling with depression or loneliness, reach out for help....

Sometimes the many changes and pressures you are facing threaten to overwhelm you. So, it isn’t surprising that from time to time you or one of your friends feels “down” or discouraged. But what about those times when a friend’s activity and outlook on life stay “down” for weeks and begin to affect your relationship? If you know someone like this, your friend might be suffering from depression. As a friend, you can help....

According to the US Department of Education, most teachers agree that two to two-and-a-half hours of homework is appropriate for kids in seventh grade and above. This can bring on a book-induced headache in kids who have strong reading and writing skills, let alone those who are struggling. But just like Vinny can learn more efficient ways to read, he can learn more fruitful ways to study. The Root of Study Skills To succeed in these years of constant and increasing academic demands, Vinny needs to think about how he’s thinking....

Anyone can benefit from taking an auto repair course, but whether or not your teen has done so, store the following basic emergency equipment in the car. Even if she doesn’t know how to use everything, having the items on hand may make it easier for a repair expert to get her going: An adjustable wrench for tightening and loosening bolts A jack and spare tire A light gauge wire to tie up muffler or tailpipe Three triangular reflectors in case of a breakdown A first-aid kit A flashlight (with fresh batteries A piece of white cloth...

While no two babies are alike, the following typical feeding routines should let you know what to expect, help you recognize the ranges of normal, and give you guidance about when to seek help. Breastfed newborns nurse frequently, at least eight times each twenty-four hours. In fact, ten or twelve feedings a day are not uncommon during the early weeks. On average, your baby will awaken to breastfeed every two to three hours....

Could VapoRub Increase Mucus Production? Dr. Bruce Rubin is the co-author of a study published in the journal Chest that says some babies or toddlers may experience respiratory distress from using VapoRub under the nose. In a press release, he notes, “The ingredients in Vicks can be irritants, causing the body to produce more mucus to protect the airway. And since infants and young children have airways that are much narrower than those of an adult, any increase in mucus or swelling can narrow them severely....

Additionally, there are stigmas surrounding elective C-sections, along with a slightly higher rate of potential complications, as there are risks to any surgery. We spoke to reproductive experts about elective C-sections so you can be informed about the risks (and rewards) involved in this newly prevalent birthing method. What Is a C-Section? A C-section is a birthing method where a baby is delivered via surgical cuts through the abdomen and the uterus....

Are you preparing to tell your boss, and Human Resources, about this exciting (and yes, also scary) news? First of all, congratulations! Next up on your agenda: handling the transition from work employee to mama on maternity leave. I spoke with career experts about the best ways to tell work you’re pregnant, and how to mentally, physically and professionally prepare for your maternity leave. Check out their helpful advice below, and good luck!...

Even though she loves macaroni and cheese, your nine-year-old daughter is just pushing it around her plate. When you ask her if she’s feeling okay, she suddenly bursts into tears. “It’s not fair that Alison is moving,” she sobs. “I’ll never have another best friend.” Finding the Words The end of the school year can bring big changes for children and families, and some of those changes involve loss. Friends might be moving away or changing schools....

When you hear those sounds coming from your child’s room, however, it’s a different story. And while occasional snoring isn’t typically cause for concern in little ones, heavy or labored breathing on a regular basis may be a sign of something else going on—namely pediatric obstructive sleep apnea. Here, learn when you may need to worry about your child’s snoring, plus everything you need to know about pediatric obstructive sleep apnea....

Does my ex-spouse have the money or income for me to collect? If the answer is “no,” you might be wasting your time and money trying to collect what he owes you. Are there any other assets that the judge will allow me to collect? A car, home, boat? If so, how much will it cost me to collect against those assets, and how long will it take? Again, it simply might not be worth it....

Where can I take my 18-month-old to see if he’s gifted? It certainly looks like you have a gifted toddler on your hands. Gifted children do usually hit developmental milestones earlier than other children. It’s not unusual for parents of young gifted children to want to know if their child is gifted and what to do about it. Parents with children who reach developmental milestones early often want to know where to get their child tested for giftedness....

As tradition dictated, the bride’s family would cover the costs for goods and services listed as follows: Engagement party Cost of the ceremony, including location, music, rentals, and all other expenses Entire cost of the reception, including location, food, beverage, entertainment, rental items, decorations, and wedding cake Bride’s wedding dress, veil, and accessories Wedding gift for the couple Bridesmaids’ bouquets Bridesmaids’ luncheon Photography Flowers The groom’s family, on the other hand, was traditionally responsible these expenses:...

Here are some thoughts, ideas, and suggestions for reducing your child’s stress about homework (and also lessening your own): Stay aware of your child’s progress in school. That means visiting the school, asking for periodic conferences with the teacher (even when things seem right), and generally being involved with your child’s education. Did you know that a parent’s attendance at open house night is the number-one signifier of whether or not a child will succeed at school?...

More: Dream Symbols and Names There are many possible meanings related to pregnancy dreams, and these vivid dreams often stay with people, especially if pregnancy is not something that is top of mind in real life. Research on sleep and dream shows that some dreams are simply completely random brain activity. Other research suggests that dreams are a way to peek into your subconscious thoughts through symbolism. A dream analyst or dream expert can be of help, but since dreaming of pregnancy scenarios is actually a common dream experience, there are several reliable interpretations that you can count on to begin to understand these vivid dreams....

No! You just had a baby. And just because your favorite mom blogger is filling her postpartum Instagram feed with photos of clean hardwood floors, pristine baby blankets, and sun-soaked newborn snuggles, that doesn’t mean you’re falling short, lagging behind, or slacking off. The postpartum period is rough: you’re physically and emotionally drained, adjusting to a new way of life, constantly covered in baby spit up and breast milk, and—of course—physically recovering from giving birth....

Because Hanukkah falls so close to Christmas, it’s tempting for Jewish parents to try to turn it into a similar holiday experience. But this can send a confusing message to kids. From Frosty to Santa, the secular symbols of Christmas – and the magical world they suggest – are so enticing for children that no matter how hard parents try to twist Hanukkah into a “Jewish Christmas,” it comes off as a pale and not very satisfying substitute....