Your resource guide for all things baby in Birmingham!
FALL 2025
A FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. PUBLICATION
Vitamins that Matter Most Navigating the Postpartum Journey
Holiday travel with Baby Bump
FALL 2025 | PINK&BLUE
1
Original “Mommy Needs A Little Break”
YMCA of Greater Birmingham Child Watch while you work out Swim all year Group Exercise Classes Tons of equipment and fitness spaces 7 Membership Branches Events & classes for the whole family 24-Hour Access coming to select branches in 2026!
Drop the kids, lift your spirits, and move your body. The Y has your back.
YMCABHAM.ORG/JOIN
2
PINK&BLUE | FALL 2025
FALL 2025 | PINK&BLUE
3
Photos by Freepik.com
WHAT’S ON THE WEB The Truth About Baby Eczema (and How to Soothe It)
Dry, itchy skin can be tough on babies—and stressful for parents. Learn what causes baby eczema, how to recognize flare-ups, and gentle, effective ways to bring your little one relief. Surviving the First 6 Weeks: Real Tips from Real Parents Those first weeks with a newborn are joyful—but exhausting. We’ve gathered tried-and-true advice from parents who’ve been there to help you navigate sleepless nights, feeding challenges, and finding your rhythm. Holiday Traditions to Start with Your Baby’s First Christmas Your baby’s first holiday season is the perfect time to create memories that last a lifetime. From keepsake crafts to cozy family rituals, discover sweet traditions to make this Christmas extra special. Twinkling lights and festive décor bring holiday cheer, but they can also pose risks for curious little hands. Get practical tips to baby-proof your home while keeping the magic of the season alive. Baby-Proofing for the Holidays: Keeping Decorations & Lights Safe
4
PINK&BLUE | FALL 2025
WE ARE ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! NEWBORN TO 18 YEARS OLD
Health Starts Early. Health Starts Here.
Shameza Boyd, MD, FAAP
Evening Appointments Available Free Parking • On-site Lab & X-Rays St. Vincent’s East Professional Bldg. 52 Medical Park Drive East, Suite 201 Birmingham, Alabama 35235
www.smallstepspediatrics.com
GREYSTONE - PATCHWORK FARMS TRACE CROSSINGS - VALLEYDALE Ardent Preschool is dedicated to providing an engaging, nurturing, and enriching environment where children can grow, learn and thrive. We combine a proven early learning curriculum with a focus on building character and confidence. Your baby’s future starts here!
FALL 2025 | PINK&BLUE
5
CONTENTS
INSIDE VOLUME 2
IN EVERY ISSUE 4 WHAT’S ON THE WEB 8 GIVEAWAYS 10 MOM TO MOM-TO-BE 12 LITTLE BITS 14 BABY LOVE 20 RESOURCE DIRECTORY 24 BELLY LAUGHS 26 BABY FACES
16
Safe from the Start From newborns to toddlers, baby safety evolves every stage of the way. This guide offers practical tips for preparing your home, choosing safe sleep and gear, babyproofing, and staying one step ahead as your little one grows. Pregnancy Travel Tips: What to Pack, When to Go & How to Stay Comfy Holiday travel while pregnant can be safe and enjoyable… with the right preparation. Check out these expert tips on the best timing, packing essentials, staying com- fortable on flights and road trips, and even advice for postpartum travel with your newborn.
18
6
PINK&BLUE | FALL 2025
FALL 2025 | PINK&BLUE
7
GIVEAWAYS
The Feltman Brothers Girls Heirloom Garden Knit Set is a timeless, heirloom-style 2-piece knit set for girls in Feltman’s darling signature color, ecru. The 100-percent cotton design includes a dainty lattice design on the front and back and is decorated with gorgeous embroidered mauve flowers and scalloped edges. (Size 3T) feltmanbrothers.com
A FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. PUBLICATION AMY L. FOREMAN
PUBLISHER EDITORIAL AMANDA MILLER MANAGING EDITOR AMANDA CIANI MADELINE PISTORIUS JULIANNA STEEN ASSOCIATE EDITORS ART/PRODUCTION TOM GONZALES MADELINE MILETELLO ASAREL SMITH MCKINNA SPROLES GRAPHIC DESIGNERS ADVERTISING/MARKETING STEVEN BEACHUM SALES MANAGER CRYSTAL BARRETT KAYLA FRICKS GOMEZ RYN WHITESIDE SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES CAMILLE CAVIN JENNIFER HOFFMANN MARTINE MELANCON KAYLEIGH MONTANA JILLIAN WRAY ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES ELISABETH BARRETT MARKETING COORDINATOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Extremely durable and made for big messes, Keababies Organic Bandana Bibs cover more than half of your baby or toddler’s chest and shoulders, allowing their clothes to stay dry and clean after messy feedings or heavy drool- ing. Plus, they’re made with ultra-soft organic cotton, backed with absorbent fleece. Machine washable. Ages 0–36 months. keababies.com
Multi-functional and perfect for a day out with baby in tow, KeaBabies Original Diaper Backpack is thoughtfully designed with multiple pockets and compartments to help you organize all your baby’s necessities! Plus, it comes with a clip-on strap holder & a waterproof diaper mat. This unisex design is available in multiple colors. keababies.com
TERI HODGES DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS ROXANE VOORHIES COMMUNITY OUTREACH ADMINISTRATION BRANDON FOREMAN CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER LAURIE ACOSTA DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS GAYLE GAUTHREAUX DIRECTOR OF ACCOUNTING ALEXIS ALEXANDER SENIOR EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATOR BREE WRAY WEBSITE & DIGITAL CONTENT STRATEGIST SARAH MILLER CLIENT SUCCESS MANAGER CONTACT EDITORIAL@FRG.INC CORPORATE OFFICE (225) 292-0032 3636 S. SHERWOOD BLVD, SUITE 540 BATON ROUGE, LA 70816
Capture the magic of your baby’s first year with the KeaBabies Ornament Keepsake Kit , which includes 2 packs of soft air-dry clay, o-rings, rolling pin, working mats, alphabet stamps, paint with brush, satin ribbons, and modern display easels—along with an easy step-by-step in- struction guide. Perfect for holiday memories or heartfelt gifts! keababies.com
The Tusbaby™ Hip Carrier is designed with a firm, structured seat and buckles so you can safely carry your newborn to 36 month-year-old in any of the four carry positions. Made with 100 percent poly- ester, it is stain resistant and easy to wipe down. Plus, you can store a bottle and more in the five storage pockets. tushbaby.com
/birminghamparent magazine
/birminghamparent magazine
/birminghamparent- magazine
/birminghamparent magazine
PINK & BLUE is published biannually by FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. and distributed free of charge. Subscriptions accepted. Only authorized distributors may deliver and pick up the magazine. Paid advertisements ap- pear in FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. publications, including print and other digital formats. FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. does not endorse or evaluate the product, service, or company, nor any claims made by the advertisement. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all materials contributed. We cannot be held responsible for the return of any solicited materials PINK & BLUE Copyright 2025. All rights reserved. Repro- duction in whole or in part without written permission prohibited.
8
PINK&BLUE | FALL 2025
FALL 2025 | PINK&BLUE
9
MOM TO MOM - TO- BE
Dear Mama, Whether you’re expecting or already snuggling your little one, I want to talk about something that doesn’t get nearly enough attention: the fourth trimester. Those first three months after birth? They’re no joke. You’ve just done the hardest job imaginable—growing and delivering a human—and now your body, hormones, and emotions have all jumped on a rollercoaster. It’s a lot. But here’s the good news: You’re not alone, and there are ways to make this season gentler on yourself. First things first: Your body has basically run a nine-month marathon. You’ve handed out vitamins, minerals, and energy like party favors, so now it’s time to replenish. Keep taking your postnatal vitamins, eat food that actually fuels you (yes, cold pizza counts in a pinch), and for the love of coffee, hydrate. Coffee may keep you alive, but sadly, it doesn’t count as water. And then there’s rest. Ah yes, the famous advice: “Sleep when the baby sleeps.” Sweet idea, except sometimes the baby naps for 14 minutes and you’re deciding whether to nap, shower, or scroll in peace. Here’s the truth: Rest in any form matters. Ten minutes on the couch, a quick nap, or just sitting with a hot cup of tea—it all helps. Take what you can get, guilt-free. Once your doctor clears you, try gentle movement. Not marathon training (unless you count sprinting for the pacifier). A slow walk around the block or stretching while your baby watches the ceiling fan like it’s Broadway—that’s a win.
And please—let people help you. Motherhood was never meant to be a solo act. Lean on your partner, your mom, your neighbor, or that friend who insists on dropping off casseroles. Say yes to the casseroles. Support isn’t a luxury—it’s survival. Most importantly, listen to your body. Every recovery looks different, and there’s no medal for pretending you’re fine when you’re not. If something feels off—physically or emotionally—speak up. You know your- self best, and you deserve care too.
I know this season can feel overwhelming. You’re healing, adjusting, and figuring out how to keep a tiny human alive while remembering that you’re still human too. Be kind to yourself. Celebrate the little victories (like brushing your hair before noon). And soak up those newborn snuggles—because before you know it, that baby will be running around in mismatched socks or, in my case, filling out college applications. You’ve got this, Mama. One day—and one cup of coffee— at a time. Love always, Another Mama Who Gets It
Amy L. Foreman Publisher
10
PINK&BLUE | FALL 2025
FALL 2025 | PINK&BLUE
11
LITTLE BITS
“ Children are not a distraction from more important work, they are the most important work.” –C.S. Lewis
Photo by Nightlight Christian Adoptions on Facebook
Oldest Baby Ever A new record has been broken—the oldest baby ever born! A baby boy, named Thaddius Daniel Pierce, was born to Lindsey and Tim Pierce in Ohio this summer from a 30-year-old frozen embryo. His embryo was adopted and implanted—making it the longest an embryo has ever been frozen and then successfully used in a live birth. bbc.com
Photo by Guinness World Records
A Baby Setting Records Nash Keen just set the newest Guin- ness World Record for “Most Premature Baby.” He was born 133 days premature —at only 21 weeks! He weighted just 10 ounces, but his chances didn’t look good when he was born. However, after 189 days in the hospital, Nash was finally released and able to go home earlier this year. uihc.org
Photo by Freepik.com
How Your Infant Can Make Money by Being Born
As of 2024, the US birth rate is at an all-time historic low, with the average total fertility rate at 1.6 children per woman—a number that is significantly below the 2.1 replacement. Accord- ing to the CDC, this rate declined by 3 percent from 2022, primarily by women ages 20–39. White House advisors are trying to get creative with how to boost the birth rate. One such sug- gested incentive was a $5,000 “baby bonus” to every American mom who gives birth. Though nothing has come of that idea, the White House did create “Trump Accounts” in June of 2025 for newborns born January 1, 2025 or later. The accounts “will be seeded with a one-time gov- ernment contribution of $1,000. The accounts will track a stock index and allow for additional private contributions of up to $5,000 per year” (The White House). So don’t forget to set your little one’s account up today! whitehouse.gov
No More Sales Tax on Baby and Menstrual Products in Alabama As of September 1, House Bill 152 has gone into effect; the new legislation will remove the state sales and use tax on baby and menstrual hygiene products for a three year period, which will save millions of women thousands of dollars each year across the state. The legislation was unanimously passed by the Alabama Senate in March. Wondering what counts? Think diapers, baby wipes, baby formula, breast pumps and accessories, maternity clothing, and menstrual products like tampons, pads, and menstrual cups. Another major tax change as of September 1 is a state’s sales tax drop on groceries drops from 3 percent to 2 percent. Unless re- newed, this new measure will expire on August 31, 2028, and we’ll go back to paying taxes for our diapers and tampons. So enjoy it while it lasts… feel free to stock up! legiscan.com
12
PINK&BLUE | FALL 2025
Vitamin D: Boosting Baby’s Brain A study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggests that higher mater- nal vitamin D levels during early pregnancy may boost cognitive performance in children. Researchers found that adequate vitamin D in- take could support fetal brain development, potentially en- hancing memory, attention, and learning skills. While more research is needed to confirm long-term effects, the findings highlight the importance of monitoring and maintaining sufficient vitamin D during pregnancy for both maternal health and infant development. ajcn. nutrition.org
Photo by Freepik.com
Nursing Mothers Now Exempt from Jury Duty If you’re a nursing mother afraid of being called on for jury duty, you’re in luck: Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has officially signed “Parker’s Law,” or bill SB76, which states that “a nursing mother may be excused from service as a juror.” The new law amends a section of a law previously passed by the Alabama legislature that allows individuals to be “excused from jury duty for limited reasons, including extreme physical or finan- cial hardship, incapacity, or public necessity.” The nursing mother is required to provide the court with certification from a health care professional that she is nursing at the time of the summons, which will excuse her for two years. To read the bill for yourself, go to alison. legislature.state.al.us.
The “Smart Pacifier” UAB is collaborating with Purdue University to enhance and create the “smart pacifier,” which will feature technology that uses sound waves to help detect an infant’s lung devel- opment and if they are experiencing breathing problems. “It’s like knocking on a box to see if it’s hollow or if it’s full,” says Dr. Namasivayam Ambalavanan in an interview with WBRC. The project received a $1.2 million grant from the National Institute of Health and aim to begin testing in Birmingham in 2027. wbrc.com
FALL 2025 | PINK&BLUE
13
BABY LOVE
“ Being a mother is learning about strengths you didn’t know you had, and dealing with fears you didn’t know existed.” — Linda Wooten
Medela Hand Pump This manual breast pump is easy and convenient, perfect for the mom who’s always on-the-go! Plus, it can fit in a handbag and doesn’t require batteries or cables, so you can pump anytime and anywhere. $28.72, amazon.com
Hatch Rest Baby Sound Machine Put your babies to sleep with this soothing sound machine. It can function as a bedside table lamp, a nightlight, and a time-to-rise “alarm,” the program’s color and sound letting your early riser know when it’s time to get up. You can control the settings via app and adjust its use as your baby ages. You can also purchase the 2nd generation model if you’re looking to save money. 219.99, amazon.com
Hatch Grow Smart Changing Pad and Scale Track your baby’s weight gain and how much milk baby is drinking each time you change their diaper, which you can easily track in the app. Plus, the material is easy to clean, making diaper changing less of a hassle. $179.99, amazon.com
14
PINK&BLUE | FALL 2025
Baby Delight Beside Me Dreamer Bassinet You will sleep so much better when your baby is in this bedside sleeper, which is firmly secured to your adult bed with anchors. The mattress is breathable, so even if your infant lies face-first, they can still breathe. You can easily unzip the panel closest to the bed to nurse, comfort, or check on the baby during the night. It can adjust to six different height positions. $176.99, amazon.com
Newton Baby Crib Mattress and Toddler Bed The mattress you sleep on mat- ters, and that’s never more true than for infants and toddlers. This ultra-breathable crib mattress is proven to reduce suffocation risk, is 100 percent washable, and is made of soft non-toxic bedding. $299.99, amazon.com
The Ollie Swaddle Swaddle your newborn in this pediatrician-approved sleeper. The open-bottom design en- ables quick, easy diaper chang- es and it’s perfect for arms in or out. Additionally, it’s made from lightweight fabric that helps regulate temperature and prevent overheating, help- ing baby fall asleep fast and stay asleep through the night. $69.79, amazon.com
FALL 2025 | PINK&BLUE
15
Safe from the Start: A Stage-by-Stage Baby Safety Guide B abies grow fast—and so do their needs for safe- ty. What’s perfectly fine By Rebecca Hastings
window guards and outlet covers before the baby is mobile. Time flies and you’ll be there before you know it! Practice safe sleep prep: Choose a crib that meets current safety standards. No bumpers, blankets, or stuffed animals—just a fitted sheet. Review product recalls: Register baby items and check the Consumer Product Safety Commission website for up-to-date recalls. Newborn Stage (0–3 Months): All About Sleep & Snuggles Newborns sleep a lot, and sleep safety is critical in these early months. Your baby isn’t mobile yet, but that doesn’t mean your job is easy. Small choices like how you dress them or where they sleep can make a big difference in keeping your baby safe and cozy. Safe sleep matters: Always place
baby on their back to sleep, on a firm, flat surface like a crib or bassinet. Car seat check: Make sure your infant car seat is installed correctly. Many fire stations, police stations, and hospitals offer free checks. Avoid overheating: Dress baby in one more layer than you would wear and skip thick blankets. Infant Stage (3–6 Months): Reaching & Rolling Your little one is starting to move— maybe rolling, grabbing, or sitting with support. That curiosity leads to new risks. It’s time to reassess your surroundings and stay a step ahead of their growing mobility and curi- osity. Keep small objects out of reach: Anything that fits through a toilet paper roll is a choking hazard. Update floor safety: Babies will soon
one month can become a hazard the next. Now is the perfect time to double-check your home and routines. Whether you’re expecting your first baby or chasing a speedy crawler, this stage-by-stage guide will help you feel more prepared (and a little less overwhelmed). Before Baby Arrives: Set the Stage The best time to think about baby safety is before your little one arrives. It’s much easier to anchor a dresser or install outlet covers when you’re not juggling feedings and diaper changes. Laying the ground- work now gives you peace of mind and helps you focus on bonding once baby comes home. Install safety gear early: Anchor furniture, secure TVs, and install
16
PINK&BLUE | FALL 2025
Gate it off: Use baby gates at the top and bottom of stairs and block off rooms you don’t want baby entering solo. Toddling & Beyond (12 Months+) With a little more independence comes new safety concerns. Toddlers are climbers, explorers, and fast movers, so your job becomes antici- pating risks and teaching basic safety skills along the way. Strap it down: Secure dressers, bookshelves, and other climbable furniture to the wall to prevent tip- overs. Watch for water: Drowning can happen in just inches of water —never leave a toddler unattended near tubs, toilets, or buckets. Also, make sure pools are fenced in and secured. Empty kiddie pools and water play areas. Keep exploring safe: Teach basic
start rolling! Keep floors clean and clear of hazards like coins, batteries, or small toys from older siblings. Check baby gear weight limits: Swings, bouncers, and carriers all have age and weight guidelines— don’t exceed them. Mobile Baby (6–12 Months): Crawlers & Cruisers Once your baby is on the move, ev- erything becomes fair game. Crawl- ers love cords, cabinets, and any- thing they can pull up on. Creating safe zones and being consistent with boundaries helps your baby explore Get on your hands and knees to spot sharp corners, cords, and breakables within reach. Lock it up: Use cabinet locks for anything with cleaning products, medicine, or sharp tools. while keeping risks low. Babyproof at their level:
safety like staying away from ovens, not touching outlets, and gentle pet interaction. Bonus Safety Tips for All Ages No matter how old your baby is, a few safety strategies apply across the board. Having a plan, staying calm, and trusting your instincts can help you respond to the unexpected with confidence. Know emergency numbers: Have pediatrician, poison control, and emergency contacts saved in your phone and posted somewhere visible. Take an infant CPR class: This can be life-saving knowledge—and help you feel more confident. Trust your gut: If something feels off, ask questions, call your pediatri- cian, or get a second opinion.
FALL 2025 | PINK&BLUE
17
Pregnancy Travel Tips: What to Pack, When to Go & How to Stay Comfy By Julianna Steen
T he thrill of the holiday season is real, as is the thrill of the precious new life growing in your womb—but let’s be real, the idea of traveling in said condition can be less than thrilling. Suddenly, a myriad of questions crop up: Are you allowed to fly when you’re pregnant? When’s the best time to go? How do you stay com- fortable? and so on and on the ques- tions go. Emily Sibley, a luxury travel advisor, recently had her first child, so the experiences traveling are fresh on her mind. Here are her personal and professional viewpoints on travel- ing—and you might be surprised (and encouraged) by these tips and tricks for traveling with baby-in-tow (or rather, baby-in-womb) this holiday season. Is It Safe to Travel While Pregnant? Good news! According to the Mayo Clinic, “Generally, air travel before 36 weeks of pregnancy is considered safe for people who aren’t dealing with any pregnancy problems.” In essence, as long as your pregnancy is not con- sidered “high risk,” you should be in the clear to take to the skies or hit the road. If you’re uncertain or concerned, feel free to reach out to your doctor, but know that it’s not usually required. “You don’t need permission from your doctor, but depending on the risk/how your pregnancy is going, you can totally ask your doctor,” Sibley explains. “I asked about postpartum travel.” Note that some airlines might require medical
clearance if you are a high-risk preg- nancy or if you are x number of weeks pregnant. For example, Aeromexico re- quires medical clearance after 33 weeks and American Airlines within 4 weeks of your due date, while Air Canada, Fron- tier, and United Airlines require medical clearance after 36 weeks of gestation. The Best Trimester to Travel Your overall travel experience really will be impacted by which trimester you’re in when you’re on the move. Grant- ed, you might not have planned your pregnancy around holiday travel, but it’s important to be aware of the most ideal time so you can plan ahead and enjoy it when it arrives. You might be surprised to find that the best trimester to travel is smack-dab in the middle: the second trimester (weeks 14 to 27, or months four to six). “First trimester road trips are harder because you have more nau- sea,” Sibley recalls. “You’re more tired, need breaks, and snacks. Lots of snacks. It’s survival mode.” If you are traveling in those first few months, be sure to have a travel buddy who will ensure you are regularly fed and stay hydrated. The second trimester is the best time to travel because that’s when you’re finally feeling great again. Plus, your baby bump starts to show, and it’s exciting when strangers notice and are extra kind and act excited for you. Sibley remembers how amazing it was that the universal experience of pregnancy
superseded language barriers. Once the third trimester kicks in, sleep gets more difficult. Don’t hear this as saying you shouldn’t travel—think of it more as your heads up to prepare in advance. It’s worth it to, as Sibley puts it, “splurge on a comfortable bed or comfy place to sleep at night instead of a couch or a [cheap] Airbnb.” Another tip: Get cre- ative with your neck pillow. “I traveled in the third trimester and I brought a neck pillow on every flight to put on my lower back because there’s more weight on your body,” Sibley explains. It’s also wise to wear more comfy shoes. Despite the added challenges, the third trimester can be a sweet time to travel and see family because your baby is so big and will likely be kicking up a storm, making it a special experience to share with family. Consider taking the last few months of pregnancy as your excuse to We don’t want to gloss right over the tough aspects of traveling pregnant. Travel in and of itself can be exhaust- ing—even when you’re not toting around a growing baby in your tummy. Plus, international flights can feel long and cramped, with sleep hard to come by when crammed into a small confined space. Add in a pregnant belly and com- fort can be even harder to come by. Of course, that doesn’t take into account other factors, like international cuisine. say no, stay home, and nest. What’s the Hardest Part of Traveling When Pregnant?
18
PINK&BLUE | FALL 2025
“For me, the hardest part of traveling internationally was not always under- standing what you’re eating,” Sibley says. There are lists filled with foods and drinks that are not beneficial for preg- nant women to consume, whether it be sushi, deli meat, alcohol, or certain fish and cheeses. When you don’t speak the language, it is much harder to deter- mine what you can and cannot eat. Tips for Air Travel Aisle seat for the win. Make sure you stand and walk around the plane every few hours. “Air travel can raise the risk for blood clots in the legs,” the Mayo Clinic states. “Moving your legs may help prevent this problem.” You may benefit from just standing so your body can reregulate. If you can’t get up, flex and extend your ankles. “Exit rows are great because you have more leg room if you’re flying economy,” Sibley shares. Choose strategic clothing. Avoid tight-fitting clothing, since it tends to hinder blood flow. Compression socks are also wise, because they help with
blood circulation. Bring snacks. If there’s one tip Sibley would beg you to take, it would be to always pack snacks and water onto the plane and have them in easy reach. Come prepared for comfort. Bring your own neck pillow, pack earplugs and an eyemask, and have electrolytes on hand. Time shifter. This app helps you shift to a different time zone based on your circadian rhythm. Avoid gassy foods and drinks before you fly. Gases expand in-flight, and it’s never fun to have a gassy stomach. (Examples: broccoli, beans, and carbon- ated soda.) Don’t become dehydrated! Drink fluids before boarding and while flying (here’s where the electrolytes come in). Another helpful way to stay hydrated is by getting an IV the day before. “An IV is a game changer, especially if you have earlier flights,” Sibley says. Bonus ! When traveling postpartum, you can book the bulkhead seats with most airlines (based on baby’s age and weight) and request a bassinet. If you
financially can, Sibley suggests buying a seat for your baby and bringing the car seat. “If not, they might have an extra seat and it’s worth an ask,” Sibley says. Road Trip Tips Plan to make pit stops regularly. It is essential to get out of the car and stretch every few hours. If you can, make the breaks more fun by purposely planning where you’re going to stop. Bring anti-nausea medicine or pepper- mint oil to prevent getting queasy. Research your route. Check where nearby hospitals are located both on the way and once you arrive, just in case. Share what you need. Pregnancy is overwhelming, so set boundaries, and don’t be afraid to ask for help! Your family won’t know what you need unless you tell them. “Make sure you have a space you can escape to and have your own space if you’re sick,” Sibley en- courages. Woohoo, now you’re set to hit the road (or the skies) this holiday season!
FALL 2025 | PINK&BLUE
19
Baby World FOSTER PARENT AGENCIES
Box Initiative (334) 353-3477 dhr.alabama.gov Alabama Regional Medical Services (ARMS) (205) 407-6900 alabamaarms.org Bundles of Hope Diaper Bank (205) 607-2112 bundlesdiaperbank.org Cahaba Medical Care (205) 926-2992 cahabamedicalcare.com Her Choice Birmingham herchoicebirmingham.org Kid One Transport System (205) 978-1000 kidone.org Women’s Center (205) 252-0706
ADOPTION RESOURCES AdoptUSKids (888) 200-4005 adoptuskids.org Agape for Children (205) 733-9755 agapeforchildren.org Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) American Adoptions 1 (800)-ADOPTION americanadoptions.com Embrace Alabama Kids (334) 386-5354 (800) 239-3575 umcna.org Family Adoption Services 1 (205) 612-0238 familyadoptionservices.com Lifeline Children’s Services (866) 803-2722 childrensaid.org
Alabama Baptist Children’s Home
(205) 982-1112 alabamachild.org Children’s Aid Society of Alabama (205) 251-7148 childrensaid.org Families 4 Alabama’s Kids (866) 425-5437 dhr.alabama.gov Gateway Family Services (205) 510-2600 gway.org Heart Gallery Alabama (205) 445-1293 heartgalleryalabama.com
SAFY of Alabama (205) 945-7483 safy.org
March of Dimes marchofdimes.org Positive Choices
PREGNANCY RESOURCES Alabama DHR’s Baby
(205) 967-0811 lifelinechild.org
20
PINK&BLUE | FALL 2025
(205) 934-3411 uabmedicine.org CHILD CARE RESOURCES
(205) 836-0564 pregnancybirmingham.com Pregnancy Test Center (205) 979-0302 (205) 961-2700 (205) 808-9001 alabamapregnancytestcenter.com BIRTHING HOSPITALS Baptist Health Brookwood Hospital (877) 909-4233 baptisthealthal.com Baptist Health Princeton Hospital (833) 251-9897 baptisthealthal.com Grandview Medical Center (205) 971-1000 grandviewhealth.com UAB St. Vincent’s Birmingham (205) 939-7000 uabstvincents.org UAB Women & Infants Center
cprbirmingham.org Children’s of Alabama Children’s Health Education
and Safety Center (205) 638-6339 childrensal.org
Alabama Department of Human Resources (334) 242-1425 dhr.alabama.gov Childcare Resources
The YMCA of Greater Birming- ham Certifications & Trainings Phone number varies by location ymcabham.org CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION Bradley Method 1-(800)-4-A-BIRTH bradleybirth.com International Cesarean Awareness Network (800) 686-4226 ican-online.org International Childbirth Education Association (919) 674-4183 icea.org Lamaze International (202) 367-1128 lamaze.org CHILDREN’S HOSPITALS Children’s of Alabama (205) 638-9100 childrensal.org FAMILY SERVICE CENTER
(205) 945-0018 (205) 941-6077 ccr-bhm.org Childcare.gov (202) 690-6782 childcare.gov CHILD SAFETY CLASSES American Red Cross 1 (800) 733-2767 redcross.org Ascension’s Live Virtual Infant and Child Safety healthcare.ascension.org CPR Certification Birmingham (205) 784-3223
Children’s Harbor (205) 638-6123 childrensharbor.com Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama (205) 638-7255 rmhca.org
Baptist Health Brookwood Hospital Brookwood Baptist Health’s birthing rooms bring together state-of-the-art technology and hotel-like rooms to all new moms. Staff provide moms-to-be with all the tips, tools, and techniques needed for caring for their new bundle of joy at home, and the staff in the Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit is ready if baby needs extra support. Plus, moms are able to personalize their birthing experience to align with their values.
FALL 2025 | PINK&BLUE
21
FERTILITY Alabama Center for Reproductive Medicine (205) 307-0484 alabamareproductive.com
HOTLINES Alabama Department of Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention
(205) 941-8396 aurorabhm.com Birmingham Home Midwifery (205) 966-5329 birminghamhomemidwifery.com Birthright Birmingham birthrightbirmingham.com BHM Born (205) 305-5024 bhmborn.com By Design Birth Doula Services bydesignbirthdoulaservices.com Crown of Glory Birth Services (205) 894-1191 crownofglorybirth.com Eleison Doula Services (205) 240-5848 eleisondoula.com For Birth Givers Midwifery (205) 381-8127 forbirthgivers.com Nurtured Mama (480) 322-3553 nurturedmamapostpartum.com Oasis Women’s Health (205) 291-3058 oasiswh.org NUTRITION Alabama Public Health 1 (800) 654-1385 alabamapublichealth.gov Children’s of AL Clinical
(334) 262-2951 ctf.alabama.gov Alabama Poison
Alabama Fertility (205) 874-0000 alabamafertility.com Birmingham Obstetrics & Gynecology (205) 933-8334 birminghamobgyn.com Innovative Fertility Specialists (205) 509-0700 ifsinvo.health Reproductive Health Medicine & Gynecology (770) 450-8677 rhmgyn.com UAB Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (205) 934-1030 uab.edu
Information Center 1 (800) 222-1222 childrensal.org/apic ChildHelp National Child Abuse Hotline (800) 422-4453 childhelphotline.org National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 988 988lifeline.org National Domestic Violence Hotline (800) 799-7233 (800) 787-3224 thehotline.org MIDWIFERY AND DOULA CARE Aurora Midwifery
Grandview Medical Center The decision of where to have your baby is certainly not one to take lightly. Moms-to-be want a skilled and knowledgeable team at hand for both her and the baby’s health, and that can be found at Grandview Medical Center. The center features large, well-appointed facilities that allow new mothers to enjoy the childbirth experience in a non-stressful way, with a dedicated bedside transition nursery team, keeping mom and baby together longer.
Nutrition Office (205) 638-9204 childrensal.org
22
PINK&BLUE | FALL 2025
Thrive Pediatric Nutrition Specialists (205) 704-1641 mythrivenutrition.com Women’s Health Specialists of Birmingham (205) 536-7676 whsbham.com PARENT EDUCATION & CLASSES American Academy of Pediatrics (800) 433-9016 aap.org Alabama Parent
UAB St. Vincent’s Birmingham Birthing Suites UAB’s most recent addition, St. Vincent’s, boasts certified nurse midwives, neonatal nurses, and other specialists who aim to assist mom so that the birthing experience meets her expectations. Maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) specialists are also available for advanced care and an OB-GYN is on-call 24/7 in case of emergency. AND STANDARDS U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (800) 638-2772 cpsc.gov SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT Arc, The (205) 323-6383 arcofcentralalabama.org Autism Speaks autismspeaks.com Autism Support of Alabama American Health Imaging of Birmingham (205) 251-1300 americanhealthimaging.com Peek at Me 4D (205) 635-6252 peekatme4d.net Sonos Imaging (205) 453-7525 sonosimaging.com
Education Center (334) 567-2252 alabamaparentcenter.com Childbirth Education Classes at Grandview 1 (844) 462-3627 grandviewhealth.com
EPIC Parenting (205) 251-7148 childrensaid.org
PAGES (Parent and Guardian Educational Support) Group (205) 638-9193 childrensal.org Pampers’ Birthing Classes pampers.com Taking Cara Babies takingcarababies.com UAB Expectant Parent Classes (205) 996-BABY (2229) uabmedicine.org PRODUCT RECALLS
Southern Radiology Specialists (205) 823-3366 birminghamphysicians imaging.com
1 (877) 428-8476 autism-alabama.org HANDS Program, The (205) 733-0976 thehandsprogram.org United Ability (205) 944-3900
Vestavia Hills Imaging Center (205) 824-8262 capitolimagingservices.com 4D Mommies (205) 326-BABY (2229) 4dmommies.com
unitedability.org ULTRASOUND TECHNICIANS
FALL 2025 | PINK&BLUE
23
BELLY LAUGHS
Pregnancy is Beautiful: An Expose
By Amanda Ciani
Growing a whole human being is a beautiful thing, but sometimes beauty takes sacrifice. While the maternity era is often marketed with a tint of goddess-like glamour, don’t let the expectation of a perfectly pretty pregnancy overshadow the true beauty of your reality. Pregnancy is hard work, and it can also be hard on mom’s body. Let’s keep it real and check out some pregnancy beauty myths. The Pregnancy Glow. Some women may legitimately get the glow! Other women may look like they have it… but it is actually just a thin layer of ever-present sweat. Pregnan- cy hot flashes can turn women into blazing furnaces. Maybe that’s why so many clammy women crave that crunchy “good ice” during pregnancy? Clear Skin. Lucky mommas may look like pregnancy models. But hormones associated with healthy pregnancies can also wreak havoc on a gal’s complexion. An increase in oil production can have moms-to-be donning a pizza face. Thankfully Ob/Gyns can recom- mend OTC (or rX) topical treatments. In extreme cases, antibiotics can be prescribed. Long Hair. Increased blood flow and heightened hormone levels both promote hair growth. Hirsutism is increased hair growth that many women experience during pregnancy. Un- fortunately, this growth is not just limited to head hair. Don’t feel alone during pregnancy if you suddenly feel as hairy as a yeti. The increased body hair growth during pregnancy is harmless and good news: temporary.
Lustrous Hair. Another myth about maternity locks is that preg- nancy hair is bouncy and beautiful. Just like with skin, hair can be victim to the increase of oil production associated with pregnancy. Instead of appearing voluminous, hair can end up looking oil slicked, leaving mom feeling less than lovely. Simply switch to a clarifying shampoo, use less conditioner and consider using dry shampoo to help with oil levels.
Big, Beautiful Smiles. During pregnancy, a woman’s total blood volume increases by 30–50%. This can lead to inflamed gums and bright red spit during flossing sessions. And Ow! Pregnant women are also at a higher risk for cavities due to a myriad of reasons, so be sure to check in with a dentist and pay close attention to oral hygiene during pregnancy. The good news about these somewhat ugly pregnancy truths is that they are all tem- porary and totally normal. These less-than ideal skin-deep symptoms all have the same culprit: haywire hormones that are helping baby grow. Once baby is born, many of momma’s random pregnancy beauty side-effects reverse themselves and let’s face it: Baby is worth looking wonky for a few months!
24
PINK&BLUE | FALL 2025
There are many proven, effective ways to reduce stuttering. Doing nothing is not one of them.
We can help, but you have to take the first step. We’re here for you.
THE S TUTTERING F OUNDATION A Nonprofit Organization Since 1947—Helping Those Who Stutter ®
800-992-9392
www.StutteringHelp.org
FALL 2025 | PINK&BLUE
25
BABY FACES
WANT TO SEE YOUR BABY’S PICTURE HERE? Visit birminghamparent.com and click on Upload Snapshots. All photos become property of Pink&Blue Magazine, a division of Family Resource Group Inc.
26
PINK&BLUE | FALL 2025
FALL 2025 | PINK&BLUE
27
FREE parenting tips, activities and resources. Text “PAL” to 274448 to sign up for PAL’s free texting service.
• parenting tips from trusted experts • notices about family-friendly events • news of helpful resources in your area • all caregivers are eligible
Learn More
PalByText.org
PAL is supported by:
28
PINK&BLUE | FALL 2025
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs