“Imagine yourself in your special place.” As I write today, I am making plans for our annual family visit to a very special place—Campobello Island, New Brunswick. It is a very small island in the Bay of Fundy with a population of little more than 1000 people, limited cell phone service, and very sketchy internet […]
A Special Place Continue reading »
Networking has changed quite a bit from when I started in this field many, many moons ago. In a technological world, we are quickly becoming more connected and disconnected all at the same time. Before the Internet and social media was a thing, we used to have to actually make appointments with others and have
The Art of Networking Continue reading »
Presented By: Shari Criso MSN, RN, CNM, IBCLC Newborn babies will spend most of their early life, up to 16-17 hours per day sleeping. Beyond feeding and making sure that baby is getting everything they need to develop and grow optimally, we want to make sure that they are ALWAYS safe! As a Registered Nurse, a
Safe Sleep Support and Practical Advice for New Parents Continue reading »
Earlier this summer, I was walking to my mailbox when I spotted a snake on my sidewalk. It was a tiny ribbon snake, completely harmless, yet I was barefoot and I immediately jumped back. My heart was racing, my breathing rate increased, my palms got sweaty. And then, I noticed the snake wasn’t moving. It
Meet Your Cognitive Bias Continue reading »
Stereotypes hold their own birthing story. And, if we know anything as true advocates for birthing families, it’s that life is constantly evolving and taking on a new truth based on the context around it. Looking at life without the surrounding context is like taking a shortcut without considering the scenic route; you’ll never know
Building Inclusive Bridges with our Language Continue reading »
“My husband is going to act as my doula. What book should he read to prepare for that?” “The doctor diagnosed this, but I’m not sure he’s right. What do you think? Would you guys take this medicine?” [asked in a Facebook group] “I don’t need to have a degree to know how to read
The Loss of the Expert Continue reading »
A Cerebral Palsy Resource for Families Cerebral palsy is a neurological condition that a child may be born with, caused by brain damage or brain malformation during fetal development. It is one of the most common disabilities of childhood and it is one that has no cure, although it also does not get progressively worse.
A Site Worth Sharing – Information on Cerebral Palsy Continue reading »
It has been a busy April in Kansas and the first week in May has been even busier. As I have spent time getting to know the “dance patterns” of the new little ones this week, it has also allowed me to spend time getting to know the breastfeeding momma too. I love building a
Making a Difference in Your Community – Become a CLE! Continue reading »
As a doula trainer for many years now, one of the most challenging concepts to instill in newer doulas is the idea of healthy boundaries with clients. Not the kind discussed in the scope of practice because those are pretty clear-cut, but instead, establishing when we will be available for routine questions and support. It
Establishing Healthy Boundaries Continue reading »
As a childbirth educator and labor doula trainer, one of my favorite topics is that of birthing hormones. Oxytocin, melatonin, endorphins, adrenaline and prolactin all work in synchronicity to help the birth process move forward. More specifically, melatonin acts as a catalyst to enhance the amount of natural oxytocin released. This in turn, causes the
Melatonin – Not Just Beneficial For “Jet Lag” Continue reading »