Growing Up: Baby

Do you know the cost of raising a child in Canada? It may be higher than you think, which is why it’s so important to start planning. Learn budgeting, saving, and investing tips and explore what government benefits you may be eligible for. It’s never too early — or too late — to establish good spending habits to help secure your child’s financial future.

~ Sara Cook, Investment Advisor, Cook and Associate, BMO Nesbitt Burns. 

This episode is brought to you by Cook and Associates BMO Nesbitt Burns. Proudly supporting families and businesses through SouthWestern Ontario. When it comes to managing your wealth, we can help you navigate whatever comes your way.

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Navigating pre and postnatal care can be overwhelming for many first time moms. There are certain expectations that women face, including how to give birth and how to feed their child. Heading into her first pregnancy, Jessica was clear on her choices: she wanted a cesarean on maternal request — and wasn’t planning to breastfeed.

~ Jessica Pratezina, PhD student in Interdisciplinary Studies (Child and Youth Care and Sociology), University of Victoria, first time mom. 

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Losing a child is every parent’s worst nightmare. Kimberly Amato turned her grief into action following the tragic and preventable death of her daughter Meghan. Her advocacy work — and tribute site  — has informed, educated, and paved the way for higher safety standards for dressers and other clothing storage furniture.

~ Kimberly Amato, Vice Chair, Parents Against Tip-Overs.

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If you’re struggling with the so-called “Mom Guilt” this episode is for you. There’s no ‘perfect parent’ who gets everything right all the time, despite what we see on social media. By adjusting our thought patterns and responses, we can learn to manage the little things — so we can appreciate the big picture moments.

~ Doctor Tanya Cotler, adult and child clinical psychologist, Toronto. 

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The stress of motherhood is real. Burnout exists. The juggling act can feel overwhelming. By recognizing the signs of fatigue, we can work toward the holy grail: balancing your kid(s) and your career. From setting firm boundaries and showing ourselves grace — to drilling down to what’s really important — it's time to take a deep breath and enjoy the ride. 

~ Leigh Duncan, mom of three and executive director of public affairs and communications, Ontario-based hospital.
~ Madison Cox, mom of two and director and chief of staff, Ontario-based University. 

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It can be so difficult to establish a nap or bedtime routine with your little one. And it’s so frustrating when something happens to throw that schedule off. With Daylight Saving Time quickly approaching on Saturday, here are some tips on how to adjust and (hopefully) get back to normal — whatever your normal is!

~ Bridget Jensen, sleep consultant, Better Bedtime 

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If you’ve reached that one year anniversary — congratulations! If you’re not quite there yet, here’s a sneak peek at what to expect in terms of physical, cognitive, social, and communication/language milestones. There’s also newfound independence, lots of ‘testing’ — and innate and insatiable curiosity. Get ready for this exciting new chapter. 

~ Dr. Eugene Ng, newborn and developmental paediatrics, Toronto. 

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Becoming a new mom is daunting enough — not only are you preparing for a massive lifestyle change, your mental and physical health is about to transform too. Embarking on this journey at an advanced age comes with its own set of challenges, including the possibility of increased complications and societal stigma. Luckily, later-in-life pregnancies have become the norm.

~ Candace Cobbing, TV producer, soon-to-be new Mom.

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Are you home from the hospital, new baby in bassinet, and still feel a bit confused by it all? Not to worry — those blurry, hazy days are completely normal, and even have a name. The first 12 weeks after giving birth is referred to as the ‘fourth trimester.’ Not only is your new baby going through changes, you are too! Your body is adjusting: organs are shifting back into place, milk is being produced, and hormones are working to regulate. So, give yourself the time, space, and grace to heal and adjust as you find your way.

~ Marygrace Taylor, freelance journalist, Women’s Health, O Magazine, The Bump, What To Expect, among others. Also the co-author of three books. 

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“Most parents are doing just fine. It’s sloppy and messy, and you’re going to get upset. Some days are harder than others; if that’s the best you had today, it was good enough.” One of Canada’s leading parenting experts talks behavioural patterns, corrective strategies, and setting boundaries in a kind and loving way. It’s never too early to figure out what kind of parent you want — or need — to be!

~ Alyson Schafer, family counselor, parenting expert, author and international public speaker.  

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