Encapsulation turns your placenta into easy-to-take capsules, often chosen for their potential to support postpartum recovery, energy, and mood balance. Includes: • Preparation using either traditional or raw method (your choice) • 80–200 capsules (depending on placenta size) • Labeled storage jar and dosage instructions • Sanitary, safe preparation with food-grade equipment

Sometimes the best gift is real sleep for the whole family. With Overnight Gentle Coaching, I’ll provide in-home overnight support so you can rest while your baby is cared for with gentle, responsive approaches that respect feeding needs and your parenting style. Includes: • 1 overnight in-home session (8 hours) of hands-on support • Feeding and soothing care for your baby through the night • Observation and gentle coaching if you’d like to be involved • Detailed overnight log (feeds, naps, soothing techniques used) • Next-day debrief with practical tips and personalized strategies • Option to add additional overnight sessions for continued support

A private, personalized class that prepares you for breastfeeding from day one. We’ll cover latch, positioning, what’s normal in the first days, and how to set realistic expectations. You’ll leave feeling ready to meet your baby’s needs and your own. Includes: • 90-minute session (virtual or in-person) • Education on feeding cues, milk supply, and what to expect in the first week • Hands-on practice with positions and holds (with doll/baby if pregnant) • Written guide + resource packet

Parenthood is full of unexpected learning curves. You prepare for sleepless nights, countless diaper changes, and the adorable sound of your baby’s first giggles. But what many parents don’t expect is discovering something called torticollis during those first months of life. If your pediatrician, lactation consultant, or physical therapist has mentioned it, you may feel worried, confused, or overwhelmed. The good news? Torticollis is common, treatable, and not a reflection of anything you did wrong as a parent. In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: What torticollis is and how to recognize it Why it happens (both during pregnancy and after birth) How it can affect feeding, play, and development Steps parents can take at home to support their baby When to seek professional help and what treatment looks like Encouragement that your baby can thrive with the right support What Is Torticollis? The word torticollis comes from the Latin tortus (twisted) and collum (neck). Put simply, it means a tightening or imbalance of the neck muscles that causes a baby to hold their head tilted to one side. In most infants, this involves the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle, which runs from just below the ear down to the collarbone. When this muscle is shortened or tight, it can pull the baby’s head in one direction. Signs of Torticollis in Babies Parents often notice things like: Your baby consistently tilts their head to one side They prefer to look in only one direction Difficulty turning their head fully both ways A flat spot on one side of the head (plagiocephaly) from favoring one side Fussiness at the breast or bottle, especially if feeding requires turning toward the “hard” side Sometimes, you may feel a small lump in your baby’s neck muscle (a benign muscle “knot” that typically resolves with therapy). How Common Is It? Torticollis is one of the most common musculoskeletal conditions in infancy. Research suggests it affects about 3 in every 100 babies, but many more cases go undiagnosed because parents or providers assume it’s just a “quirky” preference. Since the Back to Sleep campaign (now Safe to Sleep) began in the 1990s to reduce SIDS, babies spend more time on their backs. This has been lifesaving — but it also means more babies develop head-turn preferences and flat spots. As a result, torticollis diagnoses have risen. Why Does Torticollis Happen? There’s no single cause, but several factors can contribute: 1. Positioning in the Womb Some babies develop tightness before birth. If your baby had limited space in the womb (common with twins, breech position, or late pregnancy), their neck muscles may have tightened in one direction. 2. Birth Process A long labor, forceps or vacuum delivery, or positioning during birth can sometimes strain the neck muscles. 3. Post-Birth Positioning After birth, babies who spend a lot of time lying in one position — in swings, car seats, or always looking toward one side in the crib — may develop torticollis. 4. Neurological or Orthopedic Conditions (Rare) In a small number of cases, torticollis may be linked to underlying conditions. This is why professional evaluation is important if you’re concerned. How Torticollis Affects Daily Life At first, torticollis may just look like a head tilt or turning preference. But left unaddressed, it can affect many aspects of your baby’s development. Head Shape (Plagiocephaly) Favoring one side can lead to flat spots on the skull. While helmets are sometimes prescribed, often addressing torticollis early prevents the need. Motor Skills Neck tightness can delay rolling, crawling, or sitting since babies need symmetrical muscle use to meet milestones. Comfort and Sleep A tilted head may make tummy time harder or cause fussiness during naps if the baby feels stuck in one position. Feeding and Torticollis: Why Eating Can Be Difficult One of the most immediate ways torticollis shows up is during feeding. Because eating involves head and neck movement, tightness in the muscles can make it hard for a baby to find a comfortable, efficient position. Breastfeeding Challenges Difficulty Latching on One Side: Babies may strongly prefer one breast because it requires less turning of the head. This can create uneven milk removal and sometimes affect supply. Shallow Latch: A tilted head may prevent the baby from opening wide and achieving the deep latch needed for comfortable, effective feeding. Clicking or Slipping Off the Breast: Poor positioning may cause the baby to lose suction, leading to gassiness, frustration, or longer feeds. Parent Discomfort: If you have to contort yourself to get your baby to feed, it may cause back, shoulder, or nipple pain. Bottle-Feeding Challenges Strong Side Preference: Babies may only want to be fed in one arm hold, which can make feeds awkward or limit head movement. Leaking Milk: If their head tilt prevents proper seal on the bottle, you may see dribbling or coughing during feeds. Swallowing Air: A poor angle can cause excessive gulping and gas. Uneven Feeding Duration: They may take longer feeds or fatigue easily because of neck strain. Why Feeding Help Matters Feeding is not only about nutrition — it’s also about comfort, bonding, and developmental practice for oral motor skills. When torticollis interrupts this, babies may eat less efficiently, parents may feel stressed, and feeding can shift from joyful to frustrating. The good news is that addressing torticollis often improves feeding almost immediately. With physical therapy, positioning strategies, and sometimes lactation support, most babies return to comfortable, efficient eating. What Parents Can Do: Gentle At-Home Steps The encouraging news is that parents play a huge role in supporting their baby’s progress. Here are some evidence-based strategies: 1. Practice Tummy Time Placing your baby on their tummy while awake helps strengthen neck, back, and shoulder muscles. Even short sessions (a few minutes at a time) several times a day make a difference. 2. Encourage Head Turning Place toys or yourself on the baby’s non-preferred side. When feeding, alternate arms so your baby practices turning both ways. Position the crib so your baby naturally looks toward the “hard” side to see you enter. 3. Hold and Carry in Different Ways Use upright holds on the non-preferred side. Try babywearing to reduce time lying flat and to promote neck mobility. 4. Gentle Stretching Your pediatrician or physical therapist may teach you safe, gentle stretches to lengthen the tight muscle. These are most effective when done consistently but should always be demonstrated first by a professional to prevent strain. Professional Help: What to Expect If you suspect torticollis, your first step should be your pediatrician. They may refer you to: Physical therapy: The gold standard of treatment. Therapists guide you in positioning, stretches, and play activities tailored to your baby. Occupational therapy or lactation support: For feeding challenges linked to torticollis. Helmet therapy (in some cases): If head flattening is severe and not improving with repositioning. Most babies respond well to early intervention — with many showing major improvements within a few months. When to Call the Doctor Right Away While torticollis is usually benign, seek medical advice promptly if you notice: Stiffness that seems painful for your baby Poor head control beyond expected age Unequal use of arms or legs Delays in rolling, sitting, or crawling Concerns about vision or hearing These may suggest additional issues that need addressing. Parent Emotions Matter Too Hearing that your baby has torticollis can trigger guilt, anxiety, or frustration. Remember: You did nothing wrong. Many babies experience this, and treatment is highly effective. By noticing early and seeking help, you are giving your child the best start. Try to celebrate small wins — like when your baby turns their head a little farther or enjoys tummy time longer. Progress may be gradual, but it’s meaningful. Preventing Torticollis and Supporting Healthy Development Even if your baby hasn’t been diagnosed, you can promote healthy neck movement: Alternate feeding sides Rotate head positions during sleep (while always placing baby on their back) Limit prolonged use of swings, bouncers, or car seats outside travel Offer supervised tummy time daily Long-Term Outlook Most babies with torticollis go on to meet developmental milestones and grow into active toddlers. With timely care, long-term effects are rare. For some, minor head tilt or preference may linger but doesn’t affect overall function. What matters most is early recognition and consistent support. Final Reassurance for Parents If you’re reading this because you’re worried, take a deep breath. Torticollis is a bump in the road, not a lifelong barrier. With simple daily routines, supportive therapy, and your loving attention, your baby can overcome this challenge. Remember: your role is not to be perfect but to be present. You’re already doing an incredible job noticing, learning, and caring. And that — more than anything — is what your baby needs most.

Bringing your baby home from the hospital is a moment filled with joy, nerves, and that overwhelming sense of responsibility. As a new parent, there are few things more important than making sure your little one is safe—especially on the road. Car seat safety can feel like a maze of confusing instructions, guidelines, and product choices, but don’t worry—we’ve got your back. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about car seat safety, from choosing the right seat to proper installation and common mistakes to avoid. Whether you're preparing for your baby's arrival or already tackling life with a newborn, this guide will help you keep your most precious passenger safe. Why Car Seat Safety Matters Motor vehicle crashes remain a leading cause of death for children in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), correctly used car seats reduce the risk of fatal injury by 71% for infants  and 54% for toddlers  in passenger vehicles. But here’s the kicker: nearly half of all car seats are used incorrectly.  That means that even with the best intentions, many families are unknowingly putting their children at risk. Car seat safety is more than just buckling a baby in—it's about choosing the right seat, using it properly every single time, and adjusting it as your child grows. The 4 Stages of Car Seats Let’s start with the basics. Car seats come in four main stages that follow your child’s growth: 1. Rear-Facing Only (Infant Car Seat) Age/Weight Range:  Birth to 12–18 months, or until baby reaches the max height/weight limit Features:  Portable, includes a handle, attaches to stroller bases Why It Matters:  Supports baby’s head, neck, and spine; safest option for young infants 2. Convertible Car Seat (Rear-Facing to Forward-Facing) Age/Weight Range:  Can be used rear-facing for infants and then forward-facing for toddlers Why It Matters:  Allows extended rear-facing, which is safest for toddlers up to age 2–4 3. Forward-Facing Harness Seat Age/Weight Range:  Typically used from 2 years until around 5–7 years Features:  5-point harness, adjustable straps, top tether for added security 4. Booster Seat Age/Weight Range:  From around 5 years until seat belt fits properly (usually age 10–12) Why It Matters:  Positions seat belt across the child’s chest and lap for proper restraint Stage One: Rear-Facing Is Best (and for Longer Than You Think) Most parents switch to forward-facing too soon. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends keeping your child rear-facing until at least age 2 , and ideally until they outgrow the rear-facing limit  of their seat—often around 40–50 pounds  in newer models. Why rear-facing? In a crash, it distributes the force of the impact across the baby’s entire back and head, reducing stress on the neck and spinal cord. Quick Tip:  Legs touching the back seat? Totally normal. Children are flexible and comfortable sitting “crisscross applesauce” or with legs bent. How to Choose the Right Car Seat With so many options on the market, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Here’s how to simplify the decision: Look for a seat that fits your child’s age, weight, and height. Use the car seat manufacturer’s guidelines and your child’s measurements, not just age. Make sure the seat fits your car. Some seats don’t fit well in smaller vehicles or certain backseat designs. Test before buying or consult with a CPST (Child Passenger Safety Technician). Don’t rely on price. All car seats sold in the U.S. must meet the same federal safety standards. A $90 seat can be just as safe as a $500 one when used correctly. Check for expiration dates. Car seats expire (usually 6–10 years after manufacture) because of wear and tear, evolving safety standards, and material breakdown. Avoid secondhand seats unless you know the history. Never use a seat that’s been in a crash, has missing labels or parts, or is past its expiration. Proper Installation: The #1 Place Parents Make Mistakes A car seat is only as safe as its installation. Here’s how to get it right: Step 1: Read the Manuals Yes, both of them. The car seat and the vehicle manual have important guidance on placement, installation methods, and angle requirements. Step 2: Pick the Right Location Best position: Back seat , center spot if possible Avoid front seat: Airbags can be deadly for babies No third-row unless the manual allows it Step 3: Choose LATCH or Seat Belt—Not Both LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) is designed for ease of use, but it has weight limits Seat belts are equally safe when used properly Never use both unless the manual explicitly says it’s allowed Step 4: Check the Recline Angle Especially for newborns, the seat must be reclined properly to keep the airway open. Most infant seats have an angle indicator. Step 5: The Inch Test Once installed, grab the seat at the belt path and tug. It shouldn’t move more than 1 inch  side-to-side or front-to-back. Strapping Baby In: Harness Safety Even if your seat is installed correctly, improper harnessing can still put your child at risk. Do: Use the rear-facing harness slots (at or below shoulders) Ensure the chest clip is at armpit level Tighten straps so you can’t pinch extra webbing at the shoulder Don’t: Buckle baby in a puffy coat or snowsuit Leave harness too loose or twisted Move baby to the next stage before they’re ready Pro Tip:  Dress baby in layers, then cover them with a blanket after  they’re buckled. What About Preemies and Newborns? If your baby was born early or is very small, they may need a seat with extra support or even a car bed (for very low birth weight babies with breathing concerns). Always test fit the car seat before discharge  from the hospital Some infant seats come with infant inserts  to help position small babies—check if they’re approved by the manufacturer Consider a CPST check  for extra support Car Seat Safety in All Seasons 🌞 Summer: Touch buckles and straps before buckling—hot metal can burn baby skin Use breathable fabrics and car shades Never leave baby in the car—not even for a minute ❄️ Winter: Avoid bulky clothing under harnesses Use car seat-safe ponchos or fleece bunting Warm the car before travel when possible Common Mistakes to Avoid Even the most loving and attentive parents can make errors. Here are a few of the biggest car seat safety slip-ups to avoid: Turning forward-facing too early Loosely installed seats or twisted straps Using aftermarket products not crash-tested  (e.g., head pillows, strap covers) Incorrect harness height Skipping the top tether when forward-facing Using an expired or recalled seat Installing in front of an active airbag When to Switch Car Seats As your baby grows, so should their car seat setup. But don’t rush the transitions. Transition Only When… Rear-facing → Forward-facing Baby exceeds the height or weight limit for rear-facing Harness → Booster Child outgrows forward-facing seat (usually 5–7 years old) Booster → Seatbelt Belt fits properly: lap belt on hips, shoulder belt across chest, child can sit correctly for the entire ride Most kids aren't ready for seat belts alone until they're at least 4'9" tall and 10–12 years old . How to Get Help: CPSTs and Seat Checks You don’t have to do this alone. Child Passenger Safety Technicians (CPSTs)  are trained to help you install and use your seat correctly. Many offer free seat checks  through: Local fire or police departments Hospitals and birthing centers Safe Kids Worldwide ( https://www.safekids.org ) Traveling or Flying with a Car Seat On Planes: Use an FAA-approved seat (check label) Buy a separate seat for your baby—lap infants are not as safe Use a car seat travel cart or backpack for easy airport navigation Rentals and Ride Shares: Bring your own car seat whenever possible Never assume rental or ride share options will have a seat ready or installed properly Final Checklist Before Every Ride Harness is snug Chest clip is at armpit level No puffy coats or aftermarket padding Seat is installed tightly Seat is not expired Car seat is appropriate for child’s current size and development You’ve Got This, Parent. Car seat safety can feel overwhelming, but it’s truly one of the most powerful ways you can protect your child. With the right seat, the right fit, and the right information—you’re setting your family up for safe, worry-free travel. No one gets it perfect every time, but with a little guidance and a lot of love, you’re already doing an amazing job. You’re not alone. You’re learning. And you’re keeping your baby safe—one buckle at a time. Want personalized help with car seat installation? Reach out to a certified CPST in your area or check with your local fire department. You can also visit nhtsa.gov  for recall alerts and manufacturer guidelines.

Breastfeeding can be one of the most rewarding experiences for new mothers. It is a natural way to nourish your baby and create a strong bond. However, it can also come with challenges. Many new mothers have questions and concerns about how to get started, what to expect, and how to make the experience as smooth as possible. In this post, we will cover essential tips to help you navigate the world of breastfeeding with confidence. Understanding the Benefits of Breastfeeding Breastfeeding provides incredible benefits for both new mothers and their babies. For mothers, it reduces the risk of certain cancers, such as breast and ovarian cancer, thanks to hormonal changes during lactation. It also aids in postpartum recovery, helping the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size more quickly and supporting weight loss by burning extra calories. Emotionally, breastfeeding strengthens the bond between mother and baby, releasing oxytocin, which helps reduce stress and promote feelings of well-being. For babies, breast milk is the gold standard of nutrition, offering the perfect balance of vitamins, minerals, and antibodies that support healthy growth and development. It provides essential protection against illnesses, as it boosts the baby’s immune system and reduces the risk of infections, allergies, and even sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Breastfed babies are less likely to develop chronic conditions like asthma, obesity, and type 2 diabetes later in life. Breastfeeding also supports a baby's cognitive development. Studies have shown that children who were breastfed tend to have higher IQs and better brain development overall. Additionally, the physical closeness during breastfeeding promotes emotional bonding and a sense of security for the baby. Breastfeeding is an incredibly beneficial practice for both mother and baby, offering health protection, emotional bonding, and a strong foundation for lifelong well-being. Getting Started with Breastfeeding Starting your breastfeeding journey can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. Here are some practical steps to help you get started: Find a Comfortable Position : Choose a position that feels comfortable for both you and your baby. Common positions include the cradle hold, cross-cradle hold, and side-lying position. Experiment to see what works best. Ensure a Good Latch : A proper latch is crucial for effective breastfeeding. Your baby's mouth should cover not just the nipple but also a good portion of the areola. If you feel pain, gently break the latch and try again. Feed on Demand : Newborns typically feed every 1.5 to 3 hours. Watch for hunger cues, such as rooting or sucking on their hands. Feeding on demand helps establish your milk supply. Stay Hydrated and Nourished : Drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet. Your body needs extra calories to produce milk. Seek Support : Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Whether it’s from a lactation consultant, a friend, or a family member, support can make a big difference. Common Challenges and Solutions While breastfeeding is natural, it can come with its own set of challenges. Here are some common issues and how to address them: Sore Nipples : This is a common issue for new mothers. Ensure your baby is latching correctly. Applying lanolin cream can also help soothe sore nipples. Engorgement : If your breasts become overly full, it can be uncomfortable. Try feeding more frequently or expressing a little milk to relieve pressure. Low Milk Supply : If you are concerned about your milk supply, try to nurse more often. Skin-to-skin contact can also help stimulate milk production. Clogged Ducts : If you experience a painful lump in your breast, it may be a clogged duct. Continue to nurse and apply warm compresses to help clear the blockage. Tips for Successful Breastfeeding To make your breastfeeding experience more enjoyable, consider these helpful tips: Create a Relaxing Environment : Find a quiet, comfortable space to nurse. Soft lighting and calming music can help you relax. Use a Nursing Pillow : A nursing pillow can provide support and help position your baby correctly. Practice Skin-to-Skin Contact : Holding your baby close can encourage them to latch and feed more effectively. Keep Snacks Handy : Keep healthy snacks nearby to maintain your energy levels during feeding sessions. Be Patient : It may take time for both you and your baby to get the hang of breastfeeding. Be patient with yourself and your little one. When to Seek Help If you encounter difficulties that you cannot resolve on your own, it is important to seek help. Here are some signs that you may need assistance: Persistent pain during breastfeeding Concerns about your baby's weight gain Difficulty latching or feeding Emotional distress related to breastfeeding Lactation consultants are trained professionals who can provide guidance and support tailored to your needs. The Role of Partners in Breastfeeding Partners play a crucial role in the breastfeeding journey. Here are some ways they can support new mothers: Emotional Support : Offer encouragement and reassurance. A simple "You are doing great" can boost confidence. Help with Household Tasks : Taking care of chores can allow the breastfeeding mother to focus on nursing and resting. Attend Appointments Together : Join your partner at lactation consultations or pediatric appointments to stay informed and involved. Bond with the Baby : While the mother is breastfeeding, partners can bond with the baby through skin-to-skin contact or by holding them. Breastfeeding and Returning to Work Many mothers worry about how to continue breastfeeding after returning to work. Here are some strategies to help you manage: Plan Ahead : If possible, start pumping and storing milk before you return to work. This will give you a supply to use while you are away. Communicate with Your Employer : Discuss your breastfeeding needs with your employer. Many workplaces are supportive and can provide accommodations. Use a Breast Pump : Invest in a good quality breast pump. This will allow you to express milk while at work. Schedule Breaks : If your workplace allows, schedule breaks to pump milk. This will help maintain your milk supply. The Importance of Self-Care Taking care of yourself is essential while breastfeeding. Here are some self-care tips: Rest When You Can : Sleep when your baby sleeps. This can help you recharge. Stay Hydrated : Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Connect with Other Mothers : Join a breastfeeding support group or connect with other mothers. Sharing experiences can provide comfort and encouragement. Practice Mindfulness : Take time for yourself. Whether it’s reading a book or taking a walk, self-care is important for your well-being. Celebrating Your Journey Breastfeeding is a unique journey for every mother. Celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small. Whether you breastfeed for a few weeks or several months, each moment is special. Remember, it is okay to have ups and downs. Every mother’s experience is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Trust your instincts and do what feels right for you and your baby. As you embark on this beautiful journey, remember that you are not alone. Many resources are available to support you. Whether it is through friends, family, or professional help, there is a community ready to assist you. Breastfeeding can be a fulfilling experience that strengthens the bond between you and your baby. Embrace the journey, trust yourself, and enjoy the special moments that come with it.