#TLBmoves Helps You Get Going

 

Babywearing activity

#TLBMoves Giveaway Bundle includes items from Tula, Belebumbum, Eyla’s and Thinkbaby Thinksport!!!

Tula 

Tula believes in supporting us all being close to our little ones AND getting moving toward a healthier way of living so much that they are our title sponsors.

Lorelei Anthias woven wrap size 6 – Retail Value: $160
Bliss Bouquet Soft Structured Carrier winner’s choice (Standard or Toddler) – Retail Value: $149
For more information visit www.tulababycarriers.com
Belabumbum Active Wear
Committed to high quality and comfortable apparel that provides support and room to move for the pregnant or breastfeeding mom, Belabumbum creates mindful activewear for moms. With fabrics that stretch and breathe, Belabumbum clothing is designed to last with comfortable fit that suits your level of activity for many years to come.
 
Sporty Mesh Nursing Bra – Retail Value: $51
Nursing Racerback Cami – Retail Value: $51
 
For more information visit www.belabumbum.com
 
 
Eyla’s Imports
 
A reliable source for most of your parenting needs (they don’t sell sleep, sorry), Eyla’s will keep the whole family safely hydrated with their Eco Vessel bottles in your choice of glass or stainless steel. All Eco Vessel products are BPA and phthalate free, recyclable and environmentally friendly and come in a wide variety of styles and sizes including a line perfect for toddler hands.
 
Eco Vessel Boulder Triple Insulated Bottle w/Screw Top 20oz – Blue Glow  – Retail Value: $26.95
Eco Vessel Frost Kids Stainless Steel Insulated Bottle W/Straw Top 13oz – Orange – Retail Value: $23.95
Eco Vessel Boulder Triple Insulated Bottle w/Screw Top 20oz – White – Retail Value: $26.95
Eco Vessel Twist Triple Insulated – Bottle w/Screw Top 13oz- Silver – Retail Value: $23.95
For more information visit www.eylas.com
Thinkbaby Thinksport
It’s July, so the weather is hot. A big part of #TLBmoves is getting active outdoors (work that natural vitamin D!). They set the standard for good, safe sunscreen Highest SPF, H20 resistance and broadspectrum coverage allowed by the FDA. Thinkbaby and Thinksport care as much as we do when it comes to keeping our families safe from harmful chemicals.
2 bottles of Thinkbaby Sunscreen – Retail Value: $25.98
2 bottles of Thinksport Sunscreen – Retail Value: $25.98
 
TLB Moves Giveaway Bundle
 Total Retail Value of Bundle: $564.76
Good luck to everyone!  Please use the widget below to enter. The giveaway is open from July 28, 2015 through August 5, 2015. A big thanks to Tula, Belabumbum, Eyla’s and Thinkbaby Thinksport  for their support of TLB and all breastfeeding women. This giveaway is open to participants in the USA.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Ask the CPST with clek- Keeping Your Newborn Safe

This post features questions from readers for a CPST (Child Passenger Safety Technician) focusing on car seats and is made possible by the generous sponsorship of clek who have made their staff CPSTs available to The Leaky Boob community in order to answer your questions and help you keep your children safe. For more questions related to infants in car seats, see questions 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 from our live chat on TLB Facebook wall. 

clek infant thingy

Dear Trudy,

I think we have everything just about in place for our new babe due in about 6 weeks but I’m completely overwhelmed and have anxiety about that drive home from the hospital with our new baby. Is there anything special we need to keep in mind with a newborn in a seat? Older babies seem less concerning as they can support their own heads better and have more muscle tone. I know we’ll have to get comfortable driving with our baby but those first few trips are particularly stressing me. I asked about car seat checks at our hospital tour and they said they’ll send a nurse out with us to be sure we have a proper seat but they aren’t responsible for ensuring we are using it properly. What can we do? What do we need to keep in mind with buckling a newborn? 

Thank you for your help!

Worried in Wisconsin.

 

Dear Worried in Wisconsin,

Having a baby is such an exciting time in life! Having new concerns and worries pop up as you near the big day is perfectly understandable.

You’re right that a newborn baby has a weaker neck and needs help in supporting its head. Installing your car seat so that it’s reclined properly will make sure that your new babe’s head is supported and doesn’t tip forward. Your rear-facing car seat will come with instructions for adjusting the recline and installing it in the vehicle.

Before baby arrives I’d recommend reviewing the information in your car seat manual about securing babe in their car seat. Using a teddy bear or other stuffed animal can help give you some familiarity about how to use and tighten the harness.

When you put baby in the first time, you’ll want to check how they fit in the seat. Depending on the seat you choose, you may need to make some minor adjustments to either the harness height and/or the crotch buckle before leaving the hospital. Your car seat manual will have those instructions in it. Most manufacturers recommend that the harness be positioned so that the straps are at the closest height either even or below the baby’s shoulders.

Once you’ve checked that your seat is adjusted properly for your new babe, make sure that their bum is snug to the back of the seat so that they’re not slouching, and then adjust the harness so that it’s snug over their body. A snug harness has no visible slack, but doesn’t push their body out of position.

I’d also recommend getting in touch with a Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST). A CPST has training in helping families install and use their seats properly, and might give you that last bit of peace of mind. You can check for a tech near you by visiting the Safe Kids website and searching by your city and state.

Best wishes as you finish the final preparations for your new baby.

Trudy

 

Dear Trudy

It has been 9 years since I had my last child and now I’m expecting again. The world of car seats seems to have changed a lot and I’ve learned I made a lot of mistakes with my 9 year old, which has caused me to question what I thought I knew. With my son, I used one of those newborn head support inserts that didn’t come with his seat. I have been given a cute little newborn head support insert for this baby but I’ve heard that these aren’t safe yet I noticed many of the seats we have considered for this new baby come with them. Can I not switch out the one in the seat for the cute one we were given? 

Sincerely,

Confused and Concerned

 

Dear Confused and Concerned,

Congratulations on your upcoming new arrival! You’re right – car seats certainly have changed a lot in the last 9 years!

Car seat manufacturers test their seats using the specific covers and accessories that come with the car seat, and carefully select each piece to make sure that the car seat will keep your baby as safe as possible. You’re right that the extra head support inserts that are available in stores shouldn’t be added to your car seat. Most car seat manuals include instructions to only use products provided and approved by the car seat manufacturer for use with the seat, so in most cases you wouldn’t be able to switch out the one that came in the car seat.

The extra head supports available in stores definitely are cute. It’s possible you may be able to use it in your stroller instead and then you can still enjoy the cute factor.

Safe Travels,

Trudy

 

Dear Trudy,

Some of the materials I’ve read say that a baby isn’t safe to be left in a car seat due to possible breathing concerns and now I’m worried about my baby’s breathing even when we’re in the car. If it isn’t safe for a baby to be left in a bucket seat while they nap in the house, how can it be safe in the car? Are there some seats that are less of a risk than others for breathing issues?  

Peace,

Ready to breathe easy.

 

Dear Ready to breathe easy,

There are a few reasons that experts recommend limiting the amount of continuous time an infant spends in a car seat, but the most substantial one is related to possible breathing concerns as you’ve discovered.

Using a car seat in the car is different than using it in the house for a few reasons. Car seats generally sit at a different angle when they’re properly installed in the car vs. when they’re sitting on a surface outside of the car. This increased recline in the car ensures that their head stays in position and doesn’t tip forward. If a car seat sits more upright in the stroller or on the floor, it may lead to positional breathing problems. Infants also typically spend less time in their car seat on an average car ride, than they would if they were napping or sleeping or playing in their car seat outside the car.

In most cases, positional breathing problems happen after a baby has been buckled in to a car seat for an extended period of time. If you have any long car trips coming up while your baby is less than 6 weeks old, I would recommend talking to your baby’s doctor to see if they have any recommendations on how often you should stop for a short break to remove baby from the car seat. In the absence of special medical needs, I generally recommend planned stops at least every 1.5 hours.

Rear-facing only seats are designed to provide protection to your precious cargo at their smallest size, and all rear-facing only seats have a recommended recline angle for when the seat is installed in the car. There can be some variation in the manufacturer’s preferred recline between different models, but provided the seat is installed according to directions, your baby fits the seat properly, and baby’s head doesn’t tip forward chin-to-chest during trips, then you can breathe easy knowing that your baby will breathe fine during car trips.

Safe travels,

Trudy

 

Dear Trudy,

Our infant car seat from my two older children has expired and we need to get a new one for the baby on the way. I’m trying to figure out if there is any reason to get two different seats or if it is more practical to get a convertible that will go down to newborn weight ranges. Is there anything we need to consider when looking at convertible car seats with the intention of using it from the beginning? Are these truly safe options? How does it work to cover such a wide range of sizes? Would it actually be better to just get two different seats?

Thanks for helping us keep our babies safe!

With gratitude,

Two and One on the Way

 

Dear Two and One on the Way,

The decision about whether to start with a convertible car seat or a rear-facing only car seat is one that a lot of families debate. The answer about which style of seat is better is going to be different for each family, but there are some factors you can consider that should help make the decision easier for you.

Convertible seats come in a wide range of sizes and designs. Most of them start at 5lbs, but some of them do a better job of fitting a newborn than others. Depending on how big your baby is at birth, and the model of convertible seat selected, sometimes a newborn doesn’t fit properly in to a convertible seat. Some convertibles, such as Clek’s Foonf and Fllo when used with the infant-thingy, have inserts available that allow newborns to be properly positioned and fit the seat well.

Rear-facing only seats are designed to fit newborns, so if you’re expecting a smaller baby, then they are generally the preferred choice. A rear-facing only seat also has the benefit of being easily portable. This can be helpful if you live in either a very hot climate or a very cold climate since it lets you buckle baby in in the comfort of your house and then carry him or her to your car. It also gives a lot of convenience if you frequently have short trips with a lot of stops along the way.

Provided you’re fairly certain baby will be full-term and of average size, the convenience factor is often the easiest way to decide which option will work best for you. If you plan to babywear, or not use the car seat outside of the car, then choosing a convertible seat may be a practical plan for you. If you think you will appreciate having the carrier option, then that may mean that purchasing two seats is the best choice for your family.

If you decide to go with a convertible seat, I’d recommend researching different models to find a model that fits in your vehicle at a newborn recline, and is also known for fitting small babies well. Google images or visiting a company’s facebook page where customers often share their pictures can be very helpful in giving you a feeling for how a newborn looks in the bigger seat.

Congratulations on the upcoming addition to your family!

Safe travels,

Trudy

 ________________________

Not only does clek want to help us all get comfortable with getting our little ones secure in our vehicles, they’re going to physically help one Leaky do just that! 

Clek is giving away a Foonf Convertible Car Seat in Flamingo or Tank to a Lucky Leaky.

Foonf is Clek’s no-compromise convertible child seat – introducing revolutionary safety technology, extended rear-facing to 50 lb, innovative convenience features, and it’s recyclable.

Total Retail Value: $449.99 USD ($549.99 in Canada)

Visit www.clekinc.com for more information

______________________

Good luck to everyone!  Please use the widget below to enter. A big thanks to Clek for their support of TLB and all breastfeeding women; please be sure to take a moment to thank Clek on their Facebook page  for their show of support! You can also follow Clek on Twitter and Instagram: username @Clekinc

a Rafflecopter giveaway

________________________

Trudy SlaghtTrudy Slaght, Clek CPST, CRST-IT As Clek’s Child Passenger Safety Advocate, a previous board member of the Child Passenger Safety Association of Canada, and a CRST Instructor from Edmonton, Alberta, Trudy Slaght pretty much breathes, eats, and lives child passenger safety. With her brain crammed full of valuable tips and advice, Trudy attends and speaks at various industry conferences across North America and provides everything from simple helpful guidance to advanced technical support for parents, caregivers, and even fellow technicians.
A mom of three, Trudy has been involved in the field for over 7 years, spending lots of time thinking about, practicing, and preaching the best methods to keep our little ones safe for the ride. And, even with all this on her plate, Trudy still somehow has the passion and energy to be a contributing author to Canada’s National Child Passenger Technician Training curriculum.

Relief for Those Summer Itches

This time of year our kids can’t spend enough time outdoors. From hopping into their kiddie pool to playing house in Sugarbaby’s Cottage (it’s a playhouse perfect for her size), and checking on how ripe our strawberries are to helping with yard work and gardening, they are outside as often as they can. Not to mention going to our local park. And a couple of them are begging almost daily for a walk up our butte, while it still seems impossible to me that they genuinely enjoy the 20 minute climb only to wander around a grassy area (with an awesome view, mind you) – yet, they ask, all the time.

They are positively itching to go outside. And so am I.

And then they’re often itching once they are back inside.

What do you about the frustrating itches that make us want to lose our mind? Well, there’s breastmilk, of course. And there’s the recommendation to rub, or slap, the itchy spot instead of scratching. NO SCRATCHING!!! When you’re ready to pull out your hair and you’re desperately looking for a safe product to slather onto your wailing kid, you may wish you had some of Motherlove’s Green Salve on hand.

Motherlove Green Salve

The Motherlove Green Salve is all natural and versatile, and quickly and effectively takes the itch out of insect bites, bee stings, and poison ivy. It soothers and eases the discomforts of rashes, chapped and irritated skin – including insect bites and poison ivy! It has zero toxins and is made with 100% certified organic ingredients.

The Green Salve is one of Motherlove’s original products and uses the same recipe that Kathryn made in her kitchen when she started Motherlove. It’s really special to Motherlove because it’s still handmade (albeit in much much larger batches) in their facility in Colorado.

Kathryn, creator of Motherlove, making Green Salve in her kitchen.

Kathryn, creator of Motherlove, making Green Salve in her kitchen.

__________________

Motherlove is giving away 10 Green Salves, one each for 10 Leakies!
The odds are in your favor for this giveaway!
Retail Value: $9 each

Check out user reviews of Motherlove’s Green Salve here.

__________________

Good luck to everyone!  Please use the widget below to be entered.  The giveaway is open from July 2, 2015 through July 9, 2015.  A big thanks to Motherlove for their long-standing support of TLB and all breastfeeding women; please be sure to take a moment to thank Motherlove on their Facebook page for their show of support! You can also follow Motherlove on Twitter and Instagram: username @motherloveherb

This giveaway is open to participants in the USA.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Dairy Fairy Arden and Rose Nursing/Pumping Bras for Curvy Moms!

 We’re so pleased to share with you the exciting news that The Dairy Fairy has now added a full figured nursing and handsfree pumping Rose and Arden bras! You can see The Leaky Boob reviews of The Dairy Fairy and you can enter to win one of your own. Designed to support the ever-changing lactating breast and securely accommodate handsfree pumping, The Dairy Fairy bras and tanks are well made, comfortable, and stylish. Using high quality materials, their bras provide surprisingly comfortable support and adjustability to meet each woman’s unique needs with a customizable fit. We love The Dairy Fairy and we’re confident you will too!

TDF011314_postcard-6inx6in-front

_________________

The Dairy Fairy is giving away two hands-free pumping bras for curvy moms to 2 lucky Leakies (one bra per winner).

Now full figured mamas can pump in style too. Thanks to these two styles, sexy support that helps pump efficiently is available up to size 44J. And since there is no under-wire, the support is similar to that of a sports bra.

Arden is a beautiful all-in-one bra that lets you nurse, double hands-free pump, or simultaneously nurse and pump. (Retail Value $68)

Rose is a beautiful and feminine bra so you can quickly and efficiently pump, and maybe even have a second to check emails. (Retail Value $34)

Total Retail Value: $102

Visit www.thedairyfairy.com for more information

_________________

Good luck to everyone!  Please use the widget below to be entered.  The giveaway is open from June 25, 2015 through July 1, 2015.  A big thanks to The Dairy Fairy for their support of TLB and all breastfeeding women; please be sure to take a moment to thank Emily on their Facebook page for their show of support! You can also follow The Dairy Fairy on Twitter and Instagram: username @the_dairyfairy

This giveaway is open to participants in the USA and Canada.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

#LeakyLooks: Fashion, Fireworks, Fabulous! (And a Giveaway!)

by Kileah McIlvain

 

Can you feel it?! Summer, Fireworks (okok. I know some of you don’t like it, but hear me out. You might like the outfit I put together for the 4th better than the actual BOOM BOOM. lol. That is OK!) and simple yet fabulous outfits that allow you the freedom to explore the outdoors, grill outside, neighborhood movie nights projected on an old white sheet, juicy popsicles running down your chin….yeah. I get a bit excited!

We’ve got such a great collection for you Leakies this week! (Plus….a FANTASTIC giveaway from Applecheeks!). Have fun! Pin, Post, Instagram- let me know how you like these looks and what YOUR favorite summer outfits are for #BoobOutFashion!

 

Saturday Farmer’s Market

Farmer's Market

Isn’t this look adorable? I’ve been enjoying this lightweight nursing infinity scarf from Applecheeks and I put together this look for some great fun at the local Saturday market! I even found purple apple earrings from Etsy! Chewbead bracelets are a must-have for that sweet squish as they ride around in an Uppababy stroller! Don’t forget a chic Namaste mini messenger diaper bag in Caribbean Blue from Luv My Bag and an easy, lightweight pair of bermuda shorts from Old Navy and an easy-to-nurse-in White Flutter Sleeve top from Seraphine! (Yes. I totally added in my favorite Birks…because SERIOUSLY. They are amazing. And I live in them come summertime!)

Fireworks and BBQ

Fireworks!

This one has got to be one of my favorite summer looks so far! I centered this whole look on the Tula baby carrier in Skipper! The striped nursing tank is one of my favorite tops from Figure 8 Maternity and I added in a simple red skirt from SheInside. Comfortable Ink Calf hair blue wedge Toms complete this patriotic look! And you’re probably wondering where that gorgeous striped diaper bag came from? Ikabags on Etsy makes them! Don’t forget an eco-friendly way to transport food and water!

Easygoing Boho Mama

The Easygoing Mama

This beautiful and easygoing look is based around the gorgeous BB Slen sling from Babylonia USA! Made ethically and from sustainable resources, this compliments the gorgeous breezy maxi dress from Maurices! I chose this gorgeous maxi for its range of sizes available and the gorgeous print (and easy nursing access!). Wooden and crocheted chew necklace from Etsy and an easy geometric wedges from Toms (as well as a gorgeous bag from Luv My Bag!)-you’re all set for an easygoing day that’s comfortable and functional AND lovely!

Ready to win a sweet bundle from Applecheeks?!

Here is what the winner gets:

Two Applecheeks Nursing Scarves, retail value = $64

ItzyRitzyAppleCheeks (5 of 6)ItzyRitzyAppleCheeks (4 of 6)

Applecheeks Swim Diaper, retail value = $19.50

apple-cheek-swim-diaper-mojito

Applecheeks Bamboo Little Bundle Diaper, retail value = $28.85

Product Details

Total value = $112.35!

Hurry! It ends Tuesday Night and is open to Leakies in the USA and Canada!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

10 Ergobaby Organic Carriers and Natural Curve Nursing Pillows!

by Jessica Martin-Weber
Ergobaby is all about helping families keep their babies close and fostering the connection and bonds between parents and their children. Which is why it was only natural for them to expand to include breastfeeding support with their new Natural Curve Nursing Pillow. After two years of development, I’m happy to support Ergobaby’s Nursing Pillow launch by sharing it and their well-known high quality carriers with all of you. Breastfeeding or otherwise feeding, both the Ergobaby nursing pillow and and the Ergobaby carriers offer well designed support to help families reach their parenting goals connected with their babies.

I had the opportunity to use the nursing pillow myself and spend time with a group of wonderful women feeding their babies while utilizing this pillow and I am confident in sharing this new product with you. There’s no such thing as the perfect pillow that will work for every family but I do believe the new Ergobaby Nursing Pillow comes close. That’s why we’re giving away so many, we want to hear it from you. See more about the pillow and my take on it in the video below.
Happy breastfeeding and happy babywearing and good luck!

Cocoa Ergo

Ergobaby_NursingPillow

Ergobaby is giving away a dark cocoa brown organic baby carrier with their new natural curve nursing pillow to 10 lucky Leakies.

_____________________

Made with 100% Organic Cotton, the Dark Cocoa Organic Collection baby carrier offers the comfort and ergonomics that made Ergobaby’s name. (Retail value $140) The Ergobaby Natural Curve™ Nursing Pillow gives you the enduring support you need to relax, nurse comfortably and bond with baby. These 2 products  make bonding time with your baby memorable. (Retail value $70)

Total Retail Value: $210

Visit www.ergobaby.com for more information

______________________

Good luck to everyone!  Please use the widget below to enter. A big thanks to Ergobaby for their support of TLB and all breastfeeding women; please be sure to take a moment to thank Ergobaby on their Facebook page  for their show of support! You can also follow Ergobaby on Twitter and Instagram: username @Ergobaby

This giveaway is open to participants in the USA and Canada.

 Winner should expect 4-6 weeks for delivery of prize.
If prize is out of stock, Ergobaby reserves the right to substitute prize with equal value.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Pump Like a Pro – Washing Pump Parts

by Wendy Bell, CLE
Editor’s note: Be sure to check out the free wet bag special Snugabell has going on and you don’t want to miss the giveaway for Leakies at the end!

Breast pumping tips Snugabell PumpEase

Ask a Pumpin’ Mama and she’ll probably tell you how much space it takes up when you lay out a whole array of pump parts — bottles, lids and flanges — on the kitchen counter.  We all want to make sure everything stays clean and safe for our babies, but how much cleaning is enough? Let Snugabell help you pump like a pro!

Save the suds for the end of the day.  Especially if you’re at work all day or pumping multiple times, washing up after every use can turn into a drag pretty quickly.  Lucky for us, a quick rinse before storing in the fridge in between sessions is more than enough to keep everything clean and ready to go.  A good wash with hot, soapy water at the end of the day is all you need.

Don’t fret about sterilizing everything.  Unless your baby is brand new or has compromised immunity, a thorough washing with hot, soapy water should be all your pump parts require.  In fact, more severe cleaning — like boiling, for example — can even compromise and damage the plastic.  No need!

Pump like a pro with Snugabell PumpEase breast pumping tip for breastfeeding moms

Use a wet bag.  Whether you’re pumping at work during the day or just need a place to drop your wet pump parts between sessions at home, it’s hugely helpful to have a waterproof washable bag to get everything from point A to point B.  You won’t want those rogue milk droplets accumulating on the sofa cushion any more than you want them soaking into the nooks and crannies of your pump bag.  Solve the problem with a couple of handy, machine-washable wet bags to catch all your gear.

Speaking of wet bags, Snugabell is giving away a whole bunch of them right now!  To celebrate our SUPER exciting collaboration with Destination Maternity and A Pea in the Pod, we’re sending PumpEase customers one of our fabulous Wet Bag absolutely FREE.  Details here!

Breast pump

_________________

Snugabell is giving away two PumpEase hands-free pumping bras with matching wet bags to 2 lucky Leakies.

Total Retail Value: $106

The PumpEase design will securely hold your pump in place and is guaranteed to accommodate any breast pump on the market. The PumpEase bra like the one shown above makes multi-tasking a breeze for busy moms.

Visit www.snugabell.com for more information about PumpEase

_________________

Good luck to everyone!  Please use the widget below to be entered.  The giveaway is open from June 5, 2015 through June 12, 2015.  A big thanks to Snugabell for their support of TLB and all breastfeeding women; please be sure to take a moment to thank Snugabell on their Facebook page for their show of support! You can also follow Snugabell on Twitter and Instagram: username @snugabell

This giveaway is open to participants in the USA and Canada.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Family, Safety, and Innovation – Carseats with Great Values

“Since our company started Diono has worked to solve the real everyday worries and hassles parents face. Our first product idea was born from a family discussion on a documentary demonstrating the consequences of improperly secured car seats in collisions. Within the year family members had created a prototype (…)” – from the Diono website

We are thrilled that Diono, a company with a history of valuing people, family, safety, and innovation, has joined The Leaky Boob community. With their commitment “to providing car seat safety to families everywhere with innovative and advanced travel solutions” their presence here is a great fit. One of their CPSTs, Allana, has answered a few questions we had about Diono, car safety, and breastfeeding of course. Don’t miss your chance to win the brand new Diono Radian RXT carseat in Heather Grey below the interview in their first exclusive TLB giveaway!

Allana Pinkerton Headshot 2015

TLB: What would you like our readers to know about Diono? 

Allana: Diono is a company comprised of parents and grandparents and everyday people but with extraordinary talents! All the employees really care about their jobs and keeping kids safe. It’s a fun company to work for as things are always changing!

TLB: What kinds of values go into the creation of Diono products? 

Allana: Safety is our number one priority when it comes to developing products. Along with that, quality is very important to us. We know our consumers want high quality, long-lasting, sensible, and stylish products.

TLB: As a CPST, what is the one most useful piece of information that you share with parents about car seats and child safety? 

Allana: There are so many, it’s hard to name just one. I say it all the time, it is so important to read the manual…slowly, carefully so you get an understanding of how to use and install the product properly. At the very least you’ll know what questions to ask when you meet with a CPST for have hands-on learning and they “teach” you how to install the car seat.

TLB: What sets the Diono Rainier Convertible (or RXT) apart from other carseats on the market today? 

Allana: Hands down, the integrated full steel frame with a high rear-facing weight and forward-facing weight capacities. Plus, it could possibly be the only car seat you have to buy for your child because our convertible+boosters have a 10-12 year product life!

TLB: What is your favorite breastfeeding tip? 

Allana: Regarding safety, never take baby out to breastfeed while riding in a vehicle. We never know when a crash is going to occur, so it’s best to stop somewhere safe and take care of baby while the car is not moving.

On a personal note, don’t give up so easily. Breastfeeding can be a lonely activity when you’re a new mommy. It’s not so glamorous at the start, either. It takes a while to get your groove, especially if you didn’t grow up with it being the “norm.”

radianRXT heather

______________________

Diono is giving away one Radian RXT carseat in Heather Grey to one lucky Leaky!
Retail Value: $359.99

______________________

Here are some quick facts about the Radian RXT:

  • The only convertible+booster with a full steel frame and aluminum reinforced sides for unmatched safety
  • Fits 3 across is most vehicles
  • Extended rear-facing up to 45 lbs, forward-facing with 5-pt harness up to 85 lbs. and booster up to 120 lbs
  • Folds for easy storage and travel – FAA approved!
  • 10 year product life with 1 year limited warranty

Visit us.diono.com for more information about the Radian RXT carseat.

__________________

Good luck to everyone!  Please use the widget below to be entered.  The giveaway is open from May 22, 2015 through May 29, 2015.  A big thanks to Diono and Allana for their support of TLB and all breastfeeding women; please be sure to take a moment to thank Diono on their Facebook page for their show of support! You can also follow Diono on Twitter and Instagram: username @DionoUSA

This giveaway is open to participants in the USA and Canada.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Kangaroo Care Awareness Day Celebration with NüRoo

Kangaroo Care Awareness Day Nuroo Skin-to-skin increasing neural pathways

Today is Kangaroo Care Awareness Day, a day that’s near and dear to us, because it celebrates and highlights the practice of Kangaroo Care (KC), or Skin-to-Skin contact. We at NüRoo are extremely passionate about the practice, science and benefits of KC. So passionate about it, that we truly geek out and could talk about it all day!   But it wasn’t always that way….

We, Daniela + Hope, the co-founders of NüRoo, both had children before learning the importance of Kangaroo Care. Sure, we had heard of Skin-to-Skin contact and knew that it was good for mom and baby, but that was the extent of what we knew. It wasn’t until subsequent pregnancies, when our nurse midwives told us about the long-term benefits of the practice, that we truly understood what KC was all about. Our nurses explained that Kangaroo Care (KC) was a very specific way of holding baby, wearing only a diaper, vertically on mom’s bare chest. Continuous skin-to-skin contact stimulates a nerve in both mom and baby, sending a message to the brain to produce a hormonal cascade that delivers a whole ton of benefits.

We were AMAZED to learn that an uninterrupted 60 minutes of Kangaroo Care would accelerate baby’s brain development, reduce stress and crying, regulate baby’s body temperature, heart rate and breathing; increase their quality of sleep; enhance their immune system; stimulate digestion and weight gain; and increase breastfeeding behavior. Equally important, the practice offered benefits for mom that include a decreased risk of postpartum depression; increased milk production; reduction in postpartum bleeding, cortisol (stress) levels, and blood pressure; increased pain tolerance; and higher levels of psychological well-being.

Having received a taste of the science behind the practice, how could we not give and receive all those amazing benefits simply by cuddling our newborn?!

Each of us left the hospital bound and determined to practice KC with our babies, for at least an hour a day. But with active families, including toddlers, running around at home, who had an uninterrupted hour, much less 10 minutes, to lay with baby skin-to-skin in bed or on the couch? And so, the hunt was on for a product that allowed us to wear baby skin-to-skin while we were on our feet, hands-free, doing what we needed to do. And when we never found such a product out there, we decided to invent it ourselves, and the NüRoo Pocket was born!

Seeing the impact Kangaroo Care had on our babies charged and empowered us to advocate for this incredible practice for ALL moms and babies. Hungry to learn as much as we could, we went on to become certified by the US Institute for Kangaroo Care and continue to educate providers and moms alike on the many benefits of KC that extend far beyond bonding. If our story can leave you with one lasting though, may it be that skin-to-skin is not just a hospital based practice. Over 40 years of research proves that the best place for you and your baby to spend the fourth trimester and beyond, is together skin-to-skin! Learn more about the NüRoo Pocket and the science behind the practice at nuroobaby.com.

Nuroo breastfeeding kangaroo care awareness day

__________________

 Daniela + Hope are giving away 1 NüRoo Pockets Babywearing Shirt to 12 different winners to encourage and support Kangaroo Care Awareness Day and skin-to-skin time for moms and babies.

The NüRoo® Pocket is a babywearing shirt that offers full coverage and mobility for moms practicing skin-to-skin contact with their baby.  It also doubles as a hands-free carrier!  Extremely easy to get baby in and out of, without wrapping, tying or knotting.

  • The ‘cross and hug’ closures provide a custom fit as your body changes and your baby grows.
  • The fabric is super soft, breathable, moisture-wicking and offers just the right amount of compression to ensure proper position and continued support for both mom and baby.
  • It adheres to the sling carrier standards, which means it’s been tested up to 45 pounds.
  • A 2014 Editor’s Pick from What to Expecting When You’re Expecting!
  • Available in long-sleeve or short-sleeve in Black or Teal, Sizes XS – XL
  • Designed for pre- and full-term babies
  • Retails for $59.99

__________________

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*This giveaway is open to winners in the USA only.

Party Like a Leaky to Celebrate 5 Years of TLB, Part 3!

 The Leaky Boob is turning 5 years old and we’re celebrating ALL MONTH LONG! To celebrate we’re collecting and sharing your stories along with collecting some of our favorite maternity, breastfeeding, and baby products to give as gifts to YOU Leakies. Each week our celebration includes a different birthday bash bundle of prizes from our favorite brands, presents for Leakies. AND we’re growing! Some of us aren’t breastfeeding or bottle-feeding any more (and you thought it was going to last forever) but you’re still a part of our community and you’re still nourishing and loving your family so we’ve grown to expand two more communities where we can talk about our highs and lows of that journey in a safe, judgment-free environment. Over on BeyondMoi.com we talk a lot about, well, everything, specially about parenting and relationships. OurStableTable.com invites everyone to find a seat at the table embracing that sometimes there’s a little wobble in one of our legs, making room for allergies, and creatively nourishing our whole selves with recipes and a lot of honest conversation. Our family is growing and we’re happy to share it with you!


Let’s party like a Leaky this month and #TLBsupportForward!

Bundle #3

Here is what’s included in TLB’s Birthday Bash Bundle #3:

Arm’s Reach ConceptsBeautiful Dreamer Cocoon – Retail Value: $140
The Arm’s Reach® beautiful dreamer™Cocoon will help your baby sleep better by continuing the feeling of the womb, cradling newborns closely and gently swaying in response to their movement. Gentle motion not only soothes but also improves digestion, so it’s ideal for fussy babies. Because the back is adjustable, it’s a great solution for little ones with colic or reflux. Naturally stimulates and entertains baby while awake. Facilitates naptime. Babies learn to control the hammock’s sway with their own body movements, which entertains while encouraging physical activity.

Ameda: Purely Yours Double Electric Breast Pump – Retail Value: $194
Whether you are returning to work or want a fast and easy pumping experience, the Ameda Purely Yours double electric breast pump, designed for daily use, is the ideal breast pump. The Purely Yours breast pumps combine hospital recommended technology with mom friendly features.  Offering the same great pump through retail locations (on-line and brick-and-mortar), insurance benefits, and WIC you can depend on Ameda to provide moms with the tools they need to feed their baby.

Bonus from Ameda: Eat@Mom’s T-Shirt! – Retail Value: $15
All proceeds from the sale of the shirt go to Mother & Child Health Coalition in St Louis.

ErgobabyNatural Curve™ Nursing Pillow – Retail Value: $70
The Ergobaby Natural Curve™ Nursing Pillow gives you the enduring support you need to relax, nurse comfortably and bond with baby.

LILLEbabyCOMPLETE All Season Baby Carrier – Retail Value: $140
The LÍLLÉbaby COMPLETE baby carriers combines more carrying positions, lasts longer, and includes more features than any other baby carrier. The best of both worlds, this versatile hybrid is ready for whatever comes its way. Featuring an exclusive temperature-control panel that easily zips-up for warmth and zips-down to expose cool, breathable, 3D mesh. It’s lightweight, road-ready and built for daily use—be it in the brisk fall winds or blazing days of summer.

MotherloveMalunggay Breast Milk Supplement – Retail Value: $26
Indigenous to India and the Philippines, Malunggay is known as the “miracle tree” and is widely recognized for its nutritional benefits. It has been used for generations by breastfeeding women to help increase breast milk supply. Can be used during pregnancy.

Mamma-Kin LCCKoalaKin, Hands Free Nursing Pouch – Retail Value: $90
Breastfeeding may be natural, but it’s not always intuitive. That’s why we created the KoalaKin, Hands Free Nursing Pouch®… a unique sling that allows moms to perfectly position babies for nursing, giving them easy and inconspicuous access to the breast with minimal strain on the body, and freeing up your hands so you could stay active with older children and other interests.

The Dairy FairyThe Arden All in One Nursing and Handsfree Pumping Bra – Retail Value: $68
No mother in the land should be without the Arden All in One bra. Comfortable, beautiful and efficient. Nurse, handsfree pump, and adjust to fit your fluctuating breast size. Because you don’t have to choose between smart and sexy – you can have both, because you are both.

NuRooNuRoo Pocket – Retail Value: $60
The NüRoo® Pocket is a babywearing shirt that offers full coverage and mobility for moms practicing Skin-to-Skin Contact with their baby. It also doubles as a hands free carrier! Extremely easy to get baby in and out of, without wrapping, tying or knotting. The ‘cross and hug’ closures provide a custom fit as your body changes and your baby grows. The fabric is super soft, breathable, moisture-wicking and offers just the right amount of compression to ensure proper position and continued support for both mom and baby. It adheres to the sling carrier standards, which means it’s been tested up to 45 pounds. A 2014 Editor’s Pick from What to Expecting When You’re Expecting!

Molly’s Suds: Laundry Powder (70 loads) and one of our Wool Dryer Balls (set of 3) – Retail Value: $34
Comprised of only five earth-derived ingredients and formulated especially for sensitive skin, Molly’s Suds Laundry Powder is safe and ideal for your clothes AND your family. The super-concentrated powder is long-lasting and affordable, with just one tablespoon required per load. Just as effective as conventional brands and more effective than natural brands, without the use of harsh chemicals, toxins, fillers, carcinogens, preservatives or GMO ingredients. Works great in all water temperatures and hard water, and is septic- and High Efficiency (HE) washer-safe.

Replace the need for toxic fabric softeners with Molly’s Suds 100% hand felted Wool Dryer Balls, which last up to 1,000 loads, or three years, in the dryer, and reduce drying time by 15-30%. Sourced from humanely sheared sheep, our Wool Dryer Balls are compostable and antimicrobial, naturally soften fabrics, and are great for all laundry, including towels, comforters, clothing, baby laundry, delicates and cloth diapers.

Juno BluEsalen Breast Pump Tote – Retail Value: $185
The Juno Blu Esalen tote is a sleek urban alternative to the traditional breast pump bag. The trend-aware design makes this tote a hidden treasure for both the new and seasoned mother. The Esalen Tote’s sleek design is ideal for going to work, the park or on a play-date.

PebbleRainbow Bunny Rattle – Retail value: $22
This cheerful Bunny Rattle from Pebble is handmade and is bringing smiles to faces around the world. This fair trade product provides much-needed employment to mothers providing for their children in rural Bangladesh. Machine washable. 

Total Value of this bundle: $904

__________________

Good luck to everyone!  Please use the widget below to be entered.  The giveaway is open from April 15, 2015 through April 22, 2015.  A big thanks to all of the sponsors of this birthday giveaway bundle for their support of TLB and all breastfeeding women; please be sure to take a moment to thank them on their Facebook pages for their show of support!

This giveaway bundle is for U.S. only. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway