montana parent

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a FREE local publication

january 2015 | mtparent.com

montana parent growing up under the big sky

from birth to college

Pregnancy & New Baby

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January 2015 | mtparent.com

:: January ACTIVITY & EVENT CALENDARS + BLOG + MORE @ MTPARENT.COM ::

January 2015 | mtparent.com

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e

montana parent

PHOTO E. KELLEY PHOTOGRAPHY

in ma g a z

Need more information,resources or fun things to do with your kids this winter? visit

mtparent.com USA

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PUBLISHER MEDIA MAVENS LLC BUSINESS MANAGER/SALES/CO-OWNER CORA DESANTIS • [email protected] • 406.579.0746

BOZEMAN AREA (GALLATIN, PARK & MADISON COUNTIES):

JENNIFER PEPPER • 406.579.5915 [email protected]

EDITOR/ACCOUNTING/CO-OWNER LEIGH RIPLEY • [email protected]

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HELENA AREA (LEWIS & CLARK, BROADWATER, JEFFERSON COUNTIES):

AUDRA SHROPSHIRE • 773-895-6446 [email protected] ALYCIA HOLSTON • 406.422.2898 [email protected]

BUTTE AREA (SILVERBOW COUNTY):

CASSIE MEIXNER • 406.465.3610 [email protected]

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:

LEIGH RIPLEY SARA GROVES DONNA KELSCH THE MONTANA CHILDBIRTH COLLECTIVE GLORIA (RAVI INDER) OVERCASH ALI SCHWEITZER AMY LYNN STODDART KATIE SONNEK KELSEY TURNER BOZEMAN DEACONESS HOSPITAL HEATHER DICROSS PAM PONICH MARIE MITCHELL KATE BRYAN ELEANOR BARKER KIMBERLEE RAYNOVICH This magazine is printed on FSC Certified paper that is 100% a product of USA.

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January 2015 | mtparent.com

SHEL SEBREN SHON WEDDE WILLOW BLACK STEPHANIE MCDOWELL DEB WHEATON LAINE GALLEGOS JOSH OVERCASH MICHAEL ZACHARISEN STACEY TOMPKINS CARRIE BREWSTER CORA LARSON SIERRA FEIN JENNIFER PEPPER AMANDA OLSON NORA DANIELS DIANA JULIAN ELSIE JOHNSON ELEONORE SNOW © Copyright 2015 by Media Mavens LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without permission prohibited.

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS:

AMELIA ANNE PHOTOGRAPHY KELLY KUNTZ PHOTOGRAPHY E. KELLEY PHOTOGRAPHY BOZEMAN DEACONESS HOSPITAL DEB WHEATON NOW I LAY ME DOWN TO SLEEP SAMMY FARMER

Please recycle this magazine!

MAJESTY America the Beautiful

The Monumental Landscapes of Clyde Butcher Open Now! A new exhibit at MOR. Clyde Butcher’s visually arresting black & white photographs, emphasized by their epic presentation size, provide a stirring look at the American landscape. Join us at MOR for an extraordinary exhibit that captures America in all of its majestic beauty. Sponsored by:

Also on exhibit: Tough By Nature Portraits of Cowgirls and Ranch Women of the American West

! r a e Y w e N Happy

nty ne at 20Twe From everyo

20|Twenty offers Bozeman a better way of looking at you with the most comprehensive eyecare and eyewear practice in the Gallatin Valley. Make an appointment today with Dr. Sarah Hill or Dr. Sarah Kirkpatrick for all your family’s eyecare needs. Swing by to check out our selection of the latest in fashion eyeware. Call today to schedule your childs eye exam. We look forward to seeing you!

:: January ACTIVITY & EVENT CALENDARS + BLOG + MORE @ MTPARENT.COM ::

January 2015 | mtparent.com

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and more...

COVER PHOTOGRAPHER AMELIA ANNE PHOTOGRAPHY

PREGNANCY & NEW BABY MOMoirs Prepping Siblings for New Baby Dear Mama-to-Be Yoga for the Childbearing Year Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy Prenatal Fitness Guidelines You’re Not Really Eating for Two Dizziness and Vertigo New Year, New Babies Baby Poop: What’s Normal? You Are Your Child’s Shining Star Newborn Swaddling: It’s a Wrap Making up Songs Makes Musical Kids Is There an App for That? Tummy Time Baby, It’s Dry Outside A Healthy Start Birth Control After Baby…How to Avoid Irish Twins Could a Gluten-Free Diet Be Toxic to Our Kids? Studies Find Arsenic in Rice Pediatric Acupuncture Let the Brain Breathe and the Baby Thrive Maximize Your Newborn’s Immune System Letter to My 11-Year-Old The Greatest Loss

COLUMNS

BioScience Lab: Helping Families and Southwest Montana Communities Movie Lovers: Baby Fever Flicks Calendars The New Stepparent: “Do’s and Don’ts” Parenting Single Family Business: Bibs and Binkies Sleep 101: How to Prepare Your Baby for Sleep Elsie’s Tips: Love Story Mama’s Got a New Bag Shopping Directory Feature of the Month

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WHAT’S UP? MONTANA 6

January 2015 | mtparent.com

Bozeman 52 Butte 56 Helena 60

NOT ONLY ARE WE ALWAYS THERE WITH GUIDANCE AND SUPPORT, BUT

Montana Parent

ALSO SAVES YOU MONEY! Keep a copy in your car so you always have the coupons on hand. Follow our quick reference guide for on-the-go help:

Red Tractor Pizza: $50 off your next Red Tractor pizza making party Page 4 Holiday Inn: $79 room rate Page 9 Look At You: $99 Initial visit Page 23

Music Together: Try a Class for Free Page 29 Caleigh’s Holistic Skin Care: 20% Off Page 49 Bozeman Deals Page 58 Big Sky Cleansing: FREE consultation Page 59 Learning RX: $50 off a cognitive skills assessment Page 60

Helena Deals Page 61 Mama’s Got a New Bag: Free gifts Page 62

PHOTO KELLY KUNTZ PHOTOGRAPHY

January

Pregnancy + new baby

STRESS-FREE

HOLIDAYS Bazaar

Come discover the Magic of Montessori!

Join us for an Open House Thursday, February 5, 2015 3:45—5:30 p.m.

• • Meet our Montessori certified teachers and visit our six classrooms. • Tour our 8-acre campus and meet our goats and barnyard animals. • Presentations by teachers will be held at 4:15 in the Sunshine Primary and Lower Elementary classrooms. • Free child care is available.

Now Accepting Applications for Fall 2015 for Toddlers, Primary/Kindergarten, and Elementary Classes

1572 Cobb Hill Road • Bozeman, MT 59718 www.middlecreekmontessori.org • 406-587-3817 :: January ACTIVITY & EVENT CALENDARS + BLOG + MORE @ MTPARENT.COM ::

January 2015 | mtparent.com

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MONTANA STATE

BASKETBALL

$44 FAMILY FOUR PACK

4 tickets. 4 hot dogs. 4 drinks. 2 programs. GAMES TO CHOOSE FROM: *1.10 WBB vs. Weber State *1.24 MBB vs. Northern Arizona 2.7 MBB vs. Eastern Washington *2.21 MBB vs. Idaho State *2.28 WBB vs. Idaho *notes games with post-game autographs

Play on the bounce houses, get your picture taken with Champ & get autographs from the players!

msubobcats.com | 406.994.CATS

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January 2015 | mtparent.com

PHOTO E. KELLEY PHOTOGRAPHY

editor’s voice

WRITTEN BY LEIGH RIPLEY

A funny thing happens after you have a child. You cry… at everything. Seriously. New moms could form a “professional mourners club.” Invite them to a stranger’s funeral and, trust me, they will cry and mourn for the unknown deceased. Baby commercials set them off; and sappy holiday ads or sympathetic animal plights… bring on the water works. But sometimes it can be more serious than just hormonal blubbering. About four months after my third daughter was born I realized things were really going awry. Worries morphed into perseveration. Fears turned into impending doom. Life looked scary. What was awakened when that little baby who inhabited me for nine months was born? I didn’t feel this way after the birth of my first two children. Sure, my immediate feelings were of joy and elation; I was as mystified by her as I had been with my first two daughters. But slowly, I began to feel unlike my “normal” self.

Signs of postpartum depression,

courtesy of Acorn Pediatrics:

Postpartum depression occurs in around 13-20 percent of women after birth. Initially, postpartum depression feels like baby blues, but it is more intense and lasts longer. Most importantly, the symptoms interfere with your ability to take care of your baby, family and yourself. The symptoms are varied and can include: »» Loss of appetite

»» Insomnia »» Emotional numbness »» Scary thoughts »» Persistent and intense brain fog »» Feeling anxious and overwhelmed most of the time »» Feelings of regret over becoming a mother »» Intense irritability and anger »» Overwhelming fatigue »» Loss of interest in sex and general joy of life

I loved my three children and I was parenting well, but I was not well, not balanced. I was scared and sad and really worried about everything.

»» Feelings of shame, guilt or inadequacy

I’m putting this on paper so that you, all of you, know that postpartum depression is not something to hide or fear. It’s something you need to face head-on, with fierce resolve.

»» Withdrawal from friends or family/loneliness

Luckily, I had an amazing relationship with my doctor and we talked, we cried, we held hands, hugged and came up with a plan. I am so thankful for her. Being a new mom, or a third-timer in my case, changes everything including your chemical balance. Let’s face it, those little buggers share everything with you for a long time and, sometimes, they take a little with them. It’s up to you to get it back.

»» Severe mood swings »» Difficulty bonding with your baby »» General feeling of not being yourself »» Physical symptoms and body aches and pains without apparent cause »» Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby Make sure to see your medical provider if the symptoms don’t fade after two weeks, are getting worse or make it hard for to you to care for your baby or complete everyday tasks. Seek help immediately if you have any thoughts of hurting yourself or your baby. mp

Submitted by Lynne Foss, MSN, PNP-C and Anicee Acosta-Yearick, LPN with Acorn Pediatrics.

The Holiday Inn, Bozeman invites you to stay with the best:

Good Food. Good People. Great Service Reference the Montana Parent Magazine when booking your reservation and receive a $79 room rate January-February.

406.587.4561

5 E. Baxter Lane • Bozeman, MT 59715 :: January ACTIVITY & EVENT CALENDARS + BLOG + MORE @ MTPARENT.COM ::

January 2015 | mtparent.com

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As the longest standing OB/GYN practice in Bozeman, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive health care to women, including:

Leading the way in women’s health Tyler Bradford, MD

Stacy Shomento, MD

Fanee Freeman, MD

Samuel Sillitti, MD

Shelby Haugan, MD

Christene McDonnell, PA

Amy Korten, MD

Cassie Belzer, CNM, MSN

William Peters, MD

Lori Newman, CNM, FNP

• Obstetrics

• Annual Physicals

• Reproductive Medicine & Fertility Care

• Female Continence Services

• Gynecology

• Menopause Management

• Gynecological Surgery

• Minimally Invasive Surgery • Midwifery • Nutrition • Diabetes Counseling

For more information or to make an appointment, call (406) 587-9202 or 1-866-587-9202 or visit bozemanobgyn.com 925 Highland Blvd, Suites 1210/1220 • Bozeman, MT Monday-Friday, 8 am to 4:45 pm

Congratulations Kinley! December

Bobcat Baby of the Month. (Pictured: Kinley and her family and Dr. Shelby Haugan and her family)

Check out our Facebook page each month for the winners.

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January 2015 | mtparent.com

For an appointment, call (406) 587-9202 or 1-866-587-9202 www.bozemanobgyn.com 925 Highland Boulevard, Suites 1210/1220 • Bozeman, MT • M-F, 8 am to 5 pm

Like us on Facebook. Visit facebook.com/Bozeman Ob/gyn Billings Clinic

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& New Baby A guide for new Montana Parents. What to do. Where to go. How to do it. :: January ACTIVITY & EVENT CALENDARS + BLOG + MORE @ MTPARENT.COM ::

January 2015 | mtparent.com

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6 B A B Y ! E X P O th

Babes inBozeman

6

Celebrating

WRITTEN BY SARA GROVES

Years!

Due to arrive on

Saturday

March 28

th

10am - 4pm

at the

from

MOMoirs

Become a 2015 Baby Expo Vendor!

www.BabesinMontana.com

Baby Expo Photo Contest! Do you have a

Cute Buckaroo?

If so, we want to see them! get the details

www.BabesinMontana.com (Photo contest runs January 1 - March 1, 2015)

Let’s start this issue off with a bang. If you are preggo or recently delivered a baby, there are a lot of things on your mind…including re-gaining your pre-baby body. You’ll love this piece! Like most of America, I plan to kick off the New Year by vowing to lose weight to finally attain the slim and svelte body I am sure I possessed in a past lifetime. Losing weight and getting in better shape is never easy, but adding two growing boys into the mix makes it significantly harder. Since I have spent most of my adult life on and off various diets, I have learned that in dieting terminology, one might refer to my boys as “inhibitors.” Diet gurus advise those of us struggling to lose weight to avoid inhibitors at all costs because they have motives that involve seeing you fail in your weight loss battle. Of course avoiding your own children may be tempting, but it isn’t exactly practical. And while my boys don’t actively try to foil my pursuit of a thinner figure, they certainly don’t help any with their penchant for homemade mac-and-cheese for dinner and cake and ice cream for dessert. Throughout these meals, I endure their lipsmacking and exclamations of how delicious their dinners are as I crunch through a big bowl of vinaigrette-drizzled salad, my mouth watering for mac-and-cheese instead of the cold, raw, leafy greens in my bowl. As all dieters know, it unfortunately takes a lot more than eating giant bowls of lettuce to lose weight. You also have to lead an active lifestyle, which was also a lot easier before I had kids. Back then, I was able to hit the gym for hours when freshly motivated by New Year’s resolutions. At the time, my house also wasn’t

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January 2015 | mtparent.com

overflowing with sports equipment, stuffed animals and Legos so there was room for fitness equipment I’d seen on late night infomercials as I sat on the couch enjoying bowls of ice cream. The thin, muscular people demonstrating how to use these machines were almost as inspirational as the names of the machines themselves: The Ab Rocket Abdominal Trainer! The Total Fitness Burst Resistant Balance Ball! The Fitness Quest Gazelle Edge! I bought them all, set them up in the living room and used them religiously — at least for a while. These days, as a working mother of two young boys, I move more than ever. Sure, I’m not on my Ab Rocket Abdominal Trainer. But I don’t stop moving from the time my feet hit the floor at 5:30 a.m. to the moment I collapse into bed after 11 p.m. Yet all of this movement seems to have little effect on the scale. Obviously, I need to move more in a different way. But when exactly do I find the time to move more? Should I jog in place as I make dinner at night? Do jumping jacks in the shower? A friend of mine, who happens to be very fit, suggested that instead of just getting up at 5:30 every morning to practice yoga for an hour, I should get up an hour earlier. That way, I could move my yoga workout up to 4:30 and fit in an hour of cardio at the gym at 5:30, returning home just as most folks roll over to turn off their alarm clocks. Why not forsake sleep altogether in the pursuit of thin thighs?

“But I’m already always exhausted,” I replied. “I really can’t imagine getting any less sleep.” “Exercise is supposed to increase your energy levels,” she cheerfully offered. Perhaps, but the Total Fitness Burst Resistant Balance Ball was supposed to make me thin and toned, and that didn’t work either. Then again, nothing has ever really worked. In past dieting attempts, I have greatly limited my food intake by eliminating sugar, carbohydrates, dairy, wheat and caffeine. At one point, I think I subsisted on nothing but egg whites and lettuce for two months. Sure, this dieting method worked for a while, but I spent an inordinate amount of time daydreaming about shoving a Pixy Stix right into one of my main veins. And my boys regularly commented that I was even grouchier than normal. Then one day, as I was out with the kids, they spotted a Dairy Queen. One illegal lane change and 90-mph-turn-on-two wheels into the DQ later, we were all digging in to supersized ice creams and once again, life was good.

Livingston

Family-Centered Births

A personalized birth experience

“Helpful, kind and listened well. I am very happy with the care my family and I received and grateful for the encouragement given during my 24-hour labor. My daughter came into this world in a warm and loving environment and we could not be more pleased.” - Mom of a happy and healthy baby girl born at Livingston HealthCare

Those boys — if they hadn’t demanded DQ, I’d probably be modeling on the front cover of Fitness magazine right now. Perhaps dieting with children at home — with their desire for mac-and-cheese and ice cream and their toys taking up space where my Fitness Quest Gazelle Edge could go — is mission impossible. In fact, I’m sure it’s impossible. And thankfully, I know right where to find some leftover Halloween candy to celebrate the end of my diet! mp

Sara Groves lives in Helena where she is mom to Mike and Peter. She coordinates the early literacy program, Ready 2 Read, at the Montana State Library and also works as a freelance writer. 

Mother & Newborn Services | 406.222.3541 | LivingstonHealthCare.org

:: January ACTIVITY & EVENT CALENDARS + BLOG + MORE @ MTPARENT.COM ::

January 2015 | mtparent.com

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On the couch with Dr. Kelsch: Session 16

PHOTO AMELIA ANNE PHOTOGRAPHY

Prepping Siblings

for New Baby WRITTEN BY DONNA KELSCH

You are having a baby. I mean, the family is having a baby. It’s an exciting time that can also be stressful, which means anxiety ridden. Here are some simple steps to help alleviate anxiety and sibling rivalry, so you can celebrate and relish in the joy of a new child.

Prepare for the new baby »» Bozeman Deaconess and St. Peter’s Hospital both offer

classes to assist siblings in preparing for the baby. Children get to learn about babies and how families often change. They also get to see where their mom will be after she delivers the baby. Preparing children for the unknown allows them to feel like a part of the baby delivery.

»» Older children can look at pictures of their birth and

babyhood. More importantly, share stories of your excitement from when your older kiddos were born. Another technique is to put a baby picture of the older sibling(s) in a prominent place in the home and one in the new baby’s room.

»» Prepare the older child for how the family will change when

the baby comes home. Explain that mom will be tired and the baby will take a lot of mom’s time. The baby won’t be much fun for a few months and will basically just cry, sleep, poop, cry, pee, eat and sleep some more. Explain that crying is not

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January 2015 | mtparent.com

pain or anger but the only way the baby can communicate. Since we were adopting two babies, we decided to make their crying a game. We would see which one of us was best at distinguishing the different cries. Share the game with the older child to determine if the baby is tired, has a wet or dirty diaper, or is hungry. This will help them understand that crying is like talking for a baby. It’s also a great time to reinforce the concept of communicating through words to get what they want from you and not crying.

»» If the baby’s arrival means that a sibling will need to

change bedrooms, be sure to do this months before the baby arrives so the older child does not feel misplaced by the baby. Also be aware of any other major changes such as weaning, toilet training, starting preschool or child care. Make as many necessary changes months before the birth of the baby, or wait until after.

Homecoming

Have a birthday party and let all of the siblings help plan the party. They can make a cake and decorations for the baby’s arrival in the home. Since it is a birthday party, allow the siblings to buy gifts for the baby; preferably ones that you will need to buy anyway (pacifiers, bibs, pj’s, etc.).

Ways to prevent sibling rivalry For your sanity, here is some research regarding sibling adjustment when a new child enters the family. The child’s personality is the most critical factor in determining their adjustment. Children who bonded more closely with their mothers are the most upset after a baby is born, whereas children with closer relationships to their fathers tend to adjust better.

»» Your child may regress developmentally. If your child wants to be “babied,” do it. Each parent should spend 10 minutes a day of one-onone time with the older children directing an activity. Be prepared and plan on special time with all of the older children.

»» The other possibility is that older children may

act overly responsible for their new sibling. If your child is taking on too much responsibility, tell them you appreciate their help, but that you are the parents and can take care of the baby and them. Our son became overly mature. I was talking to him a few months after the adoption and asked if he was upset about adopting his brother and sister. His response frightened me. He said, “No, it was my decision.” Yikes. This told me we did a great job preparing him, but a bad job with setting boundaries. Thankfully, we had time to correct our mistake.

Regardless of whether your children regress or becomes overly mature, they need extra cuddling. Just make it a point to spend cuddle time with your other kiddos every day. Help older children put words to their feelings about the baby. Even negative feelings, if expressed, are a relief. Never deny the child’s emotions; listen and accept. Of course you can never allow any hurting, so give the child another manner of venting their hurt or angry feelings such as drawing or doing physical activities. Hopefully anyone who comes to visit the baby will be sensitive to the needs of your other children. Make sure they acknowledge and greet siblings before the baby. If they bring a gift for the baby, have some small gifts available for your older children in case the visitor didn’t bring anything for them. Most visitors will understand. Enjoy your blessing; it goes by so fast. As a friend recently told me, the days go slow but the years fly by. Cuddle and enjoy the long days. mp

Dr. Donna Kelsch is a licensed professional counselor with Tri Therapy. Tri Therapy provides counseling and assessments for teens, couples and families. Call 406-404-1009 for an appointment or contact her via web at tritherapymt.com or email [email protected]. Dr. Donna lives in Bozeman with her husband and three children. .

:: January ACTIVITY & EVENT CALENDARS + BLOG + MORE @ MTPARENT.COM ::

January 2015 | mtparent.com

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Birth with Us, Baby!

Dear

• • • • • • View Member Profiles on Facebook! [email protected]

Kundalini Yoga for the Whole Family! Kundalini & Hatha Yoga Pregnancy Yoga • Dancing For BirthTM Mommy & Me Yoga • Kids Yoga Yoga for Addiction Recovery Yoga for PTSD

We are the Montana Childbirth Collective. Our role is much like yours. We live, breathe, dream baby. We are a group of doulas, birth educators and birth professionals who have joined together to ensure that our community’s mothers are well cared for during this incredible life journey. We have your best interest at heart. We work for you. We take on your questions, your worries, your vision for birth with evidence-based information, non-judgmental care and continuous, loving support. We are “mothers” who are practiced at “mothering” you through pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period. Whether you are a first-time mom, or a seasoned one, you’ll find that an experienced guide during this very special time can be quite profound. As a collective, we support each other, continue our education and promote safe and healthy birth in our community so that you can have a positive, knowledgeable and trusting experience. Get to know us better by visiting us on Facebook or emailing us at [email protected]. Let us help you have the birth journey you desire. Sincerely yours, The Montana Childbirth Collective

Gloria “Ravi Inder” Overcash (406) 595-2547 blissfulfamilyyoga.com

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January 2015 | mtparent.com

mp

OTOGRAPH IA ANNE PH PHOTO AMEL

Providing support through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.

Welcome to the amazing, beautiful, emotional ride of pregnancy. By now, you must be wondering what you’ve gotten yourself into. Or, better yet, you’re reveling in the joyous wonder of nourishing new life. You’re getting a taste of what this new adventure will entail. You’re understanding what it means to unconditionally care for another. You’re sensing that big change is in your future. We are too.

Y

Mama-to-Be,

PHOTO AMELIA ANNE PHOTOGRAPHY

Yoga for the

Childbearing

Year

WRITTEN BY GLORIA (RAVI INDER) OVERCASH

I’ve had the great honor and pleasure of teaching pregnancy yoga and meditation in Bozeman for almost seven years. I first started sharing what I knew with my pregnant friends in my living room as soon as I returned home from the Khalsa Way Pregnancy Yoga Teacher Training Program in Hollywood, California. Being pregnant myself at the time, I relished the opportunity to witness how this yoga shifted my own life and my own perspective, and to see how it transformed the women around me. The days of teaching in my living room are long gone, and for the past several years I’ve been teaching at the Birth Place. Looking back on all the years of teaching the “blissful bellies” (who, of course, were so much more than bellies) and then meeting the subsequent beautiful babies is pretty darn heartwarming, and I’d like to share with you some insights I’ve gathered over the years. Let me be perfectly clear: Prenatal yoga and meditation is not just for super flexible yoginis, “crunchy granola” mamas or natural birth advocates. This yoga is not about achieving a perfect posture, a perfect pregnancy or a perfect birth. Just showing up and leaning in the right direction is enough to reap the benefits of yoga. Regular practice will develop strength and flexibility, increase body awareness and cultivate a meditative mind. Whether your baby is born at home in a birthing tub overseen by a midwife or through a scheduled cesarean section in the operating room, the meditative breathing techniques learned in class can help you stay centered and calm to navigate your birthing circumstances with ease, peace and grace. In the aftermath of either scenario, these meditations come in handy during the healing process and also to cope with the huge life changes and emotional hardships that can accompany motherhood. While prenatal yoga will certainly help you feel more comfortable in your pregnancy, stretch and strengthen your pelvic floor in preparation for birth, and keep you sane during those nine months, the greatest benefit by far is the community of mothers created in the classes. I’ve seen little “tribes” form each year, and some of these mothers have children in preschool and

kindergarten and still meet up for playdates. There is something really special about meeting other women in the same phase of life, bringing a new soul into the world the same time as you are. Embrace it. Find your tribe and stay connected. Your children will grow up together and you’ll grow together as mothers. Mommy & Me Yoga is offered for postpartum mothers with babies aged 6-weeks through 3-years. Mommy & Me Yoga is a wonderful way to get back on your mat without leaving your baby behind. Part of the class is focused on the baby, gently stretching the baby’s limbs and teaching movements to help calm baby and to relieve gas. The rest of the class allows the mother to model the importance of self care while she practices yoga alongside her baby, attending to baby’s needs as necessary. Motherhood can be hard on the body, so the yoga exercises to open the heart and adjust the spine are a welcome change from hours spent feeding and carrying babies in less than optimal positions. Of course we work those abs too, but the real beauty, again, is in the community of mothers. The most rewarding part of my job is when the babies grow into toddlers and imitate the yoga movements their mothers are doing on a mat right next to them. From the womb to the yoga room, these young children have been steeped in the practice and I look forward to continuing to watch them grow.

:: January ACTIVITY & EVENT CALENDARS + BLOG + MORE @ MTPARENT.COM ::

mp

Gloria (Ravi Inder) Overcash lives in downtown Bozeman with her husband and their two sons. She loves all things yoga, wellness and nature. Find her online at blissfulfamilyyoga.com.

January 2015 | mtparent.com

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Chiropractic Care

During Pregnancy WRITTEN BY ALI SCHWEITZER

THOMAS

FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC An all around family service to promote healthy living

Drs. Ali Schweitzer & Josh Prange offer: *Special Certifications in Pregnancy & Pediatric Care *Webster Technique Certification *Sport Rehab & Exercise Prescription *Craniosacral Therapy *Gentle adjustments for all ages

Pregnancy is a wonderful time in a woman’s life. Growing and preparing for a new arrival is a rewarding experience that can leave a woman feeling euphoric and glowing. There are, however, aches and pains that can come along with this, not to mention the birthing process itself. Women undergo a lot of changes in their body, mind and spirit in the nine months before they get to hold that precious little baby in their arms. The good news is that women don’t have to suffer through the “normal” aches and pains of pregnancy; chiropractic care can help.

Call to schedule an appointment

(406) 556-0307

www.thomasfamilychiropractic.com

Helena & Butte

Share Your Joy

Doctors of chiropractic can alleviate uncomfortable symptoms arising from muscular, ligamentous and biomechanical stressors encountered during pregnancy. This is accomplished through the use of a number of highly specialized, gentle, safe and effective adjustment techniques. These techniques keep the pelvis and spine in the correct position/ posture, reduce pain levels and reduce spinal and pelvic stresses that produce soft tissue pain. Adjustments also keep tissues and biomechanics functioning optimally to minimize complications during birth. Chiropractic care can help with many discomforts during pregnancy, including: low-back pain, mid-back pain, neck pain and headaches, sciatica and hip pain, groin pain, round ligament pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, nausea and much more.

First Trimester • Sk ype in out-of-town family • Keepsake DVDs and photos • Monkey recorded with your baby’s heartbeat • 3D4D technology

BEAUTIFUL • COZY • FRIENDLY ASK YOUR DOCTOR TO REFER YOU TO US Two locations: Helena 406.442.6356 | Butte 406.723.0023

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January 2015 | mtparent.com

During the first trimester of pregnancy, the body prepares itself for later stages by releasing the hormone relaxin. This hormone causes joints to become more relaxed, which creates changes in daily movements and affects weight-bearing joints in the pelvis. By keeping theses joints moving, the body can better adapt to biomechanical changes as the pregnancy progresses. The first trimester can also bring on morning sickness, headaches and other problems caused by various hormones going through the body. Chiropractic care can help by stimulating the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems and restoring balance to the nervous system.

Second and Third Trimesters

The second and third trimesters bring increased weight, expansion of the rib cage as the breasts continue to grow, sciatica and groin/round ligament pain, and fluid retention resulting in carpal tunnel. A chiropractic adjustment can alleviate these discomforts by restoring motion to the joints and relaxing the muscles associated with the affected joints. Chiropractors who are certified in the Webster Technique can help alleviate intra-uterine constraint, which can prevent the baby from comfortably assuming the best possible position for birth. Studies show that chiropractic care during pregnancy significantly reduces the length of time a woman labors. Adjustments can also reduce the likelihood of experiencing back labor, and chiropractic patients require fewer painkillers during delivery. Regular chiropractic adjustments can safely continue up until the time of birth. Throughout pregnancy and the birthing process, a woman’s body undergoes many stressful changes. Chiropractic adjustments quicken recovery time and assist in normalizing overall pelvic and spinal biomechanics. There is another aspect to think about after a woman gives birth...her child. The stress and trauma that an infant experiences during the birthing process has an impact on future health. As you have your child checked by your pediatrician, you should also have your child checked by your chiropractor for any spinal misalignments that may have occurred during the trauma of birth. Just as there is a gentle spinal adjustment for pregnant women, there is a soft gentle technique used to adjust the spinal vertebrae of an infant. mp

Dr. Ali Schweitzer practices at Thomas Family Chiropractic in Bozeman, MT. She is certified in pregnancy and pediatric care through the Academy of Family Practice and the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association. She is also Webster Certified. She lives in Bozeman with her husband, Dr. Josh Prange and their 20-month-old son, Brayden. She received chiropractic care during her pregnancy and highly recommends it for all pregnant women. Her son was also adjusted 20 minutes after he was born, to ensure a healthy spine and nervous system.

PHOTO AMELIA ANNE PHOTOGRAPHY

placenta. Skiing, sadly for most Montana mothers, does present some major risks as well. I know plenty of women who skied safely through multiple pregnancies and now ski with their babies in a backpack, but a hard fall is a risk to consider.

Prenatal Fitness Guidelines WRITTEN BY AMY LYNN STODDART

Pregnancy can be a thrilling period in life, particularly if it’s your first one. Many women, however, feel overwhelmed by the changes in their bodies and the conflicting warnings they hear about food and exercise. It seems we begin to worry for our children almost the moment they are conceived. For most healthy women though, pregnancy should not be treated as an illness or condition that causes you to drastically change your lifestyle. Sure, you’ll need more rest and more calories to grow that baby, but your lifestyle can remain essentially the same as pre-pregnancy if you are a healthy woman. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) and the American Society for Obstetrics and Gynecology (ASOG) recommend that normally healthy pregnant women may continue an alreadyestablished exercise regimen. This somewhat contradicts the guidelines of the mid 1980s, which suggested that women not exceed a maximum heart rate of 140 beats per minute (bpm). Pregnant athletes at the amateur and professional levels found this challenging, to say the least, because 140bpm didn’t come close to their pre-pregnancy level of workout. In 1994, ACOG revised these guidelines but failed to address the maximum bpm. So, if pregnant women can’t use a suggested heart rate to assess safety in their workouts, what factors should they use as guidelines for keeping themselves and their babies safe while enjoying pleasurable and necessary exercise? Dr. James Clapp’s 2002 book Exercising Through Your Pregnancy provides more reasonable guidelines for pregnant athletes who wish to continue their pre-pregnancy

levels of exercise. He asserts there are three areas of concern when exercising while pregnant: hyperthermia, sports injuries and oxygen deficit. Hyperthermia, a higher-than-normal body temperature, is a concern particularly in the first trimester when the fetus cannot regulate its own body temperature and is most susceptible to its mother’s. This condition has the possibility of leading to birth defects, although fit clients have an easier time dissipating heat, so the high risk is with mothers who begin a new fitness program or amp their old one during pregnancy. To prevent over-heating, wear loose fitting, light clothing; avoid exercise in the heat of the day; drink plenty of water and avoid increasing pre-pregnancy levels of exercise. Clapp recommends a temperature increase of no more than 3 degrees Fahrenheit and a post-exercise temperature no higher than 102 degrees F. Sports injuries from falls or contact sports can affect both the mother and child. When a woman is pregnant, the relaxin hormone works to loosen and open her body to prepare for delivery, therefore all connective tissue becomes more open and mobile. This can result in falls, instability of the pelvis and knee joints, and precarious balance, at best. Be thoughtful about alignment of the lower leg, be cautious getting on and off that treadmill and be certain that your fitness instructor keeps you in safe ranges of motion. Contact sports are not the best choice for pregnant mothers. Extreme blows to the abdomen can damage both the baby and the

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Oxygen deficit is most commonly a concern for unfit women or women with inconsistent levels of training who attempt to take on an unusually strenuous exercise during pregnancy. Women who train regularly, and whose fetuses therefore train regularly with them, are more able to adapt to the stresses of exercise. Increased blood flow, and therefore decreased levels of oxygen to the fetus, can have catastrophic consequences. So be reasonable; listen to your body. If you are totally sucking wind, slow down. Enjoy the changes in your body and know there will be plenty of time to run with that baby in the jogging stroller in just a few short months. Remember, babies stop moving when they are not getting enough oxygen, so be mindful of fetal movements before, during and after exercise. Your run might lull that babe to sleep, but in the hours following the workout you should be aware of movement. If you practice Pilates or yoga during pregnancy, it is important to consider avoiding exercises that have you lying supine for extended periods of time. While there is much conflicting information on the validity of claims that the supine position after the first trimester can put too much pressure on the inferior vena cava (the vein that returns blood to the heart from the torso and legs), I typically avoid it in my pregnant clientele. In my opinion, why risk it? A good practitioner should be able to provide you with a plethora of modifications in seated positions that achieve the same or better goals. If, despite your overall health and maintenance of the same level of exercise, you experience abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, nausea, dizziness, shortness of breathe or similar concerns, contact your physician or midwife immediately. No two pregnancies are exactly alike (even for the same woman) and it’s important that your care provider be aware of your fitness program and its relationship to your growing fetus and changing body. mp

©Amy L. Stoddart is owner of Bridger Pilates and Wellness in downtown Bozeman. Information on Pilates instruction, massage therapy, and dōTERRA essential oils can be found online at www. bridgerpilates.com. Amy is a STOTT Pilates Certified Instructor, holds an MFA in Dance and is Resident Choreographer of the Montana Ballet Company.

January 2015 | mtparent.com

19

You’re Not Really

Eating For Two WRITTEN BY KATIE SONNEK

PHOTO AMELIA ANNE PHOTOGRAPHY

sugar-sweetened beverages is also important. Lastly, boosting daily intake of low-calorie vegetables to two or three cups per day will help women feel fuller and satisfied, along with providing a wealth of important vitamins and minerals.

Pregnancy changes everything about your life and your body. It brings with it emotional ups and downs as well as strange cravings for foods that may or may not be healthy. But pregnancy doesn’t have to be a time to lose sight of nutrition and your health. Whoever coined the phrase “eating for two” did more harm than good. In actuality, pregnancy only requires an average of 300 extra calories per day and an extra 10 grams of protein per day. Here are some examples of foods that get the job done in a healthy way:

»» A cup of low-fat milk and half a sandwich »» A slice of cheese with five-to-eight crackers and a cup of raw vegetables »» A cup of low-fat yogurt topped with a few nuts and one cup of strawberries

Gaining Weight Rapidly?

Pregnant women who find they are gaining weight quickly can put the brakes on by increasing their daily physical activity. Walking and swimming are particularly good for pregnancy. In addition, limiting high fat foods – such as sausage, hot dogs, high-fat snack foods, cream, sauces, fried foods, butter/margarine, gravy and regular salad dressings – is a good idea. Limiting or avoiding excess calories from regular soda, juice, lemonade and other

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January 2015 | mtparent.com

What If You Have The Opposite Problem?

Pregnant women with extreme morning sickness might find it difficult to keep food down. This might cause concerns about the nutrition of the baby. Not to worry; a woman’s body is amazing in its ability to prioritize getting the essential nutrients to a developing baby, even when the mother is frequently getting sick. Here are some helpful tips to control nausea and vomiting:

»» Eat small frequent meals/snacks six times per day.

»» Keep easy-to-digest foods, such as crackers and pretzels, readily available during the day.

»» Drink water or other beverages between meals (not with the meal).

»» Eating ginger or drinking ginger ale may help.

»» Eat low-fat foods because they are easier to digest. High-fat foods can increase nausea.

»» Cold foods are generally better tolerated than hot foods when you’re nauseous.

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In extreme cases, anti-nausea medicines can be helpful in controlling the nausea/ vomiting so that a pregnant woman can eat and drink adequately. Talk to your doctor before taking any medications.

What About After Baby Is Born?

Postpartum life can be hectic and chaotic with the demands of caring for a newborn. New mothers shouldn’t neglect proper nutrition and should eat a healthy, balanced diet similar to the one followed during pregnancy (but adjusted in calories depending on whether a mom is breastfeeding), to keep energy levels up. Breastfeeding requires more healthy calories than pregnancy (about 500 extra calories per day) and has been shown to help women lose weight. A gradual weight loss of 0.5-2.0 pounds per week is recommended postpartum for a woman to return to her prepregnancy weight within one year of delivering her baby. Any “baby weight” a woman retains at one year postpartum tends to be much harder to lose. An occasional treat or special craving is probably going to happen during pregnancy. That’s OK. Just make nutrition and physical activity a priority throughout. You’ll feel better and have an easier time getting back to normal, well, the new normal that includes a wonderful addition to the family.

Our goal is to have you lead a healthy life free of allergy or asthma symptoms.

www.allergymontana.com (406) 582-1111

Bozeman, Montana EsT. 2000

Michael C. DiCello, MD

Diplomate American Board of Allergy & Immunology

Cindy K. Feddes, FNP

Certified Asthma Educator

Providing Chiropractic Care for All Stages and Ages: Pregnancy Pediatrics Neuro-Sensory Development Nutritional Counseling Pre-Natal Education Classes 1276 N 15th Ave Suite 104 Bozeman, MT 59715 406-587-6264 www.medicinehandswellness.com

mp

Katie Sonnek, RD, LN is a registered dietician at Bozeman OB/GYN Billings Clinic. She lives in Bozeman and is the mother of two very energetic and fun little girls.

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January 2015 | mtparent.com

21

Dizziness and

Vertigo

WRITTEN BY KELSEY TURNER

How are dizziness and vertigo related to a difficult pregnancy, bed rest, an ICU stay and/or prolonged hospitalization? Let’s start with a difficult pregnancy. As many of you likely know, the birth process is not easy. Some result in unwanted C-sections, some in long, painstaking labor and some in bed rest. Bed rest can range from spending most of the day lying or sitting to staying in a hospital bed closely monitored by hospital staff as in a prolonged hospitalization or during an ICU stay. I would like to highlight two potential side effects, among the many established physiological and musculoskeletal ramifications, of bed rest: dizziness and vertigo. Dizziness is an imprecise term used to describe a variety of disorienting symptoms. Dizziness is subjective and everyone experiences it differently. Some additional terms people use to describe dizziness include disequilibrium and lightheadedness. Vertigo is the illusion of movement of oneself or the environment, most frequently described as “spinning.” It is typically due to lesions that cause loss of function (e.g., vestibular neuritis) or mechanical problems of the inner ear (e.g. benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, a.k.a: mobilized crystals in your inner ear).

How do dizziness and vertigo relate to bed rest? »» Rooted deep in our ears are two small

organs frequently referred to as the “inner ear” or, formally, the vestibular system. It is one of the systems we use for balance because it provides our brains with information about the position

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January 2015 | mtparent.com

and motion of the head in reference to gravity. The brain uses this information in combination with other sensory systems, vision and pressure sensors in our extremities to construct a picture of the entire body and surrounding environment. Movement of the head stimulates the vestibular system. You can think of it as a muscle that needs exercise, just like the rest of the muscles in our bodies. When an individual is put on bed rest, their mobility is restricted, which in turn decreases the movement of the head thereby decreasing the stimulation to the vestibular system. This causes the system to become weak and provide poor information for balance. Clinically, this will present as dizziness and imbalance.

»» Dizziness may also originate from a

drop in blood pressure (also known as orthostatic hypotension) when transitioning from lying on one’s back to sitting or from sitting for a prolonged period of time to standing. Common symptoms include dizziness or lightheadedness. Dizziness is also a common side effect of many medications.

»» Basically, there are two very common

vestibular system disorders. One is called Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV); the other is Vestibular Neuritis. BPPV is characterized by brief episodes of disabling vertigo that occur when the head is moved into specific positions. This condition does not pose a specific threat to a pregnant mother other than increasing her risk of falling and sustaining a potential injury. Vestibular neuritis is characterized by the acute onset of severe rotational vertigo that is exacerbated by head movement and associated with postural imbalance and nausea.

Main Causes of Dizziness During Pregnancy Dizziness during pregnancy is most often due to the influx of additional hormones traveling in the body. These hormones act to relax and widen the blood vessels in the body to promote increased flow to the developing baby, which reduces the amount returned to you. This will cause your blood pressure to lower and create dizziness similar to orthostatic hypotension. During the second trimester, this can be exacerbated when lying on your back because the weight of the baby will put pressure on the inferior vena cava, the large blood vessel that returns blood from your feet and legs back toward the heart. Additionally, dizziness may come from low blood sugar levels that occur as your metabolism changes and shifts food sources to the growing baby.

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Can I Prevent Dizziness During My Pregnancy?

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There are many simple solutions to avoiding dizziness during pregnancy, including:

»» Avoid remaining in one position for too long

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(lying on the couch, standing, driving, flying, etc.). If you must, please consider getting up or moving your legs and arms frequently to encourage blood flow or move slowly to allow your blood pressure to rise.

»» Remember to snack frequently throughout the day to nourish the developing baby and keep blood sugar levels regular.

»» Be careful when taking showers, as excessive heat can also cause a drop in blood pressure.

»» Again, try to avoid lying on your back during

the second trimester to keep adequate blood flow to your body.

Treating dizziness and vertigo has become a specialty practice. It is the responsibility of specially trained physicians and physical therapists to identify and differentiate between the multiple potential causes of dizziness or vertigo discussed above. There are multiple maneuvers and specific tests that can be performed to quickly assess the origination of the symptoms. These providers can be researched on websites such as www.vestibular. org, www.balanceandmobility.com, and www. apta.org. mp

Kelsey Turner PT, DPT, is a vestibular physical therapist at Advanced Performance & Rehabilitation Services in Bozeman, Montana.

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PHOTOS BOZEMAN DEACONESS HOSPITAL

New Year,

New Babies

Every year more than 1,200 babies are born at Bozeman Deaconess Family Birth Center, where the care and comfort of mother and baby is always the top priority. While waiting for their new arrivals, mothers are pampered with pre- and post-birth luxuries such as whirlpool spa baths, digital entertainment centers and aromatherapy.

The Bozeman Deaconess Family Birth Center is always happy to give parentsto-be a tour around the place. Visit the relaxing labor/delivery rooms, test out the customized beds and get an introduction to the birthing ball. See the Jacuzzis, showers and other comforts. You’ll see the day’s newest members of the community in the nursery. You’ll also have a chance to view the technologically advanced facilities for accommodating difficult deliveries. All in all, it’s a good way to get to know what to expect and get answers from experts. Having a baby is a big deal that entails a lot of decisions. At Bozeman Deaconess Family Birth Center, they make every effort to inform you of your options, help with decision-making and fulfill your wishes. They’ve got plenty of experience— in fact their nurses have more than 500 years of experience among them. They also offer plenty of classes to help

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January 2015 | mtparent.com

prepare you for what’s to come. Their experienced nurses teach a childbirth course that covers prenatal health and the challenges of pregnancy, caring for a newborn and everything in between. These classes are offered once a week for five weeks in the evenings or in a two-day weekend class. Learn tips and techniques for successful breastfeeding from a lactation consultant in our prenatal breastfeeding class. There are even courses for expectant brothers and sisters, education for babysitters and training in performing CPR on infants and children. Labor can be stressful, so the Family Birth Center offers a number of relaxing options to provide comfort as you await your new arrival. They have wireless telemetry to monitor you and your baby during labor so you won’t be confined to a bed. Fetal monitoring continues to track the vital signs of your baby while you take a restful stroll or relax in a whirlpool spa. Through it all, you’ll be cared for by an experienced, understanding nurse who stays with you all the way. The Family Birth Center offers a variety of ways to help control pain during labor and delivery. A talk with your doctor and a pain specialist will help you determine what approach will work best for you. Choices may include analgesics or anesthesia.

Analgesics relieve but do not eliminate pain; anesthesia removes all sensation, but it can be administered so that it leaves you awake and alert. Cesarean births usually are performed with regional anesthesia, and only occasionally with general anesthesia, during which the mother is asleep. No matter how you choose to manage pain during childbirth, the experts at Bozeman Deaconess Family Birth Center will help make the experience as comfortable and safe as possible. Once your baby is delivered, you’ll relax and recover in a room that is more like home than a hospital. For starters, the postpartum rooms are tastefully decorated with a comfortable bed and some even have double beds so your partner can relax with you. TVs and DVD players are available as you wish. And for those times when you need to relax, try a massage offered by one of our nurses. The Family Birth Center encourages 24hour rooming in (even after C-section births). You may have a special person (perhaps your husband, mother or friend) stay with you and your baby. We have beds in the rooms just for this purpose, or recliners that are a cozy comfort in the middle of the night. Visitors can come and go, or stay away, at your discretion. It’s up to you—peace and quiet or as much comforting activity as you wish. Welcoming babies into the world is, without question, the happiest thing that happens at Bozeman Deaconess Hospital. To return the favor, we work at making it a happy experience for you and your family. mp

Baby Poop:

What’s Normal? WRITTEN BY HEATHER DICROSS

I bet when you thought about becoming a mom or dad, you never imagined you’d be so obsessed with poop. The contents of your baby’s diaper become like smoke signals, one of the few ways they can communicate if they are OK. So what is normal and when should you worry? Let’s start with the basics. Babies are usually born before they have their first poop, so they are born with a tight anal sphincter (hole where you poop) and weak abdominal muscles. Therefore, all that grunting and pushing you see is just a normal part of infant bowel movements. Newborn poops can occur 1-to-8 times per day and be normal. As an infant grows, frequency of stooling (doctor talk for poop) can decrease or change with diet changes, such as starting cereal. Breastfed infants will have soft, yellow, somewhat seedy stools that don’t smell like regular poop. Formula-fed infants will have soft to slightly formed yellow to brown poops. Some infants will pass large formed stools normally every other day without discomfort. Babies who are fed soy formula have poops similar to babies on other formulas, but their poop may smell different.

Color Clues:

In pediatrics, there is a saying that babies can poop any color of the rainbow, and color is seldom an issue to worry about. Here are some of the most common colors you may see:

»» Greenish black: This sticky, tarry poop

happens in the first two days of life. It is called meconium.

»» Greenish brown: Occurs day two through five as baby begins digesting milk.

»» Yellow: Usually starts around day five of life. »» Brown or Tan: Formula-fed infants will begin to have more brown or tan poops.

»» What else is normal? Both breast- and

formula-fed infants can vary in how frequently they poop. Occasionally they can skip a couple of days, and as long as the poop is soft and not painful to pass when it comes out, that can be normal too. Older babies who are eating solids may have poop that is colored by the food they ate or may have chunks of food in it. Poop blow-outs (more than the diaper can contain), are not a health problem, just a laundry problem. Farting like a truck driver? That’s normal too.

When to Worry: »» Black, white, light grey, and red or bloody

poops are not usually normal. If you’re concerned, take a picture or bring the diaper in for your baby’s doctor to see.

»» Consistently watery (diarrhea) stools are

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not normal, although very soft stools can be normal.

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»» Pebbles of stool (constipation) that are hard

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to pass (baby cries with passage) or difficult to smoosh in the diaper are not normal.

»» If you are concerned, contact your baby’s

health care provider. If you are just a little worried, ask an experienced mom or dad – believe me, they are used to talking about poop.

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Constipation is the most common belly problem in young children.

If you think your healthy older infant is a little constipated, here are some measures you can take:

»» Apple, pear or prune juice: 2-to-4 ounces daily

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Gear from retail stores brands such as Baby, Maxi-Cosi, and More.

»» Glycerin suppository: One-time dose inserted

into the bottom as needed (should not be used regularly)

»» Formula with iron should be used: Low-iron

formulas increase your baby’s risk for anemia, and the amount of iron present in regular formula doesn’t cause constipation

»» Older infants who are eating solids can be

given high-fiber foods, such as pureed or finely chopped apricots, prunes, pears, plums, sweet potatoes, spinach or peas (the fresher the better) mp

*If your child has any underlying health conditions or is less than 6-months-old, talk to your health care provider before trying any of these remedies. Dr. Heather DiCross, called Dr. “D” by her young patients, is a Pediatrician at Livingston HealthCare.

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Hours Open: Tuesday - Friday 10am-5pm Location: 717 East 4th Ave Big Timber, Mt 59011

406-932-6461

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and social skills and are much more likely to live happy, successful lives.

YOU

Are Your Child’s

Shining Star WRITTEN BY PAM PONICH, LCPC, INTERMOUNTAIN CLINICAL SUPERVISOR

Abigail watched from behind the one-way As it turns out, babies need much more from mirror, amazed as her 10-month-old son, Eli, their parents. In fact, more than 50 years of briefly explored the playroom, scurried on attachment research has proven that the most all fours, picked up (and tasted) a few plastic important thing that caregivers provide is the blocks, then sat up and suddenly looked gift of safety. In order to develop and thrive, around. Realizing that his mom was nowhere babies have to know that there are adults in in the room, Eli crawled to the door and began their world who will always be there for them to whimper and then wail (really loudly). When – and not just to feed them and keep them in she came back into the room, Eli hurried dry diapers. Even more important is the trust to her and stretched that comes from knowing that out his arms begging to whatever happens, their caregiver AUTHOR PAM PONICH be scooped up. Abigail will be there for them and WILL BE OFFERING obliged and instinctively therefore their world is safe. A CLASS ON CIRCLE picked up her infant son, OF SECURITY IN hugging him close and Parents may need help JANUARY. CONTACT cooing, “It’s OK honey, understanding how important INTERMOUNTAIN AT mommy’s here.” they are to their children and 406-457-4810 FOR how to show their kiddos they MORE INFORMATION. Little Eli instantly are truly there for them, holding calmed in the safety of them in their hearts and minds his mother’s arms. And and keeping them safe. This is then, once again, he was off to check out the where Circle of Security Parenting comes in. wonders of the playroom. “I never knew I was Circle of Security was developed several years so important to him,” Abigail said later. While ago by a team of child and family therapists in parents usually see their baby as the center Spokane, WA, who understood that helping of their world, having planned and waited for parents identify and meet their children’s their little bundle of joy for nine months, they emotional needs could go a long way toward don’t always understand how important they building secure, strong attachments in families. are to their children. Sure, parents are the Attachment research tells us that, by building source of food, shelter and dry diapers but healthy attachments in early childhood, beyond that, what more could an infant care children will ultimately grow to develop higher about? self-esteem, stronger academic, vocational

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January 2015 | mtparent.com

The tenets of Circle of Security are so simple, yet can be easily missed by even the most well-meaning new parents. In a nutshell, Circle of Security teaches that parents/caregivers absolutely must be a safe, secure base for their children so that they learn to trust the world. Though parents do not need to be perfect by any means, it is very important that young children learn by experience that, when they have emotional needs (e.g., to be comforted, to be enjoyed, to have help in organizing their difficult feelings), their parents will be there for them. One of the most basic but most important tools taught by the Circle of Security method is to simply be with your child. That is, no matter what is going on, no matter how fussy or upset or playful your child is, you are truly “there” for her, attuning to her feelings and needs and unconditionally just being fully present. The power of this is immense. And it sounds so easy, right? Unfortunately, in our busy, multitasking, technology-filled lives, it is actually a huge challenge. We are frequently not truly available to, and emotionally present for, our little ones. Babies give us cues about what they need hundreds of times a day and sadly, many of these are missed while we are on our smartphones (not so “smart” in the world of healthy attachment, by the way), working on our computers or watching the evening news. And, since babies are born wired for relationships, they will continue to let their caregivers know what they need, even if they need to get loud and distressed to do so. But if they learn that becoming upset, scared and fussy (like little Eli when his mom left the room) is the only way to get their emotional needs met, they are likely to continue this negative “connection-seeking” into their later years. Circle of Security teaches parents that by simply paying better attention to our children and meeting their needs for connection and closeness up front (“filling their emotional cup”), they will feel more relaxed, content and safe. And once this sense of safety is established, our children will more readily and confidently explore their surroundings, learning and growing with each new discovery.

mp

Pam Ponich, LCPC, Clinical Supervisor, Intermountain has many years of training and experience in the counseling field and has held her current position as Clinical Supervisor for a year. She is a registered Circle of Security facilitator.

Corner on Health

PHOTO KELLY KUNTZ PHOTOGRAPHY

Newborn Swaddling: It’s a Wrap WRITTEN BY MARIE MITCHELL

“When I told my grandma about my fussy newborn, she said to swaddle him. That sounds so old fashioned. Is it even safe?”

What is swaddling?

Swaddling is a method of wrapping a newborn to restrict movement. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is neutral on swaddling, but does offer advice to parents who choose to use this comfort measure. Dr. Harvey Karp, author of Happiest Baby on the Block, likens swaddling and his soothing techniques as a sort of “4th trimester” as the baby adapts to the first few months of life outside the womb. Swaddling seems to work in calming fussy babies, so what’s the controversy?

Safety

Studies have not conclusively linked swaddling to either preventing or increasing the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Swaddled infants are usually soothed into sleep because they feel more secure tightly wrapped. However, if not snug enough, the wrap can become loose and pose a suffocation hazard. If the wrap is too tight, it might restrict breathing. Improper swaddling is also associated with hip problems. Thus, it is important to know how to swaddle an infant properly. When swaddled babies roll over, they may not be able to roll back or get their faces off the mattress. For this reason, the AAP recommends parents stop swaddling by the age of 2 months. If babies are showing signs of getting ready to roll over, stop swaddling sooner. Arousal is thought to reduce the risk of SIDS, but swaddling may decrease this protective activity. Consider offering a pacifier, as sucking may provide some stimulation. Finally, being swaddled, which keeps arms and legs securely wrapped, may cause the baby to become overheated.

How to swaddle your baby correctly

Swaddling resembles wrapping a burrito. The wrap should be snug enough so it does not pose a suffocation hazard, but loose enough to allow for adequate breathing. If using a purchased swaddling wrap, make sure the fasteners are secure so the wrap does not loosen. There should also be movement at the hips. The AAP’s step-by-step instructions on how to swaddle correctly can be found at www.healthychildren. org. For step-by step instructions by Harvey Karp, MD., Google Swaddling 101. Videos are available in English and Spanish at www.choa.org/Patients-Families/ New-Parents/Swaddling and the Mayo Clinic offers a slide show on their website, www.mayoclinic.org. Consult with your health care provider about swaddling if your baby is excessively fussy, premature or has health issues. mp

©Marie Mitchell is nationally certified as both a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She is the owner of Four Corners Health Care and is accepting new patients as she moves into her 9th year of practice at Four Corners in Bozeman. For more information call 556-8300 or visit www.fchealthcare.com.

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Swaddled or not, Protect against SIDS »» Babies should always be placed on their backs to sleep. »» Do not sleep with your baby; have him in a separate bed. »» Provide a firm mattress, no waterbed, pillows or sheepskin. »» The crib should have nothing loose in it such as blankets, pillows, bumper pads or toys. »» A pacifier may help the baby self soothe. »» Make sure your baby is not too warm. »» If you cover your baby with a blanket rather than swaddling, use a thin one and position your baby at the foot of the bed. Tuck the blanket under the mattress on the bottom and sides, having it come up only to baby’s chest. »» Know how to swaddle correctly. »» Stop swaddling at 2 months of age or sooner if your baby is making movements to roll over.

January 2015 | mtparent.com

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PHOTO KELLY KUNTZ PHOTOGRAPHY

Making Up Songs Makes

Musical Kids WRITTEN BY KATE BRYAN

According to a Harris Poll this past July, nearly 7 in 10 (69 percent) parents report singing to their children, yet the majority (55 percent) do it only once a month and 41 percent do it only once a week. Only 17 percent of parents sing to their children daily. We teach children language by continuously talking and reading to them. But, imagine if you only talked to your child once a month? As with reading, regular participation and engagement with music can have a huge impact on our children’s desire to engage in (and thus develop skills related to) music. One of the things I love to do in my Music Together classes is to take one of the simpler songs in a collection and let the kids help make up new words. It’s gratifying to see the kids light up when I ask them a question (What’s your favorite food? What’s your dog’s name?), and then incorporate their responses into a song. It engages their creativity and helps them connect with the music in a very personal way. And kids are never too young to start. I’ve seen this work great with babies by connecting the song with an active motor skill (e.g., “Look at Bella bouncing,” and then including the word “bounce” in the song). So, if singing to your kids each day can help develop their musical selves, how can you jump in and get comfortable singing to/with your

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child as part of your day? First, make it part of your routine. Second, use a simple and familiar tune (e.g., “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star”). Third, make it fun and silly.

three green peas, I like to eat, I like to eat. June puts them in her mouth to chew, there’s three for her and some for you. Three green peas…one, two, three (while eating).”

Here are a few ideas that illustrate how you can make music daily, almost anywhere.

CREATE SONGS That Motivate

CREATE SONGS While Out and About

Make up a song about something you’re doing right now. Let’s say you’re at Lindley Park; make up a song about that experience. Ask your child what they are doing or what they see. For instance, your song might come out like this (sung to the tune of “Twinkle Twinkle”), “Walking, walking in the park, see kids play, doggies bark. There’s a tree so green and tall. There’s a buddy with a ball. Walking, walking in the park. See the kids play, doggies bark.”

CREATE SONGS When Eating

Having trouble getting your kids to try a particular healthy food? Ask the kids what they are eating and then make up a song about it. It might go something like this (to the tune of “Three Blind Mice”). “Three green peas,

Want to make daily tasks more fun? Sing along to “Mary Had a Little Lamb”. “Johnny likes to take a bath (repeat twice). Johnny getting in the bath with bubbles all around.” Then you might follow-up and suggest Johnny test the water and keep going with it, “Johnny’s dipping in his toe (repeat twice), Johnny’s dipping in his toe to make sure it is warm.” Keep the story going with song. So, remember – the opportunities for musical expression are everywhere. Don’t worry about the quality of your singing voice. Focus on giving your child the power of creating song with you and you might be surprised at how quickly they’ll start making up songs of their own. mp

“Music Kate” (a.k.a. Kate Bryan) teaches Music Together Kids Music classes. She invites you to preview a music class for free with your kids. Call or text her at 406-570-2839 or visit www. MusicTogetherBozeman.com and Facebook for more information.

Morning, Afternoon & Early Eve

Infants to Age 6

Is There

An App

TRY A CLASS FOR FREE $75 Off - Sibling Discounts $15 Off - 1st Semester Coupon

For That?

BABIES <12 mo FREE with Sibling

WRITTEN BY ELEANOR BARKER

Song-Dance-Rhythm-Fun All of us want what’s best for our children, but determining just what that is can be a challenging process. And at no time do those decisions seem more fraught than when our children are very young. Is that toy safe for him to play with? Are those apple slices a choking hazard? Is grandma’s house sufficiently childproofed? These days, there’s a brand-new focus for our parental anxiety, one that didn’t even exist a few years ago: hand-held screens. When my kids were little, iPads and smartphones hadn’t been invented yet, and the only screen I needed to manage was the television in the living room. Today, our kids are reaching out for our mobile devices from their strollers. But should we hand them over?

Contact “Music Kate”

MusicTogetherBozeman.com [email protected] 406-570-2839

Ask around, and you’ll find a range of opinions. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has long recommended that kids under the age of 2 not interact with electronic screens of any kind. But Dr. Dimitri Christakis of the Seattle Children’s Research Institute – who incidentally helped create those AAP guidelines – says children as young as four months can benefit from playing with age-appropriate apps for up to 60 minutes a day. So, who’s right? As with just about everything in life, it’s all about balance. Remember that each minute your child spends on the iPad is a minute that she’s not interacting with you; so be sure to make those minutes count. The folks at Campaign for a Commercial Free Childhood have crafted a guide for families that contains some thoughtful suggestions (commercialfreechildhood.org/screendilemma):

»» Set aside plenty of time for hands-on, creative and active play together »» Create a structure for screen time: set rules about when, where, what and how

HypnoBirthing

R

with

much, and stick with them

»» Make the living room or family room the central place for screen time, rather than bedrooms, and enjoy it together

Beth Thorsen

»» Turn off screens when they’re not in use »» Be mindful of your own screen time – you are your child’s most powerful role model

Back to the AAP. They remind us that our children’s brains are developing rapidly during their first years, and that young children thrive through enriching interactions with adults and peers – being talked to, read to, played with and given time for creative play and physical activity. And there’s no app for that.

406-579-3242 www.satoriconsulting.net [email protected]

mp

Children’s Museum

Eleanor Barker is the Executive Director of the Children’s Museum of Bozeman.

OF BOZEMAN

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GMOs Chemicals Pesticides Herbicides Growth Hormones

ORGANICS

MATTER 908 West Main, Bozeman, MT www.bozo.coop . 587-4039

Tummy Time WRITTEN BY KIMBERLEE RAYNOVICH

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) began recommending that all babies sleep on their backs in 1992, and the “Back to Sleep” campaign began in 1994. While this campaign has been very successful in decreasing the incidence of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome), babies are no longer spending the time on their bellies that aids them in normal development. Simultaneously, there has been an increase in the amount of time spent by infants in support devices such as car carriers, exercise saucers and swings. Before babies were sleeping on their backs, they spent a large portion of their days and nights on their bellies. While on their bellies, babies work on strengthening their neck, trunk and head control against gravity. They are also learning to bear weight into their hands, contributing to improved fine motor control. Eye control and visual tracking develops in the prone position and babies also develop more advanced balance skills as they learn to push up onto their hands and knees and then begin to crawl. As if there are not already enough reasons to give infants as much time on their stomachs as possible, the effects on a baby’s skull from spending significant time on its back warrants a greater push for having babies spend time on their stomach, or “tummy time.” Since the initiation of the Back to Sleep campaign, there has been an increase in the number of babies who have developed plagiocephaly, flattened areas on the back of babies’ heads. Torticollis, a twisted neck condition, in which the head tilts to one side while the chin tilts toward the other, is also on the rise. The resolution of a tight neck is more challenging when a baby spends most of his time on his back, especially in a support device that limits movement.

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Starting a tummy time routine is often difficult because many babies demonstrate a poor tolerance for it, crying from the moment they are put down. This is especially true if tummy time was not initiated from their early weeks of life. However, with more frequency and consistency, a baby will learn to enjoy tummy time and all the skills they can acquire in this position. The main thing to remember when a baby is doing tummy time is that they still want stimulation. If a parent puts the baby on their chest, lap or even carries the baby facing downward, the baby is getting the benefits noted from tummy time. Tummy time should be supervised. Parents are still strongly encouraged to follow the AAP’s Back to Sleep recommendations. “Back to sleep; tummy to play” is a phrase that many pediatric professionals have endorsed. There are many great alternatives to help a baby adapt to tummy time more easily. A very good resource for tips and videos about tummy time can be found at pathways.org. In addition to encouraging tummy time during an infant’s awake period, giving the baby opportunities in other positions is important. If possible, limit the time that a child is positioned in supportive devices. Alternatives to being kept in a car seat or a swing include: being seated on caregiver’s lap, lying on caregiver’s chest, over caregiver’s shoulder, in a football hold, lying on caregiver’s lap, or lying on her side while playing with toys (use a towel roll to keep her in this position). In different positions on the floor, the baby will have time to develop and gain new skills. And the time that the baby spends in his or her parent’s arms is an opportunity for social and emotional development, and helps to build a stronger bond between the parents and baby.

mp

Kimberlee Raynovich, PT, PCS, has been working Epicenter Therapy Services since relocating to Bozeman in 2009 with her husband and three children. Kimberlee is a Pediatric Certified Specialist whose specific interests include neurologic and orthopedic rehabilitation, respiratory retraining and she loves working with the babies.

Baby,

It’s Dry Outside WRITTEN BY SHEL SEBREN

I’m not trying to answer any of them for you. In fact, I’m probably going to give you something new to consider (worry about) for your wee one. What about skin care? More than likely, you received lots of a certain kind of nationally known baby wash/shampoo and lotion at your shower. You know, the one with the double last name in the yellow bottle. I sure did with my first baby (now almost 12!) and for a while, I used them because the smell was something I remembered from my niece being a baby. Then I read the ingredient list and changed my mind. The list was in tiny font and still took up about one-third of the bottle. And worse? I couldn’t pronounce any of the ingredients. So, like many new parents, I kind of freaked out. Turns out, the skin care question is thankfully easy to answer. You may already have these products in your home. Here are some ideas on how to keep your baby’s (or toddler, preschooler, teenager) skin soft and hydrated during these harsh Montana months. The best part is knowing that none of these products contain petroleum products.

Olive Oil

Got cradle cap? Rub a tiny bit of olive oil on baby’s scalp (just keep the dog away) and it’s gone. You definitely want to use the least refined olive oil possible, preferably organic. This worked wonders for my kids and almost every kitchen has olive oil.

Not everyone loves the smell of coconut. So, in case you are one of those people, I recommend using a different single ingredient oil in place of lotion. Aura Cacia makes a variety of skin oils: Apricot, Jojoba, Sweet Almond, which work wonders for dry skin. All are available in different sizes at Coop West Main’s Wellness Department. Jojoba, I’m told, is the closest to our skin’s natural oil. But it is also the most expensive. I buy it if it’s on sale but typically, I use Sweet Almond oil (no, it doesn’t smell like almonds) instead of lotion.

PHOTO KELLY KUNTZ PHOTOGRAPHY

There are a million questions to answer when you become a parent, especially about your infant. Breast or bottle? Disposable or washable diapers? Should I stay home or use daycare? Let the baby cry it out or not? None of them is easy.

Other Oils

Coconut Oil

This stuff is magic. Not only is it good for cooking, it is good for just about everything else—hair, skin. I buy the largest jar (Nutiva Organic Virgin Coconut Oil is on sale at Co-op West Main and can be found near the cooking oils as well as in the Wellness Department) and put some in a different container for the bathroom cabinet (no double dipping allowed). It, like olive oil, should be minimally processed and contains only one ingredient that is easy to pronounce: co-co-nut. It doesn’t get any simpler than that. Use coconut oil on baby’s skin (along with the entire family’s) instead of lotion after bath to seal in moisture and give a whiff of a faraway tropical island. A little goes a long way. Coconut oil is solid at room temperature but melts immediately when rubbed between your hands. You can even shave with it to avoid razor burn. I also use coconut oil as a hair mask. Rub into the hair, concentrating on the ends, wrap up in a towel and let it work its magic. You will need to use a clarifying shampoo and scrub, scrub, scrub it out. I usually stay away from my roots. You won’t believe how soft and shiny your hair is afterward. Has it been too long since you were able to get a haircut? Run out of hair product? Yeah, that sounds familiar. Simply smooth the tiniest amount on just your roots to control frizz and smooth flyaway hair.

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If you would like to lull your sweet one into slumber, add a drop or two of lavender essential oil. If mama needs to exfoliate, mix some brown sugar into the oil and scrub in the shower. Rinse well.

What about diaper rash?

I’ve never met a baby who hasn’t had a bout of diaper rash. Again, the ingredient list on many of the diaper rash ointments scares the heck out of me. I mean, talk about a sensitive area. I didn’t want to use petroleum-based products on my baby’s bottom. Plus, I noticed that the ointment seemed to be getting absorbed into the diaper instead of my baby’s skin before it could heal the rash. I love The Super Salve Company’s Calendula Salve (actually, I love every one of their products). Calendula has long been known for its skin soothing properties and is excellent for sensitive skin. Plus, it smells so good, using only essential oils instead of chemical-based smells. You can pronounce every ingredient, too. I always have it onhand for scrapes, cuts and damaged skin (because calendula’s common name is marigold, it is yellowish in color). I slathered it on my baby’s bottom, and then put a layer of Alba Un-petroleum Jelly (both can be found in the Wellness Department of Co-op West Main) over the top as a barrier so that the diaper wouldn’t soak up the calendula. It worked like a charm on Molly’s rash. So much, in fact, that I give this combo to just about every one of my friends who has a baby. mp

Shel Sebren works at the Community Food Co-op. She has oil wealth, just not the petroleum kind.

January 2015 | mtparent.com

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A Healthy Start WRITTEN BY SHON WEDDE AND WILLOW BLACK

“Making the decision to have a baby is momentous. It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body.” – Elizabeth Stone Life is precious, beautiful and rare in our solar system. We humans benefit greatly from our discoveries, many of which revolutionize our technology war chest and our social activities. New discoveries can take years to fully reveal their impact; as is the case for the golden age of chemicals mankind is squarely posed in. Our chemical-rich world started 60 years ago and now includes a whopping 80,000 known man-made chemicals. Only a fraction of the list, about 200, has been tested for safety. The details are available in the PBS article, “Babies are Polluted at Birth.” The Environmental Protection Agency is limited in its ability to regulate substances that are potential health risks. As of 2010, only five chemicals had been regulated since the law was enacted in 1976. Limited testing and regulation has shifted the burden onto individuals who are forced to self-enable or succumb to the role of lab rats. Sadly, only now do we comprehend the chemical-related health effects on Earthlings (wildlife and people). The age of genetic engineering – a technology that impacts every moral, environmental, military and social aspect of life on Earth – emerged 25 years ago. The GMOs found in modern agriculture are borne from a mix of chemicals and genetic engineering. GMO stands for Genetically Modified Organism, also referred to as Transgenic Genetic Engineering (GE) and Genetic Modification (GM). GM is different from hybridization because hybridization involves two related species. GM is a man-made process that forces genes from one species into another 32

January 2015 | mtparent.com

entirely unrelated species, breaching naturallyoccurring barriers. One example is corn, which is forcefully breached with DNA from soil bacteria and E.coli bacteria, resulting in a genetically modified collage called RoundUp Ready Corn (one of several RoundUp Ready crops engineered by Monsanto). Other GM examples include: strawberries and tomatoes injected with fish genes to protect the fruit from freezing; goats injected with spider genes to produce milk proteins for use in industrial products; and dairy cows injected with the GM hormone rBGH (bovine growth hormone) to increase milk production. Some of these examples have already resulted in health issues. The biotech industry claims that genetic engineering reduces pesticide use. This has turned out to be false, as weeds and insects can be immune to the pesticides (both applied and produced within the cells of the GM plant) causing farmers to increase their pesticide application. Dr. Ramon J. Seidler, Ph.D., former Senior Scientist at the Environmental Protection Agency, recently published a wellresearched article, “Pesticide Use on Genetically Engineered Crops,” documenting the devastating facts. As Glyphosate (RoundUp) is proving to no longer be effective at killing pesticide-resistant superweeds, the biotech industry recently responded by genetically engineering both corn and soy to withstand glyphosate and 2,4-D. Exposure to 2,4-D has been linked to many health problems, including neurotoxicity, reproductive problems, cancer and auto-immune disorders. If life is so precious, beautiful and rare, why are the manufacturers of GM products, through their patents, allowed to impede and restrict independent, long-term health and environmental studies? There is no clear benefit to humans, or the environment, in

the rush to put GM products into the food system. One only need look at recent findings in the area of plastics to understand the need for caution and long-term studies. Bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical used since the 1960s to make plastics, has been found to negatively affect the formation of human eggs as outlined in the article “Widespread Chemical Bisphenol A Linked To Flawed Eggs In Women.” Without long-term studies and traceability, there is no accountability for any negative effects from genetic engineering and partnered chemicals. Bt toxin, used in GMO agriculture, is one of a number of toxins reaching the bloodstreams of women and unborn babies. The chemical industry claims that if these toxins are ingested, they’ll be destroyed in the gut and pass out of the body, thus causing no harm. A recent study conducted at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center revealed that 93 percent of blood samples taken from pregnant women and 80 percent from umbilical cords tested positive for traces of toxins, which have been linked to allergies, abnormalities, miscarriage and cancer. If you have concerns about GMOs and exposure to chemicals, there are actions you can take, preferably beginning months before conception. When shopping for food, supplements, body care products and baby care products, buy organic (non-GMO and grown without toxic chemicals) or Non GMO Project Verified items. If you are unable to breastfeed, or choose not to, be mindful of your formula choices. The basis of most infant formulas is soy or cow’s milk protein. Unless it is organic, the soy is possibly genetically modified, and the milk could come from cows injected with rbGH, which has been linked to cancer. Many brands of formula contain GMO-derived corn syrup solids, corn syrup or soy lecithin. Resources to help you make healthy choices include: The Institute for Responsible Technology’s non-GMO shopping guide, The Environmental Working Group’s database, and The Safe Mama website. While it is impossible to keep your baby in a bubble, there are ways you can limit exposure to genetically modified ingredients and unwanted chemicals. For more information: contact GMOFree Montana on Facebook or email at [email protected]. mp

Willow Black and Shon Wedde are the founding members of GMOFree Montana. With the support of local volunteers they work to bring GMO educational events to Bozeman residents. Willow and Shon are both parents dedicated to ensuring that sustainable, local, organic food is available to all, especially children.

Birth Control After Baby… How to Avoid Irish Twins WRITTEN BY STEPHANIE MCDOWELL

The birth of a baby is a joyous and life-changing event. With a new baby comes new responsibilities – lots of them – and it is easy to forget about birth control.  Here is a quick birth control guide for new moms. All of these methods are safe for breastfeeding moms. Lactational amenorrhea, a.k.a. breastfeeding, is 98 percent effective at inhibiting pregnancy if the following three conditions are all strictly followed.

1. Your baby was born less than six months ago. 2. The baby is only nursing (absolutely no formula, no bottles and no food). 3. You have not had a period at all – not even spotting. If you aren’t meeting all three of these conditions, you can ovulate as soon as three weeks after giving birth, putting you at risk for pregnancy.

CALL: 587-0681 TEXT: 570-3047 WEB: bridgercare.org cervical, breast, & testicular cancer tests health exams for men & women IUDs, implants, & birth control mental counseling & care free pregnancy tests infection treatment STD & HIV testing A non-profit clinic. Open Monday - Saturday. Downtown Bozeman.

The IUD

There are three IUDs available in the United States: low-dose hormone Mirena (five years), ParaGard copper IUD (12 years) and low-dose hormone Skyla (three years). IUDs are more than 99.95 percent effective at preventing pregnancy. An IUD can be easily inserted into the uterus right after you give birth and usually does not require more than ibuprofen for a day or two to manage minor cramping. The best thing about an IUD is that you won’t have to remember anything. It is out of sight and out of mind.

The implant

The contraceptive implant, Nexplanon, is a 1½-inch rod inserted in your upper arm just under the skin. The implant is 99.95 percent effective at preventing pregnancy and can also be put in immediately after giving birth. You don’t have to remember anything – it does its work for up to three years.

The shot

For some moms, birth control that is inside your arm or uterus is not alluring; making the threemonth contraceptive shot (Depo-Provera) a good option. The Depo shot is 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy if you get your shot on time every three months. However, the Depo shot is the only birth control method that may cause you to gain weight.

Condoms

You can use a condom anytime you have sex. Condoms are 82-98 percent effective at preventing pregnancy, depending on how diligently and correctly they are used. The key to successful use is finding a condom and water-based lubricant that fits you and your partner.

Progestin-only Pills (a.k.a mini pills)

You can take a progestin-only pill right after birth because it doesn’t affect breastfeeding. However, mini-pills have to be taken at the same time every day to be effective and that can be hard with a new baby around. For more information, visit www.bedsider.org or www.bridgercare.org/resources/. To talk to Bridgercare about birth control options call 406-587-0681, text 406-570-3047 or schedule online www.bridgercare.org. mp

Stephanie McDowell is Associate Director at Bridgercare. Bridgercare provides excellent, affordable reproductive and sexual healthcare and education in a safe, supportive, empowering atmosphere.

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January 2015 | mtparent.com

33

Could a Gluten-Free Diet

be Toxic to our Kids? Studies find Arsenic in Rice ARTICLE AND PHOTO BY DEB WHEATON

Excerpted from Consumer Reports, Nov., 2012: “Organic rice baby cereal, rice breakfast cereals, brown rice, white rice—new tests by Consumer Reports have found that those and other types of rice products on grocery shelves contain arsenic, many at worrisome levels. Arsenic not only is a potent human carcinogen but also can set up children for other health problems in later life. In virtually every product tested, we found measurable amounts of total arsenic in its two forms. We found significant levels of inorganic arsenic, which is a carcinogen, in almost every product category, along with organic arsenic, which is less toxic but still of concern. Moreover, the foods we checked are popular staples, eaten by adults and children alike.” The FDA was far more diplomatic in their response: “We understand that consumers are concerned about this matter. FDA is committed to ensuring that we understand the extent to which substances such as arsenic are present in our foods, what risks they may pose, whether these risks can be minimized, and to sharing what we know,” says FDA Commissioner Margaret A. Hamburg, M.D. “Our advice right now is that consumers should continue to eat a balanced diet that includes a wide variety of grains – not only for good nutrition but also to minimize any potential consequences from consuming any one particular food.”

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Should parents be concerned? Very possibly – especially if your child is gluten-free. Much of a gluten-free diet is rice based, and historically “baby’s first cereal” has been rice. Last month, Good Morning America’s Dr. Richard Besser revealed a new and even more alarming study regarding the safety of rice – this time focusing on our kids. “A new study reveals significant levels of arsenic in rice, especially for young kids,” Dr. Besser reported, pointing out that brown rice had higher levels of arsenic than white rice because arsenic is concentrated in the outer part of the grain. Concluding his report, Dr. Besser suggests that parents forego rice cereal and go with pureed vegetables instead (The American Academy of Pediatrics also came out with that suggestion a year ago). So what now? First of all, it’s important to note that the FDA and Consumer Reports are not telling us not to eat rice. These organizations are raising valid concerns about the amount of arsenic – which they point out is naturally occurring in our soil – showing up in their test samples. What they are suggesting is that we all eat a diet that includes a variety of grains. Clearly, both the FDA and Consumer Reports are responding to consumer pressure to create an industry standard for safe levels of arsenic in rice. If, and until, that happens, finding alternatives is simple enough. How easily can you limit (replace) rice in your family’s gluten-free diet? Consider quinoa, buckwheat or oat groats, which are a wonderful alternative to rice in most recipes.

Recipe for Baby Oatmeal

»» ¼ cup Gluten-Free Oat Flour (GlutenFree Prairie’s – of course)

»» ¾ - 1 cup distilled water »» Blend together with whisk and stir until

just boiling. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 8-10 minutes (don’t overcook or it will get gooey)

»» Thin with formula or breast milk just before serving.

(Cooked cereal can easily be frozen in ice cube trays. Don’t freeze with formula or milk – add it just before serving.) NOTE: For an extra protein boost, add baby oatmeal when introducing veggies and other new foods. When the time is right – Gluten-Free Prairie’s toasted oat flour mixes with anything. mp

Deb Wheaton is co/founder of Montanabased Gluten-Free Prairie, LLC (www. glutenfreeprairie.com), offering certified gluten-free, grown-in-Montana grainbased products. She is also a writer/blogger “Offering Easy to Digest Solutions for Living a Gluten-Free Lifestyle” at www. notevenacrumb.com. She is credited as co-author of “500 Gluten-Free Dishes”. Deb is not a doctor, lawyer, rocket scientist or astronaut. But she IS a passionate advocate on a mission to raise awareness about Celiac Disease.

PHOTO AMELIA ANNE PHOTOGRAPHY

Pediatric Acupuncture WRITTEN BY LAINE GALLEGOS

While it has recently sparked the interest of more and more Westerners, traditional Chinese medicine has been around for more than 2,000 years. This great body of knowledge includes herbal medicine, acupuncture, massage, breathing techniques and dietary therapy – and it focuses on the individual. For example, two people may come in complaining of migraines, but these two individuals will be treated entirely differently based on their constitutional differences. Each body has a different constitution that is a reflection of the elemental arrangement of their own unique being.

moving, daytime, summer and action packed. When yin and yang are out of balance in the body, disease occurs.

The constitutional arrangement of each individual is based on the foundational theory of yin and yang. Yin and yang represent opposites and reflect how opposite forces function together, separately and indivisibly within the universe. Most of us have seen the black and white circular symbol of the yinyang. This image represents how all things are part of a whole. In relation to health, when yin and yang are in balance, health is in balance. In theory, yin is often thought of as more feminine. It encompasses slower movements, cooler temperatures, reproduction, water, nighttime, creativity and heaviness. Yang is thought of as more masculine, hot, faster

There are 12 main meridians in Chinese medical theory. These 12 meridians stretch along the entirety of the body and are connected to our internal organs. The 12 meridians are paired and correlate with the elements of fire, earth, metal, water and wood. These meridians are greatly affected by the balance of yin and yang and the qi within them.

Each individual also has his or her own “qi” or life energy. In Chinese theory, everything is made up of qi: the rivers, the trees, the stars and animals. Qi flows through the world around us and all of its elements: fire, earth, metal, water and wood. Qi is both yin and yang and plays a vital role in our health. If there is a lack of qi, we may feel fatigued, depressed or have pain. Qi protects the body against disease.

written during the Song Dynasty, 1031-1113 AD. This book recognized children as unique beings with diseases different from those afflicting adults. The approach to treating children with Chinese medicine has gone through many changes over the years; these reflect how health concerns and children’s diseases have also changed over the years. In its beginnings, pediatric acupuncture mainly treated illnesses stemming from malnourishment and a lack of sanitation. Today, we have almost the opposite problem – too much food, most of it unhealthy, and a complete evolution of viruses and bacteria. Children, like adults, are treated completely individually with traditional Chinese medicine. From this perspective, keen observational skills, a thorough intake of health history and palpation are used to establish a diagnosis. Children are more yang in nature than adults. They run hot, have vibrant, high energy and are sensitive to their environments. They tend to get sick rapidly and can also recover quickly if treated properly. Children respond amazingly well to acupuncture and to those Chinese herbal formulas that are gentle and safe, blended specifically for kids. A Japanese technique that works well for children is called Shonishin. Ancient stories tell that Shonishin was taught to the people of Japan by the moon faeries. Best done on the full moon to stimulate the energy of children, Shonishin is a technique that involves no needles and instead utilizes small, handcrafted tools made of silver and copper. The tools are moved along the meridians in methodical techniques to stimulate the child’s qi. Shonishin can be used on children from 1-month-old to 7-years of age. Needles are used occasionally, only on big kids, and are typically pain free. Common conditions treated in children are colds and flus, ear infections, gastrointestinal issues, asthma, pain, bedwetting, vomiting, seizure disorders, eczema and behavioral disorders. Paired with western medicine for the more serious issues, Chinese medicine is a great tool for keeping the little ones happy and healthy. This is a great time of the year to boost immunity and stay healthy so we can all enjoy the beautiful winter surrounding us. mp

Pediatric acupuncture, which was first mentioned in classical acupuncture textbooks in the first century BC, encompasses all of these theories and focuses on the child. The first pediatric acupuncture textbook was

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Laine Gallegos L.Ac. is an Acupuncturist and Chinese Herbalist practicing at People’s Republic of Health (PRH) in downtown Bozeman. PRH is a lovely, sliding scale clinic that offers Acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, nutritional counseling and massage. Visit prhacupuncture.com or call 406-577-2650 for more information.

January 2015 | mtparent.com

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PHOTO AMELIA ANNE PHOTOGRAPHY

Find Your Health springintegrativehealth.com

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Let the Brain Breathe

and the Baby Thrive WRITTEN BY JOSH OVERCASH

A newborn baby is one of the most precious treasures in life. What they go through to get here varies greatly, from the most straightforward vaginal birth to an emergency C-section. When a baby is born, an Apgar score assesses how the baby has tolerated the birth process and their new environment outside the womb. There are also tests to look at blood, oxygen and bilirubin levels. This gives us a good start on what needs to be done to help support the newborn, but it only gives us a small view of the larger picture.   The Brain Score is a newborn screening tool used by Craniosacral Fascial Therapists trained in the Gillespie Approach to assesses the baby’s brain function. When the Brain Score is low, it indicates compromised neurological activity and the need for Craniosacral Fascial Therapy (CFT). CFT functions as a preventative measure by unwinding strain and tension in the soft tissues that can contribute to a long list of ailments both in infancy and later in life such as reflux, colic and other digestive issues, nursing issues, ADD and ADHD, asthma, headaches, sinus and allergy disorders, chronic ear infections, irregular sleep patterns and much more. CFT also helps a baby maximize their fullest potential in life by optimizing neurological function and setting them up to thrive. This Brain Score approach can quickly identify a newborn in neurological distress, restore

January 2015 | mtparent.com

excellent brain function, prevent many conditions and result in a happier baby. It is a simple screening assessment performed just after birth or in the first few weeks of life. There are four components to the Brain Score assessment, which takes just minutes to complete. An infant CFT session lasts about 30 minutes. The mother can also receive CFT to help to help restore health after the birth process and prevent postpartum illnesses. The first assessment tool determines whether the umbilical cord was knotted or wrapped around the baby’s body. A pulled cord can put strain on the abdominal fascia, which may lead to conditions such as colic, umbilical hernia and bedwetting. If the cord is wrapped around the throat it may induce a lack of oxygen, affect local soft tissues used for swallowing, speaking and breathing. Left untreated this may lead to asthma, speech defects, reflux and swallowing disorders. The second assessment tool is observing the shape of the head. The cranial bones need to be symmetrical and have enough space to allow for normal brain movement. During the birth process, the fetal cranial bones overlap to pass through the birth canal. If the bones are positioned in the pelvis for an extended period of time or pass through a distorted pelvis, the baby may have a lopsided or cone-shaped head. This restricts the amount of cerebrospinal fluid movement in the brain

that supports the 24 cranial nerves. Newborn cranial bones respond very fast to CFT; just five minutes of CFT for a newborn may be more corrective than five hours of CFT for an adult. The third assessment tool is the brain’s “breathing” cycle. This is a process of expansion and contraction that happens to the cranial bones as cerebrospinal fluid is flowing up and into the brain, and down the dural tube along the spine. This is measured in seconds by feeling the delicate movement of the cranial bones. An acceptable brain cycle for a newborn is 100 seconds, which would indicate a relaxed baby, however some babies start life with the cranial bones completely locked up at zero seconds. Just one session can unlock the cranium and show an improvement of 20-40 seconds, with an achievement of 100 seconds after three-to-five sessions. The fourth and final assessment tool is the sacral cycle. Sacral movement should mirror the brain cycle when healthy and not compromised. The flexion and extension of the sacral cycle in healthy function of a newborn is on average 100 seconds. The more the sacrum breathes, the more the cerebrospinal fluid flows, which relaxes the spine and brain and promotes optimal function, setting your child up to thrive from the beginning.

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Incorporating these four assessment tools is a good measure for determining if the neurological activity of the newborn is being compromised. This evaluation can give a therapist a clear view of where to start. When left untreated, more fascia strain builds on top of the old strain patterns, which creates even more strain. Working through these strain patterns during a small series of treatments will support optimal brain function before more areas of imbalance are established. This is critical at the beginning stages of life. Prevention is the most optimal way to ensure health in our children and our future. An open craniosacral-fascial system is a critical factor to the success of every child’s health and wellbeing.

“Specialized comprehensive care for infants, children & teens” • Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy • Developmental and Learning Delays • Aquatic Program and Hippotherapy

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Josh Overcash, LMT, CBP, CFT, is a Craniosacral Fascia Therapist and BodyTalk Practitioner at Spring Integrative Health. He helps people of all walks of life with physical, mental and emotional imbalances that have been affecting their lives. A gentle form of therapy with results that are needed.

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612 East Main Street • Suite C • Bozeman, MT 406.522.3722 • www.epicentertherapy.com

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PHOTO KELLY KUNTZ PHOTOGRAPHY

Maximize Your

Newborn’s

Immune System WRITTEN BY DR. MICHAEL ZACHARISEN

While there is no foolproof method for protecting newborns from infections, most new parents have heard advice such as, “Don’t take your baby outside or expose them to other children for one month,” and, “Stay away from sick people.” A baby’s immune system is fragile and inexperienced. Soon after birth, they are exposed to the “hostile world” of bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi. Here are factors that affect a newborn’s immune system:

The perils of premature birth:

During the last three months of pregnancy, substantial amounts of antibodies are passed from the mother to her unborn child through the placenta. The more premature an infant’s birth, the fewer antibodies are transferred. Antibodies are special proteins that protect against infections. The amount and type of antibodies transferred depends on the mother’s immunity. If the mother has not been vaccinated or experienced specific infections, these antibodies will not be available to the fetus. These antibodies, which are passively transferred (given to the unborn child) rather than made by the newborn (active), gradually decrease over several months. At that point, vaccines become vital. Take measures to take the pregnancy to term.

The threats of tobacco smoke:

Smoking during pregnancy leads to premature birth, higher risk of stillbirth and impairment in toll-like receptors (part of the unborn immune system) of the infant, making it more susceptible to infections. Infants exposed to secondhand smoke are at higher risk for ear infections, more frequent and severe respiratory infections (pneumonia) and greater risk for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). The data on thirdhand smoke exposure is emerging.

Dr. Michael Zacharisen Board Certified Allergist/Immunologist

The benefits of breast milk:

The colostrum (yellowish pre-milk produced in the first few days) is especially high in antibodies and other immune cells that are then passed onto the infant. As long as breastfeeding is continued, there is a continuous source of not only nutrition, but also immune protection. If one year of breastfeeding is not attainable, aim for at least two-to-three months.

The value of vaccines:

Newborns are at higher risk for severe and overwhelming infections. Once the level of passive antibodies from the mother decreases, the infant needs to make their own antibodies. This is accomplished through vaccines that work with their immune system. The killed or weakened organism stimulates the child’s immune system to make specific cells and antibodies for lasting immunity. While vaccines have risks, their effectiveness and safety are closely monitored. The vaccine not only protects your baby, but others who cannot be vaccinated. Family members of infants should be vaccinated too.

Guard against germ spread:

With the routine practice of childhood immunizations, the organisms that now cause the most significant illness in neonates include bacteria (group B streptococci, Escherichia coli), viruses (herpes simplex (HSV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), varicella-zoster (VZV), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)), and the fungus Candida. To minimize the risk of infections, be cautious but use common sense. Simple, practical measures such as good hand washing and avoiding large groups at risk of having infections (other children) can help reduce the risk. The goal is to prevent infection and provide protection so our newborns are sick less often and have less severe infections when they do occur. mp

Michael Zacharisen, MD is a board-certified allergist/immunologist and pediatrician. He has nearly 20 years of experience in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of allergy, asthma, chronic cough and recurrent infections. His practice, Family Allergy & Asthma Care of Montana, is located at 4265 Fallon Street, Suite 3A in Bozeman, and is open to patients of all ages.

YOUR ALLERGIST in Southwestern Montana! Conveniently located near The Ridge Athletic Club in Bozeman. Extended hours are available on Tuesday evenings.

Our practice is dedicated We Accept All Major Health Insurance! to individualized & affordable allergy and asthma care for 4265 Fallon Street | Suite 3A, Bozeman patients of ALL ages. www.familyallergyasthmacare.com Phone: 406-451-7017 | Fax: 406-451-7020 38

January 2015 | mtparent.com

Letter To My 11-Year-Old WRITTEN BY STACEY TOMPKINS

The following is a letter I wrote to my daughter in a moment of desperation. We had suffered a prolonged period of conflict. I was distraught and scared that our relationship was becoming a perpetual sparring match peppered with frustration and disconnection. The letter helped. It didn’t cure us of conflict, but it softened us toward each other, and sometimes that’s enough. Babies grow into teenagers in a rapid-fire time warp of weirdness. Just keep this letter handy; you will need it soon. Feel free to plagiarize.

Dear Daughter, Hi sweetheart. I just wanted to let you know that I’ve thought so much about the last few days and weeks because of how much we are clashing. I wanted to give you my thoughts in writing. First of all, I love you very much. I think you know that but I wanted to make sure you don’t ever forget. You are one loved kid. Super loved. I know you’ve seen me looking at you, watching you with a look of wonder (it might look like confusion to you, but it’s all wonder and awe). You are changing, you are growing up fast, and it is an incredible thing for me to see. I sometimes feel sad because I miss the young girl who was such an amazing character, and so connected to me. But I know you are becoming an adolescent, and will be a woman in a few short years. It’s incredible how fast it’s all happened, and I look at you and I’m amazed. I also know that you will become more independent, and I’ll have mixed feelings about it. I love you and still think of you as my little girl, but I understand you are growing up and won’t need me as much as you once did. You will be making decisions of your own, using your own judgment and being your own counsel. All of this is important and as it should be, because it means you are becoming your own person. I love you, and want you to know that you have been an amazing person your whole life, full of energy and spunk and unique ways of seeing things, and laughter and creativity. You have always been a wonder to me, an amazing little creature with her own ideas. Now you are an amazing big creature with her own ideas. I respect that. I respect you.

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I promise I won’t ever try to keep you from being you. I know that’s important. I also promise I will continue to be your mom, which may annoy you sometimes. Please remember that I must do it, because it’s part of the job requirement I agreed to when I gave birth to you. I take my job very seriously, and I won’t stop being your mom for anything. You are precious to me, and I’ll do my best to balance my job requirements with your independent needs. I may mess up and get it wrong sometimes, for that I ask your forgiveness. I won’t be perfect. You and I will hit many rough spots over the next few years, but I know that if we remember how much we love and care for and respect each other, we’ll get through it, OK? I hope you remember that, even when you feel anger toward me. I’ll try to remember it also. I want to tell you that you are a marvel to me, I look at you and I marvel at how beautiful, smart, silly and wonderful you are, and I am grateful that you are my kid. I think you are an incredible treasure, an amazing gift. Thank you for coming into my life and being my family. With love, Mom mp

Stacey Tompkins lives in downtown Bozeman with her elderly mutt, two teenage daughters and one energetic husband. She is an irrepressible writer and loves working with individuals and couples as a life coach through her business, Sungate Integral Coaching (406-570-1304 or [email protected]). 

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www.marandalee.com January 2015 | mtparent.com

39

The Greatest Loss ARTICLE AND PHOTO BY CARRIE BREWSTER

It began in the 38th week of my pregnancy. My husband and I went in for a regular checkup. The doctor did a pelvic exam and said there was very slight progress toward labor. I knew it could still be weeks, but I was so excited something was happening. The doctor ordered an ultrasound for later that day to be able to anticipate any birthing complications. As the ultrasound tech performed the exam, I noticed he was spending a lot of time on my baby, Aiden’s, heart. At the end of the exam, he left to find the radiologist. I looked at my husband and said, “That wasn’t good.” The tech sent us back to talk to our doctor because he did not like the way Aiden’s heart had developed. We went straight back to our doctor’s office and she made an appointment for an echocardiogram in Billings the following morning. I felt like a steamroller had flattened me. The next morning we left for Billings from Livingston. The echo was completed and the 20-week ultrasound was reviewed. They said Aiden’s condition could not be noted in the 20th week, but now there were clear concerns. They made us an appointment at Children’s Hospital Colorado for the following day. In Denver, an extensive echocardiogram was performed and it was determined that Aiden had tricuspid atresia, transposition of the great arteries and interruption of the aorta. His heart could not be fixed. The cardiologist presented us with three options: we could take our chances of Aiden receiving and surviving a heart transplant; he could have a series of open heart surgeries that would result in complications of development; or we could provide our Aiden with comfort care. Are you kidding me? These were our “choices.” Here comes the steamroller again. How do you ever begin to make a decision like that? It was impossible. We threw ourselves into researching each option. We talked to cardiologists, neonatologists, the cardiac surgeon, a social worker and a chaplain. The surgeon said, “I can operate on this heart. But some things should maybe just be left up to God.” He added that the surgeries would not buy enough time for future developments in the area to ultimately help Aiden. I was not willing to accept this. I am mom. I will fight for him no matter the consequences. However, as the days passed, I could not find peace with the anticipated quality of life Aiden would have if he went through the surgeries. Reluctantly, I faced the fact that it was not about me and how much I wanted Aiden. It was about him. We chose comfort care. Aiden was born at 40 weeks. His grandparents, aunts and uncles were there to meet him. It was four days of the most intense love. We had no idea how long he would live before his organs began shutting down but we were a complete family during that time. My husband and I were new parents. Aiden’s passing is a dark place in my mind. The nurses present said it was one of the most peaceful deaths they had ever witnessed. I hang onto that, but I did not have a cell in my body that felt at peace. I missed him so much already it was unbearable. I felt like I was having an anxiety attack when we left the hospital. You are not supposed to leave the hospital without your baby. Instead of figuring out how to get Aiden in his car seat, we were figuring out how to get to the funeral home. Instead of picking out what color we were going to paint his room, we were picking out his urn. We planned a memorial service

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January 2015 | mtparent.com

PHOTO NOW I LAY ME DOWN TO SLEEP

instead of a meet and greet party. I created a eulogy for his birth announcement mailing. Everything was so unnatural. I kept waiting for the nightmare to end. But there we were, muddling through the darkest and most painful place anyone can imagine. With the passage of time, I have been able to identify some incredible bursts of light that shined through all of the darkness. Our friends and family surrounded us. The support we got was unbelievable. I made a great friend through a support group in Bozeman. And to this day, when I share Aiden’s story, I meet more and more incredible moms of all ages who have also lost an infant. They remind me to not give up hope and they reassure me that Aiden will always have a special place in my heart. Another child will never replace him. Through my experience and with the guidance of others, I have learned several lessons. Be kind to yourself. Ask for help and allow others to help you. Tell them what you need. People will say the wrong thing and they will not know how to act. Do not blame them or become angry. Try to educate them. Everyone is grieving this loss and their grieving experience will look different from yours. You have to grieve the change in who you are now versus, who you were before. You have to grieve the loss of the hopes, dreams and experiences you were anticipating having as a family. The pain changes with time. It does not go away. I was afraid that if I stopped hanging onto the pain, I would not be able to hold my baby in my heart. That, I learned, is not true. Aiden is a part of my heart and he is not going anywhere. I miss him so much, but I no longer feel the sharp edges of pain when I think of him.

I would like people to know they can say Aiden’s name and say he is missed. Someone saying his name is not going to suddenly “remind” me of him and make me have a bad day when I appear to be having a good one. Aiden is my baby, my child. He is always in my thoughts.

coming to bozeman WINTER 2015

I am surviving this great loss thanks to the support of my wonderful husband, family and friends. I want others to know they are not alone. We are a kindred spirit, bonded by the experience of knowing the greatest loss a parent can imagine. Carrie Brewster is a Pediatric Occupational Therapist at Livingston HealthCare. She received her BA in communication from University of Oklahoma and has her Masters in Occupational Therapy from Eastern Washington University. Carrie has a passion for supporting children and optimizing their developmental potential.

Support:

»» The Ramsey Keller Memorial pays in full for infant funerals in the state of Montana to take that the burden off of heartbroken families. Visit kisses2heaven.com for more information and a list of useful resources.

»» Share Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support of Gallatin County meets the first Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. at Bozeman Deaconess Chapel, located at 915 Highland Blvd.Phone: 406-587-8309 or 406-556-8585.

»» Department of Public Health and Human Services located in the Cogswell Building, Room C314 in Helena. Phone: 406-444-3394

»» Healing Hearts for Moms in Missoula meets the third Monday of each month. Phone: 406-549-8482 mp

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41

as 2014 w for us all... ear a big y

0 0 0 , 0 $85 t paid ou + 6,5cip0an0ts parti

+ 36 jobs

new

Sign up today and be a part of the equation.

Helping Families

and Southwest Montana Communities WRITTEN BY CORA LARSON

I am a 41-year-old single mom living in Southwest Montana who is well employed, highly educated . . . and, as it also happens, a BioScience lab tester. Yep, I have immense gratitude for BioScience Labs. Last year, with Christmas coming, I had no idea how I would fill that giant spot under the tree when I could barely cover my bills in any given month. BioScience Labs came to the rescue with a lotion test and a $600 check. With that, I had Christmas covered. BioScience Labs was literally my Santa. Now if only BioScience Labs was tall, dark and handsome . . . For those of you who are unfamiliar with BioScience Labs, here is what they do:

»» FDA-regulated product testing mostly focused on topical (skin) products such as lotions, cosmetics and disinfectants in studies that are safe and generally low impact.

»» All studies are thoroughly reviewed prior to testing by a private third party (Gallatin

International Review Board), which is made up of doctors, nurses and other community professionals.

BioScience Labs makes my gratitude list on a regular basis. I support three kids emotionally, financially and physically all by myself — a fact that I am damn proud of (can I get a hoot-hoot here fellow sisters of single motherhood?). Although I am gainfully employed, there is very often just not enough paycheck to stretch to the end of the month. I can usually squeeze a BioScience test in every month and bring in an extra $300, which gives me enough to buy the groceries. You can see why I am so thankful. The tests are usually low commitment – they include a few visits, the application of a lotion or product and some instructions to follow. It really couldn’t be easier. And it fits into a busy schedule, because many of the tests also run in the evenings. You know how dependent you are on BioScience Labs when your daughter asks you to commit to a test a month so she can take gymnastics (and asks when can she start doing tests). I have also made friends with the employees and many of my fellow testers. It is, in fact, fun. During a deodorant test last spring, about 30 ladies and I sat in a hot room sweating together. We told jokes, offered each other advice and talked about our lives – a little piece of human connection at BioScience Labs. Now, most of the employees know me and we can share a joke. They understand my difficulties and why I am there. I get a big smile and a “Hey, how are you?” They even tell me what tests are coming up so I can put them on my calendar and get in to sign up for them.

BioScience

Laboratories, Inc.

If you need some extra money, call BioScience Labs at 406-587-5375, follow them on Facebook or check their website, biosciencelabs.com. You too will be thankful you found them. BioScience Community Benefits:

»» 6,742 participants to date in 2014

start the sign-up process online:

biosciencelabs.com or text GETPAID to 77948 for exclusive updates

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January 2015 | mtparent.com

»» $874,631 paid to participants in 2014 alone »» More than $5,000,000 paid into the Bozeman community since 2000 »» New facility in Butte opened this year bringing over a dozen jobs to the area  

mp

Cora Larson is a single mom of three kids (not a writer) living in Bozeman but traveling lots to Butte and Helena for her job as Business Manager of Montana Parent. She is filled with gratitude for the many blessings in her life including her three kids, BioScience Labs, many friends and a crazy herding dog named Lady who warms her feet while she writes.

Baby Fever Flicks WRITTEN BY SIERRA FEIN

Got baby fever? I vividly recall my urgent desire for a baby and the reality of pregnancy and motherhood that followed. My life changed forever and I was ecstatic and panicked, all at the same time. Whether you are in the early stages of baby fever, bumping along in pregnancy, nocturnal with your newborn or wishing your rebellious teen could once again be swaddled in your arms – this touchingly humorous collection of films will remind you why parenthood is the best gift in the world. Title Rating Baby Boom (1987) PG Father of the Bride: Part 2 (1995) PG Babies (2010) PG What to Expect When You’re Expecting (2012)* PG-13 Waitress (2007) PG-13 Baby Mama (2008)* PG-13 Nine Months (1995)* PG-13 Look Who’s Talking (1989) PG-13 Juno (2007) PG-13 R Knocked Up (2007) * These are all father-to-be friendly flicks (more than just a chick flick).

Father of the Bride – Part 2 (1995)

Steve Martin and Diane Keaton team up for a second dose of family fun in Father of the Bride: Part 2. George Banks is confronted by the reality that he’s getting older as his daughter and sonin-law announce the delightful news that they are pregnant. To double the fun, the grandparents-to-be have a surprise pregnancy of their own. Twice the mood swings, hot flashes, baby bellies, baby showers and delivery room drama make this a memorable film about life, family and embracing change.

Waitress (2007)

Having a baby is no piece of pie, especially for waitress and pie inventor extraordinaire, Jenna. An unexpected pregnancy with her mean and controlling husband sends her into a frenzy of tantalizing pie inventions. With names such as “I Don’t Wanna Have Earl’s Baby Pie” and “Baby Screaming His Head Off in the Middle of the Night and Ruining My Life Pie,” Jenna’s pies must win her the contest that will get her out of her current life. With the support of her co-workers, her charmingly handsome small town doctor and an unexpected friendship with a grumpy old man, Jenna finds courage to follow her dreams.

What to Expect When You’re Expecting (2012)

This engagingly humorous film wisely touches upon the subject of what to expect when you’re expecting. The knock-out ensemble cast embodies many varieties of birth scenarios from adoption to surprise twins. Even daddies-to-be will be entertained by Chris Rock’s “Dudes Group,” where the eclectic father/child posse reveals the truth about fatherhood in guy-relatable terms. This film perfectly captures the delicate balance between humor and touching moments that will capture your heart and get you excited for the journey ahead. Movie Lovers is Bozeman’s only local, independent video rental store, since 1984. Movie Lovers offers a vast collection of foreign, independent and classic films on DVD and Blu-Ray; as well as new releases and TV series. Movie Lovers is located at University Square on South 23rd Avenue. The friendly and knowledgeable staff offers great service and recommendations.   To learn more about these films and many others call Joe, Jim, Jill and The Kid at 406-586-0560. mp

Sierra Fein is a local filmmaker and owner of BlueSpark* Productions. “Creative Commercials from Spark to Finish” www.bluesparkproductions.com.

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INTUITIVE SOUL RECORD READINGS

Intuitive readings are appropriate for gaining clarity, guidance, direction, and loving understanding within relationships or your own individual life, especially when enduring personal tests of the soul.

Jennifer Pepper Holisitic Intuitive Bozeman, MT • USA 406-579-5915 www.jenniferlpepperintuitive.com

Calendars WRITTEN BY JENNIFER PEPPER

Cafe serving

Pork, Beef and Produce Raised and Grown Specifically for Our Customers at the Storm Castle Cafe! you can find us at: 5 Tai Lane Bozeman, Montana 406-586-0395

stormcastlecafe.com 44

January 2015 | mtparent.com

Happy 2015! Or is it? Our Gregorian calendar is currently used by most of the Western world, yet few of us can accurately define where it came from or when, exactly, it came into widespread use. Named for Pope Gregory XIII in 1582, it was created to help implement the “Doctrine of Discovery,” which granted the church the power to take land owned by non-Christian peoples. The Gregorian calendar thus became a method to control people through the measurement of time.  Many people are surprised to learn that Britain and the colonies of America did not adopt this calendar until the 1750s, and that people in the colonies rioted when the new calendar was imposed upon them. Protestants believed that it was a Catholic plot to drag them back into Catholicism, and multitudes of people were distraught that the new calendar had “stolen” days from their lives. Why? The earlier Roman calendar (Julian Calendar) had been used for about 1600 years, but due to mathematical inaccuracies, had drifted away from celestial time markers, such as equinoxes and solstices. The Julian calendar lost days over the years and was not accurate in denoting the agriculturally tracked equinoxes and solstices. The Gregorian calendar corrected these inaccuracies with a “leap year,” skipping ahead, thus giving the illusion of lost time.  Other calendars in use today include the Buddhist calendar still widely used throughout Asian countries, which began its yearly count on the day of Buddha’s ascension, 2559 years ago. The Muslim calendar has been retained by most Arab countries, while some traditional calendars such as Jewish and Hindu, remain in use for religious purposes.  Over the past few decades, people have begun to realize that the way we visualize the passing of time influences our ideas about time. One of my favorite calendars is the lunar, which follows the ancient tradition of counting months based on the 13 full moons within a solar year. One thing is for certain, it is best to remain in present time. mp

Jennifer Pepper began the study and practice of universal and metaphysical sciences more than 30 years ago. She is a Holistic Intuitive, certified Aromatherapist and Energy Worker in Bozeman, MT and Jackson, WY. Contact her at www. jenniferlpepperintuitive.com.

The New Stepparent

“DO’S AND DON’TS” WRITTEN BY AMANDA OLSON

Being a new stepparent can feel amazing, wonderful, scary, lonely, exciting, loving, disappointing and, at times, very frustrating. Depending on your situation, being a parent – let alone a stepparent – is tough enough. While every family dynamic is different, becoming a stepparent takes us down a road that must be traveled with patience. Your situation may be different than mine, but the lessons I’ve learned over the last couple of years can easily apply to any situation.

Do’s: »» Do set time aside to go to a family

counselor. This benefits everyone involved, even those who are not participating in the counseling sessions, such as the ex-spouse. Counseling helps you and your new spouse learn strategies to co-parent with everyone involved, respectfully and honestly. I personally have found that hurt feelings and lack of communication seem to always be the common denominator in arguments between divorced parents. A counselor can also help you to see the ex-spouse’s side as a neutral party, which can help remove the hurt feelings and get to what is best for the children and both new extended families.

»» Do be a caring role model: bake/cook,

read, walk, play soccer, go sledding; more important, just be there. It will mean the world to the children. Taking the time to participate in activities they enjoy will help to create trust and a personal relationship between just you and the children.

»» Do make a special effort to go to the

children’s events/activities when they ask you to come. At times, this may be awkward if you have an ex-spouse who thinks that’s not OK, but the children will respect you for coming and if they asked you personally to be there, they want you to be there.

»» Do take the time to learn the children’s

favorite snacks and meals; this may take a few trials and errors. In the end, children will look forward to having a yummy meal and this can be a wonderful time for the family to reconnect without having to go through tears and “I don’t like this.”

»» Do have honest communication in your

marriage and establish a mutual agreement on

Your vibrant family: Healthy, well, and wise!™

discipline between you. If a situation becomes argumentative or negative with the child, wait and discuss that matter with your spouse. This allows both of you to know the situation and prevents the child from going back and forth between you, or trying to get the ex-spouse involved. This will also show the children that you are a team. Deep down, all children really want and need is to see their parents loving, caring and respecting each other.

»» Most of all, do have patience, patience and

more patience. Everything gets better with time, and time will help to heal everyone involved in the divorce and allow for the relationship you want to have with your new spouse’s children to grow.

Don’ts: »» Don’t say anything negative about the ex-

spouse during your time with the children. This will only reverse any progress you have made with the children, no matter how much you think they like and care about you.

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»» Don’t focus on being a “mother” or “father;” they already have a mother and a father. Focus on understanding the children with positive communication and encouragement, this will show the children they can count on you, love you and respect you as a parental figure. The children will then, in their own time, create the mother/father relationship with you, without forcing it.

»» Don’t focus on a fantasy family — no family

is perfect. This will only cause you hurt and disappointment, which will most likely spread negativity to your new spouse and the children. And that creates a home where no one will want to be. Focus on all the positives with your new family and how wonderful it is and can be.

All my best for a new and happy year from my family to yours.

Birthday Party Tableware and Decorations Balloon Bouquets Baby Shower Theme Party Tableware and Decorations Pinatas Rental items for all your party needs.

mp

Amanda Olson lives in Bozeman with her partner Lorne and his two children, a 4-year-old boy and 7-year-old girl. Amanda moved to Bozeman three-and-a-half years ago from a small stay in Pennsylvania. Prior to that she came from Qingdao, China. Amanda was an International school teacher at Qingdao International School for four years and taught for two years in the United States. Her numerous experiences with children from all ages and all types of family situations and backgrounds has given her a lot of experience with the very youngest of children to high school children as well.

:: January ACTIVITY & EVENT CALENDARS + BLOG + MORE @ MTPARENT.COM ::

Party Plus Rentals and Sales 1400 Cedar Street • Helena, MT

406-442-7099

Hours Monday thru Saturday 7:30 am to 6:00 pm Sunday 8:30 am to 1:00 pm.

www.A-1RentalsandPartyPlus.com

January 2015 | mtparent.com

45

Parenting Single WRITTEN BY NORA DANIELS

There we were, Irma and me, having lunch at Sola Café in Bozeman discussing whether I should sign up for that lonely hearts club of the interweb, Match.com. For some reason, everyone I know seems to have an opinion on this particular matter – with a strong majority urging me to “put myself out there,” and “meet some new people.” Some of my married friends have even gone so far as to offer their help in creating my profile and assisting me in the process of selection and elimination. I can’t help but wonder if these gals need a little vicarious excitement in their lives or if they just feel super sorry for me. Maybe both. Anyway, Irma and I have both been single for about three years. We’re both moms in our forties with school-aged kids and crazy lives. The big difference between Irma and me is that she has been brave and bold and put herself out there and met all kinds of new people, for better and for worse, while I have been home hiding under my blankie on the couch feeding my Netflix addiction. With Irma beside me, I sit, staring at the screen asking me to pay $65.97 for three months of unfettered access to all the eligible men my heart desires. I hesitate, my mind flashing back to a cautionary reminder from my lady doctor to practice safe sex because of the unusually high rate of STIs among the single fortysomething population of Gallatin County . . . ewwwww . . . maybe this isn’t such a good idea. My index finger hovers over the return key . . . I look to Irma for reassurance and she doesn’t disappoint. “Oh, come on! It’ll be good for you and you’ll have fun,” she urges, eyes bright and ears perked. Oh, OK. What’ve I got to lose? I click and my already-maxed-out credit card is charged to bulging. Not until then – and only then – does Irma decide to regale me with what seems like an endless stream of eye-opening anecdotes from her own experiences on Match over the last few years. Her first in a series of, shall we say, disappointments was with a man who – after the requisite getting-to-know-you period – cut right to the chase and hit Irma up for some cash. This is apparently a real problem, because now Match issues a warning about not giving random strangers any of your hard-earned money. Irma knew better anyway, but she was still sufficiently pissed to delete her profile for a few years. But you can’t keep Irma down for long. This woman loves men and – unfortunately – works primarily with women, so when she begins to feel desperate she turns to Match. So she tells me about Dick, who agreed to go paddleboarding and then cancelled a few hours before their date (and after Irma had rented the paddleboards); and Stan, who was lovely during dinner and then later admitted that he felt no spark; Spike, the pilot who flies in and out of Bozeman from Chicago; Trent, who said he wanted to see her again and then never called; and Orin, the oil driller in Alaska who only pops up every six months. Then there’s Sam, the long-distance trucker who seems great but who she’s never actually met; Brian with the big hands (you know what they say, right?); Chad, who flaked on their date because he was hungover; and effeminate Harry, who told Irma he didn’t want to see her after she spaced on a date that they had scheduled on Halloween (“He doesn’t have kids; he doesn’t understand”); and Bob, who used to be married to a friend of Irma’s. And all this leads us to Luke, who is funny, smart, honest, sexy and 10 years younger than Irma. Luke is pretty great, except for the fact that he went through a terrible divorce, doesn’t trust women and can’t handle a committed, monogamous relationship. After seeing each other regularly and frequently for about five months, He and Irma are crazy about each other. “We are in love, but it has to end,” she says sadly. “And it will end badly, even though that’s not how it started out.” As I meekly wipe a tear from my cheek, I ask my strong, smart, sexy friend how she feels about relationships now, after all of her experiences on Match. “Depressed and hopeless,” she admits, even though she’s laughing. “I’ve lost hope in finding a mate and ultimately I need to work on making myself happy because after all, happiness is an inside job.” And, of course, we all know she’s right. I just wonder if I can get my $65.97 back? Oh, and by the way, Irma says that if, by some miracle, you are an emotionally- and financially-stable man looking for a strong, smart and sexy woman, then you should email... mp

Nora Daniels lives in Bozeman with her two awesome kids.

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January 2015 | mtparent.com

The Family Business

Bibs and Binkies

walk in days and kids free days

WRITTEN BY ELEONORE SNOW

“I love babies; I specialize in babies,” says Rachel Rising, who – along with being a pediatric and prenatal chiropractor –owns Bozeman’s own Bibs and Binkies with her husband, Dustin, and has two little guys of her own: 2-year-old, Brecken, 8-week-old, Tavin. “It’s a good time in our lives to have a baby store,” she says. The Risings bought Bibs and Binkies on a kind of whim in February 2013 when they heard it was for sale. Family chiropractors with a four-month-old baby, they didn’t want to see the store close and so they went for it and bought the business. It was also a way for Rachel to get out of working full-time and be able to spend more time with her baby. “It’s been really fun; I’m so glad we did it,” she says reflecting on her decision. “Our customers are so great, they helped us through the transition because we had no retail experience.” Now Rachel works two days a week at their clinic, Gallatin Valley Chiropractic practice and also goes into the store a few times a week to check in with her manager, Sheree, who’s been at the store since the Risings bought it. Rachel calls Sheree, “the face of the store” and credits her with making Bibs and Binkies a success. “We couldn’t do this without the support we get from our staff,” she says. In turn, Sheree gets her own support from her 3-year-old daughter and helper, Jordyn, who comes into the store on a regular basis. “It’s so nice, because we have a play area in the store where Brecken and Jordan can play with the customer’s kids. It’s a very family-friendly environment.” Rachel is most proud of the family-friendly prices she’s now offering for her highquality baby products, such as strollers, furniture, gifts and a huge inventory of car seats. “We’ve really worked hard to lower our prices,” she says. “We are not a high-end boutique. We are just as affordable as big box stores and have products for everyone.” And while the store’s biggest focus is their local customers and the families who drive in from Butte, Missoula and all over Montana, they’ve also launched a new website (www.bibsandbinkies.com) along with an Amazon store, where people from all over the country can buy baby gear, along with Montana-made DaySpa organic skin care, wizbanghats and bison booties.

Southwest Montana Community Health Center Dental Clinic will be doing emergency walk-ins every day! Walk in Monday - Friday

8am -10am starting January 1, 2015 on a first come first serve basis.

Free Kids morning is the second

Friday of every month, beginning at

7:45 on a first-come, first serve basis. Any child can receive comprehensive treatment for free that morning.

406•496•6007

INVEST IN YOUR HEALTH

Take care of your family’s out of pocket health care expenses with a Health Savings Account from Opportunity Bank of Montana. Enjoy the benefits of earning interest daily and accessing funds easily with a debit card. Funds roll over annually, so you can tailor your spending to fit your needs. Stop in and learn more about how you can invest in your health today.

Bibs and Binkies is located at 2320 West Main Street, Suite 2a, Bozeman, MT 59718 and can be reached at 406-585-8800. mp

Like most working single moms, Eleonore Snow runs full speed at all times and sometimes goes to the store to buy milk for her kids and comes home with only wine for herself. You can judge her, it’s OK.

Your Local Bank. Your Opportunity.

www.opportunitybank.com

:: January ACTIVITY & EVENT CALENDARS + BLOG + MORE @ MTPARENT.COM ::

January 2015 | mtparent.com

47

y Lullaabbyy Sk gS ky Biig B

Teach Sleep 101:

How to Prepare Your Baby for Sleep WRITTEN BY DIANA JULIAN

I don’t believe in good or bad sleepers. I believe that some children are more sensitive to their sleep waves and wake periods than other children. While pregnant and sometimes with a newborn, mothers don’t know if their child will fall into this category or not. My suggestion is to prepare for the worst and hope for the best. Not every child needs to be “sleep trained.” Most children who are not sensitive to their sleep cycle will fall into a manageable sleep pattern throughout their young life, throwing curve balls here and there but, for the most part, cooperating with sleep. This is the exception and not the rule.

Newborn Sleep

At 16 weeks, a full-term baby is ready to start having scheduled sleep periods. Social smiles are a milestone that serves as a warning that there is about to be a change in sleep behaviors. Longer stretches of night sleep will be the first solid period to occur. After that is established, the morning nap gets scheduled. The afternoon nap and the third nap will follow.

Why is working with a newborn on self-soothing skills important?

Self-soothing needs to take place for a child to fall asleep and stay asleep independently. This is what we accomplish during a sleep training process. Working on these skills slowly with a newborn will give you the opportunity to experiment and move extremely slowly.

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January 2015 | mtparent.com

We need to teach our babies how to sleep the same way we teach them to eat. Even though a baby is tired, they do not know necessarily know how to fall asleep. Teaching this skill will prevent the need for an intervention from mom or dad after each sleep cycle.

What is a soothing routine?

A soothing routine is a pattern of cues you give your child to let them know that it is time for sleep. When establishing a routine, try out new and different strategies. One parent might have a way of soothing that may be completely different from the other parent, and that is perfectly acceptable; the most important factor of a soothing routine is timing. The idea is to start the soothing routine so that the baby is put in their crib drowsy but awake at the same time as their biological sleep wave. This takes practice and not all babies have the same amount of tolerance when it comes to wakeful periods.

What if I plan to “co-sleep?”

I help my clients understand that if they chose to bed share, they need to do it from the beginning and continue until they have a plan in place to properly transition the child into their own sleep environment. This makes the transition less scary for both the parents and the child. While bed sharing is an option and can be done in a healthy manner, reactive bed sharing is not ideal and should be avoided. Reactive bed sharing is when the parent who did not plan to share a bed with their infant, takes their crying baby into bed with them in order to get them to fall back asleep. Bed sharing done in this manner can cause confusion and can also lead to a reversal in the process of teaching a child healthy sleep habits.

Here are a list of questions to ask yourself before your child is born: »» Where will my baby sleep? »» Who will handle night feedings? »» Who will soothe the child to sleep? »» How will you soothe them to sleep? »» Is their sleep environment healthy and conducive to infant sleep?

»» When will you start implementing a strict nap schedule?

»» What bedtime will you use? »» What is colic? Will my baby have it? »» What is the fussy period? »» What is a biological sleep wave? My work with expectant parents is all about education and preparation. After our time together, my clients have a thorough understanding of newborn and infant sleep and an awareness of what associations to avoid and which sleep crutches to prevent. The best thing you can do as a parent is try to be prepared and knowledgeable about your child’s sleep patterns. Remaining a step ahead of the curve will produce stability in your family’s sleep environment and will put your entire family on the path to healthy sleep. mp

Diana Julian is a Certified Child Sleep Consultant. For your free 15-minute consultation call 406-431-7240, email [email protected] or visit BigSkyLullaby.com.

{BuffALO}

LEARNING

OPTIONS

ELSIE’S

TIPS

LOVE STORY WRITTEN BY ELSIE JOHNSON

You bring a new life into the world. You see bits and pieces of other loved ones in your newborn and know, without doubt, how perfect your child is. As the months pass, you figure out how to tread down parenting paths you’ve only heard and read about until now. Some of what you do comes from deep within you, naturally and intuitively. Other things you do are a reflection of how you’ve seen things done – maybe from your own family, peers, books, online, television, etc. As the months pass into years, your parenting will still come from deep within you, but now the possibilities are choices affected by what you can provide. Part of raising kids is entrusting them to our institutions, one of which is education. It’s a heartwrenching and exciting process that is fraught with all the confidence and self doubt that we bring to it. Sending our kids off to school is an extension of letting go and testing who we are as much as who they are. The we is a collective that includes the institution of education, the decisions parents make about where and how to educate their children and the educators we entrust. It is impossible to underestimate the importance of what happens in school, the doorway to your child’s future. Just like when your child was first born, some of what you do regarding your child’s education comes naturally, some is a reflection of the world around you. No matter where your reaction or action comes from, it is part of an ongoing love story. Every love story has highs and lows, joys and despair, sometimes ordinary and sometimes spectacular. Your part in the education of your child is a true love story. Ovid said, “Love is a kind of warfare.” Antoine De Saint-Exupery said “Life has taught us that love does not consist of gazing at each other but in looking outward together in the same direction”—to tread the paths of our world. As you all grow, be sure to share your love with those responsible for helping your child be successful in any educational setting from play dates to preschool and beyond. Create your own love story by being sure you are all “…looking outward together in the same direction.” mp

Elsie Johnson, a Registered Educational Therapist, and certified DDAI Facilitator, has helped hundreds of adults and children gain control over their ability to learn, through understanding how to take advantage of their picture thinking – thus taking responsibility and pride in learning. Learn more at www.thelearningoptions.com or call Elsie at 406-282-7416.

The kids are back in school it’s time to take care of YOU. Treat yourself to a relaxing facial or a mild skin refining peel with Caleigh’s Holistic Skin Care.

- FACIALS - WAXING - TINTING - CHEMICAL PEELS www.caleighsholisticskincare.com schedulicity.com 406.579.8720 *20% off one time if you mention this ad!

:: January ACTIVITY & EVENT CALENDARS + BLOG + MORE @ MTPARENT.COM ::

January 2015 | mtparent.com

49

A FULL DAY OF KID FUN will happen at the Montana Parent

Winter Fun Fest February 7, 2015 • Best Western Gran Tree Inn

Running out of creative ideas for these

cold winter days?

montana parent growing up under the big sky

from birth to college

Possible activities include: Face painting • Music classes & play Indoor climbing wall Valentine station • Kids yoga Obstacle course • Dress up Kiddie spa • Etc...

Booth spaces are available for $100 per vendor Please contact Britt Ewert, [email protected] for more information 50

January 2015 | mtparent.com

Y WHAT'S UP?

Montana

check here

each month for family events, deals and coupons. get the latest from some of your favorite local businesses

Plus

Find even more

family events on our online calendars @mtparent.com & follow us on

PHOTO AMELIA ANNE PHOTOGRAPHY

Facebook

advertisers & nonprofits may Submit what’s up events to [email protected]

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January 2015 | mtparent.com

51

Y WHAT'S UP?

Bozeman

Silks, Hammock & Low-Flying Trapeze

Growing Philanthropy New Sessions for 2015 Begin January 6 The Bozeman Area Community Foundation has joined forces with the Women’s Foundation of Montana to host a yearlong series designed to grow philanthropy in the Bozeman area. Five new sessions for this innovative series that began in September 2014 will continue on Tuesday, January 6 at the Beall Park Center, starting at 6:30 p.m.

Kids Aerial Classes at The Emerson Center 3-5yrs, Mondays,10am (parent participation)

K-12yrs, Mondays, 4:30pm Visit mountainairdance.org for more information and call to reserve your child’s space today!

(406) 595-0909

“This year, our Inspiring Community Philanthropy Series has brought together community members from all walks of life to talk about how they want to give more effectively to causes that matter to them. We can’t wait to see how our next sessions impact our participants,” said Bridget Wilkinson, Bozeman Area Community Foundation Executive Director. The January 6th session, “Purpose-Driven Philanthropy: Finding Focus in Your Giving,” is a personalized conversation geared toward teaching community members how to prioritize giving their time, talents and resources to the community for the new year. The discussion will be guided by Amy McNamara, Principal of McNamara Consulting. “We are thrilled to be working with the Bozeman Area Community Foundation on this exciting project that will work to increase giving – including both financial gifts and volunteerism – in the Bozeman community,” said Jen Euell, Women’s Foundation Program Director. The Inspiring Community Philanthropy series will provide five monthly events in 2015 designed to help individuals and families at any stage in life learn how to give more effectively to causes that matter most to them. The events will include interactive community conversations by engaging panelists and experts at the Beall Park Center. Upcoming series topics include:

»» January 6: Purpose-Driven Philanthropy: Finding Focus in Your Giving »» February 3: Raising Kids that Give Back: Fun Ways to Nurture a Culture of Philanthropy in your Home

»» March 3: Give Greater Meaning to Your Work: Why Philanthropy is Good for Business »» March 21: Women’s Giving Retreat »» April 7: Choosing Organizations: What You Need to Know Before You Give These five events at the Beall Park Center are free and open to the public, but seating is limited. Refreshments will be served at 6:30 p.m. and the presentations will follow at 7 p.m. “We believe that every community member can be a philanthropist by giving their time, talents and resources to causes that matter most to them. You don’t need to be a millionaire to make a difference in your community,” said Bridget Wilkinson, Executive Director of the Bozeman Area Community Foundation. This Inspiring Philanthropy Series is made possible through the generous support of the Doll Family Foundation, the First Interstate BancSystem Foundation and Bill Cochran. For more information contact the Women’s Foundation of Montana at www. wfmontana.org and on Facebook. Learn more about the Montana Community Foundation at www.mtcf.org. mp

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January 2015 | mtparent.com

Family

Snowshoe Festival January 17, 2015

Health and Wellness

Seminar January 10, 2015 If you have a hard time destressing after the holidays, come out to a free Health and Wellness Seminar at Fit Intuit. The event takes place Saturday, January 10 at 9 a.m. at Fit Intuit studios at 521 E. Peach St. Enjoy a cup of coffee and learn what wellness coaching is, and the positive effects it can have on your body. Kris Bodean, a certified personal trainer, will lead the discussion, which will focus on how wellness can facilitate change and success in all dimensions of life. This event is free but seating is limited, so reserve a spot today. Call 406-579-5797. mp

FLOW Outside, Montana Parent, Atlas Snowshoes, Bohart Ranch and Frances Graham Isagenix representative will be hosting a Family Snowshoe Festival on January 17 from 1-3 p.m. Attendees can try out free demo snowshoes, participate in a snowshoe yoga demonstration, try the latest snowshoes for running/racing, talk to local snowshoe instructors and sales representatives, and enjoy snacks and drinks for the family. The Family Snowshoe Festival will take place at Bohart Ranch (the purchase of a $15 Bohart Trail Pass is required). Demo snowshoes will be available for FREE. This event is a terrific opportunity to check out the latest snowshoe technology while talking to experts who can assist you with technique and equipment questions. With any new endeavor, learning about the appropriate equipment and the proper technique is essential to maximizing enjoyment and safety, and to ensuring that you’re buying the appropriate gear. FLOW Outside understands this and offers Intro to Snowshoeing classes that serve this purpose. “Our Intro to Snowshoe class is a wonderful way to get introduced to the sport correctly. FLOW Outside also offers Snowshoe Tours, Run and Fit clinics, and Snowga (snowshoe/yoga combo) classes for further enjoyment of the sport.” FLOW Outside is a premier active adventure and wellness outfitter. Year-round adventure tours, skills classes and outdoor yoga/fitness classes – specializing in snowshoeing, stand up paddling, hiking and biking – are offered in Bozeman. mp

:: January ACTIVITY & EVENT CALENDARS + BLOG + MORE @ MTPARENT.COM ::

HeLp your CHiLd

SuCCeed in SCHooL. now enroLLing

one-to-one individuaLized inStruCtion for CHiLdren ageS 4-18. at Sage Learning Center, our miSSion iS to identify & deCreaSe tHe gap between a perSon’S potentiaL and tHeir performanCe.

SageLe arningCenter.com

406-582-9570

January 2015 | mtparent.com

53

BZN

YOU’LL WANT TO

LICK OUR SKILLETS

B R E A K FA S T L U N C H D A I LY 7 - 2 M -F 1 1 -2

in a hurry? introducing

coffee bar * grab-n-go * baked goods 308 AND 312 E. MAIN ST. BOZEMAN T H E N O VA C A F E . C O M • 4 0 6 . 5 8 7 . 3 9 7 3 54

January 2015 | mtparent.com

Mountain Air Dance

Register today

Kids’ aerial dance classes are going on now at The Emerson Center in Bozeman. Mountain Air Dance is excited to begin these fun, fast-paced classes for kids aged 3 to 12. Mountain Air Dance teen and adult classes have been thrilling Bozemanites since 2009 and, beginning January 5, the little ones can join the fun too.    Director Cathy Werner, MFA, has been developing the kids’ program over the past few years with her own children and is excited to share the joy of flight with more Montana kids. These classes take place in the air and on the ground with fun exercises that help children improve their coordination, strength and self-esteem. Kids will get an introduction to the exhilarating feeling of flight, learn to safely move on the apparatus, hang upside down and spin. These classes promote important life skills such as: confidence, focus, teamwork, respect, artistic expression, memory, discipline and coordination.     Session 1: January 5-26 (Aerial Hammock & Silks) Session 2: February 2-23 (Low-Flying Trapeze)   Ages 3-5, Mondays at 10 a.m. (parent participation required) Ages 6-12, Mondays at 4:30 p.m. Cost is $70 per session   Visit mountainairdance.org for more information and call 406-595-0909 to reserve your space today.   mp

BZN

Sweet Tooth

Swing February 6, 2014

Bridgercare will host its 28th annual fundraiser, the Sweet Tooth Swing, on Friday, February 6 at the Emerson Cultural Center in Downtown Bozeman. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. with live music by the Cottonwood Club from Helena. Free swing dance lessons with Kerie Hagler will have everyone out on the dance floor, having fun. The Bozeman Brewingsponsored beer and wine bar is open for everyone over the age of 21, and free artisan desserts created by local bakeries are sure to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth. This year’s event includes a swing dance performance by Bozeman Swing as well as a balloon pop with fantastic prizes from Bozeman businesses. In addition to a silent auction, Travis Ballenger of Ballenger Auctioneers will auction off unique experiences in Bridgercare’s first-ever live auction event. Cocktail attire is encouraged. Tickets are available at www.bridgercare. org/shop, Cactus Records and Bridgercare for $30 each. Must be 21 to attend. Reserved tables for groups of 10 are available for $600 and include 10 event tickets, 10 drink tickets, two bottles of wine and a platter of desserts. Put your dancing shoes on and come join the fun. For more information visit bridgercare. org/eventsnews, call 406-587-0681 x31, email [email protected] or visit them on Facebook. About Bridgercare: Bridgercare provides excellent, affordable reproductive and sexual health care and education in a safe, supportive, empowering atmosphere. Serving south central Montana since 1972, Bridgercare is a nonprofit, family planning clinic that provides services to men and women regardless of ability to pay. They seek to improve the lives of individuals and families by preventing unplanned pregnancies and promoting preventative health. Please visit www.bridgercare. org to find out more. Bridgercare is a member of Montana Shares and the Montana Nonprofit Association. mp

Babes in Bozeman

BABY EXPO March 28, 2015

Don’t miss out on the 6th Annual Babes in Bozeman Baby Expo on Saturday, March 28 at the Gallatin Valley Mall from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Baby Expo is a free event that specializes in babies and toddlers, but covers the whole family. The Baby Expo showcases everything from products, services and activities as well as amazing handmade gifts, local family businesses, health care providers and even creative people around our valley that have goods and services that pertain to you and your families. This year the Baby Expo is hosting a photo contest for the cutest “Buckaroo” out there. They have paired up with Buckaroo Organics (www.buckaroo-organics.com) and would love to see photos of your little buckaroos. See the Baby Expo ad on page 12 of Montana Parent magazine for details. Plus, while you’re at the mall for the Baby Expo, don’t forget to take the little ones to visit the Easter Bunny. If you are interested in becoming a vendor at our event, please visit our website at www.BabesinMontana. com or email babesinbozeman@ gmail.com. mp

:: January ACTIVITY & EVENT CALENDARS + BLOG + MORE @ MTPARENT.COM ::

For more info, visit www.bridgercare.org or call 587-0681 x37.

January 2015 | mtparent.com

55

Y WHAT'S UP?

Butte

Dental

Walk-In Days Walk-In Days and Kids Free Visits At the Southwest Montana Community Health Center Dental Clinic

From our Farm to your table We grow our grain, mill our flour, and bake our nutritious breads just down the road. You and your kids can taste the Wheat Montana difference!

www.wheaTmonTana.com 56

January 2015 | mtparent.com

800-535-2798

Scan this code to watch our Farm to Table video!

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  The Southwest Montana Community Health Center Dental Clinic will be offering emergency walk-in visits Monday through Friday, from 8 to 10 a.m. starting January 1, 2015, on a first-come, first-served basis.   Also, any child can receive a free, comprehensive treatment (exam, fillings, cleanings and other basic dental services) beginning at 7:45 a.m. on a first-come, first-served basis the second Friday of every month.   For more information about the Southwest Montana Community Health Center Dental Clinic call 406-496-6007. mp

14

th ANNUAL

Law Enforcement

President’s Plunge

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for Special Olympics Montana

February 16, 2015 12:00pm ***NEW LOCATION*** Gallatin Regional Park - Bozeman, Montana

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Premier Law Enforcement Sponsor

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Polar Plunge® event presented by the Law Enforcement Torch Run® for Special Olympics Montana

:: January ACTIVITY & EVENT CALENDARS + BLOG + MORE @ MTPARENT.COM ::

January 2015 | mtparent.com

57

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January 2015 | mtparent.com

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:: January ACTIVITY & EVENT CALENDARS + BLOG + MORE @ MTPARENT.COM ::

2419 West Main St. Suite 1 Bozeman MT, 59718 406.404.0951/[email protected] www.BigSkyCleanse.com

January 2015 | mtparent.com

59

Y WHAT'S UP?

Helena

Symphony Kids III ~

BOOM! POW! SHH… January 10, 2015 The Helena Symphony invites children and families to hear fun, imaginative and interactive performances by the Helena Symphony Orchestra on January 10 at 10 a.m. at Saint Paul’s United Methodist Church. “Kids III ~ BOOM! POW! shh…” is an exciting program that not only introduces kids (from ages 5 to 10) to the world of music and instruments but also engages them and their families in the concert experience. Following each concert, children are invited to try instruments at the Instrument Petting Zoo (sponsored by Piccolo’s Music). This is a free performance. For more information and a list of upcoming performances visit helenasymphony.org.

mp

Helena

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January 2015 | mtparent.com

The smiles. The laughs. The hopes and dreams. You know they are in there. But how do you bring them out when your child is struggling in school? There is a lasting solution that tutoring can’t provide. We call it brain training. Parents and kids call it life changing. Call today and get $50 off a cognitive skills assessment.

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t.

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len

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ve

aA

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ll S Get

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ha nc e

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:: January ACTIVITY & EVENT CALENDARS + BLOG + MORE @ MTPARENT.COM ::

visit us online & in our Livingston boutique January 2015 | mtparent.com

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Mama’s Got a New Bag

Contest PHOTOS, PRIZES & TEXT | SAMMY FARMER

ENTER to WIN! Go to our blog www.mtparent.com/blog to enter to win this bag and all the prizes! This contest ends January 31, 2015. Check back for a new contest every month. Follow us on Facebook for more information. Want to be featured in the next bag? Email [email protected].

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Shopping Directory Feature of the

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I started my Jamberry journey on November 11, 2013. I signed up because I love Jamberry’s products, wanted the discount on their nail wraps and, frankly, couldn’t live without them. I quickly saw the money-making potential with the company’s amazing compensation plan and decided I would make enough to pay for my daughter’s competition dance fees. Today I have a large team, easily pay for my daughter’s dance fees and have extra spending money.  
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Happy New Life... Happy New Year! William Allen, MD :: Michael Blake, MD, PhD :: Juliet Hansen, MD Pepper Henyon, MD :: Mark Hodgson, MD :: Angie Ostrowski, MD

406-414-5700

bdhg.org/peds

Please note our new phone number and update in your contacts.

YOUR HEALTH RECORDS IN YOUR HANDS. Stop in or call your Bozeman Deaconess Health Group clinic for secure registration to our patient portal!