Coping with the new sibling
Maranda talks with an expert from Pine Rest on adding a child to the family.
Babies
Adoption through Bethany
Maranda looks at adoption with an expert from Bethany Christian Services.
Office Baby Shower
The best tips for holding an office baby shower!
Rockford Moms Club
Maranda talks with members of the Rockford Moms Club.
Big Sister In-Training
Since our daughter Sophia found out she was going to be a big sister, she has been ecstatic. She talks about how she is going to help take care of the baby, feed the baby and can’t wait for Baby Allen’s arrival. As much as I’m excited that she is on-board with having a sibling, I also was concerned about her knowing what changes in our house to expect and how she can and can’t help.
A few months ago a friend told me about a class offered at Spectrum Health for children ages 3-5 years old that are expecting a sibling. When I told Sophia about it she said she “wanted to go to baby school” so we signed her up. We took the class with her a few weeks ago and I wanted to share a little about our experience.
The hour and a half class started with each of the kids getting a lesson in how a baby is born and then explained what they can expect around the house. It touched on things like lots of crying, babies being up in the night and new rules that you might have at home once the baby arrives. Then the kids all got to practice some basic helping skills on dolls. They were each shown how to swaddle a baby, properly hold them and even fed the baby a bottle, all while being reminded that they need to be with a mom or dad to do these things.
The class ended with a tour of the birthing unit at Spectrum Health and showed the kids where the baby would be born. This was also a great way to get the kids familiarized with where they’ll be visiting their mom, dad and new sibling.
Sophia had a great time and my husband and I had a lot of fun watching her as a big sister in-training. This class really opened my eyes to the huge amount of resources offered by Spectrum Health and their Healthier Communities program. You can learn more about the Siblings Class by watching Maranda Where You Live on Friday, October 21 and Saturday, October 22. Maranda and our crew tagged along with my family to the class and documented things, so you can get a look at it for yourself in just a few weeks!
The Shomin Family
Through Bethany Christian Services, the Shomin family of Ada recently adopted a baby girl from Haiti.
Keeping your baby safe
A lot of new parents don’t always think about things around the house that might be dangerous for a newborn. Here are some things you need to remember when bringing home your baby.
Saving for your baby’s future
Here are three simple things you can do to help save for your baby’s future.
The latest in baby gear
When it comes to baby gear and gadgets Meijer has you covered!
Changes in family dynamics
Our friends from Pine Rest have some insights on making the transition of adding to your family smooth for everyone.
Blogs
Maranda's Blog
Keep in step with Maranda as she explores issues affecting your family.
Maranda's Go-To Gal
Insights from the mom who helps Maranda get it all done.
Whitecaps Blog
Whitecaps mascot Crash takes you inside the ballpark.
Cruiser's Blog
Cruiser has the inside track for Craig's Cruisers.
Health & Wellness
Make health and wellness a priority.
Fifth Third River Bank Run
On pace with the Fifth Third River Bank Run.
Healthy Living
Simple solutions for healthy living.
Social Media
