Category — Parenting

When I think back to some of my favorite stories growing up, several classics come to mind—The Tale of Peter Rabbit, The Little Prince and The Velveteen Rabbit to name a few. Of course, as a kid, I’d neither noticed, nor cared, that these stories’ main characters were all male. But according to a recent study from Florida State University, lead male characters in children’s stories are not at all uncommon. In fact, they seem to be the norm. The findings show a bias toward stories featuring male characters—including animals—in children’s literature over the last century.

The study examined nearly 6,000 children’s books published from 1900 to 2000. Of those, 57 percent had a male protagonist, while only 31 percent of the leads were female (the rest of the characters were gender neutral animals, like in Eric Carle’s The Very Hungry Caterpillar). And animals didn’t fare much better: Male animals are central characters in more than 23 percent of books published per year, while female animals are in only 7.5 percent.

As to why this inequality exists, especially in animals, the authors say some publishers—under pressure to release books that are more gender balanced—use animal characters in an attempt to avoid the problem of gender representation. Still, their findings show that most animal characters are gendered and that inequality among animals is actually greater—not less—than that among human characters.

Since children’s books can contribute to how kids understand gender roles and stereotypes, the authors of the study say the lack of female characters in books is sending children a message that women and girls occupy a less important role in society than men or boys. This may contribute to a sense of feeling unimportant among girls, and one of privilege among boys.

So what can parents do to get their kids thinking about gender stereotypes? Start with introducing your child, boy or girl, to books portraying girls and women in a positive light with active, dynamic roles—even if it doesn’t end up being your child’s favorite book, that’s okay; you’ll still be showing that those types of female characters exist. Look for any books that challenge gender stereotypes—whether it’s about a girl who starts playing football, or the only boy in a ballet class (check out this great list of books featuring non-traditional gender roles). And if the main character’s gender isn’t plainly stated, be careful before you yourself label it as a he or a she—ask for your child’s opinion first. Some more tips: Ask your child, for example, what the story of Sleeping Beauty would have been like if the princess was actually a prince. Or, read a story and then have your child guess what the author’s gender is based on what you just read.

-Dana, KIWI Intern

Image via Flickr user heraldpost under a Creative Commons license

When people ask me how to teach kids about being “green,” it always takes me aback a little. Our mission at KIWI is to introduce families to a healthier way of life and we’ve included children in that mix. But it’s still a daunting task to speak to children about the future of the planet, pesticides in our food supply, GMOs, artificial ingredients, and more. What can they possibly understand? How can children “get it” if so many adults (including our own lawmakers) don’t?

This is my best advice to you, to the parents who care about the kind of adults your children will become: LIVE IT!

Quite simply, if you live it, they will too. One of the greatest joys of parenting is to watch your children pick up what they see you do—not just what you tell them to do. As your kids become older and begin making their own decisions, it’s gratifying to watch them emulate you, and incorporate your choices into their own.

My daughter just turned 13 and I’m seeing first hand that “living it” pays off. For example, she recently went to a friend’s house and was offered an unfamiliar brand of a beverage, so she texted me, “Can I drink this?” It was a bottled iced tea with artificial sweeteners. I texted back, “No…there’s caffeine in this and artificial sweeteners.”  She wrote back, “I thought so and it’s also not organic. Thanks.”   Chalk one up for me (smile).

No matter what age your children are, it’s never too late to start leading by example. And don’t feel like you have to do everything. At KIWI, we believe that whatever you do to create a healthier family is good; one small step is a perfect way to begin. I suggest starting with what you and your kids are exposed to the most on a daily basis:

• Put “organic” in the refrigerator every day:  organic milk, organic juice, organic butter, and organic peanut butter.
• Switch your dish detergent to a natural brand, as it sits in your kitchen and is used daily.
• Make sure to use natural hand soaps and shampoos, as they are also used daily.
• Replace your paper towels with those made from 100% recycled paper
• Cut down or eliminate paper cups and plates.
• Give your kids a chore: put them in charge of placing recyclables in the recycle bin daily so they get used to the process

I’d love to hear how your family is  ‘‘living it” including your hits and misses. Wishing you a Happy Earth Day today and every day!

-Maxine Wolf, CEO & Publisher

Happy Holidays! We’re back with another edition of the mom blog roundup. Got a blog you’d like to share? Let us know in the comments!

• Looking to help your child get a jump in school? My Little Patch of Sunshine reviews a popular online tutoring service.
• The Crunchy Chicken keeps her house cooler in the winter, but everywhere else she goes is kept super warm—making her super uncomfortable. What about you?
• Yum! The Pomegranate Not-tini from Celebrate Green might be the perfect drink for a family-friendly New Year’s party.
• After opening all the gifts on Christmas morning, Natural as Possible Mom reminds us: recycle that wrap!
• If you’re still searching for last-minute gifts, try these homemade ideas from Green SAHM.

-Marygrace, staff writer

It’s been a while, but we’re back with another edition of the mom blog roundup. Got a blog you’d like to share? Let us know in the comments!

• In the throes of shopping madness? Take a step back, and see why Crunchy Domestic Goddess suggests giving experiential gifts instead.
• Water’s a precious resource, but that can be hard hard for kids to grasp. Teach them about conservation with tips from Green SAHM.
• Cloth Diaper Blog says yes, you can travel with cloth diapers! Some diapers might work better than others, though.
• Think “unscented” and “fragrance-free” mean the same thing? So did Mom Goes Green—til she found out otherwise!
• You’ve read our children’s book reviews, now see more: Ph.D. in Parenting shares her kids book recommendations.

-Marygrace, staff writer

The decision of whether to stay home or go back to work after having a child is personal—not to mention tough. But for new moms, there’s good news: Children under three whose mothers go back to work may fare no worse academically or behaviorally than kids whose moms stay home, reports a new study in Psychological Bulletin.

The report, which spanned over a 50 year period, showed that having a working mother could be beneficial to the development of a child. Having a working mother increased a child’s overall academic achievement rates and lowered behavior problems in school settings, says Rachel Lucas-Thompson, lead author of the study, and assistant professor of psychiatry at Macalester College.

Children from low-income or single-parent families had better intelligence scores with fewer conduct issues than children whose mothers did not work. The study suggested that the extra income from these working mothers meant the family had more resources, fewer financial stresses, and a positive role model as a provider in the household.

However, children from middle- or upper- class families with two parents, whose mothers worked within the first year of the child’s birth, did not reap the same benefits, resulting in a decrease in achievement later on in life. “This suggests that families who are not struggling financially may not see as many benefits of maternal employment on very young children,” said Lucas-Thompson. “For these families, it’s possible that alternate care arrangements may not be as emotionally supportive as the child’s mother.” Lucas-Thompson reported that the  findings on middle- and upper- class families should serve as support for increased efforts for more flexible maternity leave policies, stating if mothers are allowed to work fewer hours or postpone work altogether during that first year, children would reap positive benefits.

-Amanda, KIWI intern

Think back to the superheroes that saved the world when you were a kid. Imagine their crazy colored costumes, witty catchphrases, and desire to promote peace for the good of all mankind. Now, take a look at today’s superheroes, with their semi-automatic machine guns and their “blinged out” lifestyles. A little different, wouldn’t you agree? Some psychologists at the 118th Annual Convention of the American Psychological Association think so, and have begun to blame stereotypical male behaviors boys today tend to exhibit on these super different, yet still super prominent, modern superheroes.

The cartoon characters are affecting boys’ abilities to distinguish between right and wrong, and are negatively affecting family relationships and friendships, says a study from Arizona State University. Researchers observed 426 boys in grades six through eight for stereotypical, “macho” male behaviors, like acting physically tough or autonomous, in their relationships. They also studied whether ethnicity was a factor, and if resisting these behaviors and stereotypes affected the boys’ psychological health. The results? Ethnicity doesn’t make a difference—but boys who have close relationships with their mothers acted less tough and were more open with their friends, siblings and peers. On the other hand, boys who were closer with their fathers were more self-directed and detached from friends.

Boys who didn’t exhibit a “macho” attitude in relationships had better psychological health, especially in middle school, the study says. However, their ability to resist acting like the “tough guys” they see on TV or in comic books weakens as boys reach adolescence. So, encouraging boys to be kind and empathetic early on is one key to improved psychological health and social relationships. Fathers should explain the importance of close relationships to their sons and let them know that having emotions is not a sign of weakness, but instead, a sign of being human, researchers conclude.

-Angela, KIWI intern

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Fresh off the heels of Meatless Monday, the Tranquil Parent shares tips for packing a vegetarian lunch for kids and adults.
• A staple-free stapler? It really works and is a safe, waste-free option for students, says the Green Mom Review.
• Hooray, you’re using cloth diapers! But now your baby’s clothes don’t fit right. Green Baby Guide knows how to make it work.
• Painting with watercolors is super fun—but it can also be super messy. Find out how to keep it organized via Make and Takes.
• Warm days spent outdoors means lots of dirt tracked inside, but Green SAHM says there are plenty of ways to keep your indoor air cleaner.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Finished your latest issue of KIWI and  just can’t wait for the next one to arrive? Now you can get a little taste of KIWI in between issues with our interactive publication, KIWI Slice. The summer issue, available now, is all about pregnancy and babies. If you’re a KIWI mom or dad who’s trying to live greener and healthier with a baby, you won’t want to miss:

• The best kinds of exercise during pregnancy 
• What to eat when you’re nursing
• How to protect your baby from toxins

There’s more—and it’s all free! Once you’ve checked out the baby issue, don’t miss the food edition of KIWI Slice, either: lots of yummy recipes you can call up quickly on your computer (or print, as long as you promise to keep or recycle your print-out!).

—Sarah, editorial director

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Baby Potential stopped going to church as a young adult, but now she wonders whether raising kids without religion is a good idea.
• All month long, Motherhood Uncensored is challenging herself to be a better parent, starting with being present with her kids. 
• Family road trip? Your kids could see some inappropriate billboards, says Mommy Instincts.
• Mom-101 shares her experience taking her daughter to work. 
• Being a parent is hard work—especially when you have to parent in public, says Ask Moxie.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Want to feed your family food that’s healthy, simple to make, and good for the environment? Check out Mark Bittman, says Enviromom. 
• Muthering Heights shares advice for determining your child’s strengths and weaknesses (it’s easy!). 
• Natural remedies handbook, Smart Medicine for a Healthier Child, is a must-read, according to Recycle Your Day. 
• Is motherhood oppressive? PhD in Parenting talks parenting, happiness, and the pressure cooker. 
• Attention crafty moms: Make and Takes is giving one lucky reader a cordless glue gun!

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Do you work from home? There are plenty of ways to make your office more earth-friendly, says Green SAHM. 
• One way to build a better breakfast might be tossing the Corn Flakes. Natural as Possible Mom covers the latest Kellog’s cereal recall. 
• Frugal Family Fun Blog shares their favorite activity of the summer—building giant bubble wands!
• Tomorrow marks the 41st anniversary of the first moon landing! Multi-Minding Mom is celebrating by reading moon-themed books with her kids. 
• Ever wonder how other eco-conscious moms do it? The Crunchy Chicken shares a day in her green life. 

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

A few weeks ago, I read an interesting article in New York magazine about domestic workers here in NYC. The nannies talked about the low pay, the lack of vacation time and health insurance, and the tricky situation at the heart of child care workers: You’re a member of the family, sort of, and you’re paid, but not that well. There’s a lot of guilt and confusion when it comes to what domestic workers can and should ask for, and Domestic Workers United, a union, is trying to educate women (these child care providers are usually women) about their rights.

And then this week, I learned that more and more states are allowing unions to represent home-based child care providers, which might help them obtain better pay and subsidized health insurance. The National Women’s Law Center says that this category includes what we think of as nannies (the sitter works in the family’s home) as well as people who take care of kids in their own home, rather than a daycare center. 

What do you think about nannies and other child care providers joining unions? Would you be happy if your sitter did? What kinds of things do you think parents can do to make sure they’re treating their child care providers fairly?

-Sarah, KIWI editorial director

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Ahh, relief! dkMommySpot shares some surprising natural ways to help your family beat the heat.
• Get crafty with…bread? See what Unplug Your Kids made when they transformed a loaf into modeling clay.
• Sometimes, advocating for green is easier than actually being green, says Organic Mania.
• Angry with BP? Big Green Purse offers an idea that’s more effective than boycotting their gas stations.
• SafeMama helps you combat summer skin woes like bug bites, rashes, sunburn, and more.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

At KIWI, we love when you’re online, reading our blog and checking us out on Facebook. But we also know how much it matters to your kids when you’re not checking your e-mail or tomorrow’s weather or the comments section on your own blog. That’s why we love Offlining, an idea being promoted by two dads: They’re not asking you to give up your phones or TV entirely. They just want you to take the Offline Resolution and commit to ten device-free dinners between now and Thanksgiving. You can do that, right? Ten dinners? Let’s try it! Sign up, and when you’re back online, let us know how it went!

-Sarah, KIWI editorial director

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Why do girls have to wear swimsuit tops but boys don’t? Crunchy Domestic Goddess weighs in on her daughter’s experience with bathing suit inequality.
• Come, Mommy shares a hilarious (and adorable!) story about getting laundry help from her son.
• The only thing worse than a clogged drain? Having to use a super toxic product to clean it out. No more, says Recycle Your Day, who offers eco-friendly solutions.
• It’s hot outside! If your air conditioner isn’t working as well as you think it should be, try this one simple trick, says Mom Goes Green.
• Your morning java just got greener, thanks to The Green Mom Review‘s post on reusable, hemp coffee filters.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

What do you do when your plans to breastfeed or bond with your baby conflict with your employer’s plans for your workweek? If you’re one of these four moms, you don’t give up your goals—you change your boss’s mind.

By Amy Levin-Epstein

Melinda Garland

Cheshire County, New Hampshire

WHAT SHE DID Persuaded her bosses to let babies come to work—twice

HOW SHE MADE IT When Garland became a mom in 2002, she was surprised by her reluctance to return to work at the end of her maternity leave. She loved her job at a small, family-run newspaper, but she wanted to be with her baby even more. Because her boss was eager to keep her on staff, and the office already had a fairly casual atmosphere, they were able to come up with a plan: Rather than leave baby Sophia behind, Garland brought her along to the office until she was 8 months old.

The arrangement worked well for every- one, but by the time Garland got pregnant again, she was working for a larger company. Badger Balm, an organic skincare company, was also family-run, so Garland hoped her new bosses would be open to the idea of bringing a baby to work. “I was realistic that this would be on a trial basis,” says Garland, but she did her homework: She downloaded information from babiesatwork.org (a site started by Moquin), and offered her former employer’s contact information—a reference of sorts for her baby. The CEO, Bill Whyte agreed to give it a try, and the Badger office soon fell in love with little Audrey. Garland designated “baby holders”—literally, office pals who’d watch Audrey when she couldn’t. This was important for meetings or bathroom trips, but Garland rarely had to actually ask anyone to hold Audrey. “There were some days when I had to look for her,” she says.

Since Audrey’s tenure as Badger’s mini mascot, five other babies have joined their parents at work. “We’ve had a baby boom!” says Whyte. “It’s never been a problem. I joke that we’ll have to rent babies to fill the void when we don’t have a regular one here,” he says. One reason the program works so well at Badger is that there are guidelines in place: Babies are shown the door when they’re 6 months old (too much crawling!), and if parents need time off during those first 6 months, they simply make up the extra hours when they’re able. This can minimize resentment from co-workers and help you do both “jobs”—parent and employee well, says Garland. The ultimate endorsement comes from the boss himself: “I say, ‘How can you afford to have people who aren’t happy in their jobs?’” says Whyte. “You have a short period of time where moms are potentially less efficient, but their gratefulness extends past that period of time, which has a great impact on the workplace.”

HER ADVICE TO NEW MOMS Make your suggestions early—as soon as possible after you’ve told your employer you’re expecting. “Bringing up ideas this big can’t be done in the ninth month of pregnancy,” says Garland. You’ll have more time to convince your boss or find solutions that work for both of you.

Sarah Walton

Tenafly, New Jersey

WHAT SHE DID Staggered her work return

HOW SHE MADE IT HAPPEN Walton was working at a small start-up—there was only one other parent in the company—when she got pregnant. There was no maternity policy in place, and certainly no company history of flexible schedules.

The federal 1993 Family and Marital Leave Act set in place maternity leave policy regulations (twelve weeks of unpaid leave), but companies with fewer than 50 employees aren’t required to offer any leave, and employees who have been with a company less than a year aren’t covered. The Act also doesn’t address the emotional and practical difficulties of going straight from maternity leave to full-time worker.

So Walton had to come up with a solution that worked for everyone—her CEO, the rest of the small staff, her husband, and herself. They settled on full pay for a maternity leave of six weeks, followed by working from home until the baby was 4 months old. “This was very important to me as it allowed me to establish a breastfeeding pattern and spend time with the baby,” says Walton. Once the four months were up, she arranged to come back to the office slowly. For three months, she worked at home three days each week; for the next three, she worked at home two days. After that, she went back to work full time. Since then, Walton co-founded Better Way Moms (betterwaymoms.com), a site about motherhood issues like working- mom guilt, co-parenting, and more. “No one ever tells you how hard it is to be a parent. I’m proud of what I managed to do with my leave, but there are so many things that make you think, ‘There has to be a better way!’ I’m hoping to help other moms out,” she says.

HER ADVICE TO NEW MOMS Be the person your colleagues can count on, no matter where you’re working. Walton told her company she’d be available on her days at home, and she was. “They were always able to get me and I kept things on track,” she says.

Jodie Lucci

Merrimack, New Hampshire

WHAT SHE DID Created a pumping room

HOW SHE MADE IT HAPPEN Even if there’s a law that backs you up, sometimes you have to take matters into your own hands. The recent health care bill guarantees that employees be given break time to express breast milk in a private place other than a bathroom. However, companies with fewer than 50 employees may be exempt if the employer can show that this would impose a hardship. And there’s no guarantee that companies will exactly jump to build pumping rooms.

If you think your company might need a little push to embrace the law, take a cue from Jodie Lucci. When her son Nathan was born 15 years ago, there were even fewer pumping rooms than there are today. (Since that time, 24 states have passed laws protecting breastfeeding in the workplace.) So she went looking for a spot for one at the biopharmaceutical company where she worked and found a shower room in the building that had potential. “I sent an e-mail to everyone who had babies or were pregnant (there were about seven of us at the time) and to the women who were using the shower after exercising. I got everyone interested, and then two of us went down and talked to the facilities person and asked for a curtain and an outlet in the shower area,” says Lucci, who says she’s glad she spoke up. In the past, other women had gone individually to human resources without any luck, and Lucci suspects one of the reasons she was successful was that she skipped the bureaucracy by going straight to the head of facilities. Breastfeeding was important to her, not just for the health benefits. “I wanted to pump because providing milk for my baby was the only thing I could do that the caregiver, my mother, couldn’t do. I was quite jealous of her getting to be there for all of his waking moments, whereas I’d only seem to get him when he was cranky or asleep. When I got home and we nursed, he was happy to see me,” says Lucci.

HER ADVICE TO NEW MOMS Stick to the facts. She acknowledges that talking about anything breast-related with a boss can be uncomfortable, but says you have to bite the bullet. “I also reassured him that I would work the pumping around whatever experiments I was running, and if that meant I would have to stay later, I would,” she says.

Rachel Aydt

New York City

WHAT SHE DID Changed her work schedule

HOW SHE MADE IT HAPPEN Aydt was working as the research director for a magazine during her first pregnancy and leave, and was able to arrange to take one afternoon each week off to be with her son Jamie— simply by asking for it. But once he was in kindergarten, she took the opportunity at her annual review to ask for something more valuable to her than a raise: more time with her son. Her boss was receptive to the idea. “I switched to leaving at 2:30 two days a week, and I came in earlier on those days. If I’d only come in four days a week, as opposed to working the five days with two afternoons off, I would have been far more under the microscope because the workflow would have been interrupted. If you leave early, nobody notices,” says Aydt. She used the time for adventures that couldn’t get squeezed into the bath and bedtime routines of workdays. “We went on outings to the zoo, or I would take him swimming or to the playground,” she says.

HER ADVICE TO NEW MOMS Consider how your workplace is run. For Aydt to lead the research department she needed to be available on her cell phone; plus, she asked for her afternoons off to be in the middle of the week to avoid resentment and lessen disruption. She believes that women will get what they want if they have a detailed plan for how to make it work. “A boss once said to me, ‘don’t come to me with problems—come to me with solutions,’ ” says Aydt. “So I did.”

Amy Levin-Epstein writes for Glamour, Self, Prevention, and Babble.com.

YOUR TURN

Tell us about your experience going back to work, and share your advice with other moms.

Here’s a stat that’s startling to any parent: at any given time, there are nearly 500,000 American children in the foster care system. Whether they’re waiting to be reunited with their biological family or looking to be adopted, kids in out-of-home care need stable, loving care from a nurturing adult. This month, hundreds of events are taking place across the nation to honor foster parents, raise awareness about the foster care system, and engage caring adults to change a child’s life by becoming a foster parent. To learn more about the National Foster Care Month campaign and how you can help, visit fostercaremonth.org.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

I cannot even count the number of baby showers I’ve been to this year, but there have been several! I always search online for fun gift ideas and cloth diapers are always a great buy.  Thirsties is a line of sustainable cloth diapers that provide comfort as well as leak proofing for your baby.  CEO Erin Kimmett has made it her mission to provide families with a line of affordable and eco-friendly diapers for their babies as well as to take steps to reduce our carbon footprint. Thirsties’ line of diapers uses high quality fabrics that are PVC-, phthalates-, lead-, and latex- free.  Thirsties also offers other fabulous finds including prefolds, inserts, diaper washing solutions, wipes,  hemp inserts, diaper duffles and liners. The list goes on!  To check out Thirsties adorable products as well as learn more about this growing “green” company, please visit Thirsties, Inc.

-Brittany, KIWI Staffer

Whether your child loves to read or needs a little pushing to open a book, we have some great ideas for finding great books and making the most of your reading time:

* Check out Bookworms, the KIWI book review page. Our fantastic reviewer, Mary Talalay, scours through all the new releases to find and recommend the very best.

* Visit We Give Books, where you can read a book with your child right online. It’s free, and for every book you read, Penguin (the book publisher that stocks the site with their classic titles) will donate a book to a child in need.

* Explore One Potato, a lovely little online bookstore with great choices you might not see highlighted at your local big-box bookstore. You’ll buy through Amazon, but browsing here is like talking to a very knowledgeable children’s librarian.

* Speaking of children’s librarians, be sure to support yours: Visit the library today!

-Sarah, KIWI editorial director

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Saying no to plastic is always better for the environment, but not always for your wallet. The Green Phone Booth asks what what you choose—packaging or price?
• Stuttering Awareness Week might’ve just ended, but My Little Patch of Sunshine‘s tips for helping kids who stutter still apply.
• A Mama’s Blog meets another parenting milestone: The first time her son is embarrassed to hug her at school.
• Attention, working moms! Green and Clean Mom shares 4 ways to green your child’s daycare.
• Want to get your kids involved in some volunteer work over the summer? Green SAHM points you in the right direction.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Love the idea of cloth diapers—but wonder how they work while your child’s at daycare? The Cloth Diaper Blog shares some advice.
• SouleMama whips up a batch of violet jam, then spoons it on top of Parmesan crackers with cream cheese. Yum!
• If you think your kid is defiant at age two, just wait til she turns three, says PhD in Parenting.
• BabyMinding offers tips to help your kids break the sugar habit, plus tasty, low-sugar recipes that satisfy a sweet tooth the healthy way.
• Rainy day? Make tye-dye t-shirts, suggests Natural Kids.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Is your kid old enough to use the computer on his own? Consider SafeMama‘s tips to help him surf the web safely.
• Frugal Babe takes another step towards minimalism by reducing her news consumption—and has great results.
• Stay-at-home moms and dads, take note: Living as a one-income family need not be frightening, says Not the Jet Set.
• Walking Upside Down makes spinach-ricotta ravioli (including from-scratch pasta dough!). Yum!
• Birthday party coming up? Take some inspiration from Recycle Your Day‘s homemade birthday banner.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• New to gardening? Smiling Green Mom says if she can do it, you can, too!
• The Confused Homemaker does waste-free lunch right with reusable (and cute!) snack and sandwich bags.
• Yoga pants are great to get your stretch on, but could wearing them everyday be bad for your health? asks 5 Minutes for Mom.
• Think about the best thing happening to you today—then share it with The Mommy Files for Share Your Good News Tuesday. Fun!
• Babies need names, but coming up with one you (and your partner!) both love can be tough, says The Mama Bird Diaries.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

April 22nd is Earth Day. I believe (and I’m sure you’ll agree!) that every day is a good day to teach children to be kind to our planet. I’ve been asked a number of times what I do to communicate this on an ongoing basis to my four-year-old son. I’d like to share an acronym that I use to help teach Ethan about the EARTH:

-E is for Experience. Since Ethan was a baby, I have tried to expose him to nature in a way that resonates with him because for kids, it’s all about experience! From taking him outside when he was a week old to feel the rain, to crawling on the grass for the first time, to hiking in the woods when he was 2 and feeling the bark on the trees and the moss on the ground and listening for birds we can identify—the exposure to colors, textures, sights, and sounds and the opportunity to experience beautiful things about the Earth is important for building an appreciation of them.

-A is for Appreciate. With every experience, I would talk to Ethan about how important it was to appreciate the things around us. I’d tell him it’s important to be kind to the creatures on the Earth and to our natural resources in order to build an appreciation for clean water, clean air, plants, and animals.

-R is for Reuse, Recycle, Reduce. Ethan and I talk a lot about R,R,R. Always carry out what you bring in when hiking. Recycle whenever possible. Use both sides of the paper to draw. Turn off the water when brushing your teeth. Turn off the lights to save energy. By incorporating these messages into our days, they become “just the way we do things” and are part of our lives and who we are.

-T is for Teach. My feeling is that every day and so many moments are teaching opportunities…and I remind myself that the most powerful teaching is by example. And there are many beautiful books and stories that help to illustrate how we all can make a difference. Stories like The Lorax really resonate with children (this is one of Ethan’s favorites!).

-H is for Help make a difference. I point out to Ethan how he can help make a difference as a young child. He picks out clothes to donate to the Red Cross, toys to donate to a local thrift shop that supports the community health services, and coats to send to keep children warm. We are also building a well as part of the Born in September program of Charity Water (as Ethan was born in September). He watched the benefit for Haiti with me and is collecting change to send to Haiti.

-Kim Bloom is the founder of RosieHippo.com, an online store that sells wooden and other all-natural, eco-friendly toys.

Earth Day is right around the corner! To celebrate, we’re highlighting out favorite eco-conscious posts in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• How much water does your family consume? Green and Clean Mom finds an online calculator to help you figure it out.
• Green SAHM knows are more than just pretty to look at. When planted strategically, they’ll provide shade to keep your home cooler in the summer.
• Yoga mat on it’s last legs? Don’t throw it out—recycle it!, says Green Baby Guide.
• Ms. Frizzle is back to save the planet! The Green Parent reviews The Magic School Bus and the Climate Challenge.
• We’re not the only ones who love eco-crafts: Make and Takes shares crafts your kids can make with stuff you’d otherwise throw out.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• The Crunchy Chicken ponders the taboo question: Do you have a favorite child?
• Yum! Living the Frugal Life shares a recipe for seasonal pizza with spinach and spring onions.
• Want to replace your plastic containers for glass—but find it too expensive? Take a tip from Greenhab.
• Yes, dusting is boring work. But Citizen Green lists all the health-related reasons you (or your partner! or your kids!) should do it anyway.
• Ever get a weird look for your sustainable lifestyle? One Green Generation reminds us that living green is not abnormal!

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Living green doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. Instead, try the 80/20 rule, says The Green Phone Booth.
• Going Green Mama shares some restorative yoga poses to soothe aching muscles after a weekend of gardening.
• An energy audit’s the best way to figure out your home’s carbon footprint. The Conscious Shopper tells you how to do it!
• Looking forward to making popsicles this summer? NatureMoms found molds that are BPA-free!

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

As a mom of two young children, I need my hands free now more than ever:  Baby number 1 is 3 years old and always on the move.  Baby number 2 is my “Velcro Baby” and is not happy unless she’s in my arms or right next to me.  So it’s probably no surprise that babywearing has been my saving grace!
It’s also probably no surprise, then, that the newly-issued baby sling warnings had many of my friends and family members contacting me in a state of panic over the last few weeks with warnings of impending doom.  And while I certainly appreciate their concern, I remain unshaken. As a proud and educated babywearer, I know there are many safe and comfortable ways to wear my baby.
I’ve experimented with a range of baby carriers including ring slings, pouch slings, wraps, mei tais, and soft structured carriers (my personal favorite).  One of the many things I learned during the process? Most anything I purchased from large retailers felt unsafe or uncomfortable. Though less expensive and more readily available, these carriers are not made with ergonomics or baby safety in mind.
How can you wear your baby safely? First, make sure that she is near the center of your gravity to ensure she has proper support and even weight distribution. And if you choose to wear a sling, make sure that it is a pouch or a ring sling (as opposed to a “bag sling”) that’s sized correctly for your body (slings are one instance where one size does not fit all!).
Opting instead for a two-shouldered carrier like a wrap, mei tai, or soft structured carrier? Wear your baby in the front-facing in position or on your back.  Front-facing holds your baby in a natural, seated position and and distributes her weight comfortably across her bottom.  (Babies who face outwards are essentially dangling from their crotches and are not given the proper support necessary for their developing hips and spines.)  Carrying your baby on your back (as long as she has good head control) is another great option, since it allows you to have your hands free and a full range of motion.
As a mom who’s worn two babies successfully, I believe the benefits of the practice (lower risk of SIDS, less crying, higher intelligence, better muscle tone, to name a few) far outweigh the potential risks. If you’re considering wearing your baby, I urge you research the subject, and not to let a poorly-made product deter you. Additionally, I welcome your babywearing questions or concerns via e-mail at  amber@heavenlyhold.com.

Amber Stevens is the founder of Heavenly Hold, an online retailer of baby carriers, slings, and wraps. She also blogs at Babywearing Buzz.

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• A great read that’s just for grown-ups: The Tranquil Parent talks about the importance of fighting fairly with your partner.
• Moms weigh in when the Green Baby Guide asks, “Why did you go green with baby?”.
• Trying to minimize waste at home? Green SAHM shares tips for using less plastic in the kitchen.
• Make and Take’s adorable Easter craft will turn your kid’s face into a funny bunny.
• A simple way to keep your home healthier? Take off your shoes, says Mom Goes Green.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Yesterday, the Consumer Product Safety Commission and Health Canada announced a recall of nearly 1 million baby slings in the United States, 15,000 in Canada, and 14,000 in Europe. The recall is for the Infantino “Sling Rider” and “Wendy Bellissimo,” pictured above. The CPSC is advising parents to stop using these products for children four months and younger. The warning is posted here.

Three deaths occurred in these slings in 2009. Additionally, the CPSC has been investigating 13 deaths that have taken place over the past 20 years, also allegedly due to babywearing.

This particular recall is due to a risk of suffocation. The Infantino “Sling Rider” and “Wendy Bellissimo” sold at national retailers (Walmart, Burlington Coat Factory, Target, Babies R Us, BJ’s Wholesale) and Amazon.com between January 2003 and March 2010 are included in the recall. Infantino is offering a replacement item and a baby rattle.

The risks included:

• Fabric pressing against the baby’s nose and mouth, causing suffocation within minutes
• The curled shape that results in a chin-to-chest position for the baby, restricting airflow

CPSC is also in the process of creating a mandatory standard for sling carriers. They want to hear if you’ve had any incidents or problems with this particular product. Check here for more information.

Now, I don’t think all slings should be avoided, as babywearing has proven to be beneficial for babies and parents. Babywearing International Inc. shares a great point made by pediatrician Lois Balster, “Using a sling incorrectly is like using an infant car seat without proper installation, infant positioning, and restraints. It’s always important to position your baby safely in any carrier or infant-carrying device.”

Research has shown that babywearing or keeping babies close by caregivers lessens crying, calms babies, and helps them sleep. Babywearing International, Inc. also shares some positioning guidelines:

• Act as if you were holding the baby—be aware of your surroundings, avoid hazardous situations
• Make sure the baby’s back and torso are supported
• Make sure you can get two fingers between the baby’s chin and chest

How many of you are babywearers? Have you used the “Sling Rider” or “Wendy Bellissimo”? Or had any problems with your slings?

-Nicole McGovern

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Confessions of a Mean Mommy weighs in on a new study citing the negative effects of helicopter parenting.
• Why do we blog? My Baby Naturally explores the motivating factors behind keeping an online journal.
• Most parents are experts at giving, but knowing how to receive is equally important, says the Uncommon Voice.
• Fresh off the heels of our babywearing post, Just Ask Baby answers whether to sling or not to sling.
• Got some old newspaper lying around? Make Music Making Momma‘s musical shakers.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• We talk a lot about greening your home—but what about your workplace? The Green Phone Booth shares a collection of tips and ideas.
• Just in time for spring! Mom Go Green reports that bike-friendly routes are now available on Google Maps.
• Green Talk shares an easy, all-natural way to keep your garden healthy (and it’s not compost!).
• Good news for kids (and adults) with peanut allergies: Oral treatment may soon be available, AllergyMoms reports.
• Tech Savvy Mama talks up SciGirls, a new TV show that aims to get more girls interested in math, science, and engineering.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Whether your kid receives money in the form of a birthday gift from Grandma, a reward for good grades, or a weekly allowance, the time is always right to help him learn how to budget. Some tips:

• Give him a reason. If your child has been eyeing a new video game or soccer ball, help him find incremental ways he can save up for it (by earning $2 for each night he helps fold laundry, for instance). Show him his progress by drawing a poster with a thermometer that “fills up” as he gets closer to his goal, suggests Mackey McNeill, a personal finance specialist.
• Match savings. Big-ticket items might require a long-term savings plan, which can be hard for younger kids to grasp. If it would take more than a few months for your child to save up for something on her own, try matching her savings to keep her motivated, suggest Bryan Link, CEO of the financial planning group SimpliFi.
• Be a role model. Tell your child about the financial goals you’re working toward, like a backyard pool or family vacation, Link says. If you share your savings plan with her and track your progress together, she’ll be more likely to save money for her own goals.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

One week closer to spring! Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Cookies for breakfast? You bet. Hip Mountain Mama makes hers with whole wheat flour, raisins, almonds, and flaxseeds.
• File under: Funny. Check out “10 Things I’ve Learned Since Becoming a mom” from The Healthy Moms.
• TheSmartMama explains why mold can be harmful—plus how to keep it from growing in your home (ick!).
• Too many catalogs are bad for the environment and an (organized) living space. Big Green Purse helps you cut the clutter.
• On our must-see list? Eco documentary, Addicted to Plastic, thanks to Nature Moms‘ review.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• SouleMama takes a moment on Fridays to snap a photo of whatever’s happening in the present moment—and appreciate it!
• It might be March, but Waldorf Mama knows winter isn’t over yet. That’s why she knitted a pair of amazing pink mittens for her daughter.
• The Tranquil Parent reviews a book that teaches kids as young as three about chores and allowance. Check it out!
• Looking for ways to conserve water? Mom Goes Green has ideas for reusing your gray water.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• How do movies and TV influence our idea of what it’s like to have a baby? Crunchy Domestic Goddess explores popular culture’s influence on childbirth.
• And speaking of TV: if your family’s in the market for a new one, check out these planet-friendly buying tips from Green and Clean Mom.
• PhD in Parenting questions McDonald’s sponsorship of the Olympics—and how it’s influencing kids.
• One common relationship challenge? Giving partners the attention they need (despite everyone’s busy schedules!). The Tranquil Parent explores.
• Uh-oh! Healthy Green Moms shares her first experience with the dreaded croup.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Cut the carbon footprint of your to-go coffee cup with a DIY cup sleeve. The Big Green Giraffe shares a tutorial—as well as her cute results!
• Natural as Possible Mom tries to reduce her family’s paper use. See how she’s doing!
• Ever get skeeved out when your kid uses a public restroom? Raising a Green Bean reviews an eco-friendly solution.
• A Mama’s Blog attempts cleans the playroom with her sons, then tries to explain the meaning of the word “pigsty.” Funny!
• Healthy Happy Hip Parenting rediscovers her beauty with a fun photo shoot.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• You’re probably aware of the importance of purchasing fair trade coffee and chocolate. Tree Hugging Family asks, what about bananas?
• Recycle Your Day‘s taking Meatless Mondays to the next level with raw meals for her baby.
• There’s a new baby tub out that makes bath time a snap, says Green Mama’s Pad. Break out the bubbles!
• Excess dietary sodium isn’t just a concern for grown-ups; PhD in Parenting says many baby and toddler foods are also too high in salt.
• GreenStyleMom whips up winter salad with roasted beets and tangerines. Yum!

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

We’re really excited about KIWI’s 2010 Next Great Young Chef contest, our search for the next generation of culinary experts, so this week we’re featuring cooking-related posts we love from some of our favorite mom blogs.

• Real Mom Kitchen‘s Super Bean Burritos are perfect fare for Meatless Mondays (or any day of the week!).
• Looking for a fun after-school treat? Try the UnGourmet‘s toasted coconut and chocolate chip cookies.
• 3 Kids and Us makes butter-browned potatoes that’ll hit the spot on a cold night.
• Why buy bread when it’s so easy to make your own? Check out Milk and Honey Mommy‘s whole wheat sandwich loaf.
• Tomorrow’s Groundhog’s Day! Warm up with Gourmet Mom on-the-Go‘s Groundhog Hot Cocoa.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Photo by SOCIALisBETTER, flickr

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Green and Clean Mom explores the idea of reforming the Toxic Substance Control Act, which could save $5 billion a year in health care costs.
• Want to slow down? Mama-Om shares three ways she practices peace and finds self-connection.
• Enviromom reduces waste with reusable baby wipes.
• The next time your kid wants a new plaything, check out Green SAHM‘s four toys you can make rather than buy.
• A campfire in the winter? PhD in Parenting did it, and has a great picture to prove it.

Are you a mom blogger? Enter our Mom Blogger Giveaway to win a natural cold and flu care pack from Boiron!

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

I’ll admit it—once in a while, I’m guilty of taking 10 minutes to load up on mental junk food by scanning celebrity blogs. Recently, though, I actually saw a post about Angelina Jolie and her tomboy-clad, three-year-old daughter that sparked some thought: At what age does it make sense for your kid to pick out her own outfits?

By around 4 years old, a child will be able to do a decent job putting on her clothing and shoes. Her skills probably fall short, however, if she’s deciding on the outfit herself. (Think tutus or superhero capes, a mishmash of clashing patterns, shorts in the winter time…) While your little kid’s sense of fashion might be a bit embarrassing for you, most experts agree that letting children get creative with their clothing is fine. In fact, it might even be a good thing, since choosing an outfit provides another outlet for identity expression and creativity.

Next time you start stressing about the rain boots and pajama pants combo? I say, let it go. Who knows—your kid could be onto an awesome trend.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Happy New Year! This week, we’re highlighting bloggers that are participating in One Small Change. Started by Hip Mountain Mama, the project is challenging families to adopt one planet-friendly change each month leading up to Earth Day (4/22/10). Want to participate? Learn more here.

• Hip Mountain Mama‘s first small change towards living greener? Cutting back on TP use with the family cloth.
• Plain and Joyful Living isn’t giving up coffee—but her family is saving energy by brewing the drink on a wood stove.
• Green Acres in the City shares some pretty pictures of the snow and her family’s first small change: Installing a low-flow shower head.
• Earthmonkey Mama‘s family is cutting back on their meat consumption, opting for 2-3 veg meals each week.
• Recycling isn’t yet commonplace in Gypsy Forest‘s southern Louisiana community, but it’s her family’s small change for this month.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the parent blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Attachment parenting or tough love? Crunchy Domestic Goddess weighs in on getting your little one to sleep soundly.
• Healthy Green Moms talk the benefits of raw milk, plus the controversy behind it.
• Looking for last minute holiday  crafts? Make Prairie Mama‘s tree homemade ornaments.
• It’s easy to say no to blow drying your hair in the summer, but not so much in the winter. EnviroMom is looking for tips  on air drying minus the chill.
• Tree Hugging Family shares three disposable habits to beat for the new year. Add them to your list of resolutions!

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the parent blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• A Mama’s Blog shares a cute story about her son while marveling at childhood innocence.
• Would you forego toilet paper for cloth wipes? Cloth Diaper Blog explores an issue most of us have probably never thought twice about.
• If you feel like there’s no time to sleep during the holiday season, you’re not alone. But Crunchy Green Lovin’ Mom has some tips to make shut-eye come easier.
• Green Baby Guide is looking for tips that’ll help new moms avoid staying housebound with a new baby in the winter.
• PhD in Parenting weighs in on an interesting controversy over helmets and the responsibility of the media to portray bike safety.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

It seems like people do a lot of eating out this time of year. Maybe it’s the fact that cooking time gets eaten up (ha ha!) all of the holiday season bustle, or perhaps people take on a lot of big holiday cooking projects for parties and events, and therefore don’t want to spend any more time in the kitchen. Whatever the reason, I think everyone would agree that eating out with kids can be a real adventure. How to have a smooth, enjoyable meal as a family? Here, some ideas:

• Go family-friendly. This might be obvious, but its important nonetheless. Choose a restaurant that’s frequented by other families where diners are less likely to be bothered by kids that are antsy or loud.
• Bring the fun. Your kid’ll do better if she’s got something to keep her busy. Having a coloring book at the dinner table might not be the most elegant thing in the world, but it’ll make the meal that much more peaceful for you. And remember: If you bring along an electronic toy, make sure you can turn the sound off.
• Serve a pre-dinner snack. Offer your kid a cheese stick or piece of fruit before arriving to the restaurant. If she’s not starving, she’ll have more patience at the table while waiting for her food to arrive.
• Set the rules. Before you leave the house, let your kid know your expectations. Tell her you’re looking forward to having a great time out as a family, and that you hope she’ll be able to participate in the food and conversation. Let her know the consequences of breaking the rules (“If you throw food at the table, you won’t be allowed to watch your favorite TV show tonight”) and be sure to follow through.
• Start at home. Good table manners don’t magically come about in one night. Practice them at home so your kid understands that at mealtime, it’s important for her to sit in her seat, eat her food, and participate in the conversation. When she gets to a restaurant, she’ll be a pro.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the parent blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Adventures in Babywearing is promoting Blog.Bid.Hope to raise money on behalf of the Liz Logelin Foundation and Anissa Mayhew. Learn how you can help!
• Want to make your own cute baby legwarmers? Check out The Clothesline‘s easy tutorial.
• Just in time for snapping all those holiday photos: Learn five techniques to take better pictures of your kid from SimpleMom.
• Mindful Momma shares her tips on seeking out the best heirloom holiday decorations. Fun!
• Kudos to the moms in Michigan who are supporting toxic chemical reform. Read all about it at Green and Clean Mom.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

If you have a baby on the way, chances are your typical “Season’s Greetings” holiday cards feel like they’re leaving something out. Like, the biggest, most exciting thing ever. You’re having a baby!

That’s why I love these clever new cards from To Be Greetings. They’re stylish and a little bit cheeky–and they celebrate the holidays and your growing family. Plus, they’re printed on FSC-certified paper, with vegetable-based inks–and the printing plant is powered by wind.

What a wonderful way to share your joy this season!

—Sarah, KIWI Editorial Director

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the parent blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Giving back is one of the best things you can do during the holidays—and throughout the year. Natural as Possible Mom shares her family’s experience of paying it forward.
• Multi-Minding Mom has some great, green holiday shopping picks. (Want more gift ideas? Check out the KIWI 2009 Best Green Toys & Gifts Guide!)
• Kids say the darndest things! Check out some laugh-out-loud quotes from Jenny ‘N John.
• Non-Toxic Kids warns that even though phthalates and lead have been banned in toys, there’s still room for concern.
• If you’ve yet to settle on a holiday greeting card, consider this one from Cool Mom Picks.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the parent blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Our first featured dad blog! Why My Hair Don’t Grow No More‘s two-year-old plays a silly trick.
• Louloupink shares her ten favorite resources for nontoxic family living.
• Has your kid recently outgrown an old pair of shoes? BusyMom knows a great way to get rid of them.
• So much fun! Make and Takes transforms an ordinary plastic bowling set into a Thanksgiving turkey bowl.
• EnviroMom finds a new use for an old filing cabinet.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• There’s a Healthy Child Healthy World virtual party happening at And That’s All I’ve Got to Say About That. Check it out!
• Natural as Possible Mom has two kids that sleep great—and she shares how yours can, too.
• Do you apologize to your kids? Parenting By Trial and Error does, and she explains why.
• Yum! ReadyMom’s Best Ever Banana Muffins look delicious.
• Want to get creative with this year’s holiday cards? Try Origami Mommy‘s easy tutorial for a pretty, flowery option.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer