Jamie and Emily celebrate their last podcast episode before their summer break by discussing a highly requested topic- their daily routines! They emphasize both the similarities and the differences in their parenting styles, and how this plays out in their day to day schedules. Emily starts out by discussing her mornings and the challenges of dealing with an early-rising toddler, while Jamie talks about her more relaxed mornings and the benefits of having older, more independent children. They delve into mealtimes, and the strategies of ordering out and letting kids watch TV during meals vs eating together as a family. Emily and Jamie then discuss their bedtime routines, highlighting the different routes they each take with their children, from quick good nights to more involved nighttime rituals. They reflect on the flexibility and challenges of parenting, emphasizing the importance of adapting routines to individual family needs and doing what works best for the family as a whole. 

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS for 20% off your purchase

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

Jamie and Emily start off this week’s episode by introducing their guest, Alex DiGrado (@bostonpelvicpt), a doctor of physical therapy who specializes in pelvic floor health. They humorously discuss their own personal experiences with Alex, and highlight the resources that Alex provides both in person and virtually.

In their conversation, Jamie, Emily, and Alex discuss the importance of pelvic floor health, especially during and after pregnancy. They talk about common misconceptions and fears about pelvic floor physical therapy, and Alex shares her approach to trauma-informed care, ensuring that patients feel safe and respected when in her care. She describes the logistics of pelvic floor PT, from when to go, how to find a good provider, and what patients can expect before and during their visit. Alex also touches on the flexibility of care, from one-time postpartum visits to more extended treatments, and the significance of realistic lifestyle modifications and home exercises in maintaining pelvic health.

In this week’s Q&A, Jamie and Emily discuss when parents can stop using baby monitors.

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist Directory 

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS for 20% off your purchase

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

In this podcast episode, Emily and Jamie kick off Mental Health Awareness Month by having an insightful conversation with Megan Saxelby, a mental health expert who specializes in conflict resolution, social emotional learning, and emotional intelligence. Megan discusses her research and experience regarding the impact of social media on parents’ mental health. She highlights the unconscious influence of social media on parenting decisions and the challenges of navigating digital habits as a new parent. She emphasizes the need for proactive conversations and strategies to manage social media consumption. The conversation touches on privacy concerns, geolocation tracking, and the influence of social media on children's digital footprints. They discuss the impact of parents posting photos of their children on social media, and explore how social media usage can interfere with genuine connections, especially between parents. Emily, Jamie, and Meg touch on strategies for managing digital habits, including mindful usage, setting limits, and understanding emotional triggers. Throughout, they reflect on personal experiences and societal trends, urging listeners to consider the broader implications of their digital interactions. 

In the Q&A this week, Jamie and Emily discuss supporting friends dealing with loss, recommending concrete resources that individuals can turn to, as well as practical strategies to support friends during any type of loss.

Nurture Support Groups 

Postpartum Support International 

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS for 20% off your purchase

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

This week, Emily is joined by Julia Hale, NAPS mom, LICSW (licensed independent clinical social worker), owner and founder of Soultality Center for Psychotherapy. The focus of their conversation is on perinatal mental health and intrusive thoughts. Intrusive thoughts are something that we all have, but majorly stigmatized, and rarely discussed.

Other topics include:
-engaging with intrusive thoughts
-shame
-thought vs action
-postpartum OCD
-exposure therapy
-postpartum anxiety
-postpartum OCD
-postpartum depression
-avoidance
-rituals/ mental rituals
-seeking out what a thought means
-when to seek help
-compulsion
-therapy
-heading

Intrusive thoughts thrive in secrecy. You are not alone.

Referenced in this episode & additional resources:
Find a therapist trained in 'exposure and response prevention' (ERP) on www.IOCDF.org or www.treatmyocd.com

Time really does fly! Unswaddled is officially 1 year old and we cannot thank you enough for your continued support in allowing us to do what we love. Jamie and Emily recap the changes that have happened over the course of the year in life, business, and parenting, as well as reflect on (many) lessons learned.

Topics include:
- Starting a business
- Building a business
- The parallels between business and parenting
- Acknowledging mistakes and MOVING on
- No longer making excuses for mistakes
- Learning to say sorry
- Parenting struggles
- School drop off/ routines
- Changing perspectives
- Taking action

Like and share this episode! Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps.

On this episode, Jamie and Emily discuss maternal gatekeeping. This is a concept that addresses a mother’s protective beliefs regarding their partner’s involvement in their children’s life (especially in infancy)— more specifically, the behaviors between parents that support or restrict co-parenting. Jamie and Emily relive their dos and don’ts of maternal gatekeeping with personal stories.

Link to book a nursing consult:

https://www.nurturebynaps.com/phone-consult

Referenced in this episode:

How Not to Hate Your Husband After Kids
https://www.amazon.com/Hate-Your-Husband-After-Kids/dp/1784754773/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1647360371&sr=1-1

Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps.

This week Emily and Jamie sit down to discuss developmental milestones— a very hot topic after the CDC’s recent update to their guidelines. We understand that this is generally overwhelming and hope to give guidance on the meaning of the updated recommendations and early intervention services (known as “Family Ties” in Massachusetts).

Covered in this episode:
- Early interventions — what is it?
- What does EI involve?
- Who applies for EI?
- How to get an EI assessment?
- How a milestone is classified
- OT/ PT/ Speech
- Advocating for your child
- Referrals (you do not NEED one)
- When to ask for help
- Taking advantage of resources and support
- 0 to 3 years old
- Qualifications

Referenced in this episode:
State by state list of early intervention programs:

https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/parents/states.html

Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps

Emily is joined by NAPS mom, turned Mom Survival Guide leader, Meg Saxelby. Meg is an emotional intelligence coach and educator, working mom, and total bad*ss.

She joins our podcast to talk about her recent blog post, which is a topic near and dear to our heart: the change of self with pregnancy & motherhood.

Meg talks about:
- Lack of resources on how to manage the emotional shift of becoming a mom.
- Experiencing a loss during pregnancy or postpartum.
- The socialization of women (the expectation that they are held to)
- Physical and emotional transitions of pregnancy and motherhood
- Feeling your feelings
- Lack of control of your body
- Pregnancy during cover
- Feelings of loss/grief/anguish
- Guilt vs. shame
- Conflicting emotions

Mentioned in this episode:
Meg’s blog: https://medium.com/@megansaxelby/its-ok-to-miss-who-you-were-2cf7e9278dea

NAPS MSG:
https://www.nurturebynaps.com/moms-survival-guide

Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps.

As promised, Emily’s postpartum series continues with her experience weaning from breastfeeding. To recap, Emily identified early on that Eloise had an allergy, and transitioned to formula. Unlike weaning with her older daughter’s, Emily recalls what it was like to wean Eloise (and how she did it) with a well established milk supply.

Jamie and Emily go over:
-Weaning timelines and strategies
-Reducing volume vs. reducing time
-Quitting cold turkey
-Different approached for different people
-Hormonal shifts
-Emotional shift
-Mood swings & mom guilt
-Mastitis
-Asking for help

We are here to support you through your feeding joining. If you want an IBCLC consultation, pease follow this link:

https://www.nurturebynaps.com/inperson-lactation-consult-ga

Follow us for more content @nurturebynaps on Instagram.

Caro, the lovely face and personality behind What to Cook When You Don’t Feel Like Cooking, is back! This time Jamie sits in the hot-seat and Caro interviews Jamie about:

-Making time for family
-A day in the life
-Work/life/ kids/ work
-City vs. suburbs
-Morning routine
-Parenting tips
-Getting out the door with kids
-Childcare
-Setting expectations with nanny/childcare
-Priorities
-Finding a babysitter
-Delegating tasks
-Asking for help
-Finding hired help (and setting expectations)
-Business planning
-Women supporting women

Mentioned in this episode:

Brene Brown Podcast:

https://brenebrown.com/podcast/brene-on-comparative-suffering-the-50-50-myth-and-settling-the-ball/

Caro’s Newsletter:

https://www.carolinechambers.com/newsletter

Blinkest App:

https://www.blinkist.com/?utm_source=gsn&utm_medium=paid&utm_campaign=6728014506&utm_content=78881840389&utm_term=blinkist%20app_e_388235911841_c_kwd-317250082707_Cj0KCQiA3rKQBhCNARIsACUEW_YBxBk_KkB25XJDFmhOQ_TOJCTyijJgwpHYlTgpy7A2qVXsr7f0ep0aApFTEALw_wcB&gclid=Cj0KCQiA3rKQBhCNARIsACUEW_YBxBk_KkB25XJDFmhOQ_TOJCTyijJgwpHYlTgpy7A2qVXsr7f0ep0aApFTEALw_wcB

As promised, Emily takes a deep dive into the struggles of feeding a baby (with or without an allergy) and the options that exist for feeding a baby with an allergy.

Emily talks through:
-Judgement after birth
-Nipple pain
-Breastfeeding struggles
-Pumping
-Hating pumping
-Allergy signs and symptoms
-Eczema, constipation, diaper rash
-Screaming vs. crying
-Normal vs. abnormal newborn behavior
-Elimination diet
-Mom guilt
-Societal pressures to continue breastfeeding

If you are looking to talk to an expert, use the link below to get 20% off a nursing consult (we can talk allergies, feeding struggles, or ANYTHING mom/baby/family).

We are always here to support you. Follow us @nurturebynaps

https://lps.nurturebynaps.com/virtual-nurse-consult

SHE’S BACK!! Emily is back from maternity leave. Get ready for lots of stories and lessons learned from her sweet baby #3, Miss Eloise.

To recap, Emily left us with 5 maternity leave goals:

1. Sleep
2. Not obsessing about sleep
3. Ask for help (in a way of anticipation not desperation)
4. Not stress about breastfeeding or feeding the baby
5. Enjoy it

On this episode, Emily revisits these goals and talks anxiety, sleep deprivation, returning to work, relationship changes and the realities of bringing home a new baby.

P.S. The best time to set yourself up for success is before baby arrives. Don’t let it take baby #3 for you to master it.

Please follow link for 20% off a Mom Survival Guide:

https://lps.nurturebynaps.com/momssurvivalgroup

This week Jamie is joined by Sarah from CYBEX (one of our incredible sponsors) to discuss an often overwhelming topic— car seats & car seat safety!

Sarah offers insight, as mom of 2 and certified child passenger safety technician with 15 years experience on the following topics:

- Car seat confusion & overwhelm
- Things to consider when deciding on a car seat
- Car seat safety checks & regulatory standards
- Why CYBEX?— above and beyond testing (for all crashes)
- What features to look for in a carseat
- City vs. Suburbs
- Strollers
- Age & Stages (transitions)
- Booster seats
- Traveling with kids
- How to check your carseat

As a reminder— research shows that a parent who buckles themselves are most likely to remember to buckle their child.

Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps.

Emily and Jamie introduce guest Sarah McKinnon (@southieot), a friend and Occupational Therapist. They talk about Sarah as Jamie’s vacation buddy, and share their personal insights on the dynamics of going on vacation with friends, emphasizing the value of finding the right travel companion. They discuss Sarah’s role as a healthcare provider, specifically in her role on Nurture, providing education and live coaching calls to members. 

In Jamie, Emily, and Sarah’s conversation, they discuss pediatric occupational therapy (OT) and its role in helping children and families develop essential skills for everyday activities. Sarah emphasizes that Occupational Therapists work with children on various developmental aspects, including sensory processing, cognition, and motor skills, to facilitate their engagement in play, learning, and self-care tasks. Furthermore, Sarah, Emily, and Jamie discuss the differences between OT, physical therapy, and speech-language pathology, underscoring the holistic approach of occupational therapy in addressing a wide range of developmental needs. Sarah emphasizes the importance of early intervention and highlights signs that may indicate a need for OT support. Additionally, McKinnon offers tips on facilitating tummy time, shares information about Southie OT's services, including in-person and virtual consultations, and encourages listeners to visit their website or Instagram for more information and resources. 

In this week’s Q&A segment, Jamie and Emily discuss the challenge of when kids should be able to wipe themselves after potty training. They emphasize that every child is different and acknowledge that independence in this task varies and may require patience. 

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS for 20% off your purchase

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

Hot topic alert! Sleep training (ATTN: discount code included for sleep consults below)

CODE: SLEEP10
Book your call here:
https://www.nurturebynaps.com/sleep-consult-overview

Jamie is joined by NAPS mom, Jamie, to offer advice and a plan for sleep and sleep training. On this episode, Jamie gets into all the questions and concerns regarding sleep training.

Discussed in this episode:
-Sleep struggles (reflux, soothing, wake ups)
-Short daytime naps
-Daily schedule
-Betime
-Sleep training timeline
-Day time sleep vs. nighttime sleep
-Earlier bedtimes
-Time check ins
-Sleep expectations
-Overnight feeds

If you like this content— please like/comment/ subscribe. Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps.

Thank you to our sponsor— Fidelity 529
https://www.fidelity.com/529-plans/massachusetts

Jamie sits down with second time mom, Rachel (and her 4 week old baby, Maeve), who Jamie was first introduced to in her Mom’s Survival Guide (support group). Rachel approached Jamie with a few questions involving transitioning from 1 kid to 2, and the accompanying challenging toddler behaviors. We figured many of you are in the same boat— so why not turn these questions into an episode?

Discussed in this episode:
-Bringing home baby
-Sibling transitions
-Transitioning from 1 to 2 kids (vs. becoming a parent for the first time)
-Toddler transitions
-Toddler bedtime
-Toddler feelings
-Logistics of parenting more than one child
-The comparison game
-Creating personal boundaries
-Making time for yourself, your partner, and your kids
-Discipline approaches
-Pushing boundaries
-Dealing with daycare
-Attention seeking behavior

***If you are an experienced mom looking to learn about your developing newborn and meet other moms balancing new babies with older children, be check out our virtual Veteran’s Mom Survival Guide. Sign up here!

https://www.nurturebynaps.com/veterans-moms-survival-guide

If you like this content— please like/comment/ subscribe. Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps.

Thank you to our sponsor— Fidelity 529

https://www.fidelity.com/529-plans/massachusetts

Referenced in this episode:

The Whole Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel MD

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=whole+brain+child&gclid=Cj0KCQiAw9qOBhC-ARIsAG-rdn7dLmYlHUa1xAC69e_8xJ0BTF3LeAcOI1FTV43H4V6ofBlgyTPfGGgaAhU-EALw_wcB&hvadid=409971158828&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9002028&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=3749862405728978703&hvtargid=kwd-27010564507&hydadcr=22536_11318350&tag=googhydr-20&ref=pd_sl_6g6mske05i_e

1-2-3 Magic by Thomas W. Phelan, PhD

https://www.amazon.com/1-2-3-Magic-Discipline-Effective-Parenting/dp/149262988X/ref=asc_df_149262988X/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312177564685&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=2574673933501163725&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9002028&hvtargid=pla-435999936633&psc=1&tag=&ref=&adgrpid=60258870697&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvadid=312177564685&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=2574673933501163725&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9002028&hvtargid=pla-435999936633

What is witching hour? Why does it happen and HOW do we get through it?

Witching hour is a time in the day (usually evening) in the first few months of life where your newborn is unusually fussy and difficult to soothe, unrelated to discomfort or hunger. It is typically classified as a time where you just cannot seem to put your baby down. It happens because babies are often overtired and their drive to sleep is lower at this time… which makes them much harder to soothe. It seems like everything that works in the daytime simply will not work to calm your baby.

On this episode of real (mom) talk Jamie gives advice on how to get through the witching hours as well as covering the following topics:

- Getting through witching hours with a newborn and a toddler
- Managing two bedtimes at once (newborn and toddler)
- Tips to teach your partners & helpers (see download!)
- Sleep training
- Backing down bedtimes
- Self soothing in the day vs. night

If you like this content— please like/comment/ subscribe. Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps.

Thank you to our sponsor— Fidelity 529
https://www.fidelity.com/529-plans/massachusetts

Naps client, Susan, joins Jamie to talk about sleep—more specifically, toddler sleep! Susan has been a long time client/ fiend of NAPS and is currently going through the transition of having two kids under the age of two and sleep in their household has taken a major hit. Follow along for the plan Jamie gives Susan to help get sleep in their household back on track.

Also discussed in the episode:
- Bringing home baby #2
- Sibling prep
- Toddler sleep
- Crib climbing
- Two under two
- Sleeping training
- Newborn sleep cycles
- Sleep regression
- Sleep training
- Sleep plan for toddlers
- Gentle parenting

If you like this content— please like/comment/ subscribe. Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps.

Thank you to our sponsor— Fidelity 529

https://www.fidelity.com/529-plans/massachusetts

In this episode, Jamie is joined by mom of 2, recipe superstar and all around good time, Caroline Chambers (the face behind ‘What To Cook When You Don’t Feel Like Cooking’). Being a mom is hard and comes with a lot of responsibilities and pressure.

Caro and Jamie cover some hot topics on the pod:
- “Doing it all” as a mom
- Outsourcing to be a better parent
- Meal planning and prep for families
- Picky eaters
- Recipes under 30 minutes
- Asking for help and planning to get help
- Working moms
- The value of childcare
- Date night/date day for parents

Happy cooking, baking, and wishing you a happy and healthy holidays!

Caro’s Website:
https://www.carolinechambers.com/

Caro’s Weekly Newsletter:
https://www.carolinechambers.com/newsletter

Thank you to our sponsor— Fidelity 529
https://www.fidelity.com/529-plans/massachusetts

Similar to Jamie and Emiliy’s path of growing their families and the NAPS businesses in tandem…Danielle Tanguay and Victoria Peake found themselves growing their business, BabyMatters OT, as they combined their experiences as mothers with their medical work background. You know Jamie loves talking to women entrepreneurs. Just add in sensory talk and developmental milestones -- she’s into it!

Danielle and Victoria took their realities as moms, workers, and wives into consideration and asked themselves - how realistic is our advice we give at hospitals and offices? How individualized is it? How can we roll our pediatric OT services seamlessly into the lives of parents like us?

Many times the word ‘therapy’ comes along with the thought that you are fixing or addressing a problem or issue. That is not the case. Therapy is based in wellness and prevention in many cases (or at least it should be more).

What does a pediatric Occupational Therapist do? How is a OT different from a PT? How can we view our kids’ health from the top down, holistically? Should I know what to ask my pediatrician? Should my pediatrician be talking to me more? When should I introduce utensils? Is this toy developmentally appropriate that I bought? Is my worry about my kid an actual problem? So many questions swimming in our parent brains! :)

Join Jamie (as a fellow forward-thinking parent) as she learns about prevention, optimization, and treatment in all things OT - whether that is based in sensory, cognitive, and/or motor function realms. Feeding even gets rolled into OT territory - along with it issues like colic, gassiness, reflux, etc. We can better understand what is a sensory reaction vs. what is a behavioral reaction.


Beyond milestones like rolling, walking, etc. there is a whole world of development to understand and foster for your baby or toddler. We can have purposeful ways to interact with our babies and toddlers.


As always, click, share, and subscribe please! Book a video session (coming soon) or appointment with BabyMatters OT on their website: https://www.babymattersot.com/


Thank you to our sponsor, Fidelity 529. https://www.fidelity.com/529-plans/massachusetts

Join Jamie as she talks to Katie. We are all Katie sometimes just wondering IF and WHEN our kids (and ourselves) will stop getting sick during this season. Katie’s little guy has had an especially rough go lately with RSV, Flu, and Hand, Foot & Mouth — all within 2 months.

Toddlers that are now branching out to daycare, museums, nanny shares, etc. were born in a pandemic! Their little immune systems were just snuggling with mom and dad for the last two years.

Baby years and toddler years are delicate times for strategy and routine building. Both parties - babe and parent - rely on those routines in many ways. So, when a kid is sick - how are your routines affected? How do you get back on track?

Follow along as Jamie digs into:
-A ‘lipstick’ study
-meal time, food, and sleep while your kids are sick
-Rational backgrounds to your decision making
-Immunity building
-Flexibility while your kids are sick

And last but not least: if you’ve ever gone in to get your kid and found them in puke after ignoring their cry a few hours before…you are in good company!

If you liked this content, like / comment / subscribe / save! We are rebuilding our blog and posting on Pinterest as well for great content for you to follow.

As always, thank you to Fidelity 529 for sponsoring this episode. https://www.fidelity.com/529-plans/massachusetts

Let’s kick this second installment of Real (Mom) Talk off with our client who gets INTO the postpartum things…all the things…with Jamie.

From broken postpartum baby hairs / bangs you may sprout to changed relationships with yourself and others - we get into a lot.

Join us to talk about:

-Potential TMI on nipples and breast shapes
-How we talk to ourselves in the mirror (hot tip - you don’t have to say you LOVE your body, but there are other words we can use)
-Strength as a person pre and post kids
-Delayed bonding and PPD
-Maternity leave during covid
-Accepting fear and feeling alone to normalize talking about all of this!
-Vacation away from kids and ideal timing
-Pandemic grief and parent grief

What can you control? What can you not control?  How is your self talk?  Let’s talk about it. Without criticism. Without judgement.  Let’s TALK.

Find your people - whether that’s us via Nurture membership - or your best friend who meets you where you’re at.  

Thank you to our sponsor, Fidelity 529. 

https://www.fidelity.com/529-plans/massachusetts

In this episode, Jamie starts a new recurring series where a client calls in to talk through a topic - 'Real (Mom) Talk'. Submit your question on our site - https://www.nurturebynaps.com if you’re interested!

Today, Jamie tackles Starting Solids!  Often times when there is a LOT of overwhelming information out there about a certain topic…it means there’s no right way, there’s many right ways.  You aren’t going to mess this up.

To help get you started…here are some questions / topics that are addressed during the podcast:

- What are the readiness signs for starting solids?
- Purees vs. Solids
- Common myths
- Allergen exposure - how often and when?  What time of day?
- How quickly can allergic reactions come on and at what point in exposure?
- What’s the right plan for you AND your baby?
- What IS baby led weaning actually? Is it a range of options?
- What’s different about a baby’s gag reflex?  Is it a good thing?
- What does this mean for breastfed babies in terms of iron?
- What is the palmer reflex?  What size food is good during this stage?
- When babies can pinch, how big and soft should the food be?
- Should my nanny / daycare provider take on some meals?
- What does this mean for formula or breastmilk schedule?
- Do I need to wait 3 days between exposures?
- How long until a baby likes something they originally disliked?
- What’s the best way to plan this into my day?
- When can I feed my baby table foods we are eating already?
- Can a baby over eat?

Also, check out a cool company helping you with allergen exposures, Lil Mixins - https://www.lilmixins.com/

We hope you join us for our webinar on Starting Solids on Dec 2, 2021 - https://www.nurturebynaps.com/live-webinars

Happy feeding / eating!

Thank you to our sponsor - Fidelity 529 

https://www.fidelity.com/529-plans/massachusetts

This week Jamie is joined by fellow mom and incredible instagram follow, Caitlin Murray (@bigtimeadulting). Caitlin shares her story and discusses her sons cancer diagnosis, growing up with anxiety, and what got her to where she is today.

During their conversations, Jamie and Caitlin talk about anxiety overload and the stories we make up in our heads that are heightened with sleep deprivation and lack of control. Let’s face it—loss of control is one of the most challenging things, yet our kids constantly remind us there is no such thing as perfect “control”. Sometimes the things our kids do make us question if we should laugh or cry… or both.

As always, it ok to talk about the hard days, it doesn’t mean that you are not grateful. We are here for you.

This episode is brought to you by Fidelity 529.

https://www.fidelity.com/529-plans/massachusetts

Be sure to follow @nurturebynaps and @bigtimeadulting on IG for many laughs and parenting support.

Emily and Jamie start off this episode by discussing their excitement for a corporate workshop and Emily's relatable struggle with using her Dyson blow dryer. This week, they welcome Ellen McCue to their podcast, to talk about potty training, a common concern amongst Nurture clients and instagram followers. Ellen is a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner who is a familiar face on the Nurture platform, providing practical and evidence-based advice to parents. Jamie, Emily, and Ellen break down potty training, starting by emphasizing that there is no “right” age to potty train a child. They then delve into various aspects of potty training, focusing on both daytime and nighttime training. They share personal anecdotes and insights into the challenges parents face during the process. Ellen emphasizes the normalcy of boys and girls wetting the bed at older ages and advises against rushing nighttime potty training, suggesting that it often happens naturally over time. They also touch on the importance of addressing constipation issues and how it can affect potty training progress, as well as sleep issues and behavioral patterns related to accidents in older children. They provide reassurance to parents, potty training is often a process, encouraging them to be patient and understanding throughout the potty training journey. 

In this week’s Q&A segment, Emily and Jamie answer a question about whether giving a child too much dairy is possible, providing both the medical perspective and practical advice for parents dealing with picky eaters. They emphasize the importance of balance and moderation in a child's diet and encourage listeners to join their Nurture membership for more daily insights and support.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS to get 20% off your purchase

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

Why are we having an episode devoted to diapers?  The average kid is in diapers for 2.5 years.  That’s 6,000-7,000 diapers. Baby bums are in a diaper for a long time, so we want to know what what we’re working with!

After Amrita Saigal and Jim Keighley worked together at P&G, their paths diverged to sanitary pad innovation in India and pioneering diaper engineering in the US. Retirement is not one of Jim’s strong suits, so he joined Amrita’s mission to disrupt the diaper industry with Kudos.

Have questions about up-the-back blow-outs? Wonder if overnight diapers are scams? Do you know what the four causes of diaper rash are? Do you know if your current diapers have plastic or cotton touching your baby’s bum? Is your diaper biodegradable? What should you truly look for when considering a diaper? Beyond these questions on the brains of many parents, Jamie digs into fascinating concepts concerning diapers.  

After a brief history of diapers (yes, at one point they were huge and yes they tried to do male vs. female diapers), join Jamie in learning about:

-Environmental impacts associated with all types of diaper materials (diapers are the third largest contributor to landfill waste!)
-Plastic vs. Bamboo
-Lingo like gasketing, no-motion zones, and super absorbers

Jim created diapers as we know them today since 1976.  With Amrita and the Kudos team he is pioneering a sustainable, eco-friendly, and BUM-FRIENDLY diaper one day at a time. 

Keep a watch out for Kudos to launch pull-ups and be sure to use our discount code (noted in episode) to try at https://mykudos.com We are so happy to shine light on a product that we actually love and are using ourselves… baby Eloise’s bum is happy at home with Emily on maternity leave.

As always, thank you to our sponsors.  This episode is brought to you by Fidelity 529.  

https://www.fidelity.com/529-plans/massachusetts

Keep your diaper questions coming @KudosToBaby and @NurtureByNAPS

Join Jamie while she speaks with Katie Pedrick, MAOM, Licensed Acupuncturist & Herbalist, Doctor of Acupuncture (RI).  

Katie runs her acupuncture and wellness practice, Vibe Wellness in Charlestown https://vibe-wellness.com and created an acupressure app with her business partner that has absolutely taken off - Point Acupressure https://apps.apple.com/us/app/point-acupressure/id1528501360 Hot tip - follow them on TikTok too @PointAcupressure.

Get the low down on…well, a lot! Western-informed Eastern Medicine…women’s health and holistic looks at body systems…fertility use cases…birth control usage…periods…hormonal balancing…the stress epidemic…pregnancy, labor, and postpartum symptom and pain management…food as medicine...filling your physical and emotional depletions...impactful sleep...c-section scars and pain...Ok, we'll stop listing and let you listen.  

Getting into Point Acupressure's brilliance - have you tried to meditate?  This is almost like a guided meditation, but in acupressure form (no needles necessary. After your personalized question series, the app customizes acupressure guides based on your daily needs and long-term wellness goals.  Bonus use case - your labor support person could learn how to help you reduce pain during the big day!

We can optimize our health before there are problems, symptoms, and sickness.  Learn more about it with us!

Listen, save, and follow us on social media @NurtureByNAPS, @Vibe.wellness, @vibeacupuncture, @pointacupressure

Finally, suggested reading: The Body Keeps Score

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18693771-the-body-keeps-the-score

Feel well!

Jamie is joined by Sarah Harmon, licensed mental health counselor, mindfulness instructor, mother, and founder of Postpartum Wellness Group (and The School of Mom) to talk…Perinatal Wellness.  

What is the perinatal stage?  It’s the time from conception to one year after birth (although Sarah and Jamie have longer timing in their heads at times). Hormones, sleep disturbances, etc. - it all does not all of a sudden regulate and become “normal” again past the one year mark.  Also, let’s not forget our pre-conception friends on a fertility journey that have a story here too.

One day this baby comes.  This day creates the biggest changes in your life. These changes are physical, biological, social, emotional, practical, spiritual, etc. It should not be a surprise when people struggle through these common mental issues - we just don't bring this to light in our society often (yet).  

1 in 5 moms experiences significant symptoms of anxiety and/or depression during the perinatal stage.  Partners do too…1 in 10 dads experience mental health issues during this time.  Sarah and Jamie get into what “significant symptoms” mean.

Listen in and learn about PMAD (Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders) and so much more.

Please share this with a friend.  We are in this with you and know support is crucial!  We knew Sarah was knowledgeable and good at what she does…but, wow.  This is an exceptional episode, if we do say so ourselves.

And if you are local to MA and looking for a therapist, Sarah's private practice, Postpartum Wellness Group, is accepting new clients. Please email: hello@postpartumwellnessgroup.com. 

As always, don't forget to follow along with us on IG @nurturebynaps 

Emily had her baby, Eloise Baylin...what is Jamie to do? Go in solo on her favorite topic these days...real talk about sleep training. Remember our 'Do Nothing" episode for the 0-3 months sleep conversation? Check back to that episode if you're in that stage.

Jamie tackles the ideal timing of sleep training (around 5-8 months), the definition of a full night's sleep, three common methods available, new skill training philosophy (i.e. math homework analogy, yay!), and much more. Try a little adult self-soothing by listening to this episode to give yourself an informed basis for sleep training decision making.

Don't forget to share this MOSTLY with your partner - same page is key! But also with friends who would find this episode beneficial.

Follow us on IG @Nurturebynaps and reach out via our website nurturebynaps.com. Happy sleeping!

Welcome guest, Sarah Harmon, to the podcast! Sarah is a fellow girl mom, licensed Mental Health Therapist, founder of The School of Mom, and invaluable resource when it comes to mental health and wellbeing.

Jamie and Sarah discuss “self- care” and the complexities of the term. What does self-care mean as a mom? When is there time? How do I start? This term often feels like a dagger, especially as a mom. You are not alone. Jamie and Sarah talk about their experiences and demonstrate that self-care is not one-size fits all. Follow us on IG @Nurturebynaps. Referenced in this episode: School of Mom (@the.schoolofmom)

https://www.theschoolofmom.com/mom-practice-club-self-care-membership

Maybe yes, maybe no….

After a recent play date where all five, soon to be six, of the O’day and Silver girls got together and found all the paint and glitter (every homeowners worst enemy) Jamie and Emily thought about why we frequently default to saying “no” to the kids.

Jamie and Emily take a deep dive into why we are conditioned to respond with a “no” and how to work through making decisions for our kids… even if it involves a messy cleanup or altering your plans.

Sometimes, saying “no” is about teaching a lesson or setting a boundary but saying yes has significant meaning too.

Follow us on IG @Nurturebynaps.

Hot topic alert: THE PACIFIER. Do we introduce a paci? When is the right time to give a paci vs take away the paci? What are the implications? What does the AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) guidance mean?

This week, Emily and Jamie discuss everything paci’s— from personal experiences, dental insight, the overnight pacifier dance, to weaning from the pacifier and more.  

We want to be clear that there is no judgment around your family’s pacifier preferences and use. As always we are here for you and happy ta talk all things pacifiers!

Our personal favorite pacifiers:
Philips Avent Soothie and WubbaNub.  

Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps.

Emily is currently 36 weeks pregnant and anxiously awaiting her due date.  Emily cannot wait to deliver and has been putting an early delivery out in the universe for a while now (lol ask Jamie).

As of late, Emily has been reminiscing of her time postpartum with her two oldest daughters and thinking about her goals this time around. Major goal: being able to enjoy the newborn phase, to embrace the struggle, and not take things so seriously.  With Jamie’s blessing, Emily discusses her five goals (and plan for success) this time around.

We say it all the time, but the newborn phase goes by so quickly, we want you to feel supported enough to soak it in and enjoy this precious (and difficult time) because after all, it is temporary. Stay tuned— we will be checking back in to see how Emily did with her plan.

Follow us on IG @NurtureByNAPS.

Could you imagine a world where parenting is one size fits all? This would mean ONE parenting book and a lot less trial and error. Unfortunately, nothing (that) good is one size fits all.

This week, Jamie joins the podcast for a solo episode and discusses how she parents each of her kids based on each of their unique personalities (and how her tactics are ever evolving).

Get a glimpse into Jamies household, and we hope that you are able to relate to one of the O’day girls in some way. Remember, look for ways to make things easier for your child, which in turn, will make parenting easier/more successful for you!

Follow us on IG @ NurtureByNAPS.

Often parenting seems like a never ending series of transitions and changes— but why does the 1 year old transition feel so overwhelming?

Your kid’s first birthday comes with major celebration…and major angst. Right when you feel like you’ve got schedule “just right”, everything changes (i.e. feeding, sleeping, behaviors). Jamie and Emily give you the run down (and the DO’s and DON’T’s) on the two hottest topics, bottles and diary, pertaining to this milestone and also share the best advice they received as mom’s from their pediatrician.

In fact, the ladies of NAPS have gotten so many questions about the 1 year old transition that they have created a course available on Nurture to help guide you. Trust yourself. Trust your kid. Things get better.

Follow us on IG @ NurtureByNAPS.

Thanks to the sponsors of this epsiode:

- Whether you've just started solids, are trying to be more createive with table foods, or are attempting to navigate picky eaters, Little Spoon can help! Get 50% off your first order at: littlespoon.com/NAPS50 and use code NAPS50. 

Kicking off this episode, Emily and Jamie banter about their weekend antics and signature dance moves before segueing into this week’s podcast episode, featuring Lydia Thibodeau, founder of Sommet Nannies (@sommet_nannies). Sommet Nannies is a nanny placement agency that specializes in connecting families with college-educated, professional caregivers. The episode is particularly timely as it coincides with International Nanny Training Day, an event taking place in Boston this year where both NAPS and Sommet Nannies will be in attendance to share their knowledge and services. 

Jamie and Lydia’s discussion explores the nuances of selecting a childcare provider. Lydia emphasizes the importance of trusting one's instincts when choosing a provider and advises a decisive "hell yes" or "no" approach to candidates. She encourages consideration of the candidate’s ability to meet a family’s logistical needs and to inquire about their background and experience, particularly recommending unconventional candidates with diverse childcare experiences, not just those with traditional nanny roles. They discuss the importance of in-home meetings, as they provide an opportunity for observation and interaction, with references being crucial in cases where direct interaction with the child isn't possible (ie, when you’re expecting). The discussion covers essential reference check questions, communication strategies, and the differentiation between nanny and housekeeper roles. Lydia further emphasizes the importance of proactive communication and outlines the unique recruitment process and services offered by Sommet Nannies, including nationwide placements of not only nannies, but also house managers and chefs. Lydia concludes by sharing how interested parties can connect with Sommet Nannies through their website to start their own nanny search.

In this week’s Q&A segment, Jamie and Emily address concerns about a 10 month old not having teeth yet. They draw from their nursing expertise and personal experience to discuss the expected timeline for developing teeth and tips for parents who may be worried about their own child’s tooth development. 

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS to get 20% off your purchase

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

We love family vacations-- especially, the stories/lessons that family vacations return. On this episode, Emily shares about her recent family vacation to Maine and shares a story that sent her spiraling to think of the worst case scenario— something we frequently do as parents. Everyone has a story (or a few) where something happens and before we know it, we are thinking WORST case scenario. We worry, we research, we panic, and worry more.

Are we worrying too much? Are these overwhelming thoughts a common occurrence? How do we prevent this cycle?

Emily and Jamie talk about the practice of mindfulness, when and how to seek help, and helpful tips and tricks on how to slow down, focus on the facts, and how to prevent irrational overthinking.

By the way, we get it— it happens to all of us.

Follow us on IG @ NurtureByNAPS.

Let’s talk about prenatal education— the way it should be!

As our upcoming September Pre Baby Bootcamp quickly approaches, Jamie and Emily sit down to discuss what led them curate this curriculum, what differentiates it from your typical birthing class and what is useful (and more specifically, what is NOT useful) as you prepare for you newest arrival and parenthood.

Our goal at NAPS is to empower you as parents to make decisions that feel good and work for your family— your education is no different.

Follow us on IG @NurturebyNAPS.

Episode # 22: Delta Variant Questions

Every Monday night on Instagram, Jamie and Emily hold space for “Moment for Mom”. This hour welcomes any and all questions involving family/ baby/ parenthood/ life. After this Monday, it was clear that there are many questions regarding the Delta variant and we are facing many of the same concerns as last summer/fall.

In regards to recent conversations with Emily Oster, Jamie and Emily discuss common questions (How can I protect my pregnancy? Are you letting family around your newborn? Should my kids attend school?) regarding the Delta variant and how to make informed decisions, when navigating unfamiliar and scary territory.

Jamie and Emily discuss the decision framework introduced by Emily Oster and how to implement that framework into these difficult decisions that we are forced to confront and combat as parents. As always, we are here to support you and your decisions.

Follow us on IG @NurtureByNAPS and we encourage you to check out “Moment for Mom” on Monday nights.

There are many parallels between running a business and parenting. It is not always want it seems, half (…or 99%) of the time you have no idea what you are doing or what is coming — but you have to make it work.

On this week episode of Unswaddled, the ladies of NAPS address one of their most frequently asked questions. What is the key to a successful business partnership and how do you remain friends? For Jamie and Emily it is simple: friendship and family first.

Jamie and Emily offer a glimpse of what brought them to this part of their story and talk of the struggles that they have encountered along the way. As always, we are here for you whenever you are in need of support.

Follow us on IG @NurtureByNAPS.

If you know Jamie and Emily, you know that they LOVE their pediatrician…so much so that she is the newest full-time addition to the NAPS & Nurture by NAPS team. Ellen is the standard of relationships families should have with their pediatrician— yet, we understand that this is not the case for everyone.

In your child’s first year of life, they have 9 well-child visits (this means 9 doctor’s appointments not including weight checks, illness, feeding support, etc..). You should look forward to those visits because of the relationship you have with your pediatrician. This relationship is so important because it is reflective of the relationship that your child will later have with that individual.

On this episode, Jamie and Emily provide suggestions on how to look for a pediatrician, what questions to ask, how to know if your pediatrician is a good fit, and when to move on to another provider. Remember— picking your pediatrician is not an arranged marriage. We encourage you to love your pediatrician (and that may involved some shopping around)!

Follow us on IG @ NurtureByNAPS.

Over the past year, the world has experienced drastic change. The way we live and the way we work (and from where) has completely shifted. On this episode, Jamie and Emily talk about one of their newest Nurture offerings that focuses on the return to work, post pandemic. Side note: this is something that women, and parents, have experienced long before the pandemic, and with no plan in place… it’s called maternity leave.

Jamie and Emily talk about expectations, boundaries, tips and tricks, and easing into this transition back to work. The goal is to make meaningful change to help people transition back into the office and to also offer a permanent plan for parents to return to the office after family leave. As always, we are here to support you— you’ve got this!

Follow us on IG @NurturebyNAPS.

This week on our Nurture platform, Dr. Tanya Cotler, licensed clinical psychologist, gifted us with a huge takeaway—we are supposed to mess up 70% of the time as parents. She spoke of the relationship between “Rupture and Repair” and the bogus expectation of perfection (we hope you are sensing a common theme here…parenting is NOT perfection).

What happens when we lose our cool? What happens when our anxiety shows up as impatience? How do we move on and raise resilient children who are able to recognize their feelings, acknowledge their emotions, accomplish difficult things, and adapt.

Jamie and Emily talk about separating your actions from who you are as a parent (and avoiding the vicious spiral of parental guilt). We all have worries. We all screw up. Instead of feeling guilty, work to repair it, talk about what happened, and bring it full circle. This is a lesson for you and beneficial for your children.

Follow us on IG @NurtureByNAPS.

Trigger warning: This episode involves loss/ child loss/infant loss. If you or a loved one have recently experienced loss, this episode may be one that you want to skip, or listen to with appropriate warning and caution. We are always here for you. 


Emily has previously mentioned that her sister, Grace, died from SIDS but has rarely talked about the details of her sister’s death and the long lasting impact that the loss had on herself and her family. In this episode, there is no lesson. Horrible things don’t happen for any particular reason— there is no blessing, no meaning. It's awful. Emily and Jamie talk about acknowledging and supporting grief while emphasizing that grief never disappears. 


Thank you for this space and community that allows us to be so open, in hopes of helping others who have experienced similar traumas. 


Follow us on IG @ NurturebyNAPS.

A recent hot topic in the NAPS office, and amongst clients, has been sibling prep (hi baby Silver 3.0). On this week’s episode, Emily takes the wheel to discuss the complexities of transitioning to life at home with a newborn, in addition to the rest of your family. Adjusting to being a family of 4 or more is difficult because we have nothing to truly compare it to (and this is before you factor in your baby's temperament/personality). A new family member brings along new experiences and requires resetting your expectations.

Jamie and Emily share their experiences, tips, tricks, and validate the fact that transitioning as a growing family is hard for everyone that is involved. As a reminder, this transition is only temporary and also really difficult.

Follow us on IG @NurtureyNAPS.

On the last few episodes, Jamie and Emily talked about resetting expectations and keeping cool throughout the summer… but what happens when $h*t hits the fan and you are in the middle of the ocean. Welcome to Jamie’s family vacation featuring the “critter cruise”.

Jamie and Emily sit down to recall the events that unfolded in the middle of the Atlantic, when Jamie’s planned family excursion turned into deep sea fishing, on rocky seas. Jamie talks about what really went down during those 2 hours at sea, that seemed like forever, and the lessons learned along the way.

Follow us on IG @NurturebyNAPS

In this candid and relatable podcast episode, Jamie and Emily discuss navigating transitions as a parent, using Emily’s recent experience of ditching her daughter’s sippy cup as an example. Emily confessed to her recent decision to take away Eloise's beloved “little cup,” which had become a behavioral crutch for her two-and-a-half-year-old. Emily shares her strategy for removing the cup and navigating Eloise's reaction, highlighting the importance of setting boundaries and remaining consistent. Emily shares a powerful analogy for parenting transitions, likening the parent to the pilot of a plane and the children to passengers. Jamie and Emily discuss the significance of parental readiness and alignment between caregivers, as well as the need to stay steadfast in implementing new boundaries. Throughout their conversation, they offer insights into the challenges parents face when trying to maintain routines and patterns with their children, especially after disruptions like travel or illness. They emphasize the importance of not dwelling on setbacks and instead focusing on the ability to quickly return to a positive place. Emily and Jamie share their own experiences with parental guilt and imperfection, highlighting the need for self-compassion and willingness to adapt. They conclude by encouraging listeners to seek support and guidance when navigating parenting challenges, reinforcing the message that it's okay to seek help when navigating big transitions, and highlighting the Mom Survival Groups that are offered by NAPS. 

In the Q&A segment, Jamie and Emily discuss mealtime expectations for a two-and-a-half-year-old toddler. They also highlight the importance of consistency and share personal strategies for managing mealtime challenges.

Learn more about NAPS Mom Survival Groups: 

Veteran Mom Survival Group

New Mom Survival Group

Working Mom Survival Group

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS to get 20% off your purchase

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

Little Spoon

Summer means a lot of excitement. School is out, and warmer weather amounts to endless activities and opportunities for fun. Sometimes saying “no” is the easy option because a “yes” requires flexibility (cue the later bedtimes and necessary adjustments for the next day). Parenting takes flexibility and it is important to reset our expectations for given circumstances like the summer bbq, fireworks, travel, etc…

Jamie and Emily talk about the lessons they have learned from losing their $h*t and recognizing (and managing) the triggers that make them feel upset. Both ladies talk strategies for resisting the urge to yell and scream and resetting the expectations to create memories and enjoy this wonderful time of year.

Follow us on IG @NurturebyNAPS.

Happy Father’s Day! It only seems right to release a podcast on Father’s Day about the unsung heroes—dads!

On this episode, Jamie and Emily give us a close look into their households and all that their partners do. Although both husbands (hi JC and AJ) have two letter names, their roles are very different in each household. The ladies of NAPS talk about meeting their partner, growing with them, starting a family, and how roles have changed during the pandemic. As much as we love to hype all the mommas up, today is for you, dad. Thank your spouse and thank them for all that they do. On behalf of NAPS, Happy Father’s Day!!

You can find us on IG @NurturebyNAPS.

After a recent instagram post that got a lot of love, it was apparent that this topic resonated with many. As women, need to stop waiting to feel good and start taking care of ourselves. It could mean a mani/pedi, a blowout, a full night of sleep, a workout, new clothes, or taking a nap and having time to yourself. Taking care of yourself is not a reward, it is essential for you, but also the wellbeing of your family. Taking care of yourself is going to mean something different for everyone but, it does not need to be complicated or a huge investment.

Jamie and Emily talk about the lessons they have learned throughout pregnancy and continue to learn in motherhood. Remember, how much you sacrifice yourself as a mother does not determine your worth. You deserve to feel like you and you deserve to feel GOOD.

You can find us on IG @NurturebyNAPS