Preeclampsia is a fairly common pregnancy condition characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine. If untreated, it can have dangerous consequences for pregnant people and their babies. Thankfully, when caught early, preeclampsia is treatable, and most pregnant folks are able to go on to have healthy pregnancies and deliveries. Let’s take a look at what preeclampsia is, what its symptoms are like, how it’s diagnosed, treatment options, and how to cope if you’ve been diagnosed with this condition....

Basic Guidelines Once you suspect or know you are pregnant, you must start to listen to your body signals while exercising. Pay close attention to the four “F” fitness factors: fahrenheit, fluids, food, and fatigue. Ignoring these factors can cause problems with the development of your baby and the health of your pregnancy. Fahrenheit This refers to exercising in extreme temperatures. It is very important that you do not get overheated or feel hot while exercising....

For First-Time Moms Big Fat Positive Podcast Think of the Big Fat Positive podcast as the all-in-one guide for expecting moms. This hilarious, yet very informative podcast, shares the story of hosts and friends Laura Birek and Shanna Micko as they journey through pregnancy, childbirth, and new motherhood together. They cover pregnancy in episodes 1 to 32 and parenting in 33 and on. All About Pregnancy and Birth Podcast How would you like to have instant access to the ins and outs of pregnancy and childbirth from an OB/GYN doc?...

So what is not an adoption issue? Any problem not related to the adoption. For example, a child who is temperamentally shy or a child who hates his teacher isn’t experiencing an adoption issue. Remember, many problems adopted kids experience have nothing to do with being adopted. “You’re Not My Real Mom” “I hate you! You’re not my real mom! My real mom would never be as mean as you are!...

This roll-over will continue the tax deferred growth of the funds, as well as guaranteeing you won’t have a penalty and income tax liability on the withdrawal until you actually retire. So when we talk about lump sum payouts, we’re actually talking about the requirement or ability to take all your retirement funds from your employer’s plan when you actually retire. Although this might be a little premature for a discussion with people in their 40s and 50s, many people have the goal to retire at age 55....

Plastic bottles with screw lids—you need at least 100, so contact a recycling center or have everyone you know save them for you Large onion bags—16 bags to make a raft for two people Plastic fishing line Needle

Materials needed: Rocks (you can also use sea shells) Sturdy box with lid (such as a shoe box) Non-toxic finger or tempura paints Poster board Paint brushes Scrap fabric or felt Pipe cleaners, eyes, and other decorative items (optional) Glue (optional) Gather up your family for a walk at your local beach or park. While there, go on a rock hunt. Look for all different kinds, shapes, and sizes of rocks to put in your box....

“The problem,” she says, “is that too many parents aren’t talking about the actual realities of predators.” Fitzgerald explains that many parents focus on “stranger danger,” when in actuality most victims of child predators are targeted by people they already know. Her goal was to find a healthy way for parents to discuss child predators with their kids – in a clear but non-threatening way. Kids are more likely to listen and comprehend if parents use kid-friendly language and make appropriate comparisons....

In reality, screen time can be a helpful tool. Some programs are even educational, especially when watched with a caregiver. Shows with songs and rhythmic melodies, for example, can help with language production. There is a danger in overusing screen time, however. It can quickly take away from quality time spent learning from a caregiver. Here is how I think about balancing screen time as both a doctor and a mom....

Deck of playing cards Directions

An easy project is to make a beanbag. Use heavy felt, cut out a shape, put the two pieces together, and punch out holes that can then be stitched together with yarn and a large-holed needle. If the child can use a sewing machine, the pieces can be joined that way. Fill with beans before completely closing the bag, then finish sewing. Bring the thread through the same hole several times to ensure it won’t unravel....

chalk Directions For a fun alternative, trace his shadow on a big sheet of newsprint or other paper. Let him fingerpaint his shadow or color it with crayons or markers.

5 to 10 minutes Materials Set of small table blocks Directions Toddlers enjoy knocking things down as much as building them. Make a tower of blocks and tip it over together with a gentle and slow movement. Extensions Make several towers next to each other.Stack canned goods, shoes, and anything else that can be safely piled up.

Tape recorder Blank cassette tape