Clean Your Plate: Foods That Kids Will Devour

If you are like most parents, at the forefront of your kid concerns is whether they are eating enough and making sure what they do eat is good for them. My son tends to be a little on the picky side and a light eater--because I love to cook, I don't mind experimenting in the kitchen with little pint sized meals that appeal to his tiny taste buds without being utterly bland. Understandably, not every Mom has the time, nor the inclination to do that- luckily the Bay Area is home to many small, organic farmers that act in concert with makers of fresh or frozen baby foods that can be found at local markets. Here's a few to check out for nutritious little alternatives to spending the day in front of the stove.

Peas of Mind
Is a San Francisco Based, woman- owned company. Started by Jill Litwin, the Peas of Mind philosophy is simple, get kids eating healthy early and create good habits that last a lifetime. Her frozen, organic "puffets" are little casserole meals that are perfect for tiny tummys. Carrot risotto and Nanna's Banana Puffet are only a few of the offerings which can be ordered online or found at stores around the Bay.

Little Bug Baby Food
Is truly a family focused business. Started by Reva Murphy and her daughter, Melissa Swanson, the company grew out of a desire to feed Melissa's son something homemade and seeing that same desire in other Moms. They package their foods as Stage 1, for new eaters and Stage 2 for babies who have moved beyond single ingredients. All their produce comes from local farmers.

Baby Cubes
Is another Mom success story. Owner Iria Nishimura was looking for a way to feed her kids the best food she could bring to the highchair and create convenience for herself as well. She brought her frozen cubes of homemade baby food around to her neighbors and friends and a business was born. These yummy, little chunks are ready to cook and certifiably organic.

For Mom's that can't stay out of the kitchen, I want to pass along my favorite site for creating baby/toddler foods, Wholesome Baby Food I referred to it alot during the early days. Their recipes are healthy and straight forward. They also provide easy weekly menus, based on age, that you can cook and freeze ahead of time.

Playground Profiles: Mom Recommended, Kid Approved

As new parent of a little sprig, learning park-ese or becoming an expert on what playgrounds offer the best of everything: sun, new play structures or views, is a skill that can't be avoided. In your baby's infancy, you certainly have no idea how much a playground or park is going to play a factor in your life. But after about 4 months, you find yourself drifting to the nearest one, putting your crawler in a swing for the first time, and it's all over. You are now a Parent At The Playground- and you will be for many years to come. Given this, the experience should be great for both of you. And the Bay Area has a plethora of playgrounds, some better than others,that are clean and fun places to bring your kids and as always, meet other parents.

The Koret Children's Quarter is the current rock star of playgrounds in San Francisco. Completely remodeled, this historic play area (built in 1887) is supposedly the country's first public playground! The sprawling, grassy area features separate (but equal) big kid and toddler areas. For the big kids there are perils a plenty. A towering climbing structure and large cement slides built into the hillside, will wear your kids out in no time. For the toddler set, the little stream area is perfect on a hot day. Moms strip their babes down to diapers and a sun hat and let them splash to their hearts content. Don't miss a ride on the historic carousel right next door.

The Rooftop Playground located in Yerba Buena Gardens, offers something for everyone. Bring the little ones to the unconventional and expansive playground and for lunch take in the sights at Samovar Tea located across the walkway. Often, during the summer, you can catch a free concert in the Gardens. There is also a carousel and kiddie snacks in the complex, so make a day of it.

The Adventure Playground in Berkeley has gotten a lot of buzz and for good reason. It strays from the overly safe model of modern playgrounds; with their molded plastic corners and springy foam cushioning every move. It is a playground with wood, lots of it-some splintery, some warped and crooked. Kids get hammers and paint cans to alter their environment as they see fit. There's a zip line that whizzes kids through the air Peter Pan style. There are traditional climbing structures as well. The Adventure Playground isn't for every Mom but it's gotten some great reviews and the kids love it.

Joaquin Miller Park in Oakland actually has a Tot Lot specifically for the smaller kids. Newly renovated in 2005, the area is a quiet respite from the city. There are plenty of areas to picnic with the whole family as well.

Listen Up! Kid's Music You'll Both Enjoy

The music I remember as a kid came from that Fisher Price record player, with the chunky, plastic records and real "needle" that played scratchy renditions of children's favorites. Fun, yes, but never a lasting impression. Then along came Marlo Thomas with Free to Be You and Me and my world was forever changed. My sister and I played that album constantly-poring over the cover and liner notes, singing along to the now, fully memorized songs. I recently got this classic at the library for my son and I have to say, it's aged a bit in terms of it's hammering in on gender issues and parent's rights to be people too..but the music is still catchy and the stories are great to listen to during lunchtime.

But I want my son to grow up with more than Barney and Raffi (although I am a quiet defender of Raffi, even if he is so 90's). I want to bring him to see good live music and begin putting together a real collection for our afternoon dance parties, when I've run out of other entertainment ideas. I've been doing some research on local music for kids that is more than bearable for parents, it's geared to them; and compiling a list of my favorite kids music in general:

Local Music Pics

The Sippy Cups are self described Indie-rockers that blur the line between music for kids and adults. They are Bay Area based and can often be found gigging at benefits, music halls and even libraries around the Bay. Their rockin' tunes can be downloaded from Itunes too.

Enzo Garcia falls somewhere between singer-songwriter and folk balladeer, with a little Appalachian roots music thrown in for good measure. He plays the accordion which kids love, but not as much as they love him playing a saw. He's engaging to both parents and his littlest fans, the kids who dance and twirl to his jigs and reels. He plays around the Bay Area and can be currently be found every Friday in the Presidio and every weekend in Bernal Heights.

Abby and the Pipsqeaks have all kinds of cool cred with the parents-the songs are smart, catchy and incorporate little science ditties-while the kids just like to rock out to songs like "Be Yourself." Creator Michele Senitzer, armed with a B.A. in Music Composition and a load of talent, came to the Bay Area and began The Clown Company, which had a 13 year run before she created Abby and the Pipsqueaks.

Music to Download Now!

Anything by Dan Zanes - yes, the obvious choice I'm sure for all those grups out there. But I didn't know who he was until I had a baby...correction, I knew him, but only as the good looking guy from the Del Fuegos. My son's fave is House Party. I love the duets with the likes of Deborah Harry and Rankin Don (Father Goose).

Putamayo 's Children's Series is so great to listen to during quiet time or bump it up with their Playground Series for rainy day bed jumping.

They Might Be Giants

I confess, I did not listen to this Nerd-Pop band when I was younger. But, I have, as a Mom, rediscovered them as a refreshing alternative to yawner circle time songs and a Raffi overdose.
They still have the same quirky charm that translates perfectly to kid's sensibilities. Songs like "Pirate Girl Nine," and "The Secret Life of Six," are fun and sound like real, catchy, pop music.

Watch Your Words

I came across this unattributed photocopy at one of the rec centers. I wish I knew the source of the wisdom, but regardless, it's helpful to have up, on the fridge, to remind me & my husband, not to be so reactive in our language. Here is a portion of the copy to give an idea of "restrictive" vs. "growing" words.

Words That Help Children Grow

Young children need verbal direction and will often seek help from adults. It is important to give them help, but in ways that will lead to new behavior, and new learning. Adults tend to use restrictive language. You may need to practice a different pattern of reacting to children's needs, but it soon becomes very easy. Your improved relationship with the children will be a most worthwhile reward. Here are a few examples of "growing words" rather than "restricting words".

SAY
"two hands when you climb."
Avoid Saying
"Hold on or you'll fall."
Say
"Use your shovel for digging."
Avoid Saying
"Don't swing the shovel up that way."

Say
"Scissors stay on the table."
Avoid Saying
"Don't run with the scissors."

Say
"Can you pull your own sleeves up?"
Avoid Saying
"Don't get your clothes wet."

Say
Oops, juice spills sometimes, here's a sponge to wipe it up with".
Avoid Saying
"be careful pouring, here, I'll do it."
Say
"Puzzle pieces stay here on the table."
Avoid Saying
"Stop dropping the puzzle pieces on the floor."

Remember:

• To react positively.
• To give the child an acceptable solution that he/she can carry out.
• To be patient and try again.
• To trust the child's judgment.
  

Animal Farm: Zoos, Ranches and Safaris!

So maybe the San Francisco Zoo isn't for you right now-it's a personal choice, but I never was much for zoos to begin with. But I do want my son to grow up appreciating and loving animals and understanding all the different ways animals contribute to our world. That said, I've found several alternatives to the zoo-and I will include The Oakland Zoo in this post, since I have yet to read anything negative about it and I understand many parents still want the zoo experience for thier kids.

Oakland Zoo, created in 1922 by naturalist, Henry Snow-this zoo is set amongst rolling hills in Knowland Park and according to BPN, is perfect for little ones with tot sized amusement rides.

Slide Ranch is a amazing, little, hidden farm on the Marin Coast. I particularly love their Family Farm days where the whole family can engage in the daily activities of farming: milking goats, gathering eggs or planting seeds in the organic garden. They have special Toddler Days for the wee ones as well. Kids love frolicking with the friendly goats and sheep in a grassy, open pasture. Parents love getting their kids out of the city and connected to nature.

The Little Farm, Tilden Park was built in 1955 and continues to be a draw for families looking for some close contact with docile, hungry, farm animals. Bring lettuce or celery (nothing else is permitted) and enjoy watching your little ones learn about pigs and goats, sheep and chickens.

Safari West is a short drive across the Golden gate Bridge, but once there you feel transported to an African veld...okay, well it is Santa Rosa, but the animals are exotic, beautiful and happily living in a large park setting. Arrange a safari for the whole family for a special day out or to truly make a trip out of it, spend the night in one of their decadently, decked out safari tents.

Virtual Playdates? Meeting Other Moms in the Blogosphere

While it's important to get out, join groups and meet other Moms in person, sometimes you just want to stay in your pajamas all day, roll on the floor with your kids and call it a day. Fortunately, after the kids are long asleep you can, in a short amount of time, find other Moms online. The Bay Area has a multitude of groups that share much of their information online, but facilitate get-togethers as well. So even if you just want to check in with other parents about where you are on the steep learning curve of parenting, be inspired or get a good laugh; these sites offer an online community that is there anytime we need it-naptime to nighttime.

Berkeley Parents Network was the site I hit most often in the early stages of Momness. Created by a Mom of 3, Ginger Ogle, the site is read worldwide, has great information for those that live in the East Bay and anyone with kids. Everything from diapers to date nights is covered here. A community in the truest sense, the answers are all provided by other parents-and while you may not agree with all the advice that's given, you are sure to find someone with a similar parenting perspective to your own.

Potrero Hill Parents in San Francisco, shifts the focus to the kid friendly hub of Potrero Hill. To access their message board you need to sign up- but after that, you have access to activities and events of interest to Moms and kids. Neighborhood news and alerts are featured as well as information on Potrero Hill area schools.

Golden Gate Mothers Group was organized in 1996 and has been going strong ever since. An annual fee secures membership and gets you onto the message board with other moms. In addition they put out a newsletter, offer volunteer services for New Moms who are overwhelmed ( or pregnant Moms for that matter), and they host diaper drives, where your surplus ( outgrown) diapers are donated to organizations in need.

photo credit/Flickr/creatingkoan

The Myth of the Perfect Mom: Making Connections That Matter

For many Moms who are staying at home either part-time or full time, the 6 month mark is usually when the walls begin to close in a bit. Not to say your love for your precious bundle has ebbed one bit; simply, the need to connect to other parents becomes very clear and necessary. We need the option of having someone to bounce questions or concerns off of; to laugh with and to watch our kids grow with. Unfortunatley, the process can be daunting and often we allow the overriding "Myth of the Perfect Mom" get in the way of reaching out to other women in friendship. Fears that we aren't getting it, or don't do everything we can for our babies work thier way into everyday interactions with other moms-creating a slippery slope on which to build a trusting relationship. Often having someone else facilitate Moms meeting takes the pressure off the playground playdates. There are plenty of places in the Bay Area that offer great Mom's Groups and Parenting Classes-all fantastic places to meet other new parents, watch your babies grow and learn and develop lifelong friendships in the process.

The JFCS offers Parents Place, a nationally acclaimed drop in center for toddlers as well as pre-crawlers. Perfect for New Moms to get out with their wee one. The JFCS also offers classes for new parents, counseling for couples ( always good in the early stages) and offers LGBT services as well.
La Leche League is an international resource for Mothers who choose to breastfeed. In addition to their extensive website, this long running organization offers groups for moms who may have concerns or questions around breastfeeding.
Our Family Coalition offers LGBTQ parents a place to connect. In addition to the vast resources and services available to members and their families, the organization creates opportunities for families to connect throughout the year, in both San Francisco and the East Bay.

Fine Dining, Despite the Whining

Alright, I'm not going to lie. Fine dining with a kid is no longer an option. Nor should it be. because I do believe there should be certain elements of the adult experience, like fancy, candlelit restaurants, that would be diminished by the presence of small babies-even mine. There are thankfully, plenty of great eating establishments around the Bay that are more than welcoming to the family affair. Bringing your child out to eat achieves two things: it introduces your babe to the world of other people-depending on your child's temperament, other diners can prove a welcome respite for you, from being a toddlers center of attention. Dining out also continues to feed your need for being out of the house and feeling like an adult human being-one who eats more than cheese sticks and graham crackers.

Herbivore ( The Earthly Grill) is a true Bay Area destination for vegetarians and vegans. For the rest of us, it's a healthy, bustling place to experiment with seitan grilled "burgers", giant salads and warming pasta dishes that you'd swear had cheese in them. For the toddler set, the food is finger friendly and tastes like the real deal. They even have a macaroni and "cheese" plate for little, discerning palates. Because it's often crowded, the addition of a few kids in high chairs never seems to faze the staff or other patrons, who are too busy noshing to notice.

Sam's Chowder House caught my eye on a recent drive to Half Moon Bay. For home- sick East Coast transplants, this is the place to go for a taste of summer. For those of us with kids and dogs, Sam's is a welcoming place to bring both. Somewhat noisy, filled with light from windows that look out over the crashing surf, the restaurant makes family dining fun for everyone. Their kids menu satisfies a two year olds basic needs with items like grilled cheese or spaghetti-while the parents can enjoy a glass of white wine and fresh oysters on the half shell. Meanwhile, Rover can hang out front in their designated dog spot until your done.

Il Forniao My husband brought me here for my first Mother's Day and it was truly special-nor did I feel awkward dining out with my then 9 month old baby. I was surrounded by moms and kids, families everywhere. While the food feels high end, the vibe is decidedly casual. The Italian based menu is both kid and adult friendly. This seems like an especially good choice when visiting Grandparents are in town and a larger table ( with high chair) is needed.

The San Francisco Chronicle just featured this article on dining with kids which is a good reference for a special night on the town for the whole clan.

Newborn Namaste

So you know that body you used to have, before the baby? Well it's probably not coming back anytime soon-so don't worry about it. In fact, I encourage you to embrace the New You. The New Mom curves are there for a reason. and the reason is thankfully, very cute. I'm not a big proponent of any kind of exercise regime that uses "bootcamp" in it's title or promises to bring you back to your pre-pregnancy state. But I do think a little exercise is good to simply keep your endorphins flowing and to get moving again. So when I discovered Mom & Baby Yoga, I was thrilled. Here was a way I could return to my love of yoga, and bring my son to class! Understand this: these classes do not offer the same rigorous workout you may be accustomed to. What they offer, is a welcoming space for New Moms and their babies, birth to pre-crawling, to go stretch your body and meet other New Moms in the process. If your babe begins to squall, that's okay. Need to stop and breastfeed? Not a problem. Emergency diaper change needed between asanas? Go right ahead. Because you are surrounded by women all in the same situation-some with babies nearly the same age or some older. But the vibe is always comfortable if not sometimes comical! Here is a list of places around the Bay Area that offer Mom & Baby Yoga classes:

Yoga Tree is where I took Pre-natal and Mom & Baby Yoga classes with Jane Austin (great name, great teacher) These classes are infinitely popular so get there early to set up your mat, baby and gear and get a spot near the fan!

4th Street Yoga in the heart of Berkeley not only offers New Mom and Baby classes but family Yoga as well- for when your little ones are a wee bit older.

The Yoga Solution offers classes at various locations throughout the South Bay. One offered at the always great Elephant Pharmacy is free! Check out their schedule online for times and locations.

It's Fashion Baby..Or is it About Fashion With Babies??

Sometime after I gave birth to my son, about six months into being a New Mom, I looked down at my stretched out, mottled maternity clothes that I felt were still passing and made a vow. I was gonna be a funky, fashionista mom. No matter that I spent a good part of my day in a sandbox, or on the floor crawling on my knees. I would find clothes that were mom friendly and maybe still hipster approved. Previous to becoming a mom, I wore ridiculous shoes that hurt my feet and skinny skirts that hampered my gait. I had no intention of returning to the land of Beauty Knows No Pain, ever. But what were my options? I've listed a few choice places and designers in the Bay Area that have definite mom intrigue because of their mix of comfort and sass. Some are on the higher end, but one or two splurges can revamp your wardrobe. In addition, I've listed some of my favorite consignment (yes, used!) clothing shops because I'm a firm believer in the three R's: Reduce, Recycle & yes, Reuse. Throw those $80.00 pants together with a $ 10.00 gently used blouse and you are styling and saving.

Weston Wear, is located in the Hipster Belt of the Mission district, the flagship store has all the stretchy, flattering, colorful designs that a New Mom could hope for. The material designer, Julienne Weston relies on, often is a nylon mesh that hugs the well earned, New Mom curves in style. Her pieces can also be found in fine stores around the Bay Area.
Nicacelly is an Oakland based design line created by Nicole Markoff. Her fashion sensibilities fuse hip- hop culture with vintage and Asian textiles. Her gorgeous Remix styles blend the comfort of jersey and fleece with feminine floral appliques and screenprints. Deemed "sneaker and stiletto friendly", these are pieces that can go from a picnic in the park, to a party after dark.

Dema Clothing has been a mainstay in the city for as long as I can remember. Dema Grim its founder, has been designing her own brand of quirky-cool fashion, for over 18 years. Located on the Valencia Strip, the shop is the go-to place for Moms that used to shop exclusively vintage, but want to upgrade with a few signature pieces. This season's collection pairs classic A-line skirts and dresses with snappy jackets and bold colors.

And finally, a list of my favorite 2nd hand, vintage or consignment shops to drop into ( especially when my son is napped out.)

Crossroads Trading Co These stores are all over the Bay Area. I try to go here when I need something cute, quick. I always manage to find something sassy here-but be ready to take some time. So either shop during naptime or have a steady supply of amusing snacks on hand.

Out of the Closet I love this store because there are multiple locations and they get some real treasures! Fashionistas that need a new closet every season seem to regularly donate here. So if you don't mind wearing something gently used, this is a great treasure hunt. I also love that Out of the Closet is owned by the Aids Healthcare Foundation, so when you buy anything, a portion of the proceeds go towards the services they provide.

Ver Unica okay, this is a splurge "because I'm a Mom and I really deserve that beaded 1960's swing coat" kind of a place. But, it has to be included because the finds are so special and so well chosen by the owners. It's kid friendly too, since they are parents and often have their sweet baby daughter at work with them.

Goodbyes is a sweet, truly old school, vintage place where you can find modern mixed with Mod- Indulge your new Momness by vamping in a 50's house coat, see how you look in a green velvet blazer, a tuxedo shirt with capris? why not? experiment with different styles from different eras.

(photo credit: Matthew Reamer)

Now What? Easy First Forays With Your Little Bundle

It's two weeks in after you gave birth to your sweet little peanut-and you have spent most of that time indoors, gazing at their tiny feet, tiny hands and oscillating somewhere between wonder and terror. Distraction at this point is key. It's time to test your newfound skills, bundle up your little peanut and wander out into the world again. The first few times can be overwhelming; figuring out the mechanics of your stroller, strapping on the Baby Bjorn alone, and trying to remember all those things you need to leave the house. Here are a few suggestions for low cost, low stress ways to get out, reconnect with the world and have fun introducing peanut to it in the process. We are so fortunate to have good weather nearly year round, aside from a slightly cruel summer. So whether you simply go window shopping, stroll through the park or grab a cup of joe, the idea is to get out!! Some suggestions:

CPMC ( California Pacific Medical Center) Day One
(location in Palo Alto as well)
Given the stats in San Francisco, over 50% of all births in the city happened right here.
For the really new mom, thier Day One site is a comfortable, baby friendly space. With a reading library, a shop with everything from nursing bras to baby toys-NewbornConnections is the perfect place for a mom with cabin-fever to have a destination. The center offers new mom & baby classes as well; what better way to meet other happily stunned moms?

Inspiration Point, Tilden Park For those fortunate enough to live in the East Bay, Tilden Park is an expansive backyard; there for whenever you need it. For others, there is a commute involved; but boy, is it worth it.! This stretch of the park is known for it's flat walking paths and stunning views that look out onto the Bay and San Francisco itself. As a New Mom, knowing the local lingo of Park-ese becomes secondary. You quickly learn what park offers what services, play areas, wildlife etc.. Just make a note that Tilden is a jewel of a park-not to be missed.

Natural Resources, on the Valencia Corridor in San Francisco is a welcome respite for the very new moms and those further down the road. But it is particularly good for a place to drop in and take a break, breastfeed your babe after a day cruising the Mission and educate yourself in the process. The shop stocks multiple types of cloth diapers, nursing bras, breast pumps. new baby books, and even soft toys for your newborn; essentially anything you need to begin your new life as a mom is here-with a staff ready to help. Natural Resources also offers classes on parenting and breastfeeding including a mother's circle where you can meet other new moms with babies up to six months.