The Importance of Playing with Your Children

Being a parent is at once challenging and rewarding, and the same can be true for playing with our children. Just about every parent can relate to the scenario of being exhausted from caring for your kids, only to be asked to play with them. At the same time, connection with your children is precious, and time spent playing with them can nurture that. While you might feel silly at first, if you relax, eliminate distractions like your cell phone, and have some fun with your child, you will find that both you and your child will benefit. Playing with your child helps you connect with your child, and it causes your brain to release oxytocin, which will make you feel better, even if you’re tired. For children, playing with parents is important.

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Preparing for a Vasectomy Reversal

Of all the men who undergo vasectomies in the United States, somewhere between six and 10 percent of them change their minds later in life. If you are someone who has undergone a vasectomy and now you want to start or grow your family, your past vasectomy doesn’t need to stand in your way. Vasectomy reversals are much more effective than they were in the past, and today, somewhere between 80 and 95 percent of men who undergo this procedure successfully regain their fertility. If you are looking into a vasectomy reversal, here are some facts you should know about how to prepare and what to expect.

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The Importance of a Strong Parenting Partnership

When a couple has a baby, there is a shift in the relationship. This is not to say that things get worse, or the relationship is not as strong. In fact, parenting is an amazing experience, and children enrich your lives. However, it is not without its challenges. Learning how to be parents together can test the strength of your relationship, but you can grow together and become even stronger than you were before the baby.

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Preparing Emotionally and Mentally for Your Newborn’s Arrival

Awaiting the arrival of your baby can be equal parts exciting and unnerving. Are you ready for the responsibility of this new little life? Getting ready for a newborn is about more than putting together the crib and preparing the nursery. Having a baby is a life-changing experience, and it is important to prepare emotionally and mentally, as much as possible. There is no way for you to predict exactly how you will feel when your baby arrives, but we have some tips to help you get ready.

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Practical Advice for New Parents

If you are expecting your first child, congratulations! You are embarking on a lifelong journey that will be rewarding, challenging, frustrating, joyous, and just about everything in between. While every baby is different, and parenting is a “learn as you go” vocation, it doesn’t hurt to have a little bit of practical advice to help you on your way. Continue reading “Practical Advice for New Parents”

Pregnancy Nutrition: Essential Foods for Mom and Baby’s Health

Pregnancy is an amazing time of life, when a woman grows an entire person inside her body. When you are first pregnant, the thought of eating may be overshadowed by nausea, but all throughout your pregnancy, taking care with your diet is important. Continue reading “Pregnancy Nutrition: Essential Foods for Mom and Baby’s Health”

Understanding Male Fertility: Common Misconceptions and What You Should Know

Infertility is a common problem, impacting about 15 percent of all couples. If you are struggling with infertility, it is important to have all the facts, but there are many misconceptions that still exist regarding male fertility. Here, we look at some myths about infertility, as well as offering some hope to men who are facing this problem. Continue reading “Understanding Male Fertility: Common Misconceptions and What You Should Know”

A New Parent’s Guide to Diaper Changes

When you are new to parenting, especially if you do not have very much experience with babies in general, certain aspects of the job may seem daunting. Diaper changes are definitely one of the parts of parenting that can cause some consternation, but don’t worry- you’ve got this. With a few helpful tips, you will soon be changing diapers like a pro. Continue reading “A New Parent’s Guide to Diaper Changes”

How to Provide Support for Your Partner During Pregnancy

Going Through Pregnancy Together

As an expectant father, it may feel like you won’t be of much use over the next nine months or so, as this part is something only your partner can do. On the contrary! Pregnancy is a marathon, and your partner needs your support to successfully cross the finish line. It’s also a mutual endeavor, in which teamwork prepares you for parenting and strengthens your bond. Still wondering what your role is during the pregnancy? We have some advice for every stage of pregnancy. Continue reading “How to Provide Support for Your Partner During Pregnancy”

How to Juggle Priorities as a New Dad

Becoming a Dad

When you thought about becoming a father, what was in your mind? You may have daydreamed about playing ball with your kids, or playing them your favorite music, or reading stories at bedtime. Once you actually have a child, you will realize that there is much more to being a father than these picture perfect moments of togetherness. Often, men go into fatherhood without too much childcare experience, and because of cultural mores, they might even assume that it’s best to let the mother take the lead. For those who truly desire to be involved, connected dads, that mindset will need to change. Fortunately, with a little proactive thought and planning, you can smoothly transition into active fatherhood and learn to manage your new responsibilities with ease. Continue reading “How to Juggle Priorities as a New Dad”