- Baby Planner Inc. strategic planning week with a bit of hiking and adventures for our boys. http://fb.me/w28WM9vF #
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New Consulting Company Supports Booming Industries: Baby Planning, Maternity and Juvenile Products
DENVER, CO – June 30, 2010 – With proven client service, field expertise and strategic industry relationships, Baby Planner Inc. advises entrepreneurs and businesses offering baby planning services along with manufacturers looking to build awareness in the maternity industry. “With the inception of baby planning in the US, we’ve witnessed exponential growth. The formation of Baby Planner Inc. ™ is a response to an essential missing industry component; a credible consulting firm that offers support, guidance and proven success to both baby planners and businesses that chose to work with them,” said April Beach, Baby Planner Inc. ™ CEO and founder of Sweet Pea Baby Planners™. New startup companies along with seasoned baby planners learn how to grow and expand their businesses through Baby Planner Inc.’s Baby Planner University™. Experienced baby planning industry professionals conduct seminars on how to get clients and retain them using the Sweet Pea Selling System™ and Complete Baby PlanningSM. Companies learn how to provide the essential cornerstone services of the industry such as the Baby Dream Gear Class Series™, Nursery Prep and more. Private and group consulting is available for businesses to develop their own baby planning service offerings. Baby Planner University™ is the only program that teaches the Sweet Pea Baby PlannersTM Selling System. This selling system not only instructs attendees on the components of baby planning services but also how to provide the services for clients, how to sell them and build sales. Consulting is also provided for businesses to learn how to effectively brand and promote their baby planning services in a growing and highly competitive marketplace. Complete logo and website design services are available. “Through Baby Planner Inc.’s Baby Planner University™, participants truly learn from those who have been in the trenches of this young and vibrant industry,” explained Beach, “That is what sets this program apart from others on the market. Clients learn from skilled baby planners and industry marketing experts.” Gina Michal of Nourish Baby Planners located in New Jersey said learning with April and Baby Planner Inc.™ gave her a wealth of information and support. She felt it was exactly what she needed to begin her business on a successful and confident note. Additionally, Baby Planner Inc.™ has two books available for those looking to enter this fast-growing marketplace. April Beach and Elizabeth McFadden wrote the two baby planning business books, “Baby Planning Trade Secrets” as well as “Baby Planner Business Basics” both sold through babyplannerinc.com. Elizabeth McFadden is the leading marketing and branding expert in the baby planning industry. Baby Planner Inc.™ has developed key relationships with manufacturers such as Britax, Medela and Peg Perego, that are integral to the baby planning industry. Baby planners utilize these opportunities to partner with manufacturers and to receive new product information before it goes public. Further, through Baby Planner Inc. ™, manufacturers gain better access to their target audience. Members of the maternity and juvenile product groups are searching for new ways to communicate with their potential customers. With the growing national buzz around baby planners, Baby Planner Inc.’s Baby Dream Gear Class Series™ provides manufacturers a primetime opportunity. As the first baby gear class created and designed by the baby planning pioneers at Sweet Pea Baby Planners™, this program features products well beyond basics and allows expecting parents the chance to test and try everything from car seats to strollers, bottles to carriers, layette essentials to nursery needs and beyond. Companies reach an elusive audience by partnering with baby planners. About Baby Planner Inc.™ Baby Planner Inc. is a consultingsm firm dedicated to supporting the baby planning industry. Through customized consulting, unsurpassed support and proven business expertise, Baby Planner Inc.™ specializes in optimizing companies. The company vision is the extension of Founder April Beach, CEO of the nation’s premier baby planning company, Sweet Pea Baby Planners™ and vice president of the International Baby Planning Association™. www.babyplannerinc.com April Beach, Founder and C.O.O. Founder of Baby Planner Inc.™, Sweet Pea Baby Planners™ and creator of Baby Savvy™, April Beach has been in the baby planning field since day one. Her honest passions for consulting parent-preneurs and promoting the baby planning industry overall, have proven successful and beneficial to the growth of this new field. Her history in connecting planners with industry brands has assisted numerous businesses for mutual promotion and further success. April has been featured by FOX, ABC, TODAY MOMS, MSNBC, CBS, The LA Times, Chicago Tribune and numerous others in her specialty field of baby planning, parent coaching and entrepreneurship. April’s professional passions expanded from private client service to complete mompreneur business coaching in 2008. April specializes in consulting businesses to build strong awareness for baby planning, provide exceptional service for greater profitability, expansion of existing businesses, and new business start-ups. Her extensive experience in balancing life as a wife, mom of three, industry pioneer and executive, have positioned April to consult and promote parent-owned businesses in areas well beyond the basics. April is the daughter of life-long entrepreneurs and has had her hand in numerous successful business start-ups, including those of her own. April has known entrepreneurship at its finest, and at its worst, and shares her extensive experience not only within the baby planning industry, but in parent-preneur business-owning overall. April is the author of “Baby Planner Business Basics” (c) 2008 and “Baby Planning Trade Secrets” (c) 2010.
About C-PantyC-Panty is underwear designed by a Mom and MD team to address post-Cesarean recovery concerns including scarring,
If you are not familiar with post cesarean recovery, please visit C-Panty’s recovery education page for insight. C-Panty is a company which has truly delivered what we’re looking for; an innovative product which delivers results to new moms in need. As new moms balance lack of sleep, discomfort from surgery, learning to feed with less than mild uterine contractions, and other common challenges of motherhood, wearing C-Panty would be one easy-self care thing to do. To purchase C-Panty or add this item to your wish list, visit C-Panty online.
posted by April Beach
To wean or not to wean and why – does extended breastfeeding need a better PR campaign? Extended Breastfeeding is considered any breastfeeding “Beyond One Year”. Some mothers are unsure when to wean or even begin the process of weaning. Some lucky mothers are given very clear signs by their little ones as to when this phase is over. But for those mothers who go on day by day and suddenly realize they are now nursing a baby that is no longer a baby – there is not often support. Much of the support in the breastfeeding community is focused on the beginning of the process; making sure that things get started right and that your little one is nourished, thriving, and that mom is okay too. There are also some other points along the way where mom might seek out support again – returning to work which will now require pumping, starting solids, teething and/or sleeping predicaments (also known as dealing with nighttime nursers!). But what about moms who just want to continue nursing as long as they can?
While this could be due to a mother’s returning to work or finding that the demands of life often prove too much while still nursing, it might also be that there is very little support for moms who would like to continue. There are very few role models, that have not been branded vigilantes, for these mothers. It would be tragic to think that some mothers decide to wean because they feel they have no other option; or even worse, because they feel that society views it inappropriate to nurse when a child can walk and talk. The benefits are endless and not often disputed so if a mother wants to continue, they should be able to do so. Finding other mothers with the same mindset could be the key to making them feel comfortable and confident about their choice. Where to find support?
Of course, a mother should do what is best for herself and her family. But, considering the option of continuing to nurse even a few times a day might be more of the norm if moms had others with whom to share their journey. Congratulations, You’re Expecting Multiples! I know what you’re thinking, trust me! These words are life changing words even if you’re hoping for more than one. I barely recall what I ate for breakfast this morning but I am certain that I’ll never forget what it felt like to hear these precious words. Once the determination has been made that there’s more than one baby on board your health care provider will hopefully throw a plethora of knowledge your way. So, after you’ve had a moment to panic, pick your partner up off the floor or both, it’s the time to get down to business and begin asking the right questions to start your pregnancy off right. If you’re like me, you might be stuck on the question, “How on earth…?” But, there are many more important questions you need to ask and get answered. Over the next couple of weeks, I’ll provide you with a list of the starter questions to ask your health care provider about your multiple pregnancy. And, I’ll explain why it’s important to know the answers to these questions. Of course, there is no limit to all that you’ll need to know, but this will be a good place to start. And for those of you who find they need the complete list sooner, please email me at Shannon@sweetpeababyplanners.com. Question #1: How many babies in utero? Why is this important to know? Sure this question seems like a no brainer, but some women don’t have their sonograms schedule for weeks if not months into their pregnancies. It’s a tremendous benefit to you to find out earlier as opposed to later if you need to plan for more than one baby. So, watch for some early indicators. Obviously, if you’ve had certain kinds of fertility treatments or if twins are a genetic link, you will want to let your current health care provider know. Severe morning sickness, excessive fatigue and extreme hunger may be some earlier hints. Additionally, your blood work may clue your health care guru’s onto a multiple pregnancy. Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG), or the “pregnancy hormone” is produced by the placenta and the levels are determined in your routine blood work. If you’re carrying twins, your levels could be within the normal range or slightly elevated. However, if super twins are in your future, it’s likely your levels will be much higher. Furthermore, blood tests can reveal an abnormally high alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) test. The AFP test measures protein secreted by the fetal liver and hormones associated with pregnancy. And, if your belly expands faster and larger than would be considered normal for your gestational age, this could have your doc thinking about more than one. These hints may have your sonogram scheduled sooner than expected. And, even though your sonographer should be very adept at determining multiples, even very early in your first trimester, you can always ask if she’s double checked for any extra heartbeats. Ultimately, knowing the number of babies will help you and your health care provider determine an ideal plan from here on out. By: Kayde Foster, Director of Northern Colorado There is no doubt that cloth diapers are becoming more popular with families today. They have come a long way over the last few years and most of the styles are as easy to use as their disposable counterpart. Many are choosing cloth diapers because they are not as rough on babies skin and they leave behind less waste than disposables. There are several different options when it comes to cloth diapers and shopping for them can be overwhelming. You should consider purchasing a couple different styles so that you can find out which ones work the best for you. The choices range from a complete all in one to the old fashioned pre-fold with a cover. The absorbency layer (insert) of cloth diapers can be found in cotton (regular or organic), fleece, micro-fleece, a microfiber terry/hemp combo, and a hemp blend. All brands are different and offer different insert options. Types of Cloth Diapers AIO (all in one) – The AIO diaper is also just as it sounds and is the closest to the disposable diaper. It contains an absorbent inner layer that is integrated into the waterproof outer layer. AIOs are a one step cloth diaper and need to be washed after each use. Although they are the closest to a disposable, they are the hardest to maintain. Over time they begin to retain odor that is really hard and time consuming to get out. You may need to start hanging them out in the sun for hours, to try and get rid of the odor. Another downfall is that they are expensive; ranging from around $15.00-$27.00 a piece. AI2 (all in two) – The AI2 is similar to a hybrid with the difference being the liner is a reusable pre-fold instead of a disposable one. With an AI2 the pre-fold gets folded into thirds and placed into the center of the waterproof diaper cover, and then is put on like a traditional diaper. There is no folding around the baby and fastening with pins to keep the absorbent layer in place. Diaper covers can be wiped off and used again with each changing as long as it doesn’t get soiled. The great thing about the AI2 is that the layers (pre-fold and cover) come apart for washing which really helps with the odor. AI2 diapers are also more reasonably priced than the AIO option. AI2’s range in price from $10.00-$20.00 a piece (includes cover and insert). Pocket Diaper – The pocket diaper is almost like an AIO, the only difference is that the absorbent layer has to be added into the “sleeve” of the diaper. This means that you can make the diaper more or less absorbent. Pocket diapers are also one use; needing to be washed after each diaper change. They are great it the fact that they come apart for washing, but inconvenient in that you have to pull the used insert out of the dirty cover. Prices ranges from around $15.00-$20.00 a piece (insert and cover). Pre-folds – Pre-folds are contoured or flat diapers, both are rectangular shaped with the flat pre-fold requiring a bit of folding and the contour pre-fold being designed to fit the “contours” of baby without folding. Pins are optional to hold together the fold of the flat diaper. Both types of pre-folds require a diaper cover for a leak proof system. Diaper covers can be wiped off and used again with each changing. They are a little tricky to get the hang of, but definitely possible. The great thing about pre-folds is that they have a better fit for newborns and they are not as bulky as the others. They are also the cheapest of the cloth diapers. Ranging in price around $10.00-$16.00 for a package of six pre folds, $4.00 for the snaps, and around $11.00 for the cover. Training Pants: Training pants are designed just like pocket diapers with the insert being added into a sleeve in the diaper. The only difference is the snaps to close the diaper are on the sides so that toddlers are able to pull them on and off themselves which gives them the feel of real underpants. Again you have the downfall of pulling the insert out of the dirty diaper; but they are really the only option for kids needing that under pants feeling. Prices range from $16.00-$20.00 a piece. Locate a Sweet Pea Baby Planner in your area who is able to bring the different options to you. She will also be able to set up your nursery just right to accommodate cloth diapering. A company out of San Diego, CA has created a product to protect highchairs across America. Baby Tray Armor is a washable, PVC free, eco-friendly cover for your child’s highchair. Available in eight colorful fabric prints, it has an elastic edge and is designed to protect your baby’s tray from collecting harmful bacteria, viruses and allergens. Many babies and toddlers use their highchair trays like plates when eating. Baby Tray Armor states that after the tray is cleaned and between feedings, the uncovered surface collects bacteria, viruses and allergens just like any other area in your home. “This can come from multiple sources such as siblings, guests and pets,” according to the Baby Tray Armor website. “Siblings and guests can carry bacteria and viruses such as the common cold and flu to H1N1. Pets can also transfer germs to your baby’s tray with their paws or mouths. Baby Tray Armor will protect against pets tracking liter and other contaminants.” This sounded like a great product so we tried it out and we were just the family to review it. We are a family of five with the youngest member being a one-year old. We also have a dog. While the Baby Tray Armor was cute and seemed like a great idea, in everyday life we didn’t find it that practical. It fit over my highchair tray snuggly and certainly kept the surface safe from contaminants but it was just one more thing we had to contend with at mealtime or during cleanup. Perhaps if you have a cat that likes to camp out on your child’s highchair when it’s not in service, this product may be a necessity. Otherwise, Baby Tray Armor is not a must-have on your registry. Baby Tray Armor can be purchased at www.babytrayarmor.com and retails for $34.99 plus shipping. Reviewed by Elizabeth McFadden We are so happy to welcome the addition of another baby to the Sweet Pea Baby Planners family. Baby Avery was born to Stormie Sowinski, our Denver Baby Planning Director. She is welcomed by mom, dad and big brother. She is so beautiful! Congratulations Sowinski Family!
For those who may be wondering… All of the amazing baby consultants that make up Sweet Pea Baby Planners, are parents to 25 children with 71 years of combined parenting victories and unforgettable moments. See the featured article in Expecting Mother’s Guide written by Kellie Mejia, Baby Planner, Inc. Vice President
Baby Planner Basicsby Kellie Mejia As an expectant parent, you are putting time and energy into countless decisions regarding your baby. Selecting a Baby Planner is no different. A baby planner is a personal consultant to new and expectant families, who offers support and knowledge in the journey of parenthood. You want someone who will spend time with you and share in the very personal aspects of pregnancy, childbirth and parenting. The primary service that identifies a baby planner is offering custom baby gear and registry consulting services. Baby planners provide research and extensive knowledge about baby gear and can recommend products that will fit a family’s lifestyle. They allow families to focus on what they truly need and want, while helping them save money by not buying or registering for products they will rarely use. Some offer services up through the birth, while others offer support all the way through the toddler years. Most companies offer a la cart or bundled services. In addition to product research and consultations, baby planners can provide registry assistance, eco-friendly preparations, nursery organization and design, childproofing, daddy training, childcare plans, and hiring support services (lactation consultants, doulas, nannies.) The products and services that families choose to utilize is a very personal choice, and the consultant will consider lifestyle, values, and taste preferences to determine which products fit best for the baby and for the family. There are also many other considerations that families can request the baby planner consider, such as cost and local availability. Baby planning is a relatively new industry, so the duration of employment as a baby planner is not always indicative of a consultant’s ability. Several baby planners report that they informally consulted friends, family members, and neighbors for years before they turned consulting into a career. Conducting interviews with potential baby planners can provide families with the information necessary to move forward in planning. Some important questions you might ask include: READ MORE… |
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