The S File™ Gift Guide — Pregnancy

This is a must-read for every parent! It did a great job of introducing me to the environmental challenges that our children face in our modern world. It effectively informs and empowers parents to make healthy change. Click on Healthy Child Healthy World to read more. I recommend viewing the video, A Wake-Up Story, in the linked page.

In trying to minimize my children’s exposure to chemicals, we use only glass baby bottles. My favorite brands are EvenFlo and Green to Grow. EvenFlo bottles are more economical, but Green to Grow bottles are so cute! Both types are durable and safe for baby. Silicone nipples is the nipple material of choice, medical-grade silicone would be even better!

I read this book after having become quite informed about nutrition and disease, and the toxins within our food supply. As I read this book, I was quite impressed by how well it summarized a lot of important information. I really wish I had read this before my pregnancies! It’s an important book for all moms to read.

Since pregnant women should be avoiding unnecessary medication, the neti-pot is especially invaluable during pregnancy! Using salt water made from high-grade salt, he neti-pot flushes the nasal passages to relieve sinus and congestion problems. (Salt water is also soothing and healing for our internal tissues.) It is easy to use and very effective. I use mine 3-4 times per day in the winter.

This CPR training kit is a must-have for any household with infants. It comes with a DVD and a CPR doll so you may review and practice at your convenience. This is a really cost-effective way to make sure those watching your children — family members, nannies, and new babysitters — are able to keep their infant CPR skills fresh!

I heavily relied on this book when getting my first daughter transitioned to solids. Although this book could be more clearly organized, I really appreciated the guidance on how to best balance meals with complementary nutrients (for the body’s maximum absorption), such as a 2:1 ratio of grains:legumes/beans creates a complete protein. It also introduced me to the nutritional benefits of things that had not been a regular part of our diet, such as tahini, sesame seeds, and molasses. I like its basis in wholesome, nutrient-dense foods.

I really love this wrap carrier for infants. (The Moby Wrap is very similar.) For infants, this wrap carrier is the most comfortable carrier I have used (and I had tried about seven baby carriers!). Studies show that babywearing is great for baby too. Click on My Favorite Baby Carrier to read more about the health benefits babywearing has on baby!

While there is time before the baby comes, pregnant women and their partners will enjoy reading Nuture Shock. The book is full of fascinating and enjoyable studies related to children — language development, the impact of praise, sibling relationships, sleep, and much more. Click on The Inverse Power of Praise to read what I learned from reading that chapter.

This is the most effective and reliable nose aspirator for children we have found (trust us, we have tested many)! We are always searching for natural remedies to avoid taking medicines. The Nosefrida is a fantastic, natural remedy for winter colds and congestion. Easy to use with infants and young children, before they muster up the courage to protest.