Birthstone jewelry isn’t just a fashion statement — it’s a personal keepsake, a symbol of heritage, and in many cases, a way to carry meaning or intention every day. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or giving a gift, understanding the different types of birthstone jewelry and why specific stones are chosen can make your purchase feel thoughtful, intentional, and timeless.  You can honor your own birth month or the month your baby was born.

Let’s walk through everything from gemstone meanings to jewelry styles, so you can confidently choose birthstone jewelry that’s not only beautiful but meaningful too.

💎 What Makes Birthstones Special?

Birthstones are gemstones traditionally associated with each month of the year. The idea traces back through centuries of culture, including ancient traditions that linked gems with zodiac signs and spiritual properties. Even in modern jewelry, people still connect stones with identity, character traits, and personal meaning. Birthstones Guru

Each stone carries its own symbolic associations — from strength and protection to peace, wisdom, or passion. For example:

January – Garnet: represents friendship, protection, and vitality.

April – Diamond: symbolizes clarity, strength, and eternal love.

June – Pearl: embodies purity and inner wisdom.

September – Sapphire: associated with loyalty, wisdom, and serenity.

These meanings add emotional resonance to the jewelry, making birthstone pieces especially cherished as gifts.

🪩 Types of Birthstone Jewelry — From Classic to Trendy

Birthstone jewelry comes in a stunning variety of forms. Some are timeless classics that you’ll wear forever, while others have become trendy but still meaningful options.

📍 1. Birthstone Rings

Rings are among the most personal birthstone pieces. They sit close to your hand and can be worn daily — especially if the stone is durable (like sapphire or diamond). Rings can range from:

Solitaire settings that highlight one stone

Stackable bands with multiple stones

Engagement or promise rings featuring unique birthstones
Choosing a ring makes a bold statement and can also be deeply symbolic if given as a gift.

Little Sycamore offers custom mother's jewelry that has character, beauty and a unique feel for each piece, just like your baby.    

📿 2. Birthstone Necklaces & Pendants

Necklaces are perhaps the most popular birthstone jewelry category. Pendants sit close to the heart — perfect for emotional or symbolic pieces.

Common options include:

Simple solitaire pendants

Heart or shape designs

Bar or cluster necklaces featuring several stones
Pendants can be delicate everyday wear or layered with other pieces for a personalized look. You can even look into Mother's milk jewelry for an extra special and unique jewelry concept.  

A birth flower necklace, ring, or bracelet is a meaningful way to celebrate your birth month and makes a memorable gift for birthdays and other occasions.

Find your Birth Flower month here!

Haverhill Jewelry has 14K gold jewelry that is designed for life.  Forged in the birthplace of American fine jewelry, it's made in Rhode Island.  Jewelry is handcrafted with decades of experience.

👂 3. Birthstone Earrings

Earrings let you celebrate your birthstone in a more subtle way. They’re versatile for everyday or special occasions, and they come in styles such as:

Studs — classic and understated

Hoops with gemstone accents

Dangles for more dramatic flair
Earrings work beautifully for gifts because they’re easy to wear and pair with almost any outfit, and are typically out of the way when holding your little one.  

📏 4. Birthstone Bracelets

Bracelets create visual interest and style on the wrist. Popular types include:

Tennis bracelets with a row of birthstones

Charm bracelets with birthstone charms

Beaded gemstone bracelets
These can be worn alone or stacked for a trendier look.

📐 5. Custom & Multi-Stone Designs

Customized birthstone jewelry has surged in popularity, especially for families. Pieces can include:

Multiple stones for each child

Birthstones representing significant life moments

Engraved names or meaningful dates alongside gems
This trend celebrates personal stories in a way that feels intentional and unique. Larimar Creations

🧠 Choosing the Right Birthstone Jewelry — Expert Tips

Choosing birthstone jewelry isn’t just about color — practical considerations matter too.

🪶 Match Jewelry to Lifestyle

Not all stones are equally durable. Stones like diamonds, rubies, and sapphires are excellent for everyday pieces because they’re high on the Mohs hardness scale. Softer stones — like opal, pearl, or moonstone — are more delicate and best suited to necklaces or earrings rather than rings or bracelets, where they might bump or scratch. Capucinne

🪩 Consider Metal and Setting

The metal you choose affects both style and durability:

Gold (yellow, white, rose) — classic, versatile

Platinum — very durable but pricier

Silver or vermeil — beautiful yet more casual
Settings like bezels protect softer stones, while prong settings showcase brilliance.

🧬 Think Personal Meaning

Birthstones are deeply symbolic. Some people choose a stone because of its traditional meaning (for example, sapphire for wisdom or ruby for passion). Others choose based on family stories, zodiac associations, or aesthetic preference. Engravings, nameplates, or layered combinations can make your piece feel even more personal. GLAMIRA

Amazon.com: Birthstone Chart Guide Poster (2) Canvas Print Wall Art Decoration Living Room Office Bedroom Aesthetic 16x24inch(40x60cm) Unframe-style: Posters & Prints

Amazon.com: Birthstone Chart Guide Poster (2) Canvas Print Wall Art Decoration Living Room Office Bedroom Aesthetic 16x24inch(40x60cm) Unframe-style: Posters & Prints

From the BrandFrom the Author

💡 Final Thoughts: Why Birthstone Jewelry Still Matters

Birthstone jewelry blends personal history, gemstone beauty, and emotional resonance. Whether it’s a delicate necklace for everyday wear, a bold ring you’ll never take off, or a custom multi-stone piece that celebrates family, there’s a birthstone option for every story and style.

And one more tip — always consider durability and daily wear when selecting pieces. A gemstone’s hardness and the jewelry’s setting can determine whether a piece becomes an everyday favorite or a delicate heirloom you save for special moments. Capucinne

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When your Favorite Things Party has too many goodies to count.  Here's our favorite finds for around $10!

Snuggle up with a good book - Never Doubt I Love

Or visit a quaint and cozy Book Store Book Box Gift Card

Get createive with Diamond Art

And hydrate your skin with Nearly Naked Soap and Solid Lotion Bars

Start your new year with Chronicle Books 5 Year One Line a Day Journal

Need a little bling?  JC Penny Sterling Silver Earrings

The yummiest salty snack Member's Mark Organic Popcorn

A fragrant cleaning spray Mrs. Meyers Multi Surface Cleaner, Apple Cider, Lavender

For soft lips Trader Joes Vanilla Lip Mask

When your new year's resolutions line up with the Year of the Horse there's  Tony's Chocolates

Never shed a tear over giving toddler's berries with Miss Mouth's Meesy Easter Stain Treater Spray

Pop your own delicious Popcorn Silicone Popcorn Popper without an air popper.  

Relax in a bath with your favorite Candle, Lush Bath Bomb

Taste the delicacies of Sweden by visiting The Swedish Moose in Provo or trying Sweedish gummy candy - Bilar Chewy Marshmallow Cars

The Texas Tab is the drink to get with your Swig gift card

Plan 2026 with your Rifle Paper Co Calendar, Amazon

But never fear writing your travel plans in ink with Frixion Erasable pens

Keep your children clean with Bath and Body Soap refill

Dusting is finally easy with the Scrub Daddy Damp Duster

You'll have energy for your True Crime podcasts while drinking Bucked Up Protein Drink

Or Protein Sodas Perk Hydrate Pina Colada

Stay on top of your Marco Polo's with your Scrub Skoy cloth

Dirty up your soda with True Lemon True Lime Crystallized packets

And don't let chips get stale with Magnetic Clips

One can of Campbell's soup could use 4 spoons with the Silicone Spoon Rest

Keep holiday decorating easy with a Briwoody changeable decoration

There's no doubt these favorite things will re-appear in years to come!  

How were we to know that labor was near? His due date was August 7th, 2025.  On Sunday July 6th, 2025 I donned my bathing suit for our monthly progress picture and my once round belly now resembled a watermelon. I could feel him engaged nice and low and attributed his progress to our time recently spent in the swimming pool. A friend at church even noted that my belly had dropped.  I was relieved that I was not the only one to notice this dramatic difference.

I was diligently ingesting $100 worth of Dr. Christopher’s herbal concoctions - Birth Prep, Complete Tissue (to prevent tearing) and the Lower Bowel formula to support the constant battle of constipation during pregnancy. I had been trying to regulate but still struggling slightly.  It was not a complete surprise to me when on Wednesday, July 9th, I started to feel intense pressure while going to the bathroom.  Was my colon obstructed?  How could one feel that pressure while simply squatting on the potty?

At the beginning of July, Bob and I scheduled a baby-moon vacation in Las Vegas and had recently made our hotel reservations and purchased tickets to the new New York themed Cirque du Soleil show on Friday night. I had all five of our bags packed, two for Las Vegas and three for a two night stay at Grandma's house.  I even managed to pack a bin of toys for the boys to be entertained or to entertain Grandma at her house for forty eight hours.  I set my alarm for 7 am on Thursday morning for our adventure south.  There was a small sense of trepidation that I would be uncomfortable in 110° heat without a concrete plan to stay wet & cool for 2 days in the desert.  I packed numerous swim suits and cover ups, and felt elated to have one weekend together before we became a family of six.  

I was deep in sleep dreaming of rainbows and unicorns when the pillow between my legs became drenched with fluid. In the bathroom, I was alarmed there was so much fluid, and that the fluid was not clear, but pink with blood.  My incredible midwife, Sarah answered on the first ring, the full Moon had pulled another mom into labor and thus the Midwive had been called, she was awake and on duty.  I continued to text her images of my pads completely soaked pink, feeling worried that the standard bloody show had exceeded it's limits; but she reassured me that all was within range of normalcy.  I was not feeling encouraged as my last Premature Rupture of Membranes led to Christian’s C-Section nearly eight years ago.  With the births of our second and third babies, my water did not break until I was pushing.  Sarah reassured me it’s acceptable for labor to begin after your water breaks, and there is not an imaginary clock attached within the walls of my uterus that 24 hours later, evacuation was imminent.  In her own experience, a mother did not start labor until 5 days after her water was broken.  It took me an hour, but I finally accepted the fact, we were not going on our Baby-moon but having a baby because of the full moon.

Bob was extremely supportive and had already texted his mom, Nancy. My water broke at 1:40 am, and finally at 4 am I was able to relax and go back to bed.  I hoped to have a labor similar to Liam’s with contractions ramping up in the early morning and within a few hours be in active labor.  When I woke up the next morning, my fears of a "long labor" were beginning to set in as I had not experienced one meaningful contraction all night. There had been brief and infrequent tightenings that took place but nothing to write home about. I decided to notify my family on the family text thread and reassures we would let them know of future progress. It was 10 am when I suggested that Bob take the boys to Ninja kids for a few hours before going to Grandma Nancy’s.  Both Bob and I began putzing around trying to make preparations for our baby to arrive a month early and for labor.  Our nursery still had the reading nest and a disassembled crib but luckily my husband has set it up four times and knew how to make quick work of the setup.  I had the boys around the house, not wanting my In-Laws to be on the clock any earlier than they needed to be.  Nancy brought over Shepherd’s pie for dinner on Thursday night and Bob decided that we would not wait for labor to start, we would ship out the children that night!  It was a very surreal feeling knowing it would be my last night pregnant.  It was also discouraging that we had gone all day long without any signs of labor.

I switched my anticipated date of July 10th to a different date. At this point, I was not confident our baby would arrive on July 11th and was dreading a potential hospital transfer if baby boy decided to delay his arrival. Why would he dramatically break his water then wait and wait to start his final descent?  My sister in law Carly called and reassured me that he would come but maybe just needed to make sure we were not 400 miles away from home in a strange town without the aid of our provider.  That reassurance gave me peace and confidence that everything would work out according to plan.  

I prepared for bed with the hopes that we would not sleep but welcome a baby instead. To my true surprise I slept until 3:30 am without a single contraction and then was only awake to go to the bathroom. I played a hypno birthing track and willed myself to have “open” thoughts. Around 8 am I had one progressive contraction and we planned for my Midwife to visit and check on me and the baby. In the meantime, she texted me an outline of how to get labor going

9 am - 2 bags dandelion tea, 6 Birth prep capsules

9:30 - pump

10 - Castor oil massage on belly

10:30 - pump

11 - Castor oil, 2 kidney pills

11:30 - curb walking, pump

12 - 2 bags tea, 2 Royal bee jelly capsules

12:30 - pump

1 - raspberry leaf tea

1:30 - pump, 4 Birth prep capsules

2 - midwives brew

My heart sank reading this text as I wanted his labor to be unscheduled and peaceful.  I didn't want to stress about the timing of the interventions and push him along.  But I also knew that he needed to be born today as we were approaching 30 hours since my waters were broken.  

Baby had a crib in his nursery now, the carseat was installed, and we were ready for his arrival!  the only thing I could think of was that we had not taken maternity photos.  I got to work getting the old barn painted and curled my hair. We took a handful of fun photos out in the backyard and there was one contraction that required my concentration and my focused breathing.  

My goal for this labor was to remain grounded during the contractions, confident and certain that I could take on each sixty second contraction with grace and ease.  Sarah arrived around noon to check on me and baby.  While doing the measurements, we noted that I had lost 4 inches from the size of my belly after my water broke.

Both baby and I looked great and so we decided that it was time to help tip the scales and naturally induce labor!  Sarah pulled out her herbal remedies. And by pulling out the remedies, she pulled out all the stops!  I swear I downed a dozen pills and a drink called "Contraction Boost".  Even before she finished the checkup and left I had to stand and sway to manage the intensity of the contraction. We prepared for our curb walk (put on pants) and I noted how this mix of tinctures felt like a Pitocin contraction and I was not happy about it!  My goal of staying grounded was being thwarted by these herbal remedies.  All of a sudden I needed help with each contraction and felt the familiar pulls and tightenings deep within me.  There is nothing like the feeling of being in labor, and surrending to it all!

As we walked on the edge of the sidewalk, I had to slow dance with Bob every few minutes. Because I wanted to rest in the shade I would start to hobble to get to the next tree before my contraction really ramped up. We laughed because I looked like Gollum or an aged woman in just an instant once that contraction hit.  As we were heading home, Papi called and I had to hand him off to Bob to manage a strong surge. Yeah, my body was responding. So I texted that to Sarah. "My body is responding!"  Her response was "Whoot".  That made me laugh, and also consider sending a more direct message.  

Bob suggested we call but I reminded him that even our fastest labor was 10 hours from the time contractions started regularly.  I truly believed we had just started the race instead of the reality that we were mere minutes from the finish line.  I sat on the dilation station both front and backwards and played hypnobirthing tracks to get in the right headspace and prepare baby to descend down and out.  Bob inflated the birth tub. He texted on his phone to one of the numbers within the contact that it might be time for a check. 8 minutes later he received a reply – wrong number.

He then noticed my animalistic behaviors while I demanded a fan, help and for the intensity of the contractions to pass.  I proclaimed “I’m going to throw up” and he handed me the frog urinal sitiing on the edge of the tub.  I couldn't imagine throwing up in the urinal, so I shifted to the toilet but felt so hot and uncomfortable through the contraction that I shifted back to the sink with the fan whisking away the sweat on my brow.  Labor is physically hard work!

Bob began texting from my phone since that thread was active.  He texted Sarah the code to the front door, and the message "come Right in!  She’s feeling the urge to push. How far out are you?"  He Sent those text messages at 2:34 pm and 2:39pm.  

At the same moment, I shouted to call the midwife!  Bob placed the call, and she was on the phone with us as I dropped to my knees. I can recall the adage that when one is ready to deliver their baby they will drop to the ground.  I felt an urge to push.  Sarah said she was sixteen minutes away, and I knew that she would not make it.  I couldn’t stop the feeling and had to urge to push and noticed a lot of blood & fluid.  I had my left leg out in a gated table top position and was looking under my legs. I saw Bob had somehow managed to put on his orange shop gloves. That sneaky Bob!

I started bearing down and Bob proclaimed, “I see his hair.” Sarah asked what color was his skin. I tried to pant/push, to prevent tearing so I gave few smaller pushes, three little pants. I felt him descend and Bob proclaimed that his head was out. Sarah told us to push out his body but I waited a few seconds for a contraction to return again.  After Bob slipped the cord over his head, his body wriggled out into the loving arms of his father.  Bob shouted, "You did it!  He's here!" and showed me the baby around my left arm but then passed the baby under my legs because of the umbilical cord.  Our precious baby was here, snuggled up to my chest. I shifted to an awkward seated position and cradled the tiniest little baby in my arms. He was covered in vernix, blood and a full head of dark hair just like I had predicted.  We have two blonde babies, and one boy who had dark, black hair.  

The most beautiful sound was his tender cries (more like whimpering) right away. It was such a relief that he was vocal and warm in my arms. His body was pink and he was here!  Four weeks early, in my arms with no one but me and Bob and the angels in the room.

I had such a surge of adrenaline and felt amazing. Neither Bob or I felt scared, we both just followed our instincts and for the first time in four births Bob was down under, catching our baby boy. I did in fact check while he was in my arms that he is a boy!  2:48 pm was the declared time of birth according to the phone records of our midwife; but later, we received a notification from Bob’s apple watch that had alerted him to a Loud Environment Sound at 2:50 pm.  

There was a lot of blood on the floor but Bob still snapped a picture of this beautiful moment.  One of the Midwives, Talia arrived a few minutes later and began to check on me and baby. We moved to the bed where I was able to birth the placenta and get a few stitches for a 2nd degree tear. Baby boy was 6 lbs, 18 inches long, and just utter perfection. Perfect eyes, fingers, toes, biceps, legs and one of his ears pointed like an elf. He began to nurse and stayed latched much longer than my other babies. I didn’t have the warm towels this time and felt the shakes in my legs. Bob made me a protein drink and took photos of our wondrous baby boy.

11:19 am was the time of our last maternity photo and 2:56 pm was the time stamp on the photo taken in the bathroom. Talk about an adventure. For over thirty-seven hours my water was broken and then just two hours of labor. On our walk I had bet Bob a million dollars I was not in active labor.  I told him there was no way I was 6 cm dilated, when just a few minutes ago, I experienced my first contraction. I will never know if it was the curb walking, the hypno-birthing tracks or if cervical change was gradual from the time my water broke yesterday.  The birth was more intense for the last forty minutes but the pushing stage was much shorter than I experienced with our previous babies.  The euphoria was by far the greatest of all of the births I have experienced.  We are so grateful for his safe and adventurous arrival.  Hello little one, welcome to our world!  

Birth Story of Ashton Robert Ziroll - July 11th, 2025

To prepare for birth visit Birth Made Mindful, and listen to The Best Birth Podcast!  

Receiving a cerebral palsy (CP) diagnosis for your child can be overwhelming. Suddenly, everyday life—planning for the future, managing treatment costs, juggling other children’s needs—can feel like navigating uncharted territory.

What Is Cerebral Palsy?

CP is a non‑progressive neurological disorder primarily affecting movement, balance, and muscle tone. While causes vary—from premature birth and infections to birth trauma—the result is often lifelong challenges.

The Four Main Types of CP

Each form of CP presents differently:

Spastic (≈75%): Tight, stiff muscles (hemiplegia, diplegia, quadriplegia).

Dyskinetic (≈12–14%): Involuntary, slow or irregular movements.

Ataxic (≈3%): Poor coordination, tremors, balance issues.

Hypotonic: Rare; low muscle tone, floppy movements.

Some children exhibit mixed features, commonly spastic plus dyskinetic.

How Severe Is It? – The GMFCS Scale

The Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) rates mobility from Level I (walks independently) to Level V (fully wheelchair‑dependent). This scale helps families and providers plan and set realistic goals.

Causes & Link to Birth Injury

CP often traces back to early-life brain damage, due to:

Oxygen deprivation during labor or delivery (perinatal asphyxia),

Mechanical trauma (forceps/vacuum extraction, etc.),

Untreated maternal health issues or prenatal infections.

These incidents can frequently be traced to medical errors—failure to monitor fetal distress, delays in necessary C‑sections, or improper use of delivery tools.

The Importance of Early Diagnosis

Early intervention is key to unlocking treatment benefits. While the goal is diagnosis within 12 months, in reality many U.S. children don’t receive a diagnosis until around age 2. Proactive developmental monitoring—especially for high-risk infants—makes a major difference.

Legal & Financial Guidance

Managing CP can bring overwhelming financial burdens. Understand legal rights and statutes of limitations.  Access compensation for medical care, assistive devices, lost parental income, and future needs.  Seek disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, which can lead to Medicaid or Medicare eligibility.

Taking Action: What Families Should Do

Step 1: Educate yourself. Learn about CP types, treatments, and developmental expectations.
Step 2: Build a care team. Early therapy, pediatric neurology, and educational supports are foundations.
Step 3: Explore legal support. If medical errors may have caused the CP, consult an experienced birth‑injury attorney.

Where to Find Help

Medical: Occupational, speech, and physical therapy; neurologists; early intervention programs.

Legal: Firms such as Levins & Perconti offer free consultations and work on a contingency basis.

Community: Parent support groups, online CP networks, and local aid resources.

Living with a cerebral palsy diagnosis doesn’t have to be a solo struggle. By educating yourself, engaging early with therapies, exploring legal rights, and reaching out to your community, you can build a support system that safeguards your child’s future.

If you suspect medical negligence in your child’s CP diagnosis or birth injury, act now—while claims are still timely. And remember: you're not alone. Support, guidance, and advocacy are within reach.

Article provided by Holly Brooks

Digital Outreach Director on behalf of Levin & Perconti

There’s a strange sort of quiet that descends once the baby’s asleep, the bottles are washed, and the last light in the hallway clicks off. In that quiet, you might find yourself staring into space—or maybe into a spreadsheet—wondering how this tiny person has rearranged everything, including your own future. It’s not just about diapers and nap schedules. It’s about everything that follows. Planning for that next chapter while balancing sleepless nights and newfound love? It’s messy, beautiful, and deeply urgent. So here’s a practical, sometimes sobering, always honest guide for how to do it right.

Budget Before the Burp Cloths

It starts with money. Not in a soulless, spreadsheet way—but in the way that every Amazon cart, every late-night formula run, and every preschool deposit begins to stack like bricks on your chest. You need to build a buffer now. It doesn’t have to be perfect. But budgeting tools are your new best friends, and tax perks like the Child and Dependent Care Credit can soften some edges. Set up separate savings buckets, automate deposits, and track recurring expenses with an eye toward flexing later. Babies grow—and your financial needs will sprint right alongside them.

Childcare: Decide Early, Breathe Easier

Here’s a sentence you don’t want to say six months from now: “We forgot about the daycare waitlist.” Start now. Tour centers, vet in-home options, talk to other parents, and compare philosophies. It’s not just about safety—it’s about trust, flexibility, and how you want your kid cared for when you’re not around. Public and private options vary wildly depending on your zip code, so don’t assume availability. Familiarize yourself with the types of child care available, even if you’re staying home for now. Situations shift. It’s better to be five steps ahead than frantically Googling with a crying baby on your lap.

Mental Health Isn’t a Luxury

You’re running on fumes, and those fumes are laced with guilt, joy, confusion, and anxiety. That’s normal. What’s not normal is pretending you’re okay when you’re not. Maternal and paternal mental health conditions can sneak in silently, and they don’t always look like sadness. Sometimes they look like rage. Or zoning out. Or never sleeping, even when the baby does. Whether it’s therapy, medication, or regular walks without the baby monitor, don’t wait for a breakdown to get proactive. Your future depends on your mind being in one piece.

Find Minutes, Not Hours

Forget balance. Start with pockets. A ten-minute breather. A fifteen-minute calendar review. Maybe—on a good day—a full hour to yourself. That’s gold. You’re not lazy for needing breaks or scatterbrained for missing your old routines. You’re raising a human, not managing a to-do list. So you need real strategies. The goal isn’t perfection. It’s forward motion—slow, steady, and sometimes fueled by cold coffee and stubborn hope.

Keep the Career Flame Lit

Now is not the end of your ambition. It might just be the pause between verses. Whether you’re plotting a return to full-time work, shifting industries, or simply keeping your mind engaged during naps, education can be a lifeline. Online courses and degree programs allow you to move at your own pace, from your own couch. Want a structured path with flexibility? You can check this out. This season may feel like survival mode, but don’t let it snuff out your spark. Your goals still matter—and your child is watching how you chase them.

Your Village Is Not Optional

You’ll need people. Not just in emergencies, but for the daily grind. The friend who drops off food. The neighbor who takes your trash cans in. The online group that reminds you it’s okay to not love every second. Start building now, even if it’s virtual. Seek out virtual support groups for parents that meet at odd hours, offer solidarity, and let you speak without judgment. It’s easy to isolate. It’s harder—but healthier—to connect. Say yes when someone offers help, and say no when you're stretched thin. That’s real strength.

Being a new parent compresses time. Mornings melt into afternoons. Planning isn’t about certainty. It’s about positioning yourself to meet those moments with less panic, more grace, and a good-enough game plan.

Embark on a transformative journey with Birth Made Mindful courses and empower yourself with the knowledge and confidence to experience a mindful and positive birth.

There’s no perfect way to prepare for parenthood. You can read all the books, download the apps, join the due-date groups on social media—and still find yourself, at 2 a.m., staring at a blank nursery wall and wondering how to make space not just for a crib but for an entirely new life. Designing a nursery isn’t really about furniture and paint colors. It’s about preparing your home to expand emotionally, physically, and spiritually for the kind of love you can’t measure until it arrives screaming into the world.

Forget Pinterest—Start with What’s Real

Before you get lost in mood boards and dreamy Instagram reels, pause and look around your actual space. What are you working with? How much square footage? Natural light? Do you have a room to dedicate entirely to the nursery, or are you making magic out of a corner in your one-bedroom apartment? Whatever your situation, the best nurseries come from a place of authenticity, not aspiration. You don’t need a boho-chic canopy or a gallery wall of woodland animals to welcome your child. You need intention, clarity, and a layout that works for the long, bleary nights ahead.

Think Beyond “Baby” Décor

It’s tempting to go all-in on baby-specific themes: pastel elephants, cartoon clouds, alphabet wallpaper. But babies don’t stay babies. They become curious toddlers, then opinionated kids. Choose timeless furniture and color palettes that grow with your child and with your style. Neutral walls, natural woods, and cozy textiles are hard to outgrow. Save the playful touches—like removable wall decals or rotating bookshelves—for easy swaps. Your future self (and your future budget) will thank you.

Safety Is the New Aesthetic

No one tells you this in the beginning, but babyproofing isn’t just an item on a checklist—it’s a whole mood. Anchoring furniture to the wall, hiding cords, securing windows, choosing low-VOC paints: these aren’t just safety tasks. They’re design choices that reshape how you see a room. A minimalist crib without drop sides, a soft area rug over hardwood, a glider that doesn’t pinch fingers—these are your new design flexes. Nothing looks better in a nursery than peace of mind.

Don’t Underestimate Storage

Babies are tiny. Their stuff? Not so much. Between diapers, wipes, onesies, swaddles, bottles, breast pumps, board books, and burp cloths, you’ll accumulate an alarming amount of gear. Plan for storage like you’re planning for winter in a small New York apartment. Think vertically: wall-mounted shelves, over-the-door organizers, under-crib storage bins. Baskets are your friends. Drawers with dividers will change your life. You want everything accessible at 3 a.m. without knocking over a lamp.

Protecting Your Peace of Mind

As you prep your home for a new arrival, the last thing you want is a broken refrigerator or malfunctioning washer derailing your plans—or your budget. That’s where a little foresight goes a long way, especially when you take the time to research home warranty appliance coverage. It’s not the flashiest part of your nursery setup, but knowing that your essential appliances are protected means fewer surprises and more calm during a season that already demands so much. With one less thing to worry about, you can turn your attention where it belongs: the little person who’s about to change everything.

Create a Zone for You

This is your space, too. Don’t lose sight of that in the sea of baby gear and lullabies. You’re going to be spending long hours feeding, rocking, pacing, sometimes crying quietly while the baby cries louder. You deserve comfort. A padded glider with good back support, a side table for your water bottle and midnight snacks, a small bookshelf for the novel you’ll never finish—it all matters. Your presence is what makes this space a nursery, not just a baby room.

Personal Touches Make It Sacred

You don’t need a room styled like a catalog to make it meaningful. One of the most moving things I saw in a friend’s nursery was a framed handwritten note from her grandmother. Another kept a bookshelf with books her own mother read to her. Maybe it’s a photo, a knit blanket from your childhood, a print from your favorite artist, or lyrics to the lullaby your dad used to sing. These aren’t just decorations. They’re anchors—small reminders that this new chapter is part of a larger, deeper story.

Let the Room Evolve With You

The nursery isn’t done when the paint dries and the mobile is hung. It’s not a final product—it’s a living space that will change as your baby grows, and as you do, too. You’ll move the crib away from the window once they start pulling up. You’ll add a toy basket when they start crawling. You might swap the changing table for a play table one day. Let it be a space that breathes with you. A room that adapts, not dictates. Because that’s what parenting is—learning to adjust, again and again, with love.

Setting up a nursery feels like a milestone, and it is. But it’s not the end goal—it’s the starting line. You’re creating a space for moments: late-night feedings, first laughs, sick days, story time cuddles, maybe even your own moments of solitude while the baby naps. What matters most isn’t what it looks like on social media—it’s how it feels when you’re in it, half-asleep, holding the whole world in your arms. If it feels like love, you got it right.

Article by Bella Reilly from the wellnowshop.com

Prepare for an empowered birth experience with Birth Made Mindful's comprehensive courses, designed to support you through pregnancy, delivery, and the fourth trimester. Visit www.birthmademindful.com today.

Trying to juggle remote work while keeping a tiny human alive (and preferably happy) is no small feat. The lines between work and home life blur fast when you’re answering emails with one hand and wiping oatmeal off the couch with the other. It’s messy, unpredictable, and exhausting—but with a little creativity and flexibility, you can find a rhythm that works for both your career and your family.

Carving Out a Functional Home Workspace

Having a dedicated work spot at home is a lifesaver when you're balancing deadlines and diaper changes. It doesn’t have to be a fancy office—just a space that signals, “This is where work happens.” A small desk in the corner, a quiet nook in the bedroom, or even a section of the dining table can do the trick. The goal is to set up a spot that helps you focus while also making it clear to your little one (and yourself) when it’s work time. Try to keep distractions to a minimum—though let’s be real, that’s easier said than done with a toddler running the show. Noise-canceling headphones can help, and if you’re on calls, a simple “work in progress” sign can be a visual cue for older kids. Communicating your work hours to colleagues also makes a big difference, so they know when you’re available and when you’re wrangling snack duty.

Looking into Online College

Feeling stuck in a job that doesn’t challenge you anymore can make work feel like a daily grind. If you're thinking about a career change, finding something that excites you can bring back a sense of purpose. Earning a degree in business administration online can help you break into a new field, giving you skills in management, accounting, and communications. Since online programs let you study on your own schedule, it’s easier to juggle work, family, and school without feeling overwhelmed. Taking that step toward a new career can make work feel exciting again instead of just another obligation.

Finding a Flexible Schedule That Works

A strict 9-to-5 schedule? Not always realistic when you’ve got a baby who refuses to nap or a toddler who needs constant attention. If your job allows for flexible hours, take advantage of it! Early mornings, nap times, and post-bedtime hours can be golden for getting focused work done. Split shifts can also be a game-changer. Maybe you work a few hours before the kids wake up, take a break for the morning chaos, then dive back in later. If you have a partner or another caregiver at home, tag-teaming responsibilities can create longer stretches of uninterrupted work time. The key is to figure out when you’re most productive and schedule high-focus tasks for those windows.

Meal Prep Without the Stress

Feeding your family while working full-time from home can feel like a never-ending task. Instead of scrambling for lunch ideas at the last minute, lean into meal prep that makes life easier. Slow cookers and Instant Pots are your best friends—just toss in ingredients in the morning and let them do the heavy lifting. Batch cooking on weekends can also help. Make big portions of easy, kid-friendly meals (think pasta, stir-fry, or soups) and store leftovers for quick lunches. Freezer-friendly options like pre-made smoothie packs or breakfast burritos can save time on hectic mornings.

Keeping Little Ones Busy While You Work

Keeping a toddler entertained while you try to work is an art form. Independent play is your secret weapon—look for toys and activities that hold their attention for more than two minutes. Simple things like building blocks, sticker books, or a bin full of random household items can buy you small pockets of work time. Educational apps can also be a lifesaver when you need a few focused minutes. The trick is to find high-quality ones that are engaging without turning your kid into a screen zombie.

Making Time for Outdoor Play (and Sanity Breaks)

Too much screen time can make everyone cranky, so balancing it with outdoor play is key. A quick backyard break or a walk around the block can do wonders for resetting both you and your child. If the weather isn’t cooperating, indoor obstacle courses, dance parties, or even just stretching together can burn off some energy. Pairing screen time with movement can also be a good compromise. Try a “one episode, then one activity” approach—30 minutes of a favorite show followed by 30 minutes of something active. Even little movement challenges, like racing to clean up toys before a song ends, can make a difference.

Working from home while parenting isn’t about having it all together—it’s about making it through the day in one piece. Some days will feel doable, and others will be a complete disaster. Cut yourself some slack, roll with the chaos when things go off track, and remember—it won’t be like this forever. Lean on anyone who can help, whether it’s a partner, family, or even an online group of parents who just get it. A little routine, a lot of flexibility, and a good sense of humor will go a long way in keeping you sane. And honestly, if everyone’s fed, safe, and at least somewhat happy—you’re doing great.

Article by Brad Krause

Discover the transformative journey of mindful birthing at Birth Made Mindful and empower yourself with knowledge and support for a serene birth experience.

Birth Story shared graciously by Annie Globke - February 5, 2025

I got my VBAC! With my big baby!!!  My boy was born 9 lbs 9 oz., 21.5 inches.

My main birth goals, which were met include…

1. To be✨alert, awake, and present✨ ✅

2. No C-section, no induction, no hemorrhaging, no tearing ✅

3. Catch my own baby & bring directly to chest ✅

4. Cut my own cord after it turns white and stops pulsating ✅

5. Golden hour ✅

My first baby measured large at her 36 week ultrasound, so my OB (not the OB who actually delivered my baby) really pushed me to do a 39 week induction based on the ARRIVE trial and she made me very concerned for shoulder dystocia, almost coercing me. (You don’t know what you don’t know). I went in and began my induction only 1cm, 50% effaced, -3 station. (Not ready). Cytotec, foley balloon, Pitocin, AROM in that order. After hours of laboring on Pitocin, my baby was face presenting, so I stopped progressing at 5 cm, and I went for a C-section with my current OB who was on call that night. I felt a lot of excruciating pain during the procedure and severely hemorrhaged after my placenta was removed. I almost required a hysterectomy. I required every intervention for hemorrhage and a uterine artery embolization (UAE) to ultimately stop the bleeding after losing 3 L of blood. I was not reunited with my baby for 3 hours. I was given sedatives including fentanyl, versed, ketamine, and propofol. She was born 9 lbs, 14 oz. Certainly, a big baby!

I had a lot of trauma to work through (another story for another day). I educated myself on the reason for my hemorrhage. And when I got pregnant again, I listened to most episodes on the VBAC link podcast and got a ton of support from women on this page. I did the Mile’s circuit, spinning babies, side lying release, watched Built to Birth birth ball exercises on YouTube, walked a lottttt, ate dates, drank Raspberry leaf tea. I educated myself mostly with ACOG, Evidenced based birth, VBAC link blogs. I used Made for This Birth to find an amazing doula. I prayed to God all the time to please let this birth be different.

Due to my history of Uterine Artery Embolization after my hemorrhage, my OB and the high risk fetal maternal medicine doctors recommended serial growth scans. Fast forward to my 36 week ultrasound and my baby was measuring almost 9 lbs already. Projected to be just shy of 11 lbs at 40 weeks.

I had countless discussions with my OB, who previously saved my life and my uterus, and she was totally supportive of TOLAC. She wanted the birth for me that I wanted. ❤️

I consented to a membrane sweep at 38 weeks + 3 days. I lost my mucus plug and bloody show and had a ton of cramping and Braxton Hicks. I consented to another membrane sweep at 39 weeks + 1 day. I started having real contractions on the way to my car from that appointment! By the time I got home, we were getting my toddler picked up and loading up the car to go to the hospital! I couldn’t believe it!

When we arrived to the hospital, my doula met us there. My VBAC supportive OB wasn’t able to make it 😭 I was 5 cm, contractions were 1 minute long every 2 minutes, and I requested an epidural. Things were moving quickly and my contractions were getting closer! I consented to getting checked again after we settled into our room. I was 6 cm and the doctor accidentally broke my water during the check. I was feeling a lot of pressure a few hours later, so I got checked again, and I was 9 cm!!! I was in such disbelief. I couldn’t believe my body was really doing all of this “on its own” because last time a full induction and hours on Pitocin didn’t even work. I was complete and began pushing an hour later. After 1 hour and 17 minutes of pushing, my baby boy was born! A successful VBAC! He was NOT 11 lbs. He was smaller than my first baby! I don’t think I was the only one in the room in disbelief that this actually happened.

My nurse, my doula, my husband, everyone on my team was literally the best support system I could’ve ever asked for. They helped me move and get through every hard part of labor and ultimately push out my big baby safely! They helped me get my beautiful and redemptive birth! ❤️

There were times where the OB on call and her residents were really negative, not believing in me, trying to check me or augment labor when it was unnecessary. Talking about impending C-section to avoid being in labor for too long and putting me at risk for hemorrhaging again. I chose to give my body time. And it didn’t take long! My doula, nurse, and husband truly were amazing when it came to helping me advocate for myself. I was educated. I knew what my body needed to give myself the best chance possible at a safe VBAC and avoid hemorrhaging.

That ring of fire ⭕️🔥 is some of the worst pain I’ve had in my life. Aside from my C-section. The thing about it is, it was temporary and productive and exciting!! The C-section pain was traumatic and then it lasted for weeks on end reminding me of the trauma.

I’m still sitting here in disbelief. I’m honored to share my story with this community. So many of you have instilled hope and strength in my heart. I hope my story does the same for you.

~ Annie Globke

For free resources to help you prepare for pregnancy and birth, listen to 52 experts share their best advice on The Best Birth Podcast!

A Birth Story by Lana Williams - December 29, 2024

I want to share my birth story to help others.  In 2020, I was convinced by my provider to be induced at 39 weeks. I had no medical need to be induced, but my provider was on call that weekend.  The OB would not let me get out of the bed from the moment the IV was hooked up. The OB never did any cervical softeners or other forms of induction, other than Pitocin. Cranked it up to 20.  I was “stuck” at 6cm for 4 hours and was told my pelvis wasn’t big enough. *Remember this because it ends up being so ironic* Ended in a C-Section 12 hours in due to “failure to progress” My baby boy was 8 lbs.

In 2022, I had switched to an OB that was, I’d say, VBAC tolerant. He agreed to let me go to 42 weeks but with the stipulation of spontaneous labor as no induction would be performed.  I was active my whole pregnancy and drank raspberry leaf tea.  Spontaneous labor began at 40 + 4.

I went to the hospital pretty early, I got an epidural at 6cm and labored for 21 hours total. I pushed out a 9 lbs 2 oz girl. I pushed for 45 mins and ended up with a 2nd degree tear. Baby girl had a broken left clavicle but no shoulder dystocia. Had meconium in my water but no complications. Recovering was a million times better than a C-section.

In December 2024 I had my successful 2VBAC! This pregnancy I stayed active again, drank raspberry leaf tea, was seen by a Webster’s certified chiropractor, and focused on a gentle birth. I switched OB's again to a midwife group that delivers in a hospital. They would allow VBAC inductions if necessary but were supportive of letting me go to 42 weeks if need be. My whole pregnancy was smooth, no GD, no hypertension, etc.

I know most people say not to do a growth scan towards the end because it can give providers a reason to use again you but in my case I wish they had done one sooner. At my weekly appt I was 40+4 and they did an ultrasound and growth scan. The baby was measuring 11lbs 10oz… they immediately told me my only option was C-section. I was in shock. I told them I wanted a shot at induction at the very least. Since the midwives don’t handle high risk pregnancies or deliveries they told me my only option was to switch to the high risk OB group at that hospital, so I did. They checked me and I was 1.5 cm which I had not been the week before. That evening they got me a bed at the hospital and I went in to be induced. The high risk OB was amazing. She was open and honest with all the risks. We discussed how ultrasounds can be off by 1-2 lbs. Even the high risk group doesn’t want to have vaginal delivers over 11 lbs. Since she was a high risk OB, she was used to doing ultrasounds herself on a regular basis and took her time to get the most accurate measurements she could. She said the baby was measuring 10 lbs 12 ounces, so with that, they were okay with me moving forward with induction. The biggest concern was the potential of shoulder dystocia and the risks that come with it. They were going to do a foley bulb but when they checked me I was now 3cm so they started me on piticon. I progressed so well. I got an epidural at 6cm. I moved right along until I got to 9.5cm and one side of my cervix was fully effaced but the other half was stuck at 90% effacement, a cervical lip. They realized it might be because baby had flipped to OP. They checked via an ultrasound and he had. They were able to manually rotate him and then it was time to push. I pushed for 1.5 hours and ended up with a 2nd degree tear, no shoulder dystocia. The moment of truth, the weigh in...He was 10 lbs 10 oz. He did break his right clavicle- all his reflexes and movements were normal. It takes 2 weeks to heal up so it should be completely healed by his appt this week. I labored for 14 hours total from the time they induced me. I think I was already in early labor when the induction started!

Birth Made Mindful shares birth stories to give hope and encouragement to expectant families!  

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Birth Story by Nikole Bethea - December 10, 2024

I got my VBAC on 12/10/24 at 41 weeks 3 days!

I went to a doctor appointment on 12/9 and had an ultrasound to check fluid levels and everything looked great. They also checked my blood pressure and wanted me to go to the hospital because it was quite high. I still think my sky-high anxiety at the time had a lot to do with it as I had been refusing BPs and felt very pressured for induction already, BUT I also understood the risk with hypertension is serious and wanted to make sure baby and I were safe. Most of the issue I had with the doctor was her delivery of the situation and telling me what I “had” to do. They said I need to go to the hospital right away and I could have a stroke/seizure/etc and me and my baby are at risk. They took a urine sample but didn’t even tell me the results, I don’t think they honestly had time to test it before they talked to me. I had no symptoms of high BP at all and I found out later at the hospital there was no protein in my urine.

The doctor wanted to do a cervical check and sweep right when I got there (before the BP) and I said I wasn’t sure yet if I wanted that because I’ve refused it so far and don’t want to break my water unnecessarily. They were adamant about it but when my BP came back they didn’t even think we needed to check anymore let alone sweep because I “just need to go to the hospital”. I insisted on it then because I’d rather do a sweep first before the hospital so they checked me and I was at 1cm but not open enough to sweep I guess.

The doctor told me to go to the hospital and they could either do a foley bulb with low dose Pitocin or just do a CS - which she suggested I opt for the CS “because it could be a long labor”. I told her, like I’ve said this whole time, I’m not going to just have a CS without trying to labor. She also made sure I knew she was going to call the hospital to let them know I was coming and told me not to eat anything so that I’d be ready for surgery 😑

So we drove home 30 minutes and it was about a 30-45 min to the hospital. We took my BP at home when we got there and it was down to about 120s/90s. We decided to get things around to go to the hospital but also try to be relaxed not super stressed while monitoring BP.

We got to the hospital about 5:15pm and my BP was about 140/90. The doctors there were much less fear-inducing and didn’t even suggest BP medicine, let alone a CS. I was regularly contracting already and agreed to get the foley bulb to help dilate. Foley was placed about 7pm and I was 1.5cm, 40% effaced, soft, and -3 station. I got into good positions, hydrated, and pumped to stimulate labor but no IV fluids or meds. At 8:54pm I got my bloody show/lost my mucous plug. At 12:30am my foley bulb came out when I slightly pulled on it! At 1:30am the doctor rechecked me and I was 4cm and 60% effaced with baby’s head engaged! My BP went down to 120s/90 and back up to 140/90 with painful contractions but they still were not concerned.

I didn’t get a lot of sleep but kept changing positions and rotating with rest. At 6am when they checked me I was at 5cm 60% and -3. At 10:44 I was at 5cm 60% -2 with my bag of waters “taut”. They’d been suggesting to break my water to progress further but I agreed and had them broken at about 4:30pm. There were signs of meconium but again doctors were not concerned since baby was doing fine. The pain amped up QUICK from maybe a 3 or 4 to at least a 7. I continued doing the position changes and opted to get in the shower at this point. I wanted to use nitrous oxide but was told I could only use this for 3 hours so I didn’t want to start it too early. After literally a couple minutes in the shower I felt the pushing urge and soooo much pain, easily a 9/10. I got out and asked to be checked again. They did and I was at 7cm but not all the way effaced yet. It was at this point I started to be unable to control the pushing sensation but I was told to stop pushing or it would cause my cervix to swell (and in my mind at least, that = CS.)

I asked quickly to use the nitrous to hopefully get that sensation to stop and was able to start using it pretty quickly. Nitrous is marvelous imo 😂 it felt very floaty, although still very painful and I still could not control the sensation to push no matter how hard I tried. I made the decision then to ask for an epidural, hoping again it would make that urge stop so I wouldn’t cause swelling and an eventual CS. I wanted to see if I could have a baby without one since I hadn’t before, but my desire to avoid surgery was more important. The anesthesiologist came in and started to place the epidural as soon as they put an IV in, but I kept telling them to hurry because I didn’t want it to be too late to get one! I kept telling the doctors I had the urge to push and they kept telling me not to (which happened with my first son, BTW, and always made me mad because I couldn’t control that urge!) but they said I didn’t need to be re-checked or anything. Well, as they were still trying to place the epidural, I felt so much pressure that I was sure his head was coming out and when I felt it touch the bed under me, I knew I was right. I laid on my side and baby came out quickly onto the bed, with only a a nurse, my husband, and the anesthesiologist in the room! They called for doctors to come in and they were, of course, stunned 😒 Baby was limp for a moment at first but livened up and was crying before they had to take any measures to help him.

Baby Roman James was born at 6:04pm weighing 8lbs 4oz and measuring 22.25in long ❤️

I’ve definitely learned with this birth and my previous births that I dilate quickly near the end and to trust my gut about when I’m ready to push, even if I have to make the doctors believe me!

I’m so proud I got my VBAC and that I didn’t have any pain medication either (the epidural was never placed 😂). Most importantly, I’m so glad my son and I are healthy.

Birth Made Mindful shares birth stories to empower and embolden families to prepare for birth.  Join our sisterhood, and check out our free resources.    

Listen to The Best Birth Podcast - Experts to prepare your heart and mind for The Best Birth!

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INTERVIEW OVERVIEW

Bonus - Jen & Sarah The Best Birth Lessons Learned
Lessons Learned from Sarah and Jen

Nutrition and Exercise and sleep are key! - Jen

Your body was made to birth, education/resources can help "catch your brain up" - Sarah

Having a support system and rock star birth team - Jen

With each subsequent child, you're not "starting over", you're starting from experience. Move forward with additional knowledge. - Sarah

Utilizing specialists for your specific needs. - Jen

You are not fragile in pregnancy. Include prehab, rehab, and take care of your body throughout the different stages.

Jen's Favorite Quotes
"Preparing for the unexpected allows you to go there safely in labor." --Episode 6, Sarah Felt
"Taking a few minutes each day to slow down, breathe, and ground yourself can have a significant impact on overall well-being." --Episode 14, Ellie Morris
"The way you handle yourself when you're not getting what you want determines the marriage ([or insert any event, such as birth]). --Episode 25, Dr. Jennifer Finlayson-Fife

Sarah's Favorite Quotes
Kelly Dean - Episode 9
It takes longer to heal because you're sleep deprived. You just ran a marathon and nobody fed you while you were doing it and now you are keeping this newborn alive by the juice of your boobs and you are exhausted. So your nutrition really funnels into your breast milk and how you heal your body.

Nicole Rankin - There's this like snapback nonsense of getting right back into things and you got to get back into working out and you got to get back your pre -pregnancy body. Just stop all that. Take some time and just kind of be in the moment of having your baby and just connecting with your baby.

Anj Linebeck - It doesn't mean you're going to be on Antidepressants forever. People say -  I don't want to get on this because it's bad for my baby and I don't want to be on it forever.  You can find ones that are not bad for your baby and you don't have to be on it forever. You just need, I tell people to think of it as like a life jacket. Imagine you're now plopped into the middle of the ocean and you're drowning.  What tools can we use to buoy you up and get you back to dry land? And that's one of them. And once you feel like you're in a place where your toes can touch the bottom, then you can take that life jacket off.

EPISODE 42
And it's about 25 % of all women who experience pregnancy will experience some kind of postpartum mental health illness. That makes it the highest obstetrical complication for women. It's higher than gestational diabetes, higher than anything else.

EPISODE 24 Most pediatricians have been asked all those questions, so there's not an offensive question out there. There's new things coming around all the time, too, though. And I think if you can ask those questions to people you trust, you'll make good choices. And I wouldn't discount your gut. As a parent, you are given an instinct that your pediatrician doesn't have for your baby. I have experience. I have knowledge on diseases and studies, but I don't have that gut instinct. And so if you're worried, you should reach out and discuss that. And if it's not the answer you want, and it persists talk about it. And I think that's where just as valuable as showing up to your well -childhood and having, you know, checking the weight and developmental things is building a relationship.

Resources
In each Episode we share the resources from our experts.  Please consider supporting and purchasing through our links.  

Last Mom Squad Secret - Eden
During Pregnancy and especially as you are healing postpartum - get fresh air everyday.

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Jen Banks

Jen is a dedicated educator with dual bachelor's degrees in elementary education and early childhood education. She transitioned from second-grade teaching to nurturing preschoolers at home. Jen is most passionate about supporting moms in maintaining identity throughout motherhood. She is a mother of three boys ages 6, 3, and 2. Jen is the host of the podcast A is for Adversity and her first book will be published in August - Let Yourself Bloom. She is an avid reader, baking enthusiast, and collector of inspirational quotes.

Sarah Ziroll

Sarah is a musician, birth coach, wife and mother, raising boys who are 7,4 and 2!  She loves making everything a bit more exciting with an over the top DIY project - like buying a house, then painting all the walls, doors and trim when the third baby is 4 months old.  Her life's mission is to infect others with happiness and radiate positivity.  Dedication, Diligence and Determination are three words she strives to live by! She is a yellow personality and a social butterfly!

Each week will will share a MomSquad Secret, and would love to learn your tips and tricks for thriving in motherhood.  

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INTERVIEW OVERVIEW

Inspiring Parenting Quotes: Insights from Top Books In this episode of the Best Birth Podcast, various influential books and impactful quotes are explored, providing insights for better parenting and personal growth. The host shares a collection of quotes, emphasizing themes like self-compassion, resilience, emotional growth, and the importance of understanding children's needs. Featured books include 'The Fringe Hours' by Jessica Turner, 'Self-Compassion' by Kristin Neff, 'The Five Love Languages of Children' by Gary Chapman, and many more. The discussions highlight effective parenting strategies, the significance of emotional regulation, and the transformational journey of both parents and children. Listeners are encouraged to embrace these insights for personal development and enriched family dynamics.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to the Best Birth Podcast

00:52 Quotes on Time Management and Sleep

01:26 Parenting Insights from Various Authors

02:52 The Importance of Self-Compassion

03:17 Music and Mental Load in Parenting

04:02 Teaching Resilience and Emotional Regulation

04:38 Discipline and Household Responsibilities

05:36 Embracing Emotions and Connection

06:24 Raising Resilient and Mentally Strong Kids

08:39 Understanding and Supporting Different Child Personalities

09:21 Simplifying Parenting and Encouraging Play

09:57 The Power of Love and Presence

11:24 Brene Brown's Wisdom on Parenting

12:31 Positive Reinforcement and Compassion

12:57 Balancing Self-Care and Parenting

16:10 Guiding Teenagers Through Transitions

19:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

RESOURCES

The Fringe Hours by Jessica Turner
“Time is a gift, and how we choose to use it reflects what we value. Reclaim your fringe hours and fill them with what brings you joy and fulfillment.”

12 hours sleep by 12 weeks old
"Because they are well-rested, these babies will be more alert and more willing to listen during their awake times, which in turn means they will be more active learners."

A dude dads guide to baby size - Taylor Calmus
"By week thirty-four, your little lopper is now the size of a sixteen-inch largemouth bass that weighs four to five pounds!"

Resilient- how to grow an unshakable core of calm, strength and happiness- Rick Hanson ph.d
"Allowing yourself to be vulnerable doesn’t mean you are weak. It means you are strong enough to accept help, listen to your body, and trust the process."

Good Moms have scary thoughts - Karen Kleiman
“Sometimes the thoughts are too scary to say out loud. But the truth is, having scary thoughts doesn’t make you a bad mom. It makes you human. Recognizing them is the first step toward healing.”

90 Seconds to the Life You'll Love - Joan Rosenberg
“By staying present with your emotional discomfort, you build resilience and the confidence to face future challenges.”

The 5 Love Languages of Children - Gary Chapman and Ross Campbell
"Discover your child's primary language—then speak it—and you will be well on your way to a stronger relationship with your flourishing child."

Self Compassion - Kristin neff
"Self-compassion is a way of emotionally recharging our batteries. Rather than becoming drained by life’s difficulties, self-compassion allows us to thrive and grow."

I Am Malala - "It is my belief that God sends the solution first and the problem later."

The music advantage - Anita Collins phd
"Music has the potential to positively benefit almost all aspects of a child's development, whether it's through formal education or mindful appreciation"​

Fair Play - Eve Rodsky
Fair Play Quote “Mental load is the invisible work that goes into managing a household and a family. It’s the thinking, planning, and organizing that often goes unnoticed and unacknowledged.”

Parenting with Love and Logic
“It’s not our job to protect children from all of life’s challenges, but to help them learn how to navigate those challenges with confidence.” "The best way to inspire a child to do better in the future is to give him an opportunity to do better in the present. A punishment makes him feel bad about himself. Making amends helps him feel good about himself and helps him to see himself as a person who can do good."

1,2,3 Magic - Thomas Phelan
"The two biggest discipline mistakes made by adults are too much talking and too much emotion. Keep calm and be consistent"​

The good news about bad behavior - Katherine Reynolds Lewis
"Household jobs can build a child's capability, helping them practice independence and autonomy, foster connection with the family, and help them become capable adults.  Instead of simply levying a punishment in the moment, parents should come up with agreements with their kids and clearly define the consequences for violating them."

Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids - Laura Markham
"Children raised in a home in which there are limits on behavior but not on feelings grow up understanding that all emotions are acceptable, a part of being human"

Parenting With Love and Logic - Charles Fay and Foster Cline
"Children need to experience failure in order to learn resilience and problem-solving skills."

The Whole Brain Child - Daniel Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson
"Avoid solving and resist rescuing, even when they make minor mistakes or not-so-great choices."

Raising Mentally Strong Kids - Amy Morin
"Mentally strong kids are resilient and they have the courage and confidence to reach their full potential."

Good Inside - Dr. Becky Kennedy
"Shame doesn’t change people–it only pushes them further into a spiral of darkness. Connection is light, binding us together. When we pause to give grace in tough moments, we build our connection with our kids."

The Explosive Child -  Ross Greene
"Labeling a child as 'manipulative' or 'defiant' only perpetuates the problem."

Raising Boys - Steve Biddulph
"Every boy needs a mentor. Boys need to see adult men in their lives who are kind, loving, and respectful."

The Anxious Generation - Jonathan Height
"Unprotected from the powers of technology-companies, overprotected from normal childhood adventures, it is no surprise that so many Gen Zers are sad, lonely, fearful, wracked with the sense they will never measure up to the starry standards of others."

Raising Good Humans - Hunter Clarke-Fields
"Children are not distractions from more important work. They are the most important work."

The Big Leap -  Gay Hendricks
"Fear is just an illusion; it's time to step into the unknown and trust in our abilities."

Child Whisperer - Carol Tuttle
There are 4 types of children she categorizes in this book - Fun loving, Sensitive, Determined, More Serious - When you understand your child’s energy type, you can tailor your parenting to meet their needs and strengths, creating a harmonious and supportive environment.”

Womb - Leah Hazard
"The womb is the most miraculous organ in the body – with the power to bring life or cause death; to yield joy or pain – yet most of us know almost nothing about it."

Simplicity Parenting Kim John Payne and Lisa M. Ross
“As you simplify your life, you will find that the everyday activities of family life present opportunities for greater connection, meaning, and joy.”  "When you simplify a child's 'world,' you prepare the way for positive change and growth. You make space for connection, creativity, and relaxation."

Hunt, Gather, Parent by Michaeleen Doucleff:
"Children need time and space to play and explore their interests - it is through these experiences that they learn and grow and develop essential life skills."

Only love today Rachel Macey Stafford
"Only love today is clarity when you’re conflicted. Only love today is unity when you’re divided. Only love today is faith when you’re uncertain. Only love today is a reset button directing you back to what matters most."

Hands Free Mama - Rachel Macy Stafford
"Being responsible for someone’s childhood is a big deal. We not only create our own memories, but we create our child’s memories."

Hands free life Rachel Macey-Stafford https://www.amazon.com/dp/0310338158/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_i_M4XDYPC4MR1VMYJAYC9Y?linkCode=ml2&tag=mademindful-20
"The most meaningful life experiences don't happen in the 'when,' they happen in the 'now.'"

I thought it was just me, but it isn't - Brené Brown
"There is a constant barrage of social expectations that teach us that being imperfect is synonymous with being inadequate. Everywhere we turn, there are messages that tell us who, what, and how we’re supposed to be. So we learn to hide our struggles and protect ourselves from shame, judgment, criticism, and blame by seeking safety in pretending and perfection."

Dare to Lead by Brené Brown
"You can choose courage, or you can choose comfort, but you cannot choose both."

The gifts of Imperfection Brené Brown
"I define connection as the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard, and valued; when they can give and receive without judgment; and when they derive sustenance and strength from the relationship"

The Gifts of Imperfect Parenting: Raising Children with Courage, Compassion, and Connection. - Brené brown
"Your child's worth is not determined by their achievements or milestones."

Parenting the strong willed Child - Rex Forehand
"Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool for shaping behavior. When you catch your child doing something right and acknowledge it, you reinforce that behavior and encourage its repetition."

The Book of Joy- Dalai Lama & Desmond tutu
"A compassionate concern for others’ well-being is the source of happiness… a self-centered attitude is the source of the problem. We have to take care of ourselves without selfishly taking care of ourselves. If we don’t take care of ourselves, we cannot survive. We need to do that. We should have wise selfishness rather than foolish selfishness"​

Christlike Parenting- Glenn Latham
"Discover the secret that will help your child to disregard peer pressure and make smart choices—for life"​

The coddling of the American Mind- Jonathan Haidt
“We must learn to cultivate the virtues of humility, open-mindedness, and intellectual courage in order to seek truth, engage in constructive dialogue, and work toward a more just and inclusive society.”

Breaking the habit of being yourself - joe dispenza
"When our behaviors match our intentions, when our actions are equal to our thoughts, when our minds and our bodies are working together, when our words and our deeds are aligned … there is an immense power behind any individual."

You are not a Sh*tty parent- Carla Namburg
"The fact is, great parenting starts with true self-compassion, the kind that means you don’t judge yourself. Harnessing this self-compassion is the key to giving yourself a break and embracing your best qualities as a parent."

Strong Mothers, Strong Sons- Meg Meeker
"The crucial role mothers play in expressing love to sons in healthy ways so they learn to respect and appreciate women as they grow up."

Create Anyway -the joy of pursuing creativity in the margins of motherhood - Ashlee gadd
"Your creative work matters, even if it’s done in the margins of motherhood.  Motherhood can be the catalyst that refines and hones your creative passions."

Self compassion for parents - Susan m pollak
"Remember that self-compassion doesn’t eradicate pain or negative experiences, it just embraces them with kindness and gives them space to transform on their own."

Untangeled: Guiding Teenage Girls Through the Seven Transitions into Adulthood - Lisa Damour
"When a teenage girl’s behavior seems completely mysterious, it’s a sign that she’s working through one or more of the seven transitions that make up the arc of adolescence."
The seven Transitions are: Parting with Childhood
Joining a New Tribe
Harnessing Emotions
Contending with Adult Authority
Planning for the Future
Entering the Romantic World
Caring for Herself

How to Hug a Porcupine - Julie Ross
"Our preteens need for us to remain emotionally connected and stable, because they're so unstable during this period. They need to know that we may not love their behavior but that, despite the fact that they're uncomfortable during their metamorphosis, we aren't going anywhere, and we will continue to love them."

Preteen Wise: Parenting Your Child from Eight to Twelve Years - Gary Ezzo and Robert Bucknam
"Finding relational equilibrium with your maturing child is one of the more difficult tasks of parenthood. But by the end of this growth period, a healthy restructuring of relationships needs to have occurred for both you and your child."

The Teenage Brain - Frances Jensen
"There are other misconceptions and myths about the teenage brain and teenage behavior that are now so ingrained they are accepted societal beliefs: teens are impulsive and emotional because of surging hormones; teens are rebellious and oppositional because they want to be difficult and different, This developmental imbalance results in teenagers being more susceptible to making risky decisions, especially under peer pressure, and struggling with self-control in emotionally charged situations. Understanding these neurobiological changes provides a clearer picture of teenage behavior beyond the oversimplified explanation of surging hormones

The Success of Failure - Mike Bensi
"Anyone can give up; it's the easiest thing in the world to do. But to hold it together when everyone else would understand if you fell apart, that's true strength."

Easy to love, Difficult to Discipline Becky A. Bailey
"Every conflict presents you with a choice. You can choose to view conflict as an opportunity to teach or as an opportunity to blame and punish."

The New Menopause
"Menopause is inevitable, but suffering through it is not!"

Join Made Mindful as we explore birthing and parenting through the words of experts!  

At no extra cost to you, if you purchase through our links, we recieve a small portion of each sale.  

Jen Banks

Jen is a dedicated educator with dual bachelor's degrees in elementary education and early childhood education. She transitioned from second-grade teaching to nurturing preschoolers at home. Jen is most passionate about supporting moms in maintaining identity throughout motherhood. She is a mother of three boys ages 6, 3, and 2. Jen is the host of the podcast A is for Adversity and her first book will be published in August - Let Yourself Bloom. She is an avid reader, baking enthusiast, and collector of inspirational quotes.

Sarah Ziroll

Sarah is a musician, birth coach, wife and mother, raising boys who are 7,4 and 2!  She loves making everything a bit more exciting with an over the top DIY project - like buying a house, then painting all the walls, doors and trim when the third baby is 4 months old.  Her life's mission is to infect others with happiness and radiate positivity.  Dedication, Diligence and Determination are three words she strives to live by! She is a yellow personality and a social butterfly!

Each week will will share a MomSquad Secret, and would love to learn your tips and tricks for thriving in motherhood.  

Share your MomSquad Secrets on our Facebook Page

Enroll in our online Birth Courses so you too can create The Best Birth!

Listen Here

INTERVIEW OVERVIEW

Empowering Motherhood: Essential Resources and Insights This episode of the Best Birth Podcast explores a variety of recommended books and resources that provide insights and guidance on pregnancy, birth, and motherhood. The hosts discuss quotes and key messages from these books that emphasize the emotional, spiritual, and practical aspects of childbirth and parenting. Topics include the importance of emotional support, understanding pregnancy week by week, gentle parenting, body acceptance, and self-care postpartum.

TAKEAWAYS

The episode encourages listeners to seek knowledge and support from these resources to enhance their journey through motherhood.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to the Best Birth Podcast

00:38 Inspiring Quotes on Birth

01:00 Essential Books for Birth Preparation

01:45 Emotional and Spiritual Aspects of VBAC

02:28 Nourishing Your Body for Pregnancy

03:22 Gentle Birth and Parenting

04:49 Breastfeeding Support and Resources

05:59 The Role of Partners in Childbirth

09:49 Postpartum and Parenting Wisdom

12:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

RESOURCES

Birth Without Fear - January Harshe
"That’s the thing about birth, we don’t get an itinerary. We have to surrender and let go and it’s in that vulnerability we find the courage and strength we forgot we’ve had since our own birth. The power is already in you."

Birthing From Within - Pam England and Rob Horowitz
"Combine practical medical knowledge with the power of embodied practice, ritual, story, and artmaking for authentic preparation and healing."
"Build flexibility, resilience, and coping skills, so that you are less vulnerable to birth trauma."

The Labor Progress Handbook - Penny Simkin and Ruth Ancheta
“Movement is not only a comfort measure, but also a tool to enhance labor progress by using gravity and changing pelvic dimensions to facilitate the baby’s descent.”

The VBAC Companion by Diana Korte
“The journey to a VBAC is not just physical; it is deeply emotional and spiritual. It’s about healing, reclaiming, and moving forward with strength and courage.”

Female Fertility - Toni Weschler
"The strongest women become the strongest mothers before their children are even conceived."

PCOS SOS Fertility Fast Track - Dr. felise gersh
"Healthy babies start with healthy mothers. Instead of rushing into fertility treatments, Dr. Gersh shows how you can use diet and lifestyle to get truly, deeply, wonderfully healthy and how this naturally restores female fertility."

The Mama Natural Week by Week Guide to Childbirth - Genevieve Howland
"Knowledge is power. Understanding what to expect each week of pregnancy can help you make informed decisions and reduce anxiety about the unknown."

Gentle Birth, Gentle Mothering by Sarah J. Buckley
“Honoring the natural rhythms of birth and parenting allows us to connect more deeply with our instincts and with our children.”
“Gentle discipline is about guiding your child with kindness and respect, helping them to understand the impact of their actions without fear or punishment.”
“Set boundaries with love and consistency, helping your child to learn and grow in a safe and supportive environment.”"

Body Full of Stars: Female Rage and My Passage into Motherhood by Molly Caro May
Book Quote - "This is an ancient call from our first mothers to connect to our bodies—for our own good and for the good of humanity.

The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding - La Leche League International
"Find a support network before the baby arrives, so you have someone to turn to in those early days, even if everything is going smoothly. If there isn’t a La Leche League Group near you, connect with a group online.

Ina May's Guide to Breastfeeding - Ina May
"Oxytocin has been called the 'hormone of calm, love, and healing' because of the kinds of feelings it causes in the mother and the interactions with her baby that often trigger its release."

The Attachment Pregnancy - Laurel Wilson and Tracy Wilson Peters
"As you meet your baby's needs for connection, pleasure, love, and affection, you literally change his or her brain chemistry and neurobiology, preparing your child for a lifetime of security, success, and psychological wellness."

Husband Coached Childbirth - Robert Bradley
"The husband is the coach, and his support and involvement can significantly enhance the childbirth experience. His role is to offer emotional support, encouragement, and physical assistance during labor and delivery."

A Good Birth, A Safe Birth - Diana Korte and Roberta Scaer
"While it is important to have a birth plan, it is equally important to remain flexible and open to the unexpected. Birth is a natural process, and sometimes it doesn’t go exactly as planned."

Babies Are Not Pizzas - Dr. Rebecca Dekker
"Knowledge is power, and in the context of childbirth, it can be the difference between a positive birth experience and one that leaves scars."

The Birth Partner -  Penny Simkin.
“Your belief in her strength and capabilities can help her believe in herself, even when she may feel overwhelmed.” “The way a woman is treated during birth has a lasting impact on her, both emotionally and psychologically. Your role is crucial in making this a positive experience.”

Your Baby and Child - Penelope Leach
"Your baby is not simply a child, but a whole person, with feelings and thoughts and a unique personality from the very start."

Ina May's Guide to Childbirth - Ina May
“...it’s good to remember that the vagina is designed to stretch, just as the penis is designed to grow.”

Baby Wise - Gary Ezzo and Robert Bucknam
Book Quote - “Teaching your baby to sleep independently is one of the most loving and beneficial gifts you can give.  When your baby sleeps well, the entire family benefits. A well-rested baby contributes to a more peaceful and balanced home life.”

Body Love by Kelly Leveque
"Your body is not an apology, it is a masterpiece."

Body Love Every Day - Kelly LeVeque
"In a world where you're constantly being told what you should look like, how you should eat, and who you should be, the most radical act is to love yourself unconditionally."

What to Expect When You're Expecting -Heidi Murkoff and Sharon Mazel
"“Caring for a premature baby can be emotionally taxing, and it's important for parents to seek support.
“Preemie development may follow a different timeline compared to full-term babies, and milestones may be reached later, but each step forward is a significant achievement.”"

Silent Souls Weeping by Jane Clayson Johnson
"Healing from depression is not a linear process; it is a journey with ups and downs, victories and setbacks. It requires patience, persistence, and, most importantly, self-compassion."

Natural Childbirth the Bradley Way - Susan McCutcheon
"Birth is not only about making babies. Birth is about making mothers — strong, competent, capable mothers who trust themselves and know their inner strength."

What to Expect the First Year - Heidi Murkoff
"Every baby is different, and every parent is different. Trust your instincts and find what works best for you and your baby."

What to Expect the Second Year - Heidi Murkoff
"Toddlers are endlessly curious and constantly learning. Embrace their natural sense of wonder and be patient as they explore the world around them."

More Than a Body - Lexie Kite and Lindsay Kite
"Pregnancy is a powerful reminder that your body is an instrument for life, growth, and love. It is not merely an ornament to be judged by its appearance."

The First Forty Days - Han O
"Your body has just done the most incredible thing: it created and delivered a new human being. Now is the time to honor, nurture, and give back to yourself with the same dedication you gave to growing your baby."

The Everything Guide to Pregnancy after 35- Brette sember
Book Quote - Becoming a mother alters who you are forever and reconfigures your life permanently."

The Fourth Trimester by Kimberly Ann Johnson
Quote from the Book - “The fourth trimester is not about getting back to normal; it’s about creating a new normal that honors the profound changes you’ve undergone.”

Join Made Mindful as we explore birthing and parenting through the words of experts!  

At no extra cost to you, if you purchase through our links, we receive a small portion of each sale.  

Jen Banks

Jen is a dedicated educator with dual bachelor's degrees in elementary education and early childhood education. She transitioned from second-grade teaching to nurturing preschoolers at home. Jen is most passionate about supporting moms in maintaining identity throughout motherhood. She is a mother of three boys ages 6, 3, and 2. Jen is the host of the podcast A is for Adversity and her first book will be published in August - Let Yourself Bloom. She is an avid reader, baking enthusiast, and collector of inspirational quotes.

Sarah Ziroll

Sarah is a musician, birth coach, wife and mother, raising boys who are 7,4 and 2!  She loves making everything a bit more exciting with an over the top DIY project - like buying a house, then painting all the walls, doors and trim when the third baby is 4 months old.  Her life's mission is to infect others with happiness and radiate positivity.  Dedication, Diligence and Determination are three words she strives to live by! She is a yellow personality and a social butterfly!

Each week will will share a MomSquad Secret, and would love to learn your tips and tricks for thriving in motherhood.  

Share your MomSquad Secrets on our Facebook Page

Enroll in our online Birth Courses so you too can create The Best Birth!

Listen Here

INTERVIEW OVERVIEW

In this episode, Jody Moore of the podcast "Better Than Happy" joins us to discuss how focusing on thoughts and mindset can significantly impact our reality, particularly in the context of birth and motherhood. Jody shares her journey from struggling with work-life balance and embracing motherhood to becoming a life coach and helping tens of thousands through her coaching practice and podcast. She emphasizes the power of mindset in shaping our experiences and offers practical tools for strengthening our thoughts to create a better birth and parenting experience.

TAKEAWAYS

Jody also touches on her personal experiences with gestational diabetes and the importance of self-care and self-compassion in parenting.

CHAPTERS

00:00 The following presentation is a production of Ride the Wave Media

00:48 Jodi Moore turned to life coaching after having her first two kids

01:44 How does focusing on your thoughts and mindset create your reality during birth

05:38 Practicing mindfulness strengthens your mindset and your thoughts, right?

07:21 When did you feel you weren't fulfilled in motherhood

12:38 A lot of our listeners are first time moms

16:42 You were diagnosed with gestational diabetes and then you reversed that

19:31 If you are capable of exercising during pregnancy, then keep it up

20:42 We are very wrapped up in our children's success, right?

24:44 Your thoughts are creating your feelings, right. How can this shape our emotional experience during childbirth

28:15 As a mother, how have you taught these tools to your children

RESOURCES

Jody Moore's Free Coaching Workshop
Better Than Happy Podcast

Jody Moore

After having her first two kids, Jody Moore struggled with work/life balance, embracing motherhood, and liking herself. As an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints she felt guilty for not loving the role of mother and wife, and turned to life coaching for help. The transformation she experienced not only helped her at work and at home, it strengthened her testimony of Christ leading her to dive into learning the tools of coaching and to leave her position as a corporate leadership coach to launch her own coaching practice. Jody is certified through The Life Coach School and completed Master Coach Certification in 2018. Today Jody has helped tens of thousands of people through her top-rated podcast Better Than Happy as well as her coaching membership program The Lab. She has 4 children ages 8 – 18 and resides in San Diego, California with them, her husband, and their French bulldog Finn and mini cavapoo Milo.

Listen Here

INTERVIEW OVERVIEW

Faith and Sexuality: Navigating Relationships and Motherhood The podcast episode features Carlie Palmer-Webb, a sex educator and founder of the Christian Sex Educator Platform, who discusses how to embrace sexual intimacy as a gift from God, free from shame and misinformation. Topics covered include the changes in sexual health associated with pregnancy and postpartum, misconceptions about pain during sex, and the importance of pelvic floor therapy. Webb emphasizes fostering emotional connectivity, even if sexual intimacy changes during parenthood.

TAKEAWAYS

The episode also addresses the importance of comprehensive sex education starting at a young age and providing the right anatomical knowledge to combat shame and misinformation. The conversation underscores the value of obtaining a healthy understanding of sexuality for promoting future healthy relationships. Various resources and books are recommended for both adults and youth, aiming to provide a comprehensive view of sexual education and relationship building.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to Carlie Palmer-Webb

01:59 Carlie's Journey to Becoming a Sex Educator

03:41 Common Misconceptions About Sex During Pregnancy

09:50 Rebuilding Intimacy Postpartum

16:16 Maintaining Personal Values and Desires

23:11 Educating Children About Healthy Sexuality

29:03 Recommended Resources and Final Thoughts

RESOURCES
Come As You Are
The Great Sex Rescue
Satisfaction Guaranteed
Smithsonian Body Encyclopedia
Good Pictures, Bad Pictures Jr.
I Said No

Carlie Palmer-Webb

Carlie Palmer-Webb is a Christian sex educator and founder of The Christian Sex Educator platform, where she provides faith-based, research-backed guidance on healthy sexuality and relationships. With a background in marriage and family studies, Carlie empowers individuals and couples to embrace sexual intimacy as a gift from God, free from shame and misinformation. Through her courses, social media presence, and speaking engagements, she helps bridge the gap between faith and sexual health, particularly within Christian communities.