February is National Children's Dental Health Month

As you know, I am big on featuring health awareness campaigns. This month, along with heart health, the whole country is creating awareness for children's oral health. The slogan for this year's campaign is Get a Gold Medal Smile. I asked pediatric dentist, Dr. Eric Ellis, a few tips about helping parents provide excellent care for their children's teeth. Dr. Ellis is a member of Smile Generation and has a practice in Arizona, Every Kid's Dentist. 

Disney Hosts Baby Shower For Military Moms

Baby showers are fun, especially when you add a little Disney magic. Disney, in collaboration with Operation Shower, threw a baby shower for expectant military moms. It was a fun-filled event with special guests from celebrities to friends from the Hundred Acre Wood. Like any typical shower, there were food, games, and prizes. I must admit that this was the biggest shower I've ever attended. Head on over to Sweeps4Bloggers, where I am a guest contributor, to find out more about this event and a new addition to the Disney family.

Brewing a Breastfeeding Controversy

From the moment I knew I was pregnant, I knew that I was going to breastfeed. I knew that it was the best choice for my son. However, despite my research, I did not anticipate the problems or challenges that I faced. I was not alone, as so many mothers out there had even worse barriers to overcome than me. I kept reading books and tried to find answers online. I went to lactation consultants. I spoke with other moms. Breastfeeding got easier, but I think that it was due to time and my persistence. Unfortunately, some moms do not have the support or access to resources that I did. Bonnie Modugno, MS, RD, CLE, is a registered dietitian in private practice in Santa Monica. She brings up important points about the disparity in support for nursing moms and why some don't succeed. Bonnie works extensively with individuals and families addressing nutrition concerns throughout the lifecycle, with a special focus on maternal, infant and child nutrition. She is a certified lactation educator. Bonnie recently contributed to Smart Bites for Baby by Mika Shino. She can be reached through her website www.muchmorethanfood.com.

Breastfeeding Birth Plan

This is Part 2 of Lara's breastfeeding birth plan guest post (here is Part 1). Below is a checklist she's prepared for your convenience. This is a great list to start and tailor to your needs. Feel free to leave a comment with questions or email her at info@mamapeardesigns.com.

The Necessity of a Breastfeeding Birth Plan

As my husband and I eagerly awaited the arrival of Big B, we went to classes and read books to prepare. We also talked about a birth plan with my obstetrician and what we wanted to have done. However, we never thought about a breastfeeding birth plan. I knew that I wanted to breastfeed and I thought that was all to it. Lara Audelo is a Certified Lactation Education Counselor and owner of Mama Pear Designs. Below is an excerpt of her article on the importance of a breastfeeding birth plan. You can also check out her check list on Part 2.

The Secret Advantage of Long Sleeves

Summer is usually a time for barely there clothing; it's hot outside and most people tend to wear shorter clothing to keep cool. I on the other hand, have actually worn long sleeves and long pants during the summer to protect my skin from UV rays. Does it get hot, yes, but I was confident that I was protecting myself. Jennifer Annett is the Integrated Marketing Manager for Coolibar. She talks about her experience in the surprising advantage of long sleeves.

Myths and Truths about Sunscreens

I want to kick off this year's Sun Safety Series with a post about sunscreens. Sunscreen use is an important preventive behavior for decreasing the risk of skin sun damage. However, there are many myths that surround sunscreen. Jeff Kletter is CEO and co-founder of KINeSYS, a sunscreen protection system. I met Jeff at Expo West while I was looking for a sunscreen for my kids. Jeff clears up some of the myths and talks about what you all should know as we approach summer.

Water Works (National Nutrition Month® Guest Post)

Last year, during my Sun Safety Series, I commented about the importance of hydration.  This year, for my National Nutrition Month® series, guest author Heather K. Jones gives us more insight to why drinking water is a healthy part of your diet. Heather is a Registered Dietician (RD), health journalist, and author of several health books. She is also the creator of What's Your Diet Type and The Diet P.I.. You can find Heather online on her website, Facebook, and Twitter. 

GUEST BLOGGER: Jill from Sandy Toes and Popsicle

My very first guest blogger is the mom who inspired me to start my own. Her blog is my go to blog for daily activities in OC. I am super grateful that Jill found the time to be a guest here at Just Another Hat, because as you will read, she is one busy momma.

Hello there!

I’m Jill from Sandy Toes and Popsicles, one of the OC’s mommy blogs! I am a mom of three boys ages 8, 5 and 11 months. Things are definitely busy over here entertaining these kiddies, and I am always trying to find fun things for us to do around Orange County. I believe the best things in life are free….and when my kiddies are happy…..I am happy.