The Official Blog of Morningside Nannies

1. Know the Signs

It is important to know the signs of heat related illness so that you can act fast if you see them in your child. If your child is dehydrated they will have a dry sticky mouth, decreased urine output, and appear tired. If it gets worse, your child will have no liquid output at all, not even sweat or tears, and they could have a fever or low blood pressure. If you suspect dehydration, seek medical help and cool and hydrate your child any way you can. Mild heat cramps will display with muscle pain and spasms. If you see this, get your child out of the sun and give her water. Heat exhaustion will show as extreme fatigue, dizziness, changes in pulse, pale skin, and headache. If you see any of these, or other unnerving signs, get your child out of the sun and give him water. Cool his body by removing excess clothing and by dabbing the skin with cool, damp towels. If this does not help within twenty minutes, call your pediatrician. Symptoms of a heatstroke are a temperature of over 104°, red skin, disorientation, seizures, and loss of consciousness. If you think you see any of these signs in your child, call 911 right away.

2. Never, Ever Leave Children in Cars

Since 1998, there have been five hundred and seventy heatstroke deaths resulting from children being left in cars. A car feels like a sauna on hot days. If you do not have adequate air conditioning in your car, try not to travel with your children during the hottest hours of the day (typically between ten in the morning and four in the afternoon). Before getting in the car, start it and run the air conditioning to cool down seats and seatbelts. Never leave a child in the car, not even for a minute while you run into a store or talk to a friend. Keep your vehicle doors and trunk locked at all times when the car is not in use to prevent a child from playing in the vehicle and accidentally getting locked in. To ensure you do not forget your child in the car, leave items you need in the backseat next to them such as your cell phone, briefcase, or purse.

3. Use Sunscreen

Apply a broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen to children every two hours when outside. Even if it is a cloudy day, sunscreen is still necessary. Dress infants aged 6 months and younger in protective clothing, keep them in the shade and only apply sunscreen to small, exposed parts of the body if protective clothing and shade is not available.

4. Limit Outdoor Activity and Take Water Frequent Breaks

It’s a good idea to limit the outdoor activity to the hours when the sun is not at its strongest, such as before ten in the morning or after four in the afternoon. Have your child take frequent water breaks while playing outdoors by coming inside into the air conditioning or retreating to the shade to dissipate some of the body’s extra heat.

5. Ensure That There is a Trained Professional at Camps and Sporting Events

It is very important that day camps and sporting events have a trained professional on staff that knows how to recognize and respond to heat illnesses.

6. Dress Kids Properly

Dress your children in loose fitting clothing made from a thin material. Have your kids wear light colors that reflect the sun’s rays, rather than dark colors that absorb them. A wide brimmed hat, preferably a sun or straw hat is best to protect the head.

7. Get Children Used to the Heat Gradually

Kids often respond better to the heat when they’re exposed to it gradually. For example, on the first day of hot weather, you would not want your child spending hours vigorously exercising outdoors. You’d want him to spend a very short amount of time outdoors and then spend a bit longer outside on the next day. This is especially important for kids playing sports over the summer.

8. Travel With Emergency Items

If you are out and about with your little ones on a hot day, you will want to carry the following items with you: extra water, instant ice packs, thermometers, and sunscreen. These would be in addition to your usual first aid items such as bandages and tweezers.

9. Keep Children Hydrated

Kids should drink two full glasses of water before going outside and then drink every twenty minutes while out there. Have them replenish themselves fully afterwards with at least another two glasses. Do not give children caffeinated beverages or beverages with sugar, which includes juice and fruit drinks. Sports drinks are okay, but it’s always best to check with a doctor as some contain a high amount of sodium and other questionable ingredients.

10. Seek Shelter

The best way to prevent heat stroke is by simply staying out of the heat. Keeping kids home in the air conditioning, or taking them to air conditioned places such as indoor play facilities, the mall, the movies, or the library are all great ways to get them out of the sweltering heat. You can make arrangements to be transported to Houston’s library by calling 3-1-1.

1. Join Meetup Groups

One way to get out of the usual routine, make friends, network for play dates for the kids and yourself is to get involved with a Meetup Group. Some groups do things on a regular basis while others meet for specific activities. You’ll find a wide variety of activities from baby yoga to trips to the zoo and so much more.

2. Visit a Favorite Restaurant

Make a date with yourself. Get dressed up and go to your favorite restaurant, and order a meal that makes you happy. Take a book to read, or get a booth or table in the corner and do a little people watching. If you prefer not to dine alone, make a date with your best friend and have some girl talk.

3. Bowling

Grab some friends and go bowling without the kids for a Mom’s Night Out! Check with your neighborhood bowling alley to find out when they hold Cosmic Bowling or other fun events, and plan your escape around that time.

4. Visit the Museum

So many natives of this world-class city live in an area bursting with all kinds of exciting things to do, but rarely take advantage of them. Tourists come from all over to see things that are in your own backyard, but you are so used to seeing them that it seldom occurs to you to visit them yourself. If you’ve never been to Houston’s Museum District, now is the time to don your walking shoes and check out the fabulous offerings right under your nose. Plan your visit at the right time, and it may even be free.

5. Take a Walk in the Park

Summertime is a great time for enjoying the parks in the Houston area. Take a book, or your camera, or both and just enjoy being out of doors and communing with nature. Since it gets dark later in summertime, you can enjoy the serenity of the park after dinner with the family, if you like. If you frequent a particular park with your kids, now would be a ripe time for explore other areas for your own amusement.

6. Treat Yourself to a Spa Day

Ahhh! Relaxation and more! If you’ve never had a spa day, this is a treat you will truly enjoy. Take time off from motherhood for a few hours, and get rejuvenated. Your troubles will be massaged away, and the aromatherapy will help you forget about all the concerns that have been plaguing your mind. You deserve to be indulged for a little while, so find a spa that caters to your needs and let your troubles melt away.

7. Window Shop at the Galleria

Browse the offerings in this high-end mall without spending a dime, or treat yourself to something in a blue box at Tiffany’s. While it can be tempting to drop a bit of money when you’re surrounded by such luxury, there’s nothing wrong with looking over the goods without making a purchase. You don’t need to buy anything, just brows around the shops and pretend that your bank account is unlimited. The Galleria is a perfect place to explore. Creative types with a flair for interior design will get excellent decorating ideas, and fashionistas can browse the lines of posh design houses from around the world.

8. Go Skydiving

Moms are forced to keep their feet planted firmly on the ground, but that doesn’t mean that they can’t spend a bit of time with their head in the clouds once in a while. If you’re the adventurous type and you want to do something completely wild and crazy, take the plunge and go skydiving. If you can do this, you can do anything! The thrill of flying through the air will invigorate you for years to come.

9. Go to the Theater

Houston has a lot to offer where theater is concerned. Whether it’s a community theater or something special like Miller Outdoor Theater, you’ll enjoy the break away letting your mind travel into another world.

10. Meditate in a Special Place

Sometimes what you really need is just a quiet place to collect your thoughts and experience a little peace. One such place is Rothko Chapel. Just sit and drink in the beauty of your surroundings, and let the peace and serenity fill you up.

1. La Petite Academy

While La Petite is a national chain that accepts children from six weeks through pre-kindergarten, the emphasis on “play with a purpose” and strong math, science, language and social learning distinguishes them from big box daycare providers. Kids are assisted in learning about a variety of subjects through a play-focused, age-specific curriculum that encourages their natural curiosity and aptitude for learning.

2. Avalon Academy

In addition to before and after school programs to help working parents meet their scheduling demands, this non-profit organization offers preschool enrichment classes that include computers, dance and gymnastic instruction as well as kindergarten readiness programs. Preschool teachers are all fully accredited, which means that your child is being taught by trained and experienced educators.

3. The Children’s Courtyard

The educational philosophy at The Children’s Courtyard is based upon the High/Scope system pioneered by famed developmental psychologist Jean Piaget. The Frog Street Pre-K curriculum is one of the strongest in Houston, developed by expert Pam Schiller, Ph.D.

4. Childtime Learning Centers

More than forty years ago, the Gerber company founded Childtime Learning Centers. With the “Empowered Child” curriculum, kids learn introductory science, art, math and language skills that will help them as they embark upon an academic career in kindergarten and beyond. In addition to the two Houston locations, there are nine locations throughout the surrounding area.

5. Becker Early Childhood Center

Winner of the 2010 Parents’ Picks award, The Becker Early Childhood Center is located within the Congregation of Emanu El and offers both Judaic and secular programs. Becker Early Childhood Center is also accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, and offers programs for little ones from fifteen months of age through five years.

6. Esperanza School

In addition to a Kindergarten Preparatory program for preschool-aged kids, Esperanza School also offers a Pre-K Prep program directed at three-year-olds to help ready them for the new experiences of preschool. Written and spoken language skills, vocabulary building, math, science art and fine motor skills are all emphasized in the Esperanza School program.

7. The Woods Private School

Kids not only learn the fundamentals of pre-reading and literacy skills at The Woods Private School, but also strong lessons in social awareness. At an age where it’s not always easy to know what is and is not behaviorally appropriate, young students of The Woods are encouraged to build the social skills that will carry them through adulthood. Computer literacy, Spanish vocabulary lessons, sight words and early mathematics are just a sampling of the entries on The Woods pre-kindergarten curriculum.

8. Montessori School of Downtown

Since 1984, the Montessori School of Downtown has been providing kids from infancy through the early elementary years with a strong education based upon the principals of the Montessori philosophy. Self-directed learning and emotional growth are the name of the game at Montessori School of Downtown, which boasts satellite campuses in Pearland, Clear Lake, Medical Center and Silverlake.

9. Innovative Montessori School

An American Montessori Society full member school with accreditation and licensing through the state of Texas, The Innovative School is a private Montessori campus with a library and multi-purpose space, as well as a fenced playground area.

10. The Westview School

Every child is different, and special in her own unique way. The Westview School understands that kids with learning differences require special attention, which is why their curriculum is based upon helping kids from age two through middle school who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders, Aspergers Syndrome or Pervasive Development Disorders. Each preschool class has only five students, with a teacher and a teacher’s assistant, and is grouped with careful consideration of receptive language and learning readiness levels.

1. Discovery Green

In the heart of Houston, Discovery Green offers many great activities as well as ways to cool off. The park has a mist tree and the Gateway Fountain as well as a dog park and other amenities. There are also indoor activities and restaurants if the kids need a break from the sun. The park is on over 12 acres and even includes a lake where the kids can pilot remote control boats.

2. Underground Shopping

If the sun is too much to bear to be outside, don’t go inside, go underground instead! The downtown tunnels offer six miles of movie theaters, retail shops and restaurants located 20 feet below ground. Take the kids to a matinee or for lunch while enjoying the cool comfort of being below ground.

3. Space Center Houston

Explore the great unknown world of space and stay cool at the same time. The Space Center offers great tours that combine learning with fun activities for the kids, including their Kids Space Place and movies in the center’s theaters. It is a great destination for the entire family, with something for everybody.

4. Pirate’s Bay

Although technically not in Houston, Pirate’s Bay is located only 30 minutes east of Houston in Baytown and is worth the drive. The water park is pirate-themed throughout and has a river that flows through the park for relaxing and cooling off. Even small kids can have fun with their zero-depth beach for wading and the bigger kids will love the surfing simulator.

5. Hermann Park Conservancy

If you want a low cost option, Hermann park is free and has a great playground for the kids. They also have a Japanese garden to meander through, with bridges, waterfalls and beautiful exotic plants. To stay even cooler, rent a paddle boat and splash around Lake Plaza. When the hot sun gets too much, you and the kids can jump on the Hermann Park Railroad for a ride around the park.

6. Kemeh Boardwalk

This fun filled family destination is located just 20 miles from downtown Houston and is located right on the water overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. There is all types of amusement games and rides along with shopping and restaurants. All day passes are available for unlimited rides at economical prices. Throughout the year there are a variety of events and festivals to enjoy as well.

7. Williams Waterwall

Take the kids out for a picnic lunch in the Waterwall Park while enjoying the cooling mist of the Williams Waterwall, an iconic Houston landmark. The man-made falls are almost seven stories high and are in a horseshoe shape, releasing about 11,000 gallons of water every minute in breath-taking beauty.

8. Houston Zoo

Over 6,000 animals call the Houston Zoo home and it is a great place to watch and learn about many different types of animals and ecosystems. Indoor exhibits such as the Natural Encounters give kids a chance to see the animals up close and personal, with a clear tube that goes right through the piranha exhibit.

9. Children’s Museum of Houston

This interactive museum was rated America’s #1 children’s museum by Parents magazine. The museum has several stories of exhibits to explore inside and the Flow Works water play zone outside. It is a great place to cool off while the kids learn through many hands on activities.

10. The Galleria

Nothing says cool like ice skating on a hot summer day. The Galleria shopping center not only has close to 400 shops to choose from, it also has an indoor skating rink! Take the kids out for some needed exercise on skates. Afterward, have lunch or dinner at one of the many restaurants that the Galleria has to offer.

1. Lynden Johnson Space Center

What kid is not fascinated by outer space and those who have went beyond the atmosphere of the earth? A perfect setting for the entire family to learn more about the U.S. space program, the space center is a great learning opportunity for the entire family with interesting exhibits and information about the history of U.S. space exploration.

2. Wortham Fountain

If you visit Houston during the hot summer months, one attraction that is not to be missed is the Wortham Fountain. Since 1978, the fountain has been a beautiful and refreshing addition to those who pass by the park belt on Allen Parkway. Because of its flowery mist, it has also been referred to as the dandelion fountain.

3. San Jacinto Monument

If you want to really see the lone star of Texas, you need to see the San Jacinto Monument. The National Historic Landmark located in the vicinity of Deer Park, Texas is adorned with the state’s symbol. The observation deck offers a phenomenal view of the city, with a 567-foot column that is topped with the infamous lone star symbol.

4. Astrodome

The Astrodome, which sports fans of the older variety may know under it’s previous title of the Houston Astrodome, has the notoriety of being the first domed stadium in the United States. It was even named the “Eighth Wonder of the World” in 1965 and was the basis for many domed arenas to come. It has been home to the Houston Astros baseball team, the Houston Oilers football, site of the Bluebonnet Bowl, and as well as many other sports events. A great attraction for any sports loving family to visit.

5. Houston Galleria

Built in 1970 and with many subsequent additions over the years ,the Galleria is now over 2.4 million square feet. With over 350 all overlooking the skating rink, the Houston Galleria is an amazing feat in shopping architecture.

6. The Water Wall Fountain and Williams Tower

Fountains are always something spectacular to observe, and the Water Wall Fountain with its multi-storied water wall is a popular place for tourists and locals to enjoy and take photos. With the 64-story Williams Tower that rises over 900 feet and is the 4^th tallest skyscraper in the state of Texas, this is one public location in the Houston area that you’ll want to be sure you visit with the entire family.

7. The Orange Show Center for Visionary Art

Oddly enough, this strangely built farmhouse ended up on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.  Folk art and other eclectic forms of artistic expression make this house a family attraction that helps to inspire a love and appreciation of art in visitors great and small.

8. Pennzoil Place

With the destruction of the twin towers in New York during the September 11^th tragedies, the twin towers in Houston are even more special. The towers were built in 1975 and designed by noted architect Philip Johnson, and can be an optical illusion to some, seeming to be one or two towers, depending on how you observe them.

9. 1940 Air Terminal Museum

This museum is actually housed in the original art-deco air terminal. The building itself is interesting to see, and the exhibits inside give a glimpse at aviation history. The museum is located at the current William P. Hobby Airport and should be at the top of your list if there’s an air travel enthusiast in the family.

10. JPMorgan Chase Tower

The JPMorgan Chase Tower is the highest building in Texas, and the 10^th tallest building in the United States, so you cannot miss it on the Houston skyline. It was originally known as the Texas Commerce Tower and rises 1,002 feet above sea level.

1. Gymboree Play and Music

or the tiny tot from birth to five years of age, learning and play are combined here. The Central Houston location at 1990 Post Oak Road offers classes throughout the week. Early musical instruction is a great way to help your child reach developmental milestones, so stop by Gymboree to find the perfect class for your little virtuoso.

2. Memorial Music Together

Another program for very small children is located on Memorial Drive in Houston at the Presbyterian Church. Research-based music instruction for kids gives them an opportunity to get physical while they learn to make music together. You can take your newborn to this program designed for kids from birth to five. The Music Together program is built on the premise that humans are inherently musical. Adult involvement is strongly encouraged in this developmentally appropriate early childhood music curriculum.

3. Project GreenRoom

If you are looking for short term music lessons, Project GreenRoom may be the option for you. They offer singing lessons for children and teens in a series of two 4-week sessions. Guitar lessons are also available, along with acting and modeling. Kids will enjoy the games and skill-building activities, and they will have opportunities to perform as well.

4. Diaz Music Institute

Add a little cultural flavor to your kids music lessons by letting them participate in the Diaz Music Institute’s three week summer music workshop. Energetic, caring instructors work with elementary, middle and high school students. This non-profit fine arts institution is known for its youth ensemble, Caliente. These young people perform around the greater Houston area and nationwide. The institute is dedicated to the preservation and performance of Latin Music.

5. Lyric Music Studio

Kids can start classes in the Kindermusik classes at lyric music studio when they’re three years old. They will learn to sing with other children, but Lyric Music studio also has group piano classes for kids 7 to 11. Youngsters over the age of 10 can also take private piano lessons. Dulcimer classes are added to the roster during the summer.

6. Tempo School of Music

Parents who want a wide choice of instrumental instruction will want to check into Tempo School of Music. A few experienced and dedicated professional music instructors created Tempo School of Music in West Houston over ten years ago. All of the lessons here are private, and you have a choice of guitar, piano, bass guitar, voice, sax, flute and clarinet. No matter what age your child is or what style your child would like to learn, the instructors at Tempo School of Music are ready to play.

7. Prelude Music Classes for Children

This music school offers the Music Together curriculum, so parents and caregivers spend time with the little ones in music related activities. Prelude teaches classes that help parents and children learn about music and develop the ear. At the same time they learn the fundamentals like rhythm, pitch, tempo, and dynamics. This is all taught in a relaxed, encouraging environment. It’s the perfect way to introduce your little one to the world of music.

8. Bridges Academy of Fine Arts

Parents intent on getting private lesson for their children may be interested in Bridges Academy of Fine Arts. Some of the most experienced instructors in Houston are affiliated with the Academy. They offer private lessons in piano, voice, strings, winds, and guitar. Registration is ongoing, and the director is available to chat anytime concerning your child’s musical education. Songplay is also offered for infants and toddlers and their parents so whatever the age of your child, the Academy has a class that will fit.

9. Suzuki School of Houston

The Suzuki School of Houston was founded in 1973, offering generations of kids the opportunity to learn the violin from a young age. For parents seeking a Suzuki-method curriculum for their youngster, SSH is definitely worth a visit.

10. Camp Jam

Learn about band dynamics, secrets of the trade, performance skills and rock and roll history at this exciting summer camp. It is the vision of rock guitarist and songwriter Jeff Carlisi of the band .38 Special. Young musicians have an opportunity to interact with industry professionals, and at the end of each session they have an opportunity to perform live on stage in front of an audience. If you have a mini-rocker between the ages of seven and ten, check out Camp Jam Kidz. These youngsters will have a chance to learn an instrument of their choosing with more hands-on instruction. They also get to play their first gig at the end of the week.

1. Wonderwild

With themes like Glitz and Glam, Pirates, Super Hero and Pretty Princess in addition to basic and signature soirées, Wonderwild is a unique and exciting option for your child’s next birthday bash. Recommended for kids from one to eight years old, Wonderwild will provide everything you need to throw the bash of the year. Just bring the cake, and Wonderwild will do the rest!

2. Potter’s Wheel

It’s important to get kids moving and keep them physically active, but stimulation of their creative abilities is also essential. Youngsters with artistic leanings are sure to love a birthday party hosted by Potter’s Wheel, which offers a selection of paint-your-own-pottery party packages.

3. Stomping Grounds

With four basic packages, a variety of optional add-ons and discounted options for weekday parties, Stomping Grounds Playland offers a wide variety of options for any budget. Groups of all sizes can be accommodated, while Stomping Grounds will even make arrangements for food and favors so that all you and your little one have to do is show up to the party!

4. The Houston Fire Museum

There’s something about a firefighter that seems to capture the imagination of even the most pragmatic child. If you’ve got a little one with an affinity for the heroes in fire trucks, a birthday party at the Houston Fire Museum is sure to be a blast. The Museum will accommodate up to fifteen guests, provide themed plates, napkins and cups for the party and a special t-shirt for the birthday girl or boy.

5. Monkey Bizness

Monkey Bizness hosts private parties seven days a week, so there’s no worry about scheduling conflicts. Your guests will never be forced to share playrooms with other kids and you won’t have to worry about overcrowding. Invitations, balloons, favors, plates, cups, forks and napkins are all available through Monkey Bizness, though there is a fee for some optional products. You can also purchase a pizza and soda package that will feed each and every one of your guests, ensuring that your little one’s party goes off without a hitch.

6. Houston Scuba Academy

When it comes to kids’ birthday parties, recurring themes seem to be the norm. After all, there are only so many things you can do. That being said, Houston is home to one of the most innovative and exciting indoor birthday packages around, and it’s not one that would immediately come to most parents’ minds. The Houston Scuba Academy does have a Scuba Rangers program for kids between the ages of eight and twelve, but they also offer a snorkeling party for private groups. Guests are supervised by two trained professionals, who organize games and make sure that everyone is safe. Party packages include snorkeling time, and access to a party room for refreshments and gift opening.

7. Zuma Fun Center

Private birthday party packages at Houston’s Zuma Fun Center include access to outdoor batting cages, bumper boats, go-karts and kiddie rides, but there’s also a popular indoor arcade on the property that allows kids to get out of the sweltering Texas summer heat.

8. Chuck E. Cheese’s

You just can’t go wrong with a classic, which is why the Chuck E. Cheese’s chain is a perennial favorite for birthday parties. The chance to play games and redeem tickets for prizes is sure to light up the eyes of any child, as is the certified kid-friendly fare of pizza and soda. You can even walk in with your guests without party reservations, though walk-in parties don’t include specialty items or promotional pricing packages.

9. Planet Wow

With more than ten thousand square feet of indoor playspaces, including two arenas and two party rooms, Planet Wow is a Texas-sized venue for birthday parties in the Houston area. Private party guests have access to exclusive rooms, which means that you won’t have to worry about getting lost in the crowded shuffle of a busy playroom.

10. Hip Hop Lollipop

Whether your little girl is craving a full-scale tea party worthy of a princess or her very own spa day complete with sparkling make=up and a mini-facial, Hip Hop Lollipop has her birthday party covered. Themed food and favors, along with custom invitation mailing services and thank you notes are all included, with plenty of additional options available for a small fee.

Please tell us about
Brilliantly Baby.

Brilliantly Baby is a Newborn RN Consultation Group. As Healthcare Professionals we found it necessary to provide Houston area families and Infant Care Providers with direct access to Pediatric Nurses to assist with newborn concerns. Our goal is to support, educate and inspire expecting couples, new families and Infant Care Providers.  This Summer we are excited to launch Houston’s Premier Maternity Resource Center. The Maternity Resource Center will allow pregnant and new families to have direct access to great community resources concerning their pregnancy, breastfeeding, and newborn education.

How did it come about?

New families are often discharged home from the hospital with their newborn as early as 24 hours post-delivery. New moms and dads often lack the knowledge base to troubleshoot newborn technicalities and return to the Pediatrician or Emergency Room with a newborn unsure how to identify or troubleshoot newborn concerns. As a Neonatal ICU and Pediatric RN, our Founder, De’Chelle Pierson encountered countless amounts of first-time parents in the hospital with a new baby unsure how to care for the newborn. While majority of the infants brought into the Emergency Room were able to be discharged home with teaching and discharge instruction there have been those who have not survived due to various circumstances. As a mother, newborn advocate, and RN, Ms. Pierson felt it necessary to implement a change. This change was the beginning of Brilliantly Baby.

Tell us about your backgrounds?

Our Newborn RN Consultants have years of experience caring for premature infants to mothers in the hospital setting. Our areas of specialty include such units as the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Level II/III, Mother-Baby Unit, General Nursery, Pediatric Emergency Room, Pediatric Transplant, Pediatric Cardiovascular ICU as well as General Pediatrics. Many of our RN’s are also Certified Lactation Counselors.

Our Board of Physicians consists of a Pediatrician, Obstetrician and Peri & Post-Natal Psycho Therapist. We find it essential to seek the guidance and support of other Healthcare Professionals who can provide us with the most up to date advancements in newborn, postpartum and mental health.

What kind of services do you offer?

Brilliantly Baby offers a great variety of services for the community all provided by Healthcare Professionals. Our services consists of free support groups for pregnant and new moms, newborn preparation workshops such as, advanced newborn care, daddy boot camp, infant cpr and SIDS training, breastfeeding essentials and an online childbirth course for pregnant mothers on bed rest. We also offer Newborn RN Consultations for newly discharged families who have arrived home with their newborn and need breastfeeding, newborn and postpartum support. An essential element of our program is our follow-up protocol. Any family who takes a newborn preparation workshop with Brilliantly Baby will receive a follow up call after the birth of their baby. We ensure all our families are truly competent caring for their new baby.

What is the most important things you think parents get out of taking your classes?

We take great pride in ensuring our parents can identify any newborn distress and intervene timely, appropriately and efficiently. Yes, we cover diapering and swaddling but we also ensure our parents are aware of common newborn ailments. Our workshops are hands on, fun and you are ensured to receive quality, evidenced-based newborn information.

What’s your best tips for new moms?

1. Utilize your resources

Create a list of family and friends who will be available to assist you with various household responsibilities such as cooking, cleaning, running errands, etc., after you are discharged home from the hospital. Having this list available before the birth of the baby will come in handy.

2. Seek professional help

There are resources available to assist you in your journey as a new mother. Remember, babies nor breastfeeding comes with a guaranteed manual. If you are in need of guidance get a referral to a Lactation Consultant, Newborn RN Consultant or a Newborn Care Specialist to assist you in your needs.

3. Understand newborn basics

Chances are your newborn baby may not look as picture perfect as you intended the first few days of life. Bruising, swelling, peeling skin and cone heads are all common findings. If you are unfamiliar with the basic appearance and development of your new baby common findings will cause you great anxiety. Take a newborn care class before your baby is born to become familiar with common newborn conditions.

4. Join a new mom group

Creating friendships with other new moms is a great way to share advice, experiences, parenting styles as well as discussing the challenges of being a new mom. You are guaranteed to feel supported and it’s a great excuse to get dressed up and get out of the house.

5. Nourish your body

Having a baby is no easy task. It takes 9 months to grow and develop your baby so it will take just as long for your body to fully return to pre-baby standards. Nourishing your body means doing what brings joy to your life. Eating nutritious meals, exercising, or enjoying time with a friend will all aid in healing your post baby body.

7. Set realistic goals

Setting realistic goals for yourself and knowing your physical and mental limitations will save you a lot of time and tears. Understanding that you are not Wonder Woman is important when returning home with your newborn. Do what you can and allow

8. Enjoy being a Mom

Having a baby is a true blessing and the time will soon fly by your eyes. Take time to practice Kangaroo Care. Kangaroo Care is a great way to bond with your new baby and it has many great benefits for your newborn. Take pictures, video footage, cuddle and truly enjoy your new blessing.

What about newborn care training?

Newborn Care Training is essential for Infant Care Providers to fulfill in order to competently care for newborns. Understanding not only the basics in appearance and development is important but also understanding how to identify common newborn ailments such as jaundice, reflux, feeding intolerance and the signs of a respiratory distress is very important.

Brilliantly Baby offers a Newborn Care Specialist Training Program that ensures Infant Care Providers not only have the skills necessary to care for a new baby but also how to acknowledge abnormalities as well as educate and support the new family. Our Newborn Care Training Program covers information on the term and pre-term infant appearance, growth & development, common ailments, SIDS awareness,  breastfeeding, postpartum support as well as how to troubleshoot common newborn technicalities. Our program is an approved training program with the National Alliance of Newborn Care Specialists. We encourage Nannies, Day-Care providers, Doulas and other Infant Care Providers to take this 1 day course.

To learn more about the National Alliance of Newborn Care Specialists go to: www.nancs.org

Why would this be important for nannies?

Newborn Care Training is extremely important for Nannies to fulfill if they are caring for newborns. The Professional Nanny spends countless hours feeding, consoling and providing total care for the newborn and should be able to identify and troubleshoot newborn technicalities. Newborn Care Training is also the gateway into advancements and improvements in newborn care that change frequently in the medical world.

Brilliantly Baby encourages Nannies to continue to grow professionally through learning opportunities, joining professional organizations and obtaining advanced certifications. Newborn Care Training is a great opportunity to impact the lives of new families and their babies by ensuring their Nanny has the most current knowledge on newborn care advancements and evidenced based care.

Anything else?

Brilliantly Baby is excited about the launch of the Maternity Resource Center. We not only are available to provide advanced training to expecting couples but also to provide training to the professional caretaker who values advancement in their career through advanced education. Our hope is to save the lives of many newborns through our Newborn Care Specialist Training Program.

Need CPR/AED or First Aid Training? Our RN’s also provide American Heart Association courses for CPR Certification. Check our workshop schedule for the next course www.brilliantly-baby.com.

1. 7 Spice Seafood Kitchen

This fast food restaurant sports a menu that’s quite a departure from the standard burger and fries fare. For kids that love seafood, and many do, check out 7 Spice Seafood Kitchen. Even Louisiana natives sing the praises of this Cajun jewel in the Houston area.

2. The Cheesecake Factory

With a variety of eats and lots of treats, this restaurant offers superb dining whether you have time for a sit-down or need to be on the run. The Cheesecake Factory has a few locations scattered around the Houston area, so you are sure to find nearby. Some folks find it to be a little pricey, but the extensive menu can be blessing for parents with pick eaters in tow.

3. Sonic Drive In

If you are into texting, you’ll appreciate the weekly deals that Sonic offers. The kids will love watching the food being delivered by wait-staff on roller skates. This restaurant is truly kid-friendly, offering such fare as corn dogs, chicken nuggets, hot dogs and a variety of drinks that will knock their socks off.

4. Red Robin Gourmet Burgers

A kid friendly restaurant that offers a great selection including riblets, salsa and chips, Red Robin is well known for its wide selection of gourmet burgers. Whether your kids enjoy basic burgers or have more adventurous tastes, they will find something delicious at Red Robin.

5. Wings N More

Chicken lovers will truly enjoy the fare at Wings N More. It’s a family oriented restaurant that serves all kinds of chicken wings as well as shrimp, chicken tenders, salads and wraps and more. For something different try their hand breaded pickle chips or perhaps an order of their delicious curly fries.

6. Americas

A winner of the James Beard Award for Excellence and listed on Houston’s Urban Spoon as one of Houston’s top take out restaurants, Americas is one of the best Latin restaurants around. Their plantain chips come highly rated, as does their range of dessert offerings. It’s a family-friendly place that’s ideal for take-out or dine-in service, and is sure to become one of your go-to spots for high-quality eats.

7. Natachee’s Supper & Punch

If you’re looking for comfort food, this is where you need to go. Natachee’s was voted one of Houston’s Best by Houston Press. They even serve breakfast all day. With onion rings to die for and signature punch drinks, along with homemade burgers and other good stuff, Natachee’s is worth the trip regardless of whether you get the food to go or have time to hang out and let the kids enjoy playing in their sandbox.

8. Churrascos

For the young carnivores in your family, try Churrascos. It’s a steakhouse that specializes in Latin American food and seafood. The plantain appetizer is a favorite with patrons, and the steak frequently receives rave reviews. If you are planning a special occasion for your kids and don’t mind spending a little cash, consider take out from Churrascos. Mom and Dad will also appreciate the upscale flavors of this special restaurant.

9. Star Pizza

With a five out of five fork rating on eats.com, Star Pizza is one of the top take out places in Houston when it comes to pizza. The prices are reasonable, and they offer a whole wheat crust as well as thin crust and deep dish choices. Your kids may love the cheese pizza, but you might enjoy ordering one of their exciting signature dishes for take out.

10. Pei Wei Asian Diner

When you think of fast food, you probably think of burgers, sandwiches, wraps and such. This Asian restaurant serves up tasty food that’s easy on your wallet and your schedule. For kids who have a hankering for Asian flavors, Pie Wei is one of the best bets for your money.  The food here is fresh, and orders are made as they come in. Service is fast and friendly, just what you want when you have hungry kids in tow.