Resources for Families
Let's start at the beginning with Birthing and Breastfeeding...
Natural Birthing
Bradley Method Classes - I experienced two wonderful births without drugs - you can too!
A doula is a trained and experienced professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to the mother before, during and just after birth.
Doulas of Rhode Island - Find a doula near you.
DONA International Doula Support - Another wonderful Doula link!
Local (RI & SE Conn) Doula Support - Amanda Boyanowski-Morin - "My philosophy is that women know intuitively how to give birth and benefit from gentle, loving support during the transition from pregnancy to motherhood." 401-261-3277 or amandamorin@live.com
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a natural, wonderful experience for women. Unfortunately, it is not always easy at first for some women. It is so worth it to stick it out through the first weeks if it is uncomfortable. Many women find coconut oil can help alleviate the pain and discomfort of sore, cracked and dry nipples. This is a wonderful remedy because it is safe for babies and helps heal while also helping fight any infections. Besides the financial benefits - breastfeeding is free - it is the healthiest option. And the incredible bond shared with your child is mind boggling. Free and enriching, what's better?
BreastfeedingLaLeche League - Receive guidance from local support groups
Healthy Babies Happy Moms - local (RI) recommended lactation consultant, and she rents breast pumps
Staying Healthy and Natural Medicine
The time has come to switch gears; to stop battling illness and to work proactively to arm our bodies with the tools it needs to maintain wellness. Let's face it staying healthy is far better than treating illness. Check out our useful information about how to do stay healthy and treat illness by natural means.
Fun, Wholesome, and Inexpensive Ideas for Families
What to do with them once they start walking?
Sometimes, the most fun can be had at home! With even a small garden or row of potted plants, kids can learn about the natural world and how to take care of it. They have a blast digging through soil, planting seeds, and picking the fruits and vegetables of their labor. Gardening is an activity that enriches a child's exposure to nature, and teaches them early on about the importance of living green. For more about gardening, visit our Bugs and Gardens page!
Playgrounds - I like to call myself a RI Playground Connoisseur because the kids and I drive all over the state checking out new playgrounds. I always appreciate their enthusiasm when I tell them "we are going to a new playground today".
Libraries - Check out your local library for free story-hours, craft-projects, live entertainment, and other fun activities. My local libraries also offer discount tickets to local museums and zoos, and you can rent other miscellaneous items such as cake pans and fishing poles.
Free Concerts - Art Councils all over the state organize free concerts throughout the summer months including North Kingstown, Wakefield, and Greenville. If you get the chance to see them, check out the Toe Jam Puppet Band. They are a local group that offers a special brand of hands-on children's entertainment that grown-ups can enjoy. The music is excellent and the leader is funny – actually, I think I enjoy the show more than the kids!
Local, Fun and Educational
Following is a list of local (RI) places that are fun and educational...and they could be free (for you) if you ask the grandparents to purchase memberships for gifts instead of another toy. The zoo, aquarium, and YMCA are non-profits dedicated to promoting a peaceful planet, so even if you buy your own membership, you can feel good knowing "it's for a good cause".
Roger Williams Zoo - They plow the paths in the winter, which is important for all you stroller-pushing moms looking to get out of the house.
Mystic Aquarium - With penguins, whales and a sea lion show, the kids love this place. We've been members for years. Among our favorite exhibits are the Baluga Whales, and Sting Ray Bay where you can touch baby sting rays. There is a large indoor aquarium to explore as well as the many outdoor exhibits.
Providence Children's Museum and Boston Children's Museum - You can get free tickets at some libraries for Providence, and a big discount for Boston. Boston's museum is much larger than Providence. If you have more than one small child, I recommend not visiting either of these museums alone. There is so much to distract everyone, I find it difficult to keep track of the kids in these places.
YMCA - We joined years ago and it is a wonderful place for the whole family. I thought it was pricey at first, but you get so much for your money. They are non-profit, and they offer financial assistance to families as well. We all know that physical activity is important for the whole family, but it is tough to come by on those cold, short days of winter. The Y that we joined offers free child-care, and fun activities for the kids. Both my children have learned to swim at classes in both the Kent County and South County locations. I love the Zumba classes and both my husband and myself have enjoyed the work-out rooms while the kids are in various classes.