2020 was quite a year.  But it is now behind us (ahhh... big sigh of relief). A new year feels like a fresh start. A clean slate. And now more than ever that feels GOOD! 

Many of us enjoy making New Year's resolutions as a way to look forward, establish better habits, improve areas of our life that we want to work on, focus on our health, and jump start our ambitions. New year, new you, right?!

Over the course of this pandemic I immersed myself in the world of self-help books to find some inspiration, motivation, entertainment and guidance to make life feel a little more opportunistic. A little more in control. A little less overwhelming. Reading stories about others overcoming obstacles, having life altering experiences and finding love can be so inspiring. 

I discovered four books that really filled me up. They taught me a lot. Made me laugh. Made me cry. Gave me epiphanies. Helped me let go of past disappointments. Uncovered ways to be the best mom I can be. Motivated me to start taking care of ME. Gave me the courage to accept that there are things I do not like and have the power to change... NOW. Perhaps they will bring the same comfort and inspiration to you. And give you the tools and guidance to build your own resolutions for a transformational 2021.

I'm sure many of the moms out there struggle to find the time to read. I struggle with that too. So I found a way to combine exercise and books by listening to them while walking or jogging. You can also listen to them in the car or at home if you find that convenient. 

Check out these four books to get you inspired to develop your New Year's resolutions, start making positive changes and pave the way for— what might just be— the best year of your life.

Wishing all of our readers a happy and healthy 2021! You got this.

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​One thing we love about raising our families in Westchester is that we have access to state-of-the-art pediatrics without the hustle and bustle of the city. Westchester is filled with great institutions such as Westchester Health, part of Northwell Health Physician Partners and an affiliate of Cohen’s Children’s Medical Center. With a team of board trained and certified physicians who specialize in providing a broad range of comprehensive care, managing both common and complex illnesses in infants, children, adolescents and young adults 21 and under, we know our babies are always in good hands. (They’ll always be our babies, right?!) 
 
As a fellow mother, it’s so reassuring to have this exceptional resource nearby. Knowing I have trusted and caring doctors so close to home makes routine checkups and the possibility of unforeseen emergencies so much less nerve-wracking. Plus, should there ever be an emergency, affiliate Cohen’s Children’s Medical Center boasts 88 outstanding sub-specialties and programs and was named the largest provider of pediatric health services in New York State and one of the nation’s best children’s hospitals by U.S. News & World Report.
 
Westchester Health Pediatrics is there for all of parenthood’s what-ifs, from “How do I get my baby to sleep at night?” to “Why does my teen sleep all day?” With pediatricians who have extensive experience in their field, using the latest technology and techniques to diagnose, treat and provide preventative care for all types of children’s illnesses, injuries and medical conditions, including asthma, acne, obesity, diabetes, learning disabilities, STDs, eating disorders, ADHD, depression and more, Westchester Health has you covered.

As a parent, nothing is worse than feeling like your concerns aren’t being heard, which is why the team at Westchester Health firmly believes that good treatment starts with good listening. This ethos extends to their belief that the best patient is an informed patient, and that patient education is critical to long-term health (not to mention your health as a worried mother!). Whether you have been with Westchester Health for years or are new to the practice, you quickly recognize that their Pediatrics Department truly cares about each and every one of their patients and their families.
 
If you are interested in learning more about Westchester Health Pediatrics, you can call 914-232-1919 to talk to a Westchester Health specialist or find the location nearest you.
​

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Life is full of challenges these days, one thing for certain, making time for self-care doesn't always seem like the priority. 

As moms we are dealing with homeschooling, the pandemic, the holidays and trying to keep up with everyday responsibilities. This can feel, well, overwhelming. Under normal circumstances mothers are faced with multiple demands, but the duration and chronic nature of this situation is unprecedented. 

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I provide counseling, spending my days helping others navigate through the stressors of life. Recently, I find myself wondering if I have enough emotional energy to do the same for myself.  On a typical day I am trying to work from home, stopping constantly to help my children, juggling laundry, dishes, the dog etc. etc. But recently I began asking myself how am I caring for me?  What do I need to be able to be available for my family?

This reminded me of the instructions given when flying on an airplane, put your oxygen mask on first before you place it on your children. At first that order seems wrong.  When it is symbolic of something, we all must do before we can help anyone else.  When we are sleep deprived, hungry, stressed or worn down we don't have much left to give.

Self-care is not a treat we give ourselves as a reward; it should be part of our everyday, a moment we take to refuel to go the distance and be our best self. So, prioritize making time for you. Here are a few other quick tips.

• Take care of your physical needs- Make sure you get enough sleep, eat nutritiously, and find ways to move your body regularly.
  
  
• Practice gratitude- Each day, take a few minutes to think about the things in your life you are thankful for. Try a guided gratitude meditation cultivate gratitude during the holidays  and  guided gratitude meditation.
  
  
• Surround yourself with positive people- Make sure you’re spending time with people who support your goals and encourage you when times are tough.
  
  
• Do mini check-ins several times a day- Throughout the day, take a few deep breaths and do a quick body scan. Notice and release tension and ask yourself what you can do in that moment to care for your needs. 
  
  
• Ask for help when you need it- Don’t overthink it. Be specific,clear and direct and ask for what you need.
  
  
• Be kind to yourself- We are all doing the best we can, in this moment in time. Ask yourself, would I ever speak to a friend the way I  am speaking to myself? If not, change it.​

Written by Robin Hershkowitz, LCSW-R

Robin Hershkowitz is a  Licensed Clinical Social Worker and  Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at  New York Medical College where she provides counseling to students. Robin is also a therapist in Psychiatry at Memorial Sloan Kettering, working with young and older adult patients and caregivers.  She has over 20 years of experience working in Hospital Systems, Nonprofit Organizations, and Health Services Programs. Robin has earned her Masters of Social Work Degree and a Post Master’s Certificate in Advanced Clinical Practice from New York University as well as being certified in Problem Solving Therapy, trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Crisis Prevention Intervention. 
 
Robin currently lives in Westchester with her husband and two children.  She can always be found spending time volunteering at her children's school, local Synagogue or anyplace that asks nicely. 

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It feels like the phrase "Why didn't anyone tell me this was going to be so hard?!" comes out of our mouths five times a day as parents. When it comes to feeding our little ones, we think about it for every meal. Yes, we all know that nutrition is critical for our children’s healthy development— but between trying to find fresh, nutrient-dense meals to figuring out how to get our kids to actually eat their food, all on top of our daily to-dos, the anxiety can really start to kick in. 

Little Spoon was started because of these exact pain points, so when we say we’ve been there, we’ve really been there. We created Little Spoon to make parents’ lives easier, with all of our products delivered right to your door and our community just a click, call, or message away. We know how crucial nutrition is during the first few years of life, and how difficult it can be to get your little to eat what’s good for them, so we do the heavy lifting for you. Our Babyblends and toddler & kid's meals, Plates, are made with recipes that keep nutrition and development top of mind, using only the freshest ingredients and free of preservatives, GMOs, additives, and added sugar. 

Here are eight reasons Little Spoon is the ultimate parenting hack:

1. Delivered right to your door
   Put down the kitchenware. Little Spoon delivers fresh, nutrient-dense Babyblends and big kid meals right to your door. We make sure that all your littles, from baby to big kid, are covered at mealtime so you don’t have to. 
   
   
2. Nutrient-dense, balanced recipes
   Little Spoon works alongside renowned pediatricians and nutritionists to create nutrient-dense, balanced recipes for your little one. We use fresh and diverse ingredients to expose your mini to critical vitamins, minerals, and key nutrients that they need at every step of development. Whether you’re looking for an immunity-boosting Babyblend like our Carrot Apple Ginger blend or veggie-packed Plate like our Broccoli Bites, we’ve got you.
   
   
3. Clean, preservative-free ingredients 
   Most grocery store kids products have preservatives, added sugars, and other things you can't pronounce. At Little Spoon, making the safest, highest quality food for your little is our priority. That’s why we have a zero-tolerance policy for preservatives, fillers, additives, and heat-processing. Our Babyblends are made using 100% organic, non-GMO ingredients while our Plates include antibiotic and hormone-free protein, non-GMO fruits and veggies, and organic ingredients where it matters most. 
   
   
4. Meals for babies AND big kids 
   Little Spoon is there to cover everything from first bites to big appetites, making it easy for your mini to transition from Babyblends to Plates. Both menus incorporate a wide variety of recipes made for all developmental stages, so that your mini can eat right every step of the way.
   
   
5. Say goodbye to picky eaters
   From babyhood to big kid and every phase in between, Little Spoon is here to help your kiddo develop a diverse palate. Even from your babe’s very first bites, it’s vital to expose them to a robust array of flavors, textures, and foods. Our Babyblends are carefully crafted with over 100 ingredients, with options for every type of eater. Starting with our single-ingredient blends such as Pear or Zucchini will help prime your babe for the more complex blends that incorporate flavors like mint, spirulina, and hemp like our ever-popular Sweet Potato Apple Blueberry Flax blend. Introducing complex flavors helps expand your little’s palate until they’re ready to dive into our veggie-packed toddler meals. Our Plates menu offers everything from kid classics like Chicken Super Nuggets to adventurous toddler meals like Cheesy Black Bean Pupusas, packed with veggies and superfoods in every bite.
   
   
6. Clean line of vitamins and natural remedies 
   From iron deficiency to cold prevention and constipation, Little Spoon’s line of clean vitamins and natural remedies was created to give your kiddo that extra boost. Sneak our easy-to-use powder formulas into your mini’s Babyblends, breast milk, water, you name it; say hello to your new superpower. 
   
   
7. Online community of mamas who like to get real 
   Ever find yourself asking one of your mom friends “but seriously...is this normal?” You’re not alone, that’s why Little Spoon created Is This Normal a parenting portal and online community of parents who like to have candid conversations about the ins and outs of parenting. 
   
   
8. Here for you, 24/7
   We know that being a mama means absolutely no days off. That’s why Little Spoon’s Care Team, an epic group of mamas who just get it, are here to help you with any questions or concerns you have, day or night. Whether you have a question about your order or need a little help introducing your babe to a new ingredient, we’re here for you.

Ready to give Little Spoon a try? Head over to littlespoon.com to get started and use code WMBLENDS75 for $75 off Little Spoon Babyblends or code WMPLATES75 to save $75 on Plates!

By Little Spoon,  Originally published on Is This Normal.

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​There are different types of UI like leaking with laughing or sneezing, leaking with a strong urge to urinate or even a mixture of both.

So when this happens to us, what do we do? Most of us reach out to our girlfriends, sisters or mothers and it is all too common that we hear similar stories that reinforce the thought that we just have to deal with this issue or that there is nothing you can do about it.

But there is good news- you ​CAN​ do something about it. Your pelvic floor muscles are a group of muscles that affect your ability to hold in your pee. If you optimize those muscles, you can help improve your leaky bladder! Sometimes we leak because our muscles are too weak, sometimes we leak because our muscles are coordinating incorrectly, and sometimes we leak because our muscles are holding too much tension.
​

Not sure if you are leaking because your pelvic floor muscles are too weak, uncoordinated or too tight? Not sure what foods, drinks or activities are affecting your ability to stay dry? Want to improve your bladder situation as much as you can regardless of WHY it might be happening? Many women go see a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist, but that requires going to an office, spending a good amount of time and money. As Pelvic Floor Physical Therapists, we acknowledge that not everybody can invest in themselves in that way, especially during these uncertain times.

That is why we created a self-paced, online program for moms of any age who are leaking! It’s called ​Leak-Free After Baby Bootcamp​.

Learn how to help yourself live leak-free from the comfort of your own home and on your own time! It’s jam packed with ​Five 30 minute educational videos​, ​Three Coaching Calls over the time of the course, ​handouts​ for each lecture and ​bonus videos​. Learning how your body should work and how to heal yourself using the tricks we give our clients all the time!

This is our pilot program and we are offering a special introductory price of $99, but the entire course is valued at over $300. ​There are only 15 spots available. Once filled, the course will be closed and we don’t know when we will offer it again.
​

Reference: ​https://www.ics.org/publications/ici_4/files-book/comite-1.pdf

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Cognitive and Behavioral Consultants (CBC) has announced openings in their ongoing intensive program for young adults and their families. SAGE, The System for Adult Growth and Emergence, formerly known as the STEPS program, is available to clients using a state-of-the-art virtual platform.
 
Admission is now open for SAGE which utilizes both CBT and DBT strategies and is designed for young adults with a primary diagnosis of a mood or anxiety disorder who have difficulty regulating emotions and behaviors and present with multiple problems. The program, which will be conducted virtually, is for young adults whose lives may have been further disrupted by school closings, loss of part-time employment, difficulties transitioning from college to full-time jobs, and enforced social isolation. Parents, who also attend virtually, may particularly benefit from learning validation and conflict resolution skills at a time when more young adults are living at home, and families are spending many hours together.
 
“Our group and individual virtual therapy sessions are designed to support young adults whose lives may have been further disrupted by school closings, loss of part-time employment, difficulties transitioning from college to full-time jobs, and enforced social isolation,” says Dr. Lata K. McGinn, co-founder of CBC. “Parents may also benefit from the coordinating parent program, learning validation, and conflict resolution skills at a time when more young adults are living at home, and families are spending so many hours together.” Accepted participants are generally high school graduates aged 18 to 26, with a primary diagnosis of mood or anxiety disorder.
​
SAGE for Young Adults is a 2-part program with a Coordinating Parent program.
 
In Sage 1, Young Adults, typically between the ages of 18-26, attend groups between 10 am-12:30 pm four mornings per week for six weeks. New members join each Monday.
 
Sage 2 is for young adults who have completed SAGE 1 and is aimed at increasing skills generalization and improving executive functioning skills, as well as learning new skills. Clients attend two groups per week for a minimum of six weeks and work on specific, measurable goals. After six weeks, as goals are met, clients may attend one group session a week.
 
CBC also provides a coordinating Parent Program to help parents learn skills to communicate effectively to their young adults and to regulate their emotional responses.
 
Young adults are required to be in ongoing individual therapy in addition to the SAGE program, which may be provided by one of our therapists. Parent management training, couples therapy, or individual therapy for parents may be recommended on a case-by-case basis. 
 
Interested participants should contact Dr. Michelle Greenberg at (914) 385 x 1150 to schedule an intake assessment with Dr. Suzanne Davino or another SAGE team member. Visit the CBC website to learn more about the SAGE program at this link: SAGE Program for Young Adults.
 
Cognitive and Behavioral Consultants (CBC) is an evidence-based clinical and training center comprised of internationally recognized mental health professionals who have researched, pioneered, and are highly experienced in delivering cutting edge treatments that help adults, adolescents, and children live more fulfilled lives. Founded in 2004 by Dr. Lata K. McGinn and Dr. Alec L. Miller, leaders in the fields of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, the CBC team provides a large array of Clinical and Wellness services to the public, provides Custom Designed Programs for schools, agencies, and businesses, and Continuing Education for Professionals in the field of psychology. More information can be found at www.cbc-psychology.com  or by calling 914-385-1150.
 
 
SUMMER GROUPS ANNOUNCED 
Social Anxiety Summer Virtual Groups:
www.cbc-psychology.com/events/social-anxiety-group-for-high-schoolers-and-young-adults
These groups are for teens and young adults who would benefit from learning skills to reduce anxiety in social situations. Participants will learn strategies to challenge worry thoughts experienced in social situations, enhance conversational and assertiveness skills, and practice these skills in different real-life activities through exposures.
Interested participants should contact Dr. Michelle Greenberg at (914) 385-1150 x 1 or email mgreenberg@cbc-psychology.com
 
DBT Summer Virtual Groups:
www.cbc-psychology.com/events/summer-dbt-skills-groups-for-young-adults
Designed to support a successful transition into young adulthood, this group is for young adults (18-26 years old) who would benefit from learning skills to regulate their emotions, tolerate distress, improve their interpersonal relationships, and increase their self-awareness and focus.
To attend this group, participants must meet regularly with a therapist or psychiatrist (who may be outside of CBC).  Interested participants should contact Dr. Michelle Greenberg at (914) 385-1150 x 1 or email mgreenberg@cbc-psychology.com
 
CBC offers comprehensive Neuropsychological Evaluations to help identify problems in cognitive, motor, behavioral, linguistic, and executive functioning in children, adolescents, and adults. We also offer both individual and group coaching for individuals who present with executive functioning difficulties. 
 
Autism Diagnostic Evaluations - The range of presentations in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders can make these patients difficult to diagnose. Our evaluations include an ADOS-2, as well as other tools to evaluate cognition, social skills, language pragmatics, and behavior. Significant components of the evaluation process include a thorough clinical history and comprehensive treatment planning.
 
CBC also offers the Parent Child Interactive Program. The PCIT program is an evidence-based treatment for young children between the ages of 2-7 who display emotional and/or behavioral difficulties. It teaches parents specialized, therapeutic parenting strategies to use with children who have these difficulties. 
 
If you are interested in additional virtual programs for your child or yourself, please contact us. 914-385-1150, option 1.

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​A recent study from the New England Journal of Medicine out of Kaiser in Northern California, which is a large integrated healthcare HMO in the region, showed a significant decrease in patients coming into the hospital with an acute myocardial infarction, or what we know as a heart attack, during late March and April of 2020 (ref 1). This is very concerning, because it is unlikely that the number of people suffering from a heart attack during this time period actually decreased – instead they did not seek care in time. This is an extreme, possibly life-threatening example, but it represents a reason why we should not delay medical care during this COVID-19 pandemic. Especially now that the incidence of the disease is slowly decreasing in the New York and New Jersey areas, it is very important that people not delay medical care. 

ENT and Allergy Associates, LLP, opened our doors back up to in-clinic patient visits on April 27. We have been taking extreme safety precautions and social distancing to prevent the spread and to make sure it is very safe for all of our patients and staff to be in our offices. All staff and patients are wearing face coverings, temperatures are being checked, patients are questioned for recent exposure, surfaces and clinic rooms are being cleaned regularly, and chairs are spaced out in our waiting room. We are seeing fewer patients per hour than usual in order to keep our waiting rooms from overcrowding.

​Patients are still having acute asthma attacks, rashes, ear infections and sinus pain and problems smelling. Your allergist and immunologists are available for asthma treatments. Your difficulty smelling may have started from a COVID infection many weeks ago, maybe even an asymptomatic one, but if it continues to persist this could actually be caused by nasal polyps, which need to be diagnosed and treated.  A persistent sinus infection that is not properly treated can continue to get worse, and you need a physical exam to actually determine whether your sinus symptoms are a bacterial infection, possibly a viral infection, or just allergies.  Though we are still providing telemedicine services for those who need it, it is very difficult to discern between these diagnoses without a physical exam in clinic.  We are in the midst of the spring allergy season now, and we are providing testing and immunotherapy for those who are suffering. 
 
Ear infections are difficult to treat over telemedicine because there is a big difference between an external ear infection (or swimmer’s ear) or a middle ear infection, which is often associated with a sinus infection or cold. The treatments for these conditions – antibiotic eardrops vs oral antibiotics, are very different, and it’s not good to unnecessarily take antibiotics as this can cause resistant and gastrointestinal symptoms. That ear pain you have could actually just be temporomandibular joint dysfunction, ear wax impaction, or just some noninfected fluid in the ear, or just eustachian tube dysfunction. We are here to physically look into your ear and explain what is happening. If you are suffering from dizziness, we are equipped here to give you a full evaluation, including a hearing test if needed, and help figure out what is causing it.
​

Finally, surgery centers are open. They are also taking extra precautions, testing patients and healthcare workers for the virus. The ENTA physicians are now available to resume sinus surgeries, septoplasties, rhinoplasties, ear tube placements, tonsillectomies and adenoidectomies, as well as all of the other procedures we offer. If you had been waiting to have a surgery right before the pandemic hit, call your local ENTA office to discuss scheduling it.

ref 1: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMc2015630?query=featured_coronavirus

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) has officially changed our lives. Between weeks-long school closures, social distancing, quarantining, working from home, home schooling, binge food buying and a never ending quest for toilet paper, this feels overwhelming.

This situation is certainly unprecedented and we are all taking things one day at a time. Our hope for our community is that we support one another, even from a distance, take the recommendations from our leaders seriously and stay positive.

The following resources have been shared with us and we thought it would be helpful to provide them to you as well.  As the situation continues to evolve, new resources will be introduced. We welcome your comments to provide our community with additional resources and will update this article on an ongoing basis.

For up-to-date information, you can follow us on Facebook, Twitter (most up-to-date) and Instagram.
​
Wishing everyone good health over this challenging time.

• CDC Centers for Disease Control & Prevention Coronavirus Page
• NY Governor Cuomo​ & Latest Case Numbers in NY
• Westchester County Coronavirus Page
• Check also your local town and school district websites as well for additional information

• Lohud is making local coronavirus coverage free to read
• News 12 Westchester

• The Childcare Council of Westchester is available to help parents find temporary child care, and all services for parents are free. Even if your school district or child care provider is not closed, the Council is urging parents to act now to prepare alternate arrangements, which may include things like a patchwork of care with family/friends and/or splitting child care duties with neighbors; hiring a nanny (do your due diligence as they are not covered under any regulations or oversight); or calling the Council for a list of OCFS-regulated child care programs/providers who may be willing to offer temporary care. Contact the Council at 914-761-3456 x140 and leave a message. Your call will be returned. NOTE: If your child or a family member is sick or has any possible exposure to #coronavirus, do not bring them to another child care provider until you receive proper guidance from the Department of Health. 

• WhizKidz Distance Learning & Virtual Tutoring sessions can help bridge the gap to ensure that your child doesn’t slide backwards in learning while out of school -- and that you don’t lose your sanity!Their tutors are available daily with flexible virtual-teaching schedules to meet the needs of at-home students and working-parents alike.  Phone: (914) 200-3512.
• Check your local library for free online resources and tutoring services. Due to the coronavirus, most libraries are closed, view the list of library closures on the WLS website. Please hold onto any library materials that are due; most libraries are forgiving fines during this period.
• New York Times: ​Home Schooling Tweens and Teens During Coronavirus Closings
• Check with your school for access to online learning resources.
• Distance Learning
  • The best educational apps for kids to game during coronavirus
  • Coronavirus closed schools. Here are online education classes for every age and grade​
  • 36 Free Educational Websites Parents Can Access While Schools Are Closed
  • Free Online Learning Links:
    • ST MATH: www.stmath.com
    • SCHOLASTIC: classroommagazines.scholastic.com
    • EDUCATION.COM: www.education.com
    • FUNBRAIN: www.funbrain.com
    • BRAIN POP: www.brainpop.com
    • DUO LINGO: www.duolingo.com
    • PRODIGY: www.prodigygame.com
    • MATH PLAYGROUND: www.mathplayground.com
    • PBS KIDS: pbskids.org
    • SPLASH LEARN: www.splashlearn.com
    • MATH GAME TIME: www.mathgametime.com
    • KHAN ACADEMY: www.khanacademy.org
    • DISCOVER MINDBLOWN: www.discoverymindblown.com
    • NASA KIDS’ CLUB: www.nasa.gov
    • AMAZING SPACE: amazing-space.stsci.edu
    • CODE ACADEMY: www.codecademy.com
    • CRASH COURSE ON YOUTUBE: www.youtube.com
    • WHO WAS? www.whowasbookseries.com
    • NAT GEO KIDS: kids.nationalgeographic.com
    • TIME 4 KIDS: www.timeforkids.com
    • SMITHSONIAN FOR KIDS: www.si.edu
    • HELLO KIDS: www.hellokids.com
    • VIRTUAL FIELD TRIPS: virtual field trips

• Letter to Parents & Guardians  (from NYSDOH, NYSED)
• Be aware of false information circulating on the internet. Accurate and up-to-date information is available from the State Health Department at www.health.ny.gov/coronavirus or its hotline at 1-888-364-3065, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website and social media platforms at www.cdc.gov/COVID19
• How can I be tested for COVID-19? Upon a physician's order, New York State processes tests for COVID-19 at its state laboratory and has partnered with public and private labs to expand testing availability. In addition, New York's first drive-through COVID-19 mobile testing center is operational in New Rochelle. The mobile testing center is prioritizing tests for individuals that are part of the highest risk population. New Rochelle residents who would like to be tested can make an appointment by calling 888-364-3065.  
• Hotline Phone Numbers:
  • People under self-quarantine or exposure to known case, call (866) 588-0195
  • NYS Department of Health COVID-19 Hotline (888) 364-3065
  • Westchester County COVID-19 Information Call 211
• American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations
• Hospitals in Westchester County
• The Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline
• Talking to Children about Social Distancing
• Is the Playground Safe from the Coronavirus?
• Self-Quarantine? Isolation? Social Distancing? What They Mean And When To Do Them

• PBS for Parents: ​How to Talk to your Kids about Coronavirus
• NPR: ​Just for Kids: A Comic Exploring the New Coronavirus
• NASP: ​Talking to Kids About Covid-19 - A Parent Resource
• Child Mind Institute: ​Talking to Kids about the Coronavirus
• UNICEF: ​How to talk to your child about coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) 
• SAMHSA: ​Coping with Stress During Infectious Disease Outbreaks
• AFSP: ​Protecting Your Mental Health During Corona Virusa
• SAMHSA: ​Talking With Children: Tips for Caregivers, Parents, and Teachers During
  Infectious Disease Outbreaks
• NBC News: ​How to talk to your kids (and ease their fears)
• New York Times: ​How to Talk to Kids About Coronavirus
• New York Times: ​5 Ways to Help Teens Manage Anxiety About the Coronaviru​s
• Easter Seals: ​Coronavirus Social Story to use to explain the Coronavirus and school closures to children with Autism
• Understood.org: ​How to Talk About Coronavirus with Kids

I saw this post come through on Facebook from a friend and though this positive perspective was worth sharing...

No birth is completely pain free, but luckily there are many options available today for women to manage discomfort during labor. Whether your preference is to go as natural as possible, or to opt for the peace of mind of safely monitored medication, consider these methods:

Breathing and meditation techniques. Going drug-free during labor may be the most painful, but bounce-back is quicker for the drug-free mom and there are no side effects to worry about. Consider a prenatal class that will review the pros and cons of the different pain management options available in case you find yourself changing your mind in the thick of it (it happens!). A prenatal yoga and meditation class can prepare your body physically for birth through a variety of stretching and strengthening poses, as well ways to help you use breathing techniques and visualizations to relax and calm the mind during labor. 

Nitrous Oxide. Yes, laughing gas! When mixed with oxygen at lower levels, nitrous oxide has analgesic and anxiety reducing properties that can distract you from the pain of childbirth. It’s safe for both mother and baby to use. It’s more common in Europe, but White Plains Hospital is one of the few hospitals in Westchester that offers this option to women. “It takes the edge off, helps to relax you,” notes Kerry Dineen, the hospital’s OB Navigator. “It works well for patients who don’t want pain medications, and those who labor so fast there isn’t time to administer an epidural.”

Analgesics. These drugs lessen pain without the loss of feeling or muscle movement. Typically narcotics, these drugs are usually given intravenously, and usually not an hour before you give birth because the side effects could make you groggy and your baby sleepy, making it more difficult to breastfeed – and look perky for those Insta snaps!

Epidural/Anesthesia. Administered via injection (usually around the spine) for the purpose of blocking nerve sensations, anesthetics prevent pain in one area of the body. They usually target the nerves that carry feeling to the vagina, vulva and perineum. There may be some loss of feeling in the lower part of your body, but you will remain awake and alert during the birth. 
It’s common to use a combination of the above during delivery. Working with your doctor, both before and after the birth, you can create a plan and outline what you are willing or not willing to be open to when the situation arises. Or, when you find yourself in the moment, you can do a total 180. As long as you are in a hospital with a skilled and compassionate labor and delivery staff, that honors your personal preferences, and uses evidence-based procedures, you and your baby will be in good hands no matter how you decide to help him or her enter the world.

The arrival of a baby is a roller coaster ride for all parents.  At the beginning, the thought of leaving the house to go to the pediatrician can be a full day endeavor. Parents wonder how they’ll ever get their tired selves, AND their baby, AND all their STUFF (and there’s just so much stuff!) out the door and to their final destination. While daunting for sure, parents quickly realize that at some point, they do need to go out for the day, or even travel for longer. (If the thought of this sounds insurmountable to you right now, bookmark this post and come back when you’re ready!)  If you are ready for the adventure, read on for the top tips for sleep on the go!


Stick to Your Schedule
Whether your schedule is focused around feedings (for babies 4 months and under), or based on nap times (for babies 5 months and older), the key to peace of mind is having a schedule and sticking to it.  Do your best to maintain this schedule no matter your location. Particularly if there are other family members around when you travel (think adoring grandparents who want nothing more than to play with your kids and nothing less than for them to nap!), it’s ok to ask them to honor your baby’s sleep needs. Your children will be happier when better rested, and will give bigger smiles for all the pictures.


Recreate your Home Environment
To the best of your ability, it’s helpful for children if we can recreate their home environment for sleeping. Babies sleep best in a dark, quiet environment and there are some great baby products to help you on the go. If your children sleep with white noise, you can buy a portable white noise machine, or simply download a white noise app onto your phone. Babies accustom to sleeping in dark environments will benefit from a travel black out shade, or in a pinch, you can hang a sheet or towel over a window (put the tacks in the top of the window sill so they’re hidden!). And make sure you bring your baby’s sheets, and swaddle blankets or sleep sacks so they can enjoy the comforts of home while they sleep.


Accept Imperfection
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, sticking to a schedule is impossible. The airline schedule may not be accommodating and if traveling between time zones, you’re all sure to be a bit off.  Similarly, your baby may or may not sleep well on the go. There’s only so much we can do to create a healthy sleep environment on an airplane or in the car. Just be prepared to ride the wave and regroup when you land. Keep in mind that if your baby is well rested 99% of time time, they should be able to more easily tolerate a bumpy travel day. Once you reach your final destination, do your best to apply the tips above and enjoy a change in scenery. 
​

Written by Lauren Lappen, Certified Sleep Consultant and co-founder of Wee Sleep Solutions.  As a mom of daughters Ellie and twins Rebecca and Kira, Lauren recognized the importance of self-care and sought to instill healthy sleep habits in her children so that she could ensure her own rest and be at her best as a parent, wife and friend.   
 
Lauren studied under Deborah Pedrick, a pioneer in the field and founder of the Family Sleep Institute (FSI) and International Association of Child Sleep Consultants. She is thrilled to be able to educate families on the importance of sleep and to empower parents with the knowledge and ability to teach their kids to love sleep as much as her girls do!

​Breastfeeding has tons of benefits for mom and baby, but one thing it doesn’t have is predictability. Your new baby may be nursing just fine while at the hospital, and it may only be when you get home that problems start to crop up. 
 
Maybe she is no longer latching right, or you’re too sore, or you’re sick or depressed or utterly exhausted. Maybe your baby was born premature and you’re having to pump and carefully measure baby’s consumption. Or dozens of other very valid medical or personal reasons.
 
“Mothers need support during the postpartum period as they adjust to the breastfeeding lifestyle,” says Ann Cunillera, a registered nurse and coordinator of the lactation program at White Plains Hospital. “Many moms are discharged from the hospital before the baby is latching effectively, or before they’ve established an adequate milk supply.” 
 
As lactation coordinator, Cunillera has been supporting new moms in their breastfeeding efforts for nearly 20 years at White Plains Hospital. In addition to the lactation team, the mother-baby unit is staffed with highly trained registered nurses – all of them are also certified lactation counselors. 
 
White Plains Hospital offers a family-centered birthing approach: families are supported from the prenatal period through discharge and beyond. For instance, expectant mothers can sign up for the Breastfeeding Basics class to learn about the benefits of nursing, proper positioning, establishing a good milk supply and other common concerns. After delivery, the nurses guide and counsel new mothers one on one through the proper technique, achieving a good latch, as well as helping to facilitate skin-to-skin contact and bonding. 

After discharge, moms are invited to attend a breastfeeding support group, run by International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (the most expert level available), for as long as they want or need. These specialists work with mothers on breastfeeding specific issues, in addition to creating feeding plans and providing baby weigh-ins. Women connect, share general parenting tips, laugh, make new friends and enjoy being part of a robust and welcoming community that is a critical part of the parenting journey.
 
This support that new mothers get from friends and others who have faced the same challenges they are experiencing is one of the biggest predictors of breastfeeding success. 
 
Want to learn more? Click to learn more about White Plains Hospital and its Maternity Support Programs.

Breast milk has often been called "liquid gold" because  it is incredibly beneficial for babies' growth and development and comes only from human moms, who are able to produce it.

Breast milk has benefits for babies, but not every mother is able to produce enough and many parents who adopt children would like them to get this healthy start.

​Fortunately, in Westchester County, breast milk for babies in need is available. The New York Milk Bank is the first comprehensive nonprofit milk bank based in New York State. They collect milk from carefully screened donors, pasteurize it and distribute to infants in New York State and the surrounding area. They currently serve 31 hospitals including these four Westchester hospitals:
Westchester Medical Center, White Plains Hospital, Phelps Hospital, and Northern Westchester Hospital.

So whether you want to give or receive milk, this is an incredible local resource for moms.
​

Milk is being delivered in an usual way--  from women on motorcycles, who are are using their bikes to help moms and babies in need as part of a special program that is the first of its kind in New York. Dubbed the “milk riders,” the women are part of the Sirens Women’s Motorcycle Club. When they roll up to homes on their Harley’s carrying donated breast milk, it is cause for a celebration.

“When we had this opportunity to help mothers and babies, we were like, ‘we’ve got to do it,’” Sandra Fleming, of Sirens Women’s Motorcycle Club, told News 4.

​“They delivered milk at midnight in the middle of winter to some of our hospitals,” NY Milk Bank Founder Julie Bouchet-Horwitz said. “They were amazing.”

​Babies like Viviana are thriving because of the donated milk. She was born by emergency c-section in May with doctors concerned that she may have suffered brain damage. Her weeks in the NICU made it hard for her mom to keep up her milk supply and now she thanks the “village” of people who helped her daughter.

“She does so well because of so many people,” mother Stephanie Noonan said. “We are just so grateful to everyone who’s involved. The women who donate, the bank and the ‘Milk Riders’ who deliver it.”
The donated breast milk is collected, tested and pasteurized at the New York Milk Bank in Valhalla – the only milk bank in the state.

​The 1,700 women who donated milk to the milk bank all went through a rigorous screening process. Since the milk bank opened three years ago, officials say it has helped thousands of babies – both in hospitals and at home – stay healthy.

The milk bank is always on the look for donations from carefully screened donors to provide breast milk for New York’s infants in need. So if you have a large supply of unused milk that you would like to give to someone who needs it, this is the perfect option.

If you are interested in donating, you must be screened for health concerns and communicable disease and meet the following basic requirements:

• In good health and able to breastfeed, with a surplus of milk.
• No use of nicotine products or regular use of milk enhancing herbs, including fenugreek or blessed thistle.
• Minimal use of medications. Call and they’ll help determine whether a medication is safe for milk donation.
• Willing to undergo a thorough health history screening and get a free blood test for communicable diseases.
• Able to donate at least 100 ounces of milk, unless you are a bereaved mother, in which case we will gladly accept any size donation.

They are able to accept previously frozen milk stored for 3 or 6 months prior to your approval date depending on the type of freezer you are using.

There are two convenient drop off locations in Westchester County:

Westchester Depot
19 Pine Avenue
Ossining, NY

The New York Milk Bank
401 Columbus Avenue
Valhalla, NY

Ready to get started? Fill out this form on their website or call 212-956-MILK (6455).

​When it’s freezing outside and the sun sets before 5:00pm, do you often find yourself just wanting to stay indoors, binge on Netflix, and scroll through your phone until it’s time for bed? When it’s cold and dark out, indoor activities – which often involve digital devices such as computers, smartphones, and tablets – tend to take precedence. But what is all this screen time doing to our eyes?

With the prevalence of technology use at work, home, and play – by people of all ages – digital eye strain is becoming a significant concern. Cases of dry eye, blurred vision, eye fatigue, neck and back pain and headaches are on the rise, and are associated with our ever-increasing use of devices as well as indoor light sources such as LED light bulbs, which all emit High-Energy Visible (HEV) blue light. In addition to the physical discomforts listed above, some studies suggest this blue light may also cause damage to eye health in the long term.
 
Other effects of increased exposure to blue light include sleep disruption: lower-energy blue light is beneficial to the eye in proper doses during the day, but when the eye receives too much blue light at night in the hours before bedtime, this can cause not enough melatonin (the hormone that signals it’s time for sleep) to be produced. Even moderate nighttime device usage – including pillowside social media scrolling, late-night online shopping, and “catching up on work emails” – can disrupt one’s circadian rhythm.
 
Research on the long-term effects of blue light exposure is ongoing, but as many eye care professionals have acknowledged, this is a growing issue positioned to become more serious as digital device use increases among the population. With daily hours spent in front of screens hitting double digits, people of all ages are advised to see their eye doctor regularly (once every 1-2 years depending on age, vision correction needs, health history and other risk factors) for a comprehensive eye exam to check both vision and eye health, and to discuss how to mitigate the effects of daily technology use on the eyes.

Eye care providers can prescribe eyewear (prescription or non) with Blue Defense lenses that cut glare and filter out the harmful blue light rays emitted from devices; children, whose eyes’ crystalline lenses are still developing, especially benefit from limited exposure. 

It is also important to modify daily habits when using devices, and the easy-to-remember 20/20/20 Rule is a great place to start: every 20 minutes, look away from the screen for at least 20 seconds, at an object 20 feet away. Also, be mindful of blinking – when you’re staring at a screen, blink rates drop, contributing to dry, red eyes. 
 
Our lives are become increasingly more “connected,” as countertop iPads replace cookbooks, novels are swapped for e-readers, and classroom chalkboards go the way of the 8-track. Today’s children are as savvy with a tablet as they are with Legos, if not more so – rendering proper eye care and protection crucial to ease the effects of digital eye strain, and prevent potentially more serious conditions.

Content Provided by Central Eyes Optical, a locally owned small business serving Hartsdale since 2000. Located in the Hartsdale Shopping Center at 161 S. Central Ave. 914.948.1700∙centraleyesoptical.com

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Just deciding that it’s time to start your family is cause for celebration! Because there’s just so much to do during this exciting time, here’s a checklist to help you focus on some of the tasks at hand now and during the subsequent nine months:

Understand your cycle. Timing is everything – especially when most women have just a three to five day window every month to get pregnant. Today there are tons of apps that can help you chart changes in your menstrual cycle and identify the ideal time to try for baby. If you have been attempting to get pregnant for over a year, your doctor can test you and your partner for infertility issues. Certain medical conditions can also affect your ability to get pregnant, so it’s always good consult with an expert. 

Make your health a priority.Your body is going to go through a lot over the next nine months – you want it in top shape, which means paying more attention to diet and exercise. Women who have underlying medical issues like diabetes and hypertension should be even more diligent about their overall health.

Stop smoking and cut down on caffeine as much as possible. Eat a healthy, balanced diet and avoid soft cheeses (which may contain listeria – a bacteria common that leads to food poisoning that is not healthy for babies) but go ahead and enjoy that sushi! Research shows certain types are safe for pregnant womento eat. 

Exercise and activity is important before, during and after pregnancy -- after all, you’ll be creating, carrying and squeezing out another human being through your pelvis! A lot of women swear by prenatal yoga, which includes a variety of stretches (particularly targeting the hips and pelvis) and breathing exercises, to help ease discomfort both during pregnancy and during delivery. 

Find a good OBGYN. A good doctor is a must from the start. They will be your most valuable resource during your pregnancy. The birth process is extremely personal, so you will want to find an OBGYN who will be your partner and respect your personal preferences in the delivery room.
 “The single most important way to find an OBGYN is word of mouth, through people who have had that full experience,” says Dr. Yoni Barnhard, Director of OBGYN at White Plains Hospital. “Also, speaking with other health care providers in the community that you can trust is a good source of information, especially if you know any labor and delivery nurses.”

During the first visit, your doctor will take your medical history so they can be aware of any conditions or prior issues that would make conceiving difficult. They will discuss lifestyle issues and identify any bad habits that might work against you, such as smoking.

If you aren’t up to date on your exams, your OBGYN will do a Pap smear, take a urine sample and draw blood to make sure you are current on important vaccinations, including chicken pox and rubella. They’ll do a blood typing and Rh factor to keep handy in case complications arise during delivery.

Planning and surrounding yourself with a caring healthcare team will go a long way in helping to make this next phase of life a joyful and healthy one.

​You’ve picked a name and color for the nursery, but have you chosen your hospital yet? Many expectant parents don’t give this a second thought, thinking all hospitals are equipped to deliver babies, right? Not all hospitals have the same philosophy, equipment or level of staff expertise and specialty, especially in high-risk situations. As you plan for the delivery, it’s good to know you will be someplace that supports your personal preferences, has a philosophy that puts mom and baby first, and that you will be surrounded by a team of experts to handle every possible scenario. 

Here are a few critical questions to ask to make sure you make the right choice:

Is it baby friendly? In the old days (and not so old days), nurses would quickly scuttle baby away after delivery to let mom rest peacefully. But this doesn’t facilitate bonding or support nursing (and it’s not that easy to rest when your newborn son or daughter is way down the hall). A hospital that encourages “rooming in” practices, where the baby is with mom 24/7, facilitates bonding, helps mom rest more easily and helps her and her partner figure out how to change that diaper before they are left to their own devices at home. Of course, a hospital should be “mom” friendly, too. This includes providing women continuous support throughout labor, as well as afterward. Those who are exhausted after delivery need to know their newborn is well cared for in the nursery while they are getting some well-deserved recovery sleep.

Does it have an NICU? Don’t take for granted that all hospitals have one – they don’t, and not all are the same. In the event that a baby with critical needs is born in a non-NICU hospital or one not equipped for more significant care, they would need to be transferred to a different facility. Ask what level the NICU is, especially if you are having a high-risk pregnancy. The American Academy of Pediatrics assigns NICUs one of four levels – one being basic care, four being highly specialized critical care -- based on the complexity of care the hospital is equipped to provide, and the age of the premature infant. 

Does it have a maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) specialist? You probably have an OBGYN, and for most women with normal pregnancies, that’s all you need. But for women of a certain age or who are at risk for complications, MFM specialists are OBGYNs who completed a few extra years of training to subspecialize in high-risk pregnancies. Hospitals with higher level maternity programs have these physicians on-staff and on-call 24/7 -- not just for patients who have been monitored for high-risk issues all along, but in case of an unexpected accident or complication that arises during labor.

 Do the rooms offer privacy? New moms need sleep, bonding time with their baby, and the ability to have their partner or family with them for as long as they like or need. Breastfeeding is an important part of new motherhood, and new mothers need their personal space and privacy during feedings. With all the new regulations surrounding health information, you deserve to be in a space where your rights, and the rights of your baby, are protected at all times. 

The dreaded transition from daylight savings is upon us (the clocks fall back on Sunday, Nov 3, 2019)!  It often feels like we just recovered from one time change, and another is approaching.  “Falling back” can be particularly challenging for parents of young children. While folks without young kids are excited about an extra hour of sleep, those of us with wee ones actually have to get up earlier; our adorable, sleeping baby who used to rise at 6:30 am now wakes at 5:30 am (and yes, they’re slightly less adorable at that hour!).  So what can we do to help our kids adjust to this change (and keep our sanity!)?

In an ideal world, we could to begin to shift our children’s schedules a week ahead of time. Every few days we’d move their sleep and mealtimes later by 15 minutes, so that when the time change hits, they’ve already adjusted.  Despite this being the “official recommendation” for a smooth transition from daylight savings, I’ve yet to meet one person to actually do it (myself included with my own kids!).  The world outside our homes doesn’t accommodate such a gentle shift; school starts when school starts and you need to get to work on time, not 15-45 minutes late. 

Never fear! Here are some tips to help your children adjust to the new time.

Expose your children to lots of sunlight during the day.  Our circadian rhythms align with the sun, so exposure to natural light helps our bodies adjust to the appropriate time.

Be sensitive to your child’s needs and mood. The clock now reads 8 pm for your child’s regular 7 pm bedtime.  If you were used to protests at bedtime, you may have an easier transition, as your children should be more tired at the “new” 7 pm.  On the flip side, you run the risk of having an overtired child if you insist on bedtime being according to the clock. Accept that bedtime may be influx for a few days and that’s ok. It generally takes about a week for our internal clocks to shift, so know that any schedule change should be temporary.  To prevent an overtired child from unraveling, about 30 min prior to bedtime, dim the lights to help the body relax and transition to nighttime.  Room darkening shades can really help with this, too.  Keep the environment calm, and quiet before bed to help children unwind and ready to sleep. 

Stick with your bedtime routine.  If you don’t have a bedtime routine already, now is a great time to start. Children thrive on routines, so having one can be incredibly helpful to give structure to the time before bed.  A quiet routine is calming to them and helps them relax and ease into bedtime. It can be as simple as pajamas on, brush teeth, read a book/sing a song, lights out.  Don’t make it overly complex. You want this to be replicable daily, and easily done by a babysitter in your absence.  

Minimize exposure to electronics at least an hour prior to bedtime. This is true all year round, but especially now when we’re trying to help kids adjust to a time change. Electronic screens emit a blue light that mimics a bright, sunny sky and tricks the body into thinking it is daytime.  The result of this is that melatonin, the hormone that helps induce sleep, is suppressed, making it more challenging to fall asleep.

If all else fails, find a big mug and fill it with coffee. I’m sure you’ll be in good company!

Lauren Lappen is a Certified Sleep Consultant and co-founder of Wee Sleep Solutions.  As a mom of daughter Ellie and twins Rebecca and Kira, Lauren recognized the importance of self-care and sought to instill healthy sleep habits in her children so that she could ensure her own rest and be at her best as a parent, wife and friend.   
 
Lauren studied under Deborah Pedrick, a pioneer in the field and founder of the Family Sleep Institute (FSI) and International Association of Child Sleep Consultants. She is thrilled to be able to educate families on the importance of sleep and to empower parents with the knowledge and ability to teach their kids to love sleep as much as her girls do!

If you’re having a hard time figuring out the optimal times that your baby should be going down for sleep you are not alone!  As pediatric sleep specialists, we often see parents struggling to find their baby’s natural sleep window.  
​
Place your baby down to sleep when they are tired, but not yet overtired, a.k.a. the magic sleep window.   It should be simple, right?  We know it’s not always as easy as it sounds!  Below are some helpful hints at making this task easier!  

We recommend using wakeful periods based on your baby’s age as a guide for determining when your little one needs sleep.  Wakeful periods refer to the average amount of time your child can stay awake before becoming overtired.  Knowing those average times will make your lives much easier! A baby whose awake time is limited to an age appropriate length will be able to settle and drift off to sleep more easily, and will stay asleep longer, than a baby who has been awake and stimulated for too long a time.  

Typically, a newborn can only comfortably stay awake for 45 minutes to 1 hour before needing her next nap.  As a baby gets older that wakeful period will slowly stretch and by 4 months most children will be able to happily keep their eyes open for up to 1.5-2 hours.  By 6 months, usually 2-2.5 hours can be comfortably tolerated, and a slightly older baby may be able to stay awake and happy for up to 3-4 hours.
   
It is equally important to learn your little ones’ tired cues, which can include yawning, looking less alert, pulling his ears and rubbing his eyes. Watch your baby carefully and if you notice any tired cues (even prior to the end of their optimal wake window), begin a brief soothing routine and place him down for sleep.  The opposite is also true.  If the optimal awake time has passed, but you haven’t yet noticed any tired signs, you should still begin your soothing routine and place your baby down for sleep.  Some little ones are very good at hiding tired signals so be mindful of your baby’s wake time and put him down even if he seems ready to party!

Why is it so important to identify this magic window of time?  If your baby has been awake for too long he will become overtired, which means his brain has signaled for the release of cortisol, a.k.a the wakeful hormone.  An overtired baby will either be fussy and irritable, or will appear wide-awake and wired.  Either way, placing your baby down for sleep once they have already reached an overtired state will result in difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep.  If you are able to identify your baby’s correct sleep window (by using the clock and sleepy cues as a guide) he will settle more easily and sleep more soundly.  The result: a happier, well-rested baby and family.

Lauren Lappen is a Certified Sleep Consultant and co-founder of Wee Sleep Solutions.  As a mom of daughter Ellie and twins Rebecca and Kira, Lauren recognized the importance of self-care and sought to instill healthy sleep habits in her children so that she could ensure her own rest and be at her best as a parent, wife and friend.   
 
Lauren studied under Deborah Pedrick, a pioneer in the field and founder of the Family Sleep Institute (FSI) and International Association of Child Sleep Consultants. She is thrilled to be able to educate families on the importance of sleep and to empower parents with the knowledge and ability to teach their kids to love sleep as much as her girls do!

By Joanna Winograd and Lauren Lappen; Co-Founders of Wee Sleep Solutions

​Almost everyone has a family member, friend, or coworker whose allergies have kicked in. Some say they never had allergies before or can‘t recall the last time it affected them. Nowadays, it seems rather common than previous years, which has everyone asking “why allergies are on the rise?”
 
The symptoms aren’t simple sneezes and runny noses anymore. Today’s allergies come with rashes, hives, cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, swollen tongue and throat, tight chest, and passing out. If today’s allergy sufferers don’t have an EpiPen or can’t call an ambulance, serious complications could result.
 
Science and the medical industry are finding new reasons every day why allergies are rising. The fact is that allergies have become more common since the mid-20th century. Preservatives, pre-packaged foods, climate changes, massive storms, and just about everything synthetic have combined to change the atmosphere in which we live.
 
Changing Lifestyles
Before city and suburban living became the norm, people lived on farms and in the country. From childhood, they breathed nature in all her facets. The immune system recognized potential allergens and would defend against them. Playing outside in early childhood refined the immune system.
 
With the increase in technology, people turned in their relationship with the outside for what one would a homebody lifestyle. They sat in front of TVs, played video games, texted, and talked on Skype. Central air conditioners replaced fresh air, and well water morphed into city water. Though these are changes that were imminent, they affect all of us.
 
Climatic Changes
Whether you call it a hole in the ozone, global warming, or other climatic word or phrase, the air surrounding us has changed and not for the better. In the last 10 to 15 years, the instances of asthma, allergies, and other lung conditions have skyrocketed.
 
The major climatic change that causes the trouble is massive storms. Storms are all about changes in temperature. These are triggers for air pollution, pollen, mold spores, and poison ivy.
 
Massive storms pass, leaving behind bacteria, viruses, mold, and other contaminants that set off asthma and allergy attacks. These are the basis of other illnesses, but asthma and allergy sufferers get hit the worst.
 
Stress
To understand how stress triggers allergic reactions, it would be a good idea to understand how the immune system works. First, pollen or other foreign particulate enters the body. The immune system thinks it’s an intruder because it came from outside. The immune system produces histamine, a substance forcing the body to expel the particulate through runny nose mucus, runny eye water, sneezes, and coughs. Now the immune system knows what the particulate is, how to expel it, and prepares for the next intrusion.
 
Stress is a little different. The particulates are there, but the stress hormones increase the allergic reaction. The “fight or flight” hormones kick in, which makes allergic symptoms worse. This might be why so many allergy medications, both chemical and natural, make you drowsy. If you’re sleepy, then stress hasn‘t taken a huge toll on you… yet.
 
Synthetics
If you take a can of something out of a six-pack ring, eat from a plastic or foam plate or cup, feed the baby from a bottle, carry home plastic grocery bags, or buy takeout in some kind of container, then you are using synthetics. If you wear it, chances are good the fabric is synthetic. Most fabrics made are from petroleum products. When they touch the skin, contact dermatitis is the result. When consumed from products made from petroleum products such as food containers, then allergies result. The only difference is one allergic reaction is inside, and one is outside. Asthma, allergic reactions and other lung conditions result from inhaling such synthetics for a long period.
 
Food Additives
Your red Jello, Vitamin D-fortified cereal and milk, and your vanilla flavored Coke are all about food additives. According to the FDA, additives can be natural or synthetic, and they classify both the natural and synthetic as “Generally Recognized As Safe”, or GRAS.
 
However, some additives cause allergic reactions. Some are preservatives that keep the product fresh or prolong shelf life. Others enhance colors, flavors, or fight botulism.
 
Common additives include Monosodium glutamate or MSG, sulfites which prevent foods from turning colors upon contact with air, sugar substitutes like aspartame, nitrates, and paraben among others.
 
While allergic reactions to food additives typically last only one day, allergic reactions are rare. This being the case, no recorded symptoms exist, so doctors treat the symptoms instead of the cause.
 
Prepackaged Foods
Today’s manufacturers produce varied foods for different brands. You could get a package of pre-made mashed potatoes you can just heat in a microwave. However, its preparation is a mystery to you. The manufacturers could have made the product in the same machine that a peanut product found itself an hour before, all unbeknownst to the consumer. Those allergic to nuts would get sick.
 
While there are sanitary procedures to which every food producer must adhere by law, trace amounts of allergens still get into prepackaged foods. By law, producers must label their prepackaged foods with a list of allergens it contains.
 
Precautionary allergen labeling or PAL has become prevalent worldwide. In fact, the National Institutes of Health tells of an American study in which contamination was worse in labels stating “prepared in shared facilities” to those stating “may contain.”
 
Add to this the fact that the law doesn’t require food manufacturers to list trace amounts of an ingredient. Those trace amounts could be allergens to someone sensitive to the ingredient.
 
Stay Informed With a Specialist
Dr. Kathryn Edwards is an allergist in Princeton and Robbinsville, NJ at the offices of the plastic surgeon Daniel G. Becker. Dr. Edwards’ star has blazed from her undergraduate time at the University of Delaware to the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences to a pediatric residency at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Dr. Edwards also trained at the prestigious National Institutes of Health.
 
Dr. Edwards’ 16 years in the Army involved treating her patients in Iraq as an allergist and immunologist. She treated seasonal and environmental allergies, asthma, food allergies, and skin conditions.
 
Her educational accomplishments include acceptance into the competitive fellowship program in Allergy and Immunology at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, training at and being assistant chief at the National Institutes of Health, and being chief of allergy/immunology her last three years in the Army. Learn more about Dr. Edwards at the Becker ENT site.

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The dreaded daylight savings is upon us! We "spring forward" this Sunday, March 10th at 2:00 am. It often feels like we just recovered from one time change, and another is approaching.  So what can we do to help our kids adjust to this change (and keep our sanity!)?

In an ideal world, we could to begin to shift our children’s schedules a week ahead of time. Every few days we’d move their sleep and mealtimes by 15 minutes, so by the time daylight savings hits, they’ve already adjusted. Despite this being the “official recommendation” for a smooth daylight savings transition, I’ve yet to meet one person to actually do it (myself included with my own kids!).  The world outside our homes doesn’t accommodate such a gentle shift; school starts when school starts and you need to get to work on time, not 15-45 minutes late. 

Never fear! Here are some tips to help your children adjust to the new time.

Expose your children to lots of sunlight during the day.  Our circadian rhythms align with the sun, so exposure to natural light helps our bodies adjust to the appropriate time.

Now that it’s lighter later, children often protest going to bed when the sun is up.  About 30 minutes prior to bedtime, dim the lights to help the body transition to nighttime.  Room darkening shades can really help with this, too.  Keep the environment calm, and quiet before bed to get children relaxed and ready to sleep. 

​Stick with your bedtime routine.  If you don’t have a bedtime routine already, now is a great time to start. Children thrive on routines, so having one can be incredibly helpful to give structure to the time before bed.  A quiet routine is calming to them and helps them relax and ease into bedtime. It can be as simple as pajamas on, brush teeth, read a book/sing a song, lights out.  Don’t make it overly complex. You want this to be replicable daily, and easily done by a babysitter in your absence.  

Minimize exposure to electronics at least an hour prior to bedtime. This is true all year round, but especially now when we’re trying to help kids adjust to daylight savings time. Electronic screens emit a blue light that mimics a bright, sunny sky and tricks the body into thinking it is daytime. The result of this is that melatonin, the hormone that helps induce sleep, is suppressed, making it more challenging to fall asleep.

If all else fails, find a big mug and fill it with coffee. I’m sure you’ll be in good company!

Lauren Lappen is a Certified Sleep Consultant and co-founder of Wee Sleep Solutions.  As a mom of daughter Ellie and twins Rebecca and Kira, Lauren recognized the importance of self-care and sought to instill healthy sleep habits in her children so that she could ensure her own rest and be at her best as a parent, wife and friend.   
 
Lauren studied under Deborah Pedrick, a pioneer in the field and founder of the Family Sleep Institute (FSI) and International Association of Child Sleep Consultants. She is thrilled to be able to educate families on the importance of sleep and to empower parents with the knowledge and ability to teach their kids to love sleep as much as her girls do!

The time after delivery is known as the postpartum period and this is one of the most important phases in a woman’s life. As the body tries to return to pre-pregnancy state, the physical influences at this time can affect the long-term health of the mother. 

After undergoing radical changes for much of 9 months and an exhausting delivery process, moms are often overwhelmed by the responsibilities of childcare. Their body, specifically the pelvis never gets a chance to heal and recover. 
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Here are the 4 most common physical complaints of post-partum period. 

1. Urinary Incontinence: The “leaky” bladder is not just a problem during pregnancy, it persists in over 80% of women after giving birth! Often, the leaking happens with coughing, sneezing, running, etc. but can happen with almost any activity of daily life. The research shows that leaking does not go away by itself and should be addressed soon after delivery. 
2. Diastasis Recti: In simple terms, it is separation of the superficial layer of abdominal muscles due to excessive intra-abdominal pressure. Women usually notice a protruding belly or a “pouch/bulge” which is most evidentright after childbirth. Sometimes, the mothers notice that they still look “pregnant” after having the baby. The usual exercises for abdominals like crunches and planks can often hurt rather than help the problem. 
3. Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Sometimes due to weakness of muscles and ligaments, the organs like bladder, uterus and bowel can droop down outside the vaginal opening. Again, pelvic floor muscles can be strengthened to help support these organs back into their place. 

4. Lower Back Pain: Lower back pain is extremely common in new mothers and often multifactorial. All of the conditions explained above can compromise core stability and contribute to lower back pain. In addition to that, demands of childcare like frequent lifting, carrying, and breastfeeding, etc.can put repetitive stress on joints in the spine and pelvis.

What can you do? 
Postpartum Rehabilitation focuses on the health of new mothers by customizing the program to the unique physiological changes of pregnancy and demands of childcare. The program focuses on improving posture and alignment, strengthening trunk and pelvic floor muscles, and training in proper breastfeeding/childcare positions. It is important to know that all of the above conditions are closely related to each other and should be addressed as a unit. Often the lower back pain is caused by underlying pelvic floor weakness and won’t improve until incontinence is addressed. A good program looks at abdominal, lower back, and pelvic floor muscles individually as well as a coordinated system. 
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If you are pregnant or recently had a baby, give your body some much-needed TLC. See a Women’s Health Physical Therapist at Func Physio Physical Therapy and get back to things you love. Sooner the better!

Func Physio Physical Therapy
111 Brooke Street, 3rdFloor 
Scarsdale , NY 
Contact : 347 497 0500
www.funcphysio.com

Written by Nidhi Sharma, PT, DPT, OCS
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Turmeric is a ginger-colored spice that’s been a part of Middle Eastern and East Asian cooking for centuries. The warm and flavorful bitter taste is frequently used in curry dishes. Turmeric however is also widely known for its health benefits and has garnered the attention of nutritionists and physicians worldwide. Curcumin, turmeric’s most active and healing compound, is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory which has contributing factors in combating osteoarthritis, heart disease and digestive issues. 
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Turmeric is proven to treat arthritis as it helps reduce joint inflammation according to a recent study. A study by the Nirmala Medical Center provided evidence that curcumin is as effective as anti-inflammatory drugs at reducing swelling and tenderness of joints in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. 
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Another amazing fact about Turmeric is that it can be used to treat wounds, cuts and rashes. Life Sciences concluded that topical application of curcumin has a great therapeutic effect on skin wounds and also concluded that it accelerates wound healing. Add to this its heart health benefits and improved digestion and you can be on your way to better health with just a spoonful of turmeric a day.
 
What is the best way to incorporate this super spice into your diet? Simply sprinkle it on your favorite foods along with a little black pepper to aid with absorption. You can reap these health benefits with a teaspoon of turmeric on salads, soups, and dressings. You can even rub it on your favorite steak before grilling! 
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Turmeric owns the reputation of a powerful anti-inflammatory that can reduce arterial plaque buildup, accelerate wound healing and relieve joint pain. That’s a good reason to spice things up a little when cooking at home! As always, check with your St. John’s Riverside physician before making any changes to your diet and health plan!

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If the answer is yes, you are not alone. The reported cases of sleep deprivation or insomnia are growing to epic proportions nationwide. More than 60 million Americans suffer from poor sleep quality, and more than 40 million meet the diagnostic criteria for sleep disorders. Americans are sleeping less and consequently are putting their health at risk. 

Patients who toss and turn all night will initially complain of lack of energy, irritability, and loss of appetite. Left untreated, inadequate sleep carries with it both short- and long-term consequences including obesity, diabetes, anxiety, stroke or cardiac arrest. 

Why are we losing so much sleep? Insomnia could be caused by a medical problem, a side-effect of medicine, psychiatric illness, or lifestyle. Everything from what we eat what we drink, how often we are on “screen time” to our hectic work schedules can contribute to how well or how poorly we sleep. 

If you believe you are suffering from a sleep disorder, insomnia, sleep apnea, or restless leg syndrome, there are things you can do about it. 

“We now have comprehensive Sleep Centers in both Andrus and Dobbs Ferry” says Rajendra Rampersaud, MD, Pulmonologist.

To meet the growing incidence of sleep apnea and other sleep disorders, St. John’s Riverside Hospital now has Sleep Diagnostic Centers available at both Dobbs Ferry and Andrus Pavilions. Both locations offer a convenient, quiet setting that was created to help restore the connection between a well-rested body and a healthy body. 

Having sleep centers in both our pavilions is another way we strive to help patients in their hometowns. St. John’s Riverside Hospital is helping people sleep better and feel better, one wink at a time. For more information or to schedule a consultation with a sleep physician call (914) 964-4337.

​To schedule a sleep study at the Sleep Diagnostic Center call (914) 559-1010.

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As a pioneer in single incision hernia surgeries and co-founder of the only Minimally Invasive Center in Westchester, Dr. Har Chi Lau has performed more minimally invasive hernias than any other surgeon in Westchester County. We are proud that he practices at St. John’s Riverside Hospital. Dr. Har Chi Lau opened the first Hernia Center in Westchester just over two years ago now and people have come as far as California to be treated there. 
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A Board-Certified Surgeon with expertise in Minimally Invasive (MI) surgery, Dr. Lau also instructs laparoscopic surgery methods to other doctors and frequently presents on the subject nationwide. In addition, he has impressed and won the trust of a tough crowd of his colleagues who personally request Dr. Lau for their surgeries. With over 4500 surgeries already performed, it’s apparent that Dr. Lau is the first choice for patients and doctors alike. 

“Dr. Lau and his team were my first choice for my hernia operation. These guys have the expertise as well as the communication skills and personality that assured me I would be back to my old self again. They were right and I was surprised at how quickly I was able to get back to work.” - Tony Maddalo, MD Orthopedic Sports Physician for the New York Rangers.

Recent developments have changed the playing field when it comes to medical procedures, and St. John’s Riverside Hospital’s Hernia Center is on the frontline with the latest technology including the da Vinci robot and expertise to offer a new quality-of-life to all patients. Minimally Invasive surgery is how we are keeping the Westchester Community Strong. If you think you or someone you know has a hernia, call (914) 464-4DOC.
 
“It’s a very patient-centered method to performing surgery, with proven benefits and far less complications.” - MI surgeon, Har Chi Lau, MD

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Lice Free Noggins is an all-natural head lice removal service. We provide families with a safe and effective alternative to head lice treatment. Our in-home lice removal service is discreet, efficient, safe for the whole family as well as cost effective.  

Check out these top FAQs to help dispel some lice myths.

How are head lice spread?
Head lice do not jump or fly, they crawl. In most instances, head lice are spread through direct head to head contact. The transfer of a louse is quick and only takes several seconds. It is also possible to catch lice from sharing personal objects, such as hair accessories, pillows and hats, although this transfer method is less frequent. A healthy louse is clinging on to an individual's hair as this is where their home is, and will not willingly leave to go onto an inanimate object. When a louse is found on an object, it is likely in the process of dying.

What kind of hair do head lice prefer?
Having a head full of hair makes an individual susceptible to head lice. A louse will not discriminate and will happily inhabit any types of hair - curly, straight, dyed, clean or dirty.

I heard that head lice like clean hair - is that true?
It is true that head lice prefer clean hair, only for one simple reason, it is more difficult for them to transfer and cling on to hair which is oily. However, once on a head, a louse will make a home in any type of environment, as long as there is enough hair to provide warmth for their nits to incubate.

Can I still have head lice if I dye my hair?
Head lice are resilient little buggers and can survive through most hair salon treatments. Having hair dyed does not make an individual resistant to head lice. However, the dye does color the nits, making them more difficult to identify visually. For those with recently dyed hair, a comb out check is always recommended for an accurate diagnosis.

Will a flat iron kill head lice?
Yes, and no. In theory, the extreme heat from the flat iron would kill live lice, if it was to come into contact with one. However, when such strong heat is applied to the head, a louse would quickly flatten against the scalp. This would prevent the iron from having direct contact with a louse, and therefore, would have no effect on eliminating head lice.

What is the best treatment for head lice?
There are no shortcuts to treating head lice. The most effective lice removal treatment involves a thorough, meticulous combing, using a professional stainless steel nit comb and a non-toxic, pesticide-free product. Over the counter medications, such as Nix and Nix, contain harmful ingredients, such as permethrin, which are not only ineffective due to lice developing a resistance to the medication, but also do not kill nits (eggs). As a matter of fact, there is no product on the market which is strong enough (toxic enough) to penetrate through the shell of a nit. If not properly combed out, the remaining nits start to hatch shortly after and the infestation continues.  This process leaves parents frustrated and confused and is usually when a lice professional gets called in.  Our lice removal process guarantees to leave no nits behind. Our comb out process removes each and every viable nit and louse.

Can I have head lice if I don’t itch?
Absolutely! One of the most common assumptions which I hear is that, if an individual does not itch, then they surely do not have head lice. This is incorrect. Feeling itchy is an allergic reaction to the saliva of a louse. Although most people do develop a sensitivity to their saliva, for some, it may take as long as 4-6 weeks before a reaction occurs while for others, it may never develop. If a household member is diagnosed with head lice, it is important to check the rest of the individuals who reside in the same home, regardless of whether they itch or not. By skipping this step, the likelihood of spreading lice within the household members remains.
 
Our Process
Upon arrival, our highly trained lice experts would carefully diagnose head lice and/or nits (eggs), apply our natural, pesticide-free lice removal treatment and begin a meticulous elimination process.  After removing all viable lice and nits, our staff would educate you and your family on how to delouse the home and prevent a future re-infestation. Our lice team are dedicated to taking the stress out of head lice removal and are known for making the process fun for kids. We guarantee, after just one treatment provided by our expert lice team, there will be no lice or nits left behind.


Why spend hours at a lice salon waiting for your turn?  Our in-home lice treatment option provides an opportunity to continue with regular home activities after being checked and/ or treated.  We charge an affordable flat rate based on length of hair. Many lice removal services charge by the hour, which can add up rather quickly. We never charge hidden fees - no travel fees, no holiday fees, no evening or weekend fees. We have successfully treated thousands of families in New York City and are now offering our lice removal services in Westchester.

Lice Free Noggins
Professional In Home Head Lice Removal Services
914-218-6390

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Bariatric surgery enables overweight and obese people the chance to achieve significant and long term weight loss. By reducing the stomach’s storage capacity, which limits food intake, you feel full much sooner. The result is long-term weight loss that can lead to a happier and healthier you.
 
There are many benefits to Bariatric surgery, some of the most notable include:
 
Joint Pain Relief
Excessive weight puts a lot of stress on your joints and causes damage over time which leads to pain. Significant weight loss could elevate pain, allow people to stop using pain medications and become more mobile.
 
Blood Pressure
Reduced weight can improve your risk of heart disease and stroke. Blood pressure and cholesterol levels are usually reduced after weight loss helping patients return to better overall health.
 
Depression
People with excess weight may find it difficult to participate in certain activities. Losing excess weight leads to increased activity and helps improve a person’s emotional health as well.
 
“Bariatric surgery gives patients the best chance at maintaining their weight loss over time, and that plays a significant role in a patients overall health.” - Jonathan Arad, MD, Bariatric Surgeon.
 
Improved sleep, better outcomes from Type 2 diabetes and reduce risk of many other medical conditions are all additional benefits of bariatric surgery. If you are looking to losing weight and reduce or reverse the health risks associated with excessive weight or obesity, bariatric surgery may be right for you. 
 
For more information click here: http://www.riversidehealth.org/SpecialtyServices/BariatricSurgery.aspx
or call 914.964.4DOC to make an appointment.

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