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play with your newborn
BabyKids

6 Ways To Interact and Play With Your Newborn

by Ellice Vargas
written by Ellice Vargas

Play may not be the first word that comes to mind when you think of your brand new babe, but surprisingly enough, it’s never to early to initiate interaction and even play time with your little one. In the first few months you will notice they are taking leaps and bounds everyday, and changing before your very eyes. You may feel like those silly noises you are doing are just that, silly. But when you get that first gummy smile or giggle from your sweet baby it will be worth it. If you are stuck on how to add some fun into your everyday routine, here are some tips on how to play with your newborn.

play with your newborn

1. Touch

As if I even need to tell you to snuggle that gorgeous new baby of yours. But I don’t mean just cuddles, I mean sensory touch. Like tickling the bottom on their feet, or giving them a soft blanket to feel. Help let your baby explore the world by feeling and experiencing different textures and shapes. Even if they aren’t holding onto things yet, teach them how to grab by giving them your finger, they will naturally start to reach and hold into things as they grow.

play with your newborn

2. Talk

Babies love to hear you talk. Even before they can coo back they love the face to face interaction. But you don’t always have to be looking them in the eye in order to talk. As you go about your day talk to them about what you see what your doing, before you know it they will be “talking” right back at you.

play with your newborn

3. Sing

It’s never too early to start singing lullabies to your sweet one. You can even incorporate hand motions to give them more to look at as they watch and learn. You’ll be surprised how quickly they will respond as they hear and see familiar sounds and actions done by you everyday.

play with your newborn

4. Read Out Loud

Start those bedtime stories early. Just like talking, reading out loud helps your baby get used to your voice and exposes them to a wide range of vocabulary early. You can start with some of those cute baby books your have displayed in your nursery, or you can even read your own books to them.

play with your newborn

5.  Tummy Time

Of course this doesn’t always seem like fun and games if your little one isn’t a fan of tummy time, but this is a great time for you to be able to play and encourage your baby as they grow. If you need tips on helping your baby with tummy time, check out this post here.

play with your newborn

6. Rattles + Toys

Once your baby starts to track movement with their eyes, you will find they will be more interested in those adorable rattle and small toys you’ve been dying to pull out. Gently shake the toy in front of their face and move it back and forth as they follow it with their eyes. Right around this time you will notice they will start becoming more interactive to games like peek-a-boo.

 

Ellice Vargas

Ellice Vargas

I'm a British gal and mama to one sweet daughter. I love a good DIY project, interior design and photography. When I'm not writing for Life As Mama, I'm traveling as much as I can with my little family and filling up my camera roll with snapshots of our life.
Ellice Vargas

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Beauty & Style

9 Ways To Rock A “Pajama Mama” Look

by Leena Kollar
written by Leena Kollar

Unless I have somewhere to go, I spend most of my days in my pajamas. I work from home where nobody but my kids and husband see me, and I mean, what’s the point of getting dressed if you’re not going anywhere? In fact, there have been a couple days where I’ve been running late in the morning to take the kids to school, and I just threw on a pair of sneakers and a sweatshirt over my pajamas. Yes, I have dropped my children off at school in the clothes I slept in. No, I’m not ashamed. And you know what? The fashion world is catching on!

The pajama wear trend has finally become popular, which means now mamas can don their PJs in public without getting dirty looks. Whether you sleep in comfy lounge pants, a slip dress or a lace cami and shorts, there are so many ways to turn your sleepwear into daywear. Now, if you sleep in your birthday suit, I can’t help you. But otherwise, these outfits are fabulous examples of how to do the “pajama mama” look.

source: Stylishlyme

1. Dress Up Your Drawstring

If you work somewhere that has a flexible, semi-casual dress code, you can totally get away with wearing drawstring pajama pants to work. Pair them with a button-down shirt, a blazer, and pumps. The combination of the casual pants with the dressier pieces will look chic, and you’ll be more comfortable than if you were wearing a pair of stiff trousers instead.

Head over to Stylishlyme for more outfit ideas you can try at the office.

source: Winston and Willow

2. Layer With A Classic Tee

A t-shirt and sneakers is a classic American pairing. But wear a slip dress over your tee for a glammed up version of this look. It will create a youthful, yet mature appearance, and you won’t have to compromise comfort. If you’ve got a day of running errands ahead of you, this is a quick and easy way to get out the door in style.

Find more fashion inspiration by visiting Winston and Willow.

source: Amy’s Vintage Closet

3. Accessorize With A Clutch

While you can find ways to wear pajamas with other pieces of clothing, you can also use accessories to complete your look. A bag like a clutch is easy to carry around and adds a touch of chic to your ensemble. If you’re meeting your friends for lunch one day, throw on those comfy pajama pants and a button-down shirt. Toss your basics into a clutch and you’re ready to go!

Check out Amy’s Vintage Closet for more ways to accessorize with a clutch.

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Baby

6 Things To Do The First Week Home With Your Newborn

by Ellice Vargas
written by Ellice Vargas

The first few days at home with a newborn are a precious blur. Between the adrenaline buzz that hasn’t let sleep deprivation kick in yet, and all the small sure ways that new baby just took over your heart, there is a lot to process. When I brought my baby girl home there was so much about that first week that happened that no one ever told me…like the fact I might cry buckets for no apparent reason at the drop of a hat. If you are about to welcome a baby into the world, here are 6 things you should do in the first week.

child-1283178_640

1. Write Down Your Birth Story

It may feel like a task right now, but take time to jot down your birth story. There will be so many details that you forget over time, and you will be so happy to have them down the road. I still to this day love to hear the details from my own mama.

 

2. Rest

Now, I didn’t say sleep because who know exactly what that looks like with a newborn, but if you can, go for it. But definitely rest. You don’t have to let everyone who wants to see the bay visit within the first week. This time is so short and incredibly precious to feel overwhelmed by a slew of well-meaning visitors. If anyone gets offended that mama needs more time, then they are not a true friend in the first place. This rule also applies to pushy family members, too.

 

3. Take Photos

It’s amazing, and also a little heartbreaking, how quickly newborns change in the first few weeks. Make sure to take as many photos as you can of your baby. The best time to get professional newborn photos taken is sometime in the first 2 weeks when baby is most sleepy. But even if you don’t have a professional photographer planned, make sure to pull out your own camera or phone and snap away – you won’t regret it.

 

4. Forget The Housework

If you decide to entertain visitors during the first week or so, don’t fret about housework. They are not there to check on how well you are coping with it all, they are there to see you and the new baby. Don’t let the pressure of having it all together steal the joy of those sweet newborn snuggles.

 

5. If Someone Offers To Help – Say Yes

If someone offers to come by and drop off food, (even better if they leave again right away), or leave a venti Starbucks on your doorstop, say yes. It’s ok to admit we all need a little extra hand every now and then. If you can handle having someone over and they offer to throw in a load of laundry or do the dishes, don’t hesitate to say yes. You could even ask them back again next week 😉

 

6. Take Your Time

Repeat after me. It takes time.

It takes time to get used to breastfeeding. It takes time to heal. It takes time to get to know this new tiny human who has suddenly taken over your whole world. It takes time to “feel like yourself” again. ALLLL the things you are experiencing are totally normal, and it takes time to figure out this new role as mama bear. Don’t hurry yourself.

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Pregnancy

My Fears About Becoming A Mom Of Two

by Ellice Vargas
written by Ellice Vargas

I’ve always heard people say they weren’t sure if they could have another baby as they couldn’t possibly imagine loving their second as much as their first baby. This has actually never been a fear of mine. We waited about 2 years before trying for our second baby and I felt nothing but ready and excited to welcome a new life into our home. The early stages of pregnancy are thrilling, exhausting and emotional as your start to bond with your little one, desperately waiting for them to grow big and strong, anxiously waiting their arrival. In the last week I entered into my third trimester and suddenly it feels like this pregnancy has flown by. I’ll be holding my baby in my arms before I know it. Well, that hit me like a ton of bricks this past weekend. And I realized: I’m scared.

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I’m scared about having to divide my attention and losing all the special one-on-one time with my sweet girl.

I’m scared about having another non-sleeper and being so tired I want to cry. All. The. Time.

I’m scared about how I’m going to manage two children by myself everyday, and balance work, and make time for my husband.

I’m scared I will never have any time for myself and lose the independence I’ve gained as my baby has become a toddler.

I’m scared that having two kids is going to be a big financial jump for our family.

I’m scared I wont be able able to leave the house with two kids. Because, umm, how?

They might sound ridiculous, but these are the thoughts that have consumed me the past couple of days. Even though these are real fears, I’m so thankful to know I am not alone. I know many mothers who have gone ahead of me and have made the transition from one to two kids. I also know that while I’m scared, I’m also so dang excited to hold this sweet boy in my arms for the very first time. I can’t wait to see my little girl become a big sister and watch their relationship grow. I can’t wait for those tiny newborn snuggles and the smell of their newborn skin. I can’t wait to see my husband become a dad to a little boy.

I may be scared, but I’m also really, really happy.

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Beauty & Style

3 Fashionable Ways To Style A Maxi Skirt

by Karen Harris
written by Karen Harris

If you’re a Mama, a maxi skirt could be your best friend as the weather begins to warm. Cool, complimentary, and easy to wear, you’ll be able to dress this wardrobe staple up, down, and even make it appropriate for a professional work environment.

Here are three looks to rock with a maxi skirt:

1. Super Casual:

Add a graphic tee and comfy cropped jacket, and this look is so relaxed you can even wear it with sneakers! Converse, ballet flats, or plain old flip-flips work with this ensemble.

Casual Maxi Skirt Look

 

2. Dressed-Up Dinner Date

Find a skirt with a color that pops and pair it with a light, feminine blouse. Add a big bag, shades, low-heeled wedges, and a few pieces of jewelry, completing a look that’s comfortable but elegant.
Dressed Up Maxi Skirt

 


Shirts blouse
choies.com

Long skirt
amazon.com

Beaded jewelry
jcpenney.com

Amrita Singh earrings
amritasingh.com

3. Polished Professional

Here’s a chic take on the nautical look that’s totally office appropriate. A cropped blazer will keep your silhouette clean and complimentary, and a bright color is a fresh take on a traditional jacket. Add a blouse with a touch of detail and flats or pumps, and you’ll stay cool and calm during the summer months at the office, no matter what kind of stress you’re under.
Maxi Skirt Professional Look

 

Have a cute, comfortable, and low-maintenance spring, you multi-tasking Mamas!

Karly Wood

Karly Wood

Editor at Red Tricycle
I'm a born and bred Southern California native and currently the managing editor at Red Tri. I get to share my life with my husband of 13 years and our beautiful, 5-year old daughter. In my free time you'll catch me cheering for the Dodgers, cooking, baking, reading, crafting and probably watching a little HGTV!
Karly Wood

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HolidayTips & Ideas

10 Gifts That Are Perfect For Any Mom

by Karen Harris
written by Karen Harris

*Shows list to husband* Hint, hint.

Whether you’re getting a gift for your best friend with kids or your saintly mother who somehow survived your teenage years, you know that the Mamas in your life need a little rest and relaxation. A mom is always taking care of everyone else, so give her a gift that shows she’s the one who deserves to be taken care of for a change.

From her favorite beverage, to spa sets, to things that’ll make her laugh, here are ten whimsical presents to give to all the Mamas you love, according to any budget.

Coffee:Etsy

1. Calligraphy Mug, $22: This sassy mug is for the wine-loving mom on those days when she’s feeling a little, uh, frazzled. It’ll give her a giggle. (And may I add, a very good suggestion?)

 

2. Death Wish Ground Coffee, $19.99: Has she built up a tolerance from sleepless nights followed by caffeine-guzzling days?  With the world’s strongest coffee she’ll be wide awake, even on those mornings when she only has time to get half a cup down.

Mom Wine Labels

3. Mom Custom Wine Label, $6.00: So when it’s actually cocktail hour, give her the best prescription after a crazy, stressful day: her favorite wine. Add one of these clever, customizable labels, and she’s got a happy pill in a glass!

Label Template Reads: Take one (1) glass to relieve stress associated with your children not putting away their laundry, forgetting to text you, locking your keys in the car and all other motherhood-related anxiety caused by your two (wonderful) kids. Two (2) glasses of wine may be needed in extreme cases. 

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Beauty & Style

6 Easy Wardrobe Staples Every Mama Should Have

by Karen Harris
written by Karen Harris

Attention, Mamas! We know your babies are your very first priority (and we applaud you for that!), so some of the priorities of your former life– you know, like eating three square meals a day, keeping both legs shaved, and putting time and effort into your style–may have been bumped down a few notches. That’s okay, and we can completely relate. But what’s not okay is when sassy, sacrificing Mamas like you feel sloppy schleppy, and quite frankly, not like yourself.

I’ve put together a list of six versatile, must-have wardrobe staples for moms-on-the-go who enjoy style but live in the real world. Take these suggestions as inspiration to find your own adorable, affordable versions that fit best into your life!

1. Leggings

You read that right. I am a defender of the controversial legging because they can be a great outfit building block if you wear them correctly. No, leggings ain’t pants, but if you wear them the same way you’d wear tights, like under a long sweater, tunic, or dress, you’ll be golden. The beauty of leggings is that they can be dressed up so easily. Take the outfit above: A long, chunky-knit sweater, chic (but comfortable!) leather knee-high boots, and touches of gold accessories add richness to this look. Grab your favorite stylish diaper bag and you’re good to go! (Here are some more ways to style leggings.)

Simply Stylish Mama: Leggings

Simply Stylish Mama: Leggings by karen-harris featuring black stretch pants

Black poncho
victoriassecret.com

M&S Collection black stretch pants
$14 – marksandspencer.com

Komono watch
$79 – yoox.com

2. An Open Cardigan

This is one of the easiest layering pieces you can put in your wardrobe! Throw over a T-shirt and jeans or leggings before you head out the door. Shoe choice is easy, too–sneakers, sandals, or boots all go with this low-key sweater. Bonus: wrap it around yourself to cover the stain after your little munchkin accidentally drops chocolate ice cream down your shirt (because you still have errands to run while you’re out).

Long brown cardigan
lookbookstore.co

Relax t shirt
etsy.com

Skinny fit jeans
aboutyou.de

Converse low sneaker
nordstrom.com

 

3. Distressed Denim

You can’t keep a pair of jeans looking new to save your life, so you might as well buy them this way! For all the bending, chasing, and crawling around on the floor that you do, buy some denim that is supposed to look distressed, and keep on distressing. You can pair them with everything from a fancy, flirty top to a plain cotton tee-shirt, to a zip-up hoody. You heard it here: there’s a way to look chic in a sweatshirt. Just make sure your top of choice is slightly fitted and has a clean design to balance out the worn, relaxed look of the jeans. I love the navy striped zip-up featured here because it’s so easy to create a nautical style with a couple pops of red, like with shoes and a bag. Finish the look by accessorizing with a cute baby, and voilà! You just made a sweatshirt and ripped jeans look put-together.
Simply Stylish Mama: Distressed Jeans

Longchamp leather flap handbag
$72 – selfridges.com

Elvang faux throw blanket
$260 – houseology.com

 

4. A Cotton Dress

Whether you choose jersey cotton for the summer or a sweater dress for the fall and winter months, a cotton dress is the easiest, comfiest, outfit builder you could ask for. If it’s cooler out, wear over leggings to provide an extra layer of warmth and, ahem, gut-control (and is much more comfortable than tights). Tall leather boots add an extra dose of sophistication, and metallic touches, like a large-faced watch, stack of bracelets, and a purse with accent hardware, add to the class.

 

Simply Stylish Mama: Cotton Dress

Simply Stylish Mama: Cotton Dress by karen-harris featuring knee high riding boots

M S Collection cocktail top
$59 – marksandspencer.com

 

5. Graphic Scarves

This staple is probably the easiest, most impactful outfit-changer you can add to your closet! Seriously, grab a handful of cute patterns–you shouldn’t have to pay any more than $25 per scarf (at most!) if you shop around. Wear these with graphic or plain tees, sweaters, dresses, or underneath coats. Chunky knit or blanket scarves (which are square-shaped) are great for style and warmth in the winter, while lighter cotton scarves add a pop of fun to a plain outfit in the warmer weather. Pashimas are woven versions that can be wrapped around your neck or draped around your shoulders, like a shawl. And like the open cardigan (#2), you can use these pieces for camouflage: loop one around your neck to hide that spit-up spot that just appeared on your shoulder. (Here are some creative ways to tie a scarf.)

Suede sneaker
drjays.com

Ray-Ban green sunglasses
$195 – jcrew.com

 

6. Cute, Comfortable Shoes

You don’t have the time or patience to saunter around in heels anymore, but that doesn’t mean you have to settle for an unattractive alternative. As mentioned above, leather boots or booties are an awesome choice for cool weather because they’re classic, comfortable, and versatile. Leather wears so nicely because whether it’s brand-new or worn-in, it still looks chic. Additionally, brands like Kork-Ease and Born are specifically designed to be stylish and comfortable. Also, there’s no need to shy away from the good-old fashioned tennis shoe. You don’t have to be a marathon runner to buy a pair of sneakers because big-shoe brands make cute, casual styles specifically for traipsing around town. Converse are old-school favorites that will never go out of style, and I am partial to pink and pastel-hued sneakers to add a feminine pop of color to the simplest of outfits.
Simply Stylish Mama: Comfortable Shoes

 

Simply Stylish Mama: Comfortable Shoes by karen-harris featuring black ankle boots

J Crew striped shirt
factory.jcrew.com

Black jeans
shein.com

Puma shoes
zappos.com

Kork-Ease black ankle boots
$220 – shoeme.ca

Converse canvas shoes
$45 – theoutnet.com

Kork-Ease black ankle boots
$200 – shoeme.ca

H M fringed shawl
$19 – hm.com
There you have it, Mamas: proof that having style doesn’t have to mean sacrificing the time and energy you’d rather spend with your kids. Use these easy outfit ideas and go through your day feeling  polished, but not pinned up. Mama style should be simple and effortless, because you deserve to feel your best!

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