Playtex Baby Mom Trust Program

When I became a first time mom two years ago, lots of people–with and without children, offered unsolicited advice. Most of the time, I welcomed the words of wisdom and applied it to my new job as a mom. Other times, I laughed at the wise tales they swore were true. Well, I waited until they were no longer in earshot and then let out a howl.  But no matter how crazy something sounded, I wondered if there was perhaps some validity to the claim.  One such case involved umbilical cord care. One morning, I changed my daughter’s diaper and kissed her jelly belly. When I lifted my head, my hair wrapped around her belly button. OK, it was a hair extension. When I was pregnant, I was too tired to do my natural hair daily! My daughter’s dad said it was no big deal, but my relative, who will remain nameless to avoid potential embarrassment, said it could cause an infection. She  proceeded to tell me that our aunt told her–yes, the oddest advice is never in first person, that you should never, and I mean NEVER, pull on a string caught on an umbilical cord stump. Now really worried, I asked what would happen. Her answer: My baby would bleed to death, well, maybe not to death, but it would be bad!  

I immediately called the pediatrician. The office knew my number and recognized my voice since I had called about three unrelated concerns earlier in the week. I didn’t share the details this time. I knew it was insane, but despite  this, I was worried about my newborn getting an infection. The office squeezed me into the doctor’s tight schedule, and moments later, we sat in the waiting room. In seconds, the doctor removed the hair, assured me that everything would be OK and sent us on our way. Looking back, I wish I had a network of parenting experts to turn to before I freaked out and doubted my ability to raise another human being in one piece.  Of course, I trusted my family, which is filled with amazing moms. But sometimes, your family isn’t always the best source. They worry with you.

So to make sure other moms have someone to turn to for trusted, unbiased advice, I joined the Playtex® Baby Mom Trust Program. Playtex® Baby formed a virtual network of parenting experts, so moms and dads can find common parenting ground and support each other through sharing stories, tips, product reviews, insights and unique experiences about parenthood. I’m ecstatic about being a part of that team–who knew I would be an expert after that comical cord incident! Surprisingly, I even received recognition for my parenting advice and stories. I’m not bragging. I look back at this on the days I think I’m not good enough, smart enough or strong enough to raise my little girl. You too may be a bit tough on yourself. Together, we can remind each other that we don’t have to be perfect to be perfectly good parents!

From now through September, I will share my experiences, such as Caitlynn’s first foods, first vacation and first birthday . I’ll ask ask for your opinion. Since Caitlynn outgrew baby bottle, I’ll ask and readers like you to review Playtex products. Until then, let me know what Playtex products you’re using with your little one. We use the Playtex® Lil’ Gripper® Straw Cup, since Caitlynn told me she’s not a baby anymore. I would never tell her this, but she’s not a big girl yet either! She spills milk all the time after insisting to drink from an adult cup. Also, let me know what’s the best and worse parenting advice you’ve ever received? Since the hair weave went wrong ordeal, one woman told me to put an egg in Caitlynn’s closet when she started teething. She claimed it worked for her teenage boys who never had any teething troubles. Maybe they were too focused on the rotten egg smell permeating their room to worry about sore gums!