Caitlin Lipscomb

As a Physical Therapist, I am pretty particular about what shoes my children wear and what types of shoes I recommend to my clients. Barefoot is ALWAYS best when a baby is learning to pull to stand, cruise, and walk, and this is also true for toddlers as they learn to do more advanced gross motor skills like run/jump. But obviously kids can't be barefooted all the time – so here is a compilation of shoes I recommend most. I try to update this with changes in seasons and as my favorite brands release new products, but in general these are the things I look for: 1) wide toe box (where the toes go!), 2) supportive heel cup, 3) flexible sole (you should be able to bend the shoe in half!)

It can be super overwhelming when you start adding items to your baby shower registry list – there are SO many products, brands, and gear out there! And they make you feel like you need to get EVERY LITTLE THING. But take it from me – LESS IS BEST. I say this for 2 reasons: number one, your baby's development can be impaired by having too many “container” devices (like swings, seats, jumpers, etc.) by blocking their natural movement; number two, having too many things can be overwhelming! I suggest that you start with LESS and ask for gift cards on your registry – that way, once baby has actually arrived and you feel like you truly need something else, you can buy it then!

If you are in the same stage of life that I am in with 2 toddlers, the amount of toys you accumulate on birthdays and holidays can be very overwhelming! In my house, we have started to be more selective about what toys we have for a toddlers – often the criteria is: 1) they have to have more than 1 purpose (can be used in many ways to encourage creativity); 2) they have to promote development of a motor skill or cognitive/problem solving skill; 3) they have to be FUN so that my kids will actually play with them! Check out my list of favorite toddler toys below – each description states the age range I would use this and what it promotes developmentally speaking!

When you are a new mom with very young kids, you HAVE to take time for self-care. HAVE TO. And trust me, I know this can be SO hard to fit into busy schedules! I was horrible about taking care of myself after my first baby, so I made it a priority to find small ways to “treat myself” throughout the day (without having to leave my house!) These are some of my favorite self-care/wellness products that I keep on hand at home when I need a little bit of peace! Some of these items have a higher cost, but these were things I was willing to splurge a bit on for myself or ask for on birthdays/mother's day/holidays… sometimes spending a few extra dollars on the RIGHT product for you goes a LONG way in helping you feel better :)

It can be super overwhelming when you start adding items to your baby shower registry list – there are SO many products, brands, and gear out there! And they make you feel like you need to get EVERY LITTLE THING. But take it from me – LESS IS BEST. But that being say, you need some things to spark your baby's development! And you are definitely going to have friends and family wanting to buy “fun” items for your baby shower, or asking what they can buy at your baby's first birthday and first holidays. So show them these – these are Physical Therapy approved, meaning they promote motor development for your baby in their first year!

Being a mom of 2 and a physical therapist specializing in pregnancy/postpartum recovery, I have been able to curate a very specific list of props that are SO HELPFUL in maintaining strength and mobility as your body changes. It's essential to prioritize safety and comfort during this time, and selecting appropriate equipment can make a significant difference in ensuring an effective and enjoyable workout. In this list you will find props to improve workout and other items that will make movement/activity more comfortable for you. Remember: every woman's body and pregnancy/postpartum journey are unique, so it's essential to listen to your body and make adjustments as needed. Prioritizing safety and comfort will ensure an enjoyable and beneficial workout experience during this special time.

With my first pregnancy, I had no idea what to expect with recovery. I felt like my doctor didn't do much to help me prepare, so I looked to my family and friends to determine what I might need when I came home from the hospital. In this list, you will find my favorite recovery products that will help your first few weeks/months postpartum go more smoothly and help you heal more quickly. I also included a list of my favorite supportive clothing that can be helpful in comfort and recovery postpartum.

I will admit, I didn't buy many “extra” products in my first pregnancy because I wasn't really sure what would be necessary. But after my first, I found that the products listed below made a HUGE difference in how comfortable I was throughout the pregnancy (especially at the end). If you plan to have an early baby shower, these are great items to add for yourself – I know most people are excited to buy for the baby, but you will have one friend that will want to splurge on items for you! Some of these items are also great investments pieces if you think you will have a few children (like the bloomers, belly bands, and maternity clothes!)

I nursed both of my children until they were 12 months old, and while the traditional “clip” nursing clothes/bras were great in the early postpartum period, once I was out of that initial postpartum fog I wanted some more stylish “regular” clothes that were still nursing-friendly. When buying nursing-friendly clothes, these are things I look for: 1) Front-Opening design (buttons, snaps, or zippers), 2) Wrap or Cross-Front Styles: Tops or dresses with wrap or cross-front designs are excellent choices as they provide easy access to the breast while still offering sufficient coverage and support; 3) Empire Waistlines or “Flow-y” tops: Empire waist tops and dresses have a high waistline just below the bust. This style allows for discreet and convenient nursing access while providing a flattering fit for postpartum bodies; 4) Stretchy and Breathable Fabrics: Soft and stretchy fabrics like cotton, modal, or bamboo are comfortable and allow for easy movement during nursing sessions (and they are also great if you are having any hot flashes!); 5) Nursing Bras and Camisoles: Invest in well-designed nursing bras and camisoles with easy-to-open flaps. These undergarments provide essential support and easy access during feeding times. Check out some of my favorite options below. Remember, every woman's nursing experience is different, so choose clothing that fits your personal preferences and style. Prioritize comfort, ease of use, and practicality to make breastfeeding a more enjoyable and stress-free experience.