Britax Grow With You ClickTight Harness-2-Booster Seat Installation + Review Video

Britax’s beautiful NEW lineup of Harness-2-Booster Car Seats have hit the Canadian market. I’ve partnered with them to test out and review the Grow With You ClickTight Harness-2-Booster Seat (the middle seat in their 3 seat lineup, comparison chart included below).

As a Child Passenger Safety Technician I find that most parents are frustrated by their car seats, and make installation errors because they get confused with so many steps. Britax’s incredibly simple ClickTight installation process helps parents feel confident about every installation.

Watch my video to get a full run down of what makes this seat effortless for parents to install and use, and awesome for kids! Plus, see exactly how this seat grows with your child. It currently fits both Penny (Almost 4 Years Old, 39lbs & 39” Harness Mode) and Lucy (6.5 Years, 49lbs & 47” - Both Harness & Booster Mode). Check out some photos below.

Penny age ~4 Years, 39lbs, 39” In Harness Mode

Lucy age 6.5 years, 49lbs, 47” In Harness Mode

Lucy age 6.5 Years, 49lbs, 47” In Booster Mode

Please leave any comments or questions below and let me know if you have any other products or topics you want me to feature. Make sure to check out my other car seat safety videos for more info. Plus subscribe to my YouTube channel to stay up to date on my new videos.

- Care

In this video: Britax Grow With You ClickTight Harness-2-Booster Seat

Shop Britax **Get 15% OFF the Grow With You ClickTight Harness-2-Booster Seat (Asher Colour) at select Canadian retailers Until May 20, 2020.

*This is a sponsored post which means I was provided compensation and/or product for this post. All thoughts and opinions are 100% my own. I only partner with products and services that I genuinely love and want to recommend.

*The information in this video is meant to help you learn about car seat safety. The information provided does not constitute individual advice or consultation and should not be used as such. Please always read your vehicle manual and car seat manual to ensure compatibility and proper secure installation and use. If you need assistance installing your car seat, or want to have your installation checked please reach out to me (care@with-care.ca), or another certified Child Passenger Safety Technician (find a tech map).

Care's Guide To The Best Teacher Gifts Under $30

If you’re headed out to grab a little something for your kid’s teacher, care provider, or even for a fun holiday gift exchange, make sure to check this out. These are 4 of my absolute favourite gifts to give, and ones that have been very well received. With a price point of $20-$30 each, they’re all relatively budget friendly, and very practical. Plus these unique gifts are a nice departure from some of the typical presents teacher’s get every year.

I hope these ideas inspire you this holiday season. Please feel free to comment with any questions below, and don’t forget to check out my 7 Stocking Stuffer Essentials to learn all about how to stuff those stockings with practical and fun stuff while staying on budget. Happy Gifting!

- Care

Save On Essentials With Love Me Do Baby & Maternity's NEW Love Points Loyalty Program + Get 150 BONUS POINTS!!

Shopping for a new baby, and keeping up with our little one’s ever changing needs, can be an expensive endeavour for parents. So it’s always nice to find ways to save a little money along the way, while not compromising on quality or service. One of my all time favourite local & online baby boutiques, Love Me Do Baby & Maternity, is doing just this. The owner Linda, and her amazing team, always offer the most incredible customer service experience (eg. they have the sweetest spot to rest & play, offer Complimentary Professional Car Seat Installation with car seat purchase, and host tons of In-store events), and now they’ve introduced a NEW Love Points Loyalty Program, that earns you points toward future purchases!* In the world of parenting it really doesn’t get much better than free stuff.

The best part is that they made it so simple. All you need to do is create a customer profile with your name and email address (profile can be made in-store, or you can Register Online by clicking the “check rewards” tab). Once you’re all set up, there are a whole bunch of simple ways you can start to earn points to redeem at the store. You’ll even get special stuff like birthday points! As a very special perk Enter Code SHOPWITHCARE at checkout to recieve 50 Bonus Points! Plus if you share a photo of your purchase on Instagram and tag With Care & Love Me Do Baby & Maternity you’ll receive an additional 100 Bonus Points!!

Since so many of us live in small spaces it’s all about quality over quantity, and finding the perfect product to suit your needs. I always appreciate that Love Me Do keeps their inventory and their “Registry Essentials” list to just that, quality essentials! They understand parenting and living in a city. They don’t want to add to your stress by breaking your budget or weighing you down with unnecessary stuff. Make sure to head over to Love Me Do online and set up your profile so you can start earning points today! You can thank me when you earn your first free purchase ;)

- Care

*Some Conditions & Restrictions Apply. Full Details

*This is a sponsored post which means I was provided compensation and/or products/services for this post. All thoughts and opinions are 100% my own. I only partner with companies, services and institutions that I genuinely love and want to recommend.

How To Use A Ring Sling With A Newborn

Getting the hang of a ring sling can take some practice, but they’re such great carriers once you do. I love ring slings because they’re super lightweight and fold up small making them perfect for tossing in my diaper bag or purse, so I’m always prepared while we’re out and about. Kind of essential with 4 kids ;)

Join me and my 5 week old baby Freddy to learn how to use a ring sling safely and comfortably. In this video I’m featuring a linen ring sling by Potter & Pehar. I absolutely love the soft neutral colour of this Elora sling, but to be honest it’s hard to choose a fav from their gorgeous collection. Potter & Pehar products are beautifully designed to simplify motherhood, and I love that they’re all made locally in Toronto. Plus the business is owned and run by two kick ass women (Shelley & Tina), who are always available for customer support via email, facebook, and instagram. I have several Potter & Pehar slings, and have personally used them with my babes and while teaching at my monthly Free Community Babywearing Drop In. This is definitely a biz that feels good to support. You can use Code WITHCARE10 for 10% off Potter & Pehar.

I hope you enjoyed my video. Please comment below with any questions, and let me know if you have any topics you would like me to cover in the future. Don’t forget to Subscribe to my YouTube channel to stay up to date of all of my new videos.

- Care

In This Post:

“Elora” Ring Sling: Potter & Pehar *Use Code WITHCARE10 for 10% Off | How To Thread A Ring Sling Video

*This is a sponsored post which means I was provided compensation and/or products/services for this post. All thoughts and opinions are 100% my own. I only partner with companies that I genuinely love and want to recommend

*The information in this video is meant to help you learn about safe babywearing. There are many ways to safely use a carrier, but I demonstrate how I typically teach ring sling use. Please always refer to your particular baby carrier manual to ensure proper and safe use. The information provided does not constitute individual advice or consultation and should not be used as such. 

Preparing Our Home For Baby 4 - Freddy’s Nursery Reveal

Baby 4 is on the way any day now (Edited to note that baby Freddy arrived on Thursday evening, just 5 hours after these photos were taken), and surprisingly this is the first time I’ve actually prepared an official nursery. I guess you could say that I want to soak up all I can with this last baby of ours.

For our little guys room I set out to create a clean and simple space with a calming colour palate and a little farmhouse feel. After weeks of working on it I’m so excited to finally show you the finished room…and in reality it’s not 100% done. I still need something beautiful and safe to accent the wall above the crib eg. won’t kill a baby if it falls on them ;) Please let me know if you have any ideas!

When I started this nursery I knew one of my main priorities was a comfortable place to sit, rock, nurse, and cuddle our babe. For our last 3 kids I have had less than ideal chairs, so getting a custom chair from Off Your Rocker was basically my dream come true. I love that this rocker was made locally in Belleville Ontario and can be totally customized to suit your preference for style, wood stain, and fabric, all at a reasonable price. I decided on the Jamestown Wingback in Battleship Grey Twill with Walnut stain and couldn’t be happier with my choice. Not only is it beautiful, it’s so comfortable! A perfect place to spend a few thousand hours over the early years of this baby’s life ;) If you’re in the market for a chair check out Off Your Rocker, and make sure when you place your order to choose "Store Pickup" & Mention With Care to Receive FREE SHIPPING to the GTA!

I wanted the nursery to have a little bit of a rustic feel so my husband and I did DIY shiplap on one accent wall and painted it white to match the rest of the room. It’s subtle, but I love the way it looks with our spindle style crib.

We were in desperate need of some fresh linens for baby 4. After 7+ years of use, our old ones were all completely done and ready for retirement. Keeping our baby’s space and the air he breathes as safe and clean as possible is very important, so I chose a beautiful organic waterproof crib mattress protector & organic crib sheets from my favourite online source, Organic Lifestyle. They have some absolutely gorgeous, eco-friendly and sustainable products for around the home. Perfect for holiday gift giving! Use code care for 15% Off your order from Organic Lifestyle.

I was set on farmhouse ticking curtains (stripped fabric seen above) but couldn’t find any that worked for our budget and time line, so I set out to make my own. I sewed blackout lined curtains and a matching crib skirt from beautiful classic nickel ticking fabric I found locally at Tonic Living.

I also refinished my childhood nursery dresser by sanding and painting it and adding new porcelain knobs. It was a pretty quick project and gave it a totally fresh look on a small budget.

Instead of going for lots of traditional wall decor I decided to decorate this small space with greenery and beautiful baby stuff, like our favourite treasures and my ring sling collection.

I absolutely love having my slings easily accessible on these gorgeous locally made wooden wall knobs. Perfect to grab and go whenever we need.

I’m so happy with how this space has turned out. I know it will be a calm and soothing space for us to care for baby Freddy. Even with the day-to-day chaos that is our busy home. Check out all the details for products featured in my nursery reveal below, and please comment with any questions.

- Care

In The Post:

Rocking Chair: Off Your Rocker *Choose "Store Pickup" & Mention With Care to Receive FREE Shipping to the GTA | Photos: Anchor Studio *Get 10% off when you mention With Care at Booking | Organic waterproof crib mattress protector & organic crib sheet: Organic Lifestyle *Get 15% off with code care | Care’s Maternity Clothing sponsored by Canadian rental box company The Sprout Collection: *Use Code Care20off for 20% off | Curtain & Crib Skirt Fabric: Tonic Living | Dresser Knobs: Overstock.ca | Rug: Overstock.ca | Dresser Paint Colour: Behr Frozen Pond | Wooden Wall Knobs: JB + DG | Black & Pink Ring Slings: Potter & Pehar *Use Code WITHCARE10 for 10% Off | Sand Ring Sling: Jr Foxes | Umbra Prisma Wall Decorations: Amazon.ca | Wooden Rattles: Bonjour Baby Baskets | Patouche Baby Bonnet: Little Zen One *Use Code WITHCARE for $15 off your purchase of $100 or more | “You Are Loved” Print: ATTN2Detail Designs | White Round Metal Mirror & Heart Marquee Light: HomeSense | White Wood Shelves, Wickers Planters, Hanging Planter & Baskets: Ikea | Herbal Sitz Bath & Lavender Mineral Soak: Tenth Moon

*This is a sponsored post which means I was provided compensation and/or products/services for this post. All thoughts and opinions are 100% my own. I only partner with companies that I genuinely love and want to recommend.

Packing For The Hospital - Labour & Birth: Video + FREE Downloadable Packing List

As I’m preparing for the arrival of baby 4 I thought I would share a New Video about Packing for Labour & Birth. As a Midwife & Childbirth Educator I am always asked about what to pack. Although not all of my clients deliver in hospital, everyone needs a bag ready, just in case. I suggest getting it out of the way early so you can feel prepared. Having your bag packed by around 36 weeks is ideal.

It can be tempting to pack a ton of stuff to take to the hospital, but in my experience less is more. Remember, you’ll need to bring home everything you pack, plus a new baby, and you’ll be recovering from giving birth. If plans change and you need to stay at the hospital for a few extra days, friends and family can be called for extra supplies, or your partner can take a quick trip home.

Watch My Video & Get My FREE Downloadable Packing List

I hope this simple list helps you feel a bit more prepared for the birth of your little one. Wishing you all the best in your labour, birth & beyond!

- Care

In The Post:

Care’s Sweater: Seraphine from Love Me Do | Bag: Amazon Prime | Back Massagers: Body Shop | Nightgown: Laura Ashley from Winners | Robe: Cynthia Rowley from Winners | Slippers: Ikea | Depends: Amazon Prime | Maternity Pads: Starkmans Heath Care Depot | Toothpaste: Toms | Natural Deodorant: No Pong | Arnica Gel: Boiron | Reusable Merino Wool Breastpads: Evymama | Disposable Breastpads: Medela | Nursing Bra: Bravado Body Silk & Seamless | Whale Sleeper: Kyte Baby | Hands Free Skin to Skin Device: Sleepbelt | Nuts, Trail Mix, Dark Chocolate, Fruit Water: Ikea | Granola Bars: Made Good from Costco

*This is a sponsored post which means I was provided compensation and/or products/services for this post. All thoughts and opinions are 100% my own. I only partner with companies that I genuinely love and want to recommend.

Self Care In Pregnancy: The Ultimate Indulgence - Ste. Anne’s Spa

As a busy mom of 3 (with my 4th on the way) it’s a rare treat to be able to pack my bags and head out of the city for a little R&R. When I do, I’m always reminded just how essential it is. Life as a parent can get so overwhelming. Taking a day to disconnect, breathe in the country air, and indulge your body, mind and spirit, is always worth it. My absolute favourite place, that's not too far from home, is Ste. Anne’s Spa. Located in the beautiful farmland of Grafton Ontario, the entire estate at Ste. Anne’s is a dream. I have visited a few times and have never been disappointed. The atmosphere, food, staff, and spa services are absolutely top notch.

During this trip I was joined by 3 of my lifelong girlfriends and it really was the perfect day together. My friends who had never experienced Ste. Anne’s were absolutely blown away by everything. We enjoyed a delicious and decadent lunch and high tea.

Took a scenic walk to the barns to get some fresh air and see the horses.

Enjoyed time in the heated pool (typically open until Canadian Thanksgiving).

And of course indulged in some amazing spa services. Since I’m 7 months pregnant I decided to try out a few of Ste. Anne’s signature treatments that are safe in pregnancy. I know for some pregnant mamas the idea of going to a new place and having a massage during pregnancy can be concerning. Ste. Anne’s does offer prenatal massage, which is generally safe in pregnancy (speak to your health care provider if you are a high risk pregnancy or have any concerns) but I thought I would highlight a few of their other safe treatments. The 2 treatments I had were absolutely amazing, and totally provided the relaxation I was dreaming of.

Essential Oil Scalp Rejuvenation

I have to start this by saying that I LOVE having my head touched. I wish someone would play with my hair every day. Now I know some people absolutely hate having their heads touched (I don’t judge you, but I also don’t understand you ;)…so please note this is not a service you will enjoy unless you like scalp massage.

During this 30 minute rejuvenating scalp treatment my hair and scalp was massaged with a delicious smelling essential oil/coconut oil mix, followed by brushing it through my long locks. They recommend you leave the oil on for 2-12 hours after your treatment, so this can be a messy affair, but the end result was the softest, shiniest hair ever, and some serious stress relief.

Firming Mud Facial

This treatment was such a perfect mix for a pregnant mama. It started off with a foot soak and scrub that felt amazing on my tired achy legs and feet, and was followed by an incredible firming mud facial. As someone who has very sensitive skin I love that the Ste. Anne’s line of skin care products are so natural and don’t irritate my face at all. The moor mud was so luxurious and it was a lovely treat to receive a soothing arm, hand and scalp massage while it was soaking in. By the time it was done I was in a totally blissed out state.

Every time I come to Ste. Anne’s I leave dreaming about when I can return. I would say that’s a good sign. Maybe next time I’ll convince the hubby to come with me and we’ll stay over in one of their beautiful rooms or cottages. A girl can dream.

If you’re interested in planning a trip to this little slice of heaven, make sure you sign up for the Ste. Anne’s email newsletter. You’ll receive updates on special offers at the spa, and hear about upcoming seasonal events. Whatever season you visit in, you’re sure to have an amazing time.

- Care

In The Post:

Ste. Anne’s Spa | Care’s Maternity Swim Suit: Amazon

*This is a sponsored post which means I was provided compensation and/or products/services for this post. All thoughts and opinions are 100% my own. I only partner with companies that I genuinely love and want to recommend.

What’s The Big Deal About Facing Rear? Learn About Safety, Anatomy and Myths Of Rear Facing Car Seat Positioning

It’s Child Passenger Safety Week, so it feels like the perfect time to talk about car seat safety. As a Child Passenger Safety Tech I know that every parent wants to keep their child safe, but the complexity of car seats and changing laws and recommendations can be very confusing for parents.

I’ve partnered with Clek to bring you a video about Rear Facing positioning, and why extended rear facing is so important for our little ones. This is something I get asked about all the time at my workshops, in my community, and online. I really hope this video sheds some light on why recommendations have changed, and in turn helps you make an informed decision that works for your individual family. Click to Watch

If you want to learn more about safe car seat and booster use, check out this great handout from the Child Passenger Safety Association of Canada. Since all provinces and territories vary in their regulations you can get full details on current laws from the Ontario Ministry of Transportation and a summary of other provinces and territories here. Plus you can access all of Transport Canada’s current recommendations here.

I hope you enjoy the video. Please comment below with any questions or topics you would like covered in the future, and don't forget to Subscribe to my YouTube channel. 

- Care

Resources In This Post:

Clek Foonf Car Seat: Available Locally at Love Me Do Baby & Maternity | Provincial & Territorial Car Seat Laws | Child Passenger Safety Association of Canada Car Seat Safety Brochure | Transport Canada Choosing a Child Car Seat or Booster Seat

*This is a sponsored post which means I was provided compensation and/or product for this post. All thoughts and opinions are 100% my own. I only partner with products and services that I genuinely love and want to recommend.

*The information in this video is meant to help you learn about safe car seat use. Please always read your car manual and booster/car seat manual to ensure compatibility and proper secure installation and use for your child. The information provided does not constitute individual advice or consultation and should not be used as such.