What to Know About Baby Formula

"Becoming a mom: best promotion ever."

Hello, Queen of the Chaos! Ah, Monday—the day when coffee flows like water and screen time limits are more of a suggestion. Today, we’re tackling all the questions Siri can’t answer for you.

Today’s Mommy scoop:

• Decoding Baby Formula: Pediatrician's Tips

• Dresser = Changing Table

• Quick Salmon Cakes Recipe

• Rustic Wreath in 15 Minutes

Healthy Habits

What to Know About Baby Formula, According to Pediatricians

Confused about choosing baby formula?

Don't worry; I’m here to help you understand everything about baby formula, so you know what's best for your baby.

What Is Baby Formula?

Baby formula is a special food for babies that's close to breast milk.

It has all the important stuff like vitamins and minerals your baby needs to grow.

Regular cow's milk isn't good for babies because it's hard for them to digest and doesn't have all the nutrients they need.

• Mom Tip: If you're switching from breastfeeding to formula, try mixing the two for a few days. This helps your baby get used to the taste and makes the change easier for both of you.

Types of Formula

Different babies need different kinds of formula.

Some are made from cow's milk, some are made for babies with sensitive stomachs, and some are made from plants like soy.

There's even organic formula. Ask your doctor which one is right for your baby.

• Mom Tip: Have a small can of a second type of formula you'd consider using, just in case your baby doesn't tolerate the first one well. That way, you don't have to rush back to the store.

Different Forms of Formula

You can get formula as a powder, as a liquid that you mix with water, or as a liquid that's ready to feed your baby.

What you choose depends on what's easy for you and what you can afford.

• Mom Tip: If you choose powdered formula, invest in a formula dispenser. It helps you pre-measure the right amount of formula, making it easier when you're on-the-go or it's feeding time in the middle of the night.

Special Diet or Allergies

If your baby can't eat certain things or has allergies, talk to your doctor. They can tell you what formula is safe for your baby.

• Mom Tip: Keep a food diary for your baby. Note what they eat and how they react afterward. This can help you and the doctor find out more quickly if your baby has a food allergy or sensitivity.

What If My Formula Is Out of Stock?

Sometimes the store runs out of the formula you use. If this happens, ask your doctor what other formula you can use.

• Mom Tip: Buy formula in bulk when possible to save money and avoid running out. But make sure to check the expiration dates!

Formulas from Europe vs. the U.S.

You might see formulas from Europe on social media and wonder if they're better. They're not necessarily better; they just have different rules and instructions. So be careful if you decide to try them.

• Mom Tip: If you're thinking about switching to a European formula, check if it has the nutrients your baby needs. Also, make sure you can understand the instructions or find them translated into your language.

Final Thoughts

So there you go, a simple guide to baby formula.

Remember, whether it's powder or liquid, expensive or cheap, the most important thing is that it meets your baby's needs. Always ask your doctor if you have questions.

Keep reading here.

Together with Superspace

For Dreamers, Builders, and Explorers — Bring Your Child's Imagination to Life

Caught your kiddo building a fortress with your sofa cushions again?

Hand them Superspace!

This life-sized 'everything toy' lets your child’s imagination soar.

Whether it's an intergalactic mission or a secret den, let their imagination run wild.

Discover all the fantastic build options right here!

And hey, knocking it down is half the fun! So, why not let them create, destroy, and repeat 🙂

Mom's Mic: This Week’s Poll

Poll Results From 9/15

What is your biggest fear as a mom?

🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 Not being good enough (44%)

🟨🟨🟨🟨⬜️⬜️ Balancing work and family (36%)

🟨🟨🟨⬜️⬜️⬜️ Losing my individuality (20%)

Mom Hack

Use a changing pad on a dresser instead of a changing table

Mom Hack

Forget the changing table and maximize your space with a two-in-one solution!

Use a comfy changing pad on top of a sturdy dresser. This way, you've got all your little one's clothes, diapers, and wipes right at your fingertips.

Plus, the dresser can be used for years to come, long after the diaper days are over.

My actual nursery is fairly tight, so this was a game-changer in our household 🙂 

Mom’s Menu

Quick Salmon Cakes! 🐟🍴

Hey mama, ever been in a dinner rut? 🙋‍♀️

If so, you're gonna LOVE this quick and scrumptious recipe.

These salmon cakes are not just yummy but super kid-friendly too.

Who knew the kiddos would actually devour salmon, right?

📝 Ingredients

• 18 ounces canned salmon (boneless skinless)

• ¼ cup fresh parsley, all minced up

• 1 tablespoon capers, drained and minced

• ½ teaspoon each of Old Bay seasoning (that's the secret, shh!) and onion powder

• ½ teaspoon of kosher salt

• ¾ cup plain panko or breadcrumbs (and hey, you can totally go gluten-free!)

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (gives it that zing)

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise

• 1 egg

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• For serving: Tartar Sauce or Remoulade Sauce (oh, this is the game changer!)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Start by draining that salmon and giving it a good ol' shred with a fork.

2. Mix salmon with parsley, capers, Old Bay, onion powder, salt, panko, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and the egg.

3. Get your hands in there and form 8 patties. Aim for about ½ inch thick so they cook perfectly. Pop them in the fridge for 15 minutes (or up to a day if you're prepping ahead. Go you!).

4. While you're waiting, whip up that delish tartar or remoulade sauce. Trust me, it's the bomb!

5. Heat the olive oil in a skillet. Medium-high is your sweet spot. Add the patties, cook 3-5 minutes until they're a lovely shade of golden brown. Gently flip (they're a tad delicate) and give the other side 3-5 minutes too.

📌 Notes

Got leftover salmon? Awesome! 18 ounces is about 2 ½ cups of the flaked cooked kind.

There you have it! A quick, healthy dinner that’s gonna win you "Mom of the Year" with your kiddos.

And hey, if it gets a little messy, that’s what aprons (and wine) are for! 😉💕

Full recipe here.

Daily DIY (Fall Edition)

15 Minute Rustic Wreath

Spruce up your front door in just 15 minutes!

1. Decide which side of your twiggy wreath is the top.

2. Measure and cut a burlap ribbon to wrap around the wreath.

3. Use a hot glue gun to secure the ribbon ends at the back.

4. Lay out your fabric flowers in a pleasing pattern.

5. Glue each flower onto the wreath with hot glue.

6. Use a wreath hanger to display your creation and bask in the glory.

The tutorial is here.

Mom’s Choice

This tool is a game changer because it combines drying and styling into one easy step, saving busy moms precious time.

It's a favorite because it offers salon-quality results from the comfort of home, making it easy to feel put-together even on the most hectic days. 🙆‍♀️

REVLON One-Step Volumizer

Game

Parenting Pop Quiz

What is "colic" in infants?
(Answer below)

A) Sleep disorder

B) Teething pain

C) Unexplained crying

D) Skin rash

Mom’s Meme 🤣

Answer

C) Unexplained crying