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A Valentine's Day Gown
Everyone loves a cute saying or, uplifting graphic so why not give someone stuck in the hospital a Giftgown that shares the love! We have several Valentine's Day themed gowns to choose from. Starting with the adorable "Otter this World" design, or our "Love Bug" design will definitely bring a smile to someone's face who's stuck in the hospital for Valentine's Day. You'll be helping them feel the love, and keeping them comfy, what's more romantic than that?
Romance Novel Set
When you're stuck in the hospital. you often are found waiting or sitting around for a number of hours. Help the time go by with a romance series! Nothing puts you in the mood for Valentine's Day celebrations like a swooping romance that transports your loved one to a completely different world. It'll also help keep their mind off the stress of being in the hospital. By getting them a series you allow them to fall in love with a story that lasts much longer than a single book.
Cozy Heart Pillow
Your loved one might not have someone to snuggle up with while at the hospital, but a heart pillow would be a great alternative! Heart pillows are comfortable, soft, and super huggable, so your loved one will be nice and snuggled into their bed!
A Streaming Service Gift Card and a Box of Soft Tissues
Hospital patients often get streaming services to pass the time, and boy, can you binge a lot of shows! Buy them a gift card and let them enjoy their next month on you. Better yet, give them a list of great rom-coms to watch this Valentine's day! Remember to include a box of soft tissues, the tissues at the hospital feel like sandpaper! This way crying and blowing their nose at all the sappy parts won't make their nose raw!
We hope these gift ideas have given you some romantic ideas to make your Valentine smile, even if they're stuck in the hospital!]]>
Either way, we've come up with a few fun games you can play to help pass the time, and keep a smile on your face!
Either way, we've come up with a few fun games you can play to help pass the time, and keep a smile on your face!
Crazy Eights
This one is a great option because all you need is a set of playing cards, which you probably have lying around somewhere. You can play this anywhere, whether you're in your hospital room, or the cafeteria, and you can always play Crazy Eight countdown if you're looking to stay busy for a while. The more people who play, the better. Not to mention, you'll find out who's really competitive once you play a few rounds.
Sushi Go
This is a fabulous game to play with a little one! If you have a child who's over 5 who is stuck in the hospital, this will keep them (and you busy) for hours. The fun graphics on the cards will stimulate kids, and it will help them practice their math and keep their little minds occupied. It's also highly portable so you can play a lot of different places.
One Sentence Stories
This is great for anyone who has very limited mobility and you'll need at least four or five people. Basically, you go around in a circle and each person says one sentence. The goal is to develop a ridiculous story from going around in a circle and each person contributes. Better yet, have someone jot the sentences down and read them later for more laughter!
If you know how to play, and someone can bring in a portable chess board, why not? It's great to keep the mind busy and games tend to go on for a while, so it'll make the day go by faster. We wouldn't recommend this for young kids, though ;)
Mad Libs
If you're in desperate need of a laugh, then Mad Libs is THE game you need to play. You can either get the little note pads, or they have an app. You can play with friends and family who visit, or the nurses and doctors on rotation. Either way, if you're looking for a pick me up to pass the time, Mad Libs are a brilliant idea.
We hope these games gave you some inspiration of things to do when you're stuck in the hospital!]]>
Donate a Gown
If you're unable to get someone a Giftgown this holiday season, you should definitely donate a Giftgown on their behalf. You'll be making sure that someone who is suffering from a similar illness will have a fun, comfortable gown that will bring a smile to their face, which is so important!
Fuzzy Blanket
Hospital rooms are known to be cold. Get your loved one a nice, cozy, fuzzy blanket! It will keep them company when you're not around and having something soft and fuzzy nearby can almost simulate having an animal around to pet.
Rubik's Cube
Keep your loved one's mind, and hands occupied. Get them a Rubik's Cube! It's a classic, colorful gift that they can use over and over again (as long as someone else twists the cube up after it's been solved). Who knows, they might discover a new found love for puzzles!
Coloring Book
If the person stuck in the hospital is more creative, bring them a coloring book with some pencil crayons. It will bring some color to an otherwise drab hospital, and this one is great for adults OR kids.
Sudoku Puzzles
Might as well keep your mind busy, if your body is stuck in a hospital bed. Get the person you love some Sudoku puzzles, and solve them together! It's a great way to make the time fly by in the hospital, as well as keeping the mind active.
Even if you're just looking for an extra little something, we hope these last minute gifts for someone stuck in the hospital will help lessen your holiday shopping stress!]]>
Here are three ways to give back to those in the hospital:
Buy 1 Giftgown Donate 1 Giftgown
It's always great to have a Giftgown on hand if you have a chronic illness, because who knows when you're going to need it? Even better, if you're looking to give back to hospitals, or those in the hospital this holiday season, why not participate in our Buy 1 Giftgown, Donate 1 Giftgown program? That way, you'll have a Giftgown for yourself, or a loved one on hand (just in case), and we'll donate a Giftgown on your behalf so someone else has one when they need it! What's not to love?
Volunteer your time
Hospitals are always looking for volunteers, whether it's to work in certain wards, or helping keep patients company, volunteers and their time are always appreciated. Think about it, wouldn't it have been nice to have a friendly face keep you company and make you smile when your loved ones weren't around? Be that person for someone else. It'll make a world of difference.
Advocate for the patients
If you're not interested in going back in the hospital, why not advocate for the hospital? Whether that's fundraising for them, educating people on the incredible work they do, or even representing them at local meetings & working with the community to support them. It's hard work, but it's rewarding and you'll definitely have a positive impact on a hospital that helped get you where you are today!
We wanted to give you three different options, with three different commitment levels because everyone has different energy levels, and time they can commit. We hope we've inspired you to give back to those in the hospital this holiday season!
Here are a few ideas of bundles for someone in the hospital for the holidays:
Christmas Giftgowns Bundle
What is better than giving your loved one the gift of comfort when they're in the hospital, especially when they love Christmas! For any parents, friends or grandparents in the hospital over the holidays, the Christmas Giftgowns bundle is a must-have. They're super soft and the picture of comfort. Not to mention, the snaps on the shoulder and back and pockets make both the patient's lives easier.
Kids Holiday Giftgowns Bundle
If it's a little one in the hospital over the holidays, why not cheer them up by helping them pretend they're a gingerbread person, or a snowman? Our super soft micro-fleece gowns are fabulous for keeping your little one cozy in the hospital, and the pockets allows them to carry things around the hospital which would otherwise be hard to keep track of!
A Trilogy of Books
There is nothing worse than finishing a book on a cliffhanger and not having the next book ready to go! Give your loved one a trilogy of books. It will keep them occupied for a while, they won't get stuck on a cliffhanger AND there is a nice, tidy ending at the end of the third book. Most of the time.
Nintendo Switch + Games
This is great for kids, or even younger adults who are nostalgic for old school Mario. The new Nintendo Switch allows you to download games, as well as movies and shows on Netflix, which is great for hospitals where there might not be patient wifi. Not only that, but your loved one can plug their earphones in and play or watch away without disturbing anyone.
A Craft Bundle
If the person in the hospital needs to keep their hands occupied, bring them a craft bundle! This could be some knitting needles, yarn and a pattern, or a crochet hook, some yarn and a pattern. It's a great way for them to stay busy, keep warm and learn a new skill.
Don't believe us? We were just featured in Considerable.com as a gift for someone in the hospital might actually want. We hope these bundles have inspired a few gifts for someone in the hospital for the holidays!]]>
Here are a few things you can bring from home to keep your child cozy in the hospital:
A kids Giftgown
What better way to keep your child cozy in the hospital than with a microfleece Giftgown! Microfleece is soft and will keep your child warm in the draftiest of hospital rooms. Not to mention, snaps on the shoulders make doctor's examinations super easy, and the adorable designs on the front will make your child smile whenever they see it. We love the Free Hugs and Lucky Star kids Giftgowns, they're so adorable.
A plushie
Bring a favorite plushie from your child's room will help keep them cozy and give them a sense of comfort, especially if they're all over the hospital for appointments. Having a plushie by their side whether they're up an about, or curled up in bed will keep their heart cozy during a difficult time.
Fuzzy socks
Fuzzy socks are always fun to have around, and they're even better to have around when your child is stuck in a hospital room and needs a few little things to cheer them up. Better yet, get a pair of fuzzy socks with a fun pattern so they can show them off to all the doctors and nurses.
Their favourite story
If you regularly read to your child at home, bring their favourite story you can read to them at the hospital. There's no reason you should deviate routine. It will also make them feel uber cozy cuddled up near you as you read them their favourite story.
Whether your little one is just beginning their stay at the hospital, we hope we've given you a few ways to keep your child cozy in the hospital, especially with the winter coming.]]>
With October quickly coming to a close, you may be wondering how you can give back this month and still make an impact? There are so many different ways you can help folks who are fighting breast cancer, from purchasing products that help organizations fight breast cancer, to volunteering at a breast cancer wing in a hospital.
If you're unsure about how to give back during breast cancer awareness month, hopefully the suggestions below inspire you!
A Pink Giftgown
For the month of October, anytime anyone purchases a pink Giftgown, we will donate 15% of all proceeds to help end the fight against breast cancer. You can give back and help support the Canadian Cancer Society in Canada, and the Susan G. Komen Foundation in the U.S. anytime you get a pink Giftgown for yourself, or a loved one. Not only will you get a cute, inspirational Giftgown that makes your hospital visit a more pleasant one, but you're also taking a stand against breast cancer!
Volunteer with your local charity
Breast cancer charities, and cancer charities in general are always on the lookout for folks to help them out. Give back to your community by volunteering your time to help run events, or do administrative tasks!
Sign-up to drive cancer patients to their appointment
Cancer is a nasty illness, and can take a lot out of a person. If you know someone, even if it's a distant acquaintance who is fighting breast cancer, volunteer to drive them to their breast cancer appointments. It'll make their life easier, and they won't have to worry about getting sick when they're driving or bus.
Organize a fundraising party with your friends
If you want your entire community to give back, throw together a fundraising party! Many organizations have "How-to" guides on throwing a fundraiser. It's an excuse to get together and see your friends, and all the money will go towards a good cause! Why not?
Spend time with loved ones fighting breast cancer
It's so easy for life to get in the way of spending time with the ones we love. Make the time and the effort to spend time with loved ones fighting breast cancer. They'll likely appreciate the company. Having breast cancer can be isolating. Lend your time and love to give back, it will certainly be appreciated.
With all of these ideas, we hope you've found a few ideas on how to give back during breast cancer awareness month!]]>
Recovering from a mastectomy is a pain. Literally. If you have a friend, or family who has undergone a mastectomy recently, having a few gifts on hand to help cheer them up, as well as help them in their recovery is a brilliant idea. And, we're not just talking about flowers and books.
Here are five helpful gifts for someone recovering from a mastectomy will be super thankful for:
Brave Giftgown
Whether your loved one is still in the hospital recovering from their mastectomy, or at home, a Brave Giftgown is a must. The most heart-warming thing about this gown is all of the uplifting phrases on the front. If your loved one is suffering mentally as much as they are physically, having a gown telling them they're brave, that they have courage and that they are magic could do wonders for them.
You're probably going to want to get a few other Giftgowns, because having multiple on hand will be helpful. They're carefully designed to not aggravate your healing chest, and it has snaps on the shoulders so you can move the fabric off your stitches if you need to! Not to mention, they help preserve your dignity when draining tubes, which can be awkward and uncomfortable at the best of times. Shop our Breast Cancer Awareness collection, where 15% of all proceeds from pink gown purchases will be donated to help end the fight against breast cancer!
Mastectomy Pillow
Sleep can be heard to come by after a mastectomy, either you're in pain, or you have a hard time getting comfortable in bed. Having a mastectomy pillow can help relieve pain, if you put ice packs in the pockets, or you can lie on your stomach when you're sleeping with the proper support, and weight distribution (off your stitches).
Seat belt cushion
Seatbelts on the drive home can be painful because they're pressed right against your loved ones most sensitive area, post-surgery. Having a seat belt cushion ready for them when they get in the car will not only be a touching gesture, but it can help make the ride home much more comfortable (especially if it's a bumpy ride)!
Dry Shampoo
Showering soon after a mastectomy is a no-no, but obviously you want your loved one to feel clean. Having dry shampoo ready to go can be a saving grace. It will help your loved one feel more dignified as they'll be able to refresh their scalp, and spray some dry shampoo into their hair (no matter how short). Not to mention, it will be a lot easier than raising their arms in the shower to suds up their hair.
Baby Wipes
In the same vein as dry shampoo, having baby wipes by your loved ones bedside can make all the difference when they can't have a shower. Baby wipes are helpful in keeping your skin clean when your healing, being able to have a sponge bath in bed as well as providing a little refreshment every now and then. Simple, yet powerful!
Mastectomies are painful, and can wear on a person. By having these helpful gifts on hand, your loved one will feel well looked after, and it'll make it easier for them to focus on healing.
We hope we've provided you with some inspiration of helpful gifts for someone recovering from a mastectomy!]]>
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and in honor of that, we will be publishing content to help any of our customers who are fighting breast cancer at the moment.
Here are a few ways that you can prepare for mammogram appointment:
Don't use deodorants, creams, lotions or powders the day of your appointment.
This is best practice for most clinics. Make sure to avoid using any of these things on your body (or upper body at least), as they can obscure the results of the mammogram, which is frustrating for everyone involved. If you're worried about the deodorant portion - be sure to bring it in your purse so your can pop it on afterwards.
Get yourself a Giftgown!
This is a nice little treat you can do for yourself in a stressful situation. Having a Giftgown not only will help lift your spirits, but it's also useful considering the clinic or hospital staff will need you to take off your shirt anyway. Why not get a Giftgown, which has snaps on the shoulder allowing for easy examination during a mammogram! It allows for ease of access for tubes or any monitors needed. An additional bonus, during the month of October, anytime you buy a pink gown on giftgowns.com, 15% off the proceeds will be donated to help end the fight against breast cancer!
Schedule your appointment when you're the least sensitive
Some women find their breasts quite sensitive around their time of the month, and it can make mammograms uncomfortable. If you're able, try and schedule around that, as it could help make the experience more pleasant.
Avoid caffeine a week before your appointment
While this may be difficult, avoiding caffeine 5-7 days can help make you feel less tender or uncomfortable during your exam. For someone who is anxious about their mammogram, this will help two-fold because you won't have the jitters from coffee, and you'll be less tender, hopefully.
Please keep in mind, we are not medical professionals, and cannot provide medical advice. With that said, we wanted to help you feel as confident and prepared as possible going into your mammogram appointment. Good luck!]]>
A lot of kids play a lot of video games, these days. By bringing family favorites, like Monopoly or Yazhtee, it'll stimulate your child's brain without having to move around too much, it will likely bring laughter and life into their hospital room. Not to mention, if they have roommates, they can play too!
Who doesn't love having their own custom designed clothes? Bring a computer and have your child design their very own special Giftgown. They're perfect for hospitals anyways, because of the snaps at the back and shoulder, making IV access and examinations a breeze. It's also a great activity to keep your little warrior busy for an hour or two.
Bring a silly book to the hospital and take turns reading passages in the silliest voices possible. The person who makes people laugh the most, wins! It'll have your cheeks aching with laughter.
This one is a great option for kids of all ages! If they're younger, grab a few coloring books with their favorite TV characters in them, and if they're older, head to the bookstore and pick up a book that has some intricate designs that will keep them busy for hours. Coloring also has a stress relieving effect on the brain, so not only will it allow them to be creative, but it will help them forget that they're sick for a little while. (We also have a gift bag with a coloring book, if you're interested!)
It's hard to have fun when your child is in the hospital, especially if they're in pain. Hopefully, with these suggestions you'll be able to bring a little life and sunshine into their (and your) lives while they're on the road to recovery. 😘]]>
Back to School is an exciting time for kids. However, for kids who are in the hospital when September comes about, it can be a difficult experience. We've come up with a list of some of the best gifts for back to school time that support kids in the hospital and will help bring a smile to their faces.
A Giftgown
A Giftgown is the perfect gift for anyone in the hospital. Kids can shop for their Giftgown online and still feel like they're doing their back to school shopping. With snaps on the shoulders for IV accessibility and snaps down on the back for coverage, kids and medical professionals alike will love Giftgowns! Check out some of our favourite kids designs here!
A Personalized Giftgown
If you want to make the gift even more special, a personalized Giftgown is a great choice. You can create a design or have them create a design themselves! With high quality printing, you can even include things like photos of a favourite memory on a gown!
Books are a great way to stay entertained and on top of schoolwork while in the hospital. If your child has enough energy, try bringing them books that are related to what they might be studying in school. Plus, throw in some just-for-fun books to keep them smiling and happy!
A Journal
A journal is a great way for kids to practice their writing skills while recovering. It also gives them an outlet for their emotions and can help them cope with being in the hospital. Try looking for a journal that is half-lined so that they can accompany their writing with drawings too!
Stickers are a fun and easy present that kids will love! They can share the stickers with their visitors and also decorate their clothing, cast, or anything else! Stickers can also be a great reward for kids being brave during tests. Plus, there are so many varieties available, so kids will find some that suit their interests!
We hope this helps you find some great back to school gifts for kids in the hospital! 🤗
Being a caregiver can be a stressful endeavour. Between scheduling appointments and looking after your loved one, you might not even have a moment to yourself. As important as it is to take care of your loved one, it's also important to take care of you. To help, we've compiled a list with some self-care tips, so you can stay well during this time.
Stay Positive
Staying positive for yourself and your loved one is one of the most important things you can do as a caregiver. Try and find small pleasures in every day, even when things get hard. You can also look for creative ways to support your loved one. For instance, why not support them by getting matching Giftgowns with a picture of a favourite memory, so you can remember some good times!
Take a Day Off
Everyone needs a day off sometimes, even a caregiver. If you are able to find alternate arrangements for someone to look after your family member, taking a day to just relax and treat yourself can help you feel a lot better. Take the day to do your favourite activities or to catch up with friends!
Eat Healthy Meals
Eating healthy is surprisingly difficult when you're around the hospital. It's likely that most of the options in the hospital food court will be fast food. So we recommend bringing snacks and simple homemade meals with you to the hospital, so you can get all your nutrition in while taking care of your loved one.
Stay Active
Your usual fitness routine may not fit in well if you're spending your time in the hospital. Trying to fit in small activities throughout the day will help you stay energized and positive. Try going to a quick walk or seeing if there's a fitness centre near by that offers day passes!
Meditating is a great way to distress and take care of your body and mind. It's a simple tool that you can do anywhere. If there's a time when your loved one is sleeping for example, you can do some simple breathing exercises. Pro tip: there are lots of meditation aps and guided mediations on Youtube that you can try out too!
We hope this helps make your experience of being a caregiver a little easier! 💖]]>
When you're stuck in the hospital, it can be hard to feel like yourself. You may find that the stress and discomfort of being there add up quickly. To help you out, we've come up with a list of some self-care ideas for you when you're in the hospital, so you can heal quickly and calmly!
When you're stuck in the hospital, it can be hard to feel like yourself. You may find that the stress and discomfort of being there add up quickly. To help you out, we've come up with a list of some self-care ideas for you when you're in the hospital, so you can heal quickly and calmly!
Try Meditating
Meditation is all the rage right now and there's a good reason why! Even spending a few minutes each day meditating can help you feel more calm, focused, and energized. If you're new to it, we recommend trying a guided mediation. There are lots available to listen to online or you can even download an app to your phone!
Wear Something Comfortable
Wearing something you feel comfortable in while in the hospital is key to feeling relaxed and calm in the hospital. Why not try a Giftgown? With soft 100% cotton fabric, fun designs and customization to cheer you up and functionality for hospital professionals, they're the perfect choice!
Create a Gratitude Journal
Even when you're at the hospital, noticing the small pleasures in your life can make a big difference to how you feel and your overall outlook on life. Plus, it's so simple to do. Just get a journal and write down three things each day that you're grateful for. Examples could include a friend coming to visit you, watching a funny movie, or even having a cup of your favourite tea.
Notice Your Breathing
Taking a couple minutes to notice and focus on your breath can make you feel much calmer and more centered. Having more control over your breath can also help you in the stressful situations which often arise in a hospital.
Take a Walk Outside
If you're feeling up to it, taking a walk outside can help to reenergize you and remind you of the world around you. Check with your nurses before heading out and remember, you can always borrow a wheelchair if you're not up to walking.
Do Something You Enjoy Each Day
Make sure to do something you like each day. Even if you can't do what you would normally, there are probably lots of activities you can enjoy from your hospital room. You could watch a favourite TV show, get out your sketchbook and draw, or read a bit of your favourite novel!
Accept Support
If you're normally a very independent person, it can be hard to accept support when in the hospital. Remember that friends and family want to visit and support you, so when they offer accept! Even if you're too tired for visitors, friends and family can help by looking after your home, collecting mail, and organizing support for when you head home.
We hope this list helps you recover quickly and calmly!
When you're stuck in the hospital, it can be hard to spend happy time with your partner. Between tests and various stresses in the hospital, the evenings that would usually be your date night can feel solitary and depressing. To help you cheer up we've compiled a list of ideas for fun date night ideas that you can do while in the hospital.
Movie Marathon
Time to put your Netflix subscription to use and have a movie marathon. This is the perfect way to spend some quality time together, while relaxing. If you're able to eat treats, why not make a night of it with popcorn and sweets!
Bring in Take Out
If going out for dinner is usually you're favourite way to spend some quality time together, then why not bring dinner to you. Order from your favourite restaurant and enjoy a full three course meal. To make it feel like a special occasion, you can bring your own fancy plates and cutlery from home! Don't forget to always check with a medical professional when bringing in food to the hospital.
Take a Trip Down Memory Lane
Why not think of some good memories and bring out your old photo albums. It can be a great way to bring in some great memories. Plus, if you find a pic you love, you can put it on a Giftgown to wear while in the hospital. It will help you stay cheerful and think back to good memories even when times are tough.
Make a Craft Together
Doing an activity like making a craft is a great way to spend some time together! You can look for a craft that's simple enough to complete in one night or find one that can be done over a few date nights.
Do a Food Crawl
If you're feeling up to it, then a food crawl through the hospital cafeteria can be a great way to get out of your room. Try to eat something from each restaurant and see if you can find a new favourite.
We hope these ideas help you to have a great date night! 🤗
It's never a good time to be stuck in the hospital, but particularly during the summer when everyone is enjoying the outdoors, it can feel difficult. Christmas in July is the perfect excuse to get someone who's stuck in the hospital a present, so we've come up with a list of gifts that are sure to anyone cheer up! We hope this helps you find the perfect present!
A Custom Giftgown
A custom Giftgown is the perfect present for anyone who is stuck in the hospital this summer! Giftgowns are fully accessible with snaps along the sleeves and back, which mean they work well for home use, as well as for recovery or hospital stays. You can use our simple online tool to upload a photo, graphic or favourite saying to a gown. How sweet and supportive would it be to put one of favourite family photos on the front? They'll be sure to love it.
A Summery Giftgown
If you're less into designing, why not choose a summery Giftgown? Giftgowns are fully functional and are sure to bring a smile to patients and medical professionals alike. Check out our summer favourites including Peace and Good Vibes and make someone's day.
A journal is a great gift option for anyone in the hospital. It can give them an outlet to express their emotions and get creative. To celebrate the season, a journal with a fun and summery cover is a great option! You could also pair this gift with some fancy pens, so you'll be sure they have something to write with. Pro tip: look for journals made with non-toxic ink!
Summer Reads
Who doesn't love a fun and light book? Yes, summer reads are perfect for the beach, but they can also be a great option for someone who's stuck in the hospital. The easily digestible content means that the book will be easy to read and usually light too. Perfect for passing the day!
Streaming subscription
A subscription to a streaming service is a gift that's sure to keep anyone who's stuck in the hospital entertained. Whether it is for a music or a video streaming service, you can be assured that they will find something to watch or listen to that they love. Plus, it's a great low-key activity that friends and family can also enjoy.
A Gift Bag
A gift bag or basket is a great way to give a mix of everything for Christmas in July! When choosing a gift bag, look for one that's specifically curated to teens. Or if you're feeling creative, you can even make your own! Just remember, if you decide to include snacks in your gift bag, be sure to check with a health professional first. We recommend the Giftgowns gift bag, which features a Giftgown, lotion, colouring book, fuzzy socks, and more!
We hope this helps you come up with the best Christmas in July gifts! ☀
Father's Day is meant to be a fun day to celebrate with family and tell your dad how much you love him. But, It can be hard to celebrate Father's Day if your dad is stuck in the hospital. We've come up with a gift guide to help you celebrate and show appreciation to your dad even if he's stuck in the hospital.
A Giftgown is the perfect gift for any dad stuck in the hospital this Father's Day. Giftgowns are functional and fun with 100% cotton fabric, two pockets, and snaps along the shoulders and back for accessibility. Some of our favourite dad gowns include What's Up Doc and I'd Rather Be Golfing. Or, for something totally unique, you can even customize a gown with a photo, graphic or saying. This is a gift that's sure to bring a smile to his face.
Streaming Service
A music or video streaming service is a great gift if your dad is going to be spending a lot of time at the hospital. It's a gift that keeps on giving for a long while to come and even after his hospital stay, he'll be bingeing away on his favourite shows. Plus, watching movies and TV shows together is the perfect relaxing activity to do together.
Gift Card
A gift card is the perfect present if you're not sure what to get for your dad. Choose a gift card to his favourite brand or to something relevant to the hospital. A great option is a Giftgowns gift card, so your dad can choose the hospital gown he wants during recovery.
Gift Basket
A gift basket is the perfect gift when you want to get your dad everything! Try and look for a gift basket that's specifically curated for hospital stays. This way, the items included will be useful to him right away. We recommend the Giftgowns hospital gift basket, which includes The Beat Goes On Giftgown, a journal, cozy socks, and more!
Framed Photo
A framed photo of a favourite memory is a great gift option for your dad this Father's Day. This is an awesome gift that will remind him of happy times. Plus, it's a gift that can be easily brought back home once he's feeling better.
We hope these ideas help you celebrate and have an amazing Father's Day, even during this difficult time.❤]]>
If you're a mama-to-be who's recently found out that you're expecting twins, you likely have a lot of questions on your mind. One baby is exciting and two are also exciting, although often overwhelming. We've gathered some of our favourite advice to help you prepare for your two bundles of joy!
Get Ready to Size Up in Maternity Clothes
You have two babies in your belly, not just one! That means you'll almost certainly need to size up in maternity clothes. It can sometimes be hard to find ones that are super comfy as a twin mom, but that's where Giftgowns come in! Giftgowns are soft and cozy and will take you from bump, to birth, to baby with 100% cotton fabric, two pockets, and snaps on the sleeves and back that make breastfeeding and epidural access a breeze! You can even customize your Giftgown with an ultrasound pic of your twins!
Join a Twin Club
Joining a twin support club is a fantastic way to meet other mamas who are in the same boat as you. This is the perfect place to find your mom friends and also to find guidance from twin moms who have older children already!
Find a Doctor who Deals with Multiples
Finding a doctor who is experienced with multiples is super important when having twins. Twin pregnancies are considered high risk, so having a medical professional who knows exactly what they are doing is key. Ask around—at your twin club perhaps—to find the perfect doctor for you!
Ask for Help When You Need It
Let's be real: one baby can be difficult. Two babies? That can sometimes seem nearly impossible. So when your friends and family offer to help and support you, get used to saying yes and don't be afraid to ask for help too! Anything from a home cooked meal to even an hour of babysitting can make your life so much less stressful. Plus, friends and family get to hang out with two adorable babies—it's a win for everyone!
Prepare As Much As You Can Beforehand
Twin moms often have to go on bed rest or at least take things really easy starting at 30 weeks. Getting as prepped as you can as early means you won't be stressed later on. Plus, prepping for two little ones is the perfect excuse to shop and decorate!
We hope this helps you feel all ready for your new babies! Double congrats on your bundles of joy! 👶👶]]>
Having a pregnant best friend is super exciting! While your mama-to-be bestie gets ready for the big day, we have some great gift ideas for you that will keep her happy and relaxed! She'll be so happy with these awesome present ideas!
Spa Day
A spa is a great way to great gift for a mama-to-be, because it lets her relax and have some time to unwind. You could even make a girls day out of it and go to the spa together! Pro tip: always make sure that the spa treatments are suitable for pregnant women before booking.
A Giftgown is the perfect gift for your bestie! She can wear it while pregnant, during labour, and after for breastfeeding or when she has visitors come over. High quality 100% cotton fabric also make Giftgowns the perfect option for skin-to-skin time with little ones. You can personalize her gown with a photo of a favourite memory or inside joke, or get her a bestseller like Mama in a Box or Love.
Babysitting Coupons
A homemade coupon for babysitting once the baby is born is a thoughtful gift for your BFF. She can use the coupon when she just needs a night or day off. This is a gift that she and her partner will love. Plus, you get the bonus of an evening spent hanging with get to hang with an adorable baby!
Mom Merch
If your BFF is a first time mom (or even if she's not), she's definitely going to want to tell the world! Giving her some mom-themed merch is a great way for her to show off her new status. We love the Mama in a Box hat for this, as it's great for keeping her warm and cozy while at the hospital. Plus she can continue wearing it out and about afterwards too!
Maternity Photo Shoot
Does your bestie love to be in spotlight? Then a maternity photo shoot is the perfect gift for her! Find a photographer in your area and have her bring her fave outfits for the shoot! Or if you're a skilled photographer, you could even do this yourself! Your bestie is sure to love seeing the photos and posting them on social for all of her friends and family to see!
Labour Socks
Labour socks are specifically designed for giving birth with grips on the bottom to ensure that the mama's feet don't slip. They're one of those things that many women might not think of, but will be happy to have in the hospital. Check out these adorable Keep Calm and Ow labour socks!
Maternity Gift Bag
A maternity gift bag is the perfect gift when you want to give everything to your bestie! Look for one that's specifically made for mamas to be. We love this maternity gift bag that's curated with moms in mind and includes a Giftgown, socks, journal, hat, and more!
We hope this helps you come up with the best gifts for your bestie! 👯♀]]>
With the advent of social media, there have never been so many ways to announce your pregnancy to the world. Traditionally, it's suggested that you wait until you are about three months pregnant before announcing your pregnancy, but ultimately it's up to what you (and your partner) feel comfortable with. We've collected a list of some of our favourite ways to tell the world about your little one who's on the way.
Custom Giftgown with Ultrasound Photo
Did you know you can print anything on a Giftgown, including a photo of your ultrasound? Get your ultrasound along with "Coming Soon" printed on a gown and then snap a photo of it! As an added bonus, you'll also be able to wear your gown during labour!
Get a photo with the parents' shoes and a little pair for baby! This is a classic birth announcement that's super cute and easy to do!
Coffee Cups
Is your family addicted to all things coffee? Then why not create a pregnancy announcement to match. Get two large cups with the parents' names written on and one sample size is "baby" written on it.
Movie Poster
Is your family blockbuster obsessed? Then why not create a movie poster to tell the world about your new little one. You can create a cute title like "And Then There Were Three" and snap a cute pic of you and your partner plus the "release date"—how cute!
Soon to be a Sibling
If you already have children, you can include them to make a super cute pregnancy announcement! Why not have them hold a sign that says "Big Sister or Brother to be". It's a great way to also make them feel included in the new baby's life!
We hope these ideas help you to come up with a super fun and cute pregnancy announcement! Congratulations on your new baby-to-be! 👶]]>
If you've just been told you have to be on bed rest during your pregnancy, you might feel a sense of dread set in. But don't worry, bed rest is more common than you might expect and in fact, as many as one in five women are told to do it. That being said, it can still be a stressful experience, so staying distracted and calm are key during this period. We've compiled some of our favourite tips to help you stay busy and keep your stress down during bed rest.
Get Comfortable
Now's the time to ditch your going out maternity clothes and get super comfy and cozy. We recommend wearing something that makes you feel confident and comfortable. A Giftgown is the perfect choice because it's soft and fun. Plus, Giftgowns will keep you inspired and excited for motherhood with fun sayings like #Momlife, Blessed Mama, and Mama Bear.
Catch up on Netflix
This might be the last opportunity you have to binge your favourite shows without your little one interrupting. Take advantage of this and catch up on all of the TV you might have missed out on in the past few years. Don't worry—it's not too late to become obsessed with Orange is the New Black.
If you've always wanted to start a journal, but never had the time, now is your opportunity. Take the time you have to reflect on your pregnancy as well as on your hopes and dreams for motherhood. Your journal will also be a great keepsake once your baby is born.
Get Prepared for Motherhood
Did you plan on reading about and researching motherhood during pregnancy? Maybe you ran out of time to learn everything you wanted, so now's the time to do it. Pull out all your parenting books and get learning. Time will fly when as you plan your parenting style and learn more about how to be the best mama around.
Work From Bed
If you're feeling energetic and you've gotten the okay from your doctor, you can set up shop and work from bed. Simply set up a laptop desk and have your phone on hand. This can be an especially great option if you don't want to eat into your maternity leave before your baby arrives.
Shop for Essentials
If you're put on bed rest significantly before your due date, you may find that you have a lot of preparation that still needs to be done. Luckily nowadays you can find everything you need online. Create a shopping list and order everything so that when your little one arrives you'll be ready to go!
Practice Mindfulness
It's easy to feel super stressed while on bed rest, as so many things are out of your control. However, the best thing you can do for yourself and your baby is to stay calm. Try meditating and focus on being positive. You can even check out some meditation aps to help you stay centred.
We hope that this list helps bed rest fly by, so you can get to time with your little one ASAP! 💖]]>
During your nine months of pregnancy it's super important to be eating right. Having balanced meals and snacks that will nourish both your and your baby's body are key aspects of a healthy pregnancy. We've gathered some of our top picks for foods to eat when expecting! However, we always recommend consulting with your doctor or other healthcare professional before making any diet changes! Happy eating (for two😉)!
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are full of beta-carotene, which becomes vitamin A in your body—an important vitamin in the development of your baby. They also have loads of fibre and are a complex carbohydrate, which means they will leave you full for hours!
Cooked eggs are a great source of protein and have a wide variety of vitamins and minerals, which are perfect for pregnant moms. Just remember to avoid raw or sunnyside up eggs, as bacteria in un or undercooked eggs can cause salmonella.
Dark Leafy Greens
The darker the green, the more nutrients! Change it up from the classic iceberg lettuce and try some super tasty and high vitamin spinach, kale, or Swiss chard. These super greens all pack in an extra punch of iron too, which is a key nutrient for mamas-to-be!
Although, you should avoid the raw and smoked varieties, cooked salmon is a good choice for developing babies. The omega 3 fats are important for brain development and with high amount of protein, you're sure to feel full and satisfied after eating.
Staying hydrated during pregnancy is super important! Try keeping a BPA free water bottle handy with you to keep your thirst quenched! Double check your water intake if you're feeling low energy— you might just be dehydrated.
Calcium is one of the most important nutrients and helps your baby develop strong bones. It's usually recommended that pregnant women have 2-3 servings of milk/milk products per day. Remember to always choose pasteurized products when pregnant. If you don't eat dairy products, fortified vegan milk such as soy or almond is the perfect substitute.
Bananas are great during pregnancy for a few reasons! They are stocked with potassium which, can help with pregnancy related leg cramps. They also are full of vitamin B6, which has been proven to help alleviate nausea (aka: the perfect morning sickness cure). Bananas are also a higher calorie fruit, so they give you a good and lasting energy boost!
We hope this list has given you some ideas for delicious and nutritious meals when pregnant! 🤰
Albert, T. (2015, August 15). The pregnancy diet: 5 must-have foods. Retrieved from https://www.todaysparent.com
Bjarnadottir, A. (2018, July 17). 13 Foods to Eat When You're Pregnant. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com
Kuzemchak, S. 27 Pregnancy Power Foods. Retrieved from https://www.parents.com
Your baby's first month of life is sure to be a crazy time for both of you! Between irregular sleep schedules, feeding, bathing, and cuddling with your little one, the time flies by! To help you be extra prepared, we've made a list with all the unexpected essentials you'll need for your new babe's first month on this planet! 🤱
A Giftgown
During your new baby's first month, you're likely going to have a constant stream of visitors to your home. While this support can be amazing, it can also be difficult to know what to wear. We recommend getting a few Giftgowns to wear around home and the neighbourhood. They're 100% cotton, which makes them perfect for your skin and you infant's skin too. Plus they're perfectly set up for breastfeeding with snaps along the shoulders. With tons of designs to choose from and even the option of customization, you'll feel comfy and cute in your Giftgown!
Way More Diapers
We guarantee that your little one is going to be going through way more diapers than you expect! Even if you feel like you have enough, you should probably still get more. There's nothing worse than a baby needing a change in the middle of the night and not having any clean diapers available for them. Whether you're going cloth or disposable, having an extra supply is key.
Ready Made Meals
Cooking is probably going to be the last thing you'll want to be thinking about during your little one's first month. If you're a keen cook, try making meals beforehand and freezing them, so that you'll always have something you like on hand. If cooking isn't your favourite activity, enlist your friends and family to help you with meals. They'll all want to be helping you during this amazing and hectic time. Just remember to let them visit a little with the baby when they stop over with food.
Night Light
While your new little one is probably too young to be afraid of the dark, having a nightlight will help you out in the wee hours of the night. With a night light, you won't have to worry about tripping or falling when you inevitably have get at 2am to feed, change, or comfort your little babe.
Simple Onsies
Newborns are messy. So as much as you might love fancy baby cloths, we recommend keeping it simple for the first month. Dress your baby in soft 100% cotton onsies will make clean up a breeze—just throw the soiled onsie in the wash. Plus, the natural fibre will be gentle and soft on your little one's skin.
We hope this list helps you complete your pre-baby prep and makes that first month a bit easier for you! 🥰]]>
Being pregnant with your second child is an exciting experience. You likely know most of the ins and outs of pregnancy from the first time around, which can make baby number two feel much easier. However, often the new challenge of including and engaging an older sibling in your new little one's life can be unexpectedly difficult. We've come up with some of the best tips to help you and your little one get ready for the birth of your even littler one. 🤗
Include Your Older Child on Your Due Date
Although you probably don't want your child to be in the room during labour, you can still find ways to make them feel involved in the labour experience. Showing that you will still be thinking of them during that time can help ease their stress around it. You could bring in a photo of them to the delivery room, or better yet, customize a Giftgown with a photo of the two of you together. That way, they'll know that they're still on your mind even if the focus is on the baby.
Help Them Embrace the Older Sibling Role
Finding ways for your older child to embrace the role of big brother or big sister is an important step. Try and come up with small ways that they can help out around the house and ways that they can have a special relationship with their younger sibling from the start.
Have Them Give a Gift to their Younger Sibling
Have your older child choose a gift to give to their baby sibling. They could even choose a matching gift for themselves so that the two siblings have brother or sister teddy bears or blankets—something special just for the siblings. By doing this they will feel included in the process.
Change Parental Duties
Changing parental duties in preparation for the new baby is a great way to help prepare your older sibling-to-be. If one parent is expecting to spend more time with the new baby (e.g., a mother who is nursing), it's important for the other parent to step into the older siblings routine before the baby arrives. Making sure the parent gets involved early means that when by the time the new baby comes, the older sibling will already be comfortable with the routine at hand.
Adjust Bedtime Routines
Adjusting bedtime routines is a key step in preparing your soon-to-be older sibling for the birth of your little one. If both parents are usually present ay bedtime, try switching off, so that when the new baby comes, your child is used to just having one parent at bedtime. If your child is graduating from a crib to a bed, make sure to do this a few months before the baby arrives. That way, they're less likely to be jealous or feel like the new baby is taking something of theirs.
We hope that this helps make transition from only child to older sibling easier for you and you family! 🥰
"Team Your Name"
A great design for a custom gown is getting "Team Your Name" across the front! With this design, your family and friends can get matching t-shirts and show their support during your battle.
Photo of a Favourite Memory
Having a photo of a favourite memory on your Giftgown can make your day during tough times. We love the picture of with Taylor Swift that Tiffany put on her gown! So, so cute!
Photo of a Favourite Vacation
A photo of a favourite vacation can bring back happy and fun memories even while in the hospital. You could even do a photo collage of several of your favourite vacations to print on your Giftgown!
A Drawing
Do you or someone you know like to draw? An original drawing is a great option for the front of your Giftgown and you'll get to show everyone else in the hospital your amazing artistic skills. Check out this awesome hand drawn design that Christina did for her gown—it's one of our faves!
A Sticker design
Did you know that the Giftgowns customization tool has over 100 stickers to choose from? You can choose one or many to make an oh-so-cute design. Our stickers include watercolour flowers, hearts, cacti, and more! You'll definitely find a graphic that suits your style with our stickers.
Favourite Catch Phrase/Mantra
A favourite catch phrase or mantra can help you out even when times are tough. Think of a phrase that embodies what you believe and that can help you even during the difficult days. Taylor designed her amazing Peace Love and Warrior On gown to wear for recovery after surgery to remind herself that she is a warrior!
Favourite Family Photo
A favourite family photo can show your family's support for you whether or not they're able to be at the hospital. We recommend choosing a photo that bring a smile to your face or is an inside family jokes!
Check out some more of our favourite custom gowns below! We hope this helps you find a customization idea that you love and that cheers you up during this difficult time! ❤
Not sure how you want to customize your Giftgown? Fair enough, it can be hard to know what design to do. Don't worry though, because we've got you covered with some of our favourite customization ideas for mamas-to-be! From high-quality photos, to text designs, and graphics, you're sure to make a design you love! 💖
Picture of your Ultrasound
A pic of your ultrasound is a cute way to show everyone at the hospital a preview of your new babe. You can even get the ultrasound image printed low down on your bump with the words "coming soon" above it! As soon as you get a copy of your ultrasound, we definitely recommend getting it printed on your custom Giftgown too!
Photo of Your Kid(s)
Although having a new brother or sister can be an exciting experience for kids, it can also be a really scary one. They often feel left out and anxious about the changes that a new baby may bright. You can make them feel like they're a part of the labour experience by putting a picture of them on the front of your Giftgown. It's the perfect way to make them feel included and excited for their new sibling!
Birthing Mantra
Putting your birthing mantra on the front of your gown is a great way to stay grounded and prepared during birth. You'll have it as a reminder to stay calm and collected (well—as calm and collected as you can be) during labour. Check out Ayana's birthing story and her gown with the hypobirthing mantra "The waves are strong, but I am stronger".
Funny Saying
If you're more of a jokester than a mantra person, then we recommend getting a funny saying printed on your gown. You can choose something birthing related or something totally random. What better way to welcome your baby into the world then with humour?
Photo of You and Your Partner
A picture of you and your partner is a fun choice for the front of your gown! You could even do your pregnancy announcement pic. How cute would your little one's first photos be in front of the pic that announced it to the world?
Sticker Design
Did you know that the Giftgowns customization tool has over 100 stickers to choose from? You can choose one or many to make an oh-so-cute design. Our stickers include watercolour flowers, hearts, cacti, and more! You'll definitely find a graphic that suits your style with our stickers.
We hope that these ideas give you some inspiration for the perfect custom gown! We love seeing your designs, so don't forget to post pics and tag us @giftgowns and #giftgowns! 🎨
Alongside the essentials for mom, you'll want to make sure you bring everything you'll need for your little one with you to the hospital too! We've compiled a list of things to include in your hospital go-bag for you new baby as well as some items you'll need on your way home. We'll be honest—not everything on here will fit into a bag, but everything on this list is super important for the first hours and days of your little one's life. To make it extra simple, we've even sorted it so that everything is in the order that you'll need it! 🤱
A Giftgown
It's super important that the clothing you're wearing during skin-to-skin time is soft on your newborn's skin. Giftgowns are 100% high quality cotton, which makes them perfect for a baby's sensitive skin. Giftgowns are functional for you too, with snaps along the shoulders that make breastfeeding a breeze, snaps on the back to keep you covered, and pockets to make sure everything you need is right at hand! Plus in your Giftgown you'll be picture perfect for the first photos of you and your little one!
First Outfit
Don't forget to bring a few options for your baby's first outfit with you! Bring clothes that are soft 100% cotton and won't irritate your new babe's skin. Make sure to bring a variety of sizes just in case your baby is bigger or smaller than expected.
Baby Blanket
Babies can get cold very easily, so bringing a blanket for them is key. Plus, it makes a great memento for later on—they'll be able to show off their first blankie for years to come! Look for blankets that are made of non-irritating fibres such as cotton to ensure your little one's skin doesn't get irritated.
Burp Cloths
Babies need to be burped…a lot. Make sure to bring some burp cloths with you to the hospital avoid the inevitable spit-up everywhere. Yes—it's definitely going to happen at some point during your babe's infancy, but might as well put it off for as long as you can. When it comes to burp cloths always go for bigger to cover more surface area!
Although hospitals may provide some diapers, they may not provide them for the entire period of time that you are there. So it's definitely a good idea to bring some along. Pro tip: If you're thinking about going down the cloth diaper route, remember to sign up for your subscription service before you go into labour, so you'll be set for when you head home.
Outdoor Gear (weather dependent)
If you live somewhere that has a cold climate, make sure you bring weather appropriate baby clothes. Newborns are particularly sensitive to cold, so they need to be dressed super warmly even if they're only going to be outside for a few minutes!
A Car Seat
A car seat is one of the most important things to bring to the hospital. In fact, many hospitals will not let you leave unless you have the correct one set up and ready to go. Always buy car seats new, as regulations around them are constantly changing and they can deteriorate over time.
We hope this helps you complete your hospital go-bag! Be sure to check out Part One, which highlights all the essentials for mom! 🥰]]>
Packing your hospital go-bag for labour is a key part of getting ready for birth! You'll want to make sure your bag is packed full of the essentials to help make your experience go as smoothly as possible. We recommend packing your bag when you're about 32-36 weeks pregnant so that you are ready just in case you have an early arrival! 😉
It can be hard to feel good during labour while wearing a scratchy and oversized hospital gown. Giftgowns solve this problem by being comfy, cute, and functional for labour. They have snaps along the shoulders for access and along the back for coverage and epidurals, 100% cotton fabric, and even pockets. Giftgowns come in lots of cute maternity designs, or you can customize your own with photos, a favourite saying, or graphics! They are the perfect gift for the new mom who wants to feel confident during labour and be ready for picture-perfect moments with her baby. Plus with their shoulder snaps, Giftgowns are designed to make breastfeeding a breeze at the hospital and at home! We recommend bringing a couple of Giftgowns so you'll have them for delivery and clean ones for afterward! Check out our bundles for some favourite duos and trios.
Labour Socks
Labour socks are a fun gift that you can use in the hospital and when you head back home. They are designed specifically for delivery and feature grips on the bottom, so your feet don't slip. Plus this means no cold feet in the hospital
Birth Plan
Having a copy of your birth plan ready will help you feel confident and ready at the hospital. Just remember to be open to changes, as labour usually doesn't go exactly according to plan.
Sometimes the hospital can get a bit chilly, so we recommend bring a hat with you to help stay cozy! While you're at it, might as well choose one that is maternity themed like Giftgowns' Mama in a Box hat.
Lip Balm
Hospitals are often super dry, so within even a few hours you might find your lips are starting to crack. Popping your fave lip balm in your bag means there will be one less uncomfortable thing to worry about during labour.
Hair Ties
Let's be real: birth can be a long and messy process and having sweaty hair plastered against your face is definitely not comfy. Having some nice scrunchies or hair ties to keep it up and out of your face can help you feel a bit fresher and a little less sweaty.
Going Home Outfit
It's important to remember to bring an outfit to go home in. Bring something that is super comfy and stretchy/bagger to accommodate for your post-partum body! Think sweat pants or leggings and a comfy cotton tee.
Post-Partum Pads
Pads are going to be your best friend for the days and weeks following birth. Pro tip: choose comfy, breathable undies to wear them with.
Nursing Bras
If you're nursing, you'll definitely want to bring at least one nursing bra in your hospital go-bag. They help make the process much easier and are so much comfier for post-partum mamas than a traditional bra.
Breast Pads
There will likely be inevitable leakage, so having breast pads will keep you feeling confident and more comfortable! You can choose to get disposable or reusable ones, so try both and see what suits you best.
Since you'll be in the hospital for likely at least 24 hours, it's a good idea to bring a toiletries bag with all the essentials. Bringing basics like toothpaste, toothbrush, face wash, and deodorant means you can avoid using the hand soap in the bathroom as an all-purpose hygiene tool.
We hope this list helps you pack the ultimate hospital bag essentials! Don't forget to check out part two Hospital Bag Essentials for your new little one! 💖
When you're a new mom, breastfeeding your baby can be exciting, but it can also be a very difficult and scary journey. There will be so many things on your mind between latching, soreness, and exhaustion, that the last thing you'll want to worry about is clothes that aren't functional. You definitely want to make sure your clothing is comfy and accessible. With so many options today, it's hard to know what the best choice is, so we've compiled what you probably shouldn't wear and what you really should during you early days of breastfeeding! 🤱
What not to wear:
A T-Shirt 🙅♀
While they are true staples, t-shirts can be very difficult to breastfeed in. With higher necklines and full sleeves, even the stretchiest ones just don't make the cut. For nursing, garments with accessibility truly reign supreme, so save your fave tees for later days.
A Button Down Shirt 🙅♀
A button down shirt seems like it would be a good choice. After all, you can undo the buttons for easy access…right? Unfortunately, it's not quite that simple. Even with buttons down the front of a shirt, you can't necessarily get the access you need. And if you do manage to get it, you'll be stuck with your entire front visible to everyone around. Leave the button down for the office and avoid it during nursing!
A Nightgown 🙅♀
Nightgowns are definitely comfortable, however even when they are super cozy they might not be the ideal nursing garment. Since the shoulders aren't typically outfitted with snaps or buttons, you'll likely have to pull the entire gown up in order to get breastfeeding access—At that point, what's the point of wearing clothes at all!?
So what should you wear? 💁♀
A Giftgown of course! Giftgowns have been specifically designed for comfortable breastfeeding access! The easy-to-undo snaps on the shoulders make it a breeze to nurse your little one. Plus they're as comfy as pyjamas and super cute, so you can wear around the many visitors you're sure to have as a new mom! With super soft 100% cotton fabric, Giftgowns are also ideal for skin-to-skin time with your little one. With your Giftgown, you're sure to feel confident, comfortable, and cute during your time with your new babe! Plus, you can choose from specially designed maternity gowns or create your own with Giftgowns' Design Your Own Tool!
We hope this guide helps you to feel comfortable and confident while nursing! 💖]]>
Happy 2019! The New Year is the perfect time to begin thinking about healthy and active living for the year to come. To help you start your year off right, we've compiled some of our favourite tips to help you have your best year yet! 🎉
Happy 2019! The New Year is the perfect time to begin thinking about healthy and active living for the year to come. To help you start your year off right, we've compiled some of our favourite tips to help you have your best year yet! 🎉
Get into a fitness routine…with your friends!
Getting into a fitness routine is one of those classic New Years resolutions that everyone says they will do, but that rarely happens. To help you achieve this goal, we recommend finding some friends to join you in your fitness journey! When working out becomes both a social and athletic activity, you'll be more likely to hit the gym! Pro tip: look for classes or sports that are fun for you, whatever they may be!
Try meditating
Meditating is all the rage these days and there's a good reason why. People who meditate regularly are generally less stressed, feel more energized and are even happier than those who don't. If you're on the fence about it, just start off small—say two minutes of meditation per day. You can also try out aps for simple guided meditations and mindfulness tips.
Take time for yourself
It can be hard to take time to chill out, when everything in the world seems to be whirling by at a mile per minute. However, taking time for yourself is key to your health. Make it a priority this year to spend a small (or large) amount of time every day for you. We promise you won't regret it!
Bring your lunch to work
Do you find yourself constantly buying lunch when you're at work? Besides spending a fortune on average tasting meals, you are also loading up on likely not very healthy calories. Even take-out salads, which seem healthy are often loaded up with tons of sodium and fatty dressings. Instead try and bring your own balanced lunch. You can use leftovers or even meal prep on Sunday evenings so you have a weeks worth of delicious and healthy meals ready to go!
Take some time to unplug
Constantly being plugged into the world is one of the most stressful aspects of living in the 21st century. Between emails, news, and the constant connectivity, being online all the time can seriously add to your stress levels. This year, try and take a few hours each day to be actively offline. Leave your phone at home when you go for a walk or turn in on airplane mode before you head to bed at night.
We hope these ideas help you to have your best and healthiest year yet! Happy New Year💪💖🙌]]>
With the holidays almost here, it's time to start thinking of gifts for everyone on your list! Finding the perfect present for the grandparents in you life can be a bit tricky at times. Luckily, we've compiled this list with the best holiday gifts for them!
With the holidays almost here, it's time to start thinking of gifts for everyone on your list! Finding the perfect present for the grandparents in you life can be a bit tricky at times. Luckily, we've compiled this list with the best holiday gifts for them!
A Giftgown
A Giftgown is the perfect present for the grandparent on your list! Giftgowns are fully accessible with snaps along the sleeves and back, which mean they work well for home use, as well as for recovery or hospital stays. Giftgowns come in a variety of designs that suit any style, plus you can even customize them with a photo, graphic, or favourite saying. Just think how much a grandparent would love a Giftgown with their grandchild's picture on it—so sweet!
A Photo Album
A photo album with pictures of their children and grandchildren is a perfect holiday gift! Choose your favourite photos and print them out. Grandparents' will love the return to printed photos. It's such a thoughtful gift that they'll be able to look through whenever they're in need of a smile.
A Donation in their name
A donation in a grandparent's name is an incredibly sweet and generous gift. It's the kind of gift that they will have a memory of for a long time to come. When choosing an organization to donate to, look for one that they will feel proud of donating to. If you're looking for ideas, Giftgowns donate a gown program is a great choice. We partner with hospitals and organizations across the US and Canada to brighten patients' days. Donate here.
A homemade present
A homemade present can be incredibly meaningful for a grandparent to receive. If you're stuck for ideas, you can create something that is based on your relationship together. Use whatever medium you feel most comfortable and confident in to create a gift they'll love for years to come.
A Gift Bag
A Gift bag or bundle is the perfect gift for a grandparent! Look for a gift bag that's suited to their interests, style, and personality! If you're feeling creative, you can even create a gift bag yourself. Or, if you're looking for ideas, we recommend the Giftgowns Gift Bag. With a Giftgown, tea, lip balm, a fun colouring book, and more, it's the perfect gift bag!
Personalized Calendar
There's a good chance that your grandparents are still using a traditional calendar. If this is the case, a personalized one is a great option! You can make it special by including a mix of favourite photos, sayings, and pictures. Plus, you can even include special dates on it like they're birthday. With a personalized calendar they will be thinking of you all year.
A Gift Card
A Gift Card is the perfect gift to give when you're not sure exactly what to get the grandparent in your life. It's a gift that shows you care, while still giving them the freedom to choose something they love. Look for a gift card that suits their style and current interests. Check out the Giftgowns Gift Card, available in denominations of $40+!
We hope this list helps you find the perfect present for your grandparent! 👵👴]]>


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subset: commoncrawl


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Despite the acronym, SEO is as much about people as it is about search engines. SEO is about understanding what people are searching for online, what answers they want, the words they're using to search, and the type of content they want to consume.
Knowing the answers to these questions allows you to better connect with the people who are searching for the solutions you offer.
But knowing your audience's intent is only one side of the SEO coin. The flipside is delivering it in a way that search engines can properly find and understand it.
Our SEO specialists are experts at what they do, a statement certified by the search giant itself, Google!
We are here to help you succeed.


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belmont furniture collection • bernhardt closeout furniture • discontinued bernhardt furniture
Furniture cabinet is one bernhardt bedroom furniture of the biggest investments on your own Furniture style. No wonder, homeowners consistently take lot of concerns prior to bernhardt bedroom furniture beginning purchasing 1 and you're as well. Don't stress bernhardt bedroom furniture. You are able to adhere to all these guides onto Bernhardt campania queen upholstered panel bed with block precisely. Usually, individuals really like to make use of wooden cabinets, such as plywood which long-lasting and doesn't off gas of coating. There are also metal, wood laminate, plastic laminate materials, etc.. Yet, deciding on cupboard resources is situated on your available budgets, however, you ought to know that high-quality materials additionally bring further drawbacks. Cabinet fashions come with your Furniture styles. Whether the cabinets follow your own Furniture styles or viceversa.
Would you like to enhance your old Furniture? used bernhardt bedroom furniture Then, you require lots of what to do and to choose comprises Furniture cabinet. Cabinet always becomes very crucial thing in Furniture for encouraging the exact used bernhardt bedroom furniture Furniture activity, make it nicely coordinate, and also support the design of their Furniture. Among so a lot of Furniture cupboard choices, the most popular 1 is Bernhardt campania queen upholstered panel used bernhardt bedroom furniture bed with block. Cherry is one of the most useful and favorite substances which can be employed for Furniture cupboard. It is because cherry is the best wood material that is durable and includes good look.
Iron and bernhardt bedroom furniture reviews wood are timeless combination for Furniture dining table and chairs. This is fantastic for relaxed model modern Furniture. The wood can be used whilst the dining table tops and cushions to your chairs while the iron extends the framework. It is advisable to make use of light colored timber such as for example yellowish honey wood. This bright wooden color will alleviate both the strong and modern feel of this iron. It's better to go uncomplicated with the iron and avoid superb major curve patterns.
Gallery for Bernhardt Bedroom Furniture (10 of 40 images)
The good thing of owning Bernhardt campania queen upholstered panel bed with block is that they fit with any floors, walls or bernhardt salon bedroom furniture any kind of one's Furniture. The mild shade provides your Furniture brighter nuance with more cheering up air. If it was white colour that overlooks your Furniture, select the appropriate measurement of lighting wood Furniture cupboards and also create the additional basic alterations. As an instance, modify the shade of one's Furniture light or insert wallpaper to make your Furniture livelier. Please be aware that brand new appearance doesn't mean substantial modifications or superior price tag. Only altering some furniture or appliances might offer important difference. Make certain you make budget plan in order to get best consequence of your Furniture advertising project.
Paint darker grey paint bernhardt bedroom furniture discontinued create stain look about the cupboards. Wipe off the blot by using a rag afterwards applying, so the blot will probably stick to the edges and corners. Employ any volume you would like based by what much the outcome you will need to make. The classic will be noticeable as more stain implemented. Let the paint then reattach the doors in Bernhardt campania queen upholstered panel bed with block once it's been totally dry.
How Exactly To Receive Cats From Scratching Bernhardt Bedroom Furniture
It isn't a secret that Furniture bernhardt bedroom furniture prices appliances are quite costly. However, the truth isthat you'll become much greater deals for those who realize the Bernhardt campania queen upholstered panel bed with block. Otherwise, you might well not receive the latest model, however you're going to absolutely safe hundreds of bucks if you get them at the right time. January is the period the manufacturer prepares to launch the new types for its year. Therefore, the retailers will make an effort to market the last calendar year models just as far because possible . Fantastic news for all of us purchasers, January until March is your optimal/optimally time to buy all types of Furniture home equipment.


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2 days ago I was invited to a wedding of a close friend whom I've never met. for years we've been talking about "when he gets married" but the day already came so soon! I was so gobsmacked when I first found out last year because they were the first of all my friends to actually announce that they will get married! I felt that in marriage, age is nothing but a number, and starting a family with somebody you love is just so magical, it's like.. a dream come true. previously, he had always had plans to marry her right after uni and no doubt he is a man of his words! Continue reading "witnessing a love story."
it is so hard to believe. I turned 19. it's like, way over sweet 16. T_T. I sound old now. I don't understand how can I still feel so young and childish. I really need to grow! even though I don't know how will I eventually grow hahahaha.
besides, it's my last year of being a teenager T_T. oh my.
this is my Opera cake. Opera cakes are awesome. they taste fantastic! looks fantastic as well! Continue reading "NINETEENTH!"
Painin Fever.
painin is where you visit somebody's home on the Chinese New Year period to gamble, chit chat and get angpows *if you're single that is. I especially love this season — even if I don't gamble and had to play angry birds at the corner of the house. okay, it's not that bad, I actually love the fact that many people gather together after such a long time and actually have fun together. sometimes, it isn't the angpow that matters, it's how friends and family who had not meet for such a long time actually making an effort to gather together.
some busy people might think, ah.. it's so troublesome, it is JUST another week anyway. but what's different? you'd have to experience it to understand ba.
I just felt, everyone should at least get together on CNY. especially close friends and families. =).
barely even all the females on my mother's side. we would need two school bus if we were to ever travel on a field trip together! Continue reading "Painin Fever."
P – updated
It appears that Jamie has passed her driving exam, and is now a P driver.
PS : it's Yee Hou.
and now it is Jamie. =D. SHORT POST!
I TOOK MY P! =D =D =D. I took my picture yesterday and I got my P today! =3. efficient enough kekee.
I couldn't believe I passed it still. I have a PHOBIA towards driving, if you don't know =X. Continue reading "P – updated"
Say Seventeen <3.
a few more days to go =D. I am born on mothers day! but since mothers day changes every year, this year it isn't on the exact day of mothers day, instead, it is one day earlier. =D! I prefer being sixteen I don't know why. maybe because it sounds better =/. and why do I have exams near my birthday everytime it is so not fair pfft.
my white party where I will only allow everybody to either wear white (or pink) where I will wear something else =D.
my first camwhore =O. MrHumble bought me this dress for my birthday! I LOVE IT. okay I really got to say that he've got some better taste than me in clothing *sobs*. but THANKS! I appreciate it a lot =). Continue reading "Say Seventeen <3."
To My Daddy.
15th of August, my dads birthday, now I'm 16 and I don't remember celebrating with him every year. I really want to, but can't because he's working far away in China.
this post is fully dedicated to my dad.
every year, we usually call him and wish him Happy Birthday and also send him an online E-card. but now I wonder, are E-cards really special? they're all animated and all words and messages are usually written. sending a card there takes 2 weeks and it might not reach too sometimes, torn or wet too maybe. so the best way to keep it all right to me would be by posting it online.


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Size & Fit
- Maison Kitsuné navy cotton T-shirt
- White logo print at front, ribbed neckline
- Slips on
- 100% cotton
- Machine wash
- Length shoulder to hem: 28 inches/ 72cm
- Midweight
- Slim-fit
- Model is 6'2"/ 187cm, chest size 38 inches and wears a size medium
SKU No.: SC314183
Style No.: 728006
Brand Bio
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Help & Advice
Find out the delivery options for this item.
We offer a free returns service using your Returns Note provided in your parcel or alternatively return in person to your nearest store.Find out more
If you're suffering from a sartorial block or need a hand hunting down something extra special, we're here to help.


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- Location: Loreto B.C.S., Mexico
- Rooms: 180
- Courses: One
- Amenities: Six restaurants / spa / pool / beach
- Also good for: Best for Buddies
6 things you need to know
- Best time to go: November to May; it's a little cooler and best time to catch whales passing by in the Gulf of California.
- Daily stay-and-plays start at: $298
- Golf experience: Imagine Sedona, Ariz., crashing into the sea—that's TPC Danzante Bay. Rees Jones' par-3 17th is stunning.
- Best non-golf amenity: Get on a boat and explore the Bay of Loreto National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- While you're there: There's a hidden disco on the property (in a yurt, no less) open on weekends only.
- Insider tip: Check the Alaska Air flight schedule from LAX to Loreto; it's the only way to get here directly from the states.
Rees Jones is better known as a restorer of U.S. Open courses than as a creator of dramatic holes. But he achieved the latter at the 17th at TPC Danzante Bay, where he built one of the world's most stunning par 3s. The downhill tee shot is unforgettable: to a sliver of green placed on top of a rocky peninsula overlooking the Sea of Cortez. The views are so good the spot has also become a popular early-morning hiking spot for guests here on the eastern coast of the Baja Peninsula. The rest of the course is mountains meeting the ocean, with many fairways carved through canyons and numerous greens backdropped by sheer rock walls. Multiple pools at the resort, plus the Bay of Loreto, are perfect for cooling off, while the spacious spa is ideal for chilling out. The two-bedroom suites complete with full living rooms and kitchens are tailor made for buddies' trips.


text: All those who seek professional aid of a spare parts agent to streamline trade operations can count on us. Ours is a Delhi, India based service provider agency, licensed to render services of an imported machine spare parts agent in the surrounding regions. We are a crew of skilled individuals, who work as per client's functional requirements and provide solutions accordingly. Being a responsible entity, we lay special emphasis on quality parameters in order to build credibility with clients. For further discussion, feel free to contact us anytime.


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Rutgers University, USA
The world-renowned Rutgers University, USA and Concordia Ukrainian-American University invite you to participate in an exclusive summer program of innovative business modeling and startup management. Mentors of the program are American practitioners with successful experience in implementing startup projects, professionals of the US innovation landscape.
The purpose of the program is to master techniques and entrepreneurial activities, modern practices in development, modeling, investment and pitching of startup projects. The program is designed for Bachelors or Masters of Ukrainian higher engineering and business universities. The language of communication is English.
Students will have full access to the unique Rutgers Makerspace – the latest Automated Rapid Manufacturing Technology in a State-of-the-Art Facility, from product design, games, services to analytical data processing systems.
Join Our Summer Program!


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- Description
Valdespino is one of the oldest and very few family-owned bodegas in Jerez with a history of Sherry production going back six centuries. Alfonso Valdespino was one of 24 knights who fought for the city of Jerez with King Alfonso X, against the Arabs in 1264. As a reward for his efforts he was given land in the Jerez region. Today Valdespino belongs to the Estevez family, and they own 750 hectares of their own vineyards in Jerez, which is rare in this region, and allows them close control over grape quality. Their Pago Macharnudo vineyard provides the grapes for their single vineyard wines, which include the Fino 'Inocente', the 'Amontillado 'Tio Diego' and the Palo Cortado 'Viejo CP', and they are one of the only bodegas currently producing single vineyard sherries. Valdespino are also renowned for their VOS (Very Old Sherries) with over 20 years of ageing and VORS (Very Old Rare Sherries), with over 30 years of ageing
The vineyard is located in Jerez. The white 'albariza' soil is typical of the region, and comes from a layer of earth rich in marine fossils. Thanks to the high content of calcic carbonate, its clayey texture does not split; it is soft when wet and absorbs rain like a sponge, and when it dries out it forms a layer that holds in the water, preventing evaporation. This reserve of moisture encourages the vine roots to develop, some reaching to more than four metres depth, allowing them to use this water reserve when needed.
Fermentation takes place in 600 litre American oak barrels. Once fermentation is finished, when 11_x001A_13% alcohol is reached, the Oloroso is then it is fortified to 20%, and allowed to age 100% oxidatively. It is aged in a solera system for fractional blending, and the finished wine has a average age of over 20 years. This Oloroso is medium dry with an RS of 8.5g/l.
Tasting Notes
Mahogany coloured. Aromas and flavours of caramel, toasted almonds and dried apricots. Very expressive and complex. Good acidity, and a very long persistent finish.
- Additional Information
Additional Information
Name Valdespino Oloroso Don Gonzalo VOS Country Spain Region Jerez, Andalucia ABV% 21% Vintage NV Grape Variety 100% Palamino Size 375ml Dietary Information Suitable for Vegetarians, Suitable for Vegans
- Reviews


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Dustin Angelo
Chief Executive Officer
Sustainable Extractive Technologies
a subsidiary of Anaconda Mining
Mr. Angelo has extensive operating and financial experience in the mining industry, including gold, coal and aggregates, and is a Certified Public Accountant, licensed in the United States. He is currently the CEO of a subsidiary of Anaconda Mining where he has been President (former CEO until March 2019) since September 2010, and has been a director since November 2009. Prior to joining the Anaconda team, Mr. Angelo served as CFO of Elgin Mining Inc. (formerly known as Phoenix Coal Inc., a TSX-listed resource company) from August 2006 to November 2010; as Vice President of MHI Energy Partners (an energy-focussed private equity fund) from 2005 to 2006, and; as a Principal at New York City's Waller Capital Corporation (a boutique investment bank focussed on mergers and acquisitions) from 1997 to 2005. He was also a founding member and director of North American Limestone Corporation (a private developer and operator of limestone quarries in the United States). Mr. Angelo earned a BSBA in Accounting and International Business from Georgetown University and a MBA from the Columbia Business School.


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For You With Care Premium Gift Set
If you send gifts and flowers to people you love in Ukraine often, this set is the perfect solution for you. For You With Care Premium Gift Set is an upgrade of "For You with Care" Basic Gift Set and it contains all the food staples you need plus some extra treats. Seasonal fruit included in this package get you the best deal of the month. Seasonal bouquet is complementing the food set to complete the set. Order it once and rest assured people you love are taken care of every month. This is a membership price. When you place your order, you pay for the first and the last month of the delivery. After that you will be billed monthly.Set Includes: Milk 1 l Yoghurt 1 l Sunflower oil 1 l Bread Kalach Chicken Eggs 20 pcs Green tea Instant coffee Jacobs Monarch 60 g Sour cream 355 g Pot cheese 305 g Butter 250 g Home-made sausage 500 g Seasonal fruits Seasonal flowers
31 pounds
- Images are indicative in nature. Actual products may vary in shape or design depending on current supply.
- Flowers can be delivered in bud, semi-bloomed or fully bloomed stage.
- Perfumes and jewelry are shipped from our warehouse in Ukraine, they are usually delivered in 72 hours with Standard delivery.
- Delivery method depends on availability of the product and the destination to which you want the product to be delivered.
- Perishable products (flowers, flower bouquets, gift baskets) are delivered only once. Once delivery is arranged, it can not be redirected to another another address.
- Occasionally flowers and gifts are substituted due to temporary availability issues.
- Photos and video of the delivery are subject to availability in small towns and remote villages of Ukraine.
- Flowers are available for same-day delivery in all major cities and towns of Ukraine. The cost of same-day delivery is $15 + $0.5 for every pound of the bouquet, the cost of standard delivery is $9 + $0.5 for every pound of the bouquet.
- Express (same day) delivery is available in all major cities and towns of Ukraine. The cost of same-day delivery is $15.
- Standard delivery (72 hours+) is available in any place of Ukraine. The cost of standard delivery is $9.
- Delivery of flowers to remote villages requires hiring transportation from a regional center, please note that it might be expensive. We will confirm that a delivery is possible and provide a custom quote for every such delivery. The cost of delivery to remote location adds $1 per 1 km of traveling from the nearest big city + standard rate.
- There is a shipping surcharge for delivery of bulky or heavy products: 0-4.99 pounds FREE, 5-9.99 pounds $5, 10-19.99 pounds $10, 20-50 pounds $15
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I order this set regularly to make sure my mom gets essentials she needs and something extra. Thank you so much for your great service.


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Song:Lily Belle May June
Album:Rhythm & Swing
Here's an interesting recording from the early days of Django Reinhardt's Quintette du Hot Club de France. Though Reinhardt frequently recorded with bands that featured singers, I don't think his own band featured singers very much. Lily Belle May June was one of four songs recorded on Mar. 4, 1935. Based on the discography I looked at, Reinhardt's quintet had recorded previously once. So they may be trying to figure out what they want to be. Of course Reinhardt is on guitar along with Stephane Grappelli on violin. Roger Chaput and Joseph Reinhardt are also on guitar with Louis Vola on bass. The singer is Jerry Mengo. This was the only time Mengo sang with Reinhardt. And he wasn't really a singer. He was born Giuseppe Mengozzi Apr. 17, 1911 in Nice, France but he grew up in England. His singing appearance with Reinhardt was while he was studying in Paris. For the most part he was a drummer and later a bandleader recording swing in the 40s and easy listening music in the 60s. He also composed film music and even appeared as an actor in a couple of Jean-Pierre Melville films. Mengo died in 1979. I guess appearing with Reinhardt is Mengo's claim to fame but Reinhardt wasn't famous when he sang with him. You can get Mengo's appearances on this 7CD Reinhardt box set. Here's a video of Lily Belle May June by Django Reinhardt featuring Jerry Mengo.


text: This relaxing marmot picture will make you want to see the great outdoors. When was the last time you witnessed something beautiful as the mountain's view? Did you know that these cute animals are extremely social? They use whistles to communicate with each other. Cutest paw has the best marmot pictures!


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- This event has passed.
13th December, 2019
Event Navigation
Christmas Open House
Starts 8.00pm
Tickets £10 on the door
Our annual Christmas Open House is an evening packed with a line up of delightful surprises. We invite old friends and new to share the best of their stories, poems, ballads and tunes in the tradition of the Irish Scoraíocht. This is a perfect evening to showcase new talents as well as being entertained by world class tellers and musicians. To reserve limited slots (10 min max) for this popular event email email@example.com


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Why are Some Schools Moving Away from Seat Time?
Many schools that have experimented with competency-based learning have begun to adopt that model and move away from the old seat time model. It's not just a small percentage of schools, either, but rather a substantial number of those that try competency-based programs. What's all the fuss about?
The "fuss" is quite simply that many schools are seeing improved results when they move away from old forms of learning and implement the new competency-based models. What they're finding is that students are more engaged, cause fewer problems in class, and achieve greater mastery of a subject.
On top of that, competency-based learning is also more fulfilling for faculty as it leverages each faculty member's individual skills, interests, and strengths.
Benefits of competency-based learning
There are many reasons schools are moving away from seat time and toward competency-based learning.
These reasons include:
- Competency-based learning keeps each student from getting bored.
- Competency-based learning allows each student to work at his or her own pace.
- An increase in student engagement and entire class engagement.
- Better grades and test scores for each individual student, and for the class as a whole.
- More engaged and better-behaved students because they move at their own pace with the curriculum.
- A greater mastery of the subject, done in a less frustrating and more invigorating way.
- Competency-based educational programs utilize human resources in a way that maximizes each teacher's skills and interests. In other words, teachers are allowed to operate at their maximum effectiveness instead of being crammed into a square hole—and they get to enjoy it while they're doing it! The staffing patterns opened up by schools that use competency-based learning benefit students, teachers, administration, the community—and the district budget!
There is no single strategy or curriculum when it comes to individualized learning. In fact, while someday it may be possible to institute broad overall goals and standards, the very nature of individualized, competency-based learning ensures that no two students follow exactly the same curriculum.
- Project-based learning experiences
- Community-based learning experiences
- Dual enrollment for high school students (who may also earn college credit by taking university or vocational classes as part of their high school curriculum)
- Online learning and other forms of blended learning
Who's doing it and how?
Throughout the country, there are a number of private and even public school systems that have moved away from a "seat time" approach to a more individualized, competency-based approach.
These districts include:
- Adams County District 50, CO: Replaced grade levels with a total of 10 "Learning Levels" which students can work through at their own pace. The program is meant to help students achieve the required standards at each level before they move on to the next, instead of pushing them from one grade to another.
- Chugach School District, AK: Like Adams County District 50, the Chugach School District replaced grade levels with 10 competency-based performance levels. Their efforts gave birth to the Re-Inventing Schools Coalition (RISC), whose performance-based model is now used in at least 16 schools and districts across the U.S.
- The Young Women's Leadership Charter School of Chicago: The YWLCSC is Chicago's only all-girl public school. More importantly, the school awards credit for competencies that students display throughout their high school careers. Each student earns credit for every class in which she displays at least 70% mastery of subject via tests, work, and other classroom outcomes.
Other resources
Faculty members and administrators who are interested in moving away from seat time requirements and more toward an individualized, competency-based learning experience may wish to check the following organizations and information sites:
- Diploma Plus is a student-centric alternative for high school. It was developed for high school students who are "over-age and under-credited," but the model may be put to use in other beneficial ways as well!
- The Re-Inventing Schools Coalition provides a new model for both public and private schools. Its focus is not limited just to students who need help graduating but instead serves students of all age levels and competencies.