Perspectives on Parenting in 2021
All new and expecting parents can agree that the past year and a half has been challenging. The COVID-19 pandemic, the struggle to confront racial injustice in America, and the stigma around seeking mental health support have all added to the usual stressors that parents face. Every parent has their own story of the obstacles they encountered during this time and how they are working to overcome them. Giving voice to parents and their stories is essential to keeping communities connected. That’s why we have collaborated with parents and community members to provide a space on Parents Thrive Colorado where parent perspectives are highlighted. Below, you will find blogs, stories, and resources that speak to the array of experiences parents have had, and how their experiences are shaping who they are now.
Improving Health Outcomes for Black Mothers:
We Deserve Better
It’s the summer of 2020 and I’m pregnant with my second child. I’ve been spending my days hunkered down at home with my oldest since the COVID-19 pandemic began. My oldest baby is 4 years old and he’s energetic, lively, and curious. To look upon his face is to be enamored with his toffee brown skin, curly dark hair, and the most inquisitive dark brown eyes…
Reflections on Parenting, Mental Health, and Self-Care
Recently, we spoke with Janelle Jenkins, a mom of two and passionate advocate for the prioritization of maternal mental health and wellbeing about her journey with mental health.
COVID-19 Wellness Strategies for Moms with New Babies
The psychiatry department at University of Colorado compiled this summary of strategies to support you and your baby’s health and wellness during the unprecedented and difficult time of COVID-19.
Celebrating Black Maternal Health Week
Black Maternal Health Week, founded and led by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance, takes place every year from April 11 –17. The campaign and activities for Black Maternal Health Week serve to amplify the voices of Black mamas and center the values and traditions of the reproductive and birth justice movements. To celebrate this important event, we worked with parents and community members to curate a collection of resources that specifically work to support new and expecting Black parents.
Self-Care for Fathers
If you had glaring light on the dash of your truck, you wouldn’t just ignore it until you were stranded. You’re not surprised when your team’s coach sees his team is winded and calls a time-out. Why is calling a dad-time out or focusing on self-care so foreign for dads?
Coronavirus (COVID-19), Pregnancy, and Breastfeeding: A Message for Patients
This resource from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists answers all of the most frequently asked questions about COVID-19, pregnancy, and breastfeeding.
My Vaccine Choice: How I Decided to get a COVID-19 Vaccine During Pregnancy
In this blog featured on the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists’ website, Dr. Chelsea K. Chandler discusses her choice to get vaccinated while pregnant.
My Vaccine Choice: I’m a Breastfeeding Ob-Gyn. Here’s Why I Got a COVID-19 Vaccine.
In this blog featured on the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists’ website, Dr. Veronica Maria Pimentel discusses why she chose to be vaccinated as a nursing mom.