Tips for Keeping You and Your Toddlers Healthy During Pregnancy

Many overwhelming, sometimes frightening changes take place in the weeks and months following a positive pregnancy test. Smells you once relished now make you nauseous. The body you have worked hard to keep trim and in shape is now morphing into a new person, seemingly beyond your control. And perhaps most difficult for you are the physical and emotional feelings that dominate and fluctuate as your pregnancy progresses. Though a second-or-more time mom may be better prepared to handle some of these changes than a first-timer, she also faces a new and unique challenge: How to meet the needs of young children while still taking good care of herself and her unborn baby.

1. Maintain nap time or rest time.
Some mothers feel that when their children outgrow their naps they are ready to be active all day long. It is important for moms to realize that even though a child doesn't need to sleep during the day, he will still benefit from a time of rest. If you are pregnant, this time is also critical for you. Settle your child in bed with a few books, simple puzzles or some quiet music for at least 30 minutes. If this is a new expectation in your house, consider using a timer to signal when he can get up. Make sure you get off your feet during this time as well. Even if laundry, dishes and email are beckoning you, ignore the temptation! This is a great time for you to catch a nap, rest, or take time to reflect on your family and your new baby.

2. Be conscientious about your family's diet.
If you have succumbed to the temptation to feed yourself and your young ones macaroni and cheese or spaghettios most days of the week, now is the time to change that habit. Processed, high salt and fat foods will only decrease the amount of energy and vitality you maintain throughout pregnancy. A healthy diet will not only ensure a healthier pregnancy, but it will also benefit the health of your toddlers. Consider keeping a weekly menu that includes veggies and whole grains at most meals and do your shopping according to it.

3. Get active together.
You have read- and your doctor has probably reminded you- that you need to exercise throughout your pregnancy. But how can you do that when your kids wake you up in the morning and you are with them until they go to bed at night? Weather permitting; walking is one of the best, easiest ways to exercise your body during pregnancy. Walk with your kids to the local park, library, or out to enjoy the scenery in your area. If this is impossible, work out a time with your spouse or a friend when they can watch the kids so you can walk for 20-30 minutes at least 4 times per week.

4. Set realistic goals.
Whether it's potty training, moving your child to a toddler bed or getting him involved in more peer activities, certain goals you have for your children may need to be adjusted when you find out you are pregnant. It is important not to place unrealistic expectations on yourself, especially when you are in the throes of morning sickness. Work at keeping your stress level down by doing what you can, when you can, and expecting nothing more from yourself.

Facing pregnancy with young children can be stressful and overwhelming. Remember that the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health of your family are more important than meeting the unrealistic expectations you have. Getting adequate rest, nutrition and exercise will ensure you and your toddlers not only "make it through" this pregnancy, but also thrive throughout it.