June 2, 2008

The Baby Whisperers

Newborn Nurses Assistance Service

Sleep deprived, overwhelmed, and not sure exactly what you’re supposed to be doing?

Welcome to parenthood.

Advice from your well-meaning mother-in-law notwithstanding (“just let the baby cry it out”), you need assistance. Enter Newborn Nurses, a collective of RNs with years of experience who’ll show you how to breastfeed, set a sleep schedule, check for jaundice, demonstrate swaddling techniques, and educate you in all things baby.

From a two-hour visit to a full-on three-month stint, the trusty team of instructors will take charge while you take a much-needed nap.

Just what the doctor ordered.

Newborn Nurses (781-690-6776 or newbornnurses.org).

HEAR
Pixie Sticks Family Concert
What: Sing along with a band playing a washboard, autoharp, sandpaper, and coconuts.
Why: Live in perfect harmony.
When: Sat., 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: Somerville Community Growing Center, 22 Vinal Ave., Somerville (617-666-2969).

GO
Art in the Park
What: The area’s largest outdoor festival and art sale features performances, activities, and music.
Why: Stay in the frame.
When: Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: DeCordova Museum and Sculpture Park, 51 Sandy Pond Rd., Lincoln (781-259-8355).

SEE
Dragon Boat Festival
What: Watch boat racing and enjoy Chinese arts, crafts, food, martial arts demonstrations, and music.
Why: Here be dragons.
When: Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Weeks Footbridge on Memorial Dr., b/t JFK St. & Western Ave. Bridge, Cambridge (617-426-6500).