Nurturing Families: Child and Family Wellness in a Nutshell

02/14/2013

My name is Laura Cone, and I am the owner of Nurturing Families: Child & Family Wellness in a Nutshell. 

I like to consider myself a family advocate, because it is my belief, above all else, that my job is to support the families.  I love my job.  There is nothing more satisfying to me than giving a family some information which can seem so trivial to some, but can become life changing for them. 

My journey to become a business owner has been a tricky one.  At times bumpy, with some road blocks, and definitely some wrong turns.  Thankfully, I hate maps, and I love getting lost. When people ask what I do, it is a tricky question to answer.  I am a women of many hats, but the important thing is, they all match.  I am an entrepreneur with a vision, which I believe is very important.  I don’t just want to own my own business, I want to own a business that supports families, works with kids, and heals. 

I am a Child Development Specialist.  I work with you on how to help your child reach their developmental milestones.  Now, I don’t want anyone to get freaked out or frustrated here-note that I said “their” developmental milestones, not the ones passed down from on high saying when a child should be walking, talking and paying their rent.  I work on everything from speech development to toilet training, sleep transitions to social skills, behaviours to cognitive development.  I work with kids aged 0-21 (or so) to support them in life.  And to support the family. Family Family Family.  A child simply can’t be successful if a parent is so sleep deprived they are pouring apple juice into their cereal. 

I am a Certified Infant and Pediatric Massage Teacher, and Nurturing Touch professional.  I teach families how to massage their children, no matter the age, stage or ability.  It is my opinion that massage is fundamental for development.  It aids in growth, eases pain, stimulates cognitive learning, supports a healthy attachment/bond, and helps with relaxation.  Studies have proven that when someone receives massage, the hormone Oxytocin (feel good hormone) increases.  Not only for the person receiving the massage, but for the one applying it.  This means that me teaching you how to massage your infant/child/teenager benefits both of you physically, as well as emotionally. 

I am a Respite Caregiver.  I provide professional, in-home respite services to families who need a break, are working two (or three, or four) jobs, have a party, or just need to get some shopping done.  I provide respite for all families, from newborn infants (sometimes mom just needs an hour to sleep), to medically at risk individuals.  I have experience with lifts, transfers, administering medication, medical equipment and more. 

Most importantly I spend time with your child. I play with them. I take them on outings (with permission).  I become a person you and your child can trust.  Let me know which hat you need me to wear for you.

 -Laura Cone

www.nurturingfamiliessaskatoon.com