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From Diapers to Diplomas: B3 Parenting Expo Excites

Published:Tuesday | May 5, 2015 | 12:13 PM
Kidz Block’s Latoya Linton styling Amoya Dixon’s hair at the B3 parenting expo.
Delicious Occasion’s Latoya Panton (left) helps young and budding Chef Alexander Esliger in the kitchen.
Nicole Thompson (second right) of Alacta Plus assists Joshua Thombs while Ilan Gordon and Tziyon Wilson are busy at work colouring.
Kathy-Ann Robinson shows some love to her son Nicholai at the B3 parenting expo.
Tricia Thompson (right), from Camp to the World, teaches Timothy McLeod and Nashniqua Gordon a few beats.
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Last Sunday, mothers, fathers, extended family members and, of course babies and toddlers were out in full force for the annual parenting expo put on by Bump, Baby and Beyond (B3) Caribbean Magazine.

Held at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel, this year's expo, themed from Diapers to Diplomas, was hosted by lovelies Terri-Karelle Reid and Kerie-Ann 'Kiki' Lewis-Thombs, in celebrating child's month and a few days before Mother's Day.

All present had endless booths to explore. Mummy Tummies promoted customised Mommy casts which served as mementos, reflecting that precious time of a woman's life. Collaborating with them was Calling the Shots Photography, who showcased some beautiful maternity and newborn photos (they also offer birthdays, christenings, portraits and family shoots).

Alacta Plus made their mark in educating the public about its nutritional value, and Milk Matters highlighted the benefits of breast milk while offering assistance for new and experienced mothers having trouble breastfeeding.

Latoya Panton from Delicious Occasion demonstrated savoury kid-friendly meals while, on the sweeter side of life, Candy Craze shared treats with the young and the young at heart. Welch came on board with Welchito for the little ones, and veterans Gerber showcased old and new products, teaming up with Stush, who captured lasting memories in the form of printed family portraits.

Brands present

Speaking of veterans, Johnson and Johnson displayed the best of the best and gave out prizes and surprises to special winners. The diaper motif was very present throughout numerous stations such as Huggies, All Smiles Dental Care, Kidz Block Salon, Camp to the World, Simply Halal, and Fundaciones. Spaces Jamaica created a Dream Nursery which stood proud and beautiful at the heart of the grand ballroom.

On the matter of diplomas, National Commercial Bank (NCB) shared information on their Omni Educator and AIM Educational Services informed parents of the advantages of signing up their children for their programmes.

Some mothers were given a special treat as Bio Oil educated them on the benefits of their products on stretch marks and T.H.E Spa set a relaxing atmosphere treating mothers and mothers to be one week early with complimentary neck and back rubs.

Bridging the gap between parent and child were Andrews memorial hospital, National patenting support commission, Jamaica yellow pages, ATL automotive, Image One, Topp in designz and Coldwell Banking.

But outside of the various activities at the numerous booths, there were also very educational seminars that featured guest speakers Nicole Campbell, Princeton-trained educator, CEO of Aim Educational Services and mother of two, author, artist and mother of three Melanie Schwapp, as well as Antonnette Cowan-Palmer, regional manager of NCB.

krysta.anderson@gleanerjm.com