THE LATEST NEWS TO HELP YOU with your journey
Tommee Tippee

When should I start expressing breastmilk?

Hints and tips on when to start and what to do. IN THEORY YOU CAN START COLLECTING MILK ANY TIME. IN PRACTICE MOST HEALTH PROFESSIONALS RECOMMEND THAT YOU ESTABLISH YOUR BREASTFEEDING ROUTINE FIRST BEFORE USING A PUMP.  In theory, you can start collecting milk any time. In practice though, most health professionals recommend that you establish your breastfeeding routine first before using a breast pump. If you are very uncomfortable with a very full feeling in your breasts in the first few weeks after your baby is born, you may want to relieve engorgement with an occasional expressing session. This should only be a short session though, simply serving to give you relief. If you imagine expressing is like placing an order with the milkman, each time you do it you’re telling your body that it needs to deliver the same amount of milk again tomorrow. Placing too many orders in the early weeks will just make your body think you had triplets and you’ll end up with a huge supply. Easy does it! Once you are ready to start expressing, then try to express at the same time of day and after a feed. The time of day you choose really depends on the reason behind you expressing breast milk. For example: WANT TO STASH SOME MILK?  Express in the morning, as it is the most productive time because your milk-producing hormones have been doing their stuff at night. Milk supply is regulated by hormones and your circadian rhythm, so many women have the most volume of milk in the morning. WANTING TO LET DAD DO THE NIGHT FEED?  Giving them milk that you have expressed in the evening is perfect, as it contains all those lovely sleep-inducing hormones. It’s worth noting on the container when it’s night-time milk. Want to boost your milk supply? Express after each daytime feed to increase the order with the milkman! FEELING ENGORGED AND SORE? Express little and often, as you need relief. JUST REMEMBER Each time you express you are tricking your body into thinking that your baby has really taken that 10am feed! Even if you express and no milk comes out at all, you’re placing the order for milk to be made later

February 11, 2021
My Breastpump

Pregnancy and COVID

Looking back at last year, we had no idea how COVID-19 would change the way that we live. It has crept into every facet of our lives. We have had to change the way that we work, learn, bury our loved ones, and socialise. Nothing is “normal” anymore. COVID-19 has had a profound impact on women who are pregnant. The ability for pregnant women to receive health care and general support from friends and loved ones have changed drastically. Pregnancy is a time where a woman and her partner need to be supported and have their regular medical checkups to help them have a healthy baby.  Our new normal does not allow for large baby showers, friends popping over for a chat and a cuddle of your baby. Grandparents can’t visit in hospital and in some NICU visitation to the baby is very limited. So how then does a woman and her partner prepare for pregnancy and the time when your baby comes home?  Here are 5 topics to consider: Social distancing / Self Isolation during and after pregnancy: The current research suggests that women who contract COVID-19 while pregnant have an increased risk of severe illness and death compared to non-pregnant women. They also have an increased risk of having adverse pregnancy outcomes like prematurity.  Over the last year we have learnt that it is almost impossible to have no risk of contracting COVID but if you do need to leave your house, you can consider the risk of the activity. This will allow you to plan and put in place ways to reduce the risks. There may even be some activities you will have to avoid.   In general, the more people you have close and prolonged contact with will increase your risk of getting COVID-19. You also need to consider the actions of the people that you live with and how they are interacting with other people.   The best way to protect yourselves from contracting COVID-19 is to limit interactions with people. Steps that you can take when you need to interact with others are: Wear a mask over your nose and mouth, try to keep about 2m away from other people, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and if indoors try to be in a well-ventilated room.  Events like baby showers, shopping for baby items and visit of friends once baby is home, need to be rethought as to how to make it safer for you and your baby. Some baby shower ideas are online zoom parties or drive by and drop off the gifts and a note. What ever you decide to do, consider the risks and how to reduce them. My Breastpump has an online store where you can have breastfeeding items delivered to your home: https://bit.ly/3obw7vH Look after your health. Keep all your health care appointments. Talk to your health care provider about the safest way to deliver your baby. You might consider having a home birth with a Midwife or giving birth in hospital.  Eat a health balanced diet and take all your vitamin and mineral supplements. Keep active so that you are strong for the delivery.  Find online antenatal classes to help you prepare for your delivery. The class should include information on different delivery types, how to recover from delivery, information of how to care for your baby once you get back home and are breastfeeding.  Finding out what your hospitals policies are around COVID.  It is best to know what the hospital policy is regarding COVID testing before delivery, your partners ability to see your baby, what if you do have COVID and visitation during hospital stay for family members. This will help you to be prepared and to pack your maternity bag accordingly.  Many hospitals are not allowing non-parents to visit in the maternity ward. This may be lonely and scary, but it does allow you and your partner to have a baby-moon, where you both can focus on getting to know your little one, gives you time to learn how to breast feed and allows you to rest and recover after your delivery.  Learn as much as you can about breast feeding. Breast feeding, although it is natural, is a learnt skill that you and your baby will need to learn. It is important to know how to breastfeed, what is normal and learn as much about breastfeeding before you give birth. Include your partner so that he will be able to help you if and when you need it. There are many videos that you can watch on YouTube about breastfeeding with a deep latch. You can visit our website for more information on breastfeeding and expressing milk. It is highly recommended that you find a lactation consultant that can give you an online breastfeeding workshop while you are pregnant. This gives you the necessary information to breastfeed well and someone you know that can help you if you need the help. If you would like to book a consultation with Carey a SACLC please email [email protected] for more information on a breastfeeding workshop.  Have a plan for when you get home. The first few weeks after the birth can be difficult due to sleep deprivation and learning to care for your new child. COVID-9 just makes it so much harder because we are all social distancing. Have a plan or ideas of how you are going to make life simpler for yourself. Firstly, let your family know about visitation and how you would like them to interact with your new baby. Let them know what you would like: No visit policy, Visit but you can only look though the window or you can visit but you must wear a mask and sanitise.  Will you have someone in the house to help you? If so, will that person need to self-isolate before they move in? You can ask your friend s and family to support you by taking

February 10, 2021
Prima Baby

Chicco Baby Hug 4-in-1 Accessories

Chicco, one of the world’s most beloved baby products labels, brings you indoor furniture for your baby with the utmost luxury and quality, that is affordable and most importantly, guaranteed for 12 months. The Baby Hug 4-in-1 has been an award-winning, stand-alone piece of baby furniture that has revolutionised parenting around the world. Exclusive to Chicco, this recliner, crib, highchair and lounging chair in one now welcomes two brand new accessories to make it even more versatile and useful. The Baby Hug Changer tray is an easy clip on accessory that attaches to the Baby Hug and offers mom a place to change baby with ease. Easy to clean and store. The Baby Hug Meal Kit is a useful clip on highchair tray that transforms the highchair capability of the Baby Hug to extend far beyond the kitchen. Should baby need to grab a bite to eat, simply clip the Meal Kit in place and transform the Baby Hug into a legitimate highchair. With the Baby Hugs versatile settings, parents can adjust the recline and height at any stage to make it into the furniture item best needed at the time. The most handy and versatile piece of furniture on the baby market! Grab one of these accessories at stores such as Takealot, Loot.co.za, Babies R Us, The Kid Zone, Brand Hubb, Babanino and others. 

February 9, 2021
Dr Judey Pretorius

Why it’s important to care for your skin during and after pregnancy

The skin is our largest organ and it serves a number of essential functions. During and after pregnancy a woman may experience changes in her skin. In order to protect herself and her baby, certain skincare ingredients need to be avoided during these periods while others need to be introduced to nourish and care for the skin’s new needs. When selecting skincare products for yourself during pregnancy, and for your baby after birth, it’s important to understand that our skin serves a vital function in our relationship with our babies.  What role does the skin play when it comes to mom’s relationship with baby?  Skin-to-skin contact is usually referred to as the practice where a baby is dried and laid directly on their mother’s bare chest after birth, both of them covered in a warm blanket and left for at least an hour or until after their first feed. Skin-to-skin contact provides an appropriate and affordable, yet high quality alternative to technology. There is a growing body of evidence that indicates skin-to-skin contact after the birth helps babies and their mothers in many ways: It calms and relaxes both mother and baby. It regulates the baby’s heart rate and breathing, helping them to better adapt to life outside the womb. It stimulates digestion and an interest in feeding. It regulates temperature. It enables colonisation of the baby’s skin with the mother’s friendly bacteria, thus providing protection against infection and boosting baby’s immunity. It plays an important role to help prevent postpartum depression. It stimulates the release of hormones to support breastfeeding and mothering. It stimulates the release of the oxytocin hormone (“cuddle” and pleasure hormone) in both mother and baby. What makes human skin so special? Human skin is a complex living material but in biomechanical tests it reveals its homogeneous nature. Our environment can directly influence who we are: the skin reacts immediately and directly to the outside environment. The skin is colonised by a diverse milieu of microorganisms, most of which are harmless and some very beneficial to their host. The primary role of the skin is to serve as a physical barrier, protecting our bodies from potential assault by foreign organisms or toxic substances. The skin is also an interface with the outside environment and as such, is colonised by a diverse collection of microorganisms. Symbiotic microorganisms occupy a wide range of skin functions and protect against invasion by more pathogenic or harmful organisms and may play a role in educating T cells in the skin, priming them to respond to pathogenic counterparts. In utero, foetal skin is sterile, but colonisation occurs immediately after birth. Microbial communities of the skin and other sites are established and stabilised during the first years of life especially with skin-to-skin contact with mommy or daddy as a newborn explores its environment and matures its immune system. During puberty, changes in sebum production parallel the levels of lipophilic bacteria on the skin. Physiological and anatomical differences between male and female cutaneous environments – such as sweat, sebum and hormone production – partially account for the microbial differences seen between the sexes. Environmental factors specific to the individual, including occupation, clothing, skincare regime and antibiotic usage may regulate colonisation by the skin microbiota.  The importance of using specific products on both mother and baby to sustain the effect of skin-to-skin contact Mommy and baby care, hygiene and skincare products are potential factors contributing to the variation of skin microbiota. For example, the use of products that are not pH balanced will alter the conditions of the skin barrier and may either encourage healthy skin flora growth rates or cause it to deteriorate.  Understanding the ingredients in skincare products that may affect skin health Particular compounds and molecules need to be applied to skin in order to assist and supplement a homeostatic balance at all times, even when the skin is exposed to the atmosphere with social and environmental stressors. A product with measurable quality, safety and efficacy standards should be considered. Bottom line: don’t settle for just anything when choosing a skincare brand and product, as not all products are created equally. Do your research and choose a product that proves its efficacy by using scientific evidence. Do some research on ingredients, and ensure the products you are using contain ingredients that are safe and effective.   Look for a product that understands this scientific rationale and will optimise your skin-to-skin contact with your baby Offering a wide range of skincare solutions for the entire human race, with no exception to mommies-to-be and babies, Biomedical Emporium understands that skincare has to work both on a cellular and a molecular level. Their latest skincare range is the Maternology series for pre-conception and pregnancy, and the Biosimilar BioBaby series for baby. During the process of trying to fall pregnant, IVF treatments and pregnancy itself it is important for a woman to change her skincare regime. The Maternology range helps prepare the mother’s skin for the skin-to-skin contact after baby is born. Many biochemical changes take place during pregnancy. Some women get a beautiful glow during pregnancy due to the elevated hydration and skin moisture retention levels along with the amplified exposure to vitamins and minerals via placental fluid transport. Unfortunately, for other expecting mothers, the increased and fluctuating hormonal activity during the first trimester can have the opposite effect, and may result in an increase in sebum production that may lead to acne and the expression of pigmentation. Skincare during pregnancy should be simple and easy due to the skin being much more sensitive and reactive. The following product ingredients should also be avoided during pregnancy: Retinoic acids. Beta Hydroxy Acids. Any peroxide-containing ingredients. Artificial colour-stained products and products containing fragrances. Skin-staining products (refrain from using self-tanning products during pregnancy). Avoid skin lightening or bleaching ingredients such as hydroquinone-containing products. Avoid mechanical exfoliation as this may deteriorate the skin’s barrier function.  The Biomedical Emporium Maternology range is simplistic, easy, and safe to use. The ingredients are rich in vitamins and

February 5, 2021
Tommee Tippee

How do I safely thaw frozen breast milk?

Don’t lose those precious nutrients you worked so hard for. So you’ve worked hard to build up your supply of breast milk in the freezer but now what? Thawing it correctly will protect the nutrients. The easiest way to thaw frozen breast milk that has been expressed is to just place it in the refrigerator or leave it at room temperature. It can also be defrosted by leaving it standing in lukewarm water.  DO NOT be tempted to microwave it even if you are in a hurry. Not only will this destroy all the nutrients in your milk, but it can cause ‘hot spots’ which might burn your baby’s mouth. If you have defrosted milk in the refrigerator, it can be stored in there for 24 hours as long as you have not warmed it. If you defrosted it at room temperature, you can keep it in the refrigerator for 4 hours. However, DO NOT be tempted to refreeze it. Finally, if your baby isn’t that hungry and there is breast milk left after a feed then, however much you’ll hate doing it, you should throw away the rest. 

February 3, 2021
Prima Baby

Chicco Polly Highchairs

Chicco, one of the world’s most beloved baby products labels, brings you indoor furniture for your baby with the utmost luxury and quality, that is affordable and most importantly, guaranteed for 12 months. Highchairs are an important part of your child’s life and will be there as they discover their new senses through food. The Polly Highchair is the perfect solution for your little one to go from bottle feeds to weaning with ease. Designed with an elegant finish, this highchair offers 3 reclining positions as well as 7 height adjustments for parents, making it a stand-alone chair with tray, or come down to meet the level of any table or chair the parent may want to use for feeding. With a clip-off, easy to clean and store tray, the Polly highchair can be folded up into a compact and discreet size that stores easily – not that you would want to hide these beauties away. With Italian quality, the Polly comes in two classy colours including Nottingham (dark beige) and Orion (deep black), both suitable for any household décor. Pick up a Polly highchair from a variety of baby retailers including Baby City, Baby Club at Clicks, Takealot, Loot.co.za, The Kid Zone, Babanino.com, Brand Hubb, Baby Boom, and selected Makro stores. 

February 2, 2021
Prima Baby

Chicco Next2ME Air

The Next2Me co-sleeper has long been one of the most popular nursery items on any new moms list. The reasons are simple – easy access to baby at night, better bonding, easy breast-feeding and better sleep for both mother and child, knowing the little one is close at hand. Invented by Chicco, the co-sleeper has grown exponentially in popularity and has been copied by many companies – yet few have the original quality and features of the original Next2Me. Now Chicco have released a brand new variant of the Next2Me – the Next2Me Air. With side panels of mesh fabric, the co-sleeper now offers much better ventilation for the child at night, ensuring breathing is not stifled and over-heating never occurs. In a gorgeous new Stone colour, the Next2Me Air allows mom to see baby when lying down, can be tilted to give baby a reclining nap, and adjusted to any height bed. With telescopic legs to fit any bed base, it is the closest you can get to your little one whilst still giving them the independence of their own cot, and preserving the sanctuary of the marital bed. The Next2Me Air is available now at leading retailers including Baby City, Baby Club by Clicks, Takealot, Loot, Babanino, Baby Boom and The Kid Zone. Prices vary per retailer.

January 27, 2021
My Breastpump

Going back to work, tips on how to keep you milk supply up

The thought of going back to work when you have a little baby can be very stressful for a mom. There are so many things to consider the main two are: who will look after your baby while you are at work and how can I keep breastfeeding when I am away?  We chatted to Carey Haupt a lactation consultant about ways to balance work and breast feeding. Here are some tips she shared with us.  Tip 1: Talk to the HR department of your employer before you go on maternity leave. Ask them for the breastfeeding or expressing policy for mothers. The policy should be inline with The South African Code of Good Practice on the Protection of Employees during Pregnancy and after the Birth of a Child which forms part of the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (NO. 75 of 1997). Give them time to be able to find a safe, hygienic space for you to express your milk in. You can also give them some information around the benefits of assisting you to continue to breast feed once you are back in the office. Explain to them that by having an expressing room and encouraging your breastfeeding mothers to express for 30 minutes, twice a day it can help to improve your productivity in the following ways Healthier for baby When a baby is healthy, mom can focus on work. A healthy baby is what we all want. Breast milk has many benefits for baby and mom.  One of the best-known benefits is the improved health for the baby. Breast milk provides the baby with added immunity from the mother’s immune system and it is much more easily absorbed than formula.   Reduction of medical cost Babies that are fed breast milk have reduced risk of: diarrhea, respiratory tract infection, ear infections, constipation, asthma, and allergy (to name the most common). This will reduce the need for a mother to take time off work to visit a doctor or hospital if needed. When a baby is sick, and the mother returns to work she may be worried about her baby and less productive.  Less absenteeism  With less need to take baby to the doctor or clinic, you mother will be at work more. There will be less need for staying at home to care for her sick infant and less need for family responsibility leave.  Better staff retention If a mother knows that her company is willing to invest in her and her families family’s well-being by providing a safe, hygienic and comfortable space where she has the time needed to express her breast milk for her infant, she will be more willing to invest back into the company.  Staff satisfaction and loyalty  If a company can show that your company cares and puts the needs of women who are looking after their children as a priority, staff start to see their value and become start to promote your companies’ brand. Mother will not want to leave a company that has supported them and their families.  Tip2: Get a good quality Double electric breast pump.  You will need a fast and efficient breast pump. When you are at work you will need to be able to set up your pump (washing hands) pump and clean your pumping area in 30 minutes. Make sure that the pump you are using will be strong enough to pump quickly and that the motor will be able to handle pumping often. A double electric pump like the Ameda Finesse is an ideal example. The finesse is a double electric pump that has hospital grade technology. This means that the motor is strong and can be uses for exclusive pumpers. The pump’s motor also has a 2-year warranty.  Tip 3: Build a stash You only need to start building a breast milk stash about 2 weeks before you go back to work. You can store your milk in Breast milk storage bags or feeding bottles.  With the Ameda Store ‘n Pour bags (Link: https://www.mybreastpump.co.za/product/store-pour-milk-bags-20pc) you can pump directly into the bag, saving you time and the need to clean less.  While you are still direct feeding your baby the amount of milk that you express will be less than when you skip a feed. Do not panic in the beginning when you get half feeds from expressing.  Remember this is extra milk that you body is starting to make. Once you start skipping direct feeds and pumping the volume per pump will increase. Remember to date the milk so that you use the older milk first.  Tip 4: Get your mind onto pumping and your baby We know that stress and worry are things that inhibit your let down (when your milk starts to flow) so move your mind to happier thoughts like that of your baby. Even better have a video or picture of your baby so that you can focus on your baby. Your mind is amazing because you focus on your baby your mind will tell you breasts to make more milk.  Tip 5: Use heat and massage to wake your breast up. Your breast responds positively to heat and message. This is called hands on pumping and is recommend to get the maximum volume of milk expressed. Before you start pumping apply heat in the form of a bean bag or warm water in a bottle and massage your breasts from the base towards the nipple. Use your pump and keep a few minutes for heat and massage after you have pumped, and hand express the last few drops of milk out.  Tip 6: Plan how you are going to store your milk.  Breast milk should be stored in a fridge or freezer as soon as possible after it has been expressed. This just makes sure that you can keep it for longer. If your office does not have a fridge that you can use, use a good quality cooler bag with ice pack. Milk can stay

January 19, 2021
Prima Baby

Chicco Baby Hug 4-in-1 Air

The Baby Hug 4-in-1 by Chicco has been one of the most award-winning nursery items in Europe for the past two years running. Exclusive to Chicco, it has become a staple in nurseries across the world for its multi-functional, highly versatile features – making parents lives so much easier. Baby Hug is known for being a reclining chair, a highchair, a crib and a relaxing floor chair all in one. It also doubles as a co-sleeper (with an additional mattress). With a foot pedal, parents can adjust the Hug to any height. With a lift of a lever, they can adjust the tilting of the bassinet to any level, making it perfectly adaptable to any situation. The Hug comes with a mobile toy bar that plays day and night music, has a nightlight and toys for sensory development. In 2020, the Baby Hug now comes in a brand new variant – the Baby Hug 4-in1 Air. With new mesh sides to the bassinet, the Hug now offers much better ventilation for the child, ensuring breathing is never stifled and over-heating never occurs. In a gorgeous Stone colour, and black and white toy bar with new aesthetic features, the Baby Hug Air is not only versatile and convenient, but highly stylish too. The Baby Hug Air is available now at leading retailers including Baby City, Baby Club by Clicks, Takealot, Loot, Babanino, Baby Boom and The Kid Zone. Prices vary per retailer.

January 18, 2021
Prima Baby

Chicco Seat4Fix Car Seat

The stunning Chicco Seat4Fix Group 0/1/2/3 infant car seat provides complete seating for your little one during all four stages – from birth up to 36 kg.  It enables comfortable and secured seating in the rear (0-18 kg) and front-facing position, thanks to its rotating base, making going from baby to big kid one easy step. A durable shell equipped with an additional removable Side Safety System ensures exceptional protection in a case of the side impact and the recline feature with 3 available positions offers maximum support and comfort during long trips.  Seat 4 Fix is outfitted with soft padded headrest and a 5-point harness, which adjust simultaneously. as well as an additional removable mini cushion to embrace little passengers in a snug hug. Harness and cushion can be easily detached and hide away while your child grows enough to use a 3-point vehicle seat belt. The belt positioner in the 2/3 Group provides the best lap belt settings to protect the child’s abdominals.  This car seat offers safer, easier and faster installation with Isofix system and top tether strap. It can be also fitted with a 3-point car belt, which makes this seat more versatile in use.  The only car seat you will ever need – the Chicco Seat4Fix is without a doubt one of the best all-rounders in the car seat market. As well as being beautiful to look at in a beautiful Graphite colouring, it is economical and has a full year guarantee. The Seat4Fix is available now at leading retailers including Baby City, Baby Club by Clicks, Takealot, Loot, Babanino, Baby Boom and The Kid Zone. Prices vary per retailer.

January 11, 2021
Toptots Head Office

9 signs you may have Postpartum depression

Also known as Postnatal depression, this condition can often be mistaken for something referred to as the ‘ Baby Blues ’. Both of these conditions involve feeling depressed, horrible mood swings and start a few days after giving birth. The difference between Baby Blues and Postpartum depression  As a new mom , the combination of a lifestyle change, lack of sleep and rapidly fluctuatinghormones can result in the Baby Blues within two weeks of giving birth. However, these feelings should start to go away after around two weeks – when your body starts to adjust as do your hormones. It is important to be kind to yourself during this time. Although many women have gone through labour and birth, it does not make the process easy. Feeling out of sorts, overwhelmed and down are understandable. Sometimes Baby Blues turns into something more, and that is something that you need to look out for. Symptoms of postpartum depression  According to the American Psychiatric Association, here is a basic checklist to watch out for: Sadness Fatigue, or a decrease of energy Impaired concentration and decision making The inability to feel pleasure A tendency to blame yourself, to feel guilty or worthless Sleep disturbances Agitation or restlessness Appetite disturbances or weight loss Recurring thoughts of self-harm If you read through this list and found yourself identifying with a few or all of these symptoms -it is very possible that you have Postpartum Depression . Again, this is a physical condition that is treatable. It is not your fault and you are not a bad mother for having it. In fact, between 10 to 15% of mothers worldwide suffer from Postnatal depression , with many more in countries with higher poverty levels. Without intervention, Postnatal depression can last for years. Getting help Regardless of your personal support system, there are support structures out there that can help you through this difficult time. If your Postnatal depression is compromising your ability to look after your child, or you have any thoughts of self-harm, it is important to know that there is something you can do if you reach out to the right places. The following organisations offer assistance, and are trained to help you. Adcock Ingram Depression and Anxiety Helpline 0800 70 80 90 SADAG Mental Health Line 011 234 4837 Suicide Crisis Line 0800 567 567 You can also speak to your GP, Gynaecologist or midwife about what you are feeling. Joining a support group, or a mother and child class can help with feelings of isolation – you will be surprised how many other mom’s may be going through the same thing as you.

January 7, 2021
Prima Baby

Chicco Sirio Car Seat

The Sirio is the brand new car seat from Chicco that will take care of your baby’s travel needs from birth to 25kgs. Starting in a rear-facing position, the seat is installed with seat belts. As the child grows, the seat rotates to face the world, and Isofix installation clicks into place to safely keep the seat attached to the car. With a mini cushion for extra snug fits on even the smallest of newborns, the seat then gradually grows with your child, extending upwards and outwards alongside them. Based on the model of the legendary Chicco car seat Seat Up 012, the Sirio takes all the best features and enhances them with extra comfort and style. Baby can recline and relax in 3 positions while parents can rest in the knowledge they have given their child the safest option on the road. Covers are removable and washable. The Seat4Fix is available now at leading retailers including Baby City, Baby Club by Clicks, Takealot, Loot, Babanino, Baby Boom and The Kid Zone. Prices vary per retailer.

January 4, 2021
Vital Baby

Weaning your baby with Vital Baby

Weaning your baby may seem like a daunting experience but there’s no need to worry. Meal times should be fun affairs. With a little preparation and patience you’ll find it as rewarding as your baby will. .  When should I start weaning?  You will need to think about weaning your baby off breast or infant milk after around 6 months. There are no hard and fast rules as to when you should start but it is generally agreed at 26 weeks your baby will start to need additional nourishment from that provided by just breast or infant milk alone. Of course it will differ from child to child, but should not be left any later than 8 months or you may hamper your baby’s development of normal eating and chewing behaviour. Solid foods should not normally be introduced to your baby before 17 weeks. If you do need to introduce foods before this time, avoid wheat, gluten, eggs, fish and shellfish, liver, citrus fruits, soft and unpasteurised cheeses. How will I know?  As with many cases during weaning, let your baby tell you if he’s ready. All babies are different, but there are three clear signs which, together, show your baby is ready for solid foods along side breastmilk or infant formula.  They can stay in a sitting position and hold their head steady.  They can co-ordinate their eyes, hands and mouth so that they can look at the food, pick it up and put it in their mouth, all by themselves.  They can swallow food. Babies who are not ready will push their food back out, so they get more round their face than they do in their mouths. What will I need?  The vital baby NOURISH power suction bowl has been designed with powerful super suction and scooped sides to help prevent tipping and spills!  This baby feeding bowl sticks to your baby’s highchair or kitchen table and has been proven to have the strongest suction pad. Simply place it on a table or baby’s highchair tray and twist for less mealtime mess! The Vital Baby NOURISH Power Suction Bowl(R124.99) When it’s time to wean your baby, the Vital Baby® NOURISH™ start weaning spoons are perfect for your baby. Designed for the 1st stage of weaning, the spoons have a narrow soft tip that is designed to fit easily into baby’s mouth. They are shallow to allow for small amounts of food only, to ease them gently into their weaning journey. Vital Baby® NOURISH™ start weaning spoons 5pk (R69,36) Vital Baby products are available at: Clicks, Babies R Us, Baby City and online at Babies Africa, Loot and Takealot. Learn more about Vital Baby on www.vitalbaby.co.za or follow them on social media @vitalbabysa.

December 17, 2020
My Breastpump

Guide on how to express breast milk

One of the beautiful things about breastfeeding is that breastfeeding is a relationship between you and your baby. Breast feeding is not only about nutrition but also bonding and getting to know eat other. The dynamics and how you feed can change overtime as both of you grow in your knowledge of breastfeeding and of each other. Breastfeeding is so intimate that your experience will be so different from other mothers. And that can be so beautiful! Mothers need to talk about their breastfeeding experiences because although there may be a similar themes all the moms have their own unique story. There are so many ways to breast feed a baby. Did you know that over 85% of breast-feeding mothers also express their breast milk? There are so many reasons for mothers wanting the express like prematurity, separation from baby, illness, pain, low milk supply, fast letdown or even engorgement. Some mothers see this as their ideal feeding method while other mothers have had to raise up to a challenge and finding a way in which they still can provide breast milk for their little one.  As an exclusive pumper (while my babies were in NICU) and then a part time pumper (while learning how to breastfeed and then later going back to work), I can say that expressing is a wonderful way to still supply breast milk to your baby but that it is also a lot of work. The time it takes to express plus the sterilisation of the equipment is valuable time for any mother. My private goal for breastfeeding my children was the “standard” 6 months exclusive and 2 years or longer. I can confidently say that without the initial expressing and then part time expressing, I would never have reached my goals.  As I mentioned earlier expressing breast milk takes time and effort. Here are some hacks to help you make the most of your time: Learn how to hand express. This is an important skill that all breast-feeding moms need to know. You just never know when you will need it. Use the correct pump for your needs and affordability. Find a good quality double electric pump that can help you to express in less time with higher milk out comes. This may be the defining reason for being successful or not The key to a good milk supply is emptying of your breast. If you are exclusively pumping, you need to remove your breastmilk as often as your baby would have fed. This can be 8 or more times a day. Massage and use warmth before you start expressing to help with your let down and milk supply. If using a breast pump, you can use hands on expressing and finish with hand expression. This way you are able to completely empty your breasts which helps with increasing your milk supply. Store your breast milk safely. If you are planning to continue to breastfeed once you go back to work, inform your company before you go on maternity leave. If they do not have a room and policies to help you with breastfeeding this will allow them time to find a space that is appropriate for you. Ask them for the policy on breastfeeding and enquire about your two 30-minute breastfeeding break that you will be taking in order to express for your baby.  Here are some tips on how to practically express for your baby while at work Step 1: Build a stash You only really need to start to store up a supply of breast milk about 2-4 weeks before you go back to work.  You can expect to express the following amounts: If you are expressing in between feeds while direct feeding expect to express about half a feed.  If you are expressing to replace a direct feed expect to express a full feed Women have different storage capacities so some women will be able to express more than what is expected. All women are different and try not to compare yourself with others.  For some great storage solution have a look at the Ameda store n pour storage bags and bottles  Step 2: Find your work expression spot Make it as comfortable as possible for you. Check to see if you can lock the door, or bring a sign for the door that indicates that you are expressing and that you should not be disturbed Step 3: Make the place clean and hygienic as possible If needed clean the surfaces. Wash your hands before your start expressing. Bring sterilised equipment to the office. This way you can avoid the need to sterilise at work.  Step 4: Prepare for expressing Use a few minutes to disconnect from the hustle and stress of work. Focus on your baby, you can even watch a short video or look at pictures of your child. Use heat pads and/or massage your breast to help with the let-down. Step 5: Express your milk Express in your preferred method. Step 6: Store your milk safely Once you have finished, store your breast milk into the contain that you will be freezing it in. Make sure it is closed tightly and will not leak during transportation. Depending on the facilities that you have at your workplace. You can store your milk in a fridge or cooler bag with ice packs for the rest of the day. Once you are home you can freeze or get the milk ready for the next day.  Remember to label the bottle with baby’s name and date of expression so that you can identify your milk and how old it is. Step 7: Clean up Make sure that you leave the area clean and ready for the next mom to use.  Step 8: Prepare for the next day Once you are home wash and sterilise your equipment. Once your equipment is dry pack it away ready for you to take to work. This way you are less likely to forget it

December 16, 2020
Parenting Hub

South African skincare brand for little humans | Nunuki

With the holidays around the corner and many of us planning to spend more time outdoors, South African skincare brand, Nunuki® for little humans, is a must. The Nunuki® skincare range is made up of six skincare products formulated specially for babies and children in South Africa’s climate, dermatologically tested and approved, and CANSA endorsed. From Lello’s Protecting SPF30 Sunscreen that protects against the harsh South African sun to Maxi’s Pesky Bug Cream with Citronella and Lemongrass to safely keep the mozzies at bay while hydrating and moisturising young skin, the Nunuki range is made with love, and backed by science. Get your Lello’s Protecting Sunscreen 30SPF 150ml and Maxi’s Pesky Bug Cream 150ml as a summer bundle for just R190 online atNunuki®

December 9, 2020
JOMAR Baby

Refreshing, clean beauty-inspired skincare sets the pace for little ones

Modern, ingredient-conscious moms only want the best for their little ones when it comes to skincare. Products that contain natural ingredients that aren’t harmful to sensitive skin are at the top of the list – especially those that are geared towards clean beauty principles. One such brand that recently launched a unique 10 product range specially formulated to treat the body from head to toe is JOMAR, a clean beauty brand with over 22 years’ experience in the skincare industry. Using clever combinations of active ingredients sourced from nature in its products is what truly sets the brand apart from other baby and toddler products on the market. Free from synthetic perfumes, colourants, parabens, lead, petroleum and sulphates, all products contain only plant derived ingredients that are designed to provide your baby with the best care products on the market. Parents will find everything they need for their little ones in the JOMAR range, including bum products and body washes, as well as signature products such as a Calming Rescue Gel, Decongesting Bath Oil, Conditioning Scalp Oil and Repairing Balm-Oil, just to name a few. Thanks to careful development, these products are proven to be effective and help parents to treat conditions such as dry to sensitive skin, eczema and cradle cap – common baby and toddler ailments that can be alleviated using products with the right ingredients.  JOMAR’s main ingredients include essential oils, antioxidants, botanical oils and butters and natural moisturisers. Essential oils are known especially for their healing, protecting, soothing and nourishing properties, which is great for babies’ skin. Devoted to being kind to the environment, JOMAR’s products are not tested on animals, are vegan-friendly and bio-degradable. With fresh, natural fragrances and beautiful packaging, each product is a joy from purchase to use, but most importantly, it provides the best skincare for babies and toddlers.  The JOMAR range for babies and toddlers can now be shopped conveniently online at https://jomarbaby.com/. Be sure to follow the JOMAR social channels on Facebook and Instagram for weekly inspiration and tips for parents.

November 30, 2020
JOMAR Baby

Skincare Expert Jomar Launches Premium, Clean Beauty-Inspired Skincare Range for Little One’s

JOMAR, a brand-new natural skincare range backed by passion and extensive research, has just launched its exciting baby and toddler skincare range. Inspired by modern, ingredient-conscious moms, the range includes 10 unique products that are specially formulated to treat delicate skin from head to toe. With over 22 years’ experience in the skincare industry, JOMAR’s dedication to promote clean beauty and to use active, natural ingredients in its products is what truly sets the brand apart from other baby and toddler products on the market. Although the products only contain ingredients sourced from nature it by no means compromise on the aesthetic experience. The objective of each formula is to soothe, protect, nourish and normalise skin. Founder Felicia Kotze explains: “When it comes to the skincare of our little ones, we only want the best! That is why JOMAR’sproducts are 99 – 100% natural and free from synthetic perfumes, colourants, parabens, lead, petroleum and sulphates. We believe in the importance of clean beauty – not just for ourselves but for our little ones too! “This is why you will never find ‘empty ingredients in our products – only active ingredients that are designed to provide your baby with the best care products on the market!” Parents will find everything they need for their little ones in the JOMAR range, including bum products and body washes, as well as signature products such as a Calming Rescue Gel, Decongesting Bath Oil, Conditioning Scalp Oil and Repairing Balm-Oil, just to name a few. “Thanks to careful development, our products are proven to be effective and help parents to treat conditions such as dry to sensitive skin, eczema and cradle cap – common baby and toddler ailments that can be alleviated using products with the right ingredients. Therefore our main ingredients include essential oils, antioxidants,  vitamins, botanical oils and butters and natural moisturisers. Essential oils are known especially for their healing, protecting, soothing and nourishing properties, which is great for babies’ skin!” adds Kotze. Devoted to being kind to the environment, JOMAR’s products are not tested on animals, are vegan-friendly and bio-degradable. With fresh, natural fragrances and beautiful packaging, each product is a joy from purchase to use, but most importantly, it provides the best skincare for babies and toddlers.  The luxurious JOMAR range for babies and toddlers can now be shopped conveniently online at https://jomarbaby.com/. Be sure to follow the JOMAR social channels on Facebook and Instagram for weekly inspiration and tips for parents.

November 27, 2020
Parenting Hub

New look and updates for award-winning Thule Urban Glide 2 stroller

With a modern design and slim profile the Thule Urban Glide 2 Jogging stroller is the perfect stroller for running and everyday use.   The new updated versions of this popular and award-winning three-wheel stroller are now available and include a  ‘black-on-black’ colour edition (black fabric combined with a black frame for a sleek look) as well as new colour canopies in Majorca Blue and Cypress Green. New features also include a hand brake that provides deceleration, an automatic lock for folding, an extendable sunshade with UPF 50+ protection and extra ventilation, reflective rims for improved visibility and new car seat adapters for a customised fit. Featuring a sleek design and a slim profile, the Thule Urban Glide 2 is an all-round sport stroller that is perfect for everyday life and jogging. It folds easily with a one-handed motion and the air-filled tires and suspension, ensure a smooth ride that handles rough terrain like a pro. Lock the front wheel for added stability during a jog or hike, or leave it swiveling for better maneuverability while walking.  Julia Downey, brand manager for the Thule Active with Kids category offers these tips to consider when buying a pram: Think about your lifestyle and what type of pram will suit this best. If you are very active and want to bring baby along while you exercise, or simply if your family loves to fill your day with outings and activities, make sure that you buy an all-terrain pram, which is sturdy with good suspension.  Understand the dimensions of how big the pram is when it is folded and unfolded. Make sure that it will fit into your boot and double check that you can fold and unfold it easily (preferably one handed) when you have a baby and a nappy bag that you are carrying too.   Always check with the capacity of the pram is. Check that baby is comfortable, particularly if you are buying a pram for a newborn.This means opting for a pram that is well-cushioned with lots of padding, preferably with a reclining seat and sun canopy so that baby can sleep anywhere if needed. Find out if there is extra storage such as hidden pouches. This will limit the amount of stuff that you need to take with you, particularly if you are exercising with your baby. At minimum, a pram should have space for essentials such as keys, phone, a clean nappy and baby bottle.   Look at it as an investment, especially if you plan on having more than one child. A good pram will not only last through your baby’s first few years, but onto your next baby too. From there, it could be passed down to younger cousins.  Also check what the warranty on the stroller.

November 27, 2020
Characterful

Embracing colour

Colour makes up the beauty of our world, but why is colouring in so good for children? We’ve taken a look at some of the reasons why embracing colour and art is just so good for your little ones.  An understanding of the world Children are born in a greyscale world, seeing colour only as their eyes develop. At the age of 18 months, a child starts to identify colours. At two years and older, they start to name them.  We don’t always see how much we link colour to the world around us. Knowing that the sky is blue and the grass is green may seem obvious to us, but to a child learning everything from the start, these are crucial discoveries. Colouring in helps your child to link colours to the world around them, and their understanding and mental growth will grow and grow.  Developing their creative identity  By colouring in, children develop their hand strength and motor skills, including colouring in between the lines. Their focus and ability will continue to grow and strengthen too.  We’re most interested in helping your child develop their individuality. Through using colours to bring pages before them to life, their self-expression will burst into life! You will see them understand colour, size and shapes like never before – and they’ll be having fun the whole time too.  Taking time for them  In today’s world, we have a greater understanding of stress and how it can affect our healthy minds and bodies. Taking time for yourself is a vital skill that can be learnt from a very young age. And while your child might not want to meditate or self-reflect, colouring in has been proven as a great way to reflect, relax and de-stress.  By focusing on the task of colouring, using one pencil at a time, they will find this time away from their busy lives to be healthy and healing, making sure they’re in the best place to tackle their adventures ahead.  Hanging out with all the family  Colouring in also helps you create quiet time with all the family together. You can sit with your child as they colour in their adventures, or get on with your own relaxation while still being together. It creates a great opportunity for social time without requiring high energy playtime, and you get to watch your child discover the thrill of creativity.  Just be ready to be the proudest parent as your child rushes to show you their work, full of pride – whether it’s a modernist masterpiece, or a cheerful scribble!  At Characterful, we believe in the power of colour to inspire our readers’ imagination. Pick up any of our books and you’ll step into a world of vibrant backdrops, exciting characters and an immersive atmosphere.  And now we want your children to have the chance to colour in our books too, by releasing a colouring in version of our epic story The Door in the Garden Wall. Thanks to our personalisation, your child will now be both the hero of the story and the illustrator. 

November 25, 2020
Bennetts

Bennetts – The story behind the brand

Babies are a spark of heaven that we are entrusted to kindle, protect, love and nurture. But any parent who has had a colicky baby will know how quickly parents can feel that they have failed themselves and their baby.  Which is exactly what inspired our father, Basil Bennett, an exceptional South African chemist, to formulate his baby colic mixture, more than after half a century ago. So effective was the Bennetts Colic Mixture that word about it soon spread like wildfire.  Our father often opened up his pharmacy to assist parents in distress in the middle of the night.As boys, we spent most of our weekends helping him compound the mixture in our home-based lab, to meet the demand. In the process, we grew up learning a valuable lesson from our caring dad – that our fingerprints don’t fade, from the lives we touch. So we set out to establish a business in the Bennetts name, which is built on those same values we learnt from our father. Today, almost 30 years later, all our products have been developed with the utmost care, infused with that same passion and attention to detail, as our father’s very first colic mixture. As we grew into parenthood, our own fears and anxieties compelled us to learn more about the baby industry and the need for problem solving products. Whether it was Bennetts Bum Crème, aqueous cream, nose drops, wet wipes or easy changing solutions, Bennetts became a household name. As we expanded our product range, we began to expand our brand locally and internationally. Despite our growth into a large, established company whose products now compete with big international brands, we are still a family owned business. We have retained some of the original staff members of Bennetts Chemist and their families, creating an atmosphere of an inclusive community.  We believe that this personal touch enhances the quality of our products and invites our customers to share in our community of parenting.  The Bennett Brothers

November 24, 2020
Prima Baby

Chicco Baby Senses Elliot Camping Lover and Baby Senses Roger Tennis Lover

The Baby Senses range from Chicco is the primary toy range that encourages babies from as young as 3 months old to use and develop their senses. As babies grow, they can enjoy the more advanced, electronic toys in the Baby Senses range that require batteries and make use of sonic and visual sensory engagement. Baby Senses Elliot Camping Lover is a lantern-shaped electronic toy that allows children to step into the shoes of an explorer. With electronic lights and sounds, Elliot Camping Lover helps develop and perfect those first motor skills with manual activities. Includes melodies and a rotating compass. Perfect for kids from 6 months old. Baby Senses Roger Tennis Lover is an electronic toy named after tennis legend Roger Federer, in the shape of a tennis racket. Lights and melodies and manual activities keep children engaged as they naturally develop motor skills. Suitable from 6 months old. Items available online at Takealot.com, Loot.co.za, Online Home Store, Baby Boom, Babanino.co.za and TheKidZone.co.za

November 23, 2020
JOMAR Baby

5 Care ingredients that are perfect for your baby’s skin

Your little one’s delicate skin needs a lot of pampering when it comes to body care products. More sensitive, porous, dryer and more vulnerable to infections than adult skin, your baby’s skin needs body creams and washes that are safe and kind to their soft skin. As parents, we understand all too well how important it is to only use skincare products with the right ingredients. We carefully consider every ingredient that goes into the products we might purchase to care for our babies skin. High on our agenda are ingredients that gently cleanse, soothe, nourish and protect the delicate skin of our little ones, each product is suitable for all skin conditions, even for sensitive or irritated skin.   So, which ingredients should we be looking for? The answer is simple: ingredients that include moisturising complexes, vitamins, antioxidants, essential oils, botanical oils and butters, all sourced from nature!  We chatted to the team at JOMAR, a natural skincare range for moms, babies and toddlers, about five favourite care ingredients that are perfect for babies’ skin. Have a look below: 1. Coconut oil  Used for anything from substituting traditional cooking oil to hair and skincare, coconut oil has been a favourite staple in many people’s pantries. However, as an ingredient in body care products for babies, it provides so many benefits that your baby will love. Coconut oil is packed with vitamins and healthy fats, not to mention anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory and moisturising benefits.   It is also gentle on baby’s skin and safe to use as is or in a product formulation to treat common baby skin conditions such as dry skin, skin irritations, eczema and cradle cap. 2. Marula oil Sourced from the famous Marula tree that is inherent to Southern Africa, Marula oil is an amazing ingredient in body care products. This popular ingredient has been used for centuries to treat or alleviate several health conditions.  As a baby body care product, its high Vitamin E content, antioxidants and essential fatty acids help to gently soften your little ones’ skin and lock in natural moisture.  3. Shea butter It’s no secret: your baby’s skin loves Shea butter with its anti-inflammatory and healing properties! Its high concentrations of fatty acids and vitamins nourish and soften baby’s skin, keeps moisture in and ensures that less water is lost by helping to form a barrier on the skin’s surface.   4. Rooibos A true South African favourite, rooibos as a skincare ingredient for your baby is filled with antioxidants and repairs your little one’s skin as it soothes. Conditions such as eczema, allergies and dryness benefit from rooibos’ vitamin D and zinc ingredients that promote healthy skin. 5. Lavender oil Certainly one of the most calming scents that babies and moms love, lavender is a beautiful skincare product. It can help to relax a fussy baby and even encourage sleep. Lavender can also be used to treat insect bites, skin rashes and alleviate the symptoms of colic. Baby-friendly from start to finish With these 5 key ingredients in mind, you will be able to provide your baby with the best skincare. Together with these recommendations, choose products that are free from harmful chemicals, parabens, lead, petrolatum and sulphates. Your baby will love the care these products provide, from morning to bath time! To find out more about JOMAR’s baby friendly-range, visit their website here.

November 20, 2020
Characterful

ABCs and… Me?

The ABCs are the start of learning our language, and the way we communicate and speak with each other. Teaching our children how to use these letters can seem difficult, and for them it can be a daunting task.  The key when teaching ABCs to your child is to use their curiosity as a building block for learning it. Start small with identifying the first letter of their name: “A is for Andy”. This brings in a level of excitement and your child will love pointing out the letters of friends and family names too.  Using tools such as the first letter of loved ones’ names, letter toys such as letter crayons, letter magnets, and letter building blocks, all help keep the alphabet at the forefront of your child’s mind. The building block of language The ABCs are the first thing we learn when discovering how to read and write, and each letter corresponds to multiple sounds whether it’s the ‘p’ in ‘hop’ or ‘peer’, or the ‘c’ in ‘silence’ or ‘cackle’.  It can be overwhelming when learning how to use these tricky, vital blocks of sound, and we know that children learn phonetically at first.  Phonetic language, or phonics, is the sound of language, the ‘ah’, ‘puh’’, ‘kuh’ sounds that can then become known as ‘a’ ‘p’ ‘k’. This is really useful when getting your children to become familiar with letters.  Start their love of language today  With a real love of language, your child will be able to discover books, poems and more that all stem back to the written word.  The door to all of this culture, learning and art starts with a simple A B C. With easy tools, like ABC books, letter toys and crafts, you’ll be able to help them start out on a journey that they will be grateful for their entire life.  At Characterful, we love helping children take on and master challenges. Our stories focus on adventures, with personalised characters putting your child at the heart of the tale, and helping them to make the decisions and overcome the difficulties themselves.  That’s why we’ve brought out our own ABC book.  Like all our stories, ABC and ME is personalised. Your child travels through the alphabet, encountering giraffes and pirates, mermaids, zebras and best of all, themselves! Each page is beautifully illustrated, while there are easy rhymes to help your child read it flowingly, and enjoy the adventures on each page.  When reading our ABC book to your child, we recommend getting them to sound out the word with you, playing around with it and having fun! You can read them the fun rhyme to help them see the sound of the letters in action. Children’s brains are constantly learning and expanding, more so than at any other time, and by reading them stories, you will be helping their brain’s ability to think, understand and grow. 

November 19, 2020
Bennetts

Travelling with your baby, here is a list of what to pack

With summer in full swing and the December holiday period just around the corner, we wanted to give you a checklist of essential items to take with when travelling with babies or small children. We all know that travelling with small children and babies can be overwhelming and stressful. They key to minimize the stress is to plan ahead. Use this simple checklist to make sure you have everything packed to make your trip a memorable one, happy memory that is…  Nappies (You can never have enough of these, so pack one for every hour you’ll be travelling and then   add a few more Nappy Changing Mat (If you don’t already have one of these in your Nappy Bag, buy disposable ones, you never know what condition the changing facilities will be in. Fragranced Plastic Bags (For storing those dirty nappies or clothes) Bennetts Bum Buddy (Includes Bennetts Baby Bum Crème and Bennetts Baby Wipes in a convenient device, making one handed changing so much easier. Bennetts Hand Sanitizer Travel size Bennetts Hair & Body Wash & Bennetts Baby Aqueous Cream Dummy’s (If your baby is using one, make sure to pack a few extra) Dummy Sterilizer Clothes, socks, shoes (remember to take all weather conditions into consideration). Disposable bibs Formula (Enough to last for all the feeds while travelling to your destination and then add two extra feeds, just in case) Flask (If your baby is on formula remember to take a flask with to have hot water to prepare feeds) Bottles (Make sure you have enough to last you for all your feeds, travelling to and from your destination) Bottle Sterilizer Water / Juice (Depending on baby / child’s age) Snacks (For the whole family) Breast pump (If you use one) Breast pads (If you use these) Nightlight (You never know what facilities you have at your destination, and these are ideal for those nighttime feeds and nappy changes – make sure you get one that works with batteries and remember to pack extra batteries just in case) First Aid Kit (Pack all the essential items, like a baby safe pain reliever, plasters, ointment for minor cuts and scrapes, cotton wool, antiseptic liquid, allergy medicine, nail clippers, thermometer etc. Also make sure you pack all prescription meds if your baby is on any) Baby Carrier (Sling or front carrier, these are ideal if you need your hands to check in for flights etc. and still keep your baby close and safe) Portable Play Mat (Play mats or foldable playpens are ideal to keep baby busy and if they need a nap) Car Seat Stroller (These are easier to use than your normal pram, they take up less space in the car and can also easily be put in the overhead compartment on plains)

November 17, 2020
Vital Baby

Vital Baby’s Guide To Travelling With Your Baby

Keep things simple… The car is probably the most frequent form of transport with a baby and the secret of successful travelling children is careful planning. Young children are surprisingly adaptable so providing you take the essentials, such as food, nappies and a favourite toy or two, your child should be quite happy.  Preparation  Prepare a survival kit for the journey before you set off and keep it where it is easily accessible.  The kit should include spare nappies, a change of clothes, baby wipes, changing equipment and a mat or towel.  If you are bottle feeding or giving solids, you will also need to include some feeds plus some feeding equipment.  With its large storage capacity the Vital Baby NOURISH snack on the go (R119,99) is the baby and toddler snack-time must-have for independent feeding, or as a baby-led weaning accessory.  Ideal for when out on family trips, or at home for less food mess and less stress!  Try to make the journey as relaxed as possible by checking the route before you set out and allow extra time to get there.  If you are going on a long journey, consider travelling at night.  If you are going by other transport, find out what facilities are available for babies and older children before you set off. For example, car seats and restraints  From birth, your child should travel in an approved safety restraint suitable for his age and weight.  Restraints must be fixed and used properly to obtain maximum protection for your child in the event of an accident.  Keeping the children amused  A good selection of toys, especially for an older baby, is essential to keep him amused on the journey.  Choose toys that have been specially designed for use in the car or ones that have suction pads that will stick on the window or the back of the front seat.  Story tapes are also a good idea, especially for long journeys.  Journeys by public transport  You will need to be selective about what you take with you, as you will probably have luggage as well as your baby.  Your survival kit should be packed into an easy to carry holdall.  If possible, take a lightweight, folding pushchair.  Put your baby in a baby carrier, either strapped on your front if he is still very young, or on your back if he is old enough to sit up on his own.  When booking a seat on a train, coach or plane, always mention the fact that you are travelling with a young child and ask for the most convenient seating accommodation available.  Some airlines have sky cots and others will allow you to take a buggy onto the plane as hand luggage.  Sun sense  Whichever method of transport you use, always shield your child from the sun and make sure that any exposed skin is protected by a high-factor sunscreen.  Keep your baby as comfortable as possible by putting him in clothes that are loose and easy to change. • A number of layers of fairly thin clothing are best, as this will allow you to add or take away a layer depending on the temperature.  Cars can get very hot in the summer, with the temperature creeping up considerably, so keep a constant check on your child while travelling.  Take plenty of water with you on hot days.

November 13, 2020
JOMAR Baby

Why moms and their little ones need clean beauty skincare products

Clean beauty has been getting a lot of positive buzz online – and for good reason! Those that invest in products designed with clean beauty principles in mind, reap the benefits of ultimate wellbeing – and this includes moms that chose clean beauty for themselves and their little ones! So, how does it work? In a nutshell, the clean beauty philosophy allows us to be mindful about our health and our impact on the environment. It ensures that ingredients are responsibly chosen, based on their safety and efficiency, as well as their environmental impact.   Although there are diverse opinions when it comes to clean beauty products, it is important to remember why this movement started. We caught up with JOMAR, a natural, clean beauty skincare brand for moms and babies, who shared their insights on this topic. 1. Daily exposure means we need to consider what we and our little ones need to be protected from Food, skincare and medication expose us to numerous chemicals each day, which means we are exposed to a phenomenon known as toxic load. That means even ingredients that are deemed safe may become harmful or cause sensitization if use exceeds recommended exposure limits.  When choosing clean beauty products for ourselves and our little ones, we are choosing natural, plant-derived ingredients that reduce the risk of toxic load. These ingredients contain fewer chemical by-products known to cause skin reactions.  2. Pure ingredients are gentler and more nourishing Certain traditional skincare brands often have the same product ingredients to ensure each batch looks and smells the same. Unfortunately, this refining process can introduce harmful by-products or can damage naturally beneficial components – something that moms definitely not want when it comes to their and their babies’ skincare!  However, natural ingredients undergo less refining and trade consistency in colour and smell to preserve product integrity. This means vitamins and antioxidants remain intact for a longer period. Moms and babies can enjoy products with ingredients in their purest form, knowing they are reaping all the benefits of clean beauty!  3. Clean beauty inspires moms to follow a conscious living approach for them and their little ones Conscious living is all about making better choices for your health, society and the environment. When moms choose a more purposeful lifestyle, they will choose natural products that allow them to align their purchasing habits with their personal values – ensuring they provide the best skincare for their family.  Skincare products with natural ingredients require less processing during manufacturing, which means energy consumption is reduced and fewer (if any!) harmful by-products are present. By-products and synthetic ingredients are found in nature due to build-up and contaminated water and soil over time, however, clean beauty can help conscious living moms to minimise their impact on the environment.  When moms choose clean beauty products for their families as part of their conscious living attitude, they also support local farmers and sustainable growing and harvesting practices that promote the cultivation of indigenous plant species. It is clear: Clean beauty products are the only option when choosing skincare products for mothers and little ones!  To find out more about JOMAR’s clean beauty approach, be sure to visit their website here.

November 13, 2020
Characterful

Playing and fun: the most important parts of child development

We know that children all develop in their own way and at their own pace, and that it’s important not to rush them on their journey. In allowing them to grow at their pace, you help build confidence in who they are. It is important to provide an environment that supports a child’s development in a way that they respond well to. Fun facts!  At Characterful, we are passionate about keeping learning fun, and rooted in great stories. We’ve gathered some fun facts on child development, some of which might surprise you!  Take a look… Ouch! It doesn’t just sound like it – a three year old boy’s voice is louder than 200 adults in a restaurant. Read out loud: if you read aloud to your child, it will help stimulate their brain development, especially in their early years. They’ll also learn to speak faster if you respond to their gurgles and noises more than 80% of the time.  Learn another language: your child’s brain will develop more if they learn another language. You can help them learn it by letting them watch international television programmes like Dora the Explorer with smaller words from another language.  Not ignoring you: babies and toddlers have a hard time separating background noises from voices – sometimes they actually can’t hear you when you’re calling their name! Colour blind: Babies are born colour blind, seeing only black, white and grey. As the months go by, your baby will start to develop their colour vision. They also learn what’s important to look at by watching your gaze.  And – most importantly in our view…Playtime is everything! By playing, children learn heaps of useful information, including how to socialise, how to regulate their own behaviour, and how to imagine!  Having fun while learning  To aid in your child’s development, [Characterful] released an activity book with a child’s own character throughout. Your child will be challenged with everything from adding up groups of dinosaurs, to tracing the alphabet at the insistence of a unicorn!  They’ll colour in pictures of the famous South African wildlife, while spotting differences between pirates and spaceships, completing dot to dots to find a mermaid’s best friend, and even helping knights find their way back to their castles through deadly mazes!  Our activities are designed to test and strengthen your little one’s grasp of maths, logic, language, problem solving and instruction taking. And most importantly – they’re fun!  When a child is learning and having fun at the same time, they’ll begin to realise that these challenges – although difficult – can be enjoyable in the future too. You’ll be helping them grow a love of learning and puzzles, that will help them develop even further, ready for the challenges ahead. 

November 12, 2020
Parenting Hub

World Prematurity Month and the LatchOn! Breastmilk Drive

World Prematurity (Preemie) Day is observed annually on 17November but this year World Preemie Month will be celebrated with gusto by the Tygerberg Hospital Children’s Trust during the month of November.  On the cards are a month-long virtual walk, an in-house activity restricted to Nurses of the hospital, and the Latchon! Breastmilk Drive.   The public is encouraged to join the month-long virtual walk by simply purchasing a purple ‘World Preemie” T-shirt, organise a fun walk with friends and family, post the photos on Facebook or Instagram and tag the Trust’s page.  The wackier the better.  Weekly prizes will be awarded to the best photo uploaded to Facebook and Instagram and a bumper prize at the end of the month.  Photos must feature the preemie T-shirts, which cost R100 and are available via the link attached  https://www.givengain.com/e/walk-for-preemies-2020/ – place your order today and paint the town purple! There is a great need for breastmilk at Tygerberg Hospital’s neonatal unit, especially for preemie babies who may spend months at the hospital and whose moms often cannot provide enough breastmilk.  The Corona Virus pandemic has also provided its own set of challenges in the procurement of milk, where donors were not able to donate breastmilk.  To this end the Tygerberg Hospital Children’s Trust in partnership with Tygerberg Hospital, the City of Cape Town and the Western Cape Department of Health, has embarked on a breastmilk donation drive called the LatchOn! Breastmilk Drive. The purpose of the LatchOn! Breastmilk Drive is to ensure that there is sufficient breastmilk to help all the babies, now and into the future. The Tygerberg Hospital Children’s Trust under the leadership of CEO, Mr Jason Falken, is garnering all its resources in support of the initiative and is appealing to moms, individuals and companies alike, to join them in support of the LatchOn! Breastmilk Drive.  The appeal is for moms to donate surplus breast milk. Moms will be screened, tested and counselled when going to donate the much-needed breast milk at the Tygerberg Breastmilk Training Room, 2nd Floor, East Side, Tygerberg Hospital. We are appealing to the general public to donate and drop off glass jars smaller than 250ml at the same space.  “We would like to create a sustainable supply of breastmilk for the Hospital to ensure that all our babies are provided with this important nutritional source”, says Mr Jason Falken. “It’s also important that we provide a clean, safe and welcoming space at the Hospital where moms feel comfortable and safe while expressing milk, and also feel free to engage with each other in a socially supportive environment.”   Tygerberg Hospital is the largest hospital in the Western Cape and cares for the greatest number of children within the Province, including many from our rural communities. It supports the most premature babies in South Africa and has the only state Human Milk Bank in the province. It is well known that breastmilk is the most complete source of nutrition for babies from birth to six months and beyond. Breastmilk provides a perfectly balanced source of nutrition for babies.  It is easily digestible, contains everything growing baby needs and provides important antibodies to fight infections and allergies.  For a preemie baby, access to breastmilk daily is vital for the baby’s survival and is especially important for brain development and ensuring a healthy immune system. Together, we may be “United for a Healthy Future” by ensuring our babies have access to the nutritional benefits of breastmilk.  For more information follow the Tygerberg Hospital Children’s Trust on: www.tygerbergchildren.org.za, Facebook: @THCTRUST Twitter: @HospitalTrust, Instagram: @tygerbergchildren, Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tygerberg-hospital-children-s-trust

November 11, 2020
Prima Baby

Chicco Baby Senses Bath Toys selection

The Baby Senses range from Chicco is the primary toy range that encourages babies from as young as 3 months old to use and develop their senses. Baby Senses now introduce their new bath time range of toys to keep little ones engaged and having fun during the important bonding time of bathing. Baby Senses Swimming Frog and Baby Senses Swimming Penguin are two gorgeous bath time companions that work with a mechanical win-up system. Wind them up and watch them swim the length of the bath, creating much laughter and fun for your little one. Also from the range is the Baby Senses Sprinkler Whale. Again, a mechanic wind-up toy, the whale blows water the bath water from his spout as he bobs about in the bath, creating a fun atmosphere that will keep encouraging babies to look forward to bath time. Items available online at Takealot.com, Loot.co.za, Online Home Store, Baby Boom, Babanino.co.za and TheKidZone.co.za

November 9, 2020
JOMAR Baby

Care for your baby’s delicate skin with these top tips

Our little ones come into this world equipped with only their first line of defence: their skin. However, despite a full-term infant’s skin having all five epidermal skin layers intact, including the stratum basale, stratum spinosum, stratum granulosum, stratum lucidum and stratum corneum, there are big differences on how their skin differs from adult skin. This is because the skin cells, structures and composition in a baby’s skin are not yet fully developed at birth and functional maturity only develops during their first year.  For the first 2 years of an infant’s life, thestratum corneum is still very thin, which results in your baby’s skin being more fragile, sensitive, permeable, dryer and more susceptible to infections. This is the reason why baby skin should be cared for with skincare products developed especially for baby, such as the JOMAR care range. Wondering how you can ensure even further that you are giving your little one the best care possible? Have a look at the following tips from the JOMAR team: Fragile skin needs sensible skincare Infant skin is 30% thinner than adult skin. This means that it is more prone to injury and damage. However, baby skin has a superpower: an increased healing and recovery ability thanks to the rate at which skin cells grow and mutate.   This does not mean wounds on baby skin should be neglected, even if it is unlikely to leave a scar. The golden rule is to treat your baby’s damaged skin with a sensible skincare product that is specifically formulated to calm and support the skin’s natural recovery ability and reduce inflammation.   Support sensitive baby skin with proper care Newborns often suffer from rashes, baby acne (milia), dry skin or red blotches; however, these conditions are normal and no reason for concern. Some infants do have more sensitive skin than others which could be caused or aggravated by several internal or external factors.  Parents can manage external factors which include temperature changes, detergents, harsh water, harmful chemicals, the sun and wet diapers. Change diapers frequently and choose a skincare brand that you trust and are free from irritants, parabens, synthetic perfumes, colourants and soap.   Protect permeable skin from harmful ingredients Because baby skin has an impaired barrier function, topical ingredients penetrate their skin easily and could cause skin sensitivity or a reaction to certain ingredients. Always be conscious of the fact that what you apply to your little one’s skin can seep into the deeper layer of the skin and take stock of all ingredients in a product before using it. Dry and flaky skin? It won’t be always like that! Worried that your baby’s skin is very dry and flaky? Don’t be: it is completely normal during the first three months of life. At birth, a baby’s sebum secretion is very high which could cause tiny white “pimples”, but thereafter it decreases. This low level of sebum in the epidermis and the reduced water holding capacity of the immature skin cells, result in your baby having dry skin.   This will change over time and your baby’s skin will become even more hydrated and supple than adult skin. Ensure that you are using a safe, effective and natural skin moisturiser to relieve dry, uncomfortable skin. Keep your environment hygienic to curb infections The reason why babies are more vulnerable to infections is that their skin (as part of the immune system) is not yet fully prepared to offer optimal protection. They are more susceptible to chemical irritants and bacteria compared to adults, due to their impaired barrier function. We need to ensure the baby’s environment is hygienic and clean to prevent any unwanted germs causing skin irritation, rashes and infections.  Consider the best skincare possible Based on the above, it is clear why we should carefully consider the skincare choices we make for our little ones. You have to be comfortable with your brand of choice and it is always easier if they share your values. Use a brand that you can really trust and that is kind to skin and the environment! To find out more about JOMAR’s clean beauty approach, be sure to visit their website here. www.jomarbaby.com 

November 6, 2020
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