Our Tips for Any Mum Who’s New to Breastfeeding

 To help you on your breastfeeding journey, we’ve pulled together some top tips to set you in the right direction. 1.       Get Comfortable Make sure that you have everything you may need close to hand before you start feeding – think healthy snacks (like fruit, nuts, or granola), your phone, a muslin cloth, the TV remote and a drink. Use a comfy chair and grab some pillows to support your back and arms. 2.       Look Out for Hunger Cues Your baby will let you know when they’re hungry, look out for the following signs that they’re ready for a feed.  Turning their head towards your breast and opening their mouth (this is called rooting). Putting their hands in their mouth. Clenching their hands. Puckering, smacking, or licking their lips. Making short low-pitched cries 3.       Keep Hydrated & Nourished It’s really important that you drink enough water when breastfeeding, but we know that remembering to eat and drink can be tricky when you’re a sleep deprived new mum. Try to avoid sugary drinks and too much coffee or tea, as these contain stimulants like caffeine which can be passed on to your little one as they feed and interfere with their sleep. Aim to drink approximately 10 glasses of water throughout the day, as well as making sure you’re eating regularly to keep your energy levels up. 4.       Skin to Skin  Breastfeeding is not just about feeding your little one, it’s also an opportunity to provide warmth, comfort and bonding time. Bringing skin to skin contact into your feeding regime is a great way to bond with your baby. It helps to regulate their body temperature, heart rate and breathing. They’ll be able to feel your comforting heartbeat, and the contact also helps you to produce more of the love hormone oxytocin, which encourages milk production. 5.       Pump It The more you pump, the more milk you’ll produce. You can also express extra milk after or between feeding sessions and freeze it for another day. Freezing your milk also gives you flexibility, as it means your partner, family members or friends can feed your baby using a bottle while you take a well-deserved break. 6.       Be Kind to Yourself Most new mum’s encounter issues at some point on their breastfeeding journey, so please don’t be hard on yourself if things don’t go to plan! Try not to compare yourself to others, remember that your journey is unique to you and you’re free to make your own decisions. 7.       Take A Break Self-care may be the last thing on your mind, but it’s so important that you spend some time thinking about you and your overall wellbeing. Rest and sleep when you can. Treat yourself to an hour of pampering while someone you trust watches the baby, maybe nip to the salon, get a postnatal massage, or go out with a friend. Take care of your nipples and breasts using balms and warm or cool compresses and seek medical advice if they become painful. 8.       Ask for Help Use your support system whenever you can and talk about how you’re really feeling. Try getting in touch with friends and family members for a chat, find a virtual village of other mums online.  Tune into Tommee Tippee Breastival right here https://www.instagram.com/tommeetippeeza/ Tune into the pre-record  right here https://www.instagram.com/p/CSEIV1jqUTI/,  with Lynne Bluff as she explains all about your milk supply once you’ve given birth. Lynne is the editor of the Expectant Mother Guide and has a BSc Nursing degree.  She is a Registered Nurse and Midwife, Internationally Certified Childbirth Educator and the National Coordinator of the Childbirth Educators Professional Forum. Remember that everyone’s breastfeeding story is different and if you’re struggling, there are resources you can go to for support and advice. https://www.lllsa.org/ https://www.expectantmothersguide.co.za/listings/lactation-consultants/ http://salactationconsultants.co.za/wp/find-a-consultant/

August 5, 2021

PROTECTING BREASTFEEDING IS A SHARED RESPONSIBILITY

Breastfeeding is the recommended, ideal, natural and sustainable food for the healthy growth and development of infants and young children. The recommendation for infants 0 – six months is exclusive breastfeeding (feeding breastmilk only). Unfortunately, South Africa’s breastfeeding rates, at all ages, are low. The rate of exclusive breastfeeding in the first six months of life was reported at just 32% at the last national survey in 2016.  While that figure falls far short of the World Health Organisation (WHO) global target of 50% by 2025, it signals an improvement over the past years for the country.   The effort to improve breastfeeding rates has shifted from focusing on mostly mothers and health care workers, to look across our society and identify all the contact points with mothers and ways that mothers may be discouraged and or even persuaded to give up on breastfeeding their babies.  This has led to efforts to include all sectors throughout the healthcare system, the non-profit and community-based organisations, workplace settings and families to unite in protecting breastfeeding and creating a culture where the whole society fully supports breastfeeding mums. We often don’t realise that we may be discouraging breastfeeding and may have little idea of the health impacts on both mothers and babies if exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life doesn’t happen.  It’s quite another thing though, to answer a call to become a protector of breastfeeding.   How do we do this?  It starts with understanding the barriers to breastfeeding that many mothers face.  Breastfeeding education in South Africa is insufficient and there is often not enough skilled healthcare support for new mothers to help them overcome early challenges.  The answer to any sign of a struggle is too often a recommendation to abandon breastfeeding and switch to infant formula products.  In a upper-middle income country, this is a move that not only compromises the health of mom and baby but adds a significant household expense impacting on the entire family.   However, the challenges of breastfeeding exclusively for six months, and ongoing breastfeeding on demand are not limited to our healthcare facilities and services.  Key to successful breastfeeding is that moms are empowered to feed their babies anytime and anywhere, which means they need broad-based support across society.  Dr Chantell Witten, a Registered Dietitian and spokesperson for ADSA, (The Association for Dietetics in South Africa), points out that moms can face significant roadblocks to breastfeeding their babies even when this delicate process went well for them after the birth of their baby.  She says, “Given the many stressors on households, sometimes mothers find themselves in hostile home environments and social circles negative towards breastfeeding. Often influential women in their lives second-guess them or encourage that they feed other foods before their baby is six months old.  The need to earn and return to work, puts pressure on moms to give up on breastfeeding.  That’s why protecting breastfeeding needs to be a “whole of society” effort to ensure that we have work and social environments that are breastfeeding-friendly.” Breastfeeding from birth supports the healthy development of babies and plays an important role in prevention of all forms of childhood malnutrition including undernutrition, obesity and micronutrient deficiencies. Breastmilk contains antibodies which help protect against many childhood illnesses. The risk of breast and ovarian cancers can also be reduced in women who breastfeed. Professor Lisanne du Plessis, a fellow ADSA spokesperson and Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist, makes it easy to understand how we can be a protector of breastfeeding:  Partners can help mothers with the domestic workload as well as the caring of the baby. Getting hands-on with baby bathing, burping, talking, singing and playing is a great support.  Doing grocery shopping, helping with food preparation and cleaning of the house creates a supportive environment. Raising children was never supposed to be a one-woman job and partners have a major impact on creating a home environment conducive to breastfeeding for optimum mom and baby health.  Family and friends should be cheerleaders for breastfeeding. It makes such a difference to encourage mothers on their journey to provide their babies with the best nutrition.  Be aware of supporting breastfeeding moms anytime and anywhere.  Even if you didn’t have a positive breastfeeding experience with your baby, make sure you fully encourage the new moms in your social circle. Workplace support can make a real difference when it comes to maintaining breastfeeding after the end of maternity leave.  In South Africa, we have few workplace policies that are designed to create an enabling environment to support breastfeeding mothers, and you can be part of ensuring this happens in your company.  Breastfeeding moms who have returned to work are entitled to two 30-minute breaks to express breastmilk. A private room and refrigeration facilities for safely storing their breastmilk can provide further support. SA society needs to be aware of attitudes that discourage breastfeeding, and even shame breastfeeding mothers.  Breastfeeding is perfectly natural and should be normalised and championed across SA communities.  Do your part to support, promote and protect breastfeeding as a national asset. It makes sense for us to ensure that our breastfeeding moms feel valued for the great choice they are making. World Breastfeeding Week runs from 1 to 7 August 2021.  In the midst of the global pandemic with our heightened awareness of the importance of health and robust immunity, it is vital to remember that breastmilk is the optimum food for our babies.  Nothing compares, it is priceless.  Let’s support and encourage moms in those critical hours after birth, continue the support for the first six months of the baby’s life and also over the longer term as they strive to do their best for their children.

August 4, 2021

What should I eat when breastfeeding?

Although you’re no longer pregnant, you’re still essentially eating for two if breastfeeding will be your baby’s primary source of nourishment. As milk production burns approximately 400 calories a day, the good news is that you can choose to eat a little more than usual. The most important thing about your breastfeeding diet is the necessity to find a good balance. What to eat when breastfeeding to help you achieve this balance: At least five portions of fruit and vegetables daily, to get those all-important vitamins and nutrients. Lots of fibre, as found in wholemeal bread, pasta, cereals, beans and lentils, can help with constipation and other bowel problems that are common after birth. Protein, such as lean meat, chicken, eggs and fish, are great for both of you. Fish is particularly good and two portions a week are recommended. Calcium-rich foods, such as milk, cheese and yoghurt, are an important part of your breastfeeding diet. Plenty of fluids. Whilst there is no definitive amount, it is always good to drink plenty of uncaffeinated, unsweetened drinks. It is also good practice to keep a drink of water within reach while breastfeeding, as it is thirsty work. Iron-rich foods. Breastfeeding mothers need the same amount of iron as they do during pregnancy. While the amount of iron in your breast milk won’t be affected by your intake, it is important for your health to keep your iron levels up in order to avoid anaemia and associated health problems. Red meat is the preferred source of iron for breastfeeding mothers, as iron in meat is in a form very easily and readily absorbed by the body. It is important to also point out what not to eat when breastfeeding when looking at your diet during this period of your life. Here’s a few things that should not be on the menu just yet: Oily fish More than two portions of oily fish (mackerel, sardines, trout, fresh tuna) can be harmful, as they contain small amounts of pollutants. Shark and other exotic fish should be avoided too, as they contain mercury. Caffeine Coffee, tea, chocolate, soft drinks, energy drinks and certain medicines all contain caffeine which can harm your baby and keep them awake. Caffeine intake should be occasional at most, and certainly not daily. Nuts There are conflicting opinions regarding nuts and other highly allergenic foods. Many believe they should be avoided, especially if you have a history of allergies in your family. However, there is a school of thought that suggests having nuts in the diet can help to develop exposure and, as a result, reduce the chance your child will develop an allergy. Consult your doctor for more information. Herbs Certain herbal teas and medicines should be avoided – always read the label to be on the safe side. Teas with ingredients used in cooking, such as fennel, camomile and peppermint, are generally okay. Other drugs Aspirin, codeine, phenylephrine and guaifenesin are not advised. Contact your doctor for a suitable substitute. A balanced diet should give you all that you and your baby needs. However, if you don’t get much daily sunshine then one of the best supplements to add to your breastfeeding diet is Vitamin D. Look in the pharmacy for one designed specifically for breastfeeding mums. Tune into Tommee Tippee Breastival right here https://www.instagram.com/tommeetippeeza/ Join the live on Wednesday,  4th August  2021, when host Dr Bongi Hill will be live with dietician Naazneen Khan,   where they will be discussing the topic “Your diet while breastfeeding”.    

August 4, 2021

3 healthy foods to feed your toddler

We all know the importance of our children having a healthy diet, but it’s not always easy to get your toddler to eat what they should. We know the struggle of trying to get your child to eat what they should, and so we have put together a list of ‘Superfoods’ that aren’t only amazingly good for your child’s health, but also taste great. 1.Bananas for a healthy child This simple and affordable fruit is packed full of nutrients for your child.  What do they have: Vitamin B6 for producing red blood cells and keeping up a healthy nervous system Vitamin C to prevent tissue and cell damage, boost their immune system, absorb iron and help them produce serotonin (the hormone that amongst other things helps them sleep better). Potassium to grow a healthy heart and keep a stable blood pressure. Fibre to keep a healthy gut, control blood sugar, aid digestion and minimise constipation. Energy that is slow releasing and will give your child what they need to play and learn If your child doesn’t like the texture of bananas, try incorporating them into this healthy flapjack recipe instead: Mash one ripe banana well with little to no pieces. Add 1/8 tsp baking powder, 1/8 tsp of salt, 1/4 tsp of vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon of raw honey to the bananas Combine banana mixture and two eggs thoroughly Cook on medium heat using a non-stick pan 2.Sweet potatoes for a healthy child Again, these are easy to make, affordable and tasty. They also have numerous health benefits for your child. What do they have:  Beta Carotene helps raise Vitamin A levels in their blood – and works really well in children Vitamin C to prevent tissue and cell damage, boost their immune system, absorb iron and help them produce serotonin (the hormone that amongst other things helps them sleep better). Potassium to grow a healthy heart and keep a stable blood pressure. Vitamin B6 for producing red blood cells and keeping up a healthy nervous system Vitamin E to protect their bodies against oxidative damage. Fibre to keep a healthy gut, control blood sugar, aid digestion and minimise constipation. Energy that is slow releasing and will give your child what they need to play and learn You can cook these like potatoes and mash them up, for a sweet potato mash dish. Or try this Sweet Potato chips recipe: Pre-heat your oven to 200C Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly, dry them and slice them into chip sized strips with the skin on. Coat the strips with a tablespoon of olive oil Sprinkle with salt Sprinkle with Rosemary (only if your toddler doesn’t mind seeing green things on their food!) Bake in the centre of the oven for 35-40 minutes, shifting them half-way through 3.Plain Greek yoghurt and Blueberries for a healthy child Even though both of these foods carry their own benefits, together they taste good enough for most fussy toddlers to eat. What does Greek yoghurt have:  Calcium for optimal bone health and growth in children Protein is essential in any diet; it also helps them feel fuller for longer and keeps their metabolism functioning. Probiotics to balance your child’s gut with good bacteria, which has an effect on many things within their bodies.  What do Blueberries have: Vitamin C to prevent tissue and cell damage, boost their immune system, absorb iron and help them produce serotonin (the hormone that amongst other things helps them sleep better). Antioxidant compounds to help your child’s cells fight damage, help prevent chronic diseases, and boost brain function. Blueberries have the highest levels of antioxidants compared to other fruit and vegetables Fibre to keep a healthy gut, control blood sugar, aid digestion and minimise constipation.  While blueberries are great to eat as is, depending on the age of your toddler, they may be a chocking hazard. Try incorporating the Greek yoghurt and make this Smurf Shake for your child. Blend together: 1 cup of blueberries  1 banana ½ cup of plain Greek yoghurt ½ cup of milk of your choice ½ cup of water Raw Honey to taste

August 4, 2021

Pumping up your milk supply

World Breastfeeding Week (1 to 7 August) aims to highlight the benefits of breastfeeding babies, as well as the importance of supporting breastfeeding moms throughout their lactation journey. It also focuses on maternal health matters like good nutrition, poverty reduction and food security. Catherine Clark, Founder and Owner of The Harvest Table is no stranger to breastfeeding. With two children of her own (Josh, 12 and Ella, 9), she knows exactly how tough it is to be a new mom and the challenges that are part and parcel of this marathon. Catherine explains, “With your emotions running high due to the volatile cocktail of no sleep and raging hormones, it’s easy to feel like you’re on a rollercoaster with no end in sight. And, when it feels like your milk supply is dwindling, panic does tend to set in. But resist the urge to run away, rather try these tips from someone who has been there, done that, and got the milk-stained T-shirt!”  Five tips to increase your milk supply: 1. Get enough sleep: A lack of sleep is one of the biggest culprits when it comes to low milk supply. Easier said than done? We all know that new moms don’t choose to skip naps, that’s why it’s vital that you try to sleep when your baby sleeps or ask a friend to babysit while you grab some much-needed oblivion. If you’re not getting sufficient sleep, you’ll naturally be more stressed, and the subsequent release of stress hormones will have the domino effect of reducing your milk supply and trapping you in a vicious cycle. 2. Pump between feeds: It’s a good idea to pump after every feed to ensure that both breasts are totally empty, as this is a trigger for your body to start producing more milk. It’s a simple case of supply and demand – the more milk your breasts need, the more they will make. 3. Offer both sides during feeding: Breastfeeding from both sides during feeds is said to encourage a stronger supply of milk. Do remember to alternate the breast you start the feeding on, each time you feed your baby. As the first breast usually gets the lion’s share of your baby’s attention, wear a hair scrunchie around your wrist to remind you which breast you finished off in the last feed so that you don’t keep starting on the same breast. 4. Eat lots of galactagogues (foods that increase breast milk supply): Breastfeeding is a hungry monster that requires a lot of fuel to produce quality milk. To give your body the best chance of producing great breast milk, include as many of the following in your daily diet as possible: bone broth, coconut, lentils, liver, oatmeal, garlic, chickpeas and sweet potatoes. Bone broth is one of the best superfoods full of gut-healing and body-boosting nutrients. Made by slow boiling bones in water for an extended period of time, the bones release their nutrients into the water, creating an extremely nutrient rich “broth”. But which new mom has the time to make her own bone broth?! Simply shop online and get yours delivered to your door by The Harvest Table. By adding bone broth powder to your soups, stews and sauces, you’ll give your milk supply a turbo boost. 5. Avoid too much of these: New moms should avoid large quantities of sage, peppermint, oregano, lemon balm, parsley, thyme, caffeine (in tea, carbonated drinks, chocolate, energy drinks and headache medicine), citrus juice, fresh tomatoes and alcohol, as these may result in a decreased milk production. Visit www.harvesttable.co.za to order your bone broth and other healthy products for the whole family.

August 3, 2021

Preparing for baby with Mom2B®

Oh, the happiness of hearing about a longed-for pregnancy! And what fun preparing for the tiny arrival. Where will baby sleep? What baby equipment and cute clothes are needed? Don’t forget mom’s pregnancy wardrobe to cover that expanding tum…  Meanwhile during all this activity and joy, little one is calmly doing his or her unseen baby work – growing and developing to meet the world on that important due date. To help baby and herself during this time of preparation, mom-to-be knows that it is important to eat nourishing food. But because she is the one doing the running around while baby is just a passenger, finding the time and energy isn’t easy.  What helps is to stock the house with chicken, fish, salads, vegetables, fruits and high fibre foods like brown rice, chick peas or oats. These meet her need for smaller and more frequent meals and help her cope with typical tummy problems like nausea, constipation, and cravings.  Mom2B® Pregnancy Shakes can go on the list as part of her pregnancy and breastfeeding preparation too. They are affordable and yummy meal supplements in chocolate, strawberry or vanilla flavours and can be taken once or twice a day, helping her to acquire important nutrients for herself and baby. Just add milk or water for a drink of protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and an impressive nutritional content. No wonder Mom2B® is South Africa’s number one pregnancy shake. (*Nielsen MAT Aug 2019) Mom2B® Pregnancy Shakes, available from Takealot, selected pharmacies and retailers, cost around R144 for a 400 g tin of 8 servings.  For more information: www.mom2be.co.za or Facebook https://web.facebook.com/NativaMom2B  WIN! Are you preparing to welcome your little baby, or perhaps organising a baby shower for family member or friend? Enter and stand a chance of winning a Mom2B® hamper comprising of of 6 shakes, Nema the Mom2B® lamb, and a shaker bottle. Valued at over R1000!   

August 2, 2021

Benefits to using a soother

Should my baby use a soother? When should I introduce a soother if I choose to use one? What if it causes confusion? Who do I speak to if my baby becomes too reliant on a soother? All of these are common questions that every parent thinks about and there are many benefits to introducing a soother to your baby such as distracting and soothing a fussy and uncomfortable baby, assisting with lulling a baby to sleep, easing pain and discomfort during a flight and it may reduce the risk of SIDS. A soother may even lead to a shorter hospital stay for a preterm baby.  The vital baby® SOOTHE™ Airflow Soothers (R119.99) have been developed with the care of you and your baby in mind.  The range helps soothe your baby when they – and you – need it most. Vital Baby symmetrical soother teats make the soother easy for baby to hold in their mouth. 100% soft silicone is taste and odour-free and comfortable for baby. The wide-open Airflow shield helps to protect delicate cheeks against skin irritation. The simple safety ring folds neatly and inconspicuously against the soother and comes with a microwave steriliser box for easy sterilising and storing. The soothers are also dishwasher safe. Available in 0 – 6m and 6m – 18m sizes and available in two different shades. 

July 29, 2021

SHOP VITAL BABY ONLINE AND OUR TOP PICKS FOR EXPECTING MOMS

We heard your suggestion and we have delivered – you can now shop for your favourite Vital Baby items online at www.vitalbabyshop.co.za From breast-pads to bottles, from sterilizers to thermometers, Vital Baby has everything an expecting mother could possibly require. Take a look at a few of our best seller items across the website. vital baby® NURTURE™ Easy Latch Newborn Starter Set Included in the pack:  2x vital baby® NURTURE™ breast like feeding bottle 150ml, cap and collar 2x vital baby® NURTURE™ breast like feeding bottle 240ml, cap and collar 4x vital baby® NURTURE™ breast like teat slow flow 1x vital baby® newborn 100% silicone soother 1x non-scratch bottle & teat brush vital baby® NURTURE™ breast like feeding bottles are: Expertly designed to mimic mum’s breast, the teat flexes like mum’s nipple, providing easy latch on. Advanced triple anti-colic valves to reduce air intake. Silicone is soft and smooth against baby’s delicate face. Wide neck bottle is easy to clean and fill. BPA-free. A range of teats with varying flow rates to keep up with your growing baby is available.  For hygiene and safety reasons, it is recommended that the teats should be replaced at regular intervals. vital baby® NURTURE™ Flexcone™ Electric Breast Pump 1x vital baby® NURTURE™ flexcone™ electric breast pump The vital baby® NURTURE™ flexcone™ electric breast pump together with it’s very soft silicone breast cup and flexcone™ provides gentle cushioning around your breast and mimics the suckling action of your baby to provide the most natural and effective breast milk expression ever! With 9 different speed settings to give ultimate control, the vital baby® NURTURE™ flexcone™ electric breast provides a uniquely tailored feeding experience. The simple touch panel control is easy to use and quick to operate.  It is discreet, quiet, lightweight and portable for total convenience. Perfect for use when at home or away; cordless operation with the built-in rechargeable battery, or plug in with the USB cable included – the choice is mum’s! vital baby® NURTURE™ Easy Pour Breastmilk Storage Bags The unique design of our easy pour breast milk storage bag makes it simple to fill, store and easy to transport.   The leak proof secure seal ensures no milk is lost when storing breast milk in the fridge or freezer and the wide neck and free-standing base of each storage bag makes it easy to fill.  Simply remove the pre-perforated tab when you are ready to fill the bag, then pour in your freshly expressed breast milk with ease, and securely lock the freshness into the bag with the easy use zip fastener.  It’s as simple as that! When you are ready to use the stored breast milk, there is a special easy-pour spout.  You re-open the bag by simply cutting along the dotted line, ensuring that your valuable breast milk does not pour over the sealing zip which may have been handled during filling.  Our breast milk storage bag avoids possible contamination and maintains a high standard of hygiene, easily and effortlessly. vital baby® PROTECT™ Contactless Thermometer Quick, accurate and super simple to use, our multi-use 4 in 1 infra-red contactless thermometer detects the temperature in just 2 seconds and gives the result on its large fever alert colour changing, digital display. Choose which mode you need to give you ultimate peace of mind during the day, night or even at bath or feeding times! Learn more about Vital Baby on http://www.vitalbabyshop.co.za or follow them on social media at @vitalbabysa.

July 29, 2021

Kaily car seat incl Base

When it comes to your little one’s safety, the absolute first item to consider when it comes to transporting your baby is a suitable car seat!  The fact is that when your baby is correctly strapped into their car seat their risk of dying in a car accident decreases. WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN AN INFANT CAR SEAT? Rear Facing Bucket shaped with the handle  Installed Base for easier transitions The Chicco Kaily car seat is a new Group 0+ car seat that is homologated for babies up to 13kgs.  It really is the perfect ally for little ones who will be rear facing for the first few years of their lives. The base is installed with your vehicles seatbelts, which allows the seat to click into the base, providing a sophisticated and easy travel experience – the less times we wake a sleeping baby the better!  This car seat is compatible with several of our Chicco strollers allowing for a versatile travel system solution.   From R3999.99 at participating outlets, the Kaily car seat is a safe and reliable choice for travel with your most loved treasure – your little one!

July 26, 2021

Baby’s physical milestones for every age

As parents, we naturally want to keep track of how our little ones are developing or if there are any concerns around things they are supposed to be doing. This milestone guide, written by Occupational Therapist Megan Smith, gives you the average milestones children reach at certain ages. It is important to note that not all children are the same, and many develop at different paces than others. If you are concerned about drastically missed milestones, we always suggest booking an appointment with your child’s doctor to check everything is on track.  Milestones for 0 to 6-month-old babies During the first 0 to 2 months of the baby’s life, they have limited control over their own movements as they are generally due to reflex actions. (Baby massage and exercises will assist in muscle strength and tone development).  During the first few weeks, babies will lie in a flexed position (tucked inwards, knees to chest and arms towards trunk centre). This mimics the position they maintained in the womb and allows them to feel safe and secure. Swaddling assists babies in maintaining the contained position.  Babies first motor milestone are to overcome flexion and uncoil into a more neutral lying position. As their back muscles strengthen, this becomes easier and more natural.  4 to 6 weeks – during tummy time, babies will start to lift their heads off the mat for short periods of time. As the neck muscles start to strengthen, this movement becomes easier and will be sustained for longer.  By six weeks, they should be able to hold their head up for a few minutes in supported sitting and on their tummy.  12 weeks – arm movements start to appear more controlled as babies start to swipe for objects held in their visual field. This is important for developing arm strength.  By 3 months old, when babies are placed on their side, they can roll over onto their back. 3 months – babies can hold their heads up at a 45-degree angle during tummy time.  During the 8 to 12-week period, babies will start to notice their hands and bring them to their mouths actively. This is the starting point in developing hand-eye coordination.  4 to 6 months – babies start to prop up on their elbows during tummy time and may even hold themselves up on straight arms in this position. They may collapse on one arm, causing them to roll over accidentally.  4 to 6 months – when lying on their backs, babies will start to play and engage with their toes, bringing them right up to their mouths. This is important as the position strengthens their tummy muscles.  By 6 months, babies should be rolling one way – back to tummy or tummy to back.  By 6 months, babies will love to be supported on your lap in the standing position and bounce. This strengthens the leg muscles to prepare them for pull-stand.  6 months – babies should achieve the sitting position.  6 months – babies hands become more functional, and they start to actively grasp and manipulate objects.  Milestones for 6 to 12-month-old babies 9 months – independent sitting where babies will be able to get in and out of the sitting position on their own.  While sitting, babies will start to reach forward for objects and turn their trunks to the sides to reach objects. During the reach, they may find themselves propping forwards into the crawling position.  9 months – babies should have a good contralateral crawl.  By 9 months, babies can pick up an object between their thumb and forefinger.  Around 9 to 10 months, babies can pass toys from hand to hand.  At 9 to 12 months, babies will start using external objects to pull themself into a standing position.  Once in a supported standing position, babies will bounce and rock on their legs, preparing their muscles for weight shifting needed to achieve walking.  During this period, one bounce will eventually turn into a step, and they will learn how to cruise – holding onto something with their hands for support and moving their feet. Walking is the most variable milestone and really depends on the individual child. Some walk at 9 months, others at 16 months.  Milestone for 12 to 18-month-old babies  At 12 months, they will point to objects with their index finger.  At around 15 months, they can now bend in standing to pick up a toy. At 15 months, babies can crawl up a few stairs.  At 18 months, babies can start to take a few steps backwards. At 18 months, babies can page through a thick paged book.  Milestones for 18 to 24-month-old babies  Towards 2 years, toddlers can now run more rhythmically, faster and with better balance.  At 2 years, toddlers can walk up and down stairs unaided, holding onto a rail.   They can stand and kick a big ball without losing balance.  They can catch a ball if you through it into their arms.  Milestones for 2 to 3-year-old’s At 2 years, they will start to ride a tricycle.   They can hit a ball lying on the floor with a bat.  They are able to hold a crayon with all fingers and their thumb in opposition, using elbow and shoulder to draw.  They can jump down a step with two feet together. At 2,5 years, they can walk between two lines.  They will start to cross the midline of their body during activities.  They can stand on one leg momentarily.  They can throw a ball in a specific direction.  They can kick a ball without losing balance.  They can use their fingers separately – touching their thumb to their index finger.  Milestones for 3-year-olds They can walk backwards, forwards and sideways.  They can walk heel-toe with good balance. They can walk on a straight line.  They can throw a ball from above his head.  They start to use an inferior pencil grip – holding the pencil between their thumb, index

July 23, 2021

We Black Travel System – Stroller, car seat & carry cot

BUYING A TRAVEL SYSTEM When looking for a travel system, there are a few things that parents must keep top of mind: Comfort Versatility Strength Convenience for parent Longevity and value for money The Chicco We Travel system super combo which includes the We stroller, Kaily car seat and Chicco Soft Carrycot offers parents all they could ask for in a travel system in spades!   This versatile We travel system hits the trifactor!  A safe car seat for complete peace of mind, a buggy-style stroller and a super soft carry cot for those nap times on the move. WHY THE KAILY CAR SEAT? Suitable for use from birth, the Kaily car seat is rear facing for added safety and comes with a based that remained installed in your vehicle with your seat belts for quick transitions in and out the car with a simple click. WHAT MAKES THE WE STROLLER PERFECT FOR PARENTS ON THE GO? It is super lightweight and has a compact fold.  A large canopy with UV50+ protection ensures your little one is always kept safe from harsh conditions.  The cushioning is premium and with full recline capability, your little one can easily nap whilst out and about.  A large storage basket is complimented by slick leather details. SNUG AND SAFE IN THE SUPER SOFT CARRYCOT This carrycot is created from soft breathable fabric with superb inner support for nap times on the go with your little one.  Slotting easily into the reclined We Stroller, you can ensure your baby feels snug and safe even whilst on the go.  Suitable for use up to 9kg, this strong durable carry cot is a super addition to the travel system.   Available from participating baby retailers, this ultimate We Travel system can be purchased from R11 999.99. For more information head to www.chicco.co.za

July 21, 2021

Chicco We Black Travel System : Stroller & Car Seat Combo

At Chicco we understand that choosing a travel system for your precious bundle of joy is stressful!  That’s why we take the stress out of the decision by offering you well rounded travel system options. The We Travel system is new to South Africa and is super stylish with leather details.  The We stroller and Car Seat combo will ensure your little one is transported safely from birth to 15kgs. Super lightweight (no more breaking your back getting either the car seat or the stroller in and out your vehicle) the buggy-style travel solution is perfect for parents who like to be on the move.  The stroller folds neatly and compactly and is capable of full recline.  It is fitted with a UV50+ large canopy which keeps your little one protected from the elements.   Matched with the Kaily car seat – Gro 0+, you now have the perfect travel system.  The Kaily car seat comes with a base that is easily installed with seat belts, so that it remains in your vehicle, making transitions much easier – especially if your little one is napping. From only R9 999.99, this all-around lightweight travel system will fit perfectly into your new life as parents! More information can be found at www.chiccco.co.za

July 14, 2021

Breastfeeding Goodies

Breastfeeding is the most natural way to feed your baby and yet there are many breastfeeding goodies available to help you breastfeed. For you to take advantage of all the extra help that you can get with breast feeding it is important to know what the gadget was meant to help with and then also how to use it correctly.  My Breastpump has a few really stunning and extremely helpful goodies that can assist you with breast feeding, be it to help store milk or because you are battling with sore nipples. Let’s start with our favorate Ameda breast pump: Mya Joy Hospital Grade Double Electric breast pump: we love it because it is so useful and easy to use. With the Mya Joy you can express quickly and quietly. It has different size flanges which makes your pumping much more comfortable and has a battery option which makes it easy to pump during load shedding. The Mya Joy can be used by an exclusive pumper or a part time pumper and it can help to increase your milk supply. It has a 2-year warranty and can be claimed back from some medical aids. Lets look at some gizmos that help your nipples: Lanolin nipple cream: Our Triple zero lanolin nipple cream is ideal for your maternity bag because lanolin helps to reduce friction between your bra and nipple. It also helps to relieve pain and discomfort for sore dry or cracked nipples by adding moisture to them. An added benefit is that the Ameda triple zero lanolin does not need to be wiped off before baby starts to feed. Comfortgel Hydrogel pads: These are an absolute must for more painful and damaged nipples. They help to sooth and heal cracked and damaged nipples. They help to reduce swelling as they can be applied cold and allows for wet wound healing. Our ComfortGel pads are the longest lasting pads as they last for 6 days. DuoShell: The Duoshell can assist with 2 different issues as it names suggests. It is worn between feeds. The front shell has holes on the top section to allow for air movement so that your nipples can dry and a small milk catchment area on the bottom so that any leaking milk will be caught. The back part of the shell has different sized holes. The smaller hole is used to help gently pull-out inverted nipples.  The shell with the larger hole is used to protect a damaged nipple from fabric friction and accidental touching. This way it allows your nipple to heal in a dry touch free space.  Nipple Shields: Ameda has 3 different size (16mm, 20mm and 24mm) nipple shields which can be used to help premature infants latch, help reduce pain from a baby’s shallow latch due to a tongue tie, help to reduce pain while breastfeeding and allow the nipple to heal. It is important that you get the correct sized nipple shield so that you can feed comfortably. Nipple shields are generally used as a short-term solution while the latch of the baby is being corrected. Breast pads: Breast pads are an excellent way to keep your tops free from milk marks and help to keep your nipples dry. We have the MoistureGaurd range which is specifically made to keep you dry while being discreet and soft on your nipple. The MoistureGaurd disposable breast pad was designed to hold up to 35x its weigh. It is designed to curve with your breast and has stickers to hold them into place. If you find that you need to use any of our products that help to heal nipples, please consider also consulting a lactation consultant so that she can assist you with your latch so that you will prevent the issue happening again. Some goodies that help with breast milk storage and pumping: CleanEase Microwave sterilizing bag: These bags are great for using at home or when you need to travel. They are ultra-thin and great space savers when traveling to and home and the office, holiday, or hospital. Another great advantage when using the CleanEase microwave bag is that you have control over how clean your microwave sterilizer is. You do not need to share with anyone else which makes using the bag in a hospital or work setting more hygienic. You can also transport your pump parts in the bag for extra safety rather than just loose in your bag. These bags are extra-large and able to fit many pump parts into it at one time. You can mark how many times you have used them. You can pour out the boiling water with out opening the ziplock which helps to prevent burning your hands.  Breast milk bags: Ameda Pour’nStore and the MyBreast milk storage bags. Breast milk storage bags are great for saving space while freezing your breast milk. You can lie them flat while freezing so that they freeze into a thin envelope of breast milk. This can then be stacked upright so that you can easily read the label and manage your stash. It is important that you use up your older milk first so that you do not waste any breast milk. If you are looking for gadgets to help you make your breastfeeding easier follow us on our Facebook or instagram pages. Look for My Breastpump SA and you should find us. Chat to us and let us know what your favorite one is and why. 

July 8, 2021

Chicco WE Black Stroller

INTRODUCING THE NEW CHICCO WE STROLLER The Chicco We stroller is a lightweight, versatile buggy-style stroller that is perfect for parents who travel a lot or for parents who like to be on the go. This stroller has an extremely compact fold which makes it easy to travel with and of course the fact that it is light makes life much easier when on the move too. Suitable for use from birth to 15kgs, this stylish stroller with leather details will fit right into your busy lifestyle.  Capable of a full recline, your little one can safely have a nap whilst being protected from the weather with the large canopy which has UV50+ protection.  The We stroller has an ample storage basket at its base. This edgy, stylish stroller is the ultimate stroller for your little one on the go! You can find the Chicco We Stoller at participating baby outlets from only R5 999.99. For more information head to www.chicco.co.za 

July 7, 2021

Have you had your Vit D3 sunshine shots?

Here’s a winter health fact. Our bodies need Vitamin D for many important processes including supporting the immune system, bone and muscle building, and to promote better sleep and mood.  We can even produce enough vitamin D ourselves. That’s if we bare our arms, legs, back, chests or faces to the sun for a limited period of time, because the sun’s UV rays produce Vitamin D in our bodies. Scientists reckon that five to 15 minutes, or five to 30 minutes for darker skinned people, of sun exposure two or three times a week will do it.  But during winter, just when we need this immune boosting and stress relieving sunny gift to help us through the season of colds and ‘flu, the days are short, we stay indoors, and are usually covered up head to toe for much of the time. But, fun tip ladies: if you wear a cami under your warm clothing, you can head for a sunny spot at a warm time of day, strip off the top layers and you’re all set for a short spot of winter sunbathing. You may not wish to try this at the office! For those of us who can’t do the sun thing, vitamin D is also available in some foods, mainly in fatty fish like pilchards, tuna and salmon. Milk, yogurts and cereals are often fortified with Vitamin D too. Still, there are good reasons why many of us can’t get enough Vitamin D from sun or food (being elderly, covered up clothing for religious reasons, no time to go outside, being darker skinned…). In those cases, a one-a-day Nativa Complex® Vitamin D3 https://www.nativacomplex.co.za/immune-health/#nativa-complex-vitamin-d3 can fill the gap. It’s the newest addition to the well-established Nativa Immune Complex® range.  Nativa Complex® Vitamin D3 supplies 1000 IU of Vitamin D and can be administered from 6 years of age. Cost is around R100 for a month’s supply, from Takealot, Dis-Chem, Clicks and selected pharmacies nationwide. Read about this well formulated immune boosting range at https://www.nativacomplex.co.za/immune-health/#immune-complex-product, and then enter our competition for a chance to win one of two R750 vouchers from Cotton On . Their stylish men’s, women’s and kid’s clothing can see you through winter, and (yay) into Spring.   #VITAMIN D3  #sunshine vitamin

July 1, 2021

You wouldn’t work without an employment contract, so why should your domestic worker?

Did you know that, according to the Western Cape Department of Labour, less than half of South African households comply with the laws governing the employment of domestic workers? Because of this, many domestic workers are exploited by their employers. Newly launched local mobile app MiVoice aims to help break this cycle by managing domestic employee relationships and ensuring both parties legally comply with HR laws governing the employment of domestic workers. Hennie Heymans, CEO of StratPay, the company that developed the app, says that MiVoice was conceived in response to evidence that domestic employees are among the most vulnerable employees in SA. “The unfortunate consequences of COVID-19 led to approximately 250 000 local domestic workers losing their jobs and only 21 000 of them succeeded with UIF claims. This predicament created the opportunity for the company to use its intended mobile wallet to uplift this much-neglected sector of workers.” “Domestic employee relationships survive on the balance of many pillars, such as scope of work, remuneration, trust, payment on due date, legal requirements, compassion, financial, etc. But, until now, there has been no programme, no blueprint, no financial account and no effort to combine all of these and manage it on an equal footing for people who are sometimes closer than actual family,” says Heymans. In some dispute instances, the domestic employee is coached by a trade union official to convince the CCMA that the employer is a tyrant who has treated them unfairly, so employers also need to protect themselves, notes Heymans. He adds that, as the app evolved, it soon became clear it would add convenience as well as protection to domestic employers and employees alike. “The app has truly been designed to make managing household employees easier, better, safer and legally compliant, and we believe it will revolutionise domestic employment relationships in SA.” The world’s first fully mobile HR management app, MiVoice administers all employment-related tasks, including legal employment contracts, pay slips and UIF calculations, and offers smart time and task management features, household safety features and commuter accident insurance. Employers are also able to deposit wages into employees’ MiVoice zero-cost e-wallets, who can then make free transfers to bank accounts, make account payments and withdraw cash. The wallet also offers charge-free airtime, data and electricity purchases, and digital vouchers for selected retailers. MiVoice also offers insurance and personal protection services to employers at a premium, which is used to subsidise the transactional financial products made available free of charge in the hands of employees. So download MiVoice on the App Store or Google Play today and make the way you manage your household employees easier, better, safer and legally compliant. 

June 17, 2021

Fisher Price: Baby’s First Blocks & Rock-a-Stack™

Baby’s First Blocks Open a bucket of fun for your little one with Baby’s First Blocks. These chunky, colorful blocks help introduce colors and shapes as babies sort, stack and drop the blocks through the slots in the bucket lid.Open a bucket of fun for your little one with Baby’s First Blocks.… Open a bucket of fun for your little one with Baby’s First Blocks. These chunky, colorful blocks help introduce colors and shapes as babies sort, stack and drop the blocks through the slots in the bucket lid. 10 colorful blocks to sort, stack & drop All blocks fit inside bucket for storage Easy-carry handle for take-along play Introduces colors & shapes Rock-a-Stack The Fisher-Price® Rock-a-Stack® toy is classic, colorful fun for your little one! Younger babies will love grasping, holding, shaking and exploring the five colorful rings. The littlest ring has a shiny, reflective surface for baby to discover inside—with colorful… The Fisher-Price® Rock-a-Stack® toy is classic, colorful fun for your little one! Younger babies will love grasping, holding, shaking and exploring the five colorful rings. The littlest ring has a shiny, reflective surface for baby to discover inside—with colorful, swirling beads that make fun rattle sounds! When they’re ready to sit and stack, babies can place the rings on the post, then bat at the wobbly base to make it rock back and forth. Stacking helps them develop hand-eye coordination and introduces them to the concept of relative size as they learn to sort and stack from biggest to smallest! 5 colorful rings, perfect for grasping and stacking Bat-at rocker base Top ring has shiny surface with rattling beads inside Introduces babies to relative size and stacking Both are available to purchase from Takealot

June 16, 2021

Chicco Multiride – Stroller Of The Week

The Chicco Multiride stroller is the all new off-road stroller that has multi-terrain wheels and is ready for all the action your little one could want as they grow up living the great outdoors.  Strong and reliable, the Multiride has already become a global best-seller due to the fact that more and more families want to take their kids out into unpredictable terrain without the fear of wheel-locking or damaging the stroller.  Equipped with ball-bearings and a full swivel, the wheels are made from a strong rubber than can withstand gravel, tar, grass and sand. Sturdy suspension makes the journey all the more comfortable. The Multiride stroller also has a fully extendable canopy that offers baby the best protection from the elements at all times. Couple this with the large storage basket and you are ready to face the world. As baby grows, the stroller maintains strength and accommodates your child with ease, allowing 22kgs of weight to be carried. Without a doubt one of the finest strollers on the market right now, the Chicco Multiride stroller is also compatible with the Kaily Gro 0+ car seat which turns  the stroller into a newborn travel system that will last until they are 9kgs in weight. Give them the most comfortable ride ever whilst offering convenience and value for money with the Multiride stroller. See www.chicco.co.za for more details.

June 15, 2021

“Mama, you’ve got this!” writes new local brand Messages for Mama

Messages for Mama is a premium, locally designed, and manufactured range of baby accessories for those intimate moments mom and baby share. From play time to feeding time, bath time to their sleep routine – Messages for Mama will hold your hand and support you when the going gets tough; when the days are long and the nights are even longer. Each product has an encouraging embroidered Message for Mama, which can either be personalised or chosen on Messages for Mama. Not only targeted to the more challenging times, Messages for Mama aims to remind mom that she’s an amazing, wonderful and strong woman who has the magic within her! Motherhood is hard, but “Mama, you’ve got this!” “Being a mom is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do. I completely understand why so many new moms are against having a second baby, I was one of them. Yes it’s rewarding, yes it’s magical, but becoming a new mom is extremely difficult – you not only lose your own identity but you have to keep another human alive all while trying to find the new version of yourself!” says co-founder of Messages for Mama, Jana Leonard. “My biggest struggle was getting to grips with the new me, I was no longer just a wife, daughter, entrepreneur, sister and friend – the title of MOM has been added and that meant more than what I envisioned. I wasn’t great at it, I hardly ever knew what I was doing, I had extreme anxiety and experienced PPD. I found it difficult to not be good at something ‘so natural’. It’s only now that I realise, a mother’s instinct isn’t natural, it’s something we as moms learn and then only it’s supported by our nurturing nature as women.” she adds.  When Leonard’s second baby, her daughter, was born in February 2021, she realised and appreciated the newborn phase more because she knew it would get easier. “I didn’t put so much pressure on myself, I took it day by day and lived in the moments – good and bad. I have been through this, I knew all about the challenges, I also knew a little bit more and what to do when the uncertainties kicked in. Importantly, I had (and still have) a strong support system with mom friends, my husband, sister, mom whatsapp groups and grannies helping me along the way. Those Messages of support and encouragement mean the world to me. I came to realise; I do have the magic within me. I just needed to find it!” she adds.  Fashion designer, who has shown internationally, and an aunt of two, Ricci JvR founded Messages for Mama with Leonard, and says, “after seeing many friends become moms and navigating this new season while juggling life, and also becoming an aunt myself – I realised how important it was to surround yourself with people who will cheer you on and encourage you through all seasons. The saying ‘it takes a village’, suddenly made more sense to me than ever. I wanted to be part of creating a brand that cheers you on in those self-doubting, vulnerable moments alone when you feel overwhelmed and tired. I wanted us to be your 4am cheerleaders and your daily reminder that you’ve got this, that you are valued!”  Messages for Mama products are of the highest quality, made locally and to last – both in trend and durability. Launching with 12 products including a One and two tone Summer and Double Layer Winter Muslin blanket (1×1.2m), a small (for the newborn phase) and large sherpa muslin blanket for the colder months, their revolutionary Everywhere Mat (quilted, padded and oh so gorgeous for easy transport and completely washable, with a waterproof backing), washcloths, burp cloths and more, Messages for Mama has removed all the clutter by means of pattern design offering a product that actually gets the job done. “Like a Mama, there’s no time to manage the noise and clutter, you have to get the job done – quick, effective and while playing cheerleader.” laughs Jana. “We opted for bold, but trendy colours that speak to boys and girls, because motherhood is anything but beige!” Ricci adds. Keeping the focus on the embroidered message for mama (the star of the show) – they’ve opted for solid vibrant colours in various combinations. Messages for Mama is not only a brand built on the first hand experience of a new mom, but one of passion and love. “I really want us to be there for other moms, to tell them that it’s OK to not feel like you’re nailing it – you’re not alone! I want to normalise the fact that it’s hard and that we’re all just really winging it as we go. It’s time we move away from the crippling Instagram #blessed filtered life and come to grips with the reality that new moms are finding it difficult when being compared to the highlights reel of many.” says Jana. “I’m not blind to the fact that new moms (myself included) find comfort in new and beautiful products for our babies, I wanted to combine these two human truths and create something magical!” giggles Jana. Messages for Mama has successfully launched in May 2021 and will continuously be introducing new products to their repertoire. For more information and to shop their range of premium goods at affordable prices, visit www.messagesformama.com.

June 14, 2021

Infertility challenges during COVID-19? Help is available!

June is World Infertility Awareness Month, a time dedicated to heightening awareness about infertility – a medical condition often not widely spoken about yet something which affects a surprisingly large number of couples around the world.1a “Infertility is when you cannot get or stay pregnant after trying for at least a year and you are under the age of 35, or if you are over the age of 35 and are unable to get or stay pregnant for six months,” says Dr Sulaiman Heylen, President of the Southern African Society of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecological Endoscopy (SASREG).” In the past few years, the number of couples seeking treatment for infertility has dramatically increased due to factors such as postponement of childbearing in women, and lifestyle factors such as stress, smoking and body weight.1b However, an additional recent stumbling block has been the fear of contracting COVID-19 which has had an impact on delaying people’s fertility journeys. For those already undergoing fertility treatment, when COVID-19 hit, there was a suspension of treatment worldwide and the subsequent delay of fertility treatments has resulted in much psychological distress for many patients.2a The month of June therefore aims to highlight why it’s so important not to let the pandemic ruin one’s fertility plans. “In addition to psychological issues, there are the physiological ones too,” says Dr Heylen. “Delaying fertility treatment due to fear of COVID-19 can further reduce your chances of successful treatment outcomes, with studies showing a reduction in live birth rates in patients who have postponed treatment.” “Treatment was suspended during the hard lockdown, but clinics are open once again, and particularly ‘high risk’ patients whose chances of falling pregnant would be further reduced by delaying treatment are encouraged to seek assistance,” says Dr Heylen.  Dr Heylen says that infertility is a disease as defined by the WHO that can lead to disability (loss of function). “Section 27 of the constitution entrenches the fundamental right to access healthcare services and specifically includes reproductive health. SASREG feels that fertility services are an essential service and should therefore not be withdrawn for patients for whom delay in treatment would affect their prognosis.” “It’s very important to stress that assisted reproductive technology (ART) clinics are safe and have taken precautions to ensure the health and safety of patients and staff, while we await the availability of the vaccines,” says Dr Heylen. “There is minimal risk of exposure to the virus at these clinics and there is therefore no need to wait for a vaccine to reach out to receive fertility treatment.” Dr Heylen also notes that there has been much misinformation circulating online about the potential negative impact the COVID-19 vaccine might have on fertility, which has been causing patients to delay treatment while deliberating whether to have the COVID-19 vaccine or not.2b With COVID-19 vaccines now available globally, the British Medical Journal (BMJ) has stated that there is “absolutely no evidence” that these vaccines can affect the fertility of women or men.3a “Patients undergoing fertility treatment should be encouraged to receive a COVID-19 vaccine when it becomes available to all South Africans,” says Dr Heylen. “There’s no evidence that vaccination before or during fertility treatment will impact the outcome of treatment in any way. As the vaccine does not contain any actual virus, there is also no reason to delay pregnancy attempts after vaccination.” People undergoing fertility treatment (in vitro fertilisation (IVF), frozen embryo transfer, egg freezing, ovulation induction, intrauterine insemination, or using donated gametes) can be vaccinated during treatment but may wish to consider the timing given the potential side effects in the few days after vaccination.3c People may start their fertility treatment immediately after being vaccinated, unless they wish to have a second dose before pregnancy.3d Those who are donating their eggs or sperm for the use of others can also still have a COVID-19 vaccine.3e Don’t delay fertility treatment One in every four couples in developing countries is affected by infertility4a, while one in six couples worldwide experience some form of infertility problem at least once during their reproductive lifetime.1a The current prevalence of infertility lasting for at least 12 months is estimated to affect between 8 to 12% worldwide for women aged 20 to 44.1a “More than 50% of patients who visit a fertility centre are 35 or older,” says Dr Heylen. “It is very important for people not to wait too long when they consider having children. Young women need to be aware that there is a slow decline in fertility from their 20s until the age of 35, after which it starts to decrease rapidly until the age of 45. About half of infertility cases can be linked to the male. It’s therefore extremely important to investigate your fertility options and fertility preservation earlier in life, rather than leaving it too late. A woman who is not ready to have a child can choose to freeze her eggs to try to preserve her ability to have a child later on should she wish to.” Treatment options It is now estimated that more than 9 million babies have been born worldwide since the first IVF baby was born in the last 70s.1c The most common fertilisation treatment is intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)1e. This accounts for around three quarters of all treatments globally while conventional IVF accounts for around one quarter.1e Success rates from frozen embryo transfer are increasing too.1e “The good news is that over the last decade the advances that have been made in the field of assisted reproduction are massive and there is hope for those who might be suffering from some form of infertility,” says Dr Heylen. “You are not alone and there are many options available to help you realise your dream of having children.” Visit a fertility clinic near you to speak to a doctor about the options available to you and your partner. For more information, visit www.merckfertilityjourney.co.za #WorldInfertilityMonth #DontDelay #Merck

June 11, 2021

Baby & Kiddies Tastes makes meal time lekker for the little ones

Many South Africans live demanding lives where time is of the essence and nobody feels their pressure more than the moms and dads who, after a long day still need to ensure that the little ones have a nutritious meal when needed. Thankfully Baby & Kiddies Tastes can relieve you of that task. What is Baby & Kiddies Tastes? Baby & Kiddies Tastes trusted meal supplier for the little ones between the ages of 6 to 12 months, then up to 6 years old. The company was started by Vanessa Crichton, a dedicated mother, wife and entrepreneur who also knows her way around the kitchen, trained as a chef in London. Having started many other successful culinary companies such as Exquisite tastes catering, Vanessa, who has eleven years’ experience in making children’s food has turned her attention to helping moms and dads when it comes to mealtime for their young kids. What does Baby & Kiddies Tastes offer? Baby & Kiddies Tastes offer nutritionally tested fully textured, natural and healthy frozen meals for children between the ages of 6 to 12 months for children up to the age of 6 years old. Meals are made using the best ingredients that are also packed with flavour. Vanessa has meticulously crafted up to 50 different flavour combinations ensuring that every meal is a great experience for your child. What are the benefits of using Baby & Kiddies Tastes? Baby & Kiddies Tastes takes away the stress of having to prepare a meal for your young ones and ensures that every meal is jam-packed with essential nutrients that children need. It is also easy to prepare as the meals are cooked and frozen with a 2-month freezer life. It is also worth noting that our meals contain no additives or preservatives and no added salt or sugar, due to this, we do not suggest freezing for longer than 2 months. What other advantages can moms and dads benefit from? We know that convenience is key when it comes to mealtime, as mentioned our meals are packed with flavour and full of nutrients but they also offer added benefits. These include innovative modular packaging which limits food wastage. We know that kids can get a bit inquisitive and might make an unwanted mess. For this reason, we provide tamper-proof Kiddies Tastes tubs for those who are slightly older. Our packaging is also recyclable. Are there currently any special offers? We have a allergen range, “Local is Lekker” options, as well as vegetarian meals.  Free delivery is offered for monthly orders. How do I get Baby & Kiddies Tastes meals? Baby & Kiddies Tastes offers free delivery on all monthly orders and we deliver to Johannesburg and Pretoria based areas. Ordering is quick and easy, just head over to www.babytastes.co.za where you will find a list of our meals. Customers can order individual meals or place a monthly order. Alternatively, contact us via [email protected] and your order will be delivered within 3 to 5 days.  Baby & Kiddies Tastes brings the freshness and goodness of local South African ingredients to your freezer, ready for your child’s meal time, anytime. 

June 10, 2021

The silent victims of PND

One in three women suffer from Perinatal Distress (PND) in our country, according to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG). But the terrifying truth is that it’s not just the women who suffer; it’s often their partners who take strain, even to the point of being diagnosed with PND themselves.  Hubby’s hormones Women’s hormones undergo major changes during and after pregnancy, but they’re not the only ones. The lack of sleep and increased stress that new fathers experience can also take a toll on their bodies, creating real hormonal shifts that are often overlooked. Craig*, whose wife Claire* was diagnosed with PND soon after the birth of their first child, began to feel off kilter around the same time, but “everyone was so concerned with Claire, nobody even asked me how I was doing.” Because Claire wasn’t coping, Craig felt added pressure to take on extra duties with the baby and around the house – on top of maintaining a full-time job. He “somehow muscled through” those first few difficult weeks, which turned into months before he realised how severely it had affected him.  Real men do cry At the end of his rope, Craig realised he had to do something about his situation. He reached out to a friend, who suggested he see a doctor. Through a combination of medical support, psychological therapy, and practical assistance (in the form of family, friends and a night nurse), Craig made a full recovery and is the happy husband and father he always dreamed of being. “It was the darkest and scariest period of my life,” he confesses. “Sometimes I’m not even sure how I made it through, but I am so glad that I did.” Not only is it unhelpful to bottle up emotions instead of working through them in a healthy way, it also sets an unrealistic and unhealthy example for older children and others who look up to you as a male role model. Like all humans, men experience a range of feelings triggered by both hormones and environmental factors, and by reaching out for help, you are doing the best thing for yourself, your family, and for society in general.  Risk factors Each father is an individual, but there are broad factors that may place someone at added risk of developing PND. These include a personal or family history of mental illness, a strained relationship with the mother of the child, or difficulties with the child – this could be anything from colic to serious medical conditions that induce additional stress and/or concern. Financial pressure, problems at work and feeling unsupported (not having a circle of family or friends to confide in) can also increase the risk. Single fathers are also at added risk.  However, perhaps the biggest risk factor is that so many cases of paternal PND go undiagnosed (or are diagnosed too late, once major damage has already been done) because the condition is not acknowledged or accepted as a legitimate illness. “Let me tell you, it is real!” implores Craig.  It’s essential that every new and expectant dad ensure he has the support of at least a few key friends or family members who can be a shoulder to lean on and, occasionally, a pair of hands to hold the baby. Further, we as a society need to update our mindset when it comes to supporting new and growing families. “People always ask how the baby is,” Craig points out. “Sometimes they ask how the mother is doing. But nobody ever asks the dad.” A family affair Treatment of the mother is important but should not be in isolation from treatment of the family as a unit. Some doctors are reluctant to include fathers in the treatment plan for PND or even to talk to them about it, because of concerns about breeching doctor-patient confidentiality. This further disempowers fathers from helping to heal the family unit as a whole. It’s crucial to find a healthcare practitioner that sees and treats new and expectant families together (this, of course, includes a broad range of family structures including unmarried partners, same-sex families, adoptive parents and single-parents with their own unique support structures).   Don’t live in denial  Craig’s advice for dads struggling with PND? “It doesn’t matter how you got here. It doesn’t matter what you think of mental illness. It does matter that you are here. It does matter that your partner needs kindness and the way to provide that is to accept that you are here. Then act.” You heard the man! Make that call. Take that first step. You – and your family – deserve it.  *Names have been changed to protect identities.

June 9, 2021

Chicco Multiride Travel System

Chicco has been a trail-blazer in the world of baby products for over 63 years, with a strong focus on travel products that has seen them remain industry leaders with every new item released onto the market. One of the current highlights of the travel gear collection is the awesome Chicco Multiride Travel System. A travel system built for longevity that stretches way into your child’s toddlerhood, this newborn-ready stroller comes equipped with the Kaily car seat – the perfect companion for this sturdy and versatile stroller. The two items together work perfect for your baby’s travel solutions until approximately 9kgs, where baby may require a front-facing car seat. The Multiride stroller however, will stay your little one’s best friend until they are 22kgs in weight – being the only stroller they will ever need.  With a compact fold-down solution, suspension, all-terrain wheels, a large storage basket, extendable handles and weather canopy on the stroller as well as an easy-to-install car seat, the Multiride travel system is a strong, sturdy and convenient ally in your parenting journey. See www.chicco.co.za for more details.

June 8, 2021

Infant Milestones: the first year

The following information is to be used as a guide to and at the discretion of the end-user and should not replace a doctor’s opinion. Milestones: 1-3 months Milestones for months 1 to 3 include: Ability to raise head and chest when laying on stomach Stretches arms out and kicks when laying on back Smiles purposefully Enjoys playing with other people Can follow a moving object with eyes Ability to open and shut hands and bring hands to mouth Ability to grasp and shake a toy Communication includes facial expressions and body movement, coo’s and babbles Begins to imitate some sounds and expressions Begins to recognize toys and people from a distance Hand-eye coordination improving Milestones: 4-7 months Milestones for months 4 to 7 include: Uses hands and mouth to explore Can find a partially hidden object Attempts to get objects that are out of their reach Can roll from back to tummy and tummy to back Can sit by self for a short time, with or without hands and sit in a highchair Ability to transfer toys between hands, point and reach for objects Communication includes using more variety of sounds and pitches; uses sound to reflect moods, babbles to get attention and can imitate sounds better Play becomes more intentional Milestones: 8-12 months Milestones for months 8 to 12 include: Can move to a sitting position and crawling position on his/her own Crawling Sitting independently Pull up, stand and walk while holding onto furniture; may even take a few steps independently Grasp objects with thumb and first finger; can finger feed themselves Place toys into containers and take them out; find toys that are hidden Communication includes saying mama and dada, oh-oh, shaking head yes or no and imitating other sounds; may even say their first word Uncomfortable around strangers and cries when mom or dad leaves

June 7, 2021

Matrescence – The Birth of a Mother

“Do you remember a time when you felt hormonal and moody? Your skin was breaking out and your body was growing in strange places and very fast? And at the same time people were expecting you to be grown up in this new way.”  This is the beginning a TED talk by New York-based psychiatrist Alexandra Sacks. In answer to her questions, I immediately thought about my teenage years: adolescence. She continues, “These same changes happen to a woman when she’s having a baby. We know that it’s normal for teenagers to feel all over the place, so why don’t we talk about pregnancy in the same way?” After running a support group for mothers for several years, it has become apparent to me that while not all mothers develop Peri-Natal Distress (previously known as Postnatal Depression), all mothers do seem to battle in one way or another with the transition from woman to mother.  This transition, and all the idiosyncrasies that go with it, was not something I had ever consciously considered. There are hundreds of books about the transition from child to adult. Adolescence is talked about in our culture; it is recognised as an awkward time in one’s life. Despite the obvious similarities, the same cannot be said for the transition from woman to mother. Even in the medical community, most of the focus is on a baby’s health rather than a mother’s, even less so her mental health.  Unrealistic Expectations Many women post birth or adoption will seek psychiatric help, thinking that they might have PND.  Dr Sacks has spoken with countless new mothers who tell her that they are battling. This is what she hears repeatedly from her patients: The women thought motherhood would make them feel whole and happy; they thought a maternal instinct would tell them what to do; they expected to want to put the baby first. These mothers did not know that these expectations were unrealistic. Because they were not living up to these expectations, they thought something was wrong with them. They thought that their feelings were unnatural, and that perhaps it was PND. The women were experiencing a sort of cognitive discomfort, but not the clinical signs of mental illness. They did not have PND. Dr Sacks struggled to put a name to what this phenomenon was. Then she found an old academic paper from 1973. Anthropologist Dana Raphael (who created the profession of a mother supporter: the doula) had coined the term ‘Matrescence’. Yes, this word sounds like adolescence. Both are times when the body changes and hormones shift, leading to emotional upheaval.  Matrescence is not a disease, but doctors are not educated about the impact of matrescence on a woman’s life, and it consequently becomes confused with PND. In reality, it is not a simple case of either you have PND, or you feel absolutely perfect. Most mothers will struggle through the transition. Identity Shift Matrescence is not only about the physical changes that happen to a woman’s body whilst becoming a mother. This is how ALL mothers, both natural and adoptive, go through matrescence. Psychiatrist Dr Daniel Stern describes becoming a mother as a massive identity shift. Being aware of this is important because a mother who understands it will have more control over her behaviours, which in turn leads to better parenting. In addition, if a mum is in touch with her own emotions, then she can be more empathetic to her children’s emotions. What is it that makes matrescence so uncomfortable? Dr Sacks describes it as an emotional tug-of-war; a push and pull on a woman’s feelings. Human babies are very dependent on their mothers, and the hormone oxytocin helps a mother’s brain to ‘pull in’ to her baby. However, her mind is pushing away. There are other parts to her identity, such as relationships, work, hobbies, intellectual pursuits, etc. Then there are her physical needs: sleeping, eating, exercise, sex, and going to the toilet alone!   This feeling of ambivalence, of wanting their child close but also craving space – is uncomfortable. Mothers are experiencing two opposing feelings at the same time.  Realistically the experiences of motherhood are a mix of good and bad. Women have the unattainable image of “the ideal mother” in their minds. It sets them up to feel shame and guilt for not meeting this impossible standard. Mothers are too ashamed to speak about their ambivalent feelings for fear of being judged. That can be a trigger for developing PND.  Let’s talk  Motherhood is a natural progression. Most mothers find it hard. Ambivalence is normal and there is no reason to feel ashamed. If this were more widely talked about, mothers would feel less alone and stigmatised. It may even reduce the prevalence of PND. Women need to talk to each other to change the way our cultures understand this complex transition. Talk to other mothers, friends, other women! There is nothing wrong with a woman keeping a part of herself separate to being a mother. In fact, it is healthy and normal. Dr Sacks wrote in a New York Times article in 2017: “Knowing the causes of distress and feeling comfortable talking about them with others is critical to growing into a well-adjusted mother.” This, she says, will help new mothers and those around them to acknowledge that while PND is an extreme manifestation of the transition to motherhood, even those who do not experience it undergo a significant transformation. “When a baby is born,” she says, “so too is a mother; each unsteady in their own way.”

May 28, 2021

CHICCO THERMOMETERS

Chicco is a full 360-degree approach to all things baby. Every item that comes from Chicco is vigorously tested through the Chicco Observatory Laboratory in Como, Italy for perfect quality control. Chicco has been a leading name in the baby products industry for over 63 years and continues to stand by its commitment to parents globally to provide the best products so they can #parentmore and enjoy life. Every household needs a reliable thermometer to monitor fevers in children. The Chicco Digi Thermometer is a trusty staple that measures temperatures digitally with a highly sensitive, small and discreet thermometer that is suitable for oral or underarm measurements. Readings are available in approximately 30 seconds with an acoustic alarm that shows the reading digitally on a small screen. The thermometer stores the last ready and will switch off automatically. It comes in a handy travel case and is perfect for holidays – available in four colours. The Distance Thermometer is a less invasive approach to taking children’s temperatures. Take their temperatures from a distance while sleeping, without involving probing or interaction. This high tech, intuitive thermometer also reads room temperature and stores the previous reading. Read their temperatures digitally on a screen immediately. For full peace of mind all year round, ensure you have a Chicco thermometer in your home. Available at Takealot, Baby City, Loot, Clicks Baby Club, AZ Baby, Babanino, The Kid Zone and various other retails now.

May 25, 2021

CHICCO BREAST PUMPS

Chicco is a full 360-degree approach to all things baby. Every item that comes from Chicco is vigorously tested through the Chicco Observatory Laboratory in Como, Italy for perfect quality control. Chicco has been a leading name in the baby products industry for over 63 years and continues to stand by its commitment to parents globally to provide the best products so they can #parentmore and enjoy life. Chicco has two best-loved breast pumps – namely the electric and manual. The Electric Breast Pump is a one-pump gentle solution to help women express freely without pain or discomfort. With ten settings and a gradual build up, this intuitive pump works with your flow and encourages expression. Has an LED light for night time pumping, enabling you to set timer and pace at a glance. Excellent to avoid engorgement and comes with a 12 month guarantee. The manual breast pump is an ergonomically designed pump with a soft silicone head that gently adheres to the breast. The handle is large and designed to reduce fatigue and the pump is connected to a bottle that can go duirect from pump to teat for instant feeding. Available at Takealot, Baby City, Loot, Clicks Baby Club, AZ Baby, Babanino, The Kid Zone and various other retails now.

May 18, 2021

Could you have PCOS and not even know it?

Despite being incredibly common, affecting around 1 in 10 women, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is still one of the most underdiagnosed conditions around. So much so that, of those who have it, only 1 in 3 will be diagnosed. In short, there’s a fair chance you might have it – and a good chance you don’t realise it! PCOS tends to fly under the radar because signs can be easy to miss or attributed to something else. This is why it’s important to be aware of the condition and its symptoms, especially since getting the right treatment can be life-changing.  But first – what is PCOS? PCOS is a hormonal disorder that also affects your metabolism in a way that causes insulin resistance. Ultimately, your body stops listening to insulin’s “instruction” – to convert the sugar in your bloodstream to energy. Instead, after lingering in your blood for too long – essentially raising your blood sugar – the sugar ends up being stored away as fat. This is why those suffering from diabetes as well as PCOS tend to experience weight gain. Another side effect of insulin resistance is that it triggers your ovaries to produce higher-than-normal amounts of androgen, the male hormone. The results manifest invisibly as cysts on your ovaries. The visible signs, however, include acne, excessive hair growth in unwanted places such as your face and irregular or missed periods. If left untreated PCOS can lead to infertility, type 2 diabetes and even cardiovascular disease. In short, if you’ve got it, you really want to diagnose it and treat it. Know the signs The frustrating thing about PCOS is that it’s not always so easy to recognise the symptoms. Life gets busy so we don’t keep track of our periods. Weight gain can be attributed to getting older or skipping out on gym. That recent spate of chin pimples? Perhaps that’s just “maskne” or a stress breakout.  To make things even trickier, not every woman will develop all the signs. After all, it’s not unusual to develop PCOS and never spot as much as a single chin hair, let alone develop a mustache. Other less obvious symptoms include insomnia, fatigue and a craving for carbohydrates as well as anxiety or depression. When you consider that list, it’s easy to see how they could all be overlooked as just the side-effect of a stressful life mid-pandemic and not an extremely common syndrome. So here’s the good news   If you suspect you have PCOS you’ll be glad to know there’s a lot you can do about it but your first step is to visit your doctor or gynaecologist. They’ll be able to ask the right questions and run a simple series of tests to help you get a diagnosis. As far as treatment is concerned, this could include medication as well as making certain lifestyle changes. For example, eating a low glycaemic index (GI) diet and getting regular exercise will help you manage your blood sugar levels.  You can also manage your condition with our brand new ovarian health nutritional supplement – Ovaria by Lamelle Pharmaceuticals. It contains 4000mg of Myo-Inositol, the required dose clinically proven to reduce the symptoms of PCOS of women in their fertile era.  A naturally occurring sugar associated with the vitamin B family, Myo-Inositol helps reduce your androgen levels by normalising your blood’s insulin levels. The result is an improvement in many PCOS symptoms including weight gain, acne and hair growth. In fact, Ovaria is proven to reduce unwanted hair growth by 29% in just 6 months. It can also increase your ovulation rate – improving your chance of getting pregnant – in as little as 16 weeks and help normalise your menstrual cycle. You’re not alone  Ultimately, if you suspect you might be suffering from PCOS, don’t hesitate to chat with your doctor today. An early diagnosis means the sooner you’ll enjoy a better quality of your life while reducing your risk of PCOS-related conditions like diabetes. As far as treatment options go, you’ll have several to choose from and all of them can be enhanced by Ovaria. You’re not alone. Together, we can help put you back on the path to wellness.  Learn more: https://lamelle.co.za/ovaria

May 13, 2021

5 Great reasons to shop & sell preloved children’s clothes

It’s a challenge to keep your children in style when they outgrow their trendy clothes so fast! With more people selling and shopping preloved clothing online, you can now keep your little ones in style, while spending less money; saving time; doing good for the planet and even making a bit of extra money!  Being a mom of two children and passionate entrepreneur, Aune Aunapuu, CEO and Founder of Yaga.co.za – the fastest-growing online marketplace for buying and selling preloved items –  decided to create the solution when she was unable to find a safe and hassle-free platform online to sell a preloved baby stroller.  Aune shares her five reasons why shopping and selling preloved children’s clothes is a great idea. 1. Keep Your Kids in Style:Shopping preloved clothing online means you can explore a variety of items, a diverse range of styles and many different brands that are always in fashion. Through preloved platforms like Yaga, parents can buy classic, vintage and stylish branded children’s items including Zara, Cotton On, Keedo, Naartjie and Truworths.  2. Save Money: Buying new children’s clothes is expensive and they outgrow their new clothes so quickly! You can get a lot more for your money by opting for preloved clothes, which are available at bargain prices and often at a fraction of the retail prices. You can replace an entire wardrobe of outgrown clothes without overspending.  3. Save Time: Because children grow so fast, it’s back to the shops every so often for a new wardrobe. Shopping preloved items online, on the other hand, saves you so much time usually wasted visiting shop after shop with a stroller and toddler in tow. Shopping preloved clothes online affords you the opportunity to shop an entire new wardrobe of trendy and branded items without ever leaving the house.  4. Do Good for the Planet: Buying and selling preloved can reduce your impact on the planet because it keeps fashion items in circulation, instead of it ending up in dumps or landfill. As most clothing items are processed with chemicals, the fact that preloved items are already pre-washed multiple times means that they are also less harmful for little ones wearing them close to their sensitive skin.  5. Make money!: All parents welcome a bit of extra money, so why not turn a wardrobe of outgrown fashion items into an extra income! Declutter your children’s wardrobes, organise the clothes your children have outgrown by size and season, and then sell these preloved fashion items online. Selling preloved baby and maternity wear is also super popular! Check out some of these trendy mummy Yaga Shops that sell cool items for children: https://www.yaga.co.za/whatreignwore and https://www.yaga.co.za/makeitrayne  For more information visit yaga.co.za.

May 12, 2021

Working Women Charting New Ways Forward

Join the conversation, Play Sense Women @ Work webinar There’s nothing quite like a global crisis to shift priorities, change focus and provoke some earnest soul-searching about who we are and what we want from life.  Study after study is revealing that women across the world have experienced tougher impacts from COVID-19, with amongst others, a disproportionate number of women leaving the workplace.  Women still shoulder a greater proportion of the household and family burdens, and are not surprisingly, more vulnerable to burnout and other mental health challenges.   All of this is sparking a multitude of global conversations around better ways for women to engage in the workforce, organise family life and focus more on their self-care.  If you are like most working women and mothers, you’re probably in the midst of processing all the ways that the pandemic has changed how you are currently perceiving and experiencing life.  You may be having recurring thoughts and going through a lot of self-talk about what you’ve learnt and what you can or should be doing to bring about a reset that suits you better.  There aren’t many of us who have a clear way forward yet. That’s why it can help to join a conversation, find out how other women in similar situations are feeling and thinking, broaden your view of the potential prospects and gain insights into the kinds of goals and strategies that can bring clarity.  Play Sense co-founder and best-selling author, Meg Faure will be bringing together a panel of women leaders for the Play Sense Women @ Work webinar on Tuesday, 18 May from 8pm to 9pm.  Women from all walks of life are invited to tune in.  Registration is R50, and you can sign up here. Coach, Author and Influencer, Caitlyn de Beer will be tackling how to reach and maintain the balance of work and family.  Sharing five lessons from her own journey as a working mom, Caitlyn highlights the importance of boundaries that not only provide structure for being more organised but the space for self-care.  She says, “Our current reality is a big challenge to our old thinking paradigms, and that’s a good thing.  It’s a fantastic opportunity to become clear on our expectations of ourselves, prioritising our happiness and cultivating self-talk that is positive and empowering.” Tech entrepreneur, Aisha Pandor, the co-founder and CEO of Sweep South has been at the frontlines managing family and nurturing her personal relationships, while starting up and scaling an innovative business across Africa.  “Women already have so many responsibilities to juggle, especially at home,” she says.  “I am excited by the new and innovative services, especially through tech, that are now on offer and make life easier and save time.  We have to break free from the mindset that we have to somehow go it alone and do it all ourselves.” Meg Faure, an occupational therapist and the best-selling author of the Baby Sense book series, co-founded Play Sense, an innovative micro-school programme for toddlers to provide better options for women needing child-care services.  “Reliable, affordable, quality child-care is one the greatest stumbling blocks to working women achieving the balance of work and life,” she says.  “Anxiety, stress and guilt around child-care affects most working women, compromising our quality of life and work.  We have to explore and be open to more effective, and new and different ways to get the help we need, guilt-free!” Often the solutions to getting more of what we need and want from life are simple and available.  What it takes is changing our minds.  As we search for more flexible working structures, better organisation of day-to-day life and more fulfilment in our connection to ourselves and others, women are looking for smart ways to lighten their loads.  Join the Women @ Work discussion to get more insights and inspiration: Play Sense Women @ Work webinarTuesday, 18 May 20218pm to 9pm Register for R50, now Play Sense Business in a Box Give-away In support of helping female entrepreneurs who want to own their own business while maintaining a work life balance, Play Sense is giving away a ‘Business in a Box’. This complete franchise is valued at R36 800 and includes teacher training, use of Play Sense’s accredited play-based curriculum, all the equipment necessary to start a play school, from art supplies to an indoor/outdoor play gym, and ongoing marketing and business administration support from start-up to success. Any qualified teacher, therapist or childcare professional with 3 years’ experience can enter to win. Join the webinar for more information, applications open 19 May 2021.

May 11, 2021
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