Pregnancy & Baby - Parenting Hub

Chicco Toothpaste Range

One of the best ways to set your little one up for oral hygiene success is to establish a baby dental care routine from the very beginning. Besides laying the groundwork for good hygiene habits later, it’s a fantastic way for parents to interact with their little one. Cleaning your baby’s mouth can also become a special time for snuggling and bonding with your child. The goals of this routine should be to: Establish a habit of brushing at least twice a day Keep baby’s mouth clean Help baby get used to the feeling of having a clean mouth. These goals are simple enough, but many parents aren’t sure when to start brushing baby’s teeth and gums, the simple answer is from as early as possible! Chicco’s range of toothpastes contain low abrasion formula’s that use xylitol and fluoride as their main bacterial control. Our awesome flavours are mild and will get your little one’s brushing for longer! Available in Apple-Banana, Strawberry, Fruit Mix and Mild Mint flavours from only R79.99 at participating outlets. For more information head to www.chicco.co.za

September 6, 2021

Breast feeding ups and downs

It might surprise you that breast feeding has many ups and downs, this is by design. If you are wondering if you can breast feed, well the answer is yes you can. Learn as much as you can about breast feeding while you are still pregnant. Just as with anything in life the more you learn and prepare the better equipped you will be once your baby comes. Fortunately, there has been an increase in the amount of antenatal online classes or face to face workshops for pregnant women and couples. These are great to help you prepare for birthing and care for your baby once born. Breast feeding focused classes are so important to prepare you. If you think about it, it might be the most important topic as you will be feeding from day one and often throughout the day. My Breastpump has compiled a list of 10 important facts to know about breast feeding: 1.You will have milk During your pregnancy your body has grown your baby/babies and will continue to be able to look after and supply nutrients for them for the first 6 months of life. This is amazing that your body will continue to be able to support your baby’s growth without any other food. After the first 6 months your baby will also need solids. 2.Your body starts to make milk in your 2nd trimester In preparation for your baby’s arrival your body starts to make a very small amount of milk in your 2nd trimester. This is your first milk, and it is called colostrum. Colostrum is a specialized milk that is designed to transition your baby from the womb onto the more mature milk as your baby learns how to feed. It is very high in nutrients, mineral, antibodies and surprisingly is only found in small amounts. This very precious milk is present in the pregnancy and the first few days after birth. Thereafter your milk transitions to a mature milk. 3.Hormones are responsible for milk production There are a few different hormones that are involved in the production of breast milk. The most important 2 are oxytocin and prolactin. Oxytocin is responsible for the squeezing of your milk grands, that are found deep inside your breast. This helps to push the milk from inside your breast towards your nipple. Prolactin is responsible for making your breast milk. Both hormones are produced by your brain when your brain feels stimulation at your breast. This can be cause by a baby suckling, hand expression, or use of a breast pump. 4.Understanding supply and demand is essential to successful breast feeding The key to understanding how breast milk is made is that you need to stimulate the breast to increase the body’s hormone level. The more stimulation that you breast experiences the more hormones and thus more milk. This is so important in the first few weeks and even more important in the first few days. By feeding your baby on demand helps your body to increase the amount of milk that it is making for your baby’s needs. 5.Your body does not waste Making breast milk takes up energy and valuable nutrients, so it only makes sense that your body would not want to waste a single drop. Therefore your body actually makes the most amount of breast milk while your baby feeds. In-between feeds your breasts will make small amounts of breast milk and this is they you may start to feel a bit full before your next feed. Most of the breast milk is made after the breast has been stimulated. It may take the body a minute or two for the prolactin level to increase and start to make lots of milk, but once it starts it will make as much milk as your baby needs. Your body will not continue to make thee large amounts without the stimulation at the breast because then you would end up leaking the whole time and what a waste of breast milk that would be! 6.Natural flow of breast milk in your first week In the first few days after the birth, the first milk, Colostrum, is found in small amounts. This is because Colostum is fully loaded with energy, nutrients, and antibodies. In fact, 5ml of it has the same energy content as 30ml of mature breast milk. Your baby’s stomach is also very small and it can only take a few mls of breast milk at a time. These are just two reasons why your body starts off with small amounts of breast milk. It is by design to help your baby learn to breast feed and also because your baby does not need more. After a few days you will notice that your breasts are starting to feel fuller and that they may even get a bit hard. This is a great sign as it means that your mature breast milk is starting to be made. Continue to feed on demand and your body will start to regulate the correct amount of milk for your baby. 7.Natural flow of mature breast milk After about a week or two your breast may start to feel softer and less full. This is totally normal and is a fantastic sign that your breasts are now able to regulate how much milk your baby needs. 8.Deep latch is key A deep latch is so important to a comfortable breast feed and to make sure that your baby can get enough milk. The deep latch helps you to stimulate your breasts to trigger your hormones to make milk while not causing any trauma to your nipples. Many breast-feeding issues stem from not having a deep enough latch. 9.Find a support system Support, Support, support is key to being a mom and one of the most important parts of breast feeding. Find a friend or family member that has been successful at breast feeding and ask them questions: look for online breast feeding

September 3, 2021

PCOS Awareness with Salome this September

September is international PCOS Awareness Month and Salome is determined to do their bit in creating awareness & empowering women with the option of a naturally based solution to this common hormonal disorder. An estimated 8 – 13% of women suffer from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) that involves reproductive, cosmetic and metabolic problems. The long-term effects of this condition, if not diagnosed and treated early, are infertility due to ovarian dysfunction, as well as the risk of developing diabetes, cardiac problems linked to hypertension, sleeping problems and high cholesterol. Common symptoms and diagnosis Symptoms of PCOS include irregular or prolonged menstrual cycles and elevated levels of the male hormone androgen, which results in excess body hair and acne, and polycystic ovaries where the ovaries are not able to function properly. Getting a diagnosis by a health practitioner is key to effectively managing PCOS. The onset of PCOS can start from as young as 14 or 15 years old and if left undiagnosed and untreated for years – will cause further health complications down the line, including possible infertility. Parents are encouraged to talk to their daughters about what is considered ‘normal’ and ‘abnormal’ periods. Just by having these conversations, we can normalize these common women’s health conditions and debunk myths and the unfortunate stigma attached to it. What is Salome and how can it help with PCOS? The Salome range was developed by local pharmaceutical company, 3Sixty Biomedicine, and is based on consumer insights that South Africans are wanting more natural alternatives to treat common female health conditions. Salome Polycos assists with the management of symptoms commonly associated with PCOS by helping to decrease testosterone levels, increasing progesterone levels in women with irregular or absent periods and thus regulating the menstrual cycle, as well as reducing blood pressure levels. It also plays a role in increasing insulin activity in women diagnosed with PCOS, as many suffer from insulin resistance. Due to these hormonal imbalances women living with PCOS often battle with acne, irregular periods, male pattern hair loss or experience excessive body hair growth (hirsutism). Salome Polycos’s main active ingredient is D-chiro-inositol (DCI) which is a natural extract obtained from the carob tree. In cases where infertility can be linked back to the hormonal imbalances caused by PCOS, patients who make use of products like Salome Fertility that contain Myo-inositol and D-Chiro-inositol have seen an increase in their ovulation, a reduction in their hyperandrogenism and in the oxidative stress in their follicular fluid. The efficacy of the product lies in it containing the correct ratio of Myo-inositol and D-Chiro-inositol that have been extracted from the pod of the Carob bean tree. Clinical studies have shown that these natural extracts are instrumental in helping manage the regulation of ovarian function in PCOS patients. Who can use this? Due to the herbal extracts and use of natural ingredients in the products, the Salome range has minimal side effects and can be reimbursed by certain medical aids. The products are available online at www.3Sixtybiomedicine.co.za or on Takealot.com, and can be purchased over the counter at leading pharmacies nationwide. We believe #YourJourneyMatters so follow the Salome range on their social media pages to hear from Salome experts who are committed to educating and normalizing conversations about common women’s health conditions. Visit: 3sixtybiomedicine.co.za Facebook: Salome Range Twitter: SalomeRange Instagram: SalomeRange

September 2, 2021

Chicco Multifunction Gum Gel

Teething! The bane of many a tired parent’s life… as exhausting and as challenging as it can be, it can also be a fun time in yours and your babies life as with little teeth comes a lifelong skill of dental care. WHEN IS THE RIGHT TIME TO INTRODUCE DENTAL CARE? Dental care for baby teeth can start before your baby’s first tooth appears. Once your baby is about three months old, you can gently wipe your baby’s gums using a damp, clean face washer or gauze twice a day. This helps your baby get ready for brushing when the first tooth appears. From around 4 months old, we recommend that you use Chicco’s Multifunction Gum Gel either on your finger or a finger toothbrush to get baby used to the feeling of dental care. Our multifunction gum gel kills bacteria in the oral cavity, whether teeth have started sprouting or not. Made from Chamomile flowers and containing xylitol, it prevents accumulation of bacteria. It is totally harmless if swallowed and has no flavour or preservatives. Available at participating baby retailers you can get if from R99.99 For more information head to www.chicco.co.za

September 1, 2021

From Babbling to Talking

Parents are excited by every indication of developmental advance shown by their baby. ‘Look, he’s pushing his head up off the mattress!’ ‘Did you see her grab that rattle and hold on to it?’ These advances may not appear to be ‘great leaps forward,’ but they are. And the advances that perhaps produce the greatest delight in parents are those that offer proof the baby is becoming truly human—he or she is producing sounds that will eventually be shaped into words and used in communication. Nothing is more thrilling for parents, and in no activity are they more involved. Although the human infant is born with the capacity to become a talking—and reading and writing—organism, a great deal of loving care and nurture has to take place before this miracle is achieved. The earliest manifestation of this ability is the babbling that we hear babies doing from 2-3 months of age onward. When you go in to pick her up out of the crib, you hear ‘ahhh’ or ‘oooh.’ Chances are you will either repeat that sound or, in a higher pitch, say something like, ‘I think you’re ready to get up.’ With that response, she will kick and thrash about excitedly—and repeat her sounds. If you don’t say anything back to her when she babbles, or frown as you change her wet diaper, she won’t babble as frequently as she would if you had responded to her sounds. Thus, the first absolute necessity for parents who want to help their children move along the ‘Babbles to Books’ trail is responsivity. It’s so wonderful that, if we respond to our children as infants, they will respond to us. Language development moves along through that reciprocal process. Your talking offers much more than encouragement, of course. It also provides a model of the sounds that register in the baby’s world. Research conducted at different sites over the last 30 years has consistently shown that infants in about the first six months of life can discriminate among all the sounds produced in all languages. But they gradually lose this ability and become unable to distinguish between sounds they don’t hear regularly in their home environments. So modeling is a key function for parents in helping their babies learn to produce the sounds that will mean the most to them in their daily lives. The third key component is stimulation. All children babble, even those born deaf. But without responsivity to their efforts and good models to learn from, infants babble less and less. And, when they cease babbling, they are no longer practicing the complicated movements of the tongue and lips and other parts of our anatomical speech mechanism. Furthermore, their brains then have less opportunity to make the connections needed to relate sounds to other sensory information. But, no matter how much they babble, they still have ahead of them mastery of the technique of converting sounds into real words—real words that stand for real objects and real events. Here is where stimulation is so important. Parents need to label objects and experiences for their pre-verbal infants. ‘Would you like your MILK?’ asks mother, stressing the word ‘milk’ and holding out the bottle before offering it. ‘Look, here comes DADDY. Let’s WAVE to him,’ as she takes the baby’s hand and makes a waving movement. (In fact, a wondrously effective way to comfort a crying infant is to hold him close and walk about the house just ‘naming’ or labeling ordinary objects: ‘Feel the WALL; the WINDOW seems cold; the DRAPES are soft.’ Word games, such as ‘Pat-a-cake’ and ‘So Big’ are wonderful during this transition period (from babbles to words), as they allow the baby to do something physically as part of the language game. And don’t overlook reading to your baby as an important technique for providing stimulation. Some people think babies are too young to respond to books, but, if so, they’ve never read the right kind of book to an infant. Simple books, with plenty of pictures and few words to a page, are marvelous. Your local librarian will help you choose several excellent ones. Or, make up your own: snapshots from a family vacation put in plastic holders, with just a few words printed per page, work beautifully, as can clippings from magazines and catalogs. By the time children reach two years of age, a weekly trip to the library should be a must for all children whose parents are truly concerned with fostering language development. Toys are a big help along this trail. Precisely because young children love toys and engage in activities with them during much of their waking time, they are important words to verbalize and get into the system. And talking with toddlers about toys provides an opportunity to bring verbs—much harder to master than nouns—into the conversation. ‘BRING me your truck.’ ‘TAKE the dolly to her bed.’ ‘Do you want to RIDE your horse?’ Children need to have verbs labeled as much as they do nouns. The best-laid plans for guiding children will not be successful, however, unless they are delivered in an atmosphere of love and nurture. If you get upset when your 9-month-old still won’t imitate the gestures for Pat-a-cake after half a dozen sessions and say, ‘You’re going to get it this time—or else,’ forget it. He won’t do it. Sometimes, just about the only language children hear is either criticism or a command. And that kind of language world is not conducive to having a child want to talk. There is a story told about Frederick the Great, King of Prussia, in the early 18th Century. (The story may be apocryphal, but I’ve seen it in many child development texts over the years.) He wanted to know what language children would speak if they never heard language, his theory being that they would speak Hebrew, the language of the Old Testament. To test his theory, he established a foundling home for a number of abandoned children. The caregivers were ordered to

August 30, 2021

Tantalising the Toddler’s Taste Buds

Did you know that you can influence your child’s taste buds from when you are pregnant? Starting much earlier than we realised, your baby gulps amniotic fluid in your womb and this healthy eating journey continues during breastfeeding, too. While these opportunities may have passed by the time you have a baby and toddler, it is good to know that there are still practical ways to help the not-so-exploratory little tastebuds discover the wonderful and varied world of flavours. The Spice of Life Gone are the days of boring, bland, and tasteless foods for babies and toddlers. Just like adults, our little ones, too, appreciate flavourful food. It is important that, soon after starting your solid journey, you introduce a range of flavours such as fresh herbs (e.g. mint, basil, thyme, etc.), mixed dried herbs, cinnamon, cumin, curry, garlic, cocoa powder, and the like. Sugar-free nut butter also packs a flavour punch, but always check for allergies first. Stir into a warm bowl of oats in winter or offer up on a slice of wholewheat toast as a snack. Luckily for busy moms, Squish 100% fruit and veg purees come in a range of delicious flavours so exploring many different flavours from baby, toddler and up will be easy for your little one with Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Purees. Mealtime = Fun Time Children eat with their eyes. Make mealtimes fun, interesting and appealing. Call in the help of your child’s favourite superhero or princess with colourful kiddie-friendly cups, plates, utensils, placemats, and lunch boxes. Cut and arrange assorted coloured fruit and vegetables into interesting shapes and funny faces. Use cookie cutters on wholegrain sandwiches or arrange mashed sweet potato into fun shapes. Squish 100% fruit and veg purees come in a convenient pouch which is safe for your little one to explore eating on their own. Squish is a convenient, tasty meal or a snack, or for older kids, try it on the side for dipping – they’re sure to love it. Game On As any parent can attest, it is a daily struggle to get children to eat their fruits and vegetables. Fruit and vegetables are some of nature’s most perfect foods: rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, phytonutrients and fibre, highly nutritious for preventing illness and disease and overall health. To encourage variety, print a picture of a rainbow and place on the fridge or in your child’s room. Encourage your child to choose a fruit or veggie each day from a different colour of the rainbow. For example, tomatoes and watermelon are red, berries and beetroot are purple, and mangoes and carrots are orange Rewards systems like using star charts to mark off how many fruit and vegetables are eaten are also a fun game for your child. Place somewhere visible and offer your child a reward when a goal is reached, such as going to the park or an extra story at night before bed. Another fun way to get your child to eat fruit and veg is by offering them Squish 100% fruit and veg purees and pressed 100% fruit and veg juices. The convenient pouches are well-loved amongst mommies and are perfect for babies from the first introduction of solids, right through the weaning process – from babies to toddlers and beyond. And the 100% fruit and veg pressed juices are deliciously refreshing and a good way to get babies, toddlers and young kids to enjoy fruit and veg. Get Green Fingers Children love being outside and getting their hands dirty. Use this to your advantage and build a vegetable garden. If you do not have a garden, windowsills and vertical/hanging gardens are good alternatives. With your child, plant various herbs and vegetables, and, when ready to be harvested, pick the vegetable with your toddler. Little Chef Older toddlers and young children will enjoy being in the kitchen. Let your children watch you prepare family meals and talk to them about what you are cooking. Let them help you set the table, stir ingredients in plastic bowls, and older children can help chop soft vegetables like baby marrow with a butter knife. One at a Time As much as we want to encourage a variety of flavours, it is important to introduce new foods and previously disliked foods one at a time. Children are naturally wary of anything unfamiliar. Always offer up new food with well-liked food to help increase your child’s acceptance of the food. Remember, it can take up to 15 exposures of food before your child likes it, so keep being patient and keep trying. And if all else fails, there is always the Squish 100% fruit and veg puree range with enough delicious flavours to please even the fussiest of eaters.

August 24, 2021

Chicco Akita Fix Air 123 Car Seat

We get asked by a lot of parents – what do we do when our baby outgrows the infant car seat that came with our Travel system? What is the best option to keep baby safe? When will we know to “upgrade” to the next level of car seat? In an ideal world, parents will only need one homologated seat that can be used from birth till your child is 12 years of age – but this is not always possible. Often, parents use previously purchased travel systems in the case of a second or third child joining the family or are using gifted items from loving friends and family. Once your baby reaches the age of approximately 9 months, they will have outgrown their infant car seat also known as group 0+ (unless you have a fully homologated option – we have a few in our range that you can research) and it will be time to transition them into a group 1/2/3 seat to ensure they are kept safe in the car. INTRODUCING THE CHICCO AKITA FIX AIR 123 CAR SEAT The Chicco Akita Fix Air 123 is a comfortable and safe solution for children that have grown out of their Gro 0+ travel system car seat and now require a front-facing car seat. Installed either with Isofix connectors or your vehicles 3-point seat belt, this seat can be used from 9 months till 12 years of age. It is imperative that the belts and headrest of the seat be perfectly adapted to your child’s size – there is no one size fits all when it comes to safety after all – but this is simply done as the Chicco Akita Fix can be adjusted simultaneously with just one movement. A seat reducer provides a supportive and comfortable cushion for smaller children. Once your child reaches the age of 4, they are considered tall enough to be buckled up with your car’s own seat belt. The built-in belt system of the child car seat can be dismantled easily – that way, the Chicco Akita Fix can be transformed into a group 2/3 child car seat in no time at all. To ensure the best possible positioning of the lap belt, an additional belt positioner forms part of this versatile seat. Equipped with a side impact protection system for maximum protection, the comfy and elegant Chicco Akita Fix will convince the whole family and remain a loyal companion – for many years. Get yours from any participating baby outlet for R5499.99. For more information head to www.chicco.co.za

August 24, 2021

Caring for Baby

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. Circumcision care Newborn circumcision is a surgery that removes the loose skin (foreskin) that covers the end of a baby boy’s penis. It may be done for various reasons and usually heals with 7-10 days. Follow the care instructions you were given by your baby’s doctor. Often times they will recommend that you use a small amount of petroleum jelly on the site at diaper changes to prevent irritation. Contact your baby’s doctor if you see blood or pus around the circumcision or if you smell an odour coming from the site. Myths about newborns The following are common myths about newborns: Myth: Don’t touch their “soft spots” – Truth: Known as the fontanels, these areas are a thick protective membrane, not your baby’s brain, so if you happen to touch them gently nothing bad will happen; as with all of your baby, handle that area with gentle loving care. Myth: Baby girls don’t have periods – Truth: Baby girls may have a “mini period” within the first few weeks of life which is the result of the stimulation of their uterus by Mom’s high estrogen levels. If you ever have questions about what’s happening with your baby, contact your doctor. Myth: Babies don’t get acne – Truth: Some newborns will develop acne due to circulating hormones from their mother between 2 weeks and 2 months of age; you don’t need acne creams, just cleanse the area gently. Myth: Babies have flat chests – Truth: Some babies may temporarily have swollen breasts due to their mothers circulating hormones; this can happen to boys and girls. Myth: Sneezing must mean my baby has a cold – Truth: Newborns have tiny noses and often have some congestion, so they may sneeze a lot at first; if they have thick, coloured mucus and are sneezing a lot then they may be developing a cold. Never hesitate to contact your doctor if you are worried about what’s going on with your baby. No question is ever “dumb” if you are worried. Bathing your newborn Your baby doesn’t need a full bath every day, only 3-4 times a week. When giving them a full bath make sure the water is warm, but not hot, by testing the temperature with your elbow – if it’s too hot for your elbow, it’s too hot for your baby. Use mild bath soap made specifically for babies – harsh soaps may dry and irritate their skin. Always keep one hand on the baby while they are in the bathwater. There are some parts of your baby that will need to be washed with mild soap every day, especially their face, chin, neck and bottom. Do not use soap on their belly button (navel) or on a circumcision until it’s healed. Make sure the room you are in to bathe your baby is warm and free of drafts. Every baby is different so don’t hesitate to talk with your baby’s doctor if you have any questions about caring for your newborn. Healthy skin for newborns You don’t need to use lotion or powder on your baby unless it’s been recommended by their doctor. Don’t use fabric softener or bleach on their clothes as these can irritate their skin. Use mild detergent to wash their clothes, making sure to wash new clothing before you put it on the baby. Be careful not to overdress your baby – if you are comfortable in a t-shirt and shorts, your baby will be fine in a t-shirt or short sleeved onesie and a diaper. Diaper care for your newborn Periodically check your baby’s diaper to see if it’s wet or soiled. Change their diaper whenever one becomes wet or soiled. When changing your baby’s diaper, wash their bottom with mild soap and warm water or use disposable baby wipes. Be sure to wash your hands each time you finish changing a diaper. Additional tips for care of newborn For mouth care, wipe you baby’s gums daily with a clean damp washcloth or an infant toothbrush. To prevent scratches, keep your baby’s finger and toenails cut short. Remember that newborns sleep a lot – usually between 16-18 hours a day. Make sure to schedule your baby’s first check-up as recommended by their doctor – it’s usually recommended between 2-4 weeks of age. Umbilical cord care Do not place the baby in bath water until after the umbilical cord stump has fallen off. Keep the umbilical cord stump clean and dry – if it becomes soiled you can clean it with a cotton ball, mild soap and water. Umbilical cord stumps usually fall off about 2-4 weeks after birth – contact your baby’s doctor if this doesn’t happen. If the umbilical cord stump turns red around the base, bleeds, develops coloured drainage or a bad odour contact your baby’s doctor right away since it could be a sign of an infection. Contact your baby’s doctor if you have any questions or concerns about your baby’s umbilical cord stump. Teething pain relief 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. To help soothe the pain from teething give your baby a teething ring, a wet washcloth cooled down in the refrigerator, or feed him/her cold foods such as applesauce or yogurt. You can also talk to your doctor about giving your baby acetaminophen (Tylenol) to ease the pain.

August 20, 2021

Intentional Parenting

The term Intentional Parenting has become a hot topic in recent years, but many people are not exactly sure of what it means. Intentional Parenting is a method where parents deliberately plan ways to be present in their children’s lives. And not just physically present – but emotionally, communicatively, and educationally too. While not every moment of our lives can be planned, adapting an Intentional Parenting style helps provide us with ways to bond with our children. Science has shown that when parents deliberately spend time with their children, it assists in future academic achievement, improved relationships, and greater emotional well-being. To children, love equals attention. With the world today being so distracting and parents being busier than ever, children seem to be missing out on the undivided attention that they need. We can’t give all of our attention, all of the time, to our kids. That would be impractical. However, this is where Intentional Parenting comes into play. It is a way to try and plan your life to fit in moments of attention. Whether it be a 10 minute cuddle in the morning before the rush starts, one-on-one story time in the evening or a walk around the block pointing out interesting things – it is these small moments that are not only doable, but will make all the difference in your relationship with your child. Another important aspect of Intentional Parenting is making teachable moments instead of letting them come by naturally. Schedule the time to teach your child to water plants, tie shoelaces, pack away toys, tummy time or help in the kitchen. Not only are you teaching them valuable skills, you will also be setting rules for them. When it comes to Intentional Parenting, setting rules and boundaries is not only about discipline but giving your children stable guidelines with which they can grow. Here are a few ideas on how you can introduce Intentional Parenting to your child’s life simply: Ages 0-4 Join a parenting and child class like Toptots [INSERT FIND A BRANCH LINK] Cuddle and sing songs Read a book Go for a walk Blow bubbles Play pretend games Water plants Ages 5-10 Join a parenting and child class like Toptots [INSERT FIND A BRANCH LINK] Play games Build with Legos or blocks Work on a puzzle Fly a kite Draw pictures outside with sidewalk chalk Throw/kick a ball Bake together

August 18, 2021

Tips to help your baby sleep better

“Sleep is an essential part of how the human body operates, and it’s just as necessary for babies as it is for adults,” says Dr Iqbal Karbanee, paediatrician and CEO of Paed-IQ BabyLine, a trusted telephonic medical advice service for the first 1000 days of a child’s life, starting from conception to birth and beyond. “However, what moms and dads ideally want is for their baby’s sleep pattern to suit the family’s routine.” Below Dr Karbanee discusses the key building blocks, and shares tips to ensure that babies – and their parents – get the rest they need. About babies and sleep Until the age of three years, children spend more time asleep than awake. A child of five needs 11 to 12 hours of sleep at night. A baby that is healthy and growing will be ready to sleep through the night from about 6 months of age, although some may still need an early morning feed until the age of 9 months. Newborn sleep however is very different to that of older babies. Before 14 weeks, newborns have not yet learnt to self-soothe and fall asleep on their own. Is a medical reason keeping your baby awake? There may be an underlying medical reason like reflux, abdominal cramps, colic, or teething that prevent a baby from sleeping. Abdominal pain and colic may cause a baby to become restless later in the day, and parents should try introducing probiotic drops to assist the gut. They should also book a feeding assessment at a clinic. It may comfort parents to know that colic generally peaks at about 2-3 months, and then starts subsiding by 16 weeks. From the age of 4 months, teething is one of the most common reasons why babies don’t sleep. A baby that tugs at its ears is a teething giveaway. There are a variety of teething powders and gels available on the shelves, but the most effective pain relief for babies who are otherwise healthy is paediatric paracetamol syrup. If a baby shows signs of fever or other symptoms, it’s important to see a GP or paediatrician to rule out other medical causes. It is only from 12 to 16 weeks that a baby’s sleep cycle or circadian rhythm starts forming and they can start falling asleep on their own. This is the time at which sleep training can start to be introduced. Full tummies lead to sleepy eyes Nutrition is a critical building block for good sleep. From 6 months of age a baby’s iron reserves start depleting, which is why it’s important to slowly start introducing solids into the diet, although milk should remain the primary nutrient source until 12 months. A sufficient dietary supply of iron is essential for growth and development. A new-born’s sleep pattern is partly regulated by hunger, so if a baby is feeding well and has no other medical issues, they should be sleeping well too. An environment that supports sound sleep The next building block for good sleep is their environment. All a baby needs in its cot is a proper fitted mattress and a fitted sheet. All other loose blankets, toys and that may cause distraction should also be removed. Babies have a high metabolic rate so they don’t feel the cold the way adults do. A suitable room temperature is 21°C, and if the temperature goes above 26°C you may want to use a cooling fan. The room should be as dark as possible at night. Keeping the room dark in the day is not recommended. A night light is not necessary – babies have not yet learned to be afraid of the dark. A routine that builds good sleep habits Babies and children that struggle to fall asleep are often overstimulated and over-tired. A three-month old baby should only have 1.5 hours of awake time, a six-month old can stay awake for 2.5 hours, and a 10-month old can manage 3.5 hours before they start getting into a state of agitation and need a nap. For babies over four months of age, a sleep-feed-play cycle, where a child feeds as soon as they wake up, can be introduced. Play time after feeding helps the baby relieve gas and be more comfortable for its next nap. Establishing a bedtime routine is also an important step in preparing children for sleep as they have no concept of time, but they will learn that sleep happens after bath and story time in the evenings. Dr Karbanee says parents must remember that it will take two to three days before a baby starts responding to new changes. “Parents must understand that incremental change works best,” he concludes.

August 16, 2021

Style, function, exclusivity: new luxury bag/nappy bag range launches online in South Africa

Born in South Africa in 2020, the Lily Rose Collection was created to allow fashion-conscious women to easily switch between her roles of supermom, with nappies and bottles, to working executive complete with laptop without having to change over bags, items or looks. Crafted for busy moms who value practicality and convenience, every item in the Lily Rose Collection is made from super-desirable Neoprene. The bags are washing machine-friendly (perfect for personal Covid hygiene protocols), durable yet lightweight and with just the right amount of stretch to fit in that little something extra – because you can never have enough space! The fabric used in the Lily Rose Collection is a hardworking material offering no-snag protective cushioning that’s also weather-, water- and heat-resistant so it will last for ages. The added bonus? The entire bag is plastic- and latex free(a common allergen). It can also keep your baby bottles warm or your drinking water cool for ages because of its built-in insulation, so no extra cooler bag is needed. With limited signature prints – photographed in Cape Town using locally-grown blooms – reminiscent of luxe Victorian fabrics, it’s apt that the brand name is the Lily Rose Collection. With lilies representing devotion to oneself, family or career, and roses known to signify love and passion, who better to turn to for a statement piece to carry all your (and your baby’s) daily items? But you’ll love your aptly named “Bag of Plenty” from the Lily Rose Collection for more than just its good looks, because the designers really have thought of everything. A wide opening with a roomy main compartment, funky colour-matched canvas hand- and shoulder straps for ease of use, built-in elasticated pockets for bottles or your wallet – plus, there are thoughtful details like zip stoppers, protective feet, zipped pockets for your valuables and small items, as well as a zip with a branded puller to secure everything inside from would-be pick pocketers. A Lily Rose Collection bag is a style statement, and one you’ll be happy to continue carrying long after your children have outgrown the nappy stage as it is truly a collectable that any serious fashionista would appreciate. Currently available in South Africa and soon in USA and Australia. Visit www.lilyrosecollection.co.za for more information or to purchase online.

August 13, 2021

Chicco Seat4Fix Air

Whether you’re expecting your very first baby or shopping for a lively toddler, every Chicco car seat is engineered for comfort, safety, and peace of mind. World-class innovation and user-friendly touchpoints make Chicco car seats reassuringly easy to install, making every ride that much safer. If it is versatility you’re looking for – look no further than the Chicco Seat4Fix Air Group 0/1/2/3 Car seat! This car seat is suitable for us in all 4 stages of your little one’s life – from birth all the way to 36kg and comes with all the bells and whistles. This seat provides comfortable and secured seating in both the rear and front facing position, thanks to its unique rotating base. With 3 available recline positions this seat ensures your little one is comfy – even on those extended trips! Breathable fabric allowing for more comfort whilst in the seat UV canopy Durable shell with additional, removable Side Safety System ensuring exceptional protection in case of a side impact. Soft padded headrest 5 point harness – which adjust easily as your little one grows What more does one need? From R6999.99 this superb car seat can be purchased from participating Baby outlets. For more information head to www.chicco.co.za

August 6, 2021

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

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

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

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

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