So why do my breasts leak, it is embarrassing!!!

Ok, Mother Nature, why do my breasts leak? Milk stains on my shirt or wet, sticky breasts are not really what a breast-feeding mom needs! It can be so embarrassing or uncomfortable to have a sudden let-down while in the shops or to wake up to wet sheets. So why does this happen? Is it just my bad luck? Is there any way that I can reduce the leaks or at least stop them from showing? Yes, breast feeding mothers can have leaking breasts that can cause some embarrassment but there is also good news. Firstly, you can use a disposable breast pad that comfortably and discreetly fits into your bra that will soak up the leaking breast milk, like the Ameda Moisture Guard breast pads . Secondly, if the truth be told, leaking is common in breast feeding women. It is to be expected and is a good sign that you are well on your way to breast feeding success. To successfully breast feed your body needs to be able to do 3 main steps: Milk production- When the milk is made Milk release- this is called the let-down it is when your milk is released from your milk ducts to your nipple Milk transfer- when the milk moves from your breast to your baby’s stomach   So, in that case if your breast leak, it shows you that your body can do the first two steps: production and release. You are making enough milk to leak, and you can release or “let-down” the milk from your breast.  Sometimes the let-down can happen at the strangest times, like when you think of your baby or hear another baby cry. Your body is so in tuned to your baby that just hearing a cry can signal your body to start releasing milk. The hormone that is the cause of the let-down is called Oxytocin. It helps your muscles to compress and squeeze your milk out your ducts into your nipple and out of your breast. Some mothers get a warning that the let-down is happening and their breast tingle.  The last step is important because it is the final step in your baby receiving the nourishment she needs. This is generally seen as direct feeding or expressing. For information and pricing on the Ameda Breast pumps see our website Do all moms leak? Or is it just me?  Well, not all moms leak but it is common. The good news is that it becomes less frequent as your breast feeding matures. Times when you are most likely to leak breast milk are: In the early days of your breast feeding. You can expect more leaking while your body is getting used to the increasing demands of your baby’s needs. The leaking can start to reduce from 6 to 12 weeks and then generally disappear.  Emotions can also bring on some leaking. This can be linked to hearing a baby cry or thinking or your baby or evening listening to a very touching story.  If you skip a feed and your breast become overfull expect to have some leaking. This is quite common in the first few days back at work. If you have a warm shower, you can expect some leaking If you have an orgasm you can expect to see some leaking or even a bit of spray Ok, So, Leaking is normal, common and actually is a good sign of milk supply, so how do I make it stop? Waiting for 12 weeks might just be a bit too long.  There are a few things that you can do to reduce the amount of leaking but the most effective is to use disposable breast milk pads. The Ameda Moisture Guards are fantastic because they are discreet, ultra-thin and couture to your breast so that no-one will notice that you are wearing them. The Moisture Guards are super soft and will not irritate your nipple. They can absorb up to 35x their weight and can be used over night to help prevent wet sheets. They are the new generation of breast pads that do not have a plastic lining, which keeps moisture on your nipple, which is just gross. They have a woven pattern that helps to move moisture away from the nipple keeping you dry. They also have 2 adhesive strips which keep the breast pad in place so that they do not slip out.  Other ways you can help to reduce leaking are: If you feel like you have started to leak you can press firmly against your nipple with the palm of your hand to stop the follow. This should not be done to often in the beginning of breast feeding as it can interfere with the supply. Have a spare shirt handy in-case you need to change; this is a good practical idea for work.  Choose clothing with light colours and small prints that cover up a multitude of mishaps. Place a bath towel on top of your bed sheet. This will protect the mattress and keep the sheet beneath you dry. Breastfeed your baby before going to bed. This will minimise the amount of milk in the breasts (but remember that breasts are never truly empty).  So leaking breast are normal, and can be expected. The truth is that we should not be embarrassed about leaking breast. However, it is not always that easy to make a joke and carry on especially when you are at work or while you are out and about. The Ameda Moisture Guard disposable breast pads are there for you so that you can feel confident and not worry about any stains on your clothes. You can go out and enjoy your time at work or out with your baby. Breast feeding is an amazing journey to be on and leaking does not need to be a reason to stop.

May 6, 2021

Gestational Diabetes: Reasons, risks and recovery

Kathy Malherbe speaks to the clinical team at Bonitas Medical Fund to get some insights on Gestational Diabetes (GDM) and tells the story of mother-of-two, Theresa’s (36) experience with Gestational Diabetes. Diabetes is a condition whereby your body is unable, in varying degrees, to produce or respond to the hormone insulin. This causes abnormal metabolism of carbohydrates and elevated levels of glucose in the blood. Diabetes is commonly divided into four types: Type 1, Type 2 (often lifestyle related,) Gestational Diabetes and Diabetes Mellitus. Normally when you eat, your blood sugar rises. The pancreas, a gland deep in your abdomen, releases a hormone called insulin. It helps move sugar from your blood into your cells for energy and storage. In a non-diabetic person, the blood sugar will go back down to normal after eating.   What is Gestational Diabetes? Gestation comes from theLatin gestare, which means ‘to bear’ or ‘give birth to’. Medically speaking it is the period between conception and birth. There are two types of Gestational Diabetes. Women with class A1 can manage it through diet and exercise. Those who have class A2 need to take insulin or other medications. Gestational Diabetes usually goes away after you give birth. But it can affect your baby’s health, and it raises your risk of getting Type 2 diabetes later in life Unlike Type 1 diabetes, Gestational Diabetes is not caused by a lack of insulin but by other hormones produced during pregnancy that can make insulin less effective, a condition referred to as insulin resistance. Gestational Diabetic symptoms disappear following delivery. Why does it develop? During pregnancy, your placenta makes hormones that cause glucose to build up in your blood   and produces a hormone called the Human Placental Lactogen (HPL). HPL breaks down fats from the mother to fuel the growth of the baby. Usually, your pancreas can send out enough insulin to handle it. But if your body can’t make enough insulin or stops using insulin as it should, your blood sugar levels rise and you get Gestational Diabetes. It can lead to insulin resistance and carbohydrate intolerance in the mother.  Who is at risk? About 10% of pregnancies result in Gestational Diabetes. The causes are not known but the risk factors include:  Age-older women  High blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease Obesity Not exercising   Immediate family history of diabetes History of Gestational Diabetes in a previous pregnancy Have had a miscarriage or a stillborn baby Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome It is important to note that there is no definitive way to prevent Gestational Diabetes. Even mothers who have had Gestational Diabetes in a previous pregnancy may not get it with a later pregnancy. Warning Signs of Gestational Diabetes Sugar in the urine Unusual thirst Frequent urination Fatigue Nausea Blurred vision Vaginal, bladder and skin infections. When and how is it detected? In most cases, Gestational Diabetes develops in the second or third trimester (from week 14 to the birth) and disappears after the baby is born. A screening or finger prick blood test can be done at a clinic or pharmacy to give you a snapshot of your blood sugar levels. However, a formal diagnosis requires a blood test and sometimes this will need to be repeated. Gestational Diabetes is detected by using an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) or a random blood glucose test.  The OGTT test is done by a nurse or doctor taking a blood sample from your vein to test the blood sugar levels.  Then you will drink a glass of water mixed with glucose. An hour later you will have another blood test. Your blood glucose level should rise after you finish the sugary drink, then go back to normal, as insulin moves glucose into your cells. If it takes too long to go back to normal you could have diabetes. What the test shows The blood glucose is measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Two hours after you finish the glucose drink, this is what your results mean: Below 140 mg/d: Normal blood sugar  (7.8mmol) Between 140 and 199: impaired glucose tolerance or prediabetes (11mmol) 200 or higher: diabetes (11.1mmol) The random glucose blood test is carried out a couple of times to see if your glucose varies widely.  If initially you are not diagnosed with Gestational Diabetes, the test may be repeated at around 24-28 weeks.  What are the dangers? In many cases it can be controlled with a healthy diet and exercise but at least one in ten women will need their blood glucose levels controlled with medication. If your diabetes is not picked up during pregnancy it can cause risks at birth. The most prevalent is shoulder dystocia which is when the baby’s head gets stuck during the birth.  This can cause:  Fractures to the collarbone and arm Damage to the brachial plexus nerves. These nerves go from the spinal cord in the neck down the arm Lack of oxygen to the body (also called asphyxia). In the most severe cases, this can cause brain injury or even death  It can also lead to babies being large for their gestational age which can result in birth complications How can you help yourself? By adhering to an eating programme that is healthy for you and for your baby including:  Eat protein with every meal Include daily fruits and vegetables in your diet Limit or avoid processed foods Pay attention to portion sizes to avoid overeating Exercise regularly. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise 5 days a week. Just remember to speak to your doctor before starting any new exercises  Don’t skip meals. To regulate your blood sugar levels, aim to eat a healthy snack or meal every 3 hours or so. Eating nutrient-dense foods regularly can help keep you satiated and stabilise blood sugar levels. Take your prenatal vitamins, including any probiotics, if they’re recommended by your doctor. Being diagnosed with Gestational Diabetes can be extremely stressful and dangerous to both mother and baby.  It is imperative to have your blood glucose monitored during pregnancy. However, if you are tested regularly, stick to a healthy eating programme and exercise regularly,

May 6, 2021

THIS IS POSTPARTUM: A message for Maternal Mental Health Week

Have you just had a baby and feel ashamed that you’re not feeling as blissful as you thought you would be? Do you feel afraid and alone? Do you feel like no one understands you, or that people think you’re not a good mother?  Do you cry with pain during breastfeeding but grit your teeth because of your mother-in-law’s comments? Do you scroll through endless Happy Mummy Instagram accounts, wondering what the hell is wrong with you? If you answered yes to any of these questions, please know you’re not alone. Whether or not your symptoms fit a specific diagnosis, the bottom line is this: You don’t feel your best right now, and you want to feel better. Being a mum is hard. For every woman. Even the ones who look like they’ve got it totally sorted. (Especially those ones?) After giving birth to my oldest daughter, Livia, I was as far from that image of a proud, radiant new mum on cloud nine as it is possible to be. I felt like my throat was being squeezed and I couldn’t get any air—like I was slowly drowning. It was as if someone had thrown a huge, dark blanket over me. When I looked at my baby, I was both madly in love with her and filled with terror. What if something happens to her? The anxiety was oppressive and I became more insecure every day. I didn’t know what to do about how I felt and, bit by bit, I lost myself. Eventually I was diagnosed with postpartum depression (PPD). Wanting to be the perfect mother had paralysed me. What makes PPD worse is that it’s so hard to talk about. But speaking out is vital. That’s why I’m advocating for Maternal Mental Health Week in May to be a globally recognised day for talking about the challenges new parents face when their baby is born. Causes of PPD The risk of a woman suffering from depression triples in the first month after delivery, compared with childless women of the same age. Fluctuating hormones make mothers more vulnerable to depression, but difficult psychosocial conditions also increase susceptibility. Such conditions might be one of the following: You have a bad relationship with your parents. You have lost your mother or a key figure in your life. Your parents or close family live far away. You want to keep everything under control. You have very high expectations of yourself and of life in general. You have an argument with people in your social circle. You have problems at work. You have financial difficulties or debts. You are in a toxic relationship and/or have experienced domestic violence. You have had mental health issues in the past. Signs of postpartum depression (if these symptoms last longer than 2 to 4 weeks, ask for help immediately) You’re irritable. You can barely concentrate. You feel dejected. You sleep badly, even when your baby is asleep. You eat a lot or very little. You think about suicide or death. You have difficulty concentrating and making decisions. You lose interest in the world around you and no longer enjoy the things that used to give you pleasure. You feel that everything takes a lot of effort; you don’t want to be asked for anything. You feel that you’re outside of life. You have negative thoughts and feelings about motherhood. You cry a lot and often during the day. You’re unreasonable and unkind to people in your immediate environment (family, friends, colleagues, etc.). You feel incredibly insecure and you put an enormous amount of pressure on yourself. You experience intrusive thoughts. For example: You vividly visualise throwing your baby down the stairs or choking your child. It’s important to know that many women can also suffer from prenatal depression during their pregnancy. It’s thought that lack of social support and presence of marital discord may increase the likelihood of this type of depression. Sadly, this is currently a neglected topic, with little research from which to draw guidelines and recommendations. Much more work needs to be done in this area. However, many of the recommendations given to women with postpartum depression are also relevant if you’re suffering from depression before you’ve had your baby. Seek help as soon as possible. Talking to someone is a brave and important step. Choose someone you feel comfortable with and tell them what’s bothering you, what you’re up against, and what you’re really embarrassed or ashamed about. Choose someone who can listen well without judgement; someone who accepts you exactly as you are. First choice might be your partner, if you have one, but if you find that too difficult, choose a good friend, your sister, your mother, or that dear neighbour who always gives you good advice. Here are some conversation openers you could use: I don’t need you to say anything, I just need you to listen to me until I’m finished talking. I haven’t been feeling well lately and I think I need professional help. I have a problem that’s been really bothering me, and I’d like to talk to you about it. Ever since I gave birth, I worry all the time and I don’t know how to stop. Maybe the other person will reach out and grab your hand or give you a hug. If you can, try and accept these warm and loving gestures. You deserve it so much. If you’re reading this, please speak up. Please share your story at home, with loved ones, friends, and the new moms you meet. Maternal Mental Health Week is from May 3-9 and World Maternal Mental Health Day is May 5. Join us in campaigning for this day to be a globally recognised day dedicated to talking about the challenges new parents face when their baby is born. You’re invited to get real about motherhood by sharing photos and posts on social media that show the real face of motherhood. Hashtag  #maternalMHmatters #MMHWeek2021 and #MakingOverMotherhood to draw

May 5, 2021

CHICCO 2-IN-1 ELECTRIC STERILISER

Chicco is a full 360-degree approach to all things baby. Every item that comes from Chicco is vigorously tested through the Chicco Observatory Laboratory in Como, Italy for perfect quality control. Chicco has been a leading name in the baby products industry for over 63 years and continues to stand by its commitment to parents globally to provide the best products so they can #parentmore and enjoy life. The Chicco 2-in-1 Electric steriliser is one of the best-selling items from the Chicco Nursing catalogue. Using steam for its efficacy, the steriliser works in minutes to neutralise all household germs from your little ones bottles, teats, teethers and cups. If the steriliser remains closed, it offers 24-hour protection against germs. A practical solution that only takes water and a few minutes to work, it even has a Safe stop function that will naturally turn the machine off if forgotten. Look for the Chicco 2-in-1 Electric Steriliser and rest assured you are doing the very best for your little ones health and safety. Also available in a microwave version that works on the same principle. Available at Takealot, Loot, Clicks Baby Club, AZ Baby, Babanino, The Kid Zone and various other retails now.

May 5, 2021

Why We Love Eggs When Weaning

The first bath. The first sleepover at granny. The first giggle. And now, the first taste of food as you wean your baby onto solid foods. Too low in energy, protein and minerals like iron and zinc, the ability of breastmilk alone to meet the increasing nutritional needs of a growing baby starts to become limited. The World Health Organisation1, supported by the South African Department of Health2, encourages that babies start solid food from six months. This is an optimal time when your baby’s gut and kidneys are physiologically mature enough to handle this newfound solid food. Starting solids can be very confusing for parents with questions like what to eat, how much and when?  With all this concern, the good news is there is one less food to worry about – eggs. Nutritious, delicious, affordable, and highly versatile, the simple egg is an easy and suitable option to introduce to your baby from early on in your weaning journey. Allergy Awareness Many parents understandably worry about introducing potentially allergenic foods like eggs to their baby’s diet. The truth is that the risk of food allergies is far less common than believed – a mere 3 in 100 children, according to local data.3 Despite this, many parents choose to delay the introduction of food allergens. The opposite is recommended though. Baby experts now suggest that parents introduce potential allergenic foods as soon as weaning is started. Supporting this is the fact that the early introduction of eggs to a baby’s diet is associated with reduced egg allergy risk, according to research.4,5,6 Brain Boost Findings from a South American study7 suggests that eating eggs early in childhood could contribute to healthy brain development and function. Researchers think that this is because of choline, an important nutrient for optimal brain and nervous system function. Did you know that just one egg contains all the choline that a weaning baby of six months needs? Eggs also package other key nutrients for brain health, like protein, iron, zinc, vitamin B12, and biotin. Grow Baby, Grow There is a lot of research showing that egg-eating youngsters may have better growth and development.8 This is linked to diets low in choline possibly increasing stunting in young children. The early introduction of eggs, one of the best food sources of choline, can greatly improve a baby’s growth. Added to this, we know that eggs are high in good quality protein. Protein provides the building blocks for muscle, growth, and a healthy immune system for growing, busy little bodies.  Now while good growth is important, maintaining a healthy weight is just as key. Worrisome local statistics show that boys who are obese at 4 – 8 years are 20 times more likely to become obese teenagers and girls who are obese at 4 – 8 years are 42 times more likely.9 In a 2015 study, when children (aged 8 – 12 years) had eggs for breakfast, 32% reported feeling fuller and 14% felt less hungry, which is why eggs may help manage weight in older children.10 Whether plain or mixed with vegetables and cheese, well-cooked whole eggs are recommended for your baby’s diet. Omelettes, scrambled eggs or French toast, these easy egg recipes will be a great start to your child’s journey of healthy eating. Remember, it’s important to always offer your baby age-appropriate purees and soft foods, which will differ from young babies just starting out with solids to older babies with more practice in their newfound eating skills. Like EGGcellentFood on Facebook and follow us on Instagram eggcellentfoodsa , for further information visit www.sapoultry.co.za SCRAMBLED EGG Serves: 1 Prep Time: 5 minutes Cooking Time: 3 – 4 minutes Ingredients: 1 egg 2 tablespoons milk 1 teaspoon (5g) butter Method: Combine the egg and milk in a small bowl and whisk. Heat the butter in a small non-stick frying pan, cook the egg mixture over a low heat stirring until cooked. Do not use a high temperature or the egg will burn and stick to the pan.  Transfer to plate and allow to cool slightly before serving, always test the temperature of the food before giving to baby. BASIC OMELETTE Serves: 1 Prep Time: 5 minutes Cooking Time: 3 – 4 minutes Ingredients: 2 eggs 2 tablespoons milk 1 teaspoon (5g) butter Optional – 50g white cheddar or a small portion of cooked, soft vegetables e.g., mushrooms, onion or spinach. Method: Combine the egg and milk in a small bowl and whisk. Heat the butter in a small non-stick frying pan, cook the egg mixture over a low heat. Do not use a high temperature or the egg will burn and stick to the pan.   Using a spatula “pull” the egg mixture gently to the centre of the pan, do this until the egg is cooked and the omelette set, it will look like a thick pancake.  If adding cheese or vegetables, add now.  Fold the omelette over. Transfer to a plate and allow to cool slightly, cut into bite sized pieces before serving. Always test the temperature of the food before giving to baby. FRENCH TOAST WITH BLUEBERRIES Serves: 1 Prep Time: 5 minutes Cooking Time: 5 – 6 minutes Ingredients: 1 egg 2 tablespoons milk ½ teaspoon vanilla essence  Small pinch cinnamon 1 slice day old bread 1 tablespoon (15g) butter or oil Method: In a bowl, mix together eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla essence. Heat the butter or oil in a non-stick frying pan over a medium heat. Dip bread into egg mixture and coat both sides well. Put dipped bread into hot pan and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until golden. Serve warm with a spoonful of cream cheese or with sliced banana or blueberries. Tip: You can use up any leftover bread for this recipe. Try sliced French bread, fruit loaf or multigrain bread for something different. References 1.      World Health Organisation. Guiding principles on for complementary feeding of the breastfed child. 2001. Available from:https://www.who.int/nutrition/publications/guiding_principles_compfeeding_breastfed.pdf. Accessed 29 March 2021. 2.      Department of Health, South Africa. Infant and Young

May 4, 2021

Tolo Baby Musical Activity TV and Tolo Baby Rainbow Stacker

Tolo Baby is a gorgeous new range of gifting and baby toys that will not only entertain your little one, but educate and assist with development during play. Perfect for baby showers, these beautiful, simple toys bring a touch of class into your little ones life. The Musical Activity TV is perfect from newborn and can be placed in your baby’s crib at eye level to see the bright moving gadgets. The squeaks, rattles, moving dials and abacus create a fantastic way to interact with your little one. As they grow they can touch and use their motor skills to engage with animals and sounds. As they develop they will be able to wind up dials and play music all by themselves. The Rainbow Stacker cups are great from 6 months upwards. Show your infant how to stack the cups and have fun building them and knocking them over. The cups also float in the bath and baby can play by scooping them up and pouring water out. When slightly older the child can start using the cups to understand colour differentiation and word association. Also great for sandcastles at the beach. Beautiful soft colour palettes make Tolo Baby toys suitable for all baby nursery décor and genders. Tolo Baby is available at selected Kids Emporium stores, Takealot, Babanino, Clicks Baby Club, Hamleys and The Kid Zone.

April 28, 2021

Antenatal Advice: The secrets of sleep in pregnancy

Spoiler alert….A lifetime of being obsessed with sleep starts now!Whatever your stage of pregnancy, chances are your sleep has been somewhat interrupted. Be it nausea, restless legs, inexplicable temperature fluctuations, or night time baby disco, the obstacles to a good nights shut-eye can seem endless. To learn about how to put baby your baby safely to bed, you can sign up for our Free Baby Care Workshop, where our expert Midwife will give you all the information you need. You can book your place here.  Here I’ll share my top tips, as a Midwife and mum, to getting the best night’s sleep possible. Smart hydration. Getting 2 litres of water every day is extra essential in pregnancy. Being well hydrated fends off dizziness and keeps the bowel happy, but night time wee trips are bound to disturb your sleep. The effects of hormones on the bladder in early pregnancy and the increased blood flow in later pregnancy mean the urinary system is in overdrive. Try to get your intake in earlier in the day, keeping fluids to a minimum from 2 hours before bed to reduce nocturnal loo trips. Whatever the time of year, pregnant women usually feel warmer than usual at night. This can cause night time disagreements with partners as the duvet is discarded and windows flung open. Try sleeping on top of your normal duvet with a light tog single duvet or sheet just for you, while your other half stays cosy. Lone sleepers have the luxury of kitting the bed out to suit them; try light layers that can be peeled off as required. Restless legs and cramps are common in pregnancy. Again, hydration in the day is crucial, and there is significant research to show that magnesium supplementation will aid in leg cramps and is safe in pregnancy. Most pregnancy multivitamins contain 40-50% of the recommended daily intake of magnesium, and additional dietary intake should also help in the form of foods like green leafy vegetables such as spinach, nuts and seeds and dark chocolate (yay) Invest in a maternity pillow. These need little explanation; just treat yourself! Supporting your bump, helping you get comfortable on your side (blood flow to baby is best on your left side due to the anatomy of your vascular system), which will double up as a breastfeeding pillow, even a baby nest when little one is just learning to sit up and needs some crash mats! If nausea is an issue for you, keeping a small snack by the bed will usually help. If you feel sick at night, an empty tummy makes matters worse. A plain biscuit or salty cracker to nibble on should settle the ill feeling. If nausea is new or is accompanied by pain or a temperature, get to your GP without delay. You could have a kidney infection—the joy. Insomnia in later pregnancy is very common, even when no obvious cause can be identified. You’ve done all your troubleshooting, and you’re still lying awake! Some say it’s mother nature preparing new Mums for night feeds. Whatever the cause, it’s exhausting. When many Mums are working until 38 weeks, switching to herbal tea like camomile is a good idea and has some relaxation tracks ready. Try not to get too stressed about not sleeping, and remember to talk to your Midwife or GP at your next antenatal visit if you feel you are sleep deprived; you may need some time off work. To learn more about sleep and a whole host of other topics, please join us at our Free Baby Care Workshop, where our Expert Midwife will talk through topics such as how to care for your baby’s cord, nails and how to put baby to sleep safely. You can book your free place here.

April 28, 2021

Caring for your baby: A baby bath

My hubby Steve used to take the lead on the baby baths… I was breastfeeding, so it was an excellent little opportunity for him to have a little 1:1 time with the guys when they were small. Initially, it was, of course, a bit’ fingers and thumbsy’ for him as newborn babies can seem so small and delicate; however, about 2 or 3 baths in, he was a pro.  Parents-to-be generally have so many questions about bathing a newborn baby e.g.: How often? What temperature? Should I use a product in the bath?Let me talk you through a simple step by step… and we will do the full demo as always in our Free Baby Care Workshop, which you can book here. Step 1Grab everything you need: Have everything you need ready to rock before you even think about picking up your baby. You will need a baby bath (or the good old fashioned sink while baby is still small enough), 2 x soft towels, a handful of cotton wool pads, a sponge or cloth, 1 x fresh outfit (a vest and a Babygro +/- a cardigan depending on the weather), 2 x fresh nappies (always good to have a spare) and you are good to go. Step 2 Filling up the bath: If you are bathing the baby yourself, I would suggest you use the sink or fill the bath slowly, filling and re-filling a jug of water… as we don’t want new Moms lifting anything too heavy (like a bath full of water) for the first six weeks. Correct water temperature is 37’C…. The baby has been soaking in a bath of body temperature amniotic fluid for the past nine months, so 37’C is ideal and very familiar for your baby!! Step 3 Face and Hair: We bathe babies in sections for a couple of reasons, firstly it’s easier for the person washing the baby and secondly, we feel they won’t lose as much heat. How do we do this? We undress baby, leaving just the nappy on, and we wrap baby up in a lovely soft towel… almost like a swaddle. We lift baby up, supporting the nape of his neck with one hand, and his body (which is wrapped up in the towel) is tucked between the elbow of the same hand and your hip… see picture. We then use plain water from the bath and a cloth or a cotton wool pad to wash baby’s face and then hair. We try to avoid any shampoo/product for the first 4-6 weeks to give your baby’s delicate skin a chance to adjust. Step 4 Baby’s Body: Once baby’s hair has been towel-dried, we take baby out of the towel, taking off the nappy and slowly lower baby’s body into the bath (holding baby securely-see pic). Babies don’t like surprises, so be mindful of this being slow and gentle and chatting to baby all the time. Use a sponge or cloth to wash baby down, and then leaning baby forward, you could do the back and bum. Dry baby well using a soft towel, then remove baby from the damp towel you just dried him with, wrap him in a nice dry towel and give him a big snuggle to let him know we are all done.And that’s it… all done. Generally, we spend more time prepping and cleaning up after the bath than the actual bath itself. And we recommend in the early days to just bath them once a week.  You are welcome to sign up for our FREE Baby Care Workshop, where you will see our Expert Midwife bathe a baby, plus talk through a whole host of informative topics about caring for baby. Click here to book your free place. 

April 21, 2021

Tolo Baby Gripper Rattle, Tolo Baby Triangle Rattle and Tolo Baby Abacus Rattle

Tolo Baby is a gorgeous new range of gifting and baby toys that will not only entertain your little one, but educate and assist with development during play. Perfect for baby showers, these beautiful, simple toys bring a touch of class into your little ones life. Tolo Baby has a stunning selection of rattles to assist in early motor development. Gripper Rattle – Let baby watch the sherbet coloured beads cascade from one end of the rattle to the other – a colourful, easy-grasp rattle.  Triangle Rattle – Let baby have great fun exploring this beautiful rattle. Easy-grasp from as young as 3 months. Lots of noisy fun. Abacus rattle – Encourage gripping and shaking and moving the abacus pieces side to side from as young as 3 months. Spin the pieces and get their motor skills working. Encourage lots of free play and noise with the simple, yet effective development of a rattle. Beautiful soft colour palettes make Tolo Baby toys suitable for all baby nursery décor and genders. Tolo Baby is available at selected Kids Emporium stores, Takealot, Babanino, Clicks Baby Club, Hamleys and The Kid Zone.

April 19, 2021

What are the benefits of attending an Online Antenatal Class?

Having a baby is a fundamental part of human nature, and some people don’t see any reason to attend an antenatal class. After all, women have been having babies for thousands of years, and there weren’t antenatal classes available way back when… right?  However, today’s modern parents seek the most up-to-date evidence-based information to ensure the safe delivery of their baby. Research around the safe and healthy delivery of baby has progressed significantly in the past two decades, with this research proofing that expectant Mums who attend an Antenatal Class have:  Increased likelihood of vaginal birth Lower rate of inductions Higher likelihood of breastfeeding Decreased need for pain medication in labour  Increased confidence for labour and birth  Women and partners who’ve attended antenatal or childbirth classes report that they feel more prepared because they know what to expect due to increased communication between them and their caregiver.  Overall, making women more likely to have a positive birth experience. The Baby Academy believe that helping and guiding women and their partners at this exciting time is paramount. Their FREE Baby Care Workshop and 1-day Antenatal Class aim to help prepare, empower, and support women and their birthing partners. Places in their Free Baby Care Workshop are limited and book out quickly, so we recommend early booking. Simply click HERE to book your free place. 

April 13, 2021

Tolo Baby Spinning Bunnies and Tolo Baby Bunnies Gift Set

Tolo Baby is a gorgeous new range of gifting and baby toys that will not only entertain your little one, but educate and assist with development during play. Perfect for baby showers, these beautiful, simple toys bring a touch of class into your little ones life. The Spinning Bunnies toy is perfect from 6 months upwards. Use the suction cup to attach to flat surfaces such as high chairs or tables and let your child explore and play during meal times by spinning, somersaulting and rattling the bunny characters. Suitable from 3 months upwards, attach the Spinning Bunnies toy across strollers, cribs or play areas and show baby how to spin, rattle and bounce the bunnies. As they grow older they can engage independently as they grasp and spin the toy. If the toys gravitates towards the mouth, no need to worry as it is designed for teething too. Beautiful soft colour palettes make Tolo Baby toys suitable for all baby nursery décor and genders. Tolo Baby is available at selected Kids Emporium stores, Takealot, Babanino, Clicks Baby Club, Hamleys and The Kid Zone.

April 12, 2021

IS PLASTIC SAFE FOR BABY?

Why you should be using eco-friendly baby products… Did you know that plastic is not only polluting our oceans, but scientific research has shown that it may even have detrimental effects on the health and development of our children? Exposure to phthalates, found in plastic, can impair brain development and has shown increased risks for child learning, attention and behavioural problems1. A recent global study of plastic toys has identified over 100 chemicals that may cause harm to children2. Millions of microplastic particles are also said to be released from polypropylene (plastic) baby bottles into baby formula during preparation 3. With so many negatives associated with plastic and more and more telling research published in the last decade, we really wonder why there is still SO MUCH plastic being sold and used by the little humans amongst us. Plastic bottles, plastic dummies, plastic teethers, plastic toys, plastic food storage containers and even plastic (synthetic) clothing… So what can we do? Although still a small community, parents are becoming increasingly aware of the plastic problem and wanting to make a change. They choose eco-friendly options because there are in fact many plastic alternatives available for baby and toddler: WOOD  It’s as easy as going back to basics – before plastic, all our grandparents’ toys were made of wood. There are several wooden toy manufacturers in operation today and new companies are continually being established due to their recent increase in popularity. Wood is by far the most common eco-friendly choice for toys, games, puzzles, furniture and room decor. High quality woods are best, that are raw or untreated, or have a non-toxic finish like water-based stains or an organic coating like coconut oil. SILICONE The newest trend in the baby market is all things silicone: bowls, plates, spoons, storage containers, teethers and toys. This is because silicone is extremely durable and long-lasting; it’s also dishwasher, freezer, oven and microwave safe – making for easy parenting. The majority of silicone baby products are made of food-grade silicone that is BPA, BPS, PVC and phthalate free; in other words non-toxic and a great eco-friendly option. Some silicone baby bottles are however advertised as eco-friendly, but may be infused with polypropylene (plastic). BAMBOO Most commonly found in wash cloths, towels, swaddle blankets, bedding, cloth nappies, baby wipes and clothing. It is softer than cotton muslin, hypoallergenic, antibacterial and therefore the better choice for sensitive baby skin. You can also find bamboo items like baby drinking cups, plates, bowls, forks and spoons. Many of them however are not 100% organic because a plastic resin (although in small amounts) is sometimes needed to keep the bamboo fibres together to give it durability.  COTTON The most familiar material used to make natural baby clothing, baby wipes, cloth nappies, swaddle blankets, bedding, towels, wash cloths and soft toys. Often advertised as 100% organic cotton or mixed with bamboo fibres – 70% bamboo, 30% cotton muslin. The benefits of using cotton fabric are similar to bamboo, making cotton ideal for sensitive baby skin. It is also more eco-friendly than synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, spandex, chiffon, fleece and satin; all of which contain plastic. Other eco-friendly alternatives for plastic include GLASS (baby bottles), WHEATSTRAW (dining sets and utensils), NATURAL RUBBER (baby bottle teats, dummies, teethers and toys) and RATTAN (the coolest new trend for natural baby furniture, decor and some toys). With so many eco-friendly options available for baby and toddler, parents can be reassured that they are able to raise their little ones in a non-toxic world, while building a plastic-free future. We hope you enjoyed our article. If you need help with natural parenting, visit our online shop at https://www.ecoella.co.za or follow us on social media (@ecoella.and.friends). References: Engel et al. (2020). Neurotoxicity of Ortho-Phthalates: Recommendations for Critical Policy Reforms to Protect Brain Development in Children. AJPH. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2020.306014 Aurisano et al. (2021). Chemicals of concern in plastic toys. Environment International. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envint.2020.106194 Li et al. (2020). Microplastic release from the degradation of polypropylene feeding bottles during infant formula preparation. Nature Food. https://doi.org/10.1038/s43016-020-00171-y 

April 8, 2021

Free Pregnancy Class for Expectant Parents

If you are pregnant, you will be delighted to hear that The Baby Academy are running FREE Online Workshops for first-time pregnant women, tailored for those in their second or third trimester of pregnancy. Their Expert Midwife will deliver the most up-to-date evidence-based information on how to care for your baby safely. At the free workshop, you will learn: How to care for your baby’s cord How to care for your baby’s skin and nails How to put your baby to sleep safely to prevent SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) Plus, a host of practical, evidence-based demonstrations on how to care for your baby Places in their Free Baby Care Workshop are limited and book out quickly, so we recommend early booking. Simply click HERE to book your free place. 

April 8, 2021

MyaJoy: Small but mighty breast pump

At last South Africa has the most amazing breast pump: the MyaJoy. True to Ameda’s commitment and dedication to mothers’ comfort and safety they have added the MyaJoy to their collection of closed system high quality breast pumps. So, what is so amazing about the MyaJoy! WELL EVERTHING!!! Why the MyaJoy will make you happy: Hospital grade suction- This little pump can maintain suction of 250mmHG which puts it in the same league as a Hospital-Grade pump Personal use- Your own private breast pump that has hospital grade technology- no need to share it Size- Small enough to fit into the palm of your hand or your pocket. Yes! it really is that small. Ultra-quite- Perfect for discreet use at home or in the office and can be used while making a phone call without the telltale pump sound interrupting your conversation. 100% Portable- The MyaJoy can easily fit into your pocket or clip onto your belt Closed system- Must for all breast pumps Easy to use- Swop easily between stimulation and expression mode and find your perfect setting for the best milk expression Price- Super competitive have a look at our online store for any specials  2-year Warranty. That is so amazing!  Double electric breast pump- Can be used as a single electric as well  Has an LCD back lit screen- You can use it in the dark and not disturb your sleeping baby or partner.  Power source- You have the option of using the power cable or rechargeable batteries.  Its size is the first thing that you notice about the MyaJoy breast pump. It is small enough to fit into the palm of your hand. It has a clip on the back which makes it super easy to clip on to your clothes and totally 100% portable. This means that you can go about your daily business while pumping, talk about a true time saver. So, it is small and portable, and you will not believe how quiet it is with sound <45db. Even on its strongest settings it does not make more noise than a cell phone on vibrate. Being ultra-quite is such an amazing feature, you can watch TV easily, have a conversation or even use the pump while working as it hardly makes a sound.  This little pump has Hospital-Grade-Technology. This is so impressive because it uses so little power, is so small but can still maintain the suction level of 250mmHg the same as a hospital pump. The MyaJoy fits so easily in the category of a hospital grade pump. This means that you can now put a Hospital-Grade breast pump that you do not have to share it with anyone. This little power pump is all yours.  The MyaJoy is super easy to use with a stimulation and expression mode. When you start pumping the pump will start on the stimulation mode. This helps to get your “letdown” started. A “letdown” is when your milk starts to flow, and your milk is “letdown” from your breast ducts. Once this happens you can then change modes to the expression phase which has deeper longer sucks that imitates your baby’s breast feeding. With the Stimulation phase there are 6 settings and the Expression phase has 12, so that you are always able to find your most comfortable settings. Just like with breast feeding you need to be comfortable, to get the best results. So you should use the most comfortable settings on your breast pump. It is not always necessary to use the highest setting to get the results you want.  As women we come in different shapes and sizes, this is what makes us beautiful, and this is true for our breasts.  Ameda knows that breasts and nipples are not all the same and that is why the MyaJoy has 7 different flange sizes that helps you to have a more comfortable fit while expressing. If the fit is too tight it can result in a rubbing or a chaffing feeling and if it is too loose too much of your breast can be pulled into the flange which can negatively impact your expression experience. You will want to love your pump and by having the correct flange size this makes pumping easy and a breeze.  The MyaJoy is a closed system breast pump. Absolutely 100% and FDA approved. Ameda is dedicated to making the safest breast pumps for moms and a standard for that is to have a closed system. The MyaJoy uses the Ameda Dual HygieniKit which is a closed system at the flange site. This means that no milk or moisture can entre your breast pump or tubing. This is important because when milk can entre your pump or tubing (like with open system pumps) mold, bacteria and viruses thrive inside the pump and tubing. The closed system will prevent these nasties from growing in your pump and contaminating your breast pump. The nasties are really gross and could be dangerous for your baby.   Another perk is that you never have to worry about cleaning the tubing of the MyaJoy! One less part to clean. With the MyaJoy you only need to clean and sterilize 4 breast pump parts. How easy is that. By having less parts, it is also super easy to put back together and start your next pumping session.  If you are looking at getting yourself a breast pump, then the MyaJoy should be on the top of your list. It has all the features that a mom needs to pump comfortably, quickly, and quietly. The MyaJoy is an absolute game changer for moms who are wanting to breast feed for longer. The price and the 2-year warranty make this little pump so competitive in the breast pump world. The warranty makes sure that you don’t have to worry about the motor burning out or some other malfunction. If you want to find out more about this amazing little pump please use our website www.mybreastpump.co.za .

April 7, 2021

Tolo Baby Chime Ball and Tolo Baby Roly Poly Teddy Bear

Tolo Baby is a gorgeous new range of gifting and baby toys that will not only entertain your little one, but educate and assist with development during play. Perfect for baby showers, these beautiful, simple toys bring a touch of class into your little ones life. Let your baby explore and discover the sounds and features of the awesome Spinning Chime Ball. Spin the moon and stars to hear full chiming effect. encourage spinning shaking and rolling.  Perfect from 6 months upwards, show your baby how the Roly Poly Teddy Bear rolls, spins and wobbles on a flat surface. Press the squeaker and encourage your little one to play independently. Beautiful soft colour palettes make Tolo Baby toys suitable for all baby nursery décor and genders. Tolo Baby is available at selected Kids Emporium stores, Takealot, Babanino, Clicks Baby Club, Hamleys and The Kid Zone.

April 6, 2021

How to support a child diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder: tips and strategies

After receiving an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis, it can be overwhelming for the parents or caregivers of an autistic child to cope with the various challenges ASD may present. However, with the appropriate support structures and strategies in place, caring for an autistic child can become more manageable.  Also read: Autism 101 – what is it and what should you look for? Support strategies for managing ASD Many autistic people are likely to experience communication difficulties, especially difficulties with social communication and understanding other people. Autistic children are also easily frustrated and made upset by unexpected events. Often, these feelings of frustration lead to intense meltdowns, and parents can help alleviate such feelings and prevent breakdowns by having support strategies in place. Prepare for future events Autistic children may become easily overwhelmed by minor changes in routine. Parents and children can benefit from preparation for the day’s or week’s events. Parents also need to ensure that structure and routine are upheld in the household so that the child knows exactly what to expect. Make use of visual aids Visual aids can assist autistic children in improving their skills in processing information, understanding and using language, and becoming more interactive within their environments.  Visual aids can be used to communicate with autistic children to inform them of what is happening at present, what will happen during the day, and what will happen during the coming days. Examples of how to use visual aids include: Showing the child a picture of relatives who may visit  Showing them photos of the dentist or doctor before a visit Creating a picture chart with the steps to follow when using the bathroom or getting dressed in the morning Not only are visual aids helpful for communicating information to autistic children, but they also help ensure that autistic children are well-informed of daily events. When children are informed, the likelihood of intense meltdowns is significantly reduced.  Avoid sensory overload Sensory overload is commonly found in autistic children and is a contributing factor to meltdowns. Sensory overload means that autistic children may sometimes experience certain sounds, textures, tastes, lights, and sensations as painful and intolerable, which may lead to a meltdown.  Parents can try to prevent a sensory overload by identifying their child’s specific trigger(s) and reducing the number of triggering stimuli in the environment.  It may be helpful to reduce loud noise and avoid bright lights.  Ease children into public spaces Trying to reduce noise and avoid bright lights is often impossible in public spaces like shopping malls or grocery stores. That is why it is essential to ease a child into visiting public spaces by starting with preparation using visual aids and very short visits. Once a child can manage a short trip, gradually increase the time of the visit. The same strategy can be used when visiting friends, family, or relatives.  Autistic children may develop an attachment to a particular item, for example, a toy or a blanket. It may help to bring this item along when going into public spaces because it gives the child a sense of familiarity and comfort, which may help keep the child calm for the duration of the trip.  Plan ahead when eating at restaurants Visiting a restaurant can be challenging for an autistic child. To make the outing manageable for a child, it may be helpful to do the following: Make a reservation at the restaurant ahead of time Visit restaurants during their quieter hours  Request seating in a booth away from the play areas or bathrooms to reduce sensory stimulation Pre-order meals Request the bill before dessert to prevent the child from getting frustrated with waiting Additionally, parents should request permission to bring the child’s favourite food along, as some autistic children have very specific dietary preferences.  Try rewards charts Some autistic children exhibit defiant behaviour, and, therefore, it is crucial to utilise strategies to encourage compliance. One strategy that can be used at home and at school to achieve cooperation is a rewards chart.  Also read: How to reward your kids the right way Since many autistic children often have very particular interests, it is vital to ensure that the rewards chart is meaningful and appealing. For example, if a child has an intense obsession with a particular superhero, the rewards chart should incorporate that infatuation to gain a child’s interest and, consequently, compliance. When trying to encourage compliance from autistic children, parents are advised to provide as much praise as necessary and to reduce such praise gradually as children exhibit increased cooperation.  Take care of yourself Lastly, parents are very often the primary caregivers of autistic children. To be able to give to others, your cup cannot be empty. It is, therefore, crucial that parents attend to their needs and mental wellbeing such that they are well-equipped to face the challenges that accompany caring for an autistic child.  Parents should make time for self-care and join support groups to draw social support to prevent feelings of isolation they sometimes experience.  Although the challenges are present, they do not make parenting any less rewarding. By implementing tips and tricks in your daily life, caring for an autistic child may become more manageable.   by Dr Jeanné Roux – educational psychologist

April 1, 2021

Plant-based pregnancy

As the wife of ultra-endurance triathlete and Ironman Africa Champion, Kyle Buckingham, Lauren, knows a thing or two about needing to look after her body and keep energy levels high. So when Kyle made the move to a fully plant-based diet over a year ago, Lauren, followed suit and honestly believes that this is what has contributed to her feeling so amazing through the last 6 months of her pregnancy.  “From the time I found out I was pregnant at 5 weeks, nothing had changed,” says Lauren. “I didn’t even feel pregnant until I went into my 2nd month, after which I had occasional afternoon nausea until I went to bed. And just as fast as that feeling started it stopped on the first day of my 3rd month!” “I am still working as a sports massage therapist, dealing with athletes on a daily basis which requires a lot of my energy and input, and then just getting on with my normal daily things. I have yet to experience a drop in energy and I am into my 6th month now!” So how has Lauren coped with any cravings she has had during the past 6 months? “I have only had one craving so far and thankfully that only lasted two weeks. All I wanted was a cheese sandwich dipped in tomato soup! I was able to change dairy cheese for a vegan cheese option which was great, it was the weirdest combo, but I loved it!” While Lauren and Kyle made the switch to a plant-based diet quite quickly for Kyle’s training, Lauren realises that this might not be as easy for others. “If you are thinking of moving to a plant-based diet, I would suggest starting with either replacing one meal a week or possibly having one day a week that is only plant-based,” explains Lauren. “That way you can slowly get used to the various options and see what works for you.” “Fry’s started Meatless Monday’s which is a great place to start, they also have a few tasty recipes on their website that are super easy to try out!” What has been the biggest advantage that Lauren noticed since being on the plant-based diet? “Energy levels, when I made the switch my energy levels never dipped and throughout my whole pregnancy so far I have not gained extreme weight!” Here are some of Lauren’s favourite recipes for you to try out! Versatile Veggie Chilli by: Jamie Oliver INGREDIENTS – 500 g sweet potatoes 1 level teaspoon cayenne pepper , plus extra for sprinkling 1 heaped teaspoon ground cumin , plus extra for sprinkling 1 level teaspoon ground cinnamon , plus extra for sprinkling olive oil 1 onion 2 mixed-colour peppers 2 cloves of garlic 1 bunch of fresh coriander (30g) 2 fresh mixed-colour chillies 2 x 400 g tins of beans, such as kidney, chickpea, pinto, cannellini 2 x 400 g tins of quality plum tomatoes lime or lemon juice, or vinegar , to taste METHOD + Preheat the oven to 200˚C/400˚F/gas 6. Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into bite-sized chunks, then place onto a baking tray. Sprinkle with a pinch each of cayenne, cumin, cinnamon, sea salt and black pepper, drizzle with oil then toss to coat. Roast for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until golden and tender. Peel and roughly chop the onion. Halve, deseed and roughly chop the peppers, then peel and finely slice the garlic. Pick the coriander leaves, finely chopping the stalks. Deseed and finely chop the chillies. Meanwhile, put 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pan over a medium-high heat, then add the onion, peppers and garlic, and cook for 5 minutes, stirring regularly. Add the coriander stalks, chillies and spices, and cook for a further 5 to 10 minutes, or until softened and starting to caramelise, stirring occasionally. Add the beans, juice and all. Tip in the tomatoes, breaking them up with the back of a spoon, then stir well. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and leave to tick away for 25 to 30 minutes, or until thickened and reduced – keep an eye on it, and add a splash of water to loosen, if needed. Stir the roasted sweet potato through the chilli with most of the coriander leaves, then taste and adjust the seasoning, if needed. Finish with a squeeze of lime or lemon juice or a swig of vinegar, to taste, then scatter over the remaining coriander.  Delicious served with guacamole and rice, or tortilla chips. SERVE with rice and pappadums Chunky Veg Yellow Thai Coconut Curry INGREDIENTS Yellow or Green Thai paste 1 can coconut milk (extra if necessary) 1 medium onion, diced ½ red bell pepper, roughly chopped (bite size) ½ yellow bell pepper, roughly chopped (bite size) 3-4 mixed courgette, chopped bite size pieces 1 cup chopped butternut (bite size) 2-3 carrot chopped (bite size) handful chopped baby spinach leaves Flexitarian optional -Add strips of tofu or calamari METHOD Add oil and Thai paste to pan allowing paste to warm and release flavours. Add can coconut milk and mix with paste. Bring to a simmer. Add onion, butternut and carrots first until semi firm (15-20min) with lid to keep moisture in. Add remaining veggies except the spinach, simmer about 30 min or until all veggie are soft enough to eat but not soft enough to mash. Al dente. Add spinach and stir together until wilted. Add extra coconut milk, water or oat milk to top up the sauce. Add tofu or calamari strips to pan and simmer in coconut milk until turns white. SERVE with sushi rice and pappadums.

March 30, 2021

Autism 101 – what is it and what should you look for?

What is autism?  Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a range of developmental disorders that impair a person’s ability to communicate and interact with other people. As the name suggests, ASD refers to a broad range of conditions characterised by a person’s challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviours, speech, and nonverbal communication. Despite ASD consisting of a range of conditions, there are no subtypes since ASD may present very differently from person to person, along with differences in presentation among genders.  How does autism present? Every person will have a different set of strengths and challenges but still fall under ASD. People diagnosed with ASD may present with more mild symptoms, while others may present with more severe symptoms – such individuals require significant support to function in their daily lives.  As aforementioned, the presentation of ASD may differ between people in both severity and characteristics. People with ASD may also differ in their level of intelligence, as some have average or above-average intelligence while others may have a learning disability and require assistance with daily functioning.  Common characteristics of ASD Characteristics that have been noted with some typicality include:  Challenges with communication and interaction with others;  Difficulties in reading social cues (i.e. how others may think or feel);  Challenges in expressing their thoughts and feelings;  Sensory sensitivity (e.g. bright lights, loud noises, etc.) which causes these individuals to become overwhelmed, stressed, or uncomfortable;  Repetitive behaviours; Becoming anxious, upset, or angered by unfamiliar situations or changes in routine; Taking additional time to process information.  Verbal ASD challenges It is common for roughly 40% of ASD individuals not to speak at all, while between 25 – 30% of others will develop language skills. Some language and speech challenges may include:  Delayed speech development;  Using a flat, robotic voice or speaking in a sing-song manner;  Echolalia;  Difficulties with pronouns, i.e. using I/me/he/she/they incorrectly;  Rarely using physical gestures; An inability to stay on topic.   Behavioural ASD challenges Autistic people may also display or engage in behaviours such as:  Repetitive behaviours;  Specific rituals;  Fixation on certain activities, objects, or topics;  Constant pacing back and forth;  Fussy eating habits (many ASD individuals have textural issues); Not participating in pretend play;  Impulsiveness; Aggression; An inability to pay attention or a short attention span;  Clumsiness.  What causes ASD? Several factors may influence the development of ASD, but there is no known singular cause. There have been rumoured causes of ASD such as diet, infections, or vaccines; however, each of these has not been conclusively proven to cause ASD. Typical comorbidities include medical challenges such as gastrointestinal disorders, seizures or sleep disorders, and mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and attention difficulties.  How to identify autism Signs of ASD typically appear by the age of two to three years. Some children present with developmental delays as early as 18 months. In other rarer cases, ASD may be picked up by caregivers and teachers only later in the person’s life. Typically, when making a diagnosis of ASD, it will either have been identified by a doctor during early check-ups or when a parent becomes concerned and consults a multidisciplinary team of teachers, occupational therapists, psychiatrists, psychologists, and doctors.  Also read: Might my child have ADHD? Signs of ASD  Signs of ASD to which a parent/teacher may want to pay special attention include:  Preference for solitary time; Avoidance of eye contact; No response to their given name by their first birthday; Lack of response to the emotions of others or appearing not to understand the emotions of others; An unwillingness to be comforted when upset; Avoidance or rejection of physical contact; Meeting of some developmental milestones but later losing them; Appearing to have a lack of facial expressions (i.e. smiling); Challenges with abstract thinking; Fixation on or a very clear preference for certain subjects; Challenges in making friends or maintaining friendships.  Also read: Parental self-care If your child is experiencing one or a combination of these signs or symptoms, they may need professional help. Consult a psychiatrist or psychologist to determine the correct treatment and course of action for your child. by Dr Jeanné Roux – educational psychologist

March 26, 2021

What you should know about your baby’s naps and their bedtime routine from a sleep expert

At Brave Little baby we believe in predictability and consistency which underpin a foundation of safety, security and calmness in a child’s life. Following the same steps and setting up sleepy cues are the key to creating the ideal bedtime routine for your little one.  These steps we suggest can aid your little one in sleeping well at night, too. Having a great bedtime routine is where you build your relationship with one-on-one quality time, without any interruptions, and you convey the message, “You are important to me” to your small child. Babies will soon become accustomed to their bedtime routine, and some may even show you signs that they are ready for it. “I had a mom who said her toddler would grab his lovey and start saying goodbye and walking her to his room to start their wind-down time.”  How wonderful! Setting the stage with a consistent nap and bedtime routine is good for healthy sleep habits and may help your little one to start forming healthy sleep associations. So how would one go about finding the perfect bedtime routine for one’s baby? I’m almost sure that when you go to bed at night, you have a sleep routine. Jumping into bed with your shoes and work clothes on, will lead to a night of poor sleep. A probable sleep routine may be that you brush your teeth, wash your face, change into pajamas and maybe read for a little while before you switch the lights off. This is the same for babies or toddlers. They need consistent recurring events to help set them up for a good night. It will signal and play out as a sleepy cue that baby will recognise and know what to do next. It is also applicable to their day time naps.  This may lead to the most special moments you may have with your little one as it is quality time spent with mom or dad. Moreover, both feelings of love and security will become the norm. This is also a lovely time to include dad if he has been away for work commitments.  When would be a good time to implement a naptime routine for baby? A naptime routine or a wind down is a good idea from 6 weeks on, it can be 10-15 minutes for small babies and then range to 20-30 minutes for older children. It all depends on the activity that took place before the nap. One would want to help their little bodies and brain realize that they are tired and need to sleep. Plan this wind down before their awake window is over so that you can help them fall asleep on time. When would be a good time to implement a bedtime routine for baby? When you have a newborn at home, enjoy the precious moments with the new little person without any pressure from schedules and routines. It is best to get to recognise your infant’s hunger and sleepy cues, and fulfilling their needs by responding appropriately. You may want to start implementing a bedtime routine at around 6-8 weeks. A good routine could last for 10 minutes. Before they start showing signs of tiredness, take them to a quiet environment, swaddle them, put on your white noise and dim the lights in the room. That will be enough for your little one to start recognising the sleepy cues. TIP: Here is also a great tip to help your little one connect the past, present and the future.⁠A nice bedtime habit to start with your child is to recapture the day. You can say, for example, “Today we went for a walk and it rained. We came home and had lunch,” etc. What we think is probably unimportant, may be important to our children, what they ate, where they were, who they saw. ⁠ Recapturing the day is a way of giving security. Your little one will carry the good feelings of their day to bed with them. You can also talk about what will happen tomorrow.  What a gift to be able to help our children learn about their days and love their naps!⁠ How to establish a bedtime routine Getting the timing just right will help you know when your little ones naturally feels tired. Watch them for a few days and write down roughly the time when they start showing that they are tired. Begin to make your bedtime ritual 20-30 minutes before they are visibly tired and catch them at the perfect time! Letting your baby sleep in the same spot is very important in establishing a healthy connotation to their sleep environment. We recommend 6 weeks to start laying your baby down in a dark room that is familiar to him or her. It may happen that your little one falls asleep in the pram or in the car. A helpful note would be to at least have one nap in their familiar environment with all their sleepy cues and also the same spot for their nighttime sleep. Practice putting them down calm but awake: This is a skill that needs to be practiced, and babies can only master it when they get the opportunity to. This will help them sleep on their own throughout the nigh, too, as you would like them to know where they fall asleep. As children grow and mature, start bringing other aspects into the bedtime routine. The day will come that your little one won’t be interested in reading picture books anymore, then exchange it with something age appropriate. Consistency is the key!!!!

March 23, 2021

Chicco London Up Stroller

Chicco, a 63-year old leader in baby products, has tirelessly committed to ensuring that all strollers and prams have optimal comfort and functionality for children. On top of this standard promise, Chicco looks after the needs of parents, allowing mom and dad to #parentmore – the Chicco catchphrase for stress-reduced parenting. The London Up stroller in a trendy black, blue and grey ‘Matrix’ design detail and colour, is South Africa’s best-selling Chicco stroller. Apart from being the most affordable in the line of strollers available in SA, the London Up is also a convenient and safe way to transport babies from birth – 15kgs. With urban living in mind, the London Up stroller provides comfort through strong padding, a safety harness to keep baby safe, a large storage basket and a large canopy for sun protection. It is easy to navigate and manoeuvre through streets, malls and pavements. Grab a Chicco London Up stroller at participating retailers such as Takealot.com, Loot.co.za, Thekidzone.co.za, Babanino.co.za, Brand Hubb, Little Kingdom online, select Makro stores and others.

March 23, 2021

How to make the best out of your Preemie’s NICU Journey during Covid-19

Let’s be honest having a preemie and ending up in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is no place a mother dreams of being when she finds out she’s pregnant, and honestly, I would never wish this for any mother.  But, the NICU does not have to be all bad, after all the NICU is the next best place other than your womb to help your premature baby grow stronger. The NICU tries to mimic a mother’s womb as best as possible for our tiny little miracles.  So, let’s get straight to the point, as a NICU preemie mom myself I know how useless and helpless you can feel when the nurses do everything for your baby, especially now during the COVID 19 pandemic restricted visiting hours. The first few days, even weeks can be very daunting, and you might even be unsure and scared to ask or do anything.  Let us look at some ways how you can get involved and make the best of the NICU journey for you and your preemie during the COVID 19 pandemic  ASK QUESTIONS AND SPEAK UP: Giving birth to a premature baby can be incredibly stressful and it’s easy to feel disconnected. Most parents are unsure and do not even know where to start when it comes to asking questions.  SOME GOOD QUESTIONS TO ASK: What is your Kangaroo Mother Care – Skin to Skin policy during the COVID-19 pandemic, and when may I start with KMC? How often may we visit our baby during the Pandemic? May I have a number to phone in to the NICU to hear how my baby is doing when I get discharged? What am I allowed to bring into the NICU for my baby? What other rules do you have in your NICU? GET TO KNOW THE STAFF: Get to know the nurse caring for your baby, it helps to have a friendship with the nurse looking after your preemie, this will make you feel more at ease and will improve your ability to ask questions and advocate for your baby.  Remember that you are baby’s mom, and that you play an incredibly important role in also helping them through this experience.  One thing to remember as a parent in the NICU is that you are your babies only advocate, you need to speak up if something is bothering you or ask questions when you are unsure.  Something that will also help you navigate around the NICU is to learn the ‘’NICU language’’ This also comes from asking questions, this way you will learn to know what certain beeps and ‘’stats’’ on the machines mean and will make you more confident around your preemie, and gives you more freedom to bond with your baby, by understanding the environment they are in. BONDING: COVID-19 has forced NICU’s to implement extreme measurements and rules to keep the NICU safe from COVID, making it a bit more challenging for mothers to be with their babies to bond. Here are a few ways you can Bond with your baby during your visit: Skin to Skin – Kangaroo Mother Care has so many benefits, do as much skin-to-skin with your baby as possible. Studies have shown that skin to skin is not just amazing for bonding, but also improves milk supply and has MANY other advantages for premature babies. It helps them cope with stress More stable heart rate It regulates their body temperature It improves the nervous system functioning More stable sleep patterns Better cognitive control Regulates heart rate and respiration Reduces post-natal depression in mom Improves weight gain for baby  THROUGH SMELL: Ask your NICU if you may place a NICU bonding heart with your baby.  A person’s sense of smell is closely linked to memory throughout life, and these memories can often trigger certain emotions that provide relief. For a baby in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), certain smells — like a mother’s — can provide comfort in more ways than one. Mom places one clean fabric heart on her skin for a few hours to absorb her unique scent. When mom must leave the NICU she leaves the NICU heart near her baby in the isolate to provide comfort and continue bonding even during times of separation. NICU BONDING HEARTS – https://www.littlelittleprem.co.za/product/nicu-bonding-heart/ ROUTINE:  It is natural to feel like the nurses are taking over. A mother’s instinct is to provide and care for her new-born baby. In the NICU this might not always be possible. Ask the NICU staff to give you the schedule of when they will change baby’s nappy and feed baby. Try to be there to feed (hold the feeding tube) and, or change your babies’ nappy, Ask the nurse to show you how to reconnect the pulse oximeter as it can easily fall off and needs to be changed frequently. These are tiny things that you as a mother want to naturally do and can do for your baby and will help the bonding between you and your little miracle.  READ AND SING TO YOUR BABY: Your little baby has been listening to you and your partners voice in utero and finds your voices comforting as it is familiar to your baby. Reading and singing to your baby can help soothe your baby and has many benefits for brain development.  Singing and reading also improves the bonding between parent and baby. Unfortunately, with the COVID – 19 pandemic some NICU’s only allow short visits for one parent a day.  Record your voice while you read a story or sing a song. You could ask the nurses to play the recording to your baby when you are not there or record your partners voice and play it to your baby when you visit.  EXPRESSING MILK: Expressing your breastmilk for your baby has become something you do more than sleep at this moment, and it can be very stressful sometimes. Carey Haupt, a qualified lactation consultant and ex-preemie mom, thought of expressing

March 18, 2021

World Down Syndrome Day: What to expect parenting a child with Down Syndrome

Finding out that you will be a parent is an exciting time for many. But finding out you will be a parent to a child with Down Syndrome, is often met with shock. If you will be raising a child with Down Syndrome, it can be challenging, so make sure you have a good medical team who can support you.   18 March 2021: With the world observing World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) on 21 March, it is a good time to demystify what parents can expect from the first few months of life if they are expecting a child with Down Syndrome. This is especially so given that there are many cultural taboos around talking about, or having a, child with Down Syndrome.   “The most important thing to understand is that raising a child with Trisomy 21 is challenging, given that the entire family dynamic will be affected. High levels of support and understanding are essential,” 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.   Down Syndrome is caused by the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome and affects approximately 1 in 800 newborns. According to Dr Karbanee, it is the commonest chromosomal abnormality.   He says that there are many features of Down syndrome that can be picked up during pregnancy and screening  is readily available. The screening is offered mostly in high risk cases of which the commonest is an older expectant mom.   “If you are pregnant and are diagnosed, it can be a major shock and parents have to face the choice of carrying on with the pregnancy or not. This is an intensely personal decision and should be carefully considered after discussion with all involved, and importantly, also the medical team.”  Babies affected by Down Syndrome have a higher risk of abnormalities affecting multiple systems of the body. Parents will need to understand that the newborn will require a cardiac assessment as well blood tests to ensure the body’s systems are functioning normally. Feeding can be a problem as low muscle tone is associated with Trisomy 21.  “The best way to approach this is to ensure the medical team is involved often as regular follow-ups and check-ups will be important.  You need to make sure you can trust your medical team; this will be essential to getting the help your baby needs,” says Dr Karbanee.   He adds that if you already have other children in the family, the needs of the child with Down Syndrome will be different to other children and will require everyone to adjust accordingly.  “Developmental milestones will be delayed so expect the baby to sit and crawl much later than normal. Special schooling will be necessary as well as ongoing visits for physiotherapy and possibly Occupational and Speech Therapy,” says Dr Karbanee. “Having said that, while having a child with Down syndrome may be a huge adjustment for the entire family, the good news is that children with Down syndrome tend to have a pleasant personality and parents report that they are a delight to the family.  “Speak to your paediatrician about all of your concerns, fears, or expectations, as it is her or her role to co-ordinate the care of the child and ensure that the health of the child is optimised,” concludes Dr Karbanee.   About Paed-IQ BabyLine  Paed-IQ BabyLine is a trusted, telephonic medical helpline for pregnant moms and new families. With healthcare advice given by qualified, experienced and medically trained nurses, we aim to improve health outcomes during the first 1000 days of a child’s life, starting from conception to birth and beyond. We are there for mommies-to-be at all stages of their maternity journey as well as new parents or caregivers to young children. By offering early and appropriate medical intervention through advice, we have helped to safeguard the health of over 10000 children, and helped moms and families successfully navigate the medical concerns of their young children. Visit https://paediq.com/ for more.   

March 18, 2021

Trimester two overview

Your second trimester begins in week 13 and ends at week 28. During this time your morning sickness will ease off, and initially your baby will be small enough that your body won’t be in too much discomfort, earning this trimester the nickname of the honeymoon period of pregnancy. During this trimester you’ll probably tell your family, friends and employees you’re expecting and your tummy will begin to show – time to upgrade your wardrobe! Your body during your second trimester During the second trimester the pregnancy you’ll hopefully notice that your morning sickness is easing up and your energy levels should begin to rise. While you will be feeling better don’t put pressure on yourself to exercise or socialise more than you’re comfortable with. This trimester your baby bump will go from barely noticeable to one that you may struggle to hide. Embrace your changing body and adapt your exercise plan to accommodate your baby, prenatal yoga and pilates classes are a great way to stay in shape, meet other moms-to-be and prepare for labour and delivery. A growing belly and breasts, Braxton Hicks contractions and leg cramps are all common pregnancy symptoms you may experience during this trimester. Not only this but you may experience dental issues, sore and swollen feet, and an achy back and/or pelvis. Your baby’s growth during the second trimester Your little one does lots of growing during your second trimester, and during this time you’ll begin to feel them moving around inside your belly (this is also known as quickening). Not only this, but during trimester two your baby’s ears develop to the point that they can hear your voice and other external sounds.  During the second trimester your baby’s eyes and ears become more developed and you’ll soon be able to find out their gender on an ultrasound (if you want to!). Your baby’s muscle tone is also improving, they’ll be swallowing amniotic fluid and their sucking reflex will develop – they may even suck their own thumb. Important things to note during the second trimester At week 19 to 20 you’ll have an anatomy scan. In this scan your doctor will be able to see how your baby is developing, and if there is anything unusual that would be cause for concern. During this scan the doctors will also be able to tell you the gender of your baby – if you decide to be told you can start thinking of baby names! This trimester is also a good time to decide how and where you’d like to have your baby. Decide on if you like a hospital or home birth, and start putting together a birth plan.

March 16, 2021

What is Perinatal Distress… and what does it really look like?

Most of us have heard of perinatal distress, also known as postnatal depression or PND, but why is this common and treatable illness often misunderstood and underdiagnosed? I was propped up in bed trying to feed my one-week-old infant staring at a pamphlet titled: “Postnatal Depression”. I thought to myself, “oh that’s when a new mother lies in bed all day crying. I definitely don’t have that. I’m not even going to open this pamphlet. I’m exhausted, I have my hands full with a fussy baby, I don’t have time to read this and besides, I don’t have PND anyway.” Two months later, I was hospitalised for nearly two weeks, followed by months of therapy and medication. You guessed it: I had PND. This medical condition had gone undiagnosed long enough for it to ravage my body and mind, as well as tear a hole through our entire family. When I look back at that dark and difficult time, I often think to myself that if only I had understood then what PND truly looked like, this illness would never have been able to take such a powerful hold on my life.  The jaw-dropping reality is that PND affects well over 10% of women within the first year of giving birth. Many of those women are never diagnosed and treated because they don’t know what PND is or may be too ashamed to seek help. Why do we know so little about PND? Let’s rewind a little. PND used to stand for Postnatal Depression, a mental health condition in which mothers would experience depression and anxiety after their baby’s birth. Fast forward to present day: PND now stands for Perinatal Distress, because experts now understand that this mental health condition can occur both before and after giving birth (yes you can have PND when you are pregnant!) and that mothers can experience a wide range of symptoms. These may include depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive behaviours, sleep disorders, anger and more. In the most extreme cases (postnatal psychosis – a medical emergency) a mother may experience hallucinations or voices.  The full list of symptoms is a long one, but may include some or all of the following:  Feeling low, sad, tired, hopeless, alone, scared, angry, bored, irritable, guilty, on edge.  Changes in appetite (either eating more or less than usual) Weight loss or gain Loss of interest in enjoyable activities; not looking forward to things. Lack of interest in the baby Panic attacks  Overwhelming, scary thoughts. Even thoughts of harming yourself or the baby Changes in energy levels, sleep patterns or tiredness (hard to gauge with a new baby when you’re sleeping less anyway, but if you are unable to sleep when you are exhausted, there may be a problem) Mood swings, crying more often, restlessness and irritability Brain fuzz or racing thoughts Herein lies the Problem These symptoms cover most of the common emotions experienced by mothers in the perinatal period.  Some of these symptoms are completely normal and result from extreme hormonal fluctuations associated with pregnancy and birth. However, these symptoms should only last for a couple of weeks after the baby is born (The Baby Blues). So how can a mother tell what is normal, and what is PND? A good rule is that if you feel like you’re not yourself, or you are not coping, have a chat to your healthcare provider. If you don’t feel like you can talk to your GP, obstetrician or clinic nurse, then turn to a trusted friend or family member.  You do not have to suffer in silence. There are various treatment options available to you which are perfectly safe, both before and after giving birth. With the correct treatment, PND can be completely resolved. Left untreated, it may be fatal, to both a mother and her child. Why do most women have only a vague idea of what PND can actually look like?  Because we don’t talk about it! Even in todays’ open-minded world of acceptance, there is still a heavy burden of societal stigma attached to a mother’s mental health.   When a woman is pregnant or has a baby, she is expected to be happy! “You’ve been so blessed!”; “Enjoy every minute, they go by so fast!”; “You’ve got what you always wanted – you must be thrilled!” These are all phrases that most mothers have heard at some point.  If she is struggling inwardly, she may feel guilty that she is not happy.  Mothers are often wracked with insecurity, which they can keep well hidden. She may worry that she will be seen as ungrateful, or even unfit to be a mother.  PND survivor Hayls Lieberthal wanted nothing more than to have a child, but as her pregnancy progressed, so did her self-doubt. “I was told all the time, ‘you are carrying life, you’re very blessed’ and ‘You have nothing to feel sad about!’” She vividly recalls a woman saying to her “look at you, you must be so excited!” and found herself lying behind a false smile: “I am so excited I can’t wait!” Meanwhile, on the inside all she could think was “I can’t do this.” From the moment your pregnancy is confirmed, healthcare professionals typically focus intensely on a mother and baby’s physical health, but less on a mother’s mental health. Even when a healthcare provider is aware of PND and asks the patient all the right questions, a mother may not divulge how she truly feels because she feels ashamed. After I had my first baby, I was overwhelmed by my new life and role. There were times that I thought I had made a terrible mistake, and that maybe I wasn’t cut out to be a mother after all. These feelings were shameful to me, and I didn’t feel like I could tell anyone.  Little did I know that those feelings are incredibly common among new mothers, even mothers who do not have PND. The Truth about PND PND is not

March 15, 2021

Chicco Ohlala2 Stroller

Chicco, a 63-year old leader in baby products, has tirelessly committed to ensuring that all strollers and prams have optimal comfort and functionality for children. On top of this standard promise, Chicco looks after the needs of parents, allowing mom and dad to #parentmore – the Chicco catchphrase for stress-reduced parenting. The Ohlala2 stroller is one of the lightest strollers on the market. Weighing in at just 3.8kgs, it is known as the stroller you can lift with one finger. Perfect for busy modern parents, the Ohlala folds down into the square book-fold and takes up minimal space in the boot of your car or the home.  In a deep black colour with white graphic details, the Ohlala is on-trend and historically has been one of Europe’s best-selling Chicco strollers due to convenience and level of functionality for baby. It is also available in twin format (Ohlala Twin). Complete with large canopy, full recline, large storage basket and bumper bar, the Ohlala2 provides a safe and comfortable journey for your little one from birth – 15kgs. Grab a Chicco Ohlala2 at participating retailers such as Takealot.com, Loot.co.za, Thekidzone.co.za, Babanino.co.za, Brand Hubb, Little Kingdom online and others.

March 15, 2021

Your second trimester – making the most of it

Your second trimester is from the beginning of week 13 until week 28, during this time your pregnancy will begin to show. However, you should feel like you have more energy than you did in trimester one. This is why this trimester is also nicknamed the honeymoon period of pregnancy – your baby isn’t big enough to make you uncomfortable and your pregnancy hormones should have eased up.  During this time there are one or two things that you can keep in mind to make the most of this time while you’re feeling better, and to ensure that your baby (and you) are kept healthy and happy.  Childbirth classes, preparing your mind and body  Even if this isn’t your first baby, childbirth classes can help prepare you for what is to come. If you’re feeling anxious about labour and birth, these classes will help ease your worries, by informing you what is to come and how best to manage your mind and body coming up to, during birth and after birth.  Prenatal exercise and a healthy lifestyle Stay fit and healthy during your pregnancy is important to both you and your baby. What you eat and regular exercise are both ways in which you can provide needed nutrition to your baby and keep yourself healthy.  Low impact exercise, such yoga, swimming, walking and prenatal pilates can help improve your sleep, and increase your strength and muscle tone. Keeping active can even have the added benefit of helping prepare your body for labour and birth.  Maternity wear and staying comfortable  Not only is learning about your pregnancy and staying healthy essential but staying comfortable is also important. The second trimester is generally when your tummy will start looking and feeling bigger,  so invest in some trousers that have more give in the waistline. Luckily certain fashion items, such as flowy dresses and layered knits, may even mean you can still keep using your pre-pregnancy clothes.

March 9, 2021

TRANSITIONING TO A NEW NAP PATTERN

What to Know Just when you think you’ve mastered your baby’s nap schedule, it will change. In fact, your child’s daytime sleep needs and patterns will change multiple times from the newborn phase through infancy and then again into toddlerhood. Nap changes typically occur at predictable ages and stages, but of course each baby is unique so watching your baby for signs that he’s ready for a new nap schedule will help you and him make a smooth transition. No matter what the current schedule, naps are hugely important for children. Naps support optimal growth and development because they provide great mental and physical restorative effects. Naps also help to improve your child’s coping skills and to avoid that all-too-familiar “overtired” state, which can lead to crankiness and sleep disruptions at night. Homeostatic pressure (or sleep pressure, the buildup of the need for sleep) drives our requirement for sleep and naps. This pressure builds up quickly in newborns and gradually lessens as babies grow older which is why their sleep and nap needs change over time. So when do these nap schedule changes typically occur? Here are some examples of nap needs for children of varying ages: Newborns 0-4 months: unpredictable nap pattern Newborns have a low tolerance for long periods of wakefulness and nap at irregular times and durations. Naps anywhere from 30 minutes to 4 hours in length at this age are typical. Infants 4-6 months: 3 to 4 predictable naps per day The first time you’ll likely see an obvious change in your baby’s daytime sleep is between 4-6 months of age. During this stage, a regular morning nap will likely occur 1.5-2 hours after a predictable morning wake time, after which 2 or 3 more naps will occur throughout the day as necessary. Total daytime sleep at this age averages 4 hours. Infants 6-9 months: 3 predictable naps per day At about the 6 month mark, you will begin to see your baby’s naps lengthen in duration and a more predictable 3 nap per day pattern typically emerges, with a morning nap 2 hours from wake-up averaging 90 minutes in length, a second nap about 3 hours from the wake of his first nap averaging 90 minutes in length and a third catnap in the late afternoon or early evening averaging 15-45 minutes. Total daytime sleep at this age averages 3-4 hours. Infants 9-15 months: 2 predictable naps per day At around 9 months, your baby will be able to stay awake for longer periods of time and will likely shift to a 2 nap per day schedule. To accommodate this change, eliminate the late afternoon catnap and shift your baby’s bedtime 15-30 minutes earlier. Total daytime sleep at this age averages 2.5-4 hours a day. Toddlers 15-18 months: 1 predictable mid-day nap At around 15-18 months of age, your child will likely be ready for just one nap a day. This one nap should be at about the midway point of the day and will average 3 hours in length (so the total amount of daytime sleep your child requires may lessen only by 15-30 minutes, if at all, but his sleep will be distributed differently throughout the day). Many families report the transition from 2 naps to 1 nap a day is the most challenging, as your child may have trouble staying awake in the morning all the way until his single midday nap. To help his body adjust to the new nap pattern, you can start the nap a little earlier and then slowly push your child’s naptime later and later over several days until the nap begins at midday. Or you can try a rotating schedule of offering 2 naps and then 1 nap every other day, until he becomes comfortable with 1 nap every day. Total daytime sleep at this age averages 1.5-3 hours a day. What to Do Watch for signs that your child is ready for a new nap pattern If your child has trouble falling asleep, either at bedtime or during one of his regular daytime naps, it’s likely time for a new nap pattern. Long periods of unexplained wakefulness in the middle of the night can also indicate a need for a change in the schedule. Create an optimal sleep environment for naps – a cool, dark, quiet and safe space A cool sleeping space – experts agree that a cool room (around  18,5’C) makes for the best sleep, as the body’s temperature naturally falls during sleep. Overheating can disrupt the sleep process, so don’t over-bundle your child. A dark sleeping space – the room should be dark enough that you are unable to read. Avoid using cell phones, TV’s or computers in your child’s sleep space, as these devices all have LED lights (pure blue hued lights) that negatively impact the circadian rhythm. If you have a toddler, nightlights are a common addition to a growing toddler’s room to allay any sleeptime fears. If your toddler needs a nightlight, place it behind a piece of furniture, so he is not looking directly at it. Use a warm colored light bulb that mimics the warm glow of a candle and be sure to leave the nightlight on during the entire nap so the sleep environment remains consistent. A quiet sleeping space – offer a white noise source to block out extraneous sounds, but remember your child’s sleep environment should remain consistent. If the white noise is present at the start of naptime, it should remain on for the entire nap. Avoid playing music that changes in pitch or tone, such as thunderstorms or ocean waves. A safe sleeping space – if you have a baby, place him on his back on a firm mattress (such as in a bassinet or bedside co-sleeper) free of any loose bedding or clothing. If he is younger than 8 weeks (or, more importantly, has not yet started to roll), you can swaddle him to encourage sleep and calm. Just remember not to swaddle him

March 8, 2021

Chicco Liteway3 Stroller

Chicco, a 63-year old leader in baby products, has tirelessly committed to ensuring that all strollers and prams have optimal comfort and functionality for children. On top of this standard promise, Chicco looks after the needs of parents, allowing mom and dad to #parentmore – the Chicco catchphrase for stress-reduced parenting. The Liteway is a well-known brand of stroller from Chicco that just keeps getting better. Created for modern mothers that may require a smaller stroller in their car boots, the Liteway3 has the traditional umbrella fold, seeing it broken down into a thin package that fits comfortably in boots and car seats. In a stylish Titanium silver colour, the Liteway3 is the perfect stroller for moms who live in urban settings. With full recline for nap time, an extendable canopy, bumper bar, shopping basket and safety harness, it is designed with sick characteristics and a modern finish for parents who like to make a statement.  A birth – 15kgs stroller, baby can enjoy a comfortable outing in the Chicco Liteway3 stroller. Look out for the Liteway3 stroller at participating retailers such as Takealot.com, Loot.co.za, Thekidzone.co.za, Babanino.co.za, Brand Hubb, Little Kingdom online and others.

March 8, 2021

Tips on how to transition from breast or bottle to sippy cup

Breast or bottle feeding is about more than just nutrition. For you and your baby, how you’ve been feeding since birth forms an incredible bonding experience. Typically, health professionals recommend breastfeeding to be the best nutritional choice for newborns. It isn’t always possible for all women, however. You may have struggled to breastfeed, or simply find bottle feeding to be the right option for you. Whatever the reasons or method, mothers should never feel judged. The most important thing is to find a way to keep you baby fed, that also works for you. Bonding through feeds Whether it’s breast or bottle, the feeding experience provides an opportunity to bond with your baby. Milk feeds are when a baby needs nutrition, comfort, and on a primal level, survival. They are also segments of time where it’s just you and your baby, sharing a moment together. It could be daytime feeds when your baby snuggles up and falls to sleep once he or she has a full tummy. Perhaps a bottle feed provides the opportunity for daddy to give mummy a rest. Or maybe it’s a time where another member of the family gets to share that togetherness. Therefore, it’s not just about a baby drinking the milk, and it’s also about comfort. Your baby or toddler, will have formed an attachment to whatever they are used to. Breaking the comfort ties For babies, whichever way they’ve been fed is what they will enjoy.  Your breastfed baby might look to the breast when they’re feeling anxious, upset, or have been hurt. Similarly, a bottle fed baby probably won’t show any interest in drinking from anything else.  As with everything in parenting though, these milestones arrive and pass in the blink of an eye. The WHO (World Health Organisation) recommends breastfeeding exclusively for the first six months and continuing along with complimentary foods up to 2 years old. You may have breastfed for a shorter or longer time period, however. There is no real right or wrong about when you should wean a baby off the breast. It’s a personal decision.  For bottle-fed babies, the Department of health suggests that it’s a good idea to introduce a cup from about six months onwards, fully removing all bottles with teats by the age of one. It is believed that prolonged use of a bottle can delay speech development and also damage a toddler’s teeth. Whichever feeding method your baby is used to though, all babies should be offered water alongside meals. Consequently, the time to introduce a cup comes around before you know it. For any parent that’s gone through this pain however they will know It can be easier said than done. Here are our top tips on how to move on from the breast or bottle to drinking from a cup. Choose the right cup When you select your child’s first cup, have a look at the advisable age. Most brands will suggest a recommended age band.  Start with a free-flowing cup or open top cup, or ideally try a range of options. This type of cup avoids sucking, and instead encourages sipping. Sipping is naturally important for the development of muscles used in speech. A sippy cup with handles can also help them to get to grips with the new type of bottle.  Be prepared for mess Open cups or free flow, will leak and spill. This is part of the learning process, teaching your baby how to handle a cup properly. It might take a while however, so only offer small amounts of liquid to begin with. Give them time  If you’re removing the breast or bottle in line with a specific timeframe e.g. returning to work after maternity leave, the best approach is to do this gradually. Introduce your baby to a cup about a month or so before you officially begin to wean them off.  It may take a while to find the right cup, or get them to buy into the idea, so giving them plenty of time for trial and error is key to this process. Likewise, unless you have a very good reason to do so, going cold turkey may not be the best idea either. It’s likely to stress them out, upset them, and in the process you’ll probably cave and revert to the old method.  Offer alternative forms of comfort For a lot of babies, a bottle at bedtime is the ultimate comforter. Try to disconnect a nighttime bottle with sleep by offering milk at a different time of the day. For example, bring storytime forward, offering the bottle during a cuddle on the sofa.  When it comes to self settling with no bottle therefore, you may need to replace the comforter with something else. Try a teddy or playing some lullabies to start a new routine.  Whatever works for you and your baby, it’s important to continue the affection and attention, to maintain the physical closeness that the baby has been used to their whole lives. Tackle it earlier  As we’ve already said, it is recommended that a baby drinks water alongside meals as they wean onto solid foods. Therefore, around six months is a good time to offer water in a cup. By doing this, a baby will be used to and hopefully happily use the cup already, and so won’t be overly confused when the cup becomes the norm. Start by offering a drinking cup which helps a baby transition easily from bottle or breast to sipping from a cup, suitable from 4 months. Put yourself in their shoes At whatever point that you wean your baby off the breast or bottle, it is likely to cause upset. You need to be prepared for this, and empathise with how they’re feeling.  The breast or bottle might be all they’ve ever known as part of their routines, and therefore it’s probably going to be hard for them to understand this change. Offer lots of reassurance and extra comfort to help them get their heads around

March 3, 2021

WORLD BIRTH DEFECTS DAY

World Birth Defects Day (WBDD) is a day observed on 3 March. Besides the very important aim of improving the health and quality of life of those affected by congenital conditions, one of the main goals of this annual awareness day is to share what is already known about how to prevent birth defects1. There are many types of birth defects, which are also known as congenital anomalies, congenital disorders or congenital conditions1, the most common of these severe defects are heart defects, neural tube defects and Down syndrome2. Every year an estimated 7.9 million children, 6 percent of total births worldwide, are born with a serious birth defect3. Neural tube defects (NTDs) occur when the spinal cord fails to close properly4. The most common neural tube defect is spina bifida which can occur anywhere along the spine if the neural tube does not close all the way, which can result in the backbone that protects the spinal cord not forming and closing as it should. This often results in damage to the spinal cord and nerves5. The most serious neural tube defect is anencephaly, which is when a baby is born without part of its skull and brain. Babies born with anencephaly will eventually die4. Fortunately, some congenital disorders can be prevented2, particularly neural tube defects3. Folate (vitamin B-9) is important in red blood cell formation and for healthy cell growth and function6. This nutrient is crucial during early pregnancy to reduce the risk of these birth defects of the brain and spine. The synthetic form of folate is folic acid6. There is overwhelming scientific evidence linking an increased intake of synthetic folic acid to a reduced risk of neural tube defects3. In fact, research indicates that at least half the cases of neural tube defects could be prevented if women consumed sufficient folic acid before conception and during early pregnancy3, with some estimates stating that consuming enough folic acid (at least 400 micrograms per day) can reduce certain birth defects of the brain and spinal cord by more than 70 percent4. Folate is found naturally mainly in dark green leafy vegetables, beans, peas and nuts. Fruits rich in folate include oranges, lemons, bananas, melons and strawberries6. Many cereals and pastas are also fortified with folic acid6. Taking a prenatal vitamin, containing at least 400 micrograms of folic acid daily4, ideally starting three months before conception, can help ensure that women get enough of this essential nutrient6. A prenatal vitamin, such as PregOmega Plus, which is South Africa’s No.1 prenatal choice7, contains not only 500 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid, but also added Omega 3, Calcium, Vitamin D and Magnesium and other vitamins and minerals. While not all birth defects can be prevented, there are certain things that a woman can do before and during her pregnancy to increase her chances of having a healthy baby. Besides getting 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid every day before falling pregnant, other steps include regular check-ups and prenatal care, not drinking alcohol, taking recreational drugs or smoking, preventing infections where possible, and checking with a healthcare provider about any medications they may be taking or thinking about taking, whether these are prescription, over-the-counter medications or even herbal8. Please remember to speak to a doctor, pharmacist or gynaecologist about what supplements to take before and during pregnancy. Go tohttps://pregomega.co.za/ for more information.

March 3, 2021
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