Prima Baby

Chicco Cosmos Car Seat

Chicco car seats are known for being some of the most high quality, yet affordable car seats in the world.  As from January 2019, Chicco will now have a range of car seats, baby nursery furniture, strollers, travel systems and other indoor necessities never before seen in SA. One of the best priced car seats in the Chicco range is the Cosmos – the car seat that will take care of your child on a 4 year journey.  Cosmos is the Chicco Group 0 + / 1 car seat designed for transporting children up to 18 kg in weight in cars, approved according to ECE R44 / 04.  The reducer cushion is great for little ones to be held snug and can be removed as the child grows and the seat becomes wider and more welcoming.  The reclining nature of the seat and the exceptional comfort make the Cosmos great for younger babies.  The cover is removable and washable. The Chicco Cosmo is available from January at Baby City, Babies R Us, Hamleys, www.takealot.com, www.loot.com and other retailers for R2499.99.

December 10, 2018
Prima Baby

Chicco Boppy Nursing Pillow

The Boppy Pillow from Chicco is a revolutionary product that has taken the world by storm – not just for its innovation, but for the outstanding quality that sets it apart from its many copycats. The Boppy is the ideal support for mum and baby during breastfeeding. Thanks to its unique features and the special padding, it helps mums to have a comfortable position, avoiding painful, achy arms, shoulders and neck whilst nursing.   The fibre grants the correct and comfortable position for the baby during breastfeeding and cuddles. The “Miracle Middle™” make the pillow flexible in order to fit to most waists.  And that’s just the benefits for mom!   When baby starts to grow and sit, the pillow acts as a sturdy support, guaranteed to not let them fall as they lean against it during relaxing time.  It’s also a fantastic support for tummy time play. The Boppy pillow is available in a number of different patterns, with removable, washable covers and is available from December at Baby City, Babies R Us, Hamleys, www.takealot.com, www.loot.com and other retailers for R799.99.

December 6, 2018
Breastpumps and Beyond

When To Consider Introducing Complimentary Feeding

Complimentary feeding is a process in which you begin to introduce other food substances apart from breastmilk into your child’s diet. There are many benefits to this practice. However, more importantly, this practice is essential for the health of your baby.  Complimentary feeding is essential for nutritional intake for your baby. Within this article, we shall be discussing the points stipulated by WHO (the world health organisation) surrounding the importance of complimentary feeding. Why Complimentary Feeding Is A Good Practice Complimentary feeding is an incredibly important practice for your baby. Complimentary feeding, in a nutshell, describes a co-existent feeding pattern in which you feed your baby both solids as well as breast milk. As WHO suggests, it is encouraged to breastfeed for the first 1000 days of your child’s life, up until the age of 2.  Breastfeeding has a number of incredible benefits for a bay’s development, as well as strong antibodies to help them build immunities against certain diseases.  However, there comes a time when breastmilk will need a little bit of help within the nourishing department. Read on below to see why complimentary feeding is such an important practice. Nutritional intake As suggested by the WHO, children will begin to need other nutrition in their diets from roughly six months old. Breastmilk will sustain your child fully up until this point. It has been reported – particularly within third world countries such as South Africa – that two out of five children up until the age of five are malnourished. These are some scary statistics! This can be attribute to the fact that these children have not been exposed to a balanced diet. However, these statistics don’t necessarily only ring true to the poor. All children stand a chance to fall into this trap, should their parents be unaware of the importance of complimentary feeding. Complimentary feeding will introduce a variety of new, needed nutrients into your child’s diet, helping their growing body get everything it needs to support development. The Dangers Of Malnutrition Scarier yet is what occurs should children not receive adequate nutrition. Malnutrition results in a syndrome known at stunting. Stunting, or stunted growth, refers to impaired growth and development for a child’s body. Stunted children are generally two standard deviations shorter than what a child’s height should be at that age.  Furthermore, stunting can affect children in other areas; not only their height. Take a look at some of the other side effects of stunting: Poor cognition Poor educational development and performance Poor productivity An increased risk of chronic health complications later in life, should the child become over weight As you can see, the dangers of malnutrition are really something which need to be taken seriously. Scarier yet is that stunting cannot be reversed. As suggested by WHO, the first 1000 days of your child’s life are essential for building a healthy human being later on. therefore, practicing healthy eating habits is crucial during this time. Intestinal Development Above the nutritional benefits of complimentary feeding, there is also a developmental benefit to it. At some point or another, your baby’s gut will need to begin processing harder foods than breastmilk.  Complimentary feeding allows your child’s tummy become accustomed to different food sources, whilst still being able to easily digest breastmilk.  This eases your baby’s intestinal development by allowing them to slowly become accustomed to the new food stuffs being introduced to their diet. We will discuss the frequency which one should practice complimentary feeding below now. When To Start Practicing Complimentary Feeding As previously mentioned, complimentary feeding should be introduced after the six month mark. It should then be continued up until 24 months. If you are wondering about the frequency of this practice, just read on below now. According to WHO, you should practice complimentary feeding as per this tables suggestions: Baby’s Age Daily Complimentary Feeds Other Solid Food Sources 6 – 8 months 2 – 3 daily feeds / 9 – 11 months 3 – 4 daily feeds / 12 – 24 months 3 – 4 daily feeds 2 daily snacks   Once your baby reaches two years old, you should consider weaning them from breastmilk. This is the time when you will begin to develop their solid diet fully. Important Things To Remember About Complimentary Feeding There are a few key things to remember when beginning complimentary feeding.  Appropriate Foods Ensure that the foods you begin to introduce to your baby’s diet are appropriate from that stage of their lives. By this we mean both nutritionally and texturally. For lack of a better example, feeding your six month old baby a steak smothered in rich sauces would not work at all.  Try preparing the solids yourself, starting with simple steamed vegetables such as pumpkin, which you can then pulse into a baby food consistency. Be Observant About What Your Baby Eats There are many additives in today’s products. Be sure that your baby is receiving safe produce when you begin to introduce them to solids. As mentioned above, the best way to do this is by preparing their first few meals yourself. You will then be able to monitor exactly what goes into your baby’s meal, and as a result, into your baby. 

November 30, 2018
Prima Baby

Disney Baby Pound & Play Musical Table

The Disney Baby Pound & Play Musical Table is another great way for children to express themselves through fun and musical joy. With 2 modes of play: Music and Sound effects, toddlers can full engage with the 3 colourful balls, shape sorter pieces and 1 plastic hammer included. The Pound & Play also has detachable legs for floor play. 3 AA batteries included. Grab a Disney Baby Pound & Play Musical Table from the following retailers: Babies R Us, Hamleys, Me, Mom & Dad (Greenstone), selected Kids Emporium stores, Loot.co.za, takealot.com, purplepepperz.com, thebabyzone.co.za and others.

November 28, 2018
Kaboutjie

Best tips for travelling while pregnant

The truth is that a woman should not travel much when pregnant. It is time to stay close to home for maximum rest and mild exercise. However, traveling could be inevitable during pregnancy. Whether it is a one-time trip or regular travel at this delicate time for a woman, maximum caution will prevent numerous health and psychological problems. There are many publications that advise pregnant women on how to travel while pregnant. Some are helpful while others are not. It is up to you to obtain the information from reliable sources. Below are some of the most helpful tips for traveling while pregnant. Choose an Ideal Destination If it is possible to choose the destination, make numerous considerations before settling on one. Choosing a place to visit with favourable weather, excellent health facilities and clean accommodations is recommended. Countries with violence and a high crime rate should be avoided by all means. The Right Timing If it is possible, do not travel when the baby is almost due. You need time to settle down and identify the right health centres in the country where you plan to deliver. If you are traveling for a holiday, do it when the pregnancy is still in its early stages. The best time is before six months. Health experts discourage pregnant women from being tourists after six months of pregnancy; they need to be near home during this time. Pack Lightly A lot of luggage is not recommended especially if one is traveling alone. Since traveling while pregnant is mostly done out of necessity, do not bring more than is needed. Only pack the crucial things that you will use during your brief travel. Luckily, pregnant women wear light clothes, which do not take up much space. Shoes should also be light, and a few pairs will be enough for the trip. Choose Your Flight Seat Carefully We must all agree that traveling when pregnant is the most uncomfortable time to travel. One cannot sit for long before standing up to stretch or go to the washroom. It is important to pick an aisle seat that allows some freedom of movement. Most airlines usually assist pregnant women in finding an aisle seat rather than squeezing them between people, where they cannot even stretch their legs. Have a Snack and Water It may be difficult to readily find a healthy snack or juice during the journey. Even though flights offer snacks and water, these may not be what you are looking for. Carrying them with you is a better option for any pregnant women out there. It is easy to pack a snack or a healthy drink, and most flights will not have a problem with this. If drinks are not allowed through airport security, the airport will have a variety of healthy drinks for sale. Plan for the right time to eat your snack to avoid becoming too hungry. This may be earlier than the flight meals since a pregnant woman needs to have her energy up at all times. With these tips, traveling will be fun rather than a source of strain for a pregnant woman.

November 26, 2018
Parenting Hub

15 Lessons from a second-time mom

Congratulations on your second pregnancy! Wondering what lies ahead – besides a couple of extra stretch marks, additional lost sleep and, of course, the cutest, new baby? Here are some things I’ve learned that might help you prepare yourself and your family for Number Two. Yes, you will love the second one as much as you love the first. The science behind this apparently works as follows: The moment your child is delivered, its empty space inside your body is filled with all the love you require for it. Or something like that. Rest. When. You. Can. Understood – it’s much more difficult during a second pregnancy when you need to keep up with another little busybody. Moreover, if you’re working and running (sometimes literally) a household on top of that, it can be exhausting. Therefore, you might need to actively plan for resting times: Say no to things, resign from things, delegate things. Use weekends wisely and do not stay up late. You’re going to be stretched even further. Your body, that is. Your muscles are probably still shot from the first round of baby building and your organs still stuck in obscure places, so your belly can just expand without restriction. This is normal. Go big! Make a big thing about becoming a big brother/sister. Get your eldest excited about his sibling in a developmentally appropriate way. Read children’s books about pregnancy; let him help to prepare the nursery and pick out baby necessities; take him to sonar appointments; let him pray over or talk to the baby in your tummy. Also, make sure he understands that he will soon be sharing your attention with a needy baby, but that you’ll love him all the same. Get re-birth ready. While everyone’s story is unique, it’s common for second births to be quicker and a tad gentler since your body now has muscle memory to go by. Whatever route you plan (or do not plan) to follow – C-section vs normal; epidural vs unmedicated; home vs hospital – just make sure you have worked through any anxieties you might have after the first birth, especially if it was traumatic. Fear increases pain, reduces your satisfaction with the delivery and disturb those first bonding moments. It could even negatively affect the pregnancy. Work through your worries with a mentor, counsellor or friend. Be brave! Do something special for the first sibling sighting. A great idea is to have them “exchange gifts” (that you bought on their behalf, of course). Try to have space on your lap or in your arms for big sister or brother, so that their first impression of the baby is not that it took over their place. Thicken your skin. Your firstborn is most probably going to comment on your postpartum body in a less-than-diplomatic way. Steel yourself for anything from, “Is there another baby in your stomach?” to, “Why are you too fat to close your buttons?” Mind your marriage amid the madness! Don’t forget that you are firstly your spouse’s wife. Your marriage is not the “extra thing” you need to tick off from your to-do list – it’s the backbone of your family! Read more… It takes a village! Especially in those first few weeks, you absolutely need support. Have a good discussion with your spouse beforehand about realistic role division during the early days. Book a friend or family member to come and stay with you for a while or hire help if need be! Try your very best not to be alone with both kids for an extended period. Recovery 102. You might not bounce back as quickly as the first time…You are older. Your body has endured two pregnancies (and possibly double surgeries). You now have much more on your plate and exercising or fixing low-calorie salads may not happen soon. Have more patience. Eat less ice cream. Appreciate your incredible anatomy when you look at yourself in the mirror. Routine! Try to keep your eldest in a routine as much as possible. If your new normal will require changes – communicate it clearly. Don’t spoil her too much with treats, screen time, etc. because you feel sorry for them, or it temporarily makes your life easier – you will regret this later! Find a new rhythm for the family as soon as you realistically can. Read here about re-establishing routines. Again: Rest. When. You. Can. Capitalise on maternity leave – don’t see this as your opportunity to get things done. If there ever is a moment when both little ones are napping – join them! Dishes can wait. Postpartum depression is real. Catch it before it catches you. Be honest about your mental state and get help early on. BFFs in the making… The sibling relationship is one that will probably outlive you. Encourage it, treasure it and enjoy watching it develop. Here are some hints for parenting the pair. Expect to be surprised. Your second child is not a copy/paste version of the first. He will look different and be different, and you might need to figure out parenting all over again. She might be an unexpected angel. Or he might humble you with the realisation that you weren’t actually Parent of the Year before – your firstborn just had a more easy-going nature. Enjoy your new extended family! Double trouble? We can help! If you struggle to cope with the pressures of being a second-time parent, or if the new baby has created fresh chaos in your home – contact one of the Munchkins coaches to assist you in finding a new balance.

November 22, 2018
My Breastpump

6 Tips on choosing the best breast pump for you

If you are wanting to breastfeed your baby you most likely have thought about getting yourself a breast pump. At first the idea may be simple but there are quite a few things to consider. To make sure you get the best pump for your needs, follow these 6 easy tips: 1. Rental or personal There is a difference between a hospital grade and personal grade pump. The Hospital grade and personal pumps use a different mechanism to help create the negative pressure that draws out your breast milk. The hospital grade pumps are mainly for mothers who have to establish their milk supply without the assistance of their baby. This would be a mom who has her baby in NICU, a mom who is adopting and wanting to breastfeed or a mom who has returned to work and needs to pump effectively and fast. If you are planning on only using a pump for a short period of time, the rental option maybe the most cost effective. The personal pumps are much smaller in size than the hospital grade pumps which makes them portable. Some pumps use both mains electricity and batteries which make them portal and ideal for taking to work to pump. 2. Used or new There are a lot of mothers looking at purchasing second and pumps online or borrowing a pump from a friend. The reason for this is that electrical pumps can be very expensive. Although you would be saving some money there are risks involved with purchasing a second had pump. Firstly, you do not know how many people used the pump before you, if the pump was in a house with smokers and if the pump has any mould or bacteria growing in the pump. It is always recommended to buy a new pump rather than a second hand one. This is very important for sick or babies in NICU. 3. Manual or electric The decision between a manual or an electric pump can be based on two main factors; Price and usage.  As mentioned before, the price of electric pumps can be quite high which may affect the decision about how to express. Some mothers respond really well to manual pumps and find them easier to use compared to electrical pumps. Electrical pumps are mainly used by mothers who go back to work because they make pumping quick and effective.   4. Double or single Double pumps have two flanges so that you can pump both breasts at the same time. This helps to half the amount of time per pump session. Also, double pumping results in your breasts producing more milk per pump session. Single pumps are less expensive than double pumps and can be a very useful option. 5. Closed system or open system  Closed and open systems refer to the ability of moisture or breastmilk to collect in your tubing or pump motor. With open system pumps, moisture or breast milk is allowed to collect in the tubing or motor which can allow for the growth of bacteria or viruses. This can be very dangerous for sick or premature infants. It is very difficult to clean out the tube and sterilise the tube or the pump once it has the milk in it. If you see breast milk or moisture collecting inside your tubes it is best to replace the tubing. A safer option is to use a pump that has a complete closed system. This means that the moisture or milk is not able to move into the tube or the motor. This results in you not needing to clean, sterilise or replace the tubing parts. Apart from the health benefit you will also save some money on the spare parts. There are some pumps that are not complete closed systems as moisture can collect in the tubes but not in the motor. 6. Comfort and fit Make sure that the pump you chose is comfortable and fits you well. If you are comfortable while you express, you will also produce more milk. Once you have decided which type of pump would be the best for you, make sure that the brand that you chose will fit you perfectly and be comfortable while you pump. Look for brands that have different size flanges because not all breasts are the same size. If the flange is too small it can hurt your nipple and if it is too big it can result in poor expression of breast milk.  Once you have decided on which type of pump you would like to use, go online and read reviews, find out what is being used overseas and why. You might just find that the pump you were thinking about is really noisy and it will not be suitable at work. The more you know about a pump the better decision you can make, so that you have a comfortable pump that works best for you. 

November 16, 2018
Kaboutjie

7 Ways to relieve hip pain during pregnancy

As your pregnancy progresses into the second and then third trimesters you will find that you are having more aches and pains. Backache, pelvic pain and hip pain are all very common during pregnancy and your chances of having these symptoms will increase as your pregnancy progresses and puts more strain on your body. If you are struggling with hip pain during pregnancy there are some natural and effective ways to find relief. Wear A Pregnancy Belt Pregnancy belts are designed to support the abdomen and lower back during pregnancy. Girdles or pregnancy belts offer many benefits for pregnant women, in particular during the second and third trimesters. Belly belts help to reduce back pain, joint pain and round ligament pain which is pain in front of the hips and below the belly. They can also help to support your belly when you exercise which makes it easier to get some gym time in. In addition to these awesome benefits pregnancy belts also help to promote better posture during pregnancy which will also help to reduce aches and pains. Support Proper support during pregnancy is absolutely vital to helping to alleviate any hip pain you may be experiencing. It is important to avoid standing long hours while pregnant and when you are sitting or sleeping you must have proper support. A pregnancy pillow will come very much in handy while you are pregnant. This will give you the much needed support you need and help you to find a comfortable sleeping position. Sleeping during late pregnancy becomes a challenge. It is best to sleep on your side and keep your legs bent. Putting a pillow in between your knees can help keep you in the correct position and help to relieve pain in the hips. It is also important to have the correct mattress when you are pregnant, Having a mattress that is too soft will not give you the support that you need and having a mattress that is too firm will cause aches and pains too. Make sure that when you are sitting down you have a sturdy chair that will help you to keep your correct posture, especially if you need to spend extended time in a seated position like at work. Make sure that you have a chair that will keep your hips and waist in the right position like this Herman Miller Aeron chair. Exercise Getting in regular exercise such as yoga or pilates can help with alleviating hip pain. These exercising stretch and strengthen the muscles around your abdomen and back. It is important to remember that if you have a strong core you will experience less hip pain and other pain. Make sure to always check with your doctor before taking up any exercise while pregnant. It is also important to ensure that if you go to any yoga or pilates classes that the instructor is experienced in prenatal yoga or pilates. Massage Massage comes with many benefits for pregnancy, including helping with relieving many aches and pains during pregnancy. When you get a pregnancy massage this helps to soothe, relax and loosen aching muscles. If you plan on going for a pregnancy massage make sure that the massage therapist you want to go to is qualified and experienced in prenatal massage. Swimming Swimming is an excellent way to keep fit during pregnancy without putting a strain on your body. The added benefit is that water is an amazing pain reliever too, this is why women use water for pain relief during labor and birth. You will be light when in the water and you won’t be putting all that pressure and strain on your joints and muscles. So if you suffer from hip pain during pregnancy try and get some regular swimming sessions in. Hot and Cold Compresses Both heat and cold can help to alleviate hip pain so you can try both to see which works better or even alternate between an ice pack and a hot water bottle to relieve the pain. Realign Your Pelvis Realigning your pelvic bone can help to reduce hip pain during pregnancy. To realign your pelvis lie on your back and put a pillow between your knees, then squeeze as hard as you can. Doing this can realign your pelvis so that you experience less pain. It can provide great relief when you are struggling with pain.

November 13, 2018
Prima Baby

Disney Baby Mickey Shapes and Colours Shape Sorter

  The Baby Mickey Shapes and Colours Sorter is one of the coolest, most fun multi-educational toys on the market – stimulating manual skills and the recognition of shapes, sizes and colours, all in the cute little package of Mickeys home. All coloured shapes represent one of the famous Disney characters including Mickey, Minnie, Donald Duck and Goofy. The Baby Mickey shapes and Colours Sorter is available from the following retailers: Babies R Us, Hamleys, Me, Mom & Dad (Greenstone), selected Kids Emporium stores, Loot.co.za, takealot.com, purplepepperz.com, thebabyzone.co.za and others.

November 12, 2018
Toptots Head Office

What to do with your little one when you go back to work

You know the day is coming.  You think about it every spare moment. You dread it.  What to do with your little one when you go back to work! Let’s face it, very few parents are lucky enough to have the financial means to let mom stay at home for a number of years before junior starts play school. In an ideal world we would all love to be stay at home mommies. The reality is that with our economic climate two incomes are often needed to keep the ship afloat. Now that we have faced the reality and know there is no other option, what do we do about baby?  In your circle of friends and family you will have such conflicting advice that you will most probably end up even more confused.  The voices shout “Send him to day care, my Mia went and she loved it.”  “Keep him home with a nanny, Zack thrived.”  In the end you have to choose the option that works best for you as a family.  To help you decide let’s take a closer look at both options. The day care – You should preferably be looking for a small group. A day mother, who only has four or five little ones in her care is best, a home away from home.  If this option is not available you need to visit day care centres and see what the ratio is to caregiver and baby.  Does this care centre cater for older children as well?  If so, are the babies separated from the toddlers at all times.  Toddlers are curious about how eyes work and don’t mean harm but will investigate.  What do they offer in terms of stimulation for your baby?  Take a close look around and check that there is not row upon row of seating devices. This would be an indication that your baby will spend very little time playing on the floor.   This could lead to later developmental delays and learning problems.  Remember although we do want a nice clean environment I would rather have the caregiver barefoot and sitting on the floor playing with my child, than making sure that there are no toys lying around.  Children who attend day care and play groups get sick. Many parents don’t have other support systems and send their children to school even if they are not well.  Are you prepared for this?   The one argument that is always given is that the baby needs to be socialised. This will happen in good time.  Babies love other babies but learn interaction from us at first.  It’s only closer to three that that start to play with each other, interacting on a social level. There is some research that shows that toddlers in play groups start this slightly earlier however there is no evidence that this makes them more socially skilled later. Keeping baby at home is not less scary for a parent. The horror stories are out there as well.  Why then would I choose this option? Your baby is in his own environment, sleeping in his own cot during the day. This helps during the night sleeps as he is familiar with his room. He has one caregiver that dotes on him. He is receiving one on one stimulation and attention. If you already have someone in your employ that is suitable, have her trained. There are many such facilities country wide that do CPR, and child care certificates.  Watch how she interacts with your baby while you are still at home. If employing someone new make sure she is already trained, has spent time looking after babies and that you feel comfortable with her. Ask for references and follow them up.   Keeping him home for the first year or two allows him to have his own routine. For him to play freely and not be restrained in a walker or sitting device for extended periods.  You can dictate what he plays with and where he plays.  The biggest bonus is that there is less chance of him getting sick. If choosing to keep him home make sure that you have contact numbers at the phone for you, your husband and other family members.   But, as always no amount of research can tell you what is best for your family.  No one’s experience is the same.  Ultimately it’s a decision that only you can and should make. Don’t be influenced by peer pressure.

November 9, 2018
Parenting Hub

PRIMA BABY THE NEW EXCLUSIVE DISTRIBUTOR OF CHICCO IN SOUTH AFRICA

Prima Baby is thrilled and proud to announce the newly acquired, exclusive distribution rights to one of the world’s biggest baby products brands, Chicco, in South Africa. Founded in 1958 in Italy, Chicco has become more than just a household name.  The brand offers a comprehensive 360-degree solution to satisfy all aspects of a baby’s needs. They strive to be the brand of choice for quality, baby safety products – each especially Italian designed for every phase of a child’s growth. Chicco is backed by a strong sense of tradition, whilst constantly looking towards the future by researching the most technologically advanced solutions to respond to the needs of parents and children. Through this need for knowledge they have created the Chicco Baby Research Centre a.k.a. The Observatory in Como, Italy that collaborates with medical-scientific professionals, day-care workers and paediatricians, as well as constantly gathering data from mothers, fathers and children themselves.  The commitment to gain as much knowledge as possible and develop specific solutions for each growth phase is what has kept Chicco one of the most trusted companies in the world. Divisional CEO for Prima Baby, Wanda Ambrosini, is excited and honoured for the partnership, “Chicco is the perfect example of a top quality, one-stop solution for birth and parenting that doesn’t break the bank.  We at Prima Baby align ourselves with brands that we feel speak directly to the consumer and their needs, and we aim to widen the accessibility and reach of this incredible label right here in SA”, she states. Prima Baby’s aim is to ensure the growth of Chicco in SA through more product options and more retail accessibility than ever before, offering consumers far more product choices for every stage of pregnancy, birth and parenting.  Developed with love, a sense of responsibility and a deep commitment to let children grow in a better world, Chicco’s 60 years’ experience is gained through constantly listening to the needs of mom and dad and building upon already concrete foundations of trust. Chicco will soon be available in all major retailers and online retailers.

November 2, 2018
Parenting Hub

Top tips for Summer outdoor fun with your little one

Summer has officially arrived in South Africa. With the heat, we all need a reminder on how to tackle hot days with little ones – it’s the handy hints from fellow moms that make beach visits or pool time a breeze with teeny tots. Su-Marie Annandale from Krayons – a brand designed specifically for kids – says that there are a couple of easy ways to make summer far more enjoyable for the whole family. She lists the following handy hints for pool, beach time, or just a picnic in the garden: Start with zip-lock bags: whether its snack preparation (because a selection is always required), or just to keep things sand-free, zip-lock bags make life much easier. Pop your phone or camera in one too so you’re able to snap a few pics of your babes. A little known fact for beach visitors is that baby powder works like magic to remove sand from little one’s skin. Hold the sandy foot or leg in one hand and use the other to sprinkle the powder. Rub it in a downward action and voila! No more sand. As an adult, you might choose to leave your shoes inside or in the car, but the sand is very hot for tiny feet. Pop a pair of neoprene water shoes, or closed sandals into your bag for your tot. No beach umbrella can contain an enthusiastic little one. Opt for a beach tent in the garden or, on the sand, for much more coverage. It’s also great to demarcate a quiet area for nap time. Beat the heat between 10am and 2pm – take the time to have lunch and let them nap – go on your outing in the early morning or late afternoon. Stay hydrated! Be sure to keep offering your little one water, they will be distracted with playing; so, remember to offer water and even cold fruit to keep them hydrated and happy. Of course, no summer day is complete without a splash. Bring a bucket outside and place in a shady spot. Your child will love the water play, hopping in and out of the bucket, and this doubles up as bath time. Grab a bar of dermatologically approved Krayons Baby Soap to gently wash sunscreen and grime off your little one’s skin.  When it’s time to head inside, massage a layer of Krayons Aqueous Cream into the skin to restore hydration and leave it feeling soft and smooth. For more information, follow Krayons on their Facebook page

November 1, 2018
Trinity House

How to raise a multilingual child

The benefits of raising a multilingual child are plenteous. From improved cognitive performance to increased marketability in the future workforce, the multilingual child has the advantage over his/her peers and in life. We need to explore this matter quite seriously as educators and parents. Parents can begin the process of teaching their child languages from infancy! Research done by Dr. April Benasich, Little Pim Advisor and Director of the Infancy Studies Laboratory at the Center for Molecular & Behavioural Neuroscience, Rutgers University has revealed babies learn languages in a different manner than a person who already knows a language. Those individuals learn a new language primarily through memorisation, studying what letters make what sounds, and so on. On the contrary, a baby’s brain unconsciously follows sound patterns, changes in pitch, stress, or tone, and identifies slight changes. According to various studies, teaching your child new languages between the ages of birth and five years old is the best time to accomplish this goal. Make learning languages fun and creative, implementing multilingual videos, flashcards, storybooks, songs, and games (the latter as is appropriate for the age). Use the immersion technique. Since young children are able to differentiate between phonemes, which are the “sound elements or building blocks of language,” it makes sense that immersing them into an environment where they are continually hearing the language, teaches them effectively. Create a routine that you and the whole family can consistently stick with. Language learning videos, storybooks, and singing can be weaved into a routine for your child, making the whole concept of learning languages familiar and fun. Help your older (speaking) child to find opportunities to use his or her newly developed skills in the acquired language. This will build confidence, as well as give practice. Learning a second or third language is so much easier for a child, and in today’s world it is fast becoming a necessity to know more than one language. Many parents are taking the step to introduce their child to the wonderful world of language(s). By Hilton Scott, Principal of Trinityhouse Preparatory Randpark Ridge

October 25, 2018
Prima Baby

Assorted Dou dou

A dou dou cloth is one of the essential baby items. Nattou Lapidou dou dou’s are soft and supporting friends for your baby. They are with your baby as they explore the world, when they drift off to sleep and all the other moments of their first few months.  Lapidou dou dou gives your little one the trust, security and comfort they need in the crucial early stages of their growth and development. The Lapidou dou dou can also be used as a handpuppet and thus turn into baby’s companion. They come in 5 assorted characters in beautiful neutral tones which include the Snow Leopard, Hippo, Valentine Mouse, Adele Elephant and Snow Panda. Now in store at Hamleys stores, www.loot.co.za, selected Kids Emporium stores. www.takealot.com and www.thebabyzone.co.za

October 22, 2018
Prima Baby

Octopus Plush

Nattou cuddly toys are famous for being one of the world’s best plush manufacturers.  The characters are unique and exceptionally soft in material.  A great plush makes a wonderfully supporting friend for your baby.  These Nattou cuddlies are with your baby as it explores the world, when it drifts off to sleep and all the other moments of its first few months. Nattou cuddly toys give your little one the trust, security and comfort they need in the crucial early stages of their growth and development.  This cute Lapidou octopus is especially designed with the natural grasp reflex of new born babies in mind. With subliminal connection to the umbilical cord, this innovative cuddly is therefore also fit for premature babies. Available in coral, blue, green and grey. Grab one now at Hamleys stores, www.loot.co.za, selected Kids Emporium stores., www.takealot.com & www.thebabyzone.co.za

October 15, 2018
Prima Baby

Plush Musicals

Nattou cuddly toys are famous for being one of the world’s best plush manufacturers.  The characters are unique and exceptionally soft in material.  A great plush makes a wonderfully supporting friend for your baby.  These Nattou cuddlies are with your baby as it explores the world, when it drifts off to sleep and all the other moments of its first few months. Nattou cuddly toys give your little one the trust, security and comfort they need in the crucial early stages of their growth and development.  The musical toy, available in the quirky Snow Leopard, Snow Panda and Hippo will comfort your baby with the melody “La-le-lu” and can easily be attached to cradles, highchairs or bouncers.  Also available at Hamleys stores, www.loot.co.za , selected Kids Emporium stores, www.takealot.com and www.thebabyzone.co.za

October 8, 2018
Parenting Hub

The Baby Show & #MeetUp gave a quality experience to expectant parents

South African parents experienced the full spectrum of parenting fun and products at The Baby Show & #MeetUp with Meg Faure, sponsored by Pampers which took place September 28 to 30, at Kyalami International Convention Centre. Over 140 exhibitors presented everything from handcrafted toys to the latest Porsche Cayenne on the market, backed by baby and parenting’s biggest brands. Pampers, Dis-Chem, Pick ‘n Pay Baby Club, Tommee Tippee, Colief, Floradix, Bepanthen, Medela and Vicks were in attendance.  “Modern parenting is bursting with options,” said Clarion’s Marketing Manager, Kelly Fenning “From birth to 18 years old, parents are estimated to spend over R1,5 million per child. Our goal was to bring the best advice and the latest innovations, in to a quality setting and venue, to enable parents and parents-to-be, to prepare and navigate this life-changing journey.”  At the centre of the show was the highly anticipated #MeetUp sessions hosted by co-author of the Baby Sense series, Meg Faure which was attended by international human milk researcher Danielle Prime, who were among 15 other local and international speakers. Over 200 moms learnt more about topics ranging from how much tech-time toddlers should have, to the latest research in weaning methods. The weekend’s festivities enjoyed visits from local celebrities. Letshego Zulu, Rozanne McKenzie and Olwethu Leshabane were event MC’s, and Leanne Dlamini and Jennifer and Loyisa Bala made an appearance.  “We are very encouraged by the quality of visitor who attended,” commented Fenning. “Initial visitor feedback highlights the value parents found in the expert advice on offer at the event; for them this heightening the show experience over and above any purchases they made. It’s a formula from abroad that has been well received in South Africa, and it gives us a solid grounding upon which to build” Fenning concludes. Pampers, the official show sponsor, said: “For the last 50 years, we have been dedicated to every baby’s happy and healthy development, and we are proud to have been part of such an amazing event of superior quality, just like our Pampers nappies,” said Michael Simpson, Pampers Brand Manager. “Visitors walked away with a mind full of valuable information, a car full of products and a heart full of love and joy. We are happy with the turnout of the event and we look forward to welcoming The Baby Show & #MeetUp back again,” Simpson added Already a household name in the UK, The Baby Show was lured to Johannesburg thanks to South Africa’s healthy baby market – estimated to be R9,5 billion in modern trade and R11 billion in total baby trade. The UK event has been running for 15 years and is considered as the number 1 parenting event in the country. The Baby Show & #MeetUp is set to return in 2019. More info babyshow.co.za  

October 4, 2018
Prima Baby

Cuddly Plush

Nattou cuddly toys are famous for being one of the world’s best plush manufacturers.  The characters are unique and exceptionally soft in material.  A great plush makes a wonderfully supporting friend for your baby.  These Nattou cuddlies are with your baby as it explores the world, when it drifts off to sleep and all the other moments of its first few months. Nattou cuddly toys give your little one the trust, security and comfort they need in the crucial early stages of their growth and development.  Cuddly Valentine Mouse and Adele Elephant are two incredibly cute, unconventional characters to introduce to your child via toys.  Available at Hamleys stores, www.loot.co.za, selected Kids Emporium stores, www.takealot.com & www.thebabyzone.co.za

October 1, 2018
Prima Baby

Stack sort & store tree

The Stack Sort & Store Tree is a toy that will keep your little one entertained for hours. Stack, sort and store with the cute cat! Stack the 10 different coloured pieces, create building blocks or nest them inside each other. Place the cat on each piece to learn colours, numbers and animals and to also help develop gross motor skills. The stackable pieces also encourage hand-eye coordination, helping your little one to gain more identification skills. Press the big light-up button on the cat to hear fun sounds and music. Also features 4 happy sing- along songs, age-appropriate vocabulary with encouraging fun phrases and jolly melodies! The clear English speaking voice helps develop recognition and accelerates learning. Available instore now at Hamleys stores, selected Kids Emporium stores, www.takealot.com, www.loot.co.za and www.purplepepperz.com.

September 27, 2018
Lansinoh

Lansinoh Unveils ‘Breastfeeding around the World’ Photography Campaign

Global Leader in the Breastfeeding Market Debuts Campaign for Breastfeeding Awareness Month Alexandria, VA (August 1, 2018) – Lansinoh, a global leader in the breastfeeding market, announces the launch of its ‘Breastfeeding around the World’ photography campaign in honor and celebration of August’s Breastfeeding Awareness Month. This campaign further supports the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting breastfeeding mothers across the globe.  For this unique campaign, Lansinoh partnered with New York City-based photographer, Tina Boyadjieva, who traveled to 19 countries, including South Africa, Uganda, China, Turkey, and Sri Lanka; photographing mothers from all demographics, social statuses, races and occupations, under the common denominator of motherhood and breastfeeding. Ms. Boyadjieva grew up in Bulgaria surrounded by strong and inspiring women, spent time in Italy where she cultivated her artistic education and aesthetics, and attended the International Center of Photography.  During each day of August, Lansinoh will be sharing the beautiful stories of different mothers from a different country, as depicted through Ms. Boyadjieva’s stunning photos, across all of its social media channels. By showcasing mothers from various cultures, countries, and circumstances, Lansinoh highlights the universal nature of breastfeeding and celebrates the connection of motherhood regardless of geographic boundaries.  “For the past 30 years, Lansinoh has been dedicated to providing all mothers with access to the support and resources they need to help them reach their breastfeeding goals, which is why our products are currently available to moms in nearly 60 countries, said Kevin Vyse-Peacock, CEO at Lansinoh. “This year we decided to build upon this mission by sharing the stories of mothers from various backgrounds and geographical locations to highlight how, even though every mother has a different journey, they are all united in the undisputed love and dedication they have in caring for their baby.”  “Ms. Boyadjieva is a strong believer in international and interracial inclusiveness, respect, equality and women power, and aims to demonstrate all of the above in this campaign through her captivating images, and we could not be more grateful for her be a part of this campaign as she helps to bring the stories of every mother interviewed to life through compelling visual narratives,” Mr. Vyse-Peacock added.  For more information about Lansinoh, its dedication to breastfeeding moms everywhere and its portfolio of products, please visit www.Lansinoh.com. ABOUT LANSINOH Founded by a breastfeeding mom, Lansinoh has helped millions of mothers successfully breastfeed during its 30 year history. Famous for its award-winning Lanolin Nipple Cream, Lansinoh® offers a comprehensive range of nursing and pumping solutions in more than 60 countries. For more information, please visit Lansinoh.com, or connect with @LansinohUSA on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube.

September 26, 2018
Parenting Hub

The juggle is real : 4 powerful tips to help you get the work/life balance you deserve

Working moms have a lot of balls in the air. We juggle work and home at such a frenzied pace that we feel we’re not able to do either very well. Balance is a dream that seems far out of reach. “We crave three minutes to ourselves. But we feel too guilty to take them” comments Janice Windt, a time management coach who specialises in taking working mothers from stress, anxiety, and guilt to feeling present and in control.  “I want moms to be able to thrive both at work and at home” she continues.   Windt is a speaker at the inaugural The Baby Show and #Meetup sponsored by Pampers, taking place at Kyalami International Convention Centre in September. Nicole Muller, mom of two and Show Director for The Baby Show said “We’ve invited Letshego Zulu to get involved with the show. She’s an outstanding example of how to expertly juggle pursuing business whilst caring for a child as a single parent. We’re proud to welcome her as the host to our main stage”.  Here, Windt alongside Zulu, share their tips and insight in to how to successfully juggle being a working Mom Identify your 20% and create a mind-map for it In the late 1800s, Vilfredo Pareto observed that 80% of the land in Italy was owned by 20% of the population.  While gardening, he also observed that 20% of the pods he had planted yielded 80% of the peas. Thus the Pareto Principle, or the 80/20 rule, was born. As interesting as Pareto’s gardening findings are, what value do they add to the life of an incredibly busy working mother?  “It’s simple” comments Windt.  “If you can focus on your priority tasks, you will find that 20% of what you need to do will yield 80% of the benefits you seek. You need to ask yourself what is your 20%?” she asks.   “I then suggest you ditch your to-do-list for a mind map” comments Windt. “I find to-do lists are long and often don’t get completed”. Windt points out that a mind maps is set out in exactly the same way as your brain thinks: a central topic with main topics added around it.  “New information is then added under the appropriate topic. Eventually you have a complete picture of the key information about the main subject: the demands on your time” commets Windt. Figure out when you’re most productive, and create a daily ritual to get the hard stuff done with pleasure   When is your most creative time of the day?  What changes do you need to make in order to manage your energy better and make the most of that effective time? “I’m a night owl” sayd Windt.  “I’m programmed to peak in my focus and creativity once the rest of the house is in bed” she comments.  “I can focus when our home is quiet and I know I will have a lovely long stretch of uninterrupted time to focus on my high priority tasks, so I schedule this time in” she advises.  “I then suggest you identify a daily ritual to do during this time, as this will help you get your priorities get done almost effortlessly”.  Windt once interviewed the Regional Head of Business and International Communications for the African region of an international bank.  She worked full time with international travel and had two sons aged two and four at the time.  In order to get her focused work time in, she would wake up at 4am and light candles around her computer (particularly in winter) in order to feel that the time she had was closer to self-care, than self-preservation. Master the 5 second rule     It’s easy to get up once, go to the gym, come home aching, and hit the snooze button for the next three mornings thereafter. That’s easy. That’s normal.  But it doesn’t help you get the work-life balance you so desperately crave.  “There is a solution” advises Windt.  “The Mel Robbins ‘five second rule’. You simply count backwards from five every time you choose to do something you don’t instinctively want to do, but you know you should” she continues. “Before you hit one, you need to be physically up and engaging in your priority activity.  This way you will override your croc (primitive) brain before it stops you.” Try it.  It works. Visit melrobbins.com for more info Make time to play “There are many ways to set aside time for play.  You may choose to have a family pyjama day every other week.  Play board games, braai, roast marshmallows and build lego” advises Windt.  “Leave the house exactly as it is and warn visitors to stay away!” she continues. “It’s beautiful just to have that unstructured time together” To hear Janice live, visit babyshow.co.za to book you tickets to the #MeetUp on Saturday 29 September. For more information on Janice, visit janicewindt.com  

September 24, 2018
Parenting Hub

The six things new dads should do as their baby arrives

Becoming a father is often quoted as the single most emotional moment in a man’s life. It’s  a combination of relief, of safely welcoming a newborn into the world and, the overwhelming realisation that you’re responsible for this little life. Su-Marie Annandale from baby brand Krayons says that often the outpouring of emotion and joy means a lot of  dads  have no idea what to do next. “The experience is so all-consuming, that dads just don’t know what their role is.” Annandale has the following suggestions for new dads, to keep them involved and helpful: Love and affirmation – your primary role is to make sure  your partner feels loved and secure in the fact that she’s doing an incredible job. Whether its surgery or natural child-birth, the experience can be traumatic, draining and extremely emotional. Take the time to love your partner, kiss her whenever possible and remind her how awesome she is. Capture the moment – it’s your job to find someone in the child-birth suite to take the pictures. You need to be in the moment with your wife, so you can’t be messing about with a camera. Ask a nurse or the paediatrician to take a few snaps for you. Security detail – once that baby pops out – it’s your role to protect him or her. Make sure you’re with the little bundle for every second – when she’s weighed, measured and checked out. Don’t leave her side for a second – you’re in charge of making sure she’s kept happy and safe. Once the baby is born and seen to, your partner will likely be transferred back to the ward. Help to make sure  she’s set-up in the ward. She’ll be uncomfortable and unable to move. Make sure she has water close-by, her mobile phone, if she needs it as well as the buzzer to alert nursing staff. If the baby is in good health, she’ll be brought to the room for skin-on-skin time with her parents. Make sure your partner has everything she needs to adequately care for your newborn – set up a little changing station in the ward, or at the very least – ensure that the nappies and bath products are placed on the bottom shelf of the bassinet. Products like the Krayons Petroleum Jelly and Aqueous Cream as well as newborn nappies should be on the ready. Every change requires a new coating of Petroleum Jelly and a fresh nappy. Once the initial excitement and emotion has died down, take the time to let your friends and family know that your bundle has arrived. You have lots of people waiting with baited breath to hear about the safe arrival of your little one, and the healthy state of your partner. Be sure to include weight, gender and the child’s name – if you have one.

September 21, 2018
Parenting Hub

4 reasons Dads are going to love The Pampers Baby Show & #MeetUp this year

The UK’s Best Baby Show has been running for the last 15 years, and finally hits SA shores this September. Moms and moms-to-be will be exposed to everything they need for a bump and baby – but don’t forget dads!. Daddies-to-be and new dads do not want to miss out on this event especially tailored to include both parents and provide a comprehensive, balanced approach to parenthood.  Make informed choices “It’s vital for dad’s to be involved from the very beginning of the parenthood process as it allows them to make informed and considered choices for the health and happiness of their babies,” says Michael Simpson, Brand Manager, Pampers. “We encourage all dads (and moms) to pop-in at the Pampers stand as we will be providing parents insights into the superior quality and benefits of our nappies as the No. 1 Choice of Paediatricians in South Africa.” adds Simpson. Because boys will be boys  Dads can also look forward to Porsche South Africa’s #SportsCarTogether Zone that will celebrate everything that is Porsche and family. Dads can check out Porsches latest baby, the all new Cayenne, whilst little ones take Porsche push cars for a test drive. For the little kid in you, Dad can experience a virtual drive around Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit and learn more about the models in the range through an interactive augmented reality timeline wall. Porsche Driver’s Selection clothing and accessories will be available for purchase during the show and you can stand a chance to win a Porsche Driver’s Selection hamper for the whole family.  Trail before transaction The Four-wheeled adventures continue at the Pushchair Testing Track with the latest pushchairs on offer to tackle a dedicated obstacle course; the best way to discover the perfect pushchair fit for your growing family. Most stands at the Baby Show will provide trail opportunities to understand the benefits and experience first-hand how products and services can help you take care of your bump, baby and you.  BIG advice from experts on little people On the Saturday of the event, the #MeetUp workshops with Meg Faure, provides a platform for visitors to have face-to-face interaction and enjoy entertaining talks from top experts in pregnancy and childcare. Besides talks about human milk and baby bumps, some topics will speak directly to dad:  Sleep expert Dr Alison Bentley will be giving sleep saving tips for Dad to deal with the Night Shift; For the fathers and male role models out there, best-selling author and ‘dad coach’ Craig Wilkinson will get into those sometimes difficult to talk about topics, such as why don’t many SA men step up to fatherhood; Also talking about his recent surrogacy experience and being a single dad, will be former referee, Jonathan Kaplin, in the Parent Sense workshop, aptly titled “Winging it”; Priya Naicker (Advice Manager for Old Mutual Personal Finance) will answer all questions on how to finance for your new family; to name a few.  The Pampers Baby Show & #MeetUp takes place at the  Kyalami International Convention Centre from 28-30 September. For just R140, new mums and dads can secure 1x baby show ticket, 1x Pampers newborn nappy pack and 1x Pampers baby wipe pack. Use the promo code PAMPERS to secure your package today at www.babyshow.co.za  About Pampers®  Pampers® is the world’s top selling brand of baby nappies. For more than 50 years, Pampers® has been helping to improve life for babies, toddlers, and the parents who care for them through a complete line of nappies, training pants, and wipes designed for every stage of baby’s development.   About Procter & Gamble P&G serves consumers around the world with one of the strongest portfolios of trusted, quality, leadership brands, including Always®, AmbiPur®, Ariel®, Bounty®, Charmin®, Crest®, Dawn®, Downy®, Fairy®, Febreze®, Gain®, Gillette®, Head & Shoulders®, Lenor®, Olay®, Oral-B®, Pampers®, Pantene®, SK-II®, Tide®, Vicks®, and Whisper®. The P&G community includes operations in approximately 70 countries worldwide. Please visit http://www.pg.com for the latest news and information about P&G and its brands.

September 20, 2018
Prima Baby

Seaside spinning top

VTech baby brings the best in technology-based learning to your child as they grow their little curious minds during play.  Another gorgeous toy in the 0-18 month category is the Seaside Spinning Top – the perfect plaything to discover ocean animals, colours and numbers. The chunky blue press-down plunger spins the ocean animals around whilst the sea bed lights up, helping your little one discover cause and effect relationships. The press buttons introduce the crab, 2 angel fish and 3 starfish to baby, calling out their colours and encourage counting teaching numbers one, two and three.  The music button plays 3 happy sing-along songs and 10 jolly melodies. Fun phrases and sounds encourage discovery and exploration. English speaking voice promotes recognition and accelerates learning. Grab one now at Hamleys stores, selected Kids Emporium stores, www.takealot.com, www.loot.co.za and www.purplepepperz.com.

September 19, 2018
Parenting Hub

Breastfeeding basics: What you need to know

World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated around the world from 1-7 August every year to raise awareness, protect, promote and support breastfeeding worldwide because of its health benefits for both mothers and their children. The theme this year, “Breastfeeding: Foundation of Life”, calls for greater commitment from government, health practitioners, mothers, doctors and civil society in ensuring lifelong good health for babies and mothers. “Breastfeeding has been shown to have major health benefits for both the mother and child. The benefits of breastfeeding include protecting babies from some of the biggest killer diseases of infants and children in South Africa: diarrhoea and pneumonia,” says Laura Sayce, Lactation Consultant at Life Healthcare’s Genesis Maternity Clinic. “It is also associated with improved development and educational achievement. However, babies are not the only beneficiaries. Breastfeeding after birth helps the uterus contract and reduces the mother’s postpartum blood loss, reduces the risk of ovarian and breast cancer, and type II diabetes.” According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), if breastfeeding were scaled up to near universal levels, about 820 000 child lives would be saved every year. Globally, only 40% of infants under six months of age are exclusively breastfed[1]. In South Africa a third of children under six months old are now exclusively breastfed. This represents a nearly five-fold increase over the last twenty years[2]. While breastfeeding is a natural act, it is also a learned behaviour, therefore ensuring that expectant mothers are prepared is key. Research has demonstrated that mothers and other caregivers require active support for establishing and sustaining appropriate breastfeeding practices. “There are two essential ways to prepare for breastfeeding ahead of the birth. Expectant mothers should start by attending a breastfeeding class conducted by a certified lactation expert. They also need a breastfeeding plan. For a successful breastfeeding journey every new mom needs a plan which should include what to do in the first hours following birth, and who they can contact for support. The plan should also consider what steps to take for any special needs, such as how to ensure baby receives breastmilk in the event mom and baby may not be able to breastfeed,” she says. Sayce continued to say that often mothers don’t realise that if baby doesn’t latch or needs to go to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), they can still express breastmilk to feed their baby. “World Breastfeeding Week gives us an opportunity to further educate people about the benefits of breastfeeding to save lives and improve the overall health of infants and their mothers.” To learn more about breastfeeding visit www.lifehealthcare.co.za or contact your local Life Healthcare hospital. For breastfeeding support at Genesis Maternity Clinic visit https://www.genesisclinic.co.za.

September 14, 2018
Toptots Head Office

Carseat battles

Many children fuss when placed into a car seat. If you had just found your feet and was relishing in your new found independence so would you!  Children hate being restrained but this is one battle you must win! There are no if’s and but’s in this. It is scary to drive past parents and they are strapped in but their precious child is loose at the back of the car roaming around the open space. Not a good idea! There are enough demos of what happens to children when involved in an accident to place a very real fear in you.  Rather have a screaming toddler than one you are not going to hear ever again. Fortunately if you persist they will get the message in the end and resign themselves to the car seat. Here are some tips that may help: Make sure your child is comfortable, the straps must be firm but not too tight. Make sure the car seat is big enough. Toddlers grow so fast. Instead of announcing that you are going to strap her in, try and distract her by    pointing to something outside or talk about going to the shops. Put on her favourite CD. Keep some car toys that only get seen when you go out in the car. Attach them with a shoelace to her seat so that you don’t add to the stress of losing a toy. As you get in the car, say something like “Mommy’s buckled up as well.” Lead by example. If she wriggles out of the belt use an old fashioned nappy pin to secure your little one in. Allow no exceptions!

September 14, 2018
Prima Baby

Little friendlies starlight sounds polar

Sleep time is invaluable – and tech toys are the way of the future when it comes to augmenting nurturing and soothing.   VTech baby introduce the Starlight Sounds Polar Bear. Part of the Little Friendlies range of lovable characters, the cute, soft and cuddly polar bear features 4 modes of play with a 15, 30 or 45 minute timer, a light control button and an adjustable volume dial.  The polar bear projects four different coloured lights with the option of 6 different light displays onto the ceiling whilst playing calming nature sounds and lullabies in the nature and lullaby mode, 3 soothing sung songs and melodies play in the lullaby mode, 7 popular nursery rhymes will be read in the story mode and 60 relaxing melodies will play in the lullaby mode. A vital addition to any babies nursery, this item is one of the most popular items on the VTech Baby range and continue to be any parents helper at sleep time.  It is available at Hamleys stores, selected Kids Emporium stores, www.takealot.com, www.loot.co.za and www.purplepepperz.com.

September 11, 2018
Parenting Hub

Raising Money-Smart Children is Every Parent’s Responsibility

“Money doesn’t grow on trees.” How often did you hear this saying when as a child you wanted a treat or a shiny new toy? As a parent, how many times have you responded with this very phrase to your own child? While the saying is an extremely common response to children’s demands, parents shouldn’t miss the opportunity to teach their children about basic money matters. Raising money-savvy children has been made easy by the many free resources and financial education tools now available.  Lack of financial literacy and understanding can severely impact how South Africans manage their money. The 2018 Old Mutual Savings & Investment Monitor found that out of a group of 10 metropolitan working South Africans, only six say they are satisfied with their current financial situation. Whether our children grow up to be business leaders, biochemists, architects, chefs or entrepreneurs, they’ll need to balance household budgets and plan financially for their goals and dreams. This is why it’s so important to lay a good foundation when it comes to money matters from a young age.  With my own children – who are aged 10 and 12 – I always have honest conversations about our money, whether it’s planning big purchases like a new car or what kind of holiday we can afford. This teaches them an important lesson about living within your means.  Here are four ways to get the money conversation going. Income vs expenses Speak to your child about the importance of making ends meet and explain the relationship between income and expenses.  Highlight the importance of being realistic about your money situation and help them draw up a simple budget to manage their money. Make earning interest an exciting thing to do Help your children understand the advantages of saving for the things they want in life (rather than paying them off) by introducing them to the concept of earning interest. Explain how compound interest helps your savings to grow. Also explain the flip side of compound interest: how it can make borrowed money (debt) spiral out of control.  Help them set money goals The next time your child asks for the latest Playstation or mountain bike, have a conversation about setting money goals and creating a plan to achieve them – and emphasise the importance of sticking to your plan! This will help them understand that good money habits matter.  Teach them about real money The cashless world of credit cards and smartphone payment apps can make the act of paying very abstract and intangible. Next time you’re paying with your card or smartphone, talk to your child about basic banking concepts. Point out that paying with a credit card simply means you have to repay your bank later – probably with interest. Explain how technology has made it easy to pay for goods, but also easy to get into debt.   Remember actions speak louder than words, and it’s your own money habits that will most influence your child’s relationship with money. Upskill yourself to stay in the know. Know better, and do better. The growing trend to sign up to open online courses like Old Mutual’s Moneyversity and free apps like 22Seven means we can all access information on how to manage our money responsibly and wisely – and then act on it.

September 10, 2018
Hero Life

New Parents’ Guide To Life Insurance

What to remember about life insurance when your a parent?   When you hold your newborn baby in your arms, it’s hard to imagine he or she will someday be all grown up. And that day arrives sooner than expected. Before you know it your little baby is riding a bicycle, going to school, applying for universities and soon don’t need you to hold their hand every step of the way. But, when your children are young you’ll want them to feel protected at all times and enable them to be successful one day. One way is getting basic life insurance in place to make sure their dreams and futures are protected. Here are a few things to consider when thinking about getting life insurance cover for your family. The cost of raising a child and education According to News24 the cost of raising a child is approximately R90 000 per year. This may sound like a lot, but when you consider the costs of food, daycare, housing, clothing, education, and other activities, it makes sense. A good education is something that can really put a lot of financial strain on your wallet in South Africa. It is projected that in 2023 it will cost around R55 000 per annum for a child to go to a public primary or high school. The cost of sending your child to university also ranges from R30 000 to R60 000 a year. Would your partner be able to cover all these costs if you were no longer there? Unless you have a lot of savings or are a trust-fund-baby yourself, most people’s answer would be no. Life insurance is a smart way to ensure that your kids will be protected and get the education you intend them to get if the unthinkable should happen. To plan for sufficient cover, think about the monthly expenses your child (or children) would need covered until they are old enough to support themselves or just use our calculator to calculate the expected cost of their education and your other needs for you. As your life changes, the cover you need will change too Your life insurance needs will change over time. As you expand your family or when you take out a bond, your life insurance needs grow. As your kids become older, you pay off your debt and your savings grows, your life insurance needs become less. By actively managing your needs to pay for just the right amount of cover over your lifetime, you will save a lot of money. Most life insurance policies are not easy to change, but Hero Life your life insurance policy is flexible. When your needs change with time you can adjust your cover online with no extra hassle with just a few clicks – no agents and no paperwork involved. Life insurance can be very affordable for new parents While buying a life insurance policy might feel overwhelming, it’s really not. Or at least, it doesn’t need to be overwhelming. If you’re a parent, Hero Life provides a simple and easy process with affordable rates. We designed a product specifically for young parents they are generally safer, more responsible and healthier individuals ensuring an affordable rate for all. But, we can also help other parents finding the best provider at the best price. Ready to consider your life insurance options? Follow these steps: Understand how much cover you need. The best way to estimate your cover is to use Hero Life’s insurance calculator the expected costs of your kids education and other needs you may have in less than 5 minutes! It is extremely important to be fully aware of your future needs. The only thing that is important with your life insurance cover amount, is that you have the right amount of cover at a given time. On our website, check the premium associated with the amount of cover chosen. It will show you how much you would expect to pay each month for cover. You can easily reduce the cover to fit your budget and you can always apply for more cover later. Get covered. If you are happy with the cover amount and the premium, the process to apply for cover can take less than 5 minutes, and you’ll get immediate cover. If you pay your first pro rata premium, cover will begin immediately and you can cancel your policy at any time, no questions asked. You can also change the cover amount at any time with no fees or penalties. You are also welcome to chat to the Hero team directly over the website or via WhatsApp at any time for any assistance or information required. Life insurance plays a significant role in the protection of your family. Taking you less than 5 minutes anyone has time to apply. Apply now to protect your family and become the Hero they need you to be.  

September 7, 2018
Toptots Head Office

Brushing those teeth

Do you have problems with brushing your little ones teeth? Most of them do at some stage or another. It’s his mouth and he is letting you know that he has control over it. It’s just another struggle on his part for self-determination. He is not going to give in and it would not be wise for you to give in because even baby teeth need to be cleaned. So what now! Enlist the help of a third voice. You know the dentist has much more clout than you have. We had the most fantastic dentist when my kids were little. He started checking their teeth from a very young age and would ask to count them, having a quick look at the same time. He then told them that they had such lovely teeth and must be looking after them very well. At home all I had to do was say “Remember Dr Robinson said you had to brush your teeth to keep them healthy.” This worked very well. The other option is to give them a choice. Have a few toothbrushes on hand. Different colours, some with pictures on. Let him choose which one to use, it helps them feel in control. The third trick is to let him brush his teeth himself, this will help to develop his motor skills and independence and then you finish up with a good clean afterwards.   It really is only at around seven years of age that they can be relied upon to brush properly so don’t let them do it on their own until then.  Limit the bottle with juice. Sugars in the juice remains in their mouths and eats away at the tooth enamel causing cavities.  Rather give your child lots of fresh water to drink. When all else fails let them scream… at least you can see the teeth!

September 5, 2018
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