Toddler - Parenting Hub

Advice from the experts

Reading with your baby

Babies can have fun with books long before they know any words, and they’ll also be picking up skills they will need later when they begin learning to read. Even small babies love listening to the sound of your voice as you share books cuddled up together, and they soon come to associate reading with this positive feeling of warmth and security. By looking at books, children become familiar with how books and stories work. As babies, they learn which way up to hold a book and how to turn the pages. Later on, they get to know that stories have a beginning, a middle and an end, and often follow a predictable pattern. They also become familiar with storybook language, which is more formal than everyday speech. These are all vital skills that will help a child learn to read when the time comes. Babies have a very short attention span, so it’s best to start with short sessions of just a few minutes at a time. As their concentration improves, you can gradually lengthen the time you spend reading together. As you read, look at each page in turn and give your baby time to look at the pictures. Wait for them to coo or point at things that interest them, and respond when they do. Point to the pictures on the page, say the names of objects and describe what you can see. It’s good to ask lots of questions, such as ‘Where’s the cat? Can you see its tail?’, even though you’ll have to answer the questions yourself. From about 12 months, try to set up regular reading times, maybe first thing in the morning, after lunch, before a nap or at bedtime. Bedtime stories often become an important part of a child’s routine and can be continued long after children are able to read for themselves. Did you know? Studies show that women tend to read to children more than men, but it’s very important – particularly for boys – that dads, or other male relatives, read to children as often as they can. Information taken from: Usborne Parents’ Guide: Help your child to read and write Article By: Usborne Parent Guide Help your child read and write – Usborne Publishing

May 24, 2023

6 Things to remember when introducing finger foods

From around seven to nine months old your little one will be ready to start on finger foods. Keep these important things in mind as your child takes this next step on their exciting food journey. 1. Readiness clues So how exactly do you know that your baby is ready to move from purees on to finger foods? At around seven to nine months old, your child will start to master the pincer grasp – this means they can pick things up with their fingers and don’t need to use their whole hand – and will be able to bring their hand to their mouth with intention. One of the easiest clues that your child is read for finger food is that they will start reaching out to steal food out of your hands or off your plate! 2. Keep it soft When first introducing finger foods start with softer textures so that they are easy to chew or suck and your little one can move the food around their mouth easily. Try mango, avo or banana, as well as sliced hard-boiled eggs and softly toasted bread. Initially you’ll need to take the crunch out of veggies like carrots so that your baby can chew them easily – simply lightly steam or roast. 3. Size it right To make grasping easier, don’t slice food too thinly. Prep food to be about 2-3cm thick and about 6-9cm long. You don’t want your child to feel frustrated because they can’t pick it up! 4. Add dips Finger foods love a dip – and so will your little one. They are a great way to introduce new tastes, flavours and textures to your child and are so easy to make: just add a tablespoon of Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Puree to yoghurt or smooth cream cheese and mix well. Or you could simply use the puree on its own – there are a variety of flavours to choose from, including Squish 100% Summer Berries, Banana + Apple, and Sweet Potato, Apple + Cinnamon. Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Purees are packed full of natural goodness. They are completely free of added colourants, flavourants and preservatives, and have no added cane sugar. The resealable lids on Squish pouches cut back on waste too – just use what you need, then screw closed and pop back in the fridge for later. You’ll find more dip inspiration under the Quick + Easy Recipe tab on our website, like this tasty and nutritious Bean Dip. 5. Take these precautions Choking is always a concern, especially when your little one first starts eating solids and finger foods. Make sure your child is sitting securely in their highchair to minimise choking risks – and sit with them so that you can supervise. Now isn’t the time to multitask! If they start to get sleepy while eating, remove the food. Also, remember your child should not eat in the car, unless there is an adult sitting in the back seat to keep an eye on them. 6. Get adventurous Once your little one has mastered basic finger foods, you can start to increase their menu options. Try these yummy recipes – they’re all packed with Squish goodness: Cheesy Veg Balls and Potato Pops.

May 23, 2023

These 5 foods can help boost your child’s immunity this winter

These 5 foods can help boost your child’s immunity this winter The food your baby and toddler eats can positively impact their immunity. By including these five foods in your little one’s meal and snack times you can help promote year-round good health. You’ll find a whole range of recipes on the Squish website – click here – including this Summer Berry Swirl Ice Cream made with yoghurt. Squish Purees containing sweet potato are great on their own, or can be added to recipes to create tasty meals, like this Chicken + Sweet Potato Risotto and these Sweet Potato Pancakes. Try this quick and easy Cheesy Mixed Vegetable Egg Scramble – it’s always a winner! Looking for more immune-boosting recipes? Click here.

May 22, 2023

WALKING RINGS… YES OR NO?

There is much discussion and debate on whether walking rings are beneficial or dangerous to babies. Once very popular and widely used, there has been a strong debate on their usefulness in recent years. We will take a closer look into these reasons and decide whether it is worth the risk. 1. Walking rings can cause a risk of serious injury; The risk of falling down stairs or tripping over can result in head injuries, concussion, skull fractures, and or soft tissue injuries to the head and neck. The raised height of the baby means they are in closer reach to hot drinks, kettle and iron cords, stoves, cleaning products, etc. Walking rings make it easier for babies to reach up and pull things down. 2. Walking rings may result in delayed motor development. The natural process of walking includes babies learning to roll, sit, crawl, scoot and stretch. These pre-walking skills help a baby strengthen their muscles and learn to balance. Walking rings may visually appear as though they are helping your baby to walk. However, they can delay their motor milestone development, and in fact, they can hinder your child’s mental and learning development as well. Walking rings prevent your baby from viewing their limbs and feet, which help babies visually guide their legs across the floor. The visual-motor skills are critical for a child’s development of depth-perception and visual processing needed for tracking words across a page, moving their eyes from sentence to sentence and paragraph to paragraph. Walking rings limit eye and foot coordination, which is necessary for motor planning and sequencing (praxis)– generating an idea of what you want to do (ideation), figuring out how you are going to do it (organisation), and then carrying out what you want to do (execution). Children with poor planning and sequencing may find difficulty when needing to think harder to complete new physical tasks due to poorly integrated information from the sensory systems. Under-developed planning and sequencing skills impact a child’s ability to organise themselves and learn new routines. It also prevents your baby from using the natural movement needed for cross-laterality, which is important for right and left-hemisphere brain development, fine and gross motor skills, balance, posture, and language skills. The advantages of using a walking ring are as follows: Providing your baby with a source of entertainment Allows parents the opportunity to do some household tasks while babies keep themselves busy. Given the high risk of injury and the possibility of delaying development and milestones, you have to ask yourself whether it is worth taking the risk. I raised my babies in an era where walking rings were very popular, and our babies spent much of their day rolling around the house in them. However, now being able to make an informed decision with the experience I have through witnessing the injuries and delays involved in walking rings, I would recommend baby learn to crawl and walk on the floor. I honestly believe that the risk is too high, and our babies are far too precious to take that risk. Teacher Natalie Early Childhood Educator The importance of Breastfeeding

May 19, 2023

6 tips for easy weaning

Weaning your baby from breastmilk or formula on to solids is an exciting next step in their growth and development. But every baby is different, and some take to the exciting new tastes and textures of solids easier than others. These simple tips will help take the stress out of your baby’s weaning journey. 1. Don’t be over ambitious Weaning is a process and won’t happen overnight. Remember that up until now your baby has been accustomed to getting food delivered by a bottle or breast and will need time to adapt to the new tastes and textures of solids. Let your little one set the pace, and don’t force the issue. If they outright reject the food you offer, pack it away, offer breast or bottle, and try again later or the following day when your baby is well rested and isn’t too hungry. 2. Start small Start small – and don’t introduce too many tastes at once. Offer only a small amount of food at a time – around a quarter of a teaspoon – then slowly build up the amount of food your baby has in one sitting. Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Purees are specifically created for weaning babies and because they have a screw-top lid you can just use what you need then pop the rest in the fridge. This really cuts back on food waste – and saves you money – especially when you’re starting off on your baby’s weaning journey and are only serving a small bit at a time. 3. Watch what you add Don’t make the mistake of adding salt or sugar to try and make food more appetising – babies haven’t yet acquired a taste for seasoned food. Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Puree is made from quality fruit and veg and doesn’t contain any colourants, preservatives or flavourants – and it has no added sugar or salt. This means it really is as good as homemade! 4. Check heat Always check the heat of your little one’s food before you serve it by testing a small amount on the back of your hand. Squish 100% Veggie Purees can be heated in the pouch by placing it in warm water or decanted into a microwave-friendly bowl and heated on low in the microwave. 5. Try, try and try again Experts say it can take seven tries before your baby will accept a new taste – so don’t give up. If they reject one flavour today, don’t force them to eat it. Instead try again at the next feed, or the next day. Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Purees come in a variety of flavours, giving you plenty of mealtime options. Our fruit puree range includes Apple; Pear; Apple + Guava, Banana + Apple; Pear + Prune; Banana + Strawberry; Fruit Salad; Mango + Banana; and Summer Berries. Squish fruit and veg puree range includes Butternut + Carrot; Pear + Sweet Potato; Mixed Veg; Apple, Beetroot + Guava; Apple, Sweet Potato + Sweetcorn; and Sweet Potato, Apple + Cinnamon. 6. Get ready for mess! Mealtimes are going to be messy – there is absolutely no doubt about that! It is better to simply accept you’ll be doing a bit of a clean-up, rather than turn what should be a special time to bond with your baby into a stressful occasion or battle of wills. You’ll have plenty of time in the future to teach your little mealtime etiquette!

May 19, 2023

Developing trust between toddler and sibling

The relationship between siblings is very special, no matter what the age. A good, trusting relationship does not just automatically happen. As a parent, opportunities for developing this kind of relationship need to be given so that it can be built from a very young age. When a child is told that a little brother or sister is on the way there is much excitement! But after the baby is born things aren’t quite as they imagined. Their little brother or sister cries a lot and takes a lot of mom and dad’s attention. It’s hard for toddlers to play and share when they don’t know how to socialize. This is the important time when the parents step in and they can practically help build and foster a relationship of trust between the siblings which will hopefully continue until they are adults. Trust has a major part to play in a sibling relationship. The meaning of the word trust is “a firm belief in the honesty, truthfulness, justice, or power of a person or thing” (Barnhart, 1987). When siblings have a sense of trust in their relationship, it provides a good foundation for a meaningful relationship. If a good relationship is in place when they are young this helps as they grow older and face challenges in life. They know that they are there for each other. Erik Erikson was an American developmental psychologist and psychoanalyst who had a theory about the psychosocial development of people. He is well known in the area of child development and he has some valid points when looking at the importance of relationships between people. In his theory he focuses on 4 stages of psychosocial development in children. The first two are applicable to young children. Stage one is called Trust verses Mistrust and this occurs from birth to about 1 year. A child needs to feel a sense of belonging and warmth from his family. He needs to feel that he can trust his family to provide for his needs. We can take this further and also apply it to a relationship with a sibling. A trusting relationship between siblings is there so that they feel they can rely on someone and relate to someone besides their parents. If there is mistrust between the child and the family at this young age he will develop a sense that no one can be trusted and that the world is an intimidating place. The second stage is Autonomy verses Shame and Doubt. This occurs in the ages 2-3 years of age. During this stage of the child becoming more independent the older sibling has a vital role to play. He will learn a lot from the older sibling and will model what he sees. The older sibling can encourage the younger one as he grows and learns. Having a trusting relationship between the sibling’s means that the younger sibling can trust the older sibling and feel comfortable to learn from them. If a younger sibling is battling with something and no one intervenes, they can feel a sense of failure and doubt themselves. Tips to build a trusting relationship between siblings: Friendship: Siblings should be encouraged to be friends. Encourage them to play together and spend time together. Find games and activities that they both enjoy and encourage them to take turns to choose what game to play. Individuality: Help your children to realize that they are unique individuals with different strengths and weaknesses. Siblings will argue and compete to see who is better! Parents need to intervene and help them see that there are advantages to having a sibling who has different strengths from their own. They can help with their problem areas. Provide opportunities to talk about their differences and unique traits. Helping each other: Giving opportunities to help each other, instead of the parents always intervening, also helps develop trust in their relationship. They learn to rely on each other and ask for help when needed. They also realize that their sibling is always there for them. Sorting out conflict: Conflict and arguments are bound to happen. Siblings need to realize that it’s ok to get cross with each other but the situation needs to be dealt with then and there. Working through the emotions and the cause of the problem, with the parent’s guidance, not only helps the sibling’s problem solve but also helps them to realize the importance of solving conflict. Even with conflict it is important to emphasize the fact that they still love each other and can trust each other. When helping them to solve conflict they also learn to understand each other more and it creates a sense of empathy. Saying ‘I love you’: These are very powerful words and it means a lot to vocalize this from a very young age. Siblings should be encouraged to say ‘I love you’ regularly to create a deeper relationship. Teaching young children to get on and have a good relationship can be challenging, but it is very important for them to realize that friends come and go but siblings are forever. Written By: Lauren Reddell (Gr 000 teacher at Trinityhouse Pre-Primary Little Falls)

May 19, 2023

10 tips for parents of fussy eaters

Having a fussy eater is more common than you think and there’s nothing like a food battle with your offspring to raise your stress and anxiety levels. Paediatric Dietician Kath Megaw says that fussy eating in children isn’t just common, it’s completely normal. “While we don’t know exactly why kids become fussy, neophobia (the fear of novel foods), seems to be part of the answer. A fear of trying new foods is hard wired within us from prehistoric times when some of our food choices may have proved poisonous,” says Megaw. Fussy eating generally starts after the age of one, a time of empowerment for a little one where they feel the need to assert their authority and eat what they want. Around this stage the growth spurt slows, and so the demand for energy is less, which means their appetite may be lower, escalating the fussiness. Finally, food may be fuel to us, but to a toddler it is also power, power to play up to your parents and get their undivided attention! Megaw recently worked alongside UCOOK to develop a range of nutritious, no-nonsense frozen kid’s meals. She says that witnessing the battles of parents daily inspired her to help develop a range of foods that are attractive to fussy eaters but contain essential vitamins and minerals from a large quantity of hidden vegetables in every dish. Megaw offers 10 tips for parents of fussy eaters: 1.You are not alone 30% of children go through a fussy eating phase. Remind yourself of this every time dinner erupts into a full-on food fight. This is a phase and like teething and colic it too will pass, be patient! 2.Try not to get frustrated Most children will eat when they are hungry. Whilst feeding your offspring might seem the most natural and basic duty of a parent, it can be a battle. However emotional you feel about your child’s eating habits keep it to yourself as they will only play up if they feel they are getting attention. 3.Set an example Mealtimes are important for a family as a focus for communication and bonding. Aim to have everyone eating the same thing in the same sitting. Children mimic their parents, so try to eat all the vegetables you’d like to see them eating. 4.Have a routine Schedule three meals and a few small snacks throughout the day and stick to it like clockwork. Allocate 30 minutes for meals and then lift the plate whether it’s finished or not, without making a fuss. Making them sit staring at a cold plate creates negative associations and ultimately adds to your own frustration. 5.Don’t let them fill up on liquids Overdrinking is one of the main causes of fussy eating. The tiny stomach of a child is easily filled up with fluid reducing their appetite for food. 6.Keep trying As we are hardwired to fear new foods, similarly we favour sweet foods over bitter ones as our instinct tells us the latter might be bad or even deadly. Children like foods that are most familiar to them. If at first you don’t succeed you may need to try 10-14 times before they will actually taste it. 7.Hide the goodness Hide your healthy foods in clever ways so that children get used to eating these foods unknowingly. This will train their taste buds without them even knowing about it. 8.Start small Avoid offering large portions of food. Aim for small portions, which enable them to ask for more, the holy grail for the parent with a fussy eater! Limit their choices. A huge array of food on a plate will only put them off. 9.Make it fun Encourage your kids in the preparation of food and make it fun. Dinosaur pasta and fairy mash sounds much better than boring bolognese and potatoes. Be adept at sneaking vegetables in, concealed in pasta tubes, grated, diced or pureed. 10.Beware the bribe If you offer an alternative of chips, biscuits or lollies, then they are sure to perform at the next mealtime knowing you will cave in. Praise a clean plate and avoid confrontation if they have only picked at the food. Megaw says that many parents feel isolated and alone in these struggles, which is unnecessary. “Ultimately, if your child is displaying worrying symptoms like behavioural issues, fatigue, digestive problems or weight loss seek advice from your Paediatrician, GP or Paediatric dietitian.” The new UCOOK Kids Frozen range launches with delicious options including UCOOK Kids Beef Rump Bites & Root Veg Mash and Mushroom Bites & Root Veggie Mash as well as old favourites like Mac & Cheese and Chicken & Broccoli Bake. See more at https://www.ucook.co.za/craft-kids.

May 19, 2023

The benefits of imaginative play/role play

Not only is this a fun and exciting game to play, but it can benefit a learner in so many aspects of their life, such as fostering creativity, being able to express and act out in a situation, and manipulating different tools into an object such as using a block as a phone. By this, they tap into that creative side of their brain. It promotes physical development: For example, dressing and undressing a baby doll’s clothes helps develop their hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. It helps them develop their language and social skills: by conversing with others and expressing themselves while playing a game of Mommy, daddy, and baby. They learn how to have conversations, take turns when talking, ask questions, and make gestures. It also helps them develop their listening skills. This helps them develop problem-solving and self-regulation skills: If there is a situation where children cannot get what they want, for example, they are playing a game, and all the children want to play the role of mommy, they learn to solve the problem and manage their emotions for the game to continue. Role play change is a great way to develop positive behaviour: Swap roles with your children; you be the child and allow them to be the parent in the game. Create a scenario for the child to decide what to do in this situation, for example, getting ready for school and what all needs to happen before going to school. We must make the bed, get dressed, have breakfast, brush our teeth, etc. See how the child reacts in this situation. This is a great way to promote that positive behaviour. Here are a few tips on how to encourage imaginative play Have all sorts of different props for the children to play with. Allow children to explore and play as much as they can. Play lots of dress-up games, and have different outfits for them to dress into to play different roles. Always involve your children in your everyday lives, make them part of your chores and, allow them to help you put the washing in the machine, stand alongside you while you cook or bake. Promote many conversations and help them think creatively, such as bedtime, and let them pretend to sleep in a rocket ship.

May 18, 2023

5 easy freezer hacks for babies and toddlers

With just a little forward planning and some imagination, your freezer can become your go-to pantry for quick and easy snacks and meals. Try these five clever tips, hacks and ideas – they’ll save you precious time and energy. 1. Goodness-packed slushies Keep a stash of Squish 100% Fruit Purees and Squish Yogi pouches in your freezer. Pop one in your child’s lunchbox and by snack time it will have gently melted, creating a delicious slushie they can enjoy straight from the nozzle. Squish 100% Fruit and Yogi pouches are made using quality fruits, and are free of colourants, added sugar, flavourants and preservatives, so you know they’ll be getting only nature’s best. Plus, the frozen pouches will keep the rest of the lunchbox goodies cool too. 2. Meals in minutes On busy days it isn’t always easy to find time to prepare a healthy supper from scratch. That’s when you need to have a nutritious meal on hand to simply grab out of the freezer and heat in the microwave. Next time you have mince leftover from suppertime, place it in small silicone cups, then add a layer of Squish 100% Veg Puree and top with mash. Any of the Squish flavours will work well – try Squish 100% Butternut + Carrot Puree or Squish 100% Mixed Vegetable Puree. Place the silicone cups in the freezer and rest assured that you’ll always have a balanced meal on hand for your toddler. These are also really handy to take along for weekends away. Visit the Squish website for more delicious freezer-friendly recipes. 3. Shards of deliciousness Get your little one involved in helping you make these yummy yoghurt shards. Mix together plain yoghurt and any leftover Squish 100% Fruit Puree you have in your fridge. Squish pouches come with a resealable lid, which means you never have to waste a drop. Mix yoghurt and fruit together well, then spread evenly over a baking tray lined with clingfilm or baking paper. Now dot with your toddler’s favourite fruit, cut into small chunks. Freeze overnight. Break into shards for your child to enjoy as a snack – it’s also delicious crumbled over oats or cereal. 4. Make it a double Did you know you can substitute the sugar in your favourite pancake or muffin mix with Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Puree to make them even more tasty? Next time you’re baking, make a double batch then pop them in a zip-lock bag and freeze. That way you’ll always have tasty snacks on hand to add to your child’s lunchbox or for an afternoon treat. 5. Cool bananas Little ones love these fun and delicious Bananasicles – and they couldn’t be easier to make. All you need is an ice lolly stick, banana, plain yoghurt, and Squish 100% Fruit Puree – use Summer Berries to make them pop! Cut the banana in half lengthways, then gently push in the lolly stick. Place on a baking tray lined with clingfilm or baking paper. Mix together the yoghurt and puree, then spread the mix over the bananas, and place in the freezer for one hour. For special occasions, finish off with sprinkles. For the full recipe, click here. For more tips, hacks and recipes, visit squish.co.za

May 18, 2023

The importance of learning to tie your shoelaces

In the age of velcro straps and slip-on shoes, the skill of tying shoelaces has been forgotten. As children enter their foundation phase schooling years, they become more independent with self-dressing. Children should begin to learn to tie their shoelaces between the ages of5 and 7 years old. Tying shoelaces requires strong fine motor skills, including; finger isolation, hand-eye coordination, and hand strength. As well as promoting self-confidence and independence. Learning to tie shoelaces for the first time can be rewarding yet frustrating as children become overwhelmed. To avoid tears and foster a positive learning experience, follow these simple tips: Let your children pick their own shoes; this makes it more exciting and attractive. Start practicing with the shoe NOT on their foot. Place it either on a table or on their lap. Choose a time during the day when you won’t be rushed. After school as opposed to during your morning routine and do this daily! Show your child your own shoes while they practice along with their own shoe. To avoid confusion, practice one step at a time. Master the first step before moving into the next. Choose a method and stick to it. Whether it be the traditional method or the ‘bunny ear.’ Method. Avoid using left and right unless your child is aware of and is adept at using these terms. Instead, use stickers or different coloured laces, then use the terms sticker or nonsticker,or red and blue lace. Most importantly, have patience and remain calm. Tying shoes requires many advanced. Skills. Enjoy this learning experience with your child. This is an important milestone in their lives and a life skill they will never forget.

May 17, 2023

BABY PROOF YOUR HOME LIKE A PRO

Wouldn’t you like one less thing to worry about in your home? Especially now that you have a curious little one meandering around without a care about anything that could be dangerous. In a matter of seconds, your child could get into a potentially hazardous situation in the house. At Safety 1st, we have the babyproofing products you need to keep your child safe, from the kitchen to the bathroom to every other room. Safety Gates Once your little one is on the move – the race is on. And as fast as you think you are, they are somehow faster. Keep your wobbly walker from accessing certain areas of your house by installing baby gates in your home. But how do you know which safety gate to choose? Well, it all depends on where the baby gate is going. Pressure-mounted gates are perfect for the bottom of staircases or doorways. Since they adjust and stay in place by using pressure, you can install the gate without drilling into the wall. If you need a baby gate at the top of the stairs, you’ll want one that securely mounts to the wall. These gates extend to ensure the proper fit, but you’ll need to get your drill handy. At Safety 1st, we have baby gates that are perfect for just about anywhere you need one in your home, including walk-through gates, doorway gates, pressure mounted, hardware mounted flat step, tall and wide, and more. Locks & Latches Curious kids love opening and closing doors, drawers, and cabinets until you find yourself so exhausted from telling them to stop that you need a nap. Since it isn’t safe to play with what’s tucked away inside, Safety 1st designed childproof locks and latches, including magnetic drawer locks, appliance locks, and latches that help protect your child from getting into areas they’re not supposed to be exploring. Keeping your child safe is our top priority, which is why they are very easy for you to install and use, in case you were wondering. It’s ok if your home doesn’t have traditional doorknobs. We have locks that fit lever handles, too. Shop our childproof cabinet locks, latches, and much more! Plug Protectors As much as you tell your little one not to play with something, they don’t always listen. So, you need a stronger line of defense when it comes to electrical outlets. Play it safe by installing plug protectors. The plug protectors are removable (by you) and help stop little ones from sticking who knows what into the unused outlets. When it comes to in-home safety, there are a few other ways to protect your little one, too. For instance, cord shorteners are a great way to wrap up long cords to help prevent your little one from getting caught in one. One thing parents don’t always think to cover is a power strip, but the exposed outlets that aren’t being used can also pose a danger. Shop our selection of plug protectors, plus much more.

May 17, 2023

The importance of Sensory Play

From birth through to early childhood, children use their senses to explore and try to make sense of the world around them. It is critical to provide children with opportunities to use all their senses to explore their world through “sensory play” as each new sensory experience helps to build neural pathways in the brain, which assist with brain development and the child’s ability to complete more complex learning tasks in later years. A variety of sensory activities allow children’s brains to create stronger connections to be able to process and respond to sensory information. Any neural pathways which are not established will eventually die off. Sensory play includes any activity that stimulates a young child’s senses of touch, sight, smell, taste, and hearing as well as anything that involves movement and balance. I will explain this now. We are all familiar with the 5 basic senses of Taste, Touch, Smell, Sight, and Hearing. But there are two other very important senses people are not always aware of: Proprioception (Body Awareness) – When a baby or child moves, information from the muscles and joints are sent to the brain. The receiving and interpreting of this information is proprioception. This enables us to gain a sense of where our bodies are in space – Body Awareness. Vestibular system – The stimulation of the vestibular system of the inner ear tells the baby where their body is in relation to gravity. It helps to orientate the baby, It is important for the development of balance and postural control, and for the development of spatial orientation and perception. It strengthens the eye movements necessary for reading. It also promotes emotional stability and encourages pleasure in movement. Babies and children need to be exposed to different kinds of movement to ensure the proper development of the Vestibular (Balance) system. These different movements should include forwards and backward ( Like walking, running, swinging), Sideways ( rocking side to side, running sideways), Up and down ( lifting up and down, jumping up and down), Rotating head ( rolling from point A to B along the floor, somersaulting), Spinning ( going round and round, winding up a swing and then letting it unwind). Stimulating the Senses While it is important to stimulate all the senses in early childhood, The Tactile and Vestibular Systems are the most important systems in early development as they are the first systems to develop in Early development. (The baby was exposed to tactile and vestibular stimulation while in the womb). I have covered some ways to stimulate the vestibular system above. Now I would like to discuss more ways to stimulate the Tactile (Touch) system. Fine nerve endings found throughout the skin enable the sense of touch. The skin needs to be exposed to a variety of different textures and materials to enable children to discriminate between different sensations like rough, smooth, hard, soft, hot, cold, heavy, light etc. Because the receptors are found throughout the skin it is important to expose as much of the skin to a variety of different textures. But remember all stimulation must be offered in a play and fun environment and we must ensure we do not overstimulate babies and children. Just offer opportunities for them to explore and touch a variety of textures in a fun, playful environment and allow your child to explore at their own pace. Play with your child and describe the different textures – wet, dry, hot, cold, rough, smooth, etc. Simple things like walking bare feet, rolling across the grass with as little clothing as possible, and playing in a sandpit or in water with as little clothing as possible. Playing with a variety of textured materials and ideally letting your child feel the textures over their entire body – feathers, beans, polystyrene chips, rice, spaghetti, playdough, leaves, sand, etc. Playing with messy textures is also important. Like mixing cornstarch with water, playing in mud and water, playing with shaving foam, soapy bubbles, dry flour or flour and water, finger paints, etc. As mentioned children learn through ALL their senses – so here are a few points on the other sense too.: Auditory sensory play – let your child listen to different sounds while sitting in the garden – birds, airplanes, cars, trees rustling. Imitate animal sounds. Experiment with making different sounds – loud and soft, high and low. Tap out different rhythms using kitchen utensils. Read out loud together often. Listen to Nursery rhymes and fun songs. Visual sensory play – use torches in the dark and create interesting shapes, watch shadows on the wall, let them chase their own shadow, watch leaves blowing in the wind, exposing them to a variety of colourful lights, and help them identify objects in pictures, encourage them to track moving objects like balls, etc. Taste and smell – expose your child to a variety of food items to taste and smell – so they learn about sweet and sour, bitter, salty and spicy. Describe the tastes and the smells. Expose them to flowers, perfumes, fresh bread, etc. Sensory Play has many benefits. As discussed above children learn about and explore their environments through their senses. In this way, sensory play establishes neural pathways in babies’ and young children’s brains, which are important for all later learning. There are also many opportunities for developing fine motor skills by picking up different textured objects, and squishing and squeezing things – which develops pre-writing skills. There is potential for early maths skills by discussing size, weight, height, shape, counting, etc. Messy activities are excellent for encouraging vocabulary and language development. Always make the sensory play and the exploration fun and allow your child to explore at their own pace. You can play alongside them at times to describe the different textures, tastes, sounds, etc – but never bombard your child with information – allow them just to play, explore, figure their world out for themselves and most importantly have fun.

May 16, 2023

How long should a mother breastfeed for

As a lactation consultant I often get asked how long should a mother breast feed for? The World Health Organisation have had the recommendation of: exclusive breast feeding for 6 months and prolong breast feeding for 2 year or longer for a while now. This guideline is very helpful for mothers to realise what is considered normal and beneficial to both mom and the baby. Breastfeeding is seen as the normal way of feeding a baby. Study after study has show in increasing clarity how beneficial breast feeding is to baby and mom. Prolonged breast feeding of 2 years or longer is due to the continued benefits. Mothers can now feel assured that they can breast feed their baby for as long as they both desire with positive health benefits due to breastfeeding for the entire time. Human breast milk has a unique composition that is rich in antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, immunoregulatory agents and living leukocytes all these components contribute to helping the child’s immune system develop. Breastmilk is dynamic and it changes to meet the needs of a growing or ill infant. Studies of exclusive breast feeding over 6 months have shown lower rates of respiratory tract infections, severe diarrhoea, otitis media and obesity. Let’s unpack that for a child that is living in South Africa. The under 5 stunting rate in South Africa is 27%, which is above the world average. Stunting is an indicator of long-standing undernutrition. With breast feeding for longer we would be able to reduce this statistic. The illnesses mentioned above have major effects on children’s growth and development specifically if they happen often. Breast feeding helps to prevent these illnesses and help to promote better growth and development of children. For example, a child that has reoccurring ear infections this can affect they way that they hear. Causing them to have delayed speech or to miss hear sounds. This can have a negative affect on the child’s speech and learning. The health benefits are for all babies that are breast feed and not just those that have lower social economic backgrounds. Mothers who breast feed for longer than 6 months have a reduced risk of developing diabetes by half even if they have had gestational diabetes. Cholesterol levels can also be lowered in mothers that are breast feeding, maternal weight loss and reduced risk of different types of cancers. Baby’s skin also benefits from breast feeding as there is a reduced risk of skin issues, allergies and eczema. The preventative effect from cancer is not just for the mother but also for the child. The mother’s immune system works with the baby’s immune system though exchange of milk and baby’s saliva to share information about health and need for immune responses. This is very important as the baby gets older and is exposed to more bacteria and viruses. Ways that we can assist mother with prolonged breast feeding is to be accepting. It is as simple as that. We know that there are benefits for both the mom and baby- I would also like to add to the extended family as well. There is no need to comment or ask when the mother will stop breast feeding. Let mom and baby enjoy their breast-feeding time together because it the grater scheme of life it is a very short period. Shops and restaurants need to make it easier for mothers to breast feed in private or public as she feels comfortable. In the working environment, there are guidelines that HR departments can follow to allow the mother to express at work so that the mother is able to maintain her supply when she returns to work. For the mom to express efficiently and effectively they need a strong breast pump like the Ameda Mya Joy. This breast pump is a hospital grade breast pump that can effectively drain and empty your breasts. This is important for mothers that are pumping at work because effective draining is key to maintaining your breast milk supply. By having a good milk supply, that you can express easily in the 30 minutes break expressing breaks, helps to keep your breast milk stash fully supplied and helps to reduce stress around pumping. Another breast pumping tip is to have a great pumping bag that can fit all your pumping equipment and a milk cooler bag that keeps your milk the correct temperature while you travel home. See the My Breastpump bag and Cooler bag on our website.

May 15, 2023

TIPS TO HELP YOUR TEETHING BABY

While teething can be uncomfortable for your baby, Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality healthcare, says there are ways to make your baby’s teething experience more bearable. “Teething occurs when your baby’s teeth protrude through the gum line. It’s also known as odontiasis,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health. “Every baby is different when it comes to teething. However, your baby will likely get their first tooth during their first year.” When Do Babies Begin To Teeth? Some babies begin teething before the age of four months, while others start after the age of twelve months. However, most babies begin teething around the age of six months. Symptoms Of Teething Baby teeth can sometimes emerge without any pain or discomfort. At times, however, teething can cause your baby to be irritable and uncomfortable. Signs that your baby is teething include: Sore and red gums where the tooth is coming through A mild temperature (less than 38 degrees Celsius) Flushed cheeks A rash on their face Rubbing their ears Dribbling more than usual Gnawing and chewing on things more than usual Restlessness Irritability “Teething can be painful, but it rarely causes babies to become ill,” adds Hewlett. “If your baby has diarrhoea, vomiting, body rashes, a higher fever, or cough and congestion, contact your doctor. These are not typical teething symptoms. You should also contact a paediatrician if your baby’s gums are bleeding or if you notice any pus or swelling on their face. What is the order of appearance of baby teeth?” The Order Milk Teeth Appear The following is a rough guide to how babies’ teeth typically emerge: Bottom incisors (bottom front teeth): These teeth are usually the first to appear at around five to seven months. Top incisors (top front teeth): These appear around six to eight months. Lateral incisors (either side of the top front teeth): These appear around nine to 11 months. Bottom lateral incisors (either side of the bottom front teeth): These appear around 10 to 12 months. First molars (back teeth): The majority of children will have all of their back molars by the age of two or three. When and how teeth appear varies from baby to baby and may be influenced by family history. Eventually, 20 milk teeth will emerge. 8 Ways To Calm a Teething Baby What soothes one baby might not work for another, so you might need to try different things to make your child feel better. Bananas, apples, and carrots can be frozen and gnawed on by your teething baby for pain relief and a tasty treat. To avoid choking hazards, crush the food and place it in a baby-safe mesh feeder once the teeth have emerged. Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory that soothes the nerve endings in the gums, which helps to relieve teething pain. Rub a slice of peeled ginger over your baby’s gums for two or three minutes for the best results. Cloves contain oils that are warming and numbing. Combine ground cloves with water, coconut oil, or unsalted butter to make a paste that can be rubbed on the gums. Allow your baby to chew on a damp washcloth for a cool, numbing sensation. To add some interest, tie one end of the cloth in a knot before freezing it, or soak it in chamomile tea instead of water. Because they are nearly bite-proof, firm rubber and unfinished wooden teething rings are ideal for older teethers. Avoid liquid-filled teethers because they can break under pressure. And, of course, make sure that the ones you buy are BPA-free Chill a metal spoon in the refrigerator for a few hours and give it to your baby to suck on. Use your index finger to rub and massage your infant’s gums gently. Allow them to gnaw on your big knuckle if you’re brave (and they don’t have too many teeth). Rub your baby’s face, jaw, and gums in a circular motion several times daily. This treatment may be ineffective in some babies but may be effective in others. A Word On Teething Necklaces You may have heard that heated amber teething necklaces release a pain reliever. That has not been proven, and doctors advise against using one. “Teething necklaces, in general, are not recommended by paediatricians,” says Hewlett. “They’re dangerous because they have the potential to strangle your baby. They can also choke if the necklace breaks and the beads are swallowed.” If you do decide to use one, make sure that you: Put it on the baby’s wrist or ankle, not around their neck. Always keep an eye on your child while they are wearing it. Take it away whenever you are not watching your baby, even for a short period.

May 12, 2023

How to assist your child in developing their language of learning

Mom is strolling around the supermarket with a six-month-old infant in the baby seat. Not once does she engage in eye contact, talk to the child or even smile. When the baby becomes restive, a dummy is thrust in his mouth without a word spoken. Contrast this with a dad in a fruit and veg store, with an infant of similar age. At every display he picks up a fruit, lets the baby touch and smell it and talks about the name of it, the colour and how good it tastes. Not hard to know which of these babies will develop a good language as he grows. Babies develop language through constant face to face engagement with a trusted care giver. These days many infants are left in the hands of untrained nannies who are too busy listening to music on their earphones or talking on their cell. The foundations of language are laid in utero and beyond. Two-year old’s who have been deprived of stimulating language are already developmentally behind their peers and the gap grows, requiring expensive therapeutic intervention before formal school entry. Adding to this language gap, we now place the child into a school where the language of learning is different and expect that the new language will be acquired rapidly-because that’s what we pay fees for! What is not understood is that a second language is based on the first. Almost like making a photocopy. If the original is poor, the copy will be too. Home language is important, but make it rich by talking, singing and reading to the baby/toddler. TV and tablets do not teach language, it is a reciprocal process. If someone in the home is fluent in the proposed language of learning, they should be doing all the above in that language, from day one. Babies are pre-programmed to learn as many as 4 languages simultaneously, AS LONG AS EACH LANGUAGE IS SPOKEN BY THE SAME PERSON. Granny can speak Sotho, Mum isiZulu and Dad English, but they must stick to their language until the child is at least 3. Don’t mix languages, this just results in language soup! Besides talking, singing and playing with the child, using a rich vocabulary, you should be reading to the baby from a very early age. Initially use board books with clear pictures that relate directly to the child’s home environment. Talk about the pictures, relate them to real objects if possible and let the baby touch them when you name them. Expand the range of books as the baby grows and by two, join the local library. A weekly visit in search of a new book will become a highlight. You will of course have taught the child how to handle books respectfully! Yes, you can use a tablet, but these are too heavy for young babies to handle and hold. Books in many of our official languages are scares, but you can translate! But what if my child is only speaking one language when he enters school? In this situation, parents will have to work hard to support the school. Here, a tablet can be useful as you can find good apps for simple songs that will help your child acquire the rhythm of the new language. Find books that have a picture with details of familiar rooms at home, animals, toys etc. to help your child learn as many new words as they are capable of, revising them daily. Use full sentences: “Look at the big red car. Let’s count the wheels. Let’s drive your car across the floor Does your car have four wheels? Your car can go fast. Can you make it go slowly?” Young children learn by doing and including plenty of action as you talk will help the learning process. If possible, enrol you child in language enrichment classes, or form groups and engage a good tutor. Find out what theme/inquiry your child is doing at school and link your support to it. Ask the teacher for a list of important vocabulary to practice. In order to cope well in Grade 1, a child needs a cognitive and perceptual vocabulary. Colour/number/shape/size/position in space/sounds in words etc. etc. School curriculums are available on line, which will help you keep pace. Playing with peers is a great help in learning a new language. Children can play without language, and for a couple of months they may just listen but will soon be joining in and may talk more in play than they do in class. If your child has difficulty acquiring the language of learning, talk to a speech and language therapist and get advice. Therapy before the age of six will pay dividends and results will be much faster than if you wait until troubles loom in Grade 1 and negatively affect learning to read. Lastly, make your child’s life as interesting as possible. Visit the zoo, animal parks, farms etc. as often as possible. Be with your child, not in the restaurant taking you ease, and talk, talk, talk. After the visit encourage your child to draw a picture and tell you what he saw. Going to one of our numerous eating venues and handing the child over to the resident nannies is wasting precious language time. Sitting together, talking about the food and having family conversation is making the most of the outing. By Barbara Eaton (Academic Development Co-ordinator for Junior Colleges)

May 10, 2023

WHAT IS SENSORY PROCESSING DISORDER?

Adequate awareness, interpretation and use of sensory information is the cornerstone of all learning and behaviour. Some sensory deficits are easy to recognise, such as poor vision or hearing. Other difficulties are less easy to interpret, as they may result from difficulty with processing stimuli through movement, touch, pressure, position and gravity receptors. Some children may have adequate hearing, smell and eyesight but have trouble with using visual, auditory and olfactory information for function. Sensory Integration is the organisation of sensations for use. The brain locates, sorts and orders sensations- somewhat as a traffic officer directs moving cars. This enables interpretation of our surroundings and helps us form adaptive responses that form the foundation for behaviour and learning. When the flow of sensations is disorganised every second of one’s life can be like a rush hour traffic jam! Messages get jumbled and some don’t reach their destination at all. Improving sensory integrative functioning is like inserting traffic lights that order and control streams of traffic, organising the tangle of cars and roads, and helping the child predict what to do when the traffic gets really bad. School environments can be overwhelming to children with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) due to the enormous quantity and variability of incoming sensations. Common difficulties experienced by children with SPD include delayed development of activities of daily living (such as going to the toilet, putting on shoes), delayed milestones, poor fine motor coordination, poor gross motor coordination, poor posture, restlessness, clumsiness, difficulty socialising, anxiety and low self confidence, poor concentration and attention, poor impulse control, avoidance of play ground, very rough play, very active, very labile, slow work speed, difficulty learning letters and numbers, poor handwriting, difficulty with spatial orientation, difficulty following instructions, distractibility. These are only some of the problems that are most frequently experienced by children with minor or major sensory integrative difficulties. Each child’s symptoms, behaviour and academic ability is different. A closer look at how our senses process information: Vision Organ-Eyes Must be able to detect light and movement Must be able to follow moving objects Must be able to focus on one object Must be able to work together or separately (usually 1 eye dominant Visual processing Transmission of visual input to Occipital lobe in brain where information is interpreted. Manipulate visual concepts (figure ground, visual closure, spatial relations, position in space, form constancy) Integrate visual information with movement (Eye hand coordination, visual motor speed, copying) Filter and ignore non-pertinent, non-threatening information. Hearing Organ- Outer ear, middle ear (ear drum, ossicles), inner ear (Cochlear) Must be able to detect sound Must be able to interpret sound into meaningful information Must be able to accommodate according to noise Auditory processing Transmission of sound to Temporal Lobe and formation of adaptive response Discrimination between loud and soft/high and low/far and near Speech and language reception and expression Filter and ignore non-pertinent, non-threatening information Integration with movement impulses (semi-circular canals in inner ear) Connection with arousal and attention levels Position and movement Organ- muscles & joints Proprioceptive processing Transmission of information about position and movement of our bodies to the brain stem and cerebellum Automatic adjustment of posture and appropriate contraction/relaxation of muscles Enables subconscious awareness of the position of our limbs in space, and therefore provides foundation for any coordinated movement for function. Predicts self-orientation, self-awareness and in many cases interest and satisfaction in tasks. Gravity, Head Movement & Balance Organ- Semi-circular canals and otoliths in inner ear Vestibular processing Transmission of information about vibration and gravity (Otoliths), movement, acceleration and position of the head (Semicircular canals) to the brain stem, cerebellum and cerebrum. Interpretation of exactly where we are in relation to gravity, how fast we are going, and in what direction. Enable subconscious adjustments needed for balance, posture and movement Interaction and integration with all other impulses travelling up and down the spinal cord. Major influence on emotional and social responses, self regulation, arousal and concentration, self esteem, anxiety etc Types of sensory responses High threshold- need more sensory information than others to experience the same sensation. Child may present as lethargic, disinterested, weak, and spaced out (low registration). Child may present as very active, have poor motor planning, touches things, moves/spins/jumps etc., likes heavy blankets/tight clothing, inattentive, restless, rough during play. Both types are associated with poor body concept, difficulty with fine and gross motor skills, poor self-confidence. Low threshold- are more easily stimulated by sensory stimuli, need less input than others to experience same sensations. Child may present as anxious, avoidant, difficulty eating, poor motor planning, dislike of being messy, behaviour deteriorates in noisy environments, dislike of change, difficulty with attention and concentration, tantrums Common categories of SPD Dyspraxia Bilateral Integration and Sequencing Visual Praxis Modulation (Over-responsive/Under-responsive) What to do for kids with SI difficulties: Be patient. Kids with SPD take longer to develop thing even though their cognitive function may be normal. Allow more time for individuals with SPD to complete tasks (including going to the toilet, understanding a new concept etc.,) within appropriate classroom boundaries. Help them deal with frustrations and difficulties experienced as a result of SPD. Children with SPD often appear naughty, aggressive, oppositional and disengaged and are often associated with hyperactivity. These behaviours are the outcome of deregulation on an electro-chemical level in the brain. Use positive reinforcement for desired behaviours, and accommodations to make the environment more user-friendly’ to the SPD child. Provide a space that is quiet, dark and uncluttered for SPD kids to utilise as a regulatory tool. Explain that this is not a time-out space which is associated with bad behaviour, but a way to help our brains organise themselves again. Tents work well or you can use a desk with a blanket over it or a quiet room. Provide ample opportunity for movement. Engage SPD kids in taking messages, moving furniture, handing out books etc. Encourage SPD kids to engage in active play during break times. Seat SPD kids in the least distracting place in the classroom.

May 9, 2023

HOW TO STOP CHILDREN FROM THROWING OBJECTS

When a young child throws an object, it’s a parent’s reactive response to scold the child and take that object away from him. He may then pick up another object and throw that one, pushing the adult to anger and frustration. And if he doesn’t do it again right away, his fear of the parent may stop his actions for the moment, only to have him do it at some point later on. A parent asked me for help with her child throwing a toy at the ceiling light in his room. Another one asked me how to stop her son from trying to get his sox and underwear hooked on the fins of the ceiling fan in his room. In each of these situations, the parent’s first response was to punish the child by making him pay for damage to the ceiling light fan or even emptying his room of all objects. I’m certainly not going to advise you to allow children to continue this destructive behaviour, nor am I going to suggest punishing the child. We’ve been trained by our own parents to use force or control to stop a behaviour we don’t like. That was the solution back when autocratic parenting was the norm; the all-powerful parent used punishment and fear to control a child’s behaviour. Instead of the authoritarian style of parenting that our parents used with us as children (expecting children to follow very strict rules unconditionally), today’s parents are encouraged to use an authoritative approach to parenting (a more child-centric view that includes more listening and less lecturing, the use of consequences instead of punishment, and encouraging independence and risk taking). Let’s examine the problem of throwing objects. Why do we want to stop it; because it’s a potentially destructive action that could result in damage or injury. But the act of throwing an object at a target is a normal desire for fun, especially for boys. Using punishment to control this is counterproductive to raising children with unconditional love. I say we should take a different approach in managing some behaviours, such as jumping, climbing, shouting, drawing, and throwing. I say we should create the conditions for a child to jump, climb, shout, draw or throw something in a fun, safe, and appropriate manner. In other words, set up a way for the child to throw something safe as a replacement for throwing the objects at the ceiling light fan. Forget about punishment or getting angry. Instead, get creative! Let’s say that you set up a safe way for your child to throw, such as with a bean bag toy and target set (see image of boys with bean bag toss game). If your child should suddenly one day throw something in an unsafe way, such as at his ceiling fan, react quickly and without words. Guide your child to the bean bag toss toy without yelling, reprimanding or getting angry, and say to him, “This is where you can throw things.” And if necessary, have someone help you remove the ceiling fan from his room until he gets much older. I urge you to take a closer look at a challenging behaviour you’d like to change and then ask yourself these questions: What is my child’s goal in this behaviour How can I help him/her get his/her needs met in a more appropriate way. This novel approach can easily eliminate or quell a challenging behaviour and also eliminate the need for punishment and other fear-based parenting tactics.

May 8, 2023

Must-have products for moms with new-born babies

Babies may seem like simple beings, but they need a whole lot of gear to keep them safe and healthy. When you are pregnant, well-meaning friends and family are likely to give you lists of “must-have” products, covering everything from baby’s toiletries to feeding equipment and furniture. While some of these items may very well come in handy, the list of essential “must-haves” is actually a lot shorter than you may think. There are a couple of essentials for first-time moms that may just make those first few weeks a little easier and more comfortable – here are a few products you’ll need, for baby (and for you!) in the early days. All-round skincare support Whether your baby is experiencing nappy rash, or you are experiencing a skincare ailment of your own, it’s essential to have a trusted product on hand to soothe, nourish and protect. Sudocrem is the answer to many of the skincare concerns experienced by first-time moms. For over 80 years, Sudocrem Skin and Baby Care Cream (from R67.99) has been trusted to treat and prevent nappy rash, as well as soothe and protect skin from a wide variety of other ailments, including cuts, grazes, minor burns, eczema and more. An all-in-one healer and soother, Sudocrem is a skincare solution for the whole family. Breast care In the first few weeks of breastfeeding, many women experience painful and dry nipples. It’s important to apply a soothing and moisturising product to heal the skin and avoid painful cracking. Medela Purelan Lanolin Cream (R139.00) is 100% natural and safe for baby – you don’t even need to remove it before breastfeeding! Lanolin is a deeply hydrating substance found in sheep’s fleece. The lanolin used in this product is ethically-sourced and highly purified. When absorbed into skin, lanolin cream mimics the skin’s natural ability to store moisture and can hold twice its weight in water. It offers fast relief for dry and sore nipples and is suitable for sensitive skin. Breast pumping tools and accessories Many breastfeeding moms may choose to pump milk, either at the very beginning (to give other family members the opportunity to feed baby or to ensure baby can feed when you are not together), or when they have to return to work. A good quality breast pump is essential to ensure safe and comfortable pumping. Medela Swing Maxi Double Electric Breast Pump (R4999.99) is a compact and easy-to-use double electric breast pump with improved mobility. It offers comfortable and efficient pumping and has a built-in rechargeable battery that lasts up to six pumping sessions. The 2-Phase Expression technology mimics babies’ natural sucking rhythm for efficient pumping, and the PersonalFit Flex breast shields can be adapted to fit your shape for individual comfort and increased milk flow. If you’re pumping, you’ll need a storage solution for your milk. Medela Breast Milk Storage Bags (R360.00 for a 50-pack) offer a convenient way to store, carry and warm expressed milk and are easy to use and hygienic. Lastly, you’ll need breast milk bottles to complement your breastmilk journey. Medela’s breast milk bottles are compatible with all Medela breast pumps, are dishwasher and microwave safe and are made from BPA-free materials. Available in a set of two for R319.99, Medela Breast Milk Bottles are durable, easy to clean and safe for you and baby. Safety precautions Once baby starts crawling, you’ll have to make several changes to your home to ensure their safety, however, you won’t need to purchase too much safety gear to begin with. The only two things you’ll need right from the start is a “baby on board” sign for the car, and a basic first aid kit. Safety 1st Baby On Board Sign (R56.99) serves as a precautionary measure, to let other drivers know to be careful around you. It’s available in classic yellow, pink and blue. Safety 1st Healthcare Kit (R299.00) contains eleven basic healthcare items you need to care for a new-born’s basic healthcare needs. It includes a digital thermometer with case, nasal aspirator, soft toothbrush, medicine dropper, 5 alcohol wipes, emergency contact card and a travel case. While you may be bombarded with long lists of must-have items to purchase before baby arrives, in reality, you likely don’t need everything recommended by friends and family. We suggest starting with the basics outlined above, and acquiring additional items as and when needed. After all, only you will know what is necessary for both you and baby.

May 4, 2023

Are we doing too much for our children?

As parents, many of us do things for our kids that we were able and expected to do for ourselves as kids. Our parents didn’t feel the need to negotiate with our sports coach, solve our every problem, or entertain us in our free time. A big difference from today, when all too often we are over-involved in many areas of our children’s lives. Sounds funny, I know. How can a parent be too involved or do too much for their child? Isn’t that just being a good parent? But when we don’t expect our kids to take responsibility for chores or their behaviour, and we attempt to smooth away all the bumps and bruises that are a natural part of childhood, we aren’t doing our kids a favour. Instead, we’re bringing them up to avoid taking personal responsibility and to expect that others will take care of things for them – even when they are really able to take care of it themselves. We’re teaching our kids that life is full of unmanageable problems, when what we actually want them to learn are the basic skills to manage those problems. Stepping back and taking on the role of coach and teacher instead of “do-er” and “fixer” was one of the hardest things I had to do as a parent. But it is also one of the best things you can do to help your child build their social and problem-solving skills and at the same time learn responsibility.

April 28, 2023

Understanding your toddler’s temperament

Can we ever fully understand toddlers? I’m afraid not. But trying to understand your child’s temperament (their unique nature and character) will certainly help you to get to know them throughout their toddler phase.

April 26, 2023

Why vitamin D matters for babies, tots and mothers

When asked what the most important vitamin to promote a healthy immune system is, most people will automatically say vitamin C. Praised for decades for its ability to help fight colds and flus, develop and repair tissue, heal wounds and maintain healthy bones, cartilage and teeth, this powerhouse vitamin takes centre stage in every supplement aisle. If you were told you could take only one supplement for the rest of your life, we can almost guarantee that the majority of people would choose vitamin C. For decades, we have relied on it almost solely to improve our health.

April 25, 2023

Why consistency and routine are important for toddlers

The toddler phase is so amazing as they develop into little humans with cute mannerisms and sayings. However, it is also the most difficult phase as they are also developing emotionally where strong wills and protesting happen in a rather violent way! We as parents have the responsibility to guide and teach these toddlers what is expected in life as they honestly don’t know what is best for themselves. For example, my toddler can distinguish between whether he wants to nap or not. His feelings toward the issue are not helpful because he does not YET have all the information to make an informative and emotionally intelligent choice about his life. The toddler does not take into account that he woke up very early, that he is over-tired and over-stimulated and that the sweets he ate earlier also add to a disruption in his sleep cycle. My toddler will obviously not think it is a good idea to sleep, but we as parents know that his little body can only go so far, before it needs to recharge and relax via a nap! So here are what the experts say about why routine and consistency is so important for our little ones: Young children do not yet fully understand the concept of time, so they do not order their lives by hours and minutes, but rather by the events that happen. When events happen in the same order every day, children have a better understanding of their world, and therefore feel more secure. A regular schedule gives children a way to order and organize their lives. When young children know what to expect, they become more confident in both themselves and the world around them. They know they will not be confronted with unfamiliar tasks for which they are unprepared (www.education.com/magazine). The Northwestern University Counselling Department has explained that parents should attempt to attain the “4 C’s of Parenting”. This includes Choices, Consequences, Consistency and Care. If you make the right choices, and explain and follow through with consequences consistently and with care, you will be helping yourself and your child flourish in a known environment, where the boundaries and expectations are clear. Moises Roman from UCLA Early Care & Education Department says the following about consistent care: Schedules and routines are important for children because they need to know what’s coming next. If the schedule is consistent, children learn the pattern. Once a pattern is set children can infer, for instance, that lunch comes after music time. This way, there aren’t too many unknowns. Schedules help build trust between childcare providers and children. Young children begin to understand that adults will take care of their needs on a regular basis. When children have too many unknowns, anxiety builds up and they start showing emotional reactions to the inconsistency. For instance, they may cry or become irritable and take it out on other people. If they don’t have regular routines it starts showing in different ways. Let’s say that a child is used to having lunch at 11:30 am every day. And for some reason, lunch is late and the child doesn’t get to eat until 1:00 pm. You may see the child crying and being irritable. You can try to talk to them, but they will no longer enjoy the things that they normally do. Breaking a schedule throws a child completely off. Some flexibility is important though. For example, if your schedule says your music time goes for 30 minutes and you’re done in only 10 minutes because the children are telling you they are finished, then move on to the next activity on your schedule. Flexibility in that respect is fine. This applies to other things like play time, story time and quiet time. So if kids need more sleep during nap time, allow them to rest. Consistency and routine creates TRUST, SAFETY and EMOTIONAL STABILITY for your toddler! By Michelle Janse van Rensburg – Good Night Sleep Consultant

April 21, 2023

The Power of Imaginative Play: Why it’s important for Your Child’s Development

As parents, we often wonder what we can do to support our child’s growth and development. One of the most important things we can do is encourage imaginative play. Research shows that imaginative play has numerous benefits for children, including cognitive, social, and emotional development. Imaginative play, also known as pretend play, is when children use their imagination to create and act out different scenarios. This can include playing with various kinds of toys, and characters to create their scenarios, and this is impactful for 3 reasons: Cognitive Benefits of Imaginative Play Imaginative play has many cognitive benefits for children. When children engage in imaginative play, they develop their creativity and imagination, which can lead to better problem-solving skills and critical thinking. It also allows children to explore different roles and perspectives, which can help them develop empathy and understand others better. Imaginative play also helps children develop their language and communication skills. When children create scenarios, they use language to describe their actions and communicate with others. This can help them learn new words and improve their communication skills. Social Benefits of Imaginative Play Imaginative play also has many social benefits for children. When children engage in imaginative play, they often play with others, which can help them develop social skills and learn how to cooperate with others. It also allows children to practice different social scenarios, which can help them feel more confident in social situations. Imaginative play also allows children to learn how to express their emotions and understand the emotions of others. Through their play, children can explore different emotions and learn how to manage them in a safe and supportive environment. Emotional Benefits of Imaginative Play Imaginative play has many emotional benefits for children. It allows children to express themselves in a safe and supportive environment and can help them develop their self-esteem and self-confidence. It also allows children to develop their emotional regulation skills, as they learn to manage their emotions and understand the emotions of others. Imaginative play can also be a great way for children to cope with stress and anxiety. When children engage in imaginative play, they can create scenarios that help them feel safe and in control, which can be especially helpful during times of stress. Of course, not all toys are created equal when it comes to imaginative play. That’s why many parents and educators turn to Imaginext toys when they want to encourage imaginative play. Imaginext toys are designed specifically to promote imaginative play, with a wide range of action figures, playsets, and accessories that allow kids to create their own stories and scenarios. These toys are designed to be durable and long-lasting, so kids can continue to play with them for years to come. One of the best things about Imaginext toys is that they’re compatible with other Imaginext toys, allowing kids to mix and match different sets and figures to create even more elaborate stories and scenarios. This can help foster creativity and encourage kids to think outside the box when it comes to their play. We’d recommend that young dinosaur wranglers can create their own action-packed adventures with this Imaginext Jurassic World Thrashin’ Action T. Rex dinosaur figure. The ferocious T. Rex is on the hunt. When she spots her prey, kids can slide the button to change her eyes from calm to angry, then use the tail and trigger to control the action as she chomps and thrashes! No one is safe with this fierce dinosaur on the loose!

April 19, 2023

Child drownings are not seasonal and are almost always preventable

Child drownings happen year-round and PowerPlastics Pool Covers is on a drive to remind parents that these drownings are entirely preventable with multiple layers of safety applied to the pool. The PowerPlastics Solid Safety Cover and adult supervision at all times should be included in these layers of safety at all times. The PowerPlastics Solid Safety Cover offers parental peace of mind as it completely seals off the entire pool. The PVC cover is drawn over strong aluminium batons that rest on the coping, and a tamperproof ratchet fastening system makes it impossible for a small child to access the water. Small drainage holes prevent rain or sprinkler water from collecting on the cover as just a few millimetres of water can be fatal to a curious child. The cover withstands up to 220kg and is easily deployed by two people, or it can be semi-automated for single person usage. The PowerPlastics Solid Safety Cover is available in a range of colours, allowing it to blend into the outdoor area. Importantly, the cover complies with the recommended guidelines (SANS 10134) for pool safety, set by the SABS who oversees pool safety compliance in SA. Thermal pool covers or ‘bubble’ covers that lie directly on the water should never be considered as child safety pool covers as they do not bear weight. Aside from covering the pool, every adult in the home needs to know what a drowning in progress actually looks like as TV has created many misconceptions around this. There is no noise or splashing nor calls for help. Drowning is quick and silent. Even if one doesn’t have children, it is still necessary to consider safety for visitors. Families living in residential complexes with a communal pool should insist that their body corporate install a solid safety pool cover. PowerPlastics Pool Covers has also created a Safety Monitor system. Based on the principle that adult supervision is key to avoiding drownings, it allows children to quickly identify the adult in charge should there be a safety issue among the children in the pool. When there’s a larger number of children in the pool, e.g at pool parties, it is advisable to have two or more supervisors each wearing a tag. A busy pool is high risk. You can download it here and print at home. Laminate it if possible (to prevent water damage) and then add a lanyard or tie it on a loop of string and wear around the neck. The bottom line is that children need to be supervised around pools, and as long as the pool is covered and other layers of safety are in place, the likelihood of a tragedy occurring in your pool is greatly reduced. Practical tips for pool safety Don’t let your pool’s water levels drop. Keeping the pool topped up allows for small arms to easily grab the edge if needed. For every two children in the pool, have one adult supervising and use the Saefty Monitor tag system. The more children, the more supervisors needed. Be aware that children’s pool parties are high-risk events. Turn off fountains and water features. Not only do they waste water and power, they can cause ripples and splashing, making it harder to see when a child has encountered difficulty in the pool or has sunk to the bottom. Ensure that every adult in the home knows CPR, including domestic workers. Never hire a baby sitter or au pair who can’t swim. Don’t let anyone who has been drinking or on sedative medication supervise children in a pool. Don’t leave toys in or near an open pool as children will be tempted to retrieve them. Teach your child to swim fully clothed and with shoes on. If your child develops a fear of water, don’t ignore this – a child who panics is at greater risk of drowning. Never allow swimming after dark. Discourage your dogs from swimming. Children and pets in a pool are not a good mix. Never leave the pool without securing it with your PowerPlastics Solid Safety Cover. Never design / build a pool that cannot be secured for child safety. The Vektor Rollup Station brings semi-automation to the PowerPlastics Solid Safety Cover. Learn more.

April 18, 2023

Impact Music has on Early Childhood Development

Music is a universal language that has the power to bring people together and evoke emotions. It has also been proven to have a significant impact on early childhood development. From improving cognitive skills to enhancing emotional and social development, music can play a vital role in a child’s growth and learning. Improves Cognitive Skills: One of the most significant impacts of music on early childhood development is its ability to improve cognitive skills. Music stimulates different parts of the brain, including those responsible for memory, language, and creativity. Studies have shown that exposure to music in early childhood can lead to improved memory, increased spatial-temporal skills, and enhanced creativity. Enhances Emotional Development: Another way music impacts early childhood development is by enhancing emotional development. Music has the power to evoke emotions and feelings, which can help children identify and express their own emotions. Listening to and playing music can also help children develop empathy, which is essential for healthy social interactions. Promotes Social Development: Music can also have a positive impact on a child’s social development. Learning to play an instrument or sing in a group requires cooperation, communication, and teamwork, which are all essential social skills. Music can also help children develop a sense of community and belonging, which can lead to increased self-esteem and confidence. Encourages Physical Development: Music can also have a significant impact on a child’s physical development. Dancing and moving to music can help develop gross motor skills, while playing instruments can help develop fine motor skills. This physical development can lead to improved coordination and overall physical fitness. Increases Language Development: Music can also play a vital role in a child’s language development. Singing and listening to music can help children develop phonological awareness, which is the ability to identify and manipulate sounds in language. This can lead to improved reading and writing skills, as well as better communication and language development overall. With so many benefits to music, encouraging your child to play an instrument and engage with the music is key. The Giant Light Up Xylophone toy from Fisher-Price is the perfect way to stimulate your child’s development. The classic musical instrument pull toy reaches exciting new heights with extra-large interactive and multi coloured light up buttons that activate 60+ songs, sounds and phrases as your baby “composes”. Smart Stages technology lets you switch up the play as your baby grows with 3 levels of learning songs and phrases that teach the alphabet, numbers, shapes and more.

April 17, 2023

HOW TO USE MAKE-BELIEVE PLAY TO DEVELOP YOUR CHILD’S UNDERSTANDING OF THE WORLD

Learning through play lays the foundations for lifelong learning, including the development of socio-emotional skills in young children, allowing them to learn about themselves and the world around them. Make-believe play in particular helps children use their imagination and develop their creativity. In addition, role-play can help children learn about different jobs and people in and around their community. “One of the best parts of learning through play is that it’s possible without the use of any toys at all,” says Sesame Workshop South Africa’s Director of Education and Outreach, Mari Payne. “Many of South Africa’s children do not have access to many toys, but play is something every child can do, using their imagination along with available household items or recycled materials.” From approximately two years of age, children already start to play using their imaginations. Around the ages of three/four to six, they start to play make-believe games with their siblings and peers. This switching of roles and coming up with stories together helps build language and communication skills, as well as skills for sharing, taking turns, and cooperating. “Parents and caregivers can encourage imaginative play and even join in the fun, using everyday situations as fun activities to teach them about life, jobs and responsibilities,” says Payne. Payne provides some simple examples of make-believe play below. House-house. Make a “house” using a blanket and chairs, and say, “Let’s pretend to make supper!” Afterwards, you might pretend you’re getting into bed. This simple game reinforces routines in the home. Outer Space. Take turns flying a rocket and walking on the moon. Ask children to look out the window of their rocket. Say, “What do you see in the sky?”. This game can help children understand the very basics of the solar system. Restaurant. Work on memory skills as you take each other’s orders and brainstorm delicious recipes to cook. Ask children, “What ingredients do we need? What tools can we use to cook?” Pretend to use pots, pans, and kitchen tools to create a special meal together. This imaginative game also reinforces routines and the understanding of nutrition. Bath time. Pretend to wash a doll or stuffed toy. Label the body parts you’re washing and then dry and dress the doll. Ask children what else they might do to take care of a baby and act it out. Learning about hygiene and ‘your body’ can be fun too! Payne concludes, “playing with children not only provides opportunities to learn, but helps provide quality family time, further providing socio-emotional development.” Takalani Sesame is designed to support children’s development through playful learning, for more ideas on make-believe play, catch Season 13 of Takalani Sesame on SABC1 at 07:00 am. About Takalani Sesame Takalani Sesame is the ground-breaking South African children’s programme that has educated and entertained children for more than 22 years. Takalani Sesame was named the Best Children’s Programme at the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTA) in 2021 and promotes early childhood education while supporting South Africa’s mother-tongue based education policy with television, radio, digital content, and community and classroom engagement. For more information, please visit https://takalanisesame.org.za About Sesame Workshop Sesame Workshop is the non-profit media and educational organization behind Sesame Street, the pioneering television show that has been reaching and teaching children since 1969. Today, Sesame Workshop is an innovative force for change, with a mission to help kids everywhere grow smarter, stronger, and kinder. We’re present in more than 150 countries, serving vulnerable children through a wide range of media, formal education, and philanthropically funded social impact programs, each grounded in rigorous research and tailored to the needs and cultures of the communities we serve. For more information, please visit sesameworkshop.org. Official Hashtags: #AllNewTakalani #TakalaniSesame Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takalani.sesame.edu Twitter: https://twitter.com/takalanisesame Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takalani.sesame/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSOzE3-7BQn7GtiftoiIRsg Website: https://takalanisesame.org.za/

April 14, 2023

Bubblegummers are back! Strong, comfy, scented sneakers for building imagination without limits

Bata South Africa has brought back its top-selling, global children’s footwear range, Bubblegummers, promising to fuel the imagination of little ones once again with the coolest, comfiest shoes around. The new line of Bubblegummers high-tops and sneakers is out now in selected Edgars stores nationwide and online. A firm favourite for kids the world over, Bubblegummers have delivered lasting memories of fun and adventure for generations of children. They’re crafted for function, durability and great support for growing feet, but designed with colour and fun in mind. With elasticated laces and light-up soles – infused with a signature bubblegum scent – the new line includes a variety of styles, designs, colours and sizes, packaged in a super sturdy and lightweight fit that’s perfect for active and playful kids. Bata Country Manager, Michael Wyatt, says: “Every pair of Bubblegummers is designed with the most advanced technology to ensure that kids can play and explore in comfort and safety in their early years. Bubblegummers is all about combining fun, form and function, and we’re confident that kids and parents alike will love the innovation and aesthetic appeal that have been incorporated into the design of this new line.” Bubblegummers footwear innovation The new Bubblegummers range of sneakers is antibacterial and breathable thanks to special Bubble Breathe technology. Bubble flex helps the shoes adapt comfortably to the energetic movements of childhood. Bubble absorption in the sole of the shoe keeps busy little feet protected, while a non-slip bubble grip supports the child’s stability as they explore the world. Bubble health keeps feet fresh and free from odour-causing bacteria, thanks to sanitised insoles. And to top it off, there’s bubble smell, with a signature Tutti Frutti bubblegum fragrance infused into every pair of Bubblegummers. The Bubblegummers range caters for girls and boys, and all shoes are designed with a child’s general developmental goals and ages in mind. Bubblegummers for infants are soft, yet offer protection from unexpected bumps, while shoes for pre-school children have an easy fit and are flexible for energetic toddlers who want to play. “Children take up to 16 000 steps every day as they play and keep active. As parents it’s our responsibility to encourage play and physical activity, which are necessary for growth. This is why the Bubblegummers range is designed to allow for flexibility and protection, with the colours and technologies that your children need to grow up healthy and happy, as they build their imagination without limits,” says Wyatt. Shop Bubblegummers at selected Edgars outlets nationwide, and Edgars online. Sizes range from toddler size 6 to 10 and kids’ size 11 to 3, for boys and girls. Follow Bubblegummers on social media: Instagram: @bubblegummers_za Facebook: Bubblegummers_ZA

April 14, 2023

How Multifunctional Toys support Creativity, Learning & Problem-Solving

The educational value of toys are easily overlooked because playing, as an developmental activity, is not supported by traditional educational models, but it’s been proven that multifunctional toys stimulate a child’s development and brain function more than you know. Music, art and playing are great educational tools, just like reading and writing. At a young age, children don’t only learn, they use all their senses to quickly develop subconscious perceptions of the world, and hands-on play encourages understanding of the world around them as well as imaginative play. Engaging with the bright colours of the tracks when playing and stunting with Hot Wheels reinforces learning as children engage create new experiences with the dynamic system of play which stimulates their emotional and imaginative development in a completely different way than books do. Toys and sets with interchangeable parts give children the freedom to play without rules, and explore their individual interests, placing them in a mental space where they can share their feeling and thoughts through play, because they feel comfortable enough to create what they want to. Apart from just stimulating creativity, which traditional approaches don’t cultivate, this kind of engagement also have an effect on other issues like self-esteem and confidence building. Children need to be encouraged to think and create independently, and not confined to colouring inside the lines. This also helps them appreciate different points of view, rather than shy away from it, as well as stimulates their problem-solving abilities. Parents who don’t know where to start are encouraged to get the The Hot Wheels Speed Drop Hauler, which redefines Hot Wheels storage and racing in one very cool semi-truck that’s full of surprises. Small display windows on the trailer showcase the more than 20 Hot Wheels cars it can carry, and when kids pull the back latch, this 3-in-1 toy unfolds into a six-foot long racetrack! The multi functioning vehicle comes with three 1:64 scale Hot Wheels vehicles and can hold 20 more. It provides endless fun for kids 4 to 8 years old. Colours and decorations may vary, but the Hot Wheels Speedway Hauler is the ultimate all-in-one Hot Wheels package with so many features and so many ways to play, and is compatible with the entire Hot Wheels System of play, allowing for hours of imaginative and creative play. About The Hot Wheels ™ City Speed Drop Transport™ The Hot Wheels™ City Speed Drop Transport™ Hauler combines the convenience of a cool-looking Hot Wheels® hauler with the awesomeness of a two-foot vertical racetrack that connects to other sets. In transport mode, the big rig semi can hold more than 20 1:64 scale toy cars as it rolls on its six massive wheels. Unhitch the rear lock and transform this hauler into an incredible two-foot-tall track for extreme excitement. Stunt cars down the epic gravity drop that can connect to other sets (additional track sold separately). Includes one Hot Wheels® vehicles to haul from the get-go. Colors and decorations may vary.for 22. Features: The Hot Wheels™ City Speed Drop Transport™ Hauler transforms from a cool and functional car-carrying trailer into a spectacular track with a 2-foot-tall gravity drop for extreme transport and excitement. The hauler can hold more than 20 Hot Wheels® vehicles and has big, rolling wheels to make it part of the fun itself. Unlock the rear hitch and transform the hauler into a track set with an epic 2-foot-tall drop. Includes 1 Hot Wheels® vehicle, and the track can connect to other sets to extend the stunting adventures (additional track sold separately). This hauler combines convenience and excitement with its massive storage capacity and epic drop – kids 4 years and older will love the awesomeness of this incredible gift! Legal Line: ©2021 Mattel. Licensed Legal 1: Licensed Legal 2:

April 13, 2023

HOW TO HANDLE THE 2-YEAR SLEEP REGRESSION

There is a reason why they call it the terrible two’s and the behavior issues you might be having with your toddler is the classic chicken-egg situation with sleep. Your child’s’ development could be affecting their sleep BUT lack of sleep could make them seriously cranky during the day. What is a sleep regression? A sleep regression is a period where your toddler sleeps worse than normal. The worse sleep might entail struggling to fall asleep or waking up more than usual at night. It might also mean being awake for extended periods of time at bedtime or throughout the night. How long it lasts depends on the age of your child. Why do sleep regressions happen? Sleep regressions are caused by development. Mental, physical or emotional development are factors that depend on the age of a toddler. Thus when your toddler is growing (which is most of the time) this consequent development can disrupt their sleep for various reasons. With your 2-year-old, the main culprit is emotional development, and your toddler is starting to see the world in a very new and complex way. These complex and new feelings can make your toddler feel afraid and uncertain, causing them to be scared of the dark or just not liking to be alone. This is also usually the time when new siblings arrive and these changes could also trigger separation anxiety. Since their movement and language are improving by the day, it can give them an arrogant independence and a strong desire to do things on their own, which could have a major impact on bedtime. They also always seem to have a lot better things to do than sleep. Implementing clever stalling tactics to delay sleep are common problems parents of toddlers face. All these things can add to the fun of being the parent of a toddler, but these can also cause big frustration pointed at this regression. How long does 2-year sleep regression last? This can last between 1 and 3 weeks. Unfortunately, it can also come and go over several weeks. When does it happen? Like any development milestone, the regression does NOT happen exactly on the day your toddler turns two but could happen anywhere between 18 and 30 months. How long does it last? This can last anywhere from a couple of days to a couple of weeks. How to survive the 2-year sleep regression? The most important thing during this regression is to remain consistent. During this time of stormy emotions and changes in development, it is important to stick to what your toddler knows as this will give them a sense of security. Keep in mind that this is only a phase and NOW is not the time to start new habits such as lying with your toddler, or feeding them at night again. You know they can do it! Give them a chance to move through the phase. Giving in to their every whim or emotion could just give them the leverage they need to do exactly that, what THEY want. They are only toddlers and unfortunately don’t yet know what is good for them. So discipline does come into play. You need to be clear about the boundaries and verbalize what sleep entails: ‘Close your eyes, stay in your bed, keep quiet until the sun comes up.’ Give them options and help build their independence. ‘We are only going to read two stories, but you can pick which ones’. ‘Mommy is not going to stay until you sleep but I will lie here for 2 songs, you can choose which ones’. Your toddler still requires 11 to 12 hours of nighttime sleep. So don’t be tempted to move your bedtime later. Overtiredness is the main reason for stalling tactics, so keep aiming for bedtime between 18h00 and 19h00. It might be time to shorten your toddler’s nap. Once again don’t be tempted to completely remove the nap too quickly but rather start by shortening it and not letting them sleep longer than 60 to 90 minutes. Some extra comfort, undistracted one-on-one time as part of bedtime (especially if there is a new baby in the house) can be helpful. You are allowed to lie with your child, massage them but try not to do it until they are asleep. You need to keep the balance of filling up the emotional cup but also showing them that you know that they can fall asleep on their own. If your toddler verbalizes fears it might be helpful to implement a night light. Phone your nearest consultant. Our consultants help you custom make a plan for your family, responsibly by incorporating all the building blocks. We also support you for 2 weeks to help you implement the plan. Even though sleep regressions can cause sleep disruptions, the important thing to remember is that if you remain consistent it should only be a phase. If your little one slept well before regression, they should get back into it after the phase, and the regression should not be a reason to start negative associations. By Jolandi Becker – MD of Good Night

April 4, 2023

Creating Balance for You and Your Baby 

Navigating your busy life while trying to strike a balance isn’t always easy. When achieved, this balance can help reduce your stress levels, foster healthy relationships, and allow you to chase and achieve bigger goals. Fisher-Price has three tips to help you and your baby find the perfect balance every day. Creating balance for yourself Reduce your stress levels by taking a five-minute ‘vacation’. The Canadian Mental Health Association recommends we taking five minutes a day to recharge by daydreaming about a person, place, idea, or about anything at all. Prioritising your needs, and allocating your spending accordingly, reduces your financial stress. Finding multifunctional toys, which grow as your baby does, is a good way of investing as they reduce the need to buy products at every stage of development. Something as simple as accepting a compliment does wonders – plus reflecting on the it after the fact makes us feel good, and allows us to be kinder to, and appreciate ourselves more. Creating balance for your baby A Walker is an ideal way for your baby to find balance. The Fisher-Price 2-Sided Steady Speed Walker is an interactive learning toy that “grows” with your baby. All the way from sitting, to pulling up, to finally taking their first steps. Theunique, car-theme lets little ones stand and push along from either side, and both sides feature a variety of engaging activities. Smart Stages technology helps teach the alphabet, opposites, and counting as little drivers “cruise” around. Features and benefits of the walker include: 3 ways to play as baby grows from sitting to standing to walking all around; 3 Smart Stages learning levels with 50+ songs, sounds and phrases that teach the alphabet, counting and opposites; 10+ activities help keep baby busy, including pretend car dashboard with light-up steering wheel, 3 shape blocks to sort, and more; and, helps develop fine and gross motor skills while introducing early academics for infants and toddlers ages 6 months to 3 years. Creating balance for you both Support structures help ease any pressure you and your baby may be feeling. Find advice from support groups or forums or ask a family member or friend to lend a hand when you need it. We all get sick, and accidents happen, knowing you have strength in numbers helps you navigate the challenges you face. Friendships can help you understand that you’re not alone, and babies find a different kind of stimulation when playing with other children. Play dates can help to support both of your needs, and they’re a great opportunity to have fun and reconnect with friends. About the Fisher-Price 2-Sided Steady Speed Walker The Fisher-Price 2-Sided Steady Speed Walker is an interactive learning toy that “grows” with your baby from sitting to pulling up and taking their first steps. This unique, car-themed baby walker lets little ones stand and push along from either side with helpful Steady Speed wheels to keep a slow pace for beginners. Both sides feature a variety of engaging activities, including an interactive dashboard and steering wheel to “drive” the pretend play. Plus, Smart Stages technology helps teach the alphabet, opposites, and counting as little drivers “cruise” around, with 3 levels of play featuring songs, sounds and phrases that deepen the learning as your child grows. Interactive baby walker with 2 sides of activities and 3 ways to play as baby grows from sitting to standing to walking all around. Walk from either side! Steady Speed™ wheels help slow the pace for beginner walkers 3 Smart Stages® learning levels with 50+ songs, sounds and phrases that teach the alphabet, counting and opposites 10+ activities help keep baby busy, including pretend car dashboard with light-up steering wheel, 3 shape blocks to sort, and more Helps develop fine and gross motor skills while introducing early academics for infants and toddlers ages 6 months to 3 years

April 3, 2023

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