BUMP • BABY & BEYOND APRIL - JUNE 2013 • Vol.1 Issue 4
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The Makings
of a great Childhood Escape to Barbados' Luxurious
Sandy Lane
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Welcoming Baby
Number Two! « Are You a Cool Parent? « He Said, She Said Mom & Dad on Baby's Arrival
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APRIL-JUNE 2013
CO NT EN TS
{Bump> .
14 HE SAID SHE SAID Baby's arrival as told by Mummy and Daddy
18 MOCKTAIL MOMENTS
Another great island drink perfect for the mom-to-be
20 b3 MD
Our resident Doctor answers your questions
{Baby> 22 DIAPERING 101
Top diaper brand Huggies® shares the right way to diaper your baby.
28 b3 FIT: LET'S GET THAT BODY BACK
3 easy steps for post natal exercise
30 MY TODDLER IS A PICKY EATER
Getting your baby to eat right
32 BABY BEAUTY BAR
{Cover Story>
40
The Makings Of
A Great Childhood
See our favourite baby skin care products
34 ON SURVIVING A NEW BABY IN THE FAMILY Helpful tips for welcoming a new baby
38 ON THE INSIDE:
Children's stores across the Caribbean • May is Child's Month
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54
It's all about Style, Sophistication and Sass with this issue's
Glama Mama!
{Beyond> 50 ESCAPE TO THE LUXURIOUS SANDY LANE
Visit one of the Caribbean's most exclusive resorts. Indulge in opulence at Barbados' Sandy Lane
54 GLAMA MAMA
It's all about Style, Sophistication and Sass with this issue's Glama Mama.
58 HAPPY READERS; HAPPY FAMILIES The family that reads together, stays together.
72 b3 ISLAND MADE 74 THE GODMOTHER She's got a role and she's loving it.
APRIL-JUNE 2013
CO NT EN TS LOOK OUT FOR THIS STAMP
Calling all Dads! This page is JUST FOR YOU!
78 HOW COOL ARE YOU? Take this fun test to see how you rank on our cool parent meter.
BUMP • BABY & BEYOND APRIL - JUNE 2013 • Vol.1 Issue 4
.
62 MUMMY I DID IT... BY MYSELF!
Independence. Every parent wants it for their child, every child wants it for them self. Here's how.
The Makings
of a great Childhood
Escape to Barbados' Luxurious
Sandy Lane
64 b3 BUYS
J$700 • EC$22 • US$8 • £5
THE CARIBBEAN'S PREMIER PARENTING MAGAZINE • WWW.B3CARIBBEANMAGAZINE.COM
66 b3 ISLAN’DAD
Dad on duty: A one-on-one interview with hands-on single dad Christopher Ramson
70 GIRLS ROCK!
Funky and fabulous summer styling for girls.
Also
« Welcoming Baby Number Two! « Are you a Cool Parent? « He Said, She Said Mom & Dad on baby's arrival
Pay attention dads, this page is just for you.
ON THE COVER
78
.
Cover Girl: 8-Year-Old Laila Lafayette Photography: Dwayne Watkins Shot on Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Editor's NOTE
Child·hood noun [chahyld-hood] 1. The state or period of being a child
2. When a kiss made the pain go away, the ice cream man was God, green veggies were the devil, and finger painting and nap time went hand-n-hand
F
- Urban Dictionary, 2013
unny, I thought, and true.
There’s a purity and simplicity that I associate with childhood.
Carefree days filled with whim, fantasy and laughter. Never-ending play with cousins, and friends we called cousins. Adventure occupied
our minds and captured our days, and simplicity was dictated by fewer
choices. This is the simplicity that we miss when we grow up, face life, and embrace
.
the responsibilities of adulthood. If we only knew then what we know now, I’m sure we
really would have put more effort into enjoying every single moment as children. I watch
with pride when I see my two children playing; and I’m ecstatic when they’re outdoors! So,
like a host of other mothers that I know, I’m on a mission to secure the happiest, fondest memories for my children. When they look back at their early days as I do at mine, I want them to smile at the beauty of a perfect childhood.
As you read through our pages, know that b3 is all about the parenting process – the
things we need to know, and the things we want to know. The ups and downs, the light stuff and the serious issues. Any and every thing that affects us as parents. In each
issue, we look forward to sharing our journey with you, and likewise, you with us. Your emails, tweets and facebook posts do more for us than simply letting us know you like what we do. You tell us just what you want to see and learn about; we value
your comments and suggestions, so continue to write in and share your thoughts.
We’re Turning One!
Every birthday is an occasion to celebrate, and we’re thrilled as we celebrate
our first. Time really does fly when you’re having fun. And we are definitely
having fun! Despite the long hours, the sleepless nights…we’ve ignored the no’s
from the naysayers and embraced the yeses from the believers. One year later, as we go to press
with our fourth issue, I’m saying a big thank you for an incredible first year! If I were to list
the names of everyone who deserves to be thanked, my Art Director would hang me out to dry
for changing layout with too many pages! It would however, be remiss of me not to thank the
most amazing team any magazine could ever have. Dwayne J, Dwayne W, and Claire. It is my
privilege to work with such talent, passion and synchronicity. From the bottom of my heart, I thank you. Here’s to the many more birthdays!
We’re growing up folks. We’re just one-year-old. And if you’ve ever parented one of those,
you KNOW, the fun’s just started! Here’s to celebrations, childhood and being forever young!
Editor-in-Chief 08 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
WWW.B3CARIBBEANMAGAZINE.COM
APRIL - JUNE 2013
Who we
" "
MICHELLE GORDON
DWAYNE JUREIDINI
DWAYNE WATKINS
A lover of life and family, Michelle brings
Dwayne's love affair with design began as an
As a child, Dwayne Watkins remembers
Two decades later, armed with his Dad’s
capture things in a way that evoked incredible
Editor-in-Chief & Creative Director
Art Director & Layout Artist
authenticity of all aspects of the parent-child
assistant to his dad, himself, a graphic designer.
style. With 28 years of combined experience
priceless tutelage & the constant desire for
bond to the page with diamond-studded in service, entrepreneurship and motherhood,
she adds to that a passion that gave birth to
b3. Michelle is mother to 8 year old Christian and 5 year old Amanda.
ARLENE L. MARTIN
creating artwork of an international standard,
the love affair continues. DJ's fingerprint can be seen on pieces ranging from invitations to
recognised international publications. Dwayne is father to 5 year old Sarai.
Photography Director
.
being amazed by a photographer's ability to emotion. These days you can catch Dwayne around Jamaica and beyond, capturing couples
as they say, "I do". Dwayne's portfolio also
includes fashion and commercial work. Dwayne is godfather to 4 year old Skyler. Visit dwaynewatkins.com/blog
Asst. Editor
Assoc. Creative Director & Features Editor
CLAIRE HARRISINGH
ANGELIE SPENCER
Arlene L. Martin has had a passion for design
Born in Jamaica, Claire graduated from Oxford
Angelie Martin-Spencer is a weekly
were self-taught when she actively took up
Media Group; from Editorial to PR, for three
columns: DIY in Thursday Life and Rock
and sewing since childhood. With skills that the craft as a hobby in her late teens, she has since blossomed and turned the passion into
something extraordinary - drennaLUNA. Arlene is aunt to 5 nieces and nephews.
APRIL - JUNE 2013
Brookes University. Next stop, a London
publications. Back in Jamaica, after serving as (Corporate Responsibility) Special Projects Manager, Claire is now Principal of Strand Creative. Claire is mother to 2 year old Levi.
Fashion Editor
contributor to the Jamaica Observer with 2 the Cloth in Saturday’s Under the Dryer
(co-authored with sister, Arlene L. Martin). Angelie is a mother of two 8-year-old Anna and 3-year-old Luke.
WWW.B3CARIBBEANMAGAZINE.COM
| BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 | 09
Send your comments, questions and suggestions to
editor@b3caribbeanmagazine.com
We Hear You! NEED HERE’S MY LIST OF ALL YOU'LL TO TAKE FOR YOUR BIG DAY.
BUMP
"LOVE MY LIST"
Mummy’s Bag
You’ll need something loose and comfortable For a quick cover up if required pair for regular walking around Rubber ones for showering and another Your feet can get cold during labour
A Going Home Outfit Robe
Slippers Socks
I bought this magazine at the airport in Kingston and it was a great read on my
Bring at least 2 packs
Maternity Pads
1 Pack
Breast Pads
feeding Front opening for easy access for breast moisturizer, toothpaste, toothbrush Lip balm, Towels, hairbrush, lotion, for some good old 'Ting' Water tasted terrible to me, so I opted games and so on Your iPad, Kindle, Books, magazines, don’t have enough Or your blanket. Some hospitals simply Some you don't mind disposing of
4 Night Shirts Toiletries
Snacks and drinks
Something to Read or Listen to Pillows
flight back home. I found your list on Packing For Your Big Day to be very helpful.
.
Inexpensive underwear
For your mental privacy
Ear plugs
For Your Spouse A change of clothes Camera, phone, camcorder
I actually photocopied it and used that as my guide. I didn’t want to tear out the
you’ll want to keep in the loop Or a list of the family and friends who you as Daddy may be pre-occupied with Have a back-up person to do the calling,
For Your Baby
Have your infant car seat installed
page – magazine too nice! Thanks!
You never know… the moment. Don’t forget to pack In the event he remembers to capture the chargers
Address book
in your car BEFORE leaving the hospital
3-4 side-snap shirts 3-4 sleepers
6 Receiving Blankets 6 Burp Cloths
1 Pack of newborn diapers 3-4 pairs of socks or booties.
.
3 Hats
— Petra M. (Barbados)
3 Hooded Towels 3 Washcloths
Diaper cream
One outfit for the trip home
30 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
Two weeks after I lost my second pregnancy, I saw this magazine in the waiting
area of my doctor’s office. I read your article On Surviving Miscarriage, and though it made me cry, it also made me remember that I was not alone. My wounds were
still fresh, and up to that point, I was not prepared to speak about what I had gone
BUMP
"HELP WHEN I NEEDED IT MOST"
S E P T E M B E R - N OV E M B E R 2 0 1 2
WWW.B3CARIBBEANMAGAZINE.COM
It can seem like an abyss of grief you don't know how to navigate your way out of; but there is comfort and healing to be had with time and through sharing. So, here are my musings...
On Surviving Miscarriage .
N
by Claire Harrisingh
ot even the stat
that
one in five
pregnancies
end s
through. Your article helped me to grieve privately, and I credit it with starting my
in
miscarriage
offered
up by my
empathetic Doctor that afternoon could provide any comfort. No safety in numbers
to be had. By the time I made it there from the scan which confirmed my pregnancy had
healing process. Thank you b3.
things to take care of my pregnancy. Google
and I became best friends, along with those
sites which offer weekly tracking of your baby from microscopic speck onwards. The
pregnancy was confirmed viable, and that
first gallop of a heartbeat had been heard. A still flat belly got lots of rubs from me, already wanting keep my unborn child safe. I bought
the books and the cocoa butter. Truth is, I
felt like a Mother the instant I saw those two lines on the test.
I got the swollen and sore boobs, the
ended I was already lost in a grief I never knew
fatigue...but, looking back, something just
The news of my pregnancy was not taken
dizzy a lot, and very weak. One day, in
could be felt over someone I’d never even met. didn't feel right from the beginning. I was for granted. I knew so many couples who
desperately wanted children, but for one
reason or another it just wouldn't happen for
— Natasha W. (via email, Jamaica)
white screech owl. You know where I’m going
them. So when I was ‘surprised’ with a positive
from this if you’re from the Caribbean, where
I was confident I was doing all the right
My hand went straight to my belly. I don’t
test the precious news was kept private. 34 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND B3 |
the rain, I pulled up to my gate. Sitting in
a puddle, blocking my way, was a ghostly-
WWW.B3CARIBBEANMAGAZINE.COM
their association with ‘duppies’ is well fabled. S E P T E M B E R - N OV E M B E R 2 0 1 2
"LOVING SHAGGY" I have loved Shaggy since his Boombastic days, and I was excited to
learn more about his personal life in your story done on him. He’s always been very private, and I think your interview with him was
.
nice. He’s done a good job at keeping a squeaky clean image as an entertainer, and is impressive as a father. My only disappointment
was that there were no pictures of his kids. Good job, though. It’s nice to see the Daddies involved.
Shaggy Daddy .
Laid back in the lush gardens of his Kingston home, Shaggy gave B3 an unprecedented look into his family life: from a childhood filled with milk box cars, when he wrote his first song at 9 years old for his Grandma (we were even treated to an impromptu serenade!), to being a father of five and on car-pool duty.
Interview: Claire Harrisingh • Photography: Dwayne Watkins • Make-up: Angelie Spencer Syling: Shaggy's own (hat by Grandeur, Kingston Jamaica)
— Nadeen R. (Trinidad)
"INSPIRATION" I trust that b3 will go from success to success because if you are able to do it then others looking on will be
encouraged to move forward with their dreams also. We have to find inner strength and courage, I know, but sometimes doubts do creep in and when there's someone holding the vanguard you can still hold on to hope. Keep up the good work b3, and all the very best.
— Joy F. (via email, Jamaica)
APRIL - JUNE 2013
WWW.B3CARIBBEANMAGAZINE.COM
| BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 | 11
.
Boy O Boy Limited PUBLISHER Michelle Gordon EDITOR-IN-CHIEF & CREATIVE DIRECTOR Dwayne Jureidini ART DIRECTOR & LAYOUT ARTIST Dwayne Watkins PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR Claire Harrisingh FEATURES EDITOR & ASSOCIATE CREATIVE DIRECTOR Arlene L. Martin ASSISTANT EDITOR Angelie Spencer FASHION EDITOR & STYLIST
• Contributing Writers Arlene Martin Claire Harrisingh Elena Diedrick-Lynch Gillian Whyte-Roseway Kamille Jackson Melanie Schwapp Michelle Gordon Natalie Graham Richard Graham Thea Davis M.D.
Contributing Photographers Marc Evans for Marc Evans Images Michael Ernie Hall for Photos by ME
Special thanks to Jeaneane Swaby ThruJensEyes Debbie-Ann White Louis Grant Sandals Resorts International
Printed in Jamaica Exclusively by The Herald Limited Telephone: (876) 922-2810
Copyright © 2013 Boy O Boy Limited. All rights reserved. This material may not be reproduced, displayed, modified or distributed without the express prior written permission of Boy O Boy Ltd. For permission, please contact myboyoboy@gmail.com
.
Said
He
BUMP .
Baby’s Arrival as told by Mummy & Daddy by Natalie and Richard Graham, Jamaica
It’s a journey you start very much together, and trod for those 9 (or 10!) months in a state of preparation for the absolute unknown. When it comes to pregnancy, labour and delivery, and navigating those first 6 weeks, the individual experiences can be nothing less than dramatic! Join us as one incredibly in-love couple shares the tale of the start of their life as a Caribbean family with b3.
She Said
ON PREGNANCY Mummy: So many thoughts go through your head when you see that little pink plus sign appear. Whether it’s that instant or some time
down the road, I think every parent –especially the mom- hits a OMG
Daddy: When I saw the positive result, at first I was stunned, then
overwhelmed, then happy. Immediately I began wondering if I’d ‘get
it right’, and raise a child who would play a positive role in the world.
moment. Can I do this? Will I be good at this? WHO WOULD LET
I wondered if he or she knew I already loved him/her. Something
fill you, and you move on. My “move on moment” was definitely the
going to have a child soon and there was this sense of awe and pride
fear, every question fled at once and all that filled me was this awe of
baby, but also my wife, who I saw in a whole new light- she wasn’t
ME HAVE A BABY? Meltdown ensues, then calm and purpose
second his perfect heartbeat filled the exam room. Every doubt, every what my body was able to do and an already unconditional love for
inside me grew immediately the moment I saw the test result. I was
that pushed everything else aside. I didn’t just feel protective of the
just my wife anymore, but the mother of our baby! I was by her side
this little person I was just “meeting”. I kept stopping the technician
for every single appointment (except two) and right up to when our
I listened, crying silently, overwhelmed with it all. I knew whatever
come along, but that doesn’t always have to be a bad thing. Ours grew
from turning off the volume, I couldn’t get enough of that heartbeat.
came, I was ready. More than ready…I was made for exactly this moment, and exactly this child.
son emerged into the world. They say a marriage changes when kids
even more amazing.
.
ON LABOUR Mummy: Terrifiying. That’s my labour word. Before I even got
Daddy: Labour was the worst thing I’d ever seen. You can plan for it
here and tell you that it "wasn’t as bad as I expected", but I would be
in the world and you can’t do anything for her, you feel helpless. All I
pregnant, that was my word for labour: Terrifying. I’d love to sit
and prepare for it, but when it’s your wife and she’s in the worst pain
lying. It was terrible. And yes: terrifying. 4 days after our son’s due
could do was reassure her and hold her hands and watch the monitor
really quickly, and what started out as a pain I could totally Facebook
could brace for breathing. Soon, she was feeling contractions before
my body became focused on breathing and getting the baby out safely.
and the breaks were shorter. I know it wasn’t technically a long labor,
not despair. I felt as if I had this finish line to cross and no one could
internally swearing we’d never do this again.
date had passed, I finally agreed to being induced. My body responded
through, rapidly became: “I AM GOING TO DIE”. Everything in
There was no room for any other thought or emotion, not exhaustion, stop me.
so I could try to tell her when the contractions were coming so she
the monitor could tell me, and they were getting longer, and harder but for me those were the longest hours of my life, watching her and
THE BIRTH Mummy: There comes a point in labour when you know it’s just
ANY of this again. Ever.” Then I heard this little cry, the cutest little
hobble on my own two feet over to the delivery theatre, where things
few seconds, then handed him to me. I was so excited that he was alive
time to get the baby out. When that moment arrived for me, I had to became a big blur of pain and eventually bliss. What I remember is
this: Hobble. Sit on delivery table. Push. Pause. Push. Pause. Gasp-A
cry ever. And there he was…healthy and perfect. She held him for a and all was well that I followed the nurse from the theater holding
our son without a second thought. “I’m a DADDY!” was all that was
BABY! Why is he blue? Is he ok? Oh goody, he’s pink now and crying. going through my head. When the euphoria started to die down and I
Look at his little fingers- Are there 10? COUNT THEM! 10? Yay, realized that my wife was nowhere to be seen, I rushed back to theatre oh he’s perfect. And ginormous.
Then it all went black. 9lbs, 10.5 oz of baby, delivered naturally and
without hard drugs. I remained unconscious for the next 3+ hours.
to find her unconscious and the medical personnel fluttering about
her. The next few hours were extremely nerve-racking. I thought she
was dying. At one point I thought she was dead. I was thrilled about
our baby, but terrified for her. I cannot tell you what it felt like when
Daddy: What I can tell you is this: When I first saw our son, I thought
finally I was reassured that my wife was going to be fine. A healthy
clutching my wife’s hand, thinking “We can NEVER go through
the best outcome you could get on this day.
he was dead. He was blue and totally still and silent. I remember
APRIL - JUNE 2013
son and my superhero wife, both alive, both okay…that was about
WWW.B3CARIBBEANMAGAZINE.COM
| BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 | 15
BUMP .
THOSE FIRST 6 WEEKS Mummy: I work in the creative industry, so all nighters are nothing new to me, but all nighters with no days off to recover? Yeah, it’s a
shock to the hardiest system, and after delivering a 10lb baby, my
must have always been there just waiting for him, I think. And I felt that, from day 1 and then all through those 1st 6 weeks.
system was greatly depleted. Breastfeeding went from fine to MISERY
Daddy: Well I didn’t really get much leave from work to help with the
all, the pain was excruciating to me, and got in the way of my milk
admit that my wife did much of the heavy lifting then. I’d rush home
weight fast enough, and recommended formula supplementation, I felt
wish I could have helped more during the days. I consider myself a
in a few weeks. Until we discovered and treated the thrush behind it
supply. When my pediatrician informed us that our baby wasn’t gaining
like an abject failure. That’s an emotion that dogged me for a really
baby. I had maybe 2 days, not counting the day he was born. I have to
as soon as possible, and spend every moment helping out, but I really very hands-on daddy; diaper duty, baths, bottle feeding…there is
long time those early days. During those weeks, until we figured out
nothing I won’t do to help with our son. I was even the one who had
those other beautiful things about a new baby. Thanks to my supportive
it freaked my wife out a bit. But I still really wanted to be there to
crazy, but even in those brutal first 6 weeks, I actively enjoyed my son
out of her way to ensure I wasn’t woken up so that I could go to work
cry at each other, but those were the definite minority. I started waking
They grow so quickly. From the day that I first held him up to this day,
we could ‘hang out’ again. My friends thought I was crazy. Maybe I
6 weeks is not so much stress or exhaustion, but just amazement that
of crazy? I doubt it. And for me, those first 6 weeks flowed into what’s
just…part of the deal. And he was definitely completely worth it.
breastfeeding again, I almost lost out on the chance to revel in all
husband, I soon re-connected with the joy- and what joy! I know it’s
THOROUGHLY. Yes, I had moments when the two of us would just up just before him for his feedings, eager for him to wake up too so
was. Can you ever really survive motherhood without just a little bit
now been 18 months of the level of love that can never be explained,
to clean his umbilical stump and hold him for his early shots, because
help her in the days, and to make her nights a little easier. She went in the days, but whenever I could outmaneuver her, I’d be right there. he’s changed so little, yet so much. What I remember from those 1st this new little person was really all ours. All the work required was
only experienced. He’s rounded out our family and filled a space that 16 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
WWW.B3CARIBBEANMAGAZINE.COM
APRIL - JUNE 2013
.
Mocktail Moments BUMP
Photo: Dwayne Watkins
.
CELESTIAL SEASONINGS RASPBERRY ZINGER COOLER We've found a great relief for every Mummy-to-be who's going
through the ups and downs of morning (or all-day) sickness. Add a 'zing' to long-known remedy ginger ale, with an infusion of distinctive sweet-tart flavours of robust herbal teas.
Throw in some soothing aromatherapy, and experience a flavourful journey to wellness!
INGREDIENTS
®
Distributed by Carimed
1 2L bottle ginger ale or lemon-lime soda
5 bags Celestial Seasonings Raspberry Zinger Tea
DIRECTIONS Pour 1 cup of liquid from bottle to make room for the tea bags. Gently add tea bags one at a time to bottle. Replace cap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
To serve, pour over ice and garnish with fresh grated ginger, or citrus wedges (if desired). 18 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
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APRIL - JUNE 2013
Put Anything On Your
Baby Registry
From Any Store www.babyli.st .
Making your baby registry should be fun!
BUMP
by Dr. Thea-Nicole Davis
MBBS, DM (OB-GYN), Jamaica
Dr. Thea-Nicole Davis is our Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist who answers your questions and addresses your concerns on medical matters pertaining to bumps, babies and beyond. Dr. Davis is mother
to 3 yr old Imani. She is an avid reader who, like all our contributing writers, has a passion for children and parenting. Dr. Davis lives in Mandeville, and practices in both Kingston and Mandeville, Jamaica.
Send your questions to info@b3caribbeanmagazine.com
Dear Doc, I’m a coffee drinker. However with my pregnancy now, I’ve managed to eliminate coffee totally, thinking that Teas would be a good replacement. But they seem to contain just as much caffeine. Any suggestions?
.
Caffeine intake during pregnancy can be
potentially harmful for your growing baby
and has been reported to be associated with
several adverse pregnancy outcomes, including
early pregnancy loss, preterm birth, and impaired
fetal growth. Coffee, tea, cocoa and some carbonated
soft drinks are the main sources of caffeine intake. It
is recommended that pregnant women limit caffeine
consumption to less than 200 to 300 mg per day to
potentially reduce their risk of possible adverse reproductive
effects. Coffee contains 50 to 70 percent more caffeine than tea and other products. As a
guide one cup of coffee contains approximately 100mg-200mg of caffeine depending on how it is prepared e.g. Instant versus brewed. Green tea (6 oz) contains approximately 40 mg and
Black tea (6 oz) 45 mg. Avoiding caffeine as much as possible is however the safest option.
I think this magazine is great, and your column is very informative. I wish I’d had this with my first 2 pregnancies. On my third now, and I’m very curious about cord blood banking in Jamaica. Is it available here or anywhere in the Caribbean? Firstly I would like to thank you for highly rating this extraordinary magazine. Cord blood banking is relatively new to the Caribbean and unfortunately at this time there are no
cord blood banks available within the Caribbean region. However, cord blood can be
taken at the time of delivery here in Jamaica and sent to a cord blood bank overseas. This
is accommodated by your Obstertrician and Gynacologist who will contact the cord blood bank of your choice who will then send a special kit and instructions to collect the cord blood. Once collected it would be sent immediately via a courier service to the bank. 20 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
WWW.B3CARIBBEANMAGAZINE.COM
APRIL - JUNE 2013
Two main types of cord blood banks exist, public cord banks and private cord banks. In addition to these two main types of cord blood banks, some private
and public cord blood banks provide a service called directed cord blood
banking in which cord blood is reserved for a sibling or family member with
a known potentially transplant-treatable disease.
I recommend that you contact the Cord Blood Registry at www.cordblood.com.
You can also see a listing of other collecting units worldwide at www.bmdw.org.
The day I entered my final trimester my skin changed. My underarms, neck, and bottom are blotchy and about 5 shades darker. I feel unattractive and miserable. Please tell me this will pass soon, and is there anything that’s safe to use now, that will help. Most pregnant women develop some degree of increased skin pigmentation
(colour) that usually resolves after pregnancy. The cause of this increased pigmentation is reported to be hormonally related. Common areas include
the nipples, underarms, genitalia, buttocks, inner thighs and the neck. The
.
good news is that for the majority, post delivery, these areas become less pigmented over a period of several months. Unfortunately, this condition is not deemed treatable during pregnancy as it is self-limiting. To minimise the
pigmentation in the mean time I recommend that you use a sunblock daily that
protects against both UVA and UVB rays with SPF 30 or higher and limit
exposure to the sun. After pregnancy and breastfeeding if your skin remains
significantly discoloured without any signs of improvement then consult with
a dermatologist who may recommend the use of topical skin lightening agents,
glycolic peels or laser treatments. Please remember however that these changes will not occur over night and patience is the best remedy for this condition.
Apart from my prescribed pre-natal vitamin and folic acid, I’m also taking Vitamins B, E and Cod Liver Oil. Am I over-doing it?
WANT TO STOP FINGER-SUCKING?
1.
Give your child a good reason to stop. “Let’s
try to stop before school starts”, as opposed
to “ You better stop sucking that dirty finger before everybody laughs at you!”
2.
Supplementation of your diet with prenatal
he’s tired or hungry or sad? What are the
essential for
triggers? Once you’re aware of the signs,
you can offer a practical alternative before the
general health
but also for your
developing
to know when your child will
suck his finger. Does it happen when
vitamins is indeed
not just your
Anticipate. Prepare. Plan. Get
baby and
the placenta. At a minimum, the daily
multivitamin-mineral supplement you take should contain key vitamins/ minerals that are often not met by diet alone, such as: iron, calcium and folate. In addition to these, pregnant women also require adequate amounts
of vitamins A, B complex, E, C D, and zinc. Most commercial “pre-natal” vitamins already contain all these essential vitamins/minerals in their required
amounts therefore additional vitamins/minerals are not necessary. Some
vitamins can be potentially harmful when taken in large quantities. These
include, but are not limited to iron, selenium, vitamins A and D. APRIL - JUNE 2013
finger-sucking starts.
3.
Help your child to recognize when, and perhaps why he is sucking his finger.
Discuss alternative ‘comfort-habits’, and try
implementing them on a slow and steady basis.
4.
Do not pressure your child. Take your time, and let him take his. Just be sure to remain
consistent. And let him know that you’re there to help him, no matter what. WWW.B3CARIBBEANMAGAZINE.COM
| BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 | 21
.
Diapering 101
CHANGE IS GOOD Diaper changing is a delicate art. Master it and everyone will be happier. Here’s how.
When diapering is not a chore, you’ll find that both you and your baby can enjoy the time
you spend together in this daily routine. Over the years we’ve learned plenty about diapering babies — and have gathered some of the best suggestions right here.
GATHER CHANGING ESSENTIALS Most parents agree that a well-planned changing area makes diapering quicker and easier. Keep essential supplies close at hand (yet out of baby’s reach) on nearby shelves. Essential supplies include: diapers, baby wipes, baby lotion (cream
or oil), cotton, petroleum jelly, diaper rash cream and diaper rash liquid powder. .
Since a baby who is preoccupied is a baby who won’t wiggle and squirm, give baby something
to look at while being changed — such as an unbreakable mirror or a colorful picture. Later
on, when baby is able to grasp objects, keep favorite toys close at hand.
STEP 1
EASY AS 1-2-3
Gently lay your baby down on a flat, firm
soiled diaper and thoroughly cleanse baby’s
hold both your baby’s legs up by grasping
HUGGIES® Baby Wipes, and be sure to
surface. Unfasten the soiled diaper and
both ankles with one hand. Remove the
bottom in and around all the creases with
wipe baby’s bottom from front to back.
STEP 2 Now apply any jelly, cream or powder you’re going to use. If you use baby powder or
cornstarch, shake it carefully into your hand
first and then pat it on your baby. That way
baby won’t breathe in a cloud of powder. Or,
use liquid powders that don’t have airborne
particles.
STEP 3 Next, slide a clean diaper under your baby
If you want to tighten or adjust the diaper,
the diaper up between baby’s legs, making
them anyplace on the special tab “landing
so that the fasteners are in the back. Pull
sure it’s on straight, so it will wrap evenly
around baby’s hips. Then open the tabs,
place them over the front of the diaper,
and press them down firmly in place. For a snug fit, fasten the side closest to you
zone,” which is often marked by colorful
characters near the top of the waistband.
The fasteners on HUGGIES® diapers
are ‘refastenable’ and can be opened and fastened again as often as necessary.
first. Then roll your baby toward you to
Special safety note: Be aware that even a
keep the overlap of front and back as neat as
table. So use either a changing table with a
tighten and fasten the other side. Try to
possible so the diaper will hug baby’s waist
comfortably. APRIL - JUNE 2013
simply lift the fasteners and reposition
tiny newborn infant can roll off a changing
strap or keep one hand on your baby at all times.
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| BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 | 23
BABY .
THE SCOOP ON POOP Most newborn babies have between one and ten bowel movements daily, and their stools
are usually quite loose. It may be weeks, or
You should also be aware that breast-fed
babies usually have stools of a yellowish-
greenish color and those of bottle-fed babies
even months, before your baby has well- tend to look darker. If you notice an increase formed, pasty stools. If your baby is being
in the number of your baby’s bowel movements,
breast-fed, your newborn may have a bowel
or if you notice a change in color or odor, your
will probably be much looser than those of a
should consult your doctor at once.
bowel movement for up to three days at times
frequent stools, you’ll want to make sure
trouble pushing the stool out or goes longer
the legs and waist. They’ll give a secure fit to
movement at every nursing, and the stools
bottle-fed baby. Some babies may not have a
— this is not abnormal. But if your baby has
baby may have a case of diarrhea and you And, because newborns have loose and
your new baby wears diapers with elastic at
than three days without a bowel movement, help stop leaking.
call your doctor right away. 24 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
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APRIL - JUNE 2013
Most parents " agree that a well-
planned changing area makes diapering quicker and easier. Keep essential supplies close at hand (yet out of baby’s reach) on nearby shelves.
"
.
THE HEARTBREAK OF DIAPER RASH Even with the most expert and careful diaper changes, diaper rash happens. It’s one
irritation most babies go through, particularly
if their skin is sensitive. Despite its name,
diaper rash isn’t really caused by diapers. It is caused by bacteria that react with urine in
a baby’s wet diaper to form ammonia. It’s the
ammonia that irritates the skin, causing small, red pimples or patches of rough, red skin.
Doctors say that keeping a baby dry is the
best way to prevent diaper rash. So check
diapers often, and change them as soon as they show the slightest trace of wetness. Highly breathable diapers like HUGGIES® can also
help keep baby’s skin dry. Of course, if your baby has a mild case of diaper rash, be extra
careful to change diapers frequently. Your doctor will probably also recommend that you apply a thin layer of protective ointment
or petroleum jelly to the affected area.
Also, many mothers report that leaving
diapers off a baby for at least 15 minutes daily
often helps to clear up a case of diaper rash.
Of course, if a rash doesn’t heal in a couple of days, consult your doctor.
APRIL - JUNE 2013
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| BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 | 25
.
GENIUS. (THERE. WE SAID IT.) SQUIRT Baby Food Dispensing Spoon
DIAPERS TO GO The diaper bag is the essential piece of luggage whenever you
travel with your baby. You can buy a diaper bag made just for that
purpose, or easily improvise one out of almost any roomy canvas
or nylon tote.
What to pack? Be prepared for anything with the following
diaper bag essentials: a HUGGIES® Baby Wipes Travel Pack, a
supply of HUGGIES® Diapers, plastic bags with twist ties for
easy disposal, whatever cream, jelly, or protective ointment you use, and — in a separate pocket of the bag — any bottles needed for
meals on the go. Don’t forget a small toy or rattle to distract your squirming baby while you diaper. And HUGGIES® Disposable
Changing Pads are perfect for changes on the go. They protect your
SEE IT booninc.com BUY IT Babeelicious & Taylor'd 4 Babies
baby from unsanitary surfaces in public restrooms and safeguard
floors, rugs and furniture in homes you visit.
An article from the HUGGIES® Brand APRIL - JUNE 2013
.
New Look with
the same GREAT Taste!
BABY
Let's Get That Body BACK! A Simple Post-Natal Exercise
Exercise Routine Illustrations: Rachel Wade
Exercise after pregnancy and delivery is critical in helping you return to your pre-pregnancy shape (and sometimes better) and gives you increased energy to cope with the new demands of motherhood. You can begin exercises to tone your pelvic floor and abdominal muscles as soon as you feel ready, but please be sure to ask your doctor before starting any exercise programme, especially if you have had a Caesarean section. It is important to make sure your abdominal muscles have healed before you do any vigorous exercises such as crunches. .
OBJECTIVES OF POST NATAL EXERCISES The aim of post natal exercise is to enhance the regeneration of connective tissue and muscles in support of the return to a prepregnancy body. It concentrates initially on strengthening the pelvic floor and later on rebuilding the superficial abdominal muscles. •
Health and Wellness Benefits
•
Flat belly
•
Avoid possible incontinence
•
Defined muscles
•
Tight skin
•
Feel-good figure
GENTLE TUMMY EXERCISE In the meantime, you can start to tone your tummy with this simple exercise that helps to strengthen the deepest muscle layer (transversus abdominus). It is very easy, and you can do it lying down, sitting or standing.
1.
Sit with back straight for
10 seconds (lean forward at bit and stretch the
back while tightening the
tummy muscles)
28 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
2.
WWW.B3CARIBBEANMAGAZINE.COM
Slowly relax and release the tension in back and tummy
to a concave position for 10
seconds (let your neck hang loose as well)
3.
Return to straight
posture with tummy
muscles still tight. Repeat the steps x4
APRIL - JUNE 2013
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.
My Toddler is a Picky Eater
As your baby gets older he or she may become very picky about the food they eat. He may eagerly devour carrots one day, then completely reject them the next. Don’t worry! It’s perfectly normal, but here are some things you can do to get through these testing days.
SET THE STAGE Sometimes, it’s the environment and not the food that contributes to baby’s pickiness. Try creating a calming environment at mealtime whether by eating together as a family, or feeding your baby without others around. Here are some suggestions: •
Prepare everything you need-napkins, utensils, etc. on the
•
If the phone rings, don’t rush to answer…they will call back.
• •
table before the meal starts so you don’t have to get up.
Make your friends aware of mealtimes and ask them to avoid stopping by at those times.
Turn off the TV and radio when it’s time to eat. Create
•
Limit the number of bowls, spoons and cups on his table.
•
Try to sit down and eat meals as a family. Remember to be a
Giving too many utensils too soon, can be overwhelming and cause a distraction from eating.
good role model for your child!
family rituals at the dinner table to establish a sense of
tradition. Be sure to include your child in the conversation.
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APRIL - JUNE 2013
BE FOOD SMART The other factor that contributes to your baby’s pickiness is the food itself. These tips may help you handle her changing tastes: •
Large portions may overwhelm your baby, so place small
•
Respect your baby’s hunger and fullness cues – stop when
•
Give them time to chew, swallow, and even play a bit with
•
Remember your baby will refuse to eat foods you show a
learning. Rushing your baby takes the fun out of eating and
•
Serve a variety of healthy foods and partake in them also.
•
portions on his tray.
a new food. Playing with food is an important part of adds stress to feeding time.
Expect a mess. It will make the feeding experience more
pleasant for you and your baby. Protect flooring near your
baby’s high chair with a plastic runner or newspapers. Give
•
• •
unbreakable dishes and a child-size spoon.
Remain patient. If your baby rejects a particular food,
they’re done, even if it’s just after a taste.
dislike for. Watch your reactions to food around baby.
Never force your child to eat. While your role is to decide what foods to offer let your baby decide how much to eat.
Be realistic. Your baby may never love green beans but with your help, he can learn the joy of trying new foods and the
pleasures shared around the dinner table.
prepare it in a different way next week and try offering it to her again. It may take up to 10 or 15 tries for your baby to
•
accept it.
Try a new food along with a familiar food, even mixing
the two. For example, if your baby likes bananas, introduce
peaches by mixing them with bananas.
•
When introducing a new food, wait for your baby to open
•
Make eating a positive experience. Avoid pressuring her to
.
Gerber® baby food will be with you every step of the way as your baby grows and learns to try new foods. Gerber ® Trusted by moms, loved by babies.
his/her mouth and just touch the tip of the spoon to her lip. try a new food.
Baby Basics are Best at
Joseph's Baby Shower Registry Now Available At All Stores! JOSEPH'S KING STREET | 93 King St. Kingston | phone: 876.922.4903 fax: 876.948.8476 JOSEPH'S CENTRAL PLAZA | 13 Constant Spring Rd. | phone: 876.926.3973 fax: 876.968.0680 JOSEPH'S OCHO RIOS | Ocean Village Shopping Center | 29 Main St Ocho Rios | phone: 876.974.9016 fax: 974.7826
BABY
Baby Beauty Bar As soft as a baby’s bottom, they say? With the days of petroleum jelly now nestled comfortably in history, there are so many options for protecting baby’s skin available today. We checked around and found some great products for baby’s skin. Here are our top 5 choices available in stores in the Caribbean, or online.
Ultimate Ointment by Noodle & Boo noodleandboo.com $15
.
Ultimate Ointment works by creating a moisture repellent barrier between the skin and sources of irritation to help enhance the natural healing process. Contains active ingredient Zinc Oxide to help protect and enhance the natural healing process. Soothes inflamed skin with bisabolol and allantonin helping to prevent further aggravation. Available in Antigua & Barbuda (Piglets)
Why we love? Noodle and Boo Ointment surprised us by having such great medicinal value. We coined the term ‘royal relief ’ for this product!
Smooth Moves Daily Lotion babyganics.com
This extra gentle, non-toxic formula absorbs easily and provides deep lasting hydration. Specially formulated with natural plantbased ingredients like Shea Butter, Aloe, Vitamin E, and Olive and Avocado Oil, skin feels so silky smooth the whole family will want in on the action! Available in Jamaica (Babeelicious)
Why we love? There’s something really pure and simple about Smooth Moves Daily Lotion. It’s very light to the touch, offers deep penetration and is completely non-greasy. It’s also non-scented, so it’s great for those sensitive little noses. 32 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
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APRIL - JUNE 2013
Lavender Scented Baby Oil littletwig.com $12.50
Great for soothing and smoothing. Little Twig Baby Oil combines a calming lemon-lavender essence with essential oils for silky-soft skin. Made with organic ingredients, and is nut, soy and wheat-free. Pediatrician tested and b3 approved.
Why we love? This baby oil has a great light scent, and the lavender is perfect for a relaxing massage. Nappy Rash Ointment mattercompany.com $18
Petroleum-free, this Nappy Rash Ointment forms a protective barrier against wetness as it soothes and protects baby’s skin. Their herbal formulation of calendula, marshmallow root, St. John’s wort, yarrow and myrrh powder has a special affinity for balancing young, sensitive skin. Combined with a rich, nourishing base of shea butter, carrot oil and cocoa butter, Matter Company’s sweet scented roman chamomile essential oil completes this indispensible multi-purpose ointment.
Why we love? Nappy Rash Ointment is exactly that! A nappy rash ointment. And a very effective one. Chock-full of natural ingredients, it applies easily, protects well, and removes without leaving a pasty film. Soothing Ointment mum + bub™ skin care aidenandanais.com $15.95
Aiden and Anais strikes gold again with their Mum + Bub line of skin care products. Infused with fresh fermented pawpaw fruit, this nourishing ointment relieves, protects and cleanses skin when applied topically. Also works wonders as a diaper ointment, and for limited first aid application such as minor cuts, chapped lips and insect bites.
Why we love? Mum + Bub is truly a great ‘one-stop shop’ for both mother and child. We love the delicious scent of this product. It’s not too heavy, so it’s perfect for use in our warm Caribbean climate. APRIL - JUNE 2013
.
BABY
On Surviving a new in .
Babythe Family
B
by Elena Diedrick-Lynch, Jamaica
ringing a new baby into your family is a new and exciting journey
for everyone, and with it comes uncharted territory. Whether
it’s baby number two (or three or four), new challenges are
presented for everyone involved. Having a baby opens your
heart to an entire world of adjustment and re-prioritisation,
and as parents we constantly juggle all of the pieces of our lives to ensure we have everything together. Here are some
easy suggestions that will help maintain your sanity, and bring
a sense of normalcy to the first few months after bringing home a new baby.
Schedules make your life easier, although some parents admit to not having enough time to
make them. However, once you do put your life on paper, it helps everyone stay on the same
page. Provide school-aged children with their weekly schedule broken down by activity or subject, so both parents can keep track of what their children are doing, and when. It’s also a
help for your support structure - family and friends who will chip in at some point or another
once the new addition arrives. School activities, play dates, extra-curricular activities and
after-school lessons are a lot easier to monitor once they’re all organised in a central location.
I also like having a meal plan set out for the month so there’s no daily issue of “what are we
eating tonight”. New parents don’t have the capacity to think about non-essential things – let someone else deal with that.
Routines are the framework for your baby’s day and your family’s survival. It’s a blueprint
that gives new Mummies & Daddies a clear-cut idea as to when they’ll have some down time.
My clients, and anyone who reads my blogs, know the importance I place on a strong routine
being adopted and supported by everyone in the family. New babies thrive on the predictability
and consistency of knowing what’s happening now, and next. Mummy and Daddy can also
rest at ease knowing when they have a moment to themselves, time to run errands and fit in
some one on one time with other siblings, friends etc. 34 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
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BABY
D
ate Nights provide parents with
a few quiet moments outside of the home. Get dressed up and
go out on the town for dinner,
a quiet movie, book a hotel room and just
go and indulge in some well needed ZZZ’s – whatever you mutually agree on. Time away
from your kids is important. Enjoy guilt-free
focus on YOU, and keep the spark alive so you
can continue to lean on each other for support during those times when you just want to rip out your hair. A word to the wise; treat this
like an appointment – don’t just ignore or
forget it like so many other things in our lives.
Make it a priority, organise your babysitter and go out once a week on a set day. Make all the necessary arrangements for baby’s care, to .
avoid calls that interrupt your evening. Every now and then, don’t talk about the kids!
Filling Emotional Baskets - Everyone
needs to be validated – especially your toddler.
Filling your child’s emotional basket, is the
time you spend one on one with each child. This isn’t time you spend
•
with all of your kids. Ensure each child gets your undivided attention
for that period alone. Create a 10-15 minute window in your routine,
and spend it with your kids. –They each need your time and this goes
•
cream – regardless of the activity make sure they feel special
distracted and in the end, they don’t get the validation they need. Once
the benefits of it are almost instantaneous. It’s incredible to see a child
whose emotional needs are met, and how they relate to their parents. As parents, we have idyllic fantasies of our children being harmonious
together – unfortunately the reality may be quite different. When it
comes to preparing younger siblings for the arrival of a new baby do it slowly, it’s a process. •
Be in constant communication and conversation about what they can expect, and create a realistic picture of what life with
a newborn will be like. Avoid mentioning you’ll have a new
playmate for them, when in reality it will be months before
doing something alone with you. •
Involve them in the day to day caring for the new baby – setting the bath, changing a diaper, massaging after bath time, picking
out an outfit for the day – once they feel involved, they’ll
have a sense of where they belong in this new dynamic. Don’t
force them though – with different levels of enthusiasm or
involvement, it’s ok for them to take their time.
M
ummies and Daddies are now even further stretched
and pulled in different directions, but ultimately, the
key is to keep in mind that it’s a constant process.
Striking the balance between each child is important
to ensure that everyone feels validated, and hopefully, implementing these suggestions will help to make your lives that much easier to
the new baby will be able to interact independently with their
manage. Happy Parenting!
Involve older siblings in the process by including them in the
Elena Diedrick-Lynch is a mummy, parenting consultant and owner BlissfulMummy.com, a blog and parenting advice site. For consultations or assistance in night waking issues or routine implementation email her at Elena@blissfulmummy.com
older sibling. •
away with your older children to do fun things – might just be
book in the book section, catching a movie or grabbing an ice
about their day, friends etc.). Steer clear of technology - the kids get
being polite, etc. It makes your life that much easier to navigate, and
Once baby arrives try to steal special “Big girl or big boy” time running to the supermarket and having them pick out a special
something that is one on one (i.e. Reading, telling a story, chatting
to listening, following instructions, taking the initiative to help out,
no matter what this baby hasn’t arrived to steal her mummy
from her.
for both parents. Ideally it’ll happen twice a day with each parent doing
their emotional baskets are filled they become that much more receptive
One on one time is critical for your little one to know that
preparation of the nursery.
36 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
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APRIL - JUNE 2013
.
On The Inside
BABY
Children’s Stores Across The Caribbean
May is Child's Month
Celebrating our Children in Words
.
PIGLETS – ANTIGUA Piglets retail boutique offers a fresh and funky selection of baby, children, maternity apparel, accessories, educational toys, equipment & furniture. Are you a new Mom, or
do you need to entertain your little ones? Check out their weekly workshop schedule... CoMe PLay WiTH Us
pigletsantigua@gmail.com No. 1 Redcliffe Quay Redcliffe Street St. John’s, Antigua & Barbuda 1 268 462-MOMS(6667)
MARAY’S KIDS N STUFF – TRINIDAD Manufacturers and retailers of quality children’s furniture, Maray’s Kids n Stuff creates customised pieces, wall murals, and storage solutions. Transform any room
with simple and colorful designs. Give your child well-made, durable furniture, that
can be passed from one generation to the next, and beyond. All pieces are non toxic
and lead-free. Available through a network of local retailers, and marayskidsnstuff.
com Made in Trinidad.
38 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
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marayskidsnstuff.com Golconda, San Fernando Trinidad W.I. 868-713-8834
APRIL - JUNE 2013
.
COVER STORY
The Makings Of A Great Childhood
I couldn’t have been older than seven, maybe eight years old. It was the summer holidays, and not yet time for our annual trip ‘abroad’. The days were long, and had to be filled by imagination and wonder. The luxury of iPads and Apple TVs was still about 30 years off at that point, and children still had to be entertained. JBC (the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation – then the only television station) would sign on at 4p.m., so between waking up, and that heavenly hour when we got to watch Ruff n Ready and Batfink, my sisters, friends and I did just about everything we could to fill that gap. .
I
by Michelle Gordon • Photography: Dwayne Watkins Props: Jeaneane Swaby • Laila's Tank Top & Tutu: Savannah's Garden
f nothing else, we were creative. We had to be, and I’m glad we were.
They say imagination fosters learning, but I believe it fosters a whole lot more than that. These were the days of childhood past where friendships
were formed, characters were built, and memories that last were made.
From sun up until sundown, imagination, wit and creativity occupied our days. I’d say the iPad generation has nothing on us!
If we really think about it, childhood is the time in life, where
happiness should be the order of the day - everyday. The only thing
that should bring a tear or two, should be the occasional cut and scrape. That’s it. There’ll
be plenty of time for work, worry and responsibility - later. So for now, let’s pack every
ounce of pure, unadulterated happiness into the lives and memories of our children. We have but one chance, let’s make it count! So what makes an amazing childhood?
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COVER STORY
C
hildren will be children, no matter where in the world they live. But
here in the Caribbean, we’re blessed with the canvas of sun-shiny
days and warm breezes almost 365 days of the year. What better
palette could any youngster want to paint the perfect portrait of his childhood?
PLAY TIME
“Turn off that television and go play outside!” If you’ve ever uttered those words, or a variation
of same, then you’re sure to understand the passion of a parent who sometimes wishes the
TV would disappear with the twitching of her nose. According to the World Bank Indicator for Latin America and the Caribbean, 88.3% of all households in the region now have
access to television services, and have television sets in their homes. This simply means that
more children are able to watch television today, as opposed to a generation ago, when only approximately 72% of Caribbean homes were equipped with television sets. This, coupled
.
with the phenomenal growth in electronic entertainment offered by handheld devices and
wireless gaming, sets the stage for an even greater challenge for parents to encourage our
children to get outdoors.
For the most part, we’re ‘preaching to the converted’. Most parents agree that outdoor play is
best for their children. We polled 30 parents, on 7 islands about their parenting practices, and
all state that they include at least 1-2 hours of outdoor play for the children age 3 – 12 years. 42 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
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.
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| BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 | 43
LEARNING MORE THAN LEMONADE... Although not a Caribbean original, the lemonade
COVER STORY
stand is a classic way to engage your child’s desire to
baked goods (cookies or cupcakes are a perfect choice),
to the lemonade stand, and they’re bound to have a
have fun while beating the island heat. It also presents
great day! Create hand-written flyers ahead of time
valuable money lessons – with the right guidance;
to have customers come by.
an incredible opportunity to teach your child some
you may just foster some entrepreneurial skills in
the process.
From making the lemonade, to seeing their first
satisfied customer, your children will have a great
time at every stage. Be sure to supervise them during
and distribute to neighbours, this way, they’ll be sure Encourage your child to use proceeds from the
lemonade stand wisely. This can be the money they
put toward buying that toy he or she wants so badly,
or it could go to a charity of their choice. You may be
surprised at how carefully they’ll spend their money
the process, and don’t ‘take over’ the fun. Add some – now that they did the work to earn it!
.
LEMONADE “THESTAND
IS A CLASSIC WAY TO ENGAGE YOUR CHILD’S DESIRE TO HAVE FUN WHILE BEATING THE ISLAND HEAT.
”
LIFE LESSONS LEARNED EARLY I recently saw a group a nine children, aged 3 – 8 years- own solution, with no adult interference whatsoever. old, solve a problem. They had to choose two teams
to play a game, which required an equal number of
players on each side. They did the math, and quickly
Not surprisingly, the position of the judge soon after became quite coveted!
Children have fun when they play games, but it is
realised that one team was outnumbered. After trying
also a great opportunity to teach that you win some,
other team, they decided amongst themselves, that
children often believe that Mummy and Daddy can
unsuccessfully to con a grown-up into balancing the
you lose some. In their perfect little worlds, young
one person would have to sit out the game. Needless
fix any and every problem. So it’s natural that they
amount of youthful debate, they established a rule – if
play time. While games help introduce children to the
to say, that one person was not happy. So after a fair
turn to you when something goes wrong – even during
ever there was an ‘odd person out’, that person became
difficult reality that a lot of life is beyond our control,
recognised they had a problem and created their
appropriately in order get the best results.
the official judge. I watched with pride, because they
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the onus falls on us as parents to apply that knowledge
.
WHAT’S THE BIG DEAL WITH WINNING? COVER STORY
“I tried my best, but I still didn’t win!” says the
3 year-old boy to his mummy. A familiar cry at
many Sports Days, and one that requires just
HERE ARE A FEW TIPS ON RAISING A GRACEFUL WINNER OR LOSER. •
the right amount of compassion, with a bit of
if he wins, be sure to demonstrate the
poses the challenge. If we place the emphasis
same.
•
Teach your child to congratulate
others when they win. The gesture of a handshake sets the foundation for a
solid business practice incorporating
and tell your child how proud you
Hearing kind words after a loss will
help to ‘ease the hurt.’ Talk about what happened and always encourage him
encourage good sportsmanship, and
It’s the learning-to-lose gracefully part that
Recognise any small steps of growth are of his efforts at handling loss.
with your child, and whenever you
to be gracious yourself. If he sulks,
Losing happens; it’s a natural part of life.
half the battle would already be won.
Don’t let your child win. Play games do, be fair. If he loses, make sure
tough love to illicit the ideal effect.
on ‘trying your best’, and not on coming first,
•
to try harder next time.
•
Children need validation. It gives them the security they need to be
confident in life. But it’s important to
know that winning does not validate.
Trying does.
integrity and good wishes.
.
TAKING TURNS Save for Solitaire, just about every game
not interrupt Mummy while I’m on the phone”.
way to teach them that others have needs
includes the task of taking turns. Waiting
Do you have any idea just how hard that is to
as well. It’s also the same foundation we set
imagine what a child, who wants every turn to
you something right away? (Ever noticed
success in life. Waiting develops self-control
is hard, even for some of us grown-ups, so
be his, must go through. It’s hard for them to
learn, and also hard for us to teach. But, this
is the same foundation set when we say - “Do
46 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
do, when your three-year-old needs to tell
for their balanced development and overall
that that’s when they just MUST tell you – a critical component of character-building.
something?) For so many children, who think that it’s ‘all about them’, this is an important
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APRIL - JUNE 2013
SNACK TIME Ask any 30- or 40-something islander today
sugar cane, tamarind balls, mango chow, and
what was one of their favourite things to do ‘dollar’ pholourie. when they were growing up, and you’re sure to
We have however gotten smarter, wiser and
hear ‘eat’. We’re not talking about the major
more conscious of the implications of eating
meals, the filler-uppers and the little snacks
& Nutrition Institute introduced Project
meals here… I’m referring to the in-between
unhealthy foods. In1991, The Caribbean Food
more outdoor playtime, these statistics stand to improve even more.
* The CFNI is a specialized Centre of the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) that serves a total population of about six (6) million.
that we weren’t allowed to have before dinner. Lifestyle, a pilot project launched in several
“Don’t spoil your appetite!”
Well, the more things change, the more
islands aimed at introducing concepts of weight control, healthy eating and physical
they stay the same. From the western-most tip
exercise into the public school curriculum.
of Long Bay, Barbados, Caribbean snacks
foods for their children that are good for them,
of Negril, Jamaica, to the most easterly point remain vital in the life of a child.
Think fresh fruit, banana chips, natural
So today’s Caribbean parent proudly prepares and provide balancing results. Obesity in the
Caribbean is on the decline, and coupled with
.
BEACH TIME beach days were – jumping or diving from
Sunscreen is a must. And don’t forget toys
walk, and for others an exciting family trip.
acrobatics, and water wars. For those too
non-swimmers in your family, take along
a picnic basket, or not. Good food is never
on the sand were just as fun. Children revel
can be brutal, so be sure to take enough cold
Little else conjures up such excitement
but the joy of covering friends and family in
but certainly not least…your camera – there
Just about all homes in the Caribbean have
access to a beach! For some it is just a short
After all, this is the Caribbean! You can pack far away.
in young children as a day at the beach. So
many Caribbean children learn to swim at the beach; a great combination of learning a useful skill while having fun. And fun those
APRIL - JUNE 2013
the jetty, swimming to the reefs, underwater young to venture out into the deep, the joys
not just in building sand castles and carvings,
mounds of sand, always evoked shrieks of laughter.
Heading to the beach? Be sure to pack
for the children to play with. If you have
your floatation devices. The Caribbean sun
water for everyone in your party. And last,
are sure to be many ‘kodak’ moments, so don’t leave home without it!
all you’ll want and need to have a great day. WWW.B3CARIBBEANMAGAZINE.COM
| BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 | 47
COVER STORY .
GETTING DIRTY Children who play outside become more
and assessing risk. Try gardening – get them
develop a keen understanding of identifying
the yard for them, buy them some seeds…and
adventurous than those who don’t. They also
their own gardening tools, dedicate a spot in
let them loose! They’ll get dirty, but they’ll
also have fun, and you may get some tomatoes in the process.
SCHOOL TIME I remember the excitement my son felt just
children cannot escape. School is one of them.
is where your child will receive extensive
first replicas of structured society that your
including his habits, socialisation, discipline
prior to starting Kindergarten at age 4. “Let’s
And for good reasons too. This is one of the
cute that first early morning. We parted in
child learns. Rules and regulations must
and governance structures.
respect for authority is instilled. These are
the tools to keep the Caribbean vibrant and
go to school Mummy,” his little lisp was so
class without tears or drama, and I was so very proud. The following day however, he
be followed, actions have consequences and
protested. “I already went to school, Mummy… key lessons taught in the Caribbean school yesterday.”
There are many realities of childhood that
system. Choosing the school your child will
attend is not a decision to take lightly. This
influence on his educational experience,
We are equipping the next generation with
productive. Encourage and support education
programmes in your area. Mentor a child. Get involved in your child’s education.
SERIOUS TIME aka DISCIPLINE I recall with extreme clarity, the way I was
cane from its resting place. (Yes, he had a 3
so well-planned and controlled that it was
for I was a good child. (insert laughter here)
descent to my hand). Now, please understand
Hollered even, probably out of embarrassment
and found guilty of whatever infraction I was
throughout the entire day while awaiting
me a valuable lesson. Never punish a child in
punished as a child. Not often, I might add,
Once caught, (it didn’t count if I wasn’t caught)
foot cane that whinnied through the air on its
that I would have to endure this thought
charged with, my father would advise me that
my punishment that evening. Can you say
dinner and read the paper, I was to retrieve the
his plan, because his beating/spanking was
when he got home from work, after he had his
48 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
torture??? In retrospect, I suppose that was
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never as painful as anticipated. But I still cried.
more than anything else. But my father taught anger. His giving ‘notice’ gave us both time to think; him about not killing me, and me
about what I did.
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.
Today, there are so many ways to discipline
is still practised as a means of discipline. Let
and removal of rewards are widely used. And
out such calculated punishments to me, now
a child. Time-outs, withholding fun activities, me just add that the same father who meted while certainly no longer as common, spanking
vehemently opposes any spanking of his
grandchildren. Hah!
“He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes..… Proverbs 13:24
CHURCH TIME When I was a little girl, there was a reverence
sisters and I went each Sunday, (kicking and
God, and taught about faith, hope and love;
day from all others in the week. The air waves
of those fun, music-filled churches. Ours
me together.
Skeeter Davis and Sam Cooke make me smile,
by routine and boredom (sorry Mummy),
loving parent, they also need a foundation
that I had for Sundays that differentiated that
sounded different on Sundays. Memories of
and a ‘drive out’ after dinner, became as sure
screaming nonetheless.) We didn’t go to one
was more along the traditional lines dictated
but it did provide us with a very important
as rain. Sunday School was a must, and my
foundation for our lives. We were exposed to
It’s not all bad. We often speak about the ills
effect on children who watch age-appropriate
something I believe grounded me, and kept Just as children need the validation of a
of faith that will help to define them as they become increasingly independent.
TV TIME and harmful effects of the television, without
well. So be sure to set a standard that you’re
programmes which have a positive emphasis. comfortable dealing with.
giving much credence to any positive influence . Remember your TV habits ultimately set that it may have. Television can have a positive
the foundation for your child’s TV habits as
All the trimmings of a happy childhood are
requirements of your local Health Ministry.
WELLNESS TIME enhanced by a healthy child. Ensure your child is fully immunized according to the APRIL - JUNE 2013
Provide your child with a healthy, balanced
age-appropriate vitamins.
diet, and be sure to supplement his diet with WWW.B3CARIBBEANMAGAZINE.COM
| BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 | 49
BEYOND
When you think of luxurious and opulent vacations in the Caribbean, Sandy Lane is sure to top your list. This is THE address to visit on the island paradise Barbados, where the discerning traveler who accepts nothing less than the best of both worlds when it comes to a family escape: absolute serenity, and endless possibilities for activities.
.
Escape to the Luxurious
Sandy Lane Lux•u•ry noun [luhk-shuh-ree]
Sumptuous surroundings. Extraordinary pleasure one allows ones self.
T
hink crystal clear waters, pure luxury and style, options galore
arrive with Airport Concierge and executive
attentive and friendly team that
through to the second you leave. You may even
and bespoke service with an
is second to none. Sandy Lane strikes the perfect chord whether your vacation needs
call for the romance of a babymoon or a family getaway. Sandy Lane is Barbados’ premier destination. 50 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
WWW.B3CARIBBEANMAGAZINE.COM
Your vacation starts the moment you
transportation to the property, and continues
soak up enough rest and relaxation that you’ll survive hours of flying with your toddler on
board with a faraway look in your eyes and a smile on your face. It’s that incredible. Your kids are sure to be worn out for the flight
APRIL - JUNE 2013
.
anyway, because while you embrace the
of water sports. Do we even need to mention
into a myriad of age-related activities. It’s the
Caribbean sea? We didn’t think so. The Spa’s
opulence around you, they can jump right ultimate vacation; children of all ages immerse themselves in the fun and creativity of The
Treehouse Club, the modern appeal of The Den, and the cool factor of The Lounge.
Activities include a 7500 square foot
swimming pool, golf, tennis and a variety APRIL - JUNE 2013
the pristine beach lining our sparkling marble reception sets the tone for the world
class treatments available. You can’t help but unwind and spend quality family time tailored
to your needs here, in the absolute finest of styles.
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| BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 | 51
.
All onsite programmes, available to children and teenagers of all ages, are complimentary to guests of Sandy Lane.
THE TREEHOUSE CLUB The Treehouse Club at Sandy Lane is
dedicated to creating enchanting memories for your children aged 3 – 12 years. While
you relax, your children will make new friends
and have so much fun they will never want to
leave. For the young children, arts & crafts, baking demonstrations, miniature golf, and
swim time at pool (swimming lessons offered) are just the tip of the entertainment iceberg at the resort.
THE DEN AND THE LOUNGE Teens can enjoy The Den, a virtual paradise for
13 -15 year-olds, while The Lounge entertains
young adults ages 16 years and over. Movie nights, Beach time with games, Pool BBQ parties and a host of outdoor and beach
sports will no doubt keep youths entertained.
Entertainment Area with pool tables, movie screenings
Off-property tours are organized, and
include Harrison’s Cave, a crystallized 52 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
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APRIL - JUNE 2013
.
limestone cavern, and the Concorde Experience – a thrill for visitors to the island who continue to be amazed at the airplane’s
stunning combination of advanced engineering and elegant beauty. For the animal-lovers, a
swim with the turtles or a visit to the Wildlife Reserve and Zoo, makes for an incredible island experience.
Other fun activities that children can enjoy
at Sandy Lane include games room with table
tennis, air hockey, foosball, pool tables and
Juke box. They will be sure to love the thrills
of Zip-lining & nature tours, ATV’s - rugged outback tour.
A state-of-the-art Space featuring an
internet café with multi touch computers,
iPads, and an Interactive Zone, is topped
only by the Party Zone – the ultimate bar
and nightclub comes alive each weekend (nonalcoholic beverages) where a touch-screen
song request system makes virtual DJ’s of the children. Fun personified! APRIL - JUNE 2013
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| BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 | 53
BEYOND .
Glama Mama
Tamara Lake-Mair
Tamara's Photos: Michael Hall for Photos by ME
Striking perfection between being Mummy and being fabulous is an intricate balancing act for many at best. Devoted wife to Michael, and mother to Brennan, celeb make-up artist and stylist Tamara Lake-Mair, makes it look as easy as pie! “I love beauty, which is great for me, since beauty is my work. Just because a woman becomes a mother, that’s no reason to stop being glamourous.” Showing us how it’s done is this issue’s GLAMA MAMA Tamara Lake-Mair! What is your must-have accessory and how would you describe your style? Beaded Bracelets & watch - (busy Mummies gotta keep their time in check. Brenny keeps
me in sync with time. I haven't yet coined the word to describe my style, but my ideal daily look is an off-the-shoulder anything, skinny jeans and ballet flats.
Being a full-time Mummy, having a full-time job, and being an entrepreneur, what do you do to maintain your fabulosity? I don't know what I do, I just know I can’t leave the house looking like a hot mess. I'm a
major multi-tasker, so my makeup generally gets done on my 20 minute ride to work each day. My focus in the morning is Brennan. Up, bathed, teeth brushed, uniform on, fed... fix
my juice and out the door. I don't have time to eat so juicing has become a part of my life that has had a positive effect. 54 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
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APRIL - JUNE 2013
satchel • $69.95
mode • $59.95
d i a p e r
satchel • $69.95
b a g s
w w w . j j c o l e c o l l e c t i o n s . c o m
caprice ∙ silver drop ∙ $69.95
.
BEYOND
Me Time and Guilty Pleasures: I love music. As long as it’s what I’m into, I feel it deep
within me. Pandora is my best friend. I have it on all day while working. So although I’m working I feel like it’s me time every day. Guilty pleasures.... Brie, Carr's crackers and Pinot Noir.
.
Beauty Must-Haves: MAC Concealer and Nars tinted moisturizer,
Bobbie Brown Gel Liner, Nars blush, MAC brow pencil, Mac/Nars/Smash Box gloss.
Biggest Challenge since becoming a mom & what’s the difference between Tammy pre and post Mummy? Sleeping in- I'm a night owl. So being
a Mummy has put a major damper on my mornings. But it's ok though...as a good friend
always tells me, you can sleep when you’re
dead! I've always been an ambitious person
but now I've upped the ante and so my major
shift is my son and providing for him; it’s not just about money, but I want him to know what hard work does, and to learn what’s truly important in life.
Where is your favourite family vacation destination? Rock House, Negril. It’s my ideal escape.
It completes me spiritually, mentally and physically. It’s my soul food. And if my family is there then that’s my cherry on top. 56 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
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APRIL - JUNE 2013
.
BEYOND
Happy Readers; Happy Families .
by Melanie Schwapp, Jamaica
58 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
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APRIL - JUNE 2013
I
am sure that every parent
store, we nodded proudly at any passersby
their children’s upbringing
children with their piles of books as if to say,
recalls several milestones in
whose eyes we could catch, indicating our
where they have had cause “That’s my child!”
to puff their chests with
Backtrack several years – our first child,
pride and give themselves a
Briana, loved to read. As a matter of fact, at
job well done. Well for me,
were ready to enlist her in the Mensa program.
hearty pat on the back for a
three years old, she read so fluently that we
that moment came on a family trip to Florida, It was with heavy hearts that we discovered
one on which my husband and I were so intent
on keeping our three children ‘whine-free’ on the long drives and many family visits that we
that in reading her favorite books to her every
night, she had memorized the text, and was
not in fact reading, but reciting from memory. .
Our second child, Daniel, hated to read. As
a matter of fact, he had only two uses for books
– to grab them from his sister and run through the house screeching “Mine! Mine!”, or to use
them to build magnificent towers. When it
came time for school, the dilemma of getting
Daniel to read gave us many sleepless nights, and home-work time became a sullen time
for both parent and child. My husband and
I were completely overwhelmed. How could
this curious, bright little boy hate reading
so much? PETER AND JANE WERE
GOING TO THE BEACH, AND SPOT
WAS GOING TO CATCH THE RED
BALL! Who wouldn’t want to read about
that? Apparently Daniel couldn’t care less.
Daniel wanted to ride his bicycle (which he > FACT: Reading to, and with, your child significantly impacts their love of books and reading.
usually high-tailed it straight from the airport
did expertly, without training wheels, from
the age of two) and Daniel wanted to build
to a Toys-R-Us store. On this momentous
Lego structures and catch millipedes to count
the X-Ray belt and working out the quickest
Then one day, I got a brainwave. I realized
trip, however, while we were hauling bags off route to the toy store, our children piped up with a question that to this day is still like
music to my ears. “When can we go to the
their legs.
that Daniel’s love for the outdoors, his need to be using his hands and engaging his mind
in nature, was being hindered by sitting at a
bookstore, Mom?” I tell you, my husband
desk over a book. I wrote all the words from
and I swear tears of joy came to our eyes. That
them over the garage walls. Then I told Daniel
age-related aisles in the Barnes and Noble
sentences from his book and he would have to
and I exchanged glances over that luggage, his reading book on index cards and taped evening, as we directed each child to their APRIL - JUNE 2013
we were going to play a game - I would read
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| BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 | 59
BEYOND
ride to each word as he repeated the sentence.
when they watched television, they became
Wonder of wonders! The child rode to every
cranky and argumentative, unfocused towards
at home-work time, he was racing through his
reading. We therefore made a decision that
word, and after playing that game every day
home-work, and displayed little interest in
reading books like a champion. My husband
in their younger years, we would not put
program.
they would be allowed to watch TV would
and I once again began eyeing the Mensa
T
he truth is, parenting is a learning
experience, and what our children
televisions in their rooms, and the times that be limited to weekends only. Seemed harsh,
eh? But wait till you hear the results! – Our
taught us first and foremost, is that
children began to play outdoors with each
methods we used to encourage Briana to read
and we often had to threaten to get them
no two children are the same. The
.
had to be completely different from the ones
we used for our son. We learned how to think
on our feet. No child would get left behind,
especially with that Mensa dream hanging in front of us like a bone. My husband and
I began researching methods of raising ‘A’ students, and every single article pointed to
the fact that reading was the essence of most
successful students. However, with the issue
of Daniel's dislike for reading, we had to find novel ways to encourage a love for books. One
of the most successful decisions we made was
to absolutely never make reading a chore. We wanted reading to be a happy, comfortable
event, so we decided to abandon the books
on Metaphysics, and buy ones which were
directly related to the children’s interests.
Briana loved animals, especially horses, so we bought books with animal stories, or books
other till long after the sun had come down,
"
The truth is, parenting is a learning experience, and what our children taught us first and foremost, is that no two children are the same. inside. The most amazing thing was that the
on animal anatomy. Daniel loved construction
fighting was drastically reduced and laughter
bought him books on those topics. By the time
this day, I am convinced that the extremely
and discovering the way things worked, so we
rang through our home like musical notes (To
our third child, Claire, came along, we had
strong bond that transcends age and gender
have no choice but to develop an interest in
those times of play).
so many books that the poor thing seemed to
animals and construction too.
It still was not a walk in the park, and there
"
between my children was created largely by Another decision we made was that we
would continue to read bedtime stories to them
were many steps my husband and I had to
even when they were past the age where they
One of the key things we noticed was that
to be such a cozy, warm part of the day that
take to keep the children focused on reading. could read to themselves. We found this time
60 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
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APRIL - JUNE 2013
we were hesitant to let it go. My husband and
momentous occasion in the bookstore. My
the voices and generally carrying on like crazy
our children, then went on a summer trip to
I took turns reading to each of them, making
husband and I bought books upon books for
people depending on the drama level in the
England and forgot every one. When bedtime
memory as some of the most special times I
for a story, we had nothing, so I had to make
story. These family times are imprinted on my
have shared with my children. It was often
during these moments when all guards were
down that my children released little secrets of
came and my children began their demands
one up. Well, out of that trip was born the
story of Lally-May. “Lally-May’s Farm Suss” was the first book I wrote and published, and
their lives, or expounded on incidents which
all because of those three, story-
my husband and I were entertaining at home
children.
had occurred at school. Many times while
one of us would have to be excused as three
children unapologetically invaded the party to demand their bedtime stories.
A
s the children got older, however,
our techniques had to change
somewhat, for we realized
hungry angels I call my
.
Melanie Schwapp is a writer, mother and wife. She is the author of two books, Lally-May’s Farm Suss (2005) and Dew Angels (2011).
that we had to find methods
of making them responsible for their own reading and gathering of knowledge. We tried
to direct most of their television watching to the National Geographic, Discovery and
Travel Channels, and we sparked discussion
about the things we watched while having
dinner. Whenever questions arose, even if we
knew the answers, we encouraged the children
to research the answers and to come back
and relate their discoveries to the rest of us.
The results were nothing short of miraculous! My children began to thirst knowledge and
to crave books like nothing I’d ever seen (or
had to pay for). One of the greatest gifts I have ever received was when Daniel asked
me to edit one of his college essays. The
question asked him to describe something about himself, and he stated that he had a
thirst for knowledge that was created by his
parents always encouraging him to look up
the answers to his own questions. Mensa?
Where are you?
Well, back to the story about that
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BEYOND .
Mummy I Did It…
By Myself! by Gillian Whyte-Roseway,
62 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
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Jamaica
APRIL - JUNE 2013
T
here comes a point in a child’s life
when they become independent.
This change is not only at age 18, when many parents cut the
purse strings, and teenagers want to move
developmental success and challenges that children may encounter, that
is directly correlated to how they
are treated. These stages include trust vs. mistrust, autonomy vs.
out. Independence can be said to first occur
shame and doubt, and initiative
or are taught, to do things on their own. The
according to Erikson occurred
it can come as a sudden turn of events. Either
year to three years and ages three
at ages two through six when children learn,
change can be a subtle transition, as well as
way, children go through a phase of learning
and wanting to do things on their own. At birth children are completely dependent; an
vs. guilt. These milestones
from birth to one year, ages one years to six years respectively.
While theories are speculations,
there is some validity to Erikson’s
adult has to do everything needed to survive.
claims. A child’s development is directly
adults provide the same nurturing, secure and
are raised. Parents and guardians have a
There is then a stage of interdependence where
safe environment; however there is some input
affected by the environment in which they
very important role to play in the successful
in activities on the part of the child. The final
development of children so they become
children learn to do things all on their own.
At this young age, children not only learn
stage is one of complete independence where
From I need you completely, to I need you
somewhat, and then I don’t really need your help at all.
balanced, well-adjusted members of society.
easily, but they are eager to learn. It is the
duty and privilege of the adults in their life to encourage, facilitate and support
want to do things for themselves, but also
eagerly try to assist adults. Chores like sweeping and even cooking will be challenges .
they want to take on. Have the child assist with making cookies…putting on sprinkles
is a big job!
Things won’t be done right, not at first, but
allow the child to try. Let them button up,
independence. Children will become eager
clean up and pack up. Prepare for shoes to
them a sense of accomplishment that they are
put on backwards or inside out. I did it all
to “do what mummy or daddy does”. It gives
growing up, and capable of handling certain
activities on their own. As a parent, don’t
be disappointed when your help is refused,
be put on the wrong foot and clothes to be by myself may not be 100% correct but
ensure an A+ is given for effort.
Your child’s independence is necessary,
take comfort in knowing your little one
as hard as it may be for you the parent,
Some activities that your child may
you are still needed. Facilitating this
may not be so little anymore.
it should be nurtured. Not to worry,
want to start doing include: feeding “I can do it alone” stage will allow your
themselves, putting away their toys or
brushing their teeth on their own. Parents
who enable such activities allow the child to
develop high self-esteem. It also fosters trust
try to manage on their own, while limiting
refused. There is a sense of accomplishment that children get when they can bathe and
dress themselves, not to mention a triumph
APRIL - JUNE 2013
allowing them to explore activities they can
activities that may be harmful or not age
appropriate. So go ahead, allow your child to pick an outfit to wear, polka dots and stripes
can go together if they say it can! Milestones should be anticipated and celebrated. The
such as potty training. There is a reason why a “mummy I did it….all by myself ” will leave
children develop in a predetermined order. “potty dance” exists and the “I’m a big kid now”
The stages from birth to age six speak to possible
adult, and must guard children from danger.
school alone. Yes, without you holding their
on helping themselves and for your help to be
Development postulates that
their own. However, you still remain the
Children must be given controlled freedom,
hand. Be prepared for your children to insist
Stages of Psychosocial
and equip them to make decisions on
and confidence in themselves and their own
abilities. Children will also want to walk into
E r i k s on’s
child to develop confidence, be assertive,
song is so popular. Children will not only
them feeling successful…revel in their victory
moment, and prepare for many more.
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BEYOND
Buys! We have some great picks for you Dads! We’re helping you stay stylishly comfy during delivery, and offering you some solid (and entertaining!) 'survival' advice. Who says men can't multi-task, eh? Then, have a go at our top pick for you to challenge your little ones gaming prowess with - controllers at the ready. .
The New Dad’s Survival Guide Here you have it - the ULTIMATE guide for new fathers! Sure, the confusion and stress can be laughable, but this Survival Guide pulls it all together with hilarious angles and crucial advice. Yes, there’s a LOT you’ll need to learn, and FAST! This is info for Dads, BY a Dad. No sugar coating. Look out for Mission Codes like NFU (New Family Unit) and BCF (Be Cool, Fool) and get ready to earn those stripes. It’s fatherhood, declassified!
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two Ages 6+ Got some Disney fans in your house? Here’s a platform you can all relate on! Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two takes you to the gameworld ‘Wasteland’, where your mission is (of course!) to save the day. Mickey Mouse and Oswald the Lucky Rabbit join forces in ways you really have to experience to believe - trust us! Entertaining, whimsical and definitely a dynamic challenge for Family Game Night which everyone is sure to enjoy!
K
DaddyScrubs The multifunctional DaddyScrubs in their ‘edgy’ design will help you, Dad, stay comfy and relaxed in the delivery room so you’ll be ready to assist at a moment’s notice! After the big day, your DaddyScrubs will transition to become your go-to pajamas for some of the sleepless nights ahead. For a more relaxed fit, consider ordering one size up. They’re our pick for the ultimate functional yet undeniably fashionable alternative to those (dare we say!) boring-blue hospital scrubs! www.daddyscrub.com 64 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
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APRIL - JUNE 2013
.
BEYOND
b3 Islan’dad
Christopher Ramson
.
For the most part when we think of a single parent, we almost always think of the mother. But we’re flipping the script here. Meet Christopher Ramson; entrepreneur, sports enthusiast, and single Daddy to three energetic boys! What was your first thought when you realized you were now a single parent? I thought that this wasn’t going to be such a big deal. I took the challenge head on and did all the school runs, left work early to help with homework,
and showed up for football games. But I soon realized that there is a lot more to parenting than just making sure that they get up and go to school, brush their teeth, do homework and have good manners. Many parents don’t really understand how the dynamics of two parents really compliment a family unit.
As a single father there is no ‘good cop bad cop’ played out so I really had to
change my parenting style and learn when to be the disciplinarian and when
to be the gentle giant. Patience was also something that I have had to practice because as a single father everything from the cut you can’t see which needs a band aid, to the flying karate chop comes to you. 66 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
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APRIL - JUNE 2013
.
favorite ways to bond with them are through,
fishing, hunting, boating and wrestling. If
BEYOND
there is one thing that can turn around a
tantrum, it is a pile on dad, no holds barred,
pillow throwing, all out wresting match on the
bed. And you get extra points if dad actually gets hurt.
Your boys are 10, 8 and 6. They’re pretty close in age, but i’m sure different in personality. Any special tricks up your sleeve on dealing with them? You are very right that they are all different.
The trick with my boys is learning to read the signs before the issues actually happen. Very
often, I can see the problem building and can avoid a melt down with a little distraction early
.
on. My eldest son, Shane, is the barometer in
the house, in that the other two usually follow his lead. There is also strength in numbers
so forget trying to work all three at the same
time. I usually tackle Dominic first because he doesn’t usually resist and once one is down,
the rest tend to follow easier. But the one thing
I have learned is that there is no set formula because my boys are forever trying to figure me out and test the boundaries.
How has being a single parent had to do, I would never want it to change. changed you? What would you consider your My life has taken a complete turn around, and greatest achievement parenting I almost missed out on the most important alone? thing my life had to offer. I had become the stereotypical Dad that worked hard while
mom took care of the kids. Unfortunately
when you work so hard you miss out on a
lot of the stuff that really matters, and in my case it was Shane, Dominic and Ryan.
Now I get to see every bump, every cry, the imagination, the insecurity and the courage,
the small achievements not just the big ones,
listening not just hearing, supporting not just showing up, and learning to let them be who
Learning to connect with my boys is an ongoing achievement that I experience in
small ways at the oddest of times. As I watch them grow and process why their life has
changed so dramatically, I see why a mother is so important for children so it is important
for me to keep building that bond with them and nurturing them, something more natural
for a mother. I also see the importance of a father so I am learning to play both roles.
they are, not what you think they should be.
Any special bonding activities for you and the boys?
it is the most challenging thing I have ever
My boys and I bond in so many ways but my
My life will never be the same again, and while 68 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
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What’s the best, and hardest part of being a single father? This is a tricky one because I wouldn’t trade
my life as a single father for anything, but the hardest thing that I have had to do is maintain
balance in my life. There is a delicate juggling
act that I have to do now with work, play, and family because without a partner to fill in the
gaps at home, it shows up quickly when one
aspect of my life begins to dominate the other too much.
How big a role does the support of family and friends play in your role parenting? They say it takes a village... and without friends and family to help out it would be
much more difficult. The outside support is very important because it offers an avenue for
my boys to express themselves to someone else APRIL - JUNE 2013
and one that offers me a female’s perspective. My parenting style has definitely been influenced by friends and family.
You seem to be an anomaly in today’s Caribbean society. What words of advice would you share with other fathers, (single or not) out there?
.
If you learn to hear what your kids are telling you and find the joy in the noise that they make, it will open a whole new world for you that will bring a lot of rewards.
What would you say to mothers who more often than not, are the ones who end up parenting solo? Wow! I had no clue. Hats off...
What are the most important lessons that you’d like your boys to learn about being a man? Don’t be afraid to look within for the answers.
How do you make time for a social life? This is one of the juggling acts that I do. My social life has changed so now it’s not so much night life, but more sports-oriented, and one that involves my kids. I play Ultimate Frisbee, Football and fish,
all of which my kids enjoy and participate in. I also practice yoga which gives me a chance to go within and just be with myself, and time for yourself is very important.
e L. Martin for Styling by: Arlen drennaLUNA .com rc Evans, Photographer: Ma .com es ag im marcevans cca Za n llia Make -up: Gi d select an rls Gi Clothing: OMG! OMG! boutique pieces from the
.
Victoria: Wears a lace OMG! girl top in purple, which is brightened with a neon camisole. Cami and shorts from the OMG! Boutique.
Madyson D: Is oh so cute in tie-side shorts and a poncho-style top.
STYLING YOUR GIRLS
I
recently had the pleasure of collaborating on the development of a new clothing label for girls – tweens
to be exact – called OMG! girl. The transition from designing for the woman to designing for a tween was not as different as expected. I discovered in the exercise that they are 'little women' – not just
girls; that cute, like pink, is out, and they definitely have their own style. And trends are still very
important even at that age. So most of the pieces we created still offer the flexibility of styling based on their personal taste – and each if not a trend in itself would facilitate one – like layering.
We moved from the fun of creating the collection to the launch of the label to the first photoshoot
which was done for this issue of b3. And I think this last activity was most fun. Can you tell? 70 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
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APRIL - JUNE 2013
.
Giselle: Also a fan of the trend of lace, Giselle opted for the lace/chiffon racer back top from OMG! girl. Cami and shorts from the OMG! Boutique.
Madysin C: Styles her OMG! girl cowl-back blouse with cami and shorts from the OMG! Boutique.
Nia: Wears an OMG! girl romper. And to pull in the neon trend sports a neon pink purse, and completes her look with glasses. APRIL - JUNE 2013
WWW.B3CARIBBEANMAGAZINE.COM
| BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 | 71
MA
BEYOND
DE IN
A M
A b3 IslandJMade
W
.
A IC
e’re always on the lookout for
great products made right here in
the Caribbean. Introducing BB by Simply Spoiled! – a delicate
combination of luxurious, high quality fabrics with
modern colors and prints. Fashion and function rolled
into one to give you beautiful and unique gifts for baby! Hooded towel sets, blankets and bib, are just a few of the incredibly well-made products from designer Marsha
Parchment. These are a perfect alternative to traditional
mass-produced items. Personalization also available. Check out her cute boutique nestled in cool Mandeville, or give her a call at 876-630-2233.
72 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
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APRIL - JUNE 2013
...where the living is easy
4 Hotel Street, Mandeville, Jamaica mandevillehoteljamaica.com 876 962 9764-5 fax: 876 962 0700 info@themandevillehotel.com
APRIL - JUNE 2013
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.
| BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 | 73
.
R e e h h T DmOt O o G Ka by
mi
lle
c Ja
ks
on
,
Ja
ma
ic a
nce upon a t i me ,
not
too long ago because I can
still remember it, the days were long and dreamy, the nights
were cozy and quite fantastic. I couldn’t wait to wake up. Each
morning was the beginning of another adventure, one we would create as
the minutes crept stealthily by like cats in the backyard, and, voila! Memories were
made, shared and placed on the topmost shelf of the what-not for safe keeping. Summer had
arrived like an uncle from England; long awaited and cheerily bearing presents in his plaid fabric
sack with a shiny brass buckle (a.k.a. grip).
74 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
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APRIL - JUNE 2013
sister would motorize the gate on its puny little hinges and give us a thrilling ride! I’m not sure who had more fun – she or the turn takers, perhaps it was equally matchless for we
never tired of this game. It broke one summer. The older ones got a whooping to boot, and we sought out a new means of occupying our time.
Our gate is still broken – but the memories are perfectly intact.
With hopscotch, Chinese Skipping, Stucky
and Rounders, trees to climb and water slides… there was ne’er a chance to say that something was a “bore”!
The nights were the most fun. The greatest
ones were when we suffered a power cut. No matter which house we were in, for in
those days it was a community that raised us, we would all meet at the gates, parents .
and children alike. With no electricity, not only could we not see to continue to play our
heated evening game of Chinese checkers, Boy/Girl or Jacks, but it was hot indoors,
and that, was our greatest woe. We would congregate on the sidewalk out front and the story telling would commence. For we always had amongst us a Griot of sorts. There was
nothing more exciting than a good ‘Duppy’ story on a moonlit, powercut night with
nothing but chirping crickets and barking
T
he days were hotter than any fan could alleviate, knocking on the
window like a friend next door calling us out to play. Happily,
we obliged. The Julie mango tree was often
the first stop; some scampering up the tree like a wide eyed monkey to pick the golden fruit and start the day. We, less agile, would rest on the lower limbs and swing skinny little
legs to and fro to the summer beat that was the sweet sweet St. Julian. The mangoes were
like pure sugar, warm from the kisses of the
morning sun with juice that escaped through our clasped fingers and spiraled around our
up-held arms,… to elbows – this was breakfast (lunch and snack time too)!
Our gate made for a fine swing.
It was
like a ride at an amusement park as my eldest APRIL - JUNE 2013
dogs as background music.
There was nothing more exciting than a good ‘Duppy’ story on a moonlit, powercut night
The stories were created on the fly,
illustrated in our minds eye, illuminated by a single flashlight shining up from the story teller’s chin, and animated with gestures and sound effects of sticks on pavement and
stones far flung into the darkness, landing on
someone’s vulnerability to shards of shrieks and laughter.
I wonder what the parents were thinking,
I remember looking back at them in their cliques – the sound of ice clanking against
the glass as they swirl their summer drinks – rum, (I’m sure now), in some concoction of
freshly made mango juice, lemonade or simply
neat, rhythmically interjected with roars of
laughter and sandwiched with more clanking ice. The collective sigh of disappointment as
the street lights flickered on, preceded the WWW.B3CARIBBEANMAGAZINE.COM
| BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 | 75
BEYOND
GRIP - " Piece of luggage that was
fashionable in the 1950's when the early
immigrants went to Great Britain..upon
returning for a visit in the 1980's the same
luggage was not so fashionable, albeit
functional for "bearing presents""
ROUNDERS - "Jamaican version of
Baseball... the bat was the palm of your hand,
the ball was anything that could be tossed and
the base was usually a tree, a light post or the
neighbour's parked car, or all of the above" STUCKY - A game of catch whereby you
.
have 3 lives; upon being touched by the "It"
you are rendered immobile until a team mate
releases you before you are caught again by
the "It". There are three chances to be caught.
The aim of the game is to have the children
run around and tire themselves out so that
they will eat their vegetables and sleep without argument when evening arrives.
BOY/GIRL - a game of wit, speed and
individual creativity. Still fun. Last played
December 2012. All you need is a pencil or
pen and a piece of folder paper.
JACKS - a game of pick up. Part skill,
rounding up of broods for the inward-journey each to their respective homes
by the parents, followed closely by pleading and negotiating to “sleep over” at someone’s house. Someone would win. On rotation meant everyone won.
Slumber parties meant pillow fights and all night jokes. Someone’s Daddy would pop his head in and tell us to be quiet and to get some sleep.
Summer was wonderful that way. And tomorrow would be another such
frivolous day.
We’ve all grown up now. Children of our own. And as summer comes
rushing toward us, I can’t help but remember how good we had it growing up, and how much I want to share those joys with these, my (God) children...
if they would ever get off the Wii (tablet/ Ipad/ DS) and try, at least once, to climb a Julie Mango Tree.
and part distract them so you can tell them
they missed your full sweep. Practice makes
perfect! Myth: a game for girls.
HOP SCOTCH - a game of agility and
accuracy. Worthy of Olympic inclusion.
Important aspect to your success in the game
is the selection of a "Man"... but I digress. Myth: a game for girls.
WHAT-NOT - "a piece of furniture perhaps
invented by a 1960's housewife who collected
far too many glazed porcelain roosters and doilies"
DUPPY - Myth. or is it??? 76 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
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APRIL - JUNE 2013
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BEYOND
HOW COOL ARE YOU? .
I
By Michelle Gordon, Jamaica
recently fell in love with the hip song “Call Me Maybe”, and I tend to ‘get my dance’ on every time it hits the airwaves. Well, during a recent
dance session, (whilst enjoying my 40-year-old self at an 8-year-old’s
birthday party) my son discreetly walked up to me and whispered through gritted teeth…”Mummy, please don’t dance, you’re embarrassing me.” It then dawned on me that perhaps I’m not a cool as I thought. Could it be possible? I remember promising myself that once I became a parent, I’d
stay en trend. I’d know all the cool terms, the latest games, movies and
songs…the whole nine yards, in an effort to really know what my children were up to. But it occurred to me that sunny afternoon last month, not unlike when I was a youngster, that at some point in a child’s life, parents just aren’t cool.
So here’s a little quiz. Check your weight on our “Cool School Scale”. Be sure to like us
on Facebook. Complete this short questionnaire and post your scores on our Facebook page.
We’ve got a little surprise for the Caribbean’s Coolest Parent! (Winner will be randomly chosen at a date to be advised.) 78 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
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APRIL - JUNE 2013
.
1. What's on your iPod playlist? a.
Bruno Mars, Kes, Adele, Konshens and Bob Marley
c.
Keith Sweat, Milli Vanilli and Lovindeer
BEYOND
b. Atlantic Starr, Sparrow, Michael Jackson and TOK
2. Do you even have an iPod? a.
No need. My smartphone does it all.
b. Of course!
c. My cd player needs to be fixed, so I’m currently listening to the radio.
3. Have you ever jumped in Trini Carnival? a.
Oh Gawwwwd, dat cyaan miss me!
b. I would, but just never made it to Trinidad.
c. No. Extended exposure to the sun, coupled with drinks and long party hours, aren’t good for me.
4. Do your children's friends like you? a. .
Yup. They call me their second Mom!
b. I make them do homework before they play, so I’m c.
in the middle.
I can’t say. They all wave at me from afar.
5. One Direction a.
What a talented group!
c.
What’s the question?
b. Very cute kids.
6. Does your child still let you kiss him or her goodbye? a. We’re more of a fist-knocking, high-fiving kind of team
b. Yes, but it’s quick and painless, and must happen c.
before we arrive at school.
Nope. I steal my kisses at bedtime.
7. Reading is encouraged in our home. a. Newspapers, story books, magazines, comic strips and board games.
b. We’ve got a family desktop which we share.
c. I’m fighting the electronic invasion. I encourage all
reading using our great library of books and extensive Encyclopedia collection.
8. It's a night out with friends, you… a.
Do the hair and nail thing and get completely ‘glam’
b.
I’ll probably get dressed in anticipation, but fall sound
c.
My going-out days are long gone. I have to prepare
for a night off from the children, and a fun time out!
asleep while taking the 5-minute nap I think I need. for the week ahead. There are lunch boxes to plan,
Your Cool School Report Card Being cool in the eyes of your child may not be
the most important thing in being a good parent,
right? WRONG! According to Dr. Susanne Neita,
(accreditation) how your child sees you plays a very important role in how they see themselves, and by extension the world around them.
Did you get mostly A’s, B’s or C’s?
A
– Straight to the head of the class for you! You are the Cool School for Parents Class
Valedictorian. You are definitely way up
on the cool list. You hold the coveted
position of not just having your children think you’re cool, but they’ll respect and admire your opinion on
just about all matters. You’ll be the parent who’ll have your children’s friends continue to visit even when
they’re off at college. They’ll be there when you need
them, and you’ll be in a better position to have them
trust you regarding the things that matter most. IRIE man, keep up the good job!
B
– You’re registered at Cool School for Parents, but you’re spending too much
time on the playground. Although you
have potential, you’re still struggling in
the cool department. At the rate you’re going, you’ll
only join the cool school when your children become
parents themselves, and they eventually see the wisdom
of your ways. Nothing wrong with that, but remember being cool doesn’t mean you’re no longer ‘the parent’. It just means that you’ll earn your stripes as really knowing your stuff.
C
– If you enrolled at The Cool School for
Parents, you’d be expelled for not showing up for class. Your efforts at remaining in the dark ages may well be rewarded by
having children with whom you have difficulty relating. Relax a bit, and get to know the world your children are
growing up in. It’s not all that bad. Keeping in touch with popular trends and happenings, doesn’t mean you
have to sacrifice values and traditions. Striking that balance is important, and will bridge the parent-child gap faster than you think.
activities to schedule and homework assignments to check.
80 | BUMP • BABY & BEYOND b3 |
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APRIL - JUNE 2013
.