Vivian Baby 24, March 2014 by VivianBaby

newspaper post

MarCH 2014

IssUe 24

a UsefUl gUIde to CHIldrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s growtH

t h e p o i n t, t i g n e Give them a Plum start

Guide to Firsts:

Is my baby ready for solid food?

Weaning tools

Great offers inside Benefits of colouring

The skin doctor column

Welcome to VivianBaby 24

This first issue of 2014 is jam packed with interesting and informative guides in different aspects of child development highlighting the importance of colouring, the exciting phase of walking, FAQs on how to take care of your babies’ delicate bottoms and more!

New weaning tools from Chicco

You will also find recipes and many competitions; so don’t forget to submit your entries to win fantastic prizes for you and your child from Vivian Corporation! Until next time mummies and daddies, the VivianBaby team wishes you a lovely Easter

tigieg Ray But gieg dT anB uetatim Ray and Team

Walking – the exciting phase of toddlers

Lovely Smiles

23 25

Competitions

Is my baby ready for solid food?

16 20

The goodness of Pasta

New Orchard Toys for 2014

12 14

Publisher: Lawrence Gatt, Vivian Corporation Editor: Ray Buttigieg Contributors: Claire Camilleri, Hannah Cremona, Mariebelle Muscat, Luan May Sant, Sephora Schembri, Sarah Wismayer 29 Sanitas Building, Tower Street, Msida, MSD 1824 Tel: 2134 4610 / 2134 4616, Email: info@viviancorp.com www.viviancorp.com

06 10

More weaning tools for your baby by Nuvita

Benefits of colouring

The skin doctor column

weanIng talks are back If you would like to attend, send us an e-mail on info@viviancorp.com or call us on the freephone 80073102 for more information

Saloen noW

Thirty-six

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Thirty Six The Point, TignĂ¨ | Tel: 2060 1086

Warehouse Sale uP To

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level 0, Fgura sale continues... Mon to sat shop hours

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8007 3102

Benefits of encouraging children to colour

Let them We would like to share with you parents and child carers, the importance of colouring in our children’s lives. Yes, colouring pictures has its benefits…. Colouring is fun for children, and it allows them to be creative. As children develop, we can also see development in their colouring. Younger children around the age of two will colour

broadly over the illustration. As the children develop their colouring skills, their movements will become smaller and more precise. Colouring also has “great benefits for developing coordination, grip, and strength.” By observing colouring one can also determine when a child is ready to practice handwriting.

Things to look for to help determine when a child is ready to practice handwriting

Attention

Posture/strength/endurance

crayon grip

The use of the helping hand (the hand that holds the paper)

Super Largepencils Jumbo crayons Bright, soft and userfriendly colours Extrawashable and easy to sharpen

Unbreakable Supercrayons

Here is some good advice to help children with colouring: • Use easy and appealing illustrations. • Help with crayon hold. • Encourage children to draw on the illustrations. • Demonstrate different ways to colour such as: side-to-side, up-and down, small circular motion, and staying in the lines. • Use small crayons. • Use small utensils. • Encourage proper grip. So go ahead, give your children something to colour!

Super Fibre Pens Jumbo fibre pens Super-washable (both from hands and clothes) Dermatologically tested. Choke-proof caps

Jumbo size and easy to grip Resistant when dropped Washable colours Dermatologically tested

Giotto Bebe’ products are available from leading supermarkets, toyshops and stationeries 4 • VIVIAN BABY • MARCH 2014

Correct Pencil Grasp Development

Giotto be-bè Egg Much more than a toy! The Giotto bebe egg is a tool that stirs creativity and allows an easy, quick introduction to drawing. It is a delightful felt-tip pen holder with wheels that is made of safe, certified material. The child’s hand fits perfectly with its ergonomic form and it leaves marks as it is moved, arousing the child’s visual curiosity. It facilitates and maintains the fingers in a mature tripod grasp each and every time. Unique finger guards and special angles facilitate an open web space and hand and palmar arching. A grip with all the “write” stuff!

When your toddler first grabs a thick crayon and puts it to paper this is the grasp you should be seeing. It is a “fisted grasp”, and your toddler will be using movement from the shoulder to get the crayon to move across the paper.

As your toddler gains more control over arm and hand muscles, you will see this “palmar grasp” being used. Here, the pencil lies across the palm of the hand and your child’s elbow is held out to the side.

The shoulder muscles are steadier, and your child is using the arm muscles to move the crayon around, as well as the shoulder muscles. This photo shows a toddler using a palmar pencil grasp.

The next stage is what is misleadingly called the “immature” 5-finger pencil grasp – it is immature because it is not the 3-finger grasp that is used in school, but it is a perfectly mature grasp for a 4-year old! As you can see, there are 5 fingers holding the pencil.

With this 5-finger pencil grasp, the wrist is usually held off the table and wrist movements are used for coloring. The crayon is often held very tightly initially, but as the hand muscles develop, you should see a few finger movements emerging.

This left-handed toddler has developed a 5 point pencil grasp that is appropriate for her age.

By age 5-6, or even a bit later with some children, they should be comfortable using a mature 3-finger pencil grip. At first, the fingers will be held stiffly and your child may still use wrist movements to draw and color, but as the finger muscles become more skilled, your child will be able to use finger movements to draw and to form letters.

Call us on Freephone 80073102 for your nearest stockist VIVIAN BABY • MARCH 2014 • 5

Plates & cutlery

Chicco’s cute plates and colourful cutlery help turn the weaning phase into a natural, enjoyable and playful moment. The Stay Warm Feeding Set has a hot water container used as a soup plate on which the plate can be placed. The set also includes a universal suction pad which adheres to the surface and helps keep the area clean. The range of cutlery meets the need of every growth phase. Mamma Spoon has a special soft silicone tip which is specifically designed to help children during the changeover from teats to spoons.

Weaning tools from Chicco SoFt SiliCone Spoon 6m+ First spoon is studied for the beginning of the weaning period.

Soft and flexible silicone tip, gentle on baby’s gums.

The spoon’s tip is lifted from the table.

Long and ergonomic handle.

FirSt Spoon 8m+ This is the baby’s first spoon and it has been designed to help the baby to start enjoying eating real solid food by her/himself, thanks to the ergonomic, non-slip handle and the special angle of the tip. This angled tip simplifies the baby’s movements and teaches her/him how to correctly introduce the spoon into the mouth, while s/he is familiarizing with this new instrument. The angled soft-touch tip has been studied to correctly help the baby to explore a new way of eating by alone.

Stay Warm plate 2in1 6m+ This plate has been designed to make mealtimes calmer and to allow mums to take the time they need while feeding their baby, without having to worry about the meal temperature. It’s composed by 2 plates usable also separately.

The base, once filled with hot water, maintains the meal warm.

Dishwasher safe

The bowl, usable also separately, has a shape easy to grip and a special section to cool the meal before feeding.

FirSt Cutlery Set 12m+ This first cutlery, ideal for self-feeding, has been designed to help the baby to learn how to eat properly and independently like an adult, thanks to the ergonomic handle with the non-slip insert. The specific shape of the tip allows the right quantity of food into the baby’s mouth.

The shape of this fork has been studied to help the baby learn how to use a fork without any trouble, in complete safety.

StainleSS Steel Cutlery Set 18m+ This cutlery set, with its ergonomic handle and the specific shape of the tips, has been designed for babies who have gradually learnt to eat on their own. The tips are made of stainless steel because it does not corrode, rust or stain with water and it is an introduction to babies to use stainless steel material.

The safe fork, the tips’ shapes and their depth have been studied in order to respect the baby’s growth.

Suitable for microwave

Chicco weaning products are available from all leading Supermarkets, Pharmacies & Babyshops

6 • VIVIAN BABY • MARCH 2014

New Chicco cups

The line of the new Chicco cups has been studied in every detail to follow the babies growth and to meet their increasing needs, which change and evolve together with them. The different shapes and the innovative freatures that have been studied will help babies to switch from sucking to drinking and to become confident at drinking. All these cups are made with BPA free materials. They are easy to clean and assemble.

The soft and flexible silicone spout for a natural transition to cup is gentle on baby's gums.

Rocking base.

Flexible silicone straw, with a hygienic and easy opening.

Practical detachable handles with soft-touch grip. The specific bottle’s shape helps the baby to easily hold it on.

Rigid spout with a soft lip support.

It helps to keep drink’s temperature for a longer time.

Non-spill.

Ergonomic shape easy to grip.

Compatible with Step Up.

Non-spill system. Non-spill.

Soft Cup 6M+

Meal Cup 12M+

Insulation Cup 18M+

Soft cup with its soft and flexible silicone spout, favours the transition from the feeding bottle to the cup for an easy first sip. It is also practical for mothers, thanks to the measurement scale (200ml capacity) and the hygienic lid.

This cup is perfect to gradually teach babies how to drink at table and later from a glass like an adult, making them learn the right position of the lips and the control of the liquid.

This cup has been developed to help babies to learn how to drink from a straw. Its soft silicone straw is endowed with a non-spill valve to help babies control the liquid flow without a mess.

Like us on

VIVIAN BABY • MARCH 2014 • 7

Our ChiCCO Offers tO yOu …Only fOr the mOnth Of march

Special priceS available On Selected prOductS. OfferS available at leading baby ShOpS Only!

save up tO €60 when purchasing any of the Chicco products listed below…

chicco trio living Smart Red Available in various colours

€599 NOw at €539 (Save €60) -10%

chicco trio Sprint Dove Grey Available in various colours

€399 NOw at €359 (Save €40) -10%

These offers are available from all leading baby shops

8 • VIVIAN BABY • MARCH 2014

Simplicity Stroller Syria

echo Stroller Garnet

Available in various colours

-10%

€139 NOw at €125 (Save €14)

-10%

€96 NOw at €86 (Save €10)

polly magic highchair Orange

Available in various colours

free MeaL Set wOrth €30

eletta Car Seat Grey Available in various colours

€129.90 NOw at 117.90 (Save €12) -10%

polly highchair Waterlily Available in various colours

€144.90 NOw at 125.90 (Save €19) -10%

Do NoT mISS oUT oN ThESE oFFERS vaLId ONLy fOr the MONth Of MarCh Call uS on Freephone 80073102 For your neareSt StoCkiSt…. more info on the features of these products are found on our Facebook page… Like us on

VIVIAN BABY • MARCH 2014 • 9

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de F

ing Made F

Orchard Toys What’s new for 2014

Fun Learning Games & Jigsaw Puzzles Orchard toys have been designing and making children’s educational games and jigsaws in Britain for over 40 years. With the emphasis on “Learning made fun”, the distinctive, colourful designs, educational benefits and high quality products have built a reputation as leaders in this sector. Only the finest materials are used in the manufacturing processes. The boards are 100% recycled and the paper used is sourced from sustainable forests. Orchard Toys are designed with support from educational advisors including teachers, Early Years professionals and children themselves. Orchard Toys produce games and jigsaws which are fun and appealing as well as enhancing learning and educational development.

Every year we introduce some new games and we would like to introduce you to our 4 new games for Spring!

Age

Players

2-4

Farmyard Friends Match, sort and post your favourite farmyard friends. Increase the challenge as you learn. • Promotes observation and matching skills • Encourages knowledge and understanding of the world - different animals and their habitats. • Develops concentration and first game play.

Rocket Game Collect the most loops as you blast into space in this fun, counting and matching game! Choose a launch pad and blast into space collecting as many loop-the-loops as you can on the way! At the end of the game count the loops and the player with the most wins!

Age

4-7

Players

2-6

• Develops counting and matching skills • Encourages social interaction and turn taking

Call us on Freephone 8007 3102 for your nearest stockist 10 • VIVIAN BABY • MARCH 2014

Age

Players

2-4

…And do not forget our most recommended games and jigsaws. This also helps as a guide to you when purchasing the next Orchard game for your child or as a gift to a friend!

20. Pets Puzzle 19. Alphabet Lotto 18. Giant Farm 17. Shape Snap 16. Insey winsey Spider 15. Farmyard Puzzle 14. Shopping List

Pirate Race Game

13. Two By Two

Travel around this exciting island! Using memory and colour matching be the first to build your picture and race to the pirate treasure.

12. Pirate Snakes & Ladders & Ludo

• Promotes colour recognition • Encourages social interaction - playing the game with others and taking turns • Develops game play skills

11. Pirate Shapes Game 10. Party Party Party 9. Pass The Word 8. World Map Puzzle & Poster 7.

Age

26x2

Goldilocks & The Three Bears

6. Spooky Steps 5. Bus Stop 4. Farm Opposites 3. Giant Alphabet Puzzle 2. Match And Count

Flashcards

Alphabet Match Learn the letters of the alphabet by matching the simple picture cards with the letters. • Develops letter recognition • Promotes language and literacy • Encourages observation and matching skills

VIVIAN BABY • MARCH 2014 • 11

...and more weaning products for your baby by Nuvita The lovely spring weather is arriving soon, and as parents, we will start getting ready to go out strolling in the sun with our kids. Some mothers tend to plan just a few hours out as then it is time to go home for lunch and feed their baby/toddler. However, we have a good solution for you to equip yourselves and spend the day out. Nuvita offers a weaning product range which is ideal for travelling/going out with a baby. From a food container that keeps food warm up to 5 hours, portable plates and cutlery etc etc…. Nuvita is inspired by modern parents and their babies to create perfect products that simplify and solve the daily needs of the family and improve their health and their quality of life. Here are some of the weaning products which you may find interesting for good use with your baby.

StainleSS Steel food container this stainless steel food container is available in 350ml or 500ml. it has a double vacuum lock which retains the heat and keeps the content hot. the air-tight seal is also non-spill. the wide opening makes it easy to pour in liquids as well as solid foods, plus it is easy to clean. retains cold food up to 6 hours whilst hot food up to 5 hours.

You can find nuvita productS at leading BaBY ShopS, pharmacieS and SupermarketS.

Nuvita products are available from all leading Baby Shops, Supermarkets and Pharmacies. 12 • VIVIAN BABY • MARCH 2014

multi-uSe 4 in 1 weaning kit this is the easiest and most practical set designed to prepare and give your baby food or a snack. with this one product you can squeeze oranges, grate food, raw or cooked, and may also be used as a normal bowl to feed your baby. in just a few minutes you can turn your baby’s food to soft solids or cooked food to paste.

Bowl with lid & Spoon non spill food bowl with lid and spoon. it has a large base and high sides to prevent the spilling of food. this food bowl is also suitable for outdoors because it closes tightly and is equipped with a small compartment to put the spoon keeping it hygienic before being used.

Spoon & fork with travel caSe a set of spoon and fork in a convenient box with lid. An in built hook allows you to hang on the pockets of picnic bags or stroller.

flavorillo nutritional feeder

this is an indispensable accessory that helps to wean the baby naturally and safely, whilst adapting to new flavours and different textures of solid food. flavorillo helps the baby to start eating on his own and at the same time avoids the risk of swallowing big pieces of food. it can be used with different food, such as vegetables or fruit. Just cut the food into small pieces and place it in the net. during your baby’s teething period you may also put ice or frozen fruit inside the net. this will work as a relief to the baby’s swollen gums…

Call us on Freephone 80073102 for assistance. VIVIAN BABY • MARCH 2014 • 13

: s t s r I f o t e d I u g

Is my baby ready for solid food?

A baby’s transition to solid food is always fun, often fascinating and quite messy. Here’s what to expect when your baby starts eating solids.

Give them a Plum start Is the tImIng rIght?

Before 4 months, your baby’s digestive system isn’t developed enough to deal with anything other than milk. After 6 months, they definitely need more nutrients than just milk can provide, but it’s important to check with your baby’s paediatrician if the timing is right to introduce solid food. Watch for sIgns: Keep an eye out for the following signs; Sitting skills are coming along well, as is the fine art of head control. Your dinner has become an object of much interest. Your baby has doubled his/her birth-weight. These signs indicate that your baby is ready to try solids. get the gear rIght: It’s time to arm yourself with some muslins, a soft-tipped spoon, a bib, a non-breakable dish and a highchair. These will all be useful!

We’ve struck gold Looking for the best organic baby food? Plum wins GOLD at the Mother & Baby Awards (UK) 2014 14 • VIVIAN BABY • MARCH 2014

mother &Baby Awards 2014 GOLD BABY fooD RANGE/ PRoDUCT

start sImple: Begin by introducing vegetable purees, and gradually introduce one fruit at a time, in small quantities. When your baby gets used to new textures and tastes, try baby cereal mixed with breast or formula milk. get ready for a mess! Be prepared for food spills on the floor, highchair, your baby, and you. So, keep damp cloths, wipes and kitchen rolls handy, as it could get messy! Keep on tryIng: Do not worry if your baby doesn’t seem interested or crazy about food right away. It happens! Just give it another try in a couple of days. maKe fIrst moments specIal! A picture or video to share baby’s first tastes will always be a precious memory for your family.

Plum builds speech, bodies, bones and, best of all, brains.

Recipe Mango & Banana Porridge Ingredients: • 1 tbsp Plum Mango and Banana Puree • 1 tbsp Plum Four Gain Porridge • 50ml Milk • 50ml Water

At Plum, we make sure our meals nourish every aspect of a baby’s development – the parts that help them learn and explore, grow and develop motor skills, build their immune system and communicate and interact with others – the texture even helps exercise the tiny muscles used for speech. Because if we feed every part we can, your baby has more chance of being all he or she can be. Plum Baby Food (Malta)

download our guide to find out what they don’t tell you about weaning at www.plum-baby.co.uk/weaningguide

Method: Add a tablespoon Plum Mango and Banana puree. Add a tablespoon Plum four Grain Porridge, and mix to a smooth consistency. You can make it creamier by adding your baby’s usual milk and water. Give the mixture a good stir and serve.

Give them a Plum start Plum Baby Food (Malta)

VIVIAN BABY • MARCH 2014 • 15

Walking… an exciting phase for our toddlers

ne of the most exciting milestones after a child’s first birthday is that of walking. Walking gives your toddler a new dimension to explore their surroundings, and offers an exciting challenge to parents. Most kids get up and walk at around 14 to 15 months, but it is not unusual for some of them to start as late as 18 months or as early as seven months. There are three main things which determine when your baby starts walking. Some babies take after their parents’ (early or late) footsteps. Body build and temperament also play part: A lean and high energy baby will probably start off sooner then calm babies. Confidence is also very important: Some toddlers are more cautious and will take steps only when they’re sure that they won’t fall; where as others might dive right in without any consideration. Milestones for walking Learning to walk is a series of head-to-toe makeover: infants gradually gain control of their neck and head, and strengthening their back too. Each time a milestone is mastered, a toddler’s arms 16 • VIVIAN BABY • MARCH 2014

and torso are being conditioned for a good posture and strong legs. Here are some ideas on how you can boost your baby’s coordination and strength. Rolling Over Before your future walker can stand or even sit, they will need the torso and leg strength, which typically develops between four and six months. You can encourage your baby along by giving them plenty of tummy time, which strengthens the neck and back muscles. Place a favorite toy in their line of vision but just slightly out of reach so that they woud have to lift their head and neck to see it — raise it a bit more, and they will start propping themselves up on their arms. Dangle the diversion off to one side, and they will start shifting their weight, a key step in rolling. Once they start to roll (tummy to back usually happens first), give them a hand by moving their arm over their head, or down to their side, to smooth the action. Sitting By about six months, a baby should have enough muscular

sturdiness around their spine to sit up, but still topple over easily. To steady his wobbly sense of balance, roll a ball and play catch while you’re both sitting, or hold their hands and sing a song, gently swaying to the rhythm. Crawling Between seven and ten months, babies may also start to realize that they can get that tantalizing teddy bear across the living-room floor by lunging forward on their hands and knees. Some kids’ crawling styles may look more like scooting or body surfing, or may even take them backwards. To give them a fun way to practice, bring out some big boxes and cushions for them to crawl through and under. Standing Between 9 and 12 months, your babies may start pulling themselves up on the crib rail, the couch, the back of your jeans — anything they can get a good grip on. Being able to shift all the weight to their legs, and not buckle under that weight, is the challenge now. Placing toys on the crib rail, or in the center of a coffee table, can tempt them to pull up for a better grab.

Cruising Not long after they have pulled themselves upright, they’ll take a few cautious side steps while holding the sides of furniture or with your helping hands to guide

them. If they may need a bit of incentive, place a favorite toy at one end of the table to inspire them to take a sideways step and get closer. Once they are cruising comfortably, create

Walking ’s Dos & Dont Get a push toy A small shopping cart gives a child control as they grip and pushe it in front of them. Plus, it will give them the support they need as they work their legs, refine their balance, and boosts their confidence. Look for sturdy toys with a bar or handle they can lean on and big wheels that make it harder for the toy to tip over. Expect some stops and starts A child who has decided to immerse themself in other developmental feats, such as making new sounds with their mouth and tasting new foods, may take a break of a few weeks, or even a month, from walking. It is also very common for some toddlers to go back to crawling after a bad tumble or an illness. Expect some attachment outbursts The challenges and strange new freedom of walking can be frustrating or even scary for some toddlers, so don’t be surprised if your child starts having a little more separation anxiety or needs extra reassurances when they are tired or over stimulated. And some budding cruisers get stuck while standing up — which explains why you might be awakened in the dead of the night by the shrieks of a little someone who has pulled themself up with their crib rails, then panicked when they couldn’t figure out how to get back down. (Be sure to spend some time teaching them how to bend their knees and lower themself down; they’ll get the hang of it after a couple of tries.) Bare feet are important Bare feet give your toddler’s feet a closer encounter with the floor, and that will help develop balance and coordination. (If you’re concerned that it’s too cold in the house, get socks with nonskid soles.) For outdoor excursions, keep the shoes lightweight and flexible. Stay away from tall booties or groovy high-top sneakers — too much ankle support can actually slow down your walker by constricting their movement. Do not overdress If the child is old enough to try cruising during winter, the season’s bulkier clothes and slippery socks may slow them down. No matter the season, keep their outfits simple when they are in training mode — neither tight or stiff enough to constrict movement, nor loose and flowing enough to tangle them up. A light bodysuit (without feet) is ideal. This article has been brought to you by

an upholstered obstacle course, moving some stable pieces of furniture closer to one another so that they can boogie their way from one piece of furniture to the other.

Walking Safety Now that your toddler has access to previously non accessible areas, you have to make sure that no dangers are easily accessible. Double your childproofing efforts: • Lock away harmful liquids • Secure cabinets which you do not wish to be explored by your little one. • Remove any rugs which your toddler can trip into. • Remove any clutter which might be in the way of this new explorer • Set up baby gates at stairs • Remove any furniture which could tip over easily, when grabbed by grasping hands • Pad all sharp corners, such as glass tables • Remember to leave doors and drawers shut Despite all your efforts, there will still be bumps and tumbles and more over tears. Try not to display too much disappointment or worry when the inevitable stumbles occur. Do the quick check for any injuries, but if there isn’t anything serious, just be calm and say…” Oops! That’s okay!”. Then remind him how to pick up himself, dust himself off and move on.

This article is only an indication of when each milestone should be reached. Each toddler has their own pace at which to reach these milestones. If concerned ask your paediatrician. VIVIAN BABY • MARCH 2014 • 17

The importance of milk in your toddlers’ diet A

ll mums know how active toddlers can be, busy exploring their surroundings and discovering novel things. Unfortunately studies carried out by the UK Department of Health showed that many toddlers do not get the right nutrients and in the right quantities. Between the ages of one and four, toddlers go through a period of accelerated growth requiring a well balanced diet of carbohydrates, proteins, fats,

vitamins and minerals particularly iron, calcium, vitamins A,C and D. Growing up milk such as SMA Progress Kids is specifically designed for toddlers aged 1 to 4 years, containing the required nutrients where a 200mL serving provides up to 50% of the recommended daily allowance of the key nutrients; iron, zinc, Vitamins A, C and D as well as Omega 3 and 6. The enrichment

s r e l d d o t r o f s a e d Tas ty recipe i Apricot and meal t Blueberry Oa Ingredients ids A Progress K • 350ml SM Oats • 90g Rolled cots ed Dried Apri p p o h C g 0 9 • erries • 90g Blueb

18 • VIVIAN BABY • MARCH 2014

with iron is important to avoid the possibility of iron deficiency to which they are extremely vulnerable, due to their rapid growth and limited food intake. Although by the age of one your little one should be eating solids, milk is still needed to supply all the required nutrients, however parents must be careful not to fill their little tummies with too much milk leaving them too full to eat solids.

METHOD in a saucepan • Pour the milk il. and bring to bo . ricots and oats • Stir in the ap inutes. m 3 cook for nd a at he e uc Red Stir constantly. mixture berries to the • Add the blue . other 2 minutes and cook for an few seconds • Blend for a istency to desired cons THANKS TO ERIKA ZAMMIT

Growing up milk from 1 year +

Beneficial effects of essential fatty acids is obtained with a daily intake of 10g of linoleic acid and 2g of alpha - linoleic acid

We remind you the importance of a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifesytle from the very beginning.

One of the greatest experiences for new parents is that of their baby gazing adoringly into their eyes and flashes a brief, but heartwarming smile. But are they really trying to communicate her joy at seeing you, or do they simply have gas? Babies usually don’t start social smiling until about eight months, but their smiles can still say a lot before then. In fact, babies smile when they’re asleep from birth.

he following are the stages your baby goes through, to learn how to smile:

0 – 1 Months Neonatal smiling occurs from birth to one month of age and shows no emotional content. Smiles are spontaneous and often occur while the baby is drowsy or during Rapid Eye Movement (REM) stages of sleep. Baby smiles are subcortical in origin and will actually decrease with maturity (so premature babies smile more than full-term babies). And, contrary to popular belief, baby smiles have nothing to do with gas. 1 – 2 Months At around one or two months, babies will gradually start to respond 20 • VIVIAN BABY • MARCH 2014

to environmental stimulation. Your baby’s first smile when they are fully awake will likely appear between 6 and 10 weeks. At this age, your baby’s brain is developing, their vision is improving and they can recognize your face. Your baby will likely respond to auditory stimuli first, such as music or mum or dad’s voice. Next comes a response to visual and auditory stimulation combined. The last thing to make baby smile is visual stimulation alone. 2 – 6 Months Don’t push your little one to smile, but once they do, have fun with it. At two to three months, you’ll notice your baby starts to look right at you when they smile. During this time period babies will increasingly respond to

face-to-face interaction. Make funny faces to get your baby to laugh. By four to six months, they will start to smile, then look away. Babies are learning to regulate emotions and the joy may be too intense. Let them look away, then re-engage once they return their smile to you. 6 – 12 Months During this period you will start to see lots of different smiles. As a general rule, open mouth smiles demonstrate more joy than closed. Your baby will also start to play with laughter. By eight or nine months, smiles are often used in social situations and as a method of communication so make sure to respond to your baby when she gives you a big smile.

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Talking garden table

In collaboration with

29, Sanitas Building, Tower Street, Msida MSD 1824 Tel: 2134 4610 | Email: plasmon@viviancorp.com

Plasmon (Malta)

The Plasmon Verdure Pastina Prosciutto complements the Plasmon Pappa Completa range, which is renowned for its delicious and tasty meals. This meal is a combination of vegetables, ham and pasta, using the finest ingredients grown at the Plasmon Oasi; a certificate of guarantee where ingredients are grown in selected soils from sources of pollution.

100% FRUIT

22 â&#x20AC;˘ VIVIAN BABY â&#x20AC;˘ MARCH 2014

es ch Ience U o R p nven g 0 o 0 c In 1 oUR y FoR

The goodness of pasta

Recipe Corner

When your baby is ready to explore more complex textures and tastes, then pasta should be listed on mummy’s menu. Pasta is highly nutritious and enriched with vitamins, calcium and minerals. Plasmon offers a vast range of pasta, suitable for every stage of weaning.

Why Plasmon Pasta Range?

Chicken Risotto Ingredients: • 200ml water • 3 – 4 tbsp Plasmon Bebiriso • 1 Jar Plasmon Pollo • 2 tbsp Plasmon Olive oil Method: • Bring the water to boil in a small saucepan and stir in the Plasmon Bebiriso. • Cook for 5 minutes or until the baby rice is tender. When done, turn off the heat and fluff the rice with a fork. Add a jar of Plasmon Pollo and mix well. Finally drizzle 2 tablespoons of Plasmon Olive oil and serve.

Baby Pastina The Plasmon Bebiriso and Sabbiolina are the first two types of pasta which you can safely introduce to your baby. Both fortified with extra calcium, iron and vitamins B1 and B6, makes it different from the normal kind of pasta. Moreover it does not require the same cooking time. Baby pastina needs to be cooked for only 2 minutes, whilst it is still easily digestible. Plasmon Bebiriso is also gluten free. Normal Pasta As your baby grows, larger pasta shapes such as Plasmon Anellini, Gemmine and Astrini will encourage the little one to chew. Towards the 9th month, babies can also get their first taste of Plasmon Fili D’Angelo; fine spaghetti-like pasta. This can be served together with Plasmon Formaggio;

baby cheese or any of the Plasmon meat concentrates. Although the normal pastina are not gluten free, they are still enriched with calcium, iron, sodium and vitamins B1 & B6 and all the other essential vitamins needed for healthy growth.

Ingredients: • 200ml water • 90g – 100g Plasmon Maccheroncini • 1 Jar Plasmon Emmenthal • 1 Jar Plasmon Vitello suit • 1 tbsp Fresh Ricotta foR todaBle d fRoM 1

Junior Pasta (10 months +) By now your baby would have learnt to chew chunkier food and is getting used to different textures. Another two varieties can be introduced from 10 months onwards; these are the Plasmon Maccheroncini and Plasmon Pennette. These could easily be served with tomato sauce together with a jar of meat concentrate; the Italian style for babies.

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Method: • Preheat oven to 180°C. • Bring the water to boil in a small saucepan and stir in the Plasmon Maccheroncini. • Cook the pasta for 8 minutes or until it is ‘al dente’. Drain the pasta and add the Plasmon Emmenthal, Vitello and ricotta. Give the mixture a good stir until all the ingredients are well combined. Drizzle some Plasmon Olive oil and spoon the mixture into an ovenproof dish. Bake for 10 – 15 minutes or until golden. Serve.

VIVIAN BABY • MARCH 2014 • 23

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Baby’s bottom is sometimes red, Bioderma explainsexplains Baby’s bottom is sometimes red, Bioderma what towhat do totoprevent and cure if there already a rash a ra do to prevent and cure ifisthere is already NATURAL MECHANISMS ARE THE IDEAL MODEL NATURAL MECHANISMS ARE THE IDEAL MODEL

Keeping the sensitive skin of a newborn or toddler as smooth as, well, a baby’s bum, isn’t always Keeping the sensitive skin of a newborn or toddler as smooth as, well, a so easy in our hot and sticky climate. The nappy alone is bum, isn’t always so easy in our hot and sticky climate. The nappy a restrictive and hot, but add a few moist deposits into the mix and it’s no wonder little ones suffer restrictive and hot, but add a few moist deposits into the mix and it’s no w from nappy rash. Added to this is the fact that lots of little ones suffer from nappy rash. Added to this is the fact that manufacturers add a cocktail of chemicals to their baby products, which could manufacturers add a cocktail of chemicals to their baby products, which increase the sensitivity and irritation of bub’s skin. Hidden fragrances, parabans increase the sensitivity and irritation of bub’s skin. Hidden fragrances, pa and preservatives are all nasties that should be kept away from the delicate skins of our little ones. and preservatives are all nasties that should be kept away from the delica of our little ones.

ACTIVE INGREDIENTS THAT ARE 100% SAFE & ACTIVE INGREDIENTS THAT ARE 100% SAFE & 100% APPROVED BY THE SKIN! 100% APPROVED BY THE SKIN!

Thankfully, the experts at Bioderma know exactly how much care is required to Thankfully, the experts at Bioderma know exactly how much care is requ keep young skin healthy, which is why they’d developed the ABCDerm range keep young skin healthy, which is why they’d developed the ABCDerm for babies and tots who are still at the nappy stage. BIODERMA skincare avoids for babies and tots who are still at the nappy stage. BIODERMA skincare the use of any and all chemical substances, which are not natural to the skin and the use of any and all chemical substances, which are not natural to the s opts for 100 percent pure biomimetic active ingredients that respect its natural opts for 100 percent pure biomimetic active ingredients that respect its biological balance. In search of the perfect combination of tolerance and biological balance. In search of the perfect combination efﬁcacy, ingredients are carefully selected in limited amounts, thus making of toleran efﬁcacy, ingredients are carefully selected in limited amounts, thus them tolerable by the most sensitive skin types. them tolerable by the most sensitive skin types.

ABCDerm A DERMO-PEDIATRIC INNOVATION ABCDerm A DERMO-PEDIATRIC INNOVAT To avoid or to treat red and sometimes painful bottoms, Laboratoire

To avoid or to treat red and sometimes painful bottoms, Labor Bioderma offers two high-tolerance and high-safety cares for prevention and Bioderma offers two high-tolerance and high-safety cares for preventio healing. healing.

Change preventif (Preventive cream for diaper rash) Change preventif (Preventive cream for diaper rash) Offering protection and insulation, this gentle and creamy emulsion

Offering protection and insulation, this gentle and creamy emuls (Vaseline/ Glycerin oil-based W/O galenic product) is able to insulate the (Vaseline/ Glycerin oil-based W/O galenic product) is able to insulate skin against dirt and prevent redness and irritation by protecting the skin. skin against dirt and prevent redness and irritation by protecting the sk

Change intensif (Water paste for diaper rash) Change intensif (Water paste for diaper rash) Non-occlusive insulation, the water paste is extremely absorbent thanks to

Non-occlusive insulation, the water paste is extremely absorbent thank its white clay kaolin (mineral powder talc) which avoids prolonged its white clay kaolin (mineral powder talc) which avoids prolong contact with dirt. Its purifying agents prevent secondary infection and its contact with dirt. Its purifying agents prevent secondary infection and complex of active ingredients made of Zinc oxide, D-Panthenol vitamin complex of active ingredients made of Zinc oxide, D-Panthenol vitam B5 extract / Glycerine quickly calms redness and accelerates epidermal reconstruction. B5 extract / Glycerine quickly calms redness and accelerates epiderm reconstruction.

ABCDerm top tips for a beautiful bum

ABCDerm top tips for a beautiful bum Stemming from BIODERMA research Stemming from BIODERMA research To avoid nappy rash, perform these simple daily steps:

Change preventif (Preventive cream for diaper rash)Change preventif (Preventive cream for diaper rash)

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To avoid nappy rash, perform these simple daily steps: • Change baby very often. • Change baby very often.bottom with • During each diaper change, clean baby’s • During each diaper change, clean baby’s bottom with soap-free, hypoallergenic products and apply a preventative soap-free, hypoallergenic products and apply a preventative cream that insulates skin against stool and urine. cream that insulates skin against stool and urine. • Leave baby’s bottom uncovered as much as possible. • Leave baby’s bottom uncovered as much as possible. What if there already is a rash? What if there already is a rash? • Change baby more frequently. • Change baby inside more frequently. • Dry baby’s skin well (including folds). • Dry baby’s skin well (including inside each folds). • Apply a cream that soothes, insulates and repairs during • Apply a cream that soothes, insulates and repairs during each diaper change. diaper change.

ABCDerm products are available exclusively in pharmacies across the GCC. ABCDerm products are available exclusively in pharmacies across the G

24 • VIVIAN BABY • MARCH 2014

The skin doctor column b Y

b I O D e r M A

Q What are the common skin conditions that affect babies in Malta? A Two of the most common skin rashes in babies and children are nappy or diaper rash, a common form of inflamed skin (dermatitis) that appears as a patchwork of bright red skin on your baby’s bottom, and atopic dermatitis, a chronic problem causing dry skin, intense itching, and a raised rash. The prevalence of atopic dermatitis in paediatric ranges between 20 and 35 percent. Other skin diseases that affect babies and children are ringworm, heat rash and contact dermatitis.

Q What causes nappy/diaper rash? A It is commonly linked to continuously wet or infrequently changed diapers, diarrhoea, and using plastic pants to cover diapers. Nappy rash may also develop when a breastfeeding mother eats certain foods that the baby is allergic to. Also a rash in the nappy area might be caused by friction and irritants, such as a new brand of disposable nappy, can irritate your baby’s bottom as well as ingredients found in some baby lotions and powders.

Q What are some of the signs and symptoms of nappy rash? A Nappy rash is marked by red, puffy and tender-looking skin in the nappy region – buttocks, thighs and genitals. Your baby may also seem uncomfortable, especially during nappy changes. A baby with a nappy rash often fusses or cries when the nappy area is washed or touched.

Q How can it be prevented? A A few simple strategies can help decrease the likelihood of nappy rash developing on your baby’s skin: change nappies often, rinse your baby’s bottom with water each time you change the nappy. Moist wash cloths and cotton balls can be used to clean the skin if it’s not possible to use water. Don’t use wipes that contain alcohol (it dries the skin) or fragrance (chemicals irritate the skin). Avoid rubbing as it can further irritate the skin, instead pat your baby’s bottom dry with a clean towel. If your baby gets rashes often, apply a barrier ointment that contains zinc oxide, or petroleum jelly, which helps minimise urine and faecal contact with the skin during each nappy change to prevent skin irritation. Always wash your hands after changing a nappy to prevent the spread of bacteria or yeast to other parts of your baby’s body.

Q Which treatment options are available? A The best treatment for nappy rash is to keep your baby’s skin as clean and dry as possible. If your baby’s nappy rash persists during home treatment, your doctor may prescribe an anti-fungal cream.

Q What are the trigger factors for atopic eczema or atopic dermatitis? A The triggers include contact irritants, for example soaps, solvents, wool clothing, mechanical irritants, detergents, preservatives and perfumes; aeroallergens like house dust mites, moulds, pollen, animal dander, and food allergies. The most common food allergies are eggs, soy, milk, wheat, fish, shellfish, and peanut, which together account for 90 per cent of food-induced cases of atopic dermatitis.

Q What are the signs and symptoms? A In mild cases, eczema is nothing more than a slightly irritating patch of sore skin, but in severe cases extensive areas of skin may become inflamed and unbearably itchy. Up to half of all babies with widespread atopic eczema will later develop asthma and rhinitis as the eczema improves. The common symptoms are redness and swelling, usually with illdefined margins; papules, vesicles, and large blisters; cracking and scaling of the skin; and itching in and around the lesion.

Q What can be done to control the condition? A Doing a special skin-prick test for environmental and food allergens is helpful because once an allergen has been identified, practical steps can be taken to avoid it. Try the following: • Minimise skin contact with chemicals and dirt as they aggravate eczema. • Vacuum carpets and wash your baby’s bedding at least once a week. • Wash fluffy toys regularly to minimise the accumulation of dust mites. A reduction in house dust mites reduces the severity of eczema. • Avoid using soap to wash your baby as it’s harsh and can irritate the skin, instead use aqueous cream • Moisturise your baby’s skin after a bath to retain water in the skin. VIVIAN BABY • MARCH 2014 • 25

Mummy’s

Competition

Which of the following Plasmon Baby Pasta is gluten free? A: Plasmon Sabbiolina B: Plasmon Bebriso C: Plasmon Pennette Send an SMS with your answer to 5061 9615 by not later than 30 April 2014 along with your name & surname. Each SMS costs 28c The first drawn correct answer wins e30 worth of Plasmon products.

COMPETITION

Word Search u

There will be three winners, the first will receive a Nuvita 350ml Food Container, second will receive a Bowl with lid and spoon and the third will receive a Spoon & Fork with Travel case. 26 • VIVIAN BABY • MARCH 2014

Complete the word search by finding the following words: ChiCCo weaning nuvita orChard puzzle games Cups plates Cutlery giotto fila Colour offers food Crayons

send your word search to: Chicco Word Search Vivian Corporation 29, Sanitas Building Tower Street, Msida MSD 1824 by not later than 30 april 2014, along with your name and surname.

COMPETITION

answer the following question:

Which ABCDerm product is used to prevent nappy rash? the first 10 correct answers win an ABCDerm Relaxing Bath Oil worth €16! Send an SMS with your answer to 5061 9615 by not later than 30 April 2014 along with your name & surname. Each SMS costs 28c

COMPETITION

Give them a Plum start

Which of the following signs indicate that your baby is ready to try solids? 1: Smiling 2: Crawling 3: Good Head Control and a growing appetite Send an SMS with your answer to 5061 9615 by not later than 30 April 2014 along with your name & surname. Each SMS costs 28c. The first drawn correct answer wins e30 worth of Plum products.

COMP ET WINNITION ERS ISS uE

aBC derm Competition: Susan Magro • Chicco Competition: ms Caruana from mqabba giotto Bebe: ms fenech from mosta, ms grech from m’Xlokk and ms falzon from Kirkop plasmon mummy’s Competition: Karen Micallef • thirty six Competition: sachalee Cascun sma Competition: alan saliba gauci • sma recipe Competition: erika zammit

29 Sanitas Building, Tower Street, Msida, MSD 1824, Tel: 2134 4610 / 2134 4616, Email: info@viviancorp.com

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