My Child Magazine June 2019 Issue

10 tips for sex

during

pregnancy

Tips

to choosing

baby

names

KANGAROO MOTHERS the benefits

Pregnancy

after 35 ISSUE 93 - JUNE 2019

8

12

68

CONTENTS FEATURED ARTICLES

EVERY MONTH

YOUR CHILD

8

6

EDITORS LETTER

56

7

EDITOR PICKS

ARE YOU READY TO BE A PARENT?

12

UNUSUAL PREGNANCY COMPLAINTS

16

PREGNANCY AFTER 35

56

20

IVF - PROS AND CONS

72

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INSPIRING READS TALKING TO TODDLERS FOR HIGHER INTELLIGENCE

DATE NIGHTS POST-KIDS: HOW TO MAKE IT PART OF YOUR ROUTINE.

TALKING TO TODDLERS FOR HIGHER INTELLIGENCE WHY WON’T MY CHILD LISTEN?

PREGNANCY

12

UNUSUAL PREGNANCY COMPLAINTS

32

SEX DURING PREGNANCY

LIFESTYLE

68 56

100 124 96

GET THE LOOK – INTERIORS RECIPES

BOOK REVIEWS

SHOPPING

7 92 110

PRODUCTS WE LOVE TOY REVIEWS

FASHION

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EDITOR BIANCA MEDINA

ASSISTANT EDITOR CAROLINE MEYER

ART DIRECTOR NICOLE CAYABYAB

CONTRIBUTING EXPERTS AMY ADENEY SHEREE HODDINETT KARLI STEENKAMP LANCE GREEN ANNIE WYLIE KYLIE KADEN

EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES EDITORIAL@MYCHILDMAGAZINE.COM.AU

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES ADVERTISING@MYCHILDMAGAZINE.COM.AU

CONTACT: MYCHILD MAGAZINE PHONE: 0411 572 877

My Child magazine and mychildmagazine.com.au are wholly owned by MyChild Magazine (ABN 79 167 787 662). No other parties or individuals have any financial interest in the company or in My Child or mychildmagazine.com.au. My Child contains general information only and does not purport to be a substitute for health and parenting advice. Readers are advised to seek a doctor for all medical and health matters. The publisher and authors do not accept any liability whatsoever in respect of an action taken by readers in reliance on the recommendations set out in this magazine. Reproduction of any material without written permission by the publisher is strictly forbidden. We cannot accept responsibility for material lost or damaged in the post or for any unsolicited manuscripts and photographs. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders.

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EDITOR’S LETTER

Hi Everyone, It’s crazy how much I actually love this issue, the Pregnancy Issue!

Although I hated being pregnant at the time, I now remember it with so much fondness. I remember the miracle of growing a little human, the feeling of her kicking and moving around in her tiny quarters. The cravings, WOW those were intense.... the excitement of knowing that in 9 months I was going to become a Mama. Oh yes, it really was magical.

Saying all that there is also the other side of pregnancy. There are the aches and pains, the body changes plus one fact that nobody tells you, tha your nipples will turn into pancakes! Pregnancy is not all rainbows and unicorns; some parts really suck! I had early onset oedema at 4 months and then I had Symphysis Pubis Disorder (SPD) at 7 months of pregnancy. The Odema was bad, it made my feet and legs feel like the skin was going to burst but the SPD was what made me say I’d never have another baby it was so painful. However, the saying that time heals all wounds is actually true and now after 4 years I think I want another baby, actually I definitely do want another baby!!

Now let’s take a look at what’s in the June Issue. This month is issue is themed around Pregnancy.

We have some must read articles: Are you ready to be a parent?, IVF - Pros and Cons, Tips to choosing baby names, Unusual pregnancy complaints and Pregnancy after 35. Plus many more like: Sex during pregnancy, What is a birth plan?, Kangaroo care - the benefits, Talking to toddlers for higher intelligence, Why won’t my child listen?, Learning to do your daughter’s hair as well as Date Nights Post-Kids: How to Make It Part of Your Routine.

All the usuals, interior, reviews blog and much more can also be found in this issue too.

Until next month

Bianca xxx

and the My Child Team

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EDITOR’S PICKS 1

6

5

4

7

3

2

8

9

10

1. Boar Bristle Hair Brush FOR $49.00 at shhhsilk.com.au 2. Lanham Silk Pillowcase FOR $72.00 at sheridan.com.au 3. Merino Wool Snood FOR $18.00 at kmart.com.au 4. Diary of a Crap Housewife FOR $14.95 at booktopia.com.au 5. Menstrual Cup FOR $35.95 at pelvi.com 6. CONVERSE ONE STAR AFTER PARTY LOW FOR $99.00 at platypusshoes.com.au 7. Marvel Captain America 6V Muscle Car FOR $199.00 at Target.com.au 8. The Adventures of Captain Underpants FOR $8.00 at bigw.com.au 9. Limited Edition Ginger Hand Wash FOR $13.00 at thebodyshop.com 10. Tefal ClipsoMinut Perfect Pressure Cooker 9L FOR $379.99 at house.com.au June 2019 | mychild

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FEATURED ARTICLES

Are you ready

TO BE A PARENT?

Written by Caroline Meyer

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No matter how many quizzes and questionnaires you fill in which attempt to tell you statistically if you are ready to be a parent, at the end of the day, no one can tell you for sure. No one can say how you will manage when you are sleep deprived and when the finances are really tight from all the extra expenses. No one can guess how your body will react to the pregnancy and the recovery afterwards. No one can advise you of your ability to deal with everything that bringing another life in to the world entails. And at the end of the day, you can only do so much to prepare. Here are a few questions you may want to ask yourself before deciding to go ahead and conceive, but remember, at the end of the day, it is a personal decision that no one else can make for you.

Are your reasons the right reasons?

A child should not be brought in to the world to try and solve a problem. Don’t have a child to try and save a relationship, to receive an inheritance or to stop everyone nagging at you about it. This generally brings more stress and strain and seldom solves the problem and you still have to bring up your baby. Your baby should also not be a substitute for love that has been lost. Yes, your child will probably love you, but they should be the ones being filled with love instead of being responsible for filling a gap in your own life. Your child should be wanted and you should be committed to spending the next part of your life taking care of your child and raising them up as best you can.

Are you ready to make sacrifices?

Are you ready to give up your time to a little person as often as they need it? Are you ready to stop doing things spontaneously? Can you commit to a schedule for your baby’s sake?

Can you give them your full attention 24/7 if that is what they need? You may also have to sacrifice that new pair of shoes or mobile phone so your little one can go on a school outing or get braces fitted. You have to be willing to put your needs second to that of your child for as long as they may need you to.

Are you ready to love unconditionally?

Many of us still need to spend time working on ourselves and letting go of emotional pain so that we can fully love again. Many people come from background of being abused, hurt, damaged emotionally and even physically. That can hamper your ability to love someone unconditionally. You have to be ready to give love and nurture a little one before you decide to have a baby.

Are you able to take care of yourself?

This may sound a bit silly, but many people do not put effort in to their own health and wellbeing. You have to be prepared to take care of your own emotional and physical self so that you can be the best possible parent to your child and you do not put your life at risk by falling pregnant. If you are physically healthy and emotionally stable, you are better able to support and care for your child.

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Are you ready to parent?

There are no instruction manuals. You can read as many baby books as you want, with many conflicting ideas and opinions. You baby may be stereotypical or may fall on any side of the norm or be a combination of behaviours. Your child will test your limits in various ways and how will you learn to cope? Do you have any mentors or people you look up to that have children? Are you part of any parental support groups that may be able to give you advice? Can you join any local parent education groups to get help? You may be able to cope perfectly on your own, but if not, it is good to have some type of support to help you.

Can your relationship handle a third?

While many single parents are able to raise healthy, stable children it is good to have support of people that can offer nurturing and love, beyond the parent. When you bring a baby in to a relationship, you need to be ready for the relationship to take a bit of a back seat in the first year of your baby’s life. Sleep deprivation, lack of funds and time can stretch a relationship very thin. You need to be committed to each other and your progeny, be able to work together as a team and be able to talk to each other and support each other. If your relationship is already under a lot of strain, bringing a child in to the mix may stress both of you to breaking point.

Can you afford a baby?

Babies are expensive. Even if you breastfeed, there are many other costs such as clothing, medical expenses, education and so forth. On average it costs around AUD 300,000.00 plus to raise a baby from birth to 18 years without any subsidies. You also have to know that you have a cushion in the event of one of you losing your job or becoming ill, so that you can still take care of your child adequately. This is the ideal situation though and may not always be possible, but it is something to consider so that your family does not have to suffer due to lack of finances.

These are just considerations and no one can actually decide for you if you are ready to have a baby. If you really want to have a baby and you are not bending to societal pressure or the fear of time running out for your fertility and you feel you are ready, don’t let any article or quiz tell you differently. For the most part, most mothers figure it out as they go along.

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FEATURED ARTICLES

Unusual

Pregnancy Complaints D

uring your pregnancy you body undergoes a lot ofchanges both internally and externally.

Most of these changes are expected such as your belly growing and the hormones changing.

Some of these are a little more unexpected.

We look at some of the common complaints during pregnancy as well as some that are a little more unusual.

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Common complaints include: Acne: While some women have a clear, glowing complexion during pregnancy, for others the opposite is true. From blackheads, to whiteheads to blind pimples (raised, red, painful bumps) or a combination of these, hormones can trigger flare ups of the skin. This is generally due to an excess production of oil due to hormone fluctuations. These can appear on the shoulders, neck, face and back, an occasionally in other areas. Avoid acne remedies with salicylic acid to treat your acne.

Try sticking to drinking water and using a mild cleanser and a moisturiser that does not clog your pores. You can also make masks from common household ingredients such as honey and oats to treat your acne naturally.

Backache: Your ligaments loosen up naturally during pregnancy to prepare for birthing your baby.

Your posture is also altered due to the bump you are carrying. Both of these issues can contribute to backache. Try to sit in a comfortable chair which has a backrest to support your back and avoid standing for long periods of time. Rest often and elevate your legs when possible. Do not lift heavy objects while pregnant. A good massage while sitting can also help relieve some of the backache.

Constipation: The increase in hormones in your body can also cause the walls of the stomach and intestines to relax. This means that digestion is slower. Your blood volume also increases. This means you have to drink plenty of fluids in order to keep up. The occasional prune can also help move things along. Do not use laxatives. Speak to your doctor about alternatives if this becomes a problem for you as straining can result in haemorrhoids.

Cramps: Muscle cramps in legs, thighs and feet are very common during pregnancy. While the cause is not established, it is suspected that there is extra pressure on the blood vessels and nerves in the lower body which can cause these cramps. You can try stretch the muscle out or massage it when the cramps hit. You can ask your partner to help you with this if you can’t reach.

Make sure you have enough calcium, phosphorous and potassium in your diet as this may also affect the muscle spasms.

Urination: This is a constant issue for most women in the last trimester and sometimes even in the first trimester. At the start of the pregnancy it can be caused by hormone changes and nearing the end it is usually due to the baby pressing on your bladder.

Reflux and heartburn: That burning sensation in your chest, usually after eating is most likely heartburn. You may also experience acid reflux as well as pain when you lie down or bend over in the stomach area. More than a quarter of all women experience heartburn during pregnancy. You might also find that you suffer from gas and burp a lot. This can be caused from baby squeezing your digestive tract. Eat smaller meals at regular intervals instead of large meals. Don’t lie down after eating. Avoid acidic and spicy foods. Avoid smoking and alcohol (which is also harmful to your baby). No snacks or meals just before bed. You can also prop yourself up with pillows at bedtime instead of lying flat.

Fatigue: During the first trimester, you will most likely find yourself feeling tired fairly often. Try and get a full 8 hours of sleep every night. If you can, take a midday nap as well.

Swollen feet and ankles: Around 80% of women will have some fluid retention during pregnancy resulting in swollen feet, ankles and even fingers. This is exacerbated by standing for long periods of time. Water retention can also be a symptom of pre-eclampsia, so it is always important to let your medical practitioner know about it.

Headaches: Tension headaches due to fatigue, stress, heat, noise and other issues are common during pregnancy and they can last for an hour or more. This can occur for months at a time. A natural remedy is to tie a 5cm band around your head with the knot at the centre of the headache.

The reduction in blood flow often relieves the headache caused by swollen vessels.

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Your doctor can also prescribe a safe pain medication to use if necessary.

Migraines: Around 20% of women experience a migraine during pregnancy. This can last for a few hours to 3 days of constant head pain. Some natural remedies that may help include drinking ginger root in water 3 to 4 times a day.

Sciatic nerve pain: Pain in the buttocks or down the back of the legs can be severe and debilitating for some women during pregnancy. This pain can be caused by the pressure of the uterus on the sciatic nerve. Pain can be relieved by lying on the opposite side to the pain to relieve the pressure on the never.

Unusual complaints include: Sneezing: Increased blood flow can cause your nose to become puffy and make you sneeze often.

Abhorrence of certain foods: While some women develop strange cravings, others develop a strange hatred for specific foods. This can even be foods you once enjoyed. This aversion can be so severe that you actually become nauseated even by the smell of the food.

Personality changes: The massive influx of hormones can cause minor personality changes during pregnancy. You can become more unpredictable. Your hobbies and interests may even change.

Heightened sense of smell: You may find that you are extra sensitive to smells. You can smell what your colleague had for dinner or that the lady on the bus had been drinking alcohol the night before. While this is generally not an issue, it can become a bit overwhelming, especially in close quarters.

Breasts that leak: This is to be expected once you are feeding baby, but colostrum can actually leak from as early as 14 weeks. There is nothing to worry about, it is normal. Slot in a nursing pad in to your bra and prepare for later on when they really leak.

Weird taste: A metallic taste in the mouth is another symptom that many pregnant women may experience. It is thought to be a result of increased oestrogen levels. It is usually only experienced in the first trimester. Foods marinated in vinegar and citrus juices will usually help clear the taste from your mouth.

Painful Orgasms: Your uterus usually contracts during orgasm and when you are pregnant, these normal contracts can make you feel uncomfortable. It cannot harm you at all and usually pulls the belly in to a peak. These can be prolonged. There is not much you can do about it except not have orgasms until after baby is born.

Vaginal Varicose Veins: These are caused from decreased blood flow in the lower body even though blood volume is increased. Speak to your doctor about support garments to reduce discomfort. You can elevate your hops lying down and do exercise in water to try improve blood flow. These usually go away within 8 weeks or so after delivery.

Sharp vaginal pain: There are many nerves right by the cervix. If your baby presses up against these, it can stimulate them, causing a sharp, shooting pain in the vagina. Skin changes: Melasma (dark patches on the face) for many women during pregnancy. This is usually on the neck, upper lip, cheekbones, nose and forehead. This is thought to be related to hormonal changes affecting the pigment in the skin. Linea nigra is a dark line that can appear from belly button to pubic hair.

Vascular spiders, which are little red spots surrounded by tiny blood vessels can appear on the limbs, chest, neck and face. Your areolas may also darken in colour. These are far from all possible changes and complaints of pregnancy, but they do give a fair idea of some of the strange things that are considered normal while you are pregnant.

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FEATURED ARTICLES

35 Pregnancy after

Written by Caroline Meyer

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It is far more likely that you may experience problems conceiving after the age of 35.

While it is not impossible, it if far more difficult. Statistically, fertile women between the ages of 19 and 26 have a 50% chance of pregnancy if they have sex on their most fertile day while women 27 to 334 have around a 40% chance. From 35 to 39, your chances drop to 30% and drop even more steeply after that. There is also a higher likelihood for miscarriage as you age. The amount of cycles it takes for conception also increases dramatically after 35. Even after 4 years of trying, the likelihood of conception is only around 65%.

If your partner is 5 or more years older than you, your chance for conception falls even lower.

If you are aged 35 to 39 and your partner is 40 to 45, your chance of conception in a single cycle drops to 18%, while if your partner is the same age or younger, you have close to 30% chance of conception on your most fertile day. So, if you are trying to get pregnant after 35, your partners age does matter.

If you have been trying for 6 months or more and you are over 35, you may want to consult with your doctor as soon as possible for fertility testing. While there is still a reasonable chance of conceiving without help, there are more likely to be fertility problems that need to be sorted out once you have reached this age without conceiving. If there are no obvious problems, the doctor will most likely recommend you try again for another 6 months before going for further testing. Fertility testing will usually consist of an ultrasound, a blood test and possibly an HSG which is a specialised x-ray. Your partner will have to have a semen analysis.

Once the doctor gets the results of all the tests, he can then recommend how to proceed. You also need to be aware that fertility treatments are often less successful for older women and men, but it does still improve your chance of conception if they are addressed.

Here are a few more suggestions to improve your chances of conception: Stop unhealthy habits such as smoking and drinking alcohol. Avoid products containing coffee as well as high concentrations of sugar. Try and reach a healthy weight if you are over or under an average weight for your height. Eat healthy and exercise regularly. Even if you undergo fertility treatments, a healthy lifestyle can further improve your chances for conception. Yoga, meditation and other mind-body therapies can also have an impact on your fertility. If both partners are healthy in body and mind, the chance of conception improves.

That being said, the clock may be ticking, but if you are reaching the age of 35 but are not ready for children, you don’t need to conceive purely to beat the clock. You should still wait until you are ready even though it may be more difficult to conceive age the age of 35. What can you do to improve the chances of a healthy baby after 35?

Make sure you have a check up prior to conception. Discuss your medical history and that of your parents as well as any chronic medication that you may be taking. Your partner should also have a physical and report his and his family’s medical history as it takes two to make a baby. You have to get treatment for any conditions whether mental or physical before trying to conceive. Some medications will need to be altered once you fall pregnant.

Take a multi-vitamin including folic acid every day when you are pregnant to help prevent neural tube defects and birth defects such as cleft palate or cleft lip in your baby.

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Avoid using harmful chemicals at work or at home. Some paints, cleaning products and so forth can be toxic and cause birth defects if absorbed.

Reduce your stress levels. High stress levels can negatively affect the growth and development of your baby and even cause health issues for you.

Attend all your prenatal check-ups. This ensures that your medical care provider can be up to date with the growth and generally well being of you and your unborn child. Your care provider may also recommend genetic testing.

Try and gain weight in relation to the growth of your baby. Putting on too much weight is not good for you and not putting on weight can be detrimental to the growth of your baby.

It’s a little more difficult having babies after the age of 35, but you are likely to be more settled as well as being more financially secure at this point. Many people are leaving the idea of having a family until later on in life while they are establishing their careers. Fertility treatments are becoming ever more sophisticated and prenatal care is also improving all the time. You still have a very good chance of having a healthy, happy baby after the age of 35.

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IVF

Pros and Cons

By: Caroline Meyer

20 June 2019 | mychild

FEATURED ARTICLES

June 2019 | mychild

21

Fertility issues are experienced by many couples today, especially those that wait until later in life to start a family. There may be a number of options available, depending on your particular situation or for some, the choices are limited. If the situation is ideal, with the woman having open tubes and a reasonable amount of eggs still being produced and the semen being adequate, some people will look at intrauterine insemination to start with. After 3 to 4 unsuccessful attempts, IVF may then be recommended. For most couples, it will depend on their personal situation as well as whether or not they have the finances for IVF. There are a number of pros and cons to IVF which need to be considered before making the decision to have the procedure.

The Pros of IVF IVF can help many people have babies who otherwise would not be able to conceive. Blocked/ Damaged tubes: Women with fallopian tubes that are blocked or damaged may not be able to have a successful pregnancy using her own eggs without IVF. Blocked tubes can be caused from pelvic infections such as chlamydia. With IVF, eggs can be harvested from the ovaries and the embryo will be implanted directly in to the uterus, so the issue of non-functioning tubes is bypassed.

Age or otherwise related low egg count: As you age your ovarian reserve drops. Some women do not have a naturally high egg count. IVF helps by concentrating on quality as opposed to quantity, with healthy eggs being fertilized and implanted.

Male infertility: Men who have fertility problems may not be able to conceive with their partner naturally. IVF improves the chances in cases where the sperm count is low or the motility is bad. IVF helps facilitate successful fertilization through placing the sperm near the egg or by using intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection.

Infertility with no obvious cause: Where no obvious reason for infertility is found after significant testing and a variety of interventions, IVF may prove a good option to help couples conceive.

Premature failure of the ovaries: Early menopause or premature ovarian failure can mean that a woman is no longer able to conceive naturally with her own eggs. Through IVF, she can still successfully have a child using donor eggs.

Polycystic ovary syndrome: PCOS causes irregular menstrual cycles due to a hormone imbalance, which can make conception tricky. IVF can help women with PCOS fall pregnant.

Endometriosis: This is a condition where parts of the lining of the womb grow outside of the womb. IVF has helped women with this condition successfully have a baby.

Prevention of genetic disorders in babies: With IVF, the embryos can undergo pre-implantation genetic screening. This helps reduce the chance of chromosomal disorders such as Down’s Syndrome and Cystic Fibrosis. This is especially important for high risk couples to try and reduce the chance of a baby with a genetic condition.

The cons of IVF It’s expensive: IVF is a costly procedure. There is medication, blood tests and other costs to be considered. Get an idea of the full cost of IVF especially if there are repeat procedures to ensure you can afford the treatment.

Cycle cancellation: After going through a cycle, you may not react to the treatment as expected and would need to go through a second cycle of treatment.

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Few or no viable eggs: In general, around 80% of follicles will contain an egg. In some cases, there are very few eggs available for collection and on the rare occasion, none at all.

Fertilisation failure: Even if quite a few eggs are collected, sometimes many of the eggs won’t fertilize. Even those eggs that do fertilize are not always viable. In some cases, no eggs fertilize, yielding no embryos for implantation. This is rare but can occur due to poor sperm or egg quality.

Implantation failure: One of the more common problems experienced in IVF is implantation failure. Even though the treatment is followed and everything up to the point of implantation goes really well, quite often the implantation fails and you have to start over.

Miscarriage: Around 20% of pregnancies terminate before 20 weeks of pregnancy, with this rate increasing as you get older. For women over 40, the rate is 50% chance of miscarriage.

Most miscarriages take place before 12 weeks of pregnancy.

Ectopic pregnancy: Even though the embryo is implanted in to the uterus during the IVF implantation procedure, an ectopic pregnancy can still occur. This is when the embryo implants and starts to develop outside of the uterus, often in the fallopian tubes. The risk is slightly higher in IVF patients with damaged fallopian tubes. Ectopic pregnancies occur in around 1% of pregnancies in general.

Multiple pregnancy: There are added risks to mom and babies in multiple pregnancies. With IVF it is preferred that there only be one baby at a time as this reduces the risk somewhat.

Some IVF clinics only transfer one embryo at a time to try and avoid the risk of multiples, but even so, the embryo could split and result in a set of twins.

Abnormalities: In babies that are not conceived through IVF, the risk of abnormalities is around 3%. The abnormality can range from something small such as a birthmark to a serious disease such as spina bifida. With IVF, the risk of abnormality is doubled. While this may seem to be a massive con for IVF, it still means that around 96% of IVF babies are perfectly healthy.

Potential problems during egg collection: While the risk is minor and most women have no bad effects from the egg collection procedure, there is a risk of the needle injuring structures such as the bladder, bowl or a blood vessel during the procedure.

Infection after transfer: Another minor risk is the chance of an infection in the uterus after embryo transfer. This needs to be treated with antibiotic to prevent the infection from spreading and becoming a serious health hazard.

OHSS: This is a complication of IVF that occurs around 5% of the time and is serious in around 1% of treatment cycles. Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome only occurs after using stimulation drugs and usually lasts for around 10 days. Should you become pregnant during this period, the symptoms become worse and can often last for months.

Ethics: For some people the ethics of embryos being discarded if they are not implanted can be an uncomfortable topic. In these instances, you may want to have only 1 egg fertilized at a time and the other eggs frozen should you require them at a later stage, instead of fertilizing them all.

IVF may be the only choice for some couples wanting to have children. It is important to know all the pros and cons and decide on whether this is a good option for you. For some couples, they may choose to remain childless or perhaps adopt instead of undergoing IVF. For others, the risks and costs are worth the potential outcome. The choice is yours June 2019 | mychild

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Tips to c

choosing ba

Written by: Ca

24 June 2019 | mychild

FEATURED ARTICLES

choosing

aby names

aroline Mayer

June 2019 | mychild

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Some parents pick names out before they even conceive while others wait until after baby is born before naming their bundle of joy. Naming your little one is a big decision as for most, this will be the name they carry with them for the rest of their lives. So how do you go about deciding on a name? Here are a few tips to help you choose a bane for your little one,

Short and sweet: If you have along last name, you will save your child plenty time and frustration if you keep the first number to one or two syllables. The more complicated the last name, the less complicated the first name.

Avoid fancy spelling: Especially when your child starts learning to write and has to write out their names, names that are written as they sound are a lot easier to learn. Unusual spelling will mean a lifetime of correcting the spelling of their name. Siobahn or Shevonne or Shevaugne all sound the same, but the spelling can be tricky for the first and last one.

The less complications in the name, the better. Even simple names such as Jacob can be complicated with a spelling such as Jakub.

Nicknames: Most names will be shortened, so check that you are happy with your child being called by the short version of their name as well. If you are okay with a Kate (Katherine), Bobby (Robert), Alex (Alexander/Alexandra) and other shortenings. If not, you may want to consider a different name which either cannot be shortened or shortens to a name you are okay with.

Initials: You may decide that you would like to call your son T.J. as a nickname and name him Tyler Jacob to get the initials. Make sure you take your last name in to consideration when looking at the initials you choose for your child as well. Amy Sharon Smith does not have the best initials to match her last name.

Family names: If it is traditional to choose a family name to fit in with your chosen name, you can always be a little creative. Look at the names of other relatives, your mom’s maiden name or use a passed down name as the middle name. We had a June and a Jean than we wanted to honour so we combined the two and used Jane as a middle name. Another idea was using the family name McKinley and naming a little girl Kinley to honour this family name.

Be creative: You can be quite creative when it comes to naming your child. You can make up a new name or name your child after something exotic. Just remember that while some celebrity children may survive being called Blanket, Moon Landing or Apple, this may not be the best choice for your child. That being said, there’s quite a few Skyes, Rivers and Forrests out there already.

Avoid the popular names: Due to Game of Thrones, Khaleesi is trending and is one of the top girl’s names in the world at the moment. If you want your child to have a unique name or at least to be the only one with the name in her class at school, avoid names used in popular TV shows or movies at the time and check what names are trending to avoid using those unless you want them to be one of 4 Brittany’s in their class at school. What does the name mean?

Choosing a name which means something special can also be a way to honour your child.

Especially if it is a meaningful name in your family tradition or culture.

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When you are looking at various names, see what their meanings are traditionally and then decide if this is how you see you little one. Even names such as Purity or Madonna can be inappropriate in some traditions.

Wait and see: Sometimes you may want to wait until your little one is born to find a name that fits. If you still can’t think of a good name, ask for some suggestions from family and friends who may be able to suggest a name that works out perfect for your little one.

Add a second name: Choose the baby’s second name carefully as well. They may decide they really don’t like their first name and can then use their second name instead. You may also decide to use the second name if for example the first name is a traditional first name and it would cause confusion in the family or you have other family members with the same first name. You may even find there are a few close relatives that name their children the same name, so you might want to use the second name to avoid a rush of Chloe’s at the next family reunion.

Be careful choosing celebrity names: Besides the fact that the names are usually fairly common while the celebrity is well known, they may do something scandalous in future and you would not want the name to impact your child or have them teased for it.

Say the name: Say the full name including second and last name out loud. Check if they sound complimentary and are not tongue twisters. You can usually hear if the name goes well with your last name. Hamich Burger may not be a good choice nor Savannah Anna, as these are bound to become joke names at school.

If you don’t want any suggestions or unsolicited advice on the baby’s name, it is sometimes better to keep it between you and your partner until it is a done deal. Not only because you don’t want to be pressurised into a specific name, but also because you may change your mind once your little one is born.

June 2019 | mychild

27

Is Now Even Better!

28 June 2019 | mychild

We the team at My Child Magazine are a very fortunate bunch, the things that we are most passionate about (everything and anything to do with kids), usually means we get the opportunity to research and review the latest children products to hit the market.

The team love a good stroller review and with our eager mum army all wanting to review the new Baby a Jogger® City Mini® GT2, it was no small feat choosing just one! The new City Mini® GT2 has had a total face lift, but still has all the key features you love plus a few more that makes it easy to understand why it’s Baby Jogger Best Selling Stroller.

The new design is understated and with its simple yet elegant appearance, it’s really does stand out in the crowd. From the new fabrics to the manoeuvrability, the City Mini® GT2 is the stroller so full of surprises it will leave you speechless.

The Seat The seat is quite large and will easily accommodate a taller child. It reclines to an almost flat position ensuring that you child can have a rest in a comfortable position wherever you are.

The Calf Support LOVE, LOVE, LOVE – that’s all we can say.

The new adjustable calf support allows you to place you child’s feet either in an up or down position. If you recline the seat all the way down and put up the calf support, it seriously turns this stroller into the perfect mini bed. You won’t have to interrupt your day again and again to get home for naps, because this stroller has you covered.

The Adjustable Handlebar This is another feature I didn’t know I needed. I was excited by the calf support but then I adjusted the handle and I instantly felt safer with the grip I had. Adjusting the height is super easy, just push in the side buttons move the handlebar to suit your needs.

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The Canopy This canopy is life changing! It’s huge and gives your baby full coverage from the harsh sun while protecting their little eyes.

It’s made with UV50+ material and has the three panels so that you can adjust it as needed. It has two magnetic peek-a-boo windows so you can keep an eye on your precious cargo easily. Plus, there are 2 heights you can set the canopy to, so both tall and short kids are covered.

The Brake This took a little while to get use too as it’s a hand operated parking brake. I kept going for the red latch at the foot area only to remind myself that the brake was on the side. Now after using this for a few days, I’ve come to the conclusion that this is by far another added safety feature that mums of 2+ need. I love that I have to put it on before going around the front of the stroller to your child which makes accidents a lot less likely.

(I wouldn’t call the hand brake a safety feature that you must need as this sounds like the Mini 2 foot brake is unsafe)

One Handed Fold I saved this feature for last as it’s just too good. Once you use the one hand fold, you’ll never want to go back to anything else. Let me give you an example of how good this feature is. So, I decided that it would be a good idea to take my pre-schooler shopping to test the City Mini® GT2. The centre has elevators, travelators and people (Prams should not be used on elevators or escalators, please remove this) for days. Well like any good horror story that involves a child, this idea started out fine. I took out the stroller and set it up in 1 swift move and off we went. We managed to get the fresh foods and were on to frozen when it all went pear shaped. We had to pass the ice cream section and that’s when this little adventure became my worst nightmare. My darling daughter wanted an ice-cream, I said no (it’s currently my favourite word), so she threw the tantrum of all tantrums and just like that we had to leave everything and go get in the car to go home (that’s where we are at). When we got to the car, my delightful child was still screaming blue murder and I had to work out how to get her into the car without leaving the pram to get run over by some overzealous driver wanting my spot. This scenario would almost be contraception for almost any human however, I looked like a total pro carrying one screaming child horizontally under my arm while picking up the handle in the middle of the stroller seat and folding the pram with one motion to get in the back of the car which is a 4x4. It was a sight but thank goodness the stroller was easy to put in the car. My pre-schooler is a whole other story.

Mia took the City Mini® GT2 for a test run and this is what she had to say: “I’d never considered using a 3-wheel stroller having brought a 4-wheeler when I had my son.

However, after reading about the City Mini® GT2 stroller’s agility, I was super keen to test it out and put it through my paces. I like to walk and regularly do the Bondi to Coogee walk which is just over 6kms a few times a week.

30 June 2019 | mychild

The pram is rather small when folded down, so I was surprised by its size when I unfolded it. My son is 7 months now, so he was just able to use this stroller. (please clarify, as both strollers are suitable from newborn).

To make sure we both had a good walk and because it was his first time in a big boy stroller, I had him sitting in a slightly reclined position. The canopy is amazing, it was easy to adjust, and I could check on him through the peek-a-boo windows whenever I liked. The best part was I don’t think there was one part of the walk where his face wasn’t covered by shade and that really appealed to me.

The walk was effortless with the City Mini® GT2. The walk felt super smooth and the steering was something I haven’t experience before with a stroller. I loved how you can adjust the handlebar and the storage at the bottom was ample and easy to access.

One feature that is a standout was the one hand fold. My 4-wheeler has to be taken apart in two pieces to get into the car, but the City Mini® GT2 can be folded with one hand by simply using the handle on the seat to pull up towards the sky and presto its folded and it even auto locks so it won’t unfold on you! I give this pram a 5/5.”

With plenty of storage and the ability to convert into a travel system with the City GO Car Seat Adapters now included as standard and a max child weight of 29.5kgs, the City Mini® GT2 will serve you and your family not well, but exceptionally.

The all new Baby a Jogger® City Mini® GT2 is priced at only $799. For more information or to order your City Mini® GT2 visit: www.babyjoggerstrollers.com.au

June 2019 | mychild

31

Sex d

pregn

Written by: C

32 June 2019 | mychild

PREGNANCY

during

nancy

Caroline Mayer

June 2019 | mychild

33

They are many concerns people have when pregnant and one of them is whether or not baby can hear them during sexual intercourse. The truth is, by the third trimester, they can hear, but the sound is muffled and they won’t understand a thing in any case.

Some people find an increased interest in sex during pregnancy while for others, there is minimal to no interest at all. That’s okay, whichever way it goes for you, this too will pass.

The second trimester is usually a time for increased sexual activity as you are over the morning sickness (hopefully), you are starting to get curvy but you don’t yet have a big belly which can make things a bit more complicated later on. There is absolutely no reason not to be sexually active during your pregnancy, as long as you both want it and your doctor has not specifically advised against it of course.

How safe is sex while pregnant?

Unless there is a medical reason and your midwife or doctor has recommended that you don’t have intercourse, sex is entirely safe for you, your partner and your growing baby. Even if penetration is prohibited, your medical advisor may allow other sexual stimulation while you are pregnant, so check with them first. Intercourse during pregnancy is generally good for you as it increases blood and releases happy hormones which can only benefit your baby.

What might be different?

There may be increased lubrication which makes the vagina feel a little looser. For others, the opposite happens and the pelvic floor muscles actually pull tighter making the vagina tighter (this can make penetration uncomfortable). Genitalia may also become more sensitive due to increased blood flow to these areas. Your breasts may also be larger and more sensitive as they start preparing for lactation. If it does not feel comfortable and even foreplay and lubrication is not helping, you don’t have to have penetrative sex. You can enjoy each other without it. If there is ongoing discomfort, visit your gynaecologist or health practitioner.

Orgasms may actually be easier due to the hormones and increased blood flow. This might be this way throughout the pregnancy or can change from week to week due to hormone fluctuations.

Sex during pregnancy will not harm your baby as it is protected within your uterus and nothing can get in to the womb during this time. Unless you have been told to have pelvic rest, sex cannot harm you or the baby. The penis cannot reach the baby and ejaculate will not enter the womb either. Sex cannot cause a miscarriage. Miscarriages are generally as a result of a foetus which is not developing properly. You can actually have sex right up until labour starts. This would be a good time to stop though. If you have sex with new or multiple partners it is important to ensure that you are protected from STIs as these can cause miscarriage, early labour as well as a number of other health conditions.

There may be a little spotting during or after sex due to irritation of the cervix. If there is any pain or the spotting hasn’t stopped within 48 hours or it increases, make sure you see your doctor immediately as there may be a problem unrelated to having had sex while pregnant.

There may be extra sensitivity issues where the breasts, nipples and genitalia can become super-sensitive due to hormones and blood flow.

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This can actually make sex painful for some women. If you are experiencing these types of issues, it is best to discuss it with your partner instead of just enduring. You can be intimate without having sex and it is important to be honest with your partner about how you feel.

Interesting enough, many women actually experience orgasmic dreams due to the improved blood flow and hormone levels.

For some women, sex is not enjoyable during pregnancy due to a poor self-image while being pregnant. Hormones are fluctuating, you may be experiencing nausea or you may just have no desire at all. You may be battling to deal with the physical changes to your body.

Some women just feel embarrassed by the idea of having sex while carrying a child. For others, this is a time of more sexual freedom as they are unable to become more pregnant and may want to experiment a little with their partner without that being a concern. Your partner may need to learn what turns you on as it may be quite different to what turned your pre-pregnant self on. You need to embrace yourself and your growing belly and know that there is no harm in enjoying your partner sexually while you are pregnant. If you both want to and it is enjoyable to both of you, go for it!

June 2019 | mychild

35

Rite Aid Hydrogel

Breast Disk

36 June 2019 | mychild

Whether it’s your first child or fourth, cracked, sore and even bleeding nipples are a rite of passage for many breastfeeding mothers. Breastfeeding can be awkward for first-time mothers and as it is a learned skill, it takes practice getting it right. Cracked, sore damaged nipples are usually caused by baby not latching correctly due to being in uncomfortable positions which can cause baby to squash the nipple when feeding.

Once your nipples have been damaged it can also restrict the flow of milk, which only adds to the problem.

The pain and discomfort you might experience during breastfeeding can sadly detract from this amazing time of bonding with your baby and you and your baby can end up missing out on amazing adventure that only the two of you will ever experience.

Now there are countless remedies in the online land of Dr Goggle, but when it comes to caring for this super sensitive area that requires instant pain relief, you should look no further and turn to Rite Aid Hydrogel Breast Discs to help get your nipples back on track.

Not only do Hydrogel Breast Discs help in providing immediate relief from the aches and pains associated with breastfeeding and even pumping, but they also cool and soothe your sore nipples helping restore your nipples to a healthy and comfortable condition so you can get back to breastfeeding or pumping more quickly.

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So, What Are Hydrogel Dressings?

Hydrogel dressings are water-based treatments designed to provide a moist environment to accelerate the healing process. When applied to a wound, the hydrogel creates a barrier to protect against bacteria and excessive fluid loss. ​ ite Aid Hydrogel Breast Discs provide instant relief to discomfort and pain experienced with R breastfeeding and pumping.

Here are some of the things you’ll love about the Hydrogel Breast Discs: • The dressings cool and soothe the wound area, at the same time, restoring moisture to the wound.

• The dressings are water-based treatments designed to provide a moist environment to accelerate the healing process.

• Unlike traditional dressings, hydrogel dressings do not adhere to the wound, reducing the trauma to the skin when it is removed.

• When applied to a wound, the hydrogel breast discs creates a barrier around the wound to protect against bacteria and excessive fluid loss.

3 My Child Readers reviewed the product and this is what they loved most about the Rite Aid Hydrogel Breast Discs: “I’m not sure what I would do without this product. There is nothing out there that compares to the relief I have when I use the breast discs. My nipples were sore and red and I was constantly having to express and rest. The discs soothed my pain and more importantly have help heal my broken and damaged skin so I can breastfeed again – love them.”

“An easy application disc which can comfortably be worn in-between feeding, without any bulky visible lines under tops. The gel is evenly distributed onto a hygienically sealed disc which can be peeled on and off with ease.

Placing the discs into the fridge for an even more cooling soothing relief is an added treat”

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“I have been a frequent user of the hydrogel breast discs for both of my children whilst breastfeeding. The instant relief they provide me are a godsend - especially in the first 4-6 weeks after birth. The discs offer a cooling agent to the breast and nipple which allows them to breathe also. They last roughly 24 hours and are quite comfortable. I have been known to give these as gifts to a new mum and they are extremely thankful for them” Rite Aid Hydrogel Breast Discs will cool and soothe your sore nipples, creating the optimal environment for healing broken and inflamed skin. Breastfeeding mothers Australia wide have been using and recommending Rite Aid Hydrogel Breast Discs to other breastfeeding mothers so that they can return to breastfeeding sooner. If you haven’t experienced the Rite Aid difference for yourself, grab yours today at Woolworths, Big W, Amcal, Chemist Warehouse, Guardian Pharmacy and Local Pharmacies Australia Wide.

For more information, please visit: www.riteaid.com.au The Hydrogel Breast Discs have been providing breastfeeding mums with relief and are highly regarded because of the benefits they offer.

June 2019 | mychild

39

WHAT

BIRTH

Written by Kar 40 June 2019 | mychild

BIRTH ARTICLE

T IS A

PLAN?

rli Steenkamp June 2019 | mychild

41

Your pregnancy is a special time. You should enjoy every minute. Through morning sickness, little kicks and bumps, the what ifs and what nots, it is an exciting journey.

It can also be a little frightening. It might be your first pregnancy or you might be an experienced mother but every situation and pregnancy is different. A birth plan can be a great way to set out what you want to happen during the birth. Lay out your wishes and preferences and what you don’t want. Once a birth plan is set up, everyone mentioned in your birth plan will know exactly how you want your baby’s birth to go and all you need to do is relax and wait for your little bundle to arrive.

What exactly is a birth plan?

A birth plan is a document where you state exactly what you want during birth before and after. A birth plan is not a set plan, because a doctor and midwife might adjust as they see fit for your health and the health of your baby. It needs to be flexible, to make sure you are not disappointed if things don’t work out the way you want to. During your pregnancy, it could be a great source of information if you attend antenatal classes. They take you through the A-Z of delivery and show you what options are there for you. Not only is it a great way to meet new people, but also to share experiences and information. It guides you in the type of questions that you need to ask your doctor or midwife. They will also have their own ideas to share with you. You can also do your own research on the questions but know that your doctor probably knows best based on your medical history.

Labour and birth Your whole birth plan is centred around this precious time. Labour is when everything falls into place. By the time you are in labour, your birth plan would have been communicated to everyone involved. Your wishes will be taken into consideration if it is safe for you and the baby. In your birth plan, you should state where you want to give birth? Either at home, in hospital or unsure. It is important to state how you want to give birth. What are your thoughts about a caesarean? How do you feel about an induction? These are all questions that you can research and ask professionals about. You can write down how you feel about it so that you can go back to these answers when you need to make decisions if labour is not straightforward and you don’t want to make decisions under pressure.

You can state in your birth plan what position you want to give birth in. Antenatal classes help to identify the different positions that you might give birth in and what equipment you need to assist you. There are birth pools available, birth balls and stools. You have to find what you are comfortable with.

Labour can be a painful process, therefore it is necessary for you to put down what type of pain relief you think you might need. There are options to take a hot bath or shower, different breathing techniques, gas, massage or epidural. There are many more options which you can discuss with your doctor or midwife.

You can put down who you want in the room as your birthing partner if you want them to stay the whole time or leave at a certain stage.

In the room, you can play the music of your choice, ask for dimmed lights and things that would make you feel more comfortable. You might get hungry during the labour process, write down what snacks you would want, ones that can give you more energy and endurance.

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Birth When your baby is born, you might prefer the skin-to-skin method, that will entail that some processes get delayed while you bond with the baby. Do you want your partner to cut the umbilical cord? When babies are born, they get a vitamin K injection to prevent a vitamin k deficiency which could be fatal. Speak to your doctor about it, if you need more information.

If you want to breastfeed and are against bottle feeding state that in your birth plan. This way you can get a lactations specialist to help you with the breastfeeding from the start.

There are loads of templates on birth plans, but you can also set up your own with your wishes and share it with your doctor, midwife and partner. It is a huge relief to know that you have figured out all the logistics about having a baby and that you can literally sit back and get ready for your little one to come into the world. Find other parents that you can talk to and find out about their experiences. In the end, you are going to do what you are comfortable with and what works for you. Your plan needs to be flexible to look after the best interests of you and your baby. In the end, it will all be worth it.

Reference: Better health

June 2019 | mychild

43

The Ultimate Everyday Stroller

44 June 2019 | mychild

Selecting a stroller can honestly be one of the more difficult choices you have to make when it comes to welcoming your newest addition. It can entail endless hours of research, not to mention the not so needed advice you will receive from other parents with their recommendations.

Finding the right pram is a personal choice, finding one that suits your needs as well as fits into your lifestyle should be what you actually use to base your decision on. I’ve heard way too frequently stories from new mums that when they first had their baby, they went out and bought the most expensive pram with the all the bells and whistles, used it for 12 months only to end up sitting in their garage.

With the all new Baby Jogger® City Mini® 2, there is no chance that it’ll end up sitting in the garage, it just won’t happen. This latest edition to the Baby Jogger range has everything you didn’t know you needed.

This latest edition to the Baby Jogger range has everything you didn’t know you needed. With a new and remarkably sleeker look, the City Mini® 2 has been designed by Baby Jogger to not only make your life super easy, but it’s so stylish that you’ll have everyone stopping you just to talk about your stroller!

With so many features the City Mini® 2 has to offer, here is a list of the top 7 things that we love about this stroller:

Suitable from Birth to Pre-schooler (up to 22.5kgs) This stroller actually delivers on this feature.

You won’t need any fancy inserts, bassinets or other fang dangle accessories. Simply adjust the straps to suit your bub, toddler or even your preschooler and off you go. Yep, it’s that simple!

It’s Lightweight Believe it or not, having a pram that is lightweight is a must. As a mum that has done the whole bells and whistles myself, I have grown to love all practical products, especially those that are designed to make life easy. The City Mini® 2 is only 8.5kgs and can be easily stored in the car without breaking your back, while still holding your bub!

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It’s Compact When you have the stroller unfolded, it seems like any other size stroller, but once you fold it, you won’t believe how small it actually is. The unfolded dimensions of the City Mini® 2 are: 100cm x 65cm x 103cm while the folded dimensions are: 28cm x 65cm x 77cm, that’s impressive!

It Has One Handed Fold This feature is one of the major standouts that this stroller offers. You can literally fold the pram with one hand. You just grab the handle that’s in the middle of the seat and pull it up and it automatically clips into a locked position so you don’t have to worry about it unfolding on you.

The Seat The City Mini® 2 offers a nice large seat that can recline to an almost flat position. With the new adjustable calf support, it’s a lifesaver for when your little one wants to nap when you’re on the move!

The Canopy You’ll love the canopy on the City Mini® 2. It’s UV50+ and has three panels with two peek-a-boo windows making it easy for you to check on bub anytime you need while giving them full sun coverage. Plus, there are 2 heights you can set the canopy to, so both tall and short kids are covered.

The Wheels With 3 wheels and front wheel suspension, the City Mini® 2 offers a smooth ride on most terrain. The front wheel is a double to offer extra stability and you can leave it in swivel mode or locked mode depending on your preference.

The Brake The brake is easy to use with a simple foot press. All you have to do is step on the red brake to lock and use your toes to lift underneath to release it.

46 June 2019 | mychild

Car Seat Adapters You can now create the perfect travel system with the City Mini® 2. Included in the box as standard are the City GO Car Seat Adapters which make taking a sleeping baby from point A, B or even to C just that little bit easier.

The City Mini® 2 will not only be a lifesaver in those first few months of parenthood, but its sure to last you for the great unknown that comes after that!

Jess, one of our reviewers took the new City Mini® 2 for a spin and here’s what she had to say: “I love how easy this stroller is to use. From steering to folding, Baby Jogger seem to have you covered for everything. It was a warm weekend (26 degrees) and I loved the ventilation when the seat is laid flat. My daughter had a nap and I pulled down the canopy and she slept for over an hour while I took the City Mini® 2 for brisk walk around the park. I was a little uncertain of the one hand fold but was pleasantly surprise when I arrive home with a sleeping baby and was able to use the one hand fold to close and lock the stroller into folded position before walking up the stairs while still carrying baby. I would recommend this stroller to any new parents, it has definitely ticked all the boxes in my books.”

The City Mini® 2 has been well designed and has plenty of storage and you can choose from a wide range of accessories including a Bassinet, Belly Bar, Child Tray or maybe even a Cup Holder plus many more to ensure that you have the perfect stroller to last.

At only $549 the City Mini® 2 offers exceptional value for a premium product. - 5/5 Stars www.babyjoggerstrollers.com.au

June 2019 | mychild

47

Kangaroo

the be 48 June 2019 | mychild

BABY ARTICLES

mothers -

enefits By: Jana Angeles June 2019 | mychild

49

Kangaroo mother care or kangaroo care is also known as skin-to-skin contact. This is a technique where the new-born babies are kept skin-to-skin usually with chest against chest with a parent, usually the mom. This is a technique that is very effective with preterm babies, especially those with a low birth weight. They are likely to suffer from hypothermia and the skin to skin contact keeps the baby warm naturally as well as supporting early breastfeeding.

Why is it called kangaroo care?

When baby is first born, they are coming from your womb, it is easier for them to adapt with skin to skin contact, as your body will be the same temperature as the environment they have just left. Little ones, especially preterm babies, may have problems with thermal regulation. Kangaroo care helps them stay warm and comfortable at a temperature they are used to.

Kangaroo care improves brain function Kangaroo care helps stabilize the heart rate, improve oxygenation as well as sleep for the developing baby. This helps the brain develop better. Babies that experienced kangaroo care after being born premature were tested at 15 years old against babies placed in an incubator and were found to have better brain functioning, comparable to babies born at full term.

Kangaroo care promotes breastfeeding and healthy weights Babies have a good sense of smell and will actively look for the nipple to breastfeed when they are in the kangaroo position. Moms who practise kangaroo care are more likely to exclusively breastfeed their babies and are also likely to breastfeed for 3 months longer than the average. Access to breastmilk as well as warmth helps babies with healthy weight gain. When babies are kept warm in this way, they also don’t have to burn energy in trying to regulate their own body temperature and can use this energy for growth instead. Mothers who practise kangaroo care also tend to have more milk as having baby nearby stimulates the hormones that regulate lactation.

Kangaroo care improves health Babies exposed to kangaroo care generally have more regular heart rates than babies who aren’t. Their breathing is also improved. There are fewer feeding problems and allergies as well as a reduced exposure to germs. Breastfeeding also helps improve their immunity and reduces the risk of germ exposure.

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Kangaroo care makes baby calmer and happier Skin-to-skin contact increases oxytocin in the body which helps calm baby down. The stress hormone cortisol is decreased, making your little one less stressed. There is also reduced pain when babies are in this position as evidenced by less reaction to heel sticks used to draw blood in premature babies than babies in incubators. Babies in kangaroo care also sleep better and don’t wake up as often as babies kept in incubators.

Kangaroo care helps dad bond too There have been a number of studies done showing that skin-to-skin contact can help moms reactivate their adrenal axis after birth which is though to be the cause of postpartum depression. The increase on oxytocin also reduces stress and anxiety for moms and improves the feelings of attachment to their little ones. This further reduces the risk of developing depression after birth.

Kangaroo care is especially beneficial within the first two hours after baby is born to help them adapt. Kangaroo care is especially beneficial for premature and low birth weight babies. Kangaroo care can be continued for as long as mom and baby want it to. Kangaroo care is generally recommended for babies up to 20 weeks of age, but once babies start fussing and no longer want to be held in this position, it may be a good time to stop. A minimum of 20 minutes per kangaroo care session is recommended. If dad wants to take part, it might be a good idea to allow him to do a little kangaroo care after mom has finished with the feeding. Any amount of skin-to-skin contact is beneficial for your baby, but at least one hour per day or more is preferable.

June 2019 | mychild

51

Is a wipe really

just a wipe?

Breaking The Myth That All Wipes Are Made Equal

52 June 2019 | mychild

American, Arthur Julius is seen as the inventor of the wet wipes whilst he was working in the cosmetic industry in 1957. In his 2500-square-foot loft in lower Manhattan in 1957, using a converted soup portioning machine, Arthur created and trademarked the first known wipe name Wet-Nap in 1958, the name for the product, is still being used today! After fine tuning his new-fangled hand-cleaning aid together with a mechanic, he unveiled his invention at the 1960 National Restaurant Show in Chicago. He first started selling this Wet-Nap product in 1963 to Colonel Sanders to use in his KFC Restaurants.

Fast forward to the present, and wipes are now everywhere! There are cosmetic wipes, cleaning wipes and our favourite type of wipes, baby wipes!

With so many baby style wipes on the market, what was once considered a luxury based around convenience and an alternative to cloth dipped in water, is now a consumable used all day, every day by a lot of Australian mums. The now humble wipe is used more broadly by the entire population as a quick and handy way to clean up and get rid of all kinds of unwanted mess. Here is a small list of the more commonly used wipes in the baby market together with their intended uses:

Baby Wipes (Fragrance Free) – General purpose wipes, used to clean up everyday mess. In recent research it was demonstrated that the average Australian household with a baby or young child have 8 packs of wipes open at any given time.

These wipes can also include a variety of enriched vitamins and natural ingredients aimed at enhancing their benefits to the consumer.

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Goat Milk Wipes (Fragrance Free) – These wipes have been enriched with a goat milk formula and include ingredients such as Aloe Vera, Vitamin E and Olive Oil designed to be Hypoallergenic, and be soothing on the skin. Goat Milk has a very similar PH balance to human skin and this is very useful for use on sensitive skin as the chance of an allergic reaction is minimized.

Antibacterial Surface Wipes Designed to be used on surfaces and object rather than on skin. These Milton wipes have been clinically tested to kill 99.9% of germs and have been developed for mums to use on all surfaces and toys and even babies’ dummies and teats should they fall and need to be cleaned before going back into bub’s mouth.

54 June 2019 | mychild

Dry Wipes This innovative product is perhaps the most convenient and versatile product of the lot as there are occasions when it is convenient to not have a wipe that is wet but will be absorbent and is able to easily clean up and dry surfaces without adding more moisture. Then if a wet wipe is required, all mum needs to do is add water which is readily available, and she now has a wipe she can use to clean and remove stains and mess.

Convenient Wipes Here is a category of wipes developed specifically to be convenient and practical to carry around all day by mum to solve a myriad of issues she finds whether at home, in the car or on the go. The Heinz Sticky Fingers have been in the market for generations of Aussie mums and are still a firm favourite.

With so many baby wipe options available today, you’ll never have to worry about keeping clean when on the go.

For more information, please visit: nicepak.com.au/baby-care-products June 2019 | mychild

55

56 June 2019 | mychild

TODDLER 2-4 YEARS

Talking to toddlers for

higher intelligence

By Caroline Meyer

June 2019 | mychild

57

We already know kids learn from emulating what they see and hear around them but did you know that having a conversation with your toddler can actually improve their overall intelligence. Getting them to listen to you may be another trick you need to learn but if they do hear and respond, you should continue the chat. The amount of time you spend engaging with your toddler verbally can have a massive impact on their IQ.

The journal for the American Academy of Paediatrics, names “Pediatrics recently published a study on the impact of a toddler’s language experiences over a longer term. The study showed that the more toddlers had a chance to chat when they were little, the higher their IQ and their overall language skills 10 years later, were also improved. There were 329 toddlers in the study. The age range was 18 to 24 months. Their families were asked to record audio for 12 hours per day, once a month for a period of 6 months. The recordings were then analysed by a software program. Child vocalisation, adult word exposure and back and forth chat was taken in to account. While it was important that parents chatted to the toddlers, it was also important that the toddlers were allowed to chat back and that there was a conversation with interactions from the adults and the toddlers.

In the second part of the study, 146 of the children that took part in the original study, who were now aged between 9 and 13 years old, did cognitive and language assessments as a follow up. This assessment was done by a clinical psychologist who had not been involved in the first part of the study and who did not have access to the data from the first phase. There was a definite correlation between being exposed to conversation at an early age and the development of language skills as well as a better IQ than the average child of a similar age.

This is a good indication that early language development by interacting with your toddler in conversation at an early age means that a better language environment is created and a better potential for good language development later on in life.

So how do you have a conversation with your toddler?

If your child starts a “conversation” with you, chat back. You can do this from a very early age. As soon as your little one starts babbling at you, you can start a conversation. These conversations may not make sense and may contain very few intelligible words to start with, but don’t let this deter you. Chat back and encourage them to persevere. This exposes them to more words and how to put words together to form a sentence, which will help them start talking faster and soon you will be understanding a lot more of what they are saying.

Be patient. There is always a lot going on in most people’s lives, but while you may already know what it is that your toddler wants to say, instead of handing over the toy or snack or whatever it is they are wanting, stop and allow them to try and express their wants in words.

Take the time. Set aside a time with minimal distractions especially technological ones such as TV, cell phones and radio and take the time to have a chat with your toddler. This doesn’t have to be day in and day out, but do try and spend time focussing only on your little ones and allowing them to engage with you. When you are caught up in daily life and distracted, you may miss out on all the cues that you little one wants to have a chat. Try and make sure you have some time to spend focussing on what they want to say, even if you don’t understand a word.

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Take the time. Set aside a time with minimal distractions especially technological ones such as TV, cell phones and radio and take the time to have a chat with your toddler. This doesn’t have to be day in and day out, but do try and spend time focussing only on your little ones and allowing them to engage with you. When you are caught up in daily life and distracted, you may miss out on all the cues that you little one wants to have a chat. Try and make sure you have some time to spend focussing on what they want to say, even if you don’t understand a word.

Studies aside, spending the extra time bonding with your child and allowing them exposure to words while they are engaged can go a long way to improving their language and wanting to learn more in order to interact with you. Read to them, spend time playing with them, actually get involved and you will find the conversations increase and improve over time. If you can improve your child’s intelligence, language and cognitive abilities just but chatting with them as toddlers, why would you not?

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59

Choosing the Right Nappy for

Your Newborn!

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CosiFit Newborn Nappy Range Featuring Australian-first patented technology, BabyLove Cosifit™ helps prevent harsh, red marks on baby’s delicate skin and provides advanced leakage protection.

The Key Features of the Nappies are: CosiContour Technology A unique curved shape that fits baby’s body comfortably, not too tight or loose, helping to prevent leaks and red mark.

DRIwave™ Technology Our innovative DRIwave™ layer absorbs instantly, actively drawing liquid from the nappy surface, keeping baby’s skin dry.

Stretchy Waistband A snug and comfortable fit that moves with your baby.

New Fun Designs Colourful new prints now feature across the entire CosiFit™ nappy to make change time fun!

Wetness Indicator Takes the guesswork out of change time – one look and you’ll know it’s time for a change.

Both the BabyLove Premmie and Newborn CosiFit ranges have been specifically designed with your baby’s needs in mind. They are soft and comfortable, making sure your baby is happy all day and night long and the best part is they are unisex so you don’t have to worry about choosing the right one for your little girl or boy!

The BabyLove range extends way beyond the Newborn stage and will grow with your precious bundle of joy through the first few years of life. BabyLove products support you up to 25kg in the nappy and nappy pant ranges and up to 57Kgs in the SleepyNights range.

If you want a quality product that keeps your baby and yourself happy, BabyLove is the answer. For more information on the BabyLove range or to try a free sample, please visit www.babylovenappies.com.au June 2019 | mychild

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KIDS 5-8 YEARS

64 June 2019 | mychild

Why won’t my

child listen?

Written by Caroline Meyer

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65

Around the age of 4 to 5 you might start to find that your child starts to assert an independence that can be quite annoying. You ask them to so something, they ignore you or say no. You ask them again in a pleasant way, but still get a refusal. You start to get a little annoyed and inject some sternness in to your voice so they know you mean business, but still they won’t do what you ask. You eventually get frustrated and discipline them to try and get them to do what you want. Even after a time out or other form of discipline, they still refuse and now you have an unhappy, stubborn child on your hands. What can you do?

Adjust your expectations Are they just being difficult or are they not understanding what you want them to do? Are they capable of carrying out the instructions? Are you being realistic in determining what your child can do?

Start by telling them what you want them to do Instead of yelling No, don’t do that or stop touching that, turn the negative commands in to something positive. Instead of telling them what not to do, tell them what you want them to do instead. You want them to stop running to avoid an injury, but what should they do instead.

They can’t always process what it is that you need them to do instead of what they are doing.

Change your requests to more positive instructions such as: Please walk so you don’t fall and get hurt or please put the ball down. They are better able to process and carry out positive instruction that lets them know exactly what is required.

Keep it simple Instead of details, convoluted commands or a series of instructions, communicate on their level. Instead of telling them to go upstairs, fetch their shoes and socks, come downstairs and put them on, give one command such as “Go fetch your shoes please” and then when they bring you the shoes you can ask them to put them on. Single step instructions are much easier for younger children to follow.

Let them enjoy it There are many tasks that you can make more fun and turn them in to games or a form of play.

This will also make them far more willing to carry out the tasks. For example, you can make toy clean up more fun by seeing who can put their toys away fastest or sing a song about cleaning up while they do it. There are many ways to make boring tasks more fun which makes it more likely that they will follow through with the task without a fight.

Be a parent but not a military commander Discipline is important but more effective when used to correct serious behavioural problems and not everyday transgressions. Pay your child compliments, show them respect and treat them the same way you would like someone to treat you. Acknowledge them and what they are doing when asking them to do something else. Give them options and choices to allow them to feel that they have some control. Losing control and yelling at your child will just frustrate both of you and will result in the task not being done or being done under extreme duress.

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Say Yes more Let them make more decisions for themselves. Don’t say no, or stop that or yell for minor transgressions. Allow them to pick out their own clothes, allow them creative freedom when playing. Let them exercise their imagination more without being too restrictive. If you say yes more, the Nos will have a lot more impact when you have to use them. Save the Nos for situations that are dangerous or if there is an important reason for them to stop what they are doing.

Be mindful of your child’s abilities as well as reasons why they might not follow through with requests. Is their misbehaviour a call for attention or a reaction created from fear or hurt?

Treat your child with compassion and change negative requests in to positive ones to get a better response from your little person. If you have tried everything and still face issues of extreme behavioural problems, you might want to consult a professional to determine the underlying causes of the behaviour.

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Learning t

daughte

By: Lanc

68 June 2019 | mychild

DAD READ

to do your

er’s hair

ce Green

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Many dads may wonder why I would want to learn how to do my daughter’s hair.

For me it was important to learn how to care for my child in every way. What would happen if my wife was in hospital or had to go away for a few days? Would I be sending my daughter to school looking like she has been pulled through a bush backwards? I needed to know how to help her dress, how to match up shoes with outfits, help her bath, ensure she gets enough nutrition even with being a little picky with food, and yes, how to do her hair.

When doing her hair, I concentrate on her completely. It actually helps us build a bond. She talks to me and I listen and can have a calm conversation with her. Doing her hair allows me to discover how she is growing, both physically and mentally, which we often don’t notice until they are much older. I get to spend quality time with her even if it is only 15 minutes to half an hour depending on the style for the day and how tangled her hair is. There are many YouTube videos that can teach you some of the more intricate styles, but you can style her hair neatly and in fun ways in a short time and send her out to the world with pride.

Here are a few of the easier hair styles for longer hair that you can try to make your little girl look like a princess: Twisted Flip Tail: This style works with straight or curly hair of medium to long length. Brush her hair well and then gather it in a low ponytail near the nape of her neck. Push the hairband down along the length of the ponytail and make a gap in her hair just above the hairband.

Flip the bottom of the ponytail through the hole and tighten up a little and that’s it!

French Braid: Start from about midway on the top of your daughter’s head and gather a thin layer of hair together. Split in to three as if you were doing a normal braid. Each time you bring a strand over, gather a little hair from the next layer and add it in, so you will be gathering from the left and then the right as you go along until you reach the nape of the neck. Try and pull the braid a little tight as you go. When you reach the nape, all the hair should be in the braid, and you can then finish off the style as you would a normal braid. You can use a comb to smooth the hair gently afterwards. This is a great style for sports days as the hair tends to stay in the style well.

Ballerina Bun: This style works well with longer hair. Tie the hair up high on her head. Part the hair in to two equal sections as if you were making two high ponytails. Spiral both sections of hair around the tie and fasten in place with pins to keep the bun in place.

Triple Plait: Split the hair in to 3 equal sections. Braid each section individually to the nape of the neck, then gather all three plaits together and plait them in to one plait.

These are a few very simple styles you can try if you are feeling adventurous. If you are not comfortable trying anything fancy to start with, then work with the normal high ponytail or double ponytail or a standard braid until you feel ready to try something more.

Before you start any style, make sure that the hair is well brushed and there are no knots before you start your masterpiece. You can use a spray bottle with a little water to mist the hair if you find it easier to work with hair that is slightly damp. Don’t go overboard though as you don’t want her hair too wet or to send her to school looking like a drowned rat. Learn about accessories, pins and clips and don’t be scared to use them. Be gentle and patient and tell her to let you know if you are hurting at all. This can be a wonderful bonding experience and something every dad should try with his little girl, at least once.

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71

How self-care will make you a better parent

BY: ANNIE WYLIE

72 June 2019 | mychild

RELATIONSHIP

Date Nights Post-Kids:

How to Make It Part of Your Routine.

Written by: Kylie Kaden

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73

With all the fun of scrubbing dried pumpkin off walls and wrangling back-arching toddlers in car seats, the nature of parenting doesn’t exactly provide the ambience required to keep the spark in your marriage burning. It’s generally a role clouded by mess and mayhem and a lot of flare ups. Then there’s toilet training, night feeds, bedwetting. Let’s face it, living in a house overrun by little people and their routines can easily lead to the death of time alone.

In fact, kids can be such an effective antidote for romance it’s a miracle any of us have a second child. The very idea of both parents leaving the house – at the same time - without a child clinging for dear life or a snot trail on your shoulder, can feel something between daunting and impossible. What do you mean I can’t wear leggings and ballet flats?

Having several little humans can worsen the odds. Even those who have easily transferable children and manage a night out, often spend it worrying about the kids, feeling pressured to have fun. Or, dreading the three-am feed, skip dessert and head home early, thinking was it worth the hassle?

But spending time with your partner out of parent mode is just as important as fostering the relationship you have with your kids. Don’t forget, when the kids leave home, you’ll be stuck with each other. So, what are some practical ‘date night’ options for busy parents who want to keep the spark alive?

Access Cheap Babysitting For those without the luxury of grandparents close by, consider forming a babysitter’s club with school parents, mother’s group friends, or family members to swap ‘credits’ for child minding, guilt free (we’ll mind yours if you mind ours!). Enjoy live music, theatre, or five-star dining – anything you’d never pull off with kids in tow. Mix it up a little and try a cooking or massage class.

Day Drinking.

Young kids are often up with the sun – which can be disastrous after a night out. So, consider the benefits of day-dates – matinee movies, Sunday sessions in a beer garden, or a winery lunch tour. The benefit of daytime dates is that you don’t sacrifice well needed sleep nor do you have to dread the morning after. And don’t berate yourself for not partying ‘till dawn.

What constitutes ‘fun’ is allowed to change as you and your priorities do.

Get back to nature.

And if leaving the house isn’t an option, schedule a ‘date-night-in’ and spend it: Reminiscing.

It’s hard to savour the precious moments your cherubs can bring when you’re fed up with the daily grind. Dust off your photo albums (if you’re organised enough to print them), or if you’re tech savvy, figure out those extra buttons on your smart tv and enjoy a modern-day slide show streamed from your phone. Get sentimental about the special moments you’ve shared. Feel proud of the family you’ve worked hard to create.

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Indoor picnicking.

There’s a plethora of food delivery options available in most big cities now. As a viable alternative to the logistics of leaving the house, scatter a rug with pillows in the living room, find the non-plastic plates and eat by candlelight together (with the screens turned off and your favourite music in the background).

Stargazing.

If you’ve got a trampoline, grab the blanket and a bottle of red, and gaze up at the stars to get perspective on life and not sweating the small stuff.

Late night spa retreat.

Anyone say massage? Convert your bedroom into a night-spa with relaxing music, oils and candles and work away the tension of having to be the grown-ups 24/7.

Even if your ‘alone time’ is just a stolen hour laughing together over bad tv between wrangling kids and falling asleep yourself, or a fifteen-minute miracle drive when they all flake out in the back seat, savour the uninterrupted time you have in couple mode – ‘date’ or no ‘date’.

Strong marriages don’t happen by accident. It doesn’t have to be expensive or adventurous, just regular and intentional. You spend much of your day prioritising your children. Make time together a priority, too. You’ll be surprised how more attractive your partner appears when seen from a different perspective – as a person, not a co-parent.

Kylie Kaden www.kyliekaden.com.au

June 2019 | mychild

75

Why you need safe window

coverings for your nursery

76 June 2019 | mychild

When it comes time to start decorating the nursery for your new arrival, there are a number of decisions that need to be made, however, one of the most important factors to consider before you buy anything, is the safety of your newborn right from day one.

Deciding on the right window coverings for your nursery means thinking about how those window coverings can help to create the perfect sleeping environment for your child.

Window coverings can help you to control the lighting in the nursery throughout the day, ensure privacy when you need it and offer different options for functionality. However, the most important factor to consider when it comes to new window coverings for your nursery, is the safety of your child.

Child Safety Whilst a newborn may not necessarily be able to reach curtains or blinds at such a young age, as they grow and develop, this will quickly change. Those little hands will soon be interested in grabbing anything at arm’s reach, so it’s important to choose a safe window covering right from the start. The best option for ensuring the safety of your child, is to choose a cordless or motorised window covering.

By choosing a cordless or motorised window covering, you can eliminate the danger and remove all dangling cords. This will prevent the potential danger of strangulation and ensures that no child can grab or tug on the cords or chains. Whilst all corded and chain-controlled window coverings are supplied with child safety devices, window covering cords and chains are by nature very strong and loose cords or chains within reach of children can be fatal. It’s important that when purchasing window coverings with either corded or chain control that safety guidelines are met, not only for your own children but also visitors, ensuring all cords and chains mounted out of reach (a minimum of 1.6m from the floor).

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Temperature control Regulating the temperature in a nursery is another important factor to consider and window coverings are a simple way to help with temperate control. Preventing overheating in a nursery is imperative and one that needs to be considered even before your newborn arrives home.

When considering new window coverings for your nursery, consider those specifically designed with superior insulating properties, to help regulate room temperatures all year round.

Noise Reduction If you live on a busy road or have noisy neighbours, reducing the noise level will help towards a better night’s sleep for your child. Whilst window coverings won’t completely block outside noise, they will help to significantly reduce the amount of noise and help to improve your child’s sleeping environment.

Cordless Window Coverings There are a number of inherently child safe window covering options that have no exposed cords, used for operation. This makes them not only a great solution for the nursery, but also a practical solution for all window coverings, ensuring the safety of your child all throughout your home.

Child Safe Window Covering Options Honeycomb Blinds • Cordless operation using a handle attached to the rails or motorised operation using a remote control, eliminating the risk to small family members • Super insulating blind with a unique cellular structure creating a barrier between inside and out 78 June 2019 | mychild

• Light filter or blockout fabric in single and double cell sizes, to suit all rooms and shading requirements • Excellent sound absorption properties to reduce street noise and dampen sounds in rooms with hard flooring or energetic children • Easy light weight operation and slim stack height when fully raised

Child Safe Window Covering Options Roller Blinds • Cordless or motorised operation options using either the bottom rail or remote control to move the blind to any desired position, ensuring your family is safe • Unobtrusive and easy to use design with the fabric rolling up onto a tube at the top of the window frame • Sunscreen, light filter and blockout fabric for the different lighting and privacy requirements all throughout the day • Day Night option offering the best of both worlds with controlling light and privacy Roman Blinds • Cordless operation option with a small fabric handle at the back of the blind for superior child safety • Offers the look of curtains with the functionality of blinds • Improves insulation and helps to control temperatures throughout the day • Light filter or blockout fabric with a lining for an extra layer of insulation and fabric protection • A clean and contemporary design adding a touch of warmth Choosing window coverings for your nursery is just one element of decorating the space.

Remember that safety should always trump style and that prevention is better than cure.

Always install child safety devices not only in the nursery but on every window covering with cords or chains in the home and where possible, choose cordless or motorised to eliminate any dangling cords. Your child’s safety is the number one priority so ensure you are meeting the child safety guidelines when it comes to window coverings in the home.

To see our full range of Child Safe Window Coverings, visit www.venetablinds.com.au and custom make the perfect window coverings for you nursery.

June 2019 | mychild

79

BLOGGER

In their best interests

By Sheree Hoddinett

80 June 2019 | mychild

One of the hardest things I find about parenting is the constant battle I have with myself. To not always yell, to not get so frustrated, to try not to let everything get to me so easily. As always, it’s easier said than done. Kids have this inane ability to know when your defences are down and they make the most of that opportunity to pounce. They play on your weaknesses and push you to the point of no return and then act like they did nothing wrong. Well played kiddo, well played. I know I likely did it as a kid too, so I can’t exactly stand there and act like they’re the first child to pull that stunt, can I? I know I’m not perfect, I never wanted to be. But there are days I hope for the best and generally get hit with the worst, the joys of raising kids I guess! Sometimes it feels like too much and I want to walk away, but even if I hide, they find me anyway, damn they’re good! I know I’m raising two smart little cookies, too smart for their own good some days!

But just when you think you’ve moved past a stage, it comes back to haunt you! With my eldest daughter at school this year, she has become somewhat of a model student, a role which she seems to also have mastered at home, especially when it comes to picking up on swearing. I’ve always done my best to watch what I say, but there are times when the words just come out, particularly if my darling children are pushing my buttons. But rather than just nicely remind Mummy of her slip up, she has to repeat the word as well. Face palm time for Mummy! As long as she doesn’t repeat it at school, hopefully we’ll be fine!

Do you ever think kids are some kind of test? A way to see if you can survive what feels like, at times, some sort of torture in the form of: -Sleep deprivation -Food being thrown at you -Dealing with vomit, wee and poo near you, on you, on the floor, in your bed or wherever it ends up -Attitudes -No one listens…unless there’s bribery involved.

There is so much more I’m sure, but either you’re already well versed and are currently reading this as you clean up mess or you’re secretly wondering why your usually noisy toddler has suddenly gone suspiciously quiet.

While we’re on that topic…silence is definitely not a good thing when you have kids. I can see all the well-worn parents nodding in agreement. Those who either don’t have kids or haven’t been around them much believe that kids being quiet must mean they are doing something good or they are actually behaving. Hahahaha! Sometimes, it is rare, but kids can actually do the right thing and sit quietly. But it doesn’t happen too often and if all is quiet, they are up to something! Drawing on walls, painting with food or if you’re really unfortunate painting with their poo, breaking something you treasure, eating your chocolate, ripping apart letters or books you didn’t put high enough….the list could go on. Kids really are the best thing you will do in your life. They are amazing, intelligent and unexpectedly empathetic creatures. But, sadly, you won’t always think that way. You will look at them as spawn of the devil, terrors, evil children that have turned your life upside down. It won’t last for long because they will do something so funny or sweet and your heart will remind you that they are the best thing ever and so you follow a vicious cycle on repeat for many years…or so I’m told! We all know Rome wasn’t built in a day. Same deal that you don’t instantly attach to the role of parent without slowly battling…I mean finding your way. Don’t expect instant results or things to magically fix themselves and you’ll be fine.

I’m no parenting expert, never have been and never will be, but I’m trying to make the most of my delinquent…I mean delightful children. You can find more of the waywardness of parenting on my page www.shereekim.com.

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What Every New Mum Needs to Know About Sterilisation Including the What, Why, On What, How Long for And Of Course How Too!

82 June 2019 | mychild

What Is Sterilisation: Sterilisation refers to any process that eliminates, removes, kills or deactivates all forms of life and other biological agents (such as fungi, bacteria, viruses, spore forms) present is a specified region, such as a surface or a volume of fluid.

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Why Do I Need to Sterilise?

Under the age of 12 months, your baby’s immune system is weaker, and your baby is more vulnerable to catching infections. Milk is also the perfect environment to grow bacteria.

In fact, feeding equipment that has not been properly cleaned can be a source of infection.

What Do I Need to Sterilise?

Babies have a tendency to put everything in their mouth, this is an important part of their tactile learning process. Therefor anything that can go into their mouth should be sterilised. Including: breast pumps, soothers, bottles, teats, teething items, small plastic toys, feeding bowls and spoons and plates even nipple shields and breast shells.

How Long Do You Need to Sterilise For?

•

Your baby’s immune system will start to mature around 12 months therefor parents are advised to keep sterilising feeding equipment until their babies first birthday. requirements

How to Sterilise

Always clean first, whatever method you use, always give a thorough wash to all the items that you wish to sterilise. Ensure that all traces of milk are removed. Taking special care to clean teats, bottle rings where milk residue can easily be trapped.

The Milton Method - Cold Water Sterilisation Using Milton Antibacterial Tablets or the Milton Antibacterial Solution, which are available in most grocery and pharmacies across Australia, you simply add the Milton Antibacterial Tablets or the Milton Antibacterial Solution into a tub with 4 litres of tap water then place you prewashed items into the 4 litres of solution for 15 minutes.

This solution is clinically tested to kill 99.9% of all germs including bacteria, fungi and viruses. This solution can then be reused as often as possible for the next 24 hours (once a day). This method does not require electricity and therefor has NO risk of burns.

There is no need to rinse items after the 15 minutes in the solution and are handy for travelling.

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Boiling Using a large pan, a lid to cover the pan and tap water. Boil the items for 20 minutes and 10 minutes for teats boiling teats for too long will damage them. This method has the added risk of burning and the need for electricity or gas.

Electric Steam Steriliser Using a purchased electric steriliser and tap water, this method takes between 8 and 12 minutes. This equipment can be bulky and expensive to purchase.

There are cooling time instructions to be followed to avoid burns.

Microwave Sterilising Requires a microwave, electricity and appropriate container to hold baby items and tap water. This method takes 2 minutes and cooling instructions need to be followed to avoid burning, this method is not suitable for metal objects.

Regardless of not just your baby feeding methods, sterilising will become a big part of your life once your baby arrives. With all the new challenges that parenthood throws at you, making things easy and simple is what you’ll need.

The Milton Method of Sterilising offers you convenience wherever you are, weather that be at home or abroad! Milton effectively disinfects and sanitises breast expression equipment, bottles, teats, feeding utensils, dummies, toys, and much more!

The Milton method of sterilisation has been trusted in homes and hospitals for over 90 years as the safe and effective way to protect babies from diseaseproducing germs in their most vulnerable early years.

For more information please visit: miltonbaby.com.au June 2019 | mychild

85

The News on New Using Cloth fr

Written By: Kath

86 June 2019 | mychild

wborn Nappies rom Day One

herine Edwards

June 2019 | mychild

87

Thinking of trying modern cloth nappies with your new bundle of joy? While many mums (and dads) choose to start their cloth nappy journey after settling in at home, lots of others are keen to reduce their environmental impact right off the bat. If you think about it, an average newborn can need up to 12 nappy changes a day. In the first 3 months that’s over 1,000 nappies taking a one way trip to the tip, which is where they will remain long after you and your baby have gone. So, where to start?! It’s a whole new world of its own with enough acronyms to make your go cross-eyed. MCN? OSFM? What?!

Let’s start with the basics. MCN or Modern cloth nappies ain’t what they used to be.

The new reusables are so much easier to use and should last multiple children if you look after them as instructed. If you decide to take the plunge, here are a few things to keep in mind when stepping into newborn cloth.

OSFM There are a few ways to get started from the newborn stage and one is to use the OSFM. OSFM, or one size fits most, are great if you’re looking at keeping costs down. At Bubblebubs we have managed to get a good fit on a 3.2kg newborn but it is not ideal. Because they are not intended for newborns specifically, some parents run into trouble and can give up on their cloth journey before it even starts.

Although OSFM are a great cost saver, they aren’t going to do you any favours if they end up leaking and force you to buy disposables anyway. Because the waist and legs are made for larger children (4.5-5kgs), sometimes the OSFM cannot be adjusted enough for baby chicken legs which results in gaps and leakage. Not ideal when you think about those runny newborn poos flowing out of your cherub like molten lava 24/7.

OSFM can also be bulky. The inserts of many OSFM are made to be more absorbent for older children and are often wider and longer, so getting a trim fit can be difficult in the middle of the night.

Newborn Nappies Newborn nappies are made specifically for smaller babies, therefore the fit is likely to be far better. The leg holes will suit scrawny thighs and teeny waists will be snug as a bug. With newborn nappies you can start using them right from the first day knowing that the fit will be less difficult to manipulate when you’re trying to adjust to life with your fresh bundle.

A better fit means less leaks, which is obviously the main concern when putting any nappy on bub. The great thing about MCNs is that the elastics are stronger than those on disposables, so a full on poo explosion is far less likely. The bulk is also going to be less. Nappy changes for newborns come thick and fast so the absorbency is made for tiny bladders and means a trim fit on tiny babes.

There is also a vibrant resale market and you’re likely to be able to sell your newborn nappies to recoup a large portion of the initial outlay through Facebook buy and sell groups. Try doing that with a used disposable!

Newborn Styles If you’re keen to try newborn nappies, there are a few different styles to choose from. the first day knowing that the fit will be less difficult to manipulate when you’re trying to adjust to life with your fresh bundle.

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Flats/Prefolds Flats are the traditional style of nappies that you might be more familiar with. These come in a range of materials from cotton to bamboo and are folded around baby before fastening with a Snappi. Flats are thin so they are very quick drying.

For ease of use, Prefolds already have extra layers stitched down the centre of the nappy so that they don’t need to be folded in the same way as flats; this can be better for new parents who don’t have time for folding. \ Both Flats and prefolds require a separate waterproof cover and are also fabulous for leak protection. They are also great in the long run as they can be reused as boosting for your OSFM nappies, as burp rags or for anything that requires mopping up!

AiO You can use an AIO (All-in-One), like the Bubblebubs Pebbles if you’re looking for something that doesn’t need “putting together”. These newborn nappies have a Velcro closure, which is perfect if you’re just trying to get the hang of things. The Velcro tabs have an overlap at the waist so that they can fit even the smallest of tiny humans. The leg elastics are sure to contain any poonamis, as is the bamboo lined shell. The attached booster can be folded in multiple ways to suit your boy or girl and where they need the absorption most.

So while there are some good reasons to want to try OSFM on your newborn babe, it’s probably worth investing in some newborn nappies that are guaranteed to fit more snugly and make your foray into modern cloth nappies a successful one.

Fitted A fitted nappy is a nappy that is absorbent all over and shaped to fit bub. The Bubblebubs Bambams are a fitted nappy made of soft bamboo towelling which wraps around your baby’s bottom and fastens at the front with a Snappi (no need for dangerous pins!). The Bambams have a removable insert which is folded and sits inside the fitted nappy for absorbency. These are great if drying time is an issue as the nappy comes in two parts for quick drying. These nappies will require a waterproof cover as they are not an AiO like the Pebbles. Those two separate parts mean that Bambams are a little bit more work to put on but they are your absolutely bomb proof option for all newborn explosions June 2019 | mychild

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Breast Milk on The Run...

Getting out and about after your baby is born...

Written by: Noelle Sadinsky 90 June 2019 | mychild

You haven’t even had the baby and you’re hearing so much advice about what you’re going to need to do and why. It can be really overwhelming and you have enough going on at the moment. First, take a breath and let us help you plan ahead and be informed.

It’s vital for your mental health for you to be able to get out of the house in the lead up to the birth and once you’ve had your beautiful baby. It’s so necessary to connect with other mums to share stories and gain valuable insight on the journey of parenthood to help maintain your sanity. This is a time to connect, not stay locked away inside with fear of the unknown if you take your baby out.

Firstly, you really should join your local mother’s group. This group will prove invaluable and also be a great source of friendship for you and your baby. It’s good to start with short trips with your baby in tow outside of the house to the shops to pick up a few items, a short drive, a walk along the beach or a nearby cafe for coffee chats. As your baby grows, you’ll find you’ll be able to get out more and more with confidence as you and your baby get used to each other together.

It goes without saying that keeping your baby nourished and hydrated is a priority especially in the early years. Navigating your way around this means you need to be as prepared as possible to keep life simple. For those who are able to breastfeed you may be comfortable feeding your baby in public or prefer to express at home and have a bottle on hand when you need it quickly. Did you know that breast milk can last outside the fridge up to 4 hours but after that it isn’t safe and needs to be thrown away? Carrying breast milk with you when you’re out and about can be challenging, and you don’t want to waste a precious drop.

You might need to go back to work sooner than expected and will need to express your breast milk regularly during the day. You might have an important wedding or party to attend that will be longer than the usual dash out the door, so you’ll need to be prepared especially if you need to express or carry bottles with you. It’s worthwhile being one step ahead as it’s important to keep this liquid gold cool and fresh no matter what you’re doing.

So, what to do when you’re out and about and need to carry breast milk for your baby? Fridgeto-go has a solution with their unique Medium Lunch Bag that gives you real freedom keeping items cool up to 8 hours at a time. Freezing the thin panel in the freezer overnight is all it takes to ensure cool and fresh breast milk for you baby. You can feel confident knowing it will be safe to give to your baby no matter where you are and how hot it gets outside.

As your baby grows it will be helpful to have an effective cooler bag to assist when your baby starts solids and needs regular snacks all the time. Keep things as simple as possible and plan ahead giving you and your baby the chance to be calmer and happier overall.

Tiny Sparks in WA is an amazing not-for-profit organisation that has been using Fridge-to-go Lunch Bags in their neonatal packs to assist new mothers of preemie babies to transport their breast milk especially in those early days in their mission to improve the health and wellbeing of mothers enduring high-risk pregnancies and newborns. If it’s good enough for Tiny Sparks, it should be good enough for your baby too.

Welcome to parenthood!

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92 June 2019 | mychild

TOY REVIEWS

TOY REVIEWS

BY: SHEREE HODDINETT

June 2019 | mychild

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TOY REVIEWS HATCH IT! UNICORN FANTASY (LARGE)

$ 14.95 RRP

Unicorn-loving kids will love this Hatch It! Unicorn Fantasy (Large). Play the part of a unicorn’s parents by watching your very own unicorn hatch and grow from this adorable egg. Hatching your own baby unicorn is simple, just place your Hatch It! Unicorn Fantasy egg in water for 5 to 8 days then watch it hatch and grow. It will grow to a size of approximately 27cm.

OUR VERDICT

4/5

With two little girls on my hands, everything is about unicorns and rainbows! They went crazy over watching their unicorn grow, because “I love unicorns Mummy”. On the downside, it was a bit of a slow process and patience started to wear a bit thin after a few days, especially with kids wanting everything instantly. But once it started to show signs of being almost finished, they were suddenly interested again and then the fights started over who would get to keep the unicorn and who would name it, the joys of children. At least the end result was worth the wait after all.

Available from: buymythings.com.au, Popcorn Street

Apples to Pears Space Station in a Tin – 50 year moon landing anniversary in July

$24.95 RRP

Assemble the blocks step by step to build a space rocket, satellite and moon buggy.

Then get ready for take-off in 5-4-3-2-1!

Tin contents: plastic building blocks required to build three separate models and full instructions.

OUR VERDICT

4/5

We’re all big Lego and block building fans in our house, so it’s safe to say anything that’s similar and involves building something is usually a pretty big hit! It also helps that I have two girls who are somewhat interested in space, the stars and moon and the potential to visit the moon has come up in conversation quite a lot! Building took a little longer than expected because they are very independent, but the proud looks displayed with the final product (even with some help) was definitely worth it! \ Available from: Independence Studios www.isgift.com, Polly and WillowAvailable from: Independence Studios – www.isgift.com, Kidstuff, 94 June 2019 | mychild

VTECH ANIMAL SEESAW STACKER

$ 24.95 RRP

Problem solve and learn with the Animal Seesaw Stacker.

Stacking and balancing the rings triggers responses which teach numbers and colours. Stacking is a classic play pattern that is enjoyed by most toddlers and babies, it develops problem solving skills, gross and fine motor skills and is also super fun.

Includes 3 sing-along songs and melodies for added fun.

Features include: - Play music and sounds by pressing the music button.

- 8 multi-coloured rings.

- Stacking and balancing fun by stacking the rings on either side.

OUR VERDICT

4/5

This one offers a lot of stacking and balancing fun for little hands, plus it’s educational too, which is always a bonus! It’s always a good thing when kids are learning but having fun at the same time as they get to soak in new phrases plus sing-along to some songs. There’s nothing cuter than listening to your little ones singing with their toys! With its flashing lights and vibrant design, they will certainly enjoy discovering colours, numbers and music. It’s also perfect as it gives your little one the chance to discover new skills, not only stacking but with balancing added in to the equation as well as further developing their fine motor skills Available from: Target, Mr Toys Toyworld, Toy Universe, Uncle Pete’s Toys, Mighty Ape

VTECH KIDI SUPERSTAR MOVE

OUR VERDICT

5/5

$39.95 RRP

It’s time to be the next Kidi Super Star on the move! Sing your heart out on the go with the builtin speaker. You can reduce the vocal track of most songs using Music Magic mode and record yourself singing for up to 2 minutes. Play 4 great games and activities, or sing-along to 4 built-in songs with cute animations. Features a colour changing mood light and funny voice changing effects. Add in applause with the instant sound effects buttons and you’re the super star of your own show. A one metre cable is included for connection to an external music player. Now it’s your time to be the next Kidi Super Star!

Who needs a hairbrush when you have your very own microphone! Well for the kids anyway, of course, haha! This one has been so popular with my girls that I have already had to hide it a few times just to stop arguments over whose turn it is!! We love music, so singing is actively encouraged in our house/bathroom/car or wherever suits, but not around too many people, just in case, haha! The recording function has proven very popular, as my two are very interested in listening to their own voice creations. It’s given us plenty of laughs and lots of fun so far!

Available from: Mr Toys Toyworld, Toymate, Crayons, Online Toys Australia, The NileAvailable from: Independence Studios – www.isgift.com, Kidstuff, Embellish Gifts, Buy My Things June 2019 | mychild

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BOOK REVIEWS

BOOK REVIEWS By: Amy Adeney

june 2019

June 2019 | mychild

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MY BOOK (NOT YOURS)

By Ben Sanders This is the first book in a fun new series about Lento, a bewildered sloth who just wants to express himself, and sly old Fox who keeps trying to steal the limelight.

Lento is determined to prove that this is HIS book, and he’s going to tell readers a BIG story as soon as he’s had a little nap. But Fox sees that as his cue to take centre stage and seize control of the action on every page.

Lento and Fox have great chemistry, and their hilarious antics and hijinx will charm readers aged 2-6.

CLOUD FOREST

By Victoria Turnbull

A child’s Umpa teaches them to read and to follow the words, out the garden gate and all the way to the sea.

Every day is a new adventure. They visit castles in the air, feast with friends and sail away on the rains. But then one day, Umpa isn’t there…

This is a moving tale about the power of books to bring people together, and to help us remember loved ones when they’re no longer with us. It has an otherworldliness about it that will appeal to readers aged 4-7.

98 June 2019 | mychild

THE WAY TO TREASURE ISLAND

By Lizzy Stewart Matilda and her dad are very different. Matilda is fast and Dad is slow. Matilda is tidy and Dad is messy, and Matilda is quiet and Dad is very, very loud. They’re off to find treasure, but Dad keeps getting distracted. Will they ever discover the way to treasure island?

This funny, adventure-packed tale carries a message that even when people are different, they can still share journeys and good times together. The bright, engaging illustrations perfectly complement the thrill-seeking story, which will be enjoyed by readers aged 3-6.

MY FRIEND FRED

By Frances Watts and A. Yi This is a delightful picture book about a friendship between an exuberant but loveable dachshund and his more retiring, tidy housemate. Fred does a lot of funny things. He howls at the moon, turns around three times before he goes to sleep, and gets excited when the doorbell rings. And even though none of these make sense to his housemate, that doesn’t mean they can’t be best friends.

This is a charming, vibrant book with an unexpected twist, which will be adored by dog lovers aged 2-5.

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GET THE LOOK

100 June 2019 | mychild

K: INTERIORS

June 2019 | mychild

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KIDS ROOM Interior by: Norsu Interiors 102 June 2019 | mychild

ADAIRS KIDS OASIS RATTAN BEDHEAD HONEY

NUMERO 74 CANOPY DUSTY PINK

$219.00

$245.00

smallable.com

adairs.com.au

ARMADILLO&CO BRAID WEAVE – PUMICE

$840 norsu.com.au

BESPOKE OTTOMAN WITH EXCLUSIVE CHARCOAL LEATHER PIPING

$385.00 norsu.com.au

SIDE DRAWER OAK LOOK

$29.00 Kmart.com.au June 2019 | mychild

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HONEY HONEY CREATIONS WALL HANGING - OPTIC WHITE

LINN WOLD LITTLE SOFIA ART PRINT

$39.00

$89.00

Norsu.com.au

Norsu.com.au

ARMADILLO&CO BRAID WEAVE – PUMICE

$840 norsu.com.au

LINN WOLD LITTLE TYRA ART PRINT

$39.00 Norsu.com.au

104 June 2019 | mychild

DONNA DELANEY - CACTUS CRAZE PRINT

$75.00 Norsu.com.au

LUNA UNICORN QUILTED QUILT COVER SET

LARGE NATURAL BELLY BASKET

$99.99

$39.00

simplycushions.com.au

Norsu.com.au

SHEEPSKIN WHITE

$104.99 adairs.com.au

FLEUR HARRIS BUNNY VELVET CUSHION

RIBBON CUSHION PINK FLUFFY HEART

$39.99

$27.99

adairs.com.au

adairs.com.au

June 2019 | mychild

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NURSERY ROOM Interior by: Norsu Interiors 106 June 2019 | mychild

MRS MIGHETTO ‘THE LAKE STORIES’ MR EDWARD WATERCOLOUR ART PRINT

MRS MIGHETTO ‘THE LAKE STORIES’ MISS INES WATERCOLOUR ART PRINT

$60.00

$65.00

norsu.com.au

norsu.com.au

CENTELLA IN GLAZED POT

$9.00 Kmart.com.au

ARIA BREAKFAST CUSHION – PINK

$8.00 Kmart.com.au

SLOTH CUSHION

$7.00 Kmart.com.au June 2019 | mychild

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MILEY BLUSH RUG

COTTON COT COMFORTER SET

$199.00

$19.00

mattblatt.com.au

Kmart.com.au

CASSIE WOVEN LEATHER & TEAK LOUNGE CHAIR

$599.00 templeandwebster.com.au

LE KLINT 172 PENDANT LARGE

$99.00 templeandwebster.com.au 108 June 2019 | mychild

PEAR HOUSE

$110.00 rockandpebble.com

LEANDER COT – WHITEWASH

$1,200 babyandtoddlertown.com.au

RUSSEL MARBLE TOP METAL ROUND SIDE TABLE

$165.00 livingstyles.com.au

OYOY BEAR NATURE WOOD

$69.00 designstuff.com.au

June 2019 | mychild

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110 June 2019 | mychild

SHOP:

KIDS

FASHION

June 2019 | mychild

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SHOP KIDS What’s in our store this month

112 June 2019 | mychild

UNDER

$

30 BABY

BABY 3PC OUTFIT SET

BABY GIRL SOFT SOLE RUNNER

$25.00

$10.00 bestandless.com.au

GIRL

GIRL CORDUROY SKIRTALL

GIRLS FUR VEST

GIRLS SKIVV

$20.00

$15.00

$15.00

bestandless.com.au

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UNDER

$

60 BABY

RIB SWEATER

RIB CARDIGAN

HEART LEGGING

BABY JOGGER

$44.95

$59.95

$16.95

$39.95

seedheritage.com

RIB FULL LENGTH TIGHT

STRIPE KNIT DRESS

EXPOSED HEM DENIM JACKET

TONAL TRAINER

$16.95

$59.95

$49.95

$49.95

seedheritage.com 114 June 2019 | mychild

splurge BABY

BURBERRY LOGO SWEATSHIRT

CARRÉMENT BEAU KNIT PANTS

$230.00

$51.00 melijoe.com/au

GIRL

CHLOÉ MINI ME HORSES MILANO JERSEY DRESS

STELLA MCCARTNEY KIDS STAR PRINT BOOTS

$248.00

$260.00

melijoe.com/au

June 2019 | mychild

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116 June 2019 | mychild

UNDER

$

30 BABY

BABY SET

BABY BOY HIGH TOP

$25.00

$10.00 bestandless.com.au

BOY

BOYS PUFFA VEST

BOYS JERSEY KNIT PANT

BOYS T-SHIRT

$12.00

$8.00

$5.00

bestandless.com.au

June 2019 | mychild

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UNDER

$

70 BABY

ZIP SHERPA HOODIE

CORD OVERALL

$54.95

$39.95

LONG SLEEVE TIGER TEXTURED FLUFFY HIGHTOPS YARDAGE TEE

$24.95

$39.95

seedheritage.com

BOY

RUGBY TEE

CAR YARDAGE TRACKIE

PUFFA JACKET

TAN SNEAKER

$24.95

$39.95

$69.95

$59.95

seedheritage.com 118 June 2019 | mychild

splurge BABY

GUCCI GRAPHIC SWEATSHIRT

IL GUFO CHECK PRINT FLANNEL PANTS

$270.00

$163.00 melijoe.com/au

BOY

LITTLE MARC JACOBS HEATHER TRACKSUIT PANTS

IL GUFO WOOL SWEATER

$104.00

$246.00

melijoe.com/au

June 2019 | mychild

119

ASOS DESIGN Maternity PREMIUM Lace Insert Pleated Maxi Dress

for $110.00

120 June 2019 | mychild

CASUAL

ASOS DESIGN Maternity plisse midi dress with elasticated waist in

ASOS DESIGN Maternity jumper dress

spot print

with scoop back in eco yarn

for $76.00

for $56.00

ASOS DESIGN Maternity Nursing eco jumper dress in fine knit

ASOS DESIGN Maternity midi wrap skirt t-shirt dress with belt

for $70.00

for $44.00 June 2019 | mychild

121

WORK

ASOS DESIGN Maternity wiggle mini dress

ASOS DESIGN Maternity cotton and linen mix midi dress with buttons

for $70.00

for $76.00

ASOS DESIGN Maternity mini smock dress with leopard collar

ASOS DESIGN Maternity wrap midi dress in stripe print

for $64.00 122 June 2019 | mychild

for $76.00

FORMAL

ASOS DESIGN Maternity high neck cape mini dress

ASOS DESIGN Maternity tie waist maxi dress in animal print

for $60.00

ASOS DESIGN Maternity drape front belted pencil midi dress

for $76.00

for $70.00

ASOS DESIGN Maternity nursing cape crop top midi dress with asymmetric skirt

for $70.00 June 2019 | mychild

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Recipes JUNE 2019

Recipes by: RaisingChildren.net.au

June 2019 | mychild

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Fruit Wands with Yogurt Dipbread Method • Slice fruit into 2cm thick slices. Using a cookie cutter, cut different shapes from the fruit.

• Thread fruit along a paddle pop stick, alternating shapes and colours.

• Serve with one small tub of yogurt for dipping.

Note: To make a magic wand, cut out a large star from watermelon or rockmelon, and place on top of a skewer of blueberries.

126 June 2019 | mychild

Prep time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 0 minutes Ingredients Watermelon Blueberries Mangoes Rockmelon Kiwifruit Apple Clean paddle pop sticks Clean Wooden Skewers Brooklea Les Petits Real Fruit Children’s Yogurt, to serve

break

Funny Face Pancakes Makes: 9 pancakes Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 2 minutes each Ingredients 120g White Mill Plain Flour 260ml Farmdale Skim Milk 1 x Lodge Farms Free Range Egg – beaten 1 tbsp Pure Vita Vegetable Oil Sweet Vine cup of mixed fruit Grandessa Strawberry Jam Forresters Walnut Halves x 18

kfast

Method: To make the pancake mixture: 1. In a bowl add the flour and salt and mix together.

2. Make a well in the centre of the mixture and slowly beat in 250ml of the milk and the egg until combined.

To cook the pancakes: 1. Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan.

2. Add a ladle of batter to the pan for each pancake.

3. Depending on the thickness of your pancakes they should take about 30 seconds to 1 minute each side to cook.

To make the faces: 1. Using drained Sweet Valley tinned fruit cocktail, Everyday Essentials strawberry jam and walnut halves to make smiley faces on top of your pancakes.

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Tomato Heads Method

Serves: 4

1. Slice the top off the tomatoes, reserving lids.

Scoop out seeds from each tomato.

2. Microwave rice according to on pack instructions, and stir tuna through rice.

3. to combine. Spoon warm rice mixture evenly between four tomatoes, and place lid of tomato loosely on top to close.

4. Place two olives at the top of each tomato, to make the eyes.

5. Cut each piece of bocconcini into three pieces.

Place one below the olives, to make a mouth. Place the remaining two pieces at the base, to make the feet.

Prep time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 0 minutes

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Ingredients 4 truss tomatoes 4 olives, sliced 4 pieces Emporium Selection Traditional Bocconcini 2 cans Portview Sundried Tomato & Basil Flavoured Tuna 95g 1 pouch Imperial Grain Microwaveable Brown Rice 250g

lun

Tomato & Feta Tart Serves: 6-8

Method:

Prep time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 50 minutes

• Preheat oven to 180°C (or 160°C fan forced).

Spray dish with olive oil.

• Line your dish with pastry on the bottom and sides, cover with baking paper over the top and fill with raw rice or baker’s weights. Blind bake for 10-15 minutes.

• Add eggs into a large bowl and whisk. Add the cream and whisk until combined.

• Remove from the oven, discarding the rice and baking paper. Layer half the tomatoes over the base of the pastry and dot with feta.

• Pour in the egg mixture and finish layering remaining tomatoes and feta on top.

• Season with salt and pepper. Bake for 10 minutes on 180°C (or 160°C fan forced) until golden brown on top.

• Then reduce your oven to 120°C (or 100°C fan forced) and bake for a further 40-50 minutes or until the middle is firm (but has a nice wobble).

• Remove from oven. Cool slightly and serve.

Ingredients 4 truss tomatoes 2 sheets of Elmsbury puff pastry 12 Lodge Farms free range eggs 300ml Farmdale thickened cream 180g Emporium Selection Persian fe ta 1/2 tsp sea salt 1/2 tsp pepper Fresh basil leaves, to serve Optional: 1/4 tsp garlic powder or crushed garlic added into the mixture

nch

June 2019 | mychild

129

Hidden Vegetable Lasagna Serves: 4

Method

Prep time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 1 hour

1. Preheat oven to 180°C. 2. In a saucepan, brown mince then add pasta sauce.

3. Finely grate the vegetables and add to mince mixture. Simmer, adding a little water if too dry.

4. For the cheese sauce: melt butter in a separate pan, add flour and cook, stirring, for about a minute.

Gradually add milk, constantly stirring over heat.

When the sauce thickens, stir in mozzarella cheese until melted.

5. Layer lasagna sheets, mince and cheese sauce in a dish until all used up, finishing with a sauce layer. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese. Cover with foil, bake for 20 minutes, remove foil and bake for a further 20 minutes.

Ingredients 250g Remano Lasagna Pasta Sheets 500g Highland Park Beef Mince 500g Remano Bolognese Pasta Sauce 2 carrots 2 zucchinis 1/2 cup capsicum 2 tbsp Beautifully Butterfully Butter 1/4 cup White Mill plain flour 2 cups Farmdale Milk 1 cup Westacre Shredded Mozzarella Cheese 1/2 cup Westacre Shredded Parmesan Cheese, to dress

130 June 2019 | mychild

din

Cauliflower Crust Pizza Method

Serves: 4

1. Process the cauliflower in a food processor until finely chopped. Place into a microwavesafe bowl, cover and microwave on high for 8-10 minutes or until very tender. Drain through a fine sieve, pressing down well with a spoon to remove excess liquid. Combine the cauliflower, egg and parmesan in a bowl.

2. Preheat oven to 230°C. Line a 30cm round pizza tray with baking paper. Press cauliflower mixture into the tray. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden.

3. Spread tomato paste over the base and sprinkle with mozzarella and sliced tomatoes and mushrooms. Bake until cheese is fully melted and tomatoes are blistered, then remove from oven and add basil leaves

Prep time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 50 minutes

nner

Ingredients 650g cauliflower head, trimmed and chopped 1 Lodge Farms Egg, lightly whisked 25g Westacre Shredded Parmesan Cheese 1/3 cup Remano tomato paste 3 cups Westacre Shredded Mozzarella Cheese 1 punnet Bellino tomatoes, sliced in half 250g mushrooms, sliced Handful basil leaves

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Strawberry ice blocks Serves: 3-4 Preparation time: 5 minutes (plus overnight freeze) Ingredients 6 ripe bananas, sliced 2-3 tbsp Bramwells honey 1/4 tsp Stonemill ground cinnamon (optional) Your favourite in-season berries, to serve

132 June 2019 | mychild

Method: 1. Slice the bananas and freeze overnight or until firm.

2. Place the bananas into a food processor and blend, scraping down several times until the bananas have turned into a creamy puree.

3. Add 2 tablespoons of honey and mix until combined. If using ground cinnamon, add now.

4. Serve straight away for a creamy, delicious ice cream or refreeze for later.

dess

Simple No-Bake Banoffee Pie Method: 1. Crush the biscuits in a food processor until you have fine crumbs, then add the melted butter. Process again to combine. The crumbs should stick together when squeezed.

2. Press into the springform cake tin halfway up the sides.

Refrigerate while you make the filling.

3. Place the cubed butter and the golden syrup into a saucepan and heat, stirring until melted.

4. Add the tin of condensed milk and stir on medium heat for approximately 5-8 minutes until the mixture bubbles, thickens and starts to change colour.

5. Remove from the heat and cool for a couple of minutes before pouring into the chilled crumb crust.

6. Refrigerate until cold and firm. The pie can be made up to this point and finished when you are ready.

7. Slice 3-4 bananas and mix them with the whipped cream.

8. Pour into the tart shell on top of the chilled caramel and smooth down to a nice flat surface.

9. Sprinkle chocolate shavings onto the top of the tart and then decorate with the final sliced banana.

Serves: 8 Preparation time: 20 minutes (plus chill time) Ingredients 125g Beautifully Butterfully butter, melted 250g Belmont Biscuit Co. marie biscuits 1 tin Farmdale sweetened condensed milk 50g Beautifully Butterfully butter, cubed 3 tbsp Bramwells golden syrup 4-5 firm bananas 400ml Farmdale cream, whipped 50g Choceur dark chocolate, grated

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140 June 2019 | mychild