PALMY PARENT PALMERSTON NORTH PARENTS CENTRE MAGAZINE
August / September . 2020
WHY YOU SHOULD VOTE
‘THE DOG AND THE MOG LOVE CHRISTMAS’ IS COMING SOON!
NUTRITION FOR MUMS
EDITOR’S NOTE We’ve got quite a bit of variety for you this issue! Our main feature is about an upcoming children’s book that has been illustrated by our fantastic magazine designer herself, Laura! We also talk a bit about postnatal nutrition and why you should vote, and our family friendly outing this issue is Space Place in Wellington! Thanks as always to all of our wonderful contributors, and please get in touch if you’d like to write for us!
Jessica Mollie Ensing Editor
ADVERTISE IN PALMY PARENT Palmerston North Parents Centre has a circulation of over 250 magazines per issue. These are sent to all current members as well as Plunket, midwives and other community groups. Our rates are extremely competitive and we would love your support by way of an advertisement. Also, in addition to our outstanding rates, we offer you a FREE advertorial on your business if you commit to either four or six adverts per annum. For more information contact our Business Relations Officer by email at: palmyparent@hotmail.com One-off price
4 per year
6 per year
Quarter page
$50
4 x $40
6 x $35
Half page
$80
4 x $60
6 x $55
Full page
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6 x $80
Insert or flyer
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In addition to our outstanding rates, we offer you a FREE advertorial on your business if you commit to either four or six half or full-page adverts per annum ISSUE 296 . August | September 2020
3
CONTENTS FEATURES Why you should vote
10
‘The Dog and the Mog Love Christmas’ is Coming Soon
12
surrender
14
Why Babies Wake at Night
25
IN EVERY ISSUE Editor’s note
3
PNPC Seminars & Events
6
What’s on
7
Book Review
9
Health and Wellness: Nutrition for Mums
16
Birth Story: Rory’s Roadside delivery
18
Dad’s Life: How to be a great dad in one hour a day!
21
Product Review: Period Underwear
22
Family Friendly Outing - Space Place
28
Craft: Leaf Painting
30
Community support groups
32
Member discounts
33
Playgroups in your area
34
CHECK OUT OUR WINNERS Bruce McKenzie Book Giveaway
10
The Hair Company styling treatment
19
Kind Hearts, Streetwise Coffee
30
Cottage Flowers Arrangement
31
CONTRIBUTORS Jessica Ensing, Laura Wenden-Green, Pinky McKay, Ange, Saritta Burney, Desiree Harvey, Myra Reitsma, Tara Parkes, Kate Morland, Emily Holdaway
Front cover by: Kelly Sutton
4 PALMY PARENT . PALMERSTON NORTH PARENTS CENTRE MAGAZINE
GOT SOMETHING TO SHARE? Want to share some helpful advice or a great book you’ve read? Let us know and we’ll share it with our members. Or, if you would like to have your baby’s photos printed, write about your birth experience, review a book or a family friendly venue you have visited recently, we’d love to hear from you!
Email the Editor at: palmyparenteditor@gmail.com
COMMITTEE NEWS The last two months have been a relief; we have slowly moved all our classes back into the classroom except for a special Responsive Parenting Programme series which we chose to run online as a continuation of the special Hot Topics we ran online in April this year. Running this one-off online Responsive Parenting programme has allowed parents to attend that otherwise may have not been able to, and we will consider running one a year online to allow access to this amazing parenting programme to all. Our next face to face Responsive Parenting programme will be held over two Sundays, September the 13th & 20th. We held our belated Preggy to Preschool garage sale on the 18th July 2020; it was a great success, there were lines down the street and our sellers were happy to clear some space in their storage at home by selling to the enthusiastic shoppers that attended.
and returning to exercise after baby seminar, with Kate Morland, registered dietitian. There were great reviews and everyone loved that she did a live cooking demo. Because of the positive feedback we will look at holding this seminar again. Lastly, we held our AGM on the 15th July, 2020; we welcomed new Committee members Lisa Hopper, Amie Brown, and Bec Handcock and said goodbye to Bawani Krishnan as she leaves us to look after her growing family. As always we are always looking for more volunteers, if you are interested please send us an email on info@palmyparentscentre.org.nz Saritta and The Palmy Parents Centre Team
For several reasons we have made the decision to postpone our annual Parent and Child Expo from October this year to the new date of June 13th, 2021. We like the idea of having a June market as it is the start of Winter and you will love being able to find something to do with the children in the perfect, fully indoor venue. We have a bunch planned for the next expo including speakers, cash out facilities, and more - so stay tuned for more details in the new year. We are running a few new seminars this year. The first was with LooLoo Toilet Training solutions and last month we had a post-natal nutrition
Mission statement Positive birth experiences and informed parenting in a community where parents are supported and highly valued in their role.
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Disclaimer: Opinions and articles in this magazine do not necessarily reflect Parents Centre NZ policy. Advertising in this magazine does not imply endorsement by Parents Centre. ISSUE 296 . August | September 2020
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PNPC
SEMINARS & EVENTS AUGUST & SEPTEMBER PARENTING CHILDREN WITH ANXIETY
STARTING SOLIDS
Tuesday August 4th 7-830pm
Saturday 5th September, 10am
Presented by Dr Kate Tappenden from Voice Psychology, this seminar will look at how parents can help children who are struggling with anxiety. It focuses on simple practical tools to help parents understand causes of anxiety and how to respond.
Perfect for parents of 3-9 month olds. In this popular seminar with our new presenter, Registered Dietitian and mum Megan Somerville, you will learn the signs that your baby is ready for complementary feeding, what to introduce when, other topics to ensure you are confident and ready for this next step.
Cost: Free to all RETURNING TO WORK Saturday August 8th 10-1130am Come along to hear Esther Fou, an experienced working professional in HR and Mum to three children discuss extended leave, keeping in touch hours, expressing/feeding, childcare and your other options (including choosing not to go back to work).
Cost: $6 members; $12 non-members INTRODUCTORY INFANTS
WATER
SKILLS
FOR
Venue: Lido Aquatic Centre Wednesday 16th September, 1130am
Cost: Free to all
Introduce your child to water in this “taster” swimming class. For babies and toddlers aged 5 months to 3 years old. Approximately 30 minutes duration.
INFANT CPR
Cost: Free; this session is kindly provided by CLM Swim Magic.
Monday 24th August, 10am This short course will cover baby and infant CPR, choking, burns, convulsions, fevers, illness warning signs and accidental ingestion of toxins. This is a baby friendly course.
RESPONSIVE PARENTING COURSE Sunday 13th & 20th September, 9am-4pm.
NEWBORN BREASTFEEDING
Palmerston North Parents Centre’s Responsive Parenting Workshops are designed to encourage, support and equip families with positive, ‘responsive’ and non-punitive strategies for the parenting journey.
Saturday 29th August, 10am
Cost: $20 per person or $35 per couple.
Cost: $6 members; $12 non-members
Designed for ALL expectant and new mums who are intending to, or have recently started breastfeeding. Learn how to prepare for and get started with breastfeeding, along with strategies for an effective and sustainable breastfeeding journey. You can attend this seminar while pregnant and again in the early weeks with your newborn. Partners welcome. Presented by Cheryl Benn, Lactation Consultant, self-employed midwife, and Regional Midwifery Advisor to MidCentral and Whanganui DHB Cost: Free to all 6 PALMY PARENT . PALMERSTON NORTH PARENTS CENTRE MAGAZINE
To register please see our website: http://www.palmyparentscentre.org.nz/ All seminars and events can be found in our calendar on the website. For any queries please email: info@palmyparentscentre.org.nz
WHAT’S ON. . . MULTI-CULTURAL EID ADHA - FESTIVAL AND FAIR Central Energy Trust Arena, 61 Pascal St, Palmerston North Sunday 9 August 2020 10:00am – 5:00pm Manawatu Multicultural Council and Manawatu Muslim Association are hosting this festival, working closely with other agencies to provide a colourful regional event. The main objective is to enhance cohesion, inclusion, and understanding of our people regardless of ethnicity and religion.
‘THE DOG AND THE MOG LOVE CHRISTMAS’ BOOK LAUNCH Mezzanine, Palmerston North City Library 10am-11am Wednesday 19th August Join our Palmy Proud author and illustrator for story time, kids craft, book sales and signings to celebrate the launch of the newest book in the “The Dog and the Mog” series.
SPADES AND SAUSAGES - NATIVE GARDEN COMMUNITY PLANTING DAY Roslyn School, Kipling St, Palmerston North Saturday 22 August 2020 8:30am – 1:00pm The trees are coming, and we’d love you to come along and be part of our community planting day as we transform this wasted space into something really special. Plant some kawakawa and kowhai, put your mark on our new garden murals, and enjoy morning tea, and a free sausage sizzle lunch afterwards with us.
MANAWATU CRAFT AND FOOD FAIR
STREETS FOR PEOPLE - STREET PARTY The Square, The Square, Palmerston North Saturday 8 August 2020 10:00am – 2:00pm We’ll be hosting a street party for you to check out the new space and to join in with the businesses in celebrating the end of the construction period. We also have a time capsule we’re putting in the road that you can contribute to. Anyone who makes a purchase from the shops during the street party will be able to add something to our time capsule and be entered in a draw for a weekend away for two people to New Plymouth. At 10am, the event will start with the Mayor and iwi officially opening the street. The street will be broken into pop-up zones. For more infomaton head to: https://www. eventfinda.co.nz/2020/streets-for-peoplestreet-party/palmerston-north
70 Waldegrave Street, Palmerston North, New Zealand 4410 Saturday, August 29, 2020 at 10 AM – 3 PM With 86 Craft and Food stalls inside and 11 Food Trucks outside this is an event not to be missed! We will have two raffles to give away at the end of the day again. All proceeds from our raffles will be going to the Manawatu Heart Foundation. Raffe tickets are $2.00 each! FREE ENTRY and FREE CAR PARKING Remember to bring Cash as not all Stall Holders have Eftpos facilities. Jewellery - Children’s Clothing - Cards - Artwork - Soy Candles - Quilts - Skincare - Soap - Crochet - Conserves - Woodwork - Knitting - Licorice . . . and much much more!
ST. MATTHEW’S PLANT AND FUN FAIR St Matthew’s Church, College St, Palmerston North Saturday 12 September 2020 9:00am – 12:00pm Wide range of plants, a garage sale, garden tools, home made pickles, relishes,and jams, and a great selection of home baking. Come and have morning tea at St Mats Cafe, the sausage sizzle, or try our butter chicken. Plenty of activities for the Children - face painting, rides, lucky dips, raffles, and lots lots more. ISSUE 296 . August | September 2020
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MEMBERS’ OFFERS: Free barista hot drink or pair of grips socks when you present your membership card at a coffee and kids morning on Mon to Thur 10-12. For Children under 6, $7 per child (Parents get free entry)
20%OFF
Unique Beginnings
Enter the coupon code PARENTS20 at the checkout to SAVE on selected items at The Sleep Store To see which items you can apply the discount to visit www.thesleepstore.co.nz/content/parentscentre
with Rebecca Robinson
Birth preparation & beyond, Lactation Consultant support
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5% OFF all services
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Visit www.thesleepstore.co.nz/content/parentscentre for further details & exclusions on this offer. Coupon applies to selected items listed on this webpage, Offer cannot be used with coupons, vouchers, discounts, 2-pack offers or combo deals. Cannot be used on shipping fee or other brand items, gift cards or in conjunction with any other offer or discount. The Sleep Store reserves the right to update or amend this offer at any time.
ph: 021 066 0394
Pay no booking fee when enrolling with Puddleducks if parents centre member ($50 saving)
10% off all full priced Items (must show membership card)
117 Ruahine St, Palmerston North | 06-280 3370
Halo Salt Rooms 10% off Full priced Adult and Private Salt Rooms. 117-119 Ruahine Street, Palmerston North 06 280 4220 | info@halosaltrooms.co.nz 8 PALMY PARENT . PALMERSTON NORTH PARENTS CENTRE MAGAZINE
BOOK REVIEW
THE BOY AND THE LEMON TREE Words by James Hurman and illustrations by Juliet Burton Available in Hardback at Bruce McKenzie Books, George St for $24.99 Reviewed by Desiree Harvey
The Boy and the Lemon is a story about luck. When a giant lemon from outer space smashes into Jack’s house, his Mum is distraught at their rotten luck. Jack tries to figure out how they can fix the mess, and in the process realizes something spectacular; that when he has the right attitude and listens to his intuition, he can make wonderful things happen. In the 1990’s, a British psychologist conducted a study on luck and concluded that lucky people often share a certain attitude and approach to life. Upon discovering this, the author decided to write this book to share the secrets of being lucky with children, as perhaps the most magical thing you could ever teach a child. This is a great book to facilitate a conversation about attitude with your children, and comes complete with a handy descriptive guide about how to do so. When life gives you lemons, make lemonade!
I V G E A K W O AY O B Be in to win this issue’s reviewed book!
Just follow these 3 easy steps!
1
To enter the draw to win this issue’s book, email your name, with ‘Book Giveaway’ in the subject line to info@palmyparentscentre.org.nz
2
14 th September 2020 That’s
all!
The winner’s name will be printed in the next issue of the Palmy Parent and the winner can collect their book from the Palmy Parent Centre.
ratu Cong lation Kiri Parkinson
: s to
3
Entries for the next draw must be received by
who has won a copy of ‘The Seven Kites of Matariki’
The children’s book reviewed above has been generously donated by Bruce McKenzie Booksellers on George Street, Palmerston North to give away to a lucky Parents Centre Member. Bruce McKenzie’s Booksellers is situated in George Street beside the entrance to the Palmerston North Library. Bruce McKenzie’s carries an enormous range of books from children’s to specialist non-fiction and is definitely worth a visit. If you have any questions don’t hesitate to ask the staff who are always willing to help.
ISSUE 296 . August | September 2020
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FEATURE
WHY YOU SHOULD VOTE On September 19, the anniversary of New Zealand granting women the right to vote, New Zealanders will vote on who should lead the country and represent their interests for the next three years. So why should you care? We all have things we value. Things we want protected, ways of doing things that we want changed or continued, hopes for what the world will look like for us and for our children. Voting is the best way to ensure your interests and values are taken into account when decisions are made about the future of our country and what it will look like. Electing local and national representatives who prioritise what you prioritise is a big step towards ensuring New Zealand laws, infrastructure, policies, and government spending reflect what’s important to you. It can be easy to assume that your vote won’t change anything, to look at the polls and think that it’s already decided. But given that just over 20 percent of voters didn’t vote last election, and that we had a minority coalition, it’s not hard to see how each and every person who shows up to the voting booth has the opportunity to make a difference to the outcome. And if you identify as a woman and the above reasoning failed to convince you, here’s a list of reasons why women in particular should vote, written in 1888!
Ten reasons why the women of New Zealand should vote(1888)
This is the text of a leaflet published by the Women’s Christian Temperance
Union in May 1888, which was sent to every member of the House of Representatives.
One:
Because a democratic government like that of New Zealand already admits the great principle that every adult person, not convicted of crime, nor suspected of lunacy, has an inherent right to a voice in the construction of laws which all must obey.
Two:
Because it has not yet been proved that the intelligence of women is only equal to that of children, nor that their social status is on a par with that of lunatics or convicts.
Three: Because women are affected by the prosperity of the Colony, are concerned in the preservation of its liberty and free institutions, and suffer equally with men from all national errors and mistakes.
Four: Because women are less accessible
than men to most of the debasing influences now brought to bear upon elections, and by doubling the number of electors to be dealt with, women would make bribery and corruption less effective, as well as more difficult.
Five: Because in the quietude of home
women are less liable than men to be swayed by mere party feeling, and are inclined to attach great value to uprightness and rectitude of life in a candidate.
Six: Because the presence of women at the polling-booth would have a refining and purifying effect.
Seven:
Because the votes of women would add weight and power to the more settled and responsible communities.
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Eight:
Because women are endowed with a more constant solicitude for the welfare of the rising generations, thus giving them a more far-reaching concern for something beyond the present moment.
Nine:
Because the admitted physical weakness of women disposes them to exercise more habitual caution, and to feel a deeper interest in the constant preservation of peace, law, and order, and especially in the supremacy of right over might.
Ten:
Because women naturally view each question from a somewhat different standpoint to men, so that whilst their interests, aims, and objects would be very generally the same, they would often see what men had overlooked, and thus add a new security against any partial or onesided legislation. (source NZ History Online)
Kate Sheppard, the head of the franchise and legislation department of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union, became the most prominent leader of the suffrage campaign.
ISSUE 296 . August | September 2020
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SEASONAL FEATURE
‘THE DOG AND THE MOG LOVE CHRISTMAS’ IS COMING SOON Local author, Kaye Arnott, and illustrator, Laura Wenden Green, have created the third story to be published in their children’s picture book series. The series follows Davey the Dog, Mavis the Mog, their owner Bruce, and his family. The book is about the antics of Mavis and Davey as they venture into the exciting world of their first Christmas. Imagine what happens when they decide that the Christmas tree is their new playground. It has to get messy and how will the family react to their naughtiness?
Laura offered to illustrate ‘The Dog and the Mog’ after watching Kaye reading it to children at a local café using props. It was also Laura’s first foray into the world of illustrating children’s stories and making them come to life, having gained the necessary skills through the digital, graphic and photographic related positions she has held.
COME ALONG TO THE LAUNCH OF THIS FABULOUS NEW BOOK.
‘The Dog and the Mog Love Christmas’ will be available through local retailers in August 2020.
WHEN: Wednesday 19th August 2020 from 10am at the Jumping Jellybeans session
Both Kaye and Laura are self-taught in their craft and enjoy working together from their home base in Palmerston North. The series began when Kaye wrote ‘The Dog and the Mog’ for her first-born grandchild, and further stories just flowed from there! She has always enjoyed writing in rhyme and it seemed a great way to begin the storytelling process.
WHERE: M ezzanine Level Main Entrance, Palmerston North City Library WHY: T here will be a book reading by the author, kid’s crafts to enjoy, book sales and signings. Everyone is very welcome. More information about the team and their books can be found at: WWW.KAYEARNOTT.CO.NZ
PARENT CENTRE PARTNERS:
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! W E N
ISSUE 296 . August | September 2020
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PARENTING
SURRENDER By Pinky McKay I believe our children are our greatest teachers. With each child I have learnt valuable lessons – patience, w o n d e r , h u m i l i t y , a n d t r u s t . Tr u s t can be the most challenging. As I speak to mothers every day, I see first-hand the struggles that are often around issues of trust: trust that babies really aren’t manipulating (that the needs they express are legitimate); trust that the tiny baby who needs to feed every hour or two right now will eventually space out his feeds; trust that one night your wakeful baby will eventually sleep all night; and trust that your toddler will develop impulse control (that his ‘disruptive’ behaviour and meltdowns aren’t
Coffee and kids Parents play groups daycares
MOn to thur 9am - 10Am under 5S $7 per child & parents jump for FREe
because he’s truly ‘out to get you’!). Although there is overwhelming pressure to intervene and ‘train’ babies, they will naturally have the capacity to fall asleep with less help as their immature nervous systems develop. And when their tiny tummies stretch and they can coordinate sucking, swallowing, and breathing, they become more efficient at feeding and will naturally space out feeds. When they’re ready, they will eat family foods too, without any forcing or fuss. Even toddlers are still learning, and although we do need to keep teaching calmly and with respect, it isn’t a punishable offence for a small person to have a meltdown when he just can’t manage his big feelings. Your toddler’s brain is still developing the connections that can help him make sense of these feelings, and with gentle guidance and trust he will learn to handle his emotions appropriately. Just as we learn to trust in our child’s innate needs and his goodness, we can learn to surrender early. We can follow our tiny infant’s rhythms, or we can struggle to impose our own ways. The more we struggle, the more our connection with our child is at risk, and the more difficult we can make our own journey, long beyond infancy – especially if we have a naturally spirited child. This surrender is not weak or submissive. It is not ‘giving in’. Surrender, in this context, is really about acceptance of where our child is at right now, as well as
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where we are as parents, and about ‘letting go’. Surrender means living in the present, not missing precious moments through resentment or blame – especially blaming ourselves – for things being different from what we expected or hoped for. Surrender is also about being kind to ourselves, for the times we didn’t live up to our own expectations of what a perfect mummy looks like in our own unforgiving eyes. Surrender means forgiving ourselves for our own ‘meltdowns’ and ‘screw-ups’. We all make mistakes, because whatever our ideals, we can only do our best with what we know and the resources we have right now – time, energy, sleep, and support. Surrender is based on trust: trusting our child and trusting our own innate wisdom as we hang in there and work through challenges in the way that’s best for each precious, unique,, little being. Stop for a moment, right now. Snuggle into that soft downy head, breathe in that sweet baby perfume then gaze into those deep eyes. If you have a toddler, slow down and watch them – how their hair falls, how soft their skin is, how cheeky their grin is, and how they make you want to tickle them, just to hear them giggle. Enjoy this moment before it passes. This is surrender. Pinky McKay is Australia’s most recognised breastfeeding expert and gentle parenting advocate. She’s an Internationally Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), mum of five (so she has had her fair share of sleepless nights), and best-selling baby-care author of Sleeping Like a Baby, and Parenting by Heart (Penguin Random House).
ISSUE 296 . August | September 2020
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FEATURE
NUTRIT ION FOR MUMS
(New and Not-so-New) By Kate Morland Food and eating have become so complicated, I believe because there are so many voices preaching different things. I encourage you to turn the volume down and be picky about who you listen to; I do not listen to just anyone who gives advice about money - I go to my accountant. When it comes to post-natal nutrition there are many things to consider however I would like to focus on this acronym RAVE because it is a great way to start addressing your food habits! When we think about how we eat, the habits we default to, the attitudes we express around food, our perception of what or how much we should eat, well some of those can be benefiting us, and some may not be.
Let’s start with these goals around food: R – REGULARITY: Our bodies need regular fuelling zones, to maintain our energy, our focus, satisfy our appetites, and ensure we meet our nutrient needs. Some of us need to eat every 2-3hours while others less. How many times you eat will depend on your lifestyle and individual needs, but the body likes to be fed regularly, not starved and then overloaded. Challenge: Try to pack yourself a lunchbox in the morning to promote regular eating. A – ADEQUACY: This may require someone to have a look over your nutrient intake to identify the gaps, but in general if we’re
Congratulates Nadine Olsen
For winning a Treatment, Cut and Blowwave for being a current Palmerston North Patents Centre member Ph: 358 4010 | Hotel Coachman,134 Fitzherbert Ave, Palmerston North | thehaircompany.co.nz Open Mon - Sat, late nights Tues and Thur
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aiming for at least 5+ fruits/vegetables a day, protein sources at each meal and snack time, and sustaining high fibre carbohydrates in main meals to start with, we are doing a good job. If calorie goals are higher, we can add more healthy fats and extra snacks. Weight changes may be a good reflection of adequacy. I find when one is dropping weight too quickly, they simply are not eating enough. Breastfeeding will expend energy, and if this is not being replaced well enough, one would be losing weight. Challenge: Aim to include in each meal 1) colourful F&V 2) protein 3) carbohydrates V – VARIETY: I love focusing on this part. This is where we add more colour to the diet, eat seasonally, meal plan to include a range of protein and high fibre foods, include a spectrum of colour and variety within food groups. You could also focus on adding different varieties of flavours or textures to your meal planning for enjoyment. Challenge: aim for 3+ colours on your dinner
plate from veggies! E – ENJOYMENT: Food is pleasurable. Eating should be, but let’s face it, sometimes we are rushed, we don’t have to cook gourmet every night, and if you’re suffering with digestive issues or an intolerant baby, it can become stressful. The main message here however is that eating should not be associated with guilt or negative feelings. Create enjoyment via our eating environments; light a candle, set the table, encourage mindful eating, and reduce distractions. If you enjoy a few squares of chocolate or a wee piece of slice, enjoy it.
Challenge: Take a few moments whilst you are eating to practice food mindfulness 1) What does it look like? 2) How does it smell? 3) What does it feel like? 4) How does it sound? 5) What does it taste like? Kate Morland is a NZ Registered Dietitian who specialises in non-diet approach to weight management, creating healthy relationships with food, eating disorders, general health, digestive health and pre/post natal wellness. Kate is also a qualified Exercise Specialist and Reformer Pilates Instructor.
ISSUE 296 . August | September 2020
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BIRTH STORY
ELLA’S BIRTH STORY This is the story of my first child. Although the pregnancy was smooth sailing the birth was far from textbook, however it was a very positive experience for me. I was fortunate enough to have an ‘easy’ pregnancy; I had no morning sickness, no tiredness or no other side effects associated with being pregnant. I was running up until 33 weeks and walking seven km up until the day before I gave birth. I will say I am a big control freak though, so the thought of childbirth freaked me out for the entire eight months I was pregnant. It was the first Monday of lockdown and I was 36 weeks pregnant, due to have my appointment with the midwife the following day. I was looking forward to this, as up until this point we had not discussed labour or the birth at all, that was all due to occur on Tuesday. At around 9am Monday, I started to feel some lower back pain and mild period cramps. They were about 10 – 15 mins apart, sometimes sporadic, and nothing too intense. This continued throughout the day and midafternoon. Although I didn’t want to cause a fuss and kept telling myself it was just Braxton Hicks, I think subconsciously I knew our baby was on her way. I packed a hospital bag that afternoon, put in all the goodies you are told to have; wheat pack, massage ball, chocolate, snacks, swimwear for the
bath; none of these items ever made it out of the bag again. During dinner the cramps were getting pretty intense, just like a bad period, but enough that I was having to breathe through them. I had done an online hypnobirthing course and the best thing I got out of that was ‘up’ and ‘down’ breathing techniques. Breathing through the pain really helped me, along with being on all fours on the floor. The contractions felt like a surge that would build in intensity then completely go away, lasting about 45 seconds to one minute. My poor partner was given a crash course in breathing techniques that afternoon so he could help count me through them, although he got the techniques mixed up and used the wrong technique at the wrong time, for which he was suitably told off. In between contractions I felt great, I was relaxed and even managed to trim my nails and straighten my hair (priorities). At around 7:30 pm my mucus plug came out, and at that point I knew we weren’t far away from meeting our baby. We called the midwife and she said to call back if the contractions got closer and more intense. About an hour later around 8:30 pm my waters broke; there was a loud pop and my waters gushed out. We called the midwife to update her and she said to head to the hospital, where she would meet us. My contractions were all over the show, they went from 6 mins apart to 3 mins then a 10 min gap. At this point it was my belief that my baby was not head down and was instead in a transverse position. This was a concern for the midwife as I hadn’t felt the baby move all afternoon and my waters had gone. The hospital is only about ten minutes away, however my partner decided he would take the longest route with all the traffic lights and road works, earning him telling off number two for the evening. At this point we were both very relaxed, although I had one contraction in the car, and we were joking and very calm, which was nice.
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Hire a Tens Machine Hire a Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) machine to help reduce your pain during labour and childbirth. Palmerston North Parents Centre (PNPC) has five TENS machines available for hire by our members for ONLY $20 for up to four weeks’ hireage (plus a $40.00 refundable bond). Machines can be booked for the two weeks prior to your due date until two weeks post due date. Watch a video interview with a TENS machine expert at youtube.com/ watch?v=4gUEtYAqPw8 Book your TENS Machine from: Junior Kids Store, 23 Broadway Ave, Ph 06 354 5516, info@juniorkidsstore.co.nz, Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm › Sat 9.30am - 4pm. Please pay by cash and bring your PNPC Membership card. Full terms and conditions on our Facebook page: facebook.com/PNorthPC
We arrived at the hospital at 10:40 pm and due to COVID-19 had to go through security at the entrance then further questions once we got to the delivery suite. My midwife took us into our room and wanted to get a monitor on the baby as soon as possible. I had one more contraction as she was doing this. She attached a monitor around my stomach and we all felt relief as we saw the little heartbeat. I needed to use the bathroom and whilst in there I had my final contraction and went through transition. I remember laughing in our antenatal class when I heard that some women roar during transition. Well, for me that is exactly what it was like, it was very primal and I had no control over the noise my body made. It was a strong contraction but then the feeling changed. I came out of the bathroom and told my midwife I needed to push, it felt like I needed to poop. She was surprised and wanted to do a quick exam to see how dilated I was. I didn’t want to use any pain relief for the birth, but we decided to try the gas as she did the exam so I knew what it was like if I needed it. I had one puff and felt quite spaced out.
At 11pm she started her exam then with a surprised look said “we are about to have this baby”, and pushed the call button for another midwife to come and assist her. I was fully dilated plus 2 cm, the baby was on her way. At this point I told her I didn’t want to have the baby lying on my back so, given I was attached to the monitor, my only option was on all fours on the bed, which was good for me, I wanted gravity to assist if possible. My midwife told me not to use any more gas as she needed me to be in control, I was happy with this. As I got into position one foot, then a second foot came out, I don’t really recall pushing for this. The midwife pushed the emergency button as it was now obvious our baby was in a breech position (footling breech). The human body truly is amazing; my body told me when to push and when to take a break. I had a lot of support from nurses and midwives in the room, however I did get frustrated with everyone telling me to push constantly. I hadn’t read much about labour but what I had read led me to believe if I pushed too soon I could tear. In the midst of all the support and advice I sought my midwife’s voice to listen to her ISSUE 296 . August | September 2020
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and do exactly what she told me. It felt unnatural to try and push when I didn’t have the urge, so I didn’t. Breathing and water helped me through this. Yet again my partner got the breathing techniques mixed up and received growling number three for the night. My baby made her way out but got stuck at her chest as her arms were above her head. The most uncomfortable feeling I had throughout my entire experience was when she moved. She was kicking her little legs trying to help, this moved her body, and seeing as I had no control over this I found it uncomfortable. At about this point the midwife noticed that the cord had turned white meaning the baby was no longer getting oxygen, so we needed her to come out as soon as possible. The nurses in the room assisted me into a ‘runner’s lunge’ position with my left leg forward to try and open up my pelvis. I believe this freed up one of her arms but her left arm was still up behind her head preventing her being born. Fortunately for me, my midwife and the on call consultant knew what to do. They helped me to turn on my back, the consultant found the baby’s arm and moved it down from behind her head. Apparently at this point she asked the midwife to cut a large episiotomy, I didn’t hear this but fortunately I gave one last push and our baby girl was born at 11:25 pm weighing 2340g.
I looked around there were about 8-12 staff in the room. I had a nurse over my right shoulder showing me the placenta; in hindsight this was a distraction as over my left shoulder they were working on my baby. They then took my baby to the Neonatal ward, all the staff left, my midwife went to make me some toast and my partner went to make a cup of tea, and just like that I was alone, not pregnant and without my baby; it was the saddest feeling. After a quick shower I was able to go to the Neonatal ward to see my little baby. Seeing her properly for the first time is something I can still not describe properly, I felt an overwhelming sense of helplessness as she was in an incubator, hooked up to machines, with an IV in and a breathing machine on and all I could do was touch her little fingers. I felt an overwhelming sense of love as now all of my effort was going to go into helping her. We ended up staying 11 days in the Neonatal ward while she was treated for a few things. Given that this was during level four lockdown it was not a pleasant journey for us as her dad couldn’t see her and didn’t get to meet her properly until we left the hospital. The staff in the Neonatal ward were amazing though and helped our baby and helped me through those first 11 days. Four months on we now have a super happy, healthy, gorgeous wee girl.
It is hard to describe the feeling of giving birth. I would not describe it as painful, I would rather say it was intense, it was like nothing I have ever felt and although there was pain it was for a reason, every push was getting me closer to meeting my baby. My partner was so supportive and my biggest advocate throughout, he was so proud of me and so happy to briefly meet his baby girl. During the entire time he made sure I was ok whilst monitoring things with our baby. He knew all I wanted was to have skin on skin with her so he pushed for this. She was placed on my chest for a few seconds which went by in a blur before they took her to the side to help her start breathing. The next part is quite a blur, I was given an injection and my placenta was delivered very easily. The staff were fantastic, when 20 PALMY PARENT . PALMERSTON NORTH PARENTS CENTRE MAGAZINE
DAD’S LIFE
HOW TO BE A GREAT DAD IN ONE HOUR A DAY! If you can make an hour to spend with your baby or toddler, you can create some special bonding times. Even if you only get an hour on the weekend, you’ll both feel great after some fun and loving times together. It will help you get through the long week when time is harder to find.
BE THE COACH
Babies need a lot of practice before they reach their next milestone. Loving encouragement from dad might be just the thing they need before giving their first smile, clapping, rolling over, waving bye-bye or crawling. You don’t need to do anything special, they’ll get there at their own pace. But your encouragement and care will help them feel like you’re on their side.
WALKING MULTI-TASKER
Babies love a change of scenery. Put them in the pram or the baby carrier and get out for a walk. You can take the dog, get some exercise, and even pick up some groceries if you’re feeling like a high-achiever. Don’t forget to chat and stop to point out exciting things like a digger or some sweet-smelling flowers.
CAFÉ SO CIETY
There’s no better way to get attention than to be a dad with a baby in a café. Head out for a shot of caffeine and take the baby too. Talk to them about your day, deal with the mini disaster of a nappy change, and soak up the admiration from all the locals.
LOVE THEIR MUM
Happy mums make happy babies. If your partner is home all day, take some time to look after her. Feeling rested and nurtured will help her be a better mum. Ask, “What can I do to help?” She will definitely have an idea. Or make her a cup of tea and a snack while she’s breastfeeding. Don’t forget to tell her she’s doing a great job.
HELPING OUT
There’s no reason that your baby can’t start early being a great helper. Take them outside to do the gardening or to hang out the washing and chat, chat, chat. Babies love the pile of odd socks that live in the washing basket and toddlers are great with a wet sponge and a grubby car. If you’re out in the garden don’t forget the sun safety for you and them.
LO G THEIR LIFE
Take some photos or some notes for a little story about what your baby is up to this week. You’ll have to spend some time looking closely so you can update their blog or Facebook page. Then the friends and family can share the love.
MUSICAL MEMORIES
Do you play the guitar, the piano, or can you even bang a drum? You don’t need to feel silly in front of your biggest fan. Just play your favourite songs, some nursery rhymes or whatever comes to mind. Try and respond to their cues. Are they excited? Wary? Sleepy? As they get older they’ll probably want to play along and you can start your family band.
SWIMMING LESSONS
Lots of dads enjoy baby swimming lessons. You get to be wet and have some fun while teaching your baby to be familiar with and happy in the water. If you go without mum, this activity has the added bonus of nappy changing, washing, dressing, and an afterswim snack. Thanks to Bays North Harbour for this article.
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PRODUCT REVIEW
PERIOD UNDERWEAR REVIEW By Emily Holdaway - raisingziggy.com Period Underwear. Before we go any further, let’s just clarify that period underwear aren’t the ratty, saggy undies you wear during your period. Nope. Period Underwear are underwear with an inbuilt absorbency that you wear during your period, to deal with your period. Q: You mean, you just wear UNDIES? You BLEED INTO UNDIES? A: Yep. That’s exactly what I mean. Q: So you don’t use a tampon? Or a cup? Or a pad? You just wear the undies?? A: Yep. Just the undies.
from breathable fibers like bamboo, and they have an absorbent area to catch everything. They have a top layer that wicks away moisture, a middle layer that hold it, and a bottom layer that stops it leaking through. Basically. I didn’t make them, I just wore them. I learnt all of this from their website. Q: What do they look like? A: Like undies. They come in a range of styles, colours and absorbencies. Even a G-string! And swimwear! Q: What do they feel like? A: Like undies. Surprisingly comfortable undies.
I know, I know, it’s a radical concept. Period underwear hasn’t been around for that long so many people haven’t even heard of it, and when they do, they have a gazillion questions. So how did I hear of them? Well, with the community work around period poverty I do, I get a LOT of period related questions. At the last kōrero I held, one mum asked about options for her daughter that didn’t involve insertion. We talked about cloth pads, and then she asked, ‘what about those period undies?’ I couldn’t answer, because I hadn’t used them. So I got my hands on a few pairs. When I posted about it on Instagram the questions FLOODED in and I thought, shit, 2 pairs isn’t going to cut it. So I got in touch with Modibodi to see if they’d send me a few more, they said ‘yeah sure’, and instead of my cup, I used period underwear and documented the whole experience. So, If you missed the most revealing week of Insta Stories in the history of Instagram. . . here’s how it went. Q: What are Period Underwear? A: Period Underwear are specially designed underwear you use while menstruating to collect your menstrual blood. They are made 22 PALMY PARENT . PALMERSTON NORTH PARENTS CENTRE MAGAZINE
Q: But like, what do they ‘feel’ like when you have your period? A: Like undies. They actually do. They’re not soggy or anything. There’s no layer of blood on top touching your labia unless you’ve just had a gush, but that soaks away quickly.
even got AJ to sniff around my belly and general crotch area and he said there was no smell. Many people worry about the smell because of the odour disposable pads cause, but that’s the pad, not your body that smells. Like yeah, shove your nose up in there and you’ll smell something, but you don’t have period aroma wafting off you.
Q: So like wearing a pad?
Q: Can you wear them overnight?
A: Kind of. But more comfortable. They don’t scrunch up or move around, there’s nothing slipping and you don’t feel like you have to jam it up in there to stay in place.
A: Yep! The overnight ones have a bigger absorbent pad that goes all the way up your bum. Sexy AF.
Q: Different to a tampon or a cup? A: Yes. You can feel yourself bleeding and you feel wet between your labia as the menstrual blood makes its way out. There were times during the day I would feel a gush of fluid, but when I went to the toilet later, the top layer of the underwear had done its job and taken the moisture away Q: So is it messy when you go to the toilet? A: Yes and no. When you wipe after a mimi, yes there is blood all over the toilet paper. But the undies aren’t all in your face red and brown and bloody like a pad. They just look like undies, with a bit of wetness on the crotch. Q: Like wet wet? A: The only time it was overly moist and I didn’t want to put the undies back on was one morning on day three. I got up to pee around 6am, and was bleeding heavily so there was a wet sheen. I blotted it with toilet paper, sweet as, went back to bed for an hour or so then rinsed them when I got up to shower and put new ones on for the day. Q: Do they smell? A: This question came up a lot! And so I did what all good researchers do. I sniffed them! Yes of course they smell, they’re undies you bleed into. The question to ask is ‘do they make you smell?’ Q: Well, do they make you smell? A: Nope. Not once during my period did I smell. I
Modibodi Period Underwear Sensual Hi-waist Bikini $38.00 Q: Do they leak? A: They come in different absorbencies. On my heaviest day, I had to change them at lunchtime as the blood had leaked from the pad to the trim. That was the only leak I had, and nothing leaked onto my clothes. They were the tan colour ones however, I’m unsure I would have noticed the leaking in the black ones. Q: How do you wash them? A: Rinse them in cold water till the water runs clear, then biff them in the wash. I put mine in a delicates bag. In with all the other washing is fine. Line dry, don’t tumble dry. Q: Do they take ages to dry? A: It’s nearly summer here in NZ, so they dried pretty fast. Winter would be harder, a bit like cloth nappies you’d want a sock hanger or something I reckon. ISSUE 296 . August | September 2020
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Q: Are there different styles?
Q: Will I use them again?
A: Yep! Boyleg and high waist and they range from size 8 to 24. They’ve got a lot of options!
A: Hell yes. Hell yes. Do you know how much easier it is to wake up and put underwear on than to insert a menstrual cup or a tampon? However I’m not keen on the gush feeling, so I’m still planning to use my cup on the heavier middle days of my period, and use the underwear at the beginning and the end. I think they’d also be great to wear with a cup or a tampon to catch any leaks, so you can still wear nice underwear that looks pretty and feels comfortable, and not worry about ruining it.
Q: How long do they last? A: Modibodi say they last “as long as a normal pair of undies” which they work out to 2 – 3 years if looked after. Obviously I’ve not owned them long enough to know, and my undies have looooooong lifespans . . . let’s just say most of the underwear I own is from before I was pregnant with Ziggy!
Modibodi Period Underwear Seamfree Full Brief $45.00 Modibodi Period Underwear Classic Bikini $28.00
Q: Are they an option for my teenager? A: Yes. In fact they stock a specific teen range (and the discount below will work on these products too). When I was younger, the only options offered to us were tampons or disposable pads. I think it’s so important our girls know there are more choices out there for them. Q: Will they work for heavy heavy bleeding? A: They have both heavy and overnight absorbencies which hold up to 20ml, but I wasn’t measuring it before it hit the undies so I don’t know what my liquid output was. When I use a cup I generally change it morning and night (I used to change a regular tampon every 4 or so hours). I have had feedback from women who have used the overnight ones for postpartum bleeding say they are great.
I did wear a cup during this period (waiting for the extra pairs to arrive), and it actually felt weird having something inside me, even though I’ve been managing my period internally since I was 15. They don’t scream ‘LOOK AT HER WITH HER PERIOD HAPPENING!” So yeah, there you go. Period underwear. I think they are a bloody awesome option if you’re looking for a comfortable, reusable option for your period. If you want to get some for yourself, use the code ZIGGY15, for 15% off at Modibodi. If you need financial assistance to access reusable menstrual products, check out The Good Fund.
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www.modibodi.co.nz www.thegoodfund.co.nz
FEATURE
WHY BABIES WAKE AT NIGHT By Hilary Nobilo, Researcher & Educator
Brainwave
Many parents would argue that the expression “sleeping like a baby” is an anomaly. Parents often share their experiences of disturbed sleep and wonder if they’ll ever have a good night’s sleep again. However, what might be perceived as an infant sleep problem is more often than not, a normal part of infant sleep development. Much of Western culture holds an unrealistic and developmentally inappropriate view that babies should sleep through the night from the first few months yet typical sleep patterns undergo considerable developmental changes over the first three years and parents can expect disruptions and challenges over that time. At birth, newborns are unable to distinguish between day and night. Their sleep-wake rhythms (circadian rhythms) are developing over the next three months. During early development, babies spend more time in Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep or active sleep than children and adults and also move through shorter cycles of sleep pattern. This predominance of active sleep plays an important role in early brain development. Most babies need help during these early months to transition through sleep cycles as they have not yet developed the regulatory capacity to fall back to sleep alone.
At four months, babies typically wake briefly four to six times during the night.1 Although the total number of hours sleep doesn’t change significantly, by four months, most healthy full-term babies spend the majority of their sleep hours during night-time. Although some have the capacity to settle themselves back to sleep and self-soothe as they transition through sleep cycles, many still need their parents to help them. Initially, sleep patterns are dependent on a baby’s hunger and at four months, some are still needing a night feed. After a soothing bed-time settling, many babies of this age can be left in a drowsy but still awake state to fall asleep on their own. Babies who learn to self-soothe generally find it easier to fall asleep without help when they wake in the night.1 Between four and six months, babies are showing more interest in their family and surroundings, so may need a quiet place to settle. This is an appropriate time for a consistent bed-time routine to be introduced. Although consistency is critical, parents need to adapt sleep routines according to their baby’s changing developmental needs. By now, many babies are developing the regulatory capacity to return to sleep by themselves without help from a parent.4 Introducing a soft toy or blanket that the baby can reach for during the night can be helpful.
The Koru Study SEEKING PREGNANT WOMEN to take part in a study measuring body composition changes during pregnancy & early infancy
If you are between 11-16 WEEKS of pregnancy we would love to hear from you
For more information
visit: https://www.thekorustudy.com/ If you are interested in joining this study, please contact Ciara Phone: (06) 951 6366 Text: (021) 1 605 805 Email: thekorustudy@massey.ac.nz This project has been reviewed and approved by the Health & Disability Ethics Committee: 19/CEN/47
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Between six and twelve months, sleep difficulties may increase. Over this time, babies develop an understanding that parents still exist when they can’t be seen. This is also the time when babies’ attachment to their primary care-giver (usually the mother) is evident. Babies may expect to be comforted by an attachment figure when they wake and cry in the night. This is a normal and healthy part of development and parents need to reassure their baby that they’re close by. Babies who are comforted by responsive parents are shown to settle more quickly over time. A bedtime routine consisting of three to four calming activities, such as bath, pyjamas and stories can be helpful for older babies.1 Towards the end of the first year, babies become consumed by the development of new motor skills and their determination to master these skills can upset sleep rhythms. Changes to routines may also unsettle toddlers and result in night waking. During the second year, young children experience more fears and can become frightened by new or incomprehensible day-time events. This can result in babies becoming increasingly resistant to separation from parents at bed-time.1 They continue to wake briefly four to six times a night as
a result of normal sleep rhythm patterns though many parents will be unaware of these wakings if children are able to settle themselves back to sleep. Sleep, like all infant development takes place within a context of relationship, genetic and environmental factors. Sleep problems may reflect problems parents are experiencing. Family stress and difficulties in parents’ relationships are factors that are shown to have an influence on babies’ sleep patterns.1 Disruptions to family life, such as shifting house, bereavement, loss of employment, birth of a new sibling or a trip away can also be unsettling. However, some relationship influences are bi-directional and sleep problems may be contributing to negative family outcomes.1 Genetic factors come into play with infant temperament and individual differences. Babies who have difficulty adapting to changes and hypersensitive babies who startle easily and react to changes in light, sound or touch, are more likely to experience settling problems. The physical health of a baby can also increase vulnerability. Sleep problems occur more frequently in babies with gastro-oesophageal reflux, ear
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emotional and behavioural development. Australia: Doubleday. DeGangi. (2000). Pediatric disorders of regulation in affect and behaviour. A therapists guide to assessment and treatment. Boston: Academic Press. Fogel, A. (2009). Infancy: Infant, family and society (5th ed.). NY: Sloan Publishing, LLC. Gold, C. M. (2011). Keeping your child in mind. Overcoming defiance, tantrums and other everyday problems by seeing the world through your child’s eyes. Philadelphia: Da Capo Press. Jenni, O. G., Borbely, a. A., & Achermann, P. (2004). Development in the nocturnal sleep electroencephalogram in human infants. American Journal of Physiology: Regulatory, Integrative and Comparative Physiology, 286, R528-R538. Mares, S., Newman, L., & Warren, B. (2011). Clinical skills in infant mental health: The first three years (2nd ed.). Camberwell, Victoria: ACER Press. McNamara, P., Belsky, J., & Fearon, P. (2003). Infant sleep disorders and attachment sleep problems in infants with insecure-resistant versus insecure-avoidant attachments to mother. Sleep and Hypnosis, 5(1), 7-14. Owens, J., & Burnham, M. (2009). Sleep disorders. In C. H. Zeanah (Ed.), Handbook of Infant Mental Health (pp. 362376). New York: Guilford Press.
infections, teething, allergies and milk intolerance. Cultural values and beliefs in regard to infant sleep practices influence parents’ expectations and their ways of managing sleep. A family’s culture will also influence sleeping arrangements. Western culture is one of the few in the world that sees young babies sleeping in rooms alone. Parents can become overwhelmed and exhausted by interrupted sleep and support from extended family and friends can be a considerable help through this time. Some families benefit from professional help. Infancy is a time of significant change and development and this is reflected in the variability of sleep patterns over this time. Sleep problems are a common concern for parents as babies learn to regulate and consolidate their sleep. Understanding that settling difficulties and night-wakings are a normal part of infant development can help parents respond to their baby in a way that meets developmental and emotional needs.
Raju, D. V., & Radtke, R. A. (2012). Sleep/wake electroencephalography across the life-span. Sleep Medicine Clinic, 7, 13-22. Sadeh, A., & Anders, T. F. (1993). Infant sleep problems: Origins, assessment, intervention. Infant Mental Health Journal, 14(1), 17-34. Sadeh, A., Lavie, P., & Scher, A. (1992). Temperament and night waking in early childhood, revisited. Sleep Research, 21, 93. Stickgold, R. (2005). Sleep-dependent memory consolidation. Nature, 437, 1272-1278. Tipene- Leach, D., Abel, S., Park, J., Finau, S., & Lennon, M. (2000). Maori infant care practices: Implications for health messagers, infant care services and SIDs prevention in Maori communities. Pacific Health Dialogue, 7, 29-37. Warren, B. (2012). The unsettled infant. In L. Newman & S. Mares (Eds.), Contemporary approaches to infant and child mental health. Victoria: I P Communications.
First published in Brainwave Trust Newsletter 18, Winter 2013 References Australian Association of Infant Mental Health Inc. (2004). Position Paper 1. Controlled crying. Retrieved from www.aaimhi.org Brazelton, T. B. (1993). Touchpoints. The essential reference guide to your child’s ISSUE 296 . August | September 2020
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FAMILY FRIENDLY OUTING
SPACE PLACE
at Carter Observatory in Wellington
At the end of the school holidays, with a space obsessed 11 year old and an active 4 year old, we decided to spend a Sunday visiting Space Place, at Carter Observatory in Wellington. Although we initially chose to visit this particular museum more for the benefit of our older child, who would be more interested in reading and taking in the information shared at the museum, we did also hope there would be enough for a very enthusiastic 4 year old to be entertained by. Space Place is located at the top of the Botanic Gardens. While we opted to drive up due to the weather, you can also take the cable car up, which would make for an extra exciting trip for children. The Botanic gardens themselves are also worth a look, so with multiple things to do in the same area, it’s a great way to fill in some time when going on an outing with the kids. There are some beautiful views at the top, which make for some great photo opportunities with the kids!
We got there just after lunchtime, and quite easily spent over two hours at the museum. Entry price was $45 for a family pass - 2 adults and up to 3 children. Included in the entry price is tickets to the 45 minute planetarium show, which was being run hourly that day. Inside Space Place there is plenty to see, whether you have older children who are interested in all things ‘space’ and are happy to take on the more academic side of the museum, or young children who just want to play with some interactive exhibits, lift a meteorite or two and of course, touch all available buttons (of which there are plenty!). A highlight for our kids was the Tūhura Module, an interactive space flight room, where kids (and adults) can take charge of the controls and navigate a flight through the solar system. My kids happened to find it hilarious that Mum managed to crash into Mars more than once.
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You can also test your space skills and coordination, as well as read the fun and child friendly space facts that adorn the walls in the TĹŤhura Module room. Lots of fun, and children can learn what it is like to be inside a spacecraft. In a room on its own is the impressive Thomas Cooke Telescope, where on clear evenings you could gaze at the stars through the massive telescope. Unfortunately due to the health and safety concerns of late, Space Place has made the decision to suspend all telescope viewings until further notice. Space Place is also home to a state of the art Sky-Skan digital full-dome planetarium system. The planetarium show is an amazing part of the visit. Different shows run at different times of the day, we saw the Apollo Story but there are other themed films such as Matariki Dawn, We Are Astronomers and a lot more. If you are keen on a particular show, you can check their website for a full schedule and time your visit there accordingly. Each show ends with a 15 minute live presentation of the night sky, led by the helpful team at Space Place.
a challenge, but Space Place was a good choice for us and no one got bored. There was a great balance of fun interactive activities with plenty of learning opportunities. Certainly not a place that is restricted to children, adults could go alone and easily be just as enthralled as children by the museum. One thing to note, is that while the museum has very clean and tidy bathrooms, they do not have a family room as such or any specific facilities for babies or very young children. Space Place was open 7 days a week during the school holidays from 10am - 5pm, with the exception of Fridays which has a late night option where they are open until 10pm for those who may wish to visit at night. During term time they are open Friday, Saturday and Sundays, with some weekday evenings when the telescope is available to use. To find out more or check out their timetables, including current planetarium shows, you can visit their website at: www.museumswellington.org.nz/space-place
All in all, we had a great day out. It was something a little different than we usually do and the kids had a blast. With children that are different ages with very different interests, finding neutral ground when going on outings can be
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CRAFT
CRAFT: LEAF PAINTING Nature-inspired art teaches toddlers to learn about the world around them in a whole new way. Before getting started on this craft, take a walk with your little one and encourage them to pick out different leaves that catch their eye.
What you will need: • Paint & brushes • White Paper or card • Leaves from the outdoors
Instructions: • Apply a generous, even amount of paint to the back of the leaf and press onto your paper.
As part of the Kind Hearts Movement
d n i K ea ts H
has bestowed a random act of kindness upon
Lisa Stone You will each receive a free coffee voucher! Don’t forget to pay it forward! Streetwise Coffee Cart, Rangitikei Street, Palmerston North
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• Press firmly onto your paper making sure to rub and press every part of your leaf so the veins on the back of the leaf will make an impression on your paper. • You can do leaf printing with watercolors also! It gives a much different effect and we love the way the impressions of the leaves look. • Another way to use leaves to create art is by using the leaf to make a silhouette. You can use regular paint and a sponge to dab around the outside or you can use watercolors. We love the way the watercolors make the leaves really pop! www.thebestideasforkids.com/leaf-painting
Samantha Mason
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COMMUNITY SUPPORT GROUPS Across Te Kotahitanga O Te Wairua We can provide a range of social services which include: Counselling, Family support (including respite care for children), Parenting advice/information and programmes, Advice on other services available for parents and families. Contact: Graeme on (06) 356 7486 or visit www.across.org.nz Allergy New Zealand Support groups are a great way to meet others in a similar situation to you. They are very relaxed, informal sessions to share ideas, discuss your concerns, and get information and resources. Our regional support group is there to help put you in contact with others, to provide you with information such as those all important recipes, and to listen when you need someone to talk to. They are not medically qualified but can refer your queries on and seek information on your behalf. For further information phone 0800 34 0800 or visit www.allergy.org.nz Babywearers Manawatu This is a great way to try different carriers while finding a carrier that suits you and your baby. Babywearers Manawatu Sling Library is on most Wednesdays 12 pm - 1 pm (check FB for up to date info) at Palmerston North Parents Centre, 30 Waldegrave Street, Palmerston North. Membership is one off payment of $10 and carrier hire costs $5 for one week.https://www.facebook.com/groups/ babywearersmanawatu/ Brain Injury Association Central Districts We provide advocacy information and support for people with brain injury, their families, whanau and carers. For more information call (06) 354 3540. Breastfeeding Help An IBCLC (often called lactation consultant) is a breastfeeding specialist qualified to prevent, recognise, and resolve breastfeeding problems. All members of NZCLA hold the professional qualification of International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). Any mother, family member or health professional interested in obtaining the contact details of an IBCLC can phone 0800 4 LACTATION (0800 452 282) during daytime hours. HOPE An opportunity for parents of premature babies to meet and chat and to offer hope and support to those who currently have babies in the Neo-Natal Unit. Graduates welcome. Held at: Plunket Family Centre, 42 Albert Street, Palmerston North. Monday 1pm – 2.30pm. Contact: Karlyn Sullivan-Jones (06) 353 0663 or karlynandmark@xnet.co.nz Itchy Kids A national support group for parents and whanau who care for children with eczema and allergies. For more information contact Sarah Hartley 027 333 7385 or email hartleyfamilynz@gmail.com or visit itchykids.org.nz Manawatu Toy Library Now located at 200 Church Street, Palmerston North, this fabulous toy library has a collection of over 2000 toys. Our members include families, carers, and educational groups. We have toys suitable for babies 5+ months through to school age children. Membership costs $95 per annum or $60 for six months. You are welcome to visit to see what we offer. To find out more, including opening hours: manawatutoylibrary.nz, or call 027 364 6911. Manawatu Down Syndrome Association Regional contact is Andrea Wales (06) 356 1767. Manawatu Home Birth Association Offering information, advice and support to women and their families seeking to birth their babies at home. Birth pools and other equipment available for hire. Library, sibling kits, and bimonthly
newsletters also available. Call (06) 356 BABY (06 356 2229) for more information. Manline Manline services are unique in that we are the only “men helping men” organisation in the Manawatu and Tararua region offering services for men to explore issues within their lives. Our programs are designed to be educational, developmental, rehabilitative, and preventative. http://www.manline.co.nz/home or 06 358 1211 Miscarriage Support Miscarriage can be a very lonely experience and is often not talked about. Miscarriage support groups have produced quality information and pamphlets for women/couples who may need information and support. These invaluable resources can be downloaded from miscarriage.org.nz Methodist Social Services Offering free programmes for primary/intermediate aged children and their parents/caregivers, around the areas of anger management, grief loss and change, and confidence building. We also offer family, couple, and individual counselling, and have both male and female counsellors available. Advocacy and social work support services are provided along with an emergency food service. For all enquiries, please call 06 350 0307, 663 Main Street, Palmerston North. Palmerston North Breastfeeding support group We provide a relaxed place to come and ask questions about breastfeeding and parenting , we hold regular meeting on the first Monday of the month at Palmy Parents Centre, Ruahine St, 10am. We have a library with a wide range of books relating to breastfeeding and parenting. http://www.lalecheleague. org.nz/palmerston-north or https://www.facebook.com/ PNbreastfeedingsupport/ Parent to Parent Supporting families of children with a special need, health impairment, or disability. For more information please phone (06) 355 0787or email manawatu@parent2parent.org.nz Parentline 24 Hour Crisis Line. Offering help and support for parents 24 hours a day. Phone 0800 4 FAMILY. Plunket Education Services For parent education classes please contact the Plunket family centre in Albert Street, Palmerston North, (06) 356 7248 for more information regarding classes in 2016. Reflux Support Contact: Sharon 354 7280 Sands A voluntary group who have lost babies before, during or after birth. They can provide first hand support, guidance, and information on miscarriage, stillbirth, or newborn death. Further information and support can be found by contacting Shaun and Gaylene Vivian (06) 356 9715 or visiting sands.org.nz Supergrans Manawatu Charitable Trust Supergrans Manawatu is all about helping people help themselves. A service to all to brush up on the basic skills needed to provide for oneself or for a family. Our motto is not a ‘do it for you today’ it is a ‘help you to do it tomorrow’ concept. This is a free service. It is concerned with encouraging better skills in those everyday tasks around the home that sustain life. We work with you in your own home. Phone (06) 354 3804 or 021 0669 442 for further information.
32 PALMY PARENT . PALMERSTON NORTH PARENTS CENTRE MAGAZINE
MEMBER DISCOUNTS Want to see your advert here? Contact palmyparent@hotmail.com
FREE! Address labels with any birth announcement, thank you cards
GRANT IRVINE PHARMACY
10% OFF
Ground Floor, TSB Building 12-19, Fitzherbert Ave, Palmerston North
168 Albert Street, Palmerston North Ph: 06 357 8782
10% off for all massages over $40 to PC members
Want to see your advert here? Contact palmyparent@hotmail.com
FREE TEA OR COFFEE
06 358 8549
Receive a free tea or coffee with the purchase of food. 95 the Square, Palmerston North
HAIR TRANSFORMER
15% OFF Discounted, low ratio childcare – For 30 hours WAIVED weekly admin & placement fees
Want to see your advert here? Contact palmyparent@hotmail.com
Link Arcade, Broadway Avenue Palmerston North Ph: 06 358 1309
Want to see your advert here? Contact palmyparent@hotmail.com
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PLAYGROUPS IN YOUR AREA Plunket Family Centre Playgroup
ASHHURST
Ashhurst Playcentre
AWAPUNI/WESTEND
Kingston St Chapel Palmy Playgroup
CENTRAL
42 Albert Street
021-808-340
Mondays & Fridays 10am to 12noon
118 Standford Street
326 9270
Mon to Thurs 9am - 12pm
Kingston St 358 0716 Tues & Thurs 9am- 11:30am Awapuni Community Centre, 22 Newbury St Tues & Fri 9.30am to 11.30am Facebook: Palmy Playgroup Please bring your own morning tea and a donation of $2 per child.
Crossroads Early Childhood Salvation Army Rudolf Steiner Seventh Day Adventist Church Playgroup with Hope
220 Church St 358 0669 cnr Church & Princess Sts 358 7455 187 Ruahine St 354 4514 257 Ferguson St 282 Cuba Street (opposite Briscoes) Contact: Heather 027 334 9981
Mon to Fri 9am to 12noon Thurs 9:30am to 11am Tues 9:30am - 12noon & Thu 2pm -3:30pm Wed 9:30 to 11:00am Tuesday 9.30-11.30am playgroup@hopevineyard.nz
FEILDING Feilding Playcentre Community Fielding Playcentre Doodlebugs SPACE Bright Sparks Preschool Programme
254A Kimbolton Rd 42 North St Knox Hall, North St 22 Bowen St Feilding Library
323 6100 323 1918 323 7240 323 7221 323 5373
Mon to Fri 9am to 1pm Mon to Fri 9am to 1pm Thurs 9am to 11:30am Contact for more details Wed 10:30am to 11:30am
12-32 Brentwood Ave
358 2255
Fri 8:30am to 12noon
339 Albert St Huia St extn
357 9411 357 0791
Wed 9:30am to 10:30am Mon, Tues, Thurs & Fri 9am - 12noon
HIGHBURY
Te Aroha Noa Community Services
HOKOWHITU
St Albans Church Park Road Playcentre
LINTON
Linton Playgroup
MILSON
Milson Playcentre
OPIKI
Opiki Playgroup
ROSLYN/KELVIN GROVE
Kelvin Grove Salvation Army Church on Vogel Plunket Roslyn Over 1’s Coffee Group
Linton Camp (Community Centre) 3519970
Mon & Wed 9am to 11:30am
1a Seaforth Ave
Mon, Wed & Fri 9am-12noon
356 9824
St Andrews Church, Main Road
Tues 10am to 12noon
99-103 Kaimanawa St 127 Vogel St 177 Vogel Street
Wed 9:30am to 11:30am Wed 9:30am to 12noon Wednesdays 9.30am to 11am
353 0917 357 7336 021-808-340
RONGOTEA
Te Kawau Playcentre Medway St 324 8246
SANSON
Sanson Playcentre
TERRACE END
St David‘s Presbyterian Church Terrace End Playcentre
Mon to Thurs 9:15am to 12:15pm, Fri 11:45am to 2:45pm
2 Philipps St
329 3503
Tues and Fri 9am to 12noon
Cnr Main & Rainforth 77 Ruamahanga Cres
358 3246 0221400610
Tues 10:00am to 11:30am Wed, Thu, Fri 9.30am to 12.30 school term
SPECIALIST GROUPS
La Leche League 355 3104 Manawatu Multiple Birth Club Kingston St Church 357 9773 Parent 2 Parent Special Needs Matipo St 355 0787 ABCD early intervention group 9 Woburn Place 0800 693 724 - Down Syndrome French for Preschoolers 1st floor, 47 the Square 021 207 0114 Spanish Class – 2 yrs and up 355 8257 Plunket Bhutanese Playgroup 25 Franklin Ave 3574844 Book Bubs baby book club PN Library
34 PALMY PARENT . PALMERSTON NORTH PARENTS CENTRE MAGAZINE
Contact for more details Every 2nd Wed,10am 1st and 3rd Tues each month, 1-3pm Once a month on Thurs 10am to 12noon Fri 3.30pm to 4.30pm Contact for further details Mon 12.30 – 2.30pm Thursday 10.30 – 11 am fortnightly.
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Parent CENTRE IN-STORE & ONLINE
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