PALMY PARENT PALMERSTON NORTH PARENTS CENTRE MAGAZINE
December . 2020 / January . 2021
WE
WANT
YOU
We are looking for parents to join our committee
MAKE A DIFFERENCE LEARN NEW SKILLS LOOKS GREAT ON A CV MAKE NEW FRIENDS
"Do you have an hour or two to spare? Do you want something ‘adult’ to focus on while you care for your precious bundle ? Do you want to pay forward the benefits you have received from being a member of Palmy North Parents Centre? Do you want to meet and work with a great team of people like you?" www.palmyparentscentre.org.nz info@palmyparentscentre.org.nz Facebook.com/PNorthPC/
EDITOR’S NOTE Happy Festive season everybody! With school and daycare winding up for the year and the days getting longer, I’m definitely starting to look forward to the holidays. We really enjoy all the community events on at this time of year - the local Christmas parades, the tree lighting, the pop up ice rink, and many more exciting celebrations of joy and togetherness. Our little family is looking forward to celebrating the summer solstice on December 21st. We will fill the longest day of the year with friends and hopefully with a local bushwalk if the weather holds! There can be a lot of travel, stress, and navigation of tricky relationships going on at this time of year so I just want to take this time to wish you all safety, comfort and happiness as we come to the end of the year. I’d also like to take the time to thank all our contributors this year, especially Laura, who does our beautiful design as well as writing for us; Myra, who does all our proofreading; Saritta, who does our craft section as well as keeping me on track to finish somewhere close-ish to deadline; Desiree, our clever book reviewer; and everyone else who has written articles, sorted advertisers, organised information, given us cover pictures, shared birth stories, and offered us their perspective. We appreciate you! And thanks to you, for reading!
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
$120
4 x $90
6 x $80
Insert or flyer
$130
$390
$510
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 298 . December 2020 | January 2021
3
CONTENTS FEATURES A Christmas Baby
11
How Nature Makes Kids Calmer, Healthier, Smarter
13
Learning is Child’s Play
16
Music and Movement Reviews
18
Pelvic Floor Issues are Common but not Normal
26
IN EVERY ISSUE Editor’s note
3
What’s on... Passport to Play Palmy
6
Book Review
9
Welcom to the World: Craddle Roll
10
Birth Story: Emilia’s Birth Story
22
Product Review: The Dad Wrap with Dan
24
Family Friendly Outing - Bug Exhibit
28
Craft: Simple Christmas Craft
30
Community support groups
32
Member discounts
33
Playgroups in your area
34
CHECK OUT OUR WINNERS The Hair Company styling treatment
7
Bruce McKenzie Book Giveaway
9
Kind Hearts, Streetwise Coffee
25
Cottage Flowers Arrangement
29
CONTRIBUTORS Laura Wenden Green, Jessica Ensing, Dan Mackay, Desiree Harvey, Saritta Burney, Keryn O’Neill, Ailis Behrens-Burleigh, Nichole Cobham, Myra Reitsma Front cover by: Little Annie Pop-in Portraits and Milldove Photography
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 We kicked off the school holidays with a special music class. Teresa Watson, our music facilitator, delivered a music session and Kaye Arnott, local author of the Dog and the Mog book series (illustrated by the talented Laura Wenden Green), came along for a story telling session and read two of the Dog and the Mog books. We were lucky to hear the new Christmas book, “The Dog and the Mog Love Christmas”, which the children loved. If you need a book for those Christmas eve boxes or stockings we can definitely recommend this Christmas book which can be purchased from her website www.kayearnott.co.nz. We will have two of her books to give away at our Christmas Parties for the best dressed, so make sure you get out your best Christmas outfits for the party. We started a couple of new seminars recently. The first was Core Restore Workshop with Bfit, which is a free workshop designed to help new parents regain strength and confidence. The sessions cover the pelvic floor and its importance, how it changes during and after pregnancy, and practical exercises to strengthen and support it. The workshops are presented by Bryan Clements - the owner operator of a health and wellness business specializing in health and wellness for parents. Bryan has been a trainer/ coach for over 10 years and his mission is to help parents become the best version of themselves and increase the longevity of their lives for their children, families, and friends. The second was Speech & Language in Children, this was also a free workshop with Sarah Paewai - BSLT. Registered Member of the New Zealand Speech-Language Therapists Association. The seminar included information about children’s speech and language development including an explanation of “Speech” and “Language”, milestones 0-5 years, tips to support age appropriate speech and language development at home, what is and is not a worry, and where to seek support and resources if you are concerned. The feedback from
the seminar was so positive that we will definitely be running this seminar again next year. We had our second Preggy to Preschool garage sale on the 7th of November as always there were bargains to be had no matter what you wanted. We will be having two garage sales next year, likely in April and October, with our Parent and Child Expo in between. Lastly, we welcomed new Committee members Haley Paterson, 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
Mission statement Positive birth experiences and informed parenting in a community where parents are supported and highly valued in their role.
LIKE US ON FACEBOOK
FACEBOOK.COM/PNORTHPC
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 298 . December 2020 | January 2021
5
WHAT’S ON... PASSPORT TO PLAY PALMY
Print a copy of the Passport to Play Palmy booklet and become an explorer in your hometown. It’s free, fun, and will entertain the whole family. Get outside and have a wild time. Our passports are your guide to some of our favourite places in Palmy. Keep active in the holidays and explore Palmy. Our passports are your guide to some of our favourite places near the river and in our local parks. We live in a stunning area of the world with lots of adventures just on our doorstep. Passport to Play Palmy is your invitation to get outside and have fun in some of Palmerston North’s best spots.
Your mission
Become an explorer in your home town. You’ll need a passport, pencil, and playful attitude! Choose from one of three passport editions below. The multicultural edition is brand new September 2020. We’ve placed brightly coloured posts in some of our favourite
places along each route. Find all 10 and ‘stamp’ your passport. Make sure you take a pencil or crayon to use when collecting your stamps, you will need this to make the rubbing of the ‘stamp’. The Passport to Play booklets are crammed full of other ideas for things to do at each place as well. Be sure to share your adventure with us! Take a snap and use the hashtags #palmyproud and #playpalmy.
Print a passport
Print off a passport and follow the easy instructions to make your own. You can collect stamps on the one-page passport if you don’t want to print out the whole booklet. There are Te Reo Māori versions, too. Go to: https://www.pncc.govt.nz/ council-city/what-were-doing/ongoingprojects-and-programmes/placemaking/ passport-to-play-palmy/ to download your passport.
1: Multicultural passport Look out for the purple posts to make these stamps. You’ll find them located
6 PALMY PARENT . PALMERSTON NORTH PARENTS CENTRE MAGAZINE
in 10 public spaces around Palmy with a multicultural connection. Hint: They’re listed in the passport.
2: River passport: Kōrero a Awa Look out for the bright green posts to make these stamps. You’ll find them located in 10 of our favourite spots along the Manawatū River.
By getting our children outdoors, they have fun, take risks and exercise without even noticing it. Additionally, the hope is that they develop a sense of adventure and a love of nature and exploring. The next generation has significant environmental issues to address. If they grow up feeling connected to nature, they may just have the passion and drive to tackle these problems successfully.
3: Parks passport Look out for the bright orange posts to make these stamps. You’ll find them located in 10 of our favourite Palmy parks.
Pick up a passport
Drop by any of the places listed here to collect a passport we’ve printed for you:
• Central Library on the Square or your local library • Palmerston North i-SITE • Te Manawa
Love where you live
The passport is aimed at encouraging locals to get outdoors, to love where you live, and have fun. However there are some serious reasons behind it. Getting outside is good for everyone’s mental health and activity levels. Unstructured, outdoor play is also important for children’s development and could have positive environmental benefits in future.
Congratulates Nicole Bailey
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
ISSUE 298 . December 2020 | January 2021
7
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
www.uniquebeginnings.co.nz
5% OFF all services
www.thesleepstore.co.nz
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
MIHI By Gavin Bishop Available at Bruce McKenzie books, George St for $17.99 This book takes the reader on a journey through the hātepe (process/structure) of a mihi, or introduction. We start at the sea, or our special body of water. Next, we see our closest mountain, and appreciate the wonder of its natural beauty and the significance it has on our way of living. We come to the marae, where we come together with our whanau, or wider family. Then we acknowledge our family, and finally name ourselves. This book explores our connections and wider self with a te ao Maori worldview. The structure and significance of the vocabulary of a mihi is simply and beautifully presented. In reading this with my children, we had an opportunity to discuss and explain ourselves by looking outward, which was a lovely and beneficial experience. This book is absolutely beautiful, and a must for every New Zealander. My daughters had so many questions, and the book facilitated a lovely discussion around where and how we are, and who we are. An amazing book that we would recommend to everyone.
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 January 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
: s to
3
Entries for the next draw must be received by
Kylie Futter
who has won a copy of ‘He wa moe Kiwi Pakupaku’
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 298 . December 2020 | January 2021
9
WELCOME TO THE WORLD Welcome to all the new babies born to our wonderful Parent Centre members! If there are any corrections to the list below, please email palmyparenteditor@gmail.com
Class: Due September | Hostess: Saritta Burney | CBE: Jess White
Joseph Thomas Good
Jake Patrick Mooney
Nicola Schreurs and Thomas Good
Grace Petrie and Blair Mooney
22 August 2020
3 September 2020
Harlo Amber McKinnon
Archer Peter Donald Young
Qiqi Frost and Kristen McKinnon
Amy and Matt Young
8 September 2020
9 September 2020
Nixon Jay Hakaraia
Joshua Jack Payne
Ashleigh Boswell-Hakaraia and Jade Hakaraia
Cameron and Rebecca Payne
18 September 2020
18 September 2020
Dylan Thomas Stone
Poppy May Illston
Lisa and Tim Stone
Robyn and Will Illston
21 September 2020
28 September 2020
Jake William Kelly Gillespie
Evelyn Alair Rigg
Ameka Kurene and Jordon Gillespie
Sophia and Khail Rigg
30 September 2020
13 October 2020
born to
born to
born to
born to
born to
born to
born to
born to
born to
born to
Harrison Eric Holder born to
Natalie Gibson and Mark Holder
15 October 2020
10 PALMY PARENT . PALMERSTON NORTH PARENTS CENTRE MAGAZINE
FEATURE
A CHRISTMAS BABY When we found out my due date was December 18th we obviously joked about the likelihood of a Christmas baby...so did everyone else.
exact same thing happened the next day. And then nothing. Not even a niggle on the 24th. At this point I just knew it would happen. I was going to have a Christmas day baby.
“Oh that poor baby, it will have to share its birthday.”
At 5am on Christmas morning a contraction woke me and shortly after my waters broke. My midwife wished me Merry Christmas as she picked up her phone...we both couldn’t help but laugh. My midwife was my best friend’s mum; she’d never had a Christmas baby which made the idea of mine even more special.
“You better not skimp on the presents if it’s a Christmas baby.” “You’ll only have to buy one present...how easy.” I was pretty adamant that I would give birth early and I brushed most of the jokes off. Oh how wrong I was. The 18th came and went, and the reality of a Christmas baby became more possible. On December 21st 2018 we celebrated the Summer Solstice. A flower crown was made, bubbly juice was popped, and we all cheered for the safe, and hopefully soon, arrival of our little one. It obviously worked, as the following morning my contractions started. To my annoyance they stopped at 6pm. The
I arrived at Te Papaioea Birthing Centre just after 7am with my labour in full swing. After an empowering and quick labour I gave birth to Archer at 9.05am. At that moment not only were our lives changed because we’d had a baby, but it had changed because of what day he was born. I remember lying there in bed, Archer between Murray and I, thunder and lightning in the background, thinking how perfect this moment was. I didn’t want to be anywhere else. All of our family and friends Story continues on page 12
ISSUE 298 . December 2020 | January 2021
11
Christmas Baby continues were celebrating Christmas without us, but I didn’t care. I was celebrating something far greater. While I snuggled my newborn baby, and wrapped my head around breastfeeding, the wonderful team at the birthing centre took such great care of me. Feeding me plate after plate of Christmas food, from ham and potato salad to pavlova and custard. You could say I got to have my cake and eat it too… or if you must, have my baby and Christmas too. I’ll admit there are times when I hate that he was born on Christmas. The comments, like the ones above, really grind my gears some days. It bugs me that everyone has an opinion. An opinion that I wouldn’t be listening to if he’d chosen a different day to arrive. But mostly I love that he was born on that day. As I’ve gotten older I’ve drifted away from the “traditional” Christmas. But now I have so much to look forward to, and it’s led to new family traditions that otherwise wouldn’t have happened.
Solstice/Matariki in place of Christmas. It’s a lovely way to warm our hearts and fill up our cups in the middle of winter. A time for us to look back on the year that has been, and plan for the year that is ahead. As Archer grows up and our family expands we will probably celebrate Christmas, just not on the 25th - that will always be his day. Archer turns 2 this year. Every year we plan to do something different. Last year we tramped to Rangiwahia Hut in the Ruahine Range and buried his whenua/placenta. This year we plan to have a family lunch with lots of cake and party food. That’s the best thing about birthdays- you can do whatever you want to do! So if you find yourself due with a December baby, instead of dreading the idea of a Christmas baby, why not embrace the world of possibilities that could come from it. Plus I’ve got to be honest with you, only buying presents once a year is pretty choice!
To me, birthdays are OUR special day, which is why we have decided that the 25th of December is now Archer’s day, rather than Christmas day. Our Summer Solstice celebration birthed our new family tradition of celebrating the Winter
PARENT CENTRE PARTNERS:
12 PALMY PARENT . PALMERSTON NORTH PARENTS CENTRE MAGAZINE
“It’s so peaceful out there and the air smells so good....It’s like you’re free when you go out there. It’s your own time. Sometimes I go outside when I’m mad -- and then, just with the peacefulness, I’m better. I come back home happy, and my mom doesn’t even know why.” “Something else was different when we were young: our parents were outdoors. I’m not saying they were joining health clubs and things of that sort, but they were out of the house, out on the porch, talking to neighbors. As far as physical fitness goes, today’s kids are the sorriest generation in the history of the United States. Their parents may be out jogging, but the kids just aren’t outside.” ― Richard Louv, Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder Did you grow up as I did, building dams in the stream, climbing trees, and chasing insects as the evening darkened? If you did, you’ll agree with me that all children deserve those experiences. Nowadays, though, many of us don’t have big gardens. Even if we do, when we try to send our kids outside, there’s often no one to play with. And most parents worry that we have to stay outside with them to keep them safe -- but we have to make dinner!
time outdoors are Vitamin D deficient, affecting health and mood. Indoor air is also usually less healthy. • Less likely to be overweight - Pediatricians recommend at least an hour of active physical play daily during childhood to protect against obesity and diabetes. • Better vision - Kids who play outdoors more have better vision and less need for eyeglasses. Until recently, we thought that was simply because they stare at screens less. But it turns out that Vitamin D plays a role. And the latest research indicates that exposure to light is important for healthy eye function.* • Better students - Research shows that kids who play outdoors actually have longer attention spans, more frustration tolerance, and do better in school. Kids even do better on tests if they are allowed to play first. It’s not just that it gets their wiggles out. It’s all that oxygen to the brain.
So most kids spend most of their time inside. As a result, the average ten-year-old, given a choice, prefers to stay inside, close to electrical sockets and all the entertainment sources they power. But your grandmother was right: Kids need fresh air and exercise. We all do. Families who find ways to be outdoors together nurture not only their bodies, but their connection to all of life -- and to each other. Kids who spend time outside in nature, research shows, are: • Calmer - This is particularly important for ADHD kids because it lowers their need for medication, but fresh air soothes the senses of all children. • Happier - Studies show sunshine, fresh air and physical activity all encourage good moods and reduce tendencies toward depression. • Healthier - Many kids who don’t get enough ISSUE 298 . December 2020 | January 2021
13
FEATURE
HOW NATURE MAKES KIDS CALMER, HEALTHIER, SMARTER
• More creative - Outdoor play is often less structured than what kids do indoors with technology, so kids exercise their imaginations as well as their bodies. The answer to our nature deprived modern lives? Set your life up so your child can be outdoors. We know that usually kids won’t be able to be outdoors without parents. So parents need to get outside, too. First, set up any outdoor space you have access to so that it’s inviting, and spend time outside with your child. A sandpit, paddling pool, swing,
climbing structure or garden will keep your child entertained for hours. But if permanent structures aren’t possible, think impermanent: A tablecloth teepee or a bucket of water with funnels and cups, or a shovel to dig a hole you can later refill. Second, spend time as a family in nature -- hiking, playing tag, biking, simply walking together in a beautiful place. It allows your family to regroup and get back in sync. It makes wonderful memories. And it’s a great workout for everyone. Two important ground rules:
14 PALMY PARENT . PALMERSTON NORTH PARENTS CENTRE MAGAZINE
Turn off the cell phones. Yours. Theirs. REALLY. Enough said, I hope! The world will be waiting for you when you get back. This is quality time to focus on family. Soon enough, your child will want to be with friends, not with you. Enjoy this time to connect. If you choose to engage in a sport, minimize the competition in favour of the fun. Make sure the rules are relaxed for little ones so everyone enjoys themselves. If you’re stuck for ideas, here are some suggestions:
Coffee and kids Parents play groups daycares
1. Take a blanket, snacks and a ball or frisbee to
MOn to thur 9am - 10Am under 5S $7 per child & parents jump for FREe
the park. Play kickball or soccer or catch. Blow bubbles. Play tag. 2. Go on a family bike ride. This gets better and better as kids get older, but you can rent tandem bikes when they’re young. 3. Go on a nature walk. Collect rocks or leaves. Look for animal footprints. Watch bugs. But remember, soaking up the smells, sounds and sights is sufficient. You don’t need to take your child out of their heart and into their head by giving them a science lecture. If they ask questions, by all means follow their natural curiosity, and help them look up answers when they gets home. But sometimes watching a butterfly is more transformative than reading about it. 4. Send kids on a scavenger hunt. Keep it simple, like: • something red • something tiny • something that moves • something bigger than your hand • something that bends • something beautiful. • Make sure everyone wins!
5. Get wet. Give kids water and they’ll find ways to play with it. Invite the neighborhood kids over for a water fight. Set up the sprinkler and cut up a watermelon. 6. Try a night walk. Bring torches for fun and safety, but be sure to turn them off for listening to the nature sounds and star gazing. 7. Fires are magic. If you have a safe place for a campfire, don’t miss the opportunity to sit outside telling stories of when you were a kid, or what your kids did when they were younger. Sing songs. Roast marshmallows. Don’t forget to just relax in silence and watch the fire. (Do you have a little pyromaniac who wants to build the fire? This is the perfect opportunity to teach safety and let your child wield the matches.) These are the memories your children will treasure as they get older. And every child deserves the connection nature provides to the essence of life. You’re feeding your child’s soul as well as their body. Ahaparenting.com
ISSUE 298 . December 2020 | January 2021
15
FEATURE
LEARNING IS CHILD’S P LAY The message that the first few years of life are extremely important for brain development is becoming more widely known. What may be less clear is how to put this knowledge into practise. Parents wanting to give their child the best start are faced with a huge variety of choice and much commercially-driven pressure to ensure that their child makes the most of this developmental opportunity. The bewildering number of toys and activities currently available for our babies and young children is enough to send parents’ cortisol levels into orbit. And that’s before the credit card bill arrives. Children need stimulation but, as with many things, moderation is key. More is not necessarily better. Many children today are at risk of being over-stimulated or over-
scheduled and this can actually impede rather than encourage their optimal brain development. During the first years of a child’s life it is play, not scheduled instruction, that contributes the most to brain development (Frost, 1998). We don’t need to formally “teach” our young children in order for them to learn. Children have their own interests and by being supported to follow these they are likely to be getting the stimulation that they need. Play provides a wonderful opportunity for parent and child to have fun together, deepening their relationship. Children also need opportunities for some play on their own; this provides many opportunities to develop their imagination, problem-solve,
16 PALMY PARENT . PALMERSTON NORTH PARENTS CENTRE MAGAZINE
and develop other skills that are less likely to develop in adult-directed play. At times, boredom may provide the impetus for the child to make their own discoveries and create their own fun, fantastic life skills and great stimulation for a growing brain. Simple toys that allow children to use their imagination and creativity have many benefits over the endless plastic creations currently available (Ginsburg, 2007). Blocks, play dough, a sandpit, versatile dress-ups (as opposed to Disney inspired ones), crayons, and paper provide endless options. Household objects such as boxes, blankets, pots, and pans can also provide many hours of fun and learning. The toys and activities that offer the most stimulation for a growing brain often don’t have the “educational” label on them! Learning and brain development is not limited to toys and activities specifically created for children, but also by following their interests in participating in the real world. Household activities that most adults consider work are also rich with opportunities for learning. Hanging out the washing, baking, grocery shopping, and weeding the garden provide many opportunities for exploration and learning - and while the task inevitably takes longer, it can be much more fun for the adult too.
the sand at the beach, feeling the bark on trees, smelling flowers, or listening to birds singing enjoyed with a loving parent all provide stimulation prompting brain connections to form. Sensory experiences can be a messy business and children benefit from being able to enjoy such experiences fully, without anyone worrying about the washing! Playful, creative children who have had plenty of unscheduled, non-screen (TV, computer etc) time for play throughout their early years, are more likely to arrive at school with their natural curiosity intact, and a strong desire to learn that will benefit them more than those whose infancy and pre-school years have been filled with scheduled activities and little time for play. WIth thanks to PGCertEdPsych
Keryn
O’Neill,
MA
Brainwave Trust Researcher and Educator References to support this article can be found at: http://www.brainwave.org.nz/ learning-is-childs-play-2/
Everyday life is full of naturally occurring learning opportunities. Watching the rubbish truck, road works, rain going down the drain, or a rainbow, can capture the interest of a child when shared with a parent. Take time to stop, observe, and talk with your child about the things happening around them, and when possible move on only when your child’s interest is waning. Be confident in the knowledge that you have just provided them with the stimulation they need, and it didn’t cost a cent! Rich sensory experiences that are so vital for optimal brain development are readily available in nature. Playing with
ISSUE 298 . December 2020 | January 2021
17
REVIEW
MUSIC AND MOVEMENT REVIEWS “The Wheels on the Bus Go Round and Round” – while this is a favourite song at Music and Movement, it also perfectly describes being a parent. Some days it feels like the wheels may fall off but it is mostly a fun and exciting journey. As a first time Mum, Music and Movement has been a fantastic opportunity for myself and our daughter to gain confidence, socialise, and learn new things together alongside many other parents/whanau in the same position. Having started in the Cuddly
old, it is fantastic to see how excited she becomes in the car on the way to and upon arriving at the class every week and makes attending completely worthwhile! I would highly recommend Music and Movement to all parents and families and encourage you to come along and try it for yourselves – you will not regret it!! Hannah & Mia
We have been going to Cuddly Caterpillars music and movement since our baby was a couple of months old. To start with she
Caterpillars class and transitioned through to the Busy Bees, Music and Movement has continually exceeded all of our expectations with the various activities, changing weekly, from singing and dancing, through to sensory and holistic play designed to stimulate young minds. Teresa who takes the classes is fantastic and while some structure is required, the classes are relaxed and each day taken as it comes. While our daughter is not quite two years
would only be able to stay awake for a small amount of it or need a feed during it, but Teresa and everyone in the class made me feel very comfortable being able to feed when others were continuing with the class. My partner took over parental leave after 6 months and he continued to go. Although he was in the minority, Teresa and the group members always made him feel welcome and he’s quite upset he can’t attend with our daughter any more now he’s back at work too! Teresa is a really friendly, welcoming teacher, remembers all the kid’s names (I have no idea how!), and makes the class
18 PALMY PARENT . PALMERSTON NORTH PARENTS CENTRE MAGAZINE
fun and varied each time, progressing on to different themes as the babies get older. Our daughter loves music and I’m sure a lot of this is down to the fun association she has had with the classes which she really enjoyed each week. Thank you Teresa, keep up the fantastic work! Mikaela, Andrew & Freyja
Lucy and I have been attending Music and Movement for four terms now and it is something we look forward to every week. It’s been amazing to watch her progress from inquisitively watching the classes to
always so inviting and interactive with the babies. She has persisted for 2 terms to get a smile out of my little sassy girl and has finally cracked it! A true accomplishment! 10/10 would recommend Teresa & Isla
now being comfortable to run around. She has started performing some actions such as heads, shoulders, knees, and toes (which she loves to practice at home). Teresa is a great teacher, friendly and welcoming to the kids (and Mums and Dads) and always switches it up with different songs and props each week so it’s not the same class every week. We are looking forward to next term when we become a Busy Bee. Philadelphia & Lucy
My wee bub and I have loved coming to the Cuddly Caterpillars music class. Teresa is
We love our Tuesday music classes! Such a relaxed and welcoming environment for the babies to enjoy the music, dancing, and bubbles; it’s a lovely little community. We have been going to classes since our little one was 3 months old and it is so cool to see him learn and interact more and more as he gets older. We definitely find ourselves singing the action songs throughout the week, too. Helen & Isaac
We have been attending Music and Movement for quite some time now; I think we started when my daughter was just over 1 and she is now nearly 5. She has always thoroughly enjoyed it and has learnt a lot of new songs and dances along the way. When ISSUE 298 . December 2020 | January 2021
19
my 2nd child came along he tagged along too. It was so easy to bring a newborn along to the Busy Bees Class and over the years (he is now 2) he has developed a love for dancing and music. Teresa is amazing and very patient with the kids, she is always bringing along a new song to learn and changing up what musical equipment the kids play with. The kids especially love when Teresa asks for requests and she is always very accommodating with these. It was so good during lockdown that they were able to offer the classes via Zoom, as it was something that we all looked forward to
each week. If you are thinking of attending one of these classes, I really recommend it; come and check one out. Marguerite - Mum to Tyler 4 and a half and Kayden 2 My children and I have been going to Music and Movement since my eldest Wyatt was 3 months old. Being 8 weeks premature Wyatt was tiny and I was looking for a positive space to stimulate my little one. M&M was so great to create a routine and a great motivation to get out of the house every Tuesday.
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
20 PALMY PARENT . PALMERSTON NORTH PARENTS CENTRE MAGAZINE
I’ve now come to M&M for nearly 3 years with Wyatt, now 3, and Brynley, 1. Both of my children adore Teresa. She creates a sense of fun and positive interaction. My kids have learnt how to share and play with others in such a positive environment. They enjoy using instruments, dancing, and playing.
singing,
I love watching my kids interact and become independent with their play. I would highly recommend Music and Movement to any new Mum or Dad. I love being a part of a lovely community and look forward to taking my little ones every week. Tegan – Mum to Wyatt and Brynley
I have been attending Music and Movement since our oldest daughter was just a couple of weeks old. We have enjoyed each and every session with Teresa and it made sense to carry on once we had our second daughter. Teresa has a wonderful way with children. Her warm and energetic nature welcomes you in to every class and her interactions with all the little ones ensure they have a wonderful time. The children love the variety of songs and equipment used throughout the session and it’s hard not to join in on the fun! Hania
Music and Movemnet Term 1 dates are 9th Feb 2021 - 13th April 2021 (10 week term) ISSUE 298 . December 2020 | January 2021
21
BIRTH STORY
EMILIA’S BIRTH STORY I have two beautiful children who arrived in the world in completely different ways. My first child’s birth did not go according to plan and there were unexpected outcomes that resulted in an emergency c-section. He was born a very large 10lb 2oz and while I was never officially diagnosed with gestational diabetes, I did have fairly high blood sugar numbers late in pregnancy which was probably a contributing factor to his size. I knew that the second time around I wanted to do things differently.
Throughout my pregnancy I walked 30 minutes each day while listening to a VBAC podcast to get my mind and body ready. The podcast gave me a lot of ideas of things to do to help have a VBAC such as breathing exercises, writing affirmations and eating labour inducing foods such as raspberry leaf tea, dates and pineapple after 37 weeks. While I’m not sure if any of these helped in reality, I do think that having the mindset of something to work towards really helped.
Between my pregnancies I did some research about vaginal birth after the caesarean section (VBAC) and decided that was what I wanted to do for my next baby. So when I became pregnant I found a VBAC supportive midwife who from my very first appointment said that if that was what I wanted, it was possible and there was no reason it wouldn’t be successful. I also had a meeting with the obstetrician at the hospital and they said the same thing so I had no concerns about the medical side of it. Encouraged by this support I began extensively researching VBACs and putting into practice what I learnt.
I was sure that I was going to go into labour before 40 weeks again so I had everything prepared well in advance and my mum came to stay to look after my toddler. Well, 39 weeks came and went, 40 weeks came and went, and finally at 40+3 I woke up at 7am with mild contractions.
The main things I wanted to do differently the second time round were; walking a lot to stay active and keep my blood sugar low, being checked at home before leaving for the hospital (the birthing centre was not an option for me as they needed to monitor me for complications from the c-section), and having immediate skin to skin contact with the baby after birth.
The contractions were regular but strangely not painful so I had no idea how long the process was going to last. After all my reading and research I knew I needed to eat well to keep my energy levels up for what could be a long day so I ate a good breakfast and bounced on my Swiss ball, all the while timing the contractions, which were noticeable and regular but still not painful. My husband and I decided to treat ourselves and go out for brunch followed by a walk. The contractions died down during the walk and I called my midwife to see what she thought; she told me to go about my normal day and the contractions would either come back again or not. I was pretty gutted that it didn’t seem
22 PALMY PARENT . PALMERSTON NORTH PARENTS CENTRE MAGAZINE
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
to be happening so we went home and I went to bed to have a rest while my mum took my toddler out for the afternoon. My husband and I watched a movie to pass the time and during this the contractions came back and were painful. It all happened pretty quickly from this point and by the time the movie finished around 4pm the contractions were painful enough for me to be solely focused on them. I used a mindful breathing app on my phone and breathed through them, they seemed to be back to back with not much of a break between them. It was getting hard to time them so at about 5.30pm my husband rang the midwife again to ask her to come around and check how dilated I was. My husband and I both held our breaths nervously as we didn’t want to have the same problem of being in so much pain but not very far dilated as with my first child. Fortunately she announced I was 5cm dilated and that I needed to get to the hospital now. I was not keen to move while in so much pain and was worried about all the last minute things that needed packing so I took a bit of convincing to get out the door. As soon as I got in the car the pain completely changed, I felt like I needed to push and also felt like I got a bit more of a break between the waves of pain. We arrived at the hospital at 6.35pm. We went straight up to the delivery
suite and the midwife checked me again and I was fully dilated so I focussed on pushing. At some point during the pushing I felt tired and that it was all too hard. I was so pleased when my midwife told me that I was so far along that my baby would be here in 10 minutes - that definitely helped me keep going as I thought I can do this for 10 more minutes! A few pushes later and our beautiful daughter was born at 7.34pm, by successful unmedicated VBAC 59 minutes after we arrived at the hospital. Unfortunately I had some tearing so while we were having some skin to skin and first breastfeed the midwife and obstetrician were patching me up, and then I had to go to theatre to get stitched up. It was sad to be separated from my baby during this time but it was only for an hour and she was getting cuddles from her Dad. We were soon reunited in the recovery ward and then taken up to the postnatal ward. I completely credit the research and preparation I did throughout my pregnancy for achieving a VBAC and I am so proud of myself for doing it without any pain relief. It was a completely different experience to the birth of my first child. The birth high hormones from a natural birth that I didn’t experience the first time were incredible. We stayed in hospital a few days to get breastfeeding sorted and then headed home to be a family of four.
ISSUE 298 . December 2020 | January 2021
23
PRODUCT REVIEW
an
be a different story if I were trying the Toddler size Fidella though. Also, I found the hood to be fiddly. Tying straps through loops instead of simply popping, well, poppers is a mild annoyance when you’re trying to keep a little one asleep
wit
hD
Fidella Fusion – Baby Size I found the Fidella to be a pretty solid carrier. The Fidella I got to try out has been well loved and because of this it was really nice and soft for both The Boy and I. Being made of wrap material, it gives a cuddly ride and I actually found it to be super comfortable to lug my chunky kid around in. And as buckles are a fan favourite of mine, I was happy to have the security of the ‘click’ at the waist and under the arms.
All in all, I think this is a decent carrier, but maybe hire the Baby size for the real small ones and plug for the Toddler size when your kid is a little bigger than, say, 6 months old.
TLDR; Soft and comfortable for rider and pack horse, easy to put on and adjust, wrap material is great Size dependant on child and adult height, hood was annoying neat carrier, based on the fact that you have an appropriately sized one
There’s a reasonable amount of adjustment to be had to cinch them into their desired possie; from knee to knee to a separate buckle set-up to support those newer little ones. I was surprised too, to find that the waist was comfortable to wear, despite having little supporting structure. The Fidella also allowed for The Boy to be lumped onto my back, giving him the opportunity to stare at the back of my head, although I found this less comfortable than on the front. My drawbacks with the Fidella were that it seemed to be quite restrictive in the size of offspring and (lanky, 6’3”) adult it could handle. The Boy, being 7 months old, is already getting to be on the slightly too big side for the carrier, back length wise. It was also kind of niggly for me to do up, as the back strap was at that awkward, too high point on my back. I just couldn’t get it to sit between my shoulder blades, due to the shoulder straps being too short. This might 24 PALMY PARENT . PALMERSTON NORTH PARENTS CENTRE MAGAZINE
Boba X In my simple opinion, I think the Boba X is a top drawer soft structured carrier. Even being brand spanking and before washing, the carrier is reasonably soft, despite not being made of wrap material. Being made of canvas, you get that hard wearing, long-life vibe from it and it’ll only get softer as it wears in. There’s so much adjustment to be had with this carrier, like genuinely. It truly does feel like a proper newborn to toddler get up. There are buckles for ease of access; there are belt loops up and down, in and out; and there’s a Velcro waist to fiddle with to fit any kid. And when they get too big for that, there are additional zip in wings to expand the knee to knee, to fit the real big fellas. The shoulder straps are cushioned and provided a comfortable ride and the back straps can be whichever way tickles your fancy. There really is the opportunity to tailor the fit for any rider and wearer.
if I had to pick on one thing, it is obviously not as soft as a wrap conversion carrier. All in all, I think this is a really fantastic carrier that will fit the bill for pretty much any kid wearing family. In fact, I found it so good I parted with my own cold hard cash for one.
TLDR; Hands down the best adjustment for any age, proper newborn to toddler carrier If I could alter one thing, it’d be to have one out of wrap conversion material best I’ve used, fits 6 month old just as easy as a 3 year old
The hood snaps on at a variety of lengths and there is even a small pocket to hold a couple of keys in. The Boba also allows for sprogs, both big and small, to be back carried which gives full use of the arms while still in parent mode. I tried out the Boba X, front and back carry, with both the hefty 7 month old boy and even his big 3 year old sister. Both were able to be adjusted into and trucked about with ease. Well, as easy as it can be to lug an extra 8 to 15kg about. I really don’t have any reservations about the Boba X. It is an absolutely fantastic carrier. But,
As part of the Kind Hearts Movement
d n i K ea ts H
has bestowed a random act of kindness upon
Bec Hancock You will each receive a free coffee voucher! Don’t forget to pay it forward! Streetwise Coffee Cart, Rangitikei Street, Palmerston North
ISSUE 298 . December 2020 | January 2021
25
FEATURE
PELVIC FLOOR ISSUES ARE COMMON BUT NOT NORMAL by Nichole Cobham
Women’s and Pelvic Health Physiotherapist
With Christmas carols playing through our brains it’s easy to want to plug our ears and say “fa la la la la” to the annoying little issues that plague us day to day. Like pelvic floor issues, right ladies?
This, my friends, is where we need to shine some of those twinkly fairy lights on the truth.
Let’s be real, nobody has time for THAT during the holidays.
Every day millions of women suffer in silence from pelvic health issues relating to pregnancy and birth related complications to chronic pelvic and sexual pain.
That is, until we want to go play on the trampoline with our kiddos without a little leak, ride our bikes without pain, or maybe even share a little ‘Christmas joy’ in the bedroom without a wince. As the resilient women we are, we simply readjust our expectations of life and put up with it. We make a joke and knowingly glance at our fellow mums, grandmas, and aunties then carry on. Because pelvic floor issues are normal, right?
Repeat after me: “Pelvic floor issues are common, but not normal.”
It is estimated that 1 in 3 women are affected by incontinence and prolapse. Pelvic health issues such as urinary or faecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and painful intercourse are common, but not normal. Again, repeat after me: “Pelvic floor issues are common, but not normal.” These issues have been written off for generations as one of the prices paid for being a mother and it is this attitude towards pelvic floor problems that has led many women to simply shrug it off. Pelvic floor issues rarely resolve on their own, and without any intervention or intentional changes, they can get worse over time. The good news? There is so much that you can do, without medication or surgery, to solve many of these issues. It’s easier than you think. In my Manawatū-based clinic I regularly hear women completely write off the things they used to do before having children that brought them joy. I’m so thrilled when they leave our time together saying things like, “I wish I had done something about this sooner,” or, “that was nowhere near as bad as what I thought it would be.”
26 PALMY PARENT . PALMERSTON NORTH PARENTS CENTRE MAGAZINE
It is time that the taboo surrounding pelvic health is broken and that we speak up and more openly about these issues that are so common. Let’s bring back our Christmas cheer and step into the New Year with a little more bounce in our step, shall we ladies? How do you know what is not normal? Take a look at the questions under the main areas of pelvic health in the checklist below to find out. If you answer “Yes” to any of the following questions, do seek advice.
Bladder
• Do you leak urine with coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercise?
Prolapse
• Do you feel any heaviness, pressure bulge in the vagina or rectum, or the feeling of something ‘falling out’?
Pain
• Do you experience any pain with sexual intercourse, the use of tampons, or during a pap smear? • Do you have any discomfort or pain around the vulva with tight clothing or light touch to the area? Do you have any pain in the vagina or rectum? • Do you have any pain with urinating or bowel movements?
Bowel
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, please know that a lot of these issues can be treated and resolved! Evidencebased research shows that physiotherapy makes a difference. There is no need to suffer endlessly with pelvic floor dysfunction. I challenge you to seek help and be proactive, to be the best version of you.
• Do you experience constipation and need to strain to empty your bowels?
If you have any questions or would like to know more about the services offered by from pelvic health physiotherapy, please feel free to email: info@nicholecobhamphysio. co.nz or head over to my website:
• Do you go to the toilet more than 7-8 times per day and more than once each night? • Do you experience a strong urge to empty your bladder, have difficulty holding on, and leak urine because of the urge? • Do you experience difficulty holding stool in or have any trouble getting everything out?
www.nicholecobhamphysio.co.nz
ISSUE 298 . December 2020 | January 2021
27
FAMILY FRIENDLY OUTING
TE MANAWA - BUG EXHIBIT What do you get when you take 6 adults and 5 kids under 5 to the bug exhibition at the museum? A surprisingly good time, actually! With the weather being temperamental and the Te Manawa Kids TM play area closed (the area with the soft blue construction blocks is still open though), we were forced to branch out to taking the kids to an actual exhibition for a recent playdate. The Bugs! Our Backyard Heroes exhibit is a
koha for entry and is located upstairs next to the Santa cave (useful to know so you can plan to embrace or avoid, depending on your preferences). It’s a well laid out exhibit, with plenty of space and only one entrance and exit point. We appreciated that there was nothing particularly fragile and nothing down low that was unsuitable for small hands, which meant all of the children (aged 6 months to 4 years) could roam freely. The bugs were in transparent boxes that were just a little taller than my 2 year old. Although this was excellent as it meant she was mostly unable to disturb them by poking the walls of what I assume was some sort of plexiglass, it
did mean that I needed to lift her up to see at the exhibits that didn’t have a step. A couple of the exhibits had a little door on the outside (or, in the case of the centipede, on the inside with an external pulley). These were well suited to our children, sturdy and easy to operate. We were able to see all of the bugs on exhibition, which was quite impressive. We even got to see the centipede eating a cricket!
Speaking of eating, there’s a very impressive video of a snail as part of the exhibition that is definitely worth watching. Our 3 and 4 year olds weren’t particularly interested in the art station, although I imagine it would be excellent for 5+ year olds. The microscope was a huge hit though, as were the bug themed dress ups. One of the 3 year olds really enjoyed the choose-your-ownadventure style treasure hunt on the wall. All in all, it was a simple yet engaging exhibit. It’s definitely worth a visit! Bugs! Our Backyard Heroes will be at Te Manawa until the 1st of May 2021.
28 PALMY PARENT . PALMERSTON NORTH PARENTS CENTRE MAGAZINE
www.temanawa.co.nz
Alana Parry
ISSUE 298 . December 2020 | January 2021
29
CRAFT
SIMPLE CHRISTMAS CRAFTS FOR TODDLERS Salt Dough Recipe
1 Cup All Purpose Flour 1/2 Cup Salt 1/4 Cup Warm Water (you may need to add a bit more)
Turn the salt dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it just as you would bread dough to remove air bubbles and obtain a smooth texture. Note* Dough should not be sticky
Handprint Santa Salt Dough Ornament
Craft Paints & Brushes Wax Paper Butterknife
edges and create a border. Place the handprint in the microwave and heat for 15 seconds. Repeat. Then heat for 20 seconds. Do this until the dough starts to dry out and change color (about 6 rounds). You can paint the dough as long as it is starting to harden, it will dry and harden the rest of the way over night. TIP* Paint the whole handprint white first, then paint the face section. It makes painting all the detail much easier!
To Make Your Santa: Cut a piece of dough, roll into a ball and flatten to about 1/2 an inch on the wax paper. Sprinkle flour all over the palm of a hand and lightly on the dough to prevent sticking. Press hand firmly down on the dough and lift it carefully. Use the butterknife to go around the
30 PALMY PARENT . PALMERSTON NORTH PARENTS CENTRE MAGAZINE
Salt Dough Reindeer Ornament Salt dough (recipe above) Non-Toxic Craft Paints Brushes 2 Sprigs of Pine School Glue Wax Paper To Make Your Reindeer: Roll the salt dough into a ball. Flatten until about 3/4 inch thick. Press your baby’s foot down to imprint. Trim along the edges leaving a border and remove excess dough. Place on wax paper and microwave for 15 seconds, repeat. Continue on 20 seconds at a time until dough is dry and hardens. Let cool completely before painting. Painting your reindeer: Use a light brown color to paint the full footprint, let dry. Use a dark brown to paint in the stamped part of the footprint (toes, heel, etc) refer to picture. Paint eyes and a nose , allow to dry. Glue the pine sprigs to the back of the reindeer to create antlers (you can either use real ones or fake ones – I suggest fake ones if you plan to have this ornament for a longer time).
ISSUE 298 . December 2020 | January 2021
31
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
ISSUE 298 . December 2020 | January 2021
33
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.
ISSUE 298 . December 2020 | January 2021
35
Palmy Parents Centre is excited to have Puddleducks on board as our newest Gold level sponsor
Locally and fam ily owned and operated
7 centresthroughoutthe Manawatu including a ont M essori Preschooland ourPuddleducks’Private Kindergarten.Central ly located.
Spacesavai lable now!
Enquire Today
PuddleducksPreschool
www .puddleducks.co.nz