Easy Parenting Issue 49 (Summer 2019)

Ireland’s No.1 pregnancy & baby magazine ISSUE

49

Summer 2019

Expert AdviceJust For You

travelling with baby? top tips inside

make bathtime

Fun

babies after 40 REAL MUM

STORIES

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Ireland’s No.1 pregnancy & baby magazine ISSUE

49

Summer 2019

Expert AdviceJust For You

travelling with baby? inside top tips

Fun

babies after 40 REAL MUM

STORIES

Toilet TRAININ

9 772009 400020

06

€2.90 – ROI

£2.70 – UK

how choos to

e perfecthe lightw t eight buggy

G ADVICE

S...

REAL MUMions real solut

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SHAM

P Walsh Geraldine Mum-of-two with uninvited cope bump. on how to on your growing comments

BUM

Welcome

Editor’s letter

make bathtime

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Summer 2019

he sun is trying its best to peep out of the clouds as I write this editor’s letter. It might not have been the summer we hoped for (yet!), but if you find yourself stuck indoors on a rainy day, why not curl up on the couch and have a flick through this issue of easy parenting? As always, it’s packed with handy tips and interesting information.

If you’re lucky enough to be heading off on holiday, make sure to check out our handy tips for travelling with a ride on Nina enjoying her trolley baby on p.66. Get the lowdown on the the weekly shop! importance of ‘sunshine vitamin’ vitamin D on p.52. If you’re on the lookout for a lightweight stroller for your little one then read our top tips on p.56.

Find out what you need to consider before buying your baby an activity toy on p.64, and learn how to treat the top five newborn concerns on p.49 . We hope you enjoy this issue; please tell us if you’d like us to cover any particular topics by emailing us at editor@easyparenting.ie.

GROUP EDITOR Emma Parkin eparkin@zahramediagroup.com 01 287 8636 DIGITAL EDITOR Emily Elphinstone emily@zahramediagroup.com STAFF WRITER Elsje du Toit elsje@zahramediagroup.com HEAD OF SOCIAL Kate Gunn kgunn@zahramediagroup.com DESIGN Siobhán O’Riordan, Gosia Sitek and Rodrigo Maruso Image libraries Getty Images, Shutterstock ADVERTISING Sales Manager Regina Hinds rhinds@zahramediagroup.com 01 287 8633 ADMINISTRATION Production Consultant Val Citron valeriecitron@gmail.com Circulation Manager John Dempsey jdempsey@zahramediagroup.com

Emma Parkin Editor

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The views expressed in this magazine are not those of the publisher. It is recommended that you consult your GP before following any kind of health programme for you or your child. Articles and advertisements are for information only. They are not intended to replace medical care. Special thanks to all our guardian angels.

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LABOUR & BIRTH

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GILLIAN BURKE

ARLENE HARRIS

TRACEY QUINN

easy parenting | 3

Contents

In th

94 S e kitch 96 M ummer re en cipes edite Crafts rranean mood 100 F & activ lutt iti 101 S ering butt es umm e er sun rfly set

Summer 2019

Regulars 06 Your Say

What you’ve been talking about

08 Parenting news Top tips and up-to-date news

11 Events calendar What’s on around the country

Pregnancy 14 Maternity style Lovely looks for the summer

16 Breathing techniques How breathing can help you through your pregnancy

18 Bump shaming How it can be damaging to a woman’s self-esteem

20 Pregnancy in your 40s Older mums share their journeys

22 Baby names

15 sunny name ideas

24 Pregnancy checklist Everything you need for baby’s arrival

27 Super supplements

Ensure you get all the nutrients

30 Gestational diabetes

Everything you need to know

Precious beginnings

36 Breastfeeding tongue tie Ciara Morgan shares her journey

39 Feeding al fresco Feeding baby on the go

42 Have a blast of a bath

52 The sunshine vitamin

All you need to know about vitamin D

54 The perfect lightweight stroller Tips on what to look for

Family 80 Summer guide How to stay safe this summer

58 Time to toilet train Tips and tricks to help your toddler make the transition

61 What is self-care?

The importance of taking care of yourself

62 Baby clothes Outfits your baby will love this summer

64 Developmental toys

86 Allergies Reduce your child’s hay fever symptoms

92 The truth about perfect parents Mum-of-two Geraldine Walsh on the myth that is ‘perfect parenting’

Everything you need to know

66 Baby travel Advice for a stress-free holiday

68 Baby diary Laura Doyle updates us on her baby Milla’s development

Just for you 72 Beauty The latest beauty products and tips

74 Fashion Fun pieces for summer

76 Decode your vagina How to keep your intimate area healthy

78 Mums’ Books Parenting and lifestyle books

Experts panel 104 Fitness 105 Speech therapy 106 Children’s development 108 Emotional health 110 Sex & relationships 111 Nutrition and diet 112 Babies and sleep 113 Childcare 114 Ask the midwife

Meet our experts

How to make bath time fun

48 Kids’ books Our pick of the best books for kids

49 Top 5 newborn concerns Solutions for common newborn issues 4 | easy parenting

TRACY DONEGAN Midwife

DAVID KAVANAGH Family therapist

FIONA O’FARRELL Occupational therapist

OLLWYN MORAN Neurological development therapist

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y a s r u Yo and thoughts Email your feedback nting.ie to editor@easypare

The Weaning Game

I’m just writing to say how much your article on weaning in the last issue has inspired me to start weaning my little one! I’ve been so reluctant to begin because I’m nervous, but I’m 100% confident in doing it now and I’ll definitely be trying out the pureé recipes as well!

Chloe Merrigan, Clare

Ah ... choo!

Thank you so much for the article on allergies! My toddler has been sneezing a lot lately, and telling me that she’s itchy all over. It never occurred to me to consider that it could be hayfever! Our family is very 'outdoorsy' and the sneezing began during our first proper camping trip together. I’m glad to finally know what’s going on with her and how to help aid and prevent it!

Samantha O’Riley, Cavan

Baby Talk

I’m due nearly any day now with my firstborn and as a new mum you probably know how nervous I am about the whole thing! One thing in particular that I’ve been worried about has been communicating with my baby. I know babies don't come out of the womb talking!

But after reading your article on nurturing language, I feel more confident and prepared to start bonding with baby.

Eimer Kavanagh, Wicklow

W IN NE R' S CO RN ER

Quinny Hubb Winner

Julie Malone from Co Roscommon was the winner

of a recent competition on our sister site everymum of a Quinny Hubb pushchair prize. In the picture is her daughter Elsie (4 months).

"Thank you so much for our fab prize. The Quinny Hubb pushchair! It's absolutely fab! I still can't believe we actually won it! Our little Elsie loves her new wheels. Thank you!"

Join our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter FACEBOOK Connect with other parents, enter our competitions and share your pregnancy and parenting stories on our Facebook page: Facebook.com/easyparentingmag

TWITTER Follow us on Twitter for Easy Parenting news and updates: twitter.com/EasyParenting1

Relatable

I really appreciated your eight embarrassing pregnancy questions! One through to eight completely apply to me and I honestly thought I was losing my marbles! I thought my body wasn’t even my body anymore when some of those unexpected bodily functions started to happen.

Rebbeca Madden, Roscommon

FIONA O’FARRELL Sleep expert and occupational therapist

Occupational therapist Fiona has worked in paediatrics for 20 years specialising in sleep issues and development. This expertise has enabled Fiona to develop a ‘Child-Centric Approach’ to your child’s sleep difficulties which involves 'No crying it out.’ Fiona is also mum to three young children.

Services include: • Fiona offers 1-1 sleep consultations for parents with different packages available depending on your child’s needs.* • Talks for groups of parents • Corporate talks on improving your sleep • Talks to health care professionals • Fiona is also board director of Irish Neonatal Health Alliance and her other passion is the area of sensory processing on the developing brain and premature babies.Fiona regularly gives talks at conference and to health care professionals • Fiona contributes to both national media and Virgin Media One and is expert baby sleep and development contributor to everymum.ie www.fionaofarrell.ie Tel: 087-9144323 * (Please see your medical insurance for how your cost for Occupational Therapy can be claimed back)

Now every mum has a voice

Supported by

Every woman, every pregnancy, every child and every mum is completely unique.

Every mum has her own set of ups and downs, moments of insane joy and anxious defeat, every mum knows that overwhelming love and that overwhelming exhaustion.

Every mum is doing her best, winging it, nailing it, doubting it and giving everything she has towards it. And every mum deserves a supportive community to talk to, to listen and to remind her that she’s not alone.

Listen to everymum the podcast now as we give every mum a voice on iTunes, Spotify and on everymum.ie

News

Fast fact Make maternity care

waiting rooms

more father friendly

A new study by the Rutgers University shows that by adding a few subtle cues to prenatal care waiting rooms, such as photos of men and babies, and pamphlets and magazines aimed toward men, can lead to fathers getting more involved in prenatal care and increase healthier outcomes for women and babies.

“Current norms in society hold men to lower expectations to be involved and many men say they are not sure what their role should be during this time, leading to often low involvement.”

Analia Albuja, lead researcher and a graduate student of social psychology at Rutgers, said.

After studying two groups of men (one attending a prenatal care waiting room with only pictures of women and babies, and one group attending a prenatal care waiting room with pictures that included men and babies), the researchers found that men who visited the father-friendly office reported having a stronger belief that the doctors had a high expectation of fathers’ involvement in prenatal care, than did the men who visited the strictly mother-oriented office.

It also increased men’s confidence about parenting, their intentions to learn more about pregancy. “If this intervention increases men’s involvement in prenatal care, previous research suggests this should bring about healthier outcomes for women and infants, such as lower alcohol and tobacco use among mothers, and a lower likelihood of low birth weight infants," Diana Sanchez, co-author and professor of psychology at Rutgers-New Brusnwick’s School of Arts and Sciences, said.

8 | easy parenting

Babies have three times more taste buds as adults, 10,000 to be precise.

The taste bud of the babies shows up on the third trimester, not just on the tongue, but also on the back, roof and sides of the mouth. That is why it is pregnant mothers are urged to try out different types of foods on the third trimester.

These taste buds disappear as the babies grow.

Talkative parents could increase child’s intelligence A recent study has found that young children who are exposed to large amounts of adult speech tend to have better cognitive skills.

The study, led by researchers at the University of York, found a link between kids who hear high quantities of adult speech and their nonverbal abilities such as reasoning, numeracy and shape awareness.

The researchers fitted tiny audio recorders into the clothing of children aged two to four.

Daily experiences of 107 children and their interactions with parents and other caregivers were recorded in their homes for over three days for up to 16 hours a day.

Parents completed activities with their children involving drawing, copying and matching tasks created to test their child’s cognitive skills.

The researchers said that the recorders allowed them to study real-life interactions between young children and their families in an unobtrusive way within the home environment rather than a lab setting.

Lead author of the study, Katrina d'Apice, a PhD student from the University of York's Department of Education, said: "We found that the quantity of adult spoken words that children hear is positively associated with their cognitive ability. However, further research is needed to explore the reasons behind this link – it could be that greater exposure to language provides more learning opportunities for children, but it could also be the case that more intelligent children evoke more words from adults in their environment."

The researchers also found that high quality adult speech may have benefits for children's linguistic development, as children in the study who interacted with adults who used a diverse vocabulary knew a greater variety of words themselves.

News

Easy parenting

loves Slipfree shoes have been cleverly designed to keep children (and adults) safe by helping prevent slips and falls on wet or dry surfaces. Whether at home, in the garden or on holiday by the pool or beach, These shoes give parents peace of mind whilst their little ones are running around enjoying themselves.

Made from a light, flexible, quick-drying and breathable fabric, these shoes are the next best thing to bare feet but with the added protection of a firm grip sole. Super comfortable, easy to swim in, they can be used almost anywhere.

With sizes ranging from an infant size 2 to a men’s size 11, Slipfree have the whole family covered. Prices are €16.95 for children’s and €20.95 for adults, available from stockists nationwide and www.iloveslipfree.co.uk

With Sun & Sea suits and a range of FloatSuits, all with UPF50+ as standard, children’s delicate skin will be protected against harmful UVA and UVB rays both in and out of the water with the new range from Splash About.

The spring/summer 2019 collection is themed around nursery rhyme prints, children’s poems and songs; with beautiful designs in striking bold blues, warm red, pastel pinks, powder blues and yellows.

UV All-In-One, RRP €25.48; Toddler UV Sunsuit, RRP €25.48; UV Sun & Sea Wetsuit, €28.94; FloatSuits, RRP from €28.94-€31.26.

1 in 5 parents would rather children earn good salary than be kind or honest Over a fifth of parents would prefer their child to earn a decent salary as an adult rather than grow up to be kind or honest, according to a poll. 2,000 parents in the UK were surveyed and it found that one in 20 want success for their children above happiness, while one sixth had a career in mind for their child.

More than half of the respondents admitted that they encouraged their children to take certain subjects at school, in order to try to lead them towards certain careers. The study found that mothers and fathers have different opinions about what type of career would suit their children. Mothers were found to want to their children to opt for engineering and manufacturing, while fathers were more keen for their offspring to go into computing or coding.

The research was carried out by Siemens. A spokesperson for the company said, “Our results found happiness can be found in different ways – with some feeling that money can buy that happiness.”

“What is interesting is that the favoured career choice above all others for mums was engineering and manufacturing, which is encouraging as those entering STEM subjects are our future makers. And dads also recognise that it is important for both girls and boys to embrace technology at school and in years to come.”

Fathers also appeared to favour careers in business or management, teaching and accountancy, while none of the mothers surveyed wanted to see their children enter a profession in sales.

easy parenting | 9

News

Reading with toddlers

benefits parents and children

'Picture perfect' parenting can be disempowering Research conducted by WaterWipes has revealed that the ‘picture perfect’ portrayal of parenting in culture is disempowering parents in Ireland and across the world.

The study revealed that more than half of parents in Ireland feel like they are failing within the first year of parenthood (57%) – with mums more likely to feel this way than dads (64% vs 45%). This feeling stems from a number of sources, from single-minded parenting how-to guides to flawlessly filtered Instagram feeds, with one fifth of Irish parents feeling like film and TV (23%) are key contributors, and two fifths of parents feel advertising is a contributor (39%).

Similarly, two-fifths of Irish parents believe social media adds to the pressure to be a ‘perfect parent’ (43%).

The result of this pressure is that many parents in Ireland feel as though they can’t be honest about their struggles due to fear of judgement (44%), with more than half admitting to putting on a brave face rather than being honest about their reality (53%).

Over half of parents in Ireland feel as though they cannot relate to the parenting images they see on social media (55%) – with mums feeling this more than dads (59% vs 48%). This theme is replicated by parents across the world, with seven in 10 globally wishing there were more honest representations of parenting in culture (72%) and on social media (68%).

Commenting on the research, chartered psychologist and parenting expert Niamh Hannan says, “Irish parents clearly feel under huge pressure to ‘get it right’. I’d go so far to say that there is a ‘cult of perfectionism’ around parenting. When an exhausted parent is feeling that somehow they are not measuring up to others or to their own expectations, what they really need to know is that they are normal. Everyone is going to struggle sometimes. This research from WaterWipes shows us that parents need our support.”

10 | easy parenting

People who regularly read with their toddlers are less likely to be harsh at parenting and the children are less likely to by hyperactive or disruptive, a Rutgers-led study found.

Although previous studies have shown that frequent shared reading prepares children for school by buiding their language, literacy and emotional skill, this study by Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School researchers might be the first one that focuses on how shared reading affects parenting. Shared reading also have additional benefits: a stronger parent-child bond and less hyperactivity and attention problems in children.

“For parents, the simple routine of reading with your chld on a daily basis provides not just academic but emotional benefits that can help bolster the child’s success in school and beyond,” lead researcher Manuel Jimenez, and assistant professor at Rutger’s department of pediatrics said.

“Our findings can be applied to programs that help parents and caregivers in underserved areas to develop positive parenting skills.”

The study showed that frequent shared reading at the age of one was associated with less harsh parenting at age three, and frequent shared reading at age three was associated with less harsh parenting at age five.

The mums reported on their turn that the more frequently they read with their children, the less likely their little ones were to show disruptive behaviour.

Did you know?

Newborns can recognise their mother’s voice from just one syllable. It activates an area of the brain associated with language process. Astonishingly, newborns can recognise their mother’s voice at birth itself. When a baby is born, his hearing power is not 100% up to par as the middle ear is still full of fluid, which somewhat impairs the hearing. The only sound that they can recognise is their mother’s voice.

Summer Events Calendar

Kaleidoscope Festival, Blessington 28th – 30th of June

Grab your camping gear and the suncream and head down to Ireland’s first family camping festival! Running in its first year, this festival offers so many wonderful and different events for all different age groups, including mum and dad.

From urban and water sports to a Woodland Spa and a Baby Disco this new festival on the block has eveything to offer including live performances from Tom Odell, Imelda May, Delorentos and more!

Collecting the kids from their last day of school and driving down to this gorgeous lakeside festival is enough to start anyone’s summer off with a bang. €38 each (2 adults + 2 children), €25 for an additional child under 18 and babies under 24 months go free. www.kaleidoscopefestival.ie

Féile Brian Ború, Clare 17th – 21st July

Celebrate the life and legacy of Brian Ború, the founder of the O’Briens and most importantly Ireland’s Greatest High King. This ye old event will include a historical guided tour on land and lake, garden party galore, children’s art competitions, fireworks displays over the River Shannon and so much more! This event caters for the entire family and makes celebrating history fun and entertaining. Free in.

Things to do

Waterford Walls, Waterford City 22nd – 25th August

Another month, another art festival!

Now in its fifth year, this is Ireland’s one and only street art festival. It radiates creativity from one end of the town to the other with over 48 masterpieces to view! This amazing event is now offering a new children’s street art programme so you can get the kiddies involved in the making of all this beautiful art. Not only does this festival pride itself with street art but it also offers the public live music, guided art trails, workshops and expert panel talks. Free in (guided art trails €10). For group bookings, contact info@waterfordwalls.ie. waterfordwalls.ie

Galway International Arts Festival, Galway City 15th – 28th of July

Take a trip to the sunny west coast and visit one of Europe’s top five international art festivals with the whole family. This not-to-miss festival will be opening up the beautiful streets of Galway City this July and offers free events and ticketed events throughout the two week extravaganza. Don’t miss this chance to introduce your kids to the world of art and all the hidden gems Galway City has to offer. www.giaf.ie

Playstival

10th-11th August Playstival 2019 celebrates kids and their parents with Ireland’s only festival dedicated to play. Returning for its spectacular second year this August, Playstival is Ireland’s only festival dedicated to play for kids and their parents.

This unique event allows kids and all the older people in their lives to get away from mobile phones, game consoles and screens. Enjoy a day full of genuine feel-good fun and family togetherness.

Tickets are on sale now from €13 via the event website. www.playstival.ie

www.feilebrianboru.com easy parenting | 11

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In this section 14 Maternity fashion 16 Breathing techniques 18 Bump shaming 20 Pregnancy in your 40s 22 15 Sunny baby names 24 Pregnancy checklist 27 Super supplements 30 Gestational diabetes easy parenting | 13

Pregnancy

Summer 1 Enjoy the summer months in these gorgeous maternity looks 1 Maternity Pink Ruched Strap Dress €26 @ Dorothy Perkins 2 Maternity Navy Sweetheart Neckline Skater Dress €26 @ Dorothy Perkins 3 Maternity Red Floral Print Midi Dress €29 @ Dorothy Perkins 4 Maternity Knot Tie Jumpsuit €52 @ Topshop 5 Maternity Ruffle Bardot Midi Dress €68 @ Topshop 6 Pretty Maternity Camisole €39 @ JoJo Maman Bebe

3

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7 Ticking Stripe Embroidered Maternity Top €45 @ JoJo Maman Bebe 8 Nursing Vest W Shelf White €15.99 @ Mothercare 9 Blake Maternity Tee €56 @ Isabella Oliver 10 Micro Stripe White coral Tee €12.99 @ Mothercare 11 Secret Support Maternity Vest €28 @ JoJo Maman Bebe 12 Ellis Maternity Tank Dress €98 @ Isabella Oliver 14 | easy parenting

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easy parenting |15

Pregnancy

How can breathing

help me through my pregnancy?

Learning breathing techniques can help you through pregnancy and labour too. Elsje du Toit gets some expert advice on how expectant mums can use breathing effectively

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t’s amazing how a few minutes of breathing can instantly lift your mood.

Whether you’re stressed out and anxious about giving birth, or just really in need of a much deserved nap, breathing can make you feel calm and help you get a new perspective on whatever problem you might have.

But how exactly can breathing help you through growing that human inside of you?

Beneficial for you and your unborn baby According to Irish Life, learning some deep breathing exercises can be an excellent coping mechanism in pregnancy.

“It helps slow your heart rate down and can take your mind off pain and discomfort,” it says on the website.

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“Breathing techniques can also be beneficial for the health of your baby as it improves the circulation of the blood and boosts the oxygen supplied to your body. It is also helpful for relaxation during labour.”

Why is breathing during pregnancy so important?

Paula Mitten, owner of Durga Yoga Ireland based in Maynooth, Co Kildare, says (on the Durga Yoga website) that if you practise a pregnancy breathing technique for five minutes a day, it can help you to have a calm birth.

“I often say to my students that when they find their centre and they become grounded in themselves that nothing can knock that or take it away from them,” she says.

“This becomes even more important

Pregnancy

during pregnancy and birth. As a birthing woman you need to be able to trust in your body and stay as calm and present as you possibly can.

“So, the big question is, ‘How do I find my centre?’ or ‘How can I be fully present and let go of stress?’

“And the answer lies with your breath!”

Mitten says your breath is the “key to letting go of stress, anxiety and worry”.

“It will allow you to let go of distractions from the world around you. When your breath is slow and steady, your body and mind will be calm. You cannot be stressed or anxious when you are connected to your breath.”

technique, as it’ll help you when you’re in labour and starting the birthing process.

“It can be very hard to keep your breathing rhythmical and to relax every time you breathe out when you’re having contractions. This is where the support of your birth partner is essential.

“They can help you keep your breathing steady by breathing with you.

Therefore it is important that when you are comfortable with your breathing technique that you share it with your partners so they can practise it with you.”

You have to practise breathing before birth

How to start breathing mindfully during pregnancy:

According to the HSE, “an effective breathing technique is the single most powerful way of ensuring that your body’s muscles remain well oxygenated”.

Breathing techniques will help you with an easier birth, but it is very important that you practise these while you’re pregnant, so that you’re comfortable doing this on the day you’re giving birth.

Paula Mitten, owner of Durga Yoga Ireland, says if you take five to 10 minutes every day to breathe, you’ll become more comfortable with your breath.

“The more you practise the easier it will become. You will be able to use this technique throughout your labour to help you stay calm and focused.

“If at any point during your breathing practice you become light headed or it feels too much in any way, stop and come back to your natural breath again.”

1 Start by either lying, standing or sitting in a comfortable position. Watch your natural breath to become familiar with it.

2 Notice each inhalation and each exhalation without trying to control or change your breathing in any way.

3 Let your belly rise when breathing in, and fall when breathing out. Mitten says this movement can be very subtle at first.

4 See if you can gently slow down your breath. Avoid forcing your breath to slow down. You should still feel very relaxed and comfortable.

5 As this becomes easier, start to lengthen the exhalations until,

Breathing through labour Mitten says that if you’re breathing correctly during pregnancy, giving birth will be easier and more natural as it allows you to let go of all other distractions around you.

“When you get out of your thoughts and out of your head space, and you come down into your body, mother nature will take over. Your body already knows what it needs to do to birth your baby, and when you breathe fully and connect yourself deeply, your body and your baby will instinctively know what to do.”

The HSE recommends that both you and your birthing partner should be comfortable with your breathing

eventually, you’re breathing out twice as long as when you’re breathing in.

The HSE recommends the following breathing technique (based on the book Active Birth by Janet Balaskas): First, get in a comfortable position, either lying down, standing or sitting in a chair with your back straight but relaxed.

Imagine that there is a rope attached to your earth contact and it is drawing you into the ground.

“Consciously control your breathing.

Pay particular attention to your breath out. Normally we breathe in and out through the nose, but, for now, allow yourself to exhale very slowly through the mouth.

“When you reach the very end of the exhalation inhale slowly through the nose to gently fill the lungs again.

Continue to breathe like this for several breath cycles.

“With each exhalation sense your pelvis dropping downwards with gravity, and relax your knees, hips, and legs towards the floor. Relax your tail bone downwards so that all your lower back is well grounded and your back relaxed.

“This breathing technique can be used to help you through your contractions when in labour so it is important to rehearse this on a daily basis from about 28 weeks to ensure your comfortable with the technique when the big day arrives.”

For more information: Durga Yoga Ireland - http:// durga.ie/pregnancy-breathingtechniques/ HSE - https://www.hse.ie/eng/ services/list/3/acutehospitals/ hospitals/cavanmonaghan/ breathing-and-relaxation.pdf

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Precious beginnings Pregnancy

Anyone who has ever been pregnant has probably found themselves at the receiving end of unwelcome comments about their growing bump.

Geraldine Walsh discusses her own experience of bump shaming and how it can be quite damaging to a pregnant woman’s self-esteem

T N O I T N E M T ' N O D

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P M U B THE

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he bump should not be up for discussion. As much as a hand running over my body was always unwelcome as my pregnant belly grew, thoughts and opinions about the size of my bump were never flattering or helpful.

In fact, it often made me fearful, made me worry and started an incessant maternal guilt, before my baby was even born, that I was doing something wrong. Should my bump be bigger, smaller, lower, rounder? Was I growing her wrong? Was my body broken? Everyone, it seemed, had an opinion on the size of my bump.

My first pregnancy was thwarted by the severe pregnancy sickness, Hyperemesis Gravidarum. I lost weight, rather than gained any. Keeping food down was next to impossible, no matter how many ginger biscuits or dried crackers I attempted to eat. I was nauseatingly sick for most of the nine months, but few people knew how I suffered.

My round, pregnant belly was so compact, boxed into my neat, petite frame, that I managed to hide my pregnancy under flowing shirts. You’d imagine being such a tiny person, the bump would outgrow me and take over my tiny body, leaving me imperfectly balanced and waddling from early in the second trimester.

Not me. My swollen belly was so small, that I was almost seven months

Pregnancy

gone before colleagues put my weight gain down to pregnancy and not another Rocky Road from the canteen.

Healthy baby nonetheless

Our little girl entered the world a healthy and wrinkled six pounds nine ounces, despite my neatness and ability to hide my pregnancy for longer than most. She was perfect.

Nevertheless, I spent the latter part of the nine months listening to varying shocked exclamations of “You’re so small,” and “Where are you putting her?” followed by “Are you sure she’s in there?” with “Did you get your dates wrong?”

For those who did know I was pregnant from the early days, their eyes bump-watched, waiting for the bump to grow. Which it did, but I was never big. My favourite words of wisdom from a family member were, “You’re eating for two now. You need to eat more. Don’t starve your baby.”

If only it was that simple.

But sure enough, whatever food and nutrients I was able to consume, you can be certain she got it all. But thanks for the guilt, the worry and fear with that one! It’s not as though growing a human being from scratch is hard work without being afraid you’re doing something wrong from the get-go.

Celeb bumps in the spotlight

Meghan Markle has faced the world of bump shaming on a much greater scale than little old me who was given a rundown of the incompatible size of my bump from my friends, neighbours and a few would-be well-wishers on my commute. With the world’s media keenly attached to her abdomen, assumptions were made instantly about the growing size of her bump.

To the world, after she ‘popped’ as the media so politely put it, her bump was too big, and she must be hiding

twins from her conceive and carry a dy "Bump and bo d beloved fans. successful pregnancy, ring, an shaming du Failing that, the can contribute to rm fo s ou a vici after birth, is face en gossip mill turned antenatal anxiety, and om w at th of bullying ws, , family, in-la on her, spouting may feed into rs ne rt pa from agues and rumours that she postnatal depression or friends, colle ngers." random stra has taken the idea anxiety.” of eating for two to Social media has added the next level and to many feeling justified in gained more than the talking about the size of a normal pounds. pregnant belly. We’re freer, more It’s not the world’s business to vocal and rarely hesitant in sharing watch Markle’s or anyone else’s bump our opinion whether it’s aimed at and make assumptions as to her size, friends or celebrities. But we should. shape or positioning, and thereby her Words have weight lifestyle, her choices or her pregnancy.

Words can weigh quite heavily, It’s not right to comment especially on an already worried mind.

The funny thing is, a pregnant woman There is no perfect shape or size for our will show at some stage, her bump will growing bellies. Bumps are beautifully grow as her baby grows, regardless of different from woman to woman as the size of that bump, no one has the babies are grown and lives are made. right to make judgement, comment or And yet, it’s become a normal part of observations based on any visual aspect pregnancy for mums to face a bump of her body. Pregnancy is not an analysis from almost anyone who feels invitation to dissect or discuss a the need to share their opinion or pass woman’s body or situation. And yet it their remark off as a joke. seems many take it as an opening to But as Tubridy says, it is not a joke. divulge their opinion.

“Pregnant mothers aren’t being overly Helena Tubridy, Fertility Expert and sensitive, missing the joke, or being Therapist, says, “Bump and body precious. Nurturing a fragile human-inshaming during, and after birth, is a development is lonely, uncomfortable vicious form of bullying that women face and downright scary. This is a time for from partners, family, in-laws, friends, celebrating the amazing changes colleagues and random strangers. pregnancy brings and minding mamas-in-waiting.”

Increases anxiety We are not too big, too small, too It adds to the ‘normal’ concerns of low, or too high. We are pregnant, pregnancy. Women are left asking giving up our body to grow a beautiful themselves questions such as, is my human being. Judgements, remarks bump too small that my baby is being and shaming is not needed at such a starved? Or, am I abnormally big that crucial time in our lives when we are my baby has both types of diabetes? doing our very best to get through “Self-esteem can be fragile enough these difficult nine months. during pregnancy without rude, Let’s stop the bump shaming. Instead offensive and thoroughly unhelpful applaud and congratulate Mum comments that wound and demean on her growing belly, in all it’s women. The upset caused to the women beautiful glory.

I treat, who’ve often waited years to easy parenting | 19

Pregnancy

d n a r e d l O wiser The average maternal age in Ireland is rising, and it's increasingly common nowadays for women to have their first baby in their 40s. Arlene Harris speaks to women who became parents later in life

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here was a time when people aimed to become parents in their twenties; presumably so they would be young enough to keep up with their energetic children. These days over half of first-time parents in Ireland are in their mid-30s and while in medical terms the mother is classed as ‘geriatric’ when she is over 35, it is by no means stopping people from becoming parents well into their forties and beyond.

For years celebrities have been welcoming new arrivals long after the supposedly optimum age with Brigitte Nielsen giving birth to her fifth child at the age of 54, Janet Jackson becoming a first-time mum at 50 and more recently Gordon Ramsay’s wife, Tana was in her mid-forties when her fifth baby was born.

And it’s not just the rich and famous 20 | easy parenting

who are starting families later as Maria Cleary can attest. The Wicklow woman can now count herself a member of the same club as these well-known faces as she is expecting her first child at the age of 44.

“Mike and I are expecting our first and probably our only baby in October,” she says. “I had been trying for years to become pregnant and really didn’t think it was going to happen for us – but after three attempts at IVF we have finally succeeded and are beyond excited at the thought of becoming parents.

“I have always been quite fit so haven’t had any issues with the pregnancy as yet, but I probably worry more than I might have done if I was younger because I know I am at an age where things could go wrong. Waiting for results of genetic tests was very nerve wracking, but thankfully all is fine so far.

“To be honest once the health of our baby is good I don’t think there is any other difference between me and a first-time mum in her thirties – in fact, I feel I am much better able to cope with whatever life throws at me now than I would have a decade ago.”

TIRING However, Grainne Moloney begs to differ as she says having her first child at 42 and second at 44 was ‘very hard work’.

“I always knew I wanted children but although my husband was keen to start a family I didn’t want to have them as soon as I got married,” says the Dublin woman.

“So we waited for about five years and then it took a long time for me to get pregnant as I miscarried twice before finally giving birth when I was 42.

“The pregnancy was very difficult and the labour was long and very traumatic.

Then after my daughter was born, I got postnatal depression and was totally wrecked all of the time. I didn’t have any energy for anything and had actually decided that I was only going to have one child when suddenly I found myself

pregnant again – it was not an easy time for me.

“My daughter has a very determined personality and ever since she was born has demanded our full attention all of the time. My son, thankfully, is more easy going, but if I’m being honest, I have found the whole parenting thing very difficult and a real eye opener as I really thought it would be easy. My mother says that I should have had the kids when I was younger and although it really annoys me when she says it, I think she might be right.

Perhaps I would have coped better with both the birth and the early years if I was in my twenties, but at this stage, I will never know.”

LISTEN TO YOUR BODY AND DON’T PUSH YOURSELf But midwife Tracy Donegan says age shouldn’t be a factor when it comes to a healthy, happy pregnancy and delivery.

“It’s definitely a myth that having a baby is harder when you are older,” she says. “No matter what your age I would encourage all expectant mums to listen to their bodies. Don’t push yourself past your limits and if mum and baby are healthy regular exercise is definitely recommended.

“Also talk to your midwife or doctor about taking any extra supplements especially if you’re eating a healthy diet.

Exercise doesn’t just keep you healthy; it’s also great for your growing baby. Yoga, swimming and walking are all gentle exercises but if you already have an exercise programme such as strength training and/or cardio keep it up as long as you’re feeling up to it and if necessary adapt to your growing bump and rollercoaster of energy levels. Lots of mature mums have very straight forward pregnancies and births but the labelling of these women as ‘geriatric’ sends a very different message.”

Donegan, who founded gentlebirth.ie says while a healthy pregnancy isn’t age dependent, older mothers often need to be

reminded that they don’t have to be super mums.

“A big one for older mums is learning how to accept help,” she says. “After working or running a department like clockwork for years, some mature mums can find the unpredictability of a newborn’s schedule to be challenging and try to ‘soldier on’ without support.”

THE GOOD AND THE BAD Psychologist Peadar Maxwell says there are both ups and downs to being an older parent.

“Apart from the downturn in fertility making it less likely, becoming a parent when you are older has its rewards and its challenges,” he says. “For many people the choice of when to have a child may be overridden by study, career and housing demands. So it’s practically impossible to predict when one becomes a parent so when it does happen it should be embraced as the right time.

“Some younger parents do not have the emotional maturity to parent as they would with ten or 15 years of adulthood under their belt. Equally most middle aged parents simply don’t have the energy to combat the demands of sleep deprivation or an active toddler. Either way there are pros and cons.”

DIFFERENT TIMING The Wexford based expert says the maturity of an adult with some life experience normally enhances parenting styles, but some of those parents may feel out-of-sync with their friends and colleagues who are moving on and reclaiming their independence as an adult, going out, having lie-ins or even travelling.

“While there’s no reclaiming youth, a mature parent can take action to keep their energy levels up by eating well, cutting back on alcohol, quitting smoking and getting exercise,” he says. “Lifestyle changes which include a reasonable level of fitness and weight management is

Expert advice Maternity expert, Tracy Donegan agrees and has a few top tips for older mums: • Identify local resources to support you in these potentially challenging few months.

• Breastfeed your baby – you and your partner will get more sleep if you learn how to co-sleep safely.

• Consider hiring a postpartum doula to support you and your partner as you settle in with your new baby.

• Older mums may find it quite isolating so check out local mum and baby groups to connect with others.

• Don’t rush your recovery and try to connect with your partner daily who is probably finding this new adventure tiring too, particularly if neither of you are sleeping. www.gentlebirth.ie

proven to help parents of good health to keep up with their young children and be more available to do energetic pursuits together. But a youthful mindset helps too so talk back to unhelpful negative thoughts about being older than the other parents or missing out on things and say to yourself, 'it’s great I did all of things I did before I became a parent and look how much calmer and wiser I am now.'

“Of course there are compromises that can’t be avoided for most of us. Getting enough sleep is one and the time it takes to get over a night out is another. As a new, older parent you will need to prioritise you and your child and getting rest and sleep is an important part of that. But don’t let guilt stop you from doing some of the things you have always enjoyed such as catching up with family and friends, getting exercise or pursuing a hobby. It is about balance.” easy parenting | 21

Pregnancy

Sunny Baby Names It’s summer, which means it’s the season of sunshine, hot weather and long days. However, the Irish sun is quite shy and we might not see and feel it every day.

But, nevertheless, if your baby’s due in the summer, why not give him or her a name inspired by the big ol’ yellow ball in the sky? Your baby will definitely be the new light in your life, so why not celebrate that?

7 Sunny Baby Boy Names

3 Roshan

8 Sunny Baby GIrl Names

Another Persian name. The Iranian meaning of it is “shining” or “splendid”, while in India it means “famous”.

You’ll probably want your little girl to shine in everything she does in her life, so why not get it right from the start?

Choose a name inspired by the sun. She is going to be the light of your life!

4 Aelius Aelius is a Roman family name derived from the Greek word, meaning “sun”.

5 Sol Short and sweet: The Spanish word for sun.

If your little boy is due in summer, why not get some name inspiration from the sun?

The new light of your life will shine brightly with these gorgeous names.

6 Blaze

1 Cyrus

This is a Spanish name that is one of several alternatives for the Sun god Helios, who drives across the sky every day in a horse-drawn chariot.

This Persian name has many possible meanings, but it’s on the list because “sun” is one of them.

2 Samson A Biblical name with Hebrew roots that means sun. Samson was an Old Testament hero who had extraordinary strength. You can always opt for Sam if you don’t like Samson that much.

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A strong name for a strong boy. The term blaze has a strong connection with the sun.

7 Elio

1 Elaine This is a Scottish form of Helen, meaning “shining light”.

2 Áine A great Irish name for the light in your life. Áine is the name of the Irish goddess associated with the sun.

3 Eliana Eliana is a very popular name all over the world, including Spain, Russia, and Israel. It means “daughter of the sun”.

Pregnancy

4 Surya Surya is the name of the Hindu God of sun.

5 June One of the summer months when we’re (supposedly) experiencing a lot of sun.

6 Summer When you think of summer, you instantly think of the sun right? The sunny season makes for a perfect name.

7 Aurora Aurora is the name of the Roman Goddess of sunrise, whose tears turned into dew. It’s also the scientific term for the Northern Lights.

8 Malina The name Malina comes from Inuit mythology. It is the name of the Goddess of the sun.

5 random facts about names

1. Onomastics is the study of the history and origin of proper names, especially personal names. No one knows when people first started naming people, all we know is it originated around 130,000 years ago when social situations began within the homo sapian and homo neanderthal world, when ritual burials began and social navigation became a thing.

2.Babies will more than likely start to react to their name being called within a few weeks but they aren’t 'reacting' to their name, they’re just able to recognise your voice! At around five or six months, a baby will finally recognise their name as their name, because they have been growing the ability to match sounds with objects at this age, and the people these sounds might represent!

3. A couple in France attempted to name their child after the hazelnut and spread Nutella in 2014, but the courts denied their request. They opted to edit the girl's name down to "Ella."

4.Thinking of naming your child using a unisex name? Some popular unisex baby names that are just so adorable are … Andy, Morgan, Charlie, Quinn, Riley, and Alex 5. Thinking of naming your baby something unusual and unique? These are some favourite baby names that celebs have named their little ones…

Suri Child of: Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes

Exton Child of: Robert Downey, Jr., and Susan Downey

Destry Child of: Steven Spielberg and Kate Capshaw

Lazer Lee Louis Pentz Child of: Diplo and Kathryn Lockhart

Autumn, Sonnet and True Children of: Forest Whitaker and Keisha Nash Whitaker

easy parenting | 23

Pregnancy

Your baby’s

t s i l k c e Ch Use our essential checklist of what you need to prepare for your baby’s arrival

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s your due date is getting closer, you might get worried that you’re not fully prepared for the little one’s arrival. Here are a few tips on how to prepare for the big day:

Get your baby’s car seat ready

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Choose the right child car seat for your baby and car and ensure you know how to fit it correctly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Child car seats are divided into different categories, according to weight. Any child under 36kg and 150cm should be restrained in an appropriate child restraint. It is important to ensure that you have a properly fitted child restraint in your vehicle to suit your child’s weight and height. This prevents the child from being thrown about inside or ejected from the vehicle during an accident. It also absorbs some of the impact force.

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15/02/2019 05/12/2018 14:41 17:23

Pregnancy

According to the Road Changing And Bath Time MUM'S TIP Safety Authority (RSA) • Changing mat g baby wearin an appropriate child • Cotton wool The joys of e Th r! g is a life-save not Baby wearin ld restraint is one which: • Vaseline ou sh s nd two ha joy of having getting om • Bears an E mark • Bowl for warm Fr . ed at im be underest the house to nd (meaning that it water ou ar ne do stuff when much easier meets United • Unscented baby by making it so ba use, using a Nations Standard wipes leaving the ho you untold carrier gives ECE Regulation 44 03 • Nappies – if you are ce! independen or 44 04); using disposable nappies, • Is suitable for the child’s don’t stock up on too many weight and height; packets of the very tiny ‘newborn’ • Is suitable for the type of car; size. Infants grow quite quickly and you • Is fitted correctly according to the may find your baby has grown into the manufacturer’s instructions. next size nappy in a matter of days.

• Baby bath or bath support seat Babies’ requirements are very simple, • Soft baby towels despite the sometimes dizzying array of Chest of drawers ‘must-haves’ in the shops.

A good-sized chest of drawers will provide So what do you actually need sufficient storage for most of your baby’s for baby then? clothing. Keep your baby’s changing items Bedding – It is recommended that for the in the top drawer so they are within easy first six months of her life, your baby should reach. be in the same room as you when she is Out and about sleeping. Certain designs of cots that you Travel system – A rear-facing baby car would like to fit in with your dream nursery seat/travel system, including a pram for may be more expensive, but if you are on a your infant, are required from the start. As budget, the essential features are that the your baby grows, you may find an cot passes safety regulations. Also, if you umbrella-style buggy is easier to operate. It are using a second hand cot or Moses is important to be aware that this style of basket, make sure that you buy a new buggy is not usually suitable for an infant, mattress for it and wash all the covers. as it is essential for a small baby to be able Once your baby is six months old, you to lie completely flat in the early days. can move her into a crib or cot. Some cot Baby changing bag – Some come with a beds will accommodate your child until she portable changing mat; which is good to becomes a toddler, or you can purchase a have when you and your baby are out and standard sized cot if you are tight on space about. in your home.

A cot with drop down sides will make it Playtime easier to get baby in and out. Make sure Machine-washable play mat – These that your cot mattress is the exact size often come with overhanging toys that can required to fit your cot frame. provide playtime stimulation for your Make Night-Time Easier infant. These are great for tummy-time too.

Night light or low wattage lamp – During Clothing the night feeding and nappy changing Be sure and wash all baby clothes, bedding, times, the last thing either you or your baby towels and washcloths in non-biological need is to be woken fully.

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liquid detergent before using. If you are unsure what to buy in advance, stick to this list of what you really need • Bibs • Vests • Hats • Babygros – Plenty of them! These are undoubtedly the most practical and comfortable item of clothing for a newborn baby. Most babies live in them for the first few months.

• Cardigans – Great for wearing during the day over a babygro and easier to dress your baby in than a jumper, as most babies take exception to pulling things over their heads!

• Muslin squares – An invaluable piece of baby equipment. Easy to boil-wash, quick to dry and great to have for placing underneath your baby’s head or over your shoulder at all times!

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SUPER ESSENTIAL Find out about the vitamins and minerals you need during pregnancy

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t is best to get vitamins and minerals from the food you eat, but when you are pregnant you will need to take some supplements as well to make sure you get everything you need.

You can get supplements from pharmacies and supermarkets, or your GP may be able to prescribe them for you. If you want to get your folic acid or vitamin D from a multivitamin tablet, make sure that the tablet does not contain vitamin A (or retinol), as too much Vitamin A could harm your baby. So what do you actually need?

1 FOLIC ACID Folic acid is a B vitamin that is found in some foods as well as in supplement form. If you have enough folic acid around the time you conceive your baby, then there’s less risk of your baby being born with neural tube defects such as spina bifida.

All women who could become pregnant are advised to take a supplement of 400µg (micrograms) of folic acid each day. When you do become pregnant, continue to take the supplement each day for the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. If you’ve just found out you are pregnant and had not been

Pregnancy

s s t t n n e e m m e e l l p p p p u u SS taking folic acid supplements, start them right away and continue to take them until the 12th week of pregnancy.

Folic acid supplements are available over the counter in pharmacies and some supermarkets. If you take folic acid as part of a multivitamin supplement, make sure that it contains 400µg (micrograms) of folic acid. Folic acid is also found in green vegetables, brown rice, orange juice and some breakfast cereals (check the label). You can boost your folic acid by eating foods like these. But you’ll still need to take a supplement to get the full amount you need while you’re pregnant.

2 FISH AND OMEGA FATS Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are important for the developing baby’s brain and eyes. You’ll find these fatty acids in: • Oil-rich fish (like herring, mackerel, sardines, salmon, trout) • White fish (like cod, plaice, whiting) • > Some vegetable oils (rapeseed, canola, flaxseed, linseed, walnut) • So when you’re pregnant, aim to eat two portions of fish each week, one of which is oil-rich. Some types of fish such as shark, marlin and swordfish (and to a lesser degree tuna) can

contain levels of mercury that are too high for your unborn baby. So during pregnancy, you should note the following: • Include a maximum of two portions of oil-rich fish in the week • Avoid shark, swordfish and marlin • Limit tuna to four tins per week, or two tuna steaks per week

3 CALCIUM You need extra calcium in your diet during pregnancy. This is to allow your developing baby’s bones to grow and develop, while looking after your own bones too.

Dairy foods like milk, cheese and yoghurt are the best sources of calcium.

Pregnant women should have five servings of dairy foods each day. One serving is a glass of milk, a carton of yoghurt (125g) or a matchbox-sized piece of cheese. Avoid unpasteurised dairy products, soft mould-ripened cheeses like Camembert or Brie, and all blue-veined cheese because of the risk of Listeria food poisoning which is dangerous for pregnant women.

Other foods that have some calcium are: • Green leafy vegetables (like broccoli or cabbage) easy parenting | 27

Pregnancy

• Tinned fish where the bones can be eaten (like sardines or salmon) • Nuts • Soya products • Baked beans • Calcium-enriched juice drinks, breads or breakfast cereals (check the labels)

4 VITAMIN D Vitamin D is only found in a small number of foods – in fact we get most of our Vitamin D from the sun. Growing children, pregnant women, and breastfeeding women especially need extra Vitamin D because it is required for growth.

5 IRON If you are short of iron, you’ll probably get very tired and may suffer from anaemia.

You need extra iron when you’re pregnant to make new blood cells for your developing baby. Be sure to eat iron-rich foods regularly throughout your pregnancy.

There are two dietary forms of iron. * Haem iron: found in animal foods only. * Non-haem iron: found in plant and animal foods.

Iron from haem iron is better absorbed than non-haem iron.

Lean red meat is the best source of iron in the diet. Other good sources are chicken and turkey – especially the dark meat and oil-rich fish.

Liver has lots of iron too, but you should avoid eating it while you’re pregnant because it has very high levels of Vitamin A. Other foods that contain iron are: • peas • beans • lentils • eggs • wholegrain bread • dried fruit • green vegetables • some breakfast cereals (check the label) 28 | easy parenting

Eating some salad vegetables, citrus fruits or a glass of fruit juice with your meals will help with iron absorption.

Do not drink tea with meals as all types of tea can limit the absorption of iron.

At your booking appointment, the midwife will test the haemoglobin (iron) in your blood and advise you if you require to increase iron rich foods or take supplements.

As your pregnancy progresses and your haemoglobin levels decrease, you may develop symptoms of anaemia.

Symptoms of anaemia are dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, pale skin and gums, rapid heart rate, poor concentration.

If you experience any of these symptoms you must tell your midwife or doctor so that your haemoglobin can be tested again.

Diet alone may not be enough to increase iron levels. Some women are advised by their doctor to take iron supplements during pregnancy.

6 VEGETARIAN, VEGAN AND SPECIAL DIETS IN PREGNANCY A varied and balanced vegetarian diet should give enough nutrients for you and your baby during pregnancy.

However, you might find it hard to get enough iron and vitamin B12. Talk to your midwife or doctor about how to make sure you are getting enough of these important nutrients.

If you are vegan (you cut out all animal products from your diet), or you follow another type of restricted diet because of food intolerance (for example, a gluten free diet for coeliac disease) or for religious reasons, talk to your midwife or GP. Ask to be referred to a dietitian for advice on how to make sure you are getting all the nutrients you need for you and your baby.

DID YOU KNOW? iron Having good the ce u d stores can re eding a e n f likelihood o usion blood transf th. following bir

Easy Parenting Magazine - Spatone Ad.pdf 1 06/06/2019 10:28:53

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D E E N U O Y D A N E O L R I U O E Y TH E F I L E H T R O F Low iron levels can leave you tired. But not everyone finds conventional iron food supplements easy to take. Spatone® is different.

• 100% natural iron rich water that has been scientifically proven to help top up your iron levels. 1 • Fewer of the unpleasant side effects associated with conventional iron food supplements. 2

Food Supplement Food Supplements should not be used as a substitute for a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.

If pregnant or breast feeding always consult a healthcare professional before taking any food supplement.

Iron contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.

1*Prof Worwood (Univ. of Wales College of Medicine) et al., “Iron absorption from a natural mineral water (Spatone Iron-Plus)” in Clinical and Laboratory Haematology, 1996, 18 23-27 2 D. McKenna (Royal Victoria Hospital) et al. “A randomised trial investigating an iron-rich natural mineral water as a prophylaxis against iron deficiency in pregnancy” in Clinical and Laboratory Haematology, 2003, 25

99-103

G. Halksworth (Royal Glamorgan Hospital) et al. “Iron absorption from Spatone (a natural mineral water) for prevention of iron deficiency in pregnancy” in Clinical and Laboratory Haematology, 2003, 25 227-231

Source: Clinical and Laboratory Haematology (1996,2003 (2)) as above

Pregnancy

What is...

gestational diabetes?

Cases of gestational diabetes are on the rise in Ireland with around 8,000 women developing the condition every year. Find out how to avoid developing gestational diabetes, and how to keep it under control with lifestyle and diet

B

efore we explain what gestational diabetes is, it’s helpful to firstly explain what diabetes is. Diabetes is diagnosed when someone has too much glucose (sometimes called ‘blood sugar’) in their blood.

Our bodies make a hormone called insulin. Insulin’s job is to help to keep blood glucose at healthy levels. During pregnancy, insulin has to work harder to control blood glucose levels. For most women this is not a problem, but for some women, the insulin can’t cope and blood glucose levels go up.

Gestational diabetes is high blood sugar that develops during pregnancy and usually disappears after giving birth.

It can occur at any stage of pregnancy, but is more common in the second half.

30 | easy parenting

Why do high blood glucose levels matter?

High blood glucose levels during pregnancy can cause problems both for mum and for baby. Women with gestational diabetes are more likely to have high blood pressure during pregnancy. They are also more likely to have a premature baby or to have a Caesarean-section.

Glucose in your blood also passes through the placenta and reaches your baby. With gestational diabetes, this means that babies can get too much sugar and this causes them to grow more than they should.

Women with gestational diabetes that is not treated can have babies that are much bigger and this can cause problems when it comes to giving birth.

Babies whose mothers had untreated gestational diabetes are also more likely

Pregnancy

to need special care after they were born, to be born with very low blood glucose levels and to have more obesity and diabetes in later life. However, if you look after your diabetes, these problems are less likely.

Why do some women develop gestational diabetes?

There are certain things that make it more likely that you will get gestational diabetes and the biggest factor is weight. Being older, having a family history of type 2 diabetes or having PCOS will also increase your chances.

How to manage gestational diabetes Diet is the main treatment for gestational diabetes. Even if you eventually need to use insulin, you will still need to look after what you eat.

It is important that you see a qualified dietitian who can help you to manage your diabetes. Ideally, you need to see a dietitian within seven days of being diagnosed so that you can get blood glucose levels under control straightaway.

Keeping active is key. Walking, swimming or doing any exercise that is safe and comfortable for you will help your insulin to work a lot better. This means that your blood glucose levels will be healthier and it is one way to help avoid going on to insulin.

How can I avoid gestational diabetes?

The best place to start is before you become pregnant. If you are overweight, start to lose weight. Being overweight is the biggest risk factor for developing gestational diabetes. Any weight loss will help, even a few pounds.

Start to cut back on any sugary foods you eat. Foods like fruit and yoghurt are good to eat, but it is a great idea to start reducing or cutting out soft drinks, sweets, chocolate and desserts. You don’t need to

ban them but keep them to once or twice a week at most.

Exercise – especially any exercise that builds some muscle. The more muscle you have, the better your insulin will work and this is a great way to avoid gestational diabetes. Try pilates or yoga, brisk (really brisk) walking, going to the gym and learning to use weights, kettle bell classes

– really, do anything that will give shape to your muscle.

Follow a low glycaemic index diet. A low GI diet also helps to get your insulin working. Talk to your dietitian for advice on losing weight without cutting the key nutrients you will need for pregnancy.

More info: www.diabetes.ie

Expert advice

GESTATIONAL DIABETES Managing your blood glucose levels through diet • Choose the right type of Carbohydrate foods Opt for unprocessed carbohydrate foods, which are low in sugar and high in fibre. These type of foods release glucose more slowly and have a higher nutritional value, which is important for a healthy pregnancy.

Example foods might include wholegrain versions of bread and pastas, boiled potatoes, pita bread, oatcakes, rye crispbread with seeds, apples, pears, berries, kiwis, natural yoghurt, milk and soya milk (with added sugar) • Get enough vitamin D (eggs, salmon, mackerel, sardine and fortified milks) to help your body absorb calcium. You should also take a daily vitamin D supplement of 5- 10 μg. Pregnancy multivitamins contain 10 μg (not cod liver oil).

• Keep an eye on your carbohydrate portion size Include protein (meat, fish, chicken, eggs, cheese, legumes e.g. beans, lentils) at all meals and snacks to

support a healthy pregnancy and help manage blood glucose levels • Eat regular meals throughout the day Spread your carbohydrates over three meals and have two small snacks (if needed); this will provide a steady supply of energy.

• Eat healthy fats (nuts, seeds, avocado and plant oils). Avoid fast food, processed meats, cakes and biscuits. Eat oil-rich fish (salmon, trout, mackerel, sardines) 1-2 per week or take a fish oil supplement (not cod liver oil) for omega-3 to support baby’s brain development. Omega-3 is also found in soya, walnut and rapeseeds.

• Exercise Regular exercise is an important part of a healthy pregnancy and helps lower your blood glucose levels.

Walking, swimming, pilates and gentle exercise classes are all good options.

Aveen Bannon, dietitian

easy parenting | 31

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04/12/2018 08:26 13/10/2017 11:07 08:26 04/12/2018 13/10/2017 11:07 05/12/2018 17:24

#Imeverymum

The campaign helping every mum share the real joys and challenges of motherhood

E

very woman, bump, birth, baby and every mum is completely unique. Every mum has her own set of ups and downs, of insane joys and anxious defeats. Every mum is nailing it, winging it, doubting it and giving all she has while trying not to lose all that she is.

And while our expectations for motherhood can be unbearably high, there comes a point for all women when she realises that she is no longer in control, that her body is going to do what it’s going to do, that her emotional health has no bearing on her deep love, that her precious baby will find its own rhyme and rhythm, and that life as a mum is rarely how she imagined.

But when things aren’t going to plan, when you’re not feeling the rush of love or when you wonder if you have what it takes to keep going, we all too often blame ourselves, assume that we’re not good enough and that ultimately we’re doing something wrong.

So instead of asking for help, we say nothing. Pretend that it’s all okay, terrified of judgement, terrified that our deepest fears will be confirmed to us.

34 | easy parenting

Let's share our stories In a recent nationwide study conducted by everymum, 50% of mums admitted that motherhood was not what they expected, why – because it’s more challenging emotionally.

Women across Ireland opened up revealing that although happier since becoming mums the vast majority experienced fatigue, feeling overwhelmed, self-doubt, anxiety and loneliness.

So if the majority of mums are feeling these things – why are we still so reluctant to talk about them, to share our experiences and ultimately to realise that although as mums we can often feel alone, in reality, we are all feeling the same.

#imeverymum To help give real mums a platform to share their story, everymum has launched #Imeverymum where real stories from real mums are published on everymum.ie and across Facebook + Instagram. #Imeverymum gives women a voice to express their truth, to help mums who have experienced similar challenges know that they are not alone, and to build a community where the realities of motherhood are celebrated.

Want to share your story?

Email hello@everymum.ie if you’d like to share you story on everymum.ie

Connecting, supporting, and celebrating Meet some of the mums who have shared their stories: Aoife Bermingham, shares her glory and sorrow as a mum surviving the loss of baby Oisin.

Families come in all shapes and sizes, and for many like mum of three Kate Gunn sometimes you might find yourself alone at the helm.

You are not alone #Imeverymum proves that sometimes in life, things don’t always work out as you had planned. That life will deal you unimaginable pain and incredible love. And that with each challenge faced mums become more resilient, more capable and more connected – because whatever you are going through there are others who are going through it too.

Remind yourself that you’re not alone, and visit everymum.ie/my-life/imeverymum to read the powerful honest articles written by every mum.

Precious beginnings @ Mothercare

and e c i Adv m birth fro s tips ur year o to f

In this section 36 Breastfeeding tongue tie 39 Feeding baby on the go 42 Have a blast of a bath 48 Kids’ books 49 Top 5 newborn concerns 52 Vitamin D 54 The perfect light stroller 58 Toilet training 61 What is self-care? 62 Baby clothes 64 Developmental toys 66 Travelling with baby 68 Baby diary easy parenting | 35

Precious beginnings

Mother-of-two Ciara Morgan shares her experience of breastfeeding and tongue tie and explains how she overcame the issues to successfully feed her second child

B

oth of my breastfeeding journeys were full of highs and lows but also such a special time in my life which I am so grateful for.

It began when I was just 24 having given birth to my first baby. During my pregnancy I did no research whatsoever, I was happy to float on the 'whatever happens, happens' boat.

36 | easy parenting

I knew my body would cope with birth and do what it needed and I trusted the health professionals. With breastfeeding, I was fully sure my body knew exactly what to do and my maternal instincts would kick right in.

Unfortunately, this was not quite the case.

The Birth I didn’t have a great birth for various reasons, it was long, tough and full of complications which ended in a ventouse delivery, stitches and eventually infection.

When my baby was born she was laid on me and unfortunately following the trauma of the birth I didn’t feel an immediate connection. I had no idea

what I was doing and due to another labouring woman needing the room I was given no attention with trying to breastfeed.

Suddenly, I was alone in a corridor with my husband and baby trying to put my breast into a screaming baby’s mouth. She was having none of it and did not latch while I got hot and sweaty and flustered. My husband was in shock and tried his best to calm me but he was feeling similar emotions.

Due to infection I stayed on the ward for three days, during this time there was constant tears, from my baby and from me. Nurses, midwives and the paediatrician all remarked on her jaundice but I got no information as to

Precious beginnings

how I was to make this better. Along with my tough birth, barely able to breastfeed and now my baby suffering due to all of this, it was day three and I already felt like a failure.

By day three, I had finally found a way to feed and with my milk coming in made it easier, however, the latch was not right. I was feeling more in love with my baby every passing day but still not feeling fully connected.

Asking for help I asked for a lactation consultant but unfortunately there wasn’t an appointment available for another two weeks. In the meantime, I bought nipple shields and multiple creams for my suffering nipples and kept on going.

I noticed my daughter’s tongue didn’t lift well so I decided to mention this to the hospital lactation consultant.

The appointment was a disaster in which we tried relentlessly for an hour to latch her and failed. The consultant informed me it was likely tongue tie but gave no resolution and no follow up advice. For me, I felt I’d exhausted all avenues and it cemented the fact that it was time for me now to move to bottles.

I gave it another two weeks of breastfeeding before I began a slow transition (this is very important in order to avoid mastitis or other complications). Every feed was agony and a battle and I still felt like a failure.

The move to bottles was the right thing for me to do at the time, but it took a long time to come to terms with it. My daughter and I bonded a lot better as time went on, once I stopped beating myself over my decision.

The second baby Five years later, I was pregnant with my second and I felt very apprehensive about all aspects of birth and feeding.

This time I vowed to be fully in control and I had my five years of mum

experience with lots of learnings to help me along.

I researched all options for birth and practiced Gentle Birth which I was very apprehensive about at first but it helped a huge amount. I researched every part of breastfeeding that I could. I bought the book The Womanly Art Of Breastfeeding. It’s written by La Leche League and give breastfeeding solutions to breastfeeding issues along with great latch tips and feeding positions.

I joined some fabulous Irish breastfeeding groups on Facebook.

There is a very large Irish breastfeeding page which has a wealth of knowledge shared by thousands of mums who previously breastfed or are currently breastfeeding.

I went to a La Leche League meeting while pregnant. This was a strange experience as I felt awkward walking in but the women were very friendly and very happy to talk to me about what to expect with baby number two and aim for a better breastfeeding journey.

I also looked up lots of videos on the ‘flipple latch’ on You Tube and watched as many instructional videos as I could.

Ready to go I felt prepared and ready for my baby by the time birth came. This birth was perfect, drug free, gentle and calm. I happily bonded with my baby boy immediately and felt such relief at the flood of love that came over me. I remember thinking, this is what they talk about. I left him to lie on my bare chest and he performed the breast crawl which meant he found his own way to the breast and began to feed.

Days later, I felt like it was going perfectly but once again my nipples were getting cracked. Every feed felt like razor blades by day three. Due to my research I knew this meant the latch wasn’t good. I worked on getting a deeper latch and privately

paid a lactation consultant. She helped me with some feeding techniques to widen the latch but it didn’t fully solve the issue. Over the next few weeks I had multiple professionals check for tongue tie to no avail. As my son was gaining weight steadily, they didn’t consider a potential tongue tie as an issue.

Nagging maternal instincts Due to the ongoing pain, I wanted to investigate further and help continue the journey so I paid for a private appointment with a consultant who specialises in tongue tie. Sure enough, there was a posterior tongue tie and a severe lie tie. He released both and I can’t begin to describe the relief in that first feed after! It was perfect.

In the weeks that followed, my baby and I were so happy and he fed extremely well. I had stopped dreading every feed and could finally enjoy every moment of him and his sister. I had planned to stop at a year, but I carried on until two years when he gently weaned.

What helped make breastfeeding successful this time around?

The following things are what worked for me and may help you on your journey: • My research- being armed with so much information, it helped make it so much easier to know what was happening and I was well educated on each issue and also on the benefits.

• Repeating ‘never give up on a bad day’ every single day for up to three months and every time a leap came around.

• Shouting loud and repeatedly asking for help.

• Trusting my instincts.

easy parenting | 37

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Precious beginnings

Emily Elphinstone gives her top tips for feeding your baby while you’re out and about

A

s you get to know your little one, you might start to build up a routine for feeding. But what about when you’re not at home? Don’t worry, there are a few simple things you can do, to make sure you’re fully equipped whenever your little one is hungry.

Breastfeeding Breastfeeding is probably the easiest option when you’re out with your little one, as there’s much less equipment needed. For ease of access, wear a button-down shirt or a vest underneath your main top, along with a nursing bra, so you can feed your baby without stripping off.

For a bit of extra privacy, you might like to also take a large scarf or muslin, which can be particularly useful when you’re getting your baby into the right position, or switching sides.

Expressed breast milk

Feeding al fresco

According to the HSE, breast milk can be kept safely at room temperature for up to four hours in temperatures of less than 20 degrees, or kept in a fridge for up to five days. To keep breast milk cool when travelling, store in an insulated container with reusable ice packs. If you are using milk which was previously frozen, this can be kept at room temperature for a maximum of two hours or in the fridge for up to 24 hours. easy parenting | 39

Precious beginnings

Healthy, full-term babies can drink breast milk at room temperature or warmed to body temperature, so when you’re out and about it’s not always necessary to warm the milk before your baby’s feed (though some babies definitely have preferences!).

If your baby prefers milk at body temperature, use a bottle warmer, or place the bottle or bag in a bowl or glass of warm water – most hotels have kettles in the room, or restaurants etc will be able to provide you with some warm water. Do not allow the temperature to go above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).

Once your baby has drunk from a bottle of breast milk it should be used within the hour, and anything left-over should be thrown away.

Flying? Try to plan feeding times for take-off and landing, since the

40 | easy parenting

swallowing motion will help ease the pressure that can irritate little ears.

Formula feeding It is safest to prepare a fresh feed each time you need one, so the safest way to do this on the go is by taking a thermos flask with a tight-fitting lid, containing freshly-boiled water. It should be kept at 70°C or higher to kill off any bacteria to make up the feed, then cooled before giving it to your baby.

Store formula in individual portions in sterilised containers (you can get a dedicated formula dispenser to make this as easy as possible) so you don’t have to worry about measuring anything. Then when you’re ready for a feed, it’s easy to add the pre-measured formula and water to a sterilised bottle.

If you’re only out for a short time, you

can measure the formula powder straight into a sterilised bottle, and just add the boiled water.

Using bottled water? Bottled water is not always sterile, so it’s best to still boil before use. It’s also important to check sodium levels. The NHS recommends that water should contain: • Less than 200 milligrams (mg) a litre of sodium (also written as Na) • Less than 250mg a litre of sulphate (also written as SO4) Ready-made: If you’re only out for one day, you could use cartons of ready-made formula. These come sealed, so they’re easy to transport, and can be poured straight into sterilised bottles. Most can be consumed at room temperature if your baby is happy to drink cool liquids, or can be warmed in the bottle.

Precious beginnings

Can I make bottles up in advance?

It’s best to only make up feeds when you need them, but we know that you may sometimes need to prepare a powdered feed in advance and store it for later. Do this as safely as possible by following these steps: • Mix up a fresh feed on the day you need it, then cool in the back of the fridge for at least an hour.

• Pack bottles in a cool bag with an ice pack, and use it within four hours.

• When ready to use. Warm the milk in a bottle warmer, or in a bowl of warm water, then use immediately.

Remember: • For hygienic reasons, discard unfinished formula feed as soon as possible and, always within two hours.

• Using a chilled bottle? Make sure you use it within four hours.

• Bottles kept in the fridge should be discarded after 24 hours, as should sterile water.

Sterilising equipment

Starting on solids

If you’re travelling, the most practical option may be to take a travel steriliser (which work with cold-water sterilising tablets) which is perfect if you don’t have access to a microwave etc. If you do have a microwave available, microwave steriliser bags don’t take up much room in your bag and are great for sterilising equipment.

Another option for shorter periods is to buy pre-sterilised bottle liners, and keep a sterile pack of teats separately; so you don’t have to carry around too many whole bottles.

If you’re out and about with while weaning, it's handy to have some snacks ready to go. Bananas, avocado (either chopped or with a spoon), mini rice cakes, and spears of vegetables, dried fruit, or pitta bread are all great.

If you’re travelling light, most restaurants and cafes will have a high chair available, or you can keep baby on your lap. But to reduce upset at meal times, it may be reassuring for your little one to have a familiar plastic spoon or bowl, and sippy cup to use. It’s also invaluable to have a wipe-clean bib, and plenty of baby wipes available.

For more extensive meals, squeezable packs of baby food minimise the risk of mess and cross-contamination, or you might like to order simple foods which won’t contain salt from the menu, such as boiled vegetables, or plain pasta.

Mum tip

I found po uches of ready-mad e baby foo d to be so ha ndy for wh en we were out and about .

And a ban ana is the ultimate o n-the-go fo od, all you hav e to mash and serve!

easy parenting | 41

Precious beginnings

Y

ou might think that bath time is just a time to clean your baby and a part of your everyday routine. But have you ever thought about how it can actually be a multisensory playground?

While cleansing and massaging your little one, you both have the opportunity to not only bond, but also discover – together!

What is sensory play?

Have a Blast

of a bath Elsje du Toit finds out how to make bath time a sensory and fun experience for your baby

42 | easy parenting

The HSE encourages parents to play with their children as it helps with their learning and development. “Important brain connections develop as your child plays with you. This sets a strong foundation for learning, developing language and life-long positive mental health,” it says in the book My Child 0 to 2 years.

According to WaterBabies, sensory play includes any activity that stimulates one of more of a child’s senses (touch, smell, taste, sight or sound).

“In recent years, the benefits of sensory play have been well-regarded by professionals. From the day they’re born, babies will naturally want to explore the world around the, and they do this by using their senses; that’s why they tend to touch everything or put things in their mouths.”

What are the benefits of sensory play?

It’s proven that sensory play can help a child’s emotional, cognitive and physical development. “It encourages them to explore and investigate things, adding to their understanding of the world,” according to WaterBabies.

“As they get older and begin talking, sensory play can help your child to make connections between words and

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Precious beginnings

objects, because they use their senses to form a deeper understanding of things.”

Take water as an example. It isn’t just wet anymore; it can be smooth, rough, warm or cold, bubbly or salty, liquid or frozen. “By making these associations through play, children can start to understand and explain them in more complex ways.”

Sensory play is also a vital part of the development of fine motor skills. “These are crucial skills we need to coordinate small muscle groups, and are important for tasks like writing, shoe-tying and buttoning things. Sensory play also helps cognitive development in other areas like problem solving, as well as encouraging social interaction with peers.”

MUM'S TIP

that "Find containers es ap and are different sh year-old osizes – my tw up and em th g loves fillin e trying to pour th n ee tw bathwater be wn Da " them

Water play activities that’ll help sensory play There are lots of games you and your baby can play during bath time to make it an amazing sensory experience.

It’s important to always ensure that your little one is safe and never turn your back while she’s in the bath.

Always keep an eye on her while she’s in the water.

• Bring on the bubbles Did you know that playing with bubbles can help your baby develop hand-eye coordination?

Take note and watch as your little one is mesmerised by the bubbles in the floating water. You can also scoop some 44 | easy parenting

up in your hand and blow at them. If your little one is a little bigger, you can encourage her to blow them herself. Get creative and use different sized wands that’ll create different sizes of bubbles – which is great to introduce your little one to the concept of big and small.

However, health professionals advise parents to not bathe their children in bubbles until they’re at least three years old.

MUM'S TIP "I got my son a toy that sticks to the wall and blows bubbles into the bath. He loved it and spent most of the time bursting the bubbles! He still loves it!"

Maria

• Play music or sing songs By doing this, it can stimulate parts of the brain responsible for memory, while playing certain types of music can stimulate parts of the brain responsible for visual imagery. Encourage your baby to splash or clap along to the song. If you don’t like singing or the music yourself, you can always opt for nursery rhymes.

• Do some finger painting Let your little one get creative in the bath tub – without any mess! She can finger paint and decorate the tiles and tub which will encourage her creativity and boost her fine-motor skills. When she’s older, you can get her bath tub crayons (that wash off without any hassle).

• Talking back and forth Just by talking to your baby and telling her how you’re bathing her can help with language development. Studies show infants who are spoken with more have larger vocabularies by 24 months.

• Develop her smell To encourage your little one’s smell, why not add a few drops of peppermint or lavender to the water. Show her the flower and let her take a sniff to smell it. There are loads of organic oils on the market that won’t irritate sensitive skin.

• Experiment with different textures By touching your baby’s skin with different textures (like a bath sponge, a wet washcloth, a dry towel, or shaving cream) you help her to develop her sense to touch. When she’s able to grasp large objects (at about four months) you can hand her different sized sponges or cloths to play with.

• Give her a massage Giving your baby a massage (either before or after bath time) is the perfect opportunity for some skin-to-skin touch. It’s shown to improve a baby’s sleep quality and quantity as part of a bedtime routine.

And as we all know, a good bedtime routine can be really beneficial for both mum and baby!

• Bust out the toys Once your little one is big enough to sit upright in the bath on her own, make bath time more interesting by giving her bath toys to play with. You can encourage her to tell you a story using the toys or scoop water and pour it from one container to the next. It’ll keep her busy for hours without her realising you're washing her hair.

Now every mum has a voice

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Every woman, every pregnancy, every child and every mum is completely unique.

Every mum has her own set of ups and downs, moments of insane joy and anxious defeat, every mum knows that overwhelming love and that overwhelming exhaustion.

Every mum is doing her best, winging it, nailing it, doubting it and giving everything she has towards it. And every mum deserves a supportive community to talk to, to listen and to remind her that she’s not alone.

Listen to everymum the podcast now as we give every mum a voice on iTunes, Spotify and on everymum.ie

N O I T A S I N U IMM

y s a E e Mad The idea of childhood vaccines is that they protect your baby from potentially serious illnesses at the start of their life.

With the most common concerns in mind, we explore the often-navigated waters of baby vaccinations

W

hen the Public Health Nurse visits your home they will give you a booklet Your Child’s Immunisation – A Guide for Parents. Please read this booklet carefully and keep it safe. It contains lots of information about the immunisations your baby will be offered the next 13 months. In the back pocket of this booklet there is a magnet with the immunisation schedule. You can put this somewhere visible to remind you about the vaccines your baby needs.

There is also an immunisation passport in the back pocket. You bring this passport with you to each visit and the practice nurse will write down the vaccines your baby has received. Please keep this immunisation passport in a safe place and bring it to all appointments so it can be filled in and kept up to date.

What happens next?

• At your baby’s 6 week check you will be given a leaflet with more information about your baby’s immunisations.

• The HSE will write and ask you to arrange to visit your GP (doctor) for the first of your 5 visits. If you do not hear from the HSE, you should arrange to visit your GP (doctor) when your baby 46 | easy parenting

REM

Your ba EMBER by to your needs 5 visit s G their co P to complet e urse of vaccine Remem s ber to bring y . baby’s our immun passpo isation rt t each v o isit.

is 2 months old.

To provide the best protection for your baby it is important that they get all their vaccines on time.

into your baby’s legs.

Can I give my baby anything before they are vaccinated?

Where can I find out more information?

You can give your baby milk a few minutes before their vaccination. This can help to reduce pain at the injection site.

Do not give infant paracetamol to your baby before you go to your GP (doctor) surgery.

• booklet “Your Child’s Immunisation – A Guide for Parents” • the leaflet given at your baby’s 6 week check • the leaflet given after your baby’s immunisation • online from our website www.immunisation.ie

What happens before immunisation?

Before your baby is immunised, the doctor or practice nurse will check with you that your baby is well and able to get the vaccines. If you have any worries or questions about your baby’s immunisations, ask the doctor or practice nurse before your baby is immunised.

There are very few reasons why your baby should not get a vaccine.

Where can I find out more information about the vaccines used?

How are the vaccines given?

You need to know the name of the vaccines to search these websites.

The product names of each vaccine are available on our website www.immunisation.ie

The rotavirus oral vaccine is given first.

This is given as a liquid dropped into your baby’s mouth.

The other vaccines are given as injections

This information can be found in the licensed information (patient information leaflet PIL). It is also available on the following websites • www.hpra.ie/homepage/medicines • www.ema.europa.eu/ema/

CUT OUT AND KEEP What common reactions can my child get after being vaccinated and what should I do?

COMMON REACTION

WHAT TO DO?

At 2 and 4 months (Visits 1 and 2)

A fever is common after MenB vaccine

• Give liquid infant paracetamol1. Give 2.5 mls (60mg) at the time of the immunisation or shortly after.2. Give a second dose of 2.5 mls (60 mg) 4-6 hours after the first dose.3. Give a third dose of 2.5 mls (60 mg) 4-6 hours after second dose.4.

Give a fourth dose 4-6 hours after the third dose if your baby still has a fever.

Soreness, swelling and redness in the area wherethe injection was given

• Make sure clothes are not too tight or rubbing against the area where the injection was given.

Mild diarrhoea after the rotavirus vaccine

• Give extra milk to drink • Wash your hands carefully after changing and disposing of your baby’s nappy.

AT 6, 12 and 13 months (Visits 3, 4 and 5)

Soreness, swelling and redness in the area where the injection was given

• Give liquid infant paracetamol or infant ibuprofen to relieve aches and pains • Make sure clothes are not too tight or rubbing against the area where the injection was given You can feed your baby at any time after their vaccines including after the rotavirus oral vaccine. If you are worried about your baby, please contact your GP (doctor), practice nurse or public health nurse for further advice.

Fever (over 39° C)

• Do not overdress your baby • Make sure their room isn’t too hot • Give extra fluids to drink • Give liquid infant paracetamol or infant ibuprofen to lower the fever

Headache or irritability

• Give liquid infant paracetamol or infant ibuprofen to relieve aches and pains.

Immunisation Schedule AGE

VACCINATION

2

Visit 1

6 in 1 + PCV + MenB + Rotavirus 3 Injections + 1 Oral Drops

4

Visit 2

6 in 1 + MenB + Rotavirus 2 Injections + 1 Oral Drops

6

Visit 3

6 in 1 + PCV + MenC 3 Injections

months

months

months

No Rotavirus vaccine on or after 8 months 0 days

12

months

13

months

Visit 4

MMR +MenB 2 Injections

Visit 5

Hib/MenC + PCV 2 Injections

Don’t the forget nth o 13th m TER BOOS shot!

REMEMBER !

Your child needs 5 GP visits.

Bring your childʼs immunisation passport each visit.

When you child is in Junior Infants in primary school more vaccines. For more information visit www.immunisation.ie

You can feed your baby at any time after their vaccines including after the rotavirus oral vaccine. If you are worried about your baby, please contact your GP (doctor), practice nurse or public health nurse for further advice.

www.immunisation.i e

Precious beginnings

s k o o B ' s Kid e early age can encourag an m fro ds ki ur yo to g r Readin ong readers – here’snou them to become lifelbe re ild reads for ch pick of some of the st

Molly’s Magic Wardrobe: The Mermaid Mission

By Adam & Charlotte Guillain (Egmont Publishing)

Join Molly as she visits the enchanted dressing-up wardrobe in her Granny’s house.

There are so many costumes to choose from in her magic dressing-up wardrobe.

Today she’s going to be a mermaid! With a whizz and a pop and a shower of stars, Molly dives below the sea and soon finds herself on a mission: she must race to save the mermaids’ shipwreck from some pesky sharks! RRP €7.84

Party for Dads

By Adam & Carlotte Guillain (Egmont Publishing) Children and adults swap places in this hilarious book. Full of fun and silliness, this is the perfect picture book gift for Dad celebrating all kinds of different dads. Poor Anna’s dad has to go to work on his birthday, so she decides to throw him a surprise party and teach him how to really have some fun. Can her dad learn to embrace his inner child?

RRP €7.84

48 | easy parenting

Let’s See Ireland

By Sarah Bowie (O’Brien) Follow Molly’s journey in this gorgeous picture book that is sure to delight. A charming tour around Ireland with Molly, her parents and her mischievous cat, Mipsy! Locations they’re visiting include Dublin Zoo, Glendalough, Rock of Cashel, Cliffs of Moher, Cork City, and many more.

RRP €9.99

Look Up!

By Natham Bryon (Penguin Random House) Rocket is a science-mad chatterbox who is going to be the greatest astronaut, star-catcher, space-traveller that has ever lived! But first she needs to convince her big brother Jamal to stop looking at his phone and start looking up at the stars. Look Up! Is a celebration of the curiosity, enthusiasm and dynamism of a young child who is always discovering, asking questions and exploring.

RRP €7.84

Barry Loser and the trouble with pets

By Jim Smith (Egmont Publishing) As far back as Barry can remember, he’s always wanted a sausage dog. They’re like two of his favourite things (sausages and dogs) squidged together!

Who cares if they bark the whole time, do poos everywhere, need three walks every day and stop going to the cinema with your friends? Not Barry. Until he actually gets a real-life sausage dog, that is…

RRP €7.84

Precious beginnings

Your baby’s face will be red and flushed, the crying will be quite severe, and there won’t be much you can do to comfort them.

Top five newborn concerns Learn how to care for your baby like a pro with these solutions for common newborn concerns

C

aring for a newborn is a joyful but challenging time. You’re dealing with sleepless nights, endless feeds and trying to figure out why they are crying.

There can be a few niggling but completely normal concerns that can rear their head in the first few months of life.

It takes time and experience to reach the point of recognising symptoms and knowing how to soothe your little one’s discomfort.

Here are the top five newborn concerns with some solutions on how to deal with them.

#1 Colic

1

Colic is a catch all phrase for uncontrollable crying in an otherwise healthy baby. A baby with colic cries for more than three hours a day, for more than three days a week.

Colic usually occurs between 6pm and midnight, although it can occur around the clock, and usually gets worse during the evening.

Symptoms The average baby cries for about two and a half hours every day. A colicky baby will look really uncomfortable while crying intensely, and may alternately extend or pull up her legs, arch her back and pass wind.

How to treat The causes of colic are not known, but some researchers put it down to indigestion or wind. There is no cure for colic, but there are ways that parents can soothe the tears and pain.

Try swaddling your baby or carrying her close in a sling. The closeness and motion your baby feels while in the sling might help to soothe her.

Play some white noise or put on a wash.

Continuous noise such as the humming of a washing machine can help to block out other forms of stimulation.

If your baby is bottle fed, try changing the teats in case your baby is swallowing too much air during feeds. Make sure that you burp her during and after feeds because this helps to relieve the pressure that builds up when she swallows air.

It might also be worth contacting a registered cranial osteopath with a paediatric qualification. Osteopaths can work with babies to help release tensions and stresses wherever they are found in the body.

Other ways to soothe the tears Babies cry for many reasons, and it’s often related to hunger, a dirty nappy or tiredness.

Look at this checklist next time your baby is crying – it might help you figure out how to soothe her: ü Is baby hungry? – Try offering a feed. ü Is baby in pain? – Check baby’s temperature, and if you suspect it’s colic related try the methods outlined above. ü Is baby over-tired? – Offer a feed. Go to a quiet room with a softer light. A warm bath can also help as it can be soothing. A trip in the car or in the pram can be helpful as the motion can easy parenting | 49

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lull babies to sleep.

ü Is baby uncomfortable? Check the

nappy and make sure her clothes aren’t too tight. Check baby’s temperature and adjust clothing if needed. Make sure the clothing material isn’t irritating baby’s skin. ü Is baby in a cranky mood? If you can, try to stick to a routine and limit on the amount of visitors. Try a quiet calming environment and don’t overwhelm baby with too much stimulation.

Check her temperature, talk to her in soothing manner and have some playtime. Offer a feed, and head out for a walk in the fresh air. #2 Nappy rash

their own in time. Gently washing your baby’s hair and scalp can help prevent a build-up of scales. There is usually no need to see your GP if your baby has cradle cap. However, you may want to ask them for advice if your baby’s scalp becomes inflamed or if the cradle cap spreads to other parts of their body. It’s important not to pick at the scales as this may cause an infection.

3 5 2 4

Nappy rash is a very common condition and is caused by ammonia in the urine, which irritates a new baby’s very sensitive skin. It can sometimes be the result of a fungal infection.

Most nappy rashes are mild and can be treated with a simple skin care routine.

Your baby may cry more often than usual and be irritable.

Contact your GP immediately if your child develops severely inflamed (swollen and irritated) skin or a fever. This may be a sign of infection.

How to treat It helps to change the baby’s nappy often. Clean the whole nappy area thoroughly, wiping from front to back.

Use plain water and cotton wool rather than baby wipes, patting the area dry with a soft towel. Airing your baby’s bottom after topping and tailing is also beneficial, as it allows the skin to breathe and heal without being covered up. Some babies are more prone to nappy rash than others, so try to ensure baby is not left in a wet nappy.

If your baby has nappy rash or sensitive skin, it’s a good idea to protect it with a thick barrier cream after every 50 | easy parenting

wash. To protect the red skin, you can use a zinc paste or barrier cream, which is available at the chemist: zinc forms a protective surface over the skin. There are also ointments that can help to seal in the skin’s natural moisture, without drying out your baby’s delicate skin.

Antifungal cream may be necessary if the rash is caused by a fungal infection.

#3 Milk spots

These spots often develop when bacteria, which quickly establish a ‘base’ on the skin, invade the pure, healthy skin of a newborn baby.

How to treat You don’t need to do anything at all. The bumps will go away on their own, without treatment, in a few weeks, although it’s possible for them to last a month or two.

Don’t try to squeeze these pimple-like bumps to make them go away faster – that could cause scarring. Vigorous washing and scrubbing isn’t a good idea either: It won’t help and it could irritate your baby’s sensitive skin. #4 Cradle cap

Cradle cap is the yellowish, greasy scaly patches that sometimes appear on the scalp of young babies – it looks like a very bad case of dandruff. Over time, the scales can start to become flaky so they rub off easily, often with bits of your baby’s hair attached. Cradle cap is very common in babies younger than eight months. It’s a common, harmless condition that does not usually itch or cause discomfort to the baby. Cradle cap usually appears in babies in the first two months and tends to clear up by itself after a few weeks or months, although in rare cases it can last much longer.

How to treat Most cases of cradle cap will clear up on

#5 Reflux

When a baby has gastro-oesophageal reflux, the food and drink travels down the foodpipe as normal. However, some of the mixture of food, drink and acid travels back up the foodpipe, instead of passing through to the large and small intestines. As the food and drink is mixed with acid from the stomach, it can irritate the lining of the foodpipe, making it sore.

Gastro-oesophageal reflux is very common in the first few weeks and months of life, as the sphincter (ring of muscle) at the base of the oesophagus has not matured yet. Many babies with reflux gradually improve as they grow, particularly when they start to eat more solid food and feed in an upright position in a high chair for instance.

What are the symptoms?

The main sign of gastro-oesophageal reflux is frequent spitting up or regurgitation after feeds. She may occasionally cough a little after regurgitating the milk if some has ‘gone down the wrong way.’ Or she may cry during a feed, especially if you lie her down.

How to treat Simple measures, such as holding your baby in an upright position for 20 minutes after each feed, can be helpful. It’s also worth trying smaller, more frequent feeds.

It’s important to contact your GP if you are concerned that your baby has reflux.

Precious beginnings

Vitamin D The Sunshine Vitamin All you need to know about the sunshine vitamin, and why we need it, writes Elsje du Toit

W

e all know that sunshine is almost a myth here in Ireland – It feels we only have like a week’s sun in a year! Interestingly, we are all likely to have a Vitamin D deficiency – researchers have found that one in eight adults over 50 in the Republic of Ireland are Vitamin D deficient.

But why is vitamin D, otherwise known as the sunshine vitamin, so important for our overall health?

Vitamin D is essential for healthy bones, and ensures that your muscles, heart, lungs, brain, and immune system work well. This vitamin is actually made in our bodies when our skin is exposed to summer sunlight.

The importance of vitamin D Vitamin D has several important functions, including helping to regulate the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body – these substances are needed to keep bones and teeth healthy.

Unfortunately, according to the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI), it’s hard for people living in Ireland to get sufficient vitamin D from their diet.

“The foods that contain vitamin D are not commonly consumed by the Irish population, so although we rely on our diets to provide us with vitamin D in the winter months, in reality, this can be difficult to achieve,” it says.

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Symptoms of vitamin D deficiency As mentioned, vitamin D plays an important role in keeping your bones and teeth healthy.

If you have a high deficiency of vitamin D, it can lead to rickets in children and osteomalacia (the softening of the bones) in adults.

Less severe vitamin D deficiency contributes to osteoporosis.

“There is also growing evidence that low vitamin D status may contribute to a range of chronic diseases, e.g. hypertension, cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus (type 1 diabetes), some inflammatory and autoimmune diseases and some forms of cancer,” the FSAI warns.

Why is vitamin D deficiency such a problem in Ireland?

The FSAI says vitamin D deficiency was thought to be eradicated in Ireland after the Second World War, due to better nutrition.

“However, over 20 cases of rickets in infants and toddlers have been reported at two Dublin hospitals in the last four years,” it says.

Other reasons for the deficiency in vitamin D on the island include: • Lack of sunshine – The best source for vitamin D is sunshine as it’s mainly produced in the body by the exposure

of the skin to sunlight. “However, because of Ireland’s northerly latitude, in the months between November and March, there is inadequate quality and quantity of sunlight to enable sufficient production of vitamin D by the body,” the FSAI says.

“In addition, with more people working indoors and using sunscreen when outside, vitamin D from sunlight exposure has decreased.”

• Darker skinned people more at risk People with darker skin living in Ireland are more at risk of vitamin D deficiency as they require more sunlight to produce vitamin D. • We don’t eat enough of it – Irish people don't consume sufficient quantities of Vitamin D food sources to counter the lack of sunlight exposure and do not form part of the weaning diet for infants, the FSAI adds.

How much vitamin D do I need?

According to the FSAI, the current healthy guidelines for Ireland are being revised.

The HSE and the FSAI recommends all babies be given a supplement that provides 5µg (micrograms) of vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) per day from birth to 12 months whether breastfed, formula fed or taking solid foods because it is the form produced in human skin after it has been exposed to sunlight. This is necessary because babies

F

S C

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aged 0-12 months are at high risk of vitamin D deficiency, due to their rapid growth rates during this period.

Remember, people of all ages living in Ireland have inadequate intakes of vitamin D – not only babies.

Breastfed babies and vitamin D Breastfed babies are dependent on their mother’s vitamin D levels and are born with only 50%–60% of their mother’s vitamin D store, thus both mother and baby would be advised to take the D supplement to maintain full health.

For infants, a liquid form is suitable, but if your baby is also taking another multivitamin containing vitamin D, check with your doctor or healthcare practitioner before also taking vitamin D3. Furthermore, it is important not to give more than one dose of 5µg to your baby per day, as too much can make your baby ill. Check the instructions for

dosage on each product, as each may be different.

All good pharmacies, supermarkets and health food stores sell vitamin D in many forms, including the liquid format of D3 for infants. By taking a vitamin D supplement, you and your family can make up for the lack of sunshine in Ireland.

What foods contain vitamin D? Vitamin D is found in a small range of foods. The following are good sources: • Oil-rich fish (like salmon, mackrel, sardines and tuna).

• Egg yolks.

• Fortified foods such as milk, breakfast cereals and infant formula.

• Offal meat such as liver and kidney (these foods aren’t suitable for infants and pregnant women because it contains too much vitamin A).

Add a little sunshine

For healthy bones & teeth Vitamin D3 drops for babies 0-12 months 100% of HSE recommended daily dosage* Rubber dropper for safety & accurate dosing *5µg (200 IU) Vitamin D3

Sona Supporting Children’s Health with

easy parenting | 53

Precious beginnings

What To Look For In A...

Lightweight Stroller

Thinking of buying a lightweight stroller for when you’re out and about? Emily Elphinstone gives her top tips on what to look for

54 | easy parenting

A

s you get more comfortable out and about with your little one, you might find that you need a more lightweight, compact buggy for travel or the school run, when the size and weight of a standard pushchair just won’t work. These products are usually smaller, easier to fold and carry, and relatively lightweight; but they still need to be safe for your baby, and convenient for you. So what do you need to consider when choosing a lightweight stroller?

Safety

Even though you might be using a lightweight stroller for shorter outings, it’s still important to make sure that it’s just as safe as a more substantial pushchair.

Look for a five-point safety harness that’s easy for you to secure. Make sure there are reliable breaks and wheels suitable for the surfaces you’ll be on. Finally, look at

Lila The next best place after your arms

More than just a stylish pushchair.

Discover more at maxi-cosi.com

Precious beginnings the frame to make sure there aren’t any sharp edges or spots where little fingers and toes could get stuck.

Ease of Use Check that the stroller can be easily assembled and folded with one hand, it’s easy to carry, and that it will fit in your car or hallway. Make sure that the steering is easily manoeuvrable, and that the handlebar is adjustable, or at least suits the height of anyone who will be pushing it. Finally, check whether the fabric is machine washable, or wipe it clean, so you can maintain in without hassle.

Comfort Not all lightweight strollers are suitable from birth, and some are geared toward toddlers only, so make sure to choose a product suitable for your little one, which they won’t grow out of too quickly.

You should also check features like recline (some even have a lie-flat capability), and

S TOP TIP

stroller "Look for a o o d recline, that has a g ddler a b r by or to so that you a rt comfo ble can have a sleep." t, baby Elma Herber pert ex ct u prod

seat comfort, to make sure your child is as comfortable as possible, even when napping.

Sun/Rain Canopy An adjustable canopy can be a lifesaver when going on sunny walks or getting caught in the wind and the rain. Make sure that the canopy is the right size to protect your baby, and that it is easy to extend and fold away. You should also check that the fabric offers UV protection, to keep your little one safe from the sun.

Versatility Even if you keep a lightweight stroller for short outings, or as a back-up kept at Granny’s or in the back of the car, it’s still important that it suits your needs.

If you go abroad more regularly, you might find a carry bag useful, so it remains safe on board the plane.

Make sure that there’s enough storage space for groceries and baby gear, without affecting the safety and balance.

It might also be worth investing a little more in a product that will last longer, with options to transform into a travel system, which will save money in the long run.

Price The price of lightweight strollers can vary dramatically, so it’s important to consider all the factors that are important to you, as well as your budget.

Some more high-end models might have extra bells-and-whistles which you don’t necessarily need, but the cheapest options may not have the durability or ease-of-use you need, meaning that it won’t be a long-term solution.

This is why it’s important to take your time and check out a few different options, considering your babyequipment needs as a whole, and your long-term requirements, not just choosing what seems easiest at that second.

An adjustable canopy can be a lifesaver when going on sunny walks or getting caught in the wind and the rain.

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3 of the best...

To help you along, we have three of our favourites, which won in the ‘Best Lightweight Stroller’ category of last year’s National Parenting Product Awards: MAXI-COSI LAIKA STROLLER The Laika stroller by Maxi-Cosi features a one-hand fold, a lie-flat padded seat and soft carrycot. Suitable from birth to three and a half years, it can also be transformed into a travel system, with the Maxi-Cosi Laika soft carrycot and baby car seat.

RRP €275

MUM REVIEW: “This has good coverage from head to toe. I love the colour and the look - it’s very neat. It has soft material for baby to lie in.”

JOIE PACT FLEX STROLLER The Joie Pact Flex Stroller features a one-handed flat fold and is suitable from birth (up to 15kg). There’s a full-size UPF 50 canopy and eyeshade visor, multi-position recline, and full-size easy-access shopping basket. It can also take a car seat, with adaptors included. RRP €160

MUM REVIEW: “Very spacious and light.

It’s easy to manoeuvre, and fold. The sun cover is great, and it’s also nice to look at!”

MUM REVIEW: This stroller is very lightweight and is great for travelling. It folds well and it’s easy to use. I like the design and it would be good for airline travel. “

MOTHERCARE RIDE STROLLER The Ride Stroller’s soft padded seat can be reclined to four positions.

It features 360° swivel front wheels for easy manoeuvrability which can be locked into a fixed position when pushing over bumpier ground. Includes a rain cover, an under-seat storage basket, and a carry strap for easy portability. RRP€179.99

easy parenting | 57

Precious beginnings

to e m i t , y d stea

t e l i to

, y d Rea

n i a r t

Are you about to embark on toilet training with your toddler? If so, make sure to read the following tips and tricks

B

efore we get into the ins and outs of toilet training, it's important for parents to know that starting the process before your child is ready can have the absolute reverse effect of success. Pushing potty training when your child is not ready can actually delay potty training development.

Some parents like to wait for a holiday to start the training, but anytime is the right time if you feel your child is ready. It can even be tackled over the weekend.

Whenever you decide to start the process of potty training, remember that it will take

58 | easy parenting

some patience and perseverance!

Some signs of being ready for toilet training include the child removing his or her nappy after soiling, taking an interest in others' potty habits (i.e. wanting to watch you, dad or a sibling use the potty) and/or forming habits when having a bowel movement such as squatting or grunting.

While some kids will be ready to learn at an early 18-24 months it’s important to remember that some children have no interest in potty training until the age of three or even four. So don’t get discouraged.

All children are ready at their own pace.

What are the signs of being ready for toilet training?

They are having longer dry periods more often.

They can follow simple instructions.

They can pull up and down their own pants.

They show an interest in learning about potty training.

They are able to imitate behaviour.

Once your child displays some or all of these behaviours they may be ready to begin potty training.

Precious beginnings

Treat mistakes lightly Accidents are inevitable, especially when your child is tired. When they do happen it is important to remain calm. The more positive and supportive you are, the more relaxed and open your child will be to learning this new skill.

MUM

'S TIPS " We wa ited un turned til my d three to aughte start to r all of th ilet train e nappie Potty training takes time. ing. We s out of on a Fri put her sigh day. Th Remaining patient ere were t and sta first cou a rted few acc ple of d idents o throughout the process ays, bu super p ver the t we pe ositive rsisted and en will foster a stress free and and sta By the M couragin yed onday, g the who we sent successful learning lots of s le time. her into pare clo creche thing, a environment for your child. with acciden nd aga ts throu in a few g h more out the You will also need to be week la week b ter she ut one was po consistent with your tty train really w ed. It's orth pe rs isting w approach. Pick a routine that ith."

Fiona works for you and your child and Patience and consistency is key

stick with it. Make sure all of your child’s caregivers such as babysitters and grandparents also follow your potty training routine.

Getting ready Potty/toilet or both?

First, decide whether you want to train using a potty or the toilet.

A potty is mobile and it’s familiar, and some children find it less daunting than a toilet. Find out your child’s preference and go with that. Some parents encourage their child to use both the toilet and potty.

Equip yourselves Second, make sure you have all the right equipment. If your child is using the toilet, you’ll need a step for your child to stand on. You’ll also need a smaller seat that fits securely inside the existing toilet seat, because some children are nervous about falling in.

Books At the start, you might like to read a book about toilet training with your child. There are some fun children’s books your child might like to read in the early stages of toilet training.

Toilet words Teach your child some words associated with going to the toilet – for example, you might want to teach her words like ‘wee’, ‘poo’ and ‘I need to go’.

Using training pants After your child has had a few weeks getting used to the potty, it’s a good time to start with training pants. These are absorbent underwear worn during toilet training. Training pants are less absorbent than a nappy. They’re useful for holding in bigger messes (such as an accidental poo).

Top toilet training tips Let your child set the pace for training. Train them when it feels right for them.

Watch your child for signals that they need to go to the toilet, such as hopping up and down, or holding their pants. Get them to the potty quickly.

Praise your child gently whenever they use the potty.

Put on easy-to-care-for clothes that your child can pull up and down easily.

Take your child with you when you or your other children go to the toilet.

It prepares your young child for when it is their turn.

Help your child to manage for themselves on the potty or the toilet, but don’t leave them to manage alone. Go with your child when they ask you to.

After they have finished, get your child’s permission to wipe their bottom. Remember to wipe girls from front to back to prevent infection.

Prepare your toddler: Discuss with them that they are now going to be using the big toilet in crèche, show them where it is and that they will have to tell their minder when they need to go etc.

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your toddler is doing a wee or poo in their nappy/pull-up, it’s also important to say to them ‘Are you doing a wee or a poo?’.

This is really key as it helps little ones to understand and start to recognise their own bodily functions.

Do start when your toddler is showing signs they are ready Unless your circumstances are about to change, which may affect the consistent training, if your toddler is showing all or most of the key signs they are ready,, do get started. There is no need to delay until spring or summer.

Do transition from nappies/pull-ups to pants

The following advice is from the book Potty Training Magic – The Fun Way to Go Nappy-Free Fast from Amanda Jenner (ITV’s Toilet Training Expert).

Don’t put a time limit on it It is important not to set your expectations too high and set a time limit on potty training. Some little ones can get the hang of it in days, while for others it may take weeks, or even months, to become dry. Rushing the process will only lead to regression, so take your time and success will follow.

Don’t become cross Potty training can be very frustrating for both you and your toddler, but it’s important to remember that it is a huge step for your toddler to suddenly remember unprompted to ask to use the potty/toilet. Little ones do not like to disappoint their parents, so try not to become cross with your child for accidents

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or not wanting to sit on the potty/toilet.

Instead, turn your frustration into lots of encouragement using upbeat and happy language such as, ‘Mummy/Daddy is so proud of you for trying’ or ‘What a big girl/boy you are, using the potty/toilet and wearing big girl/boy pants.’ Don’t forget: practise makes perfect.

Do speak to your child about potty training before you start It is always good to have a potty training storybook to read to your little trainer at least a week before you start. This will take them from the unknown and create an exciting build-up to the big day, giving them a desire to potty train and become a big girl/boy. When you can see that

Make sure you use big girl/boy pants and get those nappies/pull-ups off during the day. It is so important for your toddler to make that transition and to understand that they are now a big girl/boy and do not need nappies/pull-ups in the day anymore. Many parents tend to use nappies/pull-ups as well as pants to avoid accidents and for going out of the home, but I always train children with just pants – if a nappy/pull-up is used during training then it can make toddlers lazy and lead to accidents and regression as they know the nappy/pull-up is there for protection. Using both nappies/pull-ups and pants will only confuse your toddler and send very mixed messages.

Do take your potty/trainer seat out and about with you Trying to find a toilet quickly when you’re out and about is sometimes tricky and, if your toddler has an accident outside the home, this can really knock their confidence. For the first few weeks of potty training it’s a good idea to take your potty with you wherever you go as your toddler will normally give you very little notice that they need to go.

Precious beginnings

What is

self-care?

As a parent, where does self-care rank on your list of priorities? Mum-of-four Laura Doyle reminds us of the importance of putting your own needs first sometimes

T

he word 'self-care' is becoming increasingly popular of late.

Looking after our mental health has never been more important to us and we are slowly but surely breaking the stigma around it. We are looking after our minds and practising ways to help us be the best we can be.

But, what does self-care really mean?

Self-care can differ from person to person, but it will generally include some mindfulness. It can also include meditation, exercise, yoga etc.

As a busy mum, I find even just the thought of self-care daunting. Where would I even begin to find the time? Along with everything else!

But self-care doesn’t have to be as glamorous as it can sometimes be made out to be. It doesn’t have to be a fancy gym membership, a trip to the spa or a massage.

It can be as easy as a 10-minute check in with yourself every day. To see how you are doing. With our busy lives we rarely stop to think, "how am I doing today"?

Self-care can be going to bed 30 minutes earlier, putting on your face creams and reading in bed. Or even going for a 15-minute walk at least once a day.

Here are some practical tips for practising self-care as a busy mum: A promise The very beginning of a 'self-care' journey starts with a thought, a promise to love yourself. To dedicate some amount of time to yourself, each day. To prioritise yourself in some shape or form. Even as a small as a quick check in each morning and asking yourself, “How am I feeling today?”

Start each day positively It's said that how you spend the first hour of our day can shape the rest of the day and how you will be feeling. With that in mind, try to start every single day positively.

With some meditation, yoga, a short workout or even simply writing in your gratitude journal. Write down three things you’re grateful for and why. To make it even more simple, give yourself five or 10 minutes extra in the morning and focus on your breathing and even just list three things you’re grateful for in your head.

Breathe Focusing on our breathing is an extremely powerful tool that we have available to

each and every one of us. Practising some breathing techniques daily can also help with anxiety and depression.

Decide to be kind to yourself Being kind and compassionate with yourself is a decision you have to make. It’s not easy at times but to practise self-care, we must first decide to love ourselves. Faults and all. It is not always easy to accept the difficult parts of ourselves, but as soon as we make that conscious decision to focus on ourselves and love ourselves we have made the first major step in self-love.

Embrace the silence Try to find a moment of peace in each day.

Five minutes with no distractions. No phone, no tv or radio on and just be. Close your eyes and take three deep breaths. See how much calmer you feel.

Schedule your self-care I know, it seems crazy to schedule in some self-care, but as we all have busy lives it makes sense to add in your self-care into the diary. Our own needs can fall to the bottom of the list of priorities very quickly.

So putting aside some regular time in the diary will give you some breathing space to do something just for yourself. If it’s hard to think up what to do with the time you’ve set aside, create a pampering list to refer to – this can be as simple as having a bubble bath or reading a book before bed. easy parenting | 61

y n n u S

Disposition

1. Frill Denim Playsuit, Penneys €10

2. Yellow Stripe Sleeveless Jersey Romper, H&M €8.99 3. Toucan Print Summer Dress, JoJo Maman Bébé €24

4. The Very Hungry Caterpillar Baby Sleepsuit, Jojo Maman Bébé €25

1

its Gorgeous outflove your baby willer this Summ

2

5. Ears Beanie Cap, Mango €7.99 6. Red Heart Sunsafe Suit, Mothercare €19.99 7. Grey Graphic Print Outfit, River Island €22

4

8. Crab 2-Piece Sun Protection Suit, JoJo Maman Bébé €31 9. Neon Flamingo Tiered Dress, Mothercare €8.99 10. Baby Orange Tiger Print Romper, River Island €17 11. Turquoise 2 Piece T-Shirt Short, Penneys €5 12. Cotton T-shirt and leggings, H&M €12.99 13. Rash Vest & Shorts Set, Mothercare €19.99 62 | easy parenting

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Precious beginnings

Activity toys important factors to consider Neurological developmental therap

ist Ollwyn Moran

shares some facts that parents sho

uld consider

if thinking about buying a baby act

rom bouncers to door hoppers, walkers and activity centres, there are a lot of activity toys for parents to choose from.

It is such a complicated segment of baby gear. There are so many mixed messages about; which one to use, when to use it, how to use it, is one type better than an other etc.

I constantly get a stream of questions from overwhelmed parents looking for some straight talking advice about this category.

Hopefully this article will help to clarify the area and provide you with the information on what to do and when.

So before we begin, let’s break down the types of products.

F

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ivity toy

1 Bouncers These are a stand alone frame with a soft harness in the centre that is connected to the frame by springs. You pop your little one in the harness and they can bounce and jump up and down for as long as they like.

2 Door hoppers Similar to bouncers but they are anchored to the door frame. The soft harness is connected via springs and again, your little one can bounce away for hours.

3 Walkers They have a harness/seat embedded in a frame with wheels on the base.

This allows your little one to zoom all over the place, before they can walk. It may or may not have a tray with toys attached.

4 Activity centres Usually stationary, with a soft harness embedded in a frame with a 360 degree tray with activities and games around for your little one to play with. May also have sounds and lights features.

While the above baby activity toys are designed to promote fun for your little one, they unfortunately they generally do nothing to aid development.

The movements they promote are actually detrimental to their physical development and the motor skills your baby needs to be developing also.

Babies aren't developed enough to control their own body movements let alone when they are bouncing.

This is especially true when it comes to leg and trunk control.

The position the baby is seated in the harness is also a potential problem,

Precious beginnings as baby's weight is supported by the hips, the crotch and depending on the product, under the arms. This pushes the baby forward instead of upright and on their tippy toes, causing added stress on the ankle joint and the muscles at the back of the leg running from the ankle to the knee.

This can result in toe-walking later on.

In addition, because jumpers are designed to be propelled by pushing off with the toes, infants who use baby jumpers often will get used to pointing their toes. This, plus the posture problems, can delay walking skills.

In some cases the muscles at the back of the legs can actually severely tighten and require intensive

physiotherapy or even surgery to correct. Because of the above factors, babies who often use bouncers may experience developmental problems when it comes to proper posture, and leg and trunk control.

Prolonged use can also lead to hip problems and alignment issues.

And they also get your baby used to the world from an upright position which can prevent them from crawling.

Alternatives for healthy development: It is through plenty of floor play , tummy time, crawling, learning to roll over and pull themselves up that they begin to be able to coordinate and

streamline their movements.

Having the ability to practice standing up on their own (using a coffee table or couch, for example), your baby is gaining muscle strength, developing their coordination, and stimulating their brains.

Babies’ brains are learning to give signals to various body parts and allowing for smoother movements.

They also get to experience the appropriate weight bearing and weight shifting activities needed for walking independently.

Creating a safe floor play area that your little one can play in is ideal and does not have to take up much room in your home.

Handy guidelines to follow� If you decide to buy one of the above items for your little one, here are some helpful guidelines: • Consider the age of your little one and the developmental stage they are at.

Make sure that they are able to self sit and have good head, neck and shoulder control.

• Ideally, wait until your baby has crawled for a significant period of time (six-eight weeks) before beginning use. When you put your little one in them make sure to put a timer on

your phone for 10 minutes so that you know when to remove them.

• Be mindful to strictly limit use and time in them.

• The walkers with the wheels have increased risk factors due to the speed that little ones can get to in them – they are one of the leading causes of accidents with babies, and are actually banned in a number of countries.

• Door hoppers have increased risks with them as little ones can end up bashing into the frame of the door. Do your research

before making a purchase or before using it with your little one.

• Make sure that your little one gets lots of floor play time to counter act the use.

• Remember, you do not need to get something that has a tonne of features, bells and whistles and lights etc. This will actually overstimulate your little one. Their brains are not ready for too much input because they are not practised at filtering out important information from nonimportant. So keep it simple.

• And never leave your little one unattended.

About Ollwyn Ollwyn Moran is a Neurological Developmental Therapist, teacher, lecturer and mother of two from Dublin.

Ollwyn is also the founder of COGNIKIDS, a company that focuses on creating products that support the natural developmental stages of infants. cognikids.com easy parenting | 65

Precious beginnings

Have baby,

l e v a tr Will Are you heading off on a trip with your little one for the first time? Whether it’s by plane, train, car or boat you'll have a stress-free trip with the following advice

Have you chosen a childfriendly location?

If you have decided to holiday in Ireland, many hotels provide a ‘Baby’s First Holiday’ package for first-time parents, which is worth looking into. This can include a welcome pack of baby essentials, such as nappies and wipes and babysitting facilities for parents. Also, many hotels in Ireland offer a special family room, which includes a steriliser and nappy changing unit.

For overseas holidays, look for a child-friendly beach holiday, or familyfriendly campsites or holiday parks.

Before you book somewhere, make sure that all aspects are suitable for children.

For example, if you are renting a house with a pool, make sure that the pool is guarded and the garden is enclosed. Like 66 | easy parenting

with your own home, all stairs and dangerous parts of the house must be baby-proofed.

Where will baby sleep?

Most hotels and resorts will provide a cot, but be sure to check this in advance, otherwise, you may need to bring a travel cot. You will need to bring a travel mattress with you, even if the hotel does provide a cot. Bring along your baby’s monitor and a night-light, if they are used to sleeping with one.

Packing a blanket and sheets with a familiar smell will help your baby to settle at bedtime when you get to your new destination. A travel black-out blind is a good investment too, as you may find that your room doesn’t have blinds or curtains. If your baby has a favourite

book or soft toy that is part of their bedtime routine, be sure to bring it along

Baby’s bag of tricks Use a compact changing bag that is designed for travel. Don’t forget to pack a portable changing mat, nappy accessories such as nappy rash cream, wipes, nappies, and nappy bags.

A light stroller If you’re travelling by plane, then a lightweight, fully collapsible pushchair/ stroller that reclines is a good idea.

Airlines have different weight limits, so phone ahead and check that yours meets the weight and dimension restrictions. In most airports, you will be able to use a buggy right up to the departure gate at

Precious beginnings

which point the airline staff will place it in the hold.

Sun protection for baby Consider investing in a parasol with built-in UV protection that can be attached to a buggy, and a beach shade.

UV pop-up tents are great for providing sun cover for your baby while they play and shelter during nap times.

Cover the window of your car beside your baby with a sunshade. A sun hat is an essential cover for the sensitive skin on your baby’s head, ears and neck.

Baby holiday

essentials checklist: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Car seat (suitable for planes also) Pushchair Blanket Baby Sling Weather appropriate clothes (and plenty of them) Hats A large supply of nappies and nappy supplies Any feeding equipment you usually use Passports (if travelling abroad) Basic first aid kit Sun cream (for babies over six months) Swim nappies (if you are going to a pool or the beach) Baby monitor Travel adapters A universal bath plug Toiletries (whatever you usually use) Portable night-light

expertadvice Olivia Mai, founder of The Stork Exchange

The Pram Bag With most airlines, children under the age of two do not have a luggage allowance, but parents are allowed to take an additional bag on board (be it a laptop bag, a duty free shopping bag or a baby bag). So really, you’ve got to be smart about what you pack in the baby bag. There is a parental loop hole however – the Pram Bag! Most airlines prefer you to pack your pram into a protective cover, and from what we’ve witnessed, we’d recommend it too. The handy thing is, you can pack a lot of additional 'padding/protection' into that pram bag in the form of nappies, towels, and spare clothes.

You can either check it in or if you’re bringing your pram to the gate, bring it through security too. It will have to go through the scanning machines of course, and all the usual liquid restrictions etc apply, but consider it an extra free bag!

The Baby Bag So then, now that we’ve sorted the spare nappies and clothes into the pram bag, what does that leave for the baby bag? If like me, your handbag is choc-full of who knows what and it takes ten minutes of rooting in the abyss to find your keys, that’s just gonna add to your stress level at the airport. Trying to change a nappy in a cramped airplane toilet, while hanging on to the baby with one hand and searching through the baby bag with another is something I’d do, but would definitely not recommend! Keep it to the basics, for your own sanity.

I would argue that enough nappies and wipes for the flight, a spare baby grow in case of emergency, your baby blanket and food / drink are really the essential essentials. Of course if your baby is taking medications bring them too but basically keeping your baby hydrated, comfortable and well fed should make for a better flight. Everything else can go into checked luggage or the pram bag.

Did you know?

A nappy bag has its own separate luggage allowance and is not considered a piece of equipment. It has to be 5kg or smaller, and can be brought in addition to the regular luggage allowance.

Top tip from Dublin Airport Make sure you carry all your travel documents in one easily reached place, make sure your hand baggage meets security requirements before you leave home and work out whether you need to take buggies to the aircraft or check them in. Remember to keep everything that your baby needs on the flight in your carry-on luggage, ensuring that it is always to hand.

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Precious beginnings

Diary My Baby

Laura Doyle shares the latest highlights from baby Milla’s past couple of months

18 MONTHS OLD

How am I feeling?

How is she feeding?

What is she doing?

Milla has always been a great eater. This month though, she is off some food again. She is still getting lots of new teeth and this is definitely contributing to the change in her appetite.

Milla has started to say two-word sentences this month: “Sit up,” “Me please,” etc. She has also mastered the “pllleeease” when she can’t do/have something! It is very cute!

She has started to play independently a lot more this month. If I am doing something I will often find her playing on her own, or reading out loud with one of her books in her lap. In her own words of course but pointing to the pictures and turning pages!

How is she sleeping?

We have always co-slept with Milla. But, recently we both feel we are waking her when we come to bed. She is also getting bigger and her kicks in the middle of the night are not pleasant! So, we have moved her into a cot in our room. So far so good and she seems to sleep better in it.

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How am I feeling?

Mentally Mentally I’m feeling good this month. I think that is something important to remember. Mental health can come in waves; some calmer waves and some not. It is important to remember when it is a tougher time that “this too shall pass”. That helps me, every time.

Physically I am feeling a little run down, doing too much, I’m sure. I make a conscious effort to eat at regular times and to try and prioritise myself. I have to admit I have been slacking a little on that front this month!

Precious beginnings

19 MONTHS OLD How is she feeding?

How is she sleeping?

How am I feeling?

Milla has such a big appetite at the moment.

As she is sleeping for such a long stretch at night she usually wakes up absolutely starving! She has porridge for breakfast with fruit, then she might have two pieces of toast afterwards, snack at 10.30am, she has her lunch around 12.30, another snack around 3pm and she will always have whatever we are having for dinner at 5.30pm. She likes to have a bowl of cereal or toast with a cup of milk before bed too.

Since going into her cot she is sleeping 13 hours straight at night! It just shows that for us we waited until she was ready to sleep alone and it has worked out really well.

Mentally Mentally I am feeling good. I have asked for help, cleaner and a childminder and I am definitely feeling less stressed. We are in a position where that is possible and necessary – this is not always possible and I know I am lucky.

What is she doing?

She is talking SO much this month. She is repeating words that she hears being said, which can be quite entertaining for her siblings!! She has started to repeat phrases her sisters say like “me too” or “I do” when they are talking – it is adorable!

18 MONTHS

Physically Physically, unfortunately the stress of the last couple of months has caught up with me and I’ve ended up in hospital. I was completely run down, spreading myself too thin and not prioritising myself in any capacity. I am now on the mend and have gotten the kick I needed to start putting myself first on my to do list. “You can’t pour from an empty cup."

19 MONTHS

easy parenting | 69

#Imeverymum

The campaign helping every mum share the real joys and challenges of motherhood

E

very woman, bump, birth, baby and every mum is completely unique. Every mum has her own set of ups and downs, of insane joys and anxious defeats. Every mum is nailing it, winging it, doubting it and giving all she has while trying not to lose all that she is.

And while our expectations for motherhood can be unbearably high, there comes a point for all women when she realises that she is no longer in control, that her body is going to do what it’s going to do, that her emotional health has no bearing on her deep love, that her precious baby will find its own rhyme and rhythm, and that life as a mum is rarely how she imagined.

But when things aren’t going to plan, when you’re not feeling the rush of love or when you wonder if you have what it takes to keep going, we all too often blame ourselves, assume that we’re not good enough and that ultimately we’re doing something wrong.

So instead of asking for help, we say nothing. Pretend that it’s all okay, terrified of judgement, terrified that our deepest fears will be confirmed to us.

70 | easy parenting

Let's share our stories In a recent nationwide study conducted by everymum, 50% of mums admitted that motherhood was not what they expected, why – because it’s more challenging emotionally.

Women across Ireland opened up revealing that although happier since becoming mums the vast majority experienced fatigue, feeling overwhelmed, self-doubt, anxiety and loneliness.

So if the majority of mums are feeling these things – why are we still so reluctant to talk about them, to share our experiences and ultimately to realise that although as mums we can often feel alone, in reality, we are all feeling the same.

#imeverymum To help give real mums a platform to share their story, everymum has launched #Imeverymum where real stories from real mums are published on everymum.ie and across Facebook + Instagram. #Imeverymum gives women a voice to express their truth, to help mums who have experienced similar challenges know that they are not alone, and to build a community where the realities of motherhood are celebrated.

Want to share your story?

Email hello@everymum.ie if you’d like to share you story on everymum.ie

Connecting, supporting, and celebrating Meet some of the mums who have shared their stories: Aoife Bermingham, shares her glory and sorrow as a mum surviving the loss of baby Oisin.

Families come in all shapes and sizes, and for many like mum of three Kate Gunn sometimes you might find yourself alone at the helm.

You are not alone #Imeverymum proves that sometimes in life, things don’t always work out as you had planned. That life will deal you unimaginable pain and incredible love. And that with each challenge faced mums become more resilient, more capable and more connected – because whatever you are going through there are others who are going through it too.

Remind yourself that you’re not alone, and visit everymum.ie/my-life/imeverymum to read the powerful honest articles written by every mum.

Just for you @ Next

nal o i t a ir Insp ice and adv ation m infor for you only

In this section 72 Beauty tips for mums 74 Mum’s fashion 76 Decode your vagina 78 Mums’ books easy parenting | 71

Just for you

w e n s ’ t a h W in beauty?

Biodegradeable beauty

Not only is the entire PS… beauty range in Penneys certified cruelty free, they’ve also launched the new PS…Festival collection using BioglitterTM – an eco friendly glitter which biodegrades naturally, so you can shine bright like a diamond without damaging the environment. The range features loose glitter, glitter gels, and a ‘glitter eyes’ palette, which are great whether your fancy a little sparkle, or you want to play around with glitter with the kids. RRP from €1.50 available in Penneys stores nationwide.

Natural nurture

Want to care for your skin and hair without the chemicals? Dr. Bronner’s Personal Care Range is made with certified organic and fair trade ingredients. We love the OrangeLavender Organic Body Lotion: Made with organic jojoba oil to moisturise dry skin, it contains organic coconut oil to assist absorption, and organic hemp and avocado oils help keep skin smooth, supple and ready for holiday season. Plus the zesty, floral scent created with organic and fair trade essential oils smell divine! RRP €13.95. Available in health stores and selected pharmacies nationwide, and online at www.lifesgreat.ie.

Sun savvy

As well as preventing sunburn and skin cancer, sunscreen defends against premature aging that can be caused by the sun’s harmful rays. P20’s range of broad spectrum UV protection ensures you are fully protected, offering UVB protection and UVA in an easy to use, lightweight, water resistant and quick drying formula. The P20 range includes SPF20, SPF30 and SPF50.

RRP €20-€30. Available from leading pharmacies, Dunnes Stores, Penneys and airports nationwide.

imPRESSed Lash love

Whip those lashes into shape! Wet N Wild Mega Protein Mascara takes your lashes from floppy to fly in just one swipe.

The high-performance formula includes Soy Protein, Soy Lecithin, Acai Oil and D-Panthenol to help protect, strengthen and nourish every last lash, while the soft helix-shaped brush coats lashes with the highly concentrated and nutrient rich formula in a bold smudge-resistant black shade. Available in two cruelty-free, fragrance-free, sulfate-free finishes: Very Black and Very Black Waterproof. RRP €3.95. Available in Dunnes Stores, Penneys, and selected retailers nationwide.

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Need nice nails in a rush? The new imPRESS range by KISS is a collection of press-on nails (no glue needed!) that are quick and easy to apply, so you can have a full manicure in less than five minutes with no worries about smudging or drying.

Now 2X longer lasting than other pre-glued nails, imPRESS manicure is the only waterproof press-on nail with a secure adhesive that will not damage nails. The perfect in-transit beauty saviour! RRP €9, available in selected pharmacies, retailers and Dunnes Stores nationwide.

Beauty

How To Care For Your Skin This Summer

switch to a BB cream or tinted moisturiser, preferably one that contains SPF coverage. summers less make-up is best. Protect your lips with a lip balm or gloss which also contains SPF to keep your lips fresh, and avoid heavy eye makeup. Face powder or setting spray with sun protection will be your friend, as you can reapply during the day to keep your makeup in tip-top condition, and protect your skin.

4. Be water-wise

As the weather warms up, you might be showing a little more skin than you have been over the last year. So help yourself look and feel fab, with these simple skincare tips from Emily Elphinstone:

1. Exfoliate Your body sheds skin cells at an amazing rate, but if you don’t get rid of them they can stick around, making our skin look dry and dull, however much moisturiser you use.

So this summer, grab an exfoliator or body scrub and hit the shower. Gently rub in with circular movements, and rinse clean. For a gentle and eco-friendly option, try used coffee grounds or sugar mixed with honey or olive oil. Yum! Continue to do this two to three times per week.

Continue to do this two to three times a week for year-round beautiful skin, making sure you're extra careful with the delicate skin on your face – you might prefer to use a chemical exfoliant such as BHA or Glycolic Acid. After you exfoliate, follow with a hydrating body cream to seal in moisture.

powerful than it is, and even clouds don’t stop UV rays. A lifetime of sun exposure can cause wrinkles, age spots and other skin problems, as well as increased risk of skin cancer.

Choose a sunscreen with UVA and UVB cover, with at least SPF 15 (preferably higher, particularly for kids). Reapply every two hours if you’re out and about, or more if you’re swimming or perspiring.

It’s also important to seek shade when the sun’s rays are strongest (particularly around the middle of the day), and wear protective clothing such as sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats and long-sleeved shirts.

Remember: Though sunscreens officially remain effective up to three years after the container is opened, they may degrade over time, so be extra careful if using up an old bottle, and respect the use-by date.

2. Protect yourself

3. Minimal make-up

It’s important to protect your skin from the sun, even if it’s not super hot, as a breeze might make the sun seem less

During warm weather, less is more when it comes to makeup because your skin needs to breathe. You might prefer to

During the summer, it’s particularly important to drink enough water: You should aim for at least 1.5 litres (or eight glasses), or more in hot weather. To make it easier, keep a reusable water bottle with you, and have something to drink every 30 minutes or so.

Not only does water prevent dehydration and reduce the risk of headaches etc., but it also helps to keep your skin fresh and radiant, and flushes out toxins from the body.

5. Soothe your skin A well as exfoliating and using sunscreen, treat your skin to some moisturiser on a regular basis, particularly after showering or exfoliating. You might want to choose a lighter formula than you used in winter, like a quick-drying gel or lotion. You could also treat your face to a hydrating mask once a week.

6. Don’t forget the toner It’s easy for pores to get clogged in the summer, with sunscreen application and extra perspiration etc. So even if you’re not wearing make up, it’s important to keep up a good skincare routine. As well as cleansing and using a moisturiser or serum, use a toner to help shrink pores and create a more even skin tone. You can even refresh your skin during the day with a revitalising spritz of your favourite spray toner.

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r e m m Sustyle

Just for you

p this Summer? e st r u o y in g n ese a spri Looking to put pdate your wardrobe with th res o u Well, why not om some of our favourite st s fr fun new piece

1

1 Short Sleeve Terracotta, €11 @ Penneys 2 Embroidered Top €45 @ Littlewoods Ireland 3 Print Skirt €39.99 @ H&M 4 Mustard Button Front Shorts €29 @ Dorothy Perkins

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5 Button Short Sleeve Shirt Dress €46 @ Next 6 Floral Print Wide Leg High Waist Trousers €49 @ M&S 7 Gingham Check Blouse €29.99 @ Mango 8 M&S Print Mini Waisted Dress €47.50 @ Floral 9 Utility Dress €18 @ Penneys 10 Rust Boilersuit €60 @ Next 11 Gabriella Ruffled Wrap Midi Dress €52 @ Vero Moda 74 | easy parenting

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Just for you

DECODE YOUR

VAGINA

We don’t need to tell you that your vaginal area is delicate and can be prone to infection. This is why as Elsje du Toit explains, it’s important to keep it healthy

W

hen you’re a mum or a mum-to-be, your first priority will always be the health and wellbeing of your little one. But it’s important to take care of yourself too – especially your health as a woman.

We often neglect the health of our sexual health. Having an unhealthy vagina isn’t just uncomfortable, but it can lead to more serious conditions if it’s not taken care of.

Here’s what to be on the lookout for and how to make sure you keep your intimate area as happy as can be.

Very common Different from what one might think, vaginal infections are extremely common.

There are two main nonsexually transmitted infections: • Candidiasis (better known as Thrush) • Bacterial vaginosis According to The Women’s Health Clinic based in Dun Laoghaire, co. Dublin, approximately 50% to 75% of women will have thrush at some point and 10% to 30% will have bacterial vaginosis (BV).

discomfort when it multiplies.

Approximately 80% of women will experience this during some time in their lives.

Reasons why women get thrush can include: • Pregnancy • Diabetes • Wearing tight synthetic clothing • Antibiotic therapy • Immunosuppression, like steroid therapy, chemotherapy or HIV infection • Products that may cause irritation of the vagina, such as vaginal deodorants or bubble bath • Excessive washing of the vaginal area Sexualwellbeing.ie warns that thrush can be passed on during sex, but is is not considered a sexually transmitted infection.

“It can affect people even when they do not have sex.”

Symptoms of Candidiasis (Thrush) • • • • •

Vaginal itch Vaginal soreness Vaginal redness White, thick discharge Discomfort during sex or urinating

Candidiasis (Thrush)

Treatment for Candidiasis (Thrush)

Thrush is probably the most common vaginal infection a woman can get. It is caused by an overgrowth of yeast (candida albicans). Candida albicans is normally present in the body, but it causes

Sometimes only one of the symptoms may be present and you often might be able to diagnose it yourself. You can go to your local pharmacy for some cream, pessaries (vaginal tablets) or oral tablets without a

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prescription. The infection will usually clear up completely in eight out of 10 women.

However, if you don’t see any improvement in two weeks, you’ll have to speak with your doctor or nurse. Also, if you have more than four infections in a year (known as recurrent thrush), you’ll also need professional medical help.

Your partner doesn’t need to be tested or treated unless they have symptoms that they are concerned about.

How to prevent thrush • Wear cotton underwear • Avoid tight clothing • Avoid too much washing of your genitals • Do not use soaps, perfumed products or vaginal deodorant products

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) A normal vagina contains a mixture of bacteria. BV is caused when there is an increase in combination of bacteria that causes an overall imbalance. “It is the most common cause of abnormal discharge from the vagina,” sexualwellbeing.ie says. “Any woman can get BV, including women in same-sex relationships and women who have never had sex.”

About one in 10 women will get BV at some point in their life. It is especially common in expecting women.

The cause of this infection (the increase of bacteria that causes an overall imbalance)

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is not known, but it’s clear that it is not caught from a sexual partner. However, sexual activity may play a part.

“The vagina normally contains mostly ‘good’ bacteria (called lactobacilli), which help to cleanse the vagina, and fewer ‘bad’ bacteria (called anaerobes).

“BV develops when there is an increase in the number of ‘bad’ bacteria. This changes the chemistry of the vaginal fluid. Although we do not understand why some women get BV and others don’t, we do know that some activities can upset the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina and put women at increased risk.”

Reasons for this include: • Having a new sexual partner • Smoking • Douching (rinsing inside the vagina) or using vaginal washes or deodorants • Having oral sex • Having sex with multiple partners You cannot catch BV from toilet seats or swimming pools or jacuzzis.

Symptoms of BV • An abnormal 'fishy' smell from the vagina. Sometimes the 'fishy' smell is worse after sex.

• Vaginal discharge (white or grey in colour and thin milky consistency) • BV does not cause itch, soreness or irritation.

Treatment for BV This infection can be diagnosed based on the symptoms you describe and some simple tests on the vaginal discharge. It is easily treated with antibiotics.

The Women’s Health Clinic warns that if it’s left untreated there is an association between BV and miscarriage.

How to prevent BV Avoid anything that upsets the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina, like: • Douching (rinse inside your vagina) • Bathing too frequently • Using perfumed washes, bubble baths,

antiseptic solutions or feminine wipes or washes.

What about vaginal discharge?

“Discharge from the vagina is common and often normal in women,” according to sexualwellbeing.ie. “Sometimes this is called a ‘physiological discharge’ which contains cleansing bacteria which help to prevent some infections.

“An abnormal vaginal discharge can also be caused by infections, some of which may or may not be associated with sex.”

The physiological discharge is usually white or clear in colour, not smelly and can vary with your menstrual cycle.

Your vagina after giving birth It can be scary to think about birth and everyone tells you how you’ll totally forget what you went through once you hold your baby in your arms. This is all very true, but it’s good to know how to care for your vagina if you got injured during the process.

You might have an episiotomy. This is usually a very simple operation. During the birth process, the doctor or midwife will make a small, diagonal cut from the back of the vagina and directed down and out to one side.

Reasons for an episiotomy include: • There is thought to be a risk to the baby’s health and a quick childbirth is required • Mechanical assistance, such as forceps (tongs) or suction, is required during childbirth due to complications • There is a risk of the mother’s perineum (the area between your vagina and anus) being severely torn unless the vagina is widened.

It might happen that you unexpectedly tear. Here is what you need to know:

What is a perineal tear?

A perineal tear is a tear of the tissue between the vagina and the anus. It can

happen when you give birth.

You get four main degrees of tears: • Superficial tears – these involve the skin of the perineum (the part between your vagina and your anus) and the tissue around the opening and outermost layer of the vagina. It does not include muscle tearing. You often don’t need stitches for these and it often heals quickly.

• Second-degree tears – these tears are deeper and go into the muscles underneath. You’ll need stitches and it will cause discomfort while it heals over the course of a few weeks.

• Third-degree tears – this is a tear in the vaginal tissue, perineal skin and perineal muscles that extend into the anal sphincter (the muscle that surrounds your anus).

• Fourth-degree tears – a fourth-degree tear goes through the anal sphincter and the tissue underneath it.

• Important to know – only about 4% of women giving birth would suffer a tear more serious than a superficial and second-degree tear.

Treating a tear • If you suffered a tear or you had an episiotomy during pregnancy, you’ll get a few dissolving stitches to help with the healing over the next few weeks. The stitches will dissolve about one month after giving birth.

• You will feel pain, therefore you should take it easy and rest as much as possible.

• Keep the tear and surrounding area clean to prevent infection. After going to the toilet, use a bottle that you can squirt liquid from, such as an empty water bottle, to rinse the area.

• When wiping your bottom, make sure that you wipe from front to back because this will help to prevent bacteria in your anus infecting the cut and surrounding tissue.

• Look out for any signs that the cut or surrounding tissue has become infected, such as red, swollen skin or a discharge of pus or liquid from the site of the cut. Talk to your GP or midwife as soon as possible. easy parenting | 77

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Social butterflies: Reclaiming the positive power of social networks By Michael Sanders and Susannah Hume (Michael O’Mara Books) We’re all social animals. From early civilizations to the present day, we exist in an increasingly tangled web of social threads that we rely on for our survival. But in the modern, hyper-connected world, our likes and dislikes have taken on a new prominence and power. Now our basic human need to belong increasingly overrides our better judgment, exposing us to manipulation by everyone from tech firms to aspiring politicians. RRP: €21.30

Meant to be – My journey to motherhood

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@ Mothercare

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d e an s c i v Ad or kid f tips ive years f aged beyond and

In this section 80 Summer guide 86 How to treat your child’s hay fever 90 Here’s the good stuff 92 Parenting truths easy parenting | 79

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SKIN SAFETY

Essen tials The summer holidays are finally here, find out how to help your kids have fun safely outdoors

If you’re planning a sunny summer holiday in the next few weeks, or you’re simply just hoping that the Irish sun will show its face at some point this season, it’s important to remember to keep your family’s skin protected.

According to the Irish Skin Foundation, children’s skin is much more vulnerable to the damaging effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, compared to adults’ skin.

“Children’s skin, especially up to the age of three years, has lower concentrations of the protective skin pigment melanin,” it says on its website. “Melanin is a pigment that gives skin, eyes, and hair their colour.

It also provides some protection against skin damage from the sun and is responsible for tanning.

“The outer layer of children’s skin is also thinner than those of adults.' This allows UV radiation to penetrate more deeply through the layers of the skin.”

Why protect your child’s skin?

If you think that sunburn won’t affect your children when they grow up, think again. “UV exposure is linked to an increased risk of skin cancer,” the Irish Cancer Society warns. “For this reason it is important to educate children about how to enjoy the outdoors while protecting their skin from the sun.

“While skin cancer is rare in children, much of the UV damage that leads to it takes place in the early years of life.”

According to the Irish Cancer Society’s research: • The risk of melanoma – the most serious form of skin cancer – later in life, increases when getting sunburnt in childhood or adolescence.

• Tanned skin is damaged skin. The tan a child gets may fade but the damage remains – and can lead to skin cancer later in life.

• People get most of their sun exposure before the age of 18. easy parenting | 81

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“Skin cancer can take 10 to 15 years to develop and is the most common cancer in young people in Ireland aged 15 to 44 years of age,” the Irish Cancer Society warns.

Be safe – even in Ireland Although we don’t see much of the sun here on the Emerald Isle, it’s still very important to protect yourself and especially your family against its harmful rays.

“Sunburn can happen both in Ireland and abroad,” the HSE warns. “About 90% of harmful UV rays can pass through light clouds, so take care on cloudy days too!

“Always protect your child’s skin from the sun. Especially from April to September in Ireland.”

These children should be careful Although all children are at risk of UV damage when spending time outside, some children are more at risk, especially if they have: • Pale or freckled skin that does not tan or burns before it tans.

• Red or fair hair.

• Blue, green or grey eyes.

• A large number of moles.

baby gets enough vitamin D (the sunshine vitamin). The sun is one way of doing so, but all children under five are advised to take vitamin D supplements. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about the best supplements for your baby.

Protecting older children from the sun Your children might want to play outside all day long when it’s sunny outside. You don’t have to forbid them to do so. Just keep their skin safe by following the SunSmart Code: • Slip on sun protective clothing.

• Slap on a hat – a wide brim that gives shade to the face, neck and ears.

• Slop on sunscreen – use appropriate factor and reapply often and always after swimming.

• Seek shade – especially between 11am and 3pm.

• Wear wrap-around sunglasses from as early an age as possible.

When to get help from your doctor Ways to protect your baby from the sun We can try and be safe as possible when Like with everything else, it’s your out in the sun, but sometimes accidents responsibility to keep your little one as do happen. Seek medical help when: safe as possible – especially when you’re • Your baby has sunburn. out in the sun: • Your child is in a lot of pain.

• Keep babies under six months in the • Your child has blisters or swelling in shade as much as possible. their skin.

Make use of extra shade • They have any signs of for prams and heat exhaustion and CAR THE strollers as needed, heat stroke.

S A F E T Y I NE R SUMM and make sure • Their ach f a car can re the shade casts a temperature is The inside o s re mperatu dangerous te e dark shadow. over 38 degrees id ts u o e when th quickly, even not hot. Never Although you Celsius after is r, temperature ca a need to protect cooling their skin. in e n lo a leave a child come to t your child from • You are worried. ec p ex even if you the sun, you should back soon. also ensure that your 82 | easy parenting

For more information: Irish Cancer Society – www.cancer.ie Irish Skin Foundation – www.irishskin.ie HSE – https://www2.hse.ie/wellbeing/ child-health/sun-safety-for-babies-andchildren.html

HYDRATION

Give them lots of fluids It’s vital that kids drink fluids often during warmer weather. If your child participates in sports or runs around a lot, they should drink some extra fluid, such as water or juice before and during their activity. The ideal way to prevent dehydration is to make sure your child gets plenty of fluids when they’re sick or physically active — they should consume more fluids than they lose (from vomiting, diarrhoea, or sweating). And remember that thirst is not the first sign of dehyration. A child can already be dehydrated before feeling thirsty – this is why kids need to keep on consuming fluids.

BARBECUE SAFETY

Constant responsible adult supervision of children is important around barbecues.

• Do not allow babies or young children near the cooking area.

• Set up the barbecue in an area that children do not need to go through to get to their play area, toys etc.

• Set up the barbecue where you can talk to the children without them needing to come close to the cooking area.

• Do not park a buggy near a barbecue – children can move quickly and they may roll, or be rolled, too close to the barbecue in seconds.

• Do not use a baby walker – it serves no beneficial function to children, may hinder walking ability and it places babies at greater risks of burns, scalds, head injuries, falls and poisonings.

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W E WANT FUN IN T HE SUN

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WATER SAFETY

Never leave your child alone near, with or in water inside or outside your home – children can drown in seconds and in silence in a very small amount of water.

The HSE has the following advice for water safety and children: • Build up the amount of time your baby spends in the water – start with short sessions.

• Do not get cold/let your child get cold – remember body temperature drops quickly in cold water.

• Don’t bring a child who is sick swimming.

• Use swim nappies for babies and young children.

• Do not swim in pools that look discoloured – you should always be able to see the bottom of the pool.

• Be aware of bathing water quality and do not swim where water quality is poor.

• Local authority – you can contact your local authority if you have any queries on bathing waters in your area. Many local authorities provide bathing water results and other information on their own websites.

• At the bathing water – lifeguards, where present, will fly the red flags when bathing waters are considered unsafe for bathing. You can check out the notice boards to see the latest water quality and any warnings or advice.

TEACH YOUR BABY TO SWIM

If you can, bring your baby or child to swimming lessons as early as possible. According to WaterBabies, learning to get to 84 | easy parenting

the side, hold on, get out and/or swim could save your child’s life one day, so they teach vital safety techniques from birth. Swimming from birth is fantastic for your baby’s health and development, and could spark a lifetime’s interest in sport.

Each lesson provides a complete physical work-out, strengthening your baby’s heart and lungs and in turn aiding development of the brain — including stimulating all five senses (taste, smell, touch, sight and sound).

IN THE GARDEN

Keep children well away from all types of lawnmowers. Danger comes not just from body contact with the blades or motor - blade speed can also eject an object at speeds up to 100 miles per hour.

Protect your child from poisons in the garden - keep garden chemicals in their original containers, out of sight and reach of children. Remove mushrooms from your lawn and discard them. Be careful with choice of plants and flowers – some are poisonous.

SAFE SLEEP IN WARMER WEATHER

Paediatric sleep consultant, Lucy Wolfe tells us how to ensure that your child sleeps safely during the summer.

1 To begin, dress your child appropriately to avoid over-heating, strip down to nappy and vest if necessary and consider using no vest but a super light weight sleeping bag, such as the 1tog organic sleeping bag by BabyBoo or a cotton pillow case, safely folded down for younger children.

2 Remove any unnecessary bedding from the cot, to allow air to circulate freely; remove padding, bumpers and also waterproof sheets if you are

using them.

A cotton sheet along with the mattress is adequate bedding.

3 Aim to keep the room cool during the day by ensuring that you open windows throughout your living accommodation to allow for a through-breeze.

4 Ensure that you pull down room darkening shades and/or curtains early in the day to prevent the sun heating up the room.

5 Consider using a fan in the bedroom before bedtime, but make sure that it is out of reach when your baby is going to sleep. It may be helpful to place a bottle of frozen water in front of the fan to prevent re-circulating warm air around the room, 6 If the room is super hot, hanging wet/ damp sheets or towels at the window or over chairs will help to cool the space down as the water evaporates.

7 Have a cool bath close to bedtime to help regulate the body temperature ahead of sleep time.

8 Be careful about sleeping your child on the go. If you are using prams and buggies for sleep, be aware that this environment can become hot and airless rapidly. I would avoid sleeping in the car also. The temperatures inside a parked car can rise very quickly, even with the windows open, so a word of caution in this regard and transfer your baby from the car whenever possible.

9 Make sure that your child is well hydrated during the day.

10 Check your baby regularly to see if he or she is too hot. Look for sweating or feel the baby’s tummy –hands and feet will usually be cooler, which is normal.

If your baby is hot, remove clothes as you feel appropriate.

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ESSENTIALS

2

1

3 4

5

1 Bluezoo Shark 3-Piece Set €31.50 @ Debenhams 2 Whale Sunsafe Suit, €19.99 @ Mothercare 3 Pink Strawberry Sunsafe Suit, €19.99 @ Mothercare 4 Avene Lotion for Children SPF50+, €20.50 5 P20 range - includes SPF15, SPF20, SPF30 and SPF50+. Prices range from €19.99- €34.99 and is available from leading pharmacies and airports nationwide.

6

6 La Roche-Posay Anthelios range

7

7 Lacura SPF50+ Kids Spray €3.49.

Lacura SPF50+ Sensitive Lotion €3.49, Lacura SPF50 Roll On Sun Lotion €2.99 @ Aldi

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Sneeze Alert

Here are some easy ways to reduce and treat your child’s hay fever symptoms

I

t’s summer time, so to your child, that means lots of running and playing outside with friends. But what do you do when the great outdoors is causing your little one to have a constant runny nose, itchy eyes and throat?

As a parent, you'll do anything to help ease your child's symptoms and thankfully there is no need to keep your little one indoors.

86 | easy parenting

Aim to keep your child as comfortable as possible, so that their play, and their sleep isn’t interrupted.

You can’t avoid allergens, so the goal here is to reduce them as much as possible.

Keep an eye on the pollen count.

Check it before your child heads outdoors. Go to www.met.ie/forecasts/ pollen. If it’s high, encourage your child to stay indoors. If they must head

outdoors, try the following measures: A daily wash. Get into the habit of a daily bath every day, and wash your child from head to toe. If your child has been outside all day, they will be bringing pollen with them indoors but you can’t see it. A bath will prevent them from getting into bed with the pollen on them.

Remove the shoes. Encourage all

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These four tips can help to prevent the symptoms of hay fever:

Soothing allergy

symptoms Find out how to prevent and relieve your little one’s allergy symptoms

A

constant runny/blocked nose, itchy eyes and disrupted sleep – the symptoms of hay fever can be really unpleasant for children to put up with. It's little wonder then that some parents dread the hayfever season, as they know their little ones who are prone to allergies will have to suffer through the symptoms. So it’s important to try and prevent and soothe their discomfort as much as we can.

A type of allergic reaction, hay fever happens when pollens and dust mites in the air get into your nose and eyes, which can cause inflammation. It usually affects the nose, face, sinus passages, eyes and throat.

Hay fever occurs at particular times of the year. Known as seasonal rhinitis, it has the same symptoms as perennial (year round) allergic rhinitis, but occurs as a reaction to pollen from grass, trees and weeds during the early spring and summer months (between May and October).

How will I know if my child has hay fever?

Common symptoms to watch out for: - Your child rubbing their eyes because they’re itchy.

- A runny nose with clear, rather than thick mucous.

- Sneezing.

If you notice that your child suffers from the above symptoms outside of hay fever

season, they could have an allergy to dust mites or pet fur. It can be hard to tell the difference between the symptoms of hay fever and the common cold. Cold virus symptoms can cause very similar symptoms to seasonal rhinitis, but with allergies your child won’t have a temperature and the symptoms won’t clear up after a week or so.

How can I soothe my child’s hay fever symptoms?  Wiping your child’s eyes with clean cotton wool and cool water can soothe symptoms.  Smear a little bit of petroleum jelly around your baby’s nose as this can help prevent pollen from getting into the nasal passages.  Saline nasal sprays are an effective treatment for hay fever, especially for a blocked nose. Your child can use them safely throughout the pollen season for seasonal hay fever, or throughout the year for perennial hay fever.

Sterimar Breathe Easy Baby is a 100% natural purified sea water based gentle micro-diffusion, which disperses the solution into very fine droplets, coating the inside of the nasal passages to ensure easy breathing. The Breathe Easy Baby nozzle fits safely and comfortably inside your baby’s nose and will continue to work at any angle to

1 Monitor pollen forecasts daily and stay indoors wherever possible when the count is high (generally on warmer, dry days). Rain washes pollen from the air so counts should be lower on cooler, wet days.

2 Listen out daily for the pollen count on Classic Hits (94 - 105FM) from April to July – brought to you by Sterimar.

3 On high pollen days, shower and wash your hair after arriving home and change your clothing.

4 Avoid drying washing on a clothes-line outside when pollen counts are high.

Source: Allergy UK www.allergyuk.org ensure an easy and stress free application.

Breathe Easy Baby Isotonic solution contains no preservatives or additives and is suitable to use from birth to three years.

Sterimar Kids Congestion Relief is a 100% natural purified sea water based solution that is completely free from drugs and preservatives. Sterimar Kids Hypertonic solution, rich in sea minerals and copper salts, helps to gently relieve congestion. The special nozzle is safe to use and can be used from any angle to disperse the solution in very fine droplets.

The Sterimar range is available in pharmacies nationwide. Go to www.sterimarnasal.co.uk to find a retailer near you.

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family members to remove their shoes when they come into the house to avoid bringing more allergens in.

Avoid grassy areas. Encourage them to stay out of places with lots of grass, like parks or fields.

Keep your car windows closed. Some cars can be fitted with pollen filters.

Ask at your local garage for further details.

No gardening. Try to avoid mowing the lawn or weeding when the child with asthma is around. These activities can create clouds of pollen and spores.

De-pollen your pet. Pets can bring pollen in on their fur, so wipe them down with a damp towel when they come in from outside and give them regular baths.

Indoor drying. Dry your clothes inside, as the pollen can cling to clothing outdoors. But if you do dry them outdoors, shake them before bringing them back into the house. This reduces the amount of any pollen and spores that might have blown onto them.

How to treat your child’s Keep doors and windows closed. hay fever symptoms Follow this rule, especially mid-morning Your doctor may suggest using and late afternoon to early medication to help relieve your evening. These are the child's symptoms, such as: times when the pollen - Non-sedating count is usually at its IP T 'S MUM ers is g antihistamines. highest. ig tr g in Avoid ay to - Nasal saline sprays the best w th can help to relieve your Dust, dust, dust. reduce e of hay child’s stuffy nose Vacuum regularly frequency toms. symptoms. Talk to your and dust with a damp fever symp doctor or pharmacist cloth. about which products can What are the safely be used on your child. symptoms of hay fever?

Always follow the instructions on the • frequent bouts of sneezing packaging.

• a runny nose Your doctor or pharmacist can give • blocked nose (either one or both advice on which medication may be nostrils) best for your child.

• itchy ears, nose, throat and roof of the mouth • red, itchy, swollen and/or watery eyes • headaches.

Splash your child’s eyes with cold water regularly. This will help flush out any pollen and will also soothe and cool the eyes.

Smear petroleum jelly around the inside of your little one’s nose. This helps to stop pollen from being inhaled.

Eye protection. Get your child a pair of wrap-around sunglasses to stop pollen entering their eyes.

Opt for fake flowers. Keep fresh flowers out of the house.

88 | easy parenting

88 | easy parenting

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These may be the symptoms of hayfever and 40% of children are affected by them globally. Up to 88% of those have sleep problems. So, it’s no wonder really that these children may feel tired, irritable, accident prone and unable to concentrate on anything.

Things to watch out for with hayfever Being aware of changes in a child’s behaviour might help manage hayfever symptoms and get the right treatment. If they’re struggling to concentrate at school, losing interest in being active or feeling tired and miserable, it could be worth getting them assessed by their GP.

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Did you know that gut flora is established in early infancy and it plays an important role in the development and function of the gastrointestinal and immune system? Sona Babybiotic is an excellent supplement for infants from birth, as it contains 5 billion Bifidobacterium (BB-12) in each daily dose, which helps in the reduction of diarrhoea, colic and respiratory tract infections and may alleviate symptoms of skin irritation.

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Cheerios and ISPCC Childline Celebrate Partnership Nestlé Cereals Ireland and ISPCC Childline celebrated the success of the Cheerios Childline 16 year partnership, which in its final year brings total funds raised to a phenomenal €7.724 million for ISPCC Childline. With thanks to Cheerios support, Childline, Ireland’s only 24-hour listening service for children and young people, answered its 7 millionth call in 2018.

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Pictured are (l to r) Gill Waters, Fundraising Director of the ISPCC; John Church, CEO of the ISPCC; Aisling Curran, Associate Marketing Manager of Nestle Cereals Ireland; and Jennifer Walsh, Commercial Planning and Marketing Manager of Nestle Cereals Ireland.

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Pregnancy And Post-Partum Skincare

NESSA is an independent, female-founded brand, on a mission to change the face of pregnancy and post-partum recovery skincare. They have created a genuinely clean and organic recovery skincare range, designed to address the real issues and needs of every woman on her motherhood journey – from pregnancy, to post-partum recovery, and into parenthood. The range offers uncomplicated and effective skincare alternatives that are as safe for your newborn, as they are for you. NESSA Scar Saviour, £25stg/€28.11.

NESSA Nipple SOS, £19stg/€21.36. www.nessaorganics.com

A clear start Down to Basics

Strip back down to basics with the Uriage Eau Micellaire Thermale range.

Micellar water is made up of micelles (tiny balls of cleansing oil molecules) suspended in soft water. It removes makeup, dirt and impurities along with cleansing and moisturising your skin. Thermal Spring Water is the key ingredient unique to the Uriage dermatological skincare range.

Soak a cotton pad with Eau Micellaire Thermale and delicately wipe the face, eyes, and neck to cleanse in a single step. No need to rinse. The range includes Uriage Eau Micellaire Thermale – Normal to Dry Skin, Uriage Eau Micellaire Thermale – Sensitive Skin subject to Redness, and Uriage Eau Micellaire Thermale – Combination to Oily Skin.

RRP €15 (250ml). Available in pharmacies and at www.uriage.ie

New Dermalogica Clearing Defense SPF30 includes a Mattifying EnviroShield that acts as a barrier between skin and the elements, helping to protect it from UV rays, pollution, free radical damage, oily shine and even make-up – all without clogging pores. The ultra-lightweight moisturiser provides a long-lasting matte finish. Broad Spectrum sunscreen defends against UV rays, which may lead to the appearance of uneven skin tone.

Clearing Defense SPF30 (€31.00) comes in a 59ml bottle and is also available as a 15ml bottle in the Clear Start Breakout Clearing Skin Kit (€32.00). Find it at authorised Dermalogica salons and skin centres nationwide and at www.dermalogica.ie

Discover Your OGX!

One of the world’s best-selling hair care ranges is available in Ireland! The OGX range of salon-inspired shampoos, conditioners and hair treatments is full of exotic ingredients.

This award winning ‘lust-have’ collection of incredible formulas nourishes from root to tip to help bring out your hair’s inner strength and shine.

The range includes tropical blends with Argan Oil of Morocco, Kukui Oil, Coconut Water, Keratin Oil, Coconut Milk, Brazilian Keratin and Biotin & Collagen.

RRP €9.89 available to buy from Tesco, Dunnes Stores, SuperValu, Boots and selected pharmacies.

Nuna Pepp Next

Available in a choice of three colours, Aspen, Frost and Olive – the PEPP Next flat fold design is so small it happily tags along wherever you’re heading and can be wheeled behind like a piece of luggage whenever your little one wants to explore! It even stands upright when folded for easy storage and pairs perfectly with the PIPA series car seats. The complete canopy system, silent pull-down UPF 50 dream drape and all-season seat with a three-position recline allow for super relaxed riding and plenty of space to sleep or stretch too. RRP €300 www.nunababy.com easy parenting | 91

Perfe is not ct a word you n e about ed to worry paren when you’r t. e is wha 'Good enou a t we n gh' e e d for an d trus to aim tm you a re alre e, a there. dy

The truth about perfect parents Social media feeds are crammed with images of perfect parenting moments, because let’s face it most people only want to share the good times, but what’s wrong with being 'good enough', asks Geraldine Walsh

I

know a few 'perfect parents'. The ones who throw out an Instagram snap of Pippa and Posy, holding hands with matching outfits and sequinned bows, the hashtag #SisterlyLove underneath and a hundred instantaneous likes.

The perfect parents who insist on sharing their words of wisdom on the best way to purée, how to ditch the soother and magic your kids into a routine of excellence with everyone sleeping in their own beds. You know, the perfect parents who seem to have their shit together as yours is spilling out of an ill-fitting nappy. #AreYouForReal My friends seem to be dealing with the motherload better than I am, as I see them #Winning or #LivingMyBestLife.

Or are they? That would be a resounding no. They’re trying to figure this mothering gig out just as I am, one day at a time. But they are perhaps, keeping quiet on those less than perfect days.

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Let’s be frank here. There are no perfect parents or perfect kids. We’ve all run out of wipes halfway through cleaning up a Poonami! There are momentary photos, snapped, cropped and filtered into a beautiful perfection.

Which is absolutely fine when we see the before and after but those are rarely popped onto the internet billboard of real life.

Posy’s mum may think she has it made as she pops up a photo of her little girl nestled in her bed, fast asleep by 6:30pm, but we all know she has played the magic dance of wandering the halls at 3am too, which she may neglect to tell us. And so, we weigh up the perfect Insta world against ours.

But we are all overwhelmed with the tantrums of life, often ours and not the kids, regardless of how perfected our snaps are.

Honesty is easier I, for one, am all about being honest about this wonderful storm of parenting. I will tell you when I’m so

Family

tired dizzy spells have hit, when I want to run out of the house or lock myself in the cupboard with a packet of Skips.

If only everyone realised it’s perfectly okay to feel the weight of the hard moments with irritable kids and exhaustion. Maybe then, I wouldn’t feel so bad about a camera reel full of snaps with scrunched-up eyes as crying erupts or bored, tired faces after a failed family day out.

I have compared my real world to those stunning feeds and wonder where I’m faltering. I have listened to my friends as they share their delightful stories of a blissful motherhood as they juggle the world, the moon and all the stars. I wonder why they haven’t burnt out yet because I can just about juggle two kids and a house, not a solar system, and I may or may not have dropped the ball a few times. I have.

I’m happy with good enough The idea of perfect motherhood is for the parenting A-Z books. Real life happens outside of those pages, and past our screens. Perfect is not a word you need to worry about when you’re a parent. 'Good enough' is what we need to aim for and trust me, you are already there.

I don’t want to be a perfect mother who battles with standards too high to reach, fights guilt or is afraid to screw up once in a while. I want to be the mother who is attainable, knows exactly what her children need and what she needs, and does her best to manage it all. The mother who gives herself permission to fail, get frustrated, be worn out in these ordinary, exhausting days. The Good Enough Mother.

In the Kitchen

ily Fam ng i cook tion ira insp

In this section 94 Summer recipes 96 The Mediterranean taste

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In the kitchen

Two delicious and summery treats from cookbook author and blogger Jolene Cox

F L AVO U R S

When the sun shines in Ireland you have to just seize the moment get out there and dine alfresco. My two recipes this month are perfect for evening sunshine suppers in the garden or weekend family picnics in the park. All we need now is for the weather to co-operate.

Bacon and cheese Jambon Makes 8 1 tablespoon butter 1 tablespoon plain flour 200ml milk (warmed) 100g white mature cheddar 50g parmesan cheese 6 smoked rashers 1 sheet of puff pastry (320g) 1 egg yolk Method 1 Preheat oven to 180°C/gas mark 4. Line a baking tray with greaseproof paper.

2 Cut your pastry into eight rectangles.

Chop the bacon into little squares removing the fat and fry in a pan until golden and crisp.

3 In a saucepan melt butter over a medium heat and add the flour and whisk. Gradually pour in your warmed milk (a few seconds in the microwave will do) 50 ml at a time, whisking after every 50 ml, until you’re left with a smooth white sauce.

4 Grate both types of cheese and add to the sauce until it's melted.

Season with a little salt and pepper and add the crispy bacon squares.

5 The sauce will be quite thick, as it needs to stay on the pastry. Add a tablespoon of the bacon and cheese mix to the centre of each pastry rectangle.

6 Fold in each corner and brush with egg yolk. Bake for 40 minutes and that’s it, delicious hot or cold.

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In the kitchen

Barbecue chicken Drumsticks Serves 4 8 chicken Drumsticks For the dry rub 1 tablespoon of brown sugar 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon garlic salt

1 teaspoon onion powder Homemade barbecue glaze 2 tablespoons honey 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons ketchup 1 tablespoon smoked paprika Method 1 You will need two mixing bowls and a large lined baking tray. Preheat over to 180°C/ gas mark 4.

2 With sharp scissors, remove the skin and fat from each drumstick. In a bowl

mix together all your dried spices.

Cover each drumstick with the dry spice rub and place onto a lined baking tray.

3 Oven bake for 40 minutes turning each drumstick after 20 minutes. In another mixing bowl combine the honey, soy, ketchup and smoked paprika to make your glaze.

4 After 40 minutes toss the drumsticks into the glaze making sure each one is covered. Serve on a platter with leafy greens and let the whole family tuck in.

easy parenting | 95

In the kitchen

Delicious recipes from Mediterranean Mood Food: What to Eat to Help Beat Depression and Live a Longer, Healthier Life from author and dietitian Paula Mee

Baked cod on a bed of ratatouille

Seaweeds are also called sea vegetables. Kombu is a popular one and is a rich source of several minerals, including calcium, magnesium, potassium, copper and iron. Seaweeds also have a high iodine content, especially the brown algae varieties. You only need to use a sprinkling of flakes instead of salt or a few small strips as a garnish on seafood dishes, such as this one.

Serves 4 Olive oil 1 red onion, sliced 1 garlic clove, crushed 3 tomatoes, diced 1 red pepper, deseeded and diced 1 aubergine, diced 1 courgette, diced Freshly ground black pepper 4 cod fillets Plain flour, for dusting Pinch of paprika 96 | easy parenting

Chopped fresh parsley, to garnish A few strips of kombu seaweed, to garnish (optional) Sweet potato wedges or boiled baby potatoes, to serve 1 Preheat the oven to 180°C. Lightly grease a baking tray.

Heat a splash of oil in a large frying pan over a medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and saut. until just cooked, then add all the other vegetables. Cover the pan and cook slowly for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with black pepper.

2 Meanwhile, dust the cod fillets with flour seasoned with paprika. Heat another splash of oil in a non-stick frying pan over a medium heat. Add the fish fillets and pan-fry for 1–2 minutes on each side.

3 Transfer the fish to the oiled baking tray and finish in the oven for 6–8 minutes, until cooked through.

4 Divide the ratatouille between four wide, shallow bowls and top with a fish fillet. Garnish with a little chopped fresh parsley and a few strips of kombu seaweed (if using). Serve with chunky sweet potato wedges or boiled baby potatoes.

In the kitchen

Apricot Fool

Fresh apricots are divine but hard to come by all year round. If they are in season, stone them, simmer them gently in 2 tablespoons of apple juice and use as described here.

This small fruit has big benefits. Dried versions still contain the fibre and many protective phytonutrients, such as flavonoids. A meal pattern rich in flavonoids can improve numerous cognitive skills, including memory, learning and decisionmaking, and can also help to prevent age-related mental decline.

Serves 4 175g dried apricots 200ml apple juice or water Finely grated zest of 1 lemon 500ml Greek or natural yogurt 4 dessertspoons chopped mixed nuts Oat biscuits, to serve

Method 1 Put the apricots in a saucepan with the apple juice or water and simmer gently for 10–12 minutes, until the apricots are soft but not overcooked.

Roughly mash or blend the apricots to a purèe. Set aside to cool.

2 Add the lemon zest to the yogurt and mix together. Roughly fold the apricots into the yogurt mix.

3 Add 3 dessertspoons of the

chopped mixed nuts halfway through folding in, then spoon into four dessert glasses and chill for 2 hours.

4 Top each glass with the remaining nuts and serve two small oat biscuits alongside.

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In the kitchen

In the kitchen

Courgette and goat’s cheese omelette

Many of us can enjoy eggs despite the fact that they contain dietary cholesterol, as it has very little effect on our blood cholesterol levels.

Chemically processed fat, such as trans fat, and certain saturated fats, however, do impact badly on our blood cholesterol levels and on the blood flow to the brain and around the body. Eggs are a source of choline, a precursor of another important brain nutrient, citicoline.

Citicoline helps increase the blood flow to the brain and enhances its ability to utilise glucose, which is the primary fuel for the brain.

Serves 2 1 tbsp olive oil, plus an extra drizzle to serve 1 small courgette per person, grated 1 garlic clove, crushed Salt and freshly ground black pepper 4 eggs 50g goat’s cheese, crumbled 98 | easy parenting

A handful of chopped fresh dill A handful of spinach, to serve Method 1 Heat half a tablespoon of the oil in a non-stick ovenproof pan over a medium heat. Add the grated courgette and cook for about 2 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute. Season to taste with

salt and pepper, then remove from the heat.

2 Beat the eggs in a large bowl with the goat’s cheese. Add a little more salt and pepper, then stir in the courgette and dill.

3 Clean and dry the pan, then return to a medium-high heat and add the remaining olive oil. When hot, pour in half the egg mixture per person, tilting the pan to distribute the eggs and filling. During the first few minutes of cooking, shake the pan gently and tilt it slightly, then use a spatula to lift an edge and let the uncooked eggs run underneath.

4 Turn the heat to low, cover the pan and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, shaking the pan gently now and then, until the bottom is golden.

Inspired by this fascinating new research, in her latest book Mediterranean Mood Food, Paula Mee pinpoints the beneficial traits of a traditional way of eating and presents a straightforward Mediterranean Mood Food Plan (MMFP), with over 70 easy-to-prepare recipes – rich in healthy fats, wholegrain, unrefined carbs and proteins, including Spinach, Feta and Egg Bake, Lamb Meatballs, Mushroom Bourguignon and Easy Baked Pears. RRP €19.99

get crafty

our Put y hat on ive ith creat t busy w nd ge and make-a fun some d family n do a ctivities a

In this section 100 Summer creations 101 Summer sunset

easy parenting | 99

Summer creations

You only need a few items to make both of these lovely summer inspired crafts from Sadhbh Devlin

FLUTTERING BUTTERFLY These floating, fluttering butterflies are easy to make and lots of fun to play with.

Make your butterflies in your favourite colours and bring them out to the garden to fly in the summer breeze!

You will need: Coloured Tissue Paper Pipe Cleaner String/Thread Stick/Wooden BBQ Skewer (with the sharp tip removed!)

Method: 1 Cut two squares of tissue paper in your favourite colours. Place one on top of the other and crumple them up to add texture.

2 Squeeze the square in the middle to make a bow shape and secure with the pipe cleaner. Use the ends of the pipe cleaner for the butterfly’s antennae.

3 Tie the string/thread to the centre of the pipe cleaner body.

4 Attach the other end of the string to a stick and get ready to fly!

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Crafts expert Sadhbh Devlin

Crafts & Activities

SUMMER SUNSET Did you know that you can ‘paint’ with tissue paper? Celebrate the beautiful summer-evening skies with this simple but effective technique. There is a city-scape featured here but perhaps you could make a beach or another nature scene!

You will need: Coloured Tissue Paper (Tip: cheaper tissue paper tends to ‘bleed’ more) Watercolour paper Paintbrush & Water Black Permanent Marker Method: 1 Draw a landscape scene using your black marker and tear the tissue paper into rough shapes.

2 Use the paintbrush and water to ‘paint’ the areas you want to colour and place the tissue paper on top. The colours will bleed into each other. After a few minutes you can remove the tissue paper.

3 Leave the painting aside until it is completely dry.

4 Next, finish the picture by colouring the landscape black.

About Sadhbh Sadhbh Devlin has always been told she has a head for hats. In truth, she only owns two hats, both woollen and shapeless. She does, however, wear many metaphorical hats. She is mother to five-year-old twin girls, wife to a very tall husband, a crafter, a party-lover, an avid photo snapper, a sometime production designer and soon-to-be TV presenter. She writes about all of these hats and more at her award-winning blog www.wherewishescomefrom.com. Find her on Twitter @wherewishes

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Crafts and activities

quacking

Duck cup

This experiment from scientist Dr Naomi Lavelle is sure to make your little scientists giggle as they explore how sound is made in a simple and entertaining way.

You will need: • A plastic cup • Cotton string or wool • A scissors • A paper clip • A small bowl of water • Coloured paper, pen, tape to decorate (optional)

The science bit:

What to do: 1 Firstly cut a piece of string about 40 to 50cm long and tie one end to the paper clip.

2 Next, ask an adult to make a small hole in the bottom of the cup and thread your string all the way through until the paper clip sits against the underside of the cup.

3 Turn your cup over so the string hangs down, it should look a little like a bell.

4 You can decorate your cup to make it look like a duck if you’d like, adding a beak, eyes and wings (optional).

5 Dip the string in the bowl of water so that it gets wet all along its length.

6 Now for the fun part, hold the cup with one hand and, with the other hand, pinch the string near the top, between your two fingers. Keep this grip on the string as you pull your fingers down along the string. Pull and stop, pull and stop, pull and stop until you reach the end. You should hear some funny sounds, like a duck quacking… quack, quack, quack.

7 Repeat again and again, trying different techniques to see if you can make different sounds.

8 You will get different sounds with different types of string so you could change the string and try again, or try wetting your fingers instead of the string, does that change the sound? There are lots of different ways to change this experiment.

As you pull your fingers down along the string the rubbing (called friction) between the your fingers and the string makes the string shake a little (we calling this shaking vibration). These vibrations travel through the air and bounce around the walls of the upturned cup making them sound even louder, like a quacking duck.

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sk A The expert team nine pages of expert advice

TRACY DONEGAN

DAVID KAVANAGH

from our expert panel

CAROLINE O’CONNOR

FIONA O’CONNOR

YOU ASKED ABOUT:

DR SARA O’BYRNE

YOU ASKED ABOUT:

YOU ASKED ABOUT

YOU ASKED ABOUT:

YOU ASKED ABOUT:

Travelling safely while pregnant, and itching

What to do when your partner is addicted to their smartphone

Starting baby onto solids

How to strengthen and tone up stomach muscles

Teaching a three year old not to hit others

ASK THE MIDWIFE

RELATIONSHIPS

NUTRITION AND DIET

FITNESS

EMOTIONAL HEALTH

P114

P110

P111

P104

FIONA O’FARRELL

LOUISE BARRETT

YOU ASKED ABOUT:

YOU ASKED ABOUT:

YOU ASKED ABOUT:

YOU ASKED ABOUT:

Reducing breastfeeds without upsetting your toddler

Separation anxiety and your toddler

Getting a toddler used to the cot bed

Helping a two year with speech development

CHILDREN’S DEVELOPMENT

CHILDCARE

CHILDREN AND SLEEP

SPEECH AND LANGUAGE

P106

P113

MARIA MURPHY

P112

EMMA O’LEARY

P108

We want to hear from you!

Do you have a question you want answered? Email expert@easyparenting. ie. Send it to us and we’ll get one of our experts to answer it for you.

The answer will appear in the next issue!

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easy parenting | 103

Fiona Ask

FITNESS

Physiotherapist Fiona O’Connor answers your questions 1 Diastasis of the Rectus Abdominis (Abdominal separation)

Fiona is a chartered physiotherapist About Margaret who specialises in women’s health. She Margaret Dunne is an Dysfunction accredited has an MSc in Pelvic Floor psychotherapist whoinstructor. specialises and is a certified pilates She is in fertility, based in Kerrypsychosexual Physiotherapyand in Killarney, relationships therapy. pilates She classes where she runs post-natal hastreats twenty years’ and women forexperience pelvic health as a fertility and issues.

She hascounsellor also created Bye Bye psychotherapist.

Margaret Bump, in conjunction with Thehas Bump appeared various Room, whichon is an onlineradio post shows. natal www.sextherapydublin.com rehabilitation programme based on modified pilates and strength training.

Q

Since the birth of my daughter 11 months ago, I feel like my stomach is flabby and bloated. I’d love to tone it up. What dietary and fitness actions can I start to take to try and tone up my tummy area?

A

If you are experiencing bloating, it is best to address this first. Your GP will be able to refer you to your local HSE dietician who will be able to guide you to identify areas to improve on in relation to diet and food. One of the hardest body parts for mums to strengthen after having a baby is undoubtedly the tummy area, but before you start engaging in an exercise programme there are two basic things to check:

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Diastasis of the rectus abdominis muscle (DRA) is a widening and thinning of the connective tissue joining the two strips of the sit-up muscles down the middle of the abdomen. If you have a DRA you may notice a bulging in the centre of your tummy as you get up from lying down.

How do I check for it?

Lie flat on your back with knees bent. Place the fingers of your hand, fingertips facing you, just above your belly button. Inhale. As you exhale, lift your head and shoulders off the floor. Use fingers on your left hand to move right to left and feel the gap between the two sides of the sit-up muscle.

• 2 fingers wide or less: No diastasis is present.

• 2 to 3 fingers wide: Diastasis is present.

• 4 to 5 fingers wide: Significant diastasis that requires a specialised physiotherapy assessment. It is best to avoid any exercise that may cause doming if you have a DRA.

2 Posture Tummy strength is a whole body issue. How you hold yourself day to day will affect the ability of the tummy muscles to work. If you walk around all day with your upper back slumped and shoulders rounded and hips shifted forward on your ankles, then the tummy muscles will be lengthened.

Take a picture of yourself side on and look at how your body is stacked up. Where are your hips in relation to your ankles? Where are your shoulders? Ideal posture will have the hips stacked over the ankles and shoulders over hips.

The second posture check is lying on your back. Align the two round bones at the front of your hips with the pubic bone to form a level triangle. Work your hands up towards

your ribcage. The ribcage should ideally be in the same plane (ie: level). A large number of postnatal women will have some element of rib flare so the ribs are much higher than the pelvis when lying on their back. This, again, puts the tummy muscles in a less optimal position to work. To address rib flare, you first need to address your breathing, as it is usually associated with a shallow breath. Diaphragmatic breathing where you breathe deeper into the abdomen will help align the ribs better. Spending time on basic restorative exercises is worth the effort in the long run as they set the foundation for more intensive exercises later on.

How To Strengthen Tummy Muscles: 1 Breathing pattern Re-establishing good diaphragmatic function is the first part of strengthening your tummy muscles. There are free videos on YouTube on this technique (Search Core Breath) or you could book an appointment with a pelvic health physiotherapist who will guide you through the foundation work.

2 Weight training When your glutes and shoulder muscles are strong you will stand much better allowing the tummy muscles to work more efficiently.

3 Cardio in good posture Next time you are out for a walk/run think about how you are carrying yourself. Maybe you could focus on standing a little taller and you might find your tummy muscles are getting a work out as well.

4 Pilates/Yoga type exercises Pilates and yoga work on your posture, your breath and help strengthen your whole body, including your tummy muscles.

CHILDCARE

Emma Ask

Childcare expert Emma O’Leary answers your questions

About Emma

Emma O’Leary is a paediatric speech and language therapist and mother to 3 boys. She is also a parenting blogger and creator of lifewithtinyhumans.com

Q

I recently brought my just gone two-year-old to his developmental check up with the public health nurse. He’s doing well physically, and he’s a very happy little boy but his speech has been slow to develop. The nurse has asked us to come back in three months and suggested that he might need to see a speech therapist. She gave me a few tips on how to help his speech come along, but is there anything I could be doing at home that will help him use more words?

A

There are lots of things you can be doing in the meantime to support your little one’s language development. One of the first

strategies I always recommend to parents is getting down to your child’s level so they can see your face when you are speaking. When you do this, your child has the opportunity to see your face and tune in to what you are saying. When you get down to your child’s level it also shows them that you are engaged and interested in anything that they might try to say. It’s a very simple strategy, but can be incredibly powerful. Try some simple changes like kneeling in front of your child when sharing a book instead of side by side, or kneeling in front of them to take off their coat instead of coming from behind.

Follow your child’s lead Another thing to try is to follow your child’s lead during playtime and everyday routines.

Waiting and watching to see what is of interest to them makes it easier for you to join in and add new language and learning.

For example, if your child enjoys playing with cars, follow their lead and join in the play, narrating and commenting on what you are doing during your play together. This way your child will be learning new language during playtime without even realising!

The very best toy any child can have is you.

So make a point of switching off (devices, TV’s and phones) and tuning in to playtime together at some point during the day.

Similarly using every day routines is a great way of adding language and learning for little ones. From brushing our teeth in the morning to helping prepare food at dinner time, give your child lots of opportunity to hear new vocabulary by talking about what

you are doing as you do it, emphasising the important words so they stand out.

1+ Rule The ‘1+ Rule’ is another strategy to keep in mind. If your child is already using single words and you want to support them in trying to join two or more words together, simply add one word onto what they have said. For example, if your child sees Daddy’s shoes and says ‘shoe’ you might respond ‘Daddy’s shoe’. Or if your child has started to put two words together you simply add an extra word on. For example: ‘big car’ you could respond ‘big RED car’.

By using the 1+ rule you are repeating back what they have said (making them feel important and listened to) and you are adding a new piece of information for them to hear (without any expectation that they will repeat it after you).

Prepare for visit to SLT If you are referred to a speech and language therapist, before your appointment, make sure you write down any queries or questions you have before your visit and bring them along with you. There can be a lot of information discussed during a speech and language assessment appointment and sometimes your initial worries and questions can go unanswered when you are busy encouraging and supporting your child during the appointment.

easy parenting | 105

Sara Ask

EMOTIONAL HEALTH

Senior clinical psychologist Dr Sara O’Byrne answers your questions on family and relationship issues

About Sara

Dr Sara O’Byrne (BA, MSc, D Clin Psych) is a Clinic Director and Senior Clinical Psychologist with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents and their families. Sara provides consultation, assessment and therapy services within a multidisciplinary team setting at the Treehouse Practice in the Beacon South Quarter. www.treehousepractice.ie

Q

My daughter is three years old, and she’s always been a really happy-golucky cheerful little girl. Lately, however she has started to hit and pinch me when she doesn’t get her own way, or sometimes she just lashes out for no reason.

I have noticed that she does it when she’s over-tired or feeling unwell. She loves play school so all’s good on that front. I work part-time but I also have a one-year-old child who takes my attention away from her when we’re at home. I feel guilty that

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my daughter might feel rejected.

Another issue that concerns is that my partner was recently made redundant and he has been very down since this happened. It’s affected the mood of our household so I worry that this could be affecting her behaviour too. How can I stop her from hitting/pinching?

How can I reason with her to explain that it’s not acceptable?

A

From your description of your daughter, it is clear that you have a lovely reflective quality to your parenting and you are adopting this in order to understand her needs.

Thus, rather than trying to apportion blame to your daughter for hitting and pinching you have been trying to figure out the factors that might be contributing to these new occurrences for her. This process, often called mentalisation, in which one tries to figure out the thoughts, intentions, or experiences of others, is associated with increased emotional regulation skills in children. So you are certainly already on the right path to supporting your daughter with this phase in her life.

Change can be a factor All children react to transitions, sometimes in ways we might not even notice. Children with a quieter disposition might be more clingy following transition to a new school, for instance, others might react with increased agitation or indeed aggression

to changes in their environment. Preschool children are particularly vulnerable to tendencies to express emotions through their behaviour, especially since their cognitive and language development does not always allow them to express their needs more directly.

Focus on the positive behaviour You have mentioned some really important changes and transitions for your daughter of late. Firstly, the arrival of a new sibling and transition for your daughter in terms of sharing your attention has been a key change for her.

There are lots of positive ways to support her in this area. You can start by praising pro-social behaviours that she displays towards her sibling, and ensure that you tell others of this kindness. In this way your daughter will start to build up a story of herself as caring, helpful, and a good sibling.

Sleep plays a role Secondly, you have rightly identified that issues such as tiredness and sickness play a role in your daughter’s behaviour.

Children of her age need approximately 10-12 hours sleep per 24 hours, inclusive of naps. If this is not the case for her, start by pulling the sleep backwards by five minutes at a time so that the change is gradual for her. Good sleep hygiene involves having a period of wind-down before bed, minimisation of screen-time and incorporation of calming activities such as bath-time and music.

Explain the reasons behind the changes Thirdly, you have identified that this is a period of stress within your household, related to your partner’s redundancy and impact on his mood. It sounds like your daughter is picking up on changes in mood and tone in the household, and perhaps feeling more unsettled as result. Being exposed to others’ moods is inevitable as she grows up, so this is not another reason to play the “blame game” as parents. Rather, it is important that your daughter is given a child-appropriate explanation for the change, so that she understands it as best she can. For her age, concrete information about why Daddy is at home more will be important.

Apart from tackling this from her perspective, it is also crucial that both you and your partner seek your own supports.

Losing a job is known to be a key stressor within any relationship. Added to this can be associated financial, emotional and social changes. Now might be a good time to reflect and consider how you look after your own emotional needs as

a couple, both individually and together.

This might involve seeking professional support or attending couples counselling.

Children are often great teachers and it might help to think of your daughter’s behaviour as shining a light on what might be needed for you all.

Knowing all these factors has helped you to adopt a sensitive and reflective approach to caring for your daughter.

It is not surprising that you are the one she is choosing to show these behaviours to. Children will often display most challenging behaviours towards their primary attachment figure as it is safe to do so. However, this is not a long-term pattern that we want to encourage.

Thus, introducing expectations for our children in terms of acceptable and nonacceptable ways of expressing emotions is key. What is important is to let your child know that the emotion is acceptable and universal (for instance, “everyone feels angry” or “we all have times when we feel sad”) but to let her know that there are rules and boundaries in relation

to how she is allowed to express this.

Understanding consequences For instance, an important rule is “no hurting”. Thus, if your daughter does hurt or injure you, let her know and have her involved in repairing the hurt. This might involve rubbing the sore spot or placing a plaster on your hand. This cycle of repair is important in laying the foundations of empathy and understanding that her actions have consequences. Teaching your daughter safe alternatives then follows.

This might involve the use of drawings or role-play to act out emotions, using calming activities such as children’s yoga, or physical activity.

Regardless of the approach you work out together, what is important for her is that she is learning ways of managing difficult emotions through the positive relationship she has with you. This will serve as her template for managing distress in to the future.

easy parenting | 107

Fiona Ask

CHILDREN’S DEVELOPMENT

Occupational therapist Fiona O’Farrell answers your questions about your child’s development

About Fiona

Fiona O’Farrell BSc. O.T. is a consultant paediatric occupational therapist specialising in baby development, sleep difficulties and premature babies. Validated

By Department of Health. Board Member for Irish Neonatal Health Alliance. Fiona is a mum of three and strives to reassure parents of the best ways to give their child the best start in life and get a good night’s sleep. For one to one consultations and further information. www.fionaofarrell.ie

Q

My daughter is 19 months old, and I’ve been breastfeeding her since birth. I’m going back to work soon, but I’m having a hard time weaning her from breastfeeding. I am in a habit of breastfeeding her before she sleeps in the afternoon and night, or when she needs soothing.

She is extremely attached to me, if I go into another room she cries and calls out for me. So as you can guess, I don’t go out much! Can you please advise me how I can create some healthy distance between us, so that I have a happy toddler when I go back to work?

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A

This is a query I frequently get asked. Have you heard of separation anxiety?

This is a developmental process which begins around eight months and is a very normal part of development. It can vary in intensity from child to child and how it impacts. I see a lot of babies, and toddlers where separation anxiety is impacting on their sleep.

I believe this is something you can help your toddler with, which will have a positive impact on how the breastfeeding progresses.

By helping your daughter, you will help her feel more secure when you are not around. This is an important foundation to help develop before you think about tackling the dependency on breastfeeding as a soother.

There are some lovely games you can play with your daughter during the day, which will help her feeling of security when you are not around.

You might like to try the following: - Sitting in front of your daughter at a table, using a towel, hide under the towel. Then play peek a boo. Progress to hiding behind the sofa, playing peek a boo, before progressing to moving outside the room and coming back in again, playing peek a boo. This will help your daughter understand you still exist even when she can no longer see you.

- Remember every time you leave the room, tell your daughter. Do not be tempted to sneak out. When you

come back, give your daughter lots of cuddles and reassurance.

When you have engaged your daughter in the above over a few weeks and you can see your daughter becoming more comfortable with you leaving, you can then look at the breastfeeding and the link with soothing. Breastfeeding is lovely, and it is totally parental preference as to when you want to stop it with your daughter. You can continue with a little tweaking to help reduce the need for soothing and sleep dependency.

I would recommend you begin during the day, not at night, to commence breastfeeding earlier in your daughter’s routine. i.e. before she becomes sleepy and uses it to soothe to sleep. When you finish the breastfeed, you might like to try an alternative to help soothe your daughter, an example is massage.

An alternative way to soothe Do remember, your daughter will require an alternative as abruptly stopping the breastfeed and not replacing it with anything else will be too stressful for your daughter. When your daughter becomes comfortable with the alternative, example massage, you can then try this in the evening when she will naturally be more tired and dependent on you to help her soothe. When she becomes comfortable with the evening you can then try the alternative as part of her bedtime routine. Therefore, reducing the complete need on you to soothe

your daughter. It might be also worth trying if you have a partner, who can also try doing the massage.

It’s best to begin this initially during the day.

Another important point to consider is if your daughter is in

any way tired you will find she will depend more on the breastfeeding and the massage might not be as successful. So, it is important to be tuned in to when she is becoming sleepy rather than trying to introduce the alternative when she is already

tired. At this point she will only be able for the breastfeed.

Try the above over the next month and do come back if you require more guidance. Best of luck on returning to work.

easy parenting | 109

David Ask

RELATIONSHIP EXPERT

David Kavanagh answers your questions about relationships

About David

David is a systemic family therapist based in Dundrum, Co. Dublin. He has more than 16 years’ experience as a family and sex therapist.

He has successfully worked with hundreds of couples. He offers professional advice for a subject he realises can be quite touchy for most. Therefore he strives to make his sessions comfortable, non-judgemental and of course confidential.

Q

My husband and I have been married for eight years and we have two kids under five years.

I’m worried that we’ve lost our connection, and I blame smart phones for this! He is constantly buried in his phone, to the point where if I ask him a question I have to give him a nudge and raise my voice. It’s so frustrating. It’s reached the point where I text him questions when we’re in the same room together! We could be sitting on the couch together or out to dinner on a rare night out, and we’re worlds apart because of the constant pull to check the phone. My husband’s phone activity is a mix of checking work mails, football scores, social media or just simply looking at it for the sake of it. His phone addiction

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has definitely impacted our sex life, I feel like he exhausts himself from too much screen time, leaving no energy for anything else! How can I make him realise that there’s more to life than screen time and get our relationship back on track?

in an open and honest way that the time he spends on his smart-phone is impacting your and your family’s relationship negatively. To change this, he has to make changes in his life.

A

What can you do?

Be firm and put your foot down.

It’s as simple as that. When he’s on his smartphone, he is constantly unavailable to you and the kids. Tell him that you feel like the phone has become more important to him than his family and that you don’t feel like you matter to him anymore.

He is constantly unavailable to you and the kids, which means that you might have to do more chores, errands, housework and look after the children, while he is spending time in his virtual relationships.

Smart-phone addiction is a very common problem in relationships. Currently, I’m providing therapy for about five to six couples who are struggling with the same problem. You may have noticed that he gets frustrated and angry if you or your children bother him while he’s on his phone, which might lead to you doing more of the housework and childcare responsibilities.

Your partner, who seems to be addicted to his phone, will probably minimise his usage of it and try to make you feel bad for also being on your phone, if you confront him about his addiction.

Be clear As a partner of a smart-phone addict, you should be very clear with him and tell him why you’re upset. If you think that your partner is addicted to his smart phone, tell him about your concerns and encourage him to go completely cold turkey. If he agrees to it, he shouldn’t even be allowed to have an hour a day to spend on his smart-phone, tablet, laptop or computer.

How do smart phone addicts recover?

The first step to recover from smart-phone addiction is to have your partner accept the consequences of his actions. Tell him

What should a couple do to overcome the addiction?

Seek help from a professional psychologist who specialises in smartphone addiction. A smart-phone addict should not be allowed on the internet at all when he is at home.

Any internet usage should be turned off completely for at least one month (30 days). Allowing a smartphone addict even one hour’s time online at home is the same as telling an alcoholic that he is allowed one bottle of wine, but no more. Our brain is not wired in a way to resist something right in front of you when you’re addicted to it.

DIET & NUTRITION

Caroline Ask

Consultant dietitian Caroline O’Connor answers your nutrition and diet questions

About Caroline

Registered dietitian Caroline O’Connor holds a BSc (Hons) in Human Nutrition and Dietetics from Trinity College/DIT. She is a member of the Irish Nutrition and Dietetic Institute (www.indi.ie) and is registered with CORU – the Irish body responsible for regulating health and social care professionals. She is passionate about getting babies and children off to the best possible start in life with food, feeding and nutrition. www.solidstart.ie

effect not just on future health but also on food preference. Yes, you can train your baby to like certain foods, how cool is that? At the same time, we now know that it’s not just about WHAT you feed your baby but HOW you feed them. HOW you feed your baby plays a vital part in your baby’s ability to control how much to eat as well as your baby’s overall relationship with food now and as an adult.

Here are some tips to get you started: Try vegetable-first weaning This evidence-based approach concentrates on offering your baby ‘harder to like’ foods like broccoli, spinach and cauliflower right from the off. The key to this approach is exposure, repetition and perseverance.

Always feed responsively Whether baby led weaning or offering spoon feeds it’s important so stay in touch with your baby’s fullness and hunger cues. Are they telling you they’ve had enough by turning their head away? If so, let it go. Always let your baby lead the way.

Don’t stress about portion sizes There will be days when your baby eats a lot and days when they eat less than the guideline amounts. Some foods may be refused outright on a given day. Don’t panic, think of each meal as a learning opportunity for your baby. Don’t offer replacement meals, simply move onto the next milk feed or meal. It’ll never be more than one or two hours away!

Q

. I am aiming to start weaning in two weeks time when my baby turns 26 weeks. I’m so excited to get her started on solids, but I’m nervous too. What important factors should I bear in mind before I introduce my little girl to solid foods?

A

Thanks to research conducted into early feeding we now know that weaning is about more than trying to get your baby to eat three square meals a day. We have lots of evidence that WHAT you feed your baby is likely to have a life-long

easy parenting | 111

PAEDIATRIC SLEEP

Maria Ask

Paediatric sleep consultant Maria Murphy answers your sleep questions

About Maria

Maria Murphy is a Baby Sleep the Night trained and certified sleep consultant and mum of two children.

If you have a baby, toddler or child who doesn’t sleep through the night then it really doesn’t have to be that way! With Maria’s help your sleepless nights can be a thing of the past within 10 days, often less. Maria offers FREE initial 15 minute phone consultations.

Email: maria.murphy@ babysleepthenight.com Website: www.babysleepthenight. com/mariamurphy Facebook: babysleepthenight/ mariamurphy

Q

My little one is getting too big for her cot so we’ve got a bed for her, but she refuses to sleep in the new bed. How can we make the transition easier, and encourage her to make the switch?

A

It can be a huge change moving your child from her nice cosy cot to a bed and can be extremely daunting.

I recommend sitting and talking to your daughter about what’s happening.

Involve her as much as possible by allowing her to choose new bedding etc. as it will help her understand and allows

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her to have some control in the process.

Here are my top tips to help with a smooth transition: 1 Bedroom setting: Ensure the setting remains exactly the same whilst you do the transition. We want her sleep environment to remain the same with the only change being the bed.

2 Bedtime routine: Children thrive on routine and the set order of steps in a routine helps the body and brain cue that sleep is next. Pick a set bedtime routine and remain 100% consistent every night.

3 Security item: I recommend a lovey, teddy or similar item from 12 months old (once you feel it is safe to use it) that should stay in her bed at all times so at bedtime she will look forward to being reunited with it. The idea is to encourage her to have dependency on this at night in her new bed without it being a parent and something she can easily find without having to wake you!

4 Independency: Once her bedtime routine is complete, she should climb into bed by herself, pull up her covers and then you say good night. It’s important to encourage her to be independent and learn to tuck herself in; this will help if her covers lift off in the middle of the night and avoid her calling out for you to tuck her back in.

5 Sleep clock & reward charts: I recommend introducing a sleep clock and to keep it a simple version. My favourite clock to use has an animal on the clock face. The animal is walking in the sun

by day and is asleep in bed at night.

Once the clock is set correctly this can be a rule enforcer to encourage her to stay in bed when the animal is asleep at night and only get up when the animal is awake in the morning.

Children love it, relate to the animals and can also name them!

Reward charts are also a must!

Explain to her how proud you will be if she is a good girl and stays in her bed until morning. If she stays in bed give her heaps of praise, a reward sticker for her chart, plus an instant reward e.g. a sticker for her to wear for the day, a small biscuit or chocolate treat (it won’t be forever). It’s really important to relate these rewards to her staying in bed until morning.

6 Parent support: Once she’s in bed offer her some support. I suggest a parent sits by the bed whilst she is settling. You can say keywords like ‘Good night’ every few minutes if it helps. Stay to support her until she falls asleep in her new bed. If she does anything other than going to sleep (like talking to you) then you can refer to the clock showing her its night time, say your keywords and repeat every few minutes, if needed, until she falls asleep. You can gradually retreat out of the bedroom over a few nights whilst she gets used to the switch to her bed.

Louise Ask

CHILDCARE

Childcare expert Louise Barrett answers your questions

A About Louise

Director of Childcare at Park Academy Childcare, Louise’s heart lies with working on impacting best practice for the children and families in their care.

She holds Early Years, Montessori, Forest Schooling and Management Qualifications, and is currently completing her B.A. Hons Degree in Early Childhood Education. In her spare time, she is busy caring for her three small children.

Q

My daughter started crèche a few months ago, but in the last few weeks she’s been crying every morning when we drop her off. The staff assure us that she settles down after 10-15 minutes, and have sent photos of her having fun, but it’s still really distressing for me and my husband. Do you have any advice for how we can help her, and make mornings go smoother?

I am glad to hear that you are getting reassurance that she is settling quickly but I appreciate that it is still very upsetting for you daily. If she has a good day and is perfectly fine when you collect her, it sounds like she may be experiencing some level of separation anxiety.

Separation anxiety is a very common issue that occurs in most children and generally peaks between one to two years of age.

When children are going through a phase of struggling with separation, saying goodbye to their parents each morning can be particularly challenging. I would advise that you try and keep your weekday morning routine the same every day. A good structured routine helps the child to understand what to expect every day. For example, if possible, keep your morning chores such as dressing, breakfast, brushing teeth etc the same each morning. Try and leave the house at the same time and ideally have the same parent dropping her off each day to crèche (even just for a few weeks until she gets over this phase). You will find that your crèche will follow a strict routine, so arriving at the same time each day will allow your little girl to know what to expect when she arrives.

When you arrive at crèche, you will naturally be feeling a little anxious yourself as you do not want the tears to start like the day before. Try your best not to show your feelings to your child, she needs to see that you are okay for her to follow suit. Parents often prolong goodbyes which makes it much harder on the child. It is very important that you give your kiss and cuddle goodbye and hand her over to the early years educator rather than have them prise her off you. Your child needs to see this positive body language from you in order to know how to deal with the transition herself.

Another possible suggestion is to practice leaving her over the weekends. Plan a trip to the local shop and leave her with a trusted carer. Always say goodbye, sneaking out only creates further anxiety for children as they are then constantly anxious that you might leave them. Return promptly without making a fuss so she begins to understand this is a normal part of everyday life.

What she is experiencing is a normal developmental phase and the good news is that it generally passes as quick as it started.

easy parenting | 113

Tracy

jkl,l MATERNITY & BIRTH

Ask

Tracy Donegan answers your questions about pregnancy and birth

About Tracy

Tracy Donegan is a midwife and author of the Irish Better Birth Book, and The Irish Caesarean and VBAC Guide, and founder of GentleBirth. GentleBirth is Ireland’s leading positive birth preparation programme. Available as a home study course or weekend workshop GentleBirth is changing the way women in Ireland give birth. GentleBirth provides you with the roadmap to a positive birth and helps you navigate and negotiate the Irish maternity system to stack the odds in your favour of having the best birth possible. www.GentleBirth.ie

Q

I am ten weeks pregnant with my first baby, and I’ll be heading to Lanzarote (four-hour flight) with my partner when I’m six months pregnant. My question is: is it safe to fly during pregnancy?

Are there any health precautions I should take to ensure all goes well?

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A

Having a babymoon with your partner before is a fabulous idea! Just be sure to move around the flight whenever possible, when seated do ankle circles and stay hydrated. Wear loose comfortable clothing and consider wearing compression stockings. Stock up on a good sunscreen and stick to bottled water on holidays.

Q

I’m eight months pregnant, and I have recently developed itchy small spots all over my body. What

could be the cause of this, and is it normal?

A

Any kind of rash that develops in pregnancy should be investigated by your care team.

Sometimes the rash is benign and won’t impact your pregnancy but if you develop an itch on the soles of your feet and hands it can be a sign of a pregnancy complication known as obstetric cholestasis.

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