OHbaby! Latest Articles

New ambassador joins search for a cure

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 12:26:42 GMT

Breast Cancer Research Trust is delighted to announce the addition of a new ambassador to its team of individuals dedicated to raising awareness of its goal of finding a cure for breast cancer by 2018.
Carol Hirschfeld is a notable personality throughout New Zealand with her positions as anchorwoman at TV3, producer at Campbell Live and her current role as Head of Programming at Maori Television. CEO of Breast Cancer Research Trust, Tony Moffatt, comments, “Carol is the perfect person to come on-board as the latest addition to our ambassador family – she is incredibly knowledgeable and talented, admired for her poise and grace and will offer the Trust an informed opinion on its work moving forward.”
Carol joins an amazing group of ambassadors which includes fashion designer Karen Walker and Advertising Creative Director Mikhail Gherman, TV personality Petra Bagust, and maître’d Geeling Ng. Along with the Trust’s Patron, Trelise Cooper, the ambassadors do a wonderful job of raising the profile of the Trust and encouraging donations so the Trust can continue its ground-breaking work into finding a cure for breast cancer within the next eight years.
Carol comments, “I am so looking forward to being part of the Breast Cancer Research Trust and finding a cure for breast cancer by 2018. With one in eight women being diagnosed with this disease each year, coupled with one of the highest rates of breast cancer in the world, a cure has never been needed more and I am thrilled that I can help be part of it.”
“I’m impressed by the work of the Trust, it’s single minded goal and it’s achievements to date. The passion and conviction displayed by everyone involved excites me with the potential for achievement.”
For further information about the Trust, please visit www.breastcancercure.org.nz

SOURCE: The PR Shop

DATE: 15/02/10

PORSE founder up for top award

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 12:07:03 GMT

Early childhood education leader Jenny Yule, has been named as finalist for one of the world’s most prestigious business awards – the Veuve Clicquot New Zealand Business Woman of the Year.
Ms Yule, who is the founding director of New Zealand’s largest in-home childcare and training provider PORSE, has been named as a finalist alongside investment adviser Carmel Fisher, lawyer Cathy Quinn, corporate banker Elaine Gill, and foodie Rachel Taulelei.
The winner, who will be named on March 25, will be presented with the Veuve Clicquot Business Woman Award trophy, and a business class ticket to France to attend the 2010 International Business Women's Forum at the Veuve Clicquot winery in Reims.
Yule says being recognized in these awards is a “milestone” for New Zealand’s early childhood sector - an industry not typically known for making business award headlines.
“Being named as a finalist is a huge honour and one that I share with the 3,000 plus women in PORSE who match the award criteria – with their contributions to economic development while improving the quality of life for children, families and community.
Ms Yule, who also sits on the Executive Committee for the Infant Mental Health Association of Aotearoa New Zealand, (IMHAANZ) has spent the past 20 years working in the early childhood education sector and the last 15 years creating PORSE from scratch.
“PORSE started with a vision that continues to strengthen year on year with better services and products to support our 3,000 strong nanny and educator workforce who are making real contributions to the community.
PORSE is credited with significantly contributing to the popularity and growth of in-home childcare, which has seen a 54 % per cent increase in demand in the last five years.
Yule says the success of her business has come about because of a need for women to be valued in a career that is often overlooked.
“Caring for our babies in home environments with a person who can love and respond to their early developmental needs is not a luxury but a necessity for our future.
PORSE’s comprehensive childcare business model leverages the economy through job creation and training, with potential to export.
The Veuve Clicquot Awards honour outstanding business women from around the world who embody the values of Veuve Clicquot and its pioneering entrepreneur Madame Clicquot.
Yule’s entrepreneurial vision seeks to empower women to exhibit the many qualities of Madame Clicquot – resilience, optimism and leadership.
Madame Clicquot was recognised as the world’s first businesswoman, inventing the champagne riddling process in the early 1800’s, and becoming known as “la grande dame de la Champagne.”

SOURCE: PORSE

DATE: 15/02/10

Free soccer sessions for preschoolers

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 15:02:58 GMT

Your guide to the first few weeks

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 12:00:27 GMT

You’ve read everything you can get your hands on about pregnancy, but what really happens in those first few minutes, hours, days, and weeks after your baby’s birth? Specialist obstetrician/gynaecologist Dr Anil Sharma reveals some of the things you can expect after the birth of your baby

What your baby does on the first day
It really is quite amazing how a newborn adjusts to the major changes that occur at birth. Not only does the baby’s circulation start to work independently of mum for the first time, but the way the newborn copes with what must be a massive overload of all the senses is really what the word “awesome” should be reserved for. The true nurturing then starts in earnest with mum and baby (and, to an extent, dad) using all their senses and competing emotions to try to bond with one another. During this time your newborn will cry, sleep, and start to establish feeding.
You might be wondering if your infant can see you once their eyes are open. As newborns, babies are thought to have blurred vision, with the best distance for visualization being around 20-40 cm away.

Here you are, finally at your destination! All those months of nurturing, nesting, blooming, and expecting are over. Your new baby has arrived, and you feel both elated and exhausted at the same time. The tiredness you feel after labour will likely be the most severe you’ve ever experienced, and at the end of it, you will be handed your progeny to nurture 24/7. Luckily, nature has a way of making you forget how difficult it all was, so that you are highly likely to be back again for another child one day. But, in the meantime, you might feel a little trepidation and anxiety. What now?

What are newborn babies like?
Babies are born wet and wizened, and many are covered with a whitish, creamy, waxy coating called vernix all over their bodies (to stop them getting waterlogged while they live in the amniotic fluid of the placenta). Any vernix is washed off with the baby’s first bath. Some babies are born looking wrinkled, and others (especially premature babies) may have a slightly furry appearance because of lanugo, a fine hair that develops while in the womb. Wrinkles and lanugo usually resolve in a week or two. Rashes, blotches, or tiny white spots also are also common on newborns, and these usually clear up over the first few weeks after birth.
Your baby’s head may be pointy and slightly swollen, which is only natural, as the birth canal has squeezed it on the way out. Remember that the newborn’s head is the widest part of its body. If an instrumental delivery was needed,this may accentuate any soft-tissue swelling further. These changes are temporary and will resolve to a lovely, round-headed appearance within a few days.
After months of growing in the fetal position in cramped conditions, it can take time to stretch and straighten those limbs. Your baby’s skin may look slightly red, pink, or purple at first.

Newborn tests
Tests are carried out on your newborn soon after birth. Your lead maternity carer, a paediatrician, or a paediatric nurse will undertake an initial physical examination of the baby. In New Zealand, mums usually get to have some skin-on-skin contact before the examination. Since babies can get cold quickly, they are dried off fairly promptly. The physical examination usually consists of a head-to-toe inspection and includes tests for some reflexes, listening to the heart, and an Apgar score (named after Virginia Apgar, the anaesthetist who devised it).
The Apgar score measures a baby’s responsiveness and vital signs, and was designed to help healthcare providers to assess the newborn’s overall physical condition. This was so that they could quickly determine whether the baby needed immediate medical care. The test does not accurately predict a baby’s long-term health, intelligence or outcome. The factors that are checked are heart rate, breathing, colour, activity, and muscle tone, and grimace reflex response. If the baby does need some immediate medical attention, it may be very straightforward: For example, clearing the breathing passages with suction.
This early medical attention is usually undertaken at a Resuscitaire, which is a large, specially equipped trolley. This has a number of features, including a heater to keep the baby warm, and an oxygen supply. The baby also has a number of measurements done and is then finally weighed, which has traditionally become the first question that people will ask you!
If you have decided to have Vitamin K given to protect your baby from bleeding disorders, an injection will be given at this stage. The baby is then wrapped to keep warm.
Before you leave the hospital, a Guthrie test is also offered to look for a number of metabolic diseases that, although uncommon, can have far-reaching consequences for the child.This is done with a heel-prick sample of blood on a special card, which is then sent off to the laboratory. All going well, the approximate stay in hospital after a vaginal birth is two to three days, and around four to five days after a Caesarean birth.

Breast or bottle?
The precursor to breastmilk is called colostrum, and it varies from thin and watery to thick and yellowish. As the baby suckles, a number of hormonally mediated changes take place to produce and release milk in your breasts, which then “comes in” over the next few days.
Some babies (especially premature and small babies) can find it difficult to latch on to the nipples or get enough suction going. The advice of the midwife or a lactation consultant can be invaluable.
This time can be quite frustrating, especially since you will hear multiple opinions from many people. Initially, you will probably be feeding your baby about every two to three hours around the clock. If you will be bottle-feeding your baby, you can usually begin within the first few hours of life.
Choosing whether to breastfeed or formula-feed your baby is one of the first decisions parents will make. Although there are great reasons for breastfeeding, the zeal existing in New Zealand does annoy some couples and puts a few off because they feel so pressured.
Despite the politics, there is overwhelming evidence that if a new mum can and is able to breastfeed (meaning, she has no anatomical problems and is on no medications that prohibit it), then she should seriously consider breastfeeding for at least six months, and possibly 12 months or longer. There are many reasons, including the passage of anti-infection antibodies to the baby, as well as likely protection from childhood asthma, allergies, diabetes, obesity, and cot death.
Initially, you will probably be feeding your baby about every two to three hours around the clock.
As a group, formula-fed infants have more infections (40% more ear infections) and more hospitalisations than breastfed babies who have had at least four months of exclusive breast-feeding. Apart from the approximate $2000-a-year cost of formula and its related paraphernalia, there are increased medical costs as well. Breastmilk is also more easily digested by a newborn’s immature system. Compared with formula-fed infants, breastfed infants also have fewer incidences of diarrhoea or constipation. And, of course, the recent events in China, where formula has been adulterated with cheap and dangerous additives in the interest of profits, will do nothing to convince new parents that formula is in the best interests of their newborn.
Since a nursing mother needs 500 extra calories per day and should eat a wide variety of foods, this gives babies different tastes through their mothers’ breastmilk, not just the same flavour all the time. Also, breastfeeding women who are in employment are less likely to have to take time off from work to care for sick babies. In one American study, infants who were never breastfed would incur additional medical costs of US$331 to US$475 per year. Breastfeeding is also a great aid to burn calories and lose pregnancy weight. It also helps to reduce the risk of premenopausal breast cancer and may help decrease the risk of uterine and ovarian cancer in breastfeeding mothers.
Nevertheless, breastfeeding can be challenging. A postnatal midwife or lactation consultant should be able to help you in a constructive and non-judgmental way. Remember, just like you did with your lead maternity carer, you have a choice, as there are usually a number of lactation consultants available in most public hospitals and also some in private practice. Sometimes, both mother and baby need plenty of patience and persistence to get used to the routine of breastfeeding.
Some women who could breastfeed do choose to formula-feed, and this may be because it is more appropriate for their personal situation. The final decision on breast or bottle rests with the new parents. After an informed choice has been made, healthcare workers and society have no right to be judgmental.

Your emotions
The immediate postnatal period is a rollercoaster ride for new parents. Women will go through elation, exhaustion, and anxiety. Your feelings may change unpredictably and quickly. Sleep deprivation affects us very deeply, and it is important for family and friends to support the new family unit.
Up to 80% of women can go through feeling sad with the “baby blues”, which can last from a few days to a week. The “baby blues” are thought to be due to major hormone fluctuations after birth. Whenever you can, take a shower, bath, or nap. Eat well and talk to people close to you and to other new mothers. Don’t hold back the tears if you feel the need to cry, as it is highly likely the blues will run their course. If the feelings go on for longer than a week or are much more distressing, please talk to your lead maternity caregiver. Proper rest, nutrition, and support are important, as exhaustion, sleep deprivation, or stress can reinforce and fuel feelings of sadness and depression. Your maternity caregivers should be on the lookout for postnatal depression (PND). To learn more about PND, see “The big, black cloud” in OHbaby! Magazine Issue 2 (Winter 2008). Your loved ones should also be aware of the signs, and ask for advice from healthcare professionals if necessary.

What your body is going through
As a new mum, your breasts may be painfully engorged for several days when milk comes in, and your nipples may be sore from use. The soreness from the birth and any tears can make the first postpartum bowel movement slow and accompanied by pain. Take what is needed to make this easier and less painful. This may mean fruit (especially kiwifruit) and veggies, fruit juice, or even medication.
The pain from your healing vaginal area can be helped by painkillers and sitting on soft cushions. It can be even more painful due to haemorrhoids (piles), which are very common in pregnancy. The good news is that they start to resolve once the baby is born and will continue to do so in most women in the next few weeks to months.
Because of major hormonal changes, it can be fairly common to have some hot and cold flushes, or vaginal dryness. It is also quite common, for the first few months, to have urinary or faecal incontinence due to the stretching of your muscles during delivery, or even the feeling that your vagina or cervix has moved downwards and outwards. These symptoms can cause you to inadvertently pass urine while coughing or laughing. If these continue after three to four months, seek advice from your doctor and then a gynaecologist.
After-pains are due to the uterus contracting down to its initial pre-pregnancy size and are most noticeable when your baby breastfeeds. The natural vaginal discharge you experience after birth is called lochia, and although it is initially heavier than your period, it gradually fades to white or yellow, and then stops within two months.
Exhaustion, vaginal healing and dryness, and the new relationship with your baby may reduce a couple’s libido for a few weeks. This is only natural, and in good time, you will recover!

Ultimate hospital bag checklist

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 12:54:56 GMT

Have you packed your hospital bag yet? It's a good idea to have one packed by 37 weeks, just in case baby decides to make an early appearance. To help you decide which items are must-haves, and which will make your labour more bearable, we've put together the Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist. Click on the image below to open it as a .PDF, then simply print and tick!

Your guide to safe eating during pregnancy

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 12:47:02 GMT

It can be difficult to remember which foods are safe to eat during pregnancy, and which foods are no-go zones, so we've prepared a simple guide for you to print and put on your fridge for quick, easy reference. Simply click on the image below to download it as a .PDF, then print.

Your essential pregnancy toolkit

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 12:30:49 GMT

Pregnancy is a special time in your life, and the nine months that you spend nurturing your growing baby is also a time to nurture your own sense of wellbeing. We've put together your essential pregnancy toolkit to help you have the smoothest pregnancy possible.

Dress to impress
Gone are the days when maternity wear consisted of shapeless sacks and bold, garish prints - accomodate your growing bump in comfort, without sacrificing style:

Breasmates range of maternity essentials
Breastmates maternity clothing section has just launched on their website, with stylish tops and clothing all at reasonable prices. They now have products that will take you through your pregnancy and into breastfeeding or bottle feeding, along with advice and consultation that you may need. Gorgeous products for mums! Door-to-door delivery and a relaxed exchange policy make shopping easy. To find out more visit www.breastmates.co.nz. They also have a very interactive Facebook page that is worth checking out!

Satisfy your clothing cravings with Ripe Maternity
Ripe Maternity understands and appreciates the lifestyle of pregnant women and allows you to maintain your own personal style during your pregnancy.
Pregnant women rely on Ripe to provide them with on trend, yet comfortable and practical maternity wear. The label’s Winter 2010 collection does not fail to provide. From staple maternity basics to trend driven statement pieces and everything in between, Ripe has it all! If you haven’t already discovered all that Ripe Maternity has on offer, find your nearest stockist to find that shopping for maternity clothing can be easy and just as much fun as before you were pregnant! Ripe’s latest Winter styles are in store now. To check out the collection and find your nearest stockist visit www.ripe.com.au

Pamper yourself
During pregnancy, your skin undergoes an intense period of change. For some women, the result is that fabled "pregnancy glow", but for others, these changes can mean skin that is drier, prone to breakouts and more sensitive than usual. Nurture your skin with these nourishing treats:

Aroma Mother 'Mummy-to-be' box
Pretty and fresh for an expectant mum, this gorgeous box features both essentials and luxuries for your skin. Each box Includes a lovely posy of flowers, Linden Leaves 'Pick-me-up' body oil, two foil bath discs, Essential Aroma massage oil, protective cream, Aroma Mother bath gel and Aroma Mother soap, all presented in a stylish white gift box with ribbon trim - definitely one to add to your baby shower wish list. To purchase, visit the OHbaby! Online Store.

Earth Mother Angel Baby Natural Pregnancy Stretch Oil
Are you an Angel Mama with a sensitive nose and an itchy, pregnant belly? Mama knows. That’s why Natural Stretch Oil is exactly what every mama needs. Your gloriously expanding belly, hips and breasts will drink up the luxurious blend of oils to deter those pesky stretch marks, and the light, delicate scent won't aggravate morning sickness. Mama starts with plant-based oils that are cold pressed without solvents to insure their purity, then infuses them with the healing herbal goodness of organic calendula and calming organic chamomile. Natural Stretch Oil is light and readily absorbable. To purchase, visit Belly Beyond.

Growing Memories
There are so many ways to celebrate your changing shape and preserve your pregnancy journey for posterity, from pregnancy journals and pictures of your growing bump, to a video diary for your baby-to-be. Here are some of our favourites:
Samsung high definition camcorder HMX-R10BP
This ultra-compact camcorder adds an extra level of comfort to every shot you take. Its ergonomic design makes it easy to grip and hold long enough to catch that special memory in full high definition, and the 2.7" touch screen gives you a great view to make sure it’s all captured. Forgot your camera at home? You can also take high-quality 9MP digital still photos and then flip through them on your HDTV with family and friends. Available in black and silver.

What will you do with your placenta?
Plant a tree to celebrate the birth of your child and honour the amazing job your placenta has done with "Capceco", the Biodegradable Placenta Capsule.
Packed at birth, "Capceco" requires no defrosting or unpacking. The whole capsule goes into the ground to nurture your child’s birth tree, removing up to one tonne of carbon emissions over its life. "Your Tree", a beautiful child’s keepsake book is included in your pack, teaching children about their birth tree and encouraging them to care for nature. Purchase “Capceco” online at www.capceco.com or at the Eco Store.

Preparing for the big day
Towards the end of your pregnancy, you may feel an uncontrollable urge to nest. Put the finishing touches on the nursery, wash all those teeny, tiny newborn clothes and stock up the freezer with quick and healthy meal ideas - and don't forget to pack your hospital bag. Don't know where to start? Check out our Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist:

Your one-stop maternity and baby essentials shop
Belly Beyond is the place to shop online for maternity lingerie, nappy bags and baby carriers plus an extensive range of gorgeous gifts and baby essentials.
With the largest collection of nappy bags from brands like OiOi, SKIP*HOP and Isoki, it’s a sure bet you’ll find the right style at the right price. Have fun creating your own unique Wishlist or shop for gifts. From cots to carriers, breast pumps to blankets – it can all be delivered to your door. Secure online shopping with speedy delivery on the latest and greatest in Babyland and now offering Fly Buys points! www.bellybeyond.co.nz

Have a happy, healthy and blissful pregnancy!

Hamilton cloth nappy workshops

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 13:54:39 GMT

Interested in Using Cloth Nappies?
Choosing cloth nappies can be quite confusing because there are so many different styles available and a lot of conflicting information.
Come along and let ‘The Nappy Lady™’ dispel all the myths, show you how they work and explain all of the things you could possibly want to know about nappies.   She will show you how to choose the style that will suit your family and how easy it actually is to use cloth nappies.
Each couple will receive a free nappy trial pack valued at over $45 to take home.

Upcoming Dates:     Friday 12th February @6.00pm
                                     Saturday 13th February @9.00am

Venue:     Parents Place, 87 Boundary Road, Hamilton

Cost:        $15 per couple

Bookings are essential: Please contact Kate Meads (aka The Nappy Lady) on (07) 5492955 email kate@nappydays.co.nz. There are limited spaces available and they book up very quickly.

Huggies supports water confidence for under fives

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 13:49:46 GMT

Triple World Surf Ironman Champion Cory Hutchings was born with a natural feel for the ocean, but he thanks his Nana for being his earliest ‘Pool Buddy’ and for teaching him to swim.
Cory has teamed up with his youngest child Zak (2) in a poster campaign this summer funded by Huggies, which encourages parents and caregivers to get into the pool and be pool buddies with their children under five. Cory says in the poster: ‘I’m a big fan of one-on-one time in the pool with Zak our youngest. Close together he feels secure and it’s fun.’
The Huggies Little Swimmers Pool Buddy campaign is based on the view held by water safety experts that helping children become familiar with the water early is an important foundation for learning to swim.
“I encourage parents, grandparents and caregivers to get into the pool with the littlest members of the family this summer. It’s fun and it’s special. I think kids build water confidence more easily if their earliest water experiences are with someone they are close to, where there’s already a relationship of trust,” says Cory.
Cory says he and his wife Ange have both had one on one pool-time with their four children at different stages. He says their children have come to enjoy the water in their own time and in their own way.
“Zak is still hesitant in the water and I respect that. Luke (7) surfs and is confident in all depths of water, but I am still vigilant with him. Skye (9) loves the water and swims confidently but is not interested in competitive water sport. And Korbin (12) is New Zealand’s current New Zealand Surfing Champion in the under-12 age group, and is preparing for competition in Australia.
“Children have different personalities and they all feel the water differently. I think New Zealand parents do a great job. The key is to give kids opportunities to build water confidence early and then book them into more formal swimming lessons when they’re ready.
“It’s a tricky balance between being over-cautious in the water and overlaying our fear onto them, or at the other extreme, expecting too much of them too soon,” he says.

Huggies Little Swimmers POOL BUDDY Pointers
These pointers are designed to help parents understand water confidence
from a child’s perspective:

0-6 months
·          Hold me and support me so I can feel safer in the water
·          I feel safer in the water when we have happy eye contact
·          I won’t be frightened when you move me through the water gently and
           slowly
·          Singing and talking gently teaches me what is coming next
·          Supporting my body helps me learn what it feels like to float
·          When you are relaxed, I relax too

6 months – 1 year
·          When you support me I can try new things
·          I love it when we play with my friends in the water
·          Learning to swim means I discover how to feel happy and safer in
           water
·          I love to try to do the actions when you show me how
·          Tell me before you splash or submerge me
·          When lying on my back, I need to feel your support and feel you close,   especially when my ears, head and shoulders are in the water

1 -2 years
·          Continue to support me as I need to know you are there
·          Always return me to a safe place (like the side of the pool so I can hold on)
·          Roll me from my back to my tummy over and over in the water
·          Lie me supported on your shoulder and gently roll me to my tummy
·          Laughing and playing with you in the water is special

2 – 3 years
·          I still need you to be there with me in the water
·          Respect me because sometimes I don’t want to be in the water!!!
·          Please catch me when we decide it’s time to jump in
·          Playing games in the water helps me to develop my confidence
·          Repeating activities I love gives me confidence to do it by myself
·          I need to trust you when I try new things

Developed by Jenny McPhail of Water Discovery and Gill Connell of Moving Smart

Your back-to-school checklist

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 16:47:17 GMT

Click to download as a printable PDF:

Starting preschool or kindy

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 16:37:03 GMT

CHOOSING A PRESCHOOL OR KINDY
Deciding which preschool or kindy is right for your child might be as simple as a matter of geography, or it might involve some research on your part into different philosophies and approaches, as you consider which will best suit your child and family circumstances. A good place to start is the Ministry of Education website, www.minedu.govt.nz/parents.aspx, which includes a list of kindies and preschools by location and information on the “20 hours free ECE” programme”. The Ministry of Education conducts reviews of all educational institutions, and this includes preschools and kindies, so once you have found one or two that you think might be suitable, visit www.ero.govt.nz to read the reports on them. You might also like to visit them to get a feel for the atmosphere there.
Once you have decided on a preschool or kindy, put your child’s name on the waiting list as soon as possible – some have long waiting lists so the earlier you enroll them, the sooner he or she will be able to start. Some parents place their child on the waiting list for two or three preschools at the same time, and then take whichever place becomes available first.

PLANNING
Young children often struggle with the concept of time, so trying to get him or her excited about something that isn’t going to happen for a while is tricky, and often pointless – they will respond better if you begin the preparation process a week or two before they are due to start. If your child has older siblings, he or she is probably already quite excited about being “grown-up” enough for kindy or preschool, but if not, spending time away from home might seem like a foreign, and frightening, prospect.
Broach the subject at a time when your child is settled and feels secure, perhaps at a family mealtime or when you have some one-on-one time. Talk about the exciting activities that he or she will be able to participate in at kindy, and be sure to give him or her the opportunity to ask questions – they will have plenty!
Most kindies or preschools will allow you and your child to visit before the official start date, to give both of you a chance to see how things work there, and how your child will be spending his or her time when there. It’s also a chance for your child to meet the teachers/staff, and will help make the big day seem less overwhelming.

PREPARING
What your child will need to take with him to preschool or kindy will vary, depending on what they supply, but things your child is sure to need are:
•    A backpack – letting your child choose one will help build excitement about starting kindy.
•    One or two spare changes of clothes
•    A good, sturdy pair of shoes
They may also need:
•    A lunch box – again, letting your child choose one is a good idea
•    A drink bottle
•    Spare knickers/undies in case of accidents – even children who have been toilet trained for some time may have the odd accident at preschool while they settle in
•    An apron/coverall to protect his or her clothes when painting
•    Sun hat and sunscreen during the warmer months
•    Gumboots and jacket/raincoat during winter
Make sure everything is clearly named, either with labels or with indelible laundry marker to avoid your child’s belongings ending up in the lost property box.

THE BIG DAY
When the big day dawns, don’t be surprised if you feel a little emotional – starting preschool is a huge milestone in your child’s life, it’s normal to feel a bit misty-eyed!
Let your child pack his or her own backpack, and if they have to take lunch, involve them in choosing what goes into their lunchbox (within reason, of course!). Try to allow enough time that it isn’t a rush to get ready. Don’t forget to take lots of photos, both of your child getting ready at home, and them settling in at preschool.
When you arrive at kindy, be prepared to stay with your child for at least a few minutes. Some kindies will encourage you to stay with your child until he or she feels comfortable, even if this means the whole session for the first few days, while others will encourage you to leave fairly promptly and have a teacher take care of settling your child. Be clear on this before you arrive, and discuss it with your child.

SETTLING IN
If your child is having difficulty adjusting to kindy or preschool, here are a few ideas that might help:
•    Starting a reward chart for staying at kindy for the whole session by his- or herself
•    Making a booklet about your child’s time at preschool – include photos of you dropping them off, of them participating in activities they enjoy at preschool, and then of you picking them up again, to reinforce the idea that you will come back to get them once the session is finished
•    Taking note of other children your child plays with at kindy or talks about at home and encouraging him or her to build relationships
If you have concerns about your child’s settling, be sure to talk to the teachers who look after him or her – preschool is a whole new adventure for your child, and they are experienced in helping children settle in.

Fendalton Playcentre Nearly New Sale

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 12:13:50 GMT

Boobs in the berries

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 11:31:56 GMT

"Boobs in the Berries" Antenatal Classes are funny, fun, and most of all useful. The Classes are for families who are still pregnant. Your boobs will thank you (pain- free breastfeeding is a good thing), your midwife will thank you (you will get off on the right foot), your partner will thank you (helps them get their head around what they can do to help) but most of all your baby will thank you (you will find out why when you come).
Classes taught on an Organic Blueberry Farm. Why an organic blueberry farm? Well because it is beautiful, delicious, and a lovely day out....And also because, Mandi Lynn (that's me) lives there and my studio is there, and I love to have people around so why would I hold it anywhere else?
In my position as a Lactation Consultant for the Hutt Valley DHB, I developed a two-hour long class that attempted to cram everything that I saw was most important for breastfeeding success. The classes were an overwhelming success and began bursting at the seams very quickly. The Lead Maternity Carers were all sending their clients because they found that they had a much more solid start in breastfeeding and had significantly fewer problems. The Hospital Midwives all commented that they could easily tell when a mother had been to my class because they took to breastfeeding like a duck to water.
I have stepped down from my role at the DHB to focus on my farm and photography but I couldn't give up all of my work with mums and babies, so thus was born....Boobs in the Berries (....actually it started out as Boobs in the Bushes but then when I Googled it, got a bit of a shock....I figured that wasn't where I wanted to be leading people, Boobs in the Berries seemed much tamer at least in Google. )
My classes are practical, fun, and entertaining. You will actually practice with a doll or stuffed animal and will get support to learn:
How do you achieve pain-free feeding?
How do you get sleep with a baby that is feeding around the clock?
What do you do if your baby just will not feed in the beginning?
How to know if your baby is getting enough milk?
How long and how often do the little guys need to feed?
Can you have a glass of wine and breastfeed?
What about demand feeding versus routine feeding?
Which modern day parenting practices have a negative impact on baby's instinctual feeding skills?
What is an effective winding techniques to help prevent colic?
What to eat when you are breastfeeding?
Practical tips of how your partner can help you to succeed at breastfeeding as well as give you a little break.
The truth about baby formula.
What if you don't have enough milk?
What if you have too much milk?
The Neurodevelopmental aspects of breastfeeding (how your baby's brain is getting wired and why what you do matters so much.)
Tips for creating harmony and relaxation around the house with a new baby.
What ever other questions the group has.
The classes are held on most Sundays at 2pm usually in our Native American Tipi. So you can come up for the day, have a picnic, pick your own organic blueberries then learn how to slide into parenting with the least amount of drama.
There is no fee charged for the course but a $10.00 per person koha would help with enabling us to provide more breastfeeding support for those with less financial means in the Wellington region.
What to bring:
Yourself
Togs if you want to go swimming (we have a beautiful swimming hole at the farm)
Your support person
Togs for them if they want to go swimming too
A Doll or stuffed animal that is roughly the size of a newborn
A picnic if you want or if you are feeling decadent you can just elect to eat in our sweet shop and have our buttermilk pancakes and a bluesky blueberry milkshake.
A picnic blanket would be good as well as depending on the weather we may have the class in the meadow or in the Tipi.
Sensible shoes for walking on a farm.

The Langham comes up roses

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 15:26:30 GMT

The Langham is coming up roses this summer by partnering with the Auckland Museum to launch an accommodation package inspired by their current exhibition: ‘Wonderland – The Magic of the Rose’.
“Roses are synonymous with The Langham as internationally all Langham hotels have roses on display in their lobby areas, and the elegance of the rose perfectly sums up the enchanting and romantic ambience of our hotels,” says Rachel Broadmore, Marketing Communications Manager at The Langham, Auckland.
The Langham’s Magic of the Rose package includes a weekend stay with one night’s luxury accommodation in an executive room, a bottle of rosé wine and other rose inspired condiments on arrival, two tickets to the Museum’s Rose exhibition, full buffet breakfast for two and a late check out of 1pm the following day.
“The Langham is the closest five-star hotel to the Auckland Museum and with this package our guests can easily visit this iconic institution with its extensive historic and contemporary collections. ‘The Magic of The Rose’ exhibition features interactive technologies and stunning design to create a unique experience, and is an exhibition that we are sure will be of interest to couples, gardeners or rose lovers alike, looking to enhance a summer weekend getaway at the hotel,” says Miss Broadmore.
Perfect for Valentine’s Day also, the package is available until Friday 16 April, 2010 and reservations can be made by calling 0800 61 62 61 or email: tlakl.resv@langhamhotels.co.nz Priced from $289. For details about ‘Wonderland – The Magic of the Rose’ please refer to www.aucklandmuseum.com.

Nature Baby at the Golden Globes

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 15:07:40 GMT

Nature Baby will be gifting to the crème da la crème of A-list celebrities attending the Golden Globes this year.
New Zealand’s leading natural and organic baby brand was exclusively invited to provide baby gift bags to treat celebrities invited to the Golden Globes Gifting Lounge.
Held at the luxurious Peninsula Hotel in Beverley Hills each year during the week of the Golden Globes, the DPA Gifting Lounge offers A-list celebrities, Golden Globes nominees and presenters gifts selected from luxury brands from around the world.
The celebrity guests invited to select any number of gifts, including the much coveted Nature Baby gift bags, include New Zealand’s own Anna Paquin, Brad Pitt, Diane Kruger, Chloe Sevigny, Kate Winslet, Halle Berry, Kate Hudson, Julia Roberts and Penelope Cruz, to only name a few.
This year Nature Baby will be offering celebrities a selection of their beautiful certified Organic Cotton Baby Clothing and Botanical Skincare ranges alongside offerings from other premium brands including, Natura Bisse skincare, Barbara Bela couture dresses, Diane Von Furstenberg sunglasses, Tucker Paisley handbags, Ginger McGann couture jewellery, Le Tahaa Private Island holiday in Tahiti, and many more.
“We are so excited to be a part of such a prestigious event and have the opportunity to showcase our natural and organic baby clothing range to the who’s who of film and television” says Georgia Faull, Nature Baby founder and mother of three. “We have a great following of US customers and are thrilled to be able spread the word further. A growing number of celebrities use their influence to support causes such as the ethical and environmental benefits of buying organic where possible, which really helps to educate consumer choices.”
Gifting lounges are always a favourite with celebrities surrounding the world’s biggest awards events and film festivals where a space is created offering invite-only celebrities complementary premium brand products and services. At this year’s Golden Globes, guests will be pampered in three different suites including a fashion studio, a luxury spa and the gift bag suite.

Boost your child's brain power

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 15:03:18 GMT

The message rings out all over town on the TV, billboards, flyers and the radio, ‘back to school.’ It heralds the end of summer and the need to get our kids’ brains back into gear after the holidays.
As bags are packed, uniforms pressed, books collected and lunches made, how can we further support the learning process for our kids throughout the long school year? Perhaps a little ‘turbo-boosting brain food’ is in order.
Essential fatty acids or EFAs are the best way to ‘turbo boost’ your child’s brain.
EFAs are amongst the most crucial nutrients for children, as most are deficient. EFAs are considered ‘essential fats’ because they are required for good health but cannot be produced by our bodies. The body requires these beneficial fats to support all bodily systems. According to research the most beneficial EFAs are the omega-3s eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
It was once believed that the brain was fully developed at birth. While it is true that most of the brain cells are formed by this time, advances in research have enabled us to see that the brain continues to form after birth. EFAs have been shown to play a key role in the health of the brain. Did you know that the brain is made up of 60% fat? – and up to half of that fat being omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA.
So what does that all mean? Children’s brains need a steady supply of EFAs to perform at their best. DHA is uniquely important to the nerve and brain cells and has shown to improve learning, memory and cognition in children. Infants require DHA for proper brain, eye, immune and central nervous system development. The omega 3s found in cold water fish such as sardines, anchovies, and cod are a great food source of the EFAs they need, but due to concerns about environmental toxins (such as mercury), experts recommend a purified fish oil supplement as the ideal source of EPA and DHA.
Here are a few examples of what fish oil can do:
• Fish oil linked to improved learning, memory & spelling ability
South African researchers followed 355 children aged 6-9 to see what effect fish oil supplements had. The results showed children’s verbal, learning and spelling ability improved, they retained information better and were less likely to take sick days.
• Fish oil improves attention span, learning and behaviour
The University of South Australia conducted a 15 week study on 132 children aged 7-12 who had ADHD. The children given fish oil capsules were calmer and less impulsive and their behaviour, attention and vocabulary all improved.
One way to make sure your children get the omega-3s they need is to use fish oil supplements designed specifically for their developing brains.
Nordic Naturals Children’s DHA is made entirely from Arctic cod liver oil, rich in the omega-3 DHA. This formula is essential for the proper development of the brain, eyes, nervous and immune systems. Supplementing with Nordic Naturals Children’s DHA is a safe, pure and effective way to improve your children’s health, and give them a nutritional head start in their mental, physical, and social well-being.
Even better, children love the fresh strawberry taste of Nordic Naturals Childrens DHA, which make them easy to chew or swallow. It is available in small chewable soft gels or in liquid form.
Try introducing some of these products to your children’s daily diet:
Children’s DHA soft gels available in packs of 90’s, 180’s & 360’s
Children’s DHA liquid available in 119ml or 237ml bottles
How much is enough?
Generally fish oil liquid can be given to a child 8 months and up and capsules from 3 years and up. Recommended dose is included on the label.
To learn more about published scientific research showing how omega-3 essential fatty acids boost children’s brains, health and well-being, see www.omega-research.com.
Distributing products to over 25 countries, Nordic Naturals is the international leader in omega-3 fish oils. The company has built a strong reputation in the omega-3 fatty acid category by delivering exceptional purity, freshness, taste and demonstrating environmental responsibility. Nordic Naturals has over 150 different fish oil products including liquids, soft gels, and children's chewables – all in natural triglyceride form(*see below). For information, call 0800 439 631 or visit www.nordicnaturals.com
For New Zealand enquiries and for information on stockists of Nordic Naturals please call NaturalMeds on 0800 439631 or visit www.naturalmeds.co.nz.

February highlights on Playhouse Disney

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 14:11:32 GMT

First up from Monday 1 February and continuing daily at 12.00pm and 7.30pm is Jungle Junction:
Jungle Junction follows a group of fun-loving animals on wheels as they explore a unique jungle filled with a network of floating roads that twist and loop high of the ground in harmony with the trees.
Part animal, part vehicle, the inhabitants of Jungle Junction, also know as 'Wheelers', include Zooter, an energetic pink pig scooter who is the town messenger, her bets friend Ellyvan, a cross between an elephant and a van who serves as the Jungle delivery service, and the Beetlebugs, the playful kids of the jungle who are always eager to learn.

Secondly, again from Monday 1 February continuing daily at 11.30am and 6.30pm we're premiering the series Timmy Time:
Timmy is a little lamb with a lot to learn. He has just turned three (in sheep years) and being the 'only lamb in the flock', Timmy has been used to getting his own way. Now for the first time, Timmy is going to have to learn to get along with the other little animals because Timmy is going to Kindergarten!

Our third highlight this month is the Handy Manny Weekend Fiesta on every weekend in February at 10.30am.
Join Playhouse Disney for a festival of fun as Handy Manny joins us with four brand new episodes premiering each weekend at 10.30am!

Your back-to-school survival guide

Sun, 10 Jan 2010 23:07:54 GMT

It's almost the end of the holidays, and whether your little one is heading off to kindy or school for the first time, or returning after the summer break, it's time to start thinking about the big day!

WIN a ‘Back to School’ prize pack with SPECIAL AGENT OSO
Special Agent Oso, a loveable special agent in training needs your help with his latest special assignment – ‘Back to School’! Go to PlayhouseDisney.co.nz and tell him your helpful hint for heading back to school for the chance to WIN 1 of 100 ‘Back to School’ packs! With help from you there’s nothing he can’t do! Watch Special Agent Oso every day at 10am on Playhouse Disney. Competition opens 09/01/10 and closes 31/01/10.
Full terms and conditions available at Playhouse Disney.co.nz

Planning
Starting school or preschool will be far less daunting for your child - and you - if you are well prepared. Check out our tips for starting kindy or preschool, and tips for starting school to make sure you have everything covered.

Stocking up on the essentials
From backpacks to pencil cases, drink bottles to shoes, send your child off to preschool, kindy or school in style this year with these cool essentials:

"Traffic" canvas backpack, $26.95 from Early Learning Centre

"i-Walk sports" shoes, $64.95 from Bobux

"Tools for School" pack from Stuck On You

Organic cotton sunhat from Nature Baby

"UV Naturals" sunscreen from Made 4 Baby

"Sandwich Keeper Plus" from Tupperware

"Eco Tanka" drink bottle from Belly Beyond

"Eco Kids" sandwich pocket from 4 My Earth

Don't forget to check out the recipes in the OHbaby! Cookbook in our Lifestyle section for some great lunchbox fillers!

Starting preschool or kindy

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 22:08:48 GMT

Summer 2010

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 21:21:56 GMT

Life's a beach

Hit the sand this summer with flowing fabrics and bright colours.

Crochet caftan $159.90 from EGG maternity www.eggmaternity.co.nz. Pink bracelet $14.99 and gold bracelet (part of a set) $21.99 from Diva 0800 DIVA NZ.

Ripe Roxy dress $139.95 from Kid Republic Newmarket (09) 522 8334

Pink/red/lilac spot print Mumcho $89 from Child www.child.co.nz.
Belle singlet $99 and Relax shorts $119 from Mama2B www.mama2b.co.nz

Stephanie Schell strapless dress $379.95 from Pregoli www.pregoli.co.nz.
Deluxe Collioure Chair $229 and cushion $45 from Madder & Rouge (09) 522 1062

Colouring looks

A splash of colour and a streak of sun make summer fashion stand out.

Top row: Ouch Sao Paulo T-shirt $32.95 from Kid Republic. Rookie Kia Ora T-shirt $22, and Rookie Cher Bro T-shirt $22, www.rookie.co.nz for stockists.
Middle row: Ouch Sao Paulo T-shirt $32.95 from Kid Republic. IKKS T-shirt $67 from Mesamis. Rock On T-shirt $14.95 from Cotton On Kids.
Bottom row: Ouch Monte Video T-shirt $32.95 from Kid Republic. IKKS Vintage Jaune T-shirt $67 and Alphabet Nomad Adventure T-shirt $32, both from Mesamis.

Rock Your Baby hat $24.95 and Levis shorts $69.95, both from Kid Republic. T-shirt $32 from Mesamis. Matrix shoes $26.95 from Cotton on Kids

Rachael Ra Ra tank $12.95, Jessica shorts $24.95, Bobble necklace $6.95 and bracelet $2.95, all from Cotton on Kids. Shoes $49 from Mesamis. Sunglases $12.99 from Pumpkin Patch

Ouch cardi $59.95 from Kid Republic. Sudo Stefanie dress $84.95 from Pregoli. Shoes $49 from Mesamis. Sunglasses $12.99 from Pumpkin Patch

Clockwise from top left: Havaianas $27.50, www.havaianasnz.com for stockists. Sequinned sandals $49 from Mesamis. IKKS flip-flops $37 from Mesamis. Flip-flops $9.95 from Cotton on Kids

Ouch Sao Paulo T-shirt $32.95 and shorts $49.95, both from Kids Republic. Matrix shoes $26.95 from Cotton on Kids

Stockists (all prices approximate)
Cotton on Kids (09) 815 6317
Kids Republic (09) 522 8334
Havaianas www.havaianasnz.com
Mesamis www.mesamis.co.nz
Pregoli www.pregoli.co.nz
Pumpkin Patch www.pumpkinpatch.co.nz
Rookie www.rookie.co.nz

STYLIST: SHERYL BURSON
PHOTOGRAPHY: FIONA TOMLINSON

Give a little this Christmas

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 14:00:29 GMT

Christmas is set to become a much merrier occasion for many children this year thanks to a gift-giving collaboration between the Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch City Missions and online retailer, Fishpond.co.nz.
The Missions are working with Fishpond, which sells books, music, games and toys to encourage New Zealanders to donate from a Christmas list of most needed toys, which are available at www.fishpond.co.nz. Toys retail from $5.
Fishpond general manager, Ben Powles says, “We are hoping that the generosity of New Zealanders will help make these children’s wishes come true this Christmas.
“People often think about helping out a charity but don’t have the time over the hectic Christmas period to shop for, wrap and deliver a gift. This will allow them to help with the click of a button,” he says.
“And with the option of donating to Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch City Missions, people can help families in their own community.”
Fishpond will also donate five percent of its toy sales from 16 November until Christmas to the City Mission.
Diane Robertson, Auckland City Missioner, is thrilled with the Fishpond initiative. “Over the Christmas period, staff and volunteers at the Auckland City Mission will collect and distribute 25,000 gifts,’ she said. “We’re grateful for every donation received and extend our thanks to every donor for helping us to make Christmas happen for every Auckland child.”
Toys purchased for the City Missions will be stored and delivered by Fishpond just before Christmas.

Direct line to Santa

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 13:50:47 GMT

Hundreds of children helped ignite 37,000 lights on the 7-storey high Telecom Tree in Western Park on Saturday 28 November.
Four special phone boxes at the base of the Telecom Tree were red-hot with calls to the North Pole as children sent their Christmas wishes to Santa. The kids were delighted to see their voices activate lights running from the phone boxes to the new eight point star at the top of the Tree.
The Telecom Tree will be lit by special light shows every night from 6pm to midnight Until 26 December.
Visitors to the Tree are also encouraged to bring with them any unwanted mobile phones so they can be gifted to Starship's mobile phone recycling appeal.
For the first time a Telecom Tree will also light up Frank Kitts Park in Wellington every evening from 1 December until Boxing Day.
For those who can’t make it to either of the Telecom Trees, Santa Line will still take Christmas wishes direct to Santa. Hopeful children (and adults!) can call Santa on 0800 222 222 or write to him online at www.santaline.co.nz.
Last year almost one million calls (999,672) were made to Santa Line.
Visit telecomtree.co.nz for upcoming events at the Trees, and more information.
Where: Western Park, Ponsonby Road
When: From 28 November to 26 December with lightshows from 6pm till midnight every day.

Pregnancy warning signs

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 14:37:50 GMT

Your body undergoes an intense period of change and transformation during your pregnancy, most of which is related to the healthy development of your baby. However, sometimes complications can develop which require urgent medical attention, and these can occur suddenly in an otherwise normal pregnancy. If you experience any of the following, contact your LMC, local maternity ward or family doctor immediately.

Vaginal bleeding – A small amount of spotting in your first trimester can be normal, especially if it is not your first baby, but it may also be an early warning sign of a miscarriage so you should always seek advice from your LMC. Bleeding in later pregnancy also requires immediate medical attention as it could signal the start of premature labour, an infection or a problem with the placenta. If you are Rhesus negative, you will require an Anti-D injection within 72 hours of any episode of bleeding, so be sure to contact your LMC immediately.
Reduced fetal movements – You will be able to feel your baby’s movements from around 20 weeks, and these will become more regular and distinguishable as he or she grows. If these movements slow down, try a glass of cold water or a bowl of ice-cream to encourage baby to move. If this doesn’t help, or if you are still concerned, contact your LMC or local maternity ward immediately, as reduced fetal movement can be a sign that your baby has become distressed.
Abdominal cramps or pains – It’s normal to experience mild abdominal cramps as your uterus expands to fit your growing baby, particularly in the first and early second trimester. These might be a dull aching or a slight pulling feeling in your pelvis. However, if the pains are severe, contact your LMC. There are a number of causes of severe abdominal pain during pregnancy, including an ectopic pregnancy, a urinary tract infection, pre-term labour and placental abruption, all of which require urgent attention.
Swelling/oedema – Most women experience a small degree of swelling in late pregnancy, particularly in the warmer summer months. However, swelling can also be a sign of pre-eclampsia, a potentially dangerous complication, so any incidence of swelling, particularly if it affects your hands, feet, ankles and face/neck should be promptly reported to your LMC.
Pain or burning when passing urine – this can indicate a urinary tract infection, which requires antibiotics. If left untreated, the infection can spread to your kidneys and may cause pre-term labour.
Headache and/or blurred vision – These are also symptoms of pre-eclampsia, and often indicated that the condition has worsened, so seek immediate advice from your LMC, or local maternity unit.
Leaking of waters/amniotic fluid – If your waters break or begin to leak prior to 37 weeks, contact your LMC immediately. It may be a sign that you are going into preterm labour, and if you seek help early enough, in some cases doctors are able to stop the onset of labour. If your waters break after 37 weeks, it is a sign that your baby is nearly ready to be born. Contact your midwife when contractions are around five minutes apart (unless she has given you other instructions), or if your waters have been broken for more than 12 hours and labour has not started, as there is a small risk of infection.
A fever over 38 degrees Celsius – A fever is usually a sign of a viral infection, but some common cold and flu medications are not safe to take during pregnancy, so be sure to check with your pharmacist or LMC before taking anything. If the fever persists, check with your family doctor to ensure that it isn’t a bacterial infection which requires antibiotics.

The most important thing to remember is to trust your own judgment. You know what is normal for you, and if you are concerned about anything, no matter how small or insignificant it seems, always check with your LMC, local maternity unit or family doctor. As the old saying goes, it’s better safe than sorry!

Dads doing a good job

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 11:47:11 GMT

Two new Families Commission research reports confirm fathers in New Zealand think they are doing a good job, and could do an even better one if they just had a little more time.
Supporting Kiwi Dads research surveyed 1721 fathers in early 2009. The report provides a snapshot of the views of fathers about a range of issues related to their role as dads. Heart and Head: An Explanation of the Meaning of Fatherhood by University of Canterbury researchers Dr Jeffrey Gage, Associate Professor Ray Kirk and Professor Andrew Hornblow conducted in-depth interviews with 22 men about their role as dads.
The range of fathers surveyed in Supporting Kiwi Dads illustrates the diversity of fathers in New Zealand today. Included were step-fathers, single fathers, separated dads, teenage parents, foster fathers, and fathers from a range of ethnic and social backgrounds.
Fathers from all backgrounds were satisfied that they were doing well in their fathering role. Families Commissioner Gregory Fortuin said men reported they were generally warmer and more engaged with their children than their own fathers had been.
“Overall fathers report that they are doing a great job, spend about 37 hours a week with their children, and are involved in a variety of aspects of their children’s lives, such as homework or changing nappies. But they think they could do an even better job if they could spend more time with their children. The main barrier to fathers sending time with their kids is work, which illustrates the need for flexible workplaces.”
The Families Commission is calling for paid parental leave provision for partners, based on the findings of the Commission’s Supporting Kiwi Dads report. Dads need parental leave just for them, to help them be the best possible parents they can be.
“We know that the initial bonding phase with a child is crucial for a child’s development. When a strong attachment is made the positive effects are felt throughout the child’s life.”
Researcher Dr Jeffrey Gage said most fathers interviewed in the Heart and Head report felt an immediate connection to their children.
“As the non-birth parent, a father ‘switches on’ to the responsibility and love that comes with the role. Paid parental leave would ensure dads have the time needed to develop that connection and give important support to the mother.”
Men who had had positive experiences with their own fathers were better prepared to undertake their fathering role. The men who hadn’t took a little longer to develop confidence as a father.
Supporting Kiwi Dads provides a snapshot of fathers today. Some of the key findings:
•    The fathers generally believed they were doing a satisfactory, or better than satisfactory, job of being fathers.
•    About a third said that spending more time with their children would be the most significant way they could improve their performance as fathers.
•    On average, fathers spent about 37 hours a week with their children
•    The most commonly stated barrier to being a better father was work commitments.
•    Fathers were involved in a full range of activities with their children, such as eating and playing together, helping with homework, reading stories, and changing nappies
•    The majority (68 percent) of fathers said they would like to spend more time with their children.
•    Fathers most commonly described themselves as a provider to their family. Also friend and playmate to their children, supportive partner, coach, and carer or nurturer
•    Compared with their own fathers, many of the fathers surveyed stated that they were more engaged with their children
•    The majority of fathers said that fathering was instinctive, or something they just picked up. Others said they had learned the role from their own fathers or another male relative.
•    Most fathers did not talk with anyone about how to be a father
•    Somewhat less than half of the fathers had read something about fathering, fewer had attended a course on fathering.
•    Around half of the fathers were able to take parental leave from work following the birth of their child, and about three-quarters were able to take special leave when their child was sick.
•    Close to three-quarters thought that it would be a good idea to provide more courses for fathers.
•    Many fathers found antenatal classes irrelevant to their role as fathers.
•    Just under half (49 percent) of the fathers felt that New Zealand society did not recognise the importance of fathers and the majority (60 percent) thought the media portrayed fathers in a poor light.
•    Stepfathers, single fathers, and separated fathers: All three groups were heavily engaged with their children
Quotes from fathers out of Heart and Head: An Explanation of the Meaning of Fatherhood
•   " …It sort of changes you. Definitely changes you. Probably didn’t do so much immediately for me and the reason was because I wasn’t present when she was born. I wasn’t allowed to be."
•   "It’s the sort of thing that before it happens [you think] I don’t know if I can do this sort of thing. It’s a bit nerve wracking. But as soon as you’ve got that child in your arms that’s it. Flick the switch and you’re away."
•    "I have to admit, everyone said that it doesn’t matter how scared you are, doesn’t matter what your trepidations are, the moment you hold that baby in your arms it will all become clear, and it didn’t. And that was a huge, huge disappointment you know. I wanted that magic moment that everyone talks about where you suddenly feel like ‘yes’ this is right. Well it never happened and it did take ages for that to kind of grow out of the shadows."
•    "I felt like I’d given up my old life for a new life. Instant bonding. Right then and there with all those nurses and they were doing their professional stuff and I had this feeling, get your hands off him. He’s mine. Instant bonding."

SOURCE: Families Commission

DATE: 10/12/09

Shine a light for autism

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 11:40:40 GMT

Candles of New Zealand is delighted to announce they have teamed up with Autism New Zealand to create the official Autism Candle. The aim of the candle is to help raise awareness and funds for the organisation, but they hope the candle becomes a symbol of light for all those affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).
The candle itself is handcrafted in New Zealand, using 100% natural soy wax, a pure cotton wick and is infused with Coconut & Lime. The candle was inspired by Ollie, 5, pictured on the label, who was diagnosed with ASD a couple of years ago. Ollie is the son of Nicola and Steven Farrant, owners and operators of Candles of New Zealand and creators of this stunning candle.
Candles of New Zealand will donate $8 from every candle sold to Autism New Zealand Inc. The new Autism Candle is available now exclusively from Flicker Candle Emporium - www.flickercandles.co.nz .
Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically lasts throughout a person's lifetime. It is part of a group of disorders known as autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Autism is a disorder of development affecting social and communication skills. Today, 1 in 150 individuals are diagnosed with autism. The estimated population of people with ASD in New Zealand is over 40,000. It occurs in all racial, ethnic, and social groups and is four times more likely to strike boys than girls. Autism impairs a person's ability to communicate and relate to others. It is also associated with rigid routines and repetitive behaviours, such as obsessively arranging objects or following very specific routines. Symptoms can range from very mild to quite severe.
International stats suggest…

1 in 150 children is diagnosed with autism
1 in 94 boys is on the autism spectrum
67 children are diagnosed per day
A new case is diagnosed almost every 20 minutes
Autism is the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the World
Boys are four times more likely than girls to have autism

There is no medical detection or cure for autism, however specialised education and structured support can really make a difference to a child’s life helping maximise skills and achieve full potential in adulthood.
For further information about Autism please visit www.autismnz.org.nz.

SOURCE: Village PR

DATE: 10/12/09

Issue 7

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 14:19:46 GMT

The best new books for thinking women and their families.

Editor’s choice

Attack of the 50-Foot Hormones: Your One-Stop Survival Guide to Staying Sane during Pregnancy,
by Emma Tom (HarperCollins $36.99)
Okay, yes, the cover looks like a b-grade horror movie from the 1950s. But the premise is what caught our attention — a woman’s feelings during pregnancy. If you can’t help crying through World Vision TV commercials or are running out of excuses to avoid third-trimester sex, this book is brilliant. It’s in week-by-week format, but it’s the first we’ve seen to start from Week One (most pregnancy books gloss over the first few weeks post-conception, when what you really need is something to fill up your time while you’re waiting to see whether it’s one line or two on the test). Funny, poignant, honest, and very useful if you want a little less biology and a little more tell-it-like-it-is-but-still-be-nice-to-the-pregnant-lady.

The Mind Gym: Relationships
(Sphere $39.99)
We’re interacting with other people all the time — at home, at work, even in the supermarket checkout queue. And we’ve all been in the same room as that one person giving off the grumpy vibes, and edged away to avoid being infected. Rather than hiding from tough situations, we have the power to shape our interactions with other people to be more positive and successful. A little bit too “self-helpy” in some parts, but there’s still a lot of good advice about how to get along with people, act like a grown-up when you feel like having a toddler tantrum yourself, and mend troubled relationships.

Love by Numbers: The Hidden Facts behind Everyone’s Relationships, by Dr Luisa Dillner (Profle $29.99)
Books written by agony aunts usually raise our hackles, but this one emphatically tells readers it’s not a self-help book, so you shouldn’t feel obliged to follow its advice to the letter. O-kay… Dr luisa Dillner, columnist in the UK newspaper The Guardian, is well-known for her advice to the lovelorn, and has compiled a book of real-life questions and answers that are designed to help even the Average Joanne navigate the murky waters of Reationship Ocean. Whether you’re just getting back into the dating game after a relationship breakup, or you’re trying to figure out how your marriage will ever survive children, you might find some pearls of wisdom. Or you might not. The author doesn’t make any promises; why should we?

Cooking with Kids, by Linda Collister (Ryland Peters & Small $29.99)
Children love to eat, and they love to help make what they’re eating, and they also love making messes while they’re making what they’re eating. Also, it’s a well-known fact that even if they help you make the vegetables you’re having for dinner, they won’t deign to eat them. But it’s worth a try, right? From snacks to mains to desserts, there’s nothing really innovative in here, but the photographs are absolutely gorgeous and the instructions are excellent. An inspiring one to have on your bookshelf, and easy for kids to get interested in.

Hello Baby! A Record Book of Baby’s First Year
Illustrated by Gail Yerril (Little Tiger Press $39.99)
Unlike most of the baby record books we’ve seen, this one comes with a handy elasticated ribbon to keep the cover closed, even when it’s bursting with mementoes and keepsakes. Sturdy cardstock pages and cute illustrations invite both parents to record their special memories and thoughts. It’s also truly non-gender-specific, so it makes a lovely gift. But best of all, the space for writing is short and sweet, which is a bonus to time-deprived new parents who don’t have the energy to write an entire page on what baby ate for her first solid meal. It’s a no-guilt baby book. We approve.

Small Fry Play: Inspiration for Creative Play with Kids,
by Susie Cameron and Katrina Crook (ABC Books $26.99)
The weather’s improving, but your kids still want to vegetate in front of the TV instead of getting down to business in the sandbox. Yeah, we know the feeling. This comprehensive compendium talks about how to encourage your children to play, and then gives thoughtful suggestions for activities and creative play, either solo or in groups, on their own or with the obligatory grownup/ supervisor in tow. Geared more toward under-fives, but many of the activities can be adapted to be safe for young toddlers. If your kids seem to have forgotten how to play, this book will inspire the whole family.

The Best-Ever Games for Kids (Hamlyn $29.99)
Another one that’s geared more for children aged four to 10, there are absolutely masses of ideas for playing alone or in groups. Particularly useful for parties, family get- togethers (it’ll give a great excuse for children and grown-ups to play together), and rainy days, this book covers everything from card games to word games to outdoor play.

Spring 2009

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 15:32:04 GMT

Blooming lovely

Florals, pastels, chintz and a hint of glamour make any special occasion this spring shimmer with excitement.

Sinead “Sunday Best” dress $275 from Trelise Cooper Kids. Cream flower hairclip $18.99 from Diva.

Tiara: Spring Rose dress $29, Spring Rose wristband $4, and fabric necklace $16.50, all from Made It Baby. Grey four-pearl bracelet $21.99 and Mad Hatter fascinator $37.99, both from Diva. Silver sequinned sneakers $29.99 from Pumpkin Patch.
Ashlea: Spring Rose reversible jacket $45, peasant top $27.50, and lace and chiffon ruffe skirt $29, all from Made It Baby. Baby ballet shoes $39.50 from Cheeky Little Soles.
Chloe: Peasant top $27.50 and ruffe back skirt $42.50, both from Made It Baby. Cream fower hairclip $18.99 and three-row pearl bracelet $19.99, both from Diva

Satin skirt $59.90 and satin top with ties $49.90, both from Circleworks Maternity. Pearl chain knot rope $21.99 from Diva. Flower from Wild Poppies

Stephanie Schell sequin boat-neck mini dress with sash $349.95 from Pregoli. Grey four-pearl bracelet $21.99 and mixed tassel-drop necklace $21.99, both from Diva.

Stephanie Schell Amime V-neck dress $249.95 from Pregoli. Short pearl necklace $16.99 and two-row pearl and freball necklace $21.99, both from Diva.

Blue Goose christening gown $280 from Amelia’s

Four-row pearl bracelet $21.99, three-row stretch pearl bracelet $19.99, mixed tassel-drop earrings $21.99, and pearl chain knot rope $21.99, all from Diva. Royal Albert Polka Rose teacup, saucer, and plate $120 from Smith and Caughey’s

Colette Dinnigan Enfant lace dress $223 from Child. Cream flower hairclip $18.99 from Diva. Royal Albert Polka Rose teacup (part of a set) $120 from Smith and Caughey’s. Floral reupholstered vintage stool $69.90 from Kate Fitzpatrick Home. Flowers from Wild Poppies

Silver sequinned sneakers $29.99 and flower detail ballerina shoes $34.99, both from Pumpkin Patch. Bibi shoes $78 from Mesamis. Jewel flower ring $21.99 from Diva. Flowers from Wild Poppies

Floral cotton belted dress $44.99, spotty leggings $19.99, and striped ballerina shoes with bow $27.99, all from Pumpkin Patch. Cream flower hairclip $18.99 from Diva

Elementary “Squeaky Clean” jacket $295, Sugar Plum “Flutter Cup” tee $75, Pick-A-Frilly “Frilly Pepper” leggings $85 ,and Pippin “Flarey Garden” skirt $195, all from Trelise Cooper Kids. Green felt brooch $8.50 from Made It Baby. Converse stretch butterfly sneakers $59.90 from Eden Shoes.

Neverland “Swish & Chips” Skirt $215 and Tinker “Tank-A-Belle” Singlet $75, both from Trelise Cooper Kids. Flower detail ballerina shoes $34.99 from Pumpkin Patch

Blue Goose christening gown $280 from Amelia’s.

Stockists (all prices approximate):
Amelia’s (09) 620 5972
Cheeky Little Soles www.cheekylittlesoles.co.nz
Child www.child.co.nz
Circleworks Maternity www.circleworks.co.nz
Dimples www.dimples.co.nz
Diva www.diva.co.nz
Eden Shoes www.edenshoes.co.nz
Kate Fitzpatrick www.kateftzpatrick.co.nz
Made It Baby www.littlekiwisnest.co.nz
Mesamis www.mesamis.co.nz
Pumpkin Patch www.pumpkinpatch.co.nz
Poppet Babywear www.poppetbabywear.com
Pregoli www.pregoli.co.nz
Trelise Cooper Kids www.trelisecooper.co.nz
Wild Poppies www.wildpoppies.co.nz

STYLIST: SHERYL BURSON
PHOTOGRAPHY: FIONA TOMLINSON

On the twelfth day of christmas...

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 22:13:22 GMT

A dozen whimsically traditional Christmas gifts your children will love.

This year, why not wrap up a modern classic for your child’s Christmas gift? Here are 12 beautiful handmade and traditional toys that are unique,
designed to last, and simply enchanting.

1 Haba Hearts Memory Game $34.90 from www.bebabo.co.nz
2 En Gry & Sif Mushroom House $95 from www.plushtoys.co.nz
3 Large dolls’ rocking horse $120 from www.rockinghorses.net.nz
4 Le Toy Van Trike & Trailer $125 from www.mainlytoys.co.nz
5 Willow rattle $24.95 from www.bellybeyond.co.nz
6 Le Toy Van Honeybake Oven & Hob Set $209.95 from www.woodentoystore.co.nz
7 Large bubble wand $28 from Wizard Wands wizardwand2@gmail.com
8 Anni and Hans Paper Dolls $34.95 available from Nature Baby
9 Pink Dolls House $220 from www.babyfirst.co.nz
10 Un-Traditional Bespoke Christmas Stocking $55 from www.felt.co.nz/browse/user/speckledegg
11 Bunnykins clock $150 from www.ohbaby.co.nz
12 Handmade fibre art angel ornament from a wide selection $9 from www.woodlandsenchanted.co.nz

Nature Baby sees red

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:38:44 GMT

As World AIDS Day arrives soon on December 1st, New Zealand parents can now help in the fight against AIDS by shopping at Nature Baby.
Bugaboo, the innovative design company renowned for its stylish and popular pushchairs, is marking their 10th anniversary by partnering with (RED) to empower parents across the globe to participate in the fight against AIDS in Africa.
From the beginning of October, with any Bugaboo purchase at Nature Baby and stockists worldwide, Bugaboo will contribute 1% of their total revenue to the Global Fund to help fund AIDS programs in Africa.
(RED) was created by Bono and Bobby Shriver to raise awareness and money for The Global Fund by teaming up with the world's most iconic brands to produce (PRODUCT) RED-branded products. A percentage of each (PRODUCT) RED product sold is given to The Global Fund, to invest in African AIDS programs, with an emphasis on women and children.
Whether purchasing from the existing Bugaboo range or by choosing from the (BUGABOO)RED Special Collection, parents will not only be choosing the latest must-have baby accessory, but they will also be making a conscious decision to support (RED) and helping those 22.5 million people living with HIV and AIDS in Africa, including the millions of mothers and children.
Mothers all around the world are already being spotted with the (BUGABOO) RED pushchairs from Supermodel Christy Turlington, Gossip Girl's Kelly Rutherford (who is also a Nature Baby customer) to British model, Leah Wood.
Bugaboo joins other international companies in the (RED) campaign which include: Emporio Armani, Gap, Apple, Converse, American Express (U.K. only), Hallmark, Dell, Windows and Starbucks.
Bugaboo is the only (RED) partner to contribute a percentage of all revenue across its entire product range to help in the fight against AIDS in Africa, and will also have a limited edition (BUGABOO)RED Special Collection available.

SOURCE: Nature Baby

DATE:

Breastmates Friendly Feeding Awards 2010

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:44:37 GMT

The inaugural 2010 Breastmates' Friendly Feeding award nominations are now open to all New Zealand cafes, restaurants, shops, parents' rooms at shopping malls, parks, libraries, and anywhere women can go in public and breastfeed their babies with ease.
“New mums in particular will benefit from knowing in advance where breastfeeding friendly places are located,” says Breastmates founder Frances McInnes. “It can be terrifying as a new mother needing to feed a crying baby with no facilities or unfeeling staff looking on. I hope this will
forearm breastfeeding mothers with the practical knowledge and inside tips to make their experience more enjoyable.”
Breastmates (www.breastmates.co.nz) is an award-winning online maternity one-stop-shop specialising in breastfeeding necessities and luxuries. McInnes is an expert on breastfeeding and is involved with the Ministry of Health's breastfeeding campaign. She's keenly aware of New Zealand breastfeeding statistics, which are out of step with the Ministry's ?Breast is Best' stance, especially among Maori and Pacific women. Currently only 38% of New Zealand mothers are exclusively breastfeeding their babies at 6 months. (source: HealthPac monitoring reports for 12 months to end of March 2008).
“Feeding dominates much of a new baby's life so making this as happy for the mother and baby as possible is our aim,” explains McInnes, who is often shocked at the treatment breastfeeding mothers receive around the world – such as the mother thrown off a Delta airlines plane simply for breastfeeding her one-year-old daughter onboard. “The awards will raise awareness of the
issues surrounding inadequate breastfeeding areas and attitudes, while rewarding those that are making an effort.”
Judging criteria includes whether the area is quiet, comfortable, has toddler toys, has water available, provides a nappy changing area, is clean and tidy, has stroller access, provides sun protection & shade, has nice staff and/or has heating available for baby food/bottles.
Nominations can be made online at www.breastmates.co.nz and businesses with great breastfeeding facilities can also include a button on their website encouraging their customers/visitors to vote for them http://www.breastmates.co.nz/awards There will also be a place where
you can nominate the worst places to breastfeed.
Regional finalists will be announced and ?Mystery Mums' will then be sent out to test and judge the finalists to find the ultimate Breastmates' Friendly Feeding location around the country.

SOURCE: Breastmates

DATE: 18/11/09

Free National Geographic Photo Exhibition

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:32:49 GMT

New Zealand Geographic magazine has announced the first venue of its free public outdoor photographic exhibition touring the country in coming months.
The exhibition, which features forty-eight spectacular, large format images all printed on weather-proof material has been put together to celebrate 100 issues of the magazine and the release of a ‘best of’ hardback book.
“The images have all been published in the magazine and represent the career-best work of New Zealand’s leading photographers,” says James Frankham, editor of New Zealand Geographic.
“The images showcase some of the most extraordinary wildlife, landscapes and cultural aspects of our nation in an accessible format for the public to experience, enjoy and marvel at.”
Starting at Waitemata Plaza, Viaduct Harbour, the exhibition is free to view from 7am – 7pm from Friday to Sunday for the next two weeks (Fri 20th- Sun 22nd November and Fri 27th-Sun 29th November). From there, it moves to
Hurstmere Green in Takapuna on December 5th and will be available to view in other destinations during 2010.

NZ Geographic Photo Exhibition

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:30:05 GMT

SOURCE: Ink

DATE: 18/11/09

Age before baby

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 14:03:02 GMT

What is the optimal age to get pregnant? With the average age of New Zealand women having a child now at an all-time high of 30, it seems obvious that with the age of first parenthood increasing, women’s fertility is decreasing. Fertility specialist Dr Richard Fisher looks at the research surrounding how age impacts on fertility, for both men and women.

Social change is always fascinating. Changes in the way we behave often lead to unintended consequences. One of the most significant adverse consequences arising from the change to older parenthood (long held to be consequentially “good for society”) is that the incidence of subfertility is increasing for many couples. For many, conception is easy; but for an increasing number, it is becoming more difficult. This is not because there is a fundamental change in human ability to reproduce, it is simply a side effect of beginning one’s reproductive life later than in the past.
      The average age of first birth in New Zealand has climbed steadily since the 1970s. The situation now in 2008 is that it has reached 28. The average age of all New Zealand women giving birth is around 30 years. Clearly this is only an average, but what it does mean is that a significant number of people are trying to have their first baby later than they used to.
      Human fecundity (the chance of conception per month) changes quite dramatically over time, with good evidence that it begins to decline in the late 20s and it falls more rapidly from the mid-30s. At age 30, the average chance of conception per month is around 20%, and by age 35, it has fallen to around 17% or 18%. By 40 it is down to 10% per month. At 43, most women have only around a 4% to 5% chance of conceiving each month.
      Fecundity is a biological variable, and involves two people rather than one, but the primary determinant is usually the woman’s age. That some women do conceive at 43 is certainly true, but also means that a significant number will not conceive, through no fault of their own, and with no underlying cause other than chance.
      As women age, the likelihood of the egg that is released each month being normal decreases, and by age 40, around 85% to 90% of eggs are chromosomally abnormal.
      At a time when couples would most like to conceive quickly, nature determines that conception will, more likely than not, occur slowly. To compound this, the incidence of miscarriage and later fetal loss increases as age increases. The risk of miscarriage increases from around 10-15% at age 30 to 35-40% at 40.

     We have known for many years that there is an increase in
chromosomal abnormalities in the children of reproductively older women, but recently, more interest has been shown in men’s age as an independent variable in reproductive outcomes. Lately there has been some publicity about the chance of fetal death increasing as male age increases, but this just confirms data known for some time that a paternal age of greater than 50 doubles the chance of fetal death at any time in pregnancy, and paternal age of more than 40 leads to an increased rate of miscarriage independent of maternal age. More recent data has shown that as men age, the chance of their partner conceiving reduces as well, and a man older than 40 may halve the chances per month of his partner conceiving. Young sperm seems to have a significant biological advantage, just as young eggs do.
      Just as in women, paternal age can affect children’s outcome, although more recognised in non-chromosome abnormalities such as schizophrenia, autism, and achondroplasia (dwarfism). The data about schizophrenia seems particularly robust, with the chance of a 45-year-old male having a child with schizophrenia being three times greater than one under 30. Similarly, as men age there is an increased risk of the child having autism.
      These are all relative risks, however, and the absolute levels remain small. Men, however, clearly shoulder some of the burden of risk factors with the changing reproductive age.
     I am often surprised how many couples are unaware of the significant effect of female age on reproduction. Despite 20 years of my constantly talking about maternal age and its effect on fertility, the information is still not widely disseminated, or, if it is, not widely absorbed. Most people are brought up to think about “when” they have children, rather than “if”, and hold firmly to the belief that such an “if” could not happen to them.
      As always, there are competing messages in the media, which make an assessment of likelihood difficult. News that yet another celebrity has conceived in their 40s (and often with twins) often lacks added information that their conception was assisted, and often with the use of donor eggs. Hollywood must have the highest incidence of spontaneous twin pregnancies in the world!
      A consequence of this delay in attempting to conceive is that more people present to infertility clinics for assistance than ever before. Often there is no definable cause other than age, and with luck, time alone will allow conception to occur. The average normal 37-year-old will take around seven to eight months to conceive, and the average 40-year-old will take up to 15 months.
      Clearly the underlying emotional pressures of such delays are significant. The insecurity about conception leads to interventions such as the use of drugs and even IVF, which,if more time was available, might prove unnecessary.
      Since 1990, there has been a four-fold increase in the use of IVF in women over 40. Approximately 20% of all couples having IVF at Fertility Associates Auckland are now over the age of 40. There is little question IVF is the most effective treatment in any individual month for these couples, although it is a complex treatment, which most couples would rather have avoided. Just as in natural conception, the success rates in IVF are also limited by the underlying biology. IVF is a highly successful treatment in younger women and a relatively effective one in older women, but the incidence of failure increases with age.

     It has been widely stated (without any factual basis) that the reasons for delaying conception were primarily around women deciding to become educationally, professionally and financially more secure, quite apart from the independence that the emancipation of women has brought. Two recent surveys, however, in Australia and New Zealand, both of infertile couples, strongly suggest that the lack of a suitable partner may well be the prime determinant. Whether women are getting more fussy, men are becoming less ready to commit, or whether there are just are not enough suitable men to go around, it is a fertile topic for further research. Reproductive medicine can do clever things, but if what we have is a social problem, then we would be better off seeking a social solution. No amount of good medicine, combined with good research, is likely to make a significant difference to the number of people presenting for fertility treatment who are successful, whereas trying to conceive earlier certainly would.
      A further, and just as interesting, social consequence of delay in childbearing may take another generation to become obvious.
In most societies, grandparents have played an active role in the upbringing of their grandchildren. In the last two decades, with more women at work, that involvement has often become more consistent as a source of childcare during the working week, and respite care at other times. Even families separated by distance have some more consistent involvement than in the past. If the current patterns continue, then it will be very common for grandparents to become first grandparents in their sixties and seventies, at a time when active grandparenthood might be more difficult both emotionally and physically. For an increasing number of grandparents, the likelihood of great-grandparenthood will be remote.
      For most couples, conception should occur without too much difficulty. Intercourse should not need to be planned like a military exercise, but having an awareness of the time of ovulation is important and having an awareness of the importance of age is critical. If there is anything in your, or your partner’s, history which is suggestive of a reduction in your chances of conception,such as pelvic infection, endometriosis, or surgery to the testis, then you should present early for assessment. The more irregular your cycles, the less predictable the time of ovulation is.
      With social changes come unintended consequences. How we deal with these particular consequences will shape the future for both individuals and society as a whole.

Richard Fisher FRCOG, FRANZCOG, CREI together with Freddy Graham established Fertility Associates in 1987 after starting up New Zealand’s integrated infertility medicine group at National Women’s previously. He is New Zealand’s foremost medical spokesperson on matters of reproductive health and has been an advocate for better access to care for couples with infertility throughout his career. He has four children and is married to Leigh, without whom he could never have practised medicine with the enthusiasm and commitment that he has. www.fertilityassociates.co.nz will tell you more about Richard and the team at Fertility Associates.

As seen in OHbaby! magazine Issue 3: 2008

Subscribe to OHbaby! magazine
Purchase Issue 3

100 ways to take time for yourself

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 14:43:52 GMT

How much time do you get for yourself each day? Whether you’re a new mum or your little ones are growing up, you probably find it difficult to get any time that’s devoted solely to your own wellbeing and pleasure. Here’s our guide to taking time for yourself, even if you have only 10 seconds to spare.

10 seconds
• Spritz on some perfume. Spray it in your hair, behind your ears, on the backs of your knees, and on your wrists. As you walk (or run after an active toddler), the scent will be released and you’ll be reminded that you deserve to feel beautiful.
• Close your eyes. Take a deep breath. Inhale through your nose; exhale through your mouth. Pay attention to your breathing.
• Light a candle or some incense.
• Pour yourself a tall, cold glass of water, or fill up your water bottle. Carry it with you and hydrate yourself!
• Smile! Break out in the cheesiest, widest grin you can. It will release some of the tension you’re holding in your face, and you might even get one in return, especially from a child!
• Dab some spearmint oil or lavender oil on your temples and the nape of your neck.
• Kiss and hug your partner, your baby, your dog. A bit of affection can give your mood an immediate lift.
• Put on a necklace or some earrings. All too often, mums forget that they even own jewellery. Wearing your favourite necklace or pair of earrings can give your self-image a boost.
• Say a mantra or affirmation that has meaning to you. “I am competent, intelligent, and capable. I can handle this!” can be useful for trying situations. Memorise a quote or saying that resonates with you, and say it out loud to yourself when you find that your patience or optimism are being challenged.
• Take the phone off the hook, or set the ringer to “silent” and let the answering machine take your calls.
• Take a multivitamin.
• Think about an upcoming holiday or break you’ve been looking forward to.
• Take some Rescue Remedy.

10 seconds
• Spritz on some perfume. Spray it in your hair, behind your
ears, on the backs of your knees, and on your wrists. As you
walk (or run after an active toddler), the scent will be released
and you’ll be reminded that you deserve to feel beautiful.
• Close your eyes. Take a deep breath. Inhale through your nose;
exhale through your mouth. Pay attention to your breathing.
• Light a candle or some incense.
• Pour yourself a tall, cold glass of water, or fill up your water
bottle. Carry it with you and hydrate yourself!
• Smile! Break out in the cheesiest, widest grin you can. It will
release some of the tension you’re holding in your face, and
you might even get one in return, especially from a child!
• Dab some spearmint oil or lavender oil on your temples and
the nape of your neck.
• Kiss and hug your partner, your baby, your dog. A bit of
affection can give your mood an immediate lift.
• Put on a necklace or some earrings. All too often, mums
forget that they even own jewellery. Wearing your favourite
necklace or pair of earrings can give your self-image a boost.
• Say a mantra or affirmation that has meaning to you. “I am
competent, intelligent, and capable. I can handle this!” can be
useful for trying situations. Memorise a quote or saying that
resonates with you, and say it out loud to yourself when you
find that your patience or optimism are being challenged.
• Take the phone off the hook, or set the ringer to “silent”
and let the answering machine take your calls.
• Take a multivitamin.
• Think about an upcoming holiday or break you’ve been looking
forward to.
• Take some Rescue Remedy.

30 seconds
• Run a brush through your hair. It will stimulate your scalp and help you to feel refreshed.
• Adjust your bra straps. If your bra fits you well, your posture will be better, and you won’t feel so much tension across your shoulders and in your back.
• Scream! Go on, let it out. It will help release tension in your face and may help you simply let off some steam.
• Rub on some hand lotion.
• Put on a soothing CD or any of your favourite music. Leave it on in the background while you do other activities around the house.
• Laugh out loud. Even if nothing is funny, make yourself giggle, at least. Laughter is said to be the best medicine, and it’s an awesome stress-reliever, too.
• Take off your shoes and wiggle your toes. Stretch your toes out, then gently crunch them against the floor. Grab a ball and roll it around on the floor beneath your feet.
• Put on some lip gloss. Smile at yourself in the mirror!
• Close your eyes and place your ring fingers directly under your eyebrows, near the bridge of your nose. Slowly increase the pressure for five to 10 seconds, then gently release. Repeat two to three times.
• Close your eyes and think of five things you’re thankful for.

1 minute
• Do your pelvic floor exercises. It may not seem like something fun, but your body will thank you for it, and it will take your mind off of everything else, as pelvic floor exercises require concentration of a different kind!
• Face the wall. Stand with your feet flat on the floor and raise your arms to about shoulder level, then shift them up a little bit. Place your palms against the wall and push. Stretch your hamstrings as you push against the wall. Your hamstrings are one of the first muscle groups in your body to store tension, so if you take the time to stretch them out, you’ll feel better.
• Do a fast jog in place for a full minute. You might feel a bit silly, but if you can get your blood flowing and your body primed for action, you can kick that sluggish feeling for a few hours.
• Give yourself a mini massage. Rub your shoulders, temples, and hands.
• Brush your teeth! Fresh breath gives you confidence and makes you feel clean and refreshed. Mint is a mood-lifter as well.
• Stop and be fully present in the moment. Consider your surroundings, what you’re doing, who is with you, and what the mood is. Try to objectify the current situation so you can get a clear picture of what’s going on. “Check out” just the tiniest bit in order to put things into perspective, then when you get back to reality, you’ll be more aware and less likely to get frazzled or frustrated.
• Give your scalp a light massage. Place your thumbs behind your ears while spreading your fingers on top of your head. Move your scalp back and forth slightly by making circles with your fingertips for 15 to 20 seconds. Repeat two to three times.
• Release shoulder tension by reaching one arm across the front of your body to your opposite shoulder. Using a circular motion, press firmly on the muscle above your shoulder blade. Repeat on the other side.

5 minutes
• Cleanse, tone and moisturise your face.
• Stretch your whole body. Start with your feet and toes, then move up through your legs, waist and back, shoulders and arms, and even your neck.
• Turn the radio or music channel up and sing or dance around.
• Go outside and breathe in the fresh air.
• Change your clothes. Sometimes all it takes is a fresh, clean outfit to make you feel better, especially if your shirt is covered in baby badges. Change your whole outfit, from top to bottom (even your underwear).
• Visualise yourself in a stress-free situation. You could be walking in a garden, laying in the tub, or even just laughing with your child. Close your eyes and picture all the details of your restful place as vividly as you can. Visualisation helps you let go of stress, tension and anxiety, and promotes
feelings of peace and calmness.
• Make a list of all of the good things things that occurred today. Focus on the positive, not the negative. Write it down, then look over that list and allow yourself to feel proud.
• Say a prayer. Connect with your spiritual self, and direct your
thoughts toward peace and strength.
• Daydream. Let your mind wander a bit and see what pops up.

10 minutes
• Make a cup of tea. Chamomile or peppermint tea are perfect for relaxing. Let it steep for a good long time before drinking.
• Soak your feet in a tub of hot water and essential oils — lavender for relaxing, sweet orange for rejuvenating.
• Take a shower. Envision yourself washing away your stress and troubles while the suds swirl down the drain. The “white noise” of the shower can also help you to quiet those internal voices as well as drown out the external ones!
• Meditate. Find a quiet place where you’ll be comfortable and nobody will disturb you. Even if it’s the garage, the storage shed, or the bathroom, it’ll do. Shut the door, sit down, and close your eyes. Try to empty out your mind and just breathe.
• Do a “body scan”. Simply focus on each part of your body, from your toes to your head, and take note of how it feels, without labelling those sensations as either good or bad — just be aware. This technique cultivates mindfulness and helps you to be more aware of your own body.

15 minutes
• Spread on a face masque. Those single-serve sachets you can get from the chemist are great for this!
• Eat breakfast. Take enough time to actually taste the food you’re eating rather than inhaling it at the same time that you’re doing 10 other things.
• Play with your pet. Throw a rope toy or a stick with your dog, tease your cat with a ball of yarn, or just do whatever it is that your pet loves.
• Play solitaire. Whether it’s on the computer or with a real deck of cards, it’s good for helping you to clear your mind and distract yourself from stress.
• Flick through your wedding album. Seeing photos of yourself on such a happy occasion will help you to remember what life was like before babies came along, and it may inspire you to feel more romantic towards your partner if your relationship has been lacking in couple-time lately.
• Sit on your veranda and watch the birds, the neighbours, and the cars driving by. Observe the world around you. Concentrate on stillness when everything else is moving busily.
• Savour an ice-cream sundae or thickshake.

30 minutes
• Buy yourself some flowers. Even if they only come from the local dairy, they’ll brighten your day.
• Give yourself a mini manicure. Soak your cuticles, then give your hands a massage with a light hand lotion. Trim and file your nails, then paint on a base coat. Allow to dry, then polish and seal with a top coat.
• Take a power nap.
• Go for a walk. Strap your little one into her stroller and head out the door for a quick jaunt around the neighbourhood. The fresh air and exercise will make both of you feel better.
• Watch the sunset. Sit in your garden with a cup of tea or hot chocolate and admire nature’s magic show.
• Start a topic of conversation on the OHbaby! message boards. Drop in on other people’s conversations — it’s like having a virtual coffee group, only you can hang out in your pyjamas.
• Write in a journal. You don’t need to be a novelist. Just sit down for some concentrated time and write whatever you feel like, from thoughts and feelings to plans and dreams. Start a blog on the OHbaby! website where you can record your pregnancy journey, write down how you’ve developed as
a mother, and keep track of what your little rascal is up to. It’s a lovely way to record your memories.

45 minutes
• Relax in a bubble bath, the kind without slippery toddlers climbing all over you.
• Read the newspaper — only the sections you really want to!
• Weed your garden. It’s hot, sweaty work, but it’s remarkably good for helping you to de-stress. Ripping stubborn weeds out of the ground is also very satisfying at a visceral level!
• Head to the nicest bakery in town and get yourself a beautiful dessert, and eat it all by yourself, with nobody asking for a bite. This also works with fine-quality chocolates!
• Write a nice, long letter or email to someone you haven’t been in touch with for a while. Take the time to share your feelings and let them know about your life. It will help you to slow down and think back on happy times, and you’ll feel great satisfaction in knowing that you’ve brightened their day when they receive your letter.
• Do t’ai chi. T’ai chi is a series of flowing, slow, gentle body movements that emphasise concentration and the circulation of vital energy throughout your body. It reduces stress, relaxes you, and helps you to be more mindful of your body.
• Work on a puzzle. Whether it’s a crossword or a Sudoku grid, you’ll have fun and stimulate your mind at the same time.
• Dig out your high school yearbooks or old photo albums and take a nice, long stroll down memory lane.
• Take yourself out to a light lunch or coffee at a posh café. Order something scrumptious and sit at a table outside or by the window. Read a magazine or the newspaper and let someone else wait on you for a change.

1 hour
• Get a massage or facial. Allow yourself to feel pampered.
• Drop in on a yoga or pilates class. Better yet, make this a regular weekly activity.
• Go to the gym. Burn off some stress and get those endorphins pumping. You’ll also sleep better.
• Window shop. Most towns have an area of quaint shops that encourage leisurely browsing. You don’t have to spend any money — just revel in being out and about. Pay attention to the shop displays and admire the colours and arrangement of items. Take the time to really look at what’s in front of you
rather than rushing past.
• Take a drive. Sometimes you simply need to get out of the house, and strapping a grumpy baby into their carseat while taking a leisurely drive to absolutely nowhere can soothe both of you. Put on some music that you love and sing along.
• Go swimming at the beach or the pool. Many local community pools are free during the day, and trust us, nobody but you cares what you look like in your togs.
• Go get a manicure or a pedicure — or both!
• Visit a garden centre and admire the exotic, expensive and gorgeous plants that are in season. Smell the roses!
• Paint a picture. You don’t need to be an artist to enjoy swishing a paintbrush around a nice big piece of paper and expressing yourself creatively. If you don’t have paints, then break out your child’s crayons and get busy.
• Make a self-esteem collage. This is something OHbaby! Magazine Editor Katherine has done since university, especially when facing a new situation that challenges her perception of herself. Get a piece of poster board from the local art supply store, a stack of magazines, scissors, and glue. Cut out photos and words that are pertinent to your self-esteem and glue them to the poster. Hang it somewhere that you’ll see it every day — your bathroom wall, your closet door, or even the kitchen.
• Visit your local bookstore and have a really good browse.
• Buy new underwear and a bra — frilly, feminine, matching ones.
• Ring a friend and just have a good, long chat.

2-3 hours
• Attend a book group or poetry reading. Many bookstores have scheduled events like these, and doing something that stimulates you intellectually as well as gets you out of the house can really get your mind out of a rut.
• Wander through your local historic home or botanic gardens.
• Go shopping for yourself! Take some time to find yourself a new outfit that suits your post-baby body, rather than suffering in too-big maternity jeans while envying your pre-pregnancy clothing. When you’re wearing something
that fits you and feels good, you’ll feel better.
• Go bush. Find a local track or reserve with pathways, and take a hike. Pack a backpack with some water and snack bars for sustenance, and get away from the hustle and bustle.
• Go to the afternoon matineé at the movies by yourself, or take a friend along. See whatever you want, and you don’t have to worry about grubby hands stealing your popcorn or children misbehaving. It’s dark so you can sink into the theatre seat and relax, and, because the afternoon matineé is never crowded, you’ll likely have a whole row of seats to yourself!
• Take a class. Many community centres and schools offer lowcost courses in a number of different genres, from cooking to languages to handcrafts, and there are evening classes, too.
• Get your hair done. Whether it be a new style, a cut and colour or simply a tidy-up, it will make you feel like a million bucks.
• Update your CV. Whether you’re a stay-at-home mum or you work outside the home, chances are you haven’t even glanced at your CV for ages before your little one was born. Take a good look at it, and revel in your accomplishments right there in black and white. Then update it with the details of your most recent job, give it a good proofreading, and walk away feeling proud of yourself.
• Visit your local museum or art gallery. The quiet ambience and calm atmosphere will clear your mind, and you’ll enjoy the opportunity to reflect and observe without interruption or being rushed.

An entire evening
• Organise a girls’ night out. Go out for a drink with a friend, then head to a show or a movie. Or go out for dinner with friends at a “grown-up” restaurant, one with linen napkins and extra silverware, and a separate wine menu.
• Lose yourself in a book — a novel, preferably.
• Rent a chick flick and make some microwave popcorn, then settle down for a girls’ night in.
• Go to bed early. Leave the dishes and the laundry.
• Check out late night at the mall. It’s not just for teenagers!
• Get out your sewing machine and whip up something little and fun. Make heart-shaped lavender sachets, embroider a pillow slip, sew yourself a long, skinny cloth tie-belt, or finish a project you’ve been meaning to work on.
• Hire a babysitter and have a romantic dinner out with your man.

A whole day
• Have a pyjama day. Eat different breakfasts for every meal: cereal and juice for the morning, bacon and eggs for lunch, waffles and bananas for dinner. Lay around with your duvet and just focus on resting your body and mind. This is not laziness, it’s conscious relaxation. You’re allowed a day off!
• Go on strike for a day. Let your husband look after the kids, let the housework wait and the washing pile mount up, and enjoy a day of being you, without the pressures of being “Mum”.
• Have a girls’ day out with some friends. Whether it be shopping and lunch, coffee and a movie, or simply hanging out at a friend’s house sharing girly chat, there’s nothing like your best girlfriends to make you feel good about yourself.
• Book in for a wine tasting or follow your local wine trail from vineyard to vineyard. Take a designated driver along or join a tour group. You don’t need to be a foreign tourist to sample the delights of our country’s award-winning tipple.
• Visit a day spa and book yourself in for an entire day of beauty treatments. Many spas have packages which include several pampering treatments and light lunch as well.

A weekend
• Get some sleep. Most parents are running on a sleep deficit of two hours or more a night — meaning, if you need eight hours of sleep, research shows that you’re probably getting more like six hours, tops. A weekend of going to bed at a decent time and getting up at a reasonable hour can help you to reset your internal clock and set you up for good sleep patterns in the week to come.
• Go to a spa or a health retreat. Take yourself out of your home environment and do something that is focused on pampering you. Take a girlfriend along for some company if you are afraid you’ll spend the entire weekend on the
phone to your family. She can help keep you focused on taking much-needed time for yourself, and remembering that you’re a woman also, not just a mother.
• Get a part-time job. Okay, so that might not exactly sound like stress relief, but if you can find something you enjoy doing on the weekends, or pick up a few hours doing the job you used to do before you had children, you’ll be amazed how good it feels to flex your intellectual muscles (while getting paid!).
• Visit an old haunt. Whether you head back to the place where you spent your uni days or you return to your hometown for a brief visit, the blast from the past will really put into perspective just how far you have come in your life.

A whole week
• Unplug the TV. This may sound impossible to do and you’ll probably get some serious resistance from the rest of the family, but taking time off from TV can reduce your stress levels significantly. Just having the TV on in the background during the day adds “noise” to your already stressful responsibilities and activities, and may be stressing you out without you even knowing it.
• Send your husband and the kids away for the week and enjoy being in your home alone. You may feel like you can’t stand those four walls any longer because of the relentless mess and chaos, but if you can spend some quality time in your own space without anyone else there to bother you, you might find a new appreciation for your surroundings.
• Go on holiday — by yourself. When it feels like “motherhood” has completely taken over your life and identity, it’s important to have some time out to remember what else defines you as a woman. Go to a spa or foreign destination, go on a creative retreat, or check out an adventure tourism place if you really need to challenge yourself and break out of your mould.

Bellies good for business

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 13:02:01 GMT

The team at OHbaby! are excited to congratulate Louisa and Heidi, co-founders and directors of Belly Beyond, on their recent success at the Waitakere Enterprise Business Awards. Belly Beyond, an online business providing gorgeous gifts and practical essentials for before, during and after childbirth, won the Corban Revell Best Small Business Award.

The judges commented that Belly Beyond is "a great little business that has achieved a lot in a small time. The owners appear to be both technology and marketing savvy, exude passion for their business and have a drive to grow and develop."

To check out what makes Belly Beyond so special, visit www.bellybeyond.co.nz.

SOURCE: OHbaby! staff

DATE: 9/11/09

Reward charts

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 12:20:42 GMT

Download and print a reward chart: simply click on the chart below to open it as a PDF.

How to use your reward chart

Step one: What behaviour do you want to change?
You may already have a few behaviours in mind that you want to help encourage your litle one to change. A reward chart can help in achieving those goals. The basic premise of a reward chart is to reward the positive behaviours you want reinforced in your child, rather than focusing on the negative behaviours. Reward charts generally work better with children over the age of two. On the left side, write the behaviours you want to encourage, with five stars to be ticked,coloured in, or covered over with a sticker each time your child displays the behaviour you’ve decided upon. Once your child receives five stars, they get a reward, which you can decide on and write down on the right side of the chart.
To encourage your little one to use the chart and enjoy the process, you may like to get them to interact with you and help you to fill it out. There are stars in the “rewarding” boxes for each display of good behaviour. You may like to tick inside the star with different-coloured markers, or perhaps use small stickers or sparkly beads you could stick on with blue tack or double-sided tape. You could take your child shopping to choose what to mark each star on the chart with. Doing this also helps to explain what your purchase will be used for and how the chart will work. Sit down with your child and write his or her name on the chart together, and draw pictures on the chart, perhaps to represent the behaviours the chart will address (a plate with food on it for eating dinner; a pair of big-kid undies for using the potty).

Ages and stages behaviour tips:
• Examples of behaviours you may want to encourage could be potty/toilet training, eating their meals, playing nicely with siblings, listening, having good manners, social graces, communication, and tidying up.
• Be specific about the behaviours you would like to see. The younger your child is, the more specific the chart should be. For example, “Have good manners” needs to be broken down into “Say please when you ask for something and say thank you when you receive something”, and “Listening” could be more specifically “Doing what Mummy and Daddy tell me to do straightaway.”
• No double negatives when writing your reward item. Frame things positively: Instead of “Don’t be rude!” it could be “Say please and thank you.”
• Limit the time that each behaviour that is on the chart. When your little one is displaying these behaviours on their own without needing to be reminded, the chart will become redundant, so keep these behaviours fresh to encourage their continued use without necessarily being rewarded for them. It’s okay if you need to reintroduce reminders later.
• Limit the number of behaviours by age — the younger the child, the fewer behaviours, e.g. 24 months = one behaviour at a time, 30 months plus = two to three behaviours, ages three and up = no more than five behaviours at one time.

Step two: Rewarding each good behaviour
Each time your little one has earned a tick or sticker in the reward area, the reward should be both the tick on the star and verbal praise of that behaviour. So rather than a generic “Good girl/boy!” praise, you could say, “I really like how you put your toys away” or “I am proud that you went to the potty when you needed to use it!”
• Younger children need a short time span between the behaviour and the reward. You may wish to make the rewards a bit more immediate so that your child understands the correlation between the good behaviour and the immediate positive outcome, e.g. praise and a little treat, then get them to put the star on the chart.
• Another fun way to mark your child’s reward is to give him or her an option such as, “Would you like a pink sticker or a blue sticker on the reward chart?”

Step three: The big reward
Believe it or not, lollies don’t have to be the main reward. The younger the child is, the more immediate food treats might be in rewarding behaviour; however, you could look at other treats, such as toys that they have asked for, a trip to their favourite playground for a picnic, a visit to the zoo, etc. In an ideal world, the reward will be related to the behaviour you are rewarding, and you can talk them through this as well so they understand it. For example, if the behaviour is being kind to a sibling, the reward could be doing something with that sibling together. If it’s toilet training, the reward could be choosing their own new underwear from the shop. If it’s tidying up, the reward could be earning a toy they have wanted. For listening to Mummy and Daddy, the reward could be that your child is the boss for 30 minutes. If it relates to eating,the reward could be food-related, getting $2 to spend on lollies, or dining out somewhere as a treat.

Bed sharing biggest cause of cot death

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 15:12:03 GMT

    Researchers said this could be linked to the baby's parent having been drinking or taking drugs, before falling asleep with the baby in bed or on a sofa.
    Despite a dramatic drop in the rate of cot deaths in the UK since the early 1990s, experts are advising parents to avoid sleeping with their babies in order to help reduce these deaths even further.
    A team of researchers at Bristol and Warwick universities studied all unexpected deaths of infants - aged from birth to 2 years old - in the southwest of England from January 2003 to December 2006.
    Of the 80 cot deaths analysed, more than half (54 per cent) occurred while the parent and baby were sleeping together.
    Nearly a third of the deaths occurred among parents who drank alcohol or used drugs before falling asleep with their babies, which may explain much of the risk, the researchers say, as they may mean a parent is less likely to wake up.
    Sleeping with a baby on a sofa rather than in bed also increased the risk. A fifth of cot death infants were found with a pillow and a quarter were swaddled, suggesting potentially new risk factors emerging.
    The researchers said some of the safety messages were getting across to parents and may have contributed to the continued fall in the cot death rate. However, parents were not heeding warnings about putting their babies to sleep in a hazardous environment.
    The safest place for an infant to sleep is in a cot beside the parental bed in the first six months of life, said the study published online in the British Medical Journal.
    The term sudden infant death syndrome was introduced in 1969 as a recognised category of natural death that carried no implication of blame for bereaved parents.
    Since then, a lot has been learned about risk factors, and parents are now advised to reduce the risk of death by placing infants on their back to sleep, placing infants in the "feet to foot" position, where their feet touch the end of the cot, and keeping infants in a smoke-free environment.
    But it is not clear which risk messages have been taken on board in different social or cultural groups.
    Lead author Peter Fleming, professor of infant health and development physiology at Bristol University, said: "People understand the implications of drinking and driving ... So we want parents - if they've had a drink or taken drugs - not to co-sleep with their baby."
    Professor Fleming said many parents got up in the middle of the night to feed their baby on a sofa or armchair, believing it was safer than feeding them in bed, but the opposite was true.
    "It is really important that parents should not fall asleep with their baby on a sofa as it is very, very dangerous," he said.
    "It is 25 times more risky than having a baby in bed with you. After parents have fed a baby it is really important they put them back in their cot."

SOURCE: New Zealand Herald

DATE: 15/10/09

Discipline in context

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 14:45:50 GMT

Kiwi families say they are increasingly using positive parenting techniques because they work, according to 100 ordinary families’ descriptions of their own parenting methods.
    Their voices provide a snapshot of parenting in New Zealand today.
Interviews were conducted with 117 parents from 100 families as part of a Families Commission funded project that investigated what kind of discipline strategies are used by today’s families with their pre-school children. Researchers Julie Lawrence and Anne B Smith also asked families to record their discipline practices in parenting diaries. The project report "Discipline in context: families" disciplinary practices for children aged under five’ was published today.
    Chief Commissioner Jan Pryor says the results are very encouraging and show parents try very hard to use techniques that they think are effective.
    “Parents told us they preferred to use positive reinforcement with their kids because that is what they think works best.”
    Parents are three times more likely to use positive reinforcement, praise and affirmation rather than punishment.
    One parent gives an example of praise:
“We shared the excitement with everyone. Let’s phone grandma [about] doing poos on the toilet. There is only so much praise two people can give, but if you phone grandparents and friends…”
    Another says:
“…if he’s been regularly doing something not right and (then) if he does it well catching him (doing it right) and (saying) ‘that’s brilliant’ and giving him a kiss or a cuddle. He loves doing the right thing – you can tell.”
   When parents do use punishment they are most likely to use ‘time out’ or withdrawal of privileges, which they say are the most effective punishment tools.
    One parent says:
“We use a thinking mat, not a naughty spot like Supernanny does… it can be anywhere… the car, the trolley, anywhere, I just say I’m putting you on the thinking mat because… and so it’s not always naughtiness, it’s just thoughtlessness, so its training for them to later think about their actions…”
    Smacking was used infrequently and generally as a last resort. Only nine percent of parents thought smacking was effective.
    One parent’s attempt:
“We tried slapping him on the hand when he ran across the road without looking, no he just started slapping us on the hand, so it had quite a negative effect ‘cos he thought that’s how you react when you get angry.”
    Overall most parents are firm but fair in their style of parenting, as opposed to totally authoritarian or permissive.
“The majority of parents surveyed say discipline is about getting their children to behave in a socially acceptable way.”
“There is also an encouraging indication in this report that our family violence messages, alongside positive parenting information and supports, are helping parents find techniques that work for them.”
    Supports include wider family, friends, written material, and professionals such as early childhood teachers, doctors and Plunket nurses.
    One parent says:
“And there was one time when she [early childhood teacher] put me onto someone else who was actually a supervisor at the childcare centre … so she just came up to visit me. I asked for help with [child] for behaviour management … and her philosophy was different to mine but I still found it really helpful.”
    Another parent says:
“The Plunket nurse said to give choices. [Child] is jumping on the couch and she told me to say … ‘We don’t jump on the couch, we sit on the couch’. Tell them what to do rather than what not to do.”
    Although the majority of caregivers have three or more support people, some parents have little or none, making it harder for them to positively parent.
    One at-home dad says:
“There are days when I will sit down and cry with loneliness … I find it really hard to meet people… It is still not easy to say you are an at-home dad. You get a funny reaction.”
    And a mother without the support of her family says:
“My mother hasn’t spoken to me for years. I wouldn’t take my problems to my family.”
    The study surveyed 98 mothers, 16 fathers, and three grandparents, 10 per cent of whom were Maori. The families had an average household income of $50,000 - $60,000.

SOURCE: The Families Commission

DATE: 15/10/09

Improving low iron in toddlers

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 14:12:03 GMT

Toddlers who increase their red meat intake or drink iron-fortified milk can successfully avoid the falling iron levels commonly affecting this age group, according to latest University of Otago findings.
    Study co-principal investigator Dr Anne-Louise Heath of the University’s Department of Human Nutrition says one in three toddlers in New Zealand are thought to have low iron levels, putting them at a higher risk of developing iron deficiency anaemia.
    “Severe iron deficiency can delay brain development and may result in impaired cognitive function and behavioural problems. To safeguard against sliding into this state, it is important to find sustainable ways to prevent the decline in iron levels that often occur in the second year of life,” Dr Heath says.
    The decline is thought to be due to the body’s high iron requirements during this stage of growth, combined with decreased iron intakes, she says.
As very little research had been done into toddlers’ nutrition and iron levels, Dr Heath and colleagues conducted research to determine whether food-based strategies might be an easy and effective way to improve iron status.
    As part of her PhD studies, co-investigator Dr Ewa Szymlek-Gay carried out a five-month intervention trial involving 225 South Island toddlers and their families.
    In the randomised double-blind trial, the children were assigned to three groups; one supplied with frozen cooked red meat dishes prepared in 21 varieties, another group with iron-fortified powdered milk and the third, control, group with non-fortified powdered milk.
    Toddlers in the red meat group were encouraged to consume at least two portions of the dishes each day, while those in the other two groups had their regular cow’s milk replaced with fortified or non-fortified powdered milk.
“Despite the wide variety of textures and flavours in the dishes we developed, the toddlers in the red meat group upheld their age group’s reputation for fussiness by on average eating just over two-thirds of a portion daily,” Dr Szymlek-Gay says.
    Blood measurements were taken at the beginning and end of the five month trial. The fortified milk group showed a 44 per cent increase in the concentration of ferritin, a protein that is used to estimate iron stores. Ferritin concentrations remained unchanged in the red meat group and decreased in the non-fortified milk group.
    The results show that either giving toddlers iron-fortified milk or increasing their red meat intake is likely to successfully prevent a decline in their iron stores, Dr Szymlek-Gay says.
    Dr Heath says that current nutritional recommendations ideally call for increasing iron levels at this age, and that in this regard, replacing toddlers’ ordinary cow’s milk with fortified milk looks very promising.
“However, in practical terms, both the red meat and fortified milk approaches have their pros and cons,” she says.
    One major benefit of using iron-fortified milk is that it does not require radical changes to a toddler’s diet, which can often be difficult to introduce and maintain, she says.
    “On the other hand, fortified milk is a lot more expensive and this may put it beyond the means of some families. Parents may also inadvertently limit the range of foods they offer to their child due to the sense of nutritional security that using a fortified product may provide.”
    This could delay the child’s move from a predominantly milk-based diet towards a well-balanced adult-style diet, she says.
    “The benefit of taking the red meat approach is that it is inexpensive, and preventing the decline in iron stores should only require a relatively small increase in the amount toddlers eat daily.”
    A combined approach might possibly provide improvements in iron status, but further research is required to determine whether this is the case or not, she says.
    The findings are published online by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, which is the most highly rated peer-reviewed journal in the
nutrition and dietetics category.

SOURCE: University of Otago

DATE: 15/10/09

Is your baby's cot safe?

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 13:36:12 GMT

There’s nothing more delightful than the sight of a baby sleeping peacefully in its cot. And this should be one of the safest places in your home for your precious new bundle of joy. Sadly, there have been tragedies in the past where babies have died as a result of unsafe cots. For this reason, there is a cot safety standard, which is issued under the Fair Trading Act 1986 and enforced by the Commerce Commission.

Before you shop for a cot for your baby, it is wise to understand what is required by the cot safety standard. The standard applies to cots whether they are sold new through a retailer, or second-hand via the internet, newspaper classifieds, garage sale, or even passed on to you by a well-meaning friend or relative. It does not apply to folding or carry cots, bassinets or antique cots.

So what do you need to look for when buying a cot, to ensure it does meet the standard? Some of the requirements covered by the standard include:

Space between bars must be between 50-95 mm
Space between cot sides and ends and mattress must be no more than 20mm when the mattress is centred
No protrusions, measuring more than 5mm, that a child could fall on or snag clothing on
A maximum depth of 600mm from the mattress to the base at the lowest point on any side or end
No horizontal or diagonal bars or other fixtures that would allow a child to climb over the sides
A permanent warning and information label on the mattress base.

These are just a few of the requirements. For more information there is a handy fact sheet, “Households cots – A guide to complying with the product safety standard” available on the Commerce Commission’s website.

The Commission stresses the importance of both buyers and sellers being aware of the standard. “From time to time we are made aware of cots on the market that may not meet the standard. We take this very seriously and investigate and if necessary prosecute under the Fair Trading Act,” says Commerce Commission Director of Fair Trading, Adrian Sparrow.

“Consumers should take a copy of our Fact Sheet with them when they go to inspect a cot they wish to buy and use it to check for compliance. If the cot doesn’t comply it should not be on the market, as it may place precious lives at risk,” says Mr Sparrow.

“You should not accept at face value a claim that a cot is fully compliant with the standard. You should feel obliged to check for yourself. There is a lot at stake.”

Recently the Commission investigated a trader supplying new cots via TradeMe which were claimed to meet the safety standard. However the Commission found the cots did not have the mandatory labelling and permanent warning markings on the mattress base. While the cots may not have posed a safety threat, the absence of the warning information was a breach of the Fair Trading Act. They are no longer being sold in New Zealand.

You can also purchase a copy of the Standard AS/NZS 2172:2003 Cots for household use – Safety requirements from Standards New Zealand at www.standards.co.nz

And finally – if you are shopping for a cot and discover one that you think does not meet the requirements of the cot safety standard, report it to the Commerce Commission either via their website or by emailing contact@comcom.govt.nz or by phoning 0800 943 600.

If the Commission prosecutes under the Fair Trading Act, and the courts find the Act has been breached, the company selling the cot can by fined up to $200,000 and an individual can be fined up to $60,000.

The Commission has also produced Fact Sheets on the product safety standards for children’s toys, children’s nightwear, baby walkers and pedal bicycles all of which may be useful to new parents as well.

Bostik supports breast cancer

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 20:40:38 GMT

Each week throughout October, in support of Breast Cancer Action Month, New Zealanders have the chance to bid on celebrity art creations molded from Bostik Blu-Tack Pink.
    The pink art sculptures are being auctioned on Trade Me with all money raised going to the New Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation, the country’s foremost breast cancer education and awareness organisation.
    This week you can bid on art sculptures by Sally Ridge, Leah Panapa and Aja Rock by clicking here: http://www.trademe.co.nz/Members/Listings.aspx?member=3077300&mcat=0339-
    Bid on your favourite celebrity’s art model to help support breast cancer research and encourage action amongst New Zealanders; together we can support a worthy cause and help raise money and awareness for Breast Cancer Action Month.
    Be sure to check back every week during October as new art Bostik Blu-Tack Pink models go online. Participating celebrities include Denise L’Estrange-Corbet, Lana Coc-Kroft, April Iremia Josephine Grierson, Janet Wilson, Gilda Kirkpatrick, Julie Christie, Kate Hawkesby, Katrina Hobbs and Miriama Smith.
    With every sale of limited edition Bostik Blu-Tack Pink, the New Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation will receive 20c towards an overall total donation of $10,000 by Bostik and Croxley Stationery, on behalf of New Zealanders who purchase the product.

SOURCE: Wright Communications

DATE: 5/10/09

Suffering in silence - urinary incontinence

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 15:22:59 GMT

Do you wet yourself when you sneeze? Many women find, after having a baby, that childbirth has brought with it an unpleasant side effect – leakage of urine due to weak pelvic floor muscles or an overactive bladder. Urinary incontinence is an embarrassing problem, but, as Dr Anil Sharma explains, it is very treatable.

The accidental leakage of urine in adults is a terribly debilitating condition, causing not only major stigma and isolation, but very significant social and hygiene problems. It causes considerable physical and psychological ill health and huge damage to the economy of nations, both in terms of days of work lost and costs of treatment. In the UK, the cost to the National Health Service (NHS) is around £424 million (almost NZ$1.1 billion) per annum.
In a survey of over 10,000 women in England over the age of 40, over 20% or one in five women had urinary incontinence. In New Zealand, it has been reported that one in three women experience the problem. Although many women also have prolapse (downward movement) of the womb or vaginal walls, this is not always the case, and prolapse will be discussed in a later article.

Types of urinary incontinence
There are two types of urinary incontinence that women experience: Stress incontinence and overactive bladder.
Stress incontinence
Stress incontinence is loss of control of the “valve” (or “tap mechanism”) that prevents urine from constantly leaking out of the bladder. It is due to injury to the supporting structures of the pelvic floor during pregnancy, childbirth, and, later, menopause. It is known as stress incontinence because it usually happens after “stresses” like coughing, sneezing, laughing, exercise, or even standing up from a seated position.
Overactive bladder
An overactive bladder often causes frequency (the need to go to the toilet many times) during the day and/or night. It also causes the sudden urge to “go”, with leakage happening if the individual doesn’t make it to the toilet in time.
     The bladder starts to behave independently of the woman’s “control”, squeezing whenever it wants to. This can happen very unpredictably and at awkward times. Sometimes it happens during certain evocative circumstances, like opening the front door or hearing a tap running. Overactive bladder can be due to a number of causes, including bladder nerve damage secondary to childbirth, but, sometimes, it is “idiopathic” (a word that doctors use when they don’t know the cause of something!).
    Bladder symptoms can be very misleading to medical professionals, not least because of learned behaviour — for example, many women deliberately and frequently empty their bladders to avoid leakage that might happen otherwise. Many women also know where all the most convenient public toilets are located when they go out on the town or or on a shopping trip, to ensure that they can maintain dryness.
    In most cases, the type of symptoms a woman has doesn’t always tell us which main type of incontinence she has, or, indeed, if she has both types. This is obviously important to be able to plan the best treatment. Almost predictably, the treatment of one type can make the other type worse!
    The diagnosis and planning of treatment, either surgical or medical/behavioural, often requires further tests. These tests are called urodynamics and are generally used when non-surgical treatment has failed, when surgery is planned, or where there are complex symptoms.

General treatment points
Although women with urinary incontinence can benefit from incontinence pads, these can become very expensive and are nothing more than a control rather than a specific treatment of the problem. Also, many women believe that there is nothing that can be done, so they just end up putting up with problem. This issue is made worse by the fact that the embarrassing nature of the problem means that women don’t discuss their situation even with close friends or relatives.
    Your family doctor can start by ruling out a urine infection with a mid-stream urine test. Although the ideas around fluid intake are controversial, it would be reasonable to limit fluid intake (all drinks in total) to two litres a day for women with urinary incontinence. For the same reasons, smokers should try to quit, since chronic chest problems make urinary incontinence worse (see www.quit.org.nz).
    Constipation needs to be treated to prevent excessive bearing down, and caffeine junkies should be advised to reduce their intake, although it remains controversial whether long-term caffeine excess is a significant cause of urinary incontinence.
    Pelvic-floor exercises can be very helpful throughout life, both after having a baby and for the long-term (see “Pay attention to your pelvic floor” for suggestions on how to do these exercises properly, and information about their benefits). Sometimes oestrogen creams given as vaginal insertions are said to be beneficial in postmenopausal women with incontinence, although contradicting evidence about this exists.
    Your family doctor will also be able to advise whether any medications that you may be taking are making the problem worse. For example, some medicines that are for high blood pressure work by making the patient urinate more often and in greater amounts.
    Similarly, cutting down on alcohol intake can relieve symptoms, as can weight loss (by reducing pressure on the bladder and pelvic floor). Control of asthma and chest problems can also help.
    Subsequently, a review by a gynaecologist trained in pelvic floor problems and urinary incontinence is advisable, as the field is developing and changing rapidly.

Treatment of stress incontinence
There are three treatment options commonly suggested for women suffering from stress incontinence: Conservative treatment, devices, and surgical treatment.
Conservative treatment
Kegel or pelvic-floor exercises (PFE) have been successful for many women since 1948. The aim is to “body-build” the pelvic floor muscles by contracting them.
Devices
Although not widely used, electrical or magnetic stimulation of the pelvic foor muscles can be used to contract the pelvic muscles as well. Other types of devices that are inserted into the vagina to “hitch-up” the bladder neck can temporarily improve the problem, although side effects include urinary tract infections and soreness. These devices are not useful for women who are sexually active.
Surgical treatment
The latest widely used surgical treatment involves, under anaesthesia, the placement of a small tape or sling. This sits under the urethra (the short tube that women urinate from), and, when the bladder gets pushed down (such as during a sneeze), the urethra kinks on the tape. Therefore, urine is prevented from leaking out. This is effective around 90% of the time and most women have been delighted by the results. This operation is short and quite safe, having replaced much bigger procedures.
    Newer forms of tapes or slings are being developed to make the procedure safer still, with promising preliminary results. Sometimes, a semi-fluid bulking agent can be injected around the entrance to the bladder to give the valve mechanism a bit more substance (like squeezing a hose), and this may be useful for women who cannot tolerate an operation because of other medical problems.
    If a woman needs surgery, prolapse (downward movement of the pelvic
structures such as the womb) can be corrected at the same time.

Treatment of overactive bladder
This is the second most common cause of urinary incontinence in women and affects 30% of incontinent women, getting worse with increasing age.
Conservative treatment
Bladder retraining therapy aims to re-educate the bladder about exactly who is the boss. This is a good form of treatment, but requires a lot of hard work and patience. Therefore, the results can be variable. The final aim is to reduce the frequency of bladder emptying to every three to four hours by gradually increasing the interval between each trip by 10 minutes, every week or so.
    Another way of doing this is to go every hour on the hour, whether you want to or not, and then increase this time by 10 minutes every few days. Most patients worry about this approach because their mothers always taught them to not hold on! Initial success rates can be as high as 88%, but tend to decline again with time to half this figure.
Medical treatment
Despite the success that can be achieved with bladder retraining, medicines are commonly used as treatment for overactive bladder. They work by reducing bladder contractions. Unfortunately, most also produce unwanted side effects, especially dry mouth and blurred vision, which must be balanced against the benefits. They can also cause drowsiness and patients should be advised against driving or operating dangerous machinery. Newer tablets have fewer side effects, but are currently expensive (around $5 a tablet).
    Another treatment involves low-grade electrical therapy to a nerve behind the ankle via an acupuncture needle. It is thought that the nerves that get stimulated “backwards” also lead to a controlling influence on the nerves that supply the bladder, because all the nerves arise from the same part of the spinal cord.
    Almost everyone knows about the use of Botox to paralyse the muscles that cause facial wrinkles. Botox is now also used for severe cases of overactive bladder, with injections into the bladder muscle under anaesthetic, and this is showing some very promising results that last for around six months.

Don’t just put up with it
Urinary incontinence causes significant ill health, severe embarrassment, and damage to the economy. Many women suffer in silence as they are from the era that “quietly coped”. It is only by discussing this topic widely that the extent of the problem and its treatment can be publicised to empower sufferers to seek help. While it is true that not everyone with this problem can be helped, the majority can, so don’t just put up with it!

Dr Anil Sharma is a specialist doctor in Gynaecology and Maternity. He is very involved in lectures and updates for family doctors and frequently takes part in debate regarding women’s health and maternity for print media and radio. He believes that anxiety and fear can be conquered by knowledge. Anil emigrated to New Zealand from the UK in 2001 with his wife, Rachel, and he tries hard to be a hands-on and fun father (putting golf and cars on hold for the time being) to their three daughters, who were all born here. For further information about Anil’s practice, visit www.dranilsharma.co.nz.

As seen in OHbaby! magazine Issue 2: 2008

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Do you know anyone having a baby?

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 15:27:30 GMT

If you do, they’re invited to join an exciting research project!
    Ask any parent what they want for their children, and they usually answer: “for them to be happy and healthy”.
    But what is it that makes children grow up happy and healthy? Is it their family or their environment? What about their culture and beliefs? Maybe it’s the child’s personality. Or perhaps they are shaped by their health and education.
    Whatever it is, researchers at the University of Auckland, with researchers from Massey, Victoria and Otago universities are working together to find out. So the answers can be used to improve the lives of all our children.
    The study starts in pregnancy and follows the babies until they are 21. If you’ve ever seen the BBC programmes Child of Our Time or the 7 Up series, then this study is a lot like them.
    There are only two criteria to meet:
    First, you need to be pregnant and your baby must be due on or before 25   March 2010 next year. Fathers and partners are also invited to join - after all, they’re just as important to babies as their mums are!
    Second, you need to live in one of these three district health board areas: Auckland, Counties-Manukau and Waikato (Unfortunately, the Auckland DHB does not include North Shore City or Waitakere city.)
    Every pregnant woman who meets these two simple criteria is invited to join. So that the findings are powerful and representative of all our children, we’re inviting all pregnant mums into the study. Don’t think that participating in research is not for you - it is!
Click here for more information - it's easy and it's free!

Baby Sling expo for Starship

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 14:33:53 GMT

Slingbabies is a non-profit community group dedicated to training and educating parents on all aspects of Baby wearing. They are leading the way in mother/baby support with the age old global tradition of parents wearing their babies in carriers as a part of everyday family life.
    In celebration of International Babywearing Week (Sept 21-28), they have recently launched a nationwide campaign aimed at promoting the practice of Kangaroo-Care at National Women’s NICU.
    Ground breaking research has revealed that babies thrive better when they are close, skin to skin with their mother for as long as possible after birth and beyond. Slingbabies wants to ensure that ALL premature babies are given this right, as they are routinely separated from their mothers straight after birth, and the majority are kept isolated from human contact. Babies aren’t the only ones to benefit from skin to skin - mothers of premature babies have been shown to be at higher risk of developing PND. Kangaroo care helps mothers feel they have an important part to play in their baby’s care, rather than feeling like a visitor.
    Slingbabies have gathered together with some of New Zealand's top baby businesses to donate products for this most worthy of causes. They have combined some items for online raffles, and others are being auctioned on Trade Me. The Slingbabies Facebook Fan Page is extremely popular, with daily featured vendors, prizes and updates.
    Slingbabies will use all the proceeds to gift special "one of a kind" Slingbabies stretchy wrap carriers to NICU mothers and babies. As many wrap slings as possible will be gifted, with any remaining profits going to the Starship Foundation.
    The crescendo of the week will be the "Baby Sling Expo", held on Friday 25th September, 10am-1pm at the Sturges West Community House, 58 Summerland Dr, Henderson. This free, fun family day has raffles, spot prizes, a sausage sizzle, bouncy castle, vendor stalls, sling demos and more. Come and find out what the excitement about baby slings is all about. As founder Jessica Richards says,
“There is a carrier to suit the needs of every parent and baby.”
See www.slingbabies.co.nz for more details.

SOURCE: Jessica Richards @ Slingbabies

DATE: 21 September, 2009

Calling all babywearing fans!

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 15:33:32 GMT

It's International Babywearing Week September 21 - 28 2009. To celebrate Aquabub is organising a sling walk to promote babywearing, and also to help raise funds for "Slingbabies for NICU" - raising money and awareness for the Kangaroo Care initiative. (click here to learn more about the exciting things that Slingbabies are doing to raise funds for this fabulous cause ).

Tell me More!??
Sunday 27th September, you are invited to gather in the foyer area of the movie theatre, level 3, St Lukes Mall at 10.45am for an 11am start. There are a couple of cafes next to the theatre for walkers to nab a cup of coffee or hot chocolate before we set off. We will start the walk through the busy mall, then walk down two busy streets and arrive at the Mt Albert War Memorial Hall on New North Road (ETA 11.40am). Outside the War Memorial Hall is a set of steps which will make a great set for a group photo - so if you bring your camera we can arrange for a group shot to be taken for you. Then to our final destination - Rocket Park which is right next to the hall. Rocket Park is a great playground and there is also shaded seating. Bring a picnic lunch to have at the park if you like! There is also a cafe across the road which does lovely coffee and you could grab a bite to eat from there as well.

The fundraising part
A friend has kindly agreed to donate his time to capture the walk on video! The footage will be transferred to DVD and copies will be available for purchase - with funds raised going to the "Slingbabies for NICU" cause. Copies may be ordered at the end of the walk - more info on how to do this will be provided on the day. Price to be confirmed.We hope that many fellow babywearers will join us! Looking forward to seeing many different types of carriers/slings, a rainbow of colours and kids on fronts, hips and backs. Please pass the word to your friends who may like to join us.
In case of wet weather, the walk will take place through the Mall only.

For more information contact Helen: info@aquabub.co.nz

If you’re a member of facebook please visit Aquabub's event page and share it with your friends – we appreciate you helping to get the word out! http://www.facebook.com/Aquabub#/event.php?eid=135145057011&index=1

Ruby's a gem!

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 15:02:47 GMT

Cancer survivor Ruby Seeto has once again designed a unique tea towel to raise money for Starship Hospital’s cancer ward – but this time she’s thinking big and has teamed up with linen retailer Wallace Cotton.
    Twelve year-old Ruby had major surgery in October 2006 to remove a 1.6kg tumour from her liver; she was subsequently diagnosed with a rare form of cancer on her liver, and began 12 months of intensive chemotherapy treatment at Starship.
    For the last two years Ruby has designed and produced a tea towel to sell to her friends and Starship Foundation contacts in support of children with cancer.
This year, Ruby’s tea towel will be sold for the first time through Wallace Cotton, a family-owned New Zealand company which specialises in exclusive, high quality home linen.
    Wallace Cotton will sell the tea towel in their two retail stores in Newmarket and Birkenhead, Auckland, on their website and in their Spring catalogue which is out September 1st. This year’s colourful edition features a Starship cupcake recipe and is screen printed onto a thick 100% cotton tea towel. The tea towels will retail for $10.00, and $6.00 (which is all the proceeds after costs) from the sale of every tea towel, will go to Starship.
    Wallace Cotton Director Paula Wallace says,
“It has been a great privilege working with Ruby on her tea towel, it reminds me of starting my own textile design career back in the early eighties. The colourful cupcake design says a lot about Ruby’s positive and bright personality, and is a perfect theme for a tea towel. We need everyone to support Ruby and Starship by buying tea towels for their friends and family. I am sure there will be lots of kids lining up to dry the dishes with her work and make the cupcakes from her recipe. We have really enjoyed working with Starship to produce the tea towel; it is such a great cause.”
    Ruby is now fully recovered and is a happy, healthy child. She hopes to use the proceeds from her tea towel sales to help Starship make kids like her well again. The final word should go to Ruby, who says: “Thanks you for buying my tea towel. I love cupcakes. I hope you do too!”
To purchase tea towels (available from 1 September), visit www.wallacecotton.co.nz.

SOURCE: Starship Foundation
DATE: 21 September, 2009

The history of the Caesarian section

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 13:57:36 GMT

Despite the urban myth, this form of childbirth has nothing to do with Julius Caesar, although it is thought that the name derives from the lex Caesare (the Roman legal code), which prescribed that a baby should be surgically removed from its mother’s body if she died before childbirth. The roots of the word Caesarean do, however, mean “to cut”.
It was not until the year 1500 in Switzerland that the first recorded case of both a mother and baby surviving after a Caesarean took place. The woman’s husband was a pig gelder who reportedly obtained permission from religious authorities and then undertook the surgery himself. By then, his wife had been in labour for several days. The wife reportedly went on to have another five vaginal births and the baby lived until he was 77 years old.
In the 1800s, James Simpson, an obstetrician in Scotland, discovered chloroform as an anaesthetic for surgery and, although there was an initial resistance to it being used for the pain of labour and childbirth (so-called “moral” reasons), after Queen Victoria had used chloroform for labour, it became widely accepted. The operation remained highly risky, however, due to major problems with both severe haemorrhage (bleeding) and infection. By 1880, the chance of the mother surviving a Caesarean section was still only around four women in 10 (40%).
A major advance took place in 1882 due to a German doctor called Kehrer, who started using silver-wire stitches to actually close the incision on the uterus. Kehrer also experimented with a low uterine incision, which is a less bloody area of the uterus. With further discoveries such as washing of the hands and the use of antiseptic sprays, the operation became much safer.
The advances in anaesthesia, antisepsis and stitching led to the dropping of maternal deaths from the operation from seven in 10 women who had the operation (70%) in 1800, to one in 10 (10%) in 1900. By the 1940s, the low sideways uterine incision had become widely accepted thanks to another Scottish doctor called Kerr and, subsequently, a sideways skin incision also became accepted.
The other main advances in the early 20th century included the use of drugs to make the uterus contract after the operation to reduce blood loss, the use of blood transfusion, and antibiotics.
More recently, the advent and development of epidural and spinal anaesthesia has made the operation very safe. In 2007, the overall chances of severe illness from complications from a Caesarean in the developed world were reported to be only three times higher than from a vaginal birth (27 per 1000 deliveries for a Caesarean, versus 9 per 1000 for a vaginal birth) and not at least 10 times higher, as was previously thought.

ACMBC Second Hand Sale

Sat, 12 Sep 2009 20:24:36 GMT

Escaping the cloud

Sun, 06 Sep 2009 21:50:38 GMT

“PND is not a happy thing,” Lis Good says emphatically. “It’s a weird sensation. You know you should be happy, but you’re not.”
      Sitting in her West Auckland home, with the rain beating down on the roof so loudly that we sometimes have to raise our voices to be heard, it seems an appropriate kind of day to talk about postnatal depression. Gloomy. Dreary. Dark. Depressing. “This miserable weather,” Lis says, gazing out the window, “is what I felt like on the inside, all the time. It was always raining. There was this big, black cloud hanging over me, and I couldn’t get away from it.”
      When her first child was born in 1998, Lis admits that her life wasn’t in a good place. She was 24, in a not-so-great relationship, and the pregnancy was completely unplanned.
     “I cried for three months after I found out I was pregnant,” she admits. “I remember my midwife giving me a checklist of risk factors for antenatal depression. There were 10 things on the list, and I ticked nine of them. And all my midwife said was, ‘Well, we’ll just have to be extra vigilant after the baby is born.’”
      Lis muddled through the rest of the pregnancy, working right up until three days before her daughter’s birth in January 1998. Her little girl, Hannah, came early at 36 weeks, and things quickly got worse. “She wouldn’t feed, was a low birth weight, and had hypothermia from being premature,” recalls Lis. “We spent 12 days in hospital before we were discharged. By then, my depression had well and truly set in.”
      So Lis went home to care for her baby — but the big black cloud was still there. “I made every effort to bond with Hannah, even though I was really depressed. Baby massage, attachment parenting... I did it all. But my heart wasn’t in it. I became really good at ‘faking it’.”
      Eventually Lis was diagnosed with PND, but she admits she was “treatment resistant”. “I wanted to breastfeed, and in those days, they didn’t know if the medication was safe for breastfeeding mothers. Finally, two years after Hannah was born, I went on medication and started to even out.”
      In early 2002, Lis learned she was pregnant again. “I was stoked to be pregnant,” she remembers, smiling. “I had this beautiful big tummy. But I was also aware that I was becoming depressed again, so I did whatever I could to try to stave off that black cloud.”
      Lis, a childbirth educator, extensively researched postnatal depression and decided to have a home birth. “There have been studies suggesting that women who have home births are less postnatally depressed, so that was what I planned. It was a cold, wet, rainy August day when Ella was born. I had a good labour, but Ella was a big baby, and I had a fourth-degree tear. My midwife stitched me up at home, but I lost heaps of blood, and that’s when things started to go downhill.”
      After stitching up Lis’s tear for over an hour, the midwife determined that she needed to go to hospital and have surgery to completely close the tear. Lis wanted skin-to-skin contact with Ella, but instead, was rushed to hospital, where she spent an hour in theatre getting the tear repaired. “I found it incredibly violating to be in an operating theatre with my bum hanging off the end of the table, my legs in lithotomy, facing the door, with no drape or anything, and people coming and going. I felt like a piece of meat.”
      Afterwards, Lis recalled, the surgeon who’d operated on her told her, “You’re going to be incontinent for quite a while. And with your next baby, you need to be induced at 38 weeks or have an elective C-section.”
      Lis spent six days in hospital recovering from the tear — an incredibly stressful time for her. “My milk wasn’t coming in, and Ella lost 14% of her birth weight, so they made me supplement her with formula. She had reflux and wouldn’t feed. All I did was cry.”
      After six days, Lis says, she had reached the point where she could cope— barely. “I could get up, have a shower, and try to feed the baby. That was it.”
      But things got worse. Immediately after returning home, the entire family got a virus and were sick for 48 hours. And for the next four months, Lis recalls, the black cloud parked itself in her drive-way and refused to budge. “I couldn’t interact with anyone. I cried endlessly. All I did was sleep, feed, and eat. That was it.”
      Right before Christmas that year, the depression unexpectedly lifted. “One day, I woke up and said, ‘The cloud is gone. I feel okay.”
      But the mood swings didn’t stop there, either. After the breakup of her relationship with her daughters’ father in 2005, Lis experienced manic episodes and periods where she felt so low, she didn’t think she could cope. Finally, last year, she was diagnosed as bipolar and put on a medication that is working for her situation. She’s also in therapy, and has made her mental health a priority.
      “I’ve finally put myself at the top of the list,” she says. “I am the most well I have been in a long time. I’ve learned that if my emotional fuel tank isn’t full, there is no way I can give to anyone else. If you’re constantly running on empty, there’s nothing left — you burn out.
      “I survived PND by the skin of my teeth. I made the effort to seek help — and I’m glad I did, for my daughters’ sakes. I’m the best mother I can be for now, and it can only get better.”

As seen in OHbaby! magazine Issue 2: 2008

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PND checklist

Sun, 06 Sep 2009 21:39:13 GMT

Does this sound like you?

I’m exhausted all the time.
I feel like I can’t cope with my baby’s needs.
I feel like I’m just going through the motions, all day, every day.
I don’t have any “zest for life”.
I feel like a failure as a mother, like I’m not doing a good enough job.
I can’t sleep, even though I’m so tired.
I have no motivation and I can’t focus on anything. I don’t feel like talking to anyone, because no one understands what I’m going through.
I’m having a hard time looking after myself — taking a shower, brushing my teeth, getting out of my pyjamas.
My eating habits have changed for the worse — I’ve got no appetite, or I’m overeating.

If these statements sound like what you’re experiencing, please get in touch with your midwife or GP and talk to them about how you are feeling. They will be able to refer you to get help that will make you feel better.