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The best school shoes to buy for the new school year

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 22:19:00 +0000

Of all the things you can go shopping for, many parents will safely agree the least glamorous of those would be for the humble school shoe.

First of all, you’ve got to actually get your kids to the shoe shop – a task only parents will understand the difficulty of, especially when there’s a pool or TV involved.

Then comes the mission of shoving all the shoe options available on their feet (bonus points if you remembered to bring socks!) and agreeing on a pair that are both comfortable, practical and most importantly, cool – to your kids at least.

As another school year fast roles around, there’s no way to avoid it any longer – the sooner you rip off that school-shoe-shopping band aid, the better.

Lucky for us, there’s a plethora of affordable, accessible and practical school shoes on the market right now, and we’ve got all the details on where you can score them.

Keep scrolling as we round up the best wheels in the biz for your young ones – they’ll be away (at school) laughing in no time!

1. Target shoes

Tried, tested and always true, trusty Target has the goods when it comes to your kiddies school shoes this year.

They’re smart, practical and below $50. And with the stores themselves not hard to find (or shop online like everybody else!), you’re pretty much guaranteed a winner.

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Kids Grad Gro Shu Lace-Up Leather School Shoes, $49 at Target

Kids Youth Good Fit Mary-Jane Leather School Shoes, $30 at Target

2. Big W shoes

Even at the worst of times it’s tough to walk past a Big W without taking a quick peek.

And while their school shoes mightn’t last long-term, you’re still getting serious value for money – their basic styles cost just $10!

What’s more, if your child is due for a growth spurt, a cheaper style won’t need to go the distance anyway – they’ll be needing another size in no time.

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Brilliant Basics Kids Tab School Shoes, $10 at Big W

K-D Boys School Shoes, $10 at Big W

3. Skechers

Built for comfort, your child is guaranteed to keep up with all the school day demands in a pair of Skechers.

While the brand can be a little on the pricier side, their school shoe styles are worth the investment if you’re after a pair that’ll last the year.

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Kids’ Biker – Always Perfect, $119.99 at Skechers

Kids’ Durablox, $109.99 at Skechers

4. Myer

A visit to Myer can cover many shopping bases – school shoes included.

With a varied range of styles, the department store offers prices from $35 and up.

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Clarks Denver School Shoes, $70 (usually $149.95) at Myer

Clarks Indulge School Shoes, $119.96 (usually $149.95) at Myer

5. UGG Express

When it comes to kids’ feet, there’s not many who know more about them than the team at UGG Express.

Featuring the best and most stylish shoes for your little one’s feet from the beginning, they’ve got them covered through their school days too.

SHOP NOW

Tarramarra Senior Black Leather School Shoes, $65 (usually $170) at UGG Express

Australian Shepherd Senior Black Leather School Shoes Ava, $65 (usually $180) at UGG Express

The post The best school shoes to buy for the new school year appeared first on Now To Love.

Over 40,000 parents have cast their votes to decide the best baby products in 2021

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 02:33:59 +0000

Research shows that when it comes to choosing products for their families, parents trust the opinions of other parents. So about 40,000 parents?!

Each year the highly anticipated Bounty Baby Awards highlight the best of the best products in the baby industry, giving new parents a trusted insight into the right products to bring into their lives and into their homes.

This year the awards, proudly sponsored by Babies ‘R’ Us, saw more than 40,000 Aussie parents plus a panel of industry experts cast their votes on a range of products from nappies and car seats, to prams and breast pumps, judging each one on quality, value for money, user-friendliness and innovation, and the winners are in!

The winners of the 2021 Bounty Baby Awards have been announced!

(Image: Bounty Parents/Getty)

Bounty has been providing trusted information and support to parents and parents-to-be for more than 35 years.

The winners – gold, silver and bronze – in 31 categories receive a Bounty Baby Awards rosette which is seen as an ultimate tick of approval from those who know best – parents on the front line of raising kids.

From nipple creams, to nappies, car seats, prams and nursery products, items are judged on quality, value for money, user-friendliness and innovation in a bid to take out one of the coveted Bounty Baby Awards rosettes.

The headache of choosing the right brands in a crowded market is taken away as parents can be confident that the products are not only endorsed by the trusted Bounty judges, but also by industry experts and mums and dads in the parenting frontline.

You can see all the 2021 winners at Bounty Parents right now.

The post Over 40,000 parents have cast their votes to decide the best baby products in 2021 appeared first on Now To Love.

Beautiful celebrity baby bumps: Find out who’s due next!

Sun, 05 Apr 2020 22:30:00 +0000

It seems like there is something in the water with so many celebrity mums expecting bubs.

International mums-to-be like pop superstars Katy Perry and Ciara have that pregnancy glow and back in Australia, Jasmine Yarbrough has been keeping her baby bump under wraps as she and husband Karl Stefanovic prepare to welcome their first child together.

From glamorous red carpet snaps to selfies on social media, take a look at these celebrity baby bumps.

(Image: Instagram @julesrobinson82)

Jules Robinson

We have a MAFS baby on the way! Jules Robinson and Cam Merchant are expecting their first child.

(Image: Instagram @jasyarby)

Jasmine Yarbrough

They’ve kept it hush-hush but Jasmine Yarbrough and husband Karl Stefanovic are expecting their first child together due in May 2020.

(Image: Getty)

Katy Perry

She’s blooming! Katy Perry and her fiance Orlando Bloom are also expecting their first child together and that’s going to be one gorgeous baby.

So much baby love right here!

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Katy Perry is expecting her first baby with Orlando Bloom

(Image: Getty)

Ciara

That’s one glamorous bump, Ciara! The Level Up singer is expecting her third child, but her second with NFL star husband Russell Wilson.

(Image: Instagram @mattdegroot_)

Matt Degroot

Nova newsreader Matt de Groot and wife Brontë Coy are expecting a baby boy in September.

The post Beautiful celebrity baby bumps: Find out who’s due next! appeared first on Now To Love.

Camping with kids, tips and tricks to make it fun for everyone

Tue, 17 Dec 2019 23:00:00 +0000

There’s no doubt that a family camping adventure is the stuff that memories are made of. Children will always recall the fun and excitement of exploring the world with the freedom that comes from pitching a tent and having no demands on their time.

The outdoors – particularly in Australia – is a perfect environment for exploring and adventure. Whether you hit the coast or the country there’s plenty on offer for eager little minds and busy little bodies to get stuck into.

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The physical and mental benefits of nature play and time spent outdoors for child development are well documented.

We know the benefits of exercise, fresh air, endurance and concentration, but time spent in the great outdoors also exercises your children’s knowledge and mental wellbeing.

Anaconda Camping Expert Kristan Jarczak says every child should get to experience camping.

“I think it’s just having fun and experiencing the different aspects of the nature – beach or the bush, interacting with nature, spotting the local wildlife that makes camping so great for kids.

“Kids can be susceptible to wasting the days in front screens, when you’re outdoors there’s no choice but to find your own adventure.”

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There’s also no doubt that planning a family camping holiday can be a logistical exercise, prone to sending parents around the bend! But it doesn’t have to be. With the right gear, a bit of forward planning and some tricks up your sleeve, family camping can be an amazing experience for everyone.

Jarczak and fellow Anaconda Camping Expert, Simone Jorgensen have shared some pretty useful tips for making your family camping adventure go smoothly, including some handy uses for glowsticks. Read them below.

Encourage your children to help set up the campsite for extra fun.

(Image: Getty)

Camping with kids tips and tricks

Glow sticks are an excellent way to keep track of the kids at night and even the pets attached to their collar.
Headlamps are an inexpensive way of ensuring everyone has their own light when it gets dark.
Baby wipes are great way for cleaning dirty hands and feet before getting inside the tent and sleeping bags.
Sort your gear in clear storage containers before you head away to help you stay organised at your campsite.

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Hand sanitiser is always useful, but did you know it’s a handy fire-starter too? As it is an alcohol based accelerant, popping a little on your tinder will get your fire started super quick.
Invest in a tent with Darkroom or Eclipse technology like the Coleman Instant Up Darkroom 4P Tent or the Dune Woodland Cabin Tent so the kids don’t wake up with the sun rise at the crack of dawn.
Encourage your children to help set up the campsite by giving them tasks such as setting up the tables and chairs. This can be a little bit of learning time for the kids.

Tips continue after video …

Who knew hand sanitiser was so versatile?

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Help your children to pack their own backpack. Their involvement in packing their own bag prior to the trip is a good way to get them interested in the upcoming adventure. Fill the pack with the essentials; water bottles, tissues, sunglasses, sunscreen and snacks! Also include a whistle, in case they wander too far.
Invest in a sleeping bag liner. Popping one inside your child’s sleeping bag will not only help keep them insulated, they’re an easily washable accessory to whip out – usually full of dirt, sand and leaves – and put through the washing machine.
Use this camping time as a great adventure for all. There will be lots of experiences and new sights for everyone to enjoy! Go on hikes during the day to see animals, cool plants and insects, and find little bits of nature to collect to bring back to the campsite.
The Parks Australia website is an excellent guide to many of the best spots around for family camping. Many national parks provide discovery programs for children, usually operated by rangers during holiday periods.

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We’ve rounded up the best skincare products for Australian mums

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 22:07:00 +0000

From sleepless nights and hormone surges to dehydration and limited time, your skin can sure take a hit during motherhood.

Pamper trips to the salon might be harder to come by these days, but there’s no reason that the skin radiance you felt in that glorious second trimester can’t last you beyond the baby years too.

Putting ourselves first is necessary for our wellbeing and the wellbeing of our family and that includes taking some time of our busy days to look after ourselves and our skin.

We’ve rounded up some of our favourite skincare products on the Australian market right now, for you to consider ‘adding to cart’.

Take a browse and before long you’ll be getting a little glow on again …

WATCH: Skin cleansers for all skin types. Gallery begins after video …

Get your glow on with these dreamy creams.

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10 of the best skincare products for Australian mums

(Image: ESK)

ESK

ESK – Evidence Skincare: Husband and wife team, Daniel Rubinstein and Dr. Ginni Mansberg founded ESK in 2012, and initially it was only available to medical practitioners. Now we can all benefit from this Australian made, cruelty-free evidence-based skin care range designed to repair and protect your skin from the effects of a harsh environment and the aging process. If you’re concerned about which products you actually need, a simple online survey will help you know exactly what products will benefit you the most.

(Image: Face Halo)

Face Halo

Face Halo 3 pk, $30.00: A great gift for your eco-conscious consumer. These modern makeup removers are made from unique Halotech microfibre and replace up to 500 disposable makeup wipes. Each Face Halo is re-usable for up to 200 machine washes. There is no need for chemicals, just plain water to remove all makeup, even the waterproof stuff!

(Image: Alya Skin)

Alya Skin

Alya Skin: The young founders of Alya Skin, Manny Barbas and James Hachem gained notoriety for their Australian Pink Clay Mask with thousands of people across the world dubbing it their fix to breakouts and for achieving glowing skin. The affordable brand has recently launched their new Foaming Micellar Cleanser $19.99 into Priceline pharmacies in November. Infused with Watermelon Seed & Essential Rose Oil to help rejuvenate, hydrate and cleanse the skin. Other products in the range include their Instafamous Australian Pink Clay Mask $49.99, Pomegranate Exfoliator and Native Berries Moisturiser.

(Image: MERE)

MERE PHYTOSPHERE range

MERE PHYTOSPHERE Range: Australian born skincare brand MERE uses natural ingredients and science to give you the best results for your skin. The full range features a Priming Face Moisturiser, Cleansing Gel, Recharge Sleep Mask, Cleansing Oil, Face Moisturiser, Face Oil and Eye Cream and our favourite has to be the Recharge Sleep Mask. You simply lather it on your face like a regular moisturiser and hit the hay. It does all the work while you’re sleeping which is just the kind of product us busy mums need!

(Image: Devine skincare)

Divine skincare

Divine skincare: Therese Kerr, mother of the lovely Miranda Kerr has her own Australian-grown certified organic skincare line which is perfect for mums. All natural and super lovely on skin the range includes something for everyone, including the ultimate skin pick-me-up, Miracle Oil Serum.

(Image: Clémence Organics)

Clémence Organics

Clémence Organics: This luxurious 100 percent organic Australian skincare brand is a smart skincare choice for your skin, health, and the planet! Naturopathically formulated, Clémence is perfect for mums who love to snuggle close to their baby’s skin. Hot tip: The Ultimate Lips product is a must-have.

(Image: Dr Anh)

Dr Anh

Dr Anh skincare: Dr Anh Nguyen, one of Australia’s leading plastic surgeons and wellness clinic and spa owners has created a range of brilliant skincare products in collaboration with her husband, a pharmacist with more than 25 years of experience. As a plastic surgeon, Dr Anh knows skin. And it shows with these gorgeous products. You have to try the serums, it’s like a facelift in your own bathroom!

(Image: Bioderma)

Biodermas Sebium Sensitive and Sebium Mat Control

Biodermas Sebium Sensitive and Sebium Mat Control: Acne and breakouts aren’t just isolated to our teen years! Motherhood hormones can also play havoc with our skin. Biodermas NEW Sebium Sensitive and Sebium Mat Control promises to bring calm and order to the skin with the Fluidactiv patent which helps reduce and fluidify sebium in order to reduce the clogging of pores. Getting radiant without getting shiny sounds good to us.

(Image: LUSH)

LUSH’s NAKED SKINCARE

LUSH naked skincare range: You can feel good AND do good with new range of packaging-free skincare from LUSH. Featuring vegan facial oils and cleansing balms not only are they great for your skin, they’re also helping to reduce single-use plastics. You can rub the bar directly onto the skin or work in your fingers and massage the oil onto the skin for a quick hydration hit. And you can get funky little tins to store them in too.

(Image: Jurlique)

Jurliques Herbal Recovery Signature Eye Gel

Jurliques Herbal Recovery Signature Eye Gel: Forget bags and dark circles after staying up all night with the kids. You can wake up brighter, firmer and smoother with Jurliques NEW Herbal Recovery Signature Eye Gel. Featuring natural age-defying botanicals, the supercharged-yet-superfine illuminating eye gel promises to minimise the appearance of dark circles, fatigue and visible signs of ageing. Who doesn’t need that?!

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10 self-care tips for all new mums

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 03:00:00 +0000

For new mums, the joy of looking after a tiny human comes hand-in-hand with a huge upheaval in almost every aspect of your life.

While your busy tending to your newborn’s needs, it’s essential to find some time to focus on your own physical and mental wellbeing.

Even if it’s relaxing for only half an hour while your little one sleeps, it’s important you remember to look after yourself, too.

Women’s health expert, Dr Hayley Dickinson, BSc (Hons), PhD. was recently involved in the creation of the endota Nurture range of products – a gentle, safe and nasty-free skin and bath time range for mums and bubs. Hayley is also a mother and is committed to her own journey of self-care.

Here are Hayley’s top 10 self-care tips for new mums:

Exercise has so many positive health benefits.

(Image: Getty Images)

1. Go easy on yourself

I believe the single most important thing new mums can do is set themselves reasonable expectations for what can be achieved each day. Most of us have full lives before we have a baby and it can be easy to fall into the trap of thinking we can just carry on as before. Eventually we can, but in the early days we have other priorities.

Our bodies are healing, and we have another person who we are now responsible for providing minute to minute care and nutrition for. Managing to keep yourselves fed, clean, and well-rested is enough in the beginning.

2. Sleep when baby sleeps…

…because you will be awake when baby is awake and for most families this includes periods during the night. Rest is important for our health throughout our lives, but when our bodies are healing, learning new things and supporting our babies’ nutritional needs as well as our own, rest becomes essential for our physical and mental wellbeing.

You might want to try a room spray or mist to encourage positive bedtime routine for you and your new baby for a peaceful, deep sleep. I love using [endota Nurture’s Calming Sleep Mist], which is safe to use from birth.

3. Eat well and often.

Good food is essential for new mums, but it’s not always easy to eat well. The nutrients we need after birth are greater than at any time during pregnancy, but we can find ourselves with little time or energy for preparing good food as new mums. Before baby is born, prepare some of your favorite dishes, foods you know you’ll be excited to reheat and eat, and put them in the freezer. Once baby arrives, ask friends and family to make you good, healthy, nutritious food.

Make sure the fruit bowl is always stocked with your favorite fruits and have a range of healthy snacks, such as nuts and seeds, instant miso soup, granola and yoghurt on hand. You’ll find lots of great recipes and snack ideas for pregnant women and new mums at my website, Eat For Baby.

Enjoy a spa experience at home with the endota Nurture range for mums and bubs.

4. Hydrate

It’s always an important selfcare strategy, but maintaining hydration is essential for supporting your body to heal and to ensure adequate breastmilk production. Hydrate by drinking water. Our skin undergoes a lot of stretching during pregnancy and hydration is key to helping our skin retain its elasticity and to relieve dry and irritated skin.

To assist with skin hydration, choose products which are quickly absorbed into the skin and vitamin rich to help ease dry or itchy skin. endota Nurture’s Moisture Rich Belly Butter contains hydrating shea and cocoa butters, as well as nourishing essential argan and rosehip oils to leave skin soft and supple.

5. Move

There are so many benefits to keeping our bodies moving. Depending on the circumstances of your labour, there may be a period of time where exercise is not advised. Always follow your healthcare providers recommendations. But most women can start gentle walking as soon as they feel ready after birth. Exercise helps your body heal, it restores muscle strength, improves your mood, relieves stress and can help prevent postpartum depression.

6. Ask for help

And say yes to offers of help – people don’t offer unless they genuinely want to help you, so you are not being a burden. Take them up on their offers. It’s wonderful to have people around who care, let them do it, but be specific about the help you need.

7. Check in on you

Ask yourself each day, “how do I feel today?” Being a new mum is hard, but it’s not meant to be so hard you fall apart – be aware of how you feel, if you feel yourself struggling, tell someone, seek support and help.

8. Bond with your baby

Touch, talk and eye contact are the pillars of communication with our babies and should start immediately after birth. Be the one who knows your baby best. Observe their movements, notice their preferences, find the spots on their body that are most sensitive to touch, find the patterns in their behaviors, differentiate between their cries. In being so observant you’ll pick up anything new, notice anything suspicious and be in tune with your baby and her needs.

Because self-care needs to be more than a trip to the supermarket on your own.

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9. Prioritise yourself

Do something just for you once each day – Read, watch, listen, move. Whatever it is, do it for you and shake the guilt and worry. We can only be the best version of ourselves for everyone else when we are looking after ourselves.

10. Relax and enjoy

And finally, remember to enjoy this precious time with your little one. The newborn months are fleeting, and with our time so often spent getting the job done we can’t always see the joy that surrounds us.

So, delight in every moment, relish those sweet little cries and delight in those tiny little baby parts. Take it all in. Because all the stages, good and bad, are only stages and that little footprint is getting bigger by the day.

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Everything you need to know about flying while pregnant and what to do once you get to your destination

Wed, 11 Dec 2019 01:21:00 +0000

By Michelle Legge, Travel with Kit

If you’re thinking of taking a holiday overseas while pregnant, you’re not alone. One in five mums are squeezing in one last holiday in their third trimester before their bundle of joy arrives, according to research by finder.com.au.

The study found that younger mothers are more likely to make the trip, with almost a quarter of mums under 30 enjoying a getaway while pregnant, compared to 16 percent of those aged over 40.

Unsurprisingly, most mums are looking to stay closer to home that late in their pregnancy, and are about three times as likely to travel domestically rather than overseas. But that doesn’t stop five percent of expecting mums from jetting off overseas, even while heavily pregnant.

But is it safe and what else should we be considering? You’ll find everything you need to know below …

Airline policies on flying while pregnant

The World Health Organization (WHO) advises against air travel for pregnant women after the 36th week of pregnancy or four weeks before the expected date of childbirth. Since labour can begin at any time during the last few weeks, it is recommended to avoid travelling during this period.

Instead, WHO recommends that the safest time for expecting mums to travel is in the second trimester.

It’s important for you to know any airline restrictions placed on pregnant travellers before you book your trip. Restrictions around flying while pregnant vary from airline to airline, and also according to the length of the flight.

Both Qantas and Virgin Australia for example, allow women without pregnancy complications to travel on flights more than four hours in length up to the end of the 36th week for single pregnancies and the end of the 32nd week for twins or more.

For flights less than four hours, you can travel up to the end of the 40th week in a single pregnancy and the 36th week for a multiple pregnancy.

But both airlines require women travelling after 28 weeks of pregnancy to carry a note from their doctor or midwife confirming their due date and pregnancy details. For Virgin Australia travellers, this letter needs to be dated no more than 10 days before travel.

And if you have complications, you have to travel with a medical clearance form signed by your doctor.

It’s important to know your airline’s policies for how pregnant you are when you leave, as well as for how pregnant you are when you plan on returning.

(Image: Getty)

Travel Insurance while pregnant

Typically, travel insurance offers cover for emergency medical treatment while travelling, and this extends to medical emergencies pregnant women might experience. So if you’re pregnant, and you fall sick, or break a leg, and these events are in no way related to your pregnancy, you’ll be able to claim the hospital trip.

It’s really important to know that cover is provided to you, but not provided for childbirth or the health of a newborn child. When a medical emergency is pregnancy related – let’s say you need help with debilitating nausea – your ability to claim is going to largely depend on three questions – your due date, our doctor’s approval, and whether or not your emergency relates to fertility treatment, triplets and known complications.

For example: Travel with Kit looks after expecting mums with two levels of cover. First they’ll look at the benefits offered under standard cover, and then they’ll explore an optional extra for pregnancy – their Pregnancy Pack.

WATCH: How to save your baby’s life by Bounty. Continues after video …

The main health risks of flying while pregnant

Deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, is the main health concern for pregnant women on planes.

This is when a blood clot forms in a deep vein of the leg, which can cause complications such as pain, inflammation and swelling. The greater danger with these clots is that they can dislodge and travel through the circulatory system, blocking blood supply to the lungs.

The risk of DVT is higher when pregnant and being immobile for long periods is also a risk factor, so it’s worth keeping in mind for any sort of travel, including long car trips.

To reduce your risk keep well hydrated, make sure you’re well mobilised during the flight and wear compression stockings.

Choose the best seat

If you’re travelling by airplane while pregnant, try to get a spot on the aisle so you can get up and stretch your legs.

You’re going to be getting in and out of your seat a lot, so choose wisely.

(Image: Getty Images)

What happens if you need to give birth overseas?

If you are travelling in your third trimester or you unexpectedly go into labour overseas there are a few things to consider. Citizenship rules change from country to country, so it’s a good idea to understand the local laws before travelling.

If you are an Australian citizen and you give birth overseas, you’ll need to apply for your child’s Australian citizenship and passport before you can return home.

For application forms and more information visit the Department of Immigration and Border Protection website.

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Travel vaccinations for pregnant women

As a pregnant woman, you are at risk of serious complications if you contract malaria or viral hepatitis E. Certain standard vaccinations can also be harmful to your baby when you’re pregnant.

We recommend you get in touch with your doc before you travel to ensure you have the right vaccinations for your trip. Nothing is more important than protecting the health of you and your baby.

Check to see the list of vaccines recommended by the Australian Department of Health.

Get in touch with your doc before you travel to ensure you have the right vaccinations.

(Image: Getty)

Source a local OBGYN

Try not to worry in advance, but be prepared for any kind of pregnancy complication by obtaining the name and number of a local OBGYN. You’ll have peace of mind just knowing you can call someone if you have a concern.

Take it slow

A babymoon probably isn’t the time for mountain biking or other strenuous physical activity. Be smart by pacing yourself and building in lots of downtime to nap and read.

The importance of the right type of accommodation

You’ll want to make sure that wherever you pick, you have access to:

A large comfy bed with extra pillows
Healthy menu options
Quality, hygienic food service setup
Day spa with staff trained in antenatal massage and therapies
A nearby hospital or doctors

Before booking your accommodation, make sure they have the right facilities for you in your pregnant state.

(Image: Getty)

A pregnancy travel checklist

It’s good to be well prepared for an upcoming journey. It’s even more important when you’re pregnant, with more to consider for you and your unborn baby. Check these steps before you jet off.

Research: Check the airline restrictions for flying while pregnant
Register with Smartraveller: Let the Government know where you’re going, so they can contact you in an emergency.
Visit your GP or OB/GYN: Discuss your travel plans and get the relevant vaccinations. You will most likely need a medical certificate confirming you’re fit to travel.
Research your destination: Consider the foods, cultures and climates of the places your visiting. Know what to avoid, particularly while pregnant.
Pack correctly: Pack clothes that take your changing shape into account and keep you comfortable.

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6 of the best modern hamper gifts to spoil new mums

Tue, 10 Dec 2019 23:24:00 +0000

After enduring 40 weeks of pregnancy and the life-changing experience of giving birth, there’s probably nobody on earth more deserving of a little pampering than a brand new mum.

When a new baby comes into the world it’s only natural to want to buy gifts for them – and we’re all for that because baby shopping is adorable – but choosing a gift to acknowledge the journey that a new mum is on is an equally sweet notion.

Settling into life at home once you’ve left the hospital can be a gentler transition when a new mum has everything they need for themselves close at hand. Fortunately Australian hamper companies know this, and have the perfect hamper gift for you to bestow up on the new mum in your life.

Whether your gifting a relative, a friend, or a colleague the sentiment is the same. We all want new mums to know just how incredible we think they are, and that we’re thinking of them as they spend their days nurturing their sweet new babe.

The hamper companies featured in the gallery below have nailed that sentiment perfectly. Happy shopping!

(Image: Positively Gifted)

Positively Gifted

Positively Gifted Boobie Mama Gift Hamper (Options Available) RRP $92.00: Let’s be honest. breastfeeding is not always an easy journey for a lot of mothers. Positively Gifted has a great hamper that contains some great products that can help boost mama’s milk supply including Franjo’s Kitchen Tanker Topper Lactation Biscuits, Leif Tea Co. Nourish Organic Breastfeeding Tea as well as a Leif Tea Co. Stainless Steel Tea Infuser, a pack of Mint Fox Designs Handmade Breast Pads and Gaia Nipple Balm.

(Image: Hello Mama)

Hello Mama

Hello Mama RRP from $50: These guys really know #mumlyfe, supplying beautifully packaged gift boxes for modern mamas and their babies. Whether you’re looking for something to spoil bub, or mum or both they have an affordable option that will let them know you are thinking of them.

(Image: Retreat Yourself Boxes)

Retreat Yourself Boxes

Retreat Yourself Boxes RRP from $69.95: There’s no better time to start looking after yourself than those heady days of new motherhood. And a box full of pampering wellness goodies is just the thing to help that happen. Available as an individual purchase or as a three month subscription, each Retreat Yourself Box comes choice full of over $200 worth of full-sized value!

(Image: New Mama Kit)

New Mama Kit

New Mama Kit RRP from $39.00: The team at New Mama Kit promise to help your loved one transition to Motherhood with a beautiful and practical gift hamper. The kits come with everything a new mama needs from herbal tea bags to maternity pads and are so thoughtful they’re the perfect way to let the new mama in your life know how much they are loved.

(Image: Feel Better Box)

Feel Better Box

New Mum Recovery Care Package RRP $158: The good folks at Feel Better Box have pulled together the ultimate hamper for new mums. It’s a bumper care package designed to take care of a new mum to soothe and help her recover. Hampers contain handmade peppermint lip balm to dry shampoo and a sleeping eye mask and more.

(Image: Bockers & Pony)

Bockers & Pony

Mum’s Relaxation Hamper RRP $149.00: Those new days of motherhood can be full of worry and uncertainty. It’s a whole new world, and one a new mum will handle so much better if she takes some time for a little self-care. The Mum’s Relaxation Hamper from Bockers & Pony will help them press pause on the everyday while indulging in a little luxury.

Stop! Hamper time ...

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What I wish I’d known before having a baby

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These are the best kids’ toys and games trending in 2019 to get your hands on

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 04:29:00 +0000

Hello December! That means it’s a slippery slope now until the tinsel comes out and Christmas says hello.

That also means it’s definitely not too early to begin getting organised for the gift-giving that’s on its way and the toy aisle is generally the first stop! But what exactly should we be putting in our trolleys for kids this year?

Shane Carter, Head of Kids Universe at BIG W says research is key when it comes to knowing what will top a child’s toy wish list.

“We’re always researching the latest trends, fads and fashions for kids and listening to our customers to ensure we have the best range on offer,” he says.

And we parents are researching too. With so many toys on the market, we want to make sure that our hard earned dollars are going to be spent on toys that are not only educational and practical, we want toys that the kids will actually play with!

Fortunately 2019 has seen some pretty epic entries onto the toy scene, and we’ve rounded up some of our favourites in the gallery below.

24 of the best toys and games in 2019

(Image: Funtastic)

Orbeez Sparkle Surprise

Orbeez Sparkle Surprise, RRP $25.00: Set to be huge hit this year is the range of Orbeez Wow World toys. And the Orbeez Sparkle Surprise is right up there on wish lists across the nation. Kids can magically reveal two lucky Wowzer’s by simply adding water. Each Sparkle Surprise comes complete with two all-new Wowzers never seen before and a new light up feature makes it even more special for little Orbeez collectors.

(Image: Funtastic)

Toy Story 4 Talking Bo Peep w McDimple Figure

Toy Story 4 Talking Bo Peep w McDimple Figure, RRP $109.00: Toy Story 4 and everything associated with it is huge in 2019. In the final (wahhh) installation of Toy Story, fans saw that Bo Peep had changed a lot since she last saw Woody. She became the epitome of girl power when she ventured out into the world as an adventurer and friend of all toys in trouble. Now kids can have their very own Bo Peep who gives kids an interactive experience with over 40 talking sayings from Bo Peep and her pal, Officer Giggle McDimples.

(Image: Funtastic)

Chill Factor Slushy Maker

Chill Factor Slushy Maker, RRP $11.99: Hello Summer! This Chill Factor Slushy Maker allows you and your kids to make delicious slushies in just seconds. There’s no need for ice, or blenders and best of all there’s no mess. All you have to do is put it in the freezer, wait for it to freeze then add your preferred chilled drink and squeeze. By some kind of magic, that drink becomes a slushie within seconds. How cool is that? Literally.

(Image: Funtastic)

Professor Maxwell’s 4D Lab Galaxy

Professor Maxwell’s 4D Lab Galaxy, RRP $65.00: Kids can discover the science behind space with interactive projects that come alive in augmented virtual reality. Each project contains step by step instructions that come alive in real-time video as kids glance at them through the goggles or in hand held play mode, showing them actual footage of how the step is to be done.

(Image: Funtastic)

Play Doh Bath Soap Pack

Play Doh Bath Soap Pack, $7.99: Bath time just went next level with this genius idea. Even your most reluctant bather will want to get splashing because the good folk at Play Doh have come up with mouldable soap clay. Kids can create fun shapes with an array of coloured soaps with fresh scents while they get clean. After the bath time fun is done, simply place the clay back in the handy container for next time … if you can get them out of the bath, that is.

(Image: Smiggle)

Smiggle Star Wars

Smiggle Star Wars Collaboration: Show me a kid and I’ll show you a person who loves Smiggle! And now the sweet-smelling stationery powerhouse is undertaking its first ever branded collaborations with The Walt Disney Company’s Frozen 2 and Star Wars. With school supplies, fun quirky stationery and cute accessories and gadgets, your little Star Wars fan will want to get their hands on a piece of this limited edition collection.

(Image: Smiggle)

Smiggle Frozen 2

Smiggle Frozen 2: Just like the Star Wars collection, Smiggle is celebrating the release of the highly anticipated Frozen 2 with this limited edition collaboration with The Walt Disney Company. From Anna and Elsa backpacks and bags, through to gadgets and accessories, this collab has that extra special touch that Smiggle brings to everything they do, sprinkled liberally with a whole lot of Frozen 2 sparkle!

(Image: LEGO)

LEGO Hidden Side

LEGO Hidden Side, RRP from $29.99: It’s LEGO, but not as you know it. For the first time LEGO brick building you know and love is brought to life through augmented reality to create truly interactive gameplay that brings the sets to life. Using an app to reveal the set’s hidden side, gameplay challenges kids to solve paranormal mysteries and capture tiny AR ghosts to turn the haunted world back to normal. Available at LEGO.com and at all major retailers.

(Image: Adairs Kids)

Batman Balance Bike

Batman Balance Bike, RRP $109.99: Balance bikes are great for helping your child develop the skills to ride a push bike without worrying about the tricky pedal part. This Batman themed one, available at Adairs Kids is set to be hugely popular for little superheros this Christmas.

(Image: CostumeBox)

Sunnylife Ride On Cockatoo Float

Sunnylife Ride On Cockatoo Float, RRP $99.99: Sure, unicorns are cool, but are they cockatoo cool? Available at CostumeBox these awesome and fun pool floats are set to be the hit of summer.

(Image: Myer)

Harry Potter Light Painting Wand

Harry Potter Light Painting Wand, RRP $49.95: Set your little Harry Potter fans night alight with this incredible light painting wand. You can use the light from the wand to draw patronus charms in mid-air or recreate dramatic wand battles from the movies. How cool is that?! Available at all Myer stores.

(Image: Wahu)

Wahu Surfer Dudes

Wahu Surfer Dudes, RRP $24.99: These are the worlds first self-righting, self-surfing toy. Toss your dudes into the surf and they’ll catch and shred the waves back to you! Surfer Dudes feature an internal ballast system, hydro-boomerang technology and unsinkable foam board making them a great toy for kids aged 6+. Available at all major retailers.

(Image: CostumeBox)

Disney Toy Story Woody Pop Vinyl Figure

Disney Toy Story Woody Pop Vinyl Figure, RRP $18.99: He might have been around for 20 years already (say what?!) but Woody is as popular as ever thanks to this year’s release of Toy Story 4. Available at CostumeBox this collectible vinyl figure is the perfect toy for all the Disney lovers out there.

(Image: PJ Masks)

PJ Masks Super Learning Phone

PJ Masks Super Learning Phone, RRP $24.95: If you have a toddler in the house, chances are you have a PJ Masks fan in the house! And there’s no doubt that they’ll be loving the range of PJ Masks toys available from Big W, toy stores and online retailers. Like this Super Learning Phone with voice-activated play, your little one can pretend to call their PJ Masks friends and develop listening and role-play skills with the six exciting activities. The three great built-in learning games help to develop skills with numbers, counting, matching and memory skills. There’s even a photo album where you can see pictures of the PJ Masks!

(Image: PJ Masks)

PJ Masks Night Mission Track Set

PJ Masks Night Mission Track Set, RRP $39.95: If you have a PJ Masks superfan, you can’t go past this set which allows you to go on a PJ Masks adventure into the night to save the day with this range of cool die-cast Mission Racers. The vehicles feature lights and sounds, plus free moving wheels. Each comes with a matching non-articulated figure. Available in Catboy, Gekko and Owlette characters at Big W, selected Toyworld and Kidstuff stores, as well as Toys R Us online.

https://www.rizmo.com/au/

Rizmo

Rizmo, RRP $89.95: Combining the most popular toy trends of today including voice technology, virtual pets and interactivity (think Tamagotchi and Furby). Rizmo listens, learns, remembers and grows with its owner, both in play value and physical form. Rizmo is available in pink, blue and white and can be found nationally in all major retailers.

(Image: VTech)

Magical Lights Unicorn

Magical Lights Unicorn, RRP $39.95: It doesn’t get much cuter than this. Kids can go on a bi-lingual adventure with the super sweet Magical Lights Unicorn which teaches them English AND French! Place the seven charms on any of the three magic hearts to see her horn light up and hear colours, objects and phrases in either language. Use the charms to answer quiz questions or add sound effects to create your own special song. Squeeze the unicorn’s tail to see her beautiful wings flap and hear whimsical phrases and sound effects that encourage imaginative play. Her majestic hooves feature wheels so you can push her as you head off on your next adventure. Suitable for toddlers from 18 months, and available at Target.

(Image: VTech)

Kidizoom DUO 5.0 Camera, RRP $99.95: Digital cameras aren’t just for the grown-ups! Kids can also take great photos and videos with the Kidizoom DUO 5.0 dual lens camera. The front and rear lenses can be swapped at the touch of a button, making it simple to take photos, videos, and selfies! Other features include: 4x digital zoom, built-in auto flash, fun learning games, voice changing effects, wacky photo shaker, photo editor, cool built-in games and more. Suitable for children 3-9 Years, and available in blue and pink now from Big W and other good toy stores and online retailers.

(Image: Crown & Andrews)

Googly Eyes Showdown

Googly Eyes Showdown RRP $29.99: No matter how far technology advances, nothing replaces the good old-fashioned fun of a family games night. With Googly Eyes Showdown you have your team guess the word that you are drawing before the other team guesses theirs. Put on the wacky vision altering glasses and bring on the laughter! Suitable for players aged 7+ and available at Big W and other leading retailers.

(Image: Engino)

Engino JCB Machinery Series

Engino JCB Machinery Series from RRP from $19.95: Children can build iconic JCB machines such as the 3CX Backhoe Loader, the Telescopic Handler and the Skid Steer Loader. The larger sets also include a motor which bring the JCB models to life. Engino toys are available from Australian Geographic stores and toy retailers as well as online.

(Image: Fisher-Price)

Fisher-Price – Linkimals!

Fisher-Price – Linkimals, RRP from $17.99: Using the synchronisation of lights and music across the toys, Linkimals come in a range of different designs that offer a variety of developmental benefits that link learning with playtime. Targeted at children aged 9+ months, these cute and educational critters are exactly as their name suggests – animals that link together to create an immersive learning experience through interactive music &and dazzling lights! Linkimals are available exclusively in store and online at Target Australia.

(Image: VTech)

Secret Safe Diary Selfie Music

VTech Secret Safe Diary Selfie Music RRP $49: Were you a diary writer as a child? Things have gotten a bit more techie since then with the Secret Safe Diary Selfie Music by VTech! This dual camera diary unlocks at the sight of your face thanks to the clever facial recognition technology. Kids can also add a number password for extra security as well as take great photos and videos with the dual cameras. And the features list is too long to write here, let’s just say there’s photo effects and music and virtual pets … told ya! Suitable for kids aged 6-11 and available at Big W and other leading retailers.

(Image: Crown & Andrews)

Rubik’s Race

Rubik’s Race RRP $29.99: This takes your old Rubik’s cube to the next level! Rubik’s Race is a fun new puzzle game that combines the strategy of the Rubik’s Cube with face-to-face play. Shake the Scrambler to create a new Rubik’s pattern, then slide the tiles to match the pattern on your board to the one in the Scrambler. The first player to complete the match and slam down the centre frame wins! Suitable for kids aged 8+ and available now at Big W and other leading retailers!

(Image: Theatrix)

Small World Fashion

Small World Fashion, RRP from $16.95: Colourful, classic, quality fashion kits for designing and creating a number of fashion accessories. Everything is included to create beautifully finished,decorative fashion accessories.The wide range of kits will appeal to kids of all ages! Theatrix toys are available National Geographic stores and toy retailers as well as online.

(Image: Teamsterz)

Teamsterz Micro Motorz

Micro Motorz RRP $12.95: Got a car fan at your place? They’ll love these! Each Micro Motorz is a micro-size drifting car that comes with a cool unboxing experience. Each vehicle features garage / launching pad, customised graphics and tuning parts and accessories which are interchangeable within the teams so kids can tune their Micro Motorz, customising their collection. Suitable for 3 to 8-year olds, Micro Motorz are available from mid-May 2019 from Big W, Toyworld, Toy Mate, Kidstuff, NewsXpress and other leading independent toy stores.

(Image: BoomTrix)

BoomTrix

BoomTrix RRP from $39.99: Ready to test skills and have fun? Defy gravity with BoomTrix and let the metal balls go from one trampoline to another. The bigger the challenge, the bigger the boom! Use your creativity and set up a track with towers, power action trampolines and a finish. Suitable for kids aged 7+ and available exclusively at Australian Geographic.

(Image: Big Balloon Toys)

Ty Beanie Boos Fashion Collection

Ty Beanie Boos RRP from $12:99: Love Ty Beanie Boos? Now you can dress head-to-toe in Ty Fashion, featuring your favourite characters, reimagined as wristlets, purses, backpacks, slippers and slides … and they’re sparkly! Featuring a mix of sparkles and glam plush, with the trendy colourchanging metallic sequins that flip and tip creating gorgeous looks and patterns. Available at most leading toy retailers.

(Image: Crown & Andrews)

The Game of Things

The Game of Things RRP $29.99: Perfect fun for beating the ‘I’m boreds’, this is a “Who-said-what” game with attitude that presents players with provocative topics like “THINGS… you wouldn’t do for a million dollars”, “THINGS…you wish grew on trees”, or “THINGS… your parents forgot to tell you” and asks each player to write down whatever comes to mind. Pick a topic, everyone writes a response, read them out loud and guess who said what. There are no right answers… There are no wrong answers. Just a lot of laughs. Suitable for kids aged 14+ and available at Big W and other leading retailers.

(Image: Crown & Andrews)

Gator Golf

Gator Golf RRP $29.99: 2019 has seen a relaunch of this 90’s classic! Putt the ball into his mouth and watch his tail flip it back to you! Suitable for kids aged 3+ and available at Big W and other leading retailers.

(Image: Crown & Andrews)

SuperZings

SuperZings RRP from $1.99: Get ready to meet the latest collectible craze! SuperZings are everyday objects brought to life in a comical hero vs. villain theme. There are more than 80 multicoloured characters to collect, each with a matching rival. All living together in Kaboom City, there are 36 regular characters available in two different colour-themes, plus six Silver and two Gold Rare and One Enigma Super Rare SuperZing. . The figures all have their own superpower and profile, use collectible Supercars to get around (eight to collect), and live in Hideouts (eight to collect) which can also be used to launch the characters into the air. Suitable for kids aged 3+ and available exclusively at Kmart.

(Image: Theatrix)

Small World Learning

Small World Learning, RRP from $19.95: These unique games teach children about colours, math, shapes, sorting and more –

all while having fun! Children won’t even know they’re learning. Theatrix toys are available National Geographic stores and toy retailers as well as online.

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Find out what your baby’s star sign reveals about their personality

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 01:00:00 +0000

Your little one’s zodiac sign can reveal a lot about their personality, traits and characteristics.

While it’s not scientifically backed, astrology fans can learn a lot about their bub by referring to their star sign.

Astrologist Sharon Knight reveals what your baby’s star sign means and how you can help to parent your little Libran or Capricorn.

Capricorn (22 December – 20 January)

If anyone has ever leaned over your baby’s pram and said they are an ‘old soul’, then your child is true to their star sign.

Capricorn children are incredibly thoughtful and a lot goes in, even though you might not get much of a reaction.

So don’t worry if your little one stares at you when you smile – rest assured it’s all being absorbed.

Aquarius (21 January – 19 February)

An Aquarius child realises early on that a big smile will distract mum and dad and allow them to get their own way.

They love movement and colour so a mobile over the cot will be a hit.

Older children don’t like to sit still for long, so potty training could be tricky. Teach new things in short, sharp bursts.

Both Aquarius bubs and little Librans love colour.

(Getty Images)

Pisces (20 February – 20 March)

Pisces babies are gentle souls. They don’t like loud noise and need plenty of security and hugs. Use a baby carrier to hold your Piscean close and choose smaller, calmer baby or toddler groups to attend.

If you’re expecting another baby, take extra time to help your toddler adjust. A new sibling could make your Piscean feel insecure so help them understand that a new baby won’t mean they are loved any less.

Aries (21 March- 20 April)

Aries children are fiery, excitable and need lots of stimulation and love.

With such inquisitive minds, they can quickly get frustrated.

Rather than getting them to focus on one thing for 10 minutes, provide several things to keep their attention.

Taurus (21 April – 21 May)

Taurean children love things that are nice to hold, so tactile textures such as velvet will make them happy.

Give your warm and loving Taurean child lots of cuddles as they need plenty of touch. Their nature is placid, unless you rush them.

Your babies star sign can reveal a lot about their personality.

(Getty Images)

Gemini (22 May – 21 June)

Gemini children are the most inquisitive of all the star signs and they will wander off in search of novelty.

They need a lot of mental stimulation, so join a local library and sign up for a music or movement class. They thrive on learning so give plenty of options for activities, then let them decide which one to do.

Cancer (22 June – 23 July)

The most family-focused of the star signs, a Cancerian baby will enjoy being swaddled as this makes them feel secure.

They are caring and will be aware of duty from a young age, which means they are a brilliant older sibling.

Cancerians love being helpful, so will thrive on being in charge of ‘tidy time’.

Leo (24 July – 23 August)

Leo children respond well to rewards, so a gold star will make them very happy!

Your little Leo needs to feel important, and in charge, so rather than telling them what to do make them feel like it’s their idea.

And – you probably already know this – they can be incredibly stubborn and will roar if they doesn’t get their own way, but hold your ground.

Expecting a Leo? Keep in mind your little one will love to feel important.

Virgo (24 August – 23 September)

Virgo babies love routine. This is great while they are young but as they get older encourage more flexibility and avoid an upset if things don’t run like clockwork. Of all the star signs,

Virgoans are the easiest to toilet train, as they’re fastidious and won’t like a dirty nappy. They love pretending so entertain with lots of role-play games as they grow into a toddler: a play doctor’s kit would be top of her wish list!

Libra (24 September – 23 October)

Air signs find it hard to sleep, so exhaust her physically and mentally in the daytime. Librans are very visual and love bright colours.

They are sociable and happy to be out and about. Normally placid, it’s usual to bounce quickly between being upset and being happy.

Scorpio (24 October – 22 November)

Your Scorpio is cautious, so always be encouraging. Your little one is a deep thinker and will have two modes of expression: crying and temper tantrums, or withdrawn and quiet.

They need security and can be distrustful of strangers. Your Scorpio will also need help learning to share.

Sagittarius (23 November – 21 December)

Sagittarians love lots of movement and being outdoors from a very young age, so take them out of the pram and, once they are toddling about, let them run outside as much as you can.

They are visual and adore colours and watching what’s going on. Of all the star signs, Sagittarians are the most sociable.

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How to buy the best disposable nappy

Sun, 01 Dec 2019 22:19:00 +0000

When you have a baby, the most essential product you’ll rely on is the nappy. Not only does it keep your bub clean (most of the time), choosing the right nappy for your baby can ensure his comfort and help keep leakage at bay.

You’ll need up to 12 nappies a day for a newborn and 6-8 for a toddler.

The best nappy comes down to a variety of factors from fit, to absorption to price.

How to choose the best nappy

1. The right fit

Nappies come in a range of sizes for each stage of a baby’s development. You will notice that nappies span from premmie and newborn through to infant, toddler, walker and junior. Select the nappy that matches the weight of your baby to ensure a snug and comfortable fit and you will also receive maximum leakage protection.

2. Avoid stocking up on one size

It’s great to be prepared and even better to snap up an extra pack or two if they are on sale, however avoid buying too many nappies in the one size, as babies tend to outgrow their nappies quickly.

3. Soft and comfortable

Comfort is key to a happy baby. Look out for nappies that use soft materials and have additional comfort features – such as double support gathers around the legs. This will more evenly distribute the pressure from the leg band elastic, delivering a snug fit and superior leakage protection without the red marks.

A comfortable nappy is key to a happy baby.

(Image: Getty Images)

4. Super absorbent

Choose a nappy that absorbs moisture quickly and leaves baby feeling dry. Look for features such as a special layer which actively draws liquid from the nappy’s surface to help preserve dryness.

5. Change time

For maximum comfort, change your baby’s nappy frequently – especially in the newborn stage. Clean them with a gentle baby wipe that is dermatologically tested and free of alcohol and fragrances before fitting a new nappy.

ALDI’s MAMIA nappies have been redesigned and are now more absorbent and offer enhanced leakage protection.

(Instagram/@through_our_days)

6. Easy to use

With plenty of nappy changes you will want a nappy that’s easy and quick to fasten and stay closed during use.

7. Eco-friendly

Biodegradable disposable nappies use a non-chemical absorption method and decompose more quickly than ordinary disposable nappies. These nappies are better for the environment but they tend to be more expensive.

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5 month old: When will your baby sit up?

Thu, 28 Nov 2019 05:00:00 +0000

Your baby is discovering how much her body can do for her. You may be struck by her strength and trunk control as she starts to master rolling over. She can now sit propped up for longer periods of time, and may even try to sit up by herself.

Your baby’s hand-eye coordination improves this month.

(Image: Getty Images)

Mental leaps

Your baby may show a big mental leap that accompanies her growing hand dexterity as she can concentrate and hold onto objects better. Her hand-eye coordination is sharper and she swipes and grasps successfully at mobiles and activity gyms. If she manages to get a grip, she’ll try to pull herself forwards.

She’s also now observing cause and effect. For example, she may begin to understand that a ball moves when it’s rolled. You’ll notice the same theory at work when she cries to get your attention.

Showing emotions

By five months your baby shows a strong attachment to you by raising her arms when she wants to be picked up and crying when you leave the room. She will also begin to giggle at silly faces, funny sounds or games of peek-a-boo.

WATCH NEXT: Settling baby baby Bounty. Continues after video …

Sleep routine

During the day, your baby will have a morning and an afternoon nap. At night, your little one may or may not be sleeping through the night.

If you haven’t already, you might like to establish a bedtime routine. Start with a bath, followed by cuddle and song or story. Watch for sleepy cues, and pop your baby into their cot when they are drowsy, rather than asleep, so she learns to soothe herself to sleep.

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A complete hospital bag checklist for new mums

Thu, 28 Nov 2019 00:00:00 +0000

There’s no better way to feel prepared for giving birth than knowing that you have everything you and your baby could possibly need packed away in your bag, ready to take to hospital.

Whether it’s lip balm to stop your lips cracking during labour, teeny tiny nappies for when bub arrives or comfy clothes that won’t irritate a Caesarean scar, we’ve got all the tips on what to pack (and what not to take with you) when it’s time for you to go to hospital to meet your new baby.

A list of what to pack in your hospital bag makes life so much easier!

(Images: Getty Images)

What to pack for labour

It makes sense sometimes to have two separate bags. One for labour and one for when Baby has arrived. That way, things are easier to find. But here’s what you’ll need while you’re actually in labour.

Your Medicare card and/or private health insurance card
Any medications you have been taking (show the admitting staff when you arrive)
X-rays, ultrasounds, pathology reports relating to your pregnancy
Birth plan
Old nightshirt or T-shirt to wear while in labour
Lightweight dressing gown for pacing up and down hospital corridors
Thongs or comfy slippers which are easy to slide your feet in and out of
Lip balm
Hair band
Light snacks or glucose tablets to keep you going
Water or cordial in a water bottle from which you can easily sip as it’s important to stay hydrated
Washer (soothing to be soaked in cold water and then wrung out and placed on your forehead)
iPod and speaker with your play list ready
Mobile phone and charger
Books, magazines, even travel games to help pass what can seem an awfully long time
Birthing aids such as heat packs, stress balls, massage oils, aromatherapy oils
Socks (feet can get cold during a long labour)
Handheld fan (giving birth can be a sweaty business)

Newborns don’t need as much ‘stuff’ as you might think.

(Image: Getty Images)

What to pack for your newborn

Find out what your hospital provides from the following (it might be all, nothing or somewhere in between) and then plan accordingly.

Newborn nappies
Onesies
Scratch mitts
Hat
Blanket
Barrier oil (olive, apricot, almond) to coat baby’s bottom before their first bowel movement. It makes cleaning up the sticky first few meconium poos so much easier
Cotton wool for cleaning
Formula, bottles, teats and sterilising equipment if you plan to formula feed
Muslin burping cloths

A thin coating of barrier oil on a baby’s bottom makes those first few nappy changes so much easier to handle.

(Image: Getty Images)

What to pack for you

Maternity bras (one-handed drop down nursing bras if breastfeeding).
Breast pads
Nighties or PJs with buttons down the front for ease of feeding. Darker colours are best as you’ll bleed quite heavily for some days after giving birth
Lots of undies. You can get disposable but far better is to buy a load of cheapies that can be thrown as you use them. Or use your old, raggedy ones up instead. Just make sure the elastic is cut so it sits under where any Caesarean scar will be
Earplugs and eye mask if you want to catch a daytime nap while baby is sleeping. Don’t worry; you will hear your baby cry and if you don’t, someone is sure to wake you!
Comfortable day clothes and soft shoes. Avoid anything that might rub on your dressing if you’ve had a Caesarean
Toiletries
Thongs for the shower
Light and dark washers. Light for your face. Dark for down below.
Light and dark towels. See washers above
Make-up. You want those first pictures with your newborn to be looking good, right?
Storage containers for glasses, contact lenses, hearing aids or dentures

WATCH: This incredible video of a Caesarean birth

List continues below…

Make sure you have packed all the essentials ready for labour, your newborn and you!

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What to pack for your birth partner

Get the most from your birth partner by ensuring they have everything they need to help you. Or point them in the direction of this list and put them in charge of their own packing!

Whoever you choose as your birth partner, it’s good to make sure they’re organised as well when it comes to what to bring to the hospital.

(Image: Getty Images)

Swimmers for assisting you in the shower and/or birthing pool
Deodorant, toothbrush and toothpaste
Change of clothes
Copy of your birth plan
Mobile phone and charger
List of numbers to call/text when baby arrives
Coins for car park or vending machine

What to pack for going home

Going home outfit for you and Baby
Baby car seat

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Understanding teething and thrush in your baby

Mon, 25 Nov 2019 00:30:00 +0000

Teething and the thrush sometimes associated with it, it something that all parents will need to navigate at some point in the journey.

These helpful tips will help you to understand that time a little better.

What is teething?

Teething is the period during which your baby cuts his first set of teeth. Babies are born with their primary or milk teeth in place, but you won’t see the first tooth until he is six to nine months old. The bottom front teeth (incisors, with sharp edges for biting) are the first to come through, followed by the top front teeth.

This is generally painless. Next to come are the first molars (large back teeth for grinding food), at around 12 to 15 months, which are more painful. These are followed by the canines (pointed teeth which tear at food), at around 16- 18 months. The second molars appear at 20-24 months. All 20 milk teeth are usually through by the age of three.

Babies are born with their primary or milk teeth in place!

How can I tell that my child is teething?

Before a tooth emerges you may notice that:

He puts everything in his mouth
His gums look more red
His cheeks may look inflamed
He is very irritable
He has a sore bottom
He may run a slight fever
He develops mild diarrhoea
It is also possible that there’s no noticeable change in his behaviour or symptoms

Continues after video …

How to ease the pain of teething

Give him something to chew. Teething rings and big pieces of chilled apple or carrot will help to soothe his gums – watch him carefully to make sure he doesn’t break off a small piece which could cause choking.
Run some teething gel on his gums. Gels often contain an anesthetic to give temporary relief.
Rubbing his gums with your finger can also help.
Give him infant paracetamol, suitable from three months, to ease any pain or to lower a mild fever.
Make sure he drinks plenty of fluids; offer him cool, boiled water. Excessive drooling could mean that he is thirsty.

Emergency checklist

There are a range of complaints that are not caused by teething and which need to be treated:

High temperature – above 38 degrees C. This could be due to an infection, especially if it continues for more than 24 hours
Diarrhoea, if it continues for more than 24 hours
Earache
Chest infections

Teething babies will usually try putting everything in their mouth!

What is thrush?

Thrush is a common infection in babies and children, but it’s rarely serious. It commonly develops in the mouth of babies and young children. It sometimes appears around the anus, buttocks and thighs.

What causes thrush?

Thrush is caused by a yeast-like fungus called Candida albicans. It lives naturally on the skin and in the vagina, mouth and bowel, alongside other bacteria that the body needs. But this natural balance can spiral out of control, for example, when the body’s immune system is disturbed by a taking a course of antibiotics. This allows the candida to flourish, and once this happens it quickly multiples, damaging mucous membranes and causing inflammation.

Continues after video …

How can I tell if my child has thrush?

You may see:

White spots on a red rash starting around the anus, which spreads to his buttocks and inner thighs
A bright red nappy rash that isn’t helped by normal creams
He may refuse feeds
Spots inside his cheeks that look like the remains of milk which, when wiped gently with a tissue, revel a sore red patch beneath

Coping with thrush

If you think that your baby may have oral thrush, consult your doctor.

If you are breastfeeding, you and your partner will need treatment as well as your baby.
If he finds it painful to feed from a bottle or finds it hard to suck from the breast, try spoon-feeding him.
Wash your hands scrupulously after nappy changes and before feeds.
If the thrush develops during a course of antibiotics, finish the treatment but use anti-fungal medication at the same time.
If has asthma and develops oral thrush, consult your GP.

Teething rings will help to soothe sore gums.

How can thrush be treated?

Your GP may prescribe:

An antifungal cream for your nipples if you are breastfeeding. But always wash this off before feeding your baby.
An antifungal gel or liquid to be dropped into your baby’s mouth after every feed. The sores should start to improve within a day or two.
A cream for his bottom if he has nappy rash. The sores should start to clear up with two or three days.
If none of these work, consult your GP again because a secondary bacterial infection may have set in top of the thrush.

The post Understanding teething and thrush in your baby appeared first on Now To Love.

The Aussie kids-fashion brands you need to know about

Thu, 21 Nov 2019 21:39:00 +0000

Kids fashion has come a long way. Designers are recognising that practicality is as important as style, and the result is some pretty funky fashion that manages to please parents and kids alike.

And pleasing kids isn’t always easy. As they grow they’re making up their own minds about what they like, who they are and what they want to wear.

Fortunately more and more Australian designers are creating fun, practical fashion for kids, guaranteed to please even the fussiest dresser. Here are some of our favourites …

Paper Wings

Born in Australia 10 years ago in Northern NSW, Paper Wings Label create imaginative, original and fun products for children, and in doing so, always celebrate what it is to be a child.

Bold, colourful, original designs made superbly mean that your child can be decked out in funky fashion that will last through whatever paces they put it through.

Paper Wings is all about colourful, whimsical and practical fashion for your little rockstar.

(Image: Paper Wings)

SunSoaked

SunSoaked has all the gals covered from baby, tween, teen to mama and grandma. Twinning never looked so chic and sunsafe. 50+ protection means the whole family can get out in the sun.

SunSoaked’s Australian designer and founder Kate Davis-Steer, who is a sun safety and body positivity advocate says;

“Mothers especially love that our SunSoaked BELLA range allows them to twin with their daughters and at the same time pass on the sun safe and body positivity messaging. Sun safety is a form of self- love and now with the baby sizing mothers can promote that self-love habit even earlier.”

(Image: SunSoaked)

Holly & Beau Kids’ Raincoats

Upper Notch Club have just launched Holly & Beau, a brand new range of children’s rainwear that literally transforms in front of your eyes when the pattern comes in contact with any form of liquid!

It’s time to chuck out your boring black and navy umbrellas and raincoats and don one of these insanely cute designs. With patterns ranging from dinosaurs to unicorns and everything in between, little ones will be begging for it to rain!

Holly & Beau’s colour-chafe raincoats will have your kids begging for it to rain!

(Image: Holly & Beau Kids’ Raincoats)

Lullaby Riot

Lullaby Riot specialises in children’s fashion that is handmade by Amanda in Shellharbour NSW.

Lullaby Riot is a mixture of ‘sweet and street’ styles, so there is something to suit all tastes. All pieces are made to last with great attention to detail, and the fabrics have been sourced for their high quality and uniqueness.

Lullaby Riot also stocks a cute range of Australian designed teethers, tights and socks.

Lullaby Riot is the perfect mix of ‘street’ and ‘sweet’.

(Image: Lullaby Riot)

WATCH: Kids give their opinions on fashion campaigns. Continues after video …

Fun, practical, local kids fashion to get to know and love.

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Infamous Swim

As a shopaholic teenage girl, Gemma Crowe had no idea the impact her eye for design would have. Years later she is now the founder of emerging swimwear label, Infamous Swim. Gemma has hit a niche market and is responsible for the latest local fashion craze: matching mother and daughter swimmer.

Infamous Swim taps into another digitally driven trend, body positivity, with the brand showcasing models in a range of sizes. This commitment is a taste of the ‘mum magic’ which Infamous Swim runs on. Like the best kind of mum, this brand is realistic and yet glamorous, down to earth and yet fun. Perhaps this is why Infamous Swim has taken off, making waves in the online shopping world.

Is there is anything cuter than a little Infamous Swim mummy and me matchy-matchy?

(Image: Infamous Swim)

Ever Australia

What better way to keep them warm, dry and feeling comfortable than a pair of the gorgeous shoes from Ever Australia. As one of the country’s largest UGG boot producers, Ever Australia is dedicated to producing the highest quality shoes for every member of the family.

From beautifully soft sheepskin UGGs, to cute mini biker boots, and fun white sneakers, Ever Australia has the answer to child and parent friendly winter shoes. Both fun and practical, the kids range is full of a variety designs to suit every personality.

Ever Australia kids’ shoes are warm, snuggly and incredibly funky!

(Image: Ever Australia)

Funky Trunks & Funkita

Adored by parents and kids alike, Aussie swimwear labels Funky Trunks & Funkita have just dropped the latest collection, On The Surface. Kids go crazy for the kooky, fun designs while parents love the durable, chlorine resistant fabric that offers 50+ UV protection, a must in the Aussie heat.

Your mini-mermaid will be bang on trend in living coral with Sweet Venom, Bar Bar, Flaming Stripes and Cumulus all boasting Pantone’s 2019 colour of the year.

There’s no chance the boys will be outdone with a wondersul mix of bold and brillant blues. Ice Fortress, Tweety Tweet and Check Republic hit all the right notes.

Funky Trunks & Funkita use durable, chlorine resistant fabric that offers 50+ UV protection.

(Image: Funky Trunks & Funkita)

Kind is Cool

The 100 percent cotton t-shirts from Kind Is Cool are fashion with a message. Beautifully soft, classic t shirt styles that mean you can roll the sleeves up or leave them down to suit your child’s look, but that’s not even the best part.

Emblazoned with slogans that promote kindness, Kind is Cool also donates $2 from every item to support Bully Zero. It’s no wonder their Instagram feed is full of families rocking this latest fashion must-have.

Kind is Cool donates $2 from every item to support Bully Zero.

(Image: Facebook/KindIsCool)

NAME IT:

NAME IT is a long standing Scandinavian children’s fashion brand, which has launched into Australia via MYER this year. Inspired by the free spirit, creativity and playfulness of children, the brand sees the world through children’s eyes, creating comfortable and functional clothing for every occasion that never compromises on quality or fit.

NAME IT endeavour to always provide the right styles at the right time at the right price.

NAME IT makes an effort to produce responsible fashion for kids and tweens.

(Image: Name It)

REAL PRETTY KIND

This Sydney lifestyle label for eight to 14-year-olds has a simple philosophy: Pretty is as Pretty does. They design to empower pretty bold, pretty smart, pretty strong, pretty stylish, fun-loving tweens.

Founded by designer Katie Rockliff, Real Pretty Kind (RPK) supports the Alannah+Madeline Foundation a charity dedicated to protecting children from violence and The Butterfly Foundation who represent all people affected by eating disorders and negative body image.

“Real Pretty Kind is beyond proud to be supporting these two incredible charities with a brand designed for every (tween) body,” says Katie. “A percentage of RPK profits across our product range will be used to kick bullying and negative body image to the curb!”

REAL PRETTY KIND believes we’re our best selves when we’re our real selves, and when we cheer each other on. Here, here!

(Image: Real Pretty Kind)

Olga Valentine

Designed in Bali by Sydney mum of three, Natasha Nowak, the Olga Valentine swimwear range is made from recycled ocean plastics, including bottles and fishnets recovered from the ocean floor.

Ethically produced in Bali, the plastics are spun into high quality fabric blends that are long lasting and sun-safe with UPF protection. The fabrics are also twice as resistant to chlorine, fading, sun creams and oils than other fabrics.

Check out the gorgeous range and know that your purchase helps make the world a better place.

Olga Valentine swimwear is made from recycled ocean plastics. How cool is that!?

(Image: Olga Valentine)

Little Auguste

Dreamt up by Creative Director Ebony Eagles, Little Auguste is the (super) sweet little sister of Australian label, Auguste. With a vintage tilt and in all your favourite matching Mini and Me prints, each piece is made for the tiny dancers, the tireless adventurers and the little ones with their faces full of sunshine. Full of vintage florals and fun-loving details each piece is a childhood memory soon to be created.

Little Auguste is available exclusively online and in Auguste’s Brisbane and Byron Bay boutiques.

Little Auguste provides dreamy bohemian threads for your little gypsies.

(Image: Little Auguste)

Minnow Designs

These cute Minnow Designs booties are just perfect for keeping little tootsies safe while exploring Australia’s seaside, rock pools, beaches, creeks and rivers. Made from quick-drying neoprene with a thin, flexible rubber sole for more robust beach, boat and water play these little beauties will quick become a must-have in the beach bag!

Minnow Designs booties are perfect for exploring Australian seaside rock pools and beaches.

(Image: Minnow Designs)

The post The Aussie kids-fashion brands you need to know about appeared first on Now To Love.

We’ve found 10 of the best places to buy matching mother and daughter clothes in Australia

Wed, 20 Nov 2019 22:09:00 +0000

When Kate Hudson shared a series of snaps of herself and her daughter, the world’s most adorable baby Rani Rose, wearing matching outfits back in August, you could hear our joy from a mile away.

“They’re twinning,” we squealed, as we gazed upon the adorable pair in almost identical boho-style, embroidered tunics.

Because there’s just something entirely cutsie when a mum and a daughter are dressed like little twin flames.

Kim Kardashian, Beyonce, Giselle Bundchen … they all do it, so why can’t we?

If these two don’t inspire you to get twinning, nothing will!

(Image: Instagram/KateHudson)

Look, there’s a limited window when it comes to getting your kids to wear what you want them to. Blink and you’ll miss it, really.

Before long, all of your stylish intentions go by the wayside as they opt for gumboots on the wrong feet and the same Spider-Man t-shirt from their brother’s draw for 76 days straight.

So while you have the power, you may as well make the most of it, and what better way to do that than to have them dress like your very own mini-me?!

If it’s good enough for Hollywood, it’s good enough for Down Under.

We’ve rounded up our favourite mummy-daughter matching fashion suppliers in Australia in the gallery below …

10 of the best places to buy matching mother and daughter clothes

(Image: SunSoaked)

SunSoaked

SunSoaked: SunSoaked has all the gals covered from baby, tween, teen to mama and grandma. Twinning never looked so chic and sunsafe. 50+ protection means the whole family can get out in the sun.

SunSoaked’s Australian designer and founder Kate Davis-Steer, who is a sun safety and body positivity advocate says;

(Image: Auguste The Label)

Auguste The Label

Auguste The Label: Ebony Eagles, founder of Auguste the Label spoke with Now to Love about her inspiration for twinning fashion.

“Those who know me know that there’s nothing more special in my world than my two girls. So it’s probably no surprise that it’s them who originally inspired me to start our childrenswear label, Little Auguste. I wanted to find our girls pieces that would not only make them feel extra special, but would wear well over time and become part of their childhood memories. From the very start we could foresee the wish for mums and daughters to match and started incorporating those pieces into both women’s and little wear. It’s just one of those things that’s so adorable. No one knows more than me that little ones are little powerhouses, desperate to make their own choices and create their own individual selves, but at the end of the day they still want to be like mummy and love to feel that bond – and sometimes a pair of matching dresses just says it all” –

(Image: Infamous Swim)

Infamous Swim

Infamous Swim: Infamous & Mini Swim is a chic collection of matching swimwear for mothers and their daughters. It’s perfect for girls who want to be like their mummas, and for mums whose daughter is her everything.

(Image: Arnhem)

Arnhem

Arnhem: Long famed for their gorgeous bohemian textiles, Byron Bay designers Arnhem released an Arnhem Child range using their same prints, so that mums and daughters can twin to their heart’s content.

(Image: Big W)

Big W

Big W: From pyjamas to stylish, on trend fashions, Big W is nailing the mummy and me fashion thing. There’s even styles for dad to match the kids!

(Image: From Zion)

From Zion

From Zion: Made from gorgeous bamboo, From Zion’s range of matching family fashions makes for some pretty special twinning moments to keep in the memory box.

(Image: Beau Hudson)

Beau Hudson

Beau Hudson: Gold Coast family fashion house, Beau Hudson nail twinning fashion for the whole family. Their stylish and funky threads are sure to make a statement, particularly when you’re matching!

(Image: mother + joey)

mother + joey

mother + joey: Hunter Valley company mother + joey was created as the first Australian clothing label dedicated to creating matching outfits. Now that is what you call winning twinning!

(Image: Instagram/thesubtlemummy)

Best & Less

Best & Less: The chain’s new range of prints, starting at just $10, recently sparked a scramble among shoppers desperate to get involved in the matching mother-daughter outfits on offer in the popular department store. Think leopards, florals and bold prints … and they’re super cute when you times them by two!

(Image: Koko Adora)

Koko Adora

Koko Adora: Dedicated to “matching family couture”, Koko Adora has amassed legions of fans who adore their modern options for family twinning.

(image: Tom and Teddy)

Tom and Teddy

Tom and Teddy: And we can’t let mums have all the fun. Companies like Tom and teddy make sure dad can match the kids too!

The post We’ve found 10 of the best places to buy matching mother and daughter clothes in Australia appeared first on Now To Love.

How to treat the new breed of ‘super’ head lice

Wed, 20 Nov 2019 04:18:00 +0000

They’re creepy, crawly, itchy and just downright annoying. Yes, we’re talking about head lice.

Do you want to know what’s even more worrying? There’s now a new breed of “super lice” which are resistant to store bought treatments.

The nits are harder to kill and as a result parents are spending hundreds of dollars for professional head lice treatments.

According to Lice Clinics Australia, up to 30% of all Primary school-aged kids in Australia get head lice at least once a year. The professional clinic uses a specialised machine which dehydrates and kills ‘super lice’.

University of SA Associate Professor Craig Williams says over-the-counter chemical treatments, such as Malathion, Permethrin and Pyrethrin, have lost their potency.

“Super lice would be the name we would give to lice that have become resistant to some of the treatments to kill them,” he says.

From salon chains, including Lice Clinics Australia, No More Nits and The Halo Clinic, to mobile service providers like No Nits Now and Nit Free hair, there are plenty of options available for parents seeking professionals to help to nip the problem of nits.

The price for professional services varies from $100 upwards.

Up to 30% of all Primary school-aged kids in Australia get head lice at least once a year.

(Image: Getty Images)

What is head lice?

It may be hard to believe but head lice have been around thousands of years before your child went to preschool. These small blood sucking insects, that average around 2 to 4 mm, can cause parents of small children a great deal of grief, but if you know what to look for and how to treat them it can be a mild hurdle that hopefully doesn’t have to be crossed too often.

Head lice vary in colour, from whitish-brown to reddish-brown, and surprisingly only survive on humans. Despite the common misconception that head lice can fly, they are actually wingless insects and do not even have the capacity to jump from head to head. The transmission of head lice can only be made by head to head contact as they can only crawl.

Lice actually like to live on the hair itself and only migrate to the scalp to feed so many head lice do not cause an itch which means that it takes careful inspection to find them. Louse eggs are laid just over a centimetre from the scalp and are about the size of a pin head and are oval in shape.

A live egg will actually making a popping noise when squashed by fingernails and hatched eggs look like empty shells. The eggs – or nits –hatch in 7-10 days, and one female louse can lay 150-300 eggs so it doesn’t take long for a few random lice to become a couple of hundred.

How to find the little suckers

Before you run for the clippers and inflict a lifetime of therapy on your child, remember that anyone with even a short length of hair can get head lice. The first step in any parent’s war against head lice is detection.

STEP 1: Starting with dry hair gently comb through any conditioner, detangling any knots so you can get a smooth stroke from root to tip. This technique with the conditioner actually stuns the lice and makes it hard for them to grip onto the hair.

STEP 2: Using a small tooth comb, brush sections of the hair gently from the roots to the ends.

STEP 3: Wipe the conditioner from the comb onto a paper towel or tissue.

STEP 4: Look on the tissue and on the comb for lice and eggs.

STEP 5: Repeat combing at least four or five times for every section of the head and if lice or eggs are found, the hair should be treated.

The price for professional head lice services varies from $100 upwards.

(Image: Getty Images)

How to treat head lice at home

The treatment of head lice involves removing the lice from the head because once extracted they die very quickly, usually within 24 hours. The main treatment options are chemical, herbal and manual, but if none of these are ideal you may need to use a combination of all three.

CHEMICAL TREATMENTS

Most shampoos and lotions found in chemists and supermarkets are actually chemical based treatments, unless otherwise stated. While this method may sound heavy duty and scary NSW Health Department authorities say they’re okay – as long as you don’t use them more than once a week and don’t use them on kids under two.

HERBAL TREATMENTS

These usually contain ingredients such as tea tree and lavender oil, and many parents claim success with them. Just be aware that tea tree oil can cause skin reactions in some people. It’s important to note that these lice are tricky little pests and no treatment kills all of the eggs so any chemical or herbal method must involve two applications around seven days apart. The first treatment kills all living lice and the second round is to kill the lice that have hatched after the first treatment.

CONDITIONER AND COMBING TECHNIQUES

Using the conditioner and head lice comb method every second day until there have been no live lice found for ten days. We know – the fun just never stops, does it?

Testing resistance

Insecticide resistance is common in head lice treatment so it is important to test if lice are dead. If the treatment is successful hatched lice will be lifeless within 20 minutes and you should treat again in seven days using the same product.

However, if the lice are not dead that indicates the lice are resistant to the products active compound and it will be ineffective treating this outbreak.

Treat the hair again as soon as possible using a product that contains a different active compound.

These 'super nits' are resistant to regular over-the-counter treatments.

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Head lice myths

“Head lice only like dirty hair”

They couldn’t care less whether hair is clean or dirty – it’s blood they’re after.

“I have to burn the house down to get rid of lice”

Just concentrate on the head – there is no need to clean the house or the classroom as head lice do not live on furniture, hats, bedding, carpet or anywhere else in the environment. It is only recommended that pillowcases may require washing in hot water (at least 60ºC) or a hot tumble dry.

“Anyone I have ever met now needs a lice treatment”

There is no need to treat the whole family – unless they also have head lice.

“My child will now have to be home schooled”

There is no need to miss the rest of the school term due to lice. Most Australian school departments allow children to return to school the day after a treatment has begun.

“Once I have treated my child they will never get lice again”

Check your child’s head regularly with comb and conditioner. There is no research to prove that chemical or herbal therapies can prevent head lice.

The post How to treat the new breed of ‘super’ head lice appeared first on Now To Love.

The best gifts for a mum-to-be this Christmas

Wed, 20 Nov 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Looking for a thoughtful, practical pressie for an expecting mama?

Whether you have a baby shower to attend or you just want to choose something special for that mum-to-be in your life this Christmas, here’s the best – and most useful – presents around.

Maternity clothing

Dressing an ever-expanding bump is fun until you run out of clothing options that fit. Stocking a new wardrobe is expensive and time consuming so a maternity wear item that doubles as a nursing piece will be warmly received.

A cami that’s ideal for wearing with a bump and then with a bub.

The innovative Lily Terry-Lined Nursing Compression Cami from Mama Muse, features a fully supportive inner shelf bra, seamless terry fleece which absorbs moisture and conceals minor leakages, and stretch-mesh lining throughout the bodice offers light to medium compression to smooth the silhouette.

A wardrobe staple for a new mum? The trusty gown.

A luxe robe

A gorgeous gown is one item that will be on high-rotation for a new mum. Mamas will pop it in on at the hospital and will quickly get used to wearing it round-the-clock as they feed bub.

This Best & Less Satin Short Kimono is lightweight, the floral print is stunning and it’s only $20.

A nursing sports bra is a genius idea.

Active wear

There are so many benefits to maintaining an exercise regime during pregnancy. Building up core strength gets your body ready for the exertions of childbirth, and improving suppleness helps alleviate the accompanying discomfort of backache, joint strain and pelvic loosening.

While there are so many reasons to move, sometimes the only thing we lack, besides motivation, is the right active wear.

Cadenshae’s Breastfeeding Bra provides the ultimate comfort to breastfeed with confidence, anywhere, anytime.

A handy wallet that’s so convenient for change times when you’re out.

Something to make life easier

A product that saves time and makes life simpler for new mums? Bring it on!

The Bambino Mio grab & go change wallet is ideal for quick nappy changing on-the-go. Keep your change-time essentials at your fingertips with this wallet that unfolds to an extra-wide and cushioned changing pad. The top central zipped pocket for easy access to baby wipes and other change-time essentials too. Brilliant!

The frills help catch the spills. A bib designed to make mealtimes less messy.

When it’s time to introduce solids, mums will dream of a bib that catches spills and crumbs and makes clean-up easier. Introducing the Snuggle Bib from Snuggle Hunny Kids. These bibs are waterproof, so are simple to wipe down.

Gah. This is so cute… and so tiny.

A onesie for bub

Believe us when we say, a baby can never have too many all-in-ones! Best & Less have an adorable range, from $4.

The post The best gifts for a mum-to-be this Christmas appeared first on Now To Love.

Swaddle or sleeping bag for baby?

Tue, 19 Nov 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Swaddling (also referred to as wrapping) or using a safe sleep bag is a useful method to help babies settle and sleep on their back.

According to Ann de Belin, a Clinical Nurse Consultant (Perinatal & Infant Mental Health), infants are used to a restricted environment within the uterus and it is thought that wrapping can help to recreate this space.

“It can promote a state of calm and may assist to ease the infant to sleep. It may also reduce the incidence of awakenings,” explains Ann.

“Wrapping can assist the infant to remain on their back while sleeping which is the safest and recommended position for infants to sleep.”

Ann advises the following when swaddling your baby:

• Infants under 2-3months may have their arms included in the wrap to reduce the impact of the startle reflex

• After 3 months you may choose to wrap with the infant’s arms free. The infant is able to find their hands to suck for self-soothing and comfort

• Wrap securely allowing room for the infant to move its legs and chest

• Ensure that the infant is positioned on their back with their feet touching the bottom of the cot

• Sleep infant with face uncovered, not overdressed under the wrap. Only use a lightweight wrap.

• As soon as the infant shows first signs of rolling, wrapping to sleep should be ceased. This could occur as early as 4months of age.

Wrapping your baby may help your little one to sleep.

(Johnson’s Baby)

Whether you choose to swaddle or use a sleeping bag, it’s important to follow safe sleeping guidelines.

How to swaddle

1 Lay the wrap out flat. Place your baby on top of the wrap, with her shoulders level with the top of the material. Put your baby’s left arm down at her side, and her right arm away from her side.

2 Now bring the side of the cloth over your baby’s left arm and body. Rolling her over slightly, tuck the cloth smoothly under the right side of her body. Then put her right arm by her side.

3 Bring the other side of the cloth over your baby’s right arm and body. Rolling her over slightly, tuck the cloth comfortably and smoothly under the left side of her body.

4 Fold the bottom of the blanket over her legs to her chest, making sure she has room to move her legs and hips freely. Rolling her gently from side to side, tuck both sides of the blanket under her body.

There are two health concerns to be aware of when swaddling: overheating, and affecting the development of your baby’s hips by swaddling too tightly.

Click here for details on how you can receive 1 of 1000 Johnson’s Baby® CottonTouch gift packs.

All parents want their babies to sleep better and research shows swaddles or sleeping bags can help.

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Using a sleeping bag

According to Red Nose, a safe baby sleeping bag is constructed in such a way that the baby cannot slip inside the bag and become completely covered. The sleeping bag should be the correct size for the baby with a fitted neck, armholes (or sleeves) and no hood.

When using a sleeping bag, ensure that baby is dressed according to the room temperature. In cool climates, dress baby in layers of clothing within the sleeping bag.

If additional warmth is needed, use a single, lightweight blanket over the sleeping bag, ensuring baby’s feet are at the end of the mattress and the blanket can only reach as far as baby’s chest and is tucked in firmly so it cannot ride up and cover baby’s head during sleep.

The benefits of using a safe baby sleeping bag are:

• they reduce the risk of bed clothes covering baby’s face

• they delay baby rolling onto the tummy during sleep until baby’s past the age of peak risk of Sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy (SUDI)

• they promote back sleeping as the zipper opens to the front

• they will keep baby’s temperature at a more constant level while sleeping

When using a sleeping bag, ensure that baby is dressed according to the room temperature.

(The Gro Company)

Arms in or arms out?

Mothercraft nurse and routine expert, Jennifer Hamilton has the following advice for new mums on when to transition their bub’s arms out of a swaddle.

“In my experience, from birth to three or four months, babies settle and sleep better with their arms swaddled inside and across their chest. The reason for this is that often their newborn startle reflex can hinder their ability to sleep well so it’s best to control their arm movements and swaddle nice and snug.

When they start to get a little bigger, so from about three to four months, baby does not need to be swaddled as tightly and this is when they can begin to learn how to sleep well with their arms out.

At this stage I typically recommend products such as the Swaddle Grobag. This is a favourite of mine as it’s a great transitional wrap. It lets you swaddle your baby from birth and as they get bigger it provides room for their arms to move while still feeling the security from the swaddling.

This swaddle is also great because as soon as your baby starts to roll they can stay within the familiarity of their swaddle but are able to have their arms out for safety.

At this stage, your baby now has the developmental ability to learn to settle with arms out whether or not they are rolling.

The post Swaddle or sleeping bag for baby? appeared first on Now To Love.

Miracle premature baby Piper: One year on

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 22:00:00 +0000

WATCH: The beautiful video of miracle baby Piper when she was a premature newborn in the player above.

The facts about premature birth in Australia are sobering. At what should be the happiest moment of a parent’s life, over 48,000 newborn babies require the help of a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) or Special Care Nursery (SCN) every year. Of these babies, 27,000 are born prematurely and up to 1,000 lose their fight for life. And remember, that’s just in Australia.

I know this all too well. I am the mum of five children, four of whom were born prematurely. Two of whom tragically died.

The hand and footprints of my premature twin daughters who did not survive. (Image: Supplied)

The names of my daughters who did not make it were Eliza Florence and Lois Lily. It’s important for me that you know their names. I rarely get to say them out loud or write them down so to do so is a comfort.

The daughters that I share with my husband, Paul were twins; red-headed feisty girls who were born at 23 weeks and two days. They kicked just like regular babies when they were born, they cried lustily too. They held on to my little finger with their tiny hands as I cradled them. They lived for one hour and then gradually grew quieter before they died in our arms.

It will be 21 years in December and yet I can still hear those cries, still see Paul’s face as he held Lois and the enormity of what was happening sank in, and still feel the touch of ice on my lips as I kissed their foreheads goodbye as they lay snuggled up together in their snow-white coffin.

Eliza weighed 1.1kg when she was born; Lois was only 900g. Tiny but beautiful, they were perfect in every way. They were just born too soon.

In the intervening years, medical advances for premature babies have come on leaps and bounds. The fact that I am fortunate enough to now have three sons, the eldest two of whom were born prematurely and survived, is testament to that. But there is still a huge amount of work to be done.

There are thousands of families each year who experience the same shock and fear that we went through all those years ago, who know what it’s like to see your delicate baby, smaller than any you’ve ever seen before, looking like a fledgling bird wired up to monitors and machines with cannulas in their fragile arms.

WATCH: The world’s most premature baby

Story continues below…

What a difference a few short months can make!

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Who understand what it is to give birth and be almost too afraid to love for fear of the pain that will ensue when your darling baby does not make it and you have to say goodbye forever. Who spend long hours keeping watch by the incubator which holds your heart, the only sound the beeping of the monitor reassuring you that your baby is still alive, not daring to hope, not allowing yourself to dream that one day your precious love will be able to come home.

That’s why World Prematurity Day on Saturday, 17 November is so important. It’s a day to remember the premature babies who did not make it and to celebrate the ones who did.

The latter includes the likes of my boys, Joss, 19, and Louis, 17. They may have had a rough start to life but here they are as young men, 6ft 4in tall, healthy, bright and happy. Joss is at uni and Louis has just gone into Year 12 of high school. They are two of the good news stories. Just like premmie baby, Piper Gaskell.

Miracles do happen. My premature eldest boys, Louis, 17, (left) and Joss, 19, (right) with their brother Barney, 12, (middle) who went full-term. (Image: Supplied)

Piper was born four months prematurely weighing only just over 653g. To see pictures of her as a newborn is shocking.

Born at just 24 weeks, Piper spent her first few months in hospital. (Image: Scott McNaughton)

Wired up to countless monitors and with an NG (naso-gastric) tube up her nose, Piper’s early days were spent in NICU. (Image: Scott McNaughton)

Teeny tiny toes on newborn Piper cradled in mum, Hayley’s hand. (Image: Scott McNaughton)

But what’s equally shocking but in an oh-so good way are these pictures of Piper, a year on.

Just look at her now!

Piper looks nothing like the tiny newborn who spent over 140 days in hospital fighting to survive. (Image: Belle Chapman)

“Piper is doing awesome, better than I expected. I thought that this year we would be in and out of hospital, but Piper is a little trooper and is determined to let nothing get in her way,” says her mum, Hayley Buhagiar, 29, from Moe, Victoria.

Miracle baby Piper Gaskell with her mum, Hayley Buhagiar. (Image: Belle Chapman)

Indeed, a year since those difficult six months spent in NICU, and thanks to the support of the Miracle Babies Foundation, little Piper can be seen smiling, clapping, trying to walk, talking, and cheekily giving her mum head shakes when she gets into trouble.

Which is just the way we like it!

Cheeky chops! It’s hard to believe looking at Piper now that the brave bub weighed just over 653g at birth. (Image: Belle Chapman)

Joss, Louis and Piper are the premature babies who made it but for the sake of the thousand Australian premmies who sadly do not survive each year, we need to act.

“It’s such an uncontrolled and difficult experience having a premmie, but the help of family, friends and an incredible support base of nurses and professions that helps give with the peace of mind that help is never far away,” says Hayley.

So what can you do?

It’s simple. From now until 17 November, you can join Tommee Tippee and the Miracle Babies Foundation in encouraging everyone you know to help save a little miracle by ‘tipping in’ in an effort to raise $20,000 and match Tommee Tippee’s annual donation. Click the link here to make a donation.

The money raised means the Miracle Babies Foundation can offer 300 families access to their NurtureProgram, which includes: a 24-hour helpline, support sessions with qualified volunteers, out of hospital play and support groups, access to health professionals such as speech pathologists, physiotherapists, family support nurses, social workers and occupational therapists, and emergency care packs and NICU Survival Packs as a helpful tool for parents. Believe me, support like this is invaluable.

“For families challenged with a premature or sick baby, the experience can be life changing,” says Kylie Pussell, CEO and Co-Founder of The Miracle Babies Foundation.

“We are grateful for the amazing support of Tommee Tippee. The partnership will certainly go a long way in helping us touch the lives of more families in Australia in need of our support.”

The fundraising efforts will run from 17 October until the 17 November, and anyone people can lend their support and make a donation any time via the Tommee Tippee Raisley website.

The post Miracle premature baby Piper: One year on appeared first on Now To Love.

The beautiful initiative helping NICU babies and their families

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 03:00:00 +0000

Preparing for the arrival of your new baby and imagining the day that you get to bring them home from hospital is a pastel-filled dream for any parent-to-be. As we pack our hospital bags with their very first outfits we often have a very definite idea of what the whole experience will look like.

But for those parents whose babies decided to make an early entrance, the reality looks vastly different from those dreams.

For these preemie babies, the carefully chosen outfits go unworn as they battle it out in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

Rather than sweet little onesies, their first fashion is the complex tangle of tubes and wires that help to keep them alive until they are as robust as they would have been had they been born closer to their due date.

For their parents, the celebration of birth is often overshadowed by the sterile and often underfunded environment they now find themselves in.

NICU departments get little to no money to fund their units with comfortable and beautiful bedding for these tiny newborns. Traditionally they use wraps or sheets that are several years old. Babies are placed in a “baby nest” made from a simple white blanket to keep them warm.

Determined to make the experience as close to what it would have been had their baby made it to full term, new mum, Belinda Fitzpatrick discovered that the Snuggle Hunny Kids blanket she had purchased for her son, Callan was the perfect fit for the incubator bed, and got in touch with the company to thank them for helping her get through the journey in a more positive way.

And from that simple message, a beautiful initiative was born to bring some colour to Australia’s NICU departments and to help new parents celebrate the life of their tiny new additions.

When new mum, Belinda Fitzpatrick shared the story of how Snuggle Hunny Kids changed her whole NICU experience with son Callan, a beautiful idea was born.

(Image: Supplied)

Touched by the message, Snuggle Hunny Kids founder, Monique Hession began chatting with Belinda who told her how special it made her family feel to be able to use the wraps they had been looking forward to using, and how much more “normal” it made the experience feel.

“I put it up on my social media and immediately heaps of nurses got in touch with us about how they would love to receive wraps for their babies too, as the units were underfunded and only ever had tough old swaddles and bedding to use in their cupboards,” Monique tells Bounty.

“We had parents telling us how incredible the nurses and units were, and how sad they were that they couldn’t spoil the babies in their care because there was nothing to spoil them with.”

Monique thought about how she could help.

“We put a call out asking who would like some Snuggle Hunny goodies for their neonatal units and we got inundated!”

Rachael Longman’s son Finley was also blessed to have Snuggle Hunny Kids goods in the NICU.

(Image: Supplied)

“We knew then that we could bring a more joyful experience to these parents on this beginning of their parenting journey,” says Monique.

“Particularly because it’s already such a worrying time for these parents who were not able to bring their babies home.”

Monique and Snuggle Hunny Kids began sending out packages of 20 or so wraps to the NICUs who had reached out.

“It was so nice to give back and spoil these mums in ways they didn’t even know they needed. And it’s been really special to give back to the nurses who were so happy to have beautiful swaddles in their units to spoil their babies.”

Beautiful heart, Monique Hession donates swaddles to NICUs across Australia to brighten up the days of preemie babies and those who care for them.

(Image: Supplied)

Snuggle Hunny Kids have received thousands of thank you notes about how their swaddles and sheets have helped to brighten up days spent in the NICU.

“They make parents feel more normal about their journey with their sick or preemie child, and it brings them colour in a hospital ward that is generally sterile and white,” says Monique.

WATCH: Meet preemie baby Piper. Continues after video …

A little colour goes a long way.

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“We simply didn’t realise how much this would mean to mums who were concerned and emotionally stressed in NICU and how underfunded these hard working units are.”

Today Snuggle Hunny Kids is committed to sending out a generous donation full of colour and love once every month to a new NICU unit.

And that, ladies and gentlemen, is a beautiful thing.

The post The beautiful initiative helping NICU babies and their families appeared first on Now To Love.

Midwives are loving this octopus toy designed to mimic a mother’s umbilical cord

Wed, 13 Nov 2019 23:00:00 +0000

Families of preemie babies who have been through the hospital system might be familiar with the concept of ‘Octopus for Preemies’, where volunteers would crochet teeny tiny octopus toys, whose tentacles would meet the natural grasp reflex of a preemie baby, helping to soothe them.

Renowned infant toy manufacturer, Nattou has now taken that concept and made it readily available for all parents, not just preemie parents whose babies are now benefiting from the comfort of an octopus style comforter.

Cat Law, known as ‘Your Pocket Midwife’ on Instagram and who currently works in Special Care Nursery spoke with Now To Love and describes exactly how well these toys work.

“I’ve worked with babies who have received the handmade crocheted octopus by a volunteer group called Octopus for Premmies. Watching them have something to grab onto instead of pulling at wires and tubes is beneficial to both the babies and the nursing staff. The fact that all parents can now access this kind of comforter thanks to Nattou is incredible.”

Midwife Cat Law has seen the benefits of octopus style comforters and knows they work.

Why an octopus?

Tentacles, designed to perfectly meet the natural grasp reflex of a baby serve to soothe and relax a newborn. Reminded of the calmness of being in their mum’s belly with an umbilical cord to hold onto, babies are also deterred from attempting to pull out their monitors and tubes.

The unique idea for a octopus-style comforter originated in Denmark, and was known as The Octo Project. Volunteer crocheters donated “Octos” to families with premmies in 16 of the neonatal departments in Denmark with great success.

The concept went global, as the benefits began to show. Benefits like improved breathing, increased regular heartbeats and higher levels of oxygen in the blood.

The tentacles play to a baby’s natural grasp reflex.

“Babies will develop that grasp reflex in the womb from about 11 weeks,” says Cat. “That reflex continues until about six months of age.

“Mothers can also place the crocheted critter down her top for several hours to cover it with her scent, which adds an additional calming element for babies.”

Because previously the octopus toys were provided to hospitals by volunteers, that special kind of comfort was not available to babies who had not been through the system. This new toy means that parents can now find the comforters that midwives love for their children at home.

The Nattou Octopus is available online or in store at Baby Bunting and all other leading baby products stores nationally for only $19.95.

Always remember to observe SIDS safe sleeping guides with the use of this toy.

The post Midwives are loving this octopus toy designed to mimic a mother’s umbilical cord appeared first on Now To Love.

The home safety devices that could save your family

Wed, 13 Nov 2019 03:10:00 +0000

Home is where the heart is, and when that heart is your family, you’ll do anything to keep them safe.

Nobody wants to live in Fort Knox, of course, but there are plenty of discreet and effective devices that allow you to enjoy your home with the peace of mind that your family is safe and sound.

From safety switches, circuit breakers, pool alarms, home security, smoke alarms and more, there are loads of devices out there that can protect your loved ones.

We share the home safety devices that could save your family in the gallery below.

Home safety devices that could save your family

Family First

Smoke detectors

Smoke detectors: Being caught in a house fire is one of the most frightening scenarios a family can imagine, but sadly it’s a reality that is all too common. To escape a house fire, early warning is vital, which is why every home in Australia needs a smoke alarm. The Family First Photoelectric Smoke Alarm is suitable for most areas of the house including bedrooms, living rooms and the garage.

Pool alarms

Pool alarm: There’s no denying that a pool is a great asset in the Australian heat, but having a huge source of water in your backyard can come with certain dangers, particularly if there are children around. Pool alarms, like the The Water Patrol Pool Alarm, help alleviate some of the anxiety by alerting you about any accidental fall-ins. Electronic sensors detect any entry into the pool by children or pets, activating an alarm that sounds both on the unit itself, and also on a wireless remote receiver kept inside the home so any necessary rescues can be swift.

Arlo

Security cameras

Security cameras: Security cameras are not just there to detect intruders. They’re also perfect for keeping your kids safely in sight whilst by the pool, coming home from school or when you’re not at home. Products like the The Arlo Ultra can offer that kind of protection with an easy wireless setup while offering crystal clear 4K, HDR video recording that you can keep track of via the Arlo App, which allows you to set-up specific areas for your cameras to monitor or ignore, so you only receive the notifications you need.

dFENCE

Emergency kits

Emergency kits: Having everything you need in an emergency close at hand can make all the difference to the safety of your family. Melbourne-based company dFENCE has developed a home emergency kit with the aim of saving lives should the worst happen. Housed in a compact unit, the dFENCE ePOD contains an Australian made fire extinguisher, fire blanket, torch, first aid kit and a mesh bag for EpiPens, and other personal emergency equipment, so that key response items are on hand when time is critical.

It's better to be safe, than sorry!

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Pool fence safety checklist with Sam Riley

Family first

Gas detection

Gas detection: Gas detection devices such as carbon monoxide detectors test your home’s air quality constantly to ensure there are no dangerous chemicals in the air that can cause serious injury and death. The Family First Carbon Monoxide Alarm with test and hush button protects against carbon monoxide, the silent killer.

It's better to be safe, than sorry!

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Power board fires

Clipsal

Safety switches and surge breakers

Safety switches and surge breakers: Every home has a meter box, which is basically a control centre for all of the electricity that surges through your home. And it’s super easy to keep your loved ones well out of the harm’s way that an electrical fault can bring. Clipsal Safety Switches have Circuit Breakers that protect the home and Surge Protection Devices that protect all the valuable devices within the home.

It's better to be safe, than sorry!

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How to escape a house fire

The post The home safety devices that could save your family appeared first on Now To Love.

Meet ‘fun mum’ Tammy Hembrow’s kids, Wolf and Saskia

Tue, 12 Nov 2019 21:00:00 +0000

She and her sisters have been called the Australian Kardashians, but did you know Gold Coast babe Tammy Hembrow is actually a mum too?

The Instagram influencer, who has amassed a staggering 10.1 million followers shares a son, three-year-old Wolf and daughter, 2-year-old Saskia with ex-fiancé, Reece Hawkins.

Hembrow’s social media feed is flooded with pictures of the adoring mother and her gorgeous mini-mes. Image: Instagram/TammyHembrow

(Image: Instagram/Tammy Hembrow)

Hembrow, 25, and Hawkins, 24, first became parents when Hembrow was 20, and Hawkins just 19. The couple split early in 2018, but still work hard to co-parent their children together.

In a 2016 video shared to her YouTube channel, Hembrow revealed that her first born, Wolf’s pregnancy might not have been so planned.

“Wolf was not planned, he was definitely a little surprise.

“When we found out we were both in shock, I don’t think I could even speak and Reece looked like he was going to pass out. After we processed the initial shock we were both really excited,” she said.

“Saskia was planned, we were like well, let’s just get another one out of the way so then Wolf has a little friend to play with. I didn’t realise how hard it would actually be but it’s so worth it, I’m glad we have both of them. They’re the most beautiful, amazing thing that’s ever happened to us.”

After months of speculation at the time, the fitness model took to her YouTube channel again in June 2016 to announce that she and Hawkins had indeed split.

In the video, titled ‘life update: we broke up’ she made the sad announcement.

“One or two months ago, I decided to end things with Reece. He didn’t cheat on me, I didn’t cheat on him. It wasn’t like that at all,” she said.

“Obviously, we’re human and we’re not perfect, we have ups and downs like everybody.

“I don’t want people to think we just gave up. Most people know relationships are very complex,” Hembrow shared.

“We love each other very much and we’re always gonna be family, no matter what,” she said. “Our kids come first. Their health and their happiness are always gonna be my number one priority.”

Hembrow and ex-fiance Reece Hawkins in happier times. Image: Instagram/TammyHembrow

(Image: Instagram/Tammy Hembrow)

Most recently linked romantically to Kylie Jenner’s rapper ex, Tyga, Hembrow looks to be Australia’s answer to the Kardashians more and more each day.

The heavily tattooed love interest is just one of the links between her and the famously curvy clan.

In August 2018, while the children remained in Australia with Hawkins, Hembrow famously hit the headlines for partying a little too hard with the real-life Kardashians in LA in a total ‘mum’s gone wild’ moment.

Snapped facedown on a stretcher being wheeled into the back of an ambulance after celebrating with the Kardashians at Kylie Jenner’s 21st birthday party in West Hollywood.

Following the event, the social media celebrity reassured fans she was OK and gave a teary explanation for the shock turn of events.

“I probably, definitely shouldn’t have been drinking because of how jet-lagged and exhausted I was,” she said. “I already wasn’t feeling well.”

WATCH: Tammy Hembrow and kids celebrate reaching nine million followers. Contines after video …

Model mini-mes!

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It was Hembrow’s fitness modeling which first connected her with the Kardashian crew, scoring her an invite to the party.

Khloe had been a fan of Tammy’s for “a while” and acknowledged her as an inspiration on Instagram, sharing, “She has motivated me on my fitness journey for longer than she is probably aware of.”

Khloe’s agents reached out to the Aussie influencer about a business deal and from there a firm friendship was forged.

“I met Kim, Kourtney, Khloe, Kylie and Kendall. They’re all super down-to-earth, like, nice girls,” says Tammy.

Like Khloe, Hembrow documented her pregnancies and subsequent return to fitness with her fans on social media.

Hembrow famously documented her pregnancies to her huge social media following. Image: Instagram/TammyHembrow

(Image: Instagram/Tammy Hembrow)

Khloe Kardashian rates Hembrow as one of her major fitness inspirations. Image: Instagram/TammyHembrow

(Image: Instagram/Tammy Hembrow)

Also like Khloe, Hembrow is surrounded by sisters, and with those come some cute little cousins for Wolf and Saskia.

Tammy, with her curvy fit physique is used to constant comparisons to Kim Kardashian. And like Kim, Hembrow is also a entrepreneur with her own fitness clothing line, Saski. But if she’s Kim, there’s a Khloe, Kourtney, Kylie and Kendall too …

Hembrow’s older sister Emilee is building up a fan base by sharing snapshots throughout her pregnancies, too, and has over 1.1 million followers. The 26-year-old had daughter Aaliyah in 2016 and welcomed a son, Gabriel in December 2018.

Hembrow is clearly a hands-on mum. Image: Instagram/TammyHembrow

(Image: Instagram/Tammy Hembrow)

And face-on mum too! Image: Instagram/TammyHembrow

(Image: Instagram/Tammy Hembrow)

Another sister Amy, 29, has just 184,000 followers, she’s working with Tammy as the general manager of her activewear line and account manager of her app. While Starlette, 19, is building up her social media fame, and youngest sister Ava is just 14, so has it all to look forward to.

(From left to right) Amy Hembrow, Tammy Hembrow, Starlette Hembrow and Emilee Hembrow. Image: Instagram

(Image: Instagram/Tammy Hembrow)

The post Meet ‘fun mum’ Tammy Hembrow’s kids, Wolf and Saskia appeared first on Now To Love.

Hold onto your JoJo Bows, JoJo Siwa is bringing her D.R.E.A.M. tour to Australia in 2020!

Thu, 07 Nov 2019 06:00:00 +0000

She may only be 16, but JoJo Siwa already has an impressive resume.

The Nickelodeon superstar is a YouTube sensation, pop star, dancer, entrepreneur, social media influencer, New York Times bestselling author and star on Nickelodeon’s Lip Sync Battle Shorties. And chances are, your kids are HUGE fans.

So get ready to get hounded, parents because JoJo fans are about to get a chance to see this human/unicorn in real life when she brings her sell-out D.R.E.A.M. tour to Australia in early 2020.

JoJo Siwa was a huge hit when she attended the 2018 TV WEEK Logie Awards last year.

(Image: TV Week)

If you’re thinking of nabbing tickets, you might want to move fast. There’s likely to be a few in the queue.

The rainbow coloured, teen superstar, who first hit TV screens as part of Abby Lee Miller’s Dance Moms series has amassed quite a following.

JoJo currently has over 8.6 million followers on Instagram, over 17.3 million followers on TikTok (formerly Musical.ly), over 437,000 Twitter followers, 581,000 likes on Facebook, and on YouTube, over 10.2 million subscribers with over 2.5 billion views. She was also recently listed as one of the top 25 most influential people on the internet by TIME Magazine. We mentioned she was 16, right?

She’s also the face behind her own line of products including her signature bows, accessories, apparel, arts and crafts, cosmetics, home goods and party supplies.

Oh, and she’s a pop star too.

Her hugely popular singles, Boomerang, which has been viewed almost 709 million times and is RIAA certified platinum, Kid in a Candy Store which is RIAA certified gold, Hold The Drama, and D.R.E.A.M. have firmly placed JoJo as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.

And now she’s bringing her D.R.E.A.M. The Tour show to Australia next January where she will play shows in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney.

Kids eagerly awaiting the arrival of JoJo Siwa can experience an exclusive peak behind the curtain of her in demand concert this November with the premiere of JoJo Siwa Follow Your D.R.E.A.M. TV special, airing Friday, November 22 at 8.15pm (AEST)on Nikolodeon.

The tween star has also released a dance along mobile game – JoJo Siwa – Live to Dance and a new Singing JoJo Siwa D.R.E.A.M. Doll exclusive to Big W!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by TV Week Magazine (@tvweekmag)

With a message of pure positivity, it’s no wonder JoJo is beloved by kids and parents alike.

Speaking with TV WEEK in 2018, JoJo shared the one important message she wants her fans to takeaway.

“You know, I would like to tell them to be themselves and to never be afraid to show who they are. You’ve got to be yourself… because that’s who you are. It just makes sense! Be yourself, be happy, be confident, be strong and just have fun.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/B1ZbK4unCf5/

If you’re after tickets to the tour, you’ll need to move fast.

The Nickelodeon Pre-sale runs for 48 hours from Friday 13 September (11am AEST) or until pre-sale allocation exhausted.

The Frontier Pre-sale will run for 24 hours from Wednesday 18 September (11am AEST) or ends earlier if pre-sale allocation exhausted.

And the General Public tickets will be available from ticket providers on Friday 20 September (12 noon local time).

The post Hold onto your JoJo Bows, JoJo Siwa is bringing her D.R.E.A.M. tour to Australia in 2020! appeared first on Now To Love.

What are the best age appropriate chores for children?

Thu, 07 Nov 2019 05:01:00 +0000

Kids are messy and with mess comes house work. From vacuuming crumbs off the floor to dealing with a never-ending pile of laundry, there are always jobs to be done.

Assigning kids regular chores not only helps you out but it also benefits your child developmentally by learning new skills and the importance of contributing to family life.

Here’s how to choose the right job for the right age.

12-month-olds: Great imitators

DEVELOPMENT MILESTONE: Newfound mobility

SKILL: Grasp and release

IDEAL CHORES: Picking up toys to drop in a bin; smoothing bed covers, sweeping – by imitating

18-month-olds: Can’t do everything they think they can

DEVELOPMENT MILESTONE: Problem solving; new attention span

SKILL: Strength and coordination

IDEAL CHORES: Serving from a tray; watering a garden, washing produce; helping to feed or groom a pet; using a mechanical carpet sweeper

2-year-olds: Routine and ritual are very important

DEVELOPMENT MILESTONE: Increased hand-eye coordination and concentration

SKILL: Following directions, sorting

IDEAL CHORES: Spreading butter or cheese; dusting, sweeping, wiping a counter, washing windows; sorting laundry, silverware, toys; washing, stirring, mashing food

Sweeping encourages hand-eye coordination and concentration.

(Image: Getty Images)

3-year-olds: Work is still play

DEVELOPMENT MILESTONE: More awareness of significance of help

SKILL: Sorting and arranging

IDEAL CHORES: Setting the table; using kitchen gadgets, with supervision: sifter, rolling pin, cheese grater, mortar and pestle; planting, weeding, raking, digging, arranging garden flowers; pouring tasks

4-year-olds: Love anything new and relish their independence

DEVELOPMENT MILESTONE: Increased precision; increased sense of responsibility

SKILL: Making things; taking things apart and putting them back together

IDEAL CHORES: Using still more gadgets: peeler, pitter, slicer, food mill, juicer, whisk, even – with close supervision – a true paring knife; hanging washing on a line, neatly folding dry clothes; simple, supervised woodworking

5-year-olds: Like to please

DEVELOPMENT MILESTONE: Sense of confidence; expanded curiosity about how things in the house work

SKILL: Understanding what a job is; tackling even uninteresting jobs

IDEAL CHORES: Big supervised jobs, such as vacuuming or taking out the garbage; behind-the-scenes jobs, such as removing the vacuum bag or coming along to the dump.

6-year-olds: Full of energy and enthusiasm

DEVELOPMENT MILESTONE: Independence

SKILL: Beginning reading and maths

IDEAL CHORES: Measuring – for recipes, pet food, laundry soap; reading to a younger sibling; noticing what needs to be done, and helping out

The post What are the best age appropriate chores for children? appeared first on Now To Love.

The simple trick to work out how tall your kids will be

Wed, 06 Nov 2019 03:25:00 +0000

Curious about how tall your kids are going to be? Well apparently there is a mathematical trick to figuring it out.

According to Professor David Ravine, the Head of Medical Genetics at the Western Australian Institute for Medical Research (WAIMR) there is an easy mathematical equation that can forecast the future height of your child with reasonable accuracy.

For boys, the formula is = combine the height of both parents, add 13 centimeters (5 inches) and divide by two.

For girls, the formula is = combines the height of the parents, subtracts 13 centimeters (five inches) and divide by two.

Note that there is a more complex formula accounts for extremes in parental height.

WATCH: Tips for a healthy pregnancy by Bounty. Continues after video …

In a post for baby brand Huggies Prof. Ravine said that genes had a 70 percent influence on your children’s likely adult height.

“There’s a long list of genes which have an influence on our height. Typically a person’s height reflects the heights of their parents,” said Prof. Ravine.

Ravine also said environment plays a significant role as well – roughly 30 per cent of the reason people end up being the height they finally are is due to nutrition, particularly in early childhood.

Ravine said: “Nutrition has an effect on how our body forms and grows, so at crucial growing phases in the early years our bodies need the right nutrients to fulfill long-term growth potential.”

Let us know if you try it and how it goes.

The post The simple trick to work out how tall your kids will be appeared first on Now To Love.

Baby-making sex: What’s the best position for getting pregnant?

Tue, 05 Nov 2019 21:57:00 +0000

You have the timing right, you’re in the mood and you finally get around to doing the business.

But what’s the best way to make love to get pregnant – up against a wall, or in the missionary position?

Follow our light-hearted guide to baby-making sex below.

Let gravity do the work

Making sure your partner’s sperm is as close to your cervix (neck of your uterus/womb) as possible is vital for fertilisation. Getting sperm to swim up your Fallopian tubes is the key, so help them by letting gravity do some of the work; either by lifting your legs up in the air, or leaning them against the wall. You could also try lying on your back in the missionary position with a pillow underneath your hips to give you an extra lift.

Be a missionary

It might seem like the boring way to get intimate, but the missionary position, with all that deep penetration close to your cervix, is going to give your partner’s sperm a little extra help in their swim for the egg!

Stay in bed

Don’t leap out of bed and go straight to an aerobics class after sex. If you want to get pregnant, lie on your side and draw your knees into your stomach. Get your partner to bring you some croissants and coffee in bed, and don’t forget to take a pre-pregnancy folic acid tablet with some orange juice. Stick a pillow under your hips, put your feet against the headboard, and relax for a while. Try to visualise your body making miracles.

The missionary position is great for baby-making!

(Image: Getty)

Have an orgasm

As well as bringing a smile to your face, good sex makes babies! It’s official: a post-coital study of women found that those who had orgasms and enjoyed their sex retained more sperm than those didn’t. It’s all to do with the muscular contractions you experience during an orgasm, which sucks up more sperm.

Do your pelvic floor exercises

Strong pelvic floor muscles. They’re good for you, they’re good for him, and they’re good for making babies! We don’t know for sure, but a few pulls in and up after sex can’t do any harm, can it?

WATCH: Around the House Sex Positions Attempted by Real People. Continues after video …

Lights! Timing! Action!

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Staying behind

Doing it doggy-style is guaranteed to get your partner’s sperm close to that all-important baby-making organ – the cervix.

You don’t want to do it like that!

Get off him! You don’t want to be on top when he lets loose, as all his sperm will come rushing back down again. By all means, do it this way before he comes, but when you know it’s getting serious roll over!

The post Baby-making sex: What’s the best position for getting pregnant? appeared first on Now To Love.

Starting School: How do you know if your child is ready to start primary school

Tue, 05 Nov 2019 01:00:00 +0000

If your child was born around the end of the year, give yourself a big pat on the back. You’re one of the lucky parents. You’ll simply wait until their ﬁfth birthday and send them to school in the new year.

But for many parents who have kids born on the age cusp it is a tricky decision to know if their child is ready to head off to school.

THE LEGAL AGE

Globally, school age varies quite considerably. While kids can start school as young as four in Britain, the age is six in Germany and seven in Sweden, Norway and Finland. In Australia, all children are deemed ‘ready to learn’ at the age of ﬁve years and, by law must be in school by age six.

But starting ages do vary in some states. In New South Wales, for example, kids can start kindergarten at the beginning of the school year if they turn five on or before 31st July in that year.

However, with the increasing pressure of women returning to work and the ‘race to literacy’ (wanting your child to excel), many parents are sending their kids as early as possible. But is this the best thing for your child? A growing number of experts seem to think not.

“The later the better,” says NSW-based child psychologist Vera Auerbach. “All the research from Europe, especially Germany and Scandinavian countries, shows better results with starting kids later.”

Author of Help Your Child Succeed at School and clinical psychologist/family therapist Andrew Fuller agrees. “The research is very clear,” he says. “Children who start school at a later age do better academically, and that persists right through to year 12.”

And while you might think that sending your kids earlier gives them the educational advantage, Andrew begs to differ. “There is no research that children who develop earlier do better in the longer term. People learn at different stages and in different ways.”

The most important thing is maturation. “If you are in the older end of your age group, then you are basically more together maturationally, and that advantage just accumulates as you go through the years.”

To send or not to send? How to know when it’s time to start your child at ‘big school’.

(Credit: Getty Images)

GETTING IT RIGHT

Everyone is different and it’s vital you give the issue considerable thought for the sake of your child, says Andrew.

“If they go to school at a stage when they’re unhappy, stressed and feeling unable to cope with the separation, if they don’t have skills like sitting down and being quiet for reasonably long periods, then they might be labelled as having a behaviour problem. They’ll get negative feedback and see themselves as a failure,” he says. “But if they’re happy and ready to be there, then they’ll have success and that success builds upon itself.”

And while the general consensus is that girls tend to be ready earlier than boys, it’s not always the case.

“There are certainly some indications that girls who have, say, anger and emotional problems at early preschool age actually do worse long-term than boys. So they can be quite vulnerable,” says Andrew.

Instead, he believes all children can benefit from an extra year at home. “There’s a lot of emphasis on getting your kids to have the advantage but we’ve forgotten the great advantage that’s given to kids by just hanging out with their parents. Play is incredibly integrative for their understanding of the world,” he says.

“The research says you’d be far better off spending that year trying to help them engage in a whole series of social activities and imaginative play.”

And don’t worry if you do feel you’ve sent them too early, you can always pull them out and wait a year. “While the tough nuts would say, ‘Oh just hammer them through,’ I think that if your child is expressing distress over and over again, they’re not going to be gaining much out of school anyway,” says Andrew.

“I would wait a bit longer and go for a fresh start the following year.”

WATCH: Mum’s life organising app for back-to-school. Continues after video …

To send or not to send? How to know when it's time to start your child at 'big school'.

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HOW TO KNOW IF YOUR CHILD IS ‘SCHOOL READY’

SOCIAL COMPETENCE:

How does your child interact with others? Are they generally positive, assertive, able to cope with rebuffs and empathise with others? Can they approach others successfully, take turns, compromise and calm themselves down after an upset or tantrum? These are all skills they will require at school.

PHYSICAL HEALTH AND MOTOR COORDINATION:

Most teachers believe that “Probably one of the biggest predictors for successful integration into school is emotional,” agrees Andrew. “How well does your child tolerate separation from you? Kids can be clingy for all sorts of reasons but if you leave them with a friend and they get very upset, then it’s not going to be the time (for school).”

COGNITIVE SKILLS:

Is your child intellectually inquisitive? Are they keen to learn about life, the alphabet, numbers and so forth?

LANGUAGE:

Can your child speak clearly enough to be understood by others? Can they convey two or more ideas in one sentence? If they can communicate effectively with adults and peers they’ll cope better.

EMOTIONAL ADJUSTMENT:

Parents, on the other hand, cite ‘adjustment’ as a crucial criteria. They need to be able to settle, sit still, follow instructions, ask for help and focus calmly. They also need to be able to wave goodbye happily at the gate. The more enthusiasm they have for this the more school-ready they are.

DEVELOPMENT SKILLS:

Can your child hold a pencil or a piece of chalk? Can they use scissors correctly and bounce a ball? These are all small things that can indicate school readiness.

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:

Many teachers see skills such as toileting, tying shoelaces and managing their own lunch as more important than whether kids can write their name or count to 20. They should also understand the concept of time and be aware of the different body parts.

RULES:

Children need to be aware of rules and be able to follow them. They should know – or be able to learn – to sit up straight, wear a hat outdoors, put rubbish in the bin and so on.

NOTE:

Obviously, children with developmental delays or special needs such as autism may struggle in some of these areas, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t ready to start kindergarten if the right support systems are put into place at the school.

TO SEND OR NOT TO SEND

Still unsure? Here are some things you can do to help make the decision a little easier:

GET GOOD ADVICE:

Each child is different so don’t ask other parents. Instead, talk to their preschool teacher or childcare worker, or make an appointment with their future school for an assessment. You can also seek professional counselling through the Australian Psychological Society.

VISIT THE SCHOOL FIRST:

Many schools now run orientation programs before the school year and this will give you and your child some idea of what’s required and whether they’re up to it. You’ll see how lessons are conducted, where they’ll eat lunch, how the toilets are set up, how noisy it is and so on.

DO SOME REHEARSALS:

Drop your child off with friends and see how they go on their own. If they get upset when you leave and fail to calm down, or don’t interact successfully with the other children, you might want to delay school.

BOOK THEM INTO CHILD CARE A FEW DAYS A WEEK:

Studies show that kids are more socially competent with peers if they’ve been to daycare or preschool.

TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS:

No-one knows your child like you. “Parents receive advice from people with different vested interests,” says Andrew. “But the parent knows their child better than anybody else.”

The post Starting School: How do you know if your child is ready to start primary school appeared first on Now To Love.

I’m pregnant: Now what? A quick guide to all things pregnancy

Mon, 04 Nov 2019 22:30:00 +0000

Hooray! You’re expecting! Yes, you’re excited, but what happens next? Never fear – our nine-month to-do list will ease your anxieties and help you to enjoy this special time.

Pregnancy is a complete surprise for some, while for other women it’s an experience they’ve planned for years. Whichever camp you fall into, your head is likely to be swimming with all sorts of ideas and emotions now you’re finished with the baby-making part of the process.

After the initial excitement wears off, many women feel a mixture of anxiety and disbelief. For the most part, though, this will happen in the background of a busy life. Here’s a rundown of the various milestones and pregnancy appointments to check off during the next 40 weeks so you can give your baby the healthiest start in life.

As soon as you know…

The minute that blue line appears and the initial shock and celebration starts to wane, take steps to ensure the best outcome for you and bub.

Get your folate

Ideally you’ll already be taking a folic acid supplement, but if this pregnancy has caught you by surprise, start taking a 400 microgram supplement daily now. Research has shown that extra folic acid, also known as folate, in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy dramatically reduces your baby’s chances of neural tube defects including spina bifida, a condition where the spinal cord doesn’t develop properly.

Visit your GP

The sooner you make an appointment to see your doctor, the quicker you can make decisions about your pregnancy care, including which hospital to deliver in, whether you’d like to be a public patient, have shared care, see mainly midwives or a private obstetrician. Your GP will be able to offer advice on this and can refer you for the scans and tests for the early stages of your pregnancy care.

Book it in

Once you’ve decided how you’d like to have your baby, it’s a good idea to call your hospital or birth centre as soon as you can.

WATCH Dad films incredible moment his wife gives birth in a carpark. Article continues after video…

Our nine-month check-list will have you informed every step of the way so you can squash those anxieties and enjoy this special time.

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FIRST TRIMESTER: weeks 1-13

4 weeks: Wee on a stick

Home pregnancy testing kits work by measuring the level of human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG), a hormone detected in your urine that increases from the moment of conception. Levels of hCG usually spike within a week or so of your period being late, but follow the instructions on the testing kit for the best time to test for pregnancy.

6 weeks: Know your due date

Your due date is calculated from the first day of your last menstrual period – not the date of conception, which generally occurs two weeks later. Add seven days to the date of the first day of your last period, then add nine months (approximately 280 days). If your maths is rusty, there are plenty of online pregnancy calculators available. Try our online due date calculator and remember, your due date is only a guide – most women won’t have their baby on their due date.

8 weeks: Dating scan

Not all women will choose to have this early ultrasound, but if you’re really confused about your dates, your midwife or GP may refer you for an early ultrasound to measure and check your baby’s development. The results will give a better indication of how many weeks along you are.

READ NEXT: Pregnant with twins?

10 weeks: Vaccination

A flu shot is free for pregnant women, as health authorities believe it’s the best way to protect yourself and your unborn baby from what can be a serious illness during pregnancy. The flu shot is safe to have at any stage of pregnancy and is recommended, especially if you’re going to be pregnant through the winter influenza season.

11-13 weeks: Nuchal translucency testing

This ultrasound combines the results of a blood test, your age and the baby’s age to estimate the chances your baby will have a chromosomal condition, such as Downs syndrome. If your risk is rated as higher than one in 300 you may be offered another test called an amniocentesis or chorionic villi sampling (CVS). Both involve having a long needle inserted into your abdomen to extract cells that can be tested for chromosomal abnormalities. These tests give an accurate diagnosis rather than a risk ratio. CVS testing is done between 11 to 14 weeks and amniocentesis is done at 15 to 18 weeks.

12 weeks: Routine appointment

By this time, you’ve probably had your first antenatal appointment with your GP, midwife or obstetrician. This is the first of many urine samples, blood pressure checks and tummy feels. You’ll also be tested for your blood type, anaemia, rubella (German measles), hepatitis and syphilis. Your healthcare practitioner will discuss with you any problems and symptoms you may be experiencing, and options for birth – including where you want your baby to be born, if you haven’t yet decided.

SECOND TRIMESTER: weeks 14-26

15-18 weeks: Maternal serum testing

This blood test for mums-to-be indicates whether your baby has an increased chance of having a chromosomal abnormality or cystic fibrosis. It’s important to remember that the result of this test is just a risk ratio, and only one in 50 babies who show an increased risk actually end up with the condition.

16 weeks: Book into your hospital

Now’s the time to book. Most hospitals will arrange a tour of their birthing facilities, and provide you with information regarding arrival procedures. If you’re going through the public system you’ll be booking in with midwives; if you go private, you’ll be seen by your obstetrician.

18 weeks: Tell your boss

You need to let your employer know in writing 10 weeks before you intend to take maternity leave. In your letter, you will need to include the day you intend to stop work, the week your baby is due and what length of maternity leave you’d like to take. You may need a doctor’s certificate to confirm your pregnancy and due date.

20 weeks: Morphology scan

Between 18 and 20 weeks, a detailed ultrasound will check that your baby is growing at the right rate. It will also make sure bub’s heart, stomach, kidneys and bladder are working well. You can ask about the sex of your baby, but while this visual check is usually accurate, sometimes your Samantha can turn out be a Sam!

22 weeks: Choose a birth class

These groups can take place over a six-week period or you can do a weekend course, and are available privately or through the hospital you’re booked into. Although not compulsory, attending an antenatal class is useful as you’ll pick up plenty of information and advice, as well as meet other parents-to-be who are due around the same time as you. Look online for classes or ask at your hospital.

24 weeks: Go shopping

It’s always nice to see this on a ‘to-do’ list, but given your expanding girth and bustling bust, you really do need to hit the shops. As well as getting properly fitted for a supportive maternity bra, pop into the baby shops and start researching cots and prams.

26 weeks: Dental care

If you haven’t already done so, make an appointment to have your teeth checked. Pregnancy hormones can affect your gums, so now’s the time to sort out any dental issues because you may find it harder to visit the dentist once the baby arrives.

THIRD TRIMESTER: weeks 27-40

27-30 weeks: Gestational diabetes

Most pregnant women are offered a glucose tolerance test (GTT) that indicates whether gestational diabetes is an issue. This non-invasive test involves visiting a pathology centre or your hospital and drinking a very sweet liquid.

28 weeks: Hospital tour

Book a tour of the hospital and labour ward where you plan to deliver. If you haven’t already made a booking for your due date, check out what’s involved. Some private hospitals require deposit arrangements before they’ll process your paperwork.

29 weeks: Install a car seat

As well as a pram, you’ll need a car seat, so start researching what will fit securely into your car. If you plan to hire one, you may need to make a reservation. Check out options online, ask your hospital for advice on services other parents have used or see our guide to car seats (here).

30 weeks: Birth plan

By now you’ll probably have an idea of what kind of birth you’d like and be able to jot it down in a birth plan. It can be as simple or as complex as you want, and is essentially an outline of your birth wishes, including pain relief preferences, birthing positions and the people you’d like present at the birth.

31 weeks: Baby shower

A baby shower is a lovely way to celebrate a new phase of life. It doesn’t have to be too fancy, just so long as you can toast your bub-to-be with your nearest pals and family. As get-togethers of any sort will be so much harder to arrange post-baby, take every opportunity to catch up.

32 weeks: Nursery sorted

It’s good to have at least the big ticket items bought by now, such as the cot, the change table and a chest of drawers to keep all of his teeny-weeny outfits. If you’re really organised, the items might even be assembled, too!

34 weeks: Hospital bag

If you can do it, pack your hospital bag anytime from now on. You’ll need clothes for yourself and bub, along with toiletries, nappies, sanitary pads, and anything else you’d like to take with you for your labour.

35 weeks: Protect against whooping cough

One of the best ways to protect your newborn from whooping cough, also called pertussis, is to get vaccinated in the third trimester of pregnancy. Your body will create antibodies that pass onto your baby before he’s born.

38 weeks: Size it up

Have a final maternity bra fitting. Your size shouldn’t change too much from here on, although your breasts will become fuller when your milk comes in. It’s far better to be wrestling with maternity and nursing bras now than when your baby has arrived.

40 weeks: Due date

Don’t be surprised if bub arrives a little bit early or a few days late. Due dates are an indication of when your little one should be ready to enter the world, but it’s bub who decides when he’ll make his appearance.

THROUGHOUT YOUR PREGNANCY

Antenatal Check-ups

There’ll be plenty of them, so it’s a good idea to keep track of all your appointments in a diary or electronic calendar.

After your first detailed scan (between weeks 18 and 20), antenatal visits are usually set at weeks 24, 28, 31, 34, 36, 38, 40 and 41. Depending on how your pregnancy is progressing, however, they can be more frequent.

At each visit, your midwife or obstetrician may test your urine for levels of sugar, ketones and protein. Your blood pressure will be taken, and your feet and hands examined to see if there is any swelling. The size of your uterus, called the fundal height, will be measured to assess your baby’s development. His position (how he is lying in the uterus) will be observed, along with his heartbeat and how often he is moving. It’s worth remembering that while most pregnant women will have all the scans and diagnostic tests on offer, they’re not obligatory and you can choose not to have them.

Kickboxing Champ

Your baby’s foetal movements are a key indicator of good health. As he grows and space in utero becomes an issue, his movements won’t be so pronounced – but they will still be regular. If you feel there’s been a reduction, call your midwife or doctor.

Celebrity News

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By Now to Love

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