Innholdsfortegnelse for August - September 2023 i Your Pregnancy & Baby

I just spent a few days in Polokwane attending my daughter's volleyball tournament. Early every morning we'd have to wind our way halfway around the traffic circle with the imposing concrete Polokwane Gateway Sculpture rising up from the centre. We'd drive in at the side that says “unity”, curve around the side that says “prosperity” and then I'd spot “equity“ in my rearview mirror as we left the circle. For some reason, on the way home every afternoon, there was always a truck in the way, so for three days, the final word on the north side of the sculpture remained a mystery. My daughter and I speculated what it could be. Justice, liberty or freedom maybe? Would we ever find out? Some parenting habits die hard, and finding topics…

About five months into my first pregnancy I developed gestational diabetes, which was quite scary, since everything had been going well before that. I did a complete sugar fast for two weeks, and everything seemed to clear up. So when I noticed some swelling in my feet and hands, I wasn't too worried and thought we stall had lots of time for baby shopping. I went for what I thought was going to be a routine chek-up, but the doctor told me that my blood pressure was dangerously high, and I was rushed to hospital. Confused and lost in thoughts, I ended up spending Friday night sleeping in chair in the hospital's waiting room, while my blood pressure got higher and higher. In the early hours of the morning, a…

I will never forget 10 December 2022. It was the day my three-year-old son was given the “Best in Speech” award at his crèche – and I was there to see it. I cried tears of joy the whole day! I know they can be stubborn, but I just want to encourage all moms to be there for their little ones: ask them how their school day was, about their teachers and what they learnt. Give them the support they need. We as parents can also be good educators. I'm so proud of him!…

Send a clear, good quality photo to us at sharing@ypbmagazine.com WIN 1 OF 8 BABYJOY HAMPERS WORTH R880! Eight lucky readers stand a chance to win four packs of BabyJoy Diapers worth R880. BabyJoy Diaper Pants are ultra-dry, easy to wear and easy to change with a 360° stretchy waistband. The new diamond pad absorbent layer rapidly draws moisture away from the skin and is absorbent for up to 12 hours. Available in four sizes from Babies R Us, selected retailers and online stores. To enter, send a hi-res image of your baby with Mom or Dad or a grandparent or sibling to sharing@ypbmagazine.com.…

A+Students is a franchise that combines playing with educational toys like the Japanese soroban (abacus) and the A+Play Maths range of educational toys in a way that aids brain development, improves concentration and boosts selfconfidence and intelligence and creates a love for mathematics. Even children as young as 2 1/2 years (30 months) can be solving complex problems in no time. A session for the little ones typically starts off with exercises to integrate the left and right brain through flash cards and speed writing. The kids move about, on the carpet, on their feet, then use the big abacus to familiarise themselves with concepts. Practising finger exercises on the soroban will start to refine motor skills. This moves learning from the abstract to the concrete and helps them to…

That's how many nutritious meals have been dished up to hungry pre-schoolers thanks to a partnership between Futurelife and the Dis-Chem Foundation. And things are about to get even more impressive, with Nivea and Octodec coming on board, aiming to reach three-and-a-half times as many children in 2023 than in the previous three years combined. Well done! BEANS FOR THE PLANET We're all feeling the pinch of rising food prices, né? One way to cut your costs, increase your nutrition, trim your waistline and do something great for the planet, is to eat more beans, peas, pulses and lentils. Beans release 90 percent less harmful greenhouse gases than some animal-based foods, contain protein, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals, and if you buy them dried, they're downright cheap. Even better, grow them…

“My sister and I sat staring at each other in the hospital coffee shop. My abdomen had swollen extensively, and I was in unbearable pain. It was 5.50pm, and a terrifying decision had to be made,” remembers Kristina Madonna from Cape Town. Just under five months into her pregnancy with identical twins, Kristina and husband Sergio found out that their babies were dying. They had just been diagnosed with twin to twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS), a rare condition that affects monozygotic twins who share the same placenta and blood supply. One twin was in heart failure from an oversupply of blood, while the other was not getting enough blood and nutrients to survive. “Specialist perinatologist Dr Lou Pistorius explained the four options,” Kristina says. “Do nothing, but this meant both…

As with most things, having a baby turns the usual into the unusual, so don't be too surprised if the prospect of going out and leaving your baby for a date night out with your baby daddy, suddenly feels like a tremendously difficult hurdle. However, while leaving your baby behind may not be as simple as walking out the door, it's important for you as a couple to spend some time alone, even if you find yourself talking about your little one for the entire evening! When your baby is born, you may feel as if you no longer have any time for yourself or your partner. This is simply not true. You can and should still have plenty of time alone as a couple. Going out for the first…

FLEXIBILITY of a joint is related to the ability of the surrounding muscles to stretch and then to relax. Muscles tend to shorten when they are not used or when they are compensating for postural imbalance, such as during pregnancy, when your centre of gravity changes. Flexibility increases with stretching exercises, lengthening your muscles and making them more pliable. Stretching is nature's prescription for relaxing the body, and relieves stress as well. Take note A strong body will help to carry the added weight that pregnancy brings It will improve your balance and stability, increase your energy levels and improve your self esteem. Physical strength gives you better endurance and tolerance. STRENGTH is defined in a variety of ways and is affected by the kind of muscular contraction involved as…

YOUR PARENTING Q My husband and I have very different views on discipline. I believe in giving our 2-year-old a smack when he's naughty, and my husband is really against smacking. As you can imagine, this leads to quite a heated debate. I don't understand why he's so against smacking or how to resolve this. Do you have any advice on this? A CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST STEVEN KAPLAN ANSWERS: Presumably the debate is not about whether or not discipline is required at all, rather it is about what form that discipline should take. If you take that as your starting point, the problem is simple enough. The traditional argument in favour of corporal punishment is that it is convenient, and that, “It never did me any harm.” The truth is that…

SHOULD WE BUY OUR ELDEST A DOLL TO “PRACTISE ON”? Yes, but don't force this if your child is not interested. “It should not be used to minimise the child's difficult feelings,” says counselling psychologist Robyn-Leigh Naude. Allow your eldest to spend some time around an actual baby – perhaps a friend with a newborn – to form an impression of babies for themselves. SHOULD THE ELDEST GET A PRESENT FROM THE BABY? “Well, the baby cannot really ‘give’ the gift,” Robyn-Leigh points out. “Something from the parents may be more appropriate.” Make sure you are not using toys to sugar-coat an older child's negative feelings towards their sibling or this life change. Remember that the new baby, too, will have to manage the experience of having an older sibling,…

PRACTICALITIES YOU CAN HANDLE GET STUCK INTO BABY-PROOFING! Your baby will be crawling before you know it, and you and Mom will be happy you had the foresight to get the baby-proofing done early. Put on the pool net, secure the plug covers, move cleaning materials and medicines to upper shelves, and get the baby gate ready. CHANGE YOUR POLICIES It's time to alter your wills to include your baby, speak to your medical aid about adding a child, and think about a life insurance policy if you don't already have one. FIT THE CAR SEAT There's always the chance baby might come early, so have his car seat ready and waiting securely in your car, at least two weeks before the due date. LEARN HOW TO OPERATE THE PRAM,…

PREGNANCY MONTH 4 Fatigue associated with pregnancy ranges from mild to debilitating. It most commonly occurs in the first trimester but often reappears during the third trimester. The good news is that you can increase your energy levels naturally by maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle. Start by following a satisfying and nutritious anti-inflammatory diet (one high in a variety of organic fruits and vegetables, and as few processed foods as possible), being sure to avoid rapidly digesting carbohydrates such as white bread, and staying well hydrated. TOP UP ON THESE FOODS ALMONDS This healthy nut has antioxidants and vitamins that increase body metabolism, control food cravings, and is good for the foetus's growth and development. BANANA has folate or folic acid that is considered a prenatal vitamin. Foods rich…

Hydrolysed collagen – which we know just as “collagen” – is a protein and one of the main building blocks of our entire bodies: from skin to bone, ligaments, connective tissue and tendons. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, protein is especially important for the growth of your baby and placenta, as well as your own health and well-being. Here are 9 reasons why. 1. BONES During pregnancy, the baby uses huge amounts of your calcium reserves to make body tissue, teeth and its own skeleton. Supplementing with collagen helps prevent you from losing bone integrity and density. 2. WOUND HEALING Protein, especially collagen, is vital for proper wound healing – think of collagen as your body's own natural “stitches”. Having enough protein and proper nutrition can help reduce the risk of,…

Surviving the first six weeks with a baby is a mammoth task – but doing it with multiples is even more daunting. Mothers who have been there and survived it say that although caring for their babies is the most difficult in the early months, things do get much easier with time. There is so much fulfilment and satisfaction in raising multiples – but preparation is crucial for your survival in the early days. PREPARING FOR MULTIPLES Try to find a “multiples group” in your area, or join a WhatsApp group to chat to other parents in the same boat. You'll make new friends and have the opportunity to discuss details and concerns with other parents who have been through – or are about to experience – your situation. Here…

Thrush occurs when there is an overgrowth of yeast in your baby's mouth. Candida is the yeast that usually lives in the mouth, intestines and genital area and thrives in warm, moist conditions. This yeast is usually kept in check by the intestinal flora, or healthy bacteria, that abound in our system. Sometimes, though, there is an overgrowth of it, and this is called thrush. White patches are a tell-tale sign. Thrush usually affects babies younger than 2 months but can also affect older babies. HOW CAN I TELL IF MY BABY HAS THRUSH? Thrush appears as milky white patches or spots on the inside of your baby's cheeks or lips, on her gums or tongue. Unlike milk residue, this white coating doesn't wipe off easily. It's hard to scrape…

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Email your question for our experts to: sharing@ypbmagazine.com Please note that experts unfortunately cannot respond to each question personally. The answers provided on these pages should not replace the advice of your doctor. OUR EXPERT Q My 9-month-old baby has suddenly gone from a happy-go-lucky chap who smiled all the time to a clingy baby who cries a lot. He refuses to go to my husband or anyone but me – I can't even go to the loo! What is happening here? A ROBYN-LEIGH ANSWERS: Remember that this period coincides with your baby's increased mobility, as they are starting to crawl around now. Besides the greater exploration and independence mobility allows, the realisation that your baby is a separate person from you can cause feelings of anxiety and fear. Babies…

YOUR BABY This is such a momentous time in your baby's life that it's bound to present a few hiccups along the way. After all, before now, your baby's diet consisted purely of milk feeds, and now he suddenly has to get used to a whole new variety of tastes and textures, and he has to learn how to swallow them! Because of the possible pitfalls of starting solids, we all find ourselves struggling with something. Here we go through the most common worries surrounding solids and clear them up for you. Did you know! Bottled water can be unsuitable for babies because of the high mineral levels. Check that sodium (salt) content is less than 200mg per litre. WORRY #1 MY BABY JUST WON'T DRINK MILK Cow's milk can…

GOOD BUY VIEW THF RANGE stokke.com Your toddler's picky eating can be really frustrating – to the point where you wish you could skip mealtimes altogether! You worry endlessly about what he is eating, what he is not eating and, of course, whether or not he gets a balanced diet when he does indeed decide to eat. Picky eating can surface anywhere from 1 to 6 years old and, according to Johannesburg-based dietician Tammy Wolhüter, can arise out of boredom with the usual foods offered, or occurs as a means of your child asserting his independence. He suddenly realises that he can make decisions regarding what he wants to eat, when and how. Whether it's only wanting to eat cheese and noodles every day or refusing to eat anything at…

Believe it or not, it's completely normal for children to swear. More often than not, when a young child swears, they are just repeating a word they have heard somewhere else (note to self: mind my own manners!). When an older child swears, they are usually testing the boundaries and looking for a reaction. The key is knowing when to step in, and when to ignore it. Your family values and tolerance for swearing will determine where, when and how you draw the line around swear words, but experts do agree that all children should know that it is unacceptable to speak rudely, and especially to curse, at other people. Here are some expert tips to help you nip your little angel's potty mouth in the bud – but remember,…

Email your question for our experts to: sharing@ypbmagazine.com Please note that experts unfortunately cannot respond to each question personally. The answers provided on these pages should not replace the advice of your doctor. OUR EXPERT Q This year I want to be prepared for allergy season, as our whole family suffers a lot. I think often my little ones’ colds start off as allergic reactions. Please give me preventative advice. But also advice about antihistamines, as I'm not sure they are so good for children. My daughters are 18 months old and nearly 3 years old. A DR NYASULU-EGBUNIKE ANSWERS: Firstly, because you mention that there is a family history of allergies, I suggest you take the girls to a specialist paediatrician or paediatric pulmonologist for a diagnosis to ensure…

What a delight it is to witness your child reach a milestone, especially the cute ones like the first smile, grabbing a rattle, waving 'tata' or a wobbly step on chubby feet. All these developmental progress markers assure us that Baby is on track, and that Mom and Dad are doing something right. So take lots of pictures and video and by all means brag on social media if that's your thing! But please be aware of the flip side of all the sharing … the inevitable comparing, that can really rob you of your joy. Not all babies are the same, just as all adults aren't the same either. The milestones you will find in this guide represent an average. It is not better or worse for a child…

6 TO 8 MONTHS As your baby's memory and attention span develop, you'll see more and more signs that he's not only absorbing information, but also applying this new found knowledge. His greater mobility allows him to experience more things. He starts actively manipulating objects around him. He realises that he can transfer an object from one hand to another and is starting to form a sense of events and displacement (items being moved). He is starting to understand patterns of behaviour and he can add up individual occurrences into a coherent series of events, over which he even has some measure of control! By endlessly experimenting with this exciting new concept, he starts to develop a sense of self that is separate from you, and that the external world…

The human body's five senses are the tools your child uses to investigate, handle and understand the world and, closer to home, his immediate surroundings. You can help your little one develop his senses to their fullest potential and have fun while doing it. HEARING The ability to listen closely is a skill that will make going to school one day a whole lot easier for your child, since much of the information he needs to learn is transmitted verbally, especially in the early years. Because it's so closely linked with communication, hearing plays an important role in the development of your child's personality as well as his behaviour. Did you know? Humans can distinguish between 10 000 different sounds. ACTIVITY 1 Play different sounds, like animal sounds, or noises…

CHILDREN WHO WALK EARLY Early walkers are those who learn this skill before their first birthday. Some even walk as early as nine months, probably for inherited or genetic reasons. The part of the brain that controls walking matures faster in early walkers than in other children. Early walkers are usually also fearless and determined. Interestingly enough, girls usually start walking earlier than boys, although nobody really knows why. Remember that it's not necessarily an advantage to walk very early. If a child is already walking at nine months, it's likely he spent only a short time crawling. This can become a problem if your baby did not get a chance to develop good shoulder stability. By the age of six years you could see the knock-on effect in his…

1 Make a blanket fort. Simply throw a blanket or two over a couple of chairs or tables. Your child will love her “house”. 2 Fill a bucket with water and add bubble bath and plastic toys. Just add your toddler – but it's a good idea to dress him in his swimming costume because he'll be soaked by the time he's done. Never leave your child near water unattended as this is a drowning risk. 3 Punch or cut differently-sized holes in an old shoe box. Now let your little one throw or squeeze a variety of small objects through the holes. 4 Make a collage for your child's playroom. Use different textures such as sandpaper, rice kernels, sponges, smooth paper, sweet wrappers and crinkle paper. Your child can…

Your Pregnancy & Baby has six issues per year, and we alternate between baba and mama by featuring a pregnant woman on every second cover. That means that there are three opportunities per year for a baby or child to appear on the cover: one cover for a boy (the winner was on a previous cover), one for a newborn (the winner was on a previous cover), and one for a girl to go on the last cover of 2023. Baba & Kleuter has three issues per year and therefore three winners. For the next two covers, we are looking for two girls, by 31 August. Turn to pages 6 & 7 to see what you can win. Each winner receives more than R5 000 worth of prizes! Turn to…

WIN A GIFT CARD! Send a high resolution photo of you and your bump, and you could win a Dis-Chem Baby City gift card worth R580, Email your entry to sharing@ypbmagazine.com with the subject “Baby City”. Include your ID number, contact details and nearest Dis-Chem Baby City store. Dis-Chem babycity™ MY SPECIAL FAMILY IS GROWING Ditlhora Mashaba and her growing family live in Centurion, Pretoria. They are so excited to give birth in 5 weeks’ time! “Everyone had written me off, but at 41 years, God finally blessed me with a baby boy: Ntiyiso. And now I am expecting another! My boys complete me and I'm forever grateful. A big thank you to my fertility specialist and supportive husband.”…

Said on social Gina Milne says: “I love it when my kids sigh. Like what ails you, my little unemployed freeloader?” Anonymous: “My 8-year-old daughter asked me if our baby was still an alcoholic –‘you know, when she cries all the time.’ Me: ‘I think you mean, colic?’” @DudeDad says it is like it is: “There isn't enough coffee in the world for the 1st week with a new baby…” @LHlodder “You think you are going to have a pretty ordinary day, and then your 5-year-old announces that she only walks backwards from now on!” For Funny Grandmas posted: “After putting the grandchildren to bed, I took off my make-up and changed into my dressing gown and slippers, and decided to wash my hair. I heard the children getting louder…

Send a clear, good quality photo to us at sharing@ypbmagazine.com WIN A DIS-CHEM BABY CITY VOUCHER VALUED AT R380 Send a clear, good-quality, high-resolution photo to sharing@ypbmagazine.com. Each photo published receives a R380 Dis-Chem Baby City Voucher.…

Twin to twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) and twin anemia polycythemia sequence (TAPS) are extremely rare conditions that affect monozygotic (identical) twins who share a placenta in the womb. TTTS occurs when there is an imbalance in blood flow between the twins through the shared placenta, leading to one twin (donor) receiving insufficient blood and nutrients while the other twin (recipient) receives an excess. TAPS is a further complication where there is an unequal distribution of red blood cells between the twins, with one twin experiencing anemia (low red blood cell count) and the other twin experiencing polycythemia (high red blood cell count). Both can cause serious, life-threatening, health issues for both babies, and sometimes the mother.…

#Nourishing BRAAIED LAMB CHOPS SERVES 6 INGREDIENTS ■ Olive oil ■ 2t ground cumin ■ 3t smoked paprika ■ 2T minced garlic ■ Salt to taste ■ 1T freshly ground black pepper ■ Juice of 1 lemon ■ 2kg lamb loin chops ■ Mint pesto for drizzling METHOD 1. In a large bowl, gently combine all the ingredients except the chops and pesto. Add the chops and turn until well coated, then leave to marinate overnight, or for at least 3 hours, in the fridge. 2. Place the chops over a hot braai or under an oven grill, then braai or grill for 10 minutes, turning once or twice. Drizzle with pesto and serve with samp salad, braai pap, or roast baby potatoes. Delicious served with a samp salad. SAMP…

“I was pretty torn about going out for the first time after Mikkah was born,” says. “On the one hand, I was desperate to get out and feel ‘human’ again, but on the other I was in a real panic about leaving her alone. Jethro was the calm one; he gently told me I needed a treat – we both did; he was just being diplomatic! – and Mikkah would be fine without us for a couple of hours. I must admit, when I got dressed it was such a great feeling. I felt like a woman, not just a mom, for the first time in ages. I think we took about half an hour to leave the house, checking the phone numbers were there, doors were locked, bottles were…

YOUR PARENTING “It was just after 3am and our 12-week-old son Oliver had been crying for what felt like an eternity, but it was probably only 15 or 20 minutes at the most. My husband and I had decided a few days before to move Oli to his own bedroom, which was right next to ours, so that we could all start getting a better night's sleep,” explains Cape Town mom Nicole*. “I wanted to rush into Oliver's room and cuddle him back to sleep. But my husband said we needed to be firm and let him soothe himself back to sleep. His attitude made me furious; we had a huge argument. That was the first time I realised that we might have different ideas on discipline and how to…

TIP #1 TALK ABOUT YOUR OWN CHILDHOOD AND HOW YOU WERE RAISED Have the grace to listen to your partner describe childhood experiences,” Stephanie says. It helps you both have a better understanding of the roots of your parenting and discipline styles. TIP #2 FIND COMMON GROUND “And remember, the environment that you raise your children in will not be the same as your parents'.” TIP #3 VERBALISE WHAT KIND OF CHILD YOU WANT TO RAISE, AND DON'T JUST ASSUME YOUR PARTNER WANTS THE SAME There's nothing wrong with hoping to raise an A-student, but make sure that you express your hopes out loud. TIP #4 CONSULT WITH EACH OTHER “If, for example, your child asks if they can sleep over at a friend's house, and you are not sure…

ZARA ESSELIN I took my daughter to every gynae visit so she could see her sister on “TV”, as she would say. We also let her break the good news to her grandparents, which she was very excited to do. Don't forget to let your child know where she will be when Dad is with you at the birth. Arrange in advance who will be taking care of her while you are in hospital. FARAH SULIMAN My daughter was 20 months old when my son was born, and I involved her from day one. She helped me bath, feed and change him. When he was a newborn, and mostly slept, I spent all that time with her to make her feel special. During his awake times, I let her “play”…

Email your question for our experts to: sharing@ypbmagazine.com Please note that experts unfortunately cannot respond to each question personally. The answers provided on these pages should not replace the advice of your doctor. OUR EXPERT I JUST DON'T WANT TO Q After our first baby, we were all loved-up and still had sex, even though some things did change… more stolen quickies and morning sex than long lovemaking into the night. Now our second is already nearly a year, and we're in a dry season. My pregnancy was difficult, and I was so much more tired than with the first one, also having a toddler to contend with. So already then, the frequency started dwindling, as I just wanted to be left alone. What worries me though, is that I…

I was in my last trimester of an otherwise healthy pregnancy when a routine scan picked up a worrying dip in amniotic fluid. I was told to prepare for a possible induction or caesarean, as too little amniotic fluid could be dangerous for the baby. I was confused, as it wasn't clear why my baby had suddenly started producing too little amniotic fluid. (For the first four months of pregnancy the placenta produces amniotic fluid, after that it's the baby's job.) A decrease, or increase, in amniotic fluid can be difficult to explain if there's no obvious cause. “This is because it's not a diagnosis in itself,” says Dr Catherine Elliott, a Cape Town-based gynaecologist and obstetrician who specialises in high-risk pregnancies, “but rather a sign that we need to…

Are you eagerly awaiting that sign of life that is definitely not just a hunger pang? Are you beginning to worry that it will never happen? Or maybe your baby is so active that you can't sleep. Read on… HOW WILL I KNOW? The answer is a little unsatisfactory. You'll just know! Speak to other moms and they'll mostly be able to tell you exactly when they felt it the first time and the descriptions can be very interesting: air bubbles, but not gas, like popcorn popping, or a gold fish swimming in the tummy or a butterfly. First-time moms usually notice movement somewhere between 18 and 22 weeks. With your second baby you will most likely feel it earlier, simply because you know what to be on the lookout…

When you start a new job, everything and everyone is strange, you feel out of place, and you think you'll never remember everything you were told on your first day! Motherhood is no different. What makes it harder is that there's very little support once you have left the safety net of the hospital. What now? Who's there to help? Added to the ethos of playing “superwoman” is your own practical inexperience when it comes to baby care. It's not surprising then that the “wonderful world” of motherhood can quickly pop and become a blur of misery – it's called postnatal depression (PND). DID YOU SUFFER FROM PND? 37.5% I didn't experience this at all. 36.7% I had a few days of the baby blues, but nothing serious. 15% I…

YOUR NEWBORN #1 SPREADING YOURSELF THIN Your babies need your undivided attention in the early months. This is not the time to finish a project, start a new hobby or spring clean the house. There'll be plenty of time in a few months to concentrate on that. #2 RUNNING OUT OF ESSENTIALS Two or more babies go through consumables at an astonishing rate. Keep the cupboard filled with nappies, wet wipes, bottles and formula, if using. #3 NOT NAPPING If you want to be useful to your newborn multiples, make sure you find or make the time to sleep. #4 OVER-EFFICIENCY Sticking rigidly to a manual won't always work because families have different habits and needs. Rather be flexible in your approach, and try a variety of schedules, techniques and…

GOOD BUY Helicopter parenting is exactly what it sounds like – parents who hover over their children, trying to solve all their problems for them and do everything they can to protect them from getting hurt. While our children need love and care to thrive, there's such a thing as too much love, and this has serious consequences, no matter how well intentioned. Joburg-based occupational therapist and counsellor Samantha Toweel-Moore explains that coddling your baby and engaging in helicopter parenting leads to increased general anxiety and reduced ability of your child to grow himself on every level – sensory, motor, cognitive, emotional and social. “He needs to ‘do’ to be all he is born to be,” Samantha says. “Love, affirm and encourage your toddler, but be hands-off.” Tip Try to…

Email your question for our experts to: sharing@ypbmagazine.com Please note that experts unfortunately cannot respond to each question personally. The answers provided on these pages should not replace the advice of your doctor. OUR EXPERT Q My little one is ready to start at play school. I've gone for a tour of a Montessori school that's not far away, but I'm also looking at a school closer to home that follows the Reggio Emilia method or philosophy. What is this? I have a fair idea of Montessori, but I've never heard of this other Italian approach. What can I expect? A SUE ANSWERS: The Reggio Emilia approach to early child education was founded in the town of Reggio Emilia, Northern Italy, by Loris Malaguzzi. Post World War II, this inspiring…

YOUR PRESCHOOLER ALET FROM CAPE TOWN says, “Don't react too strongly. Instead, chat to them about what is acceptable language and what is not. I also tell my children that it's not nice to be called a “poop’, so they shouldn't do the same to others. Children think in graphic terms, so I askthem to imagine how they would feel if they were called a few of those words!” ANDILE FROM ROSEBANK says, “We try to be mindful of what we say in front of our children. It also helps to provide them with alternatives to swear words. We found that when most children realise that the word is ugly, they choose not to use it themselves.” ADRIAN FROM BLOEMFONTEIN asks, “Is cursing so bad? Isn't it a necessary phase…

1 The competition opening date was 23 September 2022. No late entries will be accepted. See pages 6 & 7 for closing dates for the different categories. 2 By entering the competition, you agree to be bound by these terms and conditions. 3 Participants must be either the parent or legal guardian of the child. The magazines reserve the right to request proof of such relation. If it is proven that there is no relation between the child and the person who sent the photo, that person will indemnify the magazines against any claim from any third party should the child be chosen as a winner. 4 You are automatically entered into both competitions: Your Pregnancy & Baby and Baba & Kleuter. 5 Only email entries will be accepted. Entries…

6 MONTHS Your baby is starting to sit on his own. He can lift his head, chest and shoulders off the floor and is starting to look like he wants to crawl. He actively rolls around. He can move an object from one hand to the other and is even trying to feed himself. When you're feeding him, he'll probably start grabbing at the jar or spoon. 7 MONTHS At month seven, your baby is busy moving his one knee ever closer to his tummy – a precursor to crawling. He can roll like a boss and can bring his foot to his mouth. He's beginning to play with his toys more intentionally by shaking them or banging them together. He can pull toys and he's dropping them less and…

Becoming a parent means that you have access to an unlimited number of hugs every day. You get to cradle your newborn gently in your arms or grab your busy toddler for a big bear hug. Have you ever wondered about the impact this has on your little one? The benefits of human contact have been well researched and the effects of regular, caring touch are not just physical; they are psychological too. Touch can even help build a good immune system, decrease the risk of heart disease, and decrease levels of stress, for parents and babies. Without nurturing touch, a baby's brain will not develop optimally. Children need to feel safe and experience trust. So cuddle and bond, and build a loving foundation for learning. Did you know? Of…

A child's gross motor skills development entails learning to use the muscles that control the head, shoulders, arms, back and legs in such a way that he can execute movements accurately and with exact timing. When your child is acquiring these skills, his muscles learn to cooperate with his brain and nervous system to make his body do what he wants it to do. Gross motor skills include balance, eye-hand and eye-foot coordination, integrating his left and right side, strong muscles that can resist pressure, and an awareness of where his body parts are in relation to himself (and space) even when he can't see them. These key skills are what help your baby make sense of his world and how to move around in it. And as much as…

Being your baby's best friend can get really old, really quickly when you're desperate for a cup of tea or a shower. If only he could learn to play independently for a bit, it would be good for you, for him, and for your relationship. But it's easier said than done, because a tot under two can easily suck up all mom and dad's energy and attention - and then some. It's totally normal that he prefers your company above anyone else's, and his interactions with you remain the key to a world of learning and development. But as your toddler nears his second birthday, you can start guiding him to play by himself once in a while. Solitary play develops his selfconfidence, independence, creativity and language abilities. To learn…

I've always wanted kids and to be a mom. So when I fell pregnant, it was a real blessing. I love being a mom: babies really are innocent little angels. Yes, I know that we have to deal with our fair share of screaming and baby-yelling, but you learn to adapt, bond and grow with your child and baby. I can't wait to nurture my daughter, Saskia, to the best of my ability and watch her grow. I want to see her become everything she dreams and hopes to be – not many people or children get that opportunity.…

Send a clear, good quality photo to us at sharing@ypbmagazine.com WIN A GIFT HAMPER FROM CARRIWELL WORTH R2 200! The Carriwell Comfort Bra (R230) is ideal for when you're pregnant, or nursing and have sensitive breasts. This simple bra can be worn both day and night due to the extreme softness and flexibility of the fabric. The super soft cotton is kind to your breasts and your baby's skin. The light cotton is highly breathable – perfect for the warmer times of the year. The cotton bra is so flexible that you can be comfortable during the day and while you sleep at night. The Carriwell Comfort Bra is available at takealot.com, loot.co.za, Dis-Chem, and leading baby and maternity stores. WINNER…

#Crib notes 91% of parents are concerned about climate change, with a majority indicating the crisis has even impacted their perspective on having more children. 64% of parents prefer products that are sustainably sourced. 60% say sustainable company practices play a large part in their purchasing habits. That is despite the findings that the vast majority of parents (84%) acknowledge the cost of living is rising and more than half (57%) believe engaging in environmentally friendly practices takes a lot of time.…

The second-hand market for baby goods provides much-needed affordability and financial relief for families across the country. First-time parents in South Africa spend on average upwards of R100 000 a year to raise a child, and nursery set-up costs alone can surge to more than R5 000. Babies R Us advises caution though, as some secondhand baby goods may have been recalled, such as, for example, the Fisher-Price Rock 'n Play Sleeper. In the US, there's calls for this product – which was linked to more than 30 deaths in the nearly 10 years it had been on the market – to be taken off the second-hand market, especially Facebook Marketplace. It was recalled in 2019, but it's estimated there are still more than a million in circulation that are…

IDEA #1 MAKE A WALL HANGING OR A PICNIC BLANKET Scan a selection of artworks that have a similar look and feel, and have them printed professionally on canvas or fabric. Then ask Granny to turn it into a picnic blanket, or have it stretched over a frame for the wall. IDEA #2 CREATE LAMINATED PLACEMATS Have the artworks scanned, so they are all the same size. Then print them on thick paper, and have them laminated. IDEA #3 TAKE IT TO WORK If you use a clipboard at work, why not turn art into a daily reminder of how talented your child is. Swop the art around simply by clipping a new one in front. IDEA #4 CLIP IT UP If you like the clipboard idea, invest in a…

Endometriosis is a condition where the hormone-sensitive layer of tissue (known as endometrial tissue) that normally lines the inside of your uterus grows outside of your womb. Endometriosis most commonly occurs in the lining of the pelvis or on the ovaries but can also affect the bowel or bladder – and in rare cases can occur as far away as the navel or lungs. Endometrial tissue responds to hormones in the same way as the tissue lining your uterus –it thickens, breaks down and bleeds. However, that shed tissue has nowhere to go, so it becomes trapped, and can be extremely painful. GOOD BUY Sinopol® may help correct hormonal imbalances linked to polycystic ovary syndrome and restore balance to metabolic indicators, such as insulin resistance and glucose, as well as…

The Seven Villa Hotel & Spa by The Capital in Sandton offers the perfect overnight spoil for weary parents. Check in from 2pm onwards where you can chill out in your gorgeous room, or in the gardens, champagne and cigar lounge, restaurant or poolside. At 6pm you'joy romantic canapes and a relaxing Cointreau by the pool, set up just fortwo. Then it's to the spa for an hour-long couples massage, followed by a two-course dinner. Check-out is before ten, so you get to enjoy a leisurely breakfast before you head home. We tried it all, and loved it! Ourtips: ■ Before you check in, you'll get a pillow menu. Take your time to pick the best pillow option for you, so your night away from the children can be extra…

Parenting styles cover a wide spectrum, with the very strict but often unaffectionate parent at one pole, and the negligent and uninvolved parent at the other. The most widely known model is developmental psychologist Diana Baumrind's Three Parenting Styles published in 1966. While these models have been expanded considerably over the years, they still remain the best basic tool to help you identify which type of parent you and your co-parent are, and what type of discipline you favour. AUTHORITATIVE Also called the democratic or balanced parenting, this style also includes the concept of “emotion coaching”, where both parents and children are encouraged to recognise and express their feelings appropriately. Authoritative parents express more warmth to their children than totalitarian parents, but still set rules and limits, and have a…

If you're expecting your second (or third, or fourth) baby, you worry about how your older kid(s) will deal with the shock of the new arrival. So, is there a “right” way to bring home a new baby? “Every family is different,” says Durban-based counselling psychologist Robyn-Leigh Naude. “Your children's ages, genders and temperaments, your conscious and unconscious expectations, your family set-up, plus your cultural context, will affect how everyone reacts. This means there can be no hard and fast rules about how to prepare your eldest for a sibling. “It's a process, and takes time,” she adds. “Accept that mistakes will be made. What is most important is your ability to repair any damage or mistakes, and try again, as opposed to getting it right all the time.” You…

PREGNANCY MONTH 1 Month 1 1. It's a big fat positive! Whether those two lines on the test were a surprise or a much-prayed-for event, new life has taken hold inside of you, and you have decided to welcome it. What could be better? Month 2 1. Sleep, glorious sleep. You've never known tiredness like this, but it's all good, because your body is busy building a miracle, which takes huge amounts of work – and yet it's letting you sleep through it. Amazing. 2. You're chatting daily on the big white telephone, and that's great. We'e serious: it's physically uncomfortable, sure, but science suggests strong nausea = reduced chances of miscarriage. And there are studies that prove this. And that's great news. Month 3 1. It's your little secret.…

PREGNANCY MONTH 3 While some of us sail through pregnancy without a moment of morning sickness to show for it, most of us experience our fair share of pain and discomfort along the way. These useful tips might help ease those common complaints. OEDEMA (SWELLING) WHY Your body carries more extracellular fluid during pregnancy, and this can cause normal swelling of the feet and ankles that subsides once you put your feet up. If the onset is sudden and severe, affecting the face, hands and legs, it could be a sign of pre-eclampsia. This should be checked out by your doctor immediately. FOOD FIXES Onion and garlic are good circulatory tonics. Natural diuretics, which help in the release of waste, are celery, asparagus, artichokes, grapes, blackcurrants and parsley. Vitamin C…

The amniotic fluid performs important functions: it protects the foetus, allowing foetal movement and muscle development; it reduces cord compression, especially in labour; and it is vital for foetal lung and gut development, among other functions. This is why it's so important to monitor amniotic fluid regularly throughout pregnancy, to ensure your baby has perfect Goldilocks levels (not too much, not too little). Gynaecologist/obstetrician Dr Bronwyn Moore explains the basics of monitoring: “During your pregnancy, your healthcare worker will use various markers to monitor the progress of your pregnancy. “One of the most important is the size of your uterus, measured from pubic bone to the top of the uterus, known as the height of fundus (HOF). How big your uterus is depends on how many babies you're carrying, the…

KEEP A KICK COUNT Sit or lie down peacefully where you will not be disturbed, and keep your hands over your belly. Now count how many times you feel baby move in 20 minutes. If Baby doesn't move at all, get up, walk around for a few minutes, and then sit down again with your hands on your belly. Pay attention and count again. It is possible that your baby was asleep during the first 20 minutes. Babies sleep for up to an hour at a time in the womb, and then they don't move much. You can even draw up a table to chart your baby's movements if you are really worried. Especially if you have high blood pressure, this is a good idea. DO IT LIKE THIS: Set…

Email your question for our experts to: sharing@ypbmagazine.com Please note that experts unfortunately cannot respond to each question personally. The answers provided on these pages should not replace the advice of your doctor. OUR EXPERT MAKE IT YOURSELF Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water. Allow it to cool, then use it as a salt-water mouth rinse. Q I'm 12 weeks pregnant with my second child. I used mouthwash every day throughout my first pregnancy. Recently, I read that it is dangerous for the foetus though. Is this true? Is it better to forgo it during this pregnancy? A DR DU BUISSON ANSWERS: As you'll experience, oral hygiene can be quite a challenge for pregnant women. Brushing teeth could make you feel nauseous in the morning,…

Gauge yourself according to the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. How have you felt in the past seven days? Rate yourself on the following questions, where 0 is low and 3 is very high. 1. I have been able to laugh and see the funny side of things. 0 1 2 3 2. I have looked forward to things. 0 1 2 3 3. I have blamed myself unnecessarily when things went wrong. 0 1 2 3 4. I have been anxious or worried for no very good reason. 0 1 2 3 5. I have felt scared or panicky for no very good reason. 0 1 2 3 6. Things have been getting on top of me. 0 1 2 3 7. I have been so unhappy that I have…

■ Your baby must sleep on his back and never on his stomach, as this increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome. ■ Use only cotton blankets and sheets, which must be securely tucked in, or a baby sleeping bag. ■ The mattress must be dry, firm, clean and aired. ■ Room temperature must be between 20 and 22°C. ■ Only use a beanie for newborns; thereafter, keep his head uncovered in bed. ■ Learn first aid techniques such as CPR. ■ Don't use sheep skins, quilts, duvets and pillows. ■ Don't allow smoking near your baby or in the house. It is dangerous to sleep with your baby if: ■ You or your partner smoke. ■ You have been drinking alcohol. ■ You are on medication or drugs.…

Email your question for our experts to: sharing@ypbmagazine.com Please note that experts unfortunately cannot respond to each question personally. The answers provided on these pages should not replace the advice of your doctor. OUR EXPERT Q My baby's belly button sticks out quite a bit – it almost bulges out. What is this, and how do I fix it? A DR STRACHAN ANSWERS: This “sticky out” belly button is called an umbilical hernia. The umbilicus is the belly button, and a hernia refers to the piece that sticks out. This appears in the area through which the umbilical cord passed at birth. The cord passes through the strong tendon that runs down the centre of the abdomen, and the muscles of the tummy attach to this strong tendon. The gap…

■ It you believe a certain amount of useful, guided learning is appropriate during the play session, play with the same objects as your child, separately but alongside him. Don't comment if he tries to imitate you; his sense of achievement is more satisfying than the external reward of your acknowledgement of this However, provide some sort of positive comment or response if it appears that he is inviting it. For example, “You seem to be enjoying building bricks. I like the way you try new things.” ■ The focus for your toddler is on the process, the discovery, and not the end result. It's a journey. Allow him to travel and try new routes. ■ Frustration is an inevitable part of your child's growing self-assertion. He sees what things…

Vital Baby has a full range of training cups that match each stage of your growing child's development, all available at at Baby City, Clicks, Dis-Chem, takealot.com and vitalbabyshop.co.za. SHOP NOW vitalbabyshop.co. SHOP NOW clicks.co.za…

1. If those mini chocolate cupcakes send your little one into a sugar spin, ask whoever's coming over not to bring them. 2. Ask your child to pack away her three favourite toys before the friend arrives. This limits conflict and encourages your child to share the rest of her toys. 3. If the playdate is always at your house, and your house is the one getting trashed every time, ask if you can rotate houses. 4. Meet on common ground. Kids love parks, and sitting at the side of a sandpit with someone else is a lot less lonely. 5. If your child can't swim, keep away from houses with open pools or nets that are permanently off. Otherwise, if there is a net, ask that it goes on.…

Alarm bells started ringing for mom-of-two Kirsty Asad, when her daughter Ameena (then 6 years old) fell apart after school. Every. Day. “She would cry, scream, shout, hit out aggressively or just completely ignore me and run to her bedroom – she just couldn't handle anymore instructions or expectations,” Kirsty recalls. “This behaviour would last for two to three hours every single school-day afternoon. I was concerned that she might be behaving like this at school too.” But, says Kirsty, when she talked to her teacher, she was surprised to learn that Ameena was a “star” pupil. “The teachers said she was always helping, always caring for others and always working really hard. No signs of any behaviour problems at all. So, I just blamed myself – maybe I had…

#Feeding PLEASANTLY PINK All the sweet, juicy splendour that toddlers want with none of the cavitycausing consequences, watermelon is a perfect party snack. It's affordable (just one feeds scores of tiny guests), easy to prepare (no baking required) and easy to clean (a few wet wipes are all you need). Simply chop the watermelon up into hand-sized wedges – remember to cut the bitter rind off – and arrange on a platter. You could also chop watermelon and melon into chunks and thread the blocks onto ice cream sticks for a fresh fruit lolly. UNDER WRAPS Take party sandwiches to the next level by combining two great loves of toddlers – peanut butter and strawberries – with a whole-wheat wrap. Does it sound like we're trying to pull the wool…

My husband, Mustafa, and I left for Portland Oregon in the States in January 2021 – in the middle of the pandemic and only three weeks before the US closed its borders. I had just resigned and didn't even get a chance to say all my goodbyes because of lockdown restrictions. It was still exciting when that plane took off. Mustafa is Turkish. He is an independent filmmaker. I was in a happy bubble for the first couple of months here, even though I never knew how hard it would be looking after my baby full time with no help (and in my forties!) How it happened: I'd been off birth control since we left SA, so we were delighted when I tested positive on a home pregnancy kit. From…

How to handle his emotional world as he grows, is a skill your child learns from you. 0 TO 2 YEARS Your tiny baby first expresses emotion by crying and later by smiling and laughing. By the age of three months, he has already mastered a range of facial expressions and he will start demanding your attention and making use of his communication skills. Your reactions to your baby's feelings are the foundation to his later capacity for empathy and building relationships. Be sure to make plenty of eye contact with your baby and respond to him warmly. Acknowledge his attempts to develop new skills, spend time together and have fun. From the age of about six months, focus on echoing and validating your baby's feelings to help furnish him…

Picking up a toy or bringing a piece of banana to the mouth may look simple to an observer, but it's actually a complicated task for your little one. He needs his eyes to see, his brain to process, interpret and understand what he's seen, and using that information, he must plan his next action. And on top of that his muscles must then work smoothly enough to be able to execute elegantly coordinated motor activities. Just think how many times a day your eyes and hands have to work together and you'll understand why you'd want your child to master this skill as well as possible. Hand-eye coordination is linked to fine motor control. This refers to the body's ability to control the tiny muscles in the hands, fingers…

6 TO 12 MONTHS Your little baby has transformed into an explorer with an intense interest in the world around her. She loves playing with toys that can open and close, with buttons to press and bits to pull - and that have a reaction for her every action. She is refining her hand motor skills now too. Invest in toys that encourage her to make different movements. Floating bath toys. Perceptual ability, fine motor skills, problem solving. Shape sorters. Perceptual ability, fine motor skills, problem solving, object permanence. Stacking bowls. Hand-eye cordination. colour recognition Stuffed toys and dolls. Touch, emotional security. Wooden building blocks. Fine motor skills. Shatterproof mirror. Self-awareness and social development. Cloth, cardboard or plastic books. Social and language development, visual stimulation. Finger puppets and jack-in-the-box. Object…

Tip #1 Never leave your baby alone in the bath! CHOOSE THE RIGHT TIME Some parents prefer to bath their babies in the late afternoon, because then it's ticked off the to-do list early and you have the rest of the evening available to do other stuff. Other parents prefer first to complete the day's chore list, feed and then bath their precious. Fit the activity into your day as you wish, depending on the unique needs of your family. Some babies and toddlers are so tired by the time they've had their supper that they need to go to sleep immediately afterwards – and hungry children are also not happy children! So you'll need to fit bathing in to suit your child's supper time and schedule. Tip #2 Always…