Innholdsfortegnelse for Issue 163 / #3-2025 i Your Pregnancy & Baby

Shock and horror! I think I might be turning into a winter person! I was a winter baby – birthday coming up soon – but I've always been a summer person, so I'm really not sure what is going on. Are my European genes finally kicking in, although my DNA is RSA? Then I paged through the dummy for this issue, and the mystery was solved. First of all, there are cuddly babies all over our readers’ pages and gorgeous pregnant readers too, and the letters on our #sharing pages make me feel all warm and fuzzy. (Mail us at sharing@ypbmagazine.com so we can make you famous and put you in our next issue.) Then our #nesting and #celebrating pages just make me want to, well, nest and celebrate. I…

TRANSPORTING CHILDREN SAFELY FOR OVER 40 YEARS Safeway has a range of quality children's products to suit your child, vehicle and lifestyle. Safeway offers a full range of affordable products such as child seats (for all ages and sizes), strollers and travel cots. safewaybabies.co.za TOUCH, NOURISH & LOVE YOUR CHILD'S SKIN WITH EPI-MAX® BABY & JUNIOR Epi-max® Baby & Junior is a gentle emollient range that is mild enough to be used as a moisturiser or soap substitute on normal and dry skin, and for dry skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. epimax.co.za ESSENTIAL VITAMINS & OMEGAS FOR MOM & BABY Chela-Preg® Trimester specific Evening Capsules are uniquely formulated for the first, second & third trimesters, giving Mom and Baby the essential vitamins and omegas at every stage of…

Thinking about when my 1-year-old learnt the word Fish and walked around calling everyone Bish for three days! @oneawkwardmom In three words, I can sum up the most important thing I know about motherhood: Everything. Is. Temporary. @momquotesinspire A mother's love is the fuel that enables a normal human being to do the impossible. @dailymotherlythoughts Parenting expert: “Children model the behaviour they see.” Me: “False. They see me clean, but they do not clean.” @themarvelousmrsmom Welcome to adulthood. You get mad when they rearrange the grocery store now. @mommunited We are driving around Joburg, and my son (3) sees a 4x4. “Look mom! A Ford by Ford” – Jesse Davidson from Marais Steyn Park…

To enter, send a good-quality photo to us at sharing@ypbmagazine.com WIN ONE OF EIGHT KRUD KUTTER HAMPERS WORTH R855! Little people make big messes, but Krud Kutter makes cleaning quick and easy. These professional-strength cleaners are tough on krud but gentle on nature, giving you powerful cleaning and peace of mind. Rust-Oleum South Africa rustoleumsouthafrica…

Photographs: Getty Images/Gallo Images and supplied.…

Toners LETISHA BAGWANDEEN FROM UMZINTO, KZN, makes her own toner with 200ml of rooibos tea, 6 drops of tea tree oil and 1t of apple cider vinegar. Let the tea cool down in a bottle, and then add the other ingredients. Shake before use. It also works as a refreshing mist spray. No more pimples or blackheads! TIYANA VAN DER RHEEDE FROM CAPE TOWN says this toner will have you revelling in what you see in the mirror. Mix one part apple cider vinegar and two parts water, then dip a cotton ball or pad into the solution, and swipe across your freshly cleansed face. Quick & easy solutions with ingredients from your pantry! Mask it! FACE MASK 1 FOR NOURISHING MOISTURE Whisk an egg, 1T of honey and 1T…

1. ULTRASOUND SCAN An ultrasound scan uses sound waves that bounce off your baby to create an image of him inside the womb that shows up on a screen. These are the regular scans you go for at set stages of pregnancy to check on various aspects, such as how many weeks pregnant you are, the sex of your baby, and whether he's developing well. Ultrasound scans are also used to measure baby's growth and monitor possible growth problems. 2. DOPPLER SCAN A Doppler is a type of ultrasound scan that uses reflected sound waves to see how blood flows through a blood vessel. It measures the blood flow to different parts of your baby's body, including his brain, heart and umbilical cord. The test will show whether or not…

It involves epidural anaesthesia that is administered in the usual way, but with a different mix of meds. It numbs the sensory nerves without suppressing the motor nerves. If it works well, you can be mobile, but you will need to be under the watchful eye of a labour partner or midwife throughout. It's not popular with doctors, as it's highly unpredictable and also works differently with different women. It also means that the anaesthetist will have to be on hand for a longer period of time, which will make the birth more expensive.…

The first outing with your new baby is probably this giant mountain that's lying in front of you. But you and Baby will need to venture into the wide world at some point – for the first visit to the breastfeeding clinic or for her six-week appointment with the paediatrician, at the very least. What to pack in the baby bag □ Moist wipes. □ A “spoegdoek” – those white cloth nappies work a charm – to toss over your shoulder when you're winding her. □ At least two extra nappies. □ Bags for dirty nappies. They have handles that tie easily and are also scented. Check the baby shelves of your closest supermarket. □ Bum cream. Look out for free samples of your favourite brand when next you're at…

Baby colic is officially diagnosed when a healthy, well-fed infant of younger than 5 months cries for more than three hours at a time more than three times a week for longer than three months. If this is your fate, is there anything you can do other than burst out in tears yourself? Although the causes are not really clear, we do know that it usually starts at around 2 weeks in term babies and somewhat later in premature babies. We know it stops by itself around 3 or 4 months and that it doesn't matter whether Baby is a boy or a girl. You also can't do much to prevent it. The only known risk factors are exposure to cigarette smoke – during pregnancy and after the birth. WHEN…

Considering that babies sleep more than 50 percent of the time, it's astonishing that they have the time to rob their parents of so much of it. On paper, babies should be no trouble at all, and leave their parents with plenty of time to work, do chores, relax – and get enough sleep of their own. But nothing could be further from the truth. Sleep is the number one problem for new parents, and we'll tell you why: precisely because of the myth of the “sleeping baby”. Getting a baby to sleep, at the right times, for the right stretches of time, without waking in between, with a sufficient number of naps, and without sustaining psychological damage (to yourself or your baby!) – well, it's one tough task. And…

BOYS ✔ Are more likely to play with their faeces. ✔ Are usually messier than girls when using the bathroom. ✔ Should be taught to wait until the drip stops. ✔ Must be taught that the toilet seat must always go down after having a wee. ✔ Can go along with Dad to the loo so that he can learn that boys do it differently to girls. When he is ready, place a piece of toilet paper in the bowl that he can “aim” for. If he prefers to sit, then reassure him that this is also fine. ✔ Are more prone to bed-wetting. GIRLS ✔ Usually potty train earlier than boys. ✔ Tend to be neater than boys and are usually more eager to get involved if the routine…

In a world filled with violence, stress, anxiety and global fatigue, it's important to raise our children with a strong view to building a brighter future. Teaching your child empathy is a vital part of that. WHAT IS EMPATHY? Lizanne du Plessis, Cape Town based author of the book Raising Happy Children, describes empathy as the ability to care. It's that deep heartfelt feeling, the refined emotion that enables us to understand someone else's emotions and then to respond with care. Ultimately, empathy is the capacity to put ourselves in another person's shoes. Empathy can be quite complex, explains Joburg-based psychologist Lomé Koekemoer. A child needs to understand that he is separate from others; he needs to recognise his own emotions and that these are often different to what others…

1 TEXTURED BOOKS Books with interactive elements such as raised textures and flaps will provide stimulation for eyes and fingers. Reading a story that a child can interact with helps build a bond between you and keeps her interested while you read. 2 BLOCKS Helping to build towers of blocks, then letting your baby knock them down, will teach her cause and effect. This is where she starts realising that she has the power to change her environment. Blocks that click together are also good for developing fine motor skills. 3 TOY PHONE Babies just love gadgets, especially ones with buttons, noises and flashes, and those that mimic adult equipment such as phones and laptops. They also encourage role play and develop imagination, and many teach colours, numbers or words. 4 DOLLS AND TEDDIES…

The body's reaction to proteins in certain foods, insect stings, pollens, house dust mites and/or other trigger substances such as antibiotics. Babies and children are more likely to develop allergies if there is a history of eczema, asthma, hay fever or food allergies in the family. Many children outgrow their allergies to milk or eggs, but a peanut allergy is generally life-long. SYMPTOMS ■ Allergic reactions can affect the nose, eyes, airways, ears, digestive system and skin (including in the form of eczema). Symptoms depend on the type of allergy and range from mild, such as a runny or itchy nose, to severe, such as difficulty breathing. ■ Symptoms can be similar to other common childhood illnesses, making it tricky to tell if it's an allergy or not. Consult your…

A blocked tear duct, or a tear duct that has failed to open may fill with fluid and become inflamed, sometimes even infected. It can occur at any age, but is common among babies. SYMPTOMS ■ Heavy tearing. ■ A yellow or white build-up in the corner of the eye. ■ Redness and swelling around the eye or nose. This can indicate an infection. ■ Severe infection can cause fever, pain, increased redness and swelling and mucous or pus in the eye. TREATMENT ■ Most babies do not require treatment; the blockage will clear itself. ■ To prevent infection keep the eye clean and wipe away excess tears with a clean cotton ball. ■ Limit time spent in wind, cold and sunlight. ■ If infection occurs, it is necessary to…

A highly contagious viral infection that causes a rash across the entire body. In children it is usually a very mild disease. In rare cases complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis can occur. Chicken pox can be dangerous to pregnant women, with a two to three percent chance of the unborn baby developing a birth defect. SYMPTOMS ■ Begins with one or two tiny red blisters on the back or chest. ■ Spots become very itchy. ■ Spots develop into small, clear fluid-filled blisters and a red area forms behind them. ■ The rash is mostly confined to the chest, back, face and head but can spread to other parts of the body. ■ Older children may develop a high fever and look quite ill, while younger children may only…

A mild upper respiratory tract infection caused by one of the many strains of viruses. It is usually harmless, although it might not feel that way. SYMPTOMS ■ Cough, runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, sore throat and watery eyes. ■ Mild fever. ■ Decreased appetite and trouble nursing or taking a bottle due to nasal congestion. TREATMENT ■ Rest and plenty of fluids. ■ Ease nasal congestion with a nasal bulb syringe and saline solution. ■ Humidifiers help to keep the air moist and can ease congestion. ■ Paracetamol for pain associated with colds and flu. ■ Administer a cough syrup to ease a cough, and a vapour gel to open airways and allow your child to sleep better. ■ Supplementing with a multivitamin helps prevent colds. Always stick to…

Cradle cap is a greasy, yellowish, scaly rash that appears in patches on the scalps of young infants. It generally appears within the first three months of life and is common not only in babies from birth to eight months, but toddlers too. The patches can start to flake off over time. It may look painful, but it isn't, and isn't even itchy. SYMPTOMS ■ It looks like a bad case of dandruff. ■ Yellow, greasy, scaly patches on the scalp. ■ The patches aren't limited to the scalp: the neck, face, nappy area and nose can also be affected. TREATMENT ■ Wash baby's hair with a baby shampoo, and then loosen the flakes using a soft brush. ■ Rub a cradle cap cream onto your baby's scalp. If you…

An abnormal increase in the frequency and liquidity of the stools. A runny tummy can be caused by viruses, infections and allergies. Sometimes taking antibiotics can also cause diarrhoea. SYMPTOMS ■ Frequent runny stools. ■ Stomach cramps, nausea and vomiting (typical but not always). ■ Headache, loss of appetite (not always). TREATMENT ■ Treat at home unless there is blood in the stool or your child shows signs of dehydration. ■ Push fluids (including oral rehydration solutions) and watch for dehydration. ■ Contact your doctor if there is blood in your baby's stool, severe or continuous stomach ache or diarrhoea and vomiting all at once.…

It is most common amongst under-fives. It's caused by an allergic reaction to something in the child's environment, such as pollen, chlorine, washing detergents or other chemicals in the household. SYMPTOMS ■ Dry, itchy skin patches. ■ Skin may become infected through scratching. TREATMENT ■ If your child has never had it before, take him to a doctor to have it diagnosed. ■ Eliminate the cause of the allergic reaction, if possible. Use soap and laundry products that are suitable for sensitive skin. ■ Keep skin moisturised in order to avoid rashes and use, if possible, ointments prescribed by the doctor. Do not scratch. ■ Antihistamines and steroid creams may be prescribed.…

A contagious infection of the stomach and bowel that causes diarrhoea in babies and children. Usually caused by a group of viruses (rotaviruses) that attack the gut, but bacteria can also be the cause. SYMPTOMS ■ Vomiting and/or diarrhoea. ■ Abdominal pain. ■ Loss of appetite. ■ Mild fever (not always). TREATMENT ■ Most stomach viruses clear up within five days and require only home treatment. ■ Push fluids (including oral rehydration solutions) and watch for dehydration. ■ Treat fever. (See “F”). ■ Seek medical attention if there are signs of dehydration, if it continues longer than five days or there is blood in the stool or the baby experiences prolonged abdominal pains.…

A mild but very contagious illness caused by the entovirus coxsackie A6 and A16 virus. This illness is very common among children under the age of 10 years. SYMPTOMS ■ Tiredness and fever. ■ Appearance of blisters in or around the mouth. ■ Loss of appetite. ■ Sore throat. ■ Rash made up of tiny blisters on palms of hand and soles of feet. TREATMENT ■ No special treatment is necessary; illness will pass within seven to 10 days. ■ Ibuprofen may be used for aches and pains. Never give aspirin to a person under 18 unless directed to by a doctor. ■ Push fluids and watch for signs of dehydration.…

A common, usually harmless condition in newborns causing the yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes. It's caused by a buildup of bilirubin – a yellow substance produced when blood cells are broken down in the blood. In newborns the build-up occurs because their livers are not fully developed and therefore cannot always remove the bilirubin. Jaundice in older children is most commonly caused by infections. Certain drugs used to treat tuberculosis and epilepsy can cause it. SYMPTOMS ■ Yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes. ■ Yellowing of the palms of the hands or the soles of the feet. ■ Dark, yellow urine. ■ Pale coloured stools (newborns’ stool should be yellow or orange coloured). NORMAL NEONATAL JAUNDICE WILL GET BETTER WITHOUT TREATMENT…

Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord (the meninges). The infection causes the meninges to become inflamed, which in some cases damages the nerves and brain. The infection is caused by either bacteria or viruses. Bacterial meningitis is more serious as it can lead to septicaemia (blood poisoning), which is fatal. The symptoms of viral meningitis are usually not as severe (they are similar to flu). However, only a blood test can determine which form of meningitis your child has, so it's important to treat every suspected case of meningitis as a medical emergency. SYMPTOMS ■ High fever, with cold hands and feet. ■ Vomiting and refusal to feed/eat. ■ Agitation and not wanting to be held. ■ Drowsiness, floppiness and unresponsiveness. ■ Grunting;…

A viral disease caused by one of three types of polio viruses: 1, 2 or 3. It is contagious. The severity of polio varies from case to case. In about 95 percent of cases there will be no symptoms. The remaining 5 percent who display symptoms either have non-paralytic polio or paralytic polio. Those with non-paralytic polio usually make a full recovery. Those who have paralytic polio will suffer from muscle paralysis. Paralytic polio can be fatal. SYMPTOMS ■ Non-paralytic: mild fever, sore throat, headache and/or stiffness in neck and back. ■ Paralytic: the same as above plus muscle aches and spasms, loss of reflexes, floppy limbs, muscle paralysis, sometimes only on one side of the body, can move to respiratory system. TREATMENT ■ Get urgent medical attention. Paralytic polio…

You have until 30 August to enter your little girl(s), so book that shoot or take some time getting a great shot! We need two winners, one for our next cover, and one for the cover of our sister magazine, Baba & Kleuter. These will be the last covers of 2025, so the 2026 competition will start later in the year with a call to enter for boys. A huge thank you to our sponsors: Chela-Preg, Epi-Max, Panado and Safeway Babies. Each winner receives prizes worth more than R4 000 from the sponsors. Turn to pages 10 & 11 to see what you can win and to the back of this magazine for the full terms and conditions. Use #CoverStarSearch on social media, so you stay up to date on…

E-mail your letter to sharing@ypbmagazine.com and you could win. WIN A BABY EINSTEIN HAMPER WORTH R4000! The Baby Einstein Ocean Explorers Curious Comfort Compact Swing is a multidirectional swing that engages infants with music, vibration, nature sounds and sensory toys. It has three swinging directions, two recline positions, six swing speeds, and a seat that rotates 180 degrees, and also Earl the Elephant to calm baby day or night, with Earl's Sound Explorer Day-to-Night Bluetooth Soother. @babyeinstein_southafrica Follow us on social media for regular updates. @ypbmagazine @babaenkleuter_tydskrif @ypbplanner @coverstarsearch…

OUR NEW WHATSAPP# Tertia de Klerk from Kuilsriver was super excited when the ZURU prize arrived for her daughter Esti. All she did was enter one of the giveaways in Your Pregnancy & Baby magazine. It's as easy as popping us a WhatsApp with the details we list on our #winning page to 076 433 4384. Check it out and enter – you could be our next winner! See page 27 of this issue. WE LOVE WINNERS We love it when our readers send us their photos! Preggie photos, baby photos and family photos… and then we also love to spoil them! Email us at sharing@ypbmagazine.com. EVEN OUR “OLD” MAGAZINES ARE SOUGHT AFTER “Dear Your Pregnancy & Baby magazine. A heartfelt thanks for the generous support of our Pregnancy Awareness…

To enter send a clear, good quality photo to us at sharing@ypbmagazine.com new WIN A GIFT HAMPER FROM CARRIWELL WORTH R2 200! Carriwell premium organic maternity pads are designed specifically for the sensitive needs of new mothers. Made from 100 percent natural organic materials with no plastic, parabens, dyes or fragrances, these maternity pads provide extreme comfort and peace of mind during the post-partum period and are a healthier, eco-friendly alternative to regular maternity pads. R59,99 from Baby City, Babies R Us, Dis-Chem, Woolworths, Clicks Baby Stores, Checkers Little Me, leading baby and maternity stores and pharmacies. winner…

new We've loved this stylish brand forever, and now you can buy their car seats too, to match all your other great Thule gear. The new-to-market award-winning car seat collection is designed with state-of-the-art safety, comfort and ease of use, featuring: ■ Thule Impact Protection System for superior crash safety, designed and tested in the world-class Thule Test Center. ■ SenseAffirm technology for foolproof installation every time. ■ EasyDock system for seamless transitions from car to stroller. The Thule Maple Infant Seat is ideal from birth to 15 months and the Thule Elm Toddler Seat from 6 months to 4 years. Available online at thulestore.co.za and at leading Thule and Thule partner stores. Thule Maple infant seat Thule Elm toddler seat…

Our favourite baby shopping destination has launched a great new service called “Chat to a Nurse” – and it does exactly what it says. Get the advice you need in three simple steps. 1. Log into your online Babies R Us profile. 2. Click on events and courses, and select “chat to a nurse”. 3. Then choose a date and time slot for a 15-minute call-back from a registered nurse and midwife. You're in good hands! Sister Claire has more than 34 years of experience to share. Also see our Q&A with her on page 53. Visit babiesrus.co.za/chat-to-nurse to find out more. Chat-to-a-nurse BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE… All new mamas, seasoned mamas, and soon-to-be mamas are invited to join Babies R Us Real Mama Club events where you'll be guided…

■ POCSCREEN A genetic test for examining miscarriage tissue to better understand chromosomal abnormalities that could have caused the loss, to ultimately provide reproductive counselling. ■ CARRIER SCREENING A pre-conception genetic test to assess the risk of passing on genetic conditions to your child. ■ PREIMPLANTATION GENETIC TESTING (PGT) Used during IVF to screen embryos for chromosomal abnormalities and genetic variations. ■ ENDOMETRIAL HEALTH TESTING Evaluates the uterine lining's readiness to support embryo implantation. ■ NON-INVASIVE PRENATAL TESTING (NIPT) This test has revolutionised prenatal care by offering a safe and accurate method to detect chromosomal abnormalities as early as 10 weeks into pregnancy, reducing the need for invasive procedures. Go to nextbio.co.za to find out more.…

1 Get over your fear of nappies. Initially, it's no worse than a dash of Dijon mustard, and after that, well, you'll love your little pooh machine more than you ever thought it possible to love something. 2 Everything is just a phase. Your partner's moodiness, dreaminess, farting, weight gain, general stabbiness, deranged appetite and, yes, unfortunately, her increased boob size, will all pass. 3 Never ever compare. All babies pass their developmental milestones at different stages. Forget this, and you'll be promoted to vice marshal of the mommy wars quicker than you can say social media. 4 You will have sex again. Soon, tiger, and it will be better than it ever was. 5 Don't start saying, “We're pregnant.” She's pregnant. You're just a hairy chauffeur. 6 Antenatal classes.…

It's a good idea to know, more or less, how often your baby moves each day from the 25-week mark onwards. That way, if there's a decrease or a sudden stop in movement, you'll know to get in touch with your healthcare practitioner straight away. The general rule is that babies should move around four or more times in an hour, but every baby is different, so don't worry if yours doesn't stick to this schedule! What's more important is knowing your baby's normal pattern of movement: when during the day (or night) he's most active, around how many times an hour he kicks, rolls or pokes his elbow into your rib cage during these active times, and so on. A good way to track movement is to lie on…

OUR EXPERT Q I'm having a scheduled c-section in a few months’ time, simply because my first was also a c-section and I'm not a good candidate for a vaginal birth. The first one was an emergency, and I was separated from my baby for a few days. I didn't even attempt breastfeeding as I was really ill. This time, I really want to nurse my baby, but I've read that having a caesar can have a negative effect on the potential success. What do I need to know? A SISTER BRITZ answers: Congratulations! A second baby is exciting, but you can be overwhelmed by emotions from your birth experience with your first child. Although that is your only reference, each pregnancy and every birth is different, and the circumstances…

ere's how we did it TAMMY PETERSON FROM KIMBERLEY, MOM OF CANDICE (3) AND ANNIE (3 MONTHS) “Annie was 10 days old when I took her out for the first time to walk. I always carry her in a sling, so that she can feel and smell me. I don't go anywhere without her changing mat, which has pockets for nappies and wetwipes. It has everything I need and folds up like a small handbag. She's my second child, so I don't really lug around bags of stuff like I did with Candice when she was a small baby.” THANDI SINGO FROM DURBAN, MOM OF SIHLE (8 MONTHS) “I never felt trapped at home, but after our first outing I made a point of leaving the house every day for…

Q My toddler of 2 years doesn't like textured foods like oats, mealie meal and red meat. He tends to vomit when he swallows. What should I do? How can I help him? A NATALIEN VAN DALEN ANSWERS: Having a child who is a fussy eater can be very frustrating. Aside from making mealtimes difficult, it is also a nutritional concern. But before understanding how to help your child, it is important to have a general understanding of food aversions, or dislikes. Food aversions are complex in nature, with a variety of causes, but are generally due to sensory problems or oral motor issues. Eating is an experience rich in sensory inputs obtained through smell, visual appearance, taste, temperature and texture. We have five basic senses: vision, hearing, smell, taste…

Pinching, biting and hitting out – who knew toddlers could be so angry? Before you think you have a future Mike Tyson on your hands or start considering military style boarding schools for her, consider why she could be behaving like this. Aggression is not only quite common during these years, but it's also completely normal. These little people of ours have big, big feelings they're trying to deal with. MAJOR MELTDOWN Three-year-old Thomas was in the middle of a meltdown. It was as if his brain was short circuiting. There was no way of reaching him – he couldn't listen, comprehend or reason, recalls his mom, Fiona Adams. “He writhed on the bed with no sense of risk of self-harm, knocking his head into the wall and the headboard.…

WHAT YOU'LL NEED ■ a sturdy box ■ wooden pegs ■ different colours of paint ■ paintbrush HOW TO MAKE IT 1. Paint the pegs in different colours. 2. Paint a big blob of all the colours all along the edge of the box. 3. Show your child how to pinch the peg and release it once they've identified a colour match. Older babies practise their pincer grip this way, and older children can even learn to name colours this way. For the latter, primary colours work best.…

From the moment I left Cape Town and stepped off the plane in Dubai in 2013, a sense of possibility hung in the air. That initial one-year plan took a delightful detour when I quite literally bumped into my now-husband, Cam, another South African who had also made the move from Johannesburg that same year. It felt like fate: a serendipitous meeting that instantly made a foreign land feel a little more like home. Working together at the incredible non-profit Dubai English Speaking Schools has provided us with opportunities we never imagined, allowing us to explore the world while always ensuring we can return to our beloved South Africa at least twice a year – a vital connection to our strong roots. Our South African identity remains a strong thread…

The inflammation of the appendix. If not detected and treated early, the appendix may burst open. This can be life threatening. SYMPTOMS ■ Loss of appetite, vomiting, fever and diarrhoea (typical, but not always). ■ Persistent pain in the abdomen (always). ■ Pain usually starts in the centre (near the belly button) and then moves to the lower right side of the abdomen. This area will be tender and sore if touched. ■ If your child has pain on the lower right side of her tummy, ask her to jump up and down. If it's excruciatingly sore for her to do this, she's likely to have appendicitis. TREATMENT ■ Appendicitis can progress quickly and be life threatening. It requires urgent medical attention. Go straight to hospital or call an ambulance.…

A contagious viral infection of the bronchioles – the tiny airways that lead to the lungs. The bronchioles become inflamed, swell and fill with mucous, making it difficult to breathe. Bronchiolitis mainly affects children up to two years old – most commonly around six months old. SYMPTOMS ■ First symptoms are usually the same as a common cold: stuffiness, runny nose, mild cough and mild fever. ■ These symptoms last a day or two and are followed by worsening of the cough and a wheezing when breathing. TREATMENT ■ Parents should seek medical attention if the child seems to be worsening. A child who is grunting, appears to be tiring, stops breathing, or has bluecolored skin (cyanosis) needs urgent medical attention. If symptoms do not worsen or persist, no medical…

Small and painful blisters that can appear around the mouth, face or nose. Also called fever blisters. It is caused by a highly contagious virus that kids can pick up from being kissed or sharing eating utensils with someone who has the virus. SYMPTOMS ■ Tingling or numbness around or inside the mouth or nose before the blister appears. ■ Gums can become red and swollen (not always). ■ Fever, muscle aches, loss of appetite, swollen neck glands and irritability (not common). TREATMENT ■ The blister usually disappears without any treatment after about one week. ■ No medication can make it go away but some treatments, such as topical creams, can be used to speed up the process and make it less painful.…

An eye infection that causes the inflammation of the tissue lining the eyelids, leading the eye to become bloodshot (pink eye). In children it is most commonly caused by bacteria, but can also be caused by a virus and sometimes even allergies. It is highly contagious and spreads through skin-to-skin contact. SYMPTOMS ■ Redness in the eye. ■ Yellowish discharge. ■ Crusty eyes. ■ Blurry vision. TREATMENT ■ If caused by a bacterial infection, a doctor may prescribe antibiotic drops. ■ If caused by a virus or allergy, no medication is required. ■ Keep your child's eye clean by washing it with cotton wool soaked in tepid water several times a day.…

Difficulty breathing accompanied by a hoarse and/ or barking cough caused by swelling below the vocal cords. Croup tends to appear in children between three months and five years old, but it can happen at any age. SYMPTOMS ■ Hoarse cough. ■ Fever (typically but not always). ■ Stridor (noisy breathing – see “S”). ■ Hoarseness of voice and difficulty breathing (typically, but not always). ■ In the most serious case of bacterial croup (acute epiglottitis), all the above symptoms as well as difficulty swallowing and drooling. ■ Within a few minutes or hours, the condition may worsen. Breathing may become very difficult. The child may become blue or even unconscious. TIP EXPOSING YOUR CHILD TO MOIST AIR, SUCH AS A STEAMY BATHROOM MAY ALSO HELP WITH THE BREATHING. TREATMENT…

A highly contagious bacterial infection that affects the membranes of the throat and nose. If left untreated, it can cause severe damage to kidneys, the nervous system and heart. It can be fatal. SYMPTOMS ■ Symptoms appear two to five days after infection. ■ Most visible symptom is a thick, grey coating on the throat and tonsils. ■ Other common symptoms include: difficulty breathing, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, chills, fever, a loud barking cough, sore throat, drooling, bluish skin. ■ Glands and/or neck may swell (not always). CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR OR CLINIC IF THERE IS BLOOD IN YOUR BABY'S STOOL, SEVERE OR CONTINUOUS STOMACH ACHE OR DIARRHOEA AND VOMITING ALL AT ONCE. TREATMENT ■ Urgent medical treatment, often hospitalisation. ■ Diphtheria vaccination (DTaP) included in the state vaccination…

A body temperature that is higher than normal usually accompanied by shivering, headache, and in severe instances, delirium. Normal body temperature is between 36°C and 37°C, but this can vary by a few points of a degree from child to child. Always know what your child's normal body temperature is when they are well. Fever is not an illness itself, but rather a symptom of a condition, usually an infection. It is a body's natural way of fighting off infection. Generally, it is not a cause for alarm unless it is too high, lasts for too long and/or is accompanied by other symptoms. If your child seems to be otherwise well (they're playing, eating and attentive) they probably aren't seriously ill. SYMPTOMS ■ Temperature is above your child's normal range.…

A contagious viral infection characterised by a red spotty rash. In children it's usually mild but can be serious in pregnant women, as it can cause foetal deformities. SYMPTOMS ■ Spotty red-pink skin rash. ■ Swollen glands around the head and neck. ■ Fever, cough, runny nose, aching and painful joints (not always). TREATMENT ■ Always visit a doctor, even though nothing more than home treatment is required. The illness usually resolves itself within seven to 10 days. ■ Treat fever as per normal. (See “F”). ■ A combination German measles/rubella vaccination (MMR – measles, mumps and rubella) is available privately. It is not included in the state vaccination schedule.…

Mild to severe pain in the head, usually the frontal area. In children it is often caused by missing a meal or dehydration – usually because of playing without drinking liquids like water. Unexplained headaches can sometimes be linked to emotional problems. SYMPTOMS ■ Pain in the head: can be sharp or throbbing. ■ Pre-verbal children may be difficult and/or bang their head persistently. ■ Headaches in children can affect their stomachs, so often comes with a tummy ache and possibly also vomiting. ■ Paleness and sometimes listlessness. TREATMENT ■ Children's headaches usually pass quickly and require no more treatment than food, fluids, a cool cloth on their forehead and rest in a quiet dark room. ■ Paracetamol or ibuprofen may be used if needed. Never give aspirin to a…

A potentially serious and life-threatening illness spread by mosquitoes. Particularly common in hot, tropical areas and parts of South Africa. It remains the leading cause of death in children under five years in Africa. Symptoms usually start 10 days to four weeks after being bitten. SYMPTOMS ■ Irritability. ■ Drowsiness. ■ Poor appetite. ■ Trouble sleeping. ■ Fever with rapid breathing, as well as chills. The fever rises very quickly and can go up to 40°C. Once the fever has cooled, there is a lot of sweating. This cycle is repeated over two or three days. ■ Headache. ■ Nausea. ■ Aches and pains (especially over the back and over the abdomen). ■ Enlarged spleen. TREATMENT ■ If you suspect your baby or child has malaria, go to the doctor…

A highly contagious viral infection that causes very painful swelling on the side of the face under the ears (the parotid glands). Rarely are there complications which can affect the brain, pancreas and, in adolescent males, the testes. SYMPTOMS ■ Begins with headaches, joint pain, high temperature, loss of appetite, nausea and/ or vomiting. ■ Parotid glands will swell. ■ Pain while chewing or opening the mouth. TREATMENT ■ Mumps isn't usually serious, but it is necessary to see a doctor because the symptoms are similar to other more serious infections, such as glandular fever. ■ No special treatment needed; can be treated at home. ■ Ibuprofen and paracetamol may be used to relieve pain. Never give aspirin to a person under 18 unless directed to by a doctor. ■…

When a baby spits up milk during or after a feed. Reflux (also called posseting) is different from vomiting because there is no forceful muscle contraction in the throat or stomach; baby only passively spits up. Reflux is common among babies and usually a result of the oesophagus being underdeveloped. In most cases it stops between 12 and 14 months. In rare cases reflux can be a sign of a more serious problem, such as gastrooesophageal reflux disease (GORD), a milk allergy or a blockage. SYMPTOMS ■ Spitting up of milk. TREATMENT ■ Medicines are rarely needed for reflux but are available in extreme cases. Speak to your baby's doctor. ■ Burp baby regularly, avoid overfeeding and feeding too quickly. ■ Hold baby upright for a time after feeding. ■…

An inflammatory disease that can develop as a complication from an untreated or improperly treated throat infection or scarlet fever caused by a bacteria called group A streptococcus. Rheumatic fever is not caused by the bacteria itself, but rather by the immune system's response to it. It can be a serious disease as it can damage the heart and lead to chronic heart disease if not treated in time. Children between five and 15 are most often affected, but younger ones and adults can be affected too. Symptoms usually last for four weeks but can continue for several months or even change during the course of the disease. SYMPTOMS ■ Begins with a sore throat. ■ This is followed by painful and tender lymph nodes found under the jaw. ■…

AND THEN THERE WERE FIVE! BUT IT WASN'T AN EASY JOURNEY, RIGHT? Becoming parents wasn't something that came to us easily. My husband, Hannes (37), and I met while we were at school and got married in 2011. We went to Vitalab in Johannesburg for fertility treatment and after many trials, tears and prayers, Karla was born. We consider her one of three miracles in our life. THE OTHER MIRACLES BEING… Our daughters! Karla has two older sisters. Nadia Miné (7) en Mieka Niané (5), and she is the spitting image of them. We're just an ordinary family from Boksburg West. Hannes and I have known each other for 22 years! KARLA'S BIRTH WASN'T EXACTLY ORDINARY THOUGH? Yes, what started as a routine visit to the gynaecologist on 5 March…

Drum roll for #4! Being a mom to four children is such a blessing. It's not always praised or thanked. It is a journey; one that takes time, patience and a whole lot of love. It is sticky fingers wrapped around yours, snotty noses wiped on your shirt, giggles that fill the house, and little handwritten notes left beside your bed. It's watching tiny steps turn into confident strides. Motherhood is also a crucial role. Our world needs stable homes where children are nurtured and virtues are instilled. It's messy, beautiful and absolutely worth it. I am privileged to be called Mom. PS: As I write this letter, Mylo, #4, is already 4 months old! JOY'S PREGNANCY JOURNEY…

WINNING PHOTO WIN A VOUCHER! Send a high-resolution photo of you pregnant, you and your babies or your family, and you could win a Babies R Us voucher worth R500. Email your entry to sharing@ypbmagazine.com with the subject ”BabiesRUs”. Include your ID number, contact details and nearest Babies R Us store. At 16 weeks preggie, we gave our doc's envelope (with the gender reveal inside) to a baker who made up the sponge cake in the appropriate colour! We had a romantic picnic in our garden, cut the cake and had our own private reveal. SJ is a musician, so we used one of his songs as the background music. Then we sent the video recording of our reveal to family and friends first, then posted on social media. The…

WIN A VOUCHER VALUED AT R350 Send a clear, good-quality, high-resolution photo to sharing@ypbmagazine.com. Each photo published receives a R350 Babies R Us Voucher.…

It's a fact: the average child gets a cold or flu six to eight times a year. So, since it is almost impossible to avoid colds and flu altogether, you need a plan to fight winter coughs, sniffles and sneezes when they happen. KNOW THE DIFFERENCE “The flu is an infection of the nose, throat and lungs by influenza viruses, which are most infectious from around May to September in South Africa,” explains Dr Liezl Zühlke, a Cape Town based paediatric cardiologist. Health tip Teach your tot to sneeze into a tissue and throw it away to prevent colds and flu from spreading. WHEN TO SEE THE DOCTOR The flu can be very dangerous for children. Each year, thousands of children under 5 years are hospitalised with flu complications such…

We all want to help, but often don't know how or where. The Anton Lubowski Educational Trust has two ideas… Donate new or gently used storybooks: Early literacy builds a strong foundation for future success. Storybooks inspire imagination and help children fall in love with learning. Contribute to their nutrition drive Just R40 provides a nutritionally dense hot meal through their soup kitchen, and R500 can feed an entire household of six for two weeks through their food parcel programme. Every bit of nourishment helps families focus, grow, and thrive. Read more about ALET and Anton Lubowski's legacy at alet.org.za. TOUGH but trending… Need a kick up the backside? Then Kylie Perkins is the gal to follow! Check her out on TikTok (@sociallykylie) for some tough love advice on how…

Women with a too-low body-mass index (BMI) have an increased risk of a miscarriage than women with a healthy BMI. A healthy BMI for women is between 18,5 and 24,9. Your body should be strong and healthy to be able to sustain a pregnancy, Dr Puzey says. Another big risk factor is smoking, as well as excessive alcohol and drug use. “Research also shows that too much caffeine – more than two cups per day – can raise the risk for a miscarriage.” OTHER RISK FACTORS INCLUDE ■ AGE Women older than 35 have a higher risk than younger women. At age 35 you have a 20 percent chance of having a miscarriage; at 40 that figure goes up to 40 percent. The age of the dad seldomly plays a…

It's month seven, and friends, family and well-meaning strangers keep commenting on how “small” your belly is. Don't panic: there are plenty of reasons why your baby bump may appear petite. Your build, the position baby's lying in, the amount of amniotic fluid, and your genetics (some people are just small!) can all make your bump look like it's on the small side. “Most women who are told they're “small” will have a normally grown, appropriate sized baby on board,” reassures Joburg-based obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Bronwyn Moore. In fewer cases, however, it could be because baby's not growing at a healthy rate. “The most common reason for this is that the placenta can't pass on enough nutrition to baby,” Dr Moore says. Doctors call this intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR),…

One of the upsides of pregnancy is that you don't have a period for nine months. An added bonus for breastfeeding moms is even more time without a visit from Auntie Flo. But she does, eventually, make her return. When quizzed about post-pregnancy periods, medical professionals are hesitant to give hard and fast rules, purely because each women's body is so unique. “No two women will have exactly the same post-birth experience when it comes to periods. The only thing that is for certain is that postpartum periods are completely unpredictable,” says Dr Peter Koll, retired gynaecologist and obstetrician. “There are so many scenarios that are all normal. As long as it is not a nuisance or dramatically impacts your quality of life, then do not stress.” If you are…

Planning a shopping trip with kids? Sandton City offers a family-friendly experience, putting convenience and comfort first. Their free-to-use baby care lounge is located on the lower level, near entrance 4, and includes a full kitchen, a baby changing area, feeding rooms, and a play zone, making parenting on-the-go easier. Dedicated moms-and-tots parking bays, located near the main entrances, add convenience from entrance to exit. Recent bathroom upgrades feature nursing rooms and purified water dispensers for added comfort. Sandton City is also home to a variety of coveted local and international family-focused retailers for all your baby and kids’ apparel and lifestyle products. sandtoncity.com…

Swollen gums, drooling, restlessness and chewing fingers or toys are all signs that indicate your baby may be teething. While some parents sail through the teething process with their babies, others experience frustration. There is no telling how long or uncomfortable the process will be for each baby, but the advice of trusted dentists and other parents will help ease you through this period as your baby's pearly whites appear. THE BASICS OF TEETHING Nelspruit dentist Marike de Beer says that the first tooth usually appears at around 6 months old. In some babies, this may occur sooner and even later in others. “The lower incisors are first to erupt, followed by the 10 upper and 10 lower teeth until about the age of 2 years. In rare cases, a…

WHAT YOU'LL NEED ■ a glove ■ cotton stuffing or padding ■ needle and thread and/or material glue ■ pair of scissors ■ pieces of felt or cloth, buttons, plastic netting and small tassels for decoration HOW TO MAKE IT 1. Stuff the glove with cotton or padding. Close the top of the glove so that the padding can't fall out. 2. Cut face parts out of the felt or material. 3. Use your added extras to create faces – sew on with needle and thread or stick on using the material glue.…

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is the most commonly diagnosed mental disorder among children. Children with ADHD have trouble concentrating, are hyperactive and/or unable to control their impulses. Researchers believe several factors may lead to it, ranging from genetics to a chemical imbalance in the brain, an injury to the brain, poor nutrition or smoking, drinking or substance abuse during pregnancy. SYMPTOMS ■ Excessive hyperactivity and impulsiveness. ■ Inattentiveness. ■ Note that all of these are actually normal behaviours for toddlers and young children. These behaviours are usually only symptoms of ADHD if extreme and your child displays at least two of the three consistently. TREATMENT ■ ADHD is commonly misdiagnosed and parents are encouraged to make sure their children are thoroughly assessed by experts before a diagnosis is given…

Asthma is a respiratory disorder that causes chronic inflammation and swelling of the bronchial tubes. Asthma can be life threatening if not properly managed. SYMPTOMS ■ A frequent and/or chronic cough. ■ Rapid or laboured breathing. ■ Tight chest. ■ Wheezing or whistling sound when breathing. ■ Shortness or loss of breath. ■ Tight neck and chest muscles. ■ Tiredness and/or weakness. APPENDICITIS CAN PROGRESS QUICKLY AND BE LIFE THREATENING. IT REQUIRES URGENT MEDICAL ATTENTION. GO STRAIGHT TO HOSPITAL OR CALL AN AMBULANCE. TREATMENT ■ Consult your doctor or clinic if you suspect asthma. If diagnosed, asthma can be treated at home. Fortunately, children often outgrow their asthma. ■ A bronchodilator relieves the spasm that an asthma sufferer experiences, however, an inhaled steroid (from an asthma pump) is the mainstay…

When your baby starts crawling, pulling himself up onto furniture to ‘coast’, and eventually walking, he's bound to collect a few bumps and bruises along the way. SYMPTOMS ■ Blue, green, yellow, purple discolouring of the skin. ■ A raised area on the skin that's sensitive to the touch. TREATMENT ■ If the bruise looks sore, hold a cold gel pack, wrapped in cloth, to the area to relieve swelling. You can also use a partially thawed pack of frozen peas wrapped in cloth if you don't have an ice pack. ■ Apply a treatment like Arnica Gel to ease the pain. ■ Always trust your motherly instinct – if you feel your baby needs to see a doctor just in case, take him, as he might need a mild…

Colic is evidenced in long bouts of crying that cannot be soothed, usually at around the same time daily. SYMPTOMS ■ Your baby will draw his legs up to his abdomen, arch his back, and seem to be in pain. ■ Frequent bouts of intense crying that don't stop when you try to console your baby. ■ In rare cases breastfed babies may become fussy soon after a feed, because of something you ate that's come through your milk – like chocolate, caffeine, onions, broccoli or cauliflower – which can make them gassy. TREATMENT ■ Your doctor may suggest an anti-spasmodic solution to reduce discomfort. ■ Note symptoms after feeding and talk about them with your doctor. Babies can sometimes be allergic to foods you've eaten that pass through your…

Unable to pass stools, either because of “keeping it in” (in older toddlers), poor diet or a side effect of gastroenteritis. Sometimes due to food intolerance or allergy. SYMPTOMS ■ Intestinal pain. ■ Abdominal bloating. ■ Small, round, hard stools. ■ Bleeding with stools. Inform your doctor of any bleeding. TREATMENT ■ Boost fibre and water intake in diet. ■ Let baby eat bottled prunes or drink prune juice if on solids. ■ A stool softener or laxative may be used. Chat to your paediatrician about this. ■ Encourage regular toilet times and explain why.…

When the body loses water more quickly than it is replaced: usually due to not drinking enough fluids when it is too hot and/or while playing or exercising. It can also be due to losing fluids too rapidly during an illness that causes sweating from a fever, vomiting and/ or diarrhoea. Babies and small children have a low body weight and are more sensitive to even small amounts of fluid loss. Dehydration can lead to serious health problems and can be fatal if not treated in time. It's important to remember that even if your child is not thirsty, she may still be dehydrated. A better way to tell if your baby is dehydrated or not is to look at her urine. Light coloured urine usually means she is hydrated;…

Painful inflammation of ear tubes which prevents fluid from draining properly. Common in children. It is caused by virus or bacteria entering the ear tubes due to a common cold, allergy or sinus infection. SYMPTOMS ■ Ear pain, especially when lying down. ■ Tugging at ear. ■ Headaches and fever. ■ Loss of balance and appetite. ■ Difficulty hearing and sleeping ■ Irritability and crying more than usual.  TREATMENT ■ Consult your doctor or clinic who will usually prescribe antibiotics. ■ Treat fever as per normal (see “F”). ■ Any kind of blood or pus can be a sign of something more serious.…

A contagious airborne viral infection. Similar symptoms to a cold but more severe. SYMPTOMS ■ Same as common cold (see “C”). ■ Achy muscles, fatigue and chills. ■ Sore throat and swollen glands. ■ Fever. ■ Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhoea (not always). TREATMENT ■ Treat fever as per normal (see “F”). ■ Paracetamol or ibuprofen may be given to ease symptoms. Never give aspirin to a person under 18 unless directed to by a doctor. ■ Push fluids and watch for signs of dehydration. ■ Consult your doctor if symptoms of flu are present. Antiviral medication may be prescribed.…

Aches and pains, usually in the lower legs, that affect children aged between three and 12. Pains start at night, often after a very active day. There is no evidence to suggest that growing pains are caused by growth spurts. This is why some doctors prefer to use the term “recurrent nocturnal limb pain in children”. SYMPTOMS ■ Intense cramp-like pain in both legs. Usually calves, shins or ankles, but can also affect thighs. TREATMENT ■ Ask your doctor to recommend a painkiller. Never give aspirin to a person under 18 unless directed to by a doctor. The use of aspirin has been linked to Reye's Syndrome (a life-threatening metabolic disorder) in children and teenagers. ■ Massage and apply heat packs to affected areas. ■ Stretch the muscles in the…

A contagious bacterial skin infection similar to boils. It usually enters through broken skin (often caused by picking or scratching at insect wounds or eczema). When a child's resistance is low due to another illness, this bacteria can cause a skin infection. The skin becomes red and small blisters appear. These burst, leaving raw, moist sores that get bigger and form yellowgolden crusts. SYMPTOMS ■ Golden crusty skin outbreak with inflamed red lumps that leak pus and then scab over. TREATMENT ■ You need to see your doctor even though the skin infection rarely causes any serious illnesses and can clear up by itself within seven to 10 days. ■ Antibiotics (either oral or a topical cream) may be prescribed by the doctor to clear the infection more quickly and…

A highly contagious virus that causes cold-like symptoms along with a distinctive redbrown spotty rash. While not all that serious itself, measles can lead to serious complications that may be fatal. These include a bacterial infection of the lungs (pneumonia) and/or the brain (encephalitis). Symptoms generally appear about seven to 14 days after infection. SYMPTOMS ■ Cold-like symptoms. ■ Red eyes and sensitivity to light. ■ Fever. ■ Greyish white spots in the mouth and throat. ■ After a few days of these symptoms, a red-brown spotty rash will appear. TREATMENT ■ No specific treatment other than home treatment. The measles should resolve itself after seven to 10 days. ■ Treat fever as per normal. ■ Paracetamol or ibuprofen may be used to relieve fever, aches and pains. ■ Your…

A red rash in babies still wearing nappies. Can be caused by prolonged contact with urine and faeces, and/or by chafing. Some babies may get nappy rash as a reaction to baby wipes or certain detergents. SYMPTOMS ■ The skin may look red and sore and feel hot to touch. ■ Spots, pimples or blisters (not always). ■ May have oral thrush at the same time (see “T”). TREATMENT ■ Change wet or soiled nappies frequently. ■ Clean the whole area thoroughly, wiping from front to back. ■ Use plain water or unscented wipes. ■ Let baby go nappy free as much as possible so the rash can air out. ■ Use a good barrier cream, such as zinc and castor oil. ■ If the rash persists, consult your doctor…

A very common and usually harmless viral illness that is commonly mistaken for measles. It causes a fever and rash in babies and young children. SYMPTOMS ■ A two- to three-day fever. ■ As soon as the fever stops, a rosy red rash typically appears on the trunk, neck and arms. The rash lasts one to two days. This is the main difference between roseola and measles (in measles the fever rises as the rash appears). ■ Sore throat, slight cough and runny nose (not always). ■ Stomach ache, vomiting and diarrhoea (rarely). TREATMENT ■ No special treatment is needed; will resolve within a week. ■ Treat fever as per normal. ■ Contact your doctor if the symptoms worsen or become more frequent and/or severe and if the rash continues…