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What Makes Your Kids Laugh

Children are the most precious treasures, full of wonder and excitement. They are naturally curious about everything. More experience results in more learning, and learning should always be fun and exciting for young budding minds.” – Kidadl Team

Learn what makes your kids laugh and why it’s good for their health and development. πŸ˜‚

What Makes Your Kids Laugh? πŸ˜‚

Laughter is the best medicine, and it’s especially true for kids. Kids love to laugh and have fun, and as parents, we want to make them happy and share their joy. But what makes your kids laugh? What are the things that tickle their funny bones and make them giggle uncontrollably? Here are some possible answers based on research and experience.

Silly Sounds and Words 🎡

Kids are very sensitive to sounds and words, and they find them hilarious when they are unexpected, exaggerated, or nonsensical. For example, kids may laugh at animal noises, funny voices, rhymes, alliterations, tongue twisters, or made-up words. You can try making these sounds and words yourself, or use toys, books, or apps that produce them. The key is to be playful and spontaneous, and join in the laughter with your kids.

Physical Comedy and Surprises 🀑

Kids also love physical comedy and surprises, such as slapstick, pratfalls, tickling, peek-a-boo, or hiding something and revealing it later. These actions create a sense of anticipation, suspense, and relief that trigger laughter in kids. You can use props, costumes, or your own body to perform these actions, or watch shows or videos that feature them. The key is to be safe and gentle, and respect your kids’ boundaries and preferences.

Social Humor and Jokes 😜

As kids grow older, they start to develop a sense of social humor and jokes, such as teasing, sarcasm, irony, puns, or riddles. These forms of humor require a higher level of language and cognitive skills, as well as an understanding of social norms and expectations. Kids may laugh at these jokes when they recognize the incongruity or absurdity of the situation, or when they feel a connection with the person who tells them. You can teach your kids these jokes yourself, or find books, cards, or websites that have them. The key is to be appropriate and kind, and avoid jokes that are hurtful or offensive.

Why Laughter Matters πŸ₯°

Laughter is not only fun, but also beneficial for your kids’ health and development. Laughter can help your kids:

  • Reduce stress and anxiety
  • Boost their immune system and mood
  • Enhance their creativity and learning
  • Strengthen their social and emotional skills
  • Build their self-esteem and resilience

So go ahead and make your kids laugh as much as you can. It’s good for them and for you too!


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Moles on Toddlers: Should Parents Be Worried?

Moles are common skin growths that can appear on any part of the body, including a toddler’s skin. These small dark spots are usually harmless, but sometimes they can be a sign of a more serious condition. As a parent, it’s important to know what to look for when it comes to moles on your toddler’s skin and when to seek medical attention.

What are Moles?

Moles are growths on the skin that are usually brown or black in color. They can vary in size and shape, from small dots to large patches. Moles are caused by the accumulation of pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. They can appear anywhere on the body, but they are most common on areas that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, arms, and legs.

Should Parents Be Worried?

Most moles are harmless and do not require any medical treatment. However, in rare cases, moles can develop into melanoma, a type of skin cancer that can be life-threatening if left untreated. Melanoma is rare in young children, but it can occur. That’s why it’s important for parents to keep an eye on their child’s moles and watch for any changes.

When to Seek Medical Attention

As a general rule, parents should seek medical attention if they notice any changes in their child’s moles. Changes to look for include:

  • Changes in size, shape, or color
  • Irregular edges or borders
  • Bleeding or crusting
  • Itching or pain
  • Elevated or raised surface

If you notice any of these changes, it’s important to schedule an appointment with your child’s pediatrician or a dermatologist as soon as possible.

How to Prevent Moles

While there’s no surefire way to prevent moles from forming, there are a few things you can do to reduce your toddler’s risk:

  • Protect your child from the sun. Apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to your child’s skin every time they go outside, even on cloudy days.
  • Dress your child in protective clothing. Cover your child’s skin with long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats when they are outside.
  • Avoid tanning beds. Tanning beds can increase the risk of developing moles and skin cancer.

Conclusion

Moles are common skin growths that are usually harmless, but they can sometimes be a sign of a more serious condition. As a parent, it’s important to keep an eye on your child’s moles and watch for any changes. If you notice any changes, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Taking steps to protect your child from the sun can also help reduce their risk of developing moles and skin cancer in the future.

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Honey for Toddlers: When, How, and How Much?

Honey is a natural sweetener that has many health benefits, such as cough relief, digestive relief, wound care, and antioxidant effects. But when can you introduce honey to your toddler? And how much honey can they have? In this blog post, we will answer these questions and give you some tips on how to safely and enjoyably offer honey to your little one.

When Can Toddlers Eat Honey?

Honey is not safe for babies under 1 year of age because it can contain Clostridium botulinum spores, which can cause a rare but serious illness called infant botulism. Infant botulism can affect the nerves and muscles of babies and cause symptoms such as constipation, poor feeding, weakness, lethargy, trouble breathing, and even seizures. If your baby shows any signs of botulism after eating honey, seek medical care immediately.

However, once your child is over 1 year old, their digestive system is mature enough to handle the spores and prevent them from growing into bacteria. This means that honey is safe for toddlers over 1 year of age, including raw and unpasteurized honey. You can introduce honey to your toddler as a spread on toast, a natural sweetener for yogurt or oatmeal, or a tasty ingredient in baked goods or sauces.

How Much Honey Can Toddlers Have?

While honey is safe for toddlers over 1 year of age, it is still a source of added sugar that should be consumed in moderation. According to the American Heart Association, children over 2 years of age should have no more than 25 grams (6 teaspoons) of added sugar per day. This includes honey as well as other sweeteners like maple syrup, molasses, corn syrup, and sugar.

To limit the amount of honey your toddler consumes, you can:

– Measure the amount of honey you use and avoid adding extra.

– Offer honey only occasionally and not every day.

– Choose plain or unsweetened versions of foods like yogurt or oatmeal and add a small amount of honey for flavor.

– Avoid giving your toddler foods that contain honey as an ingredient, such as granola bars, cereals, cookies, or candies.

Tips for Introducing Honey to Your Toddler

Here are some tips on how to introduce honey to your toddler in a safe and enjoyable way:

– Start with a small amount of honey and watch for any allergic reactions, such as hives, swelling, itching, or difficulty breathing. Honey can contain pollen or other allergens that may trigger a reaction in some children. If your child has any signs of an allergy after eating honey, stop giving it to them and consult your doctor.

– Choose high-quality honey that is pure and free of additives or contaminants. Look for labels that indicate the source and type of honey, such as clover, wildflower, or manuka. Avoid honey that is blended with other sweeteners or flavors.

– Store honey in a cool and dry place away from sunlight. Do not refrigerate honey as it can crystallize and become hard to use. If your honey does crystallize, you can gently warm it in a bowl of hot water until it becomes liquid again.

– Do not give your toddler honey with a spoon or let them lick it from a jar. This can increase the risk of choking or tooth decay. Instead, spread a thin layer of honey on a piece of bread or cracker and let them bite it.

– Teach your toddler about bees and how they make honey. You can read books, watch videos, or visit a local farm or apiary that produces honey. This can help your toddler appreciate the natural origin and value of honey.

Honey is a delicious and nutritious food that can be enjoyed by toddlers over 1 year of age. By following these tips, you can introduce honey to your toddler safely and make it part of their balanced diet.

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7 Surprising and Fascinating Facts About Pregnancy You Probably Didn’t Know

Pregnancy is an amazing and unique experience that women go through. It is a time of transformation, both physically and emotionally, as the body prepares to bring new life into the world. While many people know the basics of pregnancy, there are also some lesser-known and surprising facts that can make this experience even more fascinating. In this blog, we will explore some of these lesser-known facts about pregnancy.

  1. A baby’s heart begins to beat just three weeks after conception

One of the earliest milestones in pregnancy is the development of the baby’s heart. Just three weeks after conception, the baby’s heart begins to beat. By the time a woman is six weeks pregnant, the baby’s heart is fully formed and beating at a rate of about 100-160 beats per minute.

Woman holding ultrasound x-ray
  1. The longest pregnancy ever recorded lasted for 375 days

While the average length of pregnancy is around 40 weeks, or 280 days, there have been some exceptional cases where the pregnancy lasted much longer. The longest pregnancy ever recorded lasted for a whopping 375 days, or over a year! This happened in the 1940s, and it is believed that the baby’s position in the womb prevented labor from starting.

  1. A woman’s uterus can expand up to 500 times its normal size during pregnancy

The human body is truly amazing, and one of the most impressive feats it can accomplish is the expansion of the uterus during pregnancy. The uterus is normally the size of a pear, but during pregnancy, it can expand to accommodate the growing baby. By the time a woman gives birth, her uterus can be as much as 500 times its normal size!

Pregnant woman with expanding uterus

  1. Babies can cry in the womb

Many people believe that babies only start crying after they are born, but in fact, babies can cry in the womb. While it is not exactly the same as crying, babies can make crying-like noises as early as 28 weeks into the pregnancy. This is because they are practicing breathing and vocalizing in preparation for life outside the womb.

  1. The amount of amniotic fluid in the womb can increase or decrease based on the mother’s diet

Amniotic fluid is the fluid that surrounds the baby in the womb, and it is essential for the baby’s development. The amount of amniotic fluid can vary from pregnancy to pregnancy, but it can also be affected by the mother’s diet. For example, if a woman is dehydrated, there may be less amniotic fluid in the womb, while a high-sugar or high-salt diet can cause an increase in amniotic fluid.

  1. A woman’s feet can grow during pregnancy

Many women experience swelling in their feet during pregnancy, but for some women, the swelling can be so severe that their feet actually grow. This is due to the hormone relaxin, which is released during pregnancy to help loosen the ligaments in the body in preparation for childbirth. Relaxin can also affect the bones in the feet, causing them to spread out and increase in size.

  1. The hormone relaxin can also cause dental problems

While relaxin is essential for childbirth, it can also have some unexpected side effects. One of these is that it can weaken the ligaments and bones that support the teeth, leading to dental problems such as loose teeth, gum disease, and even tooth loss. This is why it is important for pregnant women to take extra care of their dental health during pregnancy.

While some of these facts about pregnancy may seem surprising or even strange, they all contribute to the amazing experience that is pregnancy. From the moment of conception to the moment of birth, the body undergoes incredible transformations to create a new life. Whether you are a soon-to-be mom or just curious about the wonders of pregnancy, these lesser-known facts can help you appreciate the incredible complexity and beauty of this miraculous process.

Of course, it’s important to note that while pregnancy is an incredible journey, it can also be challenging and difficult at times. Every woman’s experience of pregnancy is unique, and there is no “right” way to go through it. It’s important to seek support from healthcare providers, friends, and family to help manage the physical and emotional changes that come with pregnancy.

In conclusion, pregnancy is an amazing and life-changing experience that brings new life into the world. From the development of the baby’s heart to the changes in a woman’s brain, there are many fascinating and lesser-known facts about pregnancy that can deepen our understanding and appreciation of this process. So if you’re currently pregnant, or know someone who is, take a moment to marvel at the wonder of it all!

f you enjoyed reading this blog article on fun facts about pregnancy, please feel free to share it with others who might find it interesting or informative! Sharing is a great way to spread knowledge and help others learn something new. Thank you for reading, and we hope you found this article engaging and insightful.

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3 Tips for Corporate Mums Facing Burn Out

Dear mums and dads, as the pandemic has accelerated the evolution of our lives, have you been facing burn out this year?

I have to admit that I have been completely burnt out this year since returning from maternity leave to my corporate job.

The uniqueness of the pandemic has caused a huge repercussion I have never seen in the last year. Many of my fellow colleagues who are also mums have been finding struggling with having a good work life balance.

With return to work mums, sometimes it is even harder to adjust and refocus, whilst juggling with your little ones and ensuring all is in good order in the house.

For my colleagues and I, we are all in the travel and lifestyle industry, we have been overwhelmed with the extremely high demand from our clients who have been locked down for too long, and now wanting to travel the world.

It was great to see that the opening of the Australian border has been a great stimulant for the international travels, holidays and business trips. The spend on travel and lifestyle has significantly increased there or four folds. This is amazing and brought unprecedented growth for our business. And also keeping us on the job.

However, the crazy demand from our clients has also caused unprecedented exhaustion in ourselves both mentally and physically. Our mental and physical health have been negativity impacted. This in turn placed ongoing pressure on the family lives for myself and fellow parents.

As this impact has prolonged and hardly could be resolved in the short term regardless the effort both my company and myself putted in to make changes. From what I have experienced throughout the year, I have had a number of reflections and tips that may help fellow parents walk out of burn outs.

1. Face the Reality

By facing the reality, I got to understand that things will not change overnight, and it is only you who can make changes to yourself, then a fundamental change will happen.

When you tried to practice not to dectitated by the clients’ demand and take control of your own time and it consistently failed, then it’s a time for you to seriously consider a change.

2. Make Changes

Many of us have the inertia to make changes. To do so, you really need to thought through and have the courage.

For me, it was a struggle and a lot of fights in my thoughts. But what propels the change is my family.

When I am very confused, I look at how the imbalanced work and life situation has resulted in a detrimental impact on my relationship with my husband. Further, I realized that I have been deprived of quality time with my little toddler girl.

Most importantly, it has resulted in a negative impact on my mental and physical health. I have been feeling tired ongoing, and there were more tensions between my husband and I due to various reasons.

I then decided to list the things that are not on the right track, and what are the ways to cope with or resolve them. After trying different ways to deal with the situation including setting some me time in the morning before I start work, learning to delegate work accordingly, meditate 1-5 minutes in the early morning and so on, but all failed due to lacking of time from overloaded work, then I realized that the ultimate way to resolve them is to making a big step to change what I am doing now.

One day, I shifted my focus on the current job, and looked for some other job opportunities within the company, out of my surprise I saw another beautiful door opening in front of me, which is a digital marketing role that perfectly aligns with my hobby, and that’s what I have been running now this website/blog. All the job description makes sense to me, I what a dream job to go for.

I applied for it straight away, and another surprise is that I was given the Interview opportunity pretty much the next day or two. I tried my very best to prepare and answer the questions at the interview. And oh wow, I nailed it and got the role. This has all made a positive change to myself mentally and physically, I am now doing something that is not only my hobby turned into a profession, but more importantly gave back myself and the whole family a good balance.

Working mum

3. Shift Your Focus

When you are stuck in the burn out situation, try to have your brain jump out of it. Practice reset, readjust, restart and refocus. Do it as many times as you need.

If the burn out is persistent, you need to step back, press the stop button in your life first, then analyse the situation, consider the possibility of reset your life. If resetting is hard for you, then consult with anyone among your friends or family who is already performing well in his/her life, or a specialist who can help to manage burn out.

This may open another door to you by helping you get out of the abyss and bringing the courage to climb out to see the light.

Having the right mindset and a holistic view on burn out issues is critical. If you feel something is not quite right, you are persistently exhausted, dreaded about going to work every day, depressed, easily irritated, physically drained and so on, then it is the time for you to go ahead with some self care and clear up these issues immediately. If you don’t do it now, then these might have undesirable impact in the long term for both your own mental and physical health as well as your family’s.

Anytime in doubt, don’t hesitate to seek help and guidance. Apps such as BetterHelp or programs such as Sensa Health will be great ways to help you out.

If you love this post, then please kindly show your support and encouragement by subscribing to our Healthy Mum and Bub official website newsletters at https://healthymumandbub.com, also please like and share the post to spread the love and care to fellow corporate mums.

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Best Gift Ideas for Valentine’s Day: 12 Creative Gifts to Make Your Mother Love You

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. It’s a time for us to show our love, respect and honor for our mothers. It does not matter if you are living in the same home or on your own, it is important to let her know that she has been an inspiration in your life. Do something special for Mom this year and surprise her with one of these creative gifts that you can make yourself from home.

What makes a gift special?

When it comes to gift ideas for mother, you can never go wrong with flowers or perfume. However, the real question is, “What makes a gift special to mother?” Well, there are many things that make a gift special. Let’s talk about some of them. A gift should be something that shows how much you love your mother and care for her. A gift should also be something creative and unique. For example, you can create a collage of pictures of you and your mom over the years and frame it. It’s a great way to see how far you have come.

12 Creative Gifts To Make Mom Love You

The only thing better than being a mom is getting a good gift from your children. If you are looking for the best gift to give your mom on her special day, then we have a list of 12 creative gifts that you can make for her. We have listed down all the steps and tools that you will need to make these gifts. You can follow the instructions and create these gifts at home on your own so that your mom will be surprised when she receives them.

  1. Pillowcase Apron: You can make a pillowcase apron for Mom in a quick, easy and inexpensive way. First, you will need to choose an appropriate color and design for her. To do this, you can look at the designs available at Favecrafts.
  2. Woven Flower Vase: Make a simple woven flower vase to spruce up mom’s flowers. To make, cut a piece of cane webbing to fit around a glass hurricane vase. Thread a needle with contrasting yarn or embroidery thread and stitch a line or criss-cross pattern along the edges of the cane webbing. Wrap the webbing around the vase and adhere.
  3. Terra-Cotta Pot: A terra-cotta pot is a blank canvas for painting, ornaments, or pipe cleaners. You can spell out β€œMom” with pipe cleaners or go for something more abstract. Don’t forget to fill it with plants or fresh flowers!
  4. DIY Aromatic Infuser: In the last few years, people started to realize the importance of aromatherapy. The use of essential oils has been proven to have a variety of benefits, so now many people are making their own diffusers and oils. Fill your mom’s home with a scent with a DIY aromatic infuser that she’ll love by mixing different essential oils until you create her new signature blend.
  5. Throw Basket: In a family environment, it is sometimes hard to find a place for everything. For example, you will have tons of toys, but nowhere to put them. It would be a great opportunity to use a throw basket from Target or any other great brands as a way to corral all their things.
  6. Giant Sugar Cookie Bouquet: A homemade treat is the best gift to give and even better gift to receive. Wrap up your mother’s favorite dessert with a big bow, and watch her eyes light up when she opens this DIY cookie bouquet.
  7. DIY Whiteboard: You can create your own DIY whiteboard for mother using a few simple supplies. First, you will need some sort of backing for the board. This could be corkboard, cardboard, plywood or even an old picture frame. A variety of paint markers are available to choose from. You will want to select a bright color that will stand out well on your board. Create the most touching messages on the whiteboard to brighten up your mother’s days.
  8. Scrapbooks: Scrapbooks are great gifts for mother. Fill them with pictures and stories from the whole family. Your mother will love coming back to look through this thoughtful photo album again and again.
  9. Mason Jars: Mason jars are the perfect size for a sewing kit that fits in any purse. The sewing kit is portable, and mom can sew anywhere she goes.
  10. Book Planter: Take your mother’s succulent planter to the next level with this adorable vintage project. Just stop by the bookstore and grab her favorite read for an added bonus. You can do it!
  11. Customized Tea Set: If your mother loves tea and a warming tea party, make her a customized tea set including vintage tea cups you can find at a thrift store and a few varieties of her favorite teas.
  12. Warm Quilt: Quilt Keep mom cozy and warm with a handmade quilt. Pick up fabrics in her favorite color at your local craft store, the warmth of a quilt is more than just comfortβ€”it’s security and love.

Also with inspiration from loving hugs with my little girl and her fondness of her little bear, we have created Valentine’s Day themed Love Hugs Onesies for your little ones and Love Hugs Short Sleeve Unisex T-Shirts for you our awesome parents.

Check them out and don’t forget to use our Healthy Mum and Bub followers welcome offer code WELCOME20 to get 20% OFF on your first order! πŸ™‚

Love Hugs Onesie

There’s nothing greater than giving your mother the gift of memories you make together. It doesn’t matter what you decide to do with her, just that you spend time together and make the most of it. We hope this list has given you some good ideas for what to do for mom! What was the best Valentine’s Day present you’ve ever given to your mother?

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TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE IN PREGNANCY

Compared with western medicine, traditional Chinese medicine pays more attention to the overall conditioning of the body. For women who do not have any organic diseases, it is a good choice to listen to the advice of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in the stage of preparing for pregnancy.

Chinese medicine believes that the mechanism of conception depends on strong kidney qi, sufficient true yin, harmony of qi and blood, and unobstructed collaterals. So, how to achieve these aspects, experts give some suggestions for preparation before pregnancy:

Women’s body conditioning before pregnancy

In the theory of traditional Chinese medicine, there is also the saying of Yin Yang and the Five Elements, that is, gold, wood, water, fire and earth. The characteristics of the five elements explain the physiological functions of the five internal organs of the human body. The liver belongs to wood, the spleen belongs to soil, the heart belongs to fire, the lung belongs to metal, and the kidney belongs to water. The five internal organs are connected physiologically and influence each other in pathology. Problems will cause other organs to have problems. Therefore, Chinese medicine is very particular about systemic conditioning in preparation for pregnancy, rather than targeting a certain organ. However, because the functions of the kidneys, liver, and spleen have the greatest impact on women’s qi and blood, more attention should be paid when conditioning before pregnancy:

Kidney: In the theory of Chinese medicine, the kidney is the innate foundation, and the kidney governs reproduction. If the function of the kidney is damaged, it will affect conception, and even lead to infertility or miscarriage.

Dietary prescription:

γ€€γ€€ Stir-fried Chicken with Leek

γ€€γ€€ Ingredients: 500 grams of leeks, 100 grams of chicken, 15 grams of dried shrimp

γ€€γ€€ Method: Wash the leeks, cut into small pieces, heat the pot, put in an appropriate amount of cooking oil, fry the leeks, chicken and dried shrimps together, and add a little salt.

γ€€γ€€ Efficacy: Warm the kidney and nourish the liver.

γ€€γ€€ Spleen: It is the foundation of the day after tomorrow, after the day, there is not enough blood to raise the fetus. Therefore, spleen deficiency can cause infertility or miscarriage after pregnancy.

Dietary prescription:

Lentil porridge

γ€€γ€€ Ingredients: 150 grams of rice, 100 grams of lentils

γ€€γ€€ Method: Wash the rice and lentils, boil water over high heat, add the lentils and rice, boil, and then cook on a low heat until the lentils are cooked.

γ€€γ€€ Efficacy: invigorating the spleen and removing dampness.

γ€€γ€€ Liver: It is homologous to the kidney, lack of blood in the liver, or poor circulation of qi and blood can also affect pregnancy.

Dietary prescription:

Pork Liver and Mung Bean Congee

γ€€γ€€ Ingredients: 100 grams of fresh pork liver, 60 grams of mung beans, 100 grams of rice

Method: Wash the mung beans and rice and put them in a pot, add water to boil, change to a low heat, and simmer slowly. When it is eighty mature, cut the liver into strips and put it in the porridge. Add a little salt to the porridge after cooking. Can.

Efficacy: Nourish the liver and nourish blood

The first step of TCM conditioning: regulating menstruation

Many people call monthly menstruation an “old friend”. From the perspective of Chinese medicine, this name cannot be more appropriate. Why? In addition to the most conventional methods such as pulse checking and tongue coating, women’s menstrual conditions are most often asked when they see a Chinese medicine doctor. Traditional Chinese medicine can often determine the crux of the female body through the amount, color, and cycle of menstruation.γ€€γ€€

The medical theory of traditional Chinese medicine believes that female menstruation is the cycle of the three meridians of Chong pulse, Dai pulse, and Ren pulse in the eight channels of Qi Jing. This cycle will pass through dozens of acupoints. If there are obstacles, it will cause many diseases, so it should be taken seriously.γ€€γ€€

If the menstruation is normal, it means that the blood is unobstructed, and the next step can be to see if the ovulation is normal through the change of body temperature.

Expert tips: For women with changes in menstrual volume and cycle, you can find a Chinese medicine doctor for treatment at any time, and you don’t have to wait until you are ready to become pregnant.

The second step of TCM conditioning: take body temperature

The body temperature of a normal person will rise by 0.3 to 0.5Β°C under the action of progesterone after ovulation. It lasted for 14 days, and then the body temperature dropped. If only the body temperature rises after 3 or 5 days and then drops, or there is no sign of rising, it indicates that there may be a problem with ovulation, then symptomatic treatment can be done.

Expert tip: In addition to professional diagnosis methods such as seeing, hearing, asking, and cutting, in many cases, traditional Chinese medicine will use Western medical diagnostic methods to further judge the condition. For example, in order to judge whether ovulation is normal, in addition to the method of taking body temperature, sometimes it will also pass B-ultrasound is used as an auxiliary means for diagnosis. Nevertheless, the philosophy and treatment methods of Chinese medicine are completely different from those of Western medicine. When you see Chinese medicine, you should not doubt the curative effect of Chinese medicine because you have adopted some western medicine methods.

The third step of TCM conditioning: warm uterus

There is a saying in traditional Chinese medicine that Cold uterus is infertile. The uterus is like a warm room for the fetus. If the uterus is cold, the fetus cannot grow. In order to prevent uterus being cold, women should pay special attention to protecting the warmth of the lower abdomen. Especially women who work under air-conditioning, as well as women who often sit still, should pay more attention to keeping the abdomen and lower body warm.

Expert Tip: It is natural for women to love beauty, but they should also pay attention to adjusting their clothing according to changes in solar terms. You should usually pay attention to the warmth of the lower body, especially the feet and abdomen. Don’t let yourself catch the cold. Only when your body is warm will your blood flow unblocked.

The fourth step of TCM conditioning: nourish qi and soothe the nerves

There is a saying in Chinese medicine that women are more jealous of infertility. It means that narrow mindedness, frequent anger, and jealousy may cause stagnation of liver qi, which will affect the spleen and affect pregnancy.

Expert tip: Don’t be too impatient with anything, as the result of a bad temper will result in stagnation. Keeping yourself calm anytime and anywhere will help you get pregnant smoothly.

Three Chinese medicines that are most beneficial to women

Angelica sinensis: There are often sayings of “returning to the head to nourish blood, return to the body to nourish blood, return to the tail to break blood, and promote blood circulation throughout the body”. Angelica is a commonly used medicine in Chinese medicine and is known as the “Holy Medicine in Blood”. It is often used clinically to treat women’s menstrual disorders, such as dysmenorrhea and irregular menstruation.

You can eat it at ordinary times: Cut the angelica into thin slices, and take 5-10 grams of boiled or soaked water for tea. A small amount of angelica can also be added to stewed chicken and stewed meat.

Ejiao: Contains animal glue, gelatin protein, calcium, sulfur and other minerals and more than 10 kinds of amino acids, which can promote the production of red blood cells and hemoglobin in the blood, and can also promote the absorption of calcium. It is mostly used to treat various bleeding or anemia.

You can eat it at ordinary times: choose 1 gram of high-quality donkey-hide gelatin. After smashing it, add two small spoons of yellow wine in a large bowl. Steam it in a steamer until the donkey-hide gelatin is completely melted. Add a small amount of brown sugar. pot. Choose 100 high-quality golden jujubes with thick meat and small cores, put them in a clean bowl, heat them in a microwave oven on high heat for 2 minutes, turn them upside down and heat them for 1 minute.

Motherwort: It has the effects of promoting blood circulation, regulating menstruation, promoting hydration and reducing swelling. Mainly treat irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, etc.

You can usually eat it like this: Put 1.5 taels of motherwort, 6 red dates, and 4 taels of lean meat in a pot. After the water is boiled, cook on a low fire for 2 hours, add salt, and then you can drink it.

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Until next time, we wish you all have a wonderful family time with your partner and little ones!

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BABY ECZEMA: Types of Eczema, How to Identify Eczema and Tips for Parents to Manage it

Infant eczema is also referred to clinically as infantile atopic dermatitis, which is an allergic skin disease caused by a variety of internal and external factors such as genes and environment. Generally, it starts from the face and gradually spreads to other parts of the body, appearing in pieces, most of which are symmetrically distributed. The skin is red and rough, scaling, accompanied by severe itching and even cracks, water seepage, and finally scabs. Due to the itchy nature of eczema, eczema may be manifested as rubbing of the body in younger babies, while older babies may actively scratch their bodies.

Types of infant eczema

  1. Dry type (mild) is more common in infants from 6 months to 1 year old. Common in spring and winter, due to dry weather or dry air, the baby’s skin is severely dehydrated. The skin lesions manifested as papules, redness, swelling, hard chaff-like scales, and scabs, which were common on the face, trunk, and lateral extensions of the limbs.
  2. Exudative type (moderate) is more common in infants 3 to 6 months old, especially obese infants. It is common in the joints of the neck, legs, and underarms. Symmetrical red papules of small rice grains, small blisters and erythema, edema at the bottom, flaky erosion, and yellow serous exudation can be seen.
  3. Seborrheic type (severe) is more common in infants within 3 months. The skin of the child’s forehead, cheeks, and eyebrows is flushed, with yellow greasy scales, and there may be thick yellow liquid scabs on the top of the head. In severe cases, there may be chafing, flushing and exudation under the chin, nape of the neck, axilla and groin.
Cherub Baby Australia

Eczema identification

Contact dermatitis (saliva)

Age: 0~6 years old

Location: The place where the skin comes into contact with the sensitizer

Appearance: local skin becomes itchy and red or even small blisters

Care: Avoid repeated contact with irritants, similar to eczema care.

Infant seborrheic dermatitis (cradle cap, muddy head)

Age: 3 weeks to 3 months baby, most will subside within 6 months

Parts: head, face (eyebrows)

Appearance: The skin is slightly reddened with greasy yellow thick lint, forming a layer of scab, generally not itching or slight itching

Care: Clean the skin with water, use oils (olive oil, baby touch oil) to soften the mud, and apply moisturizing cream to make the skin moist.

Newborn acne

Age: within 3 months of birth, the most common around 2 weeks

Location: Forehead and cheeks

Appearance: small raised red rash, β€œacne”-like skin lesions, but generally no acne

Nursing: Usually disappears naturally within 3 months after birth, no special treatment is needed, and no scars are left.

Heat rash (heat rash, prickly heat)

Age: All age groups

Parts: neck, back, chest, etc.

Appearance: A small raised rash caused by sweat accumulating on the skin

Care: Clean skin with clean water, appropriate amount of clothes, reduce sweating.

Baby eczema care tips

Infants and young children have delicate skin. If a rash appears and the diagnosis is infant eczema, what are the tips for home care?

  1. Skin moisturizing: moisturizing! Moisturizing! Moisturizing! The important thing is said three times. Moisturizing is the most basic and most important home care for eczema. It should be used not only when it is sick, but also should be used routinely. If the baby’s skin is dry, apply it once every three hours and apply a sufficient amount. It is recommended to use moisturizer (without fragrance or pigment) to moisturize. If it is in autumn and winter and the indoor environment is dry, choose a thick moisturizer or cream, which has better moisturizing and durability; if it is in spring and summer, consider For comfort, choose a moisturizer with a thinner texture. For mild to moderate eczema, you can choose a moisturizer (milk) containing glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramide and other ingredients that help the skin moisturize and repair the skin barrier; for moderate to severe eczema, under the guidance of a doctor, choose to contain antimicrobial peptides and other inhibitors. A moisturizer (milk) with a special effect of bacterial ingredients.
  2. Rational use of medication and ointment: According to different causes of inflammation, use drugs rationally under the guidance of a doctor. It is difficult to tolerate the skin, and antihistamines are recommended. Recommendation: Cetirizine drops, Loratadine syrup; Not recommended: Calamine (the skin will be drier after use and increase itching).Anti-infective treatment is needed when the skin is broken and infected. Bacterial infection: Mupirocin ointment or erythromycin ointment; Fungal infection: Pevisone. For moderate to severe eczema, topical glucocorticoids are the first to be used under the guidance of doctors. Parents become nervous as soon as they hear the hormones. The eczema guide recommends: Hormone ointment is the first-line treatment for eczema, and the rational use of hormone ointment will not affect the child. 
  3. Hormone ointments are divided into products with different strengths, such as weak, medium, and strong. When choosing, they should be used according to different body parts and used in accordance with the doctor’s advice. For example, skin folds and eye areas have a relatively high absorption rate of ointment, so weak drugs should be used as the mainstay.
  4. The dosage is measured by the first knuckle of the index finger,and squeeze the ointment to the fingertip. The eczema area corresponding to one fingertip unit is about the range of two palm surfaces (adults). Parents are advised to convert it based on this area. The approximate amount of medicine your child needs.
  5. It is safe to use it for no more than 2 weeks continuously on the face and no more than 1 week on the folds and sensitive parts of the perineum. For eczema on the limbs and trunk, it is no problem to use it until the eczema subsides. During the gradual improvement of eczema, the dosage should be gradually reduced under the guidance of a doctor. It is best for parents not to reduce the medication or stop using it.
  6. It is recommended to apply ointment first, then moisturizer. Parents can gently massage when applying ointment to the baby, and observe that the ointment is absorbed and then apply moisturizer without waiting too long.
  7. Clothing: Wear pure cotton, loose, soft clothing for your baby. Avoid wearing chemical fiber fabrics, wool fabrics and wool sweaters. Try to wear as little as possible without catching a cold.
  8. Bathing: Take a bath once a day. The water temperature should not be too high, preferably not higher than 36℃. The bathing time should not exceed 10 minutes. Choose a mild shower gel and use it 1-2 times a week. Frequent use will aggravate the baby’s skin dryness. Do not use a towel to bathe, so as not to damage the skin barrier. Use moisturizer within 3 minutes after bathing to lock in moisture.
  9. Diet: Most infant eczema has nothing to do with diet, and there is generally no need for excessive taboos, but those with clear eating tests should be avoided as much as possible. Breastfeeding mothers also do not need to blindly taboo, they can observe and record their own diet, if they find that eating a certain food, the child’s eczema is significantly worsened, stopping will reduce, then consider it may be related to this kind of food, it is recommended to stop Try again about 3-6 months; but if you say that no matter what the mother eats, the child’s eczema does not change, there is no need to avoid it. Pay attention to balanced nutrition during lactation.
  10. Avoid scratching: Cut your baby’s nails short to prevent scratching the skin.
  11. Milk protein allergy: The most common for babies is milk protein allergy. If eczema occurs repeatedly and the area is large, it is recommended to try to replace deep hydrolyzed milk powder or amino acid milk powder. During this period, breastfeeding mothers should stop eating milk and its products.
  12. If the baby’s eczema is very serious: it is recommended to go to the respiratory specialist outpatient clinic to rule out whether there is congenital immune disease.

Hope you will all find the above helps you with finding the right solution to get to the bottom of your little one’s eczema issue. If you have any other suggestions to share with fellow parents, do drop a comment or email to contact@healthymumandbub.com.

If you love our content, please do remember to subscribe to our e-Newsletters from our Official Website https://healthymumandbub.com, please remember to like, comment and share. Remember sharing is caring!

Lastly, don’t forget to give your little ones the best comfort and care with Healthy Mum and Bub’s baby and toddler’s clothing and accessories. All designed by a mother with lots of love. Visit our shop https://healthymumandbub.com/shop.

Until next time, we wish you all have a wonderful family time with your partner and little ones!

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Prostate Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention, Treatments

A father’s love is profound and great, a father’s love is thick and rough, and a father’s love is silent. Only by heart can you understand it.

Father is the backbone of every family, and his health cannot be ignored.

This Movember, we will discuss about father’s health and the most important topic is prostate cancer.

Worldwide, the incidence of prostate cancer ranks second among all malignant tumours in men. In the early stage of prostate cancer, radical surgery and radiotherapy can be used to obtain a clinical cure close to 100%, and the 5-year survival rate is close to 100%. However, most prostate cancers at this stage have no obvious symptoms or signs and are often difficult to find.

So What Cause Prostate Cancer?

The causes for prostate cancer are not yet known and understood. However, we know that some factors are associated with an increased risk of developing prostate cancer.

Age: prostate cancer happens mostly in men over 50 years of age

Family history: A family history of prostate cancer

Results from studies on other risk factors are inconclusive.

Common Symptoms

Early stage of prostate cancer is not detectable. At a later stage the common symptoms are:

  • Difficulty or delay in urinating
  • Slow or weak stream of urine
  • Blood in urine
  • Pain in the lower back, pelvis and hips

How to Prevent Prostate Cancer

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can minimize the chance of developing prostate cancer. Therefore, you should eat more fruits, vegetables and grains, and less meat and animal fats.

Further, if your family has had prostate cancer patients, you should consult your doctor to see if you need to be tested.

Physical Examinations

With the improvement of living standards, more and more people begin to pay attention to physical examination. Male friends over 50 will find that there is an item in the physical examination item called DRE and PSA. What is this indicator? What is the clinical significance?

DRE refers to digital rectal examination. It is performed by a doctor who will put a gloved finger into your back passage to feel the back portion of the prostate to determine whether the prostate is abnormal.

PSA refers to the prostate-specific antigen. The PSA index is considered to be one of the inspection indexes with high accuracy and stable traits. Therefore, it is widely used in prostate cancer screening and follow-up after prostate cancer treatment.

When the cancer focus is large enough to cause dysuria, hematuria, or metastasis to the bones to cause pain, most of the disease is in the advanced stage and the opportunity for surgery is lost. Therefore, the significance of DRE and PSA screening is extremely important. Early screening, early detection, and standardized treatment are our most powerful weapons against prostate cancer.

Men over 50 should be screened regularly. In addition, if an immediate family member (brother or father) has prostate cancer, the risk of prostate cancer will increase by more than double; if more than two immediate family members are suffering from prostate cancer, the risk will increase by 5 to 11 times. Therefore, if you have prostate cancer patients in your family, you should add prostate cancer to your guard in time.

Screening frequency: If you have a family history of prostate cancer, it is recommended to start screening after the age of 45, and the recommended frequency is half a year; if there is no relevant family history, you can start screening after the age of 50 and maintain the frequency of once a year.

What is the treatment?

Treatment for prostate cancer depends on the size of the tumour, whether the cancer has spread and the presence of any other medical conditions. It may include the following:

Watchful waiting – involves monitoring the patient by performing the PSA test and DRE regularly, and treating it only when the prostate cancer shows signs of growing

Surgery – involves an operation aiming to cure the cancer by removing the prostate gland

Hormone therapy – aims to reduce the size of the prostate and keep prostate cancer cells from growing

Radiotherapy – involves a course of radiation treatment and may prevent the spread of cancer

However, apart from watchful waiting, the treatment of prostate cancer may have side effects.

Tips to Save Yourselves from Prostate Cancer

  • Learn about prostate cancer and its treatment methods
  • Talk to someone you trust
  • Do your best to cooperate with people who provide medical care (including medical professionals, family members and friends)
  • Participate in the activities of some cancer support organizations to enhance self-care ability and expand mutual support network
  • Maintain healthy eating habits
  • Exercise regularly under the guidance of medical staff
  • Avoid stress or overwork, learn relaxation techniques, and do things that are fun

Hope the above helps you and family or friends understand more about prostate cancer. Let’s help our fathers to maintain a healthy life and prevent the possibility of getting prostate cancer.

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UTERINE PROLAPSE: CAUSES, SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENTS

Many women are afraid of having children because of the high risk of childbirth, ranging from postpartum body deformation, sagging breasts, urine leakage, uterine prolapse, etc., to severe cases they may farewell to this beautiful world.

We have discussed the previous points a lot, but in contrast, uterine prolapse is not so obvious, it is not easy to be found, and many women are always finding it difficult to talk about this problem.

What is uterine prolapse? Is the incidence high?

The so-called uterine prolapse means that the uterus descends from the normal position of the pelvic cavity. In mild cases, it exceeds the level of the ischial spine, and in severe cases, it protrudes out of the vaginal opening. It is even accompanied by bulging of the anterior or posterior wall of the vagina, combined with bladder urethral bulge and some other conditions.

In the female population, the incidence of uterine prolapse is not low, especially for women after giving birth, the probability of uterine prolapse is as high as 40% to 50%. Data shows that women aged 45 to 80 suffer from uterine prolapse. The risk of uterine prolapse is more than 75%, especially for elderly women after the age of 70, who are most prone to uterine prolapse.

It Is definite that fertility is an important cause of uterine prolapse, and the high incidence of uterine prolapse is inseparable from three reasons.

Why does uterine prolapse occur?

Many women find it difficult to avoid the embarrassing and unbearable problem of uterine prolapse after childbirth. The main reasons for this problem are as follows:

1. Postpartum constipation

Some women are likely to have constipation after childbirth, or get out of bed too early after childbirth, or keep squatting continuously, which will increase the pressure on the abdomen and cause uterine prolapse.

2. Delayed labor

That is when the fetus stays in the mother’s body for too long. This situation will cause the fetus’s head to produce long-term pressure on the vagina and pelvic floor tissue, resulting in tissue ischemia and damage, leading to uterine prolapse.

3. Emergency delivery

That is when the time from regular contractions to the successful delivery of the fetus is less than three hours. Because the vaginal muscles and pelvic floor tissues have not undergone gradual expansion, they are compressed and torn by the head of the fetus. In addition, if subsequent repairs are not performed in time, the pelvic floor tissues will recover abnormally, resulting in uterine prolapse.

Uterine prolapse is not a trivial matter, especially severe uterine prolapse, which can cause a variety of uncomfortable symptoms in the body.

What discomforts will the body experience after uterine prolapse?

Traditionally, uterine prolapse has been divided into three categories: mild, moderate, and severe, each of which has different symptoms.

Mild uterine prolapse: When the cervix is still in the vagina, it is a mild uterine prolapse. In this case, the patient does not have too obvious symptoms of discomfort, and only feels after standing for a long time or doing physical work The waist is sore, and there is a feeling of falling.

Moderate uterine prolapse: If the cervix falls outside the vaginal opening, it is considered to be moderate uterine prolapse, especially after holding your breath forcibly, it will feel more obvious. In this case, the patient’s abdominal cavity will be affected by coughing or laughing. Increased pressure can cause embarrassing symptoms of urinary incontinence.

Severe uterine prolapse: When the entire cervix and uterine body fall off outside the vaginal opening, it belongs to severe uterine prolapse. This situation can easily cause infection, leading to uterine edema and congestion.

Such patients often feel sore waist, sinking sensation in the vagina and anus, and symptoms such as dysuria, urinary incontinence, etc., and because the uterus prolapses outside, it is easy to cause local infections, ulcers, and increase secretions.

Different degrees of uterine prolapse will have a certain impact on the life of the patient, then, will uterine prolapse affect the sex life between husband and wife?

Will uterine prolapse affect sexual life and cause infertility?

Because women with uterine prolapse often suffer from waist pain, urinary incontinence and other discomforts, the quality of their sexual life is affected by them, and most patients will also experience symptoms such as menorrhagia, dysmenorrhea, and abnormal ovarian function, which will increase the risk of infertility.

Moreover, excessive secretions in patients with severe uterine prolapse will stimulate the surrounding normal organs and affect the motility of sperm, thereby increasing the probability of infertility.

In addition, uterine prolapse can also cause a series of complications, such as prolapse of the anterior vaginal wall, prolapse of the posterior vaginal wall, etc., and severe uterine prolapse can also increase the risk of vaginal or cervical tissue infection and ulcers. Therefore, women after giving birth must take measures to prevent uterine prolapse.

3 ways to prevent uterine prolapse

To avoid the embarrassing problem of uterine prolapse, women after giving birth should pay attention to these 3 points:

Pelvic floor rehabilitation training: Generally speaking, postpartum rehabilitation exercises, including levator ani muscle exercises and levator abdominal muscle exercises, can effectively prevent uterine prolapse and promote physical recovery within 42 days after childbirth.

Avoid prolonged squatting: Prolonged squatting will increase the pressure on the abdomen, and the recovery of the pelvic floor muscles will take at least three months. Therefore, it is best to avoid maintaining a squatting posture for a long time within three months of giving birth.

Prohibiting sexual life within the two months of giving birth: Sexual life should be prohibited within two months of giving birth, because at this stage the vagina is still in the repair period, if sexual life is carried out, it is easy to affect the repair of pelvic floor tissue and increase the probability of uterine prolapse.

Lastly, women should avoid heavy physical labor after giving birth. If they find uterine prolapse, they should be treated in time. As a partner, husbands should also give more care to their wives after giving birth, so that women can feel loved and cared for.

If you love our content, don’t forget to visit our official site https://healthymumandbub.com and subscribe to our free e-Newsletter from there. Also please kindly support us by like, comment and share! Remember, sharing is caring!

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Mental Health: The Art of Letting It Go

Listen on Healthy Mum & Bub for this Episode here.

I’ve been very busy and tired lately. And I really feel like a lot of things are catching up with me, I need to do so many things at the same time. Not sure if you had the same, when you really wanted to take a moment and breath, your mind continues to galloping and being restless. Sometimes, it is until your brain hurts and your body feels wearily and extremely tired as an expanding burden.

My dear friends, if this is how you are feeling now, then you can learn from John Purkiss’s β€œThe Power of Letting Go”.

If you learn to let go,

Your life will take off.

When you let go, you live by intuition. Everything flows because you are no longer attached to things being a certain way, to being someone or being right forever and finally relieved.

The irony is that when you feel trapped in any aspect of your life – career, relationships, goals, health or money – letting go can seem hard.

The moment you need to take that step, you cling to precious life.

In β€œThe Power of Letting Go”, John Purkiss explains why we should let go and how we can do it and use proven techniques to make things happen.

The letting go phase is:

~ Be there and enjoy every moment

~Let go of thoughts that get you into trouble

~ Let go of the pain in your lifeSurrender, and tune in, to something smarter than your brain.

Dear friends, let’s start practicing letting go and get your life off to a good start!

We also have wonderful inspirational products in our Healthy Mum and Bub Shop to keep you being reminded of mental health, try to practice inhale and exhale with our Inhale Exhale Unisex Hooodie or simply be yourself with our Just Be Yourself Unisex Champion tie-dye hoodie. To help every member in the family or your community to be aware of the importance of mental health, put a You are not alone, Mental Health Matters Poster on the wall!

If you love our content, don’t forget to Subscribe to our free e-Newsletter on https://healthymumandbub.com. Also please kindly support us by like, comment and share! Sharing is caring!Healthy Mum & Bub also runs a free group on Facebook, find your perfect home to walk the parenthood journey together at Healthy Mum & Bub Facebook Group.

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BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Healthy Mum & Bub would like to share some great tips for you and your loved ones to prevent from getting breast cancer:

  • Limit alcohol intake
  • Don’t or stop smoking
  • Watch your weight
  • Be physically active
  • If you are a mother now, please try to breastfeed as much as you can
  • Limit the dose and duration of hormone therapy
  • Try to avoid exposure to radiation and environmental pollution

And here are 3 key screening methods that can help you stay vigilant:

-Mammograms or X-rays of the breast that are examined by a healthcare professional, this has been proven to be the best way to find breast cancer early.

-Annual clinical breast examinations are where a healthcare professional feels your breasts, armpits, and lower clavicle for any changes.

-Breast self-exams are when you look for abnormalities in how your breasts look and feel.

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WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY – GIVEAWAY

HMB’s β€œYou are not alone, Mental Health Matters” poster will remind you that so many of us are in this together, and the mental health of you and the ones you care about matters!

To know more info about World Mental Health Day, visit https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-mental-health-day.

Comment in below about what mental health issues you had or your loved ones had so we can hug each others together.

One of the lucky HMBs will also receive our poster!

We will announce the winner on the 17th Oct 2021!

Love the Healthy Mum & Bub community? Then don’t forget to Subscribe to our official site https://healthymumandbub.com!

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WORLD TEACHERS’ DAY – WHAT IT ALL MEANS TO US

Hello everyone, sorry for this delayed post as I was supposed to share with you all on the 5th Oct 2021 the World Teachers’ Day, however I have been caught up with family duties and my studies.

Talking about studies, our educators of the world citizen – teachers, they are the best instructor to deliver knowledge and skills in our lives.

Introduced by UNESCO in 1994, the World Teachers’ Day is observed on the 5th Oct every year. The purpose of this very special day is to highlight the responsibilities, rights and the value of teachers. And also the date is for us to appreciate the contributions and achievements of our teachers around the world.

Why the date 5 Oct is chosen as the date? Because it is an epic date back in 1966 that a special intergovernmental meeting accepted the UNESCO Recommendation on the Status Teachers.

This year, International Teachers’ Day has never been that special, and many of us around the globe would probably have already thanked our teachers for their tireless effort to teach, guide, inspire and support us during the Covid-19 pandemic.

No matter which stage of your life you are at, to all of us, a great teacher inspires hope, ignites imagination and instills the love of learning as Brad Henry says.

To me personally, one of my favourite teachers is professor Jennifer Milam when I was studying Art History and Theory in The University of Sydney. In my memory and now that was a while ago, and before 2007, she is one of the most influential and attractive teachers back in my university days. The eccentric way of teaching and her beautiful presence in the lecture rooms always make me thirsty for the learning of arts. She is the one who brought me to the world of French Baroque, Italian Renaissance, Victorian Art and more. And she has instilled the passion for art in my heart and soul deeply. And later when I was able to use my savings to travel to Europe, her teachings was consistently echoing at the background when I visited the flamboyant Palace of Versailles, walked passed by the magnificent Uffizi, and discovered million years of human history and art in the British Museum and more. I would like to say a Big Thank You to Jennifer for her influence in my learnings and life. She really inspires my hope, ignites my imagination and instills my love of learning!

What were the words you have already said to your teachers or would love to say to them now if you have not done so as yet, share in comment if you are reading my blog or write down on a piece of paper if you are listening to this blog in the form of a podcast.

A BIG applause to our gardener of lifetime! Thank you our teachers!

If you enjoyed this content, for both our existing followers and new audiences, please kindly subscribe to our exciting new official Healthy Mum & Bub blog site https://healthymumandbub.com. We would also appreciate your support for us by like, comment and share the content.

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A WOMEN’S AMBITION TO REVOLUTIONISE THE MODEST SWIMWEAR WORLD

LYRA Swimwear founder Ikram Zein (left) walking down the London Modest Fashion Week runaway (2016)

Being a supporter of women in businesses and walking in the same shoes of running a business, it is hard to take of my eyes off a brilliant women in the swimwear industry, and her name is Ikram Zein – the founder and owner of the LYRA Swimwear brand!

I admire Ikram for her for her vision to help women to find the swimwear that suited their lifestyles. I am sure a lot of women around the world dressed modestly and loved the outdoors, swimming and keeping fit. But at the same time, looking for something which you can wear comfortably and express their fashion taste and femininity. Ikram’s love of classic Hollywood, Moroccan beach cool and minimalist design have revolutionised the modest wear industry and let our ladies of modest wear lovers to embark on a whole new fashionista journey!

After years of making mood boards in her bedroom, talking to women of all faiths and none on the high street about the difficulties they faced when swimming or heading to beach, Ikram started to created her own swimwear called LYRASWIMS range which launched in December 2016.

For me personally, when travelling around the world, especially to one of my beloved countries the United Arab of Emirates, I do feel that I really need the swimwear which allows me to fit into culture there. For many other women, it may be of religion or personal preferences, a collection of swimwear that is modest and fashionable is what they are always looking for. Well, with Lyra, you are at home with one of the world’s best modest swimwear brands!

LYRA began with the ambition to make the most beautiful, ethically produced bespoken modest swimsuits/burkins in the world, using the finest Italian fabrics. Exceptional materials combined with exceptional workmanship. LYRA uses lightweight, fast drying Italian carvico fabric that has high UV protection. 

LYRA is also a recognised supporter of the #ThisGirlCan campaign; we have designed a range of swimwear that fits the needs of all women to help increase participation rates in swimming. The Lyra brand has seen women all around the world enjoy our swimwear range; including prominent news anchor Noor Tagouri and Olympic fencing champion Ibtihaj Muhammad.

LYRA swimsuits can be bought in full sets, separates, include a chic turban style covering, leggings, and long line, long sleeve tops, so you can create the fit and cover you want. 

No matter if you are religious, loving to wear modestly, or needing to wear something modest at the outdoor and recreational places in a foreign country, LYRA will fulfil all these needs and showcase your alluring beauty at the same time, with exceptional comfort! Let’s embrace the women of all faith and all backgrounds, and express our beauty through the creations of LYRA!

Follow LYRA on Instagram @LYRASWIM

All image credits to https://au.lyraswimwear.com/

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Sign up to my Official Site Newsletter from here!

I KNOW YOU’RE A BUSY MOM, SO TO SAVE YOU SOME TIME AND EFFORT, I’LL SEND MY NEW BLOG POSTS AND SUBSCRIBER DEALS STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX. MY TIPS, EXPERIENCES, ADVICE ABOUT MOTHERHOOD AND EXCLUSIVE DEALS FOR MY SHOP ARE ALL YOURS!

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LET’S CONTINUE TO WALK THE PARENTHOOD JOURNEY TOGETHER IN OUR NEW PLATFORM!

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Yay…HMB’s Exciting Shop is NOW OPEN!

My dear audiences and followers, lately I have been fairly quite because of not just my studies, but also learning all the nitty gritty of setting up our Healthy Mum & Bub Shop!

Guess what! Our Shop is now open! As the Australian Father’s Day is around the corner, we are launching our Father themed products first. Check out them and gift your father something very special this Father’s Day!

Visit our Shop: https://healthymumandbub.com/shop/

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Support System for Mothers

Hello mums, do you feel overwhelmed by motherhood? Do you feel the challenges in childbearing make you feel depressed and stressed? Do you tend to develop health ailments such as intensified PMS, fatigue, nutritional deficit, type II diabetes, thyroid disease and autoimmune illness? Do you feel that your marriage is breaking down due to somehow more frequent conflicts between you and your partner? Do you tend to have lower self-esteem and confidence?

The unique distress and physiological demand from childbearing has resulted mums being in a position to find themselves helpless, alone, crying in despair, and not getting the understanding and adequate support.

For mums especially new mums, it is quite difficult to begin a new journey of motherhood considering the overwhelming physical changes and the new responsibilities. I am still considered a fairly new mum as only being a mum for two years, and throughout these two years on maternity leave from my corporate job, I found overall you do have an adequate support system for mums in Australia, and luckily my husband is very helpful and supportive as always.

So from my own experiences, I would love to share what works for me personally, and hope these will help our mothers to find the right support systems for yourselves.

Local Supports from the Government for Mothers

During pregnancy, I found my midwife from the local hospital is always supportive and resourceful. She helps me to relieve my concerns of different conditions that arises and gives clear guidance on what I should do and not do, as well as what may happen in the next stage of my pregnancy and so on.

The local hospital also provides several parenting courses to get you ready for birthing, caring for newborns and potential mental health issues that may come after birthing. We learnt the fundamentals of caring for our baby and what to expect being new parents, I really love that we could connect with fellow new parents and have fun together in a range of activities.

Also, the local community Child and Family Health Centres are wonderful to provide you with ongoing support, especially after birthing. The highlight was the group course on preparing your baby for solids, it gives you a good education on the physical development of your baby and the gradual process of solid feeding.

You may want to visit links such as the NSW child and family health nursing services and this article Child and Family Health Nurse by Raising Children for more information.

There was one thing that stands out from what our local midwives and nurses would do on every visit, that is they will always have a private conversation with you to check if you have any mental health issues and relationship issues that may need further support and assistance.

Encourage Mothers to Connect

I would really encourage our new mothers to get connected with mother groups, parent groups, playgroups and your mum friends. After my girl was born, apart from the exhilarating moments of life, I also sometimes find I am lost in limbo. There are just too many things that cannot be simply resolved by yourself and your partner.

One of my mum girlfriends invited me to join an online mother group one day, thank you to my girlfriend, it was from that day I got to know there are mother groups out there. I was able to seek advice on baby eczema, nappy rashes, supplements to take postnatal, relationship with your partner, and so on. Since then, I have joined many other mother groups on Facebook and also the awesome Peanut App for mothers.

Some of the well-received and popular mum groups are Mums Plugged-In: Virtual Mothers Group, Mums at the Table Group, Young Mums & Mums to Be Support Group, Mums Group Chat, The Healthy Mummy New Mum Support Group, The Mum’s Lounge and many more.

These groups would help you greatly in connecting with mothers in your community and around the world, and recognise that the concerns, issues, questions in your motherhood journey are very common and you are not alone!

I have then even go on to found my very own mother group Healthy Mum and Bub and blogsite in the same name to help the mothers of our community and globally. Through this exploration journey of a nexus of mother support system, I have come out strong and empowered with great spirit to match on and walk the motherhood adventure with my fellow mothers.

Public Resources

There are a lot of public resources mothers can access to and find the relevant knowledge and skills to make themselves informed, learnt and educated throughout the motherhood journey. Some useful resources are:

Beyond Blue: Providing support and treatment advice for mothers experiencing anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts.

Raising Children: Providing free, reliable, up-to-date, independent info to help your family grow & thrive together. This is one of my favourite network to go for a good knowledge base for raising children in general and also specifically in Australia.

Pregnancy, Birth and Baby: Providing support to parents on the journey from pregnancy to preschool. You can speak to a maternal child health nurse for personal advice and guidance through this organisation.

Australian Breastfeeding Association: This organization has a long history and was founded in 1964. It encourage and support mothers who want to breastfeed their babies, while raising community awareness of the importance of breastfeeding and human milk to child and maternal health.

Mum Space: Australia’s new one-stop website supporting the mental health and emotional wellbeing of pregnant women, new mums and their families.

MindMum: Providing effective strategies to help you lift your mood, strengthen your relationships and feel supported and confident in becoming a mum.

Mum for Mum: MUM FOR MUM NCJWA is a non-denominational home-visiting program where trained volunteers who are mothers themselves visit an expectant mum in the last trimester of pregnancy and for the first year of their baby’s life in order to provide emotional support.

Support from Your Loved Ones

What more is better than the unconditional love, understanding, love and care from your loved ones. At the end of the day, they are the people who will be with you everyday or very often. Try to let your loved ones know how you are thinking and feeling from time to time, so to build a mutual understanding of your needs and their perception on you during your motherhood journey.

Your loved ones not just include your partner, your parents and your children, but also expands to your closest friends. So you would probably already have a vast group of support surround you without realising it. Don’t bottle up your thoughts and feelings, have an open conversation with your dearest family and friends. If you feel it is hard to verbally express your thoughts and feelings, perhaps write them down as you go to share with your trusted loved ones.

To wrap up this post, I a mother would love to tell all mothers around the world, you are not alone. You have all the courage and physical strength to bring a little life to earth, you sure do have the will and power to make it a wholesome and fruitful motherhood journey for yourself! And remember, if you need to talk to someone to share your thoughts and feelings along this adventurous journey, there is a very strong mother support system to support and guide you. Being a mother, you are not a lonely warrior, but one of the warriors in a powerful mum army.

If you enjoyed this content, for both our existing followers and new audiences, please kindly subscribe to our exciting new official Healthy Mum & Bub blog site https://healthymumandbub.com. We would also appreciate your support for us by like, comment and share the content.

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Let’s Talk About Postpartum Depression

I have experienced traumatic labour in which I lost 1.5 litres of blood during labour and also fainted twice within the 5 days after giving birth.

The doctor who initially helped with the stitching for me had to be left in the middle for another mum requires immediate attention. Therefore, I had to wait for another less experienced doctor to continue the stitching for me. When she finished and asked for her superior to check the stitch, they found it wasn’t done well, therefore the superior had to unstitch and restitch the wounded area. These all caused a huge loss of blood for me.

And during the next few days, I feel extreme pain whenever I tried to get down the bed and walk. The doctor and nurses asked me to try to take a shower, which I felt I wasn’t really in the right condition to do so, but tried and fainted twice in the bathroom. The first time when I fainted, I wasn’t even aware and it was just like gone into sleep without knowing. Luckily my mother in law was there with me and she told me that if she wasn’t there, I would simply injure myself by bumping onto the hard surfaces in the bathroom.

Further, to help me with going to the toilet, the nurses had given me Metamucil and few other medications, I had then experienced serious diarrhea postpartum, and this lasted for about at least two weeks. I also felt like a tube and injection machine where there were so many days that I have been living with tubes and needles.

I know I didn’t feel mentally and physically well postpartum, and could not express in just a few words to my husband. I believe many of your mothers might have experienced similar situations to mine. You feel that you were not the same as before, you were torn, you were exhausted, and you weren’t cared for properly and so on. A lot of them might be the signs of postpartum depression.

What is Postpartum Depression (PPD)

During pregnancy, your body had higher levels of hormone estrogen and progesterone. But in the first 24 hours after giving birth, these hormones dropped dramatically to resume to their normal levels in your body, this may lead to postpartum depression.

The postpartum last up to 6-8 weeks where a mother’s body adjust to its pre-pregnancy status, during this period a mother may experience tremendous changes both mentally and physically.

A lot of us are familiar with the words baby blues, and it is quite common for new mums to feel sad, hopeless, fatigue or worried. While some symptoms are similar, postpartum depression is different from baby blues. Postpartum depression is much more detrimental to and has a long-lasting impact on the mother. The intensity would make it the mother hard to manage both the baby and herself. Therefore, the seriousness of postpartum depression cannot be overlooked. It is a serious disorder and should be treated as soon as possible.

Some Statistics on Postpartum Depression

From the Postpartum Depression website, from the United States alone:

* Approximately 70% to 80% of women will experience at a minimum so-called β€œbaby blue”. And many of these women will experience the more severe condition of postpartum depression or a related condition.

* The reported rate of some types of clinical postpartum depression among new mothers is between 10% to 20%. These types include but are not limited to postpartum panic disorder and postpartum post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

* A recent study found that 1 in 7 women may experience postpartum depression in the year after giving birth. With 4 million live birth occurring in the United States each year, this is approximately equalling about 600,000 postpartum depression diagnoses.

Across the world:

* Postpartum depression affects at least tens of millions annually.

* One study found that postpartum depression in Asian countries could be as high as 65% among new mothers.

What are the Symptoms of Postpartum Depression

Some hormone changes may result in you as a new mum become moody, sad, hopeless, extremely tired or restless, however, if these symptoms are ongoing for 10 days or more, then it would be best to seek help and advice from your doctor, nurse or midwife. Some of the common symptoms of postpartum depression are:

* Feeling restless or moody

* Having no energy or motivation

* Have trouble focusing or making decisions

* Lose of interest or pleasure in activities

* Insomnia or repeatedly going over thoughts

* The thought of hurting yourself or the baby

* Feeling that you will not be a good mother

* Changing in sleeping patterns

* Crying ongoing

* Changing in appetite

* Severe anxiety and panic attacks

* Feeling you cannot open up to anyone because they will think you are a bad mother

* You feel disconnected from your baby and cannot feel the joy of being a mother

The list simply goes on. And I believe many of us mums can relate here and there, and even feel so deeply the agony, anxiety and depression they have or are experiencing.

The Types of Postpartum Depression

These include:

* Postpartum Blues – Also called baby blues are the mildest condition that occurs in the few weeks after giving birth. It is different to postpartum depression. These baby blues only last for few hours to few weeks and does not have a long-lasting impact on your normal functions in life.

* Postpartum Anxiety – This disorder includes far more anxious behaviours than primary depressed behaviours, and is different to other forms of PPD. The most predominant signs of postpartum anxiety are persistent fears and worries, high tension and stress, and the inability to relax.

* Postpartum Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (ODD) – Symptoms of this disorder include intrusive and persistent thoughts. These thoughts Usually involve harming oneself and/or the baby. Other characteristics include compulsive behaviours such as repetitive cleaning and/or changing of the baby.

* Postpartum Panic Disorder – A disorder that is one of the more severe forms of anxiety preventing mothers to complete daily tasks. The symptoms usually involve excessive fear, worry and anxiety.

* Postpartum Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder – Refers to a range of reactions when you have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. Childbirth can be one of these. Some of the common symptoms include re-living the birth event, being overly alert, avoiding thoughts or reminders, and feeling emotionally numb.

* Postpartum Psychosis – This is a serious mental illness and starts suddenly in days or weeks after giving birth. Symptoms include high mood or mania, depression, confusion, hallucinations and delusions. It requires immediate attention and a psychiatric emergency.

How to Cope with Postpartum Depression

1. Build a secure bond with your baby will help you to soothe and reassure your feelings for yourself and also your baby. The connection your build emotionally will release the happiness hormone or oxytocin and helps you to better cope with depression and anxiety.

2. Skin to skin contact whether breastfeeding or not will help to enhance the bond between the mother and baby. It will relax you both and help to improve your sleeping quality as well. It also helps to reduce crying and cold stress, improve alertness and brain development, and also improve weight gain.

3. Exercise whenever you can. Exercise is an antidepressant to many people including mothers. Whether is exercising on your own or strolling with your baby, either is a great way to ease depression. If you are short on time, then 10 minutes of exercise a day will help too. Try to download an App that helps you to do some fun exercises every day or two, or walk with a mum buddy are a great start to reduce stress and increase the happiness hormones for you.

4. Maintain a healthy diet is an important part of maintaining a physically and mentally potent status. Eating nutritious food and having a balanced diet will always help you to feel better. I would go for a nutritious fruity and nutty breakfast cereal, then a simple but hearty lunch that usually contains my favourite seafood or meat. For the afternoon, I would usually grab my favourite Chai Latte while strolling. And lastly, my dinner would usually be filled with one bowl of warm meat brisket or soup, and one beautiful dish which can be of meat or seafood stir-fried with some vegetables. These always make my day.

5. Have a chat with your loved ones to relieve the anxiety and stress, being with the person who you trust and feel comfortable with can help you to relax and let it out. I also have my best friends to talk to whenever I feel there is something not quite right with myself and seek advice and reassurance. I always find that I could easily get back onto the track after the discussion with my girlfriends. Sometimes mothers need support from mothers, and your girlfriends likely are the best ones to chat to.

6. Practice concentration by revisiting your old hobby or interest such as playing a musical instrument, painting or singing. You can also learn a new skill or gain some new knowledge on anything that might be interesting or beneficial to you. When I am down and feeling depressed, playing the piano always soothes me and letting my negative thoughts drift away.

7. Have some time to relax. Sometimes you need me time that is pure for yourself. The best things that you can do during me-time can be reading, meditation or simply daydreaming while sipping a cup of your favourite coffee or drink. These are like breathers throughout the day and helps with getting you back to a positive mood.

8. Join a group or groups to seek the support of people in similar or the same situations. This will let you understand that you are not alone and there are thousands of mothers in the same shoes as you do.

9. Counseling with your doctor or a professional mental health adviser or psychiatrist. Sometimes you just need some help from the professionals. This will help to reduce the anxiety and embarrassment of sharing your privacy and also really get to the bottom of the problems. The doctors may prescribe medication for you, breastfeeding may be something you need to raise before taking on any medication, please ensure that you discuss all the options before you and your doctor or counsellor align on a path that is the best possible for yourself.

Lastly, we would like to share some resourceful books that can help you to understand and cope with postpartum depression:

The Postpartum Depression Workbook: Strategies to Overcome Negative Thoughts, Calm Stress, and Improve Your Mood by Abigail Burd

This Isn’t What I Expected [2nd edition]: Overcoming Postpartum Depression by Karen R. Kleiman and Valerie Davis Raskin

The Art of Holding in Therapy: An Essential Intervention for Postpartum Depression and Anxiety by Karen Kleiman

Down Came the Rain: My Journey Through Postpartum Depression by Brooke Shields

Pregnancy and Postpartum Anxiety Workbook: Practical Skills to Help You Overcome Anxiety, Worry, Panic Attacks, Obsessions, and Compulsions by Pamela S. Wiegartz and Kevin L. Gyoerkoe

Also, organizations include Beyond Blue, Postpartum Depression, Women’s Health, Health Line and WebMD are all great to seek support and help from.

Hope the above helps and don’t let postpartum depression get into your way mums! You deserve the best out of your motherhood journey.

If you enjoyed this content, for both our existing followers and new audiences, please kindly subscribe to our exciting new official Healthy Mum & Bub blog site https://healthymumandbub.com. We would also appreciate your support for us by like, comment and share the content.

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Postpartum Depression

A lot of times giving birth has been glorified and many of us has forgotten about the postpartum depression or baby blues after giving birth. We will discuss about this topic and explore the symptoms, causes, treatment and more in our upcoming post.

And remember to support us by Subscribe to Healthy Mum & Bub’s official site https://healthymumandbub.com.

Thank you for all the support and love, and stay updated to our contents by Subscribing!

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A Thank You Letter to Our HMB Community!

It’s half year through 2021 already!

HMB’s Mum Jenny and Lil Stephy would like to say a BIG THANK YOU all the support from and accompany by our awesome HMB family throughout the first half of the year! Without you all our lovely parents it we won’t be able to make it to here today!

Life is worth more when you walk with someone together! And life is ever better when you spend time with a beautiful community and make a positive impact for the long term!

Let’s continue this wonderful journey together and make the most out of our parenthood adventure!

Love and HugsπŸ₯°πŸ₯°
From
HMB
Mamma JennyπŸ‘©πŸ»
&
Lil Stephy πŸ‘ΆπŸ»

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INSPIRED BY MOTHERS INTERVIEW SERIES – INTERVIEWING MOTHER BARBARA SILVER

It is lovely to interview our beautiful Mom Barbara Silver, who is a dedicated mum to a beautiful 5-year-old girl! Okay, let’s get straight into the interview and deep dive into Barbara’s motherhood journey.

So darling, tell us…

1. A bit more about your background if you feel comfortable.

I am a momma of a 5-year-old and recently moved to Florida 5 years ago almost 6. I do not have a lot of friends, so I spend time with my family. I like to colour and write to pen pals when I have downtime.

2. What is the most rewarding part about being a mother?

Spending time with my family.

3. What are the most challenging times being a mother? And how did you cope with them?

Trying to keep my daughter in line and keeping on top of things. I try to compromise.

4. What is your biggest craving or pet peeve about being a parent?

My pet peeve is getting my daughter ready for the day she doesn’t pay attention to me but when it comes to her daddy, she will listen to him.

5. What makes your children smile and laugh?

Spending time with me or her daddy.

6. Words that describe your children?

She is smart and very outgoing and very outspoken as well and pretty 😊 I love her.

7. Any standout memories of your children?

When she laughs and she loves her penguins!

8. How do you like to spend time together nowadays with your family?

If it’s been a long week we usually spend time together by watching movies or we do stuff separately so it gives us a chance to enjoy the week or evening.

9. Any great advice to your child when he/she becomes a parent?

Just listen to them spend time with them!

10. Being in your profession, what do you feel is the most interesting parts?

By spending time with them.

11. What would you say that helped you to implement into your life with your profession?

Just being a momma to my daughter the best I could be.

12. Any good advice to parenting tips you can share with us?

I guess the only thing I can say is just trying to spend a lot of time with them while you can before they get old.

13. Optional to answer. If anyone needs great advice from you on parenting or wants to connect with you as friends, what are the best ways to reach you?

Facebook messenger or Facebook or if you know my number feel free to send me a text!

Thank you for your valuable time Barbara! From you, we have learnt the value of family and cease the quality time you have with your little one before they get old. And I believe we will all miss our children when they were a little angels and just realise that we can’t turn back time.

If you enjoyed this content, for both our existing follower and new audiences, please kindly subscribe to our exciting new official Healthy Mum & Bub blog site https://healthymumandbub.com. We would also appreciate your support for us by like, comment and share the content.

Remember to like our Facebook Page and join our Facebook Healthy Mum and Bub Group to connect with fellow parents, ask a questions or share your thoughts and words of wisdom. Let’s make the parenthood journey easier and more rewarding for all of our fellow parents.

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LET’S TALK ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH FOR PARENTS

Mums and Dads, are you stressful about so many things in your life? Do you feel depressed and agonized about your life? Do you feel that you never had enough time for yourself? Do you feel it is difficult to maintain a work life balance? Do you worry about your child’s physical and mental health? Are you worrying about your child’s future? Are you stressful about keeping your relationship going? Are you worrying about your child gets bullied? And I believe the list just goes on for many of you.

For all my dear friends, supportive followers and interested audiences, you have all probably know that I don’t have the ‘perfect’ family in which mum and dad have lived happily ever after. I also did not have the wedding that every princess are suppose to have. Both my parents were not present at my wedding, the reasons being were my dad has his own family matters that are more important than my wedding to mind, and my mum was and still is strong against the man I am marrying to due to various biases.

So, I felt that I have experienced a hell a lot of stress and endless misery throughout my life. But I am going to reassure you that the miserable experiences are only there for you to strengthen your will and spirit, and knowing that you can really level up yourself mentally!

Now the pandemic has hit us hard, we have been isolated since the eruption of the first news of the outbreak. At the time of writing, in where we live Sydney, we are entering into an extended lockdown due to the staggering number of confirmed Covid 19 cases. For my child who loves people and the great outdoor fun, I concern about her way of education going on forward, and what her future will be like.

To be honest, and telling you the utter truth, you, I and everyone are in this together! Having mental health problems or mental illness? My dear friends, you are not alone!

What is Mental Illness and Statistics on Mental Illness

Mental health is the overall wellness of how you think, regulate your feelings and behave. A mental illness, or mental health disorder, is defined as patterns or changes in thinking, feeling or behaving that cause distress or disrupt a person’s ability to function. Mental illness can also be defined as β€˜a clinically diagnosable disorder that significantly interferes with a person’s cognitive, emotional or social abilities’ as per the COAG Health Council 2017.

According to the World Health Organization, 1 in 4 people experience mental illness in a year and 45% of us will experience a mental illness in our lives.

And also from Mental Health Foundation website, the study Mental health statistics: family and parenting shows Approximately 68% of women and 57% of men with mental health problems are Parents; and the most common mental health problems experienced during pregnancy and after birth are anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

And A 2013-2014 study found that 38% of first-time fathers are concerned about their mental health, and around 10% of all new fathers worldwide experience postnatal depression. Further, from the resource book When your parent has a mental illness published back in 2014 by Children of Parents with Mental Illness, in Australia, 1/5 adults experience mental illness, 1/5 kids live with a parent who experiences mental illness and that’s about six out of the 30 kids in a class.

How to Tell the Difference between Emotions and Mental Illness

According to the Better Health Channel, the common mental illness include anxiety disorders, behavioral and emotional disorders in children, bipolar affective disorder, depression, dissoiation and dissociative disorders, eating disorders, obsessive complusive disorder, paranoia, post-traumatic stress disorder, pyschosis and schizophrenia.

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And what is the main difference between emotional and mental health is that the former involves your ability to express and manage emotions arises from what you learnt and experienced, whereas the latter is how well your mind processes and understands information and experiences.

Signs of Mental Illness in Parents and The Impacts of Mental Illness

The main warnings that a parent has mental illness are:

* Prolonged sadness for two or three weeks

* Dramatic changes in moods

* Social withdrawl and avoiding social interactions

* Hurting oneself or talking about hurting oneself

* Suicidal intention and talking about death

* Excessive paranoia, worry or anxiety

* Dramatic changes in eating habits or sleeping patterns

* Out of control behaviors that can be harmful

* Confused thinking or problems concentrating and learning

* Complaints of unexplained aches and pains

The list can go on. And the impacts of parental mental health issues include But not limited to:

* Divorce or separation

* Unemployment

* Financial difficulties or hardship

* Poor living conditions and housing

* Being discriminated

* Lack of social support

* Domestic violence or abuse

Causes of Mental Illness

The causes of mental illness are unknown, and can be very complex. Research suggests that most mental health conditions result from a complex of nature and nuture, along with psychological and environmental factors. Biological causes or nature are genetic vulnerabilities and neurochemical functioning; Environmental causes or nuture are changes in neurochemistry.

In more understandable terms, nature include genetics, hormones, and traits that affect a person’s behavior, physical appearance, and diseases. For example, with your family bloodline will have a impact on the way you would look, behave or think.

Whereas nuture include environmental factors, childhood experiences, social relationships, upbringing, culture, and experiences influence the person.

Guidance For Parents with Mental Illness

All parents have to face the challenges and mange their mental health when taking care and nurturing their children. But when a parent has mental illness, it would cause more challenges to navigate how they can manage both themselves and their children.

Below are some ways for managing and coping with mental illness:

* The priority is to seek help at an early stage. Don’t hide the stress and emotions, and try to speak to anyone who maybe of help as soon as possible.

* Set a regular routine so the parent can get through the list of things that can be done easier with a better order.

* Have some family rules in place, perhaps to ease the stress in mind, write them down on a chalk board or notice board at home.

* Have the parent to practice to concentrate and do one thing at a time.

* Accomplish simple tasks such as shopping, hanging the laundry or cooking some east meals, and reward yourself with a nice dessert or coffee after you have done them.

* Set limits for your child’s behaviour and keep to them.

* Staying connected to your child to help both yourself and your child feeling secured and loved. A circulation of love and care in the family is very important.

Words of Advice for Families with a Parent who has Mental Illness

When you have a parent in the family who has mental illness, what we need to do is to be really sensitive to the emotions and behaviours of this parent. Ignorance will only leave the parent lost in limbo and get into an abyss of hopelessness and helplessness.

Have a decent conversation with the parent and be open to silence and let him/her to really feel that the listening partner or family member is standing from his/her perspective. Ask open questions such as β€œHow are you feeling lately?” and offer help by stating that you will be there for him/her if he/she needs.

Observe his/her behaviors and try to provide assistance where you see necessary. Try to do all these in a subtle and natural way and prevent to accuse the parent of errors or mistakes that he/she has done. Also this parent may have a lot of emotional ups and downs, so try to go with the follow and guide him/her in the most gentle way your can.

The key is to stay connected as a family, and let the parent know you are always there to help him/her.

Lastly, look after the overall health of the parent by setting up routine exercises for him/her and doing this together as a family.

For further assistance, remember there are many well recognized mental illness organizations across Australia and globally:

* Beyond Blue : Provides information and support to help everyone in Australia achieve their best possible mental health

* COMPI – Parents : Provides mental health information and resources for Australian parents.

* Head to Health : A government body through Department of Health. Provides information, advice and links to free and low-cost phone and online mental health services

* SANE : A national mental health charity working to support four million Australians affected by complex mental illness.

* Lifeline : A national charity providing all Australians experiencing a personal crisis with access to 24 hour crisis support and suicide prevention. To speak to Lifeline, dail 131 114.

* World Mental Health Day : Provides an opportunity for all stakeholders working on mental health issues to talk about their work, and what more needs to be done to make mental health care a reality for people worldwide. Check out the website for upcoming mental health events.

* World Federation for Mental Health : The only international multidisciplinary, grassroots advocacy and education organization concerned with all aspects of mental health.

Hope the above helps for anyone who has a parent with mental illness, or yourself who thinks that you might be suffering from mental illness or someone wants to learn more about mental health.

If you enjoyed this content, for both our existing follower and new audiences, please kindly subscribe to our exciting new official Healthy Mum & Bub blog site https://healthymumandbub.com. We would also appreciate your support for us by like, comment and share the content.

Remember to like our Facebook Page and join our Facebook Healthy Mum and Bub Group to connect with fellow parents, ask a questions or share your thoughts and words of wisdom. Let’s make the parenthood journey easier and more rewarding for all of our fellow parents.

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Reminder to My Supportive Followers…

Thank you for all your support to this preliminary Healthy Mum & Bub blog site! Throughout this about half year journey, we have learnt so much and achieved greatly. And now Healthy Mum & Bub have embarked on a new chapter to have our official hosted website.

During the transition period, we will continue to update the same posts on both platforms. We are currently looking at about 3 month timeframe for all our followers to subscribe to the new official site.

Please kindly SUBSCRIBE to https://healthymumandbub.com.

Once again, thank you for all your love and support! We will keep up with the great contents to help mums and dads to walk the parenthood journey together!

Coming soon on our NEXT POST…. Let’s Talk About Mental Health for Parents

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Our Official Site Launch

Hooray! Check our official Healthy Mum & Bub site! Still need ongoing work to be done on the site but I am happy I have done it! | Let’s walk the parenthood journey together!

Thank you πŸ™‡ to all my followers, friends, and audiences! Please visit our official site, and subscribe, like, comment and share!

https://healthymumandbub.com/

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Inspired by Mothers Interview Series – Interviewing Mother Jasmine Du

Hey Jasmine, as a best friend of mine, we are very familiar with each other already. However since you have left Australia and returned to China to build your life there, we haven’t been able to see each other that often. And I have missed so much of your beautiful girl Charisse’ growth milestones. Now for me and the audiences of Healthy Mum and Bub, please tell us…

1. A bit more about your background if you feel comfortable.

A 38 years old single mum😊.

2. What is the most rewarding part of being a mother?

Push me to learn to grow inside.

3. What are the most challenging times being a mother? And how did you cope with them?

I don’t have much of my own time, which sometimes make me feel frustrated that I have to take care of my child 24/7.

4. What is your biggest craving or pet peeve about being a parent?

I need more of my own time and I can do whatever I want.

5. What makes your children smile and laugh?

When we play games together, hug each other; when she plays with her friends.

6.Words that describe your children?

Good sense of humour; funny, lovely, loving, generous, initiative, and sometimes like a monster.

7. Any standout memories of your children?

She tried to make me feel happy and warm when I felt angry. I was touched.

8. How do you like to spend time together nowadays with your family?

Prefer to go out in nature if possible.

9. Any great advice to your children when he/she becomes a parent?

Advice: if you don’t want to have a baby, it’s ok. If you want to have a baby, it’s also ok, just need to know in advance that you need to learn a lot to raise a baby.

10. Being in your profession, what do you feel is the most interesting parts?

Enjoy sharing each other’s stories and feelings.

11. What would you say that helped you to implement into your life with your profession?

Again, it helps me to grow, to become a better of myself.

12. Any good advice to parenting tips you can share with us?

Keep studying, never stop learning for new knowledge and skills 😊.

13. If anyone needs great advice on building their dreams or wants to connect with you as friends, what are the best ways to reach you?

I can be reached on Wechat. WeChat ID: junhuaJazzy

Thank you so much for your time, Jasmine. Yes, being a mum requires so much commitment and time. I do agree with you that whether you decide to have a baby or not, both ways are totally fine, but you got to know in advance that you need to learn a lot to raise a child. And oh yes, keep learning and never stop absorbing the new knowledge and grasping the new skills. Well, I believe from this interview, we have left some food for thought for all our audiences and fellow parents, and hope you all enjoyed it!

If you like this article, then please follow our Healthy Mum & Bub blog site for insights on parenthood and more. Like our Facebook Page and join our Facebook Healthy Mum and Bub Group to connect with fellow parents, ask a questions or share your thoughts and words of wisdom. Let’s make the parenthood journey easier and more rewarding for all of our fellow parents.

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Potty Training 101 for Toddlers

As my toddler girl grows to nearly 2 years old, a new skill we would need her to grasp is toileting. Most parents will start potty training for their babies when they are around 2 years old, because the self-awareness of toddlers around 2 years old has begun to increase, and the body’s self-control ability has also developed to a certain extent. At this time, it is appropriate to start training their babies to go to the bathroom by themselves. So how likely my baby is ready to quit diapers? What is the difference between the methods of training boys and girls to go to the toilet on their own? Today, Healthy Mum and Bub will share with you some knowledge about diaper quitting for babies, and recommend some useful children’s potties.

1. What are the “signals” when a baby is ready to quit diapers?

Potty training does not have a completely fixed age. Generally, we think it is more appropriate to wait until the baby reaches one and a half years old before starting to quit diapers, because babies under one year old cannot control their bladder or defecation by themselves, even if they reach one and a half years old. After age, the baby still cannot control his excretion physically. Therefore, most parents wait until their babies are 2 or 3 years old before they start to train their babies to go to the toilet by themselves, because babies at this age basically have the ability to control the bladder, and many babies are going to daycare or kindergarten soon, it is also very necessary to train the baby in advance to learn how to go to the toilet.

In addition to age, parents can also judge whether the baby is ready for potty training by observing some “signals” sent by the baby’s body. The editor here has compiled some for your parents’ reference:

β˜…The baby can walk in a coordinated manner, even run steadily, and can sit quietly and hold for two to five minutes.

β˜…The diaper wets very regularly during a certain period of time.

β˜…Usually or during a nap, there is a condition that can keep the diaper “not wet” for at least two hours, which indicates that the baby’s bladder muscles are well developed enough to store a certain amount of urine.

Continue reading “Potty Training 101 for Toddlers”

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Inspired by Mothers Interview Series – Interviewing Mother Van Schaijk Angie

This interview is also available from our Healthy Mum & Bub Podcasts, you can listen from here.


Hey Angie, it is so lovely to know you and your family. Your story is touching and encouraging, being able to strive for the best for your son and also running an l Pre & Postnatal Nutrition & Fitness business because of your son! So tell us…

1. A bit more about your background if you feel comfortable.

I am original from Germany, my husband from the Netherlands. We have two beautiful kids and one on the way. I am a studied nutritionist and Health Coach, which specialised in Pre & Postnatal Nutrition & Fitness. We have been working and travelling in Ireland, England, Scotland, Malta and settled in Denmark.

2. What is the most rewarding part of being a mother?

The best rewarding part of being a mother is to the kids happy and healthy.

3. What are the most challenging times being a mother? And how did you cope with them?

The most challenging time was when we saw differences between our son and daughter. Our son was a “screaming” baby and it was hard to touch him as he hated it. He wasn’t the typical baby you could hold and comfort… He started hurting himself when he was 2 years old. It broke our hearts and we searched desperately for help and answers. Now he is 6 and we finally received help in Denmark. We understand now why he was always “different” as he has ADHD and autism.

4. What is your biggest craving or pet peeve about being a parent?

To feel hopeless and scared when you don’t understand your child because it needs special care and attention.

5. What makes your children smile and laugh?

Funny Videos of animals.

6.Words that describe your children?

Both of them are amazing, beautiful, and outstanding.

7. Any standout memories of your children?

The first smiles of our daughter, and the first hug from our son.

8. How do you like to spend time together nowadays with your family?

Going out a lot for family walks and explore nature together.

9. Any great advice to your children when he/she becomes a parent?

Never stop fighting for your family.

10. Being in your profession, what do you feel is the most interesting parts?

To see the world with kids’ eyes.

11. What would you say that helped you to implement into your life with your profession?

My husband’s patience. He is always so relaxed.

12. Any good advice to parenting tips you can share with us?

Never stop fighting if you have the feeling something is wrong or different with your child. It is worth it.

13. Facebook, Instagram, Email. Simply drop me a message.

email: info@nutritionbyangie

Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/Nutritionbyangie

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nutritionbyangie

Thank you so much for your time Angie! Yes, never stop fighting for your family and we also feel so happy for you that you have a patient husband who supports you so well! And last but not least, trying to see things from kid’s eyes is so inspirational, we do need a lot of this!

If you like this article, then please follow our Healthy Mum & Bub blog site for insights on parenthood and more. Like our Facebook Page and join our Facebook Healthy Mum and Bub Group to connect with fellow parents, ask a questions or share your thoughts and words of wisdom. Let’s make the parenthood journey easier and more rewarding for all of our fellow parents.

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Inspired by Mothers Interview Series -My Answers to the Interview Questions

This interview is also available from our Healthy Mum & Bub Podcastd, you can listen from here.


Nominated by my dear friend and fellow Mum Lucia Gu to also have myself answer these interesting interview questions, so here are mine ones…

1. A bit more about your background if you feel comfortable.

I am from Shanghai China and moved to Sydney Australia when I was 10 years old. I am Relationship Manager at American Express Australia. I am also a Mum Blogger who runs the Healthy Mum and Bub website and the Healthy Mum and Bub group. I became a Mum blogger and group owner during my maternity leave. When I became a mother and gone through the ups and downs of motherhood, I felt that Mums and Dads need the support and help to stay both mentally and physically healthy and enriched in their parenthood journey. Immersed with the love of my child, I also am so touched and fulfilled by the amazing perspectives of a child! I hope that we can all be inspired and encouraged by each other in our beautiful Healthy Mum & Bub family, and let’s walk the parenthood journey together hand in hand.

2. What is the most rewarding part of being a mother?

The most rewarding part of being a mother is to experience the growth and development of a new life magically starting from inside you! And then the changes to your body, the experience of the most painful but amazing birthing moments! Further, the endurance and spirit I have been able to build up through sleepless nights, numerous nappy changes, endless love, hugs and kisses to this wonderful little miracle I have created in my life!

3. What are the most challenging times being a mother? And how did you cope with them?

The most challenging times being a mother is during the time I am giving birth and postpartum, where I had to face the pains and tremendous changes in my body. Apart from these, another challenge is to fight against sleepless nights and ongoing fatigue, especially during the early weeks when you are a new Mum!

4. What is your biggest craving or pet peeve about being a parent?

My biggest pet peeve about being a parent is to forego the times for my hobbies such as playing the piano and painting. Also not drinking red wine until after I completely stop breastfeeding.

5. What makes your child smile and laugh?

The things that make my child Stephanie smile and laugh is there with her to play together. My baby girl giggles when I sing funnily, or tickle her from top to toe like a caterpillar, or making silly and funny body and hand movements together. She also smiles when I breastfeed, kiss and hugs her.

6. Words that describe your child?

The words that describe Stephanie are sweet, cute, adorable, friendly, clever, curious and very vocal.

7. Any standout memories of your child?

Stand out memories of Stephanie include the first cry when she just arrived in this world, her first words en-neh which mean milk and mum, her first smile and eye contact with me during breastfeeding, her first long giggle when she saw one of my girlfriends in her 100 days party, and her first kiss to my face.

8. How do you like to spend time together nowadays with your family?

Due to the pandemic, we had to change the way we spend family time together. Pre-pandemic, we used to get out often to shop or going on road trips. Nowadays, we spend most of the times at home. As a family, we enjoy attending the virtual playgroups with Playgroup NSW together to interact with other parents and kids. We also love to have family musical times by playing little instruments together and sing along.

9. Any great advice to your child when he/she becomes a parent?

Be yourself, be the little unicorn who is unique and special in its form. Be an individual with colourful dreams and a free spirit! You only live once, so make the most out of it.

10. Being in your profession, what do you feel is the most interesting parts?

I have many professions now, I am a dedicated mum and wife, a career-focused woman, a passionate mum blogger and a group owner. I also manage my father – artist Alex Lin’s social media accounts on his artworks and shop, so the most interesting parts are you can wear so many different caps on your head, life is always a colourful rainbow and never dull. At times it may be overwhelmed by getting flights.

11. What would you say that helped you to implement into your life with your profession?

Use your imagination and creativity. There are millions of roadblocks and challenges in your life. As a human being you have your emotional moments, but training yourself to build a strong mind, body and spirit will help you to creatively face and resolve these challenges and roadblocks. Further, learn how to build great relationships with family, friends, colleagues, working partners, business associates and more, be grateful and show your gratitude, be universal and diverse in your connections. It’s when you have great relationships, you will thrive. Without the great relationships and support from these relationships, you will only be a lone soldier.

12. Any good advice on parenting tips you can share with us?

Love comes first. Be there for your child. Don’t preach to them just because the things they are doing don’t agree with you. Look from your child’s perspectives and try to learn and understand what they are thinking and the motives behind their behaviours. Sometimes when it is so hard for you to know why they are crying, just be there and give them warm hugs. Love never fails.

13. If anyone needs great advice on building their dreams or wants to connect with you as friends, what are the best ways to reach you?

You can connect with me to know more about what I do and/or contact me via the below channels:

Master link: https://linktr.ee/jennyjyan6

Blogsites:

Healthy Mum & Bub Non-Hosted Website : Visit https://healthymumandbub.wordpress.com/

Healthy Mum & Bub Official Hosted Website: Visit https://healthymumandbub.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthymumandbub

Facebook:

Jenny Yan | Healthy Mum and Bub Fan Page https://m.facebook.com/healthymumandbub

Healthy Mum and Bub Group link: https://m.facebook.com/groups/3472040862924492/

Email: healthymumandbub@outlook.com

LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/in/jenny-yan-3a24b014

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Your Last Chance to Get Your Savings for Amazon Prime Day

Today is the last chance to get your huge savings on Amazon Prime Day!

Check Healthy Mum and Bub’s blog on how to save big months very special annual mega sales event from here!

And we will be continuing update our Amazon Prime Day page for the relevant Prime Exclusive Deals until the end of the event!

Further, we have a great news! Cashrewards App is also holding a Flash Sales at Amazon and a number of other big brands! For Amazon, you will get a 12% cashback on everything 4-6pm AEST. Capped at $20!

This means on top of the Prime Day savings, for a total spend for about AUD 170, you will get AUD 20 cashback from Cashrewards App!

And this is important!!! Before checking out, if you have an American Express Card, save the Amazon Spend AUD 100 and get AUD 20 back offer! You will then get a further cashback of AUD 20!How awesome is that!

Once again, all the tools to save you BIG on Prime Day is HERE!

Have an awesome Amazon Prime Day!

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Today is the Date! What to do on Amazon Prime Day to Save BIG!

Hiya fellow parents and followers, on this very special day, Healthy Mum and Bub is sharing with you what to do on Prime Day to save big on for your Wishlist!

OK, let’s get straight into the steps:

1. To get the Prime Exclusive Deals on Prime Day, sign up the Prime Membership first from here

2. Download this great Cashrewards App from here to get up to 10% cashback on eligible purchases on Prime Day

3. Save even more if you are an American Express Card holder, save the Amazon spend $100 get $20 back (Australian Offer) . The offer on American Express goes on until the 30 June 2021. You can sign up for the American Express cards from our referral links below and you can get bonus points after signed up and fulfilled the eligibilities:

American Express Platinum Edge Credit Card: http://amex.com.au/refer/jENNYY9a9V?CPID=100437571

American Express Explorer Credit Card: http://amex.com.au/refer/jENNYYugQx?CPID=100437571

So for this Prime Day, our family bought 3 Echo Dots 3rd Gen and 1 All-new Fire TV Stick, my husband is a Prime Member. So for the Prime Member Exclusive Deals we saved AUD 160.00, we made this purchase via our Cashrewards App and paid with American Express Card Upon checking out. What’s the final total saving we have achieved? About AUD 191 including the cashbacks from Cashrewards App and American Express Amazon cashback offer.

Check our Amazon Prime Day 2021 page for some relevant great deals updated, and have a very Happy Prime Day!

If you like this article, then please follow our Healthy Mum & Bub blog site for insights on parenthood and more. Like our Facebook Page and join our Facebook Healthy Mum and Bub Group to connect with fellow parents, ask a questions or share your thoughts and words of wisdom. Let’s make the parenthood journey easier and more rewarding for all of our fellow parents.

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Inspired by Mothers Interview Series – Interviewing Mother Jenny Samantha

This interview is also available on our Healthy Mum & Bub Podcasts, you can listen from here.


Hey Jenny, we know that you are a proud mum to 3 gorgeous children, a 5-year-old December boy, a one-year-old May boy and a little girl who has just born this April. So tell us…

1.A bit more about your background if you feel comfortable.

I’m not sure what to say.

2.What is the most rewarding part of being a mother?

Put all my time and effort into my children knowing that I am always happy and healthy.

3.What are the most challenging times being a mother? And how did you cope with them?

My mental health struggling to get out of bed and the reason that I am who I am today because of my children.

4.What is your biggest craving or pet peeve about being a parent?

Elephants because I never forget.

5.What makes your children smile and laugh?

Seeing mummy and daddy very happy Communication love and hugs.

6.Words that describe your children?

Perfect and in every way happy friendly very playful.

7.Any standout memories of your children?

Having my mum by my side.

8.How do you like to spend time together nowadays with your family?

Always together chips on holidays even better by making memories.

9.Any great advice to your children when he/she becomes a parent?

Never lie always be open and honest always stick by your children no matter what or how hard it is and let them know that mummy and daddy are always here even when things are tough.

10.Being in your profession, what do you feel is the most interesting parts?

Meeting all your children in need.

11.What would you say that helped you to implement into your life with your profession?

Having children made me realise I have to grow up and be an adult not a child anymore I’m not relying on people just be independent which is help me out more than I thought.

12.Any good advice to parenting tips you can share with us?

If you ever want to know something don’t hesitate to ask for some help if you’re worried about your child in a situation go to your nearest A&E or phone 111 but if you’re ever feeling down it’s normal to do you have good days and have your bad days.

Thank you so much for your time! We really love your words on never lie and always be open and honest with your little ones, and also do seek help if you need to, that’s what us parents all need! Be authentic with children and having a great community support!

If you like this article, then please follow our Healthy Mum & Bub blog site for insights on parenthood and more. Like our Facebook Page and join our Facebook Healthy Mum and Bub Group to connect with fellow parents, ask a questions or share your thoughts and words of wisdom. Let’s make the parenthood journey easier and more rewarding for all of our fellow parents.

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Don’t Miss Out on the Amazon Prime Day 2021 Deals! Check out our Amazon Prime Day Page!

1. Sign up to the Prime Membership now from here

2. And check and shop the Amazon Prime Day deals from our dedicated Amazon Prime Day 2021 page https://healthymumandbub.wordpress.com/amazon-prime-day-2021/

Happy Amazon Prime Day!

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Thoughts for Father’s Day & Best Gifts for My Father

This is a very personal post. For me, Father’s Day is very sensitive and difficult as my parents got divorced during my early childhood. Therefore, Father’s Day has been a hard topic for me to talk about for a long time until recent years when we reunite with each other.

Through my childhood and teenage years, I have been feeling very lonely and sad from time to time when I see other families being together on Father’s Day. And I also remember that one day my eyes were filled with tears when I saw a father was taking photos of his child on the bridge. Why it triggers my sentiment is because my father is always my portrait artist and photographer when I was little!

The reasons that my father and I haven’t see each other for years is simple but complicated at the same time. I guess a part is due to my mother’s personality and perspectives, the other is because my father hasn’t tried enough to see me after few denials of visits by my mother. Of course, there are more issues caused by their personal life and preferences.

To me, my father is my mentor when it comes to homework, drawing and painting. He is a type of fatherly figure who doesn’t preach too much but do things with you together. He taught me how to sketch nature and paint with my heart. He also taught me how to write with inspirations and express myself truthfully.

There are so many unforgettable Memories with my father before my mum and him got divorced. Back in our hometown Shanghai, China, my father used to always bring me to his underground workshop at his factory, he is in the marketing department and the master artist there. At the workshop, We spent so much time together to explore art and experiment different ways to draw and paint. This is our magical dungeon of art!

Now I have grown to a mature woman and already built my little family, since the reunion with my father, we have been chatting about our thoughts and perspectives on life quite a lot. I found that even we have been apart for years, the father and daughter connection is always there.

There was this amazing moment when we realise that we behave the same in many ways as father and daughter. On this dining table, we both love to eat salmon sashimi and drink red wine, and we both like to wipe our mouth frequently while eating. Physically, we both have a not so great bladder. There are just so much likeness and I believe these are all in my genes.

What’s the best gifts for my and perhaps your father?!

First of all, my father is a professional artist with such great artistry in his works! He has a passion and love in animals and the wild Africa! He also owes his artistic training in classic painting such as the Renaissance, Baroque, Realism and so on. I remember that when I was little, I was astonished by the realism of an anatomy study by my father, it was a peice on study on the human skull. My father also collects books on art and animals from time to time. So the very first gift I would give to my father is always a beautiful book on art or animals.

Art of Renaissance Florence

I guess one of the greatest things I have done for my father this year is setting up social media accounts for his artworks. These helped him tremendously to showcase his talents and share his passion in art, animals and afro culture! My none social media savvy father is so excited that now he has Facebook Fan Page and Shop, as well an artist Instagram account. Your support to like and follow my father the Artist Alex Lin β€˜s accounts would mean so much to my beloved father.

Sad to say that my mum and I have travelled around the cradle of art – Europe, I so wish that my dad was there with us too. But unfortunately it was impossible. I so wish that we there could be together as a family and visit the British Museum, Versailles, the hometown of Gaudi and his amazing artistry, the Romantic Road in Germany, the amazing swiss alps, the tranquil Lucerne, the passionate matador in Spain, enjoy the beautiful pizza and gelato under the foot of Pisa tower, and so much more…

My father is also a lover of red wine! When we first reunited after 20 odd years, we celebrated with a feast accompanied by my father’s favourite red wine. And since then, this wonderful companion has never ceased. Red wine along with sashimi somehow is a combination belongs to my father and I. we don’t drink white wines with our seafood. So for my father, a good bottle of red will be a gift for his dining enthusiasm. The Pepperjack Barossa Shiraz would be my pick for this year as it is fruity berry flavour and full of dark chocolate and Rich mocha notes, a very special wine for my very special father.

Photograph is also my father’s long time hobby, he has taken tons of photos of my mother and I before they got divorced. And I had a treasurous memory that once I got really upset at my dad as he asked me to pose with my eyes to look at a certain direction with the tree branch and flowers, at the end he captured one of the best portraits of me.

In the 80s, my father also used to play around with daguerreotype and work in his own created little dark room. He has created so many beautiful memories of my mum and I with great artistry. We have so many old albums full of wonderful photos of my mum and I, and also lovely photos of my father and my mum at early years of their marriage. Two of the albums are so nostalgic and unique as the photos are in black and white and processed in the dark room by my father himself.

For my father a photograph and camera lover, this year a gift of a versatile camera the Canon EOS R6 would be another option for me.

Last but not least, would be the time to spend together! Due to the pandemic since last year, we haven’t really see each other in person. I hope the situation can ease soon so that we can chat over a beautiful feast with our favorite wine and salmon sashimi, and chitchat more about our love for art, photography, and also I wish my father can share more of his thoughts for his life and shed some lights of the meaning of life to his daughter.

I also wish to tell my father that how much I love him and what are the best memories spent with him when I was a child I would always recall. Now writing to here, I hope you all have so many unforgettable memories with your father. Share with me in comment what are your best memories!

If you like this article, then please follow our Healthy Mum & Bub blog site for insights on parenthood and more. Like our Facebook Page and join our Facebook Healthy Mum and Bub Group to connect with fellow parents, ask a questions or share your thoughts and words of wisdom. Let’s make the parenthood journey easier and more rewarding for all of our fellow parents.

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INSPIRED BY MOTHERS INTERVIEW SERIES -Interviewing Mother Lucia Gu

Hey Lucia, I know that you are a mother to two beautiful children Katarina and Charlie, and also juggling between your professional day job and life very well, so tell us…

1. A bit more about your background if you feel comfortable.

I am in my early 40’s and of Chinese origin. I have been married to my Slovakian husband for 11 years. We have one daughter who is 5 and one son who is 19 months old.

2. What is the most rewarding part about being a mother?

The most rewarding part about being a mother is to grow with my children and watching them to become their own people.

3. What are the most challenging times being a mother? And how did you cope with them?

The most challenging times being a mother is to cope with sickness. This winter wasn’t very kind to my family. My whole family was sick. I had bronchitis and was on two rounds of antibiotics. I find it very difficult to cope whilst looking after two kids myself. Thankfully my husband was very supportive and took one day off to help me with the kids.

4. What is your biggest craving or pet peeve about being a parent?

My biggest pet peeve about being a parent is not having enough time to do things that I want to do for myself. I love painting and hopefully that I can do more of it once the kids are in school.

5. What makes your children smile and laugh?

Tickling them, tackle them and doing silly things together.

6. Words that describe your children?

My daughter is knowledgeable, kind, helpful and thoughtful.

My son is smart, impatient, cheeky, and playful.

7. Any standout memories of your children?

During the lockdown, I just had my second baby and my daughter didn’t go to the preschool for three months. Our favourite daily activities was going out for a walk in the fire trail nearby. All four of us really enjoyed walking in the nature and my daughter loves playing the “I spy” game.

8. How do you like to spend time together nowadays with your family?

We would normally go out and do activities together. Our favourite activities is bush walking and playing at the park playground.

9. Any great advice to your children when he/she becomes a parent?

My advice is to be a good role model for your children. We have to constantly watch what do we say and do in front of them. Otherwise they will copy everything (good and bad) they see and hear.

10. Being in your profession, what do you feel is the most interesting parts?

I think the most interesting parts is the opportunity to be a child again. Try to look at this world from their perspective and enjoy the simple things together.

11. What would you say that helped you to implement into your life with your profession?

I am still learning not to lose my cool and be firm when facing a difficult situation.

12. Any good advice to parenting tips you can share with us?

My tips are pick your battle and reward good behaviours and discourage undesirable behaviours.

13. If anyone needs to seek some great advice on work life balance or wants to connect with you as friends, what are the best ways to reach you?

I am always available on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/lucia.gu.5Thank you for your valuable time dear! And we certainly have picked up some great advice from you on great parenting and dealing with difficult situations! These will help us tremendously in the long run!

If you like this article, then please follow our Healthy Mum & Bub blog site for insights on parenthood and more. Like our Facebook Page and join our Facebook Healthy Mum and Bub Group to connect with fellow parents, ask a questions or share your thoughts and words of wisdom. Let’s make the parenthood journey easier and more rewarding for all of our fellow parents.

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INSPIRED BY MOTHERS INTERVIEW SERIES – Interviewing Mother Yuki Jones

Hey Yuki, I know that you are a new mum to a beautiful little girl Efi, and a great cooker as well. So tell us…

Q: A bit more about your background if you feel comfortable.

A: I’m from Japan, I have a 2 month old daughter.

Q: What is the most rewarding part about being a mother?

A: My daughter is 2 months old and I do breastfeed her. When I do breastfeed her, she sometimes holds my finger and looks at me with a little cheeky cute face. This is a privilege for me. I can see she has grown and been more expressive. I enjoy every moment of her. Being a mum is a tough job but worthy job as well.

Q: What are the most challenging times being a mother? And how did you cope with them?

A: 24/7 look after my daughter. Therefore, the toughest thing so far is I can’t get much time for sleep and also managing to do housework to find even small time.
However my husband is very helpful, he gives me some time to sleep or relax and even cook for me when he is home.

Q: What is your biggest craving or pet peeve about being a parent?

A: My daughter doesn’t like sleeping in her basket so in other words, she doesn’t sleep for long hours in there. This is the thing make me feel tired.
I produce so much milk somehow and easy to get pain on my boobs. Therefore, sometimes my clothes are wet with leaked milk. I wish I could control my milk.

Q: What makes your children smile and laugh?

A: She smiles a lot when I change her nappies and talk to her that how big poop she did.
Also, she likes us tickling her chin and tummy.

Q: Words that describe your children?

Cheeky precious sunshine.

A: Any standout memories of your children?

My daughter was born with so much hair. When I was in labor, a midwife said she has got so much hair when the midwife saw her head from my perineum. The moment made me laugh even in pain for labor.

Q: How do you like to spend time together nowadays with your family?

A: It is very little things but I like staying bed late in the morning with my husband and daughter when my husband is off.
We just moved to new place so it is very exciting to explore the area together.

Q: Any great advice to your children when he/she becomes a parent?

A: I met my husband in Sydney Australia and came to Wales which is his country to have life with him. I feel that if I didn’t go to Sydney to study at that point, I wouldn’t have met my husband. I learned that you never know what kind of encounter will happen until you take an action. There might have a lot of obstacles to you but try everything what you want to do and do not miss the time.

Q: Being in your profession, what do you feel is the most interesting parts?

A: Making mum’s friends is one of exciting things. There is a different feeling to have mums friends than before because now I’m a mum too so I will have more things I can understand to be a mum. Therefore, I feel like I have a ticket to join another world.

Q: What would you say that helped you to implement into your life with your profession?

A: Making plan and just going for the goals. And having a reliable husband.

Q: Any good advice to parenting tips you can share with us?

A: I still can’t believe I gave birth only 2 months ago and at the same time the 2 months have gone so quickly. Therefore, I guess you should enjoy every moment with your children as they grow very fast.

Q: If anyone needs great advice from you on parenting or wants to connect with you as friends, what are the best ways to reach you?

A: Facebook https://www.facebook.com/yuki.nakamura0506 or Instagram https://www.instagram.com/yuki_jones0506.

Thank you so much for sharing your story and motherhood journey with us! We really enjoyed every moment with you and hope your new chapters will be bright and amazingly beautiful!

If you like this article, then please follow our Healthy Mum & Bub blog site for insights on parenthood and more. Like our Facebook Page and Join our Facebook Healthy Mum and Bub Group to connect with fellow parents, ask a questions or share your thoughts and words of wisdom. Let’s make the parenthood journey easier and more rewarding for all of our fellow parents.

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Top 10 Baby and Toddler Toys in 2021 on Amazon

As we have just celebrated 1 June 2021 our International Children’s Day in many parts of the world recently, Healthy Mum and Bub is wanting to share with you all the most popular and welcomed toys by our baby and toddlers on Amazon. This is to help our parents to understand what are the best possible for our kiddies to spark their sensory and fine motor skills.

OK, let’s chitty chatty less and get straight into the fun ride of the toy world of baby and toddlers!

#1. TOMY E1581 Hide & Squeak Eggs

Chirp! Chirp! These are not your ordinary eggs you find at the grocery store! Crack open the shells to reveal six egg-stra special chicks. Your little one can learn shapes by sorting each shell into its own carton spot. There are six different face/shell combinations included. Your little one can press down gently on the eggs’ heads to hear them chirp! Best of all, no batteries are needed!

Get it from https://amzn.to/3ijxr0h

#2. FisherPrice Growing Baby Animal Activity Cube

There are five sides of fun keep your baby entertained! It’s just the right size for baby to grasp and explore busy activitiesβ€”including a peek-a-boo door, squeaker lion, bat-at roller and butterfly slider! It helps to strengthen your baby’s senses and fine motor skills.

Get it from https://amzn.to/2S38NXb.

#3. Vtech Baby Musical Rhymes Book

This interactive musical rhymes book comes to life with press piano keys that teach instrument names, sounds and colours. Includes two modes of play. Melodies of the nursery rhyme play if the instrument pressed is featured on the page of the nursery rhyme.

There are 6 pages of bright and colourful nursery rhymes including Hey Diddle Diddle, Humpty Dumpty, Hickory Dickory Dock, Little Miss Muffet, The Mulberry Bush and Old MacDonald.

The book features slide and push manipulative buttons to encourage manual dexterity and discovery. It helps develop early language and reading skills. The material is made of durable plastic pages that can be easily wiped clean and they are non-rip so baby can play again and again.

Get it from https://amzn.to/3vYM5ht.

#4. GUND Animated Flappy The Elephant

GUND’s Flappy the Elephant is an adorable singing animated plush with two different play modes. Your baby can press the left foot to play an interactive game of peek-a-boo, and the right to hear the song “Do Your Ears Hang Low” in a cute child’s voice.

The elephant’s ears move and flap during play. The surface is washable for easy cleaning.

This toy is suitable for all ages. Three “AA” batteries included with purchase. This plush toy has unparalleled softness and huggability like all GUND’s plush toys do.

Get it from https://amzn.to/3gbfLSU.

#5. Coolplay Baby’s First Non-Toxic Soft Cloth Book Set

With Coolplay’s baby cloth book set, you don’t need to travel the world to search for the variety of books that will entertain and educate your little ones. Your baby will delight over the fun patterns, soft fabric design cloth book with bold colors and sensory-rich features, front and back cover are built-in sound papers, which could effectively attract your baby’s attention and entertain by self-discovery & opportunities for learning.

Get it from https://amzn.to/3pPYT7P.

#6. Manhattan Toy

This timeless classic toy is a true parent ‘must have’ and a baby ‘go to’, and my baby girl Steph’s very first and favourite sensory toy!

Its maze of soft, continuous tubes and its stunning colors instantly capture and hold baby’s attention.

The mesmerizing loop design and lightweight construction make it very easy for little hands to grab, hold and rattle.

The soft, pliable teething loops are perfect for teething or gumming babies. The center cube features a quiet rattle so baby can explore sound and cause and effect.

Get it from https://amzn.to/3xgERG1.

#7. Fisher-Price GKD51 Rock-a-Star

From grasping and shaking to sorting and stacking, the Rock-A-Stack has tons of fun ways for your baby to play and explore.

Babies can sort and stack all five rings, then bat at the wobbly base to see what happens, helping to enhance their curiosity and sense of discovery!

Get it from https://amzn.to/3cw0eLz.

#8. Fisher-Price Baby’s First Blocks

Your baby will love putting the blocks in the bucket one by one, and then dumping the bucket to see all the colorful blocks come tumbling outβ€”over and over again! And while they’re having fun, they’re exercising important developing skills too, like hand-eye coordination, and thinking and problem solving skills

Get it from https://amzn.to/3gpd5A6.

#9. Boxiki Kids Wooden Stacking Toys and Sorting Board

Encourage your kids to think logically, move precisely, and play creatively! This kinetic wood stacking toy helps children develop both cognitive thinking and fine motor skills as they carefully place, rotate and adjust the different shapes to make them all fit.

Use these color learning toys as an opportunity for learning shapes, introducing geometry and building color and size recognition. Or, just set it up for your little one to enjoy as a fun and engaging on-their-own activity. Great for cognitive thinking and fine motor skills development.

Get it from https://amzn.to/3pB1L8k.

#10. Water Play Mat

Why tummy time for your babies? Because it can help your babies to train their neck and upper body muscles to prepare for growth developments include sitting, crawling and standing.

Babies need to lie on their stomachs from the very first day they arrived home 10 to 15 times per day, several minutes each time, which can gradually increase over time depending on individual growth and capability.

If your baby does not like tummy time after trying so many methods? Then as parents you can try the tummy time mat!

Benefits of this Tummy Time Mat include preventing flat head syndrome, hand-eye coordination, motor skills, intestinal motility. Promotes defecation, colour perception, visual development, brain development, parent-child interaction, enhances feelings and a perfect gift. This tummy time water playmat also serves as a summer water bed for the β€œlittle one”, makes him/her feeling cool and comfortable.

Get it from https://amzn.to/3vado7t.

If you like this article, then please follow our Healthy Mum & Bub blog site for insights on parenthood and more. Like our Facebook Page and Join our Facebook Healthy Mum and Bub Group to connect with fellow parents, ask a questions or share your thoughts and words of wisdom. Let’s make the parenthood journey easier and more rewarding for all of our fellow parents.

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INSPIRED BY MOTHERS INTERVIEW SERIES – Interviewing Mother Shyrill Iglesia Capa

Hey Shy, I know that you are a proud Mum of a beautiful girl Ma Maria and a handsome little boy Edgarson, and also a successful official scout for Amity Boutique a well-established baby fashion brand. So tell us…

Q: A bit more about your background if you feel comfortable.

A: I am so grateful and comfortable having my whole family healthy and happy despite this pitiful pandemic situations. and more blessed to have these amazing kids who always understand our simply means of living.

Q: What is the most rewarding part about being a mother?

A: No one can repay our obligations as a Mother especially like me full-time mother but I love my duty that’s why I never regret being a housekeeper but one thing for sure the most rewarding part of my motherhood is the hugs and kisses of my loved ones that made me more strong and had more strengths moving forward on this life.

Q: What are the most challenging times being a mother? And how did you cope with them?

A: The most challenging role of being a mother when you saw that one of your loved ones getting sick or more than that I am getting nervous but yet family members never turn their backs on me so I can be relieved and gave what they had. That’s family is love.

Q: What is your biggest craving or pet peeve about being a parent?

A: The biggest crave all my life was to see all my kids grew up smarter than me, to choose their dreams to come true and live their life contentedly.

Q: What makes your children smile and laugh?

A: Mothers heart smiles and laughs in very simple ways especially when they wish something and you grant it… It’s heaven to see your kids smiles and happy in a simple way.

Q: Words that describe your children?
A: My heaven and earth, they are my sunshine in my darkest world, my treasure and strength of my undying hopes.

Q: Any standout memories of your children?

A: Proud Mum here! My eldest son made his whole junior and senior high school as ATHLETES OF THE YEAR, he is the most valuable player at all times. And my little daughter made her first major pageant at the age of five. so blessed and grateful proud mommy here.

Q: How do you like to spend time together nowadays with your family?

A: Every single moment is valuable for me, as I noticed this pandemic situation once you died and buried right away without seeing your loved ones so pitiful that’s why every minute counts having them, hugs, and love them and mostly serving them in my entire life.

Q: Any great advice to your children when he/she becomes a parent?

A: Now and then I always talked to my kids. Gave good advice pursuing their good future and being the responsible one. The study was the most important thing for no one can steal the knowledge we had or made to be. Believed in yourself and God above all.

Q: Being in your profession, what do you feel is the most interesting parts?

A: I render myself a full-time mother by profession, and I never regret that because serving them, and made them close to me is the most interesting moments in my life. I can have a son, a daughter and two best friends.

Q: What would you say that helped you to implement into your life with your profession?

A: Being a mother, it’s my own choice, my obligations and my responsibility, I love my daily routine work without complaining. I am loved, cared for and valuable, and do appreciate what I’m doing that’s enough for me.

Q: Any good advice to parenting tips you can share with us?

A: We have an individual lifestyle because mostly motherhood in a foreign country is working not like me, but we have the same obligations, roles, and responsibilities. Implementing to take good care forbour kids day and night. All I can say is that we are so blessed to have our kids and they arebso precious, don’t let them felt that they are empty and homeless, because an Angel lives in heaven abundantly.

Q: If anyone needs great advice from you on parenting or wants to connect with you as friends, what are the best ways to reach you?

A: It’s my honour to be part of this group and knowing you guys even I’m just simply a housewife with a simple way of living but you made me feel that I’m important and have the right to live to the fullest even in a simple way. I feel so thankful and grateful.
It’s my pleasure to help one another and sharing thoughts with you MY HEALTHY MUM AND BUB family. I am working as a commentator for a certain boutique if you love to try our beautiful closings kindly DM our main page using my code SHY50 for paying half of the price and became our Model and Ambassadors
@amitybelle_boutique or CLOTHING BRAND
Amity Official Scout πŸ¦‰
Cause Through Fashion πŸŽ€
Worldwide Shipping 🌍 🌾
Message @amitybelle_boutique πŸ“©https://instagram.com/amitybelle_boutique?igshid=1av269u36v103
It’s a big help for me dearest mums.

Thank you Shy for your words of wisdom! We learnt the importance of love, obligation and responsibility in our parenting journey! Hope these words of wisdom will spread around the world and let the world 🌎 to be a better place for our children!

If you like this article, then please follow our Healthy Mum & Bub blog site for insights on parenthood and more. Like our Facebook Page and Join our Facebook Healthy Mum and Bub Group to connect with fellow parents, ask a questions or share your thoughts and words of wisdom. Let’s make the parenthood journey easier and more rewarding for all of our fellow parents.

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INSPIRED BY MOTHERS INTERVIEW SERIES – Interviewing Mother Casie Bracken

We are so excited to interview our 29 year old mother of two beautiful children – Casie Bracken

She is a strong woman with tremendous courage and great spirit! Let’s get to know her insights and spread the wings with her together to fly high.

So Casie, tell us…

Q: A bit more about your background if you feel comfortable.

A: I am 29 years old I have cerebral palsy. I have a loving husband we have been together for all most 8 years and we have been married for almost 2 years now. We have 2 kids, a 5-year-old daughter who has a duplication in her 11th chromosome, autism level 2, intellectual disability, and is nonverbal, I have a 7-month-old son who has started to walk aided with objects.

Q: What is the most rewarding part about being a mother?

A: My most rewarding part about being a mother can watch my children grow into happy healthy people and being able to teach them how to treat people right no matter how different they are.

Q: What are the most challenging times being a mother? And how did you cope with them?

A: The most challenging thing of being a mother is for me my cerebral palsy stop me from being able to do some task or activity the way I deal with them is by changing the way I do things.

Q: What is your biggest craving or pet peeve about being a parent?

A: My biggest pet peeve is not be able to communicate as well with my daughter I’m being able to have that mother-daughter bond

Q: What makes your children smile and laugh?

A: The things that make my kids laugh and smile is playing rough with them making funny faces being cheeky with them and silly and they love when mum and dad are silly and mucking around they love to join in.

Q: Words that describe your children?

A: Words to describe my children cheeky happy Full laughter and both smart in their way and incredible.

Q: Any standout memories of your children?

A: So far the most outstanding memories are from the day each of my kids was born every day is full of memories that I will cherish forever.

Q: How do you like to spend time together nowadays with your family?

A: While in Lockdown we like to watch a movie together, I love watching my kids play together and get along when we are not in Lockdown I take the kids out shopping/ activity or going to the park or going to a playgroup.

Q: Any great advice to your children when he/she becomes a parent?

A: The advice I would give to my children is to respect everyone equally the way you would like to be respectful, don’t take thing for granted and that you have to work for what you have.

Q: Being in your profession, what do you feel is the most interesting parts?

A: Every day interesting no day is the same because one of the kids learning to do something new or something else happens.

Q: What would you say that helped you to implement into your life with your profession?

A: The thing that has helped me implement is the way I was treated as a kid ( I was abused) and make sure that my kids do not grow up the same way and to make sure that they have a better upbringing.

Casie can be reached at Facebook https://www.facebook.com/casie.eagles.39 and Instagram https://instagram.com/casiebracken.

Thank you πŸ™‡ so much for your valuable time! Healthy Mum and Bub enjoy the inspiration you have brought to us, and we are sure everyone who has read this interview will be enlightened and encouraged to fight on as a warrior and endow our kids with great gifts – love, respect and diligence.

If you like this article, then please follow our Healthy Mum & Bub blog site for insights on parenthood and more. Like our Facebook Page and Join our Facebook Healthy Mum and Bub Group to connect with fellow parents, ask a questions or share your thoughts and words of wisdom. Let’s make the parenthood journey easier and more rewarding for all of our fellow parents.

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!!NEW!! Inspired by Mothers Interview Series – Interviewing Our Beautiful Mother Chel TinaCruz Toots

Dear Healthy Mum & Bub followers, Mums and Dads, we will be starting this awesome NEW!! INSPIRED BY MOTHERS Interview Series! Where we will interview a mum a week!


This will help us to know more about mums in our Healthy Mum & Facebook Group and have the most inspirational women on earth to be recognised and honoured!

The Interviews will feature in Healthy Mum & Bub’s Facebook Group, blog site and Instagram. So it is also great for mums to showcase yourselves.

And for the beautiful mums that have read this blog post and also wish to participate, please feel free to leave β€œI’m in” in comment so that we can get in touch with you to feature you.

Proudly present our first mum on the roll in HMB’s INSPIRED BY MOTHERS INTERVIEW SERIES!!!πŸŒˆβ˜€οΈβœ¨β­οΈπŸ’«

Interviewing our beautiful mum Chel TinaCruz Toots! Hooray!


Hey Chel, I know that you are a devoted mother supporting others to build their dreams, so tell us…

Q: A bit more about your background if you feel comfortable.

A: I’m a Filipina living in the UK for most of my life. Currently working part-time in retail, full-time mother to 4 and supporting the hubby with his business.

Q: What is the most rewarding part of being a mother?

A: Nothing else pleases me than watching my children grow, being there for their milestones and knowing that they know you are always there for them. The unconditional love and daily hugs and kisses are what I love.

Q: What are the most challenging times being a mother? And how did you cope with them?

A: Devoting my time to the children meant big changes to my then social life. Life without children was dressing up, going out every night, having dinner with friends and partying.

I’m still able to do these things with and on rare occasions without the children but parenthood changes your priorities.

I feel much more at ease to catch up with a friend over coffee with the children by my side than feeling guilty that I left them behind.

Q: What is your biggest craving or pet peeve about being a parent?

A: The hardest thing about being a parent is that it is constant. It doesn’t stop until you know the children are sound asleep. Even when asleep I’m that parent who would check in on them to check they were ok.

If there was anything that affected me I would say the sleepless nights especially during the newborn phases. But it’s short-lived and they grow.

Q: What makes your child smile and laugh?

A: Silly faces, funny remarks, fun times, their favourite books and toys.

Q: Words that describe your child?

A: Adorable, Amazing, Adventurous and Angelic (at times πŸ˜‚)

Q: Any standout memories of your child?

A: There are way too many to mention. Each child has their unique ways and memorable moments.

For me growing up with a huge Filipino family filled my memories with fun times with the immediate and extended family. This is what I would like to instil in mine.
Family Forever ❀️

Q: How do you like to spend time together nowadays with your family?

A: During the lockdown, we had a routine where time was divided for school/work life, meal times and family time. The family time involved different activities from games, movies, workouts and zoom calls.
Today with lockdown easing, we intend to spend our first excursion out to the Zoo.

Q: Any great advice to your child when he/she becomes a parent?

A: Take one day at a time and enjoy all the precious moments.

Q: Being in your profession, what do you feel is the most interesting parts?

A: No day is the same. Each day is different but the outcome is always the same. To have a smooth-running day.

Q: What would you say that helped you to implement into your life with your profession?

A: Being a mother has helped me juggle many plates at one time and prioritise what needs to be dealt with first.

I use this at my part-time job in retail and when helping the hubby with his business.

Q: Any good advice to parenting tips you can share with us?

A:

  • Make communication a priority
  • Catch your child being good and reward it
  • Let them know you are there for them – show them love

Q: 13. If anyone needs great advice on building their dreams or wants to connect with you as friends, what are the best ways to reach you?

A: I’m available on both Facebook and Instagram.

Thank you πŸ™‡ for your time dear Chel! It is an honour to interview you and gain more insight of you and your wisdom!
😘😘😘πŸ‘ͺ

If you like this article, then please follow our Healthy Mum & Bub blog site for insights on parenthood and more. Like our Facebook Page and Join our Facebook Healthy Mum and Bub Group to connect with fellow parents, ask a questions or share your thoughts and words of wisdom. Let’s make the parenthood journey easier and more rewarding for all of our fellow parents.

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17 Awesome Apps to Earn Cash and Rewards – A busy mum and dad’s bonus income Bible!

During this pandemic and my maternity leave, the economic condition has been quite unstable and unpredictable. At our family, even though we have investments and supported income for maternity leave from my company and a little bit from the government, we still do feel the pressure throughout the difficult time.

Thank goodness to our amazing Internet, have then searched the web for ways to make some extra money on smartphone! These are awesome for busy mums and even dads to get their fingers on and download on their smartphone to effectively earn more money and rewards on a day to day basis! You will be able to have more buting power for your dear husband and kids, loved ones and friends!

Whether you are a business mum /dad, a career-focused mum/dad, a stay at home mum/dad, a freelance writer or blogger mum/dad, you will find these powerful Apps will open the door for you to smile and enjoy more in your life and work!

Here is a list which has been testified by Healthy Mum & Bub, and that I have continously earning cash and rewards from:

1. Pureprofile

A very well developed survey App which is very user friendly and easy to answer surveys on the go wherever you are.

It is a great platform for you to earn rewards for your opinions. By downloading the App, you can get exclusive access to its mobile-only paid surveys and become a part of a global member community of panelists.

The rewards are very high comparing to many other survey Apps and companies. And even if you are not qualified for certain surveys, you will still get rewarded for 10 cents (I am talking in AUD here). For complex surveys you can get really high for example AUD 20 for a big survey I have done. So you really get rewarded for your time and input.

To redeem your rewards, there are 3 options, namely Bank Transfer, PayPal or in Gift Cards. Once your earnings reached AUD 20, you can redeem the rewards.

To join Pureprofile, visit http://referral.pureprofile.com/referrer/TmpZMk1qSXdOVFl3TXpZNiMyMw==

2. ZAP Surveys

This survey App gift you $6.25 (I have not cashed out yet but this would be in USD) upon first sign up.

And my favourite part is its daily check in bonus. That is even without doing any surveys you will get rewarded by check in daily.

You have the options to do high value surveys, best match surveys, survey by partners or doing branded surveys. You can also earn cash backs.

My honest feedback is that the surveys are comparable low earnings to Pureprofile and there are many occasions you don’t get earnings when you have been disqualified for a survey. However, the daily check in earnings are so easy and takes almost no time to do them. The check ins are my daily morning habits nowadays. Go for it our busy mums.

To join ZAP Surveys, visit https://bdr3.app.link/3zBYwgh71ab

3. Make Money

The Make Money App is great for the gamers or mums who love gaming. The pros about this App is you get daily check in credits, and for the gaming fans, you simply would feel this is a heaven for you to earn money while playing the games.

You can also earn credits by sharing its link on Facebook, or sign up for other promotional activities appearing on the App from time to time.

It also has options to earn credits by doing surveys. Though my honest opinion is it would be better to earn survey monies from other high paying survey Apps.

Highlight once again for this App is gamers will find so worthy of their time and won’t feel guilty playing games for long time again.

To join Make Money, visit http://www.makemoney.tech/app and enter Healthy Mum & Bub’s referral code ZOEXF2 to get Free Credit.

4. Toluna

The most fun part of Toluna is that being a Toluna influencer, you can share your opinions and thoughts and earn Rewards through fun poll cards. These fun poll cards takes only few seconds to answer and great for the busy mums or dads on the go. You can also earn decent money by doing surveys especially the complex ones.

The points are redeemable for gift vouchers, cool products and cash. You can also continue the conversation on social media and share your polls and topics on Facebook and Twitter.

You can also upload photos on the go and create your questions. Its simply a fun community to light your idea bulbs, and being rewarded at the same time.

To join Toluna, visit https://au.toluna.com/people/jennyjyan6

5. Attapoll

This is a very straight forward survey App. You simply take surveys and get rewards. You can keep the earnings to yourself by getting them as PayPal cash or donating them to charities. You can even earn more by inviting your friends.

The beauty of Attapoll is that its payout threshold is very low, that is at AUD 5.00, so you can cash out very quickly. Further, you can take control of your own time as it has long, short and medium surveys.

The small downside is that the more surveys you have taken with Attapoll, the more likely it that you will encounter the disappointment of being disqualified for certain surveys which I found unfair. Apart from that, this is still one of my go Apps for earning rewards for doing surveys.

To join Attapoll, visit https://attapoll.app/join/ruyxz.

6. Qmee

The highlight of this survey and quick poll App is that it does not have threshold at all to cash out.

The surveys are also in choices of long, short and medium length, so that you are in control of your time.

The App itself is simple and with an easy interface, great for all of us who loves simple, easy and user friendly Apps.

Apart from earning PayPal cash and gift cards, you can also put money into your wallets by earning cashbacks and savings from deals.

Keep your streak alive by doing surveys on a daily basis to earn 10% extra.

To join Qmee, visit https://email.qmee.com/ls/click?upn=vZJGQirLLTGRMZfYzvMOOsPqmIzbmCTx4gV6QuAhhL-2B2jOh1F-2FzSShaBCNAqiIQVKLvb_mduz9rA6nGrFWxYl2oa4mjD9e4K9R7gJ6900hZ7SiqX-2BrIMiBvZj75h6xFDWUsNt-2BMKaOvyzop6MNJuxKIgHCmEHqaypcBEGBcVQl1NOPp-2FnCnAWPXNBcsqrdL-2BvihL3IhFXjAgrAkdoqOKSjUc-2F8RAsm3K8uRky0fdkVq6ZrtrFoS-2B0B0gEBq17owZLz8liq9uKe-2B1qlxRCe37f9oRHljaURw31DE4Isdvxrcm3QsgniMqMh9lBxc2PdciePDoy. Sign up now and earn a AUD 0.50 bonus.

7. Current Music

One of my favourite cash and reward earning Apps! Getting paid simply by listening to music and watching video advertisements is not a dream at all!

It is one of the ultimate offline music listening experiences, this is a 100% free music App that will never charge you a subscription fee.

You can enjoy music from over 100,000 stations from across the world. If you like a mix, you can begin a recording and play those recordings offline anytime for free with no WIFI.

The earnings are in Pay Pal cash in USD and cool products. You can also boost your earnings by redeeming Bonus Bucks gift card to earn 50% faster, or completing tasks and offers, as well as surveys.

How cool is that now when I want some music accompanying me while writing my blog, studying or doing houseworks and a on, I can simply play my favourite music with the awesome Current Music App, and what’s more is that you earn cash and rewards while listening to the music and watching the video ads.

To join Current Music, visit https://crrnt.me/Wt5onqHABgb. Start listening to music and get paid up to $600 per year. Download now and share with your friends to instantly cash out!

8. Foap

Wow, did you say you earned money by selling photos that you simply took with your smartphone?! Yes, that is right! Via this awesome App named Foap!

Turn your photos into money! Upload your photo collections and sell them to well known brands in the world. There are several ways to sell your photos. The most popular ways I have been using is to simply sell in the foap market or join a Foap Missions to brands like Pepsi, Absolut Vodka, Air Asia, Bank of America, Nivea and Volvo and so on.

Foap also distributes your images to through partners, such as Getty Images, to help you sell even more of your photos.

The excite part is joining Foap is free, and you earn 50% of commission when your photos are sold on the Foap market and every mission is rewarded with a prize of a decent amount! Payouts are easy in PayPal cash!

To join Foap, visit http://foap.com/users/jennyjyan30 or https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/foap/id521142420.

9. Cashrewards

Oh yeah, wow, our family my husband and I have been keeping on getting cashbacks in from this awesome App. At the time of writing, we have both saved hundreds from a various stores, you name it Apple, Amazon, Dominos, Baby Bunting, Pizza Hut, Groupon eBay Australia, the list just goes on!

And guess what, the amazing perks are so surprising such as eating pizzas from Pizza Hut for absolutely free, and paying course fees for my child psychology, childcare and child mindfulness courses for only (shush 🀫 ) about AUD 7. My hubby would go on and about the lovely cash backs he never gets when purchasing Apple products! And my bub, if she can translate her baby words will tell you how excited she was when getting a cashback for her Baby Bunting goodies lol πŸ˜†. Sorry gotta use some emojis here to show our whole family’s excitement whenever we mention about Cashrewards App!

Apart from cash backs, you earn bonus cash when inviting friends and family members. The bonus credit at the time of writing is AUD 20.00 when a friend or family member signs up, and then when they spend AUD 20.00 or more in a transaction. And why your friends and family will love to do it is because they will also earn a AUD 10.00 at that very same time! And then the amazing news and loop will go around so everyone is a earner and winner.

To join Cashrewards App, visit https://refer.cashrewards.com.au/x/MSwo3e!

10. Octopus Group

This would be another one of the highest paying survey App!

For example, currently I have got 5 surveys waiting for me to be completed. I will get paid AUD 1.96 for a 7-minute survey, AUD 2.52 and AUD 2.80 for 9-minute and 10-minute surveys respectively, and a whooping AUD 5.32 for a 19-minute survey. That’s amazing if you are a survey participant.

The platform has polls for you to answer too. So far I personally have not came across any polls as yet.

Cash out minimum is at AUD 20.

The cons with Octopus Group are that it may disqualify you for some of it’s surveys and you won’t earn anything if you are disqualified, and also quite a number of surveys require you to complete on a computer instead of the mobile App which result a slower speed to earn due to the inconvenience. Nevertheless, if you are keen to earn by sharing your opinions and thoughts, this is one of our recommended platform to sign up.

To join Octopus Group, visit https://my.octopusgroup.com.au/register/581147c6-b65d-40be-9833-ae4e5216330d.

11. Influence by Voxpopme

This is an App receives high accolades from Healthy Mum & Bub! πŸ‘πŸ‘πŸ‘πŸ˜˜And I would recommend you to download it without thinking further! The time you spend on doing the video surveys on the Influence App are too worthy. And my friends are saying if there are ongoing video surveys from this App, they would definitely reconsider if they need to continue to do their usual 9-5 profession!

So the great things about the Influence App, is if you love to talk about your opinions on a variety of topics and share your feedbacks to brands’ questions verbally, and also comfortable to be in front of a camera on your own smartphone, then this is the App to go for fun and fast cash earnings!

I can give you an exciting example, I made more than AUD 40.00 within just half an hour in one morning.

Cash out minimum is at AUD 20 in Australia. And it’s so easy and fast to hit this minimum. Oh yes, there is no such thing as being disqualified after you spend all that time compared to the traditional online surveys requiring you to fill out.

This is another must-have App for our passionate earners! And you will be so thankful that you have signed up for Influence by Voxpopme.

To join Influence by Voxpopme, visit https://bit.ly/3nKcRWs now πŸ‘πŸ‘πŸ‘!

12. Shping

Okay, this App is for you if you are based in Australia and would probably be something you would never think of. Have you imagined that you can earn cash by simply scanning products?! Yes, you heard it right! Shping App gives you cash for simply scanning products!

You only spend few minutes a day, and you can earn extra bucks in AUD by scanning products you have purchased and review them. Note with the reviews, you earn cash for not only written responses but also video responses. The video responses would boost your earnings considerably.

Apart from scanning products, you also earn more cash by uploading receipts. You will also be able to store all your loyalty cards in one place!

Another way to earn is by checking the App from time to time for featured products and products on specials, then review them as instructed.

You earn also by clicking on product social media links and websites.

Please note the payment amount will fluctuate a bit due to they are converted from crypto currency. Payout is good and you will earn more by levelling up your status.

The Shping App is an absolute fun and easy to use App to earn cash for what you are already doing every week. Pretty much like getting back monies from your shopping!

To join Shping, and start to earn and save while you shop, visit https://shping-click.app.link/fmnnqnoMCgb πŸ™‚

13. Cash for Steps

This one even though Healthy Mum & Bub has not used it to earn money often, but we recommend it as it is a great App for you if you are walking often to say go to work, shopping for grocery or as a mode of exercises.

Due to Covid 19, and having a baby to care for, we haven’t got too much chance to get out during this pandemic, hence lacking in the steps.

So basically with this Cash for Steps App, you can earn real cash by simply walking! Everyday system will randomly select people within yesterday’s top 200 and reward these people $1 each. And when you reach certain achievements you will get $1.

Further, you can earn points by completing simple tasks such as sharing the App.

Withdraw of money with PayPal or Amazon gift cards! Nice and sweet hey!

To join Cash for Steps, visit https://itunes.apple.com/app/cash-for-steps/id1325595138 or https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/cash-for-steps/id1325595138?ls=1.

14. Bulbshare

This is a very interactive and fun App for you to share your honest opinions and feedbacks. The payouts are in GBP via PayPal cash.

I loce bulbshare for its beautiful interfaces for its fun briefs (surveys). And it makes clear that you are so closely knitted with a worldwide community to share your ideas and thoughts. Often it is not a usual survey you would see in other survey Apps and websites, Bulbshare really invites you to share and show yourselves.

You can upload photos to many of its briefs and write your thoughts along. And you can view other people’s answers And pictures and interact with them.

Further, you can create your own Bulbshare questions too for others to participate.

The earning opportunities increases when you participate more in a variety of briefs. The latest one which I have been invited to participate is to buy and try out Uncle Toby’s new product “Rolled Oats – Delicious Blends – Raspberry, Roasted Almond & Vanilla”. And once you completed the required tasks required, you will be rewarded GBP 33! Very fun and exciting hey peeps!

To join Bulbshare, visit https://apps.apple.com/au/app/bulbshare/id1037309467.

15. Make Money!

Gaming mums!!! Yup you heard it! This is another App called Make Money only difference is it has got an exclamation mark at the end of its name.

The App is great for gamers once again! And you can earn if you don’t want to play games by simply answer their surveys or signing up as new user for certain product or services and complete the tasks as instructed.

The best part of this App is you can simply earn money by check-in the App daily. That is what I mostly do nowadays when I am short on time!

My sincere recommending words are this App is an absolute fast cash earning machine for gamers! So don’t hesitate and download the App now if you are a game lover!

To join Make Money!, visit https://tv-two.com/money/A67DE332-E2AE-4796-9750-93F769AE3889 and signing up with this link you get 555 credits for free!

16. Receipt Jar

One of my favourite Apps to earn cash and rewards! It is so easy and takes no time to do the tasks required! Simply take photos of your usual shopping receipts and upload to the App!

You will earn extra points that can be cashed out by scan products on the receipts uploaded as instructed by the App. And also you will be invited to participate in its Shake and Win to win bonus points. Apart from this, you are entered into the App’s lucky draw ongoing.

When you reached at specified amount of receipt uploads, you will qualify for earning extra by taking short surveys.

This App is great for everyone as shopping is part if our daily life and you will never be short of receipts. How great it is to earn money with what you are doing every day! I love the Receipt Jar App – you will too πŸ˜†!

To join Receipt Jar, visit https://www.receiptjar.com and use code JENNYY2. πŸ˜„ We’ll both get 200 points when you upload your first receipt. Start to earn cash or eGift Cards now with this awesome App!

17. Scan n Go

Last but not least, Healthy Mum & Bub recommends Scan n Go App! Another one of our favourites that is an absolute no brainer and no time waster to earn cash and rewards!

All you have to do is simply scan products on a weekly basis, there is no minimum and no maximum number of products required to be scanned, you can even scan one product a week and you will be on the roll to get your cash rewards! Once you scanned 6 weeks consecutively, you will earn AUD 20! It is that easy!

We were so happy to redeem and received our VISA gift cards ongoing!

To join Scan n Go, provide your email address to healthymumandbub@outlook.com, we will then request for our referral link to be emailed to you by Scan n Go aka IRI ShopperPanel!

Healthy Mum & Bub endeavours to testify more interesting and fun cash and rewards earning Apps! We will update you from time to time of our user experiences!

Mums and Dads, if you have any questions about the above Apps, do let us know in comments or shoot us an email πŸ’Œ at healthymumandbub@outlook.com. We are always here to help and support you!

For now, happy Downloading these great Apps and get your cash and rewards rolling in!

If you like this article, then please follow our Healthy Mum & Bub blog site for insights on parenthood and more. Like our Facebook Page and Join our Facebook Healthy Mum and Bub Group to connect with fellow parents, ask a questions or share your thoughts and words of wisdom. Let’s make the parenthood journey easier and more rewarding for all of our fellow parents.

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What to Bring When Travelling with a Child (0-3 years of age)

DISCLOSURE: As a blogger, my content may include affiliate links from advertisers. include Amazon, Commission Factory and Clickbank, I may earn a commission from actions readers take on these links, such as a click, purchase, or subscribe. However, these are the tools that I recommend fully and have helped my blog tremendously, and are at no cost to you.

Traveling with a 0-3 year old baby, the focus of the whole family will shift from the trip itself to the baby. This is no longer a simple walk-and-go trip, but requires the whole family to discuss, plan carefully, and fully prepare. A family meeting that can reassure the whole family and allow oneself to travel with the baby at ease is very necessary. Have a family meeting to list and discuss your travel ideas, baby’s actual situation, and prepared itinerary plan one by one, and get everyone’s correction and approval. Traveling with your baby, the first pass is not anything else, But the peace of mind for the whole family.

For our latest trip, it is pretty much like a small scale moving home. And especially due to Covid-19, our family has more concerns on how to prevent the family from any possible infections of virus during this trip. So we have intentionally prepared two emptied boxes – the Huggies nappy boxes are very good in quality and can carry sufficient amount of goods we need to bring for this trip.

Why we are using the boxes instead of luggage sets, because we can dispose of them after we returned home. An easy and convenient alternative when you are concerned about disinfecting your luggage.

The main concern for me as a mum who is taking my baby girl for the first road trip is not missing anything necessary for her. I had to think carefully about what she needs daily and what are must haves for this trip.

Below is a checklist that maybe helpful especially for new parents who are taking your little ones for a road trip for the very first time.

For your baby:

β€’ Baby/toddler car seat. Ensure it is well fitted for safety and comfort for your little one. Depends on your personal preferences for your baby, here is a good recommendation for your little ones – Mother’s Choice Avoro Convertible Car Seat Suitable Approx 0-4 Years, Black.

β€’ UV protection baby car window shade. It is so helpful with preventing my girl from coarse sunlights shooting onto her face and into her eyes during the day.

β€’ Nappies that are sufficient for the days you are travelling. We brought an easy to carry Huggies Ultra Dry Nappies Girl Size 4 (10-15kg) 36 Count size for this trip.

β€’ Baby rear view mirror. It really helped the driver parent to monitor the bub’s condition.

β€’ Baby wipes. For a trip less than a week, I prepared one Huggies 80 wipes pack, and two small travel pack wipes that is Huggies Baby Wipes Refillable Clutch β€˜N’ Go 32 Wipes. The Huggies wipes with no fragrance are great to not only wipe bottom of your baby, but also good for wiping her/his hands

β€’ For the convenience of clean my girl’s face in the morning or on the go, I brought my make up remover cotton pads. And if preferred you can bring Mustela No-Rinse Cleansing Water for both cleaning baby’s face and bottom. You can fill any liquid in a small dispenser.

β€’ Barrier creams. Instead of bringing the sudocrem which usually comes in 250g at least, I brought small sample sized ones from QV and Bepanthen.

β€’ Baby bath oil/wash and hair shampoo. Same wise, for the convenience I chose to bring small sample size ones. This time I only brought a small bottle of Sebamed liquid face and body wash 20ml which I got in a sample pack from the Baby Expo here in Sydney. The smallest size I can find on Amazon is this 300ml one.

β€’ Moo Goo Tail Swat Body Spray to repel insects from biting your little one.

β€’ 3 small baby bath towels (one for face, one for body and one for bottom). And one large towel to pat baby dry after the shower.

β€’ One pair of kids Croc clogs or any water proof shoes for the baby to be able to walk and stand in the shower.

β€’ Two pairs of shoes for going out. Make sure they are easy and comfortable walking shoes. We brought a pair of baby sneaker and one pair of Mikihouse branded shoes given by the granny. Both are easy for the baby to manage walking for a decent time. For baby sneakers, DEBAIJIA Baby First-Walking Shoes are a great choice.

β€’ Light weighted and collapsible travel cot, that’s compact in size and easy to carry. You may consider this all-in-one portacot.

β€’ Waterproof bedsheet and mattress protector for the cot. Baby/toddler sleeping bag. I did not bring a pillow this time. Purchase guide – the Bubba Blue Bamboo Standard Cot Waterproof Mattress Protector Pad Bedding Cover. For baby sleeping bag, depending on the size of your baby, purchase guide – Licitn Baby Sleeping Bag-100% Organic Cotton 2PCS 0.5 Tog Baby Sleeping Sack Baby Wearable Blanket Sleeping Sack Baby Swaddle Sack Blanket Sack with Adjustable Length 70-90cm for Infant Toddler 3 to 18 Months.

β€’ Light weighted and collapsible pram or stroller. Make sure it does have hooks and basket, as well as canopy for protection from the sun and wind etc and cup holder.

β€’ Baby/toddler UV50+ protection hat. In Australia this is very important due to the extreme strong UV in this country.

β€’ Daily changing clothings. I prepared one set of clothing for each day. And on top of that, depends on your baby’s peeing and pooing habits and amount, it will be wise to bring at least 2-3 extra pair of pants for each day of travel. Say for our 4-5 days trip, I brought a total of 13 pants/tights for my daughter.

β€’ One to two set of pyjamas.

β€’ One milk powder dispenser. We really love the Philips Avent Milk Powder Dispenser. Two sets of baby’s milk bottle/sippee cup, and feeding cups. 4 weaning spoons. One cup one toothpaste and one toothbrush for the baby.

β€’ One bottle of baby dishwashing liquid such as Pigeon Liquid Cleanser and one sponge for wash baby’s dishes.

β€’ I bring ready made main meals from Only Organics such as their Chicken Bolognese made of New Zealand Free Range Chicken or Beef Bolognese and my girl’s favourite yogurts from Bellamy, and snacks such as Bub’s Organic Strawberry, Pear and Quinoa pouch and to easily warm the meals. We brought a portable milk warmer. Please ensure all the utensils in the above will fit into this milk warmer.

β€’ Easy and light to carry sensory toys. For my girl, her favourite β€˜toys’ are actually daily objects such as buttons, ribbons, used bath oil tubes and bottles etc, zips and facial tissues. So I did not bring any toys, instead simply let her explore and have fun with these daily objects. It really depends on your baby’s preferences, for example some babies really like activities on a tummy time water mat , whereas some loves sensory boards.

β€’ A mum travelling bag or bum bag for my baby when we are going out, this includes a nappy changing mat, 2-3 Huggies nappies, a Huggies travel wipes, one small towel for wiping my baby’s face and hands, one small bib, two pairs of baby mittens in case if your baby needs to sooth his or her teeth pain or if you need them to prevent from baby scratching their faces etc. I also include 2-3 scented nappy bags, and breastfeeding cover in this bag. If it is a long day trip, then I would switch to a bigger bag, and also bring the baby’s milk dispenser, a milk bottle, a feeding cup, two weaning spoons, a insulated bottle with warm water and a bottle of cold water.

For yourself mum:

β€’ Breast pads. I brought about 10 breast pads taking to account the days we will be travelling for. You will need to decide how many you need depending on your own circumstances and days you will be travelling for.

β€’ Breastmilk pump if you really need one. Bring a manual one for the trip as it is easy and small to carry.

β€’ Breastfeeding cover.

β€’ Maternity pads or larger period pads in case if you still bleed or your period might come soon during the trip days.

β€’ If you are struggling with holding your baby for breastfeeding, then perhaps a easy to carry small support pillow act like an armrest.

β€’ UV protective hat.

β€’ Disposable undies.

β€’ Nursing tops.

General:

β€’ Dettol wipes for disinfect surfaces.

β€’ Dettol non-rinse instant hand sanitizers.

β€’ Small bottle of isopropyl alcohol or Isocol spray to disinfect your skin in case needed.

β€’ Travel sleeping liner that can help you to sleep on hotel bed with peace of mind especially during covid.

β€’ Your own travel kettle.

β€’ Your own quick dry towels.

β€’ First aid kits for the baby and parents.

The above lists are the most important essentials that we recommend parents to bring for your road trips. If we have missed anything that you consider is important and cannot be overlooked, please do leave in comment. We hope this article will be an useful guide for you to prepare for your fun journeys. Of course what cannot be missing for every journey is your beautiful smiles and happy mood! Last but not least, be fun and creative, record your exciting family adventures with your smartphones, GoPro and cameras, family adventures will be so fulfilled when you have so captured these precious memories.

If you like this article, then please follow our Healthy Mum & Bub blog site for insights on parenthood and more. Like our Facebook Page and Join our Facebook Healthy Mum and Bub Group to connect with fellow parents, ask a questions or share your thoughts and words of wisdom. Let’s make the parenthood journey easier and more rewarding for all of our fellow parents.

Featured

Healthy Mum & Bub SHOWCASE WEEKEND New Feature!!!

This is a new feature for Healthy Mum & Bub’s Group! We have been chatting with many mums during this year, especially due to covid, a lot of you and fellow parents really need some support for their businesses and websites (if you are a Mum Blogger etc). And it will be great if we can also include some special discounts or offers for HMB group members to achieve a win win for everyone.

We will run a mums and dads business showcase weekends from now on. Showcase platforms include Healthy Mum & Bub’s Facebook Page and Group, our blogsite and Instagram.

For any of you would like to showcase your businesses or websites etc, please DM @healthymumandbub on Instagram or contact us via Healthy Mum & Bub Facebook Group https://m.facebook.com/groups/3472040862924492/ and Facebook Fan Page https://m.facebook.com/healthymumandbub

Here are the businesses run by our lovely mums Danielle Eagles (Instagram @eaglesdanielle), Sharon Ge, Stacy Berner (Facebook http://www.facebook.com/stacy.fowlie.5), Shyrill Iglesia Capa (Instagram @shy.belle1 and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/shyrill.iglesia).

🏑 HOME AND HOUSEHOLD
πŸ‘ƒπŸŒΊ Scentsy – Wax and Warmers – Danielle Eagles

https://danielleeagles.scentsy.com.au/?partyId=13918760

πŸŒΈπŸ’­MICRONIZED NUTRITION SPRAY and SLEEP SPRAY – Stacy Berner

Contact Stacy Berner https://www.facebook.com/stacy.fowlie.5 for more info

✍️FINANCIAL SERVICES

TSA Financial – Sharon Ge

http://tsafinancial.com.au

πŸ‘ΆπŸ»πŸ‘§πŸ»πŸ‘¦πŸ» BABY AND CHILDREN WEAR

Amity Boutique – Representative – Shyrill Iglesia Capa

http://www.amitybelle.us

Please Direct Message Shyrill via IG @shy.belle1 or FB https://www.facebook.com/shyrill.iglesia for referral discount offer code and to collab with Amity. A portion of income will be donated to Postpartum Support International.

πŸ‘ΆπŸ˜΄πŸ‘ͺ BABY SLEEP SPECIALIST

Gentle Sleep Solutions – Tiziana Docherty

Contact Tiziana via Facebook and Instagram:

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/GentleSleepSolutions/

Instagram: journeytosleep_tiziana

🍎🍊🍊HEALTH AND FITNESS

Juice Plus

https://linktr.ee/Janine.mchugh

All You Need is Love and Coffee

Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2629037070677701/?ref=share

Founder and Contact: Charlene Portelli

For more details of the showcased businesses πŸ“ˆ, check the below Healthy Mum & Bub Facebook WEEKEND SHOWCASE links:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/3472040862924492/permalink/3809079489220626/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/3472040862924492/permalink/3809087419219833/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/3472040862924492/permalink/3809092962552612/

Featured

10 Ways to Teach Kids to Protect the Environment

Earth Day is an annual event that happens every 22 April 2021 to remind humans to protect and preserve our mother nature and make it a sustainable living environment for all of us.

As the future masters of the earth, children are bound to take care of the environment. However, it is not easy to let young people know how to protect the environment. We provide 10 simple and feasible methods.

1. Clever use of waste. Allow children to draw on the back of used cardboard, or the inside of empty bags or boxes.

2. Collect rainwater. Ask your child to put a watering can or bucket under the water pipe outside the house. After the heavy rain, he would be excited to see that the watering can be full of water. Then you can urge him to use the rainwater to water the plants at home.

3. Squash the waste can. One environmentally friendly mum says “I usually put milk cartons, aluminium cans, and waste cartons on the ground, and let my son squash them one by one to facilitate recycling. This not only protects the environment but also satisfies the little boy’s destruction of things. desire. “

4. Let the child be responsible for reminding you to turn off the light when leaving the room. You can pretend that you forgot to turn off the lights, and then wait for your child to remind you. At this time, allow him to issue a ticket for you-this will help strengthen the children’s awareness of energy conservation.

5. Take the child to nature. Bring the children to the countryside, let them pick the fruits themselves, and tell them where the food comes from, which helps them realize the importance of protecting the environment. Also, you can buy some souvenirs from the farmland and tell him that it saves energy and packaging costs than buying in the store.

6. Pick up trash. Turn the cleaning of the room into a “scavenger” game. Make a list of plastic bottles, coke cans and waste paper that need to be cleaned up, and ask your child to collect them and recycle them to a suitable place. But what needs to be reminded is that before the action, make sure that the child wears gloves.

7. Build a toy laboratory for children. Glue or tape the garbage together, such as empty juice boxes, or put them in a large box with thread, so that children can use them to create new toys.

8. Arrange a day without electricity. Choose one day to not use everything that requires electricity: turn off the game console, turn off the TV, and only play some toys and games that do not require electricity.

9. Organize children’s clothing exchange activities. Take out the clothes that the child can’t wear, and then the parents and children get together and exchange. This approach is conducive to environmental protection, and it will also save you the next expense. Also, toys can be exchanged.

10. Learn an environmental song. Another parent from Massachusetts USA said: “When we recycle waste, my son always hums the environmental song I compiled. Not only that, he sings this song when he is doing other things, such as washing his hands. To remind yourself to save water and protect the environment.

For our family, we have signed up on a waitlist for the TreeCard. It allows you to plant trees while you spend.

To sign up TreeCard and help us to fight climate change with the world’s first wooden spending card, visit: https://treecard.app.link/SkA9QcSXFfb

So to celebrate this Earth Day, what meaningful action have you and your kids taken? Tell us in the comments! 😊🌈

Follow our Healthy Mum & Bub blog site for insights on parenthood and more. Like our Facebook Page and join our Facebook Healthy Mum and Bub Group to connect with fellow parents, ask a question or share your thoughts and words of wisdom. Let’s make the parenthood journey easier and more rewarding for all of our fellow parents.

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6 Best Baby Monitors in 2021

DISCLOSURE: As a blogger, my content may include affiliate links from advertisers. include Amazon, Commission Factory and Clickbank, I may earn a commission from actions readers take on these links, such as a click, purchase, or subscribe. However, these are the tools that I recommend fully and have helped my blog tremendously, and are at no cost to you.

After we have a baby at home, we need a good baby monitor to look after our baby, because we cannot be with the baby 24 hours a day. With the baby monitor, you can observe the baby’s every move remotely.

When considering purchasing a baby monitor, we must consider its convenience, reliability, safety, signal and versatility.

The best baby monitor not only provides the ability to watch your baby through video from the monitor but also have applications that can stream real-time video to a smartphone or tablet. Below are the best baby monitors we recommend for your reference.

Baby monitors commonly used are divided into two types: 1. Short-range monitors that do not require WIFI and 2. Remote monitors that require WIFI.

Most families buy the first type that is the short-range monitors that do not require WIFI. These products generally have a video screen and camera that can see the baby, so that you can see the baby’s every movement at home. They do not require WIFI support, therefore very convenient to use.

The second type of remote monitor that requires WIFI is suitable for parents who have to go to work during the day, and even though there is someone who takes care of their children, but they still want to be able to check in their baby through a smartphone. Buying a remote monitor that requires WIFI can meet their need.

SHORT-RANGE BABY MONITORS THAT DO NOT REQUIRE WIFI

1. VAVA HD Baby Monitor

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The manufacturing quality, battery life, screen size and versatility of this baby monitor are all very good, and it deserved to be ranked first. It is very easy to assemble and operate this monitor. Its charging cable is very long and its mount is very sturdy. The antenna is easy to fold and adjust the direction. After unboxing the product, it only takes about 5 minutes to set up.

In terms of function, it has a 5-inch large high definition display, a remote camera lens (can be adjusted up and down, left and right. Zoom 2 times and 4 times). And it can link up to 4 cameras. It has a two-way intercom system, and its battery life is very long (up to 12 hours).

It can be adjusted to pure audio mode, so the battery life can be longer. It has full colour during the day and greyscale infrared images at night, so all the subtle movements of the baby can be seen. And lastly, its LED noise indicator and external thermostat allow you to accurately understand the health of your baby. Based on all the function and benefits this monitor has, it is very worth buying.

You can purchase it from the Amazon link: Baby Monitor, VAVA 5″ 720P HD Display Video Baby Monitor with Camera and Audio, IPS Screen, 1000ft Range, 4500 mAh Battery, Two-Way Audio, One-Click Zoom, Night Vision and Thermal Monitor (AU Plug, 240V)

2. Infant Optics DXR-8 Video Baby Monitor

Tests have found that the video quality of this baby monitor is very good whether it is during the day or at night. At night, it can automatically adjust to the cleanest mode according to the light without manual adjustment, which is very convenient. And its audio quality is very high, in which you can hear the baby’s voice, and it has a two-way intercom function that allows you to talk with your baby. Its display can connect up to 4 cameras. Its battery life can be up to about 10 hours in power-saving mode and about 6 hours when the screen is turned on.

Its camera can be rotated up and down, left and right, and you can watch the baby from all directions. This infant Optics DXR-8 baby monitor has a very high sales volume on Amazon which reflects its popularity among parents.

You can purchase it from the Amazon link: Infant Optics DXR-8 Video Baby Monitor with Interchangeable Optical Lens

3. Eufy Security Spaceview Baby Monitor

This baby monitor is very similar in function to VAVA, including a 720p high definition 5-inch display, camera remote zoom, pan and tilt functions, two-way intercom, baby temperature monitor, and high-quality night vision features. But also some features that VAVA does not have, including a wide-angle lens that does not need to be purchased separately and a variety of wall-mounted and crib fixing frames, especially the crib fixing frame is very practical.

It is easy to set up and operate – no unexpected problems or hassles, and the included power cord is long and of good quality. We used a corner mount and also tried a crib mount with a wide-angle lens, and both worked well. We also tested it during the day and night (tested when the antenna is fully extended). Its display quality is surprisingly good and coverage is excellent.

Eufy can support up to 4 cameras that can be switched around for viewing, but the additional camera for Eufy is a bit expensive at about USD 100. Its disadvantage is that the battery life is not as long as VAVA, apart from this every other aspect of the monitor are overall very good.

You can purchase from the Amazon link:

Baby Monitor, eufy Security SpaceView Video Baby Monitor, 5” LCD Display, 720p HD Resolution, Wide-Angle Lens Included, 460 Ft Range, Night Vision, 2-Way Audio, Day-Long Battery Life

REMOTE BABY MONITORS THAT REQUIRE WIFI

The best WIFI baby monitors are more expensive than the baby monitor without WIFI. But with WIFI function, you can watch your baby from your smartphone wherever you go, so it can bring you peace of mind.

1. Nanit Plus Smart WIFI Baby Monitor

This WIFI baby monitor can be used on both Android and Apple smartphones. Its appearance is very stylish with a modern appeal. In our test, it was found that as long as it is connected to the wireless network at home, its video stream is very fast, there is no delay and the definition is high. On the 4G LTE connection, the video is sometimes intermittent. Secondly, it has temperature and humidity sensors, which can measure the temperature and humidity of baby’s environment.

The video quality of this monitor is very clear, it is also very clear in the night mode, further the sound quality is very good and has two-way communication function.

Because it is designed to put the floor mount (or wall mount) directly on the crib, so you get the clearest and crispiest view of your child. Nanit Insight is also a good service. Its subscription is USD 10 per month. It can monitor and track your baby’s sleeping habits. Nanit Plus includes a 1 year free trial period for the Nanit Insight service.

The shortcomings of this baby monitor are that it does not have the function of remotely control the movement of the camera’s direction, and the night vision device will emit a slight red light, which may distract or affect the baby’s attention.

You can purchase it from the Amazon link: Nanit Plus – Smart Baby Monitor and Floor Stand: Camera with HD Video & Audio – Sleep Tracking – Night Vision – Temperature & Humidity Sensors and Two-Way Audio

2. Miku Smart WIFI Baby Monitor

This baby monitor is ready to use as soon as it is unboxed! It provides all the parts needed to easily place the monitor on the dressing table, other furnitures or mount It on the wall. It includes easy to use wall mount accessories, screws, anchors and screwdrivers. It also includes six cable guides to hide the wires and keep them out of the reach of babies. Its power cord is very long, so you can basically install the monitor anywhere in the room.

The wall attachment also includes a convenient small bubble to help you to eat the right installation angle. Just Follow the very intuitive instructions to install it on the wall, and you can start using it right away.

Also to make it easier for users, download the free Miku App on your Apple device or from the Google Play store, then plug in and open the Miku camera. You can say you via it’s wizard and start watching your baby instantly. For video transmission on home WIFI and outdoors With 4G connection, both work very well.

The 4G connection reduces the video stream slightly, and the time lapse is a little longer, but it is definitely on par with other WIFI baby monitors. The video resolution is high (up to 1080p HD), and the night vision effect is very good. A great feature related to Nanit is that all sleep tracking features can be subscribed for free, which means that you don’t have to pay after the trial period ends.

You can purchase it from the Amazon Link: Miku Smart Baby Monitor – Contact-Free Breathing & Sleep Monitor with Night Vision, Two-Way Talk – Motion, Sound, Humidity & Temperature Detector – App Integrated & Wi-Fi Enabled, Real-Time Monitoring

3. Victure WIFI Video Baby Monitor

The price of Victure WIFI Baby monitor is very affordable. It has a built in 48dB microphone and speaker and anti-noise technology, which makes the sound very clear and can conduct two way conversations. It has smart motion detection function. When It detects baby’s movement and unusual behaviors, it will notify your mobile phone and store the videos in cloud or SD card.

Its night vision function is also very good, with a 120 degrees wide-angle lens, 1920 Γ— 1080P pixels and 8 invisible infrared LED Lights, allowing you to see the baby’s activity in the dark. It can also provide cloud service/SD card storage function:local storage supports up to 64GB Micro SD card. It also supports encrypted secure cloud storage services. The first month of cloud storage is free, and afterwards you will need to purchase for the storage.

You can purchase it from the Amazon link: Victure 1080P FHD WiFi IP Camera Wireless 2.4 G WiFi Security Panoramic Viewing Camera with Motion Detection, 2-Way Audio, Night Vision, Home Surveillance Monitor for Baby/Pet/Elder

To sum up, the things to bear in mind when choosing the right baby monitor are:

1. Look at its expansion performance that is how many cameras it can connect to.

2. See if it has a room temperature detection function so you know whether the room temperature is too Warm or too cold for your baby. For us we try to keep the room temperature between about 17 Celsius degrees to 22 Celsius degrees.

3. See if it has motion and sound detection functions. These help parents to get alerts when there is anything with the baby that needed to be attended to.

4. See if it has a zoom capability. This helps you to check the surrounding environment of the baby by being able to move the screen up and down, left and right.

5. Look at its night vision capabilities. A good babu monitor can automatically turn the night vision on when it detects darkness, so you can see the baby clearly even when it is dark.

Hope the above helps you to get the most suitable baby monitor for your baby.

Follow our Healthy Mum & Bub blog site for insights on parenthood and more. Like our Facebook Page and Join our Facebook Healthy Mum and Bub Group to connect with fellow parents, ask a questions or share your thoughts and words of wisdom. Let’s make the parenthood journey easier and more rewarding for all of our fellow parents.

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5 Ways for a Busy Mum to Live Your Dreams

Mums, yes I can hear you all! Having a baby is a life changing moment, it is a joyous and abundant road trip to enrich and enlighten yourselves, but also for many of us, we have aspirations and dreams that we always wanted to fulfill and the goals we always longing to achieve.

I can feel you all mums, as we are all in this together. We have to wake up so early in the day to do the teeth brushing, nappy changes, feeding, playing with our little ones. But at the same time, we just so wish for a little bit more ME TIME to finish that course, create that website, run that business, kick off that yoga session with Yoga with Adrienne, burn off that fat with the Fitness Marshall, write that blog, paint that flower and much more.

After almost two years being a mum and going through all the emotional and physical roller coasters, here are 5 tips that can help you to get there mums:

1. If you are an early bird bird 🐦 or a late owl πŸ¦‰ , try to squeeze at least 10-20 minutes in the early morning or later at night while your baby is asleep to do a bit of what you wish to do.

2. Life can be crazily busy being a mum, try to have a planner that suits you, whether it is a digital planner or a written planner. Drop your wish to do list in the planner, so you won’t lose track of what you want to do.

3. Have a good night sleep or during the afternoon a nap for about 15 minutes. You are able to get more done when you had quality sleeps. A good night sleep will boost your productivity. What we use at home is a Xiaomi Yeelight that can change the colour themes. As I am in the same bedroom with my baby girl, at night I will turn to a soothing dim home theme. And along with Xiaomi Xiaoai Speaker to play baby hypnotizing music 🎢, so both the mum and baby can fall into sleep quickly.

4. Meditate in the morning for 5 minutes. Have a fresh and emptied mind can help you refocus and boost your mental health throughout the day. And this help you to prevent from feeling negative and down mums. A healthy mind can help to keep you going.

5. Try to utilize smart machines to do some of your time and energy consuming houseworks. We got a small washing machine to wash most of our baby’s clothing. And we also use baby food warmer, food processor, baby utensil sanitizing machines and so on at home. These have tremendously helped to reduce a mum’s workload, so that you will have more time dedicated to pursue your aspirations.

Hope the above helps dear mums, and never stop pursue what you always want to pursue, make your life as colourful as a rainbow 🌈 mums.

If you have any other great ideas πŸ’‘ to help fellow mums to manage their time better and make more space to fulfil their dreams, please share in the comment.

Follow our Healthy Mum & Bub blog site for insights on parenthood and more. Like our Facebook Page and Join our Facebook Healthy Mum and Bub Group to connect with fellow parents, ask a questions or share your thoughts and words of wisdom. Let’s make the parenthood journey easier and more rewarding for all of our fellow parents.

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Healthy Mum & Bub + Scentsy Shopping Party πŸŽˆ

Hi all, This post is something fun Healthy Mum & Bub + Scentsy are doing for the month of April and May! We are very excited to collaborate with our HMb’s lovely mum Danielle Eagles – Independent Scentsy Consultant to hold a fun online Scentsy shopping party https://danielleeagles.scentsy.com.au/party/14233890/jennys-scentsy-party.

For all the curious minds like me when I was first attracted to Scentsy after seeing its Disney and Easter collections introduced by the beautiful Danielle Eagles – Independent Scentsy Consultant, I wish to share the info on what really is Scentsy:

First and foremost, what is Scentsy?

Scentsy is a direct selling company and international leader in home and personal fragrance, offering stylish, innovative and customizable products designed to Warm the Heart, Enliven the Senses and Inspire the Soul. Scentsy products are sold by a network of Scentsy Consultants in 11 countries.

Check out Scentsy’s Facts here
https://scentsy.com/frequently-asked-questions-and-fast-facts

And check out the pic for Scentsy’s product concept and benefits.

JOIN MY PARTY & SHOP NOW:
https://danielleeagles.scentsy.com.au/party/14233890/jennys-scentsy-party

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Healthy Mum & Bub SHOWCASE WEEKEND ***New Feature!!!***

This is a new feature for Healthy Mum & Bub’s Group! We have been chatting with many mums during this year, especially due to covid, a lot of you and fellow parents really need some support for their businesses and websites (if you are a Mum Blogger etc). And it will be great if we can also include some special discounts or offers for HMB group members to achieve a win win for everyone.

We will run a mums and dads business showcase weekends from now on. Showcase platforms include Healthy Mum & Bub’s Facebook Page and Group, our blogsite and Instagram.

For any of you would like to showcase your businesses or websites etc, please DM @healthymumandbub on Instagram or contact us via Healthy Mum & Bub Facebook Group https://m.facebook.com/groups/3472040862924492/ and Facebook Fan Page https://m.facebook.com/healthymumandbub

Here are the businesses run by our lovely mums Danielle Eagles (Instagram @eaglesdanielle), Sharon Ge, Stacy Berner (Facebook http://www.facebook.com/stacy.fowlie.5), Shyrill Iglesia Capa (Instagram @shy.belle1 and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/shyrill.iglesia).

Home and Household
πŸ‘ƒπŸŒΊ Scentsy – Danielle Eagles

https://danielleeagles.scentsy.com.au/?partyId=13918760

✍️Financial Services

TSA Financial – Sharon Ge

http://tsafinancial.com.au

πŸŒΈπŸ’­MICRONIZED NUTRITION SPRAY and SLEEP SPRAY – Stacy Berner

Contact Stacy Berner https://www.facebook.com/stacy.fowlie.5 for more info

πŸ‘ΆπŸ»πŸ‘§πŸ»πŸ‘¦πŸ» Baby and Children Wear

Amity Boutique – Representative – Shyrill Iglesia Capa

http://www.amitybelle.us

Please Direct Message Shyrill via IG @shy.belle1 or FB https://www.facebook.com/shyrill.iglesia for referral discount offer code and to collab with Amity. A portion of income will be donated to Postpartum Support International.

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11 Pocket Tips from an Experienced Mum for New Mums and Dads

More tips from our guest contributor mum Jannet Tang, right from her notes while during her early days after her beautiful boy was born. So this will be in her original note form:

*Teach baby bedtime cues, day and night.

*Make night time dark, boring and quiet.

*Put baby down before they fall asleep.

*Wind pain – bring baby up right to let the air out.

*Baby makes noises during their sleep – stand back and watch them.

*Let the baby be content and settled.

*Put baby at the bottom of the cott as they wiggle downwards.

*If mummy feels overwhelmed/upset/angry, Mummy put baby down, step back, go out and breathe. Call someone for help. Take Baby outside.

*Tummy time helps strengthen neck and release wind. When older, 20 minutes are enough.

*Check the back of neck if sweating to see if baby is hot or not. Wear bonds vest nappy and wrap with Wet muslin wrap to cool down baby.

*Have baby adapt to parents and we talk things out as both of us can get postnatal depression.

Hope this along with the last few posts by our helpful and supportive mum Jannet Tang will be of use to you all. And if you have any great little notes πŸ“’ that you wish to share with Healthy Mum & Bub, do let us know in comments.

Follow our Healthy Mum & Bub blog site for insights on parenthood and more. Like our Facebook Page and Join our Facebook Healthy Mum and Bub Group to connect with fellow parents, ask a questions or share your thoughts and words of wisdom. Let’s make the parenthood journey easier and more rewarding for all of our fellow parents.

NURSEMAID’S ELBOW: CAUSES, SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENTS

Recently my little 3 year old toddler girl had her elbow accidentally dislocated while I tried to pull her up from the ground. She then suddenly cried, But after a while she had maintained a happy kid continue playing on. I tried few ways to see if her hurt arm would lift by prompt her to play with that arm, she sometimes would respond but not as active as before. The next day morning when I tried to dress her up, she was refusing to put her right hand and arm into the sleeve, this raised my concern and shows a sign of nursemaid elbow.

So what’s nursemaid elbow? How and why it happened to our little ones? What are the symptoms? How to treat it and prevent it? I am sure many keen parents will be interested to know. Alright, let’s delve into this Topic in more details.

1. Nursemaid’s elbow is a common injury

Nursemaid’s elbow is a common elbow injury, especially in toddlers and young children, especially those under the age of 5. This happens when a child’s elbow is pulled and one of the bones is partially dislocated, giving it the name “pulling the elbow.” Your doctor may call this a subluxation of the radial head.

Injuries often occur when a child’s hand or wrist is pulled too hard. It is common to see someone pick up a child with one arm. This can happen, for example, when trying to lift a child over curbs or high steps.

Many caring adults accidentally cause injuries through play or other normal activities. Sometimes adults aren’t immediately aware of the injury, especially if they weren’t there at the time. Pay close attention if you notice your child is protecting their arm and is reluctant to use it. If you suspect injury, seek medical attention immediately. A trained healthcare provider can easily repair a nurse’s elbow. When done correctly, the nurse’s arm and elbow reduction will provide immediate relief.

2. Symptoms of nursemaid’s elbow

A nursemaid’s elbow occurs when the radius (a bone in the forearm) slips from where it normally attaches to the elbow joint. This is a common disorder in children under the age of 5. It is also known as pulled elbow, slipped elbow, or toddler’s elbow. The medical term for nursemaid’s elbow is subluxation of the radial head.

Nursemaid’s elbow usually occurs in children between the ages of 1 and 4, although it can occur at any time from birth to around age 6. Young children’s bones and ligaments are still growing, causing some loosening of the ligaments. Because of this, it takes very little force to pull the elbow out of position, creating a nursemaid’s elbow.

As children grow, their ligaments become stronger and tighter, reducing the risk of this painful condition. In some children, the ligaments in the joint may be particularly lax, which may lead to recurrence of nurse’s elbow in about 25% of affected children.

Sudden pulling or pulling on the hand or forearm are common causes of the dislocation of child’s elbow. Examples are when a parent reaches out to grab a child who is about to fall or take to the street, and the baby rolls over, falls, or the parent pulls or swings the child’s hand.

3. Treating nursemaid’s elbow

Do not attempt to correct or repair the nursemaid’s elbow yourself, as this may cause further damage to the child’s bones and joints. If your child’s nursemaid’s elbow recurs several times, your doctor can teach you how to fix the problem at home, but it’s important to consult with your doctor each time you have an injury.

Your child’s doctor will treat the nursemaid’s elbow through a process called a reduction and there are a lot of videos on YouTube such as this video by Doctor Larry Mellick. The bones and ligaments are gently put back in place. The doctor folds the child’s arm up from a straight position and rotates the palm while the arm is bent at the elbow. Support your child’s elbow with your other hand. You may hear a faint pop or click.

To avoid nursemaid’s elbow or any type of relapse, parents or caregivers should take care and try to limit movements that cause nursemaid’s elbow, including: raising, jerking, or shaking the child with the hand, wrist, or forearm. To safely pick up the child, gently grasp the underside of the arms. While it’s easier said than done, it’s helpful to keep this information in mind.

Thank for being here and hope the content is helpful for you! If you enjoy this content, don’t forget to like, comment and share!

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