Your microbiome is the diverse community of microorganisms which live within your body. These microbes are vital to our existence. They aid digestion, produce vitamins and neurochemicals, interact with our hormones, and protect us from infection. In return we give them an ideal place to live. We couldn't live without them, and they couldn't live without us. Emerging research shows that how we birth and feed our babies can have a life-long impact on their microbiome and their health.
The Fourth Trimester
‘he won’t let me put him down’ ‘she’s using me as a dummy’ ‘he wants to feed all the time’ ‘she will only sleep on my chest’ Why does my baby want to be constantly attached to me? Why is it called 'the fourth trimester'? And how can I cope?
How your breasts work!
How do breasts make milk? A quick look at the science behind lactation.
Blue breastmilk, is it antibodies?
When you or your baby is fighting infection, the level of antibodies in your breastmilk increases, helping your baby to fight off any pathogens they have been exposed to. I'm sure we can all agree that this is pretty amazing, but does it make breastmilk turn blue? Probably not.
What’s so great about breastfeeding?
'Fed is best', 'Breast is best'. Go to any article or Facebook post concerning infant feeding and you'll more than likely see one of these two phrases, and no doubt a lot of arguments about it in the comment section. I hate them both. Neither is true, and neither is remotely helpful to a woman who is trying to decide how to feed her baby, so isn't it time we started moving away from such restrictive language?
15 and pregnant: What it’s really like being a young, breastfeeding mum
Just a few months after my 15th birthday, I found myself pregnant with my first child, Ellie. Now 10 years on, I reflect on my experience and the challenges I faced in the hopes of empowering other young parents to have confidence in their parenting abilities and to reach their breastfeeding goals.
It’s Easter! Time for crafts, food, and messy play!
Easter is just around the corner. In my house, that means its time for Easter themed messy play, decorating my mantle and walls with my kid's artwork, and making delicious treats! Here's a run down of my favourite ideas for Easter fun with babies, toddlers, and older kids.
Messy Play: Spaghetti painting!
What child doesn't love painting? Using a paintbrush is great, but switching it up with different materials is even better! Here's how to make a spaghetti paintbrush to encourage your child to get creative with different colours, textures and patterns
Ouch! When breastfeeding hurts
Painful breastfeeding is not normal. Your nipples do not need to 'toughen up'. If you're experiencing pain, there is a reason for it. Seek support, and find out what might be causing your painful nipples here.
Messy play: Edible paint!
Edible paint: explore different colours and practice fine motor skills with a 3 ingredient paint which is simple to make and safe to eat!
Messy play: Edible sand!
There is nothing like messy play to foster your child's curiosity and imagination. Edible sand is one of my all time favorites. It's quick and easy to make, makes perfect sandcastles, and is great for kids of all ages, including babies from 6 months plus. here's how to make it!
