My Child Magazine September 2018 Issue

ISSUE 84 - SEPTEMBER 2018

MAGAZINE.COM.AU

How My Health Record

Could Benefit Parents Who Travel Should You Feel Guilty About Travelling Without The Kids?

Safety First:

Top Tips to Travel Safe With Your Family

THING TO BE THANKFUL FOR

Father's Day

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10 48

CONTENTS FEATURED ARTICLES

EVERY MONTH

YOUR CHILD

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EDITORS LETTER

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EDITOR PICKS

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SHOULD YOU FEEL GUILTY ABOUT TRAVELLING WITHOUT THE KIDS? HOW MY HEALTH RECORD COULD BENEFIT PARENTS WHO TRAVEL TOP TIPS TO MAKE AIR TRAVEL EASIER WITH KIDS SAFETY FIRST: TOP TIPS TO TRAVEL SAFE WITH YOUR FAMILY

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INSPIRING READS

50 58 76

THINGS TO BE THANKFUL FOR ON FATHER’S DAY SIGNS YOU ARE BOTH READY TO BE PARENTS POINT ME IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION

COMMON MYTHS ABOUT BABIES DEBUNKED

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HOW TO LIMIT SCREEN TIME

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WHY PETS ARE SO IMPORTANT TO CHILDREN

PREGNANCY

28

JOB SEARCH TIPS FOR PREGNANT WOMEN

32

HOW TO PREPARE FOR A HOME BIRTH

LIFESTYLE

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80 110 72

GET THE LOOK – INTERIORS RECIPES

BOOK REVIEWS

SHOPPING

7 90 62 96

PRODUCTS WE LOVE

SHOP KIDS FASHION

TOY REVIEWS

FASHION

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EDITOR BIANCA MEDINA

ASSISTANT EDITOR JANA ANGELES

ART DIRECTOR DIANE BILLANO

CONTRIBUTING EXPERTS AMY ADENEY SHEREE HODDINETT KARLI STEENKAMP GENIE PRICE LANCE GREEN

EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES EDITORIAL@MYCHILDMAGAZINE.COM.AU

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES ADVERTISING@MYCHILDMAGAZINE.COM.AU

CONTACT: MYCHILD MAGAZINE PHONE: 0411 572 877

My Child magazine and mychildmagazine.com.au are wholly owned by MyChild Magazine (ABN 79 167 787 662). No other parties or individuals have any financial interest in the company or in My Child or mychildmagazine.com.au. My Child contains general information only and does not purport to be a substitute for health and parenting advice. Readers are advised to seek a doctor for all medical and health matters. The publisher and authors do not accept any liability whatsoever in respect of an action taken by readers in reliance on the recommendations set out in this magazine. Reproduction of any material without written permission by the publisher is strictly forbidden. We cannot accept responsibility for material lost or damaged in the post or for any unsolicited manuscripts and photographs. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders.

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EDITOR’S

Letter Hi Everyone, I am so excited about this issue. I love travel!

Now travel is something that I have always been passionate about and have been exposed to since I was a young child. When I was 5 years old or so, my mum packed up our family and took us around the world backpacking for just over 12 months and I have to say, I still have memories from this period in my life all which are really good.

Before hubby and I had our beautiful daughter Max, we really loved seeing the world and how others lived. Once Max came along we were worried that travel wouldn’t really be on the cards for us as it all seemed a little too hard to do with a baby. However, once we had nailed this thing called parenting (at least we thought we had nailed it), we made the decision to travel with Max who was 18 months old at the time.

We booked an 8-week trip to Europe and Egypt and we absolutely loved every minute of our first family vaycay. Max was a superstar traveller! We did make sure that even though we were travelling to destinations we wanted to go to, her every need was being met. We took nights fights whenever possible. We swapped hotels for AirBnB and serviced apartments. We took a good stroller so when it was nap time, she could lay comfortably and have a restful sleep.

We swapped every night dinners out for dinners at home half of the time and we made sure we were at home at a reasonable hour as to not upset her routine too much.

Now this might all sound like too much work, but honestly it wasn’t. It really wasn’t anything we wouldn’t do when traveling around Australia. Our days were a little slower and lazier than our pre-baby whirlwind trips, but we really enjoyed the time we spent in new cities and the experience of living more like locals.

We have spaced annual holiday’s to bi annual now and we are off to South America at the end of the year. Can’t wait to see if it will be as memorable traveling with a 3-year-old as it was with a toddler?

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PICKS

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Now let’s take a look at what’s in the September Issue. This month is Travel Issue and we have some great reads covering travel, be sure to check these ones out: How My Health Record Could Benefit Parents Who Travel, Top Tips to Make Air Travel Easier with Kids, Should You Feel Guilty About Travelling Without The Kids? Safety First: Top Tips to, Travel Safe With Your Family and A Campervan With Kids - Craze, or Crazy?

We also have more great articles to help you with your parenting journey: Job Search Tips for Pregnant Women, How to Prepare for a Home Birth, Common Myths, About Babies Debunked, How to Limit Screen Time, Why Pets are so Important to Children, Things to be Thankful for on Father’s Day and Signs You Are Both Ready to be Parents. All the usuals, interior, reviews, blogs can also be found in this issue.

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Until next month

Bianca xxx and the My Child Team

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Should You Feel

Guilty

about

Trav

Without The Kids?

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FEATURED ARTICLES

Ah, the parenting guilt. It always seems to follow you everywhere you go and now, you’re torn on whether or not you and your partner should go to Hawaii for a week like you planned without the kids.

We all know how travelling with the kids has its moments of chaos and the logistics may seem complicated when you have two or more additional human beings to look after.

Whether you’d like to admit it or not, it’s nice to getaway from the kids for a bit and with some thought out planning, you could be on your dream travel destination without the kids. So, should you start feeling guilty about taking that “couples only” getaway? In this article, we take a look and explore the best case scenarios on why travelling without your kids could be a good thing!

Written by Jana Angeles

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An opportunity for couple time When was the last time you and your partner had couple time? If you’re struggling to come up with a definite answer, then it’s been long overdue! Travelling alone with your partner can help both of you recharge from work and the chaos of everyday life. As parents, you do a lot for your kids and the hard work that goes into raising them shouldn’t go unnoticed. If both of you have been wanting to get away a while without the little ones, then now’s the time to start planning a longawaited adventure together! You shouldn’t keep putting it off just because you feel guilty leaving the kids behind.

More ‘me’ time If you’re an introvert, it can sometimes be draining to be around the kids, especially if they are loud and cannot stop moving. Travelling without the them can mean peace and quiet and more time to do relaxing things. You can also do some fun stuff you haven’t done in a while, such as taking a nice walk around the block, going on a solo brunch date or capturing photos of your surroundings. You begin to really make the most of your ‘me’ time and it gives you the opportunity to feel refreshed. It also provides the best form of self-care you never thought you needed!

A chance for the kids to bond with one another Just because you’re leaving the kids behind, doesn’t mean they are missing out on all the fun. While you and your partner are away, this will give them the chance to bond with each other. Maybe it’s been a while since you and your partner have gone away but you just have to remember that it will give them time to get to know each other as siblings. If they are under the care of grandparents or other immediate family members, it will also give your kids time to get to know their other relatives better. They will definitely hear some wise and interesting stories!

Teaches them to be independent Travelling with your partner alone is a great step for your children to gain some independence. Eventually when they get older, they will leave home and live independent lives. They will either be travelling, raising a family or doing adventurous. Travelling without your kids could help them gain confidence and give them the opportunity to learn new things on their own. With wild imaginations and some creativity, they may have created some awesome artworks, wrote their own story or learnt how to braid their hair while you were away. Just remember to check in daily just to see how things are when you and your partner are travelling.

A follow-up call is always needed and it will give you a chance to miss them, even if they do make you a bit crazy at times.

You’re bound to feel guilty when you book those flights to your dream destination with your partner, but it doesn’t mean you should. Travelling without your kids has its benefits and it can range from your kids gaining some independence, more time to bond with your partner and taking advantage of some ‘me’ time. As parents, you deserve to go on a holiday separate from your children every once in a while because life’s too short to keep dreaming!

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FEATURED ARTICLES

How My

Health Record Could Benefit Parents

Travel Written by Karli Steenkamp

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Travelling is an exciting thing to do with your kids. It could also be stressful to make sure everything is packed. You have things to do for the kids and the places you go have be somewhat child-friendly. The last thing you might have thought of is what to do in an emergency. You will definitely have peace of mind knowing that your family is taken care of during your travels and one way to ensure this is with a My Health Record.

Many Australians are unsure of what My Health Record is about and how it could benefit you as a family. The Australian Digital Health Agency encourages parents to find out more about the great benefits of this system.Six million people already have a My Health Record with thirteen thousand health professionals joining this system. My Health Record will take the stress of your family’s health out of travelling.

What is My Health Record?

My Health Record is an online summary of a person’s health. It is a simple way for parents to monitor their children’s health, providing all the important information such as allergies, immunisations, test results and health checks.

Why should my family have a My Health Record?

Any emergency can happen when travelling. Being away from your surroundings and doctors that you trust can be a frightening thought. My Health Record aims at putting your fears at ease, by providing a snapshot of your health. In an emergency, the doctors can access your My Health Record and be aware of any health issues and allergies. This information gives them a clear picture on how to best treat a patient. There might be questions that you as a parent might not have answers to or forgotten, so having a My Health Record is an excellent tool to keep your child’s health information in one place. If more than one healthcare professional is involved in your care, it gives them a good overview of your health history and they can consult together on the best treatment for you.

When you travel, especially overseas, immunisations are sometimes required and with My Health Record, all these immunisations will be there. It is an easy way to show that all immunisations are up to date.

There is another part to My Health Record and this is called My Childhood Development Section.

This is a great section where your child’s growth and health is monitored. My Health Record will provide your child with lifelong health information at his or her fingertips. You as a parent will manage your child’s record while they are young and when they are older, they can take over the management of their records.

Besides the immunisation and development section on My Health Record, there is other important information that will also be displayed: * * * *

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Medical conditions and treatments Allergies Referral letter Overview of health

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* Medicine * Test and scan results * Hospital discharge information

FEATURED ARTICLES

Manage your family’s My Health Record My Health Record can be managed by you as parents. You can manage the privacy and control access including what information gets uploaded and who can see it. You can add contact numbers and emergency contact details. You can upload your status such as Indigenous status, Veterans’ Australian Defence Force status or whether you have an Advance Care Plan. Two years worth of Medicare data will be available on there, if you consent for it be uploaded on your My Health Record, otherwise, you’ll find there is no data to begin with. If you have medical information that you feel needs to be displayed, you can consult with your general practitioner and add that on there. You can also remove documents if you feel they aren’t relevant to your healthcare.

However, keep in mind that you can protect certain documents using a pin code, which you can give to those you trust.

There are safeguards in place to ensure that this system is secure and protected by law, keeping your family’s health information protected. Only registered healthcare providers involved in your care and who are registered with the My Health Record System Operator can have access to your information. There are notification settings that you can put in place to be notified when someone has accessed you or your family’s My Health Record.

My Health Record is a system that can take care of your family to provide the best care when needed. All the information is available to doctors in an emergency that will provide you with a chance to take care of your family. That takes the stress of your family’s well-being out of travelling.

For more information you can phone the Help line 1800 723 471 or go to MyHealthRecord.gov.au.

References:

My Health Records

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Top Tips to Make

Air Travel Easier with Kids

Being cooped up in a confined space for a number of hours at a time can be daunting enough for some people, let alone adding children t the mix. If you are travelling with babies, toddlers or older children, we have some tips to help make air transit a bit easier.

Written by Ciara O’Hanlon @postpartymum

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FEATURED ARTICLES

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Tips for babies: Whether it’s a bottle, a dummy or a nipple, make sure your baby is sucking on something for take off and landing. The sucking motion can help eradicate any ear popping and save you making any plane enemies in those first few minutes of the flight.

Most airlines have bassinet seats in front of the bulkheads for long-haul, international flights. Securing them is usually on a first come first served basis so it is important to get to the airport early to ensure you don’t have to hold your baby on your lap for the duration of the flight. The bassinet seats have weight and height allowances so check your baby is still within these limits before assuming you will be allocated one. Also be aware that you will have to take your baby out of the bassinet whenever the seatbelt sign comes on, which is often!

Stock up on nappies, baby wipes and nappy bags. Baby wipes in particular have multiple uses so should be a staple on any flight, not only for baby but for toddlers, older kids and a bit of a freshening up for yourself. Make sure you have all these essentials stored in a handy, smaller bag that you can keep with you rather than stored in the overhead compartments.

Although some airports supply strollers for toddlers and older kids, moving a baby between connecting flights through the airport can be difficult without a pram. A baby carrier is almost a necessity to help navigate through security and passport control. Pick a carrier that has pockets at the front to keep passports and tickets that you can access easily.

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FEATURED ARTICLES

Tips for toddlers: A mobile toddler eager to explore their surroundings can be a challenge on a long haul flight. Expect to spend some time guiding them up the aisles and chatting to other bewildered looking parents. Bring a few familiar toys from home including their favourite soft toy so they have some familiarity during what can be an overwhelming time. Some new books or sticker activity pads can be a great distraction for when they are at their most alert.

Toddlers will most likely fall asleep at the most inopportune time such as just when their meal arrives. Pack plenty of extra snacks and be sure to bag up some of their meal for when they wake up. Be aware that it can take a while for the inflight service to start so make sure they are well fed before boarding.

The inflight entertainment systems can be a great source of distraction for kids and perhaps toddlers too if they can handle putting headphones on. It can be helpful using headphones at home so they’re used to the experience. It may not hold their attention for long but it will give you some downtime from walking the aisles with them.

Tips for kids: Older kids will be kept entertained for longer with the novelty of movies, tv shows and games they may not necessarily have access to or have seen at home. As a precaution, bring your own device and load it with your kids favourite entertainment.

The inflight systems may not always work well or be reliable.

A plane bag containing some crayons, colouring books or Lego sets can be a nice surprise for older kids for when the novelty of a long haul flight starts to wear off. It can be a nice way to break up the flight and save you from the inevitable ‘are we there yet?’

Extras: Be sure to pack a spare pair of clothes for every member of the family, yourself included if travelling with a baby or toddler. Dress your kids in comfortable, breathable clothing and preferably slip on shoes. The less zips, buckles and laces you have, the better. If you are travelling at night be sure to dress your kids in their pyjamas and brush their teeth on board so they still get a sense of routine.

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Safety First: Top Tips to

Travel With Your Family Written by Ciara O’Hanlon @postpartymum

Travelling with children is a great way to expose them to new cultures and life experiences. It can be both educational and inspiring but can also pose a few risks. It’s important to keep a few important safety measures in mind so you can enjoy your holiday with your family.

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FEATURED ARTICLES

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Buy Travel Insurance This one is a no-brainer and should be purchased while organising your holiday. While you might want to believe your trip is fairly risk free, things can and do go wrong. From lost luggage to broken limbs or even having to cancel your trip unexpectedly, travel insurance is a must just in case you are unfortunate enough to experience one of the above.

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Childproof your accommodation

Pre-plan your days

As soon as you arrive at your accommodation inspect the place for any potential hazards.

A fairly standard balcony set up with tables and chairs can suddenly become extremely dangerous when travelling with a small child who has just learned the art of climbing.

Remove the furniture or ensure the door to the balcony is locked with a key only you have access to. Check any blinds or curtains for any low hanging cords and make sure the taps in the bathroom are correctly marked hot and cold.

Plan your day before leaving in the morning and make sure any activities are child friendly. The last thing you need is to find yourself having to carry a tired child on a 10km hike. Mark out exactly where you want to go and how you are going to make it to your destinations including looking up public transport options if that’s how you plan on moving around. Pre-planning can help with time management so you don’t feel rushed or overwhelmed. Feeling organised with help keeps everyone calm and in control.

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FEATURED ARTICLES

Give your child emergency contact details Equip your child with emergency contacts including where they are staying and their names. You can write it on the inside of your child’s clothing or give them a card with all of the information that they can keep in a zipped or buttoned pocket. Having this information on them will make your child feel important and give them a sense of responsibility. It can also provide you with some reassurance in the unlikely but terrifying scenario that they do get separated from you.

Find the police Police can wear very different uniforms in one country to another. It’s a good idea to familarise your children with the law enforcement in the country you’re visiting in case they need to approach them for help. Point out security officials in different venues you visit and make sure they know where the nearest shops or hotels are and that they can ask for help in these establishments if they need to.

Don’t drink the water!

It’s an oldie but a goodie. In many countries tap water is not safe to drink. It is important that you use bottle or filtered water, not only for drinking but also for brushing your children’s teeth, when washing out bottles and for mixing formula. If you are eating out, ask for no ice in any drinks. Children are very susceptible to stomach bugs so avoiding tapped water could help in avoid having a sick child for the duration of your trip. Some water bottles come with an inbuilt filter so you can ensure you’re drinking clean water at all times and can keep your children feeling hydrated and well.

Pick a landmark Whether you are spending the day at a theme park or tackling busy crowds at a popular attraction, it’s a good idea to pick a landmark in the vicinity which can act as a meeting place should your children get separated from you. Pick a spot that children can find easily and make sure they can repeat the meeting place back to you so you can be sure they know where to head.

Take photos Taking photos is fairly standard practice while holidaying with your family but it can also be a good way to keep you all safe. Take a picture of your child before entering into busy venues such as theme parks or train stations so you can show authorities what your child was wearing that day should you get separated.

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A Camperv

Craze,

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or

FEATURED ARTICLES

van With Kids

r

Crazy?

WHAT’S IN OUR STORES THIS MONTH

If you’d rather poke sticks in your eyes than change a Portaloo cassette, campervanning with kids is unlikely to float your boat.

But if you like flexibility (from toilet breaks to departure times) and you’re keen to temporarily shed the superfluous - a road-tripping holiday may be your ticket to a cost-effective way to travel.

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The Advantages: * Think snail – your home is always with you. Unpack once and immediately have that settled feeling. No more sippy cups or phone chargers left in hotels. No more ‘first night frenzy’ trying to get buzzed kids down in unfamiliar beds. * Greater control - things don’t always go to plan when you add The Kid Factor – independent travel allows you to stop, pee, sleep and eat on demand, reducing the likelihood of ugly scenes. * More space than airline luggage – bring the trike! (Still try to pack light as you may curse the non-essentials when you trip over them each morning). * Cost effective - off-season campervan hire is often no dearer than renting a standard sedan yet supplies free accommodation – and self-catering is a great way to reduce spending. * The Vanner’s club - feel the friendliness of the (not so) secret campers club as you’re now a member. Don’t forget to wave! * Campervans are heated, fitted with flat-screen TVs, microwaves, bathrooms, USB media players and surround sound -you’re not exactly roughing it. * Road games, cards, all that corny togetherness might just warm your heart and forge lifelong memories. * You can explore the road less travelled – picnic on absolute beachfront while bub sleeps, watch the sunset wine in-hand while your child climbs the spiders web in the camp playground. * You are only cooped up to sleep and drive. The outdoors is the biggest playground.

The Warnings 1. Grumpiness, and togetherness are both amplified in confined spaces.

2. There will be tantrums (and not just from the kids), sat-nav malfunctions, missed turnoffs and times you really don’t like each other.

3. Camping illegally can land you a hefty fine.

4. Campervans have inbuilt hazards kids adore – buttons, high bunks, gas fittings and levers. Constant supervision required.

5. If you’re not used to sharing a bed with a diagonally-sleeping child, be prepared to get kicked.

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FEATURED ARTICLES

Tips The best and worst experiences happen in metal box holidays. Here are some pointers on having more pros than cons: * Pack your patience. * Limit driving to 300ks a day (less in mountainous/snowy areas). Break up driving days with stay days. * Say yes as often as you can. * Kid’s audiobooks make long stretches less monotonous (Roald Dahl is a fave). * Get a van only as big as you need – you still have to park the thing. We found a 6 birth Maui had permanent beds for 4 which reduced bedtime rearranging. * Read specs carefully to ensure enough car seat anchor points and if taking your own boosters (airlines often allow free extra baggage for infants) check it complies with local laws. For children prone to motion sickness, ensure the configuration allows forward facing positions. * Stock up on non-perishables in supermarkets before exploring remote areas – eating out three meals a day can get tiresome and expensive. * Twenty-four-seven-kids-in-your-face can be grueling. Employ ‘divide and conquer’ as a strategy. Split kids for different adventures or take turns soaking up ‘me’ time while the other parent takes one for the team, then swap. Fairly. * Handovers either side of vehicle rental can take longer than you think. Be prepared with snacks and distractions. * Consider the age and temperament of your children. While most travelers tolerate the ruckus of family chaos (many have their own) if your baby cries three hours a night, having an audience in the next site will turn holiday into hell. If your munchkin is a serial absconder, campsites will be heaven for them (but torture for you). Consider playpens, closed-off annexes or delaying your trip till they are less flighty (or bribable). * Older kids: Planning day trips – attractions, caves, glaciers, bike-hire – mould their minds into believing it was their idea and they’ll be easier to pull away from the iPad. Try a travel scrapbook to encourage reflecting on their experiences. * Become accustomed to the chinking of crockery as you bounce along (close the cupboards and place fruit in the crisper while driving to avoid bruising).

Road-tripping with kids offers flexibility and adventure, combined with a dash of crazy. With the right planning and attitude, it offers a cost-effective and relaxing travel option.

After all, doesn’t fortune favour the brave?

By Kylie Kaden www.kyliekaden.com.au September 2018 | mychild

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Job Search Tips for Pregnant Women

THE

Being pregnant shouldn’t be the reason why you should put off looking for the next work opportunity. We get it. It’s challenging to be in this position, but if you’re in the early stages of pregnancy and aren’t really showing, you can explain the situation after your future employer offers you a position!

DADDY

blog

We understand how job searching can be a bit of a pain when going through multiple interviews and sending out several tailored resumes hoping for the best. Even if you have to go through the somewhat painful recruitment process, it doesn’t hurt to apply for a dream role while managing a baby bump! Here are some tips to give you a headstart when job hunting while pregnant: Written by Jana Angeles

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PREGNANCY

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Be aware of your rights Before you even think of sending another detailed job application, know your rights first when looking for work. It is unlawful for a potential employer to ask if you’re pregnant and to treat you unfavourably because of it. When you’re also starting a new position, your employer should be treating you fairly. If you happen to get dismissed, be given fewer hours, assigned less important work or being overlooked for a promotion because of your pregnancy, this is discrimination. You are protected by the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 and the Fair Work Act 2009.

Anyone who breaches these could face heavy penalties.

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Do some research on the workplace culture and its benefits Work perks are everything, so being able to understand the culture while also doing a bit of research before you pop in for an interview will increase the chances of you making an informed decision on whether or not a position is right for you.

Having a workplace that allows flexibility (ie. working from home to avoid the long commute on some days), salary packaging, bonuses, etc, also helps you make a decision on whether the position is financially stable and enjoyable too.

Be honest when they make a job offer So, you’ve been made an offer, which is great news but you also owe it to yourself to be honest with your new employer too. Explain your pregnancy and how far along you are and ask questions on what it means for you. You can set up a meeting with HR and discuss future plans and how this will impact you when you are closer to giving birth. This is a great opportunity for you to ask about leave entitlements and the responsibilities you need to fulfil before you go on maternity leave. Being able to communicate this from the very start will make your new employer appreciate your honesty in planning for action for the oncoming months.

PREGNANCY

Know how to market yourself We’re not saying that pregnancy is going to hold you back from getting a job but it will make things difficult if the role demands a lot from you. Knowing how to market yourself means networking with other people, looking for freelance roles which could upskill you and being aware of your work milestones while successfully addressing them to potential employers. It’s important to constantly give your resume a bit of a refresh and making sure you tailor your cover letter to suit the requirements for the job. It also helps to use language which entices the employer to meet with you and schedule an interview.

Plan effectively Whether you’re in between jobs, working only for six-months in your new position or have planned to take on new clients (when you decide to freelance full-time), plan your next steps in the lead up to the birth of your child. It’s important to prioritise what needs to get done before you go on leave and how much savings you require to get by. It’s difficult to accrue leave when you start a new position, so make sure you have an aggressive savings plans if you do decide to take maternity leave.

Alternatively, discuss with your current employer if you decide to switch to a part-time role or arrange for your close relatives or childcare to look after your baby on some days when you’re at work. Take note that if you decide to work after you have just given birth, understand your limits and don’t feel guilty if you need more time off than planned.

If you’re pregnant and are hesitating to look for a job, understand that you have rights and an equal opportunity to work as someone who isn’t pregnant. You shouldn’t put off your career goals just because you have a baby on the way. As long as you’re honest and have planned for the next steps, you’re on the right track to a successful job search!

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How To Pr

Home Preparing for a home birth is not as easy as it sounds. You may have seen it happen on a TV series or movie you’ve been watching. Home births actually take a lot of time to prepare if this is your preferred method of giving birth to your baby. There are things to consider such as choosing a team of medical professionals to assist you during the birth, the safety implications in your household and understanding the risks and complications that could arise from a home birth. Though there are so many things you need to prepare for, it’s good to take the time to start on the essentials during the term of your pregnancy. Here are some tips below to help you on your journey for a home birth: Written by Jana Angeles

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BIRTH

repare for a

e Birth

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Read about the advantages of a home birth There are advantages to a home birth including: * Being surrounded by a familiar environment * Having labour progress naturally, instead of having rushed medical interventions * Your healthcare providers are there to attend to your need at your home * Family and friends can be present while the birth takes place The advantages above are just some things to consider just incase you were still weighing up on the appeal of home birth. You should also talk about how it could affect your insurance policies with your healthcare providers.

Understand the complications of a home birth It doesn’t matter how long you’ve planned for a home birth, something unexpected could happen which means you’ll need a hospital team to attend to your needs. Be prepared for complications should they arise. This means booking the local hospital just incase something goes wrong with labour and you end up needing a caesarean. It’s good to have a Plan B in this case because even the best plans need a backup. It can be overwhelming experiencing complications of a home birth, but that’s essentially the risk you take.

Find a doctor, midwife or obstetrician to support you during the labour and birthing process It doesn’t matter how long you’ve planned for a home birth, something unexpected could happen which means you’ll need a hospital team to attend to your needs. Be prepared for complications should they arise. This means booking the local hospital just incase something goes wrong with labour and you end up needing a caesarean. It’s good to have a Plan B in this case because even the best plans need a backup. It can be overwhelming experiencing complications of a home birth, but that’s essentially the risk you take.

See if your local hospital provides a home birth service It’s important to research if your local hospital provides a home birth service. It’s key to know this information well in advance so you can start planning when choosing a team of healthcare providers that suit what you need during the birthing process. Don’t be afraid to ring ahead and ask to book appointments and to learn more information on how it works.

Ask all the questions you need answering now rather than later. The more you know, the better.

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BIRTH BIRTH

Consider the safety of your home Safety comes first above all. You first have to consider the risks involved when giving birth at home. Will it be a comfortable process? Does it offer enough privacy? Is there appropriate space to give a home birth? Asking these questions now will help you make the decision on whether a home birth is the right option for you. You have to consider the safety implications and the impact of your decision if you do decide to move forward with a home birth during the term of your pregnancy. You need to follow your gut and be realistic when it comes to this, as your safety and the baby’s is of high importance.

Preparing for a home birth can be stressful and you have to keep in mind the complications which may arise during it. While it may feel overwhelming, just remember that you are sharing an intimate moment with your loved ones at the comfort of your own home. It can be a special memory that will live on for the rest of your life if everything goes according to plan and no feeling can match that!

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Peace of mind for every mum.

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CM

MJ

CJ

CMJ

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EXCELLENCE AWARDS

SILVER

NEW

2018

FAVOURITE STERILISER

Helping mums care for their babies since 1916 The Milton method of sterilisation has been trusted in homes and hospitals for over 90 years as the safe and effective way to protect babies from disease-producing germs in their most vulnerable early years.

NEW

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miltonbaby.com.au

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NEW

.

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Common

Myt

A

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References: 1. Sleeping Baby 2. Psychology today 3. American Optometric Association 4. The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne 5. World Health Organisation 6. Web md 7. Just the facts babies 8. Raising children

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BABY

ths

About

Babies

Debunked Written by Karli Steenkamp

Septmeber September 2016 2018 | mychild

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Babies have a language of their own. If only we could somehow decode what this little human is trying to say. It takes a while for parents to realise when or what our babies need by learning their patterns and mannerisms. Family, friends and even strangers will have plenty of advice to share to the point of being overwhelming.

There are common misconceptions about babies that have been passed on from generation to generation and some are safe to say can be discarded as what it is: a myth. These ten common myths have been debunked.

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1. All cries sound the same

3. Newborn babies can’t see you

You might have heard people say that babies’ cries sound the same; however it’s been proven that babies have different cries for different things. It is their way to tell us that they are hungry, tired, and irritable.

The cries might sound the same after a while, but it is important to listen from when they start. It could tell you what your baby needs. If a baby cries hysterically it could be difficult to figure out what they want, but if you can try and decode the cries before it reaches that point, you eventually know what they mean.

Many parents may have felt impressed by their newborn baby being alert and watching their every move. They may also have heard someone say that babies can’t see well when they are born. There is some truth to that, but babies can see even if it might be a bit blurry. They do see in black and white; only a few months later will they start seeing in color. Their focus will be about 8-10 inches from their face and will improve every day.

2. You’re holding your baby too much

4. Babies sleep best on their stomach

Babies need to learn absolutely everything about life. This is through modeling and watching their parents. The interactions at this age also have a huge impact on their development. People often say that a baby is spoiled if he or she is held too often, however this is a time when your baby learns to communicate its wants and needs.

Holding a baby builds trust between the parent and child, making them feel safe and help soothe him or her. A baby is only little for a while, so enjoy it while it lasts.

The best sleeping position for many people are on their stomachs and many people believe that a baby sleeps best on his or her stomach as well. Even if that is the case it has been proven that it is not safe for babies to sleep on their stomachs. To

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reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) it is safer if a baby falls asleep on his or her back.

BABY

5. A walker will help my baby walk faster Babies love a walker and the freedom they have with it, giving parents a few peaceful moments.

Walkers should not be used unsupervised as the walker could be faster than the baby’s reaction, which could potentially cause injuries. A walker shouldn’t be used for more than fifteen minutes at a time. It could actually delay walking because the baby relies on the walker to help it along. If you do use a walker, ensure that it complies with the Australian Mandatory Standards and that your baby fits into it properly.

6. Babies should drink water “Introduce water at a young age, so that your baby will love it.” As sensible as those words sound, it is actually quite dangerous giving a baby water for quite a number of reasons. Firstly, water isn’t always clean and could put your baby at risk of diarrhea. Breast milk and formula consists 80% out of water and contains all the water a baby needs. At this stage of development, a baby’s kidneys aren’t fully developed and it could do more harm than good.

7. My baby is teething because he or she has a fever.

Teething can be a nightmare. Sleepless nights, irritable babies and drool are all signs of teething.

Teething can raise your baby’s temperature slightly, however it won’t be significant. A high fever should not be seen as teething and an underlying illness could easily be missed. A high fever is a sign of your baby is getting sick.

8. Babies need silence when they sleep Babies do not need absolute silence when they are sleeping. Sleeping with white noise can actually help them sleep better. It is important to keep the noise consistent.

9. You should never wake a sleeping baby You should definitely not unnecessarily wake a baby. All humans have a sleep routine and when we sleep too much during the day, we will not be able to sleep well during the night. Babies are the same, although they sleep more, sleeping too much during the day can make it difficult to sleep at night.

So, it can be worthwhile to wake your baby to have a peaceful night’s sleep.

10. It’s not a smile, it’s gas Babies are like sponges, they soak up everything and learn and copy what they see. Smiling is one of those things that he or she will try and do, especially because of the reaction it gets from his or her parents. Young babies do smile when they are sleeping, although it might not have an emotional context. By two months, they should have a beautiful smile looking at all the funny faces you as parents are making.

Every baby develops differently in every family. This is what makes all of us unique. There is no right or wrong - it is trial and error. Take advice, try it and decide what you want to use or not. In the end, no one knows your baby better than you. Follow your instinct and enjoy the parenting ride.

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How To Limit

Screen Time Written by Jana Angeles

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September2018 2018||mychild mychild Septmeber

TODDLER

Reducing screen time can be a challenge for parents, especially those who fit the millennial mindset. In a world where growing up with TV, smartphones and digital devices have become the norm, children are more prone to getting addicted to gaming either on the computer, tablet or game console.

It’s important that you don’t encourage your children to indulge in too much screen time because this could affect their grades, mental health or be prone to laziness when it comes to helping out with the chores. Toddlers are harder to manage because they want to have it their way most of the time, so you have to be prepared in fighting your battles when limiting screen time. Here are some ways which could help you reduce screen time and provide better alternatives: September 2018 | mychild

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Choose a time period during the day where no screen time is involved When your toddler is doing a scheduled activity during the day, it’s much easier to not hand over the tablet and resume playing on an app they’ve been addicted to all day. Picking a designated time period where there is no screen time involved can help your child be less addicted and find other activities to fill their day. You can gradually wean them off the devices by setting a limit to how much they can play per day. It may be challenging to apply this rule once you start out but you have to be firm if you want them to be less addicted to the screen. Designating one-hour per day or using devices only on the weekends could help set the boundaries.

Provide alternatives to your children

Encourage them to work for it

It’s amazing how many things we can do on our smartphones. There are millions of apps available at our fingertips and we could download any game that could provide our children some decent entertainment. However, it’s time to stick to the basics and think about the “better” alternatives out there - ones that don’t involve the screen. You can take your child out to the park in the afternoons, print out colour-in sheets or if you dare, get the paint set out. Finding activities which don’t involve screen time can help shape their creativity and can even encourage a newfound hobby!

Have they finished their dinner? Have they helped tidy up? If you find that you’re answering ‘no’ to these questions quite often, encourage your child to work and earn the screen time they want. There’s no point being tempted to hand over the tablet once you’ve made the decision to reduce screen time it does not help fight the addiction.

Explain that they can’t have screen time unless they have finished up the things you’ve wanted them to do first. Helping them feel motivated by the “chores” you set can be a good incentive if they really want to play that cool game everyone in school is talking about.

Explain what you mean by “too much screen time” to your children It’s important to address the concern of “too much screen time” to your child to avoid confusion.

You can explain the effects it has on their health in a simple way and share your feelings of genuine concern that they may be missing out on the finer things in life. Though it’s the digital age right now, it’s important to acknowledge that there’s life outside a television, mobile and computer screen. Emphasise that it’s nice to have some down time from technology and provides the opportunity for them to be active.

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TODDLER

Be a good role model when it comes to screen time moderation There is no point reducing screen time if you can’t show the same for your kids, it’d just make you a big hypocrite! The main point of reducing screen time is to also show your children the example of being a good role model too. If you’re telling them to drop all devices while you’re facing your laptop with the phone in the palm of the hand, then you are not being fair. Reducing screen time is all about finding balance in not only your children’s lives, but yours!

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Why Pets to Children are so Important

Written by Helen Connolly, SA Commissioner for Children & Young People

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KID

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When I started as the Commissioner for Children and Young People in 2017 I wanted to ensure children and young people were informed about my work.

I set about on a ‘Listening Tour’ around South Australia where I spoke to over 1400 children and young people. I asked what matters to them and how the lives of children and young people could be improved. I was surprised and pleased to hear many talk about how their pets are very important in their lives.

When I asked children and young people in a regi they liked about living there, I heard that they en space, which meant they could have a lot of pets o some of what they told me included:

There are huge benefits to be gained by children who can have a pet at home and Australia has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world. More and more we are seeing therapy dogs being used in the classroom setting, helping children with intellectual disabilities or to improve literacy levels or even truancy levels. Therapy dogs help with teaching children empathy and care-giving skills and can allow a child to feel attached and safe.

“My Mum and I sometimes go on dates to the Dog P I have three dogs, Clancy, Cooper and Sarg and th bed”.

“I like we can have lots and lots of pets, outdoors ins

“Like about my farm, bike riding, five goats walk aro

Other children talked about special family moments their animals. For them, it’s about creating memo special things together with their pets and their fam

Many talked about how their pets helped them with

“My pug puppy because she always cheers me up sad. Pets to make me feel better.”

“Dogs and Cats, they need to be in your life, they can you can play with them, tell them things” “Dog – someone always there for you, company”

Therapy dogs have been used in courts to support children and reduce stress when giving evidence. Children with mild intellectual disabilities are reported to benefit from having regular time with a therapy dog.

We have always known about the humananimal connection and know that pets are important to children and young people, but I don’t think we have always understood just how important they are.

I heard a lot of younger children refer to their pets as special to them and felt they like siblings.

“My Jenny rabbit is important to me as she is like my sister and has been with me since I started school.” (Teenager, Listening Tour 2017) During one of my consultations, when I asked about the one thing children or young people wanted to tell me, some children said: “We need therapy dogs at school”.

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What I loved was hearing children feel they could re pets.

“My dogs Azeenah and Alfie. My cats Lola and Jasp them when I need it. They make me feel safe when I love me and are fun to play with. I love watching the

I wanted to share these quotes and insights into what young people have said about their pets because it to them, but also to highlight how beneficial the bo animal and a child can be. They feel emotionally supp like they can talk to their pets and are calmer as a an animal by their side.

Not everyone can have a pet for practical or econom a big responsibility bringing a pet into a home. Ma they would like a pet but understand that they may to have their own pet until they are older and can ta themselves. I hope we will see more and more thera schools and places where our children and young pe support. The benefits of this interaction are undenia the child doesn’t own the animal, but just gets to ‘bo with them for a period of time. Sometimes animal than humans and our children and young people alre

KID

ional area what njoyed the open or farm animals,

stead of indoor.”

ound with them”.

s which included ories and doing milies.

Park and RSPCA. hey sleep in my their emotions:

p even when I’m be your partner

eally talk to their

per, I can talk to I’m unsure. They em play.”

our children and t’s so important ond between an ported, they feel result of having

mic reasons. It’s any children say y never be able ake care of them apy dogs used in eople need extra able, even where orrow’ one or be ls can be better eady know that.

Author Bio Helen Connolly became South Australia’s first Commissioner for Children and Young People in April 2017.

Throughout her career, Helen has taken an active advocacy role on the main policy issues that impact on the wellbeing of Australian families and children, with a strong focus on early intervention and prevention strategies.

Helen lives in Adelaide and has five adult children. She likes gardening and has a border collie called Bowie. She likes to cook when she has time and she makes a world famous gravy!

Her favourite part of Australia is Far North Queensland (especially to escape a cold Adelaide winter).

September2018 2018| mychild | mychild 49 49 September

Things to be T

Father

50 50September September 2018 2018 | mychild | mychild

DAD READ

Thankful for on

r's Day Written by Lance Green

With Father’s Day being this month, it’s important to acknowledge the wonderful and hardworking fathers on this special day. Believe it or not, we play a special role in our family’s lives, so it’s good to recognise that we are making a positive impact for the people we love and the children we have raised. Fathers are known to be funny, practical and helpful human beings. They are there to help build the cubby houses, fix the pipes and share their love and enthusiasm for taking care of the family. So, what things should a father be thankful for on this celebratory day?

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Having a family

Making memories

As a father, you learn a lot when you get to raise your own family. You learn a thing or two about sacrifice and showing your children the path to living a good life. You teach them things about life and helping them make big decisions. Without family, we basically have nothing. Fatherhood is all about being able to show love and respect to your kids, partner and relatives. It is about making the most of their company while also appreciating the lessons you learn along the way on what it truly means to be a father!

Memories last a lifetime and it’s important that we create a long-lasting impact with our time on earth. Whether it means sharing more laughs with your partner and children or booking that family trip you’ve always dreamed of, being a father is all about making every moment count. This Father’s Day why not go through the photo albums and reminisce about the good old times and start planning for adventures creating new memories!

Being an important role model

Learning new things about fatherhood everyday

Fathers influence their children more than they think. They value what their fathers do and want to make them proud. However, it’s important to also recognise that they aren’t perfect and sometimes they make mistakes.

A real father is someone who is willing to put their child’s needs above their own. They encourage you to follow your dreams but also be level-headed when it comes to decisionmaking. They are there for you through times of hardships and have also celebrated your successes.

No matter what stage of fatherhood you’re in, you’re learning a lot about your parenting style and how it impacts your children. This is crucial to your experiences as a father because the lessons you learn along the way motivate you to improve yourself each day.

Although your children may not realise this, it feels good knowing you are learning about fatherhood, through the challenging and the rewarding experiences that you go through.

September 2018 | mychild

DAD READ

Your partner Parenting is a tough gig but how could you manage it all without your partner? Sometimes we get caught up in the madness of life that we forget who has helped us get through the difficult times together and this is where our partners come in. Having trust, a sense of humour and knowing how to work as a team is what has built the strong foundations in your relationship. It’s time to show your partner some thanks for all that they do and how much you genuinely want them to know that you love them for it!

Father’s day is a special day for the fathers who continually show support and love to their families.

It is about feeling thankful for those fathers who have been role models in living their life, while also keeping their head high during the challenging times they go through. When it comes to being a father, you can feel like you’re on top of the world one day and then the next, you feel like your world is crumbling.

Just because you’re wiser and older, doesn’t mean you have to know everything. You are still learning constantly everyday, so take a moment and soak up the good times with your family.

Don’t doubt yourself when in a difficult situation. This Father’s Day, it’s time to be grateful for the little things and see the beauty in what we already have right now.

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How Beaba

Babycook

Make Your Baby Meals 54

September 2018 | mychild

is He

Easy

The perception that making your own homemade baby food will add a whole lot of work to your already busy/time poor schedule is simply not true!

Gone are the days when you have to have three or more saucepans on the stove just to make your baby a healthy, delicious meal. We (the mums of the My Child team) recently had the opportunity to review the Beaba (pronounced bay-ah-buh) Babycook, and a month later it’s still a hot topic of conversation in the office.

We are all hooked, this little gem of a device makes making meals so easy, you can do it while holding baby and some of us honestly, are a little annoyed that we didn’t know about this must have when bub #1 was transitioning to solids and we had no idea what we were really doing.

Here’s what you need to know about the Beaba Babycook!

• The Beaba Babycook 4-in-1 food processor is an all in one system that steam cooks, blends, defrosts and reheats baby food.

• It’s a compact device that’s parts are contained within the unit saving you the extra storage space and precious

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bench space.

• It comes with a large bowl capacity of 1100 ml, so you can prepare large quantities and freeze for later use.

• It has a removable steam basket allowing you to collect the steamed water which is rich in vitamins and minerals.

• It has an easy to use single control button for both cooking and mixing.

Once Steaming Is Complete: • You’ll need to remove the steam basket with the spatula which also doubles as a pot holder.

• No monitoring is required, it automatically switches off when steaming is finished.

• Don’t forget to save the nutrient-rich steam water.

• You can have total control and can blend until you reach the desired consistency (smooth, pureed, chunky).

• Place the steamed food back into the mixer, close the lid and pulse at intervals.

• It’s super easy to clean, with soft damp cloth you can clean the body of device in under a minute and with parts that are top rack dishwasher safe, you won’t waste time washing up.

• Add the saved steamed water back into the food when blending, not only

• Best of all, it contains no BPA, phthalates or lead, you can rest assured that you not exposing your baby to any harmful chemicals.

So How Do You Use the Beaba Babycook?

The First Steps: • Set aside some of the family’s dinner raw ingredients or peel and cut fruit, vegies and meat that you want to use.

• Place small chunks of the raw foods in the steamer basket.

• Fill the unit’s water reservoir (check out the cookbook, not only does it have some great recipes and also lots of info, 56

including how much water you’ll need to use in the reservoir for cooking certain foods).

• Place the basket into the bowl, shut the lid and then push the start button to begin steaming, it’s really that simple!

Note: steaming takes around 15 minutes or less.

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are you adding nutrients back into your baby’s meals, it’s also a great way to get the desired texture needed smooth, pureed or chunky.

When You’ve Finished: • Place any left overs in small containers and freeze for another day.

• Rinse and place the mixer, spatula and steam basket in the top rack of the dishwasher • Wipe down the lid and device for your next use.

To really understand the level of excitement it produced within our mum circle at the office, you have to use the Beaba yourself. With babies ranging from 6 months to 3 years we all managed to make a few meals to test on our willing subjects and everyone had great things to say: “I enjoy cooking for my little girl and knowing exactly what she’s eating. I used the Beaba to make an apple, pear and sweet potato puree and she loved it. I loved how quick it was to make and how easy it was to clean up after.”

“I’ll be the first to admit that I sometime cheat and pick up a pre-packaged meal for my son, especially when I’ve had a big day. The first time I used the Beaba, it was one of those days I would have cheated. I made my son a veggie and lamb mix with whatever veggies were in the fridge, broccoli, potato, pumpkin and brussel sprouts from memory and some left-over fillet I had from the night before. I chopped up the veggies and meat, added the water and switched it on. I kept going to check that it was working as it was so quiet.

By the time it was finished, I removed

the steam basket and steamed water and then added the food back into the mixer with a little of the steamed water and made a chunky blend. This was all done before our dinner was ready and by the time all sat down to eat my son’s food was the perfect cold temperature he likes. He loved his dinner and I loved how easy it was to make.”

“As a mum of a 3-year-old that’s going through the fussy eater stage, I love how easy it is to prepare and make mixed veggie puree. I added this mix to my daughter’s cottage pies and she couldn’t tell. Seeing her eat a meal without picking out all the veggies she could find was definitely a Parenting Win.” If you’re about to embark on the wonderful journey of introducing solids to your little one, we highly recommend the Beaba Babycook. Become an award-winning baby chef in no time by choosing the Beaba Babycook, it simplifies making baby meals, which makes it a winner in our opinon!

To find out more about Beaba Babycook visit: www.beaba.com.au September 2018 | mychild

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Signs Parents

You Are Both Ready to be

Written by Jana Angeles

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September mychild September 2016 2018 || mychild

RELATIONSHIP

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Whether you’re both in a committed relationship or are married, the topic of being parents will come up eventually. Being a parent is one of the most biggest roles you’ll ever take on in your life and the decision to be mum or dad should not come lightly. When you and your partner are talking about having kids, it can be a daunting task if you haven’t discussed it much before.

It’s important to keep planning for the future as this will ultimately shape how you and your partner grow together. You also have to be on the same page when communicating and understand what it means to be parents. If both of you are considering having kids, take the time to see some of the signs which can help acknowledge that you’re both ready to be parents.

You’re both able to put the needs of others first This is important to have for both you and your partner. Being parents means making sacrifices and putting the needs of your child before your own. While patience is important, recognising that the role of being a parent is to be selfless.

You are basically teaching them everything from day one, so it’s extremely crucial that both you and your partner are taking turns and working as a team. If you are already doing this when helping out family members or friends, you’re both on the right track!

You are willing to show love and affection Love makes the world go round! Even though you don’t consider yourself as someone who likes to hug or kiss, being able to show love and affection to those around you can really help you with parenting. You and your partner should already be taking care of the little things such as communicating and working through problems, showing support when making tough decisions and being able to enjoy some quality time together. Showing love is beyond giving hugs and kisses - it’s so much bigger than that!

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RELATIONSHIP You both know how to take care of yourselves If both you and your partner can take care of yourselves, then you are one step closer into being parents. When you have another human being enter your life, things will change and you will be spending most of your days taking care of your child. If you and your partner have a healthy relationship and aren’t codependent on each other, you are taking the right steps to be great parents.

You have a strong support system Having your family and friends be there for you through challenging times is important. They have been there for you through the good and bad, so having a strong support system will help you and your partner be good parents. If you come from a dysfunctional family and have lost touch with most of your relatives, this should not automatically rule out having a strong support system. If you have your partner and some good friends, you can still build a network of people you can rely on, especially through those challenging times. This is one of the most important things to have when you are thinking about raising a family with your partner.

You are both responsible Responsibility comes in all forms. Whether it means being able to keep the house clean, taking care of the bills or facing confrontation and working through it together, you and your partner need to be responsible if you want to be parents.

Raising a child together is not easy and there is no time to take on bad habits. If you are serious in committing to being a parent, you need to improve the way you make choices and be responsible for your own actions as well.

Being parents is a big decision. Before you and your partner decide you want to have a child of your own, consider the signs above. If you are not close to meeting them all, then take the time to discuss with your partner on what you can do to improve your relationship and work together so at some point, you’ll both be ready to be parents.

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• Do you consider yourself to be a super mum?

I like to think of myself as ‘not just a regular mum – a cool mum!’ LOL. Seriously though having a 17yo certainly keeps me young and in touch.

I love to do fun things with my kids like sailing, spontaneous trips to the snow and travelling overseas. My kids are my ‘Why’, they are my reason for everything I do. From starting this business to planning fun activities for my family, every aspect of my life is revolved around having fun, pushing myself out of my comfort zone and being in the moment.

• How do you balance family and work time?

My children were 9 and 14 when I launched this brand, my daughter was my first employee and my now 12-year-old son has started his own e-commerce business and understands so much about the e-commerce landscape and manufacturing in China. Sure, at times they get tired of coming into the office, however, I’ve made it both fun and educational, my son has a basketball court set in the new HQ and my daughter fits work into her VCE studies. My daughter constantly drives my creativity with her love for all things beauty, fashion and celebrity!

We don’t see this as work, we all see this as our life, future and we all love

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the experience and very much feel blessed to have this brand.

• What advice do you give to other business women?

Don’t be scared, but be honest with yourself. Have big scary crazy dreams but then also have the bread and butter strategy to cover the costs for the first 12 months. Do DIFFERENT – there’s no room anymore for same same! There’s also going to be people who love what you do so much they copy or draw inspiration from your vision, just keep doing you and don’t let anything or anyone stop you, use this to drive and you constantly forward.

What do you like to do in your spare time- both personally and bonding time with the children?

Spend quality time with my kids, lots of daily huggles (what we call as a mix between a hug and a cuddle), board games, reality TV show binges, staycations - frequently we love to explore new places in Victoria, snow skiing, shopping, F45 as a family, lots of basketball watching, cooking, breakfast in bed (daily).

• Any favourite piece of advice that empowers/leads you each day?

Say yes and work out the how later.

•

Explain your lightbulb moment?

Whilst travelling throughout the USA for 5 weeks, my silk pillowcase was accidentally taken by housekeeping on the first morning, I tried my hardest to get it back, but it was gone forever. I had always slept on silk but never truly appreciated the benefits until I was forced to sleep on cotton for the rest of the trip. I found my hair was frizzy and my skin was looking and feeling dry. I attempted to buy another silk pillowcase online however none really suited my bedroom aesthetic or felt as luxurious as I was after. So, I thought why not create my own silk line of luxurious modern silk pillowcases!

3 days later I flew to China to source a supplier, and Shhh Silk was launched 3 short months later. I started this brand with 2 pillowcases – white marble and black marble, inspired by the modern New York architecture.

& ALWAYS back yourself, believe in what you do and just go for it!

OLIVIA CARR owner of

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See and Hear Your Baby - at Home or On-The-Go with the VTech VM9900 Baby Monitor 64

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TODDLER In today’s overwhelming world of baby monitors, there are many things you will need to consider when selecting the right monitor for you. What’s a good video monitor? Does it have remote access? Will the monitor have security?

Knowing your baby is safe whilst providing you with a peace of mind isn’t hard.

When researching monitors, make sure that you add the VTech VM9900 HD Pan & Tilt Video Monitor with Remote Access to the list.

The VTech VM9900 Video Monitor with Remote Access is jam packed full of amazing features and is everything you need in a monitor plus so much more.

Let’s talk about the High-Definition Camera This camera transmits 720p high-definition video so that you can clearly see what’s going on with the 5-inch parent unit, your smart phone or tablet. It also has auto night vision and two-way talk with camera from parent unit or remotely via the app.

Gesture Controls make it super easy to manoeuvre You can easily pan, tilt and zoom the camera by swiping and pinching the screen on the 5-inch parent unit, your smart phone or tablet. The camera pans up to 270 degrees side by side and tilts as many as 113.5 degrees up and down giving you a great picture of what’s going on. The camera also zooms up to 10 times.

VM9900 utilises a number of high level security protocols to ensure the privacy of your data. This includes: user programmable name and security code for each paired VTech Camera, user programmable user name and password for the VTech app and HTTPS AES-128 bit encryption on video transmissions between the VTech camera and the VTech app.

3 Mum’s reviewed the The VTech VM9900 HD Pan & Tilt Video Monitor with Remote Access and here is what they had to say about it.

“I was so excited to upgrade from an audio monitor to a video monitor and the VTech VM9900 was so much more than I expected. It was easy to set up and add the app to my phone. I love the movement it offers and can see nearly every angle of baby’s room. I really can’t express how much I am impressed with the app, the 5-inch monitor can live in my bedroom and I can monitor baby from the lounge or kitchen from my phone. I would definitely recommend this camera to all parents” “This camera was a blessing for my hubby and me. We have just moved

Motion-activated recording Have comfort and peace of mind while your away. The camera automatically starts recording and saves clips any time it senses motion to the camera SD card Safe and Secure With secure & encrypted local and remote video transmissions, VTech’s September 2018 | mychild

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bub to his own room (5 mths old) and it’s been harder for me then for him. I loved how easy it was to set up and the picture quality is excellent even when in night vision is on. I love that hubby can check on bub throughout the day via the app and have little chats to us when he sees us in the nursery. I couldn’t be happier with using this monitor, it covers all our needs and a few we don’t need” “The VTech VM9900 Video Monitor with Remote Access is the only camera that you need to monitor your baby. As a working mum that has a lot going on, I’m so happy to have remote access. I can see what’s going on in the house and with the additional camera we have in the living room I can see what grandma and bub are up to anytime of day. The image and audio clarity are amazing too and since we got this monitor I’ve been sleeping a lot better.

Another feature that has impressed me is the zoom, pan and tilt settings, with a touch of the screen, it’s so easy to control the view of the room. The infrared night vision is surprisingly really good too and I love how clearly I can see bub’s breathing when zooming in. Overall I really love this camera and would recommend to anyone that needs a baby monitor”.

When it comes to your little one’s safety you don’t have to compromise when you choose the VTech Video Monitor with Remote Access. This incredible monitor will have you covered from birth and beyond and the best part is that you can add up to 4 cameras on the monitor and up to 10 cameras via the app. If you crave peace of mind make sure that you check out the VTech VM9900 Monitor. https://auphones.vtech.com

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TOY

Reviews

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TOY REVIEWS REVIEWED BY SHEREE ECHLIN JELLYCAT PITTERPAT MONKEY (MEDIUM) With arms outstretched, swinging on the vines is easy for Pitterpat Monkey.

This loveable monkey has the longest arms covered in fluffy-soft chestnut fur!

With a cheeky beige face and foldable squishy ears, Pitterpat Monkey is the cutie of the treetops. Beany paws help our monkey sit up, and that winning smile gets lots of bananas! With long arms and tail, and a warm, friendly face, Pitterpat Monkey can get away with pretty much anything! Just run your hands through the super soft fur and you’ll be wrapped around the little paws in no time at all.

Our Verdict Our Verdict – A cheeky smile, the softest fur and a very cuddly nature, this is one lovable monkey. What can I say?! I’m a bit of a walkover when it comes to the soft toys, when they’re this cute of course! You can never have too many soft toys in your collection, so why not add one more? This gorgeous monkey will brighten your spirits on the most miserable days and have you smiling all day long! Plus, the cuddles are pretty good!!

RRP - $39.95 AVAILABLE FROM: INDEPENDENCE STUDIOS – WWW.ISGIFT.COM, TOYTOYOURDOOR.COM.AU, YOUNG WILLOW, MIGHTY APE AUSTRALIA

GLOW IN THE DARK UFO WALL WALKER There’s still plenty of fun to be had after the lights go out with the Glow in the Dark UFO Wall Walker. Place the UFO on any glass or tiled surface and watch the sticky feet creature come to life as it walks and tumbles down. Make the UFO glow even brighter by exposing it to a bright light for at least 60 seconds.

Works best on any glass or tiled surface – May cause marking on other surfaces. Wash sticky feet with soapy water as and when required. And most importantly, have fun!

Our verdict Our verdict – It’s fun for a little while until the glow wears off and you have watched it tumble down the same path again and again.

It’s great for little kids of course but they don’t quite understand why the glow wears off and that you have to “recharge” it. A good bit of fun if you make it into a story or game but probably not a toy that’s going to last forever!

RRP - $7.95 AVAILABLE FROM: INDEPENDENCE STUDIOS – WWW.ISGIFT.COM 70

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VTECH BABY PEEK & PLAY TURTLE When the Peek & Play Turtle comes out of his shell, he’s sure to entertain your little one! The turtle has a bright, soft and colourful shell with lots of different patterns to attract your baby’s attention and includes a mirror for self-discovery, a rattle for auditory stimulation and a textured teether for an all-round sensory experience. Play peeka-boo with the cute and cuddly turtle by tucking in his head and legs to change him into a soft, wobbly ball for 2-in-1 play. The chunky button on the top of the shell is easy to press and lights up in a variety of colours as it responds with sounds, music and cute phrases. There’s plenty to see, touch and explore with this textured friend from the sea.

Our verdict RRP - $39.99 AVAILABLE FROM: BABY KINGDOM, THE NILE

As always, bright colours and sounds attract the biggest attention from little eyes and hands when it comes to toys and this one is no different. It transforms from a cute and cuddly turtle into a soft ball, giving your baby a chance to explore the idea of transformation. You can hug the turtle, give it a shake or wiggle to hear playful music and sounds. Let the littlest member of your family have some adventure and fun as they crawl and roll around with their new little turtle friend.

VTECH PJ MASKS SUPER LEARNING HEADQUARTERS Join your favourite PJ wearing trio of heroes as they go into the night to save the day. The PJ Masks Super Learning Headquarters has 12 exciting interactive activities to teach science, geography, letters, counting, problem solving and more. Choose the Owl Glider, Gekko-Mobile or Cat-Car, then plug it in to begin an activity. Use the vehicle to navigate in the games as you chase down villains, learn about the butterfly life cycle, match fruits and vegetables, visit famous places around the world, solve mysteries and more.

Hear the characters’ voices and popular catchphrases while watching fun animations of the PJ Masks and villains from the show. Get ready to go into the night with Catboy, Gekko and Owlette to save the day!

Our verdict I have two massive PJ Masks fanatics in my house, so this one was a winner before it had even made its way out of the box! Enough said really. Once my kids find themselves hooked on a particular show, that’s it. But what I do like about this toy is although it’s so much fun, it’s a great learning tool at the same time. My daughter who is almost five-years old is all about learning new things and her younger sister generally likes to copy, so it’s a win-win. Now, my biggest worry is the fights over whose turn it is!

RRP - $49 AVAILABLE FROM: TARGET, DICK SMITH, TOY UNIVERSE

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September 2016 2018 | mychild

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Book Reviews The Visitor

By Antje Damm This visually stunning book tells the story of Elise, who is frightened of everything and as a result, never leaves her dark, lonely home. One day she unwittingly lets a young boy into her house, who brings with him joy, colour, and the promise of a brighter, more playful future. Award-winning picture book creator Antje Damm creates a three-dimensional diorama in which the action of the story takes place, and then photographs the scenes to create the absolutely gorgeous images for the book. The Visitor is a beautiful book to share with readers aged 2-8.

Look Up! Numbers, Colours and Shapes in Architecture

By Antonia Pesenti This book takes readers on a tour of some of the most fascinating and distinct buildings around the world, making it enjoyable for both adults and children alike. Each building has been carefully selected for some of the features it showcases – Pesenti uses these architectural wonders to draw our attention to numbers, shapes and colours in the buildings around us. By using a broad range of buildings from across the globe and from different eras, Look Up also provokes discussion about architecture, and its bold images will be enjoyed by children aged one and up.

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Where in the Wild

By Jonny Lambert This richly illustrated book explores not only the animals of the world, but the varied habitats in which they live, from wild savannahs and scorching deserts to busy oceans and evergreen forests. The book is written in beautiful rhyme, with interesting facts and cut out sections on each page to keep young readers engaged. It ends with an important message about our role in saving animal habitats to ensure the preservation of all these species, providing a wonderful springboard for discussion. This book will be a hit with animal lovers aged 3-8.

Dinosaur Day Out

By Sara Acton Even though the dinosaur exhibition at the museum is closed, Sally and Max see all sorts of dinosaurs as they explore the city - lurking in ponds, up trees and on train platforms. As Dad reads them facts from their new dinosaur book, Sally and Max create their own dinosaur adventure, imagining they are being carried on the back of a stegosaurus, and sharing an ice cream with a tyrannosaurus rex. This is a gorgeous book to read with dinosaur-loving children aged 2-6, who will enjoy being taken along for the ride!

REVIEWED

by

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Poin

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Me

in the right direction Written by Sheree Echlin

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I like to think I know what I’m doing as a mum; the rest of my life not so much. In all honesty, I’m probably winging it more than anything. Guessing, trying, failing miserably all the time.

That’s pretty much the fun of it, day in, day out. I often wonder what goes through their little minds. Do they think mummy is crazy? Or maybe I make absolutely no sense and that’s why they “pretend” they don’t hear me. Or maybe, just maybe, they have a little bit more of mummy’s fierce determination and strength…or craziness…than I realise. Fun times ahead for me, I’d say.

Sometimes I think I might say no a bit too much. But when your nerves are frazzled and your children are in demon/feral mode, sometimes it’s the only word that comes into your head. Beats a few stronger words that would need bleeping to cover them if we were to say them out loud right now.

I swear, every day can feel like riding an emotional rollercoaster. If we’re teary, everything sets them off. More so Miss Izzie than her younger sister. Don’t get me wrong, I’m happy to let them cry because let’s face it, everyone needs a good cry from time to time. But when there’s tears because it’s raining or tears because mummy didn’t make what she wanted for lunch (I made what she asked for!), it makes me almost feel like giving up.

It’s hard with kids too. They’re grappling with emotions they don’t quite understand and we get frustrated trying to make sense of what’s going on. Hell, half the time I don’t know what’s going on with myself. How do I explain it to a four-year-old or her two-yearold sister?! I am making a concerted effort to get down more to their level. It’s not so great on my knees mind you, but I’m trying.

Quite often the girls have to help mummy back up again, but I’m just preparing them for their future, haha!

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Silliness is rife, particularly in Miss Izzie.

Must be something about nearing the age of five. Speaking of my big girl, as we get even closer to the end of the year, she is fast approaching her next biggest milestone, starting school. She’s growing up so fast and it blows me away with some of the things she comes up with. I often worry that she feels the weight of the world on her shoulders, especially being an older sibling.

However, when I watch her with the other kids and how easily she seems to make friends, I know she’s got a bright future ahead of her. Well I keep hoping because positive thinking, right?!

Their imaginations constantly astound me though. The games they create and concepts they come up with is mindblowing. I try to think of what my brother and I used to get up to when we were younger but we quite often were playing with cars, trucks, bikes, Lego, more “boy” things. Occasionally, I’d catch him with my dolls (don’t deny it bro, haha!) but more often than not he was trying to cut their hair or something else disastrous. With two girls, they play more in the fantasy world of dolls, pretend families, tea parties and with a bit of Lego, cars and bikes thrown in. I’m all about letting them go with the flow and play however they want, as long as they don’t destroy anything or anyone in the process!

I still notice the big differences between my two girls. They are two very different personalities and I love watching some of the things they come up with, both together and as individuals. The days I cherish more and more are the ones I get to spend with Miss Phoebe (my baby) on her own. Don’t get me wrong, I do miss her sister, but they’re different on their own. Miss Izzie had mummy all to herself for two years before her sister came along and in typical mum guilt fashion, I worry now that they both don’t get the one-on-one time with me I wish they could have.

I know I shouldn’t beat myself up about it, but that’s the thing about mum guilt. It doesn’t discriminate and it has the worst timing unfortunately. But I try to keep telling myself we’ll get through it all somehow. That’s how I view most days really! And as mums/ parents/carers/guardians, we’re all in it together, one crazy ride after another.

Keep up with all the fun, frivolity and a few tears (and laughs too) with my latest blogs at http://shereekim.com.

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GET THE LOOK:

interiors

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Kids Room

Photo: Kate Bendewald Interior Design 82 82

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Crosses Wall Decal Stickers $34.95 www.hipkids.com.au

Cabin Bunk Bed $599 www.fantasticfurniture.com.au

KALLAX $110 www.ikea.com/au ZAAB Velvet Cushion $49.95 www.davidjones.com

GULLKLOCKA $9.99 www.ikea.com/au

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RAYUAN Sheepskin Carpet AU $103.19 www.aliexpress.com Vivienne Velvet Cushion $39.95 www.templeandwebster.com.au

Adairs Kids Batman White Sheet Set $99.99 www.adairs.com.au

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Adairs Kids Elvis Quilted Grey Quilt Cover Set $139.99 www.adairs.com.au

Mercer + Reid Piper Coal Throw $119.99 www.adairs.com.au

2 Ring Crochet Dreamcatcher $69.95 ishka.com.au

GUND Curious George Astronaut Monkey Stuffed Animal $22.50 www.amazon.com

WHITE NAVY & BLUE COLOR KIDS FELT BALL RUG $180 www.mimosacrafts.com.au

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Nurs

Photo: Little C

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sery

Crown Interiors

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Kona Round Hanging Mirror with Rope $79 www.templeandwebster.com.au

Oeuf Sparrow Cot $1299 www.urbanbaby.com.au

PASTEL RAIN $342.65 www.thecanvasartfactory.com.au

Oeuf Merlin 6 Drawer Dresser for Sparrow $2099 www.urbanbaby.com.au

Woodland Animals Framed Nursery Art Set of 4 $244 www.amazon.com

Bluebellgray Aria 19608 Designer Wool Rug $1948 www.rugsofbeauty.com.au 88

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Dahlia Chandelier $349 www.potterybarnkids.com.au

KUTULU WOODEN ROCKING BIRD $39.95 www.hellolittlebirdiestore.com.au

Jude Cement Table Lamp $69.95 www.templeandwebster.com.au

HYDRANGEA MIX AVERY BOWL WHITE $255.00 interiorsonline.com.au

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shop

KIDS fashion

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shop

KIDS BABY

GIRLS

Printed Singlet $2.50 rrp

25

UNDER

$

Printed Knit Bloomer $5 rrp Dreamy Sandals $6 rrp

60

$

Skinny Jeans $12 rrp High Top Casual Shoes $15 rrp https://www.kmart.com.au/

https://www.kmart.com.au/

OshKosh L/S Floral Top $37 rrp

UNDER

Printed Crew Sweatshirt $8 rrp

Carter’s Denim Roll-Cuff Shorts $28.00 rrp “Carter’s Chambray Mary Jane Crib Shoes $25 rrp

OshKosh Logo Tee $30 rrp OshKosh Floral Pant $50.00 rrp Carter’s Velcro Sneakers $45.00 rrp https://www.oshkosh.com.au/

https://www.oshkosh.com.au/

SPLURGE

TARTINE ET CHOCOLAT Printed dress $124 rrp CHLOÉ Mini me leather baby Mary Janes $216 rrp https://www.melijoe.com/au/

DOLCE & GABBANA Mini Me sweatshirt dress - DG Friends $525 rrp POM D’API Sequined ankle boots Roadster Cover $269 rrp https://www.melijoe.com/au/

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shop

KIDS

WHAT’S IN OUR STORES THIS MONTH BABY

BOYS Short Sleeves Back Front Tee $4.50 rrp

25

UNDER

$

Adjustable Sneakers $12.00 rrp Paper Touch Pants $10.00 rrp https://www.kmart.com.au/

Printed Pocket Tee $5 rrp Patch Pocket Shorts $10 rrp Lace Up Sneaker $17 rrp https://www.kmart.com.au/

Carter’s Plaid Poplin Button-Front Shirt $30 rrp

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$

Carter’s Pull-On Slub Straight-Fit Jeans $34 rrp Carter’s Boot Crib Shoes $25 rrp

OshKosh Logo Tee $22 rrp OshKosh Skinny Jeans True Rinse Wash $45 rrp Oshkosh Austin 2 Shoe $40 rrp https://www.oshkosh.com.au/

https://www.oshkosh.com.au/

SPLURGE

BURBERRY Logo sweatshirt $240 rrp

BOSS Logo sweatshirt $155 rrp

BURBERRY Boy regular fit pants $170 rrp

NEW BALANCE New balance 520 sneakers $120 rrp

POM D’API Leather trainers Mousse Zip Lace $139 rrp

TREEHOUSE Loose fit pants $128 rrp https://www.melijoe.com/au/

https://www.melijoe.com/au/

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Mint Clouds 0.3 TOG Sleep Suit Bag

(available from mid-September) Ideal for mild or warm weather with room temperatures above 24 degrees C. Made from 100% Organic Cotton $59.95 available from 2 months – 4 years September September2018 2018| mychild | mychild 97 97

Grey Marle 1.0 TOG Cocoon Swaddle Bag (available from October)

Transitions from a Swaddle to a Sleeping Bag A new basic, this 1.0 TOG is designed for Autumn / Spring Temperatures between 21degrees and 24 degrees. This product is made from a beautiful mix of Organic Cotton and Bamboo RRP $ 44.95

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Grey Marle 1.0 TOG Jersey Sleeping Bag A new basic, this 1.0 TOG is designed for Autumn / Spring Temperatures between 21degrees and 24 degrees. This product is made from a beautiful mix of Organic Cotton and Bamboo RRP $44.95 September September 2018 2018 || mychild mychild

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‘The Nature Collection’ Bamboo 0.2 TOG Cocoon Swaddle Bag ‘Rainforest Leaves’ Limited Edition

This new Bamboo Swaddle is ideal for Summer, originating from naturally grown bamboo that is super soft to touch & breathable for safe and comfortable sleeps. Ideal for Summer temperatures above 24 degrees C. RRP $36.95

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‘The Nature Collection’ Bamboo 0.2 TOG Cocoon Swaddle Bag ‘Drops’ Limited Edition

This new Bamboo Swaddle is ideal for Summer, originating from naturally grown bamboo that is super soft to touch & breathable for safe and comfortable sleeps. Ideal for Summer temperatures above 24 degrees C. RRP $36.95 September September 2018 2018 || mychild mychild

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‘The Nature Collection’ Bamboo 0.2 TOG Cocoon Swaddle Bag ‘Waves’ Limited Edition

This new Bamboo Swaddle is ideal for Summer, originating from naturally grown bamboo that is super soft to touch & breathable for safe and comfortable sleeps. Ideal for Summer temperatures above 24 degrees C. RRP $36.95

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‘The Nature Collection’ Organic Cotton 1.0 TOG Sheeting Sleeping Bag Limited Edition

Made with 400+ thread count organic cotton, with 2-way zipper and stretchy side panels to allow for more movement.

Great for temperatures between 21 and 24 degrees C. New prints include Waves, Drops and Rainforest Leaves RRP $69.95

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‘The Nature Collection’ Organic Cotton 0.3 TOG Sheeting Sleeping Bag Limited Edition

Made with 400+ thread count organic cotton, with 2-way zipper and stretchy side panels to allow for more movement.

Great for temperatures above 24 degrees C. New prints include Waves, Drops and Rainforest Leaves RRP $54.95

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‘The Nature Collection’ Organic Cotton 1.0 TOG Sleep Suit Bag Limited Edition

The Sleep Suit Bag converts from a Sleeping Bag to a Suit with legs using the zippers, making the transition from cot to pram an easy one. Great for temperatures between 21 and 24 degrees C. New prints include Waves and Drops 106

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‘The Nature Collection’ 0.2 TOG Bamboo Long Sleeve Layers Limited Edition

Made from Bamboo, this super soft and stretchy Onesie is ideal for Summer, with new 3-way zip making nappy changing a breeze!

New prints include Waves, Rainforest Leaves and Waves RRP $32.95

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‘The Nature C

Made fr New prints inclu

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Collection’ 0.2 TOG Bamboo Short Sleeve Layers’ Limited Edition

rom Bamboo, this super soft and stretchy Onesie is ideal for Summer ude Waves, Rainforest Leaves and Waves New prints include Waves and Drops RRP $26.95

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September 2018

Recipes

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Leek, spinach and feta omelettes

BREAKFAST

Photo Credit: Ben Dearnley INGREDIENTS

* 0:15 Prep * 0:30 Cook * 2 Serving

* 50g butter * 2 leeks, trimmed, halved lengthwise, thinly sliced * 2 cloves garlic, crushed * 1/4 cup tarragon leaves, finely chopped * 100g baby spinach, plus extra, to serve * 6 eggs * 2 tablespoons finely chopped flat-leaf parsley * 80ml (1/3 cup) olive oil, plus extra, to drizzle * 50g (1/4 cup) Persian (marinated) feta, crumbled * Roasted pine nuts (optional), to serve

METHOD * Step 1: Melt butter in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add leeks, garlic and tarragon, and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes or until leeks are soft. Add spinach and stir to combine. Cook for a further 30 seconds or until spinach is wilted. Season with salt and pepper. * Step 2: Whisk eggs, parsley and 1 tablespoon cold water in a large bowl. Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a 26cm non-stick frying pan over medium– high heat. Add half the egg mixture, swirling pan to coat base. Cook for 2 minutes or until top is almost set and base is golden. * Step 3: Spoon half the leek mixture over half the omelette. Fold omelette over to enclose.

Slide onto a plate and scatter with half each of the feta and extra spinach. Repeat with remaining oil, egg mixture, leek mixture, feta and spinach. * Step 4: Drizzle with extra oil and scatter with pine nuts, if using, to serve

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Photo Credit: Jeremy Simons

INGREDIENTS

* 0:10 Prep * 0:15 Cook * 4 Servings

* 16 (about 340g) fresh dates, halved, pitted * 70g (1/3 cup) caster sugar * 4 cardamom pods, bruised * 4 strips orange rind * 3 cloves * 1 cinnamon stick * 160ml (2/3 cup) cold water * 190g (1 cup) couscous * 185ml (3/4 cup) boiling water * 60ml (1/4 cup) orange juice * 10g butter * 1 teaspoon finely grated orange rind * 330g (1 1/4 cups) reduced-fat Greek yoghurt * 40g (1/4 cup) pistachio kernels, toasted, coarsely chopped

METHOD * Step 1: Place the dates in a heatproof bowl.

Stir the sugar, cardamom, orange rind, cloves, cinnamon and cold water in a saucepan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until the sugar dissolves. Bring to the boil. Reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 10 minutes or until the syrup thickens. Pour over the dates, reserving 1 tablespoon of the syrup. Set aside to cool. * Step 2: Place the couscous in a large heatproof bowl. Combine the boiling water, orange juice, butter, orange rind and reserved syrup in a microwave-safe jug. Heat on high for 30 seconds. Pour over the couscous. Cover and set aside for 5 minutes. Use a fork to separate the grains. Set aside to cool completely. * Step 3: Divide the couscous mixture, yoghurt, dates and syrup among four 375ml (1 1/2 cup) glasses. Sprinkle with pistachio.

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Breakfast couscous, yoghurt and date parfait

Salmon, ginger and soba noodle stir-fry Photo Credit: Jeremy Simons

INGREDIENTS

0:15 Prep 0:20 Cook 4 Servings

* * * *

1 tablespoon grated ginger 1 tablespoon sesame oil 1/4 cup (60ml) tamari, or soy sauce 600g skinless salmon fillets, pin-boned, cut into 3cm pieces * 2 tablespoons sunflower oil * 1/2 bunch spring onions, sliced on an angle * 1/4 cup (60ml) Chinese rice wine (shaohsing) * 2 bunches broccolini, stalks halved lengthways * 1 cup (120g) frozen edamame * 270g soba noodles, cooked to packet instructions, drained * 2 teaspoons sesame seeds

METHOD * Step 1: To make the marinade, combine the ginger, sesame oil and 2 tbs tamari in a bowl.

Add the salmon and toss to coat. Set aside for 10 minutes to marinate. * Step 2: Heat 2 tsp sunflower oil in a wok over high heat. Add half the salmon and cook, turning, for 2-3 minutes until just cooked. Remove and repeat with another 2 tsp oil and remaining salmon. Set aside to rest, loosely covered with foil, for 5 minutes. * Step 3: Add remaining 1 tbs oil to the wok with the spring onion and stir-fry for 2 minutes.

Add rice wine, broccolini, edamame, remaining 1 tbs tamari and 1/4 cup (60ml) water.

Cook, stirring, for 3-4 minutes until liquid has reduced slightly. Add the noodles to the wok with the salmon and any resting juices, then toss to warm through. Top with sesame seeds to serve.

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Photo Credit: Andrew Young

INGREDIENTS

* 0:15 Prep * 0:10 Cook * 4 Servings

* * * * * * * * * * *

300g fresh fettuccine 1 lemon 1/2 cup (80g) fresh peas or frozen peas 1/2 cup (85g) frozen broad beans, peeled 100g snow peas, thinly sliced lengthways 1 bunch asparagus, woody ends trimmed 4 yellow squash, end trimmed, thinly sliced 2 teaspoons olive oil 2 garlic cloves, crushed 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 250ml PHILADELPHIA Light Cream For Cooking, a cream alternative * 4 green shallots, thinly sliced

METHOD * Step 1: Use a zester to remove the rind from the lemon. (Alternatively, use a vegetable peeler to peel rind from lemon. Use a small, sharp knife to remove white pith from rind. Cut rind into very thin strips). Juice the lemon. * Step 2: Cook the pasta following packet directions until al dente. Add the peas, broad beans, snow peas, asparagus and squash in the last 2 minutes of cooking or until bright green and tender crisp. Drain well. * Step 3: Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 30 seconds or until aromatic. Add the mustard, lemon juice and PHILLY and bring to a simmer. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly. Add the pasta mixture and half the shallots and half the lemon rind and toss to combine. Remove from heat. Taste and season with salt and pepper. * Step 4: Divide among serving bowls. Top with remaining shallots and lemon rind and serve immediately.

LUNCH 114 2018 | mychild 114September September 2018 | mychild

Fettucine primavera

Vietnamese-style turkey rolls Photo Credit: Andrew Young

* 0:20 Prep * 4 Servings INGREDIENTS * 1 long French stick (baguette), ends trimmed * 1/3 cup whole-egg mayonnaise * 2 cups shredded iceberg lettuce * 8 slices Ingham Oven Roasted Turkey Breast Half * 1 large carrot, peeled, cut into matchsticks * 1 small telegraph (continental) cucumber, deseeded, cut into matchsticks * 1/3 cup sweet chilli sauce * 1/2 cup fresh coriander leaves * 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves * 1 long red chilli, thinly sliced (optional)

METHOD * Step 1: Cut French stick in half crossways (don’t cut all the way through). Spread base with mayonnaise. Top with lettuce, turkey, carrot and cucumber. Drizzle with chilli sauce, then top with coriander and mint, and fresh chilli, if desired. Cut French stick into 4 even lengths. Serve.

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Photo Credit: Andrew Young

INGREDIENTS

* 0:15 Prep * 4 Servings

* * * *

1 tablespoon sweet chilli sauce 2 teaspoons vegetable oil 2 teaspoons fish sauce 1/2 large barbecue chicken, skin and bones removed, meat shredded * 1 medium avocado, sliced * 1 mango, peeled, sliced * 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves * 1/4 cup fresh coriander leaves * 100g mixed Asian salad leaves

METHOD * Step 1: Combine sweet chilli sauce, oil and fish sauce in a small bowl. * Step 2: Combine chicken, avocado, mango, mint, coriander and salad leaves in a large bowl. Drizzle over sweet chilli mixture. Toss lightly to combine. Serve.

DINNER 116

Chicken, avocado and mango salad with sweet chilli dressing

September 2018 | mychild

Apricot and coconut dessert slice

INGREDIENTS * * * * * * *

DESSERT

* 0:30 Prep * 0:50 Cook * 10 Servings

150g butter, softened 3/4 cup (175g) caster sugar 1 egg 3/4 cup (115g) self-raising flour 3/4 cup (115g) plain flour Icing sugar, to dust Cream, to serve

TOPPING * * * * * *

3 eggs 1/2 cup (115g) caster sugar 1/2 cup (35g) shredded coconut 3/4 cup (185ml) thickened cream 1 teaspoon vanilla essence 10 ripe apricots, halved, stone remove

METHOD * Step 1: Preheat oven to 180°C. Line a 20cm x 30cm slab pan with non-stick baking paper. * Step 2: Use an electric beater to beat the butter and sugar until pale and creamy. Beat in the egg. Fold in the flours. Press into the pan and bake for 10 minutes. Set aside. * Step 3: For the topping, use a balloon whisk to whisk the eggs, sugar, coconut, cream and vanilla together. * Step 4: Pour over the base. Arrange the apricot halves cut side down, in rows on the top.

Bake for 25-30 minutes. * Step 5: Dust with icing sugar and serve with cream.

Photo Credit: Louise Lister September2018 2018 || mychild mychild September

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Cream cheese and blueberry turnovers

* 0:05 Prep * 0:15 Cook INGREDIENTS

June 2018 Recipes

* 125g cream cheese, softened * 2 1/2 tablespoons caster sugar * 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon rind * 1 (25 x 25cm) sheet Pampas ready-rolled frozen puff pastry, just thawed, quartered * 75g (1/2 cup) frozen blueberries * 1 egg yolk

METHOD

BREAKFAST

* Step 1: Preheat oven to 220°C. Line a baking tray with non-stick baking paper.

* Step 2: Combine: the cream cheese, 2 tablespoons of sugar and lemon rind in a small bowl. * Step 3: Place the pastry on a clean work surface. Spread one-quarter of the cream cheese mixture over a pastry square, leaving a 1cm border. Sprinkle over one-quarter of the blueberries. Brush the edge with a little egg yolk and fold pastry over to form a triangle and enclose the filling. Use a fork to gently press the edges together. Place on the lined tray. Repeat with remaining pastry, cream cheese mixture and blueberries. Brush turnovers with egg yolk and sprinkle with remaining sugar. Bake in oven for 15 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.

Serve.Photo Credit: Ben Dearnley 118118September September 2018 2018 | mychild | mychild

Photo Credit: Ian Wallace September September 2018 2018| |mychild mychild

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For more information and stockists visit www.gaiaskinnaturals.com September 2018 | mychild 121

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