Within any nursery, there are a few areas that new parents should pay particularly close attention to. These hot spots create the greatest potential for risks, most of which can be easily avoided with a few small changes.
When choosing furniture for your nursery, opt for rounded edges and smooth finishes to help minimise the risks of bumps and bruises, both for you and your child. You should also firmly secure all furniture to the wall to prevent tipping in the event of an earthquake and as your little one begins exploring.
Nursery furniture can be a big investment, but it’s safest to buy new if you can. Consider buying high-quality items that will last longer, stretching the value of your investment over a longer period.
While a cot should be where your child is safest, the reality is that many babies are injured in their beds due to oversights from well-meaning parents.
Remove any loose fabrics from your child’s cot, including soft toys, blankets, pillows and cot bumpers. Instead, opt for a fitted sheet and swaddle or a correctly sized grobag. Additionally, make sure the mattress height is suitable for your child, preventing them from being able to roll or crawl out as they grow.
Babies and toddlers spend a lot more time asleep than the average adult, so it makes sense to provide them with a quality mattress. Choose a firm mattress which prevents accidental suffocation while also supporting your baby’s alignment.
Learn about the Airnest Cot Mattress.
As your little one grows, there are a few additional steps you can take to help protect them from injuries. Toddlers are naturally curious and can get into mischief in the blink of an eye. By safeguarding their environment, you can allow them to explore while reducing the risk of them hurting themselves.
If you have hard flooring, use soft rugs or padded mats to provide extra comfort and protection if your little one takes a tumble. Soft flooring can also prevent slipping, which is a risk to both toddlers and adults carrying their children.
Install secure window guards or latches to prevent windows being able to be opened by adventurous hands. Accidental falls can be dangerous from any height, so latching your windows is a must.
With summer fast approaching, we are all getting excited about family holidays away at the beach, lake, or wherever your families’ special spot might be. While this time of year is full of excitement and anticipation for some well needed R&R, the realities of pulling the trips together aren’t always the most enjoyable. Before you can get to the relaxation, you need to actually get there. The dreaded Road Trip with kids, here’s 3 tips for starting your holiday in peace right from the moment you leave home.
1. Plan for the trip
This one might seem like a no-brainer, but having everything you need for the car trip packed at the top of your bag, or better still having a ‘road trip bag’ handy for the trip could save you having to pull over and dig through your luggage on the side of the road. Pack snacks, (more snacks than you think you will need!!) I always make sure I have filled up my water bottle before leaving, keeping hydrated is essential to keep a clear head and avoid tiredness, a few sneaky lollies also help with this, but don’t tell the kids! If you want to be really practical you could also pack a spare change of clothes for the kids, depending on how far you are travelling. Other essentials include any activities your kids might like. If they have iPads for the car trip, it could save you some tears to have charged battery packs ready to go. If your kids tend to get car sick, it could also pay to visit the pharmacy before you leave and make sure you have some Sea Legs handy for the trip. If you’re taking off on a long trip, research where you can make toilet stops along the way so you don’t get caught out!
2. Think about timing
If your kids are still at the age where they nap, you could plan your trip to coincide with nap times so they will sleep through as much of the trip as possible. If you are happy to travel at night, this can be a good option, as long as you are confident you can transfer them easily at the destination! However, if you have a terrible car-sleeper like me (Amelia won’t sleep in the car no matter what time of day it is), you could plan to travel as soon as they wake up as they tend to be more settled then. All kids are so different, but this one works for us, we discovered through trial and error. Planning to leave home around lunch time can also work, if you pack a lunch box for them to eat as you start off your journey, this can easily eat up the first half hour or so of the trip and give you some time to enjoy the start of your journey. An obvious point, but one worth mentioning while we are on this topic, is to avoid rush hour! If this means getting your family up and on the road early on a Saturday morning, it will be worth it to avoid the holiday traffic! And it gives you more time to enjoy the day once you arrive!
3. Make the trip fun
Plan games the whole family, or just the kids, can play. The classics like I Spy and 20 questions are good for the whole family. Liam can’t spell just yet, so we have modified I Spy to by using colours instead of letters, for example, “I spy with my little eye, something that is blue”, and he might spot a blue truck. CD’s or Spotify playlists the kids will enjoy and sing along to (that won’t drive you crazy) work well, or audiobooks always help pass the time on a long drive. If your kids don’t get carsick, they might enjoy having an activity book or an iPad to distract them. If you are travelling a new piece of road, it might be worth researching where some good cafes or playgrounds are along the way. A few stops for the kids to stretch the legs, and for you to re-caffeinate is always a good option!
Hope there's some handy tips here for you. Have a safe trip and enjoy a well-deserved break once you arrive!
]]>This multi-purpose Travel Cot mattress is perfect for sleeping away from home, tummy time, sitting & playing.
This holiday season, let Growbright be your one-stop destination for thoughtful and practical gifts that bring joy to every member of the family. Happy gifting! 🎅🎁
]]>Having helped thousands of customers with all things childhood-sleep-related for many years, here’s our advice to help things go smoothly.
While there’s no universal time for transitioning from cot to bed, typically, the shift happens between 18 months and 3.5 years. There may be practical reasons for moving them - like having another baby on the way, or safety reasons - like they’ve started using their cot as a climbing wall. Whatever prompts the move, there are a few things you can do to help the process.
Your child’s growing body needs good support for restorative sleep. Mattresses aimed at children are generally poorly made and designed with neither quality nor comfort in mind. That’s why we designed the Growbright Junior Mattress.
It’s breathable, washable, supportive, and temperature-regulating, offering the same quality you’d expect from your own mattress. Designed specifically for growing kids, it features a supportive core and soft top layer to ensure the right balance of firmness and comfort. Available in Single and King Single as part of our Junior Sleep System.
Toddlers love routine and knowing what to expect, so naturally, changing where they sleep can bring with it a few hurdles. Here are some tips to help make it easier.
Create excitement around the idea of moving to a “big kid bed”. By talking about it, you are giving them more time to mentally adjust to the change. You can also find lots of great stories centred around this theme.
As tempting as it can be to do all the shopping yourself and surprise your little one with their new bed, it’s helpful to involve your toddler in the process. One easy way to do this is to let them help choose new bedding or a new soft toy for their big bed.
For kids who particularly struggle with change, you might want to consider waiting a few weeks before this step, keeping the familiarity of all their old things until they’re ready.
Even if the bed is new, the bedtime story or lullaby doesn’t have to change. Aim to change just one thing at a time for the best results.
A great way to help your little one transition into their first bed is to introduce daytime naps in the new bed for a week or so. This soft start can ease them into the idea of sleeping there overnight.
Moving from a cot to a bed is more than a change in furniture. It’s a new chapter in your child’s life. Set them up for success with the Growbright Junior Sleep System.]]>With summer on the horizon, we thought it was a good time to share some tips for prepping for the summer months ahead. As the nights get warmer, it becomes harder to sleep - this is true for us but even more so for our babies. It isn’t until about 18 months - 2 years old that babies learn to properly regulate their temperature, so they rely on us to make sure their sleep environment is suitable for a hot, balmy night. Overheating is not only uncomfortable, but for babies it is also a risk factor associated with SIDS. There are a few factors that can come into play here, to ensure baby (and therefore you!) get a safe and good night’s sleep.
What should I dress my baby in for sleep?
You will need to consider a few factors when dressing your baby for their bedtime, including their room temperature and what sort of fabrics are used in their sleepwear. We recommend natural fibers such as cotton or merino wool. Many suggest merino is particularly good to use for the layer against their skin as it has so many great natural benefits, it’s odour resistant and fire retardant, but more relevant to this topic, it’s moisture wicking so it helps with temperature regulation. The only downside is I find it can get a bit itchy when right next to the skin, so I have always used these Uniqlo bodysuits for my babies. As a general rule babies only need one extra layer than adults, we would recommend this layer be a swaddle, or a sleep sack.
It’s really important you don’t dress your baby in a hat/beanie when you put them to sleep, not only is this a risk for overheating as heat escapes from their heads, it is also a suffocation risk if the beanie slips down over their face.
What temperature should my baby's room be?
The ideal temperature for your baby’s room is 18- 20°c. If you have a heat pump in your baby’s room you should set the temperature to this and keep it at that temperature all year around. If not, it might pay to invest in a good room thermometer and use a fan to cool it down to this temperature or a humidifier or panel heater to warm it to this temperature.
What bedding should I use?
Like the sleepwear fabric, we would recommend natural fibers are used for your baby’s bedding. Again, merino wool is a great option, due to the benefits listed above. We have a merino mattress protector as I felt so passionate about the benefits of merino wool we really wanted to include it in our airnest range. Another great option is Tencel. Tencel is a sustainable cellulose fiber derived from wood pulp. It is great for babies as it is super breathable, letting air flow freely around your babies sleep environment. Our airnest sheets are made from Tencel, we’ve had them tested for airflow and they came back with a 100% breathable rating. Tencel is also as ‘soft as silk’, when I moved Amelia from her cotton bassinet sheets to her Tencel cot sheets her bald spot completely grew back- just another added benefit!
While we are speaking about bedding, you should also consider what mattress your baby is sleeping on. Many mattresses on the market these days aren’t breathable, so they contain heat. You should also be wary of mattresses made of latex, although a natural material, it is known to retain heat, which we know is not ideal for babies. The airnest mattress is great as it is 95% air by volume, meaning it is 100% breathable. All our airnest products work together to provide a sleep environment that lets air flow freely, combating overheating.
What are the signs my baby is too hot?
A good way to tell if your baby is too hot or cold, is to look at the way they are sleeping. If they are splayed out with their arms and legs away from their bodies, it probably means they are too hot so you could remove a layer. You can also tell by touching their ears or neck, if their ears are hot or their neck is sweaty your baby is too warm.
]]>Watch the full segment below.
Sometimes, less is more! It's so easy to get carried away decorating your baby's nursery, but in reality you don't need much, especially when it comes to their sleep space. Below are some recommendations on how to best follow the Safe Sleeping Recommendations
]]>We all know what a mine field parenting can be, especially when you are a brand new parent to a newborn baby; the hours of research on what is best for your baby can be endless, and overwhelming! Just when you think you have it under control, your baby moves onto a new stage and you’re straight back to square one. Well, I’m not sure when that stops, but it certainly isn’t at the toddler stage! I get asked a lot about transitioning toddlers from their cots into their ‘big beds’ (you can read our blog post about this here), which is, as a general rule, also when you can look to introduce a pillow for your toddler. We do often get asked if we sell baby pillows, the answer is a big no. Babies need to sleep on a flat, firm surface, and any soft bedding can be a choking hazard. So, when do we know when is the right time to introduce them? I’ll try my best in this post to help you figure out when it is best for your toddler!
As mentioned above, as a general rule, you can introduce a pillow when your toddler moves into their ‘big bed’, however, even at this stage it may not be necessary. Their little bodies do not need the neck support like we do, and can even put strain on their neck if you give them the wrong pillow (we’ll get into that more soon). So if your toddler is quite happily sleeping through the night comfortably, it isn’t necessary to introduce one just yet. The ‘experts’ suggest a pillow can be introduced at any age between 1.5-3 years, which is quite a big age range! There are a few clues you can look out for that might suggest your toddler is ready for a pillow:
This is really important, your toddler will need a pillow that is suitable for their little body. They have different proportions to us, so an adult pillow can place unnecessary strain on their neck and shoulders and may lead to bad posture. You will need to find a pillow specifically designed to support your toddlers developing body. Luckily for you, we have done just this! Our airnest Junior Pillow is the perfect solution for this!
Other things to consider when selecting the right pillow are:
Toddlers can have trouble regulating their temperature, Liam is a very hot and sweaty sleeper, so it is important your child has a pillow that doesn’t retain heat. If you do your research on this topic you will see some recommend latex pillows, as latex is soft enough to be comfortable but firm enough to provide support. The problem with latex however, is that it is known to be a very hot material and can retain heat. The airnest Junoir Pillow, like all products in the airnest range, is made from breathable materials, promoting air flow to help keep them cool while they sleep.
Just like adult pillows, the filling inside kids pillows can vary greatly. When choosing a pillow for your child you should look out for a filling that can be easily cleaned, your precious little bundle is going to be placing their heads on this multiple times a day, you don’t want them sleeping on pillow that is filled with dust, mould, bacteria or allergens. Ensuring you have a pillow that is easily washable is an essential! The airnest Junior Pillow inner is made from a recycled polyester filling. I know some of you might be questioning “why polyester?” I realise it sounds cheap and nasty, but it is an extremely durable material and is very easy to clean. Again, like all airnest products, the airnest Junior Pillow is 100% washable. Both the inner and the cover can go in the washing machine and dryer, to ensure your child won’t be sleeping on any nasties!
You should also consider the cover used on your child's pillow, as this will be sitting very close to his/her face, right under the pillow slip. Most pillow covers are made from cotton, so you should be mindful that many cottons are not breathable and also can contain harmful toxins, bleaches and dyes from the manufacturing process. The airnest Junior Pillow cover is made from the same airnest-lite material as our airnest mattress cover, it is 100% breathable, 100% washable and it is Okeo-Tex class one, classified safe for babies (read more about this here).
I bet you didn’t realise how much thought could go into choosing a pillow for your child! If you have any questions, comment below or feel free to get in touch!
Natalie xx
]]>Since I’ve come from the mattress industry, friends always ask me when and how to move their child to a bed and what to buy. The answer isn’t always a once size fits all solution but here’s my top FOUR tips to tackling the transition.
We were about to have another baby and the question loomed.
Should we move our son Liam into his own big boy bed before the baby’s born so he doesn’t find it unsettling once she’s here?
He still seemed happy in his cot and hadn’t tried to get out, so we decided we would wait a few more months as the baby would be in a bassinet.
But about 10 days after being at home with our daughter Amelia, Liam started waking between four and five AM each morning! Testing times with a newborn. Then he wanted us to read him books in bed rather on the reading chair.
He then just stayed in bed during story time and wanted to sleep there and he had an amazing sleep.
No issues- he didn’t roll out (although I did what every mother probably does and put pillows beside him!) He slept until 7.10am the next morning!
This leads on to my second tip because we decided to buy a Gro Clock, as we had heard amazing things. What is it? It teaches our little early risers to stay in bed just that little bit longer. You can set them to change to yellow (when the sun comes up) at the time you want them to get up.
When Liam went to sleep at night, we told him if he wanted to sleep in the bed he was not allowed to get up until it was light, and to call us to come get him. He was only getting one chance!
Now that we have been trailing this for a good few months, he doesn’t always stay in bed until the sun comes up, and I must admit we do have a few out of beds in the middle of the night each week, but it’s not causing any big issues. We found the Gro Clock to be a good tool to help the process go a little more smoothly, and add a bit more fun into the routine for Liam.
We recommend opting for the Growbright Junior Sleep System, comprising of the Junior Mattress, airnest Mattress Topper, Bed Base and Valance - available in both single and king single sizes. The Junior Sleep System can be purchased as a bundle or sold as separate components.
View the range here
For more on this topic, check out the Ministry of Health's recommendations.
Natalie xx
]]>This is where our Maternity Range comes in! We have a few different options to help support your belly and help you to sleep more comfortably. Below is an outline of each pillow in our range, so you can decide which one might be best for you and your needs.
Feel: Soft, cuddly and supportive
Support area: This one is our all-rounder! It can be positioned in front of you for your bump, behind you for your back or between your legs for your hips—wherever you need the most support. If you are experiencing pelvic pain we recommend placing one leg either side of the pillow in a cradling position.
Other benefits: The body pillow comes with a removable/washable silky soft TENCEL cover (in three colour options). Tencel is naturally moisture regulating and moisture wicking, so it’s a great option when you are pregnant. Our full length body pillow is long enough to support your body, while still having the benefit of using your own pillow for your head.
Negatives: More comfortable to cuddle than your partner!
Feel: Adjustable! The filling in this pillow (repurposed memory foam capsules) can be removed to adjust the firmness and height to suit your belly.
Support area: gently lifts your belly into a neutral position while side sleeping to stop that dragging feeling. It prevents you from rolling forward and twisting your spine, relieving lower back pain
Other benefits: This pillow can be used once baby arrives, it is perfect as a neck pillow when you are feeding to ensure you keep your neck back and you maintain the correct feeding posture
Feel: Firm and supportive
Support area: Ergonomically designed knee pillow fits comfortably between your knees and provides maximum support and comfort at night that helps alleviate knee, back or hip pain. Will help keep your body/spine aligned, promoting healthy circulation and relaxation, relieving any pressure on the lower back.
Other benefits: Removable/washable Tencel cover.
Feel: Soft and cuddly V shape
Support area: Prop up behind you in bed to support your back, neck or shoulders during pregnancy. More commonly used for lounging than sleeping.
Other benefits: Another versatile pillow, this one can also be used for feeding once bub arrives. Position in front of you to help support your baby while you are feeding.
Understand your child's needs:
Every child has unique sleep preferences and requirements. Consider factors such as their age, sleep position, allergies, and any specific needs they might have. For instance, younger children may benefit from a softer pillow, while older kids may prefer something more supportive. Assessing your child's needs will help you make informed decisions when selecting bedding accessories.
Prioritise comfort and support
When it comes to pillows and mattress toppers, comfort and support are paramount. Look for pillows that provide adequate neck and head support, promoting proper spinal alignment. Growbright offers a range of pillows specifically designed for children. Similarly, consider mattress toppers that offer an extra layer of comfort and breathability, without compromising the support of the underlying mattress.
Opt for hypoallergenic materials
Children are often more susceptible to allergies and sensitivities, making easily washable bedding accessories an excellent choice. Growbright understands this concern and offers a selection of hypoallergenic pillows, mattress protectors, and bedding. These products are made from materials that resist allergens and are easily washable, ensuring a healthier sleep environment for your child.
Choose durable and easy-to-clean options
Bedding accessories for children should be durable enough to withstand regular use and easy to clean. Look for products that are machine washable and have strong stitching to maintain their quality over time. Growbright's bedding accessories are designed with durability in mind, allowing for frequent washing without losing their shape or functionality.
Consider style and design
Bedding accessories are not just about functionality but also about adding a touch of style to your child's bedroom. Browse through Growbright's range of bedding accessories to find colors and designs that match the overall theme of the room. Incorporating visually appealing bedding accessories can enhance the aesthetics of the space.
By prioritising your child's needs and investing in quality bedding accessories, you can create a cosy haven where they can rest and recharge, night after night.
]]>Here are some tips to help you get in and out of bed safely and comfortably:
1. Sit on the edge of the bed
Start by sitting on the edge of the bed with your feet flat on the floor. This will help you maintain your balance and avoid any sudden movements.
2. Use your arms
Place your hands on the bed behind you and use your arms to support yourself as you lie down or sit up.
3. Roll onto your side
When lying down, roll onto your side and use your arms to support your head and neck. This will help you avoid putting too much pressure on your belly.
4. Use a pregnancy pillow
A pregnancy pillow can help support your belly and make it easier to get in and out of bed. Place the pillow between your legs when lying on your side to help align your hips and reduce pressure on your lower back.
Browse Growbright's range here
5. Avoid sudden movements
Avoid sudden movements when getting in and out of bed, as this can throw off your balance and increase the risk of falls.
Remember to take your time and listen to your body. If you experience any
discomfort or pain, stop and adjust your position.
Some mattresses still contain syntheticmaterials and chemical additives, such as flame retardants and volatile organic compounds. These chemicals can off-gas and potentially impact your child's respiratory health. Growbright's airnest Cot Mattress is free from nasties; the airnest mattress core is made from food-grade polypropylene, with no chemical-based foams or adhesives meaning no allergens, off-gassing or other nasties. The cover is Oeko-Tex class one, classified safe for babies.
Children are prone to allergies, and their mattresses can harbour dust mites, mold, and other allergens. Because Growbright's airnest Cot Mattress is 100% washable (both the cover and core), the mattress is easily rid of any build up of allergens - it also means that you can use for subsequent children, gift to a friend or family member or sell once you're ready to move your little one into a big kid bed.
Proper airflow and temperature regulation are essential for a comfortable sleep experience. Opt for natural materials, such as organic cotton, merino or tencel, these are known for their breathability. They allow air to circulate through the mattress, preventing heat buildup and excessive sweating. Growbright's breathable airnest technology reduces the risk of airway obstruction if your baby rolls over during sleep. airnest’s market-leading breathability reduces the risk of overheating by assisting baby’s temperature regulation.
Growing bodies need proper support to maintain healthy spine alignment during sleep, plus a mattress that is on the firmer side helps to reduce the risk of SIDs. airnest’s layers have been designed to strike the perfect balance of firmness and softness to create the optimal sleep surface for baby.
In this blog, we’ll explain why tummy time should be part of your daily routine and share the best play mat for tummy time sessions.
Letting your little one lie on their tummy while they’re awake helps them to develop their muscles and motor skills. That simple motion of lifting their head strengthens their neck, back and shoulder muscles, all of which are needed for crawling, sitting and walking.
Tummy time also gives your baby a different view of the world, which helps their cognitive development and visual processing. It’s also a great way to take a well-earned break yourself, as all you need to do is supervise.
Babies can benefit from tummy time as newborns, right up until they’re able to crawl. In the first few weeks, keep your tummy time sessions to 1-2 minutes, then slowly build up to 10-15 minutes several times a day.
The most important step you can take for safe tummy time is to supervise your child. Babies shouldn’t be left on their front to sleep, so if they start getting tired, it’s best to end the tummy time session.
Tummy time should always be on a flat surface, close to the ground. This prevents your baby from hurting themselves if they roll off. And, like with a sleeping space, any loose blankets and suffocating hazards should be removed.
As developers of the airnest range of safe, comfortable sleeping solutions, we set out to create a convenient play mat for tummy time that offers a solution for daytime play. The Foam Play Mat is a sustainable playmat that can be used in a multitude of ways as your child grows.
For tummy time, it offers a water-resistant and hypoallergenic base, with soft support to protect little heads from the floor below, or can be used as a change mat as your little one begins to sit and crawl, it’s a durable, cushioned mat for playing, and as they gain confidence on their feet, it’s perfect for those gymnastics tumbles.
When not in use, the Growbright Foam Play Mat folds to a third of its original size for easy storage. And when you’re on the go, it can even be used as a porta cot mattress.
Buy yours today, or get in touch with any questions about our products.
]]>I have taken one photo which was of my partner's hand on my belly, but having just eaten an ice cream I cannot confirm how much was dairy bloat and how much was baby...but still the sentiment is there. Pretty much all I have to show so far is two scans and a blood test, I don't even know where my positive pregnancy test went.
In my personal life, I often shy away from the camera, but lately I'm feeling like I need to make more of an effort to document the journey that my partner and I are going through, even if we are going to just pop the pictures in an online folder for future.
It's tricky because at four months, I don't really have a bump yet, so there isn't much for me to photograph. Instead of bump photos, my partner has been capturing life before baby; meals out at nice restaurants that don't have a kid's menu, our weekly date night, weekends and trips away, moments in our daily life - anything we can show to our children in the future to say "See! We were once young and fun too!"
A friend of mine who now has a ten week old, diligently took photos each step of the way in the same jeans and black bra to show the changes she went through from month one to one month with baby M.
I guess my main piece of advice is not to let what you see online or in your friend group dictate how you should be documenting your pregnancy. Some social media users are more than happy to showcase their pregnancy to thousands of followers, while others keep their updates for close friends and family - and both are totally ok!
The main question I've been asking myself through this journey is "will I regret not capturing this moment?" and if you can happily answer no to that, then keep doing what you're doing.
Although I can't see myself taking the monthly milestone pictures, I did once create a Valentine's appreciation post on Instagram for my cat, so anything is possible once baby arrives.
]]>I've heard tales of the name morning sickness being a myth because it lasts all day, vegans turning carnivorous, the feeling of constantly being hungover, not being able to stand the smell of your partner, friends being bedridden for the first three months...the list goes on. And I've experienced none of it. Yep, I'm that smarmy person who woke up bright eyed and bushy tailed throughout my first trimester, apart from the one week where I experienced an aversion to most food and coffee. Oh and the one vomit I had in week 12. But that's it. Seriously.
Unfortunately is not totally known why women experience morning sickness. Some causes could be attributed to: It may be caused by low blood sugar or the rise in pregnancy hormones, such as human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) or estrogen. Morning sickness may be worsened by stress, being overtired, eating certain foods, or having sensitivity to motion (motion sickness).
It's estimated that up to 85% of women experience morning sickness of some kind during their first trimester; commonly manifesting as nausea, vomiting a general feeling of being unwell and food aversions.
Common food aversions include coffee, dairy, meat, spicy foods or anything with a strong smell. I put it out to the Growbright Instagram following to ask what theirs were and some include; lamb, tomatoes and coffee also came through pretty strongly. On the list of foods our followers could stomach; bread, fries and spicy chicken!
A friend of mine from Book Club said she would/could only eat Cocoa-Pops for a month.
If you've experienced or are experiencing nausea, chances are you've already looked this up, but some tips on combatting nausea include:
If you're battling through morning sickness currently, lean on those around you for support and go easy on yourself, you're doing such a great job. You've got this! xx
]]>Here are 5 reason’s why setting up some messy play is beneficial for your child.
Messy play supports cognitive development, including problem-solving and critical thinking skills. When given the opportunity to explore and experiment with materials, children are encouraged to think about cause and effect, i.e. “what will happen if I smush this into here?!”. They learn through trial and error and develop their ability to problem-solve.
Engaging in messy play allows children to use their senses, which is essential for their overall sensory development. When provided with a variety of textures and materials to explore, children develop their tactile sense (touch), which is important for their understanding of the world around them. They are also stimulated visually and by smell if you set up something like mud play or scented play dough.
Messy play can also encourage social communication development as children learn to share, take turns, and work together with other children or with a caregiver. If you join in with your child (which I strongly suggest you do) and talk with them, they’ll be picking up all of your language whilst also learning to direct the play with their own language.
Engaging in messy play can also support emotional development as it provides children with a safe space to express their emotions and feelings. Messy play can be a great way for children to release pent-up energy and frustration and reduce stress. It’s also a safe place to make mistakes and take risks, which can otherwise really hold back children with perfectionist tendencies. Practising ‘just giving it a go’ with no expectations together can make them more likely to give other types of learning a go in the future.
Have I talked you into it? Nearly?! Well here’s another reminder that it doesn’t have to be complex and doesn’t require you to go out shopping - you probably have everything you need.
Here are five simple messy play ideas that can be created using items that can be found around the house.
Play Dough - Create a simple play dough recipe using flour, salt, cream of tartar, oil and water. Check out our recipe here. Give them some things out of your cutlery drawer like forks and spoons and maybe some cookie cutters so they can create til their heart’s content.
Water Play - Fill a large container with water and provide children with cups and pans and ladles to explore. You could mix things up by making the water hot, or adding ice for a chilly experience. Add food colouring if you want!
Soap Foam - Create a sensory bin using dish soap and water. Use an electric mixer to create soap foam, and let children use their hands to mix and explore. Add in some of their plastic toys like lego - they’re easily dried later.
Furniture Fort - Chuck all your sofa cushions on the floor and create a fort or an obstacle course. Trust me - your child will LOVE IT and it’s also great for gross motor development.
Chalk Paints - Mix cornflour and a tiny bit of water and food colouring to make chalk paints, you could mix them in a muffin tray. Give your child a paintbrush (I’ve been known to repurpose my make up brushes!) and let them paint the garden. It’ll all wash away with the hose or in the rain.
You’ve got this! For more simple play ideas, follow me @zaziplays on Instagram.
It's an exciting, if not secretive time. Depending on when you're set to reveal to friends and family members, it can be a delightful few weeks where only you and your partner are in on the knowledge that there will be a new addition to the family in a number of months. It's such a wonderful secret to sit on, and as tempting as it may be to tell everyone, sometimes mum is the word.
]]>It's an exciting, if not secretive time. Depending on when you're set to reveal to friends and family members, it can be a delightful few weeks where only you and your partner are in on the knowledge that there will be a new addition to the family in a number of months. It's such a wonderful secret to sit on, and as tempting as it may be to tell everyone, sometimes mum is the word.
So who to tell? Well, the decision is all yours. It really is your prerogative to tell whomever you choose. I told two friends of mine when I was five weeks, then waited until 12 weeks to let my parents, sister, close friends and work know that I was expecting. I wanted to wait for chromosomal testing and the nuchal scan before letting the aforementioned circle know. There's still a bunch of people who will find out when I see them, maybe on social media or even once baby is here.
Late last year, I had a friend tell me she was pregnant when she was five weeks along, being of the traditional mindset that you wait until you're past the first trimester (this was before I knew I was expecting and told said friend at five weeks), I asked her why she'd let me know so soon, her response "I'm not telling anyone I'm not prepared to come to for support." If you sit in the same boat as my beautiful friend, let your loved ones revel in your joy also!
I began to suspect that I may be expecting relatively early in my pregnancy journey, finding out when I was a touch under four weeks. I didn't know what to expect about expecting at that point, so I went straight to google to find out the do's and don'ts. My lovely partner decided to download an audiobook on parenting from a dad's perspective to gain insights.
What I have learned in my journey so far is that there is so much conflicting information out there! Some websites will tell you to avoid caffeine, others say to limit it - I have taken the stance of one cup per day as I believe I function much better with coffee coursing through my system than without it. I tend to stick to official websites to gain information on my pregnancy and make decisions when I feel informed enough to do so.
I visited my GP in the very early stages to confirm my pregnancy and to be advised on the next steps. It's a great opportunity to pick their brain if there's anything you're unsure of or require assistance with.
A couple of days after returning that positive test, I headed to the app store to find a pregnancy app, only to be greeted with about 100! They're all the same, but different. Some of the ones I've looked through have plenty of resources and information relevant to the week you're currently at, some make delightful comparisons between foetus size and fresh produce (I currently have a pea pod in my belly) and others have handy lists of popular names from countries around the world.
I have had some useful learnings from the apps that I chose to download, particularly around the development of your baby at any given week. I was surprised at how soon into gestation certain things occurred - the wonder that is pregnancy!
Information can vary slightly between apps, so I would advise to not treat it as your one source of truth. Although it can be amusing, if not alarming, how quickly a kidney bean can turn into a mango, and before you blink, a watermelon.
After visiting with my GP, she informed me that it was up to me to find a midwife should I choose. A search on google lead me to the NZ 'Find Your Midwife' website - essentially like online dating to find the person who will be one of the first to meet your child. The search options allow you to find your midwife based on your location, due date, desired birth location (hospital, birth clinic or home birth) and a range of other considerations.
I was lucky enough to find my midwife after only sending out a few enquiries. It's important to note that availability books up extremely quickly, so begin your search once you've found out you're expecting (I've been told the same about daycare).
There is also the option to go private through various clinics dotted around the country.
I guess it's difficult to know what to expect, especially considering everyone's journey is unique. As a first time mum to be (who was largely indifferent about children for most of my life), I'd painted a picture in my head about what I thought it would be like, largely thanks to American movies. Saying the positive result came as a shock is an understatement, but seeing my partner's calm and loving reaction somehow made me feel at ease.
My body changed...well just my boobs have at this stage, but I'm sure the rest will be quick to follow suit. Nausea begins, as does morning sickness and food aversions, but more on those in my next blog.
What I'm trying to say is enjoy the early days of knowing, and don't be in a rush to start planning - although I'm sure the nine months go fast (my first three have), there's time to get everything sorted! Besides, your baby won't know if you haven't put the finishing touches on their nursery if they arrive early.
Until next time, B xx
It's important to note that this is my opinion and where I'm at in my pregnancy journey. I encourage you to do what is best for you, your partner, family and personal circumstances.
]]>The New Zealand Government has released safety standards which everyone selling cots must comply with (even second hand cots).
However, rather than assuming the seller has it right, it pays to satisfy yourself that the sticker is current. This means it shows that it complies with AS NZ 2172 (learn more here and be aware the standards may change in the future).
The mattress base is basically where the integrity of your cot rests. In addition to the permanent warning and information sticker, consider:
You'll be living with this cot for some time, so you will want to ensure it fits your personal style and your life.
Or perhaps you're more interested in fitting the cot into a small space, or in maximising the life-use of the product with a cot that can convert from a bassinet through to a cot, and eventually into a toddler bed or day bed.
If you've already purchased your airnest Mattress, we recommend checking that it will fit your desired cot.
The current NZ safety standard (as at October 2017) allows for gaps between bars of 50-95 mm.
This allows for air to flow through the cot, which decreases SIDS risks, but the gaps remain small enough to prevent a child or toddler slipping between them and injuring themselves.
Drop sides can be convenient, both for lifting baby in and out of the cot and for making the bed.
Look for a drop side that doesn't easily shift from the inside when a child bounces, or opt for no drop side.
When you buy your first cot, your baby is usually either a newborn who doesn't move much, or have purchased before your little one arrives. When your little one begins to grow, you don't want to have to go shopping for another cot due to climbing antics!
Cots which have bassinet and cot settings are really handy for this reason as you can drop the cot down when baby grows.
You'll want to ensure that there's no possibility your baby could slip down the side of the cot and the mattress.
The safety standards allow for no more than a 20 mm gap when the mattress is centred. Make sure your cot complies with that.
There are a number of different cot sizes in New Zealand. We recommend buying a mattress when you buy the cot just to make sure the cot fits the mattress perfectly.
We have a list of cot recommendations that will fit Growbright airnest Mattresses.
]]>The airnest Swaddle Blanket is a super versatile piece in your baby kit, with uses extending beyond a swaddle or blanket. With so much baby gear out there, what's not to love about a multi-purpose item?
Here are some other ways to use your airnest Swaddle Blanket:
Most baby strollers will have a sun shade on them, but sometimes the stroller canopy just doesn’t cut it. Using the blanket as an extra sun shade while out for walks or in the car is a great way to get extra use out of your swaddle.
Little skin is very sensitive to the sun, the airnest Swaddle Blanket is perfect for keeping little ones covered from the sun, but still airy enough to keep them from getting too hot.
The airnest Swaddle Blanket is like the jumper your mother always told you to bring. It's perfect to drape around your little one in any setting to provide some extra warmth or comfort.
Ok, this is a pretty obvious use for a swaddle blanket, but given all the other amazing ways you can use this excellent baby blanket, it’s easy to forget that they are the perfect blanket for swaddling a baby
The airnest Swaddle Blanket is perfect to pop down on the ground for your little one to take in a bit of tummy time.
Nappy changing on the go can sometimes be tricky if there aren't facilities immediately available, in this case, pop the airnest Swaddle Blanket down on the ground or your chosen surface and you're good to go!
Given you will have one in your bag anyway, why not use your swaddle blanket as a nursing cover? These comfy baby blankets make a wonderful nursing cover since they are the perfect size and so light and airy!
As your little one gets a bit older, the airnest Swaddle Blanket can be used as a top sheet, perfect for all seasons.
Morning Sickness
Before we dive right into food. Right now, just the smell of someone’s perfume in the office might leave you recoiling in disgust and you might be getting to know the pattern of the lino on your toilet floor much better these days. Morning sickness - or if you are unlucky - all day sickness strikes many of us. Food schmood - all you can probably think about right now is when this horrible feeling will pass. Here’s some of our suggestions on what might help alleviate the nausea.
Tips: Eat plain food like rice crackers or toast before you get out of bed. Don’t leave it too long between snacking. Try ginger and peppermint teas - always a go-to for combating nausea. Sleep as much as you feel your body needs. Try and avoid strong cooking smells. See your GP if you are really suffering from the effects of morning sickness.
Nutrients versus calories
Nutritional advice doesn’t really change all that much when you’re pregnant according to Annaliese Jones, a nutrition, naturopathy & herbal medicine specialist. We don’t need more calories, what we need is more nutrients.
And aside from that, our own unique dietary requirements might stem from problems we’re having while pregnant. More fibrous food if we’re suffering from constipation or iron-containing foods if you’re experiencing anemia.
However, what all pregnant women should consider is consuming more healthy fats according to Annaliese. That’s because they help to absorb much needed vitamins and push them through to the vital places they’re needed in the body. So these healthy fats include things like; avocado coconut oil, eggs, nuts and seeds or full-fat dairy products. Even high quality dark chocolate is okay. Drizzle olive oil over salads or splash it liberally into stir-fries and, while you’re at it, enjoy those slices of cheese, or a good portion of oily fish.
Tip: Consider eating more healthy fats while you’re pregnant and foods that are nutrient rich.
Foods to avoid
There are foods to avoid while you are pregnant and definitely safer choices to make. Avoid dodgy days-old chicken sandwiches from the deli section or sushi that looks like it might have seen better days. But there are reasons why you need to avoid some food groups altogether because they are considered high risk with a chance of listeria or food contamination. They include foods like uncooked meats, raw fish and soft cheeses. While you can eat some of these in small amounts, it’s best to talk to your medical professional about what’s best for you. Annaliese believes pregnancy is the best time to start focusing on healthy fresh foods. If you can put this all into practice and never waiver then tell us how. We all slip up from time to time but make it the exception not the rule.
Tip: Avoid hummus, soft cheeses, raw fish and uncooked meats as a general rule while pregnant. Be vigilant with hand washing before preparing a meal and wash all fruit and vegetables.
Constant cravings
It can happen - you crave something you’ve never eaten before or even liked for that matter. Doughnuts or lemon rinds - weird and wacky foods that we crave during pregnancy then immediately turn away from the moment the baby arrives.
Why? These cravings are thought to be tied up with pregnancy hormones racing through your body - not a nutrient deficiency as some old wive’s tales go. These hormones change the way that foods smell and taste to us while pregnant. So do we go with it? Sure, why not says Annaliese - unless you are packing away cookies and ice cream by the tub on a daily basis. “Try to avoid overdoing the sweet cravings, as this can lead to issues with blood sugar. Salty, sodium cravings can be an issue for mamas with higher than healthy blood pressure,” she says.
Tip: It’s okay to give in to those pregnancy cravings just don’t overdo it on the sugary foods and be careful with salty or sodium packed foods that you crave if you’ve got high blood sugar.
]]>Exercise in everyday life - whether you’re pregnant, young or old has its obvious benefits. It might be tempting to just slouch around in trackies, eating anything you want as you suffer from everything from cankles to bloating and constipation.
The LAST thing you feel like doing some days is trying to squeeze into activewear and sweating your way through a workout. Our team has all experienced the pressure of exercise during pregnancy and opted on some days for the couch instead so we are definitely not judging. However, the obvious benefits of exercise cannot be ignored and when you find your groove. Find some form of exercise that you can cope with and you might even grow to enjoy it too.
You might continue these good habits into postnatal exercise and there is a school of thought, backed by some studies, that exercising in pregnancy means shorter labour times and potentially fewer delivery complications. Exercise during pregnancy can help reduce tiredness, improve your sleep and alleviate anxiety and depression. It also helps reduce the likelihood of back or pelvic pain and could have a positive bearing on those swelling feet and ankles. Plus exercise can lower the risk of you developing gestational diabetes and hypertension. So, need we say any more! But importantly, listen to your body - it’s not always possible to exercise while pregnant or carry on with sports or activities that you were doing pre-pregnancy.
What exercise is good in pregnancy?
Light cardio
We recommend 30 minutes of light cardio, 3-5 times each week during your pregnancy. Light cardio is defined as passing the ‘talk test’. This means that if you are struggling to talk while exercising you might be overdoing it. 8 So what counts towards your thirty minutes? Here’s some ideas:
Swimming
Anyone who’s had an injury or is rehabilitating will tell you that the first thing their physio tells them to get into is the pool. It’s the best way to exercise without putting too much pressure on joints because it isn’t weight bearing. The buoyancy of the water supports your weight - and as you grow in your pregnancy - this is a godsend as it takes a lot of the pressure off your back and pelvis. It’s a safe workout even late into your pregnancy.
Cycling
A great option for you while you’re pregnant. It’s recommended you use an exercise bike instead of hitting the road because of the risk of falling.
Walking
The most popular option among our team and a go-to exercise, especially in the third trimester. Plus, you can drag out hubby, friends, family members or work colleagues to keep you company.
Jogging
You might have been a runner prior to getting pregnant and want to keep up your exercise over the next nine months. Now is probably not the best time to take up running if you haven’t already got some conditioning. Here’s some things to consider when bringing jogging into your pregnancy cardio workouts: Ensure you are also maintaining your strengthening exercises to help support your extra weight. You might need to get a more supportive sports bra! And be kind to yourself - you will definitely need to reassess your goals and again, listen to your body.
Pregnancy Classes
There are plenty of tailor-made pregnancy classes available - especially for things like yoga or pilates. Instructors usually design the class to centre around safe and appropriate exercise for you no matter what stage of pregnancy. Strength Training We recommend strength training, 2-3 sessions each week, that focus on low weights with higher repetitions. You can do these at the gym or even at home with the use of a swiss ball or light weights (2-3kg). Try seven to eight different exercises such as bicep curls, lateral raises or squats to help condition key muscle groups. Do each exercise 8-12 times and then repeat the set three times.
The Pelvic Floor
Alongside strengthening and cardio exercise, there are simple daily ways to exercise your pelvic floor. The pelvic floor consists of layers of muscles that stretch like a supportive hammock from the pubic bone (in front) to the end of the backbone. Why are pelvic floor exercises important? Your pelvic floor muscles are going to come under a lot of strain during pregnancy and in childbirth. Like all muscles, conditioning and strengthening your pelvic floor will help as your baby grows in the womb. A weak pelvic floor means you might accidentally pee a little when you sneeze, cough or strain and it can continue after pregnancy. Regular pelvic floor exercises that are done correctly before you give birth can reduce incontinence in pregnancy by 50% and by 35% in postnatal women.
Pelvic floor exercise
Gently squeeze around your back passage and try and lift, like you are holding in a fart. Ideally you want all your other core muscles to be as relaxed as possible, so no clenching your glutes or thighs according to our health expert Becs Dodson. We recommend you do this exercise 8-12 times (holding for 10 seconds) and do three sets each day.
Technique is the key with this exercise but here’s some things to consider:
• Lying on your side is the easiest position to feel the technique correctly.
• To begin, try holding for just a few seconds then slowly build up to 10 seconds for each hold.
• Try an app called Squeezy. It helps keep you on track with your pelvic floor exercises.
It’s important to note that even women who have done pilates for years sometimes struggle with the technique, says Becs. She says many women regret not having done more to strengthen their pelvic floor before and during pregnancy. Even if you deliver by c-section, there’s still a risk to the pelvic floor so you still need to strengthen it.
Tip: Make it a priority to begin a ritual of daily pelvic floor exercises building up to holding each for 10 seconds. Try the app Squeezy to help you keep on track with these crucial exercises.
Exercising reality
On paper this exercise plan sounds perfect but executing it can be a bit harder. Don’t beat yourself up if you can’t achieve everything we’ve highlighted. Fewer than 15% of women manage to achieve the minimum of 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week while they’re pregnant.
Lots of mums I know say some form of exercise did make them feel better while they were pregnant and this was certainly the case for me. Of course, you should always check with an expert in your prenatal team if you’re unsure about the exercise you’re doing or plan to do. Risks tend to come from inappropriate forms of exercise or from you overdoing it. If you have a higher risk pregnancy you may need closer supervision but hopefully you’ll find some form of exercise that you’ll enjoy during your pregnancy.
]]>It sounds a little condescending but it’s oh so true - sleep is going to be your best friend over the coming months. When you’re pregnant there are plenty of things that make good quality sleep harder to come by. Cramps, not finding a suitable sleep position, needing to constantly pee or even something as simple as finding the right pillow plague us all during pregnancy when we’re trying to nod off.
So why is sleep so important in pregnancy? Put simply - sleep helps improve your immune system and brain function. In pregnancy it also helps regulate growth hormone levels.
From a personal perspective, I thought I had the jump on sleep when I was first pregnant. I’ve worked around sleep for most of my working life - at bed manufacturer Sleepyhead - and now at Growbright - so it’s hugely important to me.
However, pregnancy throws a curveball at you and nothing can prepare you for what’s to come. A National Sleep Foundation study found nearly 80% of pregnant women experience some sort of sleep disturbance. If you’re the other 20% - count yourself lucky. For the rest of us - here’s a few tips and tricks our team has put together to help you get better sleep during pregnancy - from your first trimester right through to giving birth. Then after that, getting good sleep with a little one is an entirely different matter that we’ve saved for a subsequent Mummy Manual.
A bit of sleeping on the side
If you’re not already, join the masses and sleep on your side. It’s the most common sleep position and in pregnancy - side sleeping is encouraged - especially from 28 weeks. And even better - try and sleep on your left side. Here’s why! An Auckland University led study shows that women who slept on their back in the final weeks of their pregnancy were more likely to deliver smaller babies. “Babies who are small for their gestational age (SGA), defined as having a birthweight in the lowest 10 percent of babies born, are more likely to be stillborn or have health problems before and following birth”. The research shows that side sleeping is better for mum and growing baby. The university research found that if a pregnant women who commonly might wake up on her back can easily turn and just settle into a position on her side that’s more comfortable. But continuing to sleep on your back, especially in the later months of pregnancy presses on major blood vessels, which can reduce blood flow to the womb, and hence oxygen supply to your baby. So why is it recommended to sleep on your left side? It’s thought sleeping on the left side increases the amount of blood and nutrients that reach the placenta and your baby. But either side is good.
Tip: Learn to become a side-sleeper while you’re pregnant. If you wake up on your back or tummy - try and settle back onto a side that feels comfortable.
Getting comfortable in bed
There’s nothing easy about just taking a load off and lying down - especially as you grow. Lying down sometimes comes with pains and cramps but thankfully someone came up with a genius solution to tailor make pregnancy pillows. At Growbright, we consulted women’s health physio expert Becs Dodson to help us understand the need for extra support that pillows can provide. But more importantly she’s guided us on how and where you can use specially designed pillows to help get you more comfortable in pregnancy.
For your head, it’s the same as always - find a pillow that fits snuggly and supports your neck to help keep your spine in alignment. As we move down the body, consider a smaller pillow under your belly as it grows. This will help relieve any strain or tension from your back and pelvis. Let’s not forget the knees and ankles. They also need a bit of extra support to help keep your pelvis stacked and minimise any strain on your pelvic ligaments. So pop in a supportive cushion around the knees that will help. Finally, some pregnant women just prefer a one pillow solution to help ease any discomfort while sleeping - so go for a full body pillow that can be cradled.
What you’re actually sleeping on becomes important during pregnancy too. What kind of mattress do you have? If you’ve slept on a firm feel mattress until now - a bed with fewer comfort layers than a medium or plush might cause you some discomfort during your pregnancy.
Rather than splash out on a new bed, we recommend you buy a mattress topper which simply fits over the top of your existing mattress for the duration of your pregnancy. It will give you that extra comfort that will help relieve pressure in areas around your hips and knees while you grow.
Tip: Learn to love pillows for their support around your neck, hips and knees. If you find your mattress is too firm or you simply want extra comfort in bed - buy a mattress topper to help you during pregnancy.
Why am I so tired?
Especially early on in your pregnancy, you’re going to feel tired and fatigued. This is because your body is now having to work a lot harder to produce more blood which carries vital nutrients to your growing baby. And what’s making you feel tired and sleepy are hormones such as increased progesterone. In the first trimester especially, this fatigue may also feel like an illness - commonly known as morning sickness. In my experience, I felt slightly more human in the second trimester - and this is common for many expecting mums. But then in the third trimester, overwhelming tiredness returns as you are moving extra weight.
Certainly, telling you tiredness is normal isn’t going to help but what I do recommend is listening to your own body. I didn’t sleep well, especially in the first trimester so I found the answer lay in naps. Take them when you can - recommended nap times are ideally 20 minutes to stop you entering a deeper sleep phase.
Also, I found avoiding late nights helped during pregnancy. In his popular science book Why We Sleep, Matthew Walker talks about the importance of maintaining regular sleep habits like going to bed and waking up at roughly the same time every day. This is true in pregnancy too.
Tip: Tiredness is normal. Take a nap during the day if your body needs it & try to go to bed and wake up at the same time, every day during the week and over weekends.
Good sleep habits
Everyone develops their own unique habits or routines that help with sleep during pregnancy. For me, it was herbal pregnancy support pills. I took these to increase my magnesium, which in turn helped me with sleep while I was pregnant with both my children. Nausea can reduce the levels of magnesium in your body while you are pregnant, so I took the supplement. And while there is no absolute proven research that magnesium improves your sleep, (I believe it has helped mine) it definitely helps relax your muscles.
Using devices right before bedtime isn’t considered to be a good idea for anyone getting to sleep. It’s tempting to grab your phone beside your bed and scroll before you try and snooze but try and avoid it during your pregnancy to slow your mind down as your body prepares to sleep.
A soothing shower or a bath before bedtime might also help you drift off and a cup of herbal tea is popular as a nighttime ritual to get to sleep for pregnant mums. Just check the label to make sure it’s safe for pregnancy and you may also find that it might not help with those frequent trips to the loo at night. And those toilet visits bring their own set of unique problems. Our health women’s expert Becs Dodson recommends you take a little extra care when getting out of bed during the night. Why? Your changing body means that simply springing out of bed to get to the toilet may not be the safest way while you are pregnant. Rather, use the technique of rolling off the edge - especially in the later stages of pregnancy - to reduce diastasis recti – or tummy separation – that occurs when your abdominal muscles separate too far.
Tip: Develop your own unique habits or bedtime rituals to aid sleep. Reduce the use of blue-light emitting devices right before you go to bed. Be careful getting out of bed at night, particularly in the third trimester by rolling off the side of the bed to avoid tummy separation.
Disclaimer: The information in this manual is designed to provide help information on the subjects discussed. This manual is not meant to be used, nor should it be used, to diagnose or treat any problem arising from your pregnancy or treat any medical condition. For diagnosis, help or treatment during your pregnancy you should consult your own healthcare provider or a physician. The publisher and author are not responsible for any specific health or allergy needs that may require medical supervision and are not liable for any damages or negative consequences from any information, action, application or preparation to any person reading the following manual. References are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute endorsement of any websites or other sources. Readers should be aware that the websites and links listed in this manual may change.
]]>We all sleep differently and our pillow needs are bespoke, everyone has different needs depending on what kind of sleeper you are. There are plenty of considerations that can come into play when choosing a pillow; firmness, filling, shape, height profile and temperature regulation are all things you need to think about when deciding on a pillow. There could also be other factors that go into pillow selection such as pregnancy or health issues that affect the position sleep in. So, how do you decide which pillow is best for you?
The by Natalie Pillow Range accommodates every type of sleeper; it is well-thought-out to ensure we have a pillow that suits everyone’s specific needs. The by Natalie Pillow Range is designed so you can select your base support best suited to your needs, and the luxury toppers can then be added for a layer of optimum comfort.
Feel: Medium- Firm
Height profile: Medium
Ideal for: Back and side sleepers; Sleepers with neck or back pain.
The luxurious by Natalie Memory Foam Pillow cleverly moulds with your head and neck, distributing weight evenly, for unparalleled comfort and pressure-point relief. Our memory foam moulds have advanced properties that enable them to contour with the shape of your head but are elastic enough to mould back into shape when you get up quickly. The cotton/TENCEL cover is soft and naturally moisture wicking for optimum breathability.
Feel: Soft- Medium
Height profile: Customisable
Ideal for: Hot sleepers; Back, side and tummy sleepers
The by Natalie Cooling Memory Foam Pillow cleverly moulds with your head and neck, for unparalleled comfort and pressure-point relief. Advanced gel-infused microbeads are evenly distributed throughout the pillow for optimum cooling, they absorb the body’s natural heat and repel it away. The microbeads can be removed to adjust the height profile of the pillow to suit all types of sleepers. The cotton/TENCEL cover is soft and naturally moisture wicking for optimum breathability.
Feel: Soft- Medium
Height profile: Customisable
Ideal for: Sensitive sleepers (hypoallergenic); Back, side and tummy sleepers
The by Natalie ultra-soft Eco Down Alternative Pillow is an economical alternative to down pillows, created with responsibly sourced hypoallergenic clusters. The pillow is light-weight and moldable for exceptional comfort. The hypoallergenic fibre can be removed to adjust the height profile of the pillow to suit all types of sleepers. The cotton/TENCEL cover is soft and naturally moisture wicking for optimum breathability.
Feel: Soft
Height profile: Depends on your base support pillow
Ideal for: Hot sleepers; Back, side and tummy
Designed to enhance the comfort of your by Natalie pillow. The luxury pillow topper is stuffed with goose down feathers, your head will sink into the sumptuous filling without compromising on support as the by Natalie base pillow will offer this. This pillow topper is ideal for hot sleepers as it uses moisture-wicking technology that pulls water away from the skin for optimum temperature management and breathability. It’s also easy to care for, as it can go in the washing machine.
Feel: Soft
Height profile: Depends on your base support pillow
Ideal for: Sensitive sleepers (hypoallergenic); Back, side and tummy
Designed to enhance the comfort of your by Natalie pillow. The hypoallergenic pillow topper is soft and fluffy, like down pillows; however, it maintains its designed shape. The topper will completely enclose your by Natalie base support pillow for premium volume, support and comfort.
We have put all these considerations into a pillow menu, so you can easily compare the options in our range and decide which pillow is for you. If you have any questions at all, don’t hesitate to get in touch!
Natalie xx
]]>Meet out Resident Sleep Expert, Renee, the owner of The Sleep Dept.
Renee began her career in 2015 as a Certified Maternity and Child Sleep Consultant, and as has worked with thousands of families just like yours through one-on-one consultations, virtual and phone consultations.
Another passion of Renee's is sleep education – teaching parents in group workshop sessions about the fundamentals of achieving consistent naps and nights and how to establish healthy sleeping habits that will continue to benefit their whole family for many years to come.
Her greatest joy, apart from being a happily married, mother of two children, is celebrating milestones such as sleeping through the night for the first time or a nap lasting more than 20 minutes- in the cot.
When Renee isn't cheering on parents for their incredible sleep achievements, she loves spending time with her family or reading a good book in her own little piece of paradise – at home by the pool!
Over the coming months we'll chat to Renee about all things sleep and will ask her some of the questions we get asked most often.
Check out The Sleep Dept here
]]>What are some simple, safe exercises C-section mums can do during and post recovery?
The most important thing is to rest in the first few days to allow your body to heal. Use pillow support to help you keep in a good posture when you are sitting feeding and while you are sleeping. The airnest Nursing pillow is ideal for maintaining a good posture while feeding.
When starting back exercising make sure you take it slow and just increase slowly. Start with just walking to your letterbox then increase slowly each day. A rough goal would be to aim to walk 5-10 mins a day by the end of first week then increase by 5 mins each week so after so by 6 week mark you can easily walk 30- 40 mins.
While the scar is healing in the first 4 weeks it is best to just stick with walking as your main form of exercise, however it is important to start gently restoring strength of your pelvic floor and lower abdominals which have been stretched throughout your pregnancy. Even though your pelvic floor has been spared, the stretch of a vaginal birth it has still had 9 months of extra weight on it and changed hormones making it weaker. You can start gentle pelvic floor exercises as soon as you like after birth, again just start gently and slowly - aim to squeeze and lift and hold for 2-3 seconds initially and repeat x10 times. Try and do this 2-3 times a day. Slowly increase the time you aim to hold for and then try in more challenging positions like standing.
Once given the all clear of infection at your six week doctor check up, it’s a good idea to start some gentle C-section scar self massage. There are many layers of skin, fascia, muscle and nerves involved in the C-section operation, and they can tether together when healing. You can be shown how to safely do this by your women’s health physio. We usually get you starting gently using 2 fingers in circular motion massaging lightly above and below the scar and work up to directly over the scar. You can try in the shower, or with some light moisturiser.
After the six week mark, it’s time to get your body stronger, particularly your pelvic floor and deep abdominals. Your baby will be getting bigger and heavier and it is important you regain your core strength to keep up. Low impact exercise like yoga or Pilates, ideally run by a physiotherapist, is the best for this. Other safe forms of exercise are; walking, swimming, light weights, cycling. Leave the running or heavy weights until at least 12 weeks post birth.
Can mums do anything during pregnancy that will help with recovery after birth?
Be prepared. Get a good set up ready for feeding your baby as you will spend a lot of time in that chair in the first few weeks. Get a feeding pillow and foot stool which will also help.
Make sure you have support in place if you can from family and friends after birth so you can focus on rest and recovery as much as possible.
Pregnancy, birth and motherhood all place huge strain on the body so the fitter and stronger you are the more likely you will manage these physical stresses and strains.
Staying active in your pregnancy will really help in your recovery. Ideally aim for 30 mins of low impact cardio exercise 3-5 times a week and ideally add some resistance strengthening exercise also 2 times a week. The core and Pelvic floor muscles are affected most by pregnancy and birth so making sure you take care of these muscles but avoiding heavy lifting and straining, (having good diet and fluid intake will reduce risk of contraption which can really strain pelvic floor) and doing regular pelvic floor exercise throughout your pregnancy will reduce risk of PF issues like incontinence and prolapse after birth
How does a nursing pillow help with feeding a baby?
A feeding pillow provides support for both you and your baby. When you place your baby on a pillow on your lap, it helps to raise the baby up to your breast. When your baby is higher, you won't have to lean forward, so it's more comfortable for your back, neck, and arms. Placing your child at the right height also helps the baby to latch correctly. A proper latch is very important to help establish your breast milk supply and ensure your baby is getting enough milk. It can also prevent some of the common feeding issues that can arise from a poor latch.
What sleeping or resting positions can you recommend to C-Section mums that are comfortable but don’t put strain on their abdomen?
After a C-section you will probably not be very comfortable lying on your front so side lying is still the best position. You may still feel more comfortable sleeping using a pillow between your knees to help minimise the strain and rotation on your hips and lower back.
If you sleep on your back it is important to remember not to try and sit up from lying using your abdominals as this will strain the wound. So make sure you continue to roll onto your side and use your arms to push up when getting out of bed.
Getting up from a chair can also initially be difficult. Avoid low, deep or soft chairs as these chairs will be even harder to rise from. Use a pillow/s behind your back if the seat is deep and and ideally have a chair with arms so you can help push yourself up. Support your abdominal and pelvic floor muscles by moving to the edge of the chair before rising and gently engaging these muscles before standing up.
Are there positions, movements or activities that should be avoided in the recovery period after birth?
Your spine, pelvis and pelvic floor are all quite vulnerable after birth, especially in the first few weeks and months. The muscles, ligaments and joints have all been stretched and strained and will take a while to recover and rehabilitate so it is important that you take good care of your posture, especially when feeding, and avoid lifting anything heavy that might place strain on your back, pelvic floor and abdominal wall.
Rolling onto your side to get out of bed is still advised in the first few weeks and getting as much help as you can with any baby cares that involve lifting (such as the pram in/ out of car). If you do have to lift then make sure you get yourself into good posture and try gently engage your pelvic floor and lower abdominals before you lift.
Keeping mobile and active is really important after birth but make sure you just start slowly with short walks and low impact exercise and book in to see a women’s health physio for a postnatal check to guide you on how to safely return to your ideal exercise regime.
Do you have any tips in easing back pain during pregnancy
There are lots of ways you can help both prevent and ease back pain in pregnancy. The most important thing is to keep active - regular short walks or other forms of low impact exercise - especially strengthening exercises like pregnancy yoga or Pilates - will really help keep your postural muscles strong and keep your joints moving.
Being aware of your posture and your body shape changes is also really important. Ensuring you have a good work chair if you sit at work and using pillows for spinal support when sleeping will really help.
Avoiding heavy lifting is really important as your back is very vulnerable with the increased joint laxity and loss of core support in pregnancy.
If you develop back pain then it is important to remember that while it is common it doesn’t mean you need to just put up with it. There are various treatments, specific exercises and support braces and belts that can all really help so make sure you see a Women’s health physiotherapist for some advice on what is best for you to relieve your symptoms so you can get on with enjoying your pregnancy!
Back pain is very common in pregnancy with up to 50% of women experiencing discomfort. The hormones released during pregnancy cause a softening of the back and pelvic ligaments. This is compounded by the ever-increasing size and weight of your growing baby and the loss of core muscle support as the abdominal muscles are stretched. This results in a shift in your centre of gravity and the end result is a lot of extra pressure and strain on the spine.
There are a number of ways to minimise (or better yet, prevent) low back pain in pregnancy. The most important thing is maintaining good postural habits. As your pregnancy progresses and your body shape changes, it is very important to try and keep in good postural alignment to minimise the strain from the extra load going through your joints.
This means...no slouching!
When you are sitting, get into the habit of having a small cushion behind your lower back to support the natural curves of the spine and sit as far back into the chair as is comfortable. Try and keep your hips a little higher than your knees – use a small foot stool if needed. Get up regularly if sitting long periods - give yourself and baby space to move!
Side sleeping is advocated as the best position to sleep in during pregnancy - especially in your third trimester. Try lying on your side using your pregnancy pillows to add extra support where it is now needed. Use a firm but comfortable pillow for your head and place another pillow between your knees and ankles to help keep your pelvis stacked and minimize strain on the pelvic ligaments. Place a small pillow under your stomach to relieve any tension or strain on your pelvis and back from the weight of the bump. Try out our Body Support Pillow for comfortable sleep and rest.
Regular gentle exercise is a great way to stay in shape and keep those postural muscles that support your back in good shape. Short but regular walks, even ten minutes, are a simple way to incorporate exercise and time for yourself into your daily schedule. Keep up those good postural habits here too. Imagine a string going from the top of your head to the sky, the back of your neck getting longer. Avoid carrying a bag while you are out for a walk or if necessary, carry one across your body, or use a back pack. Keep your arms down by your side and let them gently swing as you walk. This will help mobilise the spine and encourage nice deep breaths.
Swimming can be a great exercise too, with the water alleviating the extra load the body is carrying. Do take care getting in and out of the pool!
Join a pregnancy safe Pilates or yoga class to specifically target strengthening your postural muscles
If you continue to have pain or discomfort when feeding then book in to see a women’s health physio for treatment and further advice.
This blog post was written by Rebecca Dodson and Stacey Law from Leto Women's Health.
Leaders in women’s health, Rebecca Dodson and Stacey Law both trained over 15 years ago as musculoskeletal and sports physios before their passion for working with women led them to specialise in pelvic floor physiotherapy, pre and post-natal exercise, clinical pilates and acupuncture.
Rebecca and Stacey believe that they can make the most impactful difference to lives by both educating clients about their bodies as well as giving them the tools for how to get the most out of them. They bring this approach to all the clients they work with; formulating a tailored assessment and personalised plan that takes the individual into account. They also advocate using exercise as part of the treatment (where appropriate) as that allows them to see how a woman’s bodies responds when her muscles are engaged, and how to best correct any issues that may arise from that.
If you are in Auckland, you can book in to see Becs or Stacey here.
]]>Your baby’s skin is extremely delicate, especially within their first two years of age. Many of your usual bath and skincare products can cause rashes for babies, which are often characterised by bumps and blotches on the skin. Dampness, dirt, and excrement are also common causes of most newborn skin problems. While most skin conditions for young children are harmless and eventually clear up by themselves, there are a couple of things you can do to protect your baby’s skin. Here's a look at a few below.
Look out for diaper rash
If your baby has red skin mainly around the diaper area, you’re probably dealing with diaper rash. This occurs when diapers are too tight, or when wet diapers are left on for too long. In some cases, a particular brand of soap, diaper, or baby wipes could also be irritating your baby’s skin.
Irritant contact dermatitis is the most common type of diaper rash, and can be solved simply by changing your baby’s diaper more frequently and using a rash cream to help calm down their skin. Some advanced cases of rashes like eczema, intertrigo, or yeast infections may require further medical care, so be sure to monitor and check in with your paediatrician when you can.
Help them adjust to temperature changes
For babies that are younger than six months, it’s best to prep for the summer months by keeping baby as comfortable as possible. Babies struggle to regulate their temperature, so keep them out of direct sunlight as much as possible and dress them in breathable clothes. The temperature for your baby’s room should be at 18-20°C and look into investing in airnest fibres like tencel and merino for your baby's bedding. Both are soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking fabrics that can help with temperature regulation and combating skin irritation.
Keep them away from dust mites
Another source of allergic reactions could be dust mites, which thrive in warm, humid environments. They can cause itching, eczema, and even asthma and rhinitis for young children. To keep your baby’s environment clean and safe, air their beddings daily and wash duvets and pillows regularly, preferably in water that’s at least 60°C. Also, keep all floors and upholstery clean to avoid the transferring of dust mites.
To ensure the baby's safety, our airnest Mattress is 100% washable from its cover to the core. Moreover, the airnest core is made from food-grade polypropylene with no chemical-based foams or adhesives, and its cover is Oeko-Tex class one, which is classified as safe for babies. These materials keep any allergens, off-gassing, and other nasties away.
Moisturise their skin
Although it’s normal for newborns to have patch of dry skin, babies also do well with mild moisturisers. Always remember that less is more — most baby products are formulated without dyes, fragrances, phthalates, and parabens, but it’s better to check the ingredient list yourself. Petroleum jelly and aloe vera are two safe bets, and can help soothe areas that are dry or irritated. When in doubt, always check with your baby’s paediatrician to confirm if a product is appropriate.
Avoid bathing every day
For newborns, two to three baths a week will suffice. Too much washing can dry out their skin and even increase their risk of developing eczema. You can instead use a wet washcloth to sanitise their mouth, their diaper area, and anywhere they have skin folds. Baths should also be done in warm water for only about three to five minutes, and you should avoid letting them sit or play in soapy water for too long.
Better care for healthier skin
With regular care, you can ensure that your baby's skin remains soft, smooth, and healthy. If you find a rash or any other sign of irritation worsening within several days, don’t hesitate to contact a paediatrician to get medical assistance.
Article was specially written for https://au.growbright.co by Amy Palmer
]]>Tell us about Theodore and what becoming a mum has taught you
Theodore is the most fun loving little human I’ve ever met. I know as Mothers we can be biased but he has truly become my best friend… and he seems to think I’m quite alright too! He has a lovely nature, is very curious, loves to laugh but can also be quite serious if the time calls for it. He’s intrigued by everything and loves to tell stories. Becoming a Mum has taught me how precious every moment is and that nothing else truly matters and I shouldn’t sweat the little things!
What advice would you give yourself in the early days of motherhood?
REST, just rest. You don’t have to be superwoman, you’ve been through a lot. You matter and the age old saying “you can’t pour from an empty glass” is true. I can honestly say that I did not do this at the start and it caught up to me quickly. We are all about women and new mums looking after themselves and their needs too and I did not take this advice. I guess I was living on the adrenaline of having a new life to care for and although I had all of this support offered, I didn’t take it like I should have so… Rest and take support offered, you deserve it!
Biggest challenges vs biggest rewards of motherhood?
Biggest challenge would have to be accepting help and accepting that I don’t always know best. The biggest reward would have to be everything, honestly everything, even the 2am wake ups, the blow outs, the sore nips, and the huge bags under my eyes. In those moments I just look at Theodore and have to smile and laugh because although it’s definitely not always pretty or easy, it’s because of him and I feel so lucky to be his mum and although I haven’t slept longer than 3 hours in 365 days, totally worth it!
Motherhood is one epic role, but like everyone says, it takes a village; who are some people who are part of your village that have helped you be the awesome mum that you are?
My mum has been a huge support for me. We work together running Belly Bands and that in itself is huge but to be able to have a role model like her and I’m really lucky Theodore gets to call her Granny. My baby group friends, we all met at 6 weeks postpartum and instantly became friends, confidants, sisters-in-life, and our babies are each born a week apart so the journey has been incredibly special to share with the 5 of us and our bubs. I wish everyone had the chance to find a group of friends like this or at least find some support in an online community because sometimes Motherhood can feel lonely and you just want to talk about the fact that a tiny human pooped on you whilst walking through the grocery store!
Tell us about your career and how you manage both that and motherhood
I’m the General Manager of Belly Bands and boy we have had some growth and changes the last couple of years, mainly during my pregnancy and this past year Theodore has been earth-side! So it’s been a lot of juggling but I’m incredibly lucky to have been able to bring Theodore to work with me and he even joins in on Zoom meetings (much surprise to the other business on the call!). I have had to make clear rules for myself and my workload to ensure I am always putting Theodore first. I try my best not to work at home (when he’s awake!) and I make sure I take time to listen to his needs and if he’s unhappy and wants to leave then that’s what we’ve got to do. I am trying this approach so I can minimise the amount of mum guilt that we all feel everyday anyway otherwise I think I’d be quite regretful in the future if I prioritised work over him. We’ve put years of hard work into the business so now I just want to enjoy the fleeting moments of my tiny human before he continues to grow up super quickly.
What are your favourite things about Theodore?
His personality, his toothy grin, when he crawls up and gives me a cuddle and kiss, and his crazy hair when he wakes up from a nap! The change he’s made in my heart and life.
What do you do to take time out for yourself?
I love to catch up with our Mum & Baby group, that’s a huge relief. I enjoy taking breaks by going walking and the beach or on “mini adventures” with Theodore (and sometimes our puppy Arya). I love being outside and due to work I’m usually at Belly Bands HQ so when I’m not at work, Theodore and I make the most of getting some fresh air!
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