I have started this page to help families find and experiment with new recipes to help children enjoy their food. We would like you to get involved and send us your family's favourite recipes. These recipes can be for breakfast, lunch, dinner or snacks between meals, they may be for lunch boxes or picnics or camping. They can be simple or involved recipes and we love trying out recipes from different cultures too. If you would like to share your recipes with us we would be delighted. Of course we are looking to encourage healthy eating habits but there are also times when we want to indulge in special treats too. So send them in and we will post them up for all to enjoy.
Children love to get involved, try to encourage them to help you with the preparations; this often helps them eat it. Choose healthy high fibre, low sugar and no or low salt ingredients where possible. And remember safety first. Always supervise your children in the kitchen and do not let children near the hot oven or stove or in using equipment that may be dangerous.
Since
my article on ‘Fussy Feeders’ I have been asked about ways to disguise
healthy foods in everyday recipes. I believe the master of disguising
food is Jessica Seinfeld who has a book called Deceptively Delicious. I
would recommend this book to any family even if you don’t have a fussy
feeder. Jessica has some wonderful ideas for all sorts of disguise in
an amazing array of foods. I’d like to share some of these with you. Jessica suggests cooking and pureeing foods to be added to
recipes. I suggest incorperating this idea with other recipes you try.
If you or any of your friends have recipes that you would like to share with us sent them to info@cradle2kindy.com.au
You will need to buy all the ingredients before starting this easy to
make
recipe.
Firstly prepare the rice. Short or medium grained rice will suffice if
you
can't find Sushi rice. Wash 2-3 times in cold water till the water
is no
longer cloudy.
Place rice into a saucepan -
. 2 cups of rice to 2 cups of water
Cover, bring to the boil and simmer for 15 mins or cook in rice cooker.
Allow to stand for 10 mins.
Mix together:
3 tablespoons rice/sushi vinegar
2 tablespoons sugar (optional)
salt to taste (optional)
Pour this over the rice and stir gently until thoroughly mixed in.
Allow to
cool to room temperature.
While rice is cooling prepare fillings.
Choose ingredients from the
following list
that you and your family enjoy such as -
.
cucumber, carrot, cheese,
capsicum, avocado, egg - beaten then fried flat and cut into strips
spring onions or shallots,
. mushrooms fresh of cooked,
pickled ginger, radish or gherkins,
cold meat, sausage or chicken,
tuna or cooked fresh fish,
mayonnaise to add flavour.
Or any other filling of your choice.
Cut all the fillings into long
thin
strips. Sometimes you may like to use up bits from yesterday's
meal, for
example cold sausages, fish, or meat thinly sliced.
The last ingredients you will need -
nori (dried layers of seaweed)
Japanese soy sauce for dipping (for the adults)
water and a pastry brush or finger
With everyone sitting around the table with the ingredients on plates or
a
clean chopping board you are ready to go.
Place the nori sheet on a wooden board or bamboo place-mat and spread
some
rice mix over 2/3 of the nori sheet leaving a space of 2 cm at the end
furthest from you. On the end closest to you put a thin strip of the
fillings of your choice and a little mayonnaise to your taste. Roll the
nori sheet firmly over the filling and rice then with pastry brush or
finger
dampen the edge with water to seal. By the time everyone has made their
sushi rolls they will have had time to sit for the needed 10 minutes.
This
will allow them to set. Now cut them with a sharp knife into mouth size
pieces.
Eat with fingers or have fun with chopsticks.
Since everyone has made their own sushi, choosing what they like to go
into
it, they are bound to enjoy it. Once you have all the ingredients this
recipe is quick, easy and ready within minutes.
I have once again chosen a recipe sent in by a client who recommended another of Jessica Seinfeld’s recipes, which the whole family enjoys:
Baked Spaghetti & Meatball Pie
From: ‘Deceptively Delicious’ by Jessica Seinfeld
Ingredients
1 cup of leftover cooked pasta or wholemeal spaghetti
500 g mincemeat, minced chicken or tin of tuna drained
1 large egg white
2 tablespoons grated parmesan
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
2 cups of tomato sauce
1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup shredded Mozzarella
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup grated carrot (this can be let out or replaced with ¼ cup carrot puree if your child is fussy with vegies).
½ cup of pureed mixed veg – put a combination of vegetables into a food processer and puree.
NB. Vegetables can be carrot, sweet potato, broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini, pumpkin, fresh beetroots, peas, capsicum, or spinach. The idea is that the flavour of this puree doesn’t have an over powering taste or colour.
Preparation
Preheat the oven at 180 C and lightly grease a 20 cm baking dish.
If you are not using left over pasta cook your paster till al dente, drain and cool.
Into a large bowl, mix the pasta, tuna, tomato sauce, grated carrot and cottage cheese then flavour to taste with salt and pepper.
Or, using the mince mixture make 2cm balls by mixing mince with, pureed vegetables, egg white, parmesan and garlic.
Pour the pasta mixture into the baking dish spread out evenly before adding the meatballs and sprinkling with mozzarella.
Bake for 25 -30 minutes uncovered or until the centre is firm and the cheese is browned.
Note when making sauce or mince or stews, vegetables can be disguise by adding them grated or pureed. Into tomato sauces, mince or meat dishes add pureed dark vegetables to such as spinach, broccoli, peas, fresh beetroots, capsicum, carrot, sweet potato, or pumpkin and light vegetables such as potato, cauliflower, sweeds, turnips and zucchini without its skin into cheese sauces.
This recipe is easy and fun to make for young and old and because you can choose what goes on-top of your own pizza, you are bound to enjoy it. It is quick and ready within minutes. I keep a stack made up in my freezer ready for those occasions when I
need a quick meal. Bag them individually in plastic bags and stack them
on top each other then when you need a quick meal take them out and
place them on an oven tray in a hot oven.
Most children enjoy pizza. Check out the ideas on how to incorporate
vegetables that are not always accepted. Also encouraging a fussy eater
to get involved with making their own pizza with the toppings they
enjoy is not only a great way to encourage a child to enjoy their food
but a fun way to involve the whole family.
You will need:
Pitta bread - one for every member. (small children may only eat half the other half can then be shared with older children or parents).
Tomato paste
Herbs - oregano, basil, garlic
Favourite toppings finely chopped such as -
grated mozzarella cheese,
sun-dried tomato or fresh tomato, capsicum,
olives pitted, onion,
Cold meats, ham, sausage, chicken or fish
Or any other topping of your choice. Choose healthy high fibre, low sugar and no or low salt ingredients where possible. Place these in bowls with spoons to be sprinkled on top on the pizza base.
Put enough tomato paste into a bowl and stir in a little finely chopped oregano, basil, garlic or any herb your family likes. Spread this mixture thinly over the pitta bread.
Once the pitta bread is prepared you are ready to go. Make space on your table or bench to for each child to have a pizza base in-front of them and within reach the bowls of toppings. Sprinkle the toppings over the pizza base. It doesn’t matter if it is unevenly spread or what order the toppings go on some like the cheese first some like it sprinkled on last. Allow each child to make their own pizza, don’t try to improve on their creation. You may like to make shapes, faces or patterns with the ingredients.
Encourage your child not to put too much on and to spread it around not in clumps.
Once the pizza is finished pop it into a preheated over and cook for fifteen minutes on 250 degrees centigrade or until golden brown.
Cut and serve warm or cold as a snack or for school lunches. Make sure there is an ice bottle in the lunchbox to keep food cool.
This recipy is from Jessica Seinfeld's book ‘Deceptively Delicious’.
Brownies (with carrot and spinach)
Ingredients
Non-stick cooking spray
90gms semisweet or bittersweet chocolate
½ cup carrot puree
½ cup spinach puree
½ cup firmly packed light or dark brown sugar
¼ cup unsweetened coco powder
2 tablespoons trans-fat-free soft tub margarine spread
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2 large egg whites
¾ cup oat flour, or all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
Preheat the oven to 130F. Coat a 20x20 cm baking pan with cooking spray.
Method
Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or over a very low flame.
In a large bowl, combine the melted chocolate, vegetable purees, sugar, cocoa powder, margarine, and vanilla, and whisk until smooth and creamy, 1-2 minutes.
Whisk in egg whites. Stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt with a wooden spoon.
Pour the batter into the pan and bake 35 to 40 minutes. Cool completely in a pan before cutting into 12 bars.
Jessica’s warning: “... do not serve them warm – it’s not until they’re completely cool that the spinach flavour totally disappears.”
I acquired this recipe when I working overnight with a client. I thought it was a good winter dish. I hope you enjoy it.
Ingredients
Prepare pasta enough for 4 while cooking the following in a wok or large pot.
A chunk of Hungarian sausage cut into 2 cm slices and cut these in eights.
1 large onion cut fine
2 garlic cut fine but kept separately
8 small mushrooms
1/4 cup pitted black olives
1/2 green or red capsicum
1/2 cup tomato paste
water
pepper and salt to taste and chilli if you desire to your taste.
Method
Fry the onion till tender
Add the sausage and tomato paste and enough water to keep it as a thick sauce.
Add the remaining ingredients and cook keeping the veg crunchy.
Finally add the last clove of garlic just before taking off the stove which enhances the flavour.
Pour over prepared pasta and serve with parmesan cheese.
Since
my article on ‘Fussy Feeders’ I have been asked about ways to disguise
healthy foods in everyday recipes. I believe the master of disguising
food is Jessica Seinfeld who has a book called Deceptively Delicious. I
would recommend this book to any family even if you don’t have a fussy
feeder. Jessica has some wonderful ideas for all sorts of disguise in
an amazing array of foods. I’d like to share one of these with you this
month. Jessica suggests cooking and pureeing foods to be added to
recipes. In this recipe she adds pureed beetroots which also provides
the colour.
Pink Pancakes
by Jessica Seinfeld
Ingredients
¾ cup water
½ cup ricotta cheese
¼ cup beet puree
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
½ teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup pancake mix (commercial or homemade)
¼ cup grated apple
Non stick cooking spray
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Pure maple syrup or fruit, for serving
Method
In a blender or food processor, combine the water, ricotta cheese, beet puree, vanilla, and cinnamon and blend. Dump the mixture into a medium bowl, add the pancake mix and apple, and stir until just combined. Do not over mix – the batter will be a little lumpy.
Coat the griddle or large non-stick skillet with cooking spray and set in over medium-high heat. When hot, add the oil. Spoon the batter onto the griddle or skillet, using about ¼ cup batter for each pancake. Cook the pancakes until bubbles form on the top and the batter is set, 1-2 minutes. Then flip the pancakes with a spatula and cook until golden brown on the other side, 2-3 minutes. Serve warm, with syrup or fruit.
To make your own dry pancake fixture to be used in the above recipe try...
1 cups self raising flour
1 tablespoons sugar
2 eggs
Aussie Pikelet mixture is similar to an American pancake mixture.
Aussie Pikelets
(makes approx 40) Ingredients
1½ cups self raising flour
Pinch of salt
2 tablespoons sugar
2 eggs
1 cup milk
Method
Sift flour
Beat eggs and sugar in a large bowl
To this add the milk and flour alternatively in two lots and mix well.
Cook immediately in hot greased iron griddle or heavy frying pan.
When bubbles rise turn with a broad knife or spatula and cook the other side till brown.
Serve with butter.
Pikelets can be cooked small (8cm in diameter) as we do here in Oz, or can be made bigger (size of a saucer) to be eaten like an Americans pancake with a variety of toppings.
1 cup plain flour
¼ teaspoon salt
1 egg
1¼ cups milk
Method
1. Sift flour and salt into a large bowl. Then make a well in the centre.
2. Add the egg and stir lightly while gradually adding milk.
3. Beat till mixed well.
4. Stand in a cool place for ½ hour.
5. Heat a pan with a little oil and pour in sufficient mixture to thinly cover the bottom of pan.
6. Cook till lightly brown and set. Loosen edges and toss to cook the other side.
7. Serve warm with the topping of your choice.
This mixture is more like a crape.
Toppings: Brown sugar and lemon (my favourite), jam, honey or maple syrup, pureed fruit topped with cream or ice cream.
This recipe by Robyn Barker was sent in
by Kerri from Manley.
Chicken Pasta Bake
Ingredients
250 g (2 cups) cooked fusilli pasta
125 g cottage cheese
3 eggs
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 onion, finely chopped
500 g minced lean chicken or minced meat
400 g can tomatoes, chopped
½ cup water
2 tablespoons homemade tomato sauce or commercial Italian tomato sauce
300 ml carton fresh cream or ½ cream and ½ natural yogurt
1 ½ cups grated Cheddar cheese
Fresh breadcrumbs
Preheat the oven to 180° C. In a mixing bowl, mix the pasta, cottage cheese and 1 egg. Put into a greased baking dish.
In a frying pan, heat the oil and sauté the onion until soft.
Add the chicken and cook until it changes colour, stirring frequently.
Add the tomatoes, water and tomato sauce. Simmer until the sauce thickens, about 20 mins, and then pour over the pasta mixture.
Beat the remaining eggs with the cream. Mix in the cheese and spoon over the chicken mixture. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs.
Bake for 30 mins.
Puree or mouli portions for your baby.
Kerri also says this dish is delicious when sliced up and served cold for lunch or for picnics. Chicken mince can be replaced with lean minced meat or a tin of tuna.
Rachel has sent in her favorite recipe Sweet Potato Custard by Bridget Swinney, which Rachel found on the baby centre website. Rachel suggests it is good to use up any unused expressed milk that may have been defrosted but not needed and suggests it is also a good way to introduce egg yolk when starting on solids.
I you or any of your friends have recipes that you would like to share with us sent them to info@cradle2kindy.com.au
Sweet Potato Custard
Ingredients
1/3 cup pureed sweet potatoes
1/2 cup formula or milk
1 egg yolk
1/4 teaspoon vanilla
Preparations
Mix first three ingredients in small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 3 minutes).
Cook an additional 30 seconds - until 160°F is reached. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
Let cool and serve.
Please note:
If there is not a family history of allergies to eggs, egg yolks can be introduced to babies at 8 months. When first introducing eggs start with a small amount of cooked egg yolk then if there is no adverse reaction, egg whites may be offered in small amounts.
Egg yolk can be boiled and added to vegetables, mixed with a little butter and smeared on toast, or made into egg yolk custard.
Into a liquidiser add equal amounts of full cream Greek yogurt and frozen fruit and zap till all ingredients are mixed together. Pour into small bowls and eat immediately. Or place ina plastic container in the freezer for ½ hour before serving or in an icy pole tray with a stick and freeze. No extra sugar is needed as the fruit sugars will sweeten this treat.
Freshly squeezed fruit juice poured into and icy-pole tray with sticks and freeze.
Small chunks of fresh fruit can be added for texture. Vegetable juice can also be mixed with the fruit juice especially if your child has an aversion to vegetables.
Suggestions
Use apples, oranges, grape or pineapple juice as the staple ingredients and add vegetables such as celery, carrot, beetroot or buy the veg and fruit juice mix from the supermarket and use that if you don’t have your own juicer.
Try mixing up your own flavours and let us know what the family favourite is.
White Christmas
Ingredients
1 cup powdered milk
1 cup desiccated coconut
¾ cup icing sugar
1 cup mixed fruit
250 gms copha
1 ½ cups rice bubbles
Preparations
Melt copha in small saucepan
Mix all other ingredients in a large bowl, pour on the melted copha
Mix well with a flat edged knife
Turn into a flat tin and press out well
Allow to set in the refrigerator then cut into squares.
Store in a cool place
If you or any of your friends have recipes that you would like to share with us sent them to info@cradle2kindy.com.au
For more information on parenting topics you may like take a look at our e-books Publications on this link.
All articles on this website have a copyright any use of any material must have permission from Cradle 2 Kindy Parenting Solutions.
Disclaimer: Article on our website are for education purposes
only.
Packing lunch boxes is a task that parents do thousands of times. Some find it easy, others find it difficult to know what to put in there. Your job as a parent is to provide appropriate food choices. It is up to your child how much to eat from the food you provide. If your child doesn’t eat the food you provide, it doesn’t mean you got it wrong. There are many reasons that food comes back home in the lunch box:
Not enough time to eat – some children are busier playing than eating. These children often eat more at afternoon tea after school than at lunch time.
There is more food in the lunch box than your child has room for – children may eat more at lunch one day and less the next. It is hard to judge the exact amount every day. It is important to accept that your child will eat if they are hungry. Don’t get upset if they haven’t eaten everything that you packed. They can eat the rest of their lunch for afternoon tea.
Your child is not particularly hungry at lunch time. They may have eaten a big breakfast and something at morning tea. If they haven’t eaten much at lunch they will make up for it over the rest of the day.
Golden Rules
Make sure your child has breakfast before school. Breakfast can be fast and simple such as a glass of milk with Milo®, a commercial liquid breakfast drink, a piece of fruit, a tub of yogurt. Something quick is better than nothing.
Children need 2 to 3 serves of vegetables a day. Include some vegetables in their lunch box. This can include a vegetable based soup, a container of salad vegetables, a small can of baked beans or corn kernels.
Pack water or milk to drink. Milk can be sent in individual serves of long life plain or flavoured milk. Choose reduced-fat milk for pre-school children and low fat milk for school-age children.
Dairy foods, such as yogurt, milk, custard and rice pudding desserts can be packed in an insulated bag. There are many bags available that are effective for keeping food cold. Refrigerate the food overnight.
Freeze water the night before. Pop it in the lunch box. It will gradually defrost and be nice and cold by lunchtime. It will also keep other food cold, such as cold meats, tuna and cheese.
Variety is the basis of good nutrition. Vary the sandwich fillings, vegetables, dairy foods and fruit that you pack for school. There is no need to include gourmet foods to ensure variety.
Have a supply of small plastic containers available to pack raw vegetables, yogurt, baked beans, pasta salad, tabouli, couscous salad, sushi (no raw fish for school)
This article was written Eve Reed for Cradle 2 Kindy Parenting Solutions. Eva Reed is an accredited Practising Dietitian and can be contacted on T: 02 94374752 www.familyfoodworks.com.au
Disclaimer: Article on our website are for education
purposes only. Please consult with your doctor to make sure this
information is right for your child.
For more information on similar parenting topics you may like take a look at our e-books Publications on this link.
All articles on this website have a copyright. The use of any material
must have permission from Cradle 2 Kindy Parenting Solutions.
Good foot care should start young while feet are still growing to achieve healthy feet.
There is a lot you can do to help your child’s feet remain in good condition and to prepare them for standing, walking, running and everything and everything needing for the years ahead.
Baby’s Feet
Kicking and wriggling their feet develop baby’s muscles so do not constantly restrict them in socks, booties, leggings or tight bedding. It is normal for an infant to have cool hands and feet it is therefore suggested to restrict footwear for cold weather or when you are taking your baby out in the cold.
When fitting your baby with footwear regularly check that it is not too tight. Babies grow quickly and article shrunk in the wash. Ankle ties on booties should be loose enough to allow free circulation. Be especially careful of suits with covered-in toes – even if rest of the suit fits, the feet might be too tight. If necessary, cut off the suit’s foot and hem the edges.
Going barefoot is very important for development especially when a child begins to crawl as it strengthens toes ready for walking.
Toddler & Children’s Feet
All babies develop at their own pace so don’t compare your child’s development with other children of the same age. Do not be in a rush to teach your child to walk. They will walk when they are ready. Most children walk between the ages of nine to 18 months. Some are more physically and emotionally ready for their first step well before others. It can be harmful to try to encourage your baby to walk before they are ready.
DON’T use artificial walking aids such as walkers or activity centres, jumpers and swings; they can be detrimental to your child’s walking development and the correct development for academic learning. Feet and legs develop best when a baby learns to walk at their own pace.
If your child has flat feet don’t worry their arches will develop as their baby fat disappears and their feet grow stronger.
Shoes
Shoes can be worn once your child is walking well before this time going barefoot is very important to develop muscles and balance.
It is very important when choosing shoes that they fit properly right from the beginning. Remember growing feet need room to grow so choose carefully. You need to be aware that poor fitting shoes can lead to foot deformities later.
What to look for:
Shoes should be soft and pliable and fit securely on the feet. Choose a pair with fastenings so that the heel is held in position. The inner edge of the shoe should be as straight as possible, and the toe should be both wide enough and deep enough. There should be no pressure on the little toe, and the heel should fit snugly. Avoid tapered toes.
Sandals need to have secure straps over the instep and behind the ankle to stop the foot slipping forward and damaging the toes. This is where foot problems can start.
Check the size:
Children don’t’ always complain when the shoe starts to feel tight therefore it is important to check their shoe size regularly. It is also important to remember that a shoe conforms to the shape of the first feet to wear them. So passing shoes on to the next child in line when the first has grown out of them may not be a good idea. In the end, feet that have been badly treated cost more than a new pair of shoes.
Length: You can check the length by asking your child to stand with each foot on a piece of cardboard. Mart at the back of the heel and the tip of the longest toe. Cut the strip of cardboard to the marked length and about 2 cm wide, insert it inside the shoe and push it towards the toe. If there is 1-2 cm between the end of the cardboard and the heel of the shoe, the shoe is long enough. If the cardboard touches the heel, try a larger size. (This method will only work with round-toed shoes)
Width and depth: Don’t forget to check the width and depth of the toecap as well.
Socks
The size of socks is just as important as shoe size as tight socks can also affect developing feet. While a child is growing rapidly both shoes and socks need replacing frequently. When replacing shoes remember to buy new socks as well. Before a child starts school, shoes and sock should be checked for size at least once a month.
Natural fibre such as cotton or woollen socks are the best as they help the foot to breath.
Health & Hygiene
Hygiene is very important for our feet.
Dry thoroughly, especially between the toes.
When bathing your child wash their feet with soap and clean water.
Cut toe nails straight across.
Once your child is able to walk well you should reduce carrying them. Take them by the hand instead and teach them more independence. A daily stroll is not only one of the healthiest forms of exercise but is a good habit to start early. It’s god exercise for you, too.
Continue with lots of barefoot play as this helps strengthen growing feet. Make sure the area is safe to avoid cuts and accidents.
When sending a small child to day care or school remember to send a spare pair of socks. Wet pants usually mean wet socks too.
This article was written by mothercraft nurse Sally Hall from Cradle 2 Kindy Parenting Solutions.
Disclaimer: Article on our website are for education purposes only. Please consult with your doctor to make sure this information is right for your child.
For more information on similar parenting topics you may like take a look at our e-books Publications on this link.
All articles on this website have a copyright. The use of any material must have permission from Cradle 2 Kindy Parenting Solutions.
We all need iron for brain function, energy and growth (in children) and to fight infections. Iron carries oxygen in the blood to cells around the body including the brain. Our immune system also depends on iron to work properly.
Pregnant women
Pregnant women have an increased amount of blood and therefore need more iron to carry extra oxygen.
Infants
Infants have stores of iron from the pregnancy, however these stores run out after about six months. After this infants need to get iron from their diet. Breastmilk alone does not provide enough iron after about six months, so iron containing foods need to be introduced.
Infants need this good source of dietary iron from about six months of age in order to prevent iron deficiency.
Children
Children also need iron for learning and brain development. Adequate iron allows children to concentrate and have enough energy to learn. It also prevents illness which will affect learning.
Iron Absorption
Not all iron is the same as far as our bodies are concerned. More of the iron in animal foods such as meat and chicken is absorbed than the iron in plant foods such as legumes and grain foods such as breads and cereals. However there are ways of increasing the amount of iron that is absorbed from plant foods. Firstly if we eat foods containing vitamin C at the same meal as the plant foods, then more iron is absorbed. Foods that are high in vitamin C include fruits such as oranges, mandarins, kiwifruit, berries and vegetables such as capsicum, tomato, broccoli and potato.
So eating a small amount of these foods at the same meal as grain foods and legumes will increase the amount of iron that is absorbed.
Secondly, meat, chicken and fish increase the amount of iron that is absorbed from plant foods when they are eaten at the same meal. Other promoters of iron absorption from plant foods are citric acid, malic acid and tartaric acid which are found in fruit.
More iron is absorbed when our body’s iron stores are low – how clever our bodies are!
There are also compounds in foods that can decrease the amount of iron that is absorbed from plant foods. These include:
phytate – this compound is found in a range of foods particularly whole grain (unrefined) cereal foods, legumes and nuts. Babies would not be eating large amounts of phytate as their intake of all foods is small and most of the cereals they eat are refined or partly refined.
Tannin – this is found in tea, coffee and wine. So it is not a good idea to offer infants these drinks!
Good sources of iron for babies
Commercial infant cereals and breakfast cereals that have iron added during the processing. Look for iron in the ingredients list on the package
Red meats such as beef and lamb
Legumes such as kidney beans, chick peas, lentils
Green leafy vegetables
Wholemeal grain foods such as wholemeal bread, oats
For ideas on how to prepare meat for infants and young children see www.themainmeal.com.au and go to red meat information centre
Click the following link for a list of Iron Rich Foods.
For more information on similar parenting topics you may like take a look at our e-books Publications on this link.
Disclaimer: Article on our website are for education
purposes only. Please consult with your doctor to make sure this
information is right for your child.
All articles on this website have a copyright any use of any
material must have permission from Cradle 2 Kindy Parenting Solutions.
Starting school or childcare is an exciting time for children but it can also be very daunting. There is a great deal of change and some children (and adults!) adapt quicker and easier than others. Not only do you have to find the right placement for your child but it is also very important to prepare your child for this new step. There are a few things that you can do to help your child prepare.
Firstly, prepare your child by talking about school or childcare. Tell them where it is, how long they will be there and what they can expect when they go. Read books on starting school. Visit the school or childcare centre. Take a walk around the premises, through the playground and their room, and introduce them to their teacher. Talk about the activities they will be doing, things they are going to be learning, and the new friends they will make. It is often helpful if you already know some of your child’s friends who will be attending the same childcare or school, if not talk about the new friends they will soon be making. Some schools hold special orientation days where students and teachers are able to meet each other. If your school doesn’t have such an event they are often very happy to help you organise a parents gathering. This is a great opportunity to meet other parents with children of the same age. Getting to know some of these families before your child attends school will help your child adjust quickly, as they will be able to recognise familiar faces from day one. Once you have made contact with parents whose children are going to be at the same school you can then arrange to meet them with their children in a local park or have them visit your home so that the children can play together and get to know each other.
If you don’t already have a routine it may be advisable to have one in place before your child starts school as it is not easy to start a new schedule the night before school starts. You will also need to work out what time you will need to be up to prepare the family and get out of the house on time without too much of a rush. It can benefit to have a few practise mornings to help prepare both you and your child. Your rushing can increase the stress levels of your already anxious child. A tip to remember is to do as much of your preparations the night before. Prepare the school bag, lunches and choose the clothes to be worn, put the socks with the shoes. Talking about shoes, does your child know how to take off and put on their own shoes? If not they will need to practices with your help weeks in advance. Have they worn in their new school shoes? You do not want your child to have the discomfort of blisters as well as nerves on his/her first day.
Many schools and childcares will provide parents with a check list of items they require. Go through this list making sure all items have been put into the school bag. When preparing your child’s school bag, pack it ready to go the night before school so that you will not forget anything on that special day. Put all items in the bag except the lunch box perishables and put the school bag on the kitchen counter ready to pack with the lunch and snacks before you leave. Ensure that everything is clearly labelled. It is amazing how much lost property can be found at your child’s school without names on it. You spend a great deal of money preparing your child for school, so spend some time labelling all of your child’s property. It is a good idea too, to get into the habit of checking the labels as they can wear or peel off over time. There are often things you may like to pack into your child’s bag including a spare pare of undies, shorts and socks in case of accidents. It is embarrassing enough when your child has an accident, without the teacher having to find spare clothes. Your child will need to be reassured that this is something that often happens to children and it is nothing to worry about. Encourage your child to tell a teacher. If you show you are worried, it will make them feel that there really is something to worry about. For children attending childcare who have a favourite toy for sleep, please include this in there bag as well as the necessary bedding.
Good nutrition is essential for children at school. Choose foods and snacks your child likes keeping to the healthy choices. Try out a variety of different foods before sending them with your child to school, so that you know which ones will be eaten. Remember, many so call healthy snacks and muslei bars are packed full of sugar and are of no real nutritional value. Fresh vegies sticks and a simple cream cheese dip are a better choice. There are also a variety of different lunch boxes which allow you to send your child to school with a ‘taster’ lunch – small pieces of different foods they can pick on for example; cheese, crackers, dip or fruit such as grapes. It is important to make sure that your child can open all of the boxes and packets that you have packed for them. Have a practise-run picnic lunch in the garden just for fun, this way you will know your child can manage things independently at school. Remember to pack a bottle of water. This can be frozen the night before and added to the lunch box in the morning. A frozen bottle of water will often have time to melt before it is needed and will help keep the perishables fresh. If your child attends a childcare that provides lunch, it is not advisable to put special food in for them as this will not encourage your child to try new foods. If you child has a special food requirement, intolerance or allergies you will be required to fill in specific forms to inform staff. You will also be required to have a medical plan in place which is written in conjunction with your child’s doctor. This should be discussed well before your child’s first day.
Children attending school and child care usual come home exhausted. You will need to prepare them for their busy day ahead of time and this includes a good 12 hours night sleep and a hearty breakfast. You do not want your child starting school tired or running low on attention. Twelve hours sleep at night is needed to help little brains and bodies develop and to assist their immune systems recharge. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and will also provide your child with the energy needed to concentrate and learn at school. A good wholegrain cereal, toast and fruit or yogurt are all excellent choices. Foods that are high in sugar tend to provide your child with a lot of energy for a short period of time and as a result your child is often left feeling tired and hungry before the lunch bell.
Busy little bodies burn up lots of calories and as a result most children are often ‘starving’ at the end of the day. A healthy snack straight after school is a great idea – some children are often too excited to eat lunch! At the end of a long day prepare a healthy snack and water which you can take with you when you pick them up after school. A piece of fruit is perfect for this. If they are still hungry when you get home it is prudent to have an early dinner followed by a piece of fruit if they are still hungry before bedtime. This will prevent filling up on snacks and picking at a dinner. Some children are so tired in the evening initially, that this routine will ensure they have a good meal before going to bed. Give your child an early night before childcare or school starts.
Some children are very anxious about starting school. If your child is worried about starting school, ask them about their fears and what will help, for example; who would they like to take them to school? Where do you want to say goodbye? Where will you pick them up from? What would they like to do after school? If your child feels they have some sort of control over what happens, it can help with fears. Some children worry about you! Tell them what you will be doing while they are at school. Let your child know that you believe in them and know that they can manage school and that you can help them. Be flexible in the early days of school. Some children can be tired and grumpy until they settle in. If your child is really upset, if you are worried, or if there is bullying or teasing going on, talk to the teacher about it. Children do their best at school when their parents and teachers’ have a good relationship and work together to support them.
At the end of your child’s day, they may want to tell you about everything as soon as you pick them up. Make some time for your child at this time of day or as soon as you get home from work. There has been a great deal of time preparing your child for this special day, they are usually excited to tell you all about it. Some children are a little quieter. A good idea is to listen, but don’t ask too many questions. Children will talk when they are ready. Bedtime is usually a good time to listen. Use prompts to help you understand their day eg ‘What did you learn today?’ ‘Who did you play with?’ A story about school can also help as it will start a conversation with your child.
Every child and family is different. A new routine takes time for everyone to get used to. Allow your family some time and talk to other families experiencing the same things as you. Remember to take some time and enjoy these special times with your child.
Article by Lee Madigan primary school teacher and mother
For more information on similar parenting topics you may like take a look at our e-books Publications on this link.
Disclaimer: Article on our website are for education
purposes only. Please consult with your doctor to make sure this
information is right for your child.
All articles on this website have a copyright any use of any
material must have permission from Cradle 2 Kindy Parenting Solutions.
Recent research from beyondblue: the national depression initiative has found a lot of men know very little about Postnatal Depression (PND).
· 50 per cent of men believe women get postnatal depression because they have unrealistic expectations of motherhood.
· 25 per cent of men believe that having PND is a normal part of having a baby.
· 28 per cent of men think PND will go away as the baby gets older (compared to 17 per cent of women).
· 24 per cent of men believe looking after a baby comes naturally to women. (Only 14 per cent of women think this.)
Deputy CEO of beyondblue, Dr Nicole Highet says the research indicates men need more information about mental illness during pregnancy and after the birth of a baby – especially ante and postnatal (perinatal) depression and anxiety.
Dr Highet says depression and anxiety are not a “normal” part of parenthood – they are illnesses, but with the right treatment, most people recover.
beyondblue and the West Australian early parenting service provider, Ngala, have developed a booklet called Hey Dad – Fatherhood – First 12 months, aimed at increasing awareness of issues new parents are likely to face.
“This booklet will get critical information to new dads during this important stage of their lives – the advice and practical tips are invaluable,” Dr Highet says. “New parents often get used to the symptoms and signs of depression and anxiety – such as lack of sleep, irritability and the inability to cope – and too often it’s put down to the ‘baby blues’ and treated as if it’s a normal part of parenthood.
“Men are an extremely important part of the parenting equation and they need to look after their own mental health as well as that of their partners and their families.”
Ngala CEO Rae Walter says: “The whole family is affected when one member of the family has depression or anxiety. Ngala encourages parents to seek support and work as a team to minimise the impact on their children.
“Early brain development, changes in relationships, the importance of attachment, play, sleep and breastfeeding are all issues that fathers may not have explored before the birth and this booklet provides a ‘toolkit’ to help new families manage change.”
To order a free copy of Hey Dad – Fatherhood – First 12 months or to find out more about ante- and postnatal depression call 1300 22 4636 or visit www.beyondblue.org.au
Just Speak Up about postnatal depression and anxiety
Postnatal depression affects one in seven new mothers while one in 10 pregnant women experiences antenatal depression. Anxiety is likely to be even more common.
beyondblue: the national depression initiative has launched a new depression and anxiety awareness campaign aimed at pregnant women, new mothers, their partners and families.
The Just Speak Up campaign is the culmination of years of beyondblue research and evidence-gathering on the prevalence and risk factors associated with pre- and postnatal depression and anxiety – and the impact of not seeking help.
The campaign features TV, radio and print ads in which real people (not actors) talk candidly about their experiences of pre- and postnatal depression and anxiety, and how they got help. There is also a new website www.JustSpeakUp.com.au where their personal stories can be watched and people can upload their own stories.
For more information about postnatal depression and anxiety, available treatments and where to get help, visit www.beyondblue.org.au, call the beyondblue info line on 1300 22 4636 or email infoline@beyondblue.org.au.
Based on ABS Census figures for projected births 2008-2013; 2 The beyondblue National Postnatal Depression Program. Prevention and Early Intervention 2001-2005. Final Report. Volume 1: National Screening Program
This information was provided by beyondbue Nov 2010
For more information on similar parenting topics you may like take a look at our e-books Publications on this link.
Disclaimer: Article on our website are for education
purposes only. Please consult with your doctor to make sure this
information is right for your child.
All articles on this website have a copyright any use of any
material must have permission from Cradle 2 Kindy Parenting Solutions.
Congenital hypothyroidism due to iodine deficiency is the most common preventable cause of mental retardation in the world.
Iodine is not produced by our bodies so it must become an essential part of our diet. Iodine deficiency can lead to enlargement of the thyroid, hypothyroidism and to mental retardation in infants and children whose mothers were iodine deficient during pregnancy or when breastfeeding.
Why do we have a problem in Australia?
Australian nutrition surveys show that inadequate intake of foods from the key food groups is widespread in the Australian community (Markovic & Natoli 2009).
Gunton et al (1999) and colleagues implicate a combination of factors leading to a decline in our iodine intake.
For over three decades we have been dependent on iodine in milk contaminated by cleaning solutions (iodophors) used in the dairy industry; these solutions are gradually being replaced by others which leave less iodine in milk.
Using less iodised salt, through a combination of purchasing uniodised salt for consumption, decreasing our salt consumption (health messages)
Consuming most of our salt (uniodised) in processed foods.
40 per cent of pregnant women in studies carried out by Professor Robert Hume (Professor of Developmental Medicine, Division of Maternal & Child Health Sciences, University of Dundee) had less than half the recommended intake of iodine. Iodine Deficient Disorder affects 50 million children. 1.6 billion people are at risk. (Date: International Council of The Control of Iodine Deficiency Disorders).
Importance of iodine in pregnant and breastfeeding mothers
The thyroid hormone in adults is primarily responsible for regulation of our metabolism. In pregnant and breastfeeding mothers iodine is essential for developing embryo’s brain.
The thyroid gland is the first endocrine gland to develop in the embryo. It begins to form approximately 24 days after fertilisation often before a woman realises she is pregnant. As the embryo and tongue grow the developing thyroid descends in the neck. By 7 weeks the thyroid gland has assumed its definitive shape and has reached its final site in the neck. During the 11th week the synthesis of thyroid hormones occur. These hormones have an essential role in the development of the brain or central nervous system during the prenatal stage thus the importance of iodine in the mother’s diet. Deficiency in the mother’s diet will affect different areas of the growing embryo’s brain such as the cerebral cortex, inner ear, and other brain related functions which affect emotion, learning ability and memory. The defects in those anatomical regions produce different clinical manifestations.
Iodine deficiency
Deficiencies in the mother
Adverse outcomes associated with Hypothyroidism can be seen as hypertension, pre-eclampsia, anaemia, post partum haemorrhage and cardiac – ventricular dysfunction.
Impact on the baby in utero
Hypothyroidism may also cause spontaneous abortion, fetal death, low birth weight and abnormal brain development.
Deficiencies in the developing embryo
In the cerebral cortex, a deficiency of iodine will cause an improper formation in association areas important for correct thinking processes. Iodine deficiency may cause malformations in the inner ear specifically in the cochlea producing deafness. It may also cause lack of development in the basal ganglia and cerebrospinal motor systems lead to spasticity, rigidity and slow movements. Problems could be observed in higher associative functions like language and abstract thought. In the case of babies/children with symptoms similar to autism there could be a defect in the development of deep areas of brain.
Signs and Symptoms of hypothyroidism in babies:
Hypothyroidism occurs in about 26 babies each year in NSW/ACT. Early diagnosis is essential through new born screening. Some of the signs and symptoms for hypothyroidism in babies is prolonged gestation, increased birth weight, and open posterior fontanel, prolonged jaundice, decreased activity levels/lethargy, hoarse cry, poor feeding and feeding problems, noisy respiration, delayed stools at birth, constipation, dry skin and hypothermia.
Deficiencies in babies and young children
Untreated infants often display significantly low IQ due to mental retardation. They may have neurological problems such as gross and fine motor coordination, ataxia, altered muscle tone, deceased attention span and speech problems. Iodine deficiency can also cause permanent brain damage, mental retardation, deaf mutism, spasticity, and short stature.
Deficiencies in older children and adolescents
Iodine deficiency in older children and adolescents may cause cardiac problems, gastroperesis, delayed puberty, anovulation and infertility, insulin resistance and increased levels of total cholesterol.
Treatment
Thyroxine tablets are crushed before administering to a baby. The sooner the treatment is commenced the less the impact on the neurological system. Regular tests will determine the correct thyroxine dose as the dose needs to be according to the child’s growth.
The recommended iodine intake
Pregnant and lactating women
· Daily iodine intake of 250 µg for pregnant and lactating women (The World Health Organization) Infants
· 0 - 6 months: 110 micrograms per day (mcg/day)
· 7 - 12 months: 130 mcg/day Children
· 1 - 3 years: 90 mcg/day
· 4 - 8 years: 90 mcg/day
· 9 - 13 years: 120 mcg/day Adults
· 150 µg
It is not recommended to add salt to the diet of a child’s under the age of 3 years of age.
Natural forms of Iodine
Iodized salt (table salt with iodine added is the main food source of iodine as ¼ teaspoon contains 95 micrograms of iodine). Seafood including shellfish is naturally rich in iodine (6-ounce portion of ocean fish provides 650 micrograms of iodine). Kelp (seaweed) is a rich source of iodine. Cheese, fish, eggs, soy milk, soy sauce also contain iodine as does some breads. Other good sources are plants grown in iodine-rich soil.
Or multivitamins containing Iodine – MYADEC 150 µg.
This articel was provided by:
Dr. Janet Green, RN, PhD Senior Lecturer, Coordinator of PG programs in neonatal and paediatric nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery and Health. University of Technology, Sydney
For more information on similar parenting topics you may like take a look at our e-books Publications on this link.
Disclaimer: Article on our website are for education
purposes only. Please consult with your doctor to make sure this
information is right for your child.
All articles on this website have a copyright any use of any
material must have permission from Cradle 2 Kindy Parenting Solutions.
There are some personality types that are naturally ‘worry warts’ if you are one of these your children will pick up on your anxiety. As a parent you want to teach your child a healthy fear to keep them safe but also how to deal with stress and not to become over anxious. Anxiety is infectious. If one person is anxious it is sure to spread to the other wether from parent to child or from child to parent. Try to remember when a stressful situation arises to keep you self control. You are the adult and need to be the one in command of the situation. If your child sees you are composed they are less likely to react. Reassure your child in a calm normal voice. Remove the child from the situation or the object of fear from the child if and when possible. If it is an imaginary fear it may take some time for them to calm down and believe you that there is nothing to be afraid of. If for example the child is afraid of dogs then try to introduce them slowly to dogs. Look at pictures of dogs, look at dogs from a distance then slowly reintroduce them to a dog. Explain to them that some dogs are friendly and others are not. Never approach a dog that you do not know. And never leave a child alone with an dog.
How to help your child overcome fears
Routines
Once again I cannot stress the importance of routines in a child’s life. Routines help a child to know what to expect next this helps them feel secure and promotes self confident. Routines often help prevent unacceptable behaviour as it becomes and expected norm such as tidying up after playing with their toys, bedtime routines, and mealtimes. The child know what comes next, it has become a part of their life and is less likely to be questioned. If there is going to be a change in their routine give them fair warning so that they can prepare for it.
Encouragement and positive reinforcement
Children love to please. Parents can use this inherent trait to their benefit with lots of praise and positive reinforcement when your child makes an effort to overcome or confront their fear.
Provide opportunities for your child to face their fears. Take small steps to gain their confidence then move to another level. For example show them a picture of the animal they fear in a book, then the animal at a distance, then with you holding the animal, and finally allowing them to pat the animal.
Never force your child to confront their fear rather continually praise their every effort as they slowly deal with their fears.
Setting a good example
Parents and caregivers are a child’s first impressions on how to deal with situations. Our reactions are often copied by our children, if you are fearful or anxious your child will pick it up and may also become fearful of that particular thing. Although you may be fearful try to portray a confidence and calmness in the situation so as not to alarm your child. In a dangerous situation keep you cool and guide the child to safety. Remember you are the adult and the child is looking to you for guidance.
Be in control of the situation
When facing a child’s fear makes sure the situation is safe and the child is with people they trust and feel secure with. Start with small steps such as introducing them to a puppy or a quiet gentle small dog which you have some control over. Try to explain what you are about to do and give them a choice of what they would like to do. Such as would you like to pat the puppy or just sit and watch for awhile? With older children you may like to talk about their fears, ask them what they think might help them overcome these fears or give them some suggestions which you can discuss together. Be open and provide facts and information to help children face their fears. Often knowing more about the thing they fear helps them overcome the fear.
Provide opportunities to increase their self confidence
Confidence as mentioned above often comes with routines and praise but it also needs to be developed through a child’s self accomplishment and achievement. Parents can help their child achieve self confidents through providing opportunities which will help develop their skills. This can be in a variety of areas one of which may be social skills which includes communication to assist a child who may be anxious around other children.
Many activities can be simulated through make belief, pretend play, dressing up and art. These activities may help a child express and face their fears in a controlled environment. Reading stories of children facing and overcoming their fears may also help.
Encourage your child to try new things, things that they are able to do. Provide support but don’t take over and do something for them as this will not build but often crush their self confidence.
Provide support and understanding
Provide lots of praise and encouragement is essential to develop self confidence but so too does listening to and understanding their fears and anxieties. It is important not to making fun of your child or the fears they have.
When your child is fearful or anxious reassure them, embrace them and let them know they are safe. Stay with them until they have calmed down.
This article was written by mothercraft nurse Sally Hall from Cradle 2 Kindy Parenting Solutions.
Disclaimer: Article on our website are for education
purposes only. Please consult with your doctor to make sure this
information is right for your child.
For more information on similar parenting topics you may like take a look at our e-books Publications on this link.
All articles on this website have a copyright any use of any
material must have permission from Cradle 2 Kindy Parenting Solutions.
I love the idea to walk anorud the house and talk about all the familiar things! In all my night time comforting I have never thought to do this, and I can see how it would be so effective. Lucky for me I have another babe to try this with at some point
My almost 5 year old son has a recurring nightmare – every so often for the last 2 years at least. Something that has helped him over time is talking at length about the nightmare the following day – first talking about what happened in the dream, reassurances
that dreams are not real, then going into variations on wouldn’t it be silly if the monster had pink polka dots etc., and imagining a different outcome in the dream. He also has great interest in the dreams i found scary as a child (and now). At first I wondered
if telling him mine might scare him more, but he seems to find it grounding and helpful to hear (although I edit out some of my crazier dream happenings!)
This month I am taking a look at Phobias, Fears and Anxiety in Young Children and next month I will look at tips to help your children overcome their fears.
Anxiety disorders
Anxiety disorders are very common. One in four people will experience an anxiety disorder at some stage in their lives. We all feel anxious at times but some people are unable to control their anxiety it becomes so overwhelming that it affects their everyday activities making it difficult for them to cope.
Types of Anxiety disorders in children
There several types of anxiety disorders the most common in children are:
Generalised Anxiety disorder (GAD) - This is a feeling of being constantly anxious or worried.
Panic Disorder – An intense feeling of anxiety or panic attack which cannot be brought under control easily.
Social Phobia – when a child has a fear of failure, of being criticised or humiliated
Specific Phobias – being fearful of particular objects or situations.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) - this is caused by unwanted or intrusive thoughts and fears which cause anxiety. The anxiety are brought under control by carrying out certain rituals.
Common Fears of Toddlers
Toddlers love routines. Routines can often bring security and familiarity which help toddlers to feel safe or to help them deal with their fears. Knowing what is expected of you and what is coming next can help prevent childhood anxieties. This is often seen with a child who requests the same story every night or the same cup and plate to eat off.
Because young children do not have our understanding of the world as we do they may develop fears or become upset over things such being flushed away with the water going down the toilet or going down the plughole with the bathwater. This stems from their lack of understanding of size, space and time. If a child has a particular fear you may be able to avoid or change the situation for a short time and reintroduce them to it slowly over a longer period. Another idea is to make a fearful situation into one of fun. Place a small plastic ball in the toilet and watch it bounce around but not get flushed down. Have a shower with dad instead of a bath or bath in a large plastic bowl.
Around the age of 2-3 years toddlers are hyper sensitive to their emotions. This period can be quite frightening for them until they learn how to bring them under control. New thing or environment may seem very frightening, even if we see them as no risk at all.
They can also be fearful of other people’s powerful emotions and burst into tears when a parent shows anger or despair. In the heart of all toddlers is the desire to please those they love. Some toddlers are perfectionist by nature these children may feel angry at themselves when they have displeased or disappointed themselves or their parents. Talk to them gently and try to find out what has made them feel this way, reassure them that they are loved for who they are and not for what they do or do not do. Let them know it is alright to feel angry sometimes but also make sure they understand that when they are angry it is not alright to hurt themselves or others or to let anyone hurt them.
Common Fears of Young Children
Fear may be cause by a variety of events:
The most commonly cause of fear stem from the unknown – new or strange situations, and things we cannot understand or control. A child is constantly facing new and unfamiliar situations which to some children can be overwhelming and fearful.
Fear can also be a learned behaviour. A child may observe and respond to another person’s reaction – such as a parent who is fearful of dogs, spiders or heights.
Fear may have resulted from a frightening event where the child themselves personal experience something that terrified or harmed them such as an angry dog bitting them.
Then there is imaginary fear that can be caused by hearing scary stories or watching inappropriate TV programs. Children under the age of seven are unable to distinguish the difference between fiction, fantasy and reality and see all as reality. This is why all stories books and TV should be closely monitored for children under seven. Including graphic new stories on TV. Their vivid imagination and these images and impressions can also lead to nightmares. A child’s imaginations can also create their own fears such as monsters which can then lead to a fear of the dark. Parents can inadvertently exacerbate this situation by leaving a night light on which can reinforce their fears.
Abnormal fears
If you are concerned your child has problem with fear or has a phobia there are certain things you can look for.
Things to look for if you are concerned that your child’s fear has become a problem?
· Is this fear a reasonable reaction to a situation?
· Is the fear interfering with the child’s everyday life or that of the family?
Anxiety disorders are common, but the sooner you get help, the sooner you can help you child learn to control these conditions so that they do not control your child.
Next month I will look at tips to help your children overcome their fears.
This article was written by mothercraft nurse Sally Hall from Cradle 2 Kindy Parenting Solutions.
Disclaimer: Article on our website are for education
purposes only. Please consult with your doctor to make sure this
information is right for your child.
For more information on similar parenting topics you may like take a look at our e-books Publications on this link.
All articles on this website have a copyright any use of any
material must have permission from Cradle 2 Kindy Parenting Solutions.
Some years ago, on meeting my 2 daughters, a friend said “You’re so lucky, you’re girls are lovely. They are so friendly and polite.” I said “Thank you” feeling the pride and joy that goes with such a moment.
Later, on reflection however, I thought to myself, “What did luck have to do with it?” I’m not lucky, it was hard work and I made a lot of sacrifices.
Bringing up children with manners, a high level of communication skills, understanding of the feelings of others, together with love of learning didn’t just happen. Bringing up my children had been hard work, and I made a lot of sacrifices to stay home with them in those critical years of their cognitive (mental) development, especially with a largely absent husband/father figure. Fortunately, I loved it. They were the best years of my life and I have very fond memories of those times.
Recently, my life has been in a time warp since I learned that I am to become a grandmother; my baby is having a baby. My baby, by the way is 31, is happily married, and together with my son-in-law will be fabulous parents I have no doubt. But for me to watch my daughter in her pregnancy has brought back a lot of the emotions and memories of me carrying her over 30 years ago. We talk often of the joys and issues around motherhood and it has been a wonderful time for me. I’ve also gained heightened awareness of other babies.
As I watched a mother and baby on the train the other day I remembered just how much work a 1 year old is. In a 20 minute train ride, the child got out of the stroller, back in the stroller, took off her shoes, sang a song with mum, had a drink, took off the jacket, put the jacket back on, threw the shoe, got back into the stroller, tried very hard to clip the safety catch, back out of the stroller, climb on the seat and look out the window, bounce up and down looking out the window. Suddenly, it went dark outside, the child look at mum with surprise .... mum said “tunnel”, the child’s face softened (all is well), the child then repeated “tunnel”. All the time mum was patiently watching and attending to the clues that often only a mother recognises. The child was confident, inquisitive and curious about everything new, and she knew that mum was near and she was safe to explore.
The child’s mother was patient and observant, vigilant and responsive to the child’s needs and safety in the environment of a moving train, keeping her entertained and happy during the boring train ride. The wave of memories of me doing exactly the same things with my babies was like a warm blanket.
This child was bright, energetic, gorgeous and happy... just as she should be; just as my girls had been all those years ago. I feel so blessed and grateful that I was able to spend those critical years 0-5, at home, helping my girls to learn, investigate and grow in an environment where they knew they were safe.
If you’re fortunate enough to be a stay-at-home mum, count your blessings and be thankful. I’m sure all the mums out there will agree with me. It takes time, patience and energy to make it look easy, and to have the perfect child.
Reflecting on Motherhood by Elizabeth Carter, Registered Psychologist. Bravo Coommunication www.bravocommunication.com.au 1300 85 95 83
For more information on similar parenting topics you may like take a look at our e-books Publications on this link.
Disclaimer: Article on our website are for education
purposes only. Please consult with your doctor to make sure this
information is right for your child.
All articles on this website have a copyright any use of any
material must have permission from Cradle 2 Kindy Parenting Solutions.
Comments