mums tots&IRELAND’S FAVOURITE MATERNITY MAGAZINE

Embracing Life - Pregnancy to Parenting

PURE IRISH

ISSN 2009-437X

www.mumsandtots.ie ISSUE 08 AUTUMN 2013 €3.00

IRELAND’S FAVOURITE MATERNITY MAGAZINE

Win!A Full Spa Day at Pink Beauty Emporium

Annabel Karmel’s

Autumn Time Yummies

SEEING SPOTS leopard print

wardrobe picks

HIP DYSPLASIA: Knowing the Signs

Back to School EssentialsHair Care with TONI & GUY

AGGRESSION TOWARDS THE NEW BABY Tips to help your toddler adjust

The Facts on TODDLER NAPS

HOW TO: Getting your Child to Confide

Make Up Tutorial The 1920’s ‘It Girl’

The Streets

Are full of colour

“I love to bring art to the lives of children. Full of bright colours and playful patterns, this stroller adds colour wherever it goes.”

/quinny_uk

Britto Advert Mums & Tots .indd 1 26/04/2013 10:55

Happy 2 year anniversary to us!!! We cannot believe it has been two years already. I want to thank our ever expanding Mums & Tots community of readers. Thank you for your support and your enthusiasm. You are the reason we do what we do! To mark this milestone we have decided to run our first ever Mums & Tots Awards this autumn, in association with GloHealth. As with the magazine, we aim to be cutting edge and current.

Voting for your favourite products and people can be done on our integrated Facebook voting platform on our Facebook page which now has 20k fans (thank you again!) www.facebook.com/mumsandtots. Winners will be announced in late September so stay tuned! Also, as a little bonus for voting we will enter each person who votes into a competition to WIN a full travel system, with thanks to our friends at Baby Elegance.

In keeping with the season we have a back to school special in our Tots section. Make sure to check out Olivia FitzGerald’s ‘Bye, Bye Baby’ on first day of school blues. We also have some practical and funky accessories in our Back To School Essentials, page xx and xx. Finally, have a look at what the shops have on offer for school wardrobes in Cool at School, page xx and xx.

Following on from the success of our summer issue’s skin guide we are covering the very best hair products on the market, for your particular hair type page xx and xx, along with TONI&GUY’s top tips on post pregnancy hair care, page xx. When your hair is sorted, get your red lippy to the ready and check out our make up tutorial on the Downtonabbey-esque ‘It Girl’ 1920’s, page xx.

Lots of interesting reading material in store for you this issue including; toddler naps page xx, getting your child to confide in you page xx, and dealing with toddler aggression towards the new baby xx.

As it is our 2 year anniversary we will be bringing you even more competitions and offers to celebrate, so make sure to enter our day at the spa giveaway with Pink Beauty Emporium page xx and our M&S, U Mamma, Lidl gift voucher competitions, page xx, xx and xx. You have to be in it to win it!

Look forward to seeing you all in winter when we will be bringing you full coverage of the highlights from The Mums & Tots Awards 2013, in association with GloHealth.

Editor: Roberta von Meding

Graphic Designer: Juliet Symes

Cover Image: Shutterstock

Contributers: Annabel Karmel, Anne O’Connor, Therese Handibode, Don Conroy, Orla Walsh, Mothercare

Published by: Juliet Publishing

Printed By: Quinn’s

Contact us: editor@mumsandtots.ie or call +353 85 703 1181

Facebook: facebook.com/mumsandtots

All rights reserved. Every care has been taken to ensure that the information contained in this magazine is accurate. The publishers cannot, however, accept responsibility for errors or omissions. Reproduction by any means in whole or in part without the permission of the publisher is prohibited. © Juliet Publishing 2013. Please note all discounts, special offers and competitions contained in this magazine are run independently of Mums & Tots, and therefore the promoter is responsible for honouring the prize. All opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher or Editor. Medical articles and opinions are not a substitute for your doctor’s advice. All prices are correct at time of print.

www.mumsandtots.ieEditorRoberta von Meding

subscribeto get Mums & Tots delivered to your door. Only €16 for an

annual subscription at www.mumsandtots.ie

hello&welcomeThe Streets

Are full of colour

“I love to bring art to the lives of children. Full of bright colours and playful patterns, this stroller adds colour wherever it goes.”

/quinny_uk

Britto Advert Mums & Tots .indd 1 26/04/2013 10:55

3mums&tots

Alf ie Dylan

Peek a Boo Candid Tots sponsored by

To enter our winter competition please send your little one’s snaps to competitions@mumsandtots.ie with ‘winter candid tots’ in the subject box.

Closing date for entries is the 1st of November.

Congratulations to Alf ie Dylan! You have won your mummy a €100 gift voucher from U Mamma!!

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9mums&tots

CRACKING THE

Picture this. You’ve just had a baby. You are tired and stressed because baby isn’t sleeping or eating or pooping the way you had expected, so you turn to an on-line parenting forum for advice. You enter a discussion group entitled “Newborn Feeding Habits” only to be met with something along these lines:

‘I ff my dd, but with the help of my dp and the phn, I now ebf my ds’.

Em, what?? There are more acronyms here then the periodic table. At times, it may feel like you need a translator to understand what is being said in some of parenting forums these days. To help initiate you into the “on-line mammy world”, we’ve compiled a useful list of the most common ones you will be likely to come across!

Therese Handibode gives us the lowdown on mummy internet speak.

MISCELLANEOUS:

TIA Thanks in Advance

ISO In Search Of

ERF Extended Rear-Facing

TT Tongue Tie

VBAC Vaginal Birth after C-Section

FB Facebook

OP Original Post

PEOPLE AND GROUPS:

PHN Public Health Nurse

LC Lactation Consultant

HCP Health Care Professional

MW Mid-Wife

LLL La-Leche League

FAMILY:

LO Little One

DD Darling Daughter

DS Darling Son

OH Other Half

DP Darling Partner

DH Darling Husband

MiL Mother-in-Law

FiL Father-in-Law

SLEEPING:

CIO Cry-It-Out

CC Controlled Crying

EATING:

FF Formula Feeding

EBF Exclusively Breast Feeding

BF Breast Feeding

BM Breast Milk

BLW Baby-Led Weaning

CODE

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The second in our labour fact files from a first time mum’s perspective of a normal labour.

ESTABLISHED FIRST STAGE OF LABOUR AND SECOND STAGE

Early in labour a woman may eat, drink, talk and laugh between contractions. However, as labour progresses, contractions will become longer and stronger and the woman may become quieter and withdraw. Talking becomes brief and the woman may breathe heavily, standing, swaying from side to side with eyes closed during contractions. It is important for everyone else in the room to be quiet during this time.

The midwife in the delivery suite will take a full, accurate history from both the woman and her partner and will discuss previous pregnancies as they may influence the current labour and birth. This may be the right time to discuss the woman’s birth plan.

Throughout labour, the midwife will assess blood pressure, pulse and babies heart rate hourly and temperature every 4 hours. She will ensure the woman has been to the bathroom as a full bladder can obstruct the baby’s head from coming down. The midwife will assess the baby’s heart rate every 15 minutes for 1 minute after a contraction and will check how the woman is progressing in labour by carrying out a vaginal examination.

Moving around will work with gravity to help the baby’s head descend. It is important to note however that if epidural pain relief is used, the woman will have to remain in bed.

At the end of the first stage of labour the contractions may feel relentless and typical behaviours involve women becoming panicked and wanting to go home. This is normal. It is important for the woman to relax and keep calm.

The second stage of labour has been defined as the time when the cervix is fully dilated (10cm) to the birth of the baby.

THINGS TO LOOK OUT FOR:

-A show. This is the mucous plug, with a small about of bright red blood.

-Waters breaking.

-Vomiting, which can be common at this time.

-Baby’s heart can slow down.

-Need to push

The midwife will perform a vaginal examination to assess whether the woman is ready to push and guide the woman through pushing so as to push effectively. Usually the baby’s head will be born first in one push, then the baby’s body turns inside the uterus (there is a brief pause when this happens) and the next push will lead to the body being born.

Finally, the midwife will dry the baby off, clamp and cut the umbilical cord and announce the sex and time of birth to the parents and congratulate them.

Next time we will look at the third stage of labour.

FACT FILE:

Labour+birth:part 2 Explained!

with Midwife April Kavanagh

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Many changes occur in a woman’s body during pregnancy, including an increase in hormone levels.

This affects the skin which stretches as the body grows to accommodate baby. With the increased load on the body from the growing baby, joints and muscles can become strained so it is good for you to continue with most of your usual sports and activities, as long as your pregnancy is progressing normally. It is recommended for pregnant women to do 30 minutes or more of moderate exercise, which can include walking or swimming. Floor exercises are great for strengthening the pelvic floor muscles and all women should do these not just when you are pregnant.

• Listen to your body.

• Stop if it hurts.

• Stop when tired.

• Never exercise if feeling unwell.

• Always dress appropriately for your activity; good supportive footwear, wear a well-supporting maternity bra and loose clothing.

• Drink plenty of fluid before and during exercise.

• Avoid over- heating

It is important to look after your skin during pregnancy as complexions are particularly vulnerable to photo ageing at this time. If your skin is showing tell-tale signs then try Payot Absolute Pure White range which includes a BB cream that soothes, protects and regenerates while also providing a good coverage with SPF30. Skin tends to change during pregnancy. For those who had oily skin

Graham Anthony’s Tina Buckley gives us some helpful tips and product recommendations for taking care of your body during pregnancy.

it can tend to be more dry or for those with dry skin it can become oily. All skin types can become dehydrated. Oily skin needs hydration as much as sensitive or dry skin. It is a basic and vital requirement for healthy skin. To increase the radiant look and ensure hydration I would suggest Decleor Hydra Floral 24 Multi Protection Cream. It is important to exfoliate once a week as the moisturiser will absorb better.

Preventing stretch marks and keeping the skin moisturised is vital. Our skin is quite elastic in our 20s and 30s but when pregnant, or with general weight gain, stretch marks can occur. These are small scars in the skin that appear most often on the abdomen, hips, breasts and thighs in the later stages of pregnancy when the tummy is expanding to accommodate a growing baby. They are caused by changes in the elastic supportive tissue that lie just beneath the skin. They start out pink but will later fade to a silver colour. Keeping this area of the body in good condition is necessary to help prevent them from appearing. Exfoliate the tummy area at least once a week. Morning and night use a good moisturiser. I would suggest Decleor Aromessence Sculpt Oil and Stretch Mark Cream to firm and strengthen collagen in the skin and keep it well moisturised. If your skin has to stretch it is less likely to cause any damage if your skin is properly hydrated. If your own mum got stretch marks it is highly possible that you will too.

Care of the legs is vital, if you are working in a job where you stand, or you just have tired heavy legs, apply Decleor Circulagel, a circulation stimulant which soothes and and refreshes the legs. This gel along was one of the first products created by Solange the creator of Decleor forty

Payot Absolute Pure White BB Cream, €46.80

Decleor Circulagel Leg Gel, €39.20

Decleor Firming Body Serum, €50.90

Decleor Hydra Floral Cream, €49

MINDTHEBUMP

years ago and they have not changed in four decades. Her philosophy, ‘Be yourself, accept yourself. You are what you think, what you eat, drink and do. You should invest your time - take time, to look after yourself. It is an investment in you. In the years to come you will see the pay-off of the time you have – or have not – taken in looking after yourself”. Her other piece of advice is to look after your feet. Every day we put the strain of life on our feet, we walk and stand and sometimes we forget to look after them. At night sit on the side of your bed and lift your foot onto your knee and massage for a minute of two to relive the stress of the day not only from your feet but also from your body.

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Hip dysplasia, or Developmental Dysplasia of the Hips (DDH), is a condition which affects the hip joints, meaning that the bones of the hip joint are not correctly aligned.

It is relatively common in babies, with thousands of children being diagnosed each year. It can usually be easily resolved with the help of a hip brace. When this goes undiagnosed or is not present at birth, it can often surface as an issue when a toddler begins to walk and their legs are not aligned. This can then lead to more complex treatments, including operations.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES?

The exact causes of hip dysplasia are unknown. As it can appear after birth or even during childhood it is known as a developmental condition, but infants may be prone to this for the following reasons:

Womb Position: The way in which a baby lies in the womb can increase the pressure on the hip joints, particularly for babies in the breech position.

Family History: Hip dysplasia is more likely when there is another family member who has suffered from the condition. According to the HSE, infants whose parent or sibling suffered from hip dysplasia and who are breech at the time of birth account for 40% of the cases of DDH in Ireland.

Hormonal: Girls ligaments stretch easier than boys and so they are 5 times more likely to develop hip dysplasia. Hormonal influences around the time a mother gives birth can also affect how lax a babies ligaments are, which is thought to lead to hip dysplasia.

HIP DYSPLASIA: The FactsWords by Therese Handibode

USEFUL WEBSITESIrish informative website www.babyhips.ie

UK Based Charity www.steps-charity.org.uk

International DDH charity www.hip-baby.org

INTERESTING FACTSIf one child in a family has DDH, the risk of another child having it is 6%

If a parent has DDH, the risk of their child having DDH is 12%

If a parent and a child have DDH, the risk of a subsequent child having DDH is 36%

HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED?

Hip dysplasia in babies is commonly discovered during newborn exams by the hospital Obstetrician or during routine check-ups by a public health nurse but as it is a developmental condition it may be some time later before it becomes evident and can be diagnosed. Added to the fact that the condition is painless in childhood, it is difficult to detect until such time as a toddler begins to walk. Doctors use a combination of physical exams and imaging such as ultrasound or X-rays to diagnose hip dysplasia, but the parents’ role in diagnosis can be very important too. According to Dr. O’Grady of the Department of Paediatrics in Mayo General Hospital, “ultrasound examinations by an experienced clinician are not widely practiced” in Ireland, and so, “there is a need for the development of national guidelines”. Until such time as these become more available, a parent or carer can look out for the following:

Difference in leg length – If a baby’s hips are not aligned, there may be some difference evident in the length of their legs. This will usually be most noticeable after a toddler learns to walk, and it can even result in a limp.

Hip Click – When hip dysplasia is present, the hip joint may click or pop when manipulated. Normal hips may also do this also due to developing ligaments however, so it may not in itself be a sign of hip dysplasia.

Limited Movement –When hip dysplasia is present, the legs may not fully spread and so many parents notice an issue when they are changing a baby’s nappy.

WHAT TREATMENTS ARE AVAILABLE?

The treatment for hip dysplasia depends on the extent of the problem and will be conditional upon the age of the child. From birth to about six months, babies are usually fitted with a special fabric harness, known as a Pavlik Harness. This would be left on for a number of weeks and is very successful at correcting the condition as it allows the hips to naturally develop into a more stable joint.

When an infant is older than this, usually between 6 and 24 months, they will generally be put into a harder cast known as a ‘spica cast’. This requires the leg to be manipulated into position with the use of a light anaesthetic, commonly referred to as a ‘Closed Reduction’. Depending on the severity of the problem, some children may require surgery in order to move the joint into the correct position. A cast would usually also be required to keep the hip aligned in the new position.

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Positiv€lyWords by Therese HandibodeBooming

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We are currently experiencing one of the greatest baby booms of our time. Over 75,000 babies were born in Ireland last year. We haven’t seen figures like that since the 1980’s.

It is said that women feel that a recession is a good opportunity to have a baby, as their career is at a standstill. The statistics back up this theory, whether or not the reasoning is correct. This increase in new arrivals puts pressure on maternity hospitals, as they struggle to find room to house all the post-natal mothers and babies. The social welfare system, in turn, has to pay out maternity benefit for the 26 weeks leave a new mother is entitled to. But whilst these negative impacts of the baby boom are rarely out of the limelight, the positive impact is constantly overlooked. Every new arrival is in need of nappies, clothes, a cot, a buggy, usually a car seat – the list is endless. This is generating spending within an otherwise stagnant economy.

THE IMPACT ON THE LABOUR MARKET

Recent statistics, published by the Central Statistics Office, show that there has been a steady decrease in the number of women who are staying at home, and an increase in the number of women who are working. While there are more women actually working, more roles will need to be replaced when these same women become pregnant.

According to Derek O’Neill, a recruitment consultant from Elan IT, it is “very rare” that a woman would choose not to return to her original position after maternity leave. From his experience of working in the recruitment industry, 90% of maternity leave cover roles are being filled by people currently on the live register. “People won’t leave permanent roles for contract or maternity cover positions”, he says. With 10% of their overall vacancies being maternity leave cover contracts, this will have a substantial impact on the number of people that are taken off the live register due solely to our current baby boom.

After the baby is born, there are very few couples who can afford to survive on one income, and so both parents are usually working. In this case, the baby will probably be placed in a crèche or with a childminder at home. Whichever option is chosen, the cost can be huge. A recent survey by the National Consumer Agency found that the cost of full time care of a six month old baby across the country ranged from €200 - €266 per week.

While this may be crippling the parents, and many crèches are still struggling to actually break even, all of that money is going towards helping our economy. The crèche will have employees, who will be paid wages and hence, taxes are going to the government. They have to have a building, so that could mean rent to a local landlord. They have rates, so that will mean income for the local council. The list goes on, and the benefits are more widespread than may initially appear.

THE IMPACT ON RETAIL SALES

Retail sales in general are falling, with people being far more conservative with their spending. Since we entered the current recession, we have seen many large retailers struggle, and a lot of shops have gone out of business completely. But while the general retail sector is in jeopardy, baby retailers are still going strong, and prospering in the face of adversity. This is due to the baby boom. According to Louise, a sales advisor with Baby Elegance, a baby retailer located in Dundrum, “we have actually seen an increase in sales even though the entire country is in a recession”. Their best selling items at present are a travel system priced at €399 and a nursery furniture set costing €799. If both of these sets were bought by parents-to-be, the spend would come in at €1,198. That doesn’t cover any clothing, nappies, feeding essentials or bathing products.

Despite the cost involved in having a new baby, especially in these tough economic times, parents are still prioritising and prepared to pay extra when it comes to good quality products for their baby. According to Louise from Baby Elegance, “it seems that no matter how hard everyone is being hit by the recession, they are still spending on a good quality mattress for their baby”. They have seen a “big increase” in sales of these mattresses over the past 18 months, and they feel that this is due to the fact that we are now “becoming more aware of buying Irish”. Whatever the reason for this increase, it is items such as these that will keep Irish jobs open and allow for growth and development during otherwise difficult times.

THE IMPACT ON THE ENTERTAINMENT SECTOR

Whilst on maternity leave, women will look for things to do in order to get out of the home. This may only involve meeting other mums down at the local coffee shop, but even that alone is generating income for local business. More and more companies are recognising the growing trend for women to look for day time activities to make the most

out of their valuable time at home with their baby. Local cinemas are showing screenings designed for mothers with new babies. Fitness instructors are running classes where you can bring your buggy. Swimming teachers have schools where babies as young as six weeks can learn to swim. The list is huge and the industry is constantly growing and adapting to cater to the needs of new mums and babies.

THE PRE-NATAL BENEFITS

There has been an increase in the number of expectant parents who are forking out for private ultra sounds. This may be for early pregnancy scanning, to confirm dates and check that everything is progressing normally with the pregnancy, in anticipation of the first hospital scan, or alternatively, it may be a 4D scan. These scans allow parents to view their baby in 3D while still in the womb, to hear the sounds from the womb, and to take home some precious photographs and videos of the event. These scans don’t come cheap, and would be considered a luxury, but are common place in Ireland today, with many private clinics offering this service.

You only have to walk around the local shopping centre and see the number of women who are currently pregnant to know that our baby boom is not going to stop anytime soon. Most of these women will give birth in our pressurised maternity hospitals, will probably claim maternity benefit and will most likely enrol their children in our jam-packed schools. Despite all that, each pregnant woman represents a new life, a new citizen of Ireland and new hope for the future of the country.

TRAVEL SYSTEM(BUGGY + CAR SEAT) €700 - 1,300

MOSES BASKET €80 - 200

COT AND MATTRESS €250 – 800

CHANGING TABLE €60 – 400

FEEDING/ROCKING CHAIR €170 - 450

STERILISER €50 - 120

BOUNCER €30 – 100

PLAY MAT €20 – 90

HIGHCHAIR €60 – 300

MONITORS €40 – 220

HOW MUCHARE WE LIKELY €TO SPEND?

41mums&tots

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with Annabel Karmel

AutumnQuick Dishes

Makes 18 cookies

Prep 5 minsCooking 20 mins

Suitable for freezing

With Autumn approaching and the kids going back to school you need some fail-safe family recipes that are quick to prepare and delicious, particularly when your little tots come back starving after school. Here are some of my favourite family recipes I used to whip up for the family on those blustery autumn days.

These cookies are an unusual but irresistible combination of dried apricots, cream cheese and white chocolate. They are quick to make and take just a few minutes to prepare. You can involve your kids when making these cookies too.

Ingredients• 100g unsalted butter• 100g cream cheese• 100g caster sugar• 75g plain flour• 50g chopped dried apricots• 65g chopped white chocolate or white chocolate chips

Method1. Preheat the oven to 180C/350F.2. Line some baking sheets with parchment or other baking paper (unless non-stick).3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and cream cheese. Add the sugar and beat until fluffy. Gradually add the flour, then fold in the apricots and chocolate. The dough will be quite soft – don’t worry!4. Drop heaped teaspoons of the mixture onto the baking sheets and bake for about 15 minutes until lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool and harden for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Apricot Cookies

A baked potato is the ultimate warming food. Try this fresh idea to light up an old favourite.

Ingredients• 2 potatoes• 1 chicken breast, diced• Generous pinch of mild chilli powder• ¼ tbsp dried oregano• 1 tbsp olive oil• Salt and freshly ground black pepper• ½ small red onion, diced• 1½ tbsp sour cream• Tortilla chips

Method1. Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F. Prick the ordinary-size potatoes (not baking potatoes) with a fork. Brush with oil and sprinkle with salt. Bake in an oven for 45 to 55 minutes or until crisp on the outside and tender inside.2. Meanwhile, mix the chicken with the chilli powder, oregano, ½ tbsp of the oil and some salt and pepper.3. Heat the remaining oil in the pan and sauté the onion for 1 minute until it begins to soften. Add the chicken and sauté for about 4 minutes until cooked through. Stir in the diced tomato.4. Cut a cross in the top of each potato, spoon over the topping, add a blob of sour cream and decorate each one with a tortilla chip.

Mexican Chicken Stuffed

Baked Potato

Makes 2 potatoesPrep 20 minsCook 55 mins

All recipes from Annabel’s ‘Essential

Guide to Feeding your Baby and Toddler’

available on iTunes.Annabel

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Mighty Mac & Cheese

Serves 4Prep 15 minsCook 15 minsSuitable for

freezing

I know lots of fussy children who only ever want to eat plain pasta with grated cheese. Maybe with a little gentle persuasion they could be enticed to try this tasty macaroni cheese. You can make it with or without the ham and tomato – it’s a really delicious sauce. Pasta provides a good source of complex carbohydrate, so this macaroni will boost your child’s energy levels as well as providing a good source of protein and calcium.

Ingredients• 350g macaroni• 4 medium tomatoes, skinned, seeded and chopped• 75g sliced ham, shredded (optional)

CHEESE SAUCE• 45g butter• 45g flour• 450 ml milk• 85g Gruyère, grated• 60g freshly grated Parmesan• 150g mascarpone

TOPPING• 40g breadcrumbs (2 medium slices bread, white or wholemeal, crusts removed)• 20g freshly grated Parmesan

Method1. Cook the pasta according to the packet instructions in plenty of salted boiling water.2. Melt the butter, stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add the milk, stirring over a low heat for 5–6 minutes.3. Take off the heat, stir in the Gruyère and Parmesan until melted, then the mascarpone.4. Drain the pasta, return to the pan, pour over the cheese sauce and heat through gently. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and shredded ham.5. Transfer to a greased ovenproof dish (approximately 26 cm x 17 cm x 5 cm (9 in x 6 in x 2 in). Mix together the breadcrumbs and Parmesan and sprinkle on top.6. Place under a preheated grill until golden and bubbling.

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Unlike fresh tuna, tinned tuna does not contain omega-3 fatty acids, however it is rich in protein, vitamin D and vitamin B12. This is a very tasty pasta dish which uses a tin of tomato soup as my secret ingredient. You could make these in ramekin dishes so that you have individual portions in your freezer.

Ingredients• ½ onion, peeled and finely chopped• 25g/1 oz butter• 1 tbsp cornflour• 120 ml/4 fl oz water• 400g tin of tomato soup• A pinch of mixed herbs• 1 to 2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley• 200g canned tuna, drained and flaked• 150g fusilli pasta• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

FOR THE SAUCE• ½ onion, peeled and finely chopped• 25g butter• 2 level tbsp plain flour• 300ml milk• 50g baby spinach, chopped• 85g Cheddar cheese, grated plus a

little extra for the topping

Method1. Preheat the oven to 180C/ 350F/ Gas Mark 4. Boil the pasta until al dente, then drain and refresh in cold water to stop it from over cooking.2. Melt the butter in a saucepan and sauté the onion until soft. Stir the cornflour into the water until dissolved, then add to the pan along with the tomato soup.3. Bring to the boil, add the herbs then cook gently stirring for five minutes.4. Mix in the flaked tuna and heat through. Season to taste.5. For the sauce, melt the butter in a saucepan and sauté the onion until transparent. Add the flour and continue stirring the mixture all the time.6. Gradually pour in the milk and keep stirring until the sauce is thickened and smooth. Add the chopped spinach and stir until wilted. Remove from the heat and stir in the grated cheese.7. Grease a serving dish and add the tuna and tomato mixed with the pasta and then the spinach sauce. Sprinkle with some grated Cheddar Cheese.8. Bake for 25 minutes until golden.

Serves 6Prep 10 minsCook 40 minsSuitable for

freezing

Tuna Pasta Bake

annabelkarmel.comannabelkarmeluk @annabelkarmel

Annabel Karmel is the UK’s number

one children’s cookery author

Out 20th June

Taste tested by toddlers

Make mealtimes more manageable

for busy mums and dads!

Mums and Tots Advert.indd 1 18/04/2013 14:57

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annabelkarmel.comannabelkarmeluk @annabelkarmel

Annabel Karmel is the UK’s number

one children’s cookery author

Out 20th June

Taste tested by toddlers

Make mealtimes more manageable

for busy mums and dads!

Mums and Tots Advert.indd 1 18/04/2013 14:57

HERE ARE OUR FAVOURITE MUST HAVE PRODUCTS FOR GREAT HAIR

EVERY DAY!

Aussie 3 Minute Miracle Shine €6.39 from BootsEmerge from the shower with locks that are brilliantly glossy and bursting with shine. Nice and quick for mums on the go.

Coconut Oil Hair Shine €8.95 from The Body ShopThis solid oil turns into a balm in your fingertips. It smoothes hair and adds shine. Careful though as a little goes a long way. 

Kerastase Cristalliste Cristal Sculpt €22.00 from Peter MarkCombining a serum and a gloss serves to hydrate the hair while also illuminating the surface and sculpting contours. Ideal for long hair.

Shine On

Schwarzkopf Silhouette Mousse Super Hold €8.60 from Niall O’Reilly Maximum volume and long lasting, yet invisible, super hold without weighing down the hair.

Aveda Curl Enhancing Hairspray €22.50 from House of FraserA finishing product for all curly looks, with long-lasting and weightless hold – without flaking or crunchiness.

Elnett Hair Spray €8.89 from Bootsinfuses any style with light from the first spray while perfectly holding your style for up to 24 hours. Also comes in handy 50ml hand bag size.

Get a Hold

Top Product

HairGuide

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Hydration for DeyhdationOjon Rare Blend Deep Conditioner €34.00 from Boots A dual-phase, multitasking, conditioning hair treatment that repairs, hydrates and smooths. Full of essential oils that smell good enough to eat!

Kerastase Luminous Perfecting Mask €35.30 from Peter MarkNourishes and protects the hair while making it more luminous and shiny.

Pump up the VolumeJohn Frieda Touchably Full Shampoo and Conditioner €6.31 each from BootsThe all new Luxurious Volume range has been formulated to deliver a full-bodied, salon quality style even on fine, flat hair. Combine with a back combing brush for even more oomph!

Label.m Resurrection Style Dust €14.99 from TONI & GUYCreate dynamic texture and volume with this amazing product from Label.m. Salon products at shop prices - we like!

Anti Dandruff Ginger Shampoo €9.95 from The Body ShopThis cleansing and refreshing shampoo contains ginger extract. It is perfect for dry scalps and keeping dandruff at bay.

Flake FreeViviscal €49.95 for 60 tablets from BootsHair loss following pregnancy can be unexpected and upsetting but this natural hair supplement is at hand to help regrowth.

Hair to Stay

John Frieda Frizz Ease Serum €7.03 from BootsThis cult product Instantly and dramatically transforms dry, frizzy, or chemically-treated hair into incredibly smooth, glossy hair. Plus it smells yummy!

Aveda Curl Controller €24.50 from House of FraserWith Organic Babassu Oil this product smoothes and elongates tight curls, while fighting frizz and conditioning hair.

Frizz Fighters

Denman - Back Combing Brush Pink €4.91 from Niall O’Reilly The slender pin tail makes it the perfect sectioning tool, while the narrow brush body carries three rows of high quality nylon bristles that provide grip and control.

Parlux 3800 Eco Ceramic Ionic Dryer €130.37 from Niall O’Reilly Light, powerful and environmentally friendly with a 2100w K-Lamination motor, reducing drying time and electricity usage. The combined effects of ceramic and ionic technology maintain hair’s natural moisture.

Mason Pearson Pocket Brush €40.76 from Hickey’s PharmacyHandmade with natural boar bristle tufts making it easy on hair, while effectively detangling. Comes in dark ruby, pink, ivory white, or blue. Detangling Comb, €5.00 from The Body ShopBrushing wet hair can cause damage but using a wide-tooth comb to gently ease tangles can minimise hair breakage.

GHD Eclipse, €235.00 from Peter MarkNew from cult product GHD is the GHD Eclipse. With one-stroke texture taming for all hair types and breakthrough patented tri-zone technology, this product gives you the best results in the fastest time.

In Style

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words by Roberta von MedingA Stately Stay

Are you trying to plan a babymoon with your partner? Look no further than Ireland’s own Farnham Estate, Co. Cavan, the ideal place for a pre - baby getaway.

There is something undeniably wonderful about visiting a big country estate. From the moment you enter the driveway at Farnham, you are greeted by acres of rolling Cavan countryside, a peaceful haven that entirely captures the spirit of relaxation. Prepare to be pampered.SUITES YOU SIR

There are two options available for accommodation. If you want something modern then opt for one of the contemporary double or king bedrooms in the new part of Farnham Estate. The interior design blends cool, linear design with the very latest in convenient room amenities including; a walk in shower and wireless broadband. Alternatively, get transported back in time to a different era in one of the twelve suites in the

old Farnham building. Waking up in the morning, you will feel like a character from a Charlotte Bronte novel; high ceilings, wooden floors, old mahogany furniture with a gramophone in the corner of the room. However, guests staying in suites can still enjoy all the amenities of the standard rooms.

TIME OUT

The Farnham Estate Health Spa is a calm world of peace and serenity, with a goal of providing an authentic experience of wellbeing. Here you are invited to genuinely focus on your own well being. The world class 44,000 square foot spa is the definition of health spa, a masterpiece where everything is dedicated to better both body and mind. Treatments and facilities include; a variety of massage and facials using YonKa products, aroma steam shower, whirlpool baths, rasul mud bat, dry float beds, herbal steam bath, laconium, Finnish sauna, ice fountain, snail showers, kneipp walk, reflexology foot baths and indoor and outdoor areas with panoramic views of the countryside.

The nine month stretch can really take its toll on both body and mind so why not opt for a brief time out just for you before your little bundle of joy makes their welcome arrival. Relax and unwind with a Pregnancy Pamper Treatment. Start your journey by slipping on a comfy robe and slippers, before being guided by your therapist to enjoy a Back and Neck Relaxation Massage followed by a mini YonKa facial designed to hydrate and brighten the skin, enhancing that beautiful pregnancy glow.

If you feel like storing up on some sleep before the baby waking nights ahead, curl up in the peaceful relaxation room and finish your afternoon with a float in the blissful indoor/outdoor infinity pool surrounded by beautiful scenery. The Water Mint Thermal Suite with hot and cold experiences is ideal to awaken the circulation, warm the muscles and create a deep feeling of relaxation.

FINE DINING

The wealth and beauty of Farnham’s own

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A BRIEF HISTORY 1664 - The Waldrons of Dromellan Castle (early name of Farnham House) were forced to sell the estate to settle gambling debts. Bought by Bishop Robert Maxwell.

In 1802 Francis Johnston, architect for Dublin’s GPO, was engaged to complete an extension of the existing house to provide an edifice to the southwest garden front. This is the latter day surviving Farnham House, which is now incorporated as the centrepiece of the hotel complex design.

1911 - Records mention a staff of 11; butler, cook, governess, nursery maid, nurse, footman, ladies’ maid and several house and kitchen maids. Some 3,000 of Farnham’s then 24,000 statute acres were sold off.

1914-1918 - Lord Farnham rejoined the military. He was captured, imprisoned and released after the Armistice. His political efforts failed to prevent the exclusion of three counties from the jurisdiction of Northern Ireland.

1921-1931 - Lord and Lady Farnham left for England. They emptied the house of its furniture, due to widespread burning and looting of country houses. The 1923 Land Act would ultimately end landlordism in Ireland.

1956 - Barry Owen Somerset Maxwell, 12th Baron Farnham became the last member of the Maxwell family to reside at Farnham House.

1995 - 2001 - Lord Farnham abandoned farming and leased the agricultural lands to local farmers. One of his last acts on the Farnham demesne was the planting of a group of trees to mark the New Millennium. Following his death in April 2001, Farnham House and Estate were sold to the McCabe Family.

Present Day - The contemporary hotel and leisure development at Farnham marks a new phase in the evolution of its aesthetically pleasing landscape. Thus the indelible mark made by the Maxwell family Lords Farnham on the landscape of Farnham will continue to be appreciated by future generations.

plant life is reflected in the theme of the dining experience at Farnham Estate. The hotel’s Botanica Restaurant menu includes the finest of local, seasonal produce and is a sophisticated and creative celebration of Irish cuisine. I challenge you to find a better fillet steak in Ireland! Have you ever eaten quail or rabbit? Why not give one a try and broaden your palette. If you still have room for dessert make sure you don’t miss the white chocolate velvet mousse with raspberry coulis. A little piece of heaven. Breakfast is also served here and offers a wide variety of food. If you have a special request, the staff will be only too happy to accommodate so don’t be afraid to voice those pancake pregnancy cravings!

The cosy and atmospheric Wine Goose Cellar Bar in the basement of the Great House is designed for lounging and socializing and continues the botanical emphasis, as does The Pear Tree Restaurant by the spa, serving deliciously healthful cuisine. Great for a light bite to eat after a morning at the spa.

TEN THINGS TO DO AT FARNHAM:

1/ Put on your walking shoes and discover the 7 km of walking trails through the local woodlands

2/ Don’t fancy walking? Then hire a bike from the Health Spa

3/ Try your hand at some course fishing on Farnham Lake

4/ Relax and unwind in the award winning health spa’s indoor / outdoor hydrotherapy pool, watermint thermal suite and relaxation rooms

5/ Treat yourself to a luxurious spa therapy in one of the health spa’s 19 treatment rooms

6/ Have a work out in the health spa’s gymnasium

7/ Get in a round of golf on the Jeff Howe’s golf course

8/ Get a good book and curl up beside the fire in one of the drawing rooms in the 18th Century Farnham House

9/ Try a game of bowls on Farnham Lawn

10/ Finish the day with a cocktail in the Wine Goose Cellar Bar

Return home feeling calmer, pampered and glowing and completely rested ready for the challenges that lie ahead. Radisson Blu Farnham Estate Health Spa, Farnham Estate, Cavan. T: 049 4377700 or see www.farnhamestate.ie

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encourage your children to save some of this for their future needs – like buying mum and dad Christmas presents or their own phone credit when of age to have a mobile. Money is a family thing and children should be versed in the basic concepts from as early an age as possible. Your approach and attitude to money will influence your children. Regardless of your level of wealth, everything you say or do in relation to money will have an effect. Given that they are unlikely to learn much about money from any other quarter and given the way debt is spreading through society, it is obviously important that you

should educate your children on personal finance.

“My husband never likes to discuss our money issues in front of the children. What point should we tell our five children who are aged from 9 years down to 6 months that we have a few money problems.” - Susan, Inchicore, Dublin 8

Even without telling them, they clearly can see signs that all is not well if you have money worries. Bringing them into the conversation will only bring benefits. Firstly, they will want to help in any way they can, if they can. Secondly, a sense of family togetherness can instil hope, determination and acceptance. Lastly, your children will be taught key principles including how to;

- Save for a specific purpose- Stick to a budget- Choose competitive products- Shop around- Spend money wisely

It is important to give your children good money habits and a genuine understanding of how money works. Leading by example is first and foremost e.g. turning lights off when not required. Don’t be afraid to encourage them to ask questions about money. It will be to your and their benefits.

“We are about to extend our home, buy a few baby things (we are having twins) and topping up our mortgage. Would it be easier to take out a short term loan with our local credit union?” - Anne, Blanchardstown, Co Dublin

All loans are based on the ability to repay. The home loan is the cheapest type of loan on offer in the market and would not compare to any of the unsecured personal loans available including credit unions. If your existing loan is on a tracker - linked to the ECB rate, currently 0.5% - do not swap to a fixed or variable and do not switch to another lender. The best variable rate currently on offer, for comparison purposes is AIB’s 4.24% for loans that are less than 50% of the value of the property. Credit Union loan rates start at 8%+ and are generally short term, 3 to 5 years, so moving into that short term high interest debt trap. Go to your mortgage lender and negotiate that top up.

John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is managing director of Providence Finance Services Ltd trading as Money Doctor and based in Stillorgan Co Dublin He is author of The Money Doctor 2013 ( from Gill & Macmillan). For newsletter or consultations phone 01 278 5555, or email jlowe@moneydoctor.ie or visit www.moneydoctor.ie.

FAMILY FINANCESThere are so many considerations when either at the planning stage or right in the middle of raising a family. Finance is one major issue bearing in mind the total cost in bringing your baby into this world from birth to completion of third level education can exceed €240,000! John Lowe, the Money Doctor, answers a few reader queries:

‘At what age should you start giving your child pocket money, if at all ? I am hearing different methods of dealing with this. We have three children, aged 9, 5 and 1 year old.’ - Marie, Ballina Co Mayo

Pocket money first of all depends on the parent’s financial situation as well as their own values. Research indicates that parents on average give national school-going children up to €10 per week, while at second level, children are given €20 per week and 3rd level a whopping €60 per week. Even if you can afford the €10 per week, it might be useful to

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Baby Shower crafts withFor more information on CrafTea classes contact Laura or Ali on 0863095535, crafteababy@gmail.com or visit us on www.craftea.ie

Baby Showers are an increasingly popular trend and a lovely way to celebrate mum-to-be and her soon-to-come-arrival with family and friends. Along with some games, nibbles, tea and cakes, here are some cute ideas and craft activities that can be enjoyed by all the guests.

GUESS THE BABY FOOD FLAVOURBuy 5 different flavour jars of baby dinner food and some plastic spoons. Hide the label with a numbered piece of card blue tacked on. Guests taste each dish and guess which flavour corresponds to each numbered jar. List out the possible flavours on a sheet for all to see.

BABY QUIZMake up 20 questions on baby and pregnancy terminology and facts and put them to teams of guests.

BLINDFOLDED NAPPY CHANGING CHALLENGEBring along some old dolls, nappies and a blindfold and relay race two teams to complete nappy changing duty.

PREDICTION CARDS Pre-print up some prediction cards for guests to fill out guessing the baby’s due date, time of arrival, sex, height and weight. Mum can then open them all when the baby arrives to see who got it right!

MEASURE THE BUMP CHALLENGETaking 1.5 meter long strips of white paper (or free IKEA paper measuring tapes), ask guests to attempt to guess mum-to-be’s bump size.

ASSEMBLE THE BREAST PUMPBreast Pumps are (in my experience!) one of the most complicated fiddly pieces of equipment to put together - with or without instructions. Challenge 2 teams to separately a race against the clock to assemble one. It’s harder than you think!

Signed Book Instead of a Card Idea For something special, write your wishes for mum and baby inside a story book instead of on a card, so baby can grow up with your kind words inside the cover of his or her favourite bedtime story!

Nappy Cake Baby Shower gifts can be expensive to buy online, but you can easily make your own personalised version for the mum to be with basic baby supplies and ribbon.

To make a cake like this you will need: • 40 nappies • Elastic bands, clear tape, safety pins. • Ribbon• Large tray base• 2 large baby blankets • Small mum and baby supplies– wipes,

breastfeeding shawl, brush and comb, talc, bibs, burp cloths, toys, creams, soothers, ointment.

Roll up the baby blankets and secure with a safety pin. Roll up each nappy separately and secure with an elastic band. Plan your ‘cake layers’ – for a large nappy layer you will need approximately 20 nappies/ large blanket rolled up and shaped into a circle, for smaller layers you will need only about 6 nappies or a small blanket. Assemble on the tray to make lifting and transporting the cake easier. Separate the layers with colourful burp clothes to look like icing. To secure, you can use clear tape and tie with ribbon or a shawl. Once your layers are assembled, decorate the cake with the mum and baby supplies and ribbon.

Make it Yourself Nappy Cake Gift Creative Baby Shower Games

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With a basic few stitches colourful fabrics become simple cosy booties for the baby! For each pair you’ll need:

• Soft felt or fabric• Needle• ThreadFor a newborn size bootie you will need:• 2 sole pieces (only about 3 inches long and 2 inches wide at the heel

and rounded at the toe)• 2 rectangle pieces (1 inch wide and 8 inches long – or you can check

online for general baby show size charts)

Secure a rectangle piece with a safety pin to the middle point at the heel. Starting on one side of the shoe, sew the rectangle piece to the sole all along the outside until you get half way around the rounded toe area. Cut the fabric so the fabric pieces at the toe are the same rounded shape. From the middle point at the back of the sole, sew the other side of the rectangular piece to the sole and again, at the toe, cut the fabric to mirror the rounded toe shape. Sew the overlapping fabric toe pieces to the sole and secure the stitches with a hidden knot. Stitch a bow or flower on the bootie to finish!

Get all the mum-to-be’s friends and relatives creative at the baby shower hand-decorating some beautiful and practical items for baby to enjoy, with some fabric paints, paint brushes and plain baby grows or bibs!

Make sure to cover surfaces with plastic sheets and put a card layer inside the onesie to avoid the colours running through the fabric. Leave paints to dry and then iron on a low heat to set the colours. Wash before baby wears the decorated items.

If you want to try to make your own stamps to decorate the onesie, you can simply cut a large potato in half, press a cookie cutter firmly into it, then cut away the excess potato to form the desired shape. Alternatively superglue a thick foam shape onto a wine cork to dip in paint!

Embrace the ‘nesting’ buzz at the baby shower decorating cute mini wooden bird houses with paints, gems or glitter. They can be used outdoors by birds or indoors by mum to hang things like soothers from! Packs of 6 Mini wooden birdhouses can be ordered online from www.BakerRoss.co.uk for under €10!

Decorate a Baby Bird House

Sew some Beautiful Baby Booties

DIY Onesie & Bib Activity

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bookshelf with MacMillanwww.macmillan.com

Age Group: 3 +

The Naughty Step by Garth Jennings, Illustrated by Rafael MartinCan you hear the creeeeeeeeak of the Naughty Step? Douglas is naughty, noisy and rude, and it is not long before he finds himself banished to the Naughty Step. But this is no ordinary step, and Douglas is highly delighted when it comes to life and seems to be the most perfect partner in crime. When that old step,

however, turns out to be VERY naughty indeed, it looks like Douglas might finally have met his match.

Mr Tiger Goes Wild by Peter BrownAre you bored with being sensible? Do you want to have more fun? Mr. Tiger knows exactly how you feel. Fed up of tea parties, top hats and talking about the weather, he astounds his friends when he decides to go . . . WILD. But does he go too far? After all, the wilderness can get pretty lonely.

Little Mouse’s Big Book of Beasts by Emily GravettLittle Mouse has found a new book, and this time it’s full of scary creatures. Undaunted, he bravely sets about removing or altering all the scariest bits: cosy mittens to cover the lion’s claws, ruby lips to replace the shark’s teeth -- and he even pole vaults out of the way of the bear! Full of flaps, jokes and Emily Gravett’s

trademark wit, with a brilliantly satisfying ending, this is a worthy successor to Little Mouse’s Big Book of Fears.

Aunt Amelia by Rebecca CobbWe were in a bad mood. Aunt Amelia was coming to look after us. When Mum and Dad go away for the night, Aunt Amelia comes to look after one very cross little girl and boy. They do NOT want to be looked after and, even worse, Mum has left a list of boring instructions. But Aunt Amelia turns out to be rather different from expected... and a LOT more fun!

Sugarlump and the Unicorn by Julia Donaldson, Illustrated by Lydia MonksWhen Sugarlump the rocking horse wishes to see the world, a magical unicorn with a silver horn and sparkling blue eyes turns him into a real horse. But after trotting around the farm, galloping around a racetrack and even dancing at the circus, Sugarlump learns to be careful

what he wishes for and realises how much he misses the children he left behind. Luckily the unicorn has one more wish to grant.

Rich Witch, Poor Witch by Peter Bently, Illustrated by Jim FieldWhen there’s a panic at the palace, which witch will come to the rescue? Twin sisters Witch Rose and Witch Rita are relaxing at home when the king arrives at Rita’s front door looking terribly worried. The princess is refusing to smile! Will Witch Rita be able to solve the problem by conjuring up exquisite

tiaras, fabulous frocks and boxes of chocs? Or will Witch Rose save the day with a very different approach?

Poppy Cat TV: Poppy Cat’s Counting Adventure by Lara JonesJoin Poppy Cat as she plays in the garden, goes to the beach and has a yummy picnic with her friends! Every spread has lots of things to spot and count, from butterflies to seashells, but watch out -- some of them are hidden away behind fun flaps and secret peep-

holes! Children will love discovering and counting all the beautifully illustrated things that Poppy Cat encounters on her adventures. This bright and colourful board book is perfect for teaching

inquisitive toddlers to count.

Gruffalo’s Child Sound Book by Julia Donaldson,Illustrated by Axel SchefflerGrowl along with the Gruffalo’s Child as she tip-toes through the snow on a wild, windy and NOISY night! Press the 10 interactive sound buttons on this amazing play-along version of the best-selling The Gruffalo’s Child and bring the story vividly to life!

Win! x1 copy of this gorgeous book. Email your contact details to competitions@mumsandtots.ie with ‘Gruffalo’ in the subject box.

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Babies cry – it is their only method of communication. Not a pleasant sound, I will admit, but a fact nonetheless, and one that all new parents must accept from day one.

Chances are you will both find yourselves staring desperately at one another, waiting for one to step forward and finally say, ‘I know what to do’, but this rarely happens. In the same way that there is no cure for the everyday common cold, there is no secret method that can stop a baby in full-on banshee mode. Start by eliminating the obvious: your baby may be hungry (even after a feed), may still have some trapped wind to get out or may need a nappy change. If your baby is just being ‘a baby’, then you may wish to try some of the following methods of calming your crying baby:

NO NEED TO CRY OVER IT!1. Rock-a-bye-baby: Hold baby close to

you and rock/sway baby in your arms whilst moving. Rocking helps soothe agitated babies as it replicates the constant feeling of motion in the womb. Try rocking your baby in your arms, in their pram or crib. Be careful with rocking as this should not to be used as a method of getting baby off to sleep.

2. Cuddling: Don’t think you are spoiling your baby if he needs lots of cuddling

or enjoys being carried round.

3. Place your baby in the ‘colic hold’. Lay your baby along your arm, with

their head towards your elbow and their stomach in the palm of your hand, by lowering your arm, you can also ensure that the tummy is lower than the head to help wind escape.

4. Swaddling: Some babies feel happier firmly wrapped up as it makes them

feel more secure.

5. Fresh air: Take them out for a walk in the fresh air, either in a baby carrier/

sling or pram; the motion again will help to relax your baby and the exercise will be a welcome distraction for you.

6. Motor mouth: Try a car ride. Again, the movement is a big factor in soothing

baby, but try not to become too reliant on this one and use only as a last resort.

7. Run a warm bath and get in with your baby: Warm water allows your baby to

feel weight-free and to stretch more easily. The feel of skin-on-skin can often help to soothe a crying baby. If the crying doesn’t afford you the opportunity to run a bath, try placing a warm, damp facecloth across their belly.

8. Hush little baby: Sing to your baby. It may at least drown out his cries for a

while and help keep you calm.

9. Try shushing: Loud shushing will often stop a baby in their tracks and

so they will pause to listen. Though not an immediate remedy, this one may take quite a few choruses of shushes.

10. Cry it out: Try leaving them to cry for a few minutes some babies may cry

while putting themselves to sleep so don’t rush in.

11. White noise: Your baby can be calmed by ‘white noise’, that is, noise

that is continuous and uniform, such as a vacuum cleaner or hair dryer.

12. Baby massage: Babies like to be touched and stroked, so a massage

is a great way to calm a distressed baby. Many babies love a gentle, rhythmic pat on their backs or bottoms.

13. Let your baby have something to suck on, eg the old reliable dummy/

pacifier, a bottle, a teething toy, or daddy’s (clean!) little finger.

14. Distraction: Sometimes a new activity, or dad jumping about, can

be very helpful in turning a noisy baby into a quiet one. Try also looking out the window with baby facing outwards.

15. Take the nappy off: A common technique, similar to the freedom

experienced in a warm bath, to stretch and kick-about, especially helpful if you suspect nappy rash.

With all of the above methods, be patient, as soothing a crying baby can take more than just a few minutes, and finding the right solution may require combining some of methods above.

If you are ever in doubt that something is wrong with your baby contact your GP immediately.

Daddy Diaries

Words by Author, David CarenDavid Caren is founder of Dad.ie and author of ‘The Irish Dad’s Survival Guide to Pregnancy & Beyond...’ available in all good bookstores or online at www.obrien.ie

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