Newsletter

Happy Mother's Day and welcome to our May edition of Cradle 2 Kindy Parenting Solutions newsletter.

A Note from the Editor

I hope you found the last edition informative and the article by The Gidget Foundation interesting. 

This month I would like to introduce you to the MUM FOR MUM program. This is an outreach service for mothers of infants and women in the last trimester of pregnancy. The program offers home-based emotional support to mothers with little or no family support nearby, who feel isolated or who feel overwhelmed by the challenges of motherhood. The program matches up mothers with volunteers who have completed the MUM FOR MUM volunteer training program. The volunteers are not health professionals but mothers themselves who can appreciate your challenges. MUM FOR MUM is free of charge and currently services the eastern suburbs of Sydney.

MUM FOR MUM also offers a unique volunteering opportunity for mothers who are passionate about improving the wellbeing of other mothers.  By being a MUM FOR MUM volunteer you assist another mother enjoy motherhood and help her establish a nurturing bond with her baby.  MUM FOR MUM provides training and ongoing support.  It’s a great way to give back to your community.  For more information please go to www.mumformum.org.au or call them on 02 9363 0257

We still have some openings for the right women to join Cradle 2 Kindy Parenting Solutions franchise in Wollongong, Orange/Bathurst and Canberra. Thanks to everyone for putting the word out in these areas. If you, or anyone you know, are interested in helping parents from pre-birth to five years old, here is a fantastic opportunity to do so. Read more at Franchises Available or on the News page.

Our e-books continue to be a great tool for parents. Mothercraft nurse Sally Hall has put together professional yet practical tips for parents who would like to be just one step ahead of their children. For more details or to purchase these e-books with their practical parenting tips please follow the link to our Publications.  With every purchase you will receive a free copy of '1300 RUN 101 The Fundamentals of Parenting'.

Our e-books available are: 'The Cradle Will Rock' 0-3 months (86 pages), 'Rock a Bye Baby' 3-9 months (103 pages), 'When the Wind Blows' 9-18 months (88 pages), and 'When the Bough Breaks' toddler and child  (74 pages).  

E-book testimonial: "We found 'The Cradle Will Rock' e-book has been very helpful in many practical ways. We were also amazed how quickly our baby responded to the tips and suggestion for settling our baby, I also liked the way it debunked many of the myths surrounding sleep. I feel I am now more confident in my parenting and would not hesitate to recommend these parenting e-books to others especially if you are a first time parent like us. We are on to our second edition!" Fiona

We would love to hear from others who have found our e-books or any of our products helpful. Please email me at: info@cradle2kindy.com.au

Warm regards,

Sally Hall

What's New?

We have added a few more helpful links to our Links & Contacts page including: The Gidget Foundation and Mum for Mum. If you have any suggestions on what you think might be helpful links to include please let us know.

For those who have the DVD and books 'Your Baby Can Read' we have just re stocked our 'Your Baby Can Learn' books.  These books teach:
Shapes -Babies will learn geometrically-related shapes instead of the typical shapes found in most baby books.
Numbers -Dr. Titzer uses research from infant perception studies to help your baby learn the concept of number as well as learn to read numerals.
Patterns -This book teaches logic patterns using colourful photographs and words. For example, "big dog, little dog, big dog, little dog, big dog, little dog, big dog, What comes next?"
Colours -This book teaches lighter and darker shades of colours.
Prepositions -Some of the most frequently used words in English are prepositions. Most babies are not specifically taught these words. Imagine how much more language your baby will understand if she or he comprehends prepositions.

To order on line just click onto the drop down and choose 'Your Baby Can Learn'  The set of 5 books are $69.95

If you have missed out on our last baby wrap sale don't fret we have our extra large Stretch Cheesecloth baby wraps going for an amazing $22.00. These wraps are ideal for the coming cooler months and are guaranteed to fit any baby. Take a look at our infamously large wraps and the wide range of colours and fabrics displayed in Our Shop. All our baby wraps are made here in Sydney.  Order on line and support our Ozzie economy.

Another great novel gift idea are the 'Your Baby Can Read', ‘Sock Ons’ which can also be purchase through Our Shop. 

Our unique Gift Ideas for newborns continue to be on sale.  Why not make up your own selection from our list of products then let us put it together for you in a decorative box. Or buy a Gift Voucher for a personal home visit. A very practical gift idea!  What better way to help parents start off well.

If you are looking to buy a product and what to know what other parents or health professionals might suggest take a look at our 'Product Reviews to help you make your decision.  Don’t forget to let us know of any products you have found useful so we can add them too.

Join other parents on the Forums or start up a new topic.  This is a great place to support each other in the very important role as parents.

This Month's Article

Due to inquiries and interest in children with allergies amongst the clients visited recently, I have continued on the topic of food with the title 'Allergies'.  This article contains information on foods which are both high and moderate in natural chemicals. "In today’s society children face many of life’s obstacles very early, even while at the breast. ...".  click here to read the full story.

Parents Testimonies

Thanks to all the parents who contribute to this section through filling out our online evaluation form.  Keep those testimonials coming!

Danielle's Testimonial

“C2K has changed our household beyond belief. If someone had told me that by putting the steps in place discussed in one phone call our 2yr old would be staying in bed within 10 minutes and sleeping through the night and back to having day sleeps after 3 nights I wouldn’t have believed it. C2K has given us the tools to be better parents, and given us the chance to spend time together once the kids are in bed by 7pm...not 10pm! Even though we only spoke on the phone and emailed for our coaching we are so pleased with the results! Our parenting coach was always available whenever we had any queries and always took the time to talk through the process without it ever feeling rushed or that our 'issues' weren't important".  Koolunga, South Australia.

Roslyn's Comments

"Our coach was professional, friendly and skilled. Always responsive on the phone and with emails.   We appreciated the mothercraft advice that was as an additional service to the circumcision support provided. It was very practical mothercraft advice.   We also appreciated the routine provided.  Even though I was a bit reluctant to try it at first, it has been working perfectly".

If you have been or are a client we would appreciate if you fill out the Evaluation Form. We would like to share your testimonials, comments or stories to help encourage other parents who may be in a similar situation.

Thank you.

Any Questions?

If you have any general questions about Cradle 2 Kindy Parenting Solutions service or would like to arrange another visit please don’t hesitate to call Sally on 0409 721 145.

I'd love to hear from you!

All articles on this website have a copyright any the use of any material must have permission from Cradle 2 Kindy Parenting Solutions.

Disclaimer: Information we provide is for education purposes only.  Please consult with your doctor to make sure this information is right for your child.

Welcome to our second newsletter for 2007.  Thank you to everyone who has sent in their comments and gave suggestions on our first edition.  Please continue to let your friends and family know by forwarding our email letter with this link as newsletters will no longer be posted on the web site. 

Please remember you will be able to click onto other pages on the site but only onto the newsletter through the link from your email page  I hope you are enjoying our new web site.  We do have a copyright and permission must be granted before any of our articles or information can be used else where or put to print.  See contact details below. (photo by BIG Australia)

 

March - April 2007

What's in this issue:

• Formula Feeding- some complications
• Infant Learning- Reading doesn't teach how to read
• Patents Testimonials

Due to the increasing demand for information, I have continued the series on bottle feeding and in this issue,  we cover topics for those who may be considering weaning or have already experienced some of the following complications.

Due to many requests about infant learning.  I have also asked Dr Titzer to provide us with more research on this topic.

Thank you to all of you who have comments on our new look.  Your comments and suggestions have been noted.  I hope you enjoy this edition.

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Some Complications with Formula Feeding

Not all babies react to formula - here are some of the common complaints and possible solutions.

Constipation

It is a myth to say that breastfed babies do not get constipated.  I was once told by a peadiatric gastroenterologist that what went in must come out within 24 hours.  Some breastfed babies have been known to go ten days before opening their bowels this can be most uncomfortable for a baby.  Formula fed babies also need to open their bowels at least once a day. 

If your baby becomes constipated, that is anything that is backed up, or not a soft paste, introduce 20-30 mls of cooled boiled water 20 minutes after the feed.  If this doesn't seem to improve the situation within 24 hours, you may need to try diluted prune juice.  Do not add sugar to the feed or dilute the formula as this is detrimental to baby’s health.  If it persists, then I suggest changing formula.  If baby has been constipated for some days, massage his tummy gently clockwise and press his knees into his tummy, this may help move things along.  If baby continues to be constipated, seek medical advice.

Diarrhea

Unlike breastfed babies, bottle fed babies' bowel movements are not loose but a soft formed paste with the consistency of toothpaste.  If it is firm like play-dough, your baby is constipated.  You do not want to leave it as it may get worse and becoming like small pellets.

If baby has very loose watery stools, your baby is very likely to have either a lactose or milk intolerance. Try a lactose free or low allergy formula.

Skin rashes

Rashes are often caused by milk intolerances or adjusting to the formula. Stick to the formula you have chosen for a few more days.  If things don’t improve, switch to a different brand or a low allergy formula.  If baby has a fine, rough feeling rash, and at certain times of the day is very unsettled, this rash may be an indication of acidic reflux.

Unsettled, irritable baby

If a newborn becomes unsettled, it may be due to his system adjusting to formula. Before changing to a new formula, try the sleep and settling techniques and a daily routine as described in the flyer on newborn care.  If baby continues to be unsettled, try a low allergy formula.

If you have just up graded to the next age-appropriate formula and baby becomes unsettled, go back to the one she was comfortable with until baby has settled down.   Then try the new formula again after awhile.

Crusty eyebrows

This may sometimes indicate lactose intolerance. Lactose intolerant babies will also have very loose bowels. Try using Sorbolene or something similar on the eyebrows.  If the crustiness persists and baby is unsettled, try changing to a lactose free formula.

Cow’s milk intolerance

Milk intolerances are on the rise but is still very uncommon. They are often identified through frothy, loose or mucus in the bowel motions, constipation, rashes and an irritable baby. If there is a history of milk intolerance in the family, it is suggested that you start on a low allergy formula such as Nan HA or S26 HA.

I hope this will help some of you who may have babies with these problems.

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Infant learning - reading doesn't teach how to read

In the last year, there were several TV news broadcasts about Your Baby Can Read in Australia and around the world which showed toddlers and preschoolers reading. All these children learned to read as babies watching our Your Baby Can Read DVDs.  Dr Titzer was also featured with different babies and toddlers reading in Australia and the US.  Many babies and toddlers featured read beautifully during these stories while the TV cameras were rolling.  One of these stories was of a 21-month-old baby who read very well.  To all those who have purchased a set of DVD’s and books, please let me know how your child is doing as the next time Dr. Titzer is on TV here in Australia, your child could be included. As many of you know, I have dyslexic problems which I believe could have been prevented if only this system was available when I was a child.  I think it is wonderful watching these babies and toddlers read.<

Allow me to share with you over the next couple of months some of Dr. Titzer’s research on the benefits of teaching your baby to read. 

• Reading to your child does not teach reading
• A baby’s ability to follow an adult’s gaze influences the child’s later vocabulary
• Are “educational” videos for babies really educational?

New Study Shows that Reading to a Child Doesn't Teach Reading

When a parent is reading to a child, the average preschooler spends about five seconds focused on looking at the text.  The rest of the time was spent looking at the pictures. This recent study in Psychological Science shows that reading to a child does not teach the child to read. The authors of the study said that parents should not expect that reading to their children will teach them to read unless the child is looking at the text.  They recommended that parents show their children text while reading. This study made the front-page of newspapers in Canada in late 2005 and it was featured on TV news programs.

How You Can Use this Study to Help Your Child Learn to Read

I recommend two types of reading to children – one to teach reading and one where you simply read for the love or joy of reading and not trying to teach reading. It is easy to turn the typical “read to the child” experience into a fun “learning to read” experience once your child learns to read a few dozen words. [More info. on this topic is available on the Parent Segment of the Your Baby Can Read DVDs.]

Some Reasons to Teach Reading Earlier:

• The most natural time to learn language is early in life.
• Reading is the most important skill a child ever learns.
• More than 90% of a child’s brain is developed by age five.
• Longitudinal studies show that children who are taught to read earlier read better than same IQ, same-socioeconomic status children who are taught later.
• It's easier to learn the patterns of language early in life.
• Reading is fun for babies and toddlers.
• Reading helps children succeed in school and in life.
• The window of opportunity for learning language is short.
• Baby brains develop faster than older children's brains.
• Early readers have higher self-esteem.
• Teaching reading earlier may prevent most reading problems according to a national panel of reading specialists.
• It's possible the brain will develop more efficiently early in life for reading.
• Early readers stay ahead of children who are taught later.
• The current methods and ages are not working for millions of children.
• Early readers are more likely to do well in school and life.

If you are interested in purchasing a set of DVD’s please email your details to cradle2kindy@optusnet.com.au  For more information see The importance of stories, songs and rhymes for children of all ages

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Parents Testimonies and Comments

Danielle’s Testimony

I wish I had contacted Cradle 2 Kindy sooner rather than when I was at my wit’s end!  It was important to me to receive some re-education in my baby’s own home environment rather than having to go to a day stay /residential which usually involves a bit of a wait.  Our parenting coach could identify immediately where I needed help and came armed with experience and written information to get us back on track.  More importantly she provided some emotional support and within a few hours, mother and baby were back on track!  I will certainly be referring this service to others.

Tanya’s Story

My baby was six months old and I did not have her in a proper sleeping or eating routine.   For six months I had been exhausted and didn't have more than three hours blocks of sleep a night.  Before our coach had arrived I was worried she would allow my baby to scream and be unsettled all night long.  This was not the case.  Our Parenting Coach stayed overnight and explained what I was doing wrong and taught us how we could change our babies sleep pattern.  With the techniques taught us during this time our baby learnt to self settle very quickly.  Since then she puts herself to sleep within seconds. 

I had been very anxious to be left without our coaches support but she knew the techniques and routine would work and had total confidence in getting results.  Because our coach was very calm and confident too am confident that I can continue the routine - it showed me that I can improve the situation - by me being in control and not my baby.

I have been sleeping nine hours straight since.  I'm no longer put off having a second child and I definitely will call our Parenting Coach to help us get the second child straight from the beginning.  All my questions were answered and even now I have been assisted through phone calls. 

Kate’s comments

Our parenting coach is an absolute wonderful mothercraft nurse with a great sense of humour about babies and mothering and she also possesses an incredible care and understanding in her practice.  We could not have gotten such a quick response from our daughter without her help.  She is a God-send!!

Thank you to all the parents who have returned their evaluation forms with their comments and testimonies. If others would like your story or comments (a photo may be included) in our newsletter, please post your evaluation form or email your testimonial (with photo - optional) to info@cradle2kindy.com.au

See other testimonials related to the headings throughout the Cradle 2 Kindy website or read through those on www.babycareforcryingbabies.com.au

See read other articles on parenting look at Articles from our Archives

All articles on this website have a copyright any the use of any material must have permission from Cradle 2 Kindy Parenting Solutions.

Disclaimer: Information we provide is for education purposes only.  Please consult with your doctor to make sure this information is right for your child.

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