About Baby Friendly Companies

The goal of Baby Friendly Companies are to provide peace of mind to employees at work when they have babies. Companies that use this program make their workers feel more comfortable and secure when they want to start a family.

Typical values a Baby Friendly Company has in their organisation is mainly to offer their employees reasonable work hours that allow them to balance their personal and professional life.

Not to discriminate against employees that want to start a family and the company supports their employees when they announce that they are expecting a baby.

BebedeParis has developed programs to assist companies by providing them with personal, exclusive and useful gifts and gift hampers when the pregnancy is announced, as well as at the time a new member of the family is born and even a welcome back gift when the parent returns back from maternity leave. These programs save the HR department time and money by taking the task of baby gifting of their hands and ensures that company gifting stays within budget.

Javier Ros, HR vice president of SEAT and long-time customer of BebedeParis says the following:

At SEAT, we take care of employees when they have a child. Among other things, we send them a personalised baby hamper to celebrate the birth of their child. We have conducted a survey to measure the impact it has had. Some of the results are as follows:

Commitment: 100% of employees feel more committed to their work, since they believe that the company takes care of them and their families at such important moments as the birth of a baby.

Satisfaction: 97% of respondents are satisfied with the gift and see it as useful.

Employer branding: 78% of employees became brand ambassadors for the company since they have commented on the special treatment by the company at such a special moment in their lives.

About BebedeParis

BebedeParis is the leading provider of baby gifts in South Africa and is trusted by companies such as BBD Software, Netstar, Ooba, Gulfstream, Blue Label, Consulta and many more. They also have an online shop for family and friends of new parents to choose a special gift to congratulate new parents on the arrival of a new member to the family.

For More Information

For more information and to read reviews on the professional service of BebedeParis, visit their website at www.bebedeparis.co.za or www.babyfriendlycompanies.co.za or call 012 004 1911.

Why You Need To Visit Baby College®

The saying goes, "it takes a village to raise a child", which is why Baby College® is just the place to help you find your bearings in the world of parenting, while having plenty of fun. Their classes are designed for both parents and children aged from newborn to three years old, taking little families through a variety of fun activities that not only offers bonding time, but also enhances every aspect of your child's development.

https://www.instagram.com/p/ByxAMhzpxrY/

As parents, you'll gain valuable insight into the various areas of early development through the Baby College® classes, which will assist in your child's growth through linguistic play, music, movement and other activities. Their programme is designed to grow with baby, catering to three different age groups:

Infants: 0 - 9 months

Infant classes offer new parents insight into early development. It will also grow your confidence and understanding of your little bundle of joy. The classes consists of gentle activities suitable for babies as young as newborn, with the pace progressing as baby grows.

Toddlers: 9 - 18 months

As your little one starts exploring more, the Toddler classes will introduce them to additional learning themes that will include music play and rhythmic movement. These activities will promote language, listening and body awareness.

BC Juniors: 18 - 36 months

Junior classes are fun-filled and more active than the other two classes, assisting in developing your little one's cognitive and motor skills. Here, each individual child will be able to express their creativity and imagination. This will grow their independence and emotional understanding, build the confidence, as well as skills needed for later learning.

About Their Classes

Baby College® offers a wide range of classes that doesn't only cover the development of your little tot, but also caters to parents and their needs during this transition into parenthood. With everything from dietitians and consultants, to first aid and fitness fun for moms, they've got your back in every aspect along the way.

Baby College® Classes

Baby College® offers weekly parent and baby development classes, catering for babies aged from newborn to 3 years old.

Lactation Consultant

Baby College® are passionate about helping mothers and families breastfeed and enjoy making eating a fun experience.

Support Groups

Having a baby is a wonderful experience, but also trying at times. Mom-baby support groups can help you get through rough patches and allow you to make new lifelong friends.

First Aid & CPR

Be ready for anything with Baby College®'s interactive and informative child and infant CPR and First Aid courses. This course is fully accredited and are presented by First Aid Counts.

Infant Massages

The massage classes will teach parents how to develop and strengthen the bond with their new baby. This also aids in support and assists with optimal development.

Fit Mommy Classes

Pre- and post-natal health is important. Which is why Baby College® offers fitness classes that presents fun, body conditioning exercises with your baby. All fitness levels and ages welcome.

Visit their website and Facebook for more information on these classes and when they'll be held.

For More Information

For more information on Baby College, visit their website at www.babycollege.co.za.

You can also contact them on 084 462 6313 or [email protected].

Don't forget to give them a follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to keep up to date with the latest classes and blogs.

What Is It?

Don't miss this amazing Momee and Babee Expo, this wonderful three day event is bringing all the things that you need to know about the latest in parenting and baby products.

Calling all the Momees and Dadees to come and partake in a entertaining expo, there will be tons of prices to be won.

Gallagher Convention Centre awaits you and your family!

When Is It?

Friday to Sunday, 05 - 07 July 2019 at 10:00.

Where Is It?

Gallagher Estate, Midrand, Johannesburg, Gauteng.

How Much Is It?

Entrance is R50 per person, get your tickets here!

For More Information.

For more information, click here.

Baby Gaga Decor

One thing every parent wants for their children is joy and a good upbringing. Sometimes mamas and papas want the extra tiny bits — the cherry on top type of bits like Interior design for babies. So we're here to hook you up with cuteness overload.

Apparently, the first thing that people often think of when you mention baby language is "Googoo Gaga". So, how about Baby Gaga? One of the best in interior design, they tailor your baby's room to your specific needs and add that je ne sais quoi that will have everyone gobsmacked. Baby Gaga is situated in Fourways at the Cedar Square Shopping Centre.

Baby Belle

Baby Belle is situated in Cape Town, but we won't let that limit us, right? Well, luckily you don't have to go there to get their adorable stuff. You can just buy everything on their site and become a self established interior designer. I mean, nothing is better than knowing you can add your own personal touch, right mama? Right. 

Baby Belle actually boasts hand crafted goods, so you definitely know that you are getting your money's worth. Their pieces ooze elegance and overall cutism (cute - izim), I call it. Your nana's room will be as cute as him/her.

Baby Couture

One word to describe this boutique would be "Modern". Baby Couture is the true definition of style. Their designs really stand out. The soft textures that they add really makes a room feel like a baby's room and a comforting environment. Your little munchkin will feel all cuddled and stuff.

Parents are becoming more conscious in their decision making when it comes to their bundles of joy. This boutique will put every mama and papa at ease because it is all about quality and style. Inspired by the love of textiles, you can rest assured that they will get creative with whatever idea you might have.

They ship countrywide, so you don't have to worry about the logistics, other the envy you will be faced with when your friends come over. LOL!

Little Interiors

Mariëtte Sakelliou, the owner of Little Interiors, brings a fresh perspective to the little one's bedroom. Her designs are very lifestyle conscious, and quality driven so you don't have to ponder about how long it will last.

Her lifestyle blog is a good one to follow for some fresh ideas and inspiration to add some adorable touches to the room — maybe even encourage you to do something unique with your own room.

The boutique boasts variety, so you will be spoiled for choice, without a doubt.

Find more places to splurge on your baby.

 

WIN A Fisher-Price® Hamper valued at R3 500

Play is the way that children learn best, which is why Fisher- Price® offers parents (and babies, of course) educational and exciting toys that help build your children's skills while they have fun. Fisher- Price® gives your children the best possible start and help you succeed at what they believe is the most important job in the world - nurturing your child’s development.

We're giving away a Fisher- Price® hamper filled with amazing goodies to the value of R3 500. The hamper includes:

For more information about Fisher Price® and their educational and exciting products, visit www.fisher-price.com.

Also, follow them on Facebook.

#Fisherprice #FisherpriceSA

WIN A Fab Fisher- Price® Hamper To The Value Of R3 500

What makes it unique

B Swim School in Bryanston is unique in its approach as it aims to teach water safety skills in a matter of WEEKS! Using a very gentle and fun programme that was developed and tested in the USA, it quickly shows babies how to turn onto their backs, float, rest and breathe for an indefinite period of time. This amazing skill could prove to be a lifesaver if children accidentally fall into the water during a momentary lapse in adult supervision.

Plus, children undergo a “clothes test” before graduating to show that they can happily float on their backs while wearing heavy winter clothing. After all, accidental drowning can happen year-round and not just when they are dressed in light summer clothing. Special needs children are also accommodated.

b swim school

Next Step...

Children are then taught the float-to-breathe method – to float and swim with their faces in the water. This is very different to the doggy-paddle we all did as kids and builds a solid foundation and correct head position going forwards.

Thereafter, strokes and correct breathing techniques are introduced in group classes.

b swim school

Contact Details

Address: 27 Chesterfield Road, Bryanston

Phone: 083 649 9067

Email: [email protected]

Web: www.bswimschool.co.za

Facebook: www.facebook.com/BSwimSchool

b swim school

Established seven years ago, Little Lumps has transformed from a small business, focused on preemie baby clothing, to an online baby clothing, accessories and nursery décor store that produces beautiful, high-quality clothing for babies up to the age of 18 months.

Their new summer range includes a selection of fun, creative designs. The clothes are made from 100% luxury cotton fabric, sourced in South Africa and manufactured in Johannesburg (we love local!) The range is fun, comfortable for babies and the quality is impeccable.

"Our new seasonal range offers something completely different to what Little Lumps has offered in the past," says owner and founder Celia Els. "As always, we are committed to delivering great quality clothing that's locally produced, and we’re absolutely delighted to be able to introduce this unique range to the South African market."

Want an in-style baby too? We've got two R750 Little Lumps vouchers to give away!

WIN A Little Lumps Online Gift Voucher! JHB

This inspiring project will change the future of more than 3 million South African babies by 2020. Poor socio-economic conditions make skin problems more difficult to confront. Babies are more exposed to the elements and conditions like dry itchy skin can get out of control, letting in bacteria that will impact negatively on a baby’s health as it grows. That's why The Johnson’s Baby Healthy Skin Project aims to achieve the following:

Unjani is a sustainable initiative that aims to strengthen health systems in low-income communities throughout South Africa by empowering community nurses to own and operate their very own clinic within their community.  There are currently 30 Unjani clinics in South Africa providing thousands of mothers and babies in poverty access to treatment.

Knowledge is power, which is why Johnson's has also partnered with Dr Carol Hlela to help educate about baby skin health. Dr Carol Hlela is a paediatric dermatologist with a Master's in Science in Global Health Science (MSc GHS) and a PHD in Clinical Medicine from Oxford University.

Our Q&A with Dr Hlela

What’s the number one concern new parents have when they bring their baby in for the six-week check-up? This is the time mothers will have just witnessed those physiological but transient skin conditions that we see at this stage of life, because the skin at this stage is seriously underdeveloped. An example is miliaria (heat rash) and milia (neonatal acne).

How do you know if your newborn's skin is healthy? When your newborn's skin is intact, supple (nicely moisturised), not dry and has no rashes (there may still be a colourful birthmark in healthy skin). It must be said that healthy skin is a good safekeeping measure towards overall baby health. If it's not healthy, pathogens and other elements can come through, which have the potential to compromise the baby's overall health.

Why is it so important to take care of your baby’s skin from birth? At birth baby skin is underdeveloped and cannot perform its protective barrier function adequately. Due to this fact, baby skin is highly susceptible to infections and damage during the early years of life. By taking care of your baby’s skin early on you are mitigating and preventing the risk of your child developing infections and other conditions such as atopic eczema and allergies which, literature indicates, are linked to skin barrier defects. So, taking care of baby skin from birth is a protective measure that has the potential to influence the baby’s overall health.

What are the most prominent paediatric skin conditions you’re seeing in South Africa? Many conditions, from excessively dry skin from the use of incorrect products to eczema and serious skin infections – some that may even be fatal.

Why is it so important to have something like the JOHNSON’S® Baby Healthy Skin Project? And how did you get involved? The Johnson's Baby Healthy Skin Project has been instrumental in creating change for mothers and babies in rural communities. A project such as this one aims to create sustainable change in the lives of South Africans and works consistently to educate mothers on healthy baby skin practices, so that the future of skin health is a better one.

What is a healthy skin practice parents can adopt for their children?

  1. Be careful what you wash your baby's skin with. To the best of your ability, use products that have been especially formulated for baby's skin.
  2. Moisturise skin regularly even when there are no visible issues with your baby's skin.
  3. Protect your baby from the sun.
  4. When there is a visible skin problem, do not sit at home thinking it’s just going to going away on its own, it may not. Rather run it past a healthcare professional and get assured it's nothing to worry about.

The Joburg.co.za team headed to the Unjani Clinic in Orlando, Soweto, where we chatted to some moms and watched a baby massage class led by Diana Hoyos. Check out the video here:

For more information visit their website www.johnsonsbaby.co.za

 

Life Baby 

Life Baby utilises water to give babies as young as one-day-old the freedom of movement. Ultimately, they are provided with an environment to grow, develop and build skills. The water encourages bonding with parents and stimulates babies' physical, mental and sensory pathways. Life Baby accommodates infants up to the age of 12 months. Being new parents can be daunting and stressful, but they can assist with making the journey more relaxed.

Details: 2 Design Quarter, Leslie Ave East, Fourways / 010 500 0551 / [email protected] / LifeBaby/

L.U.C.C.A

L.U.C.C.A offers a group sensory group programme that focuses on messy play. As their website states, "Messy play allows children to build, imagine, investigate, experience, explore, create, observe, predict and use their senses. Best of all… it’s heaps of fun!” Sensory play includes any activity that stimulates a child’s senses: touch, smell, taste, sight and hearing. Sensory activities and sensory tables facilitate exploration and naturally encourage children to use scientific processes while they play, create, investigate and explore.

Details: 45 Susman Avenue, Blairgowrie/ 011 781 0952 / [email protected]/ L.U.C.C.A

International Association of Infant Massage

Infant massage is a traditional parenting practice in India and many other parts of the world. Generations of mothers have offered this nurturing touch to their babies. This is because it provides a loving connection early in life and this attachment strengthens as the baby grows. It's a healing and beautiful experience for both parents and babies. The massage techniques are also easy to learn. Massage can ease colic, calm the baby and help it to sleep, but the benefits go far beyond the immediate physiological gains.

Details: Margo Kilborn, 4 Caithness Road, Blairgowrie, Randburg / [email protected]/ Infant Massage SA

Monkeynastix

Monkeynastix was established in 1995, offering a broad-based, holistic group sensory programme for children. This programme has been developed to combine creativity and music with basic training in flexibility, balance, strength, agility, co-ordination and body awareness. Classes begin from the age of one upwards, and may be offered either at your child's school or at a public recreational venue. Sessions run for 30 minutes, including a warm-up to music, stretch and tone, and working with specialized, age-appropriate equipment. Monkeynastix creates opportunities for your child to learn through movement and creativity. Their sessions further promote participation, emotional intelligence, good social skills and basic hygiene habits. Click here to find a Monkeynastix centre near you.

Details: Head office: 17 Crawford Drive, Norscott, Sandton / Monkeynastix

Clamber Club

Clamber Club is divided into a variety of classes for babies and toddlers. They offer a comprehensive and exciting sensory motor programme that equips parents with the skills to help the development of their children. From infant massage and baby exercises, to strengthening core muscle groups. Clamber Club also has specially designed equipment to help your little ones learn about what their bodies can do. There are several branches in Gauteng.

Details: Details: 011 325 2031 / [email protected] / Clamber Club

Tiny Tumbles

Tiny Tumbles is a baby, toddler and pre-school gymnastics and movement education programme. It helps you to assist your child develop physically, emotionally, socially and intellectually. Children are given the opportunity to be themselves and have fun with no pressure. They also learn to listen and follow direction, self-control, self-discipline and how to work hard toward reaching goals. Children acquire social skills and learn more about themselves as they interact in Tiny Tumbles groups. They offer age-appropriate classes, as well as mixed classes for mommies who would like to bring two children at the same time.

Details: Roosevelt Park Recreation Centre, 73 Preller Street, Roosevelt Park / 082 324 6568 / [email protected] / Tiny Tumbles

Know of other sensory activities for babies not mentioned above? Let us know below!

Disclaimer: Always consult your physician or pediatrician for advice before engaging your child in any activities or if you suspect any medical or developmental issues with your child.

Moms And Tots

The Moms and Tots group is a great option for mothers with kids from the age of two months up to four years. The group has been working with moms, babies and toddlers since 1993 and strives to enrich the little ones' learning experiences through the workshops and playgroups on offer. With additional physical, emotional, social and intellectual benefits provided by this group, you and your baby are in great hands.

Moms and Tots is also a wonderful way to bond with your little one, and find a support group of friends. You never know when you will need a helping hand, so don't be hesitant to reach out to other new parents or even more experienced moms and dads. There are three classes to join, Moms and Babes (2 - 12 months), Moms and Tots (1 - 3 years old), and Jungle Tots which is a daycare playgroup that gives young children the opportunity to learn while having fun (for toddlers aged between 1½ to 4 Years).

There are Moms and Tots groups all around Johannesburg. Click here to find your nearest group.

Details: 074 369 9194 | [email protected]

Waldorf Parent Child Classes

The Waldorf Parent Child Workshop offers a gentle, holistic and mindful approach to parenting. Join them for weekly discussion groups, where they explore mindful parenting and support and encourage each other in respectful parenting practices. During free play, the children can explore equipment which was developed by paediatrician, Emmi Pickler, and toys made of natural materials. Singing, movement, music, verse and elementary story telling are also part of the workshop.

Waldorf's weekly sessions are based on the principles of respectful parenting. In other words, they see babies and children as complete human beings. Capable of a full range of feelings and experiences, with their own desires, and deserving of our respect and conscious connection. Guidance is also provided for raising confident, independent, self-directed learners. Waldorf encourage children to develop at their own pace and according to their own internal clock, rather than pushing them to meet imposed expectations.

Details: +27 11 706 6125 / 6 | [email protected]

Moms And Miracles

At Moms and Miracles, the importance of play is emphasised by creating fun and interactive learning experiences for babies and toddlers from the ages of three to 36 months. Not only do babies and toddlers get exposed to intellectual development and stimulating activities, among all the other amazing benefits, moms have the opportunity to meet and interact with other like-minded moms all gathered for one great cause: to give their babies the best therapies. Click here to stay up to date with their upcoming classes.

Details: 082 413 7666 | [email protected]

Toptots

Established in 1994, Toptots creates a space where parents can meet and learn how to develop quality interactions with their children. The group's programme has been well researched and developed by Liz Victor, who holds a Higher Diploma in Education and an Educational Diploma with Remedial Education, and her partner Pat Rehm. One of the group's top mission statements is to find the special gifts in each child and set them on the road to success with love. Click here to find out more about their workshops.

Details: [email protected]

classes

Respectful Parenting Playgroup 

This playgroup is guided by respectful parenting philosophy - seeing the child as a whole person. Their underlying behavior is from Magda Gerber (RIE) of "do less, observe more". There are minimal toys, and no planned activities. It's all about letting the kids work out their agendas on their own, with as little adult intervention as possible. This offers parents a nonjudgmental environment, where they avoid making judgments about the kids, ourselves and each other.

Topics they discuss include:

They also encourage allowing children to problem solve with little intervention from parents. For the moms/dads that attend, it's a time to discuss respectful parenting and get support on this philosophy. They also have Mia von Scha of Transformational Parenting on board as a guide. Both parents and children can enjoy a healthy snack during the session, using proper cutlery and crockery. The venue also has jungle gyms and sandpits for some fun outside climbing and socializing.

Kindermusik @ Stimustation

What's better than being in a positive environment with your child and a passionate teacher? Grow closer to your child at Kindermusik and unlock their potential. Think research-based programmes that enhance your child’s holistic development, prepare them for school and future music training, as well as instilling a lifelong love of music. Sounds pretty amazing, doesn't it? The programme is aimed at children aged 0 - 7 years old. So, even if you are a little behind on the parent-child classes, Kindermusik offers you a chance to work on your communication skills through music.

Click here for more information.

Details: 44 Alexandra Street, Centurion, Gauteng | 012 667 5199 | [email protected]

classes

The Baby Lady

Want help with the basics of childbirth, breastfeeding and baby stimulation? Then you need The Baby Lady. Additionally, for constant help throughout your early motherhood journey, there's a WhatsApp support group where all the moms are in contact. You can ask questions, discuss products, vent or just learn from other parents. It's absolutely fantastic! Click here to follow them on Facebook.

Details: Hyperion Drive, Northriding, Johannesburg | 082 494 2903 | [email protected]

Baby College

Baby College takes in children from birth until the age of 3 years old. Classes include a carefully designed mixture of physical, multi-sensory and cognitive games, exercises and activities including music, dancing, signing and much more – all created to cover every aspect of your child's development. For their latest classes, visit and follow their Facebook page.

Details:

classes

Know of other great mom groups not mentioned above? Let us know below!

Swaddle

Babies love being warm and snug just like they were in their mothers' tummies. The best way to replicate in the womb feeling for baby is by swaddling. For new borns, it is absolutely paramount to make sure you swaddle them correctly, the blanket shouldn't be too tight as this can hinder the baby's growth. You can get your swaddle blanket from Kids Living or try something a little different like the Baby Sense Sling.

Wraps/ Blankets/ Throws

Babies can never have enough blankets. But what's better than just a blanket, wrap or throw? A Personalized Cellular Blanket! Romy & Rosie have some fabulous options you can pic out for your baby, from receiver blankets to cobbler blankets - getting a cold this winter will be the least of your worries. Available in a range of different colors, you baby or toddler's preference is well catered to.

Humidifiers 

Heaters tend to dry up the air which creates a breeding hub for germs, an alternative to warming up your baby's room is the Elektra Platinum Cool And Warm Stream Humidifier. Obviously for winter you'd have is set on the warm stream setting. This warms up the room and also adds moisture to the air so your baby is both warm and the risks of catching the flu from germs in dry air is minimized.

Warm Clothing

Get your baby warm clothes from Little Lumps. Offering Baby Blanks in a set of 6, you can get you baby two sets and you're sorted for a good week with the additional jerseys, blankets, etc. Available in black and grey, you baby's fashionable look doesn't have to take a hit because of the cold at all, you can dress baby up or down.

Woolies

Why not up your wool game and get yourself and your baby a glorious Mooowool? But what's one or two woolies when you can be rolling in everything knitwear from Woolworths? From beanies to scarfs and gloves, get your baby all geared up to fight the cold and keep the flu at bay.

Know other ways to keep your baby warm not mentioned above? Let us know below!

Remember that our “Top Picks” are not paid for and are compiled at the discretion of the journalist. We only write about what we love.

Diapers/Nappies

This should be without a doubt the first thing you pack, because the last thing you want is a baby with a diaper full of poop. We particularly love pull-up nappies for travelling, especially when baby can sit and stand. They're also perfect for active babies, because you don’t have to fight with them to lay down while you change them – most of the time, that is...

Changing Pad

You definitely don't want to change your baby on any surface without ensuring it’s clean. And even if it is clean, babies can be messy during nappy changes, so it’s better to be safe than sorry. Make sure your changing pad is a dark colour and easy to clean. Luckily, most baby bags come with changing pads built in them these days. We absolutely love the ones that come with Jean Kelly baby bags. And for dads, there’s DaddyKool.

Baby Wipes

This is the second thing to always pack in your baby bag, as baby’s bum has to be wiped clean before every new diaper is put on. Start your baby on wipes for sensitive skin to reduce the chance of a reaction occurring.

Bum Cream

Although most diapers these days are hypoallergenic, to reduce the chances of baby getting a nappy rush, a little more moisture on the bum can’t hurt. Babies are also prone to dry skin, so the more moisturised, the better. We love the Pure Beginnings Baby Bum Cream with organic baobab – it smells great, too!

Nappy Sacks

There’s nothing more annoying than spotting a full nappy carelessly thrown in a bin. Eew! To avoid doing this, get yourself disposable nappy sacks. The best part is that most of them are fragranced, which hides any telltale smells.

Hand Sanitiser

You never know when baby is going to go, and you might not have a bathroom close by to wash your hands, so make sure you keep some hand sanitiser in the bag. It's also unhygienic to go from changing to feeding with dirty hands. Try out the Oh So Heavenly hand cleansers for starters.

Baby Moisturiser And Sunscreen

Protect your baby’s skin by packing an extra tub of baby jelly or aqueous cream, a bottle of baby oil and sunscreen. You can even throw in a sun hat to make sure baby is well-protected from UV rays. Check out the MooMoo Kids range for some great options.

Gripe Water

The best way to get rid of hiccups is by giving your baby 5ml of gripe water. Gripe water also has other benefits for baby’s tummy, so it’s always good to have handy.

Baby Blanket

Most babies love to be warmly wrapped and swaddled. Always keep a blanket packed and handy so that baby will be nice and warm on those cold days, especially in their younger months before the rolling over, sitting, crawling and standing starts. Romy & Rosie has some fabulous options.

Change Of Clothes

We all know that babies can be extremely messy. Pack an extra set – or three – of clothing for them, and don’t be shy about packing an extra clean top or jersey for yourself too – just in case.

Bottle/s And Snack

Pack a bottle of milk, formula or breastmilk and/or a snack for babies over 6 months. Purity has teething biscuits for teething babies – these are wonderful as they double as a tasty treat.

Have we left out any baby bag essentials? Let us know below!

Oh-lief Natural Olive Insect Balm

Keep those mozzies away, the natural way, with this organic insect balm. With a combination of lemongrass and citronella oil it’s safe to use for the whole family, while recommended use for babies is from six months and up. Available online at www.babygroup.co.za or www.ohlief.com.

Pure Beginnings Probiotic Sensitive Baby Range

Use this brand-new Probiotic Sensitive Body Cream and Cream Wash to keep your baby’s skin soft and healthy. Combining the latest innovation in probiotic technology with the trusted methods of organic skincare, the new Probiotic Sensitive Baby Range is perfect for babies and children who are prone to skin sensitivities. Available in-store at Dis-Chem and Baby City, and online at www.purebeginnings.co.za or www.babygroup.co.za.

Petit Boutique Wooden Teethers

If you’re weary of hard plastic teething toys, or you’re baby is sensitive to rubber, help your baby scratch those itchy gums with Petit Boutique’s range of natural wooden teethers. Made from raw Canadian maple, a sustainable hard wood, these wooden teethers are 100% non-toxic and BPA-free. The natural antibacterial properties of the wood and comfortable grip make these a practical, safe and eco-friendly accessory. Available online at www.ecobaby.co.za.

Kiki Vest Extenders

Struggling to close your baby’s vest over those bulky cloth nappies? Kiki Vest Extenders to the rescue! These are also great for moms of tall babies to ensure a proper fitting vest. They’re made from 100% combed cotton and are manufactured locally. Available online at www.faithful-to-nature-.co.za.

Ubuntu Baba Organic Hemp Carrier – Stage 1

Research has shown that creating womb-like conditions for a newborn eases the transition into the world for both baby and mom. Babywearing, or carrying your baby in a sling-type carrier, is a great way to replicate the hugging feeling babies experience inside the womb. The Ubuntu Baba Organic Hemp Baby Carrier is the must-have South African baby carrier, which grows with your baby from when it's a newborn until around 14kgs. The ergonomic design ensures your baby’s hips are in a healthy position and the breathable, UV-resistant organic hemp fabric is perfect for our climate. The silk hood and zipped storage pocket are super-practical additions. Available in various colours at www.ubuntubaba.com. Free nationwide delivery.

By Jana van der Linde

 

 

Safety Barriers

From sharp corners to stairs and door edges, our homes are pretty much a danger zone for any crawling or standing baby. Safety barriers help to prevent baby from bumping into sharp corners, falling down the stairs or having the door slam on them. Baby City outlets have a great variety of barriers you can get for your home.

Our Picks: Door Finger Guards, Cabinet/ Wardrobe Lock, Corner Cushion, Open Door Lock, and the Safety Gate.

Baby Cot

Fall Prevention

If you leave your baby unattended, for example to use the bathroom, leave them in their cot or Moses basket (if they're under 6 months). Alternatively, if you've left baby to nap, secure their sleeping space with cushions and pillows, so that if they wake up and roll over, they won't meet the floor but comfy pillows and cushions instead . There is a great selection of cots, nappers, and Moses baskets at Babies R Us.

Our Picks: Moses baskets,  Wooden Cots, and Bounce 2-in-1 rocker bassinet.

Poison Prevention 

This links to safety barriers by making sure hazardous chemicals are kept far from baby's reach. These could be anything from cleaning products to medications. If you don't have high shelves or storage to keep hazardous products out of reach, then invest in safety barriers. And if your baby loves water, definitely invest in a toilet lock. Baby City also stocks some great options.

Safety Socket

Electricity And Cables 

The last thing you want is to have baby crawling behind the TV cabinet and playing with the cables. The best way to prevent this is to get a cable management system in place. Crabtree has some great options you can pick from, depending on your taste, home design and cable location. Also, should you have any exposed electrical sockets, get those covered up ASAP! Crabtree also has a variety of covers you can pick from.

The Swimming Pool

An uncovered swimming pool is a safety hazard for babes and young children, so secure your swimming pool with a cover or net. Mana Pools & Covers has a great selection of covers you can pick for your pool.

Our Picks: Solid Safely Cover.

Know of other crucial baby-proofing tips not mentioned above? Let us know below!

What Is It?

The Flair Baby & Toddler Market is a fun-filled event perfect for expectant parents, children, friends and family! EMnjoy a lovely afternoon shopping for creative and unique baby and toddler. While moms are checking out the market, the kids will be entertained in the kiddies play area and dads can enjoy a cold beer from the fully licensed bar. From nursery linens and decor to baby food, toys, clothing, accessories you (or should we say your little ones) will be spoiled for choice.

When Is It?

Friday, 03 March - Sunday, 05 March 2017. Market times are as follows:

Where Is It?

The Collection Venue, 2021 Boendoe Avenue, Garsfontein, Pretoria.

How Much Is It?

Tickets cost R 30 per person on Friday and R 50 per person on Saturday and Sunday. Children under the age of 16 get in for FREE. Tickets can be purchased at the door.

For More Information

For more information about the Flair Baby & Toddler Market, visit their website or Facebook page. You can also contact them on 084 299 4861 or [email protected].

What Is It?

MamaMagic – The Baby Expo is back for yet another fun-filled family experience! There is something for everyone of all ages, so don't miss out on the country's biggest baby and parent expo of the year. Parents and parents-to-be can expect plenty of local and international brands, covering all aspects of parenthood from pregnancy and babies to toddlers. As South Africa’s biggest and best baby and parenting expo, MamaMagic – The Baby Expo has all you could ever need and want for your little bundles of joy aged between 0 and 5 years old, all under one roof. Parents can expect the latest products and services, expert seminars, amazing specials, awesome competitions, lots of live entertainment and so much more.

mamamagic

When Is It?

Thursday, 28 March 2020 to Sunday, 31 March 2020. 

Where Is It?

Ticketpro Dome, corner Olievenhout Avenue and Northumberland Road, North Riding, Johannesburg.

How Much Is It?

Tickets coming soon!

For More Information

For more information about MamaMagic – The Baby Expo, visit their website at www.mamamagic.co.za. You can also check them out on Facebook and Instagram.

Baby

Going into the hospital to have my baby was the most terrifying experience. I had no idea what to expect, and because I had never stayed over in a hospital before, and I was even more uncertain about what lay in store.

I remember packing my hospital bag in the first trimester. My hubby thought I was crazy, but the OCD in me just couldn’t comprehend not being absolutely ready for when the big day came. And then the big day did come, and I realised that 90 per cent of what I had packed was completely irrelevant. So, if you’re about to have a baby, to save you the stress, I’ve put together a list of essential vs non-essential items to pack in your baby bag.

Essentials for mom:

Essentials for baby:

Most hospitals tend to provide everything you need for your baby in the form of nappies, lotions, medicine and cream.* Check with your hospital beforehand, and if they do provide the above, then don’t waste your time bringing your own. Rather, pack:

My time in the maternity ward was one of the highlights of having a baby. Those four days, surrounded by staff, family, friends and my newborn were absolutely wonderful. Use that time to relax and embrace your new role of motherhood as much as possible!

*Please note that I have based this list on what an average private Hospital provides, and not a Government one.

By Kate Kearney

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