Super Mammy Diaries

Nursing, for those who are willing to try, has been worth the pain, stress, sleeplessness and sacrifices. No judgement to those who decide otherwise, because it has definitely not been easy trying to ensure that my children are exclusively breast fed for as long as possible before I go insane. I made it to 5 months with each child before introducing semi-solids, and to a year with my son before I introduced another cow's milk (yes, I am the first cow in this scenario). It is a thing of mathematical insanity though at this point to ensure that I pump more than I feed her when she gets bottles and there are days she gets many as I am up and about with my son at school, in classes and at birthdays, either dragging her along just so I can nurse her both ways in the car, or leaving her at home with bottles. Whichever way you cut it, nursing is a commitment of time, of your body, and most of all - of patience. There are numerous things you can do to ensure that you are keeping your ...

The list is endless since we learn as we go, but here are some more pointers that aim to make your life a little easier: (For the dads, I won't go on about nursing, I promise!) Activities: 1. Baby massage is a great way to bond with your baby - and discover their tickle spots! 2. Don't be afraid to try a baby and me class, even if your baby seems young! Pick one with activities you cannot replicate at home so that it is worth your while. Your little one will respond more and more each week and will learn from the older kids around. We attend a class with a live band and Riaan enjoys it more each week. 3. For kids who don't enjoy tummy time, try lying down with your baby or holding a mirror up for them to look at. 4. It's true, they will respond most to you! So join in on activities, to make them more fun for your little one. 5. Baby gyms and jumperoos are really great when you want to eat your lunch. Stationary ones of course unless you want to burn off your meal while ...

There are an endless number of things I wish I knew before becoming a mother to my son, Riaan. Things your own parents may have forgotten and that the classes won’t tell you. Here are some  pointers that every parent should know about your newborn: Labor: 1.    It’s called “Labor” for a reason! 2.     Take it one contraction at a time, and seriously, take the drugs. You have grown a little human being inside of you; you are already a hero! 3.  If you are being induced, there is a higher chance of a cesarean section, but stay calm and try and rest when you can, as your stress hormones will inhibit the labor process. 4.  Your baby is adorable (at least to you) no matter what it is covered in. 5. Trust the nurses, they are your greatest resource. 6.  Place your husband next to a couch, just incase he wants to collapse (or, in my case, lie down to catch his own breath in between your pushes). Nursing: 7.    The first few days are the ...