Super Mammy Diaries

Parent hood (and actually every day of my life) is more stressful when I haven't gotten my 10 hours of rest. However, as a parent, all that's left of those glory days of sleep are memories. Baby sleep is as enigmatic but is also the key to feeling like you can make it through the day (along with those baby smiles, and giggles ofcourse). My goal from the beginning has been to get my baby to try and sleep continuously, and trust me on this one, it is not easy! Fortunately or not, I am an obsessive data junkie, and have spent almost 11 months now graphing everything in my child's life. Yes, that actually means that when he wakes up I turn off my timer while running to his room to get him (and yes, I started in hospital on the day he was born). I have now reached a point where I can pretty much predict how my night is going to go, based on the kind of day my baby has had. Below is a list of some factors affecting baby sleep  (these are all universal - if I made a list of the th...

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 ...