<![CDATA[Bub Hub Pregnancy & Parenting Forum - Blogs - The Official Bub Hub Blog! by bheditor]]> http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/blog.php?76670-The-Official-Bub-Hub-Blog! en Thu, 23 May 2013 22:29:27 GMT vBulletin 10 http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/images/styles/BubHub/misc/rss.jpg <![CDATA[Bub Hub Pregnancy & Parenting Forum - Blogs - The Official Bub Hub Blog! by bheditor]]> http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/blog.php?76670-The-Official-Bub-Hub-Blog! <![CDATA[Can you knit? Let's help keep kids warm this winter ...]]> http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?626-Can-you-knit-Let-s-help-keep-kids-warm-this-winter Wed, 15 Aug 2012 09:43:49 GMT

I'm writing this because I can't knit and I feel guilty about it.

Maybe you've heard of the 2012 Guardian Angel Knitting Program ... basically the program runs through June to August and it encourages knitters across all skill levels to pick up sticks and knit some winter woolies for children in need.

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With enthusiasm I picked up a kit and opened the booklet ready to knit up a storm ...

Unfortunately I forgot that I couldn't knit. Not a bit. Have failed many attempts, have frustrated my mother and grandmother many times over as they tried to teach me. Received a 'D' for home ecomonics in Year 8.

So I failed yet again. I've passed on the knitting needles to my sister-in-law and she's taken over from where I left off.

Luckily what I lack in knitting skills I make up for with my writing skills.

So I write to you all hoping that someone - or someone's nana - who is handy with the knitting needles might pick up a free pattern book from their local Guardian Pharmacy and get knitting ...

The campaign runs till the end of August and is in partnership with Variety - The Children's Charity!

For details visit www.guardianpharmacies.com.au or phone 1300 888 666.


 ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?626-Can-you-knit-Let-s-help-keep-kids-warm-this-winter <![CDATA[Father's Day gift guide]]> http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?624-Father-s-Day-gift-guide Tue, 14 Aug 2012 22:25:37 GMT

Well I just got a shock!

Turns out Father's Day is in less than three weeks' time - September 2, 2012. Where has the year gone?

If you're just as shocked you might find the following post helpful when shopping for the perfect father's day gifts ...


Gifts for the new dad ...


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Baby Owner's Manual - Father's Edition, Gifts for Blokes, $19.95

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Labour Coach T-shirt, Lumpee Bumpee, $29.00


Gifts for the classy dad ...

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Dad personalised cufflinks, Koolaman Designs, $200


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Dad personalised dogtags, Koolaman Designs, $110


Gifts for the gadget-loving dad ...
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Star Wars - Yoda USB Desk Protector, Gifts for Blokes, $29.95

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App Wheel, Gifts for Blokes, $24.95


For the somewhat lazy dad ...

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Remote Control Esky, Gifts for Blokes, $149.95


For the cool dad ...

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Make your kid's drawing of dad into a soft toy, Happy Softies, POA


Gifts for the dad-to-be ...

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Pregnancy For Men, Gifts for Blokes, $24.95

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Father-to-be hipster trunks, Mi Mother & Child, $19.95


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For more gift ideas check out the Products For Dad directory page
 ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?624-Father-s-Day-gift-guide 11 things you should know before you breastfeed http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?612-11-things-you-should-know-before-you-breastfeed Thu, 02 Aug 2012 04:30:38 GMT * When I was pregnant the advice I remember most was from a friend whose baby was four months old at the time. * She told me that, for her, breastfeeding was hard at the beginning. She struggled with cracked nipples and terrible mastitis but she was glad she had gotten through it and was now...

When I was pregnant the advice I remember most was from a friend whose baby was four months old at the time.

She told me that, for her, breastfeeding was hard at the beginning. She struggled with cracked nipples and terrible mastitis but she was glad she had gotten through it and was now breastfeeding happily.

Her story armed me with two things -the knowledge that breastfeeding wasn't necessarily going to be easy and the confidence to know that even if it wasn't there would be light at the end of the tunnel.

Those two things - knowledge and confidence - combined with the support of a partner, mother, friend or lactaction consultant/counsellor/midwife can go a long way to helping a mother breastfeed successfully.

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Here are some more things that pregnant women should know about breastfeeding:

1. Breastmilk is perfectly designed for human babies. It gives them all the nutrients they need to grow and thrive for the first six months and is the most important part of their diet until they are 12 months old. Breastmilk continues to be a valuable source of nutrition until the baby is weaned.

2. The World Health Organisation recommends that breastfeeding should continue to age two and beyond.

3. Breastfeeding, like most things, is a learned skill - for you and bub. It might not seem like it at the beginning but soon you'll both be extremely awesome at it! Arm yourself with as much info as you can and ask for help when you need it.

4. Breastmilk increases a baby's resistance to infection and disease and decreases the risk of allergy and food intolerance.

5. Breastfeeding is the most convenient, cheap and reliable way to feed your baby. It is always fresh and hygienic.

6. Breastfeeding reduces the risk of SIDS.

7. Breastfeeding comforts and soothes babies. It releases a sleep-inducing hormone in both mum and baby. A good reason for you both to have a well-deserved nap!

8. Breastfeeding helps your uterus to go back to its normal size after the baby is born.

9. Breastfeeding allows you to sit down and rest during the day (sometimes a lot ... see next point). You'll welcome the quiet time once baby is born.

10. A newborn can feed maybe 8-12 times and sometimes for up to an hour at a time. Now, if you do the maths it means you potentially could be breastfeeding for 12 hours in a day! A good chair or comfy breastfeeding pillow could save your back ... and a good DVD boxset may save your sanity. Make sure you've always got a drink (and the remote) handy!

11. You can do it! There's only a very small percentage of women who can't breastfeed for physiological reasons so if you want to breastfeed your baby it helps if you go in with a positive attitude. BUT ... if you can't continue breastfeeding as long as you wanted to - and there are many reasons that it doesn't always work out as planned - you should know that every drop that you did give your baby did it the world of good.

And if you are wanting support or advice you can find a breastfeeding or lactaction consultant in our directory. Getting professional advice can be cheaper than a meal out.

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What did you wish you knew about breastfeeding before your baby was born? What is the most important tip do you think?

 ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?612-11-things-you-should-know-before-you-breastfeed Mums want more healthy food! Except on bad days http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?605-Mums-want-more-healthy-food!-Except-on-bad-days Tue, 31 Jul 2012 00:12:14 GMT

Overall, I'd say we're doing pretty well considering the demands of being a modern mum!

According to the results of the Lose Baby Weight & Bub Hub New Mum and Exercise Survey - which you may have completed earlier this year - the overwhelming majority of us would prefer a quick, healthy option over takeaway, we're generally not too worried by celebrity baby weight stories and most of us exercise at least once a week.

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It's not ALL good news though ... 86.7 per cent of us (mums with kids under five years of age) admit to eating badly when we are having a bad or stressful day.

I know I've justified the best part of a family block after a day of family-induced stress. I'm convinced that's why they were named that anyway.

It will come as no surprise that it looks like most mums put their health needs seconds to the needs of her family.

Anyway here are some of the stand-out results from the survey.

Thanks again for your input ...

Since having your first child, have you noticed changes in your own eating habits?

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Do you eat breakfast everyday?

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Do you find you eat more junk food as snacks during the day than you did before you had children?

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If there was a quick and healthy option in the cupboard would you choose that over takeaway?

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Do you tend to eat badly when you’re having a bad/stressful day?

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On average, how many times a week would you order takeaway for your evening meal?

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How many days a week do you exercise?

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If you don't feel that you exercise enough, please let us know which of the
statements below you agree with the most:

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Did you find / are you finding it hard to lose weight post pregnancy?

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Do the celebrity post baby weight loss stories put pressure on you to lose weight?

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The Lose Baby Weight & Bub Hub New Mum and Exercise Survey examined the eating and exercise habits of mums with children under the age of five. There were 1214 mums who responded to the survey. About 30 per cent of respondants had a child younger than six months.


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What do you make of the results? Do you find it hard to look after yourself now that you're a mum? Can you eat a family block in one sitting?



 ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?605-Mums-want-more-healthy-food!-Except-on-bad-days <![CDATA[Children's TV ... I overanalyse it.]]> http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?590-Children-s-TV-I-overanalyse-it Mon, 23 Jul 2012 05:28:01 GMT

We recently received a Raa Raa the Noisy Lion DVD in the mail.
A perk of the job ...

The Toddler loves this show mostly because it confirms his belief that the word for lion is in fact 'Raa'. His word for most things comes from the noise it makes ... a dog is 'a woof', a fire engine is 'iiiireesh' (his version of a siren). The word for ambulance is confusingly similar.

Anyway this Raa Raa DVD provided me with two things. The first was The Second-Most Frustrating Conversation I've Had About a Lion (*)

Me (opening the package): Look it is Raa!
The Toddler: No... raa.
Me: Yes, Raa!
TT: No ... raa.
Me: Yes, a lion.
TT: Yes... raa! RAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!

The second was the opportunity to overanalyse yet another kid's TV show.

Turns out I overanalyse all kids show ... I mean what else is there to do?

Here are just a few of the many thoughts I've had while watching children's TV.

Raa Raa the Noisy Lion: Does his car have watermelon wheels? That would never work.

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Bob the Builder: Are Bob and Wendy "together"? Why doesn't he build her a house so she doesn't have to sleep in that caravan? Oh man! That is one annoying scarecrow. Don't they realise he is made of hay ... I'd feed that hay to the horses.

Postman Pat: I think I'd like to live in this town. Although I'd never get my mail on time ... Did he just say 'mission accomplished"? He didn't accomplish anything! He screwed up so bad that a little girl couldn't practice piano before her recital and she ended up messing it up. Nice one Pat.

Gaspard and Lisa: Are they dogs? Why doesn't anyone realise they are dogs? Is it the scarfs? Hang on ... now they are looking after a puppy! What?! This is confusing. Maybe they are bears ...

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Rastamouse: I can't understand a word they are saying. And why isn't the President wearing pants?

Play School: What is with all the masking tape? Can't the ABC afford clear tape? Maybe they bought a container load when the show started back in the 60s and they are still getting through it ... one toilet roll spaceship at a time.

Grandpa in my Pocket: Why don't they ever change their clothes? And how come it is sunny all the time. I've lived in England. It didn't look like that.

Peppa Pig: Their town sure is hilly. Their cars must have excellent handbrakes.

Little Princess: Why is she wearing her nightie? It is the afternoon.

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In the Night Garden: What IS a pip?

Mr Moon: the Moon is Canadian? I never realised.

Captain Mack: Did he just say "I have to go. My Monkey needs me" ... I should use that sometime ...

Poko: Did he just say "Sometimes, when you're upset, it helps to hug-a-monkey" ... I should try that. But what is with all the monkeys?

Anyway this is all moot now since The Toddler threw a book at the TV. Now our couch just faces a big black expensive ornament.

* The most frustrasting conversation I've ever had about a lion...

The Toddler: RAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
Me: Oh ... are you a scary dinosaur?
The Toddler: No. Raa!
Me: Oh ... are you a growly tiger?
The Toddler: No. Raa.
Me: Are you a lion ?
TT: Yes. Raa


Do YOU overthink kids TV? Do you have a secret crush on Jimmy Giggle? What have you wondered about the shows your kids watch?


 ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?590-Children-s-TV-I-overanalyse-it The top 7 wraps and swaddling cloths http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?585-The-top-7-wraps-and-swaddling-cloths Thu, 19 Jul 2012 03:21:21 GMT
If you're like me, you watched in awe as hospital midwives expertly wrapped your baby in a little blanket then tucked them up for what looked like the most comfortable sleep ever.

Then, if you're like me, you brought your baby home and gave it a try yourself. But it's not so easy at 1.30am when you've only had one hour of unbroken sleep in three days!

So the next step is obviously to go buy a wrap/swaddle that has a zip or velcro to make the whole thing far less painful!

So, here are the Top 7 Wraps/Swaddling Cloths as voted by you in the Bub Hub product reviews section.


Love Me Baby Wrap (Love to Dream)

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"The Love Me Baby Wraps are just wonderful. Bub feels safe and secure in them as they are quite snug, he can have his hands up by his head/face (but because they are wrapped they don't seem to startle him), and mum and dad now get more sleep!!!" - summastarlet

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The Woombie (Woombie Australia)

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"All of my kids have LOVED it - used them as soon as we were home from hospital, and credit the Woombie with our smooth transition for DD from bassinette to cot (the Woombie remained her constant)." - CazzDream

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Baby Sleeping Swaddle Jacket (Sleepy Wings)

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"I think these are a great idea and perfect for summer babies who still have the startle reflex but it's too hot to wrap. The dummy retrieval system is such a good idea, cannot wait until baby is old enough to use. Keeps baby settled, has helped with the routine as these are only used for sleep. Brilliant!" - mummy2Luca

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Miracle Blanket (Miracle Blanket)

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"Great wrap, my 4-week-old has been settling and sleeping a bit better since I started using it. I like that it has no velcro and I can make it quite firm." - Hollywood

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Swaddle Me (Kiddopotamus)

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"I found the Swaddle Me awesome with giving bubs a really tight and secure wrap. Baby is pretty much unable to wriggle out of it, and hardly tries due to being so relaxed." - Pippy the Hippo

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ergoCocoon (ergoPouch)

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"Once we went onto the ergoCocoon he was much more content and settled with being able to put his arms up and with the freedom it allowed. The snap buttons in the arms meant I was able to transition him to not being swaddled very easily and the zip at the bottom allowed for easy nappy changes before bed." - Me&MrMagoo

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Dreamswaddle (Mum 2 Mum)

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"Easy to use (even my husband can use it properly!). Great patterns. Very cheap compared to others on the market. I wouldn't buy anything else!" - mandashopeful

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What do you think? Is your favourite brand on the list?

If you haven't added your review you can visit our Parents Review Section now to have your say!!

http://www.bubhub.com.au/reviews/browse/wraps__swaddling_cloths
 ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?585-The-top-7-wraps-and-swaddling-cloths The weekly news round-up ... July 17, 2012 http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?578-The-weekly-news-round-up-July-17-2012 Tue, 17 Jul 2012 03:47:19 GMT

So what's happening in the world of pregnancy
and parenting this week?

No wonder my back hurts!

Did you know new mums spend an average of six hours a day performing painful activities that put strain on their back or neck. Six hours!!

The top three activities that cause back and neck pain - according to research from the Chiropractors' Association of Australia (Victoria) - are holding child on hip, breast or bottle feeding, and lifting up/putting down children, either while playing or getting in and out of cot.

The worst thing is that according to the research we consciously practise good postural alignment before having children but only just more than half of us never, or only sometimes, considered our posture and lifting technique after we have children.


Nature can improve kids' schoolwork

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Did you know that interacting with nature is linked to a range of health and wellbeing benefits in children?

An independent study commissioned by Planet Ark - found that despite strong evidence linking contact with nature to intellectual development, 'green time' isn't a priority among Australian carers and parents as a way to improve academic performance.

The survey showed that while the majority of people know that contact with nature is important for children, they don't know what the actual benefits are.

National Tree Day is Sunday July 29.


Paraylmpian named as charity patron

Paralympic gold medallist Louise Sauvage will take on the role as Rainbow Club patron, following the passing of legendary Olympian Murray Rose earlier this year.

Louise says it is a honour to be named patron of the Rainbow Club, a charity that teaches young people with disabilities to swim and find their independence through recreational activities.


 ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?578-The-weekly-news-round-up-July-17-2012 Cookie Monster cracks me up ... my fave Sesame Street clips http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?569-Cookie-Monster-cracks-me-up-my-fave-Sesame-Street-clips Wed, 11 Jul 2012 04:46:53 GMT * I have a love/hate relationship with the Cookie Monster.* I love him because The Toddler is a little bit scared of him. Not the TV version but the version that sits in the backseat of the ride-on car thing at the shopping centre. The Toddler, like all toddlers, is obsessed with driving...

I have a love/hate relationship with the Cookie Monster.

I love him because The Toddler is a little bit scared of him. Not the TV version but the version that sits in the backseat of the ride-on car thing at the shopping centre. The Toddler, like all toddlers, is obsessed with driving those things BUT when he turned around to see his great big blue backseat passenger he wanted out! Yay. Problem solved.

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So why do I hate the Cookie Monster?

Because The Toddler thinks it is funny to eat biscuits in the manner he has perfected. I'm not sure if you've studied the Cookie Monster to the extent I have but let's just say that he has black fabric where the opening to his oesophagus should be. This means that despite his constant assertation that he loves cookies - he has damn well never actually eaten one! He just goes "nom, nom, nom" and drops bits of biscuit everywhere ... and now, so does my son.

Anyway - I've made my peace with Cookie Monster today after watching this video he has made parodying the Carly Rae Jepsen song "Call Me Maybe".

Watch it here:

Cookie Monster - Share it Maybe ...

And in related news, here are some of my other fave clips

The O Show (an Oprah parody that even makes fun of Tom Cruise!)

Feist ... 1, 2, 3, 4 ...



Desperate Houseplants!




What are your favourite Sesame Street moments?

* This blog post was brought to you by the Letter 'T' and the number '2'. I am in no way affiliated with Sesame Street (but over the years I've watched a LOT of it).


 ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?569-Cookie-Monster-cracks-me-up-my-fave-Sesame-Street-clips The weekly news round-up http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?558-The-weekly-news-round-up Thu, 05 Jul 2012 01:14:58 GMT
In an effort to bring you all the latest news and research in the pregnancy and parenting sphere (and, let's face it, in an effort to clean out my inbox) I've created this new weekly (but don't hold me to that) column called ...


The Weekly (maybe) News Round-Up!

World-first study to trial freeze-all IVF

A new study will determine whether using only frozen embryos during IVF will lead to more pregnancies and healthier babies.

The world-first study, by Genea, will involve 200 patients in Sydney and could lead to a major re-think of the way IVF is conducted.

Genea will test the hypothesis that success rates could be increased if embryos created during the IVF process are monitored for five days, then those that are developing normally are frozen and then thawed and implanted during a woman's natural menstrual cycle. The traditional model of IVF involves the transfer of fresh embyros following hormone stimulation.

The trial comes after another Australian study found that birth defects were "significantly decreased" among IVF babies conceived using frozen embryo transfers rather than fresh transfers.


Child Care Rebate fails to deliver workforce boost

The Child Care Rebate has not produced the expected boost to the workforce, according to new research.

The study by associate professor Nick Parr from Macquarie University and professor Ross Guest from Griffith University showed only a small increase in the average working hours of couples with young children.

"The effect of the Child Care Rebate has been to increase the hours worked by couples with one or more children aged under five by less than one hour per week on average," says Parr.

"With a current annual maximum amount of $7,500 the Rebate should have increased the incentives to return to work or to work longer hours significantly," he says, suggesting that inflexibility in the supply of child care places may have prevented a bigger increase.


Vegetarian diet myths busted for kids and pregnant women

An Australian-first scientific research review has put to rest the common belief that a vegetarian diet lacks protein and iron and is unsuitable for pregnant women or children.

Nutritionist Dr Rosemary Stanton OAM, who wrote an accompanying editorial covering the papers, says evidence shows a well-planned plant-based diet can meet the nutritional needs of adults and children while reducing the risk of health problems such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, hypertension and obesity.

Dr Stanton says there are no significant health differences in babies born to vegetarian mothers, and plant-based diets offer advantages to pregnant women including a reduced risk of excess weight gain.

When meals are planned well, there is no notable difference in the growth of vegetarian children compared to children eating meat-based diets.


Ford engineers develop pregnancy suit

Ford has brought to Australia a unique safety technology to make its vehicle’s safer for mothers-to-be start struggling to fit comfortably – and above all, safely – into their cars.

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The Ford Pregnancy Suit has been specially designed to allow ergonomic engineers to experience firsthand how pregnancy can affect drivers and the problems pregnant women face when driving a vehicle, such as awkwardness in body movements, postural changes, shifts in centre of gravity and limitations in reach.

The Pregnancy Suit consists of lead weights to simulate the weight of the baby, a 'belly' containing 2kg of water, and a weighted pouch on the underside of the belly that simulates the foetal head resting and applying pressure on the bladder.


New program helps healthier weight gain in pregnancy

A lifestyle intervention program for women at risk of gestational diabetes has shown to improve health during pregnancy and minimise excessive weight gain.

Researchers found a low-intensity, behavioural lifestyle intervention program, integrated with standard maternal care, produced healthy gestational weight gain, improved physical activity and reduced post-delivery weight retention.

A research team from Monash University, in collaboration with Southern Health, assessed weight and height, physical activity, questionnaires and gestational diabetes screening in more than 220 women who participated in a four-session behavioural change lifestyle program in contrast to those who attended a single education session.

Researcher Professor Teede said the program was effective in enabling women to improve lifestyle and adhere to recommended pregnancy weight gain compared to the group of women who received education alone.


Let kids play with their greens!

Toddlers who use all of their senses to play with vegetables outside of mealtimes are more likely to eat them than those who don’t.

Research from Ella’s Kitchen partnered with the University of Reading, found that toddlers who experienced new vegetables through sight, smell, sound and touch before tasting were more willing to try them.

Paul Lindley, Ella’s Dad and founder of Ella’s Kitchen, says this is particularly important as previous research has shown that children need to try a new or initially disliked food up 15 times before liking it.

"However 80 per cent of parents give up after just three or four attempts , showing the need for new tactics to help parents persevere," he says.

Engaging children through sight, smell and touch of vegetables or singing a song and hearing a story about a food worked to build familiarity and increase acceptance.


 ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?558-The-weekly-news-round-up Aussie PND website named world’s best http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?545-Aussie-PND-website-named-world’s-best Tue, 26 Jun 2012 22:03:24 GMT
An Australian website has been named the world's best for mother's with a postnatal mental illness.

The site - www.panda.org.au which is run by the Post and Antenatal Depression Association (PANDA) - was rated as the worldwide website leader in a study conducted by the School of Psychology at the University of Sussex.

The study, which was published in the Archives of Women's Mental Health, is the most comprehensive review of postnatal depression websites to date.

PANDA CEO Belinda Horton says the association is thrilled with the recognition.

"Around one in 7 new mothers and 1 in 10 new fathers are diagnosed with postnatal depression and many of them are reluctant to seek help," she says.

"PANDA's website is often the first, critical contact point that makes it easier for people to get vital information and support in the privacy of their own homes."

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She says postnatal depression and anxiety (perinatal depression) is a quiet and under-reported epidemic in Australia with figures indicating that more than 47,000 women and 29,000 men are suffering.

She urges those people to seek support.

"Perinatal depression continues to be significantly under reported," she says.

"We are talking about a quiet epidemic that is happening at alarming levels. It can happen to anyone, makes people feel powerless and can tear families apart. But it can be treated and lives are turned around every day."

The study, conducted by health psychologists Donna Moore and Dr Susan Ayers, looked at 114 websites (narrowed down from 1,360,000 initial search engine results) that were dedicated to postnatal mental health.

PANDA was the only Australian site to make the top five.

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The site was particularly distinguished by the high number of quality help resources it provided for mothers, including its range of self-help tools (eg coping strategies, how to seek help), access to its National Perinatal Depression Helpline and community support groups; and additional support such as information fact sheets on numerous aspects of living with perinatal depression.

Postnatal Depression in Australia Facts

  • More than 15% of new mothers and 10% of new fathers develop postnatal depression
  • Symptoms of postnatal depression can begin anywhere from 24 hours to several months after a baby’s birth
  • Lack of community awareness of postnatal depression and anxiety contributes to parents remaining undiagnosed
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Anyone concerned about antenatal or postnatal depression is encouraged to visit the PANDA website www.panda.org.au or call PANDA’s National Perinatal Depression Helpline on 1300 726 306.
]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?545-Aussie-PND-website-named-world’s-best Toy sale time ... I have too many already! http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?529-Toy-sale-time-I-have-too-many-already! Wed, 20 Jun 2012 23:41:58 GMT
We already have too many toys.

Between them The Children have only been around for five gift-giving occassions - but already I'm thinking I'm going to have to a) do a serious cull or b) buy a bigger house.

Our guest room is now the 'train table room' and we have a small trampoline in the corner of our bedroom (which sounds a bit Samantha-from-SATC-ish but couldn't be more different).

When my nan visited the other day she said more than once: "I can't believe how many toys they have!". Not in a nasty way - I think she was genuinely happy for them. She once told me that all she got one Christmas was a book about famous Australian women. Which made her sad at the time but makes her extrememly knowledgeable on the subject now. What that woman doesn't know about Caroline Chisholm ...

So I've decided on three mottos to help me though the next 10 or so years of inevitable toy invasion.

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This is pretty self-explanatory but in general I want to buy my children long-lasting, classic toys that make some sort of positive contribution to their development.

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And I want all those toys to have a "home". I want to be able to say "put that back where it belongs" and I want everyone to know where that is. I want Lego so I can put it in the "Lego box", a bike so I can put it "under the house" and play furniture so I can put it in the cubby house. Obviously I'm going to need a cubby house at some stage too.

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And at every toy influx I want there to be some toy revision. Broken toys will be fixed or thrown away. Toys no longer played with will be given to charity. Noisy and messy toys will be hidden in high cupboards.

So it is with these three principles in mind that I peruse the toy catalogues that have appeared in my driveaway overnight.

It is Toy Sale time and if I want high quality toys from my children then I should probably buy them when they're on sale.

Here are the details of the 2012 toy sales. Happy shopping everyone.

Target - Australia's Biggest Toy Sale - Thursday June 21 - July 11, 2012
D1ck Smith Toy Sale - Tuesday June 19 - July 9, 2012
Kmart Toys - Thursday June 28 - July 15, 2012
Mr Toys Toyworld - Super Sale - ends July 12, 2012
Myer - Myer toysale - Thursday June 21 - Sunday July 22, 2012
Big W - Giant Toy Spectacular - June 28 - July 11, 2012
Toys R Us - Wednesday June 27 - July 17, 2012
Aldi - Toy Spectacular - Wednesday June 20 - while stocks last

What will you be getting for your little ones? Are you Christmas shopping already? Do your kids have TOO many toys? What am I going to get my nan for Christmas?


 ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?529-Toy-sale-time-I-have-too-many-already! Morning tea with the PM http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?524-Morning-tea-with-the-PM Sat, 16 Jun 2012 23:29:12 GMT
On Friday my boss Hilary had morning tea with the Prime Minister.

I had morning tea with my nan ... but this isn't about me.

Hilary was invited to Kirribilli House with a handful of other woman from the parenting/internet world. Obviously it wasn't long before the hashtag #PMtea was created and tweets were being sent over tea and macaroons.

Here's a photo of Hilary and PM Julia Gillard.

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So the point is that the PM and her team are listening to YOU! Yes ... the topics discussed on the Bub Hub are being heard. Turns out that posting on our forum is a good way to let Canberra know what's on our minds!

Perhaps not the threads about cat clothes and crazy in-laws ... or maybe those too!

Here's what Hilary has to say about the morning ...

"Whatever you think of the politics, I have to say that she was very pleasant - easy to chat too, very welcoming, relaxed and interested in everyone who was there," she says.

"It was more of a social gathering so I didn't get involved in talking about politics too much (and we were only there for an hour), but I did get a chance to give her a bit more info on Bub Hub and how all policy makers across all parties can work with us to get feedback from Aussie parents - and parents-to-be about what is important to them, what their issues are and what their struggles are.

So a small step in the right direction to getting your voices heard at the very highest level. Have to say, love or loathe her policies, as another human being sharing a cuppa, she was really nice."

And my nan is really nice too.


 ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?524-Morning-tea-with-the-PM <![CDATA[Buying a baby carrier? Don't forget Dad!]]> http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?514-Buying-a-baby-carrier-Don-t-forget-Dad! Wed, 13 Jun 2012 00:01:47 GMT * After nine months of carrying your baby out front it is only fair that dad gets the chance too, once baby is born! * So you want to make sure you buy a carrier or sling that fits him too! Attachment 23284 (http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=23284) ...
After nine months of carrying your baby out front it is only fair that dad gets the chance too, once baby is born!

So you want to make sure you buy a carrier or sling that fits him too!

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According to CHOICE almost one in four fathers experience problems when using a baby sling.

In a survey of 1006 parents, 23 per cent of fathers reported experiencing injury or discomfort while carrying their babies in slings.

"While many don't have difficulties with the slings, it concerned us that almost a quarter of dads reported problems, including the safety issue of babies almost falling out of the slings," says CHOICE spokesperson, Ingrid Just.

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CHOICE recommends that both parents should try on a number of baby carriers before they buy.

"It's usually mum who buys the baby slings, but they need to consider dad as well because one size doesn't fit all," says Ms Just.

"The body size and shape for mum, dad and baby will affect the comfort and safety level," says Ms Just.

CHOICE's tips of features to look for when choosing a baby carrier/sling:
  • Choose one with broad; well-padded shoulder straps that cross at the back help distribute the weight. The straps shouldn’t pull too much on your neck or shoulders
  • Make sure it has a broad hip or waist strap will take some weight off your shoulders and limit sideways movement of the carrier, adding stability
  • Check to ensure that all straps are fully and easily adjustable with one hand. They shouldn’t obscure a baby's vision or cut into their face
  • Make sure the carrier supports the baby sufficiently without restricting head, leg and arm movement
  • Make sure it provides adequate head support - particularly important for younger babies, who have little or no head and neck control.

Download CHOICE’s free guide with advice for new parents at choice.com.au/expectantparentsguide

Read baby carrier and sling reviews from real parents
 ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?514-Buying-a-baby-carrier-Don-t-forget-Dad! Allergy researchers call for better food labelling http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?486-Allergy-researchers-call-for-better-food-labelling Wed, 30 May 2012 11:41:04 GMT
My gorgeous little neice recently had a mild reaction to peanuts.

She is currently in the process of having further testing done but in the meantime we've been told to be vigilant when giving her food.

Well that is easier said than done.

Ever cautious while she was in my care recently I began reading labels before giving her the same food as my little boy. Rice crackers? Nope, they may contain traces of peanuts ... Cereal snacks? Nope, same reason.

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Almost everything I had in the cupboard warned of a potential risk. I was confused and it appears that I'm not the only one ...

Allergy researchers call for better food labelling

Precautionary food labels such as "may contain" or "may be present" are confusing and could increase the risk to children with allergies, according to allergy researchers.

Researchers at Murdoch Childrens Research Institute have called for improved labelling as they say the current system makes it hard for consumers to make informed decisions when buying food.

Associate Professor Katie Allen says food allergy has reached epidemic proportion with one in 10 children born with allergies.

"Buying food products with confidence can be a daunting task for parents with children with food allergy," she says.

"The high number of products that contain precautionary statements as highlighted in our report continues to restrict food choices for the allergic customer.”

Co-lead researcher, Giovanni Zurzolo, a Victoria University PhD student based at the institute, says the large number of products containing vague food labelling statements restricts choice and could cause apprehension for consumers.

A/Professor Allen says the precautionary food labelling system needs to be changed.

"We would like to see a more rationale use of precautionary labelling based on good manufacturing processing like the Voluntary Incidental Trace Allergen Labelling (VITAL) 2.0 system," she says.

For more information visit the Murdoch Children Research Institute
 ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?486-Allergy-researchers-call-for-better-food-labelling The 7 best electric breast pumps http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?482-The-7-best-electric-breast-pumps Tue, 29 May 2012 05:09:44 GMT
I had an electric breast pump ... for one day.

In a sleep-deprived haze I failed to read the first instruction - DO NOT IMMERSE IN WATER - and I did just that after the first use. So it was "goodbye hundreds of dollars" and "hello manual breast pump" (thankfully it could be used as both!).

So I am clearly no expert on electric breast pumps. Although I am better informed than my younger brother, who (about 20 years ago) began giggling uncontrollably while reading the local newspaper classifieds. The source of his giggle? For sale ads for breast pumps which in his adolescent mind were like bike pumps but for boobs!

What was I talking about ...?

Oh right. Breast pumps ... electric ones ... it is coming back to me now.

Here are the Top 7 Electric Breast Pumps as voted by you in the Bub Hub product reviews section.


Medela Pump in Style

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"This pump is AMAZING! I love it so much. It has a strong suction which is adjustable, and in the beginning it also has a fast suction to mimic your natural letdown. Then it automatically switches over to the deeper, slower suction." - chatabox

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Unimom Forte

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"One of the strongest on the market for a fraction of the cost! Suction is adjustable so it's also super comfortable! One of the best purchases since my daughter was born!" - Crystal

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Medela Freestyle

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"Overall I have not one complaint about this pump, it is excellent and well worth the $ if you can justify the $700 price tag." - Stumbleine

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Cherub Baby Natrisense Electric & Battery Breast Pump

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"I have stared using the pump and it works like a dream" - Lily's Mum

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Medela Electric Swing

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"This is the only breast pump worth buying! I love it. I tried other brands and there is no comparison. Quick, quiet, easy, portable. Highly recommended to anyone looking for a breast pump." - Popstar


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Unimom Allegro Portable Breastpump

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"Buying the Unimom Allegro was the best thing I did to prepare to return to work. It is incredibly light and small and so easy to carry with me to and from work (...) for a fraction of the cost of other portable electric breast pumps! - EvilWombatQueen

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Medela Mini Electric

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"The Medela mini eletric breast pump is fantastic. I used a manual breast pump for my first and it was so slow compared to this. It makes expressing so easy and quick. You can express anywhere. I tell everyone this is the one to get." - Mel Dutney

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What do you think? Is your favourite brand on the list?

If you haven't added your review you can visit our Parents Review Section now to have your say!!

 ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?482-The-7-best-electric-breast-pumps Strollers fail safety standards http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?468-Strollers-fail-safety-standards Tue, 22 May 2012 01:56:06 GMT
How do you know if your stroller is really safe?

If you're like me you probably saw that it met with the Australian Standard and you felt comforted by that fact.

And that would be fine except that according to new data released by people's watchdog CHOICE, only three out of 18 strollers they tested met safety standards outlined in a 2009 voluntary code.

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CHOICE spokesperson Ingrid Just says currently all strollers sold in Australia are required to meet only some clauses of the year 2000 version of the Australian standard, plus a few additional requirements such as having a wrist tether strap.

"However the full standard was revised in 2009 to include some new voluntary safety requirements, in particular a test to ensure that loops caused by harness straps are not a strangulation hazard," she says.

"From our testing, we think these and other safety requirements are important enough to be mandated."

CHOICE is now calling on the government to include some key points of the voluntary code into an updated mandatory stroller safety standard.

Those key points are:

  • Clauses relating to the safety of the harness, to ensure it can safely retain a child without posing strangulation or other hazards;
  • Clauses that test the security of the locking mechanism for folding and unfolding the stroller; and
  • Durability tests to ensure the stroller is robust enough for years of use.

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Ms Just says parents who wanted to ensure they are buying safe products should do a search at choice.com.au.

She says CHOICE is a not-for-profit organisation that undertakes many tests on products and advises on product safety and design.

She had the following advice on what parents should look for in a stroller.

Brakes

Look for rear brakes on both wheels that are linked, so the left and right brakes can be activated by one lever rather than individually.

Check how well they work by applying the brakes and then trying to push the handle. Make sure you can access the brakes easily.

Harness

Strollers should have a five-point harness and the waist straps in particular should be securely linked to the stroller's frame, so the child can't lean over and tilt the stroller. Tug on the harness to check the seat doesn't pull away from the frame.

Wheels

Look for front wheels that swivel (to make manoeuvring easier) but can be locked in the forward direction when travelling at higher speeds or over rough terrain.

Also, check the following:

  • Are there protruding parts that can hit your child's head or small parts that can detach easily and pose a choking risk?
  • Are there gaps that could trap your or your child's fingers? (look especially around the release and folding mechanism areas).
  • Are there sharp edges or points on any surfaces?
  • Is there a child-resistant mechanism for locks?
  • And is the stroller stable enough not to tip easily?

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This information about Strollers is one of five instalments as part of Choice's new, week long initiative - Choice Baby Safety Week.

To read CHOICE tips on stroller safety, to access the results of the latest stroller test and to access a free downloadable guide for expectant parents go to choice.com.au/strollersafety.

For more information about baby safety and choosing the right products for you and your child download the free guide www.choice.com.au/expectantparentsguide
]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?468-Strollers-fail-safety-standards Breastfeeding halves risk of SIDS http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?466-Breastfeeding-halves-risk-of-SIDS Sun, 20 May 2012 23:17:44 GMT
SIDS and Kids has revised their safe sleeping guidelines to include a new recommendation - 'breastfeed baby if you can'.

The new recommendation is based on research that shows breastfeeding more than halves the risk of sudden and unexpected infant death.

Review* author and safe sleeping expert Adjunct Professor Jeanine Young says studies conducted over the past 15 years have consistently found that breastfeeding reduces the risk of SIDS.

"A recent review published in 2011 that considered all the evidence together, showed that breastfeeding a baby more than halves the chances of a baby dying suddenly and unexpectedly," she says.

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Professor Young says the studies show the risk is significantly reduced for mothers who exclusively breastfeed and breastfeed for longer.

She says the protective effect of breastfeeding is believed to be due to several factors – in the action of breastfeeding but also the components of breast milk itself.

"Babies who are breastfed are more easily aroused during active sleep than formula fed infants which is protective for a baby's breathing and swallow mechanisms," she says.

"Breast milk also contains immunoglobulins and cytokines which help a baby's immune system to fight infection. When a baby is born they have some immunity passed on from their mother – by 2-4 months of age (the peak age for SIDS) a baby's own levels of immunoglobulin G are low and their maternally acquired levels are decreasing.

"Breast milk helps to boost these immunoglobulins to help protect baby from infection. Babies who are breastfed tend to have reduced respiratory and gastrointestinal infections. Infants whose deaths are attributed to SIDS and SUDI (sudden unexpected deaths in infancy) often have had a minor infection in the days before the death that was not sufficient alone to cause the death, but which may have contributed in some way."

But while the link between SIDS and breastfeeding is confirmed, Professor Young emphasises that it is just one of six recommendations.

"It is important for women who wish to breastfeed to have support in feeding their babies [but] some women are not able to breastfeed for a number of reasons," she says.

"These mums need to remember that the message 'breastfeed baby if you can' is one of six messages to reduce the risk of sudden and unexpected deaths in infancy. The SIDS and Kids 2012 Sleep Safe, My Baby campaign contains five other messages that parents can use in caring for their baby that will reduce sudden infant deaths.

"Other contributing factors like not smoking near babies and sleeping babies on their back are equally important ways to significantly reduce the risk."

SIDS and Kids CEO Leanne Raven says it is important to arm parents with the best possible information to help reduce the risk of SIDS.

The Safe Sleeping Campaign was introduced in 1990 and from 1989-2010 the rate of SIDS has decreased by 80%.

The six ways to sleep baby safely and reduce the risk of sudden and unexpected death in infancy:
  1. Sleep baby on the back from birth, not on the tummy or side
  2. Sleep baby with head and face uncovered
  3. Keep baby smoke free before birth and after
  4. Provide a safe sleeping environment night and day
  5. Sleep baby in their own safe sleeping place in the same room as an adult caregiver for the first six to twelve months
  6. Breastfeed baby if you can.
- Rebecca Galton

SIDS and Kids annual fundraiser Red Nose Day is on Friday June 29.

SIDS and Kids is an Australian community-based organisation dedicated to saving the lives of babies and children during pregnancy, birth, infancy and childhood and to supporting bereaved families.

Visit www.sidsandkids.org

* Young J, Watson, Ellis L, Raven L. (2012) Responding to evidence: breastfeed baby if you can – the sixth public health recommendation to reduce the risk of sudden and unexpected death in infancy. Breastfeeding Review Vol 20, Issue 1, pages 7-16. ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?466-Breastfeeding-halves-risk-of-SIDS How much do you know about food allergy? http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?464-How-much-do-you-know-about-food-allergy Fri, 18 May 2012 10:30:09 GMT
How much do you know about food allergies?

Did you know that the number of children with food allergies continues to rise and that we've seen a boom in the past 20 years?

Did you also know that is Food Allergy Awareness Week this week?

We've been chatting with the people at the Murdoch Childrens Research Institute about some new research they have conducted on food allergies.

Sunlight linked to food allergy and eczema

This study has highlighted a possible link between food allergy, eczema and where you live.

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It found that, in the four to five year old age group, children living in the southern parts of Australia were more likely to have both food allergy and eczema.

It also showed that, in the eight to nine year old age group, the chance of having a peanut allergy was six times greater and the odds of having eczema were twice as great in the southernmost children, compared with those living up north.

Lead researcher associate professor Katie Allen says the study adds weight to the idea that sunlight might play a role in the rise of food allergy and eczema.

"The results of our study provides further motivation for research into possible casual links into UV radiation and vitamin D levels in this disease group," she said.


Test will improve peanut allergy diagnosis

A new way to accurately test for peanut allergy has been developed. The new test is more cost effective and convenient plus will minimise over-diagnosis of peanut allergy.

Currently, an oral food challenge is used for diagnosing peanut allergy but it's time-consuming, costly and puts patients at risk of severe reaction.

The new test uses part of the peanut protein called 'Arah2' and involves a two-step screening process. Researchers found they could perform a blood test, followed by the Arah2 test, which was more accurate and highly predictive than using one of the tests alone.

For more information visit the Murdoch Childrens Research Institute
 ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?464-How-much-do-you-know-about-food-allergy Time to get a wiggle on ... http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?456-Time-to-get-a-wiggle-on Thu, 17 May 2012 10:18:05 GMT *So three of the four original Wiggles will be hanging up their famous scivvies after 21 years!* For a while there - when Sam was replaced and Wigglegate brough the world to its knees - I was scared that they would keep on wiggling into their twilight years. Greg would need his Big Red Car...
So three of the four original Wiggles will be hanging up their famous scivvies after 21 years!

For a while there - when Sam was replaced and Wigglegate brough the world to its knees - I was scared that they would keep on wiggling into their twilight years. Greg would need his Big Red Car licence renewed annually and Jeff would be getting harder and harder to rouse from his naps.

But that won't happen now that Jeff, Murray and Greg have announced they will be retiring. Blue Wiggle Anthony will be staying put with three new additions ... Emma Watkins, Lachlan Gillespie and Simon Pryce! Yep a girl Wiggle!

Good on em.

They've done well and they've bowed out gracefully before the hair got too grey and the dance moves too painful to execute (and watch ...).

Well, gracefully-ish as we still haven't REALLY gotten over Sam's departure have we?

Watch their announcement video here:



So Goodbye original Wiggles, we will miss you. Some of us watched you when we were kids and now we watch you with our own kids. Freaky huh?

What do you think? Are you looking forward to seeing a girl Wiggle? What will you miss about the original Wiggles?
]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?456-Time-to-get-a-wiggle-on Top baby names and other current trends ... http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?455-Top-baby-names-and-other-current-trends Thu, 17 May 2012 04:56:24 GMT
If you're like me, then you like colourful easy-to-understand statistics. And pie-charts. And pie ... Mmm... pie ...

Now, where was I? Oh yeah, statistics.

My favourite statistics are those that a) prove me right and/or b) give me a glimpse of what is happening in the world.

That's why I like this Mother And Babies Australia infograph from McCrindle Research. It is colourful AND informative! Like Dr Karl Kruszelnicki!

And there's only one reason I don't like it ... it makes me realise how uncreative and predictable I was when naming my children. No, they aren't the two number one baby names Wil and Lil ... but close ...



Are your baby names on the list? Is YOUR name on the list (mine is ... I was a top 5 name ... in the 70s ...)

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]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?455-Top-baby-names-and-other-current-trends The Scientific Laws of Parenting http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?447-The-Scientific-Laws-of-Parenting Tue, 15 May 2012 10:52:55 GMT
Bet you all thought that parenting was about instincts, tradition and luck ... nope! It is all science.
In fact, I've observed the following scientific laws at work in my own house. You'll probably recognise them too ...

Newton's First Law of Motion
The Baby will happily remain in the one place unless The Toddler pushes her over.

Newton's Third Law of Motion
For every action that The Toddler does to The Baby there will be an equal and opposite reaction once The Baby grows up a little bit.

The First Law of Attraction
If there is one thing on the lounge room floor that The Baby shouldn't touch ... she will head to it first and put it straight in her mouth no matter how many expensive baby toys are surrounding her.

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The Second Law of Attraction
The messier the toy (Play-Doh, 48-piece jigsaw puzzles etc) the more The Toddler will want to play with it. And by 'play' I mean whinge about it for 15 minutes, tip it over the floor, play with it for 2 minutes then leave it there for The Baby to eat (see The First Law of Attraction).

The Law of Multiple Proportions
The likelihood that a cute outfit will be ruined before you leave the house increases in direct proportion with the cuteness of the outfit, the difficulty in putting it on and the importance of the event you're attending. It increases in inverse proportion to the amount of time you've got before the event starts.

The Law of Mechanics
Never put a Toddler in the driver's seat of your stationary car unless you're prepared to spend the next 30 minutes or so in your garage/driveway/front yard.

E=MC2
Energy = morning coffee plus another morning coffee ...

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The Law of Reflection
You'll encourage The Toddler to say "thanks" about 30 times a day and you'll be lucky to hear it once. You'll drop ONE f-bomb ONCE and he'll either repeat it non-stop all day or save it for a special occassion - like grocery shopping or visiting great grandparents.

Law of Gravitation
This law is The Baby's favourite. If you drop something from your highchair/pram it falls but always comes back. And if you don't believe it the first time, try it again... and again ... and again ...

Sound familiar? What "laws" have you seen at work in your home?

by Bub Hub website editor Rebecca Galton

 ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?447-The-Scientific-Laws-of-Parenting Which TV mum are you? http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?444-Which-TV-mum-are-you Sun, 13 May 2012 22:39:47 GMT
Are you more Lois Griffin than Marion Cunningham? Do you raise your kids (and other people's) like Susan Kennedy or Pippa Fletcher-Ross?

Or are you like another TV mum ...

Take this quick fun quiz to find out which TV mum you're most like ... and don't forget to share it with your friends!

Oh - you'll need some paper or a good memory (this isn't a fancy click-ey quiz)

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1. How would you best describe a family meal at your place?

a. Normal meal, at the table, with whoever is there at dinnertime

b. A white tablecloth and silverware affair. Three courses, straight from a recipe book

c. Pizza or chinese or some other takeaway. Sometimes at the table. Occassionally on the couch

d. Pork chops, pork chops, pork chops.


2. Who else lives in your house?

a. You have an open-door policy that includes fathers, mothers, grown kids, young kid, wife of grown kid, mother of wife of grown kid etc

b. Only immediate family in case any family secrets get out ...

c. Immediate family and teenage girls' boyfriends only

d. Immediate family and anyone your husband invites without asking you first.


3. How would you best describe your relationship with your kids?

a. You love your kids and you're good friends with them, but you still know when to be their mum

b. Your relationship is sometimes cold and your kids have been known to be a little bit evil.

c. You tell it like it is with your kids and they occassionally do the same back

d. You love your kids more than anything.


4. How would you best describe your sense of humour?

a. Down-to-earth

b. What sense of humour?

c. Sarcastic, loud and sometimes scathing ... but very funny

d. You have a quiet and mild sense of humour and a cute raspy laugh.


5. How would you describe your dress sense?

a. Very normal, you dress nicely and take pride in your appearance

b. You dress like a 50s housewife

c. Track pants and oversized shirts

d. Boring. It feels like you wear exactly the same thing EVERY day.


6. How far would you go to protect your children?

a. As far as you can, but you do believe there are some instances where kids have to learn for themselves

b. You'd go totally overboard. You'd cover up crimes and teenage pregnancies even.

c. You'd stand up for your kids but also let them make mistakes of their own.

d. You're extremely protective of your children. And you need to be, with a husband like yours!


7. How neat is your house?

a. It is not perfect but it is clean and homely.

b. So neat it scares people

c. Not so neat ... you're a bit lazy when it comes to housework

d. Quite neat, you pride yourself on being a good homemaker


8. Would you consider having children later in life?

a. You wouldn't plan it but your heart would accept any new additions

b. Only if your teenage daughter got pregnant and you had cover it up by pretending the baby was yours

c. It wouldn't be in the plan but it would be good to see if you could finally get a good one!

d. Probably not. It feels like your children will never grow up no matter how many years pass.


9. How would you describe your relationship with your husband?

a. Normal. You have your ups and downs but you are great friends and proud parents

b. Which husband? Either way it is cold and unfeeling

c. Loving, but when you fight, you really fight. A lot of screaming

d. You adore your husband even though he constantly does idiotic things and has little regard for safety.


10. What is your support network like?

a. A large extended family and heaps of support

b. A crazy ex-mother-in-law but good support from a small group of friends/neighbours

c. Great support from your sister and a small group of friends, which makes up for your crazy mother.

d. Not a lot of close female friends to rely on. A barely there mother and sisters who hate your husband.


The results

If you answered:


Mostly As

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You're Julie Rafter from Packed to the Rafters.


Mostly Bs

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Bree Van de Kamp from Desperate Housewives.


Mostly Cs

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Roseanne Connor from Roseanne


Mostly Ds

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Marge Simpson from The Simpsons
 ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?444-Which-TV-mum-are-you Time Magazine and THAT cover ... what do you think? http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?438-Time-Magazine-and-THAT-cover-what-do-you-think Fri, 11 May 2012 01:59:23 GMT
If Time Magazine's goal was to create discussion they have certainly achieved it with this month's cover.

If you haven't seen it it shows an almost-four-year-old standing on a small chair breastfeeding from his mother.

It is very staged (as are all magazine covers) and deliberately confronting in it's use of pose, eye contact and clothing (they want to sell copies after all!).

See for yourself ...

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The magazine article - Meet Dr Bill Sears, the man who ramade motherhood - is about the rise in attachment parenting. It asks the question: are some mothers taking his advice too far?

Now, we all know that breastmilk is the best thing for baby - and we also know that it can be a tough slog and sometimes life just doesn't work out that way.

It's important to promote breastfeeding but are staged images like this detrimental to the cause?

Wouldn't it be better if we saw more not-so-staged breastfeeding images - and more breastfeeding in real life - so that it is seen as what it is and should be ... a normal, natural way to nourish a growing human being?

What do you think?

]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?438-Time-Magazine-and-THAT-cover-what-do-you-think My top five best mum moments (so far...) http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?413-My-top-five-best-mum-moments-(so-far-) Mon, 30 Apr 2012 01:43:38 GMT
As a mum you have many "moments"

There's moments such as the first time you feel like a mum, or grosser moments such as the first time you use your fingers to pick your baby's nose. Those two were one and the same for me by the way.

Anyway here are my Top 5 favourite mum moments (so far) ...

1. The after birth moment

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Wait ... that sounds like I really liked the placenta. Not that I didn't like the placenta... I've no strong feeling about it either way. I mean, thanks for feeding my unborn babies placenta but I really wish the midwife didn't ask me if I wanted to look at you afterwards! You were pretty gross.

Now, where was I? I'm talking about that moment immediately after you give birth. The first time you hold your baby. The first time you pick up your newborn's little hand and study those tiny fingers. The first time your baby looks at you with those dark, puffy newborn eyes. The first time the pain is gone after 10+ hours of teeth-clenching, back-arching pain.

You might be too exhausted to really appreciate this moment while it is happening but you'll look back on it as one of the most profound moments of your life.

And I'm pretty sure this moment is addictive. Like baby crack. This must be the reason we go back again and again.

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2. The first tooth (aka my proudest moment)

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When my first child sprouted a tooth I was so proud of him I almost burst. After texting my partner, my mother and my mother-in-law I wondered why I was so proud. It wasn't as though he had any choice in the matter. He didn't make the tooth grow though talent, hard work or determination. But I didn't care ... I was proud (or possibly just relieved that it had finally broken through and I might get some sleep!).

He has since made me proud many many times. When he rolled over, took his first steps, ate all his vegetables. I'm proud every time he uses his manners. I was proud when he completed a 24-piece jigsaw puzzle by himself and I'm proud every time he gives his baby sister a gentle head rub and sweet little kiss when she's crying. At this rate, I'm going to explode the day they graduate high school.

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3. Watching my two kids play together and make each other laugh.

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When I brought home my second child my main hope was that my first child wouldn't hate her (and me). I also hoped he wouldn't smother her if I left the room and wouldn't throw matchbox cars at her head.

Never did I imagine that they'd actually like each other! If there is one thing more adorable than the uncontrollable giggle of a small child it is the uncontrollable giggles of two. Especially when they are laughing at each other!

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4. Smiles, hugs, kisses and the first time you hear the word 'mum'

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When your child sees you, calls out 'mum' excitedly, runs towards you, jumps into your arms, gives you a big hug and plants a giant kiss right on your lips you forget about the lack of sleep, the peanut butter in your hair and the toys that are taking over your living room.

That was what I WAS going to write until my son said 'love you mum' last night. Better get a mop ... I just melted.

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5. Sharing the experience with my own mum

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It is kind of like gaining entry in the 'mum' club. It is like you finally get it ... and your mum knows this. In fact, she's probably been waiting a long time for this day. "Just wait till you have kids" she probably thought one day while wiping your farex off the floors and walls. And then daily ever since.

Sharing your experience as a mum with your own mum or mother-figure is a moment to cherish. Hopefully she'll cherish it as well and hopefully she'll also offer to babysit. There are few things more special than seeing someone you love being loved just as much by someone else you love. Did that make sense? Hope so ...


Happy Mother's Day to my mum ... to all mums.

Love your work. Hope you get a sleep in and some beautiful hugs!



 ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?413-My-top-five-best-mum-moments-(so-far-) Awesome kids birthday cakes from Bub Hubbers ... and me. http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?407-Awesome-kids-birthday-cakes-from-Bub-Hubbers-and-me Thu, 26 Apr 2012 09:44:32 GMT
I built a cake

If a little time-traveling fairy visited me three years ago to tell me that by 2012 I'd have two children and would spend a whole day baking and decorating a train cake for one of their birthdays I would have laughed at the fairy then I would ask it to give me some lotto numbers. Except I wouldn't because I don't believe that fairies can time travel.

But it this case the hypothetical fairy would have been right. I do have two kids - affectionately called The Toddler and The Baby (for reasons that I don't think need explaining) and when The Toddler turned two recently I made him this cake:


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I know right ...? That was the second cake I'd decorated in my life.

Here is the first ...

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So surprised was I by the end result I posted the pic on the Bub Hub forum and Bub Hub Facebook page. And then heaps of very talented Bub Hub members shared their children's birthday cake masterpieces as well.

Check them out here:


]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?407-Awesome-kids-birthday-cakes-from-Bub-Hubbers-and-me The 6 Best Disposable Breast Pads http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?402-The-6-Best-Disposable-Breast-Pads Wed, 25 Apr 2012 04:28:07 GMT
Recently my father-in-law inadvertently used one of my breast pads as a coaster. My fault really ... I shouldn't have left it on the armrest of the lounge chair.

Awkward.

This won't happen again as I've since bought a new lounge with a chaise - no more nasty armrest to embarrass me in front of the inlaws.

Anyway he gave the aforementioned breast pad full marks for absorbency.

But here's how you rated them - the six best disposable breasts pads from the Bub Hub product reviews section.


Disposable Nursing Pads - Chicco

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"They have gel in them, like most disposable nappies, so they draw the moisture away from your body. This really helps keep your nipples dry, not soggy like other brands I've used." - youngn

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Lansinoh Breast Pads - Lansinoh

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"These are the only breast pads i have never had any issues with. They are thin which makes them discreet to wear. I have never had them leak like other brands I have tried." - Melzy99

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Hydrogel Breast Discs - Rite Aid

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"BEST PURCHASE EVER and I cannot recommend them enough, especially for the first few weeks of breastfeeding when your nipples are getting used to having a baby feeding off them all the time. The relief that I felt when I popped them on after a feed was just bliss to someone who has sore or cracked nipples." - kiarahsmum

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Disposable Nursing Bra Pads - Medela

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"I found these to be great at the beginning, they are lovely and large, have a good curve to them so fitted well, even when engorged, they are a bit pricy, but worth it when your milk is establishing." - Shakey

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Premium Disposable - Mamaway

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"I am really happy with these and would definitely recommend them to people to try, I will be using these exclusively from now on as none compare to them for me!" - Greenhorn

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Ultra Slim - Pigeon

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"These are my absolute favourite breast pad. They are thin and not noticable through clothes. They never leak, even if you have been stuck without a fresh one. The inside becomes gel (so doesn't fall apart like some others) and they are individually wrapped." - Rosie

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What do you think? Is your favourite brand on the list?

If you haven't added your review you can visit our Parents Review Section now to have your say!!
 ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?402-The-6-Best-Disposable-Breast-Pads Criminal checks for babysitters http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?363-Criminal-checks-for-babysitters Mon, 09 Apr 2012 05:50:15 GMT
Wouldn't it be nice if life was like The Baby-sitters Club?

Wouldn't it be easy if you could just ring a group of 13-year-olds during their club meeting and then trust one of them to watch your kids while you and the husband hit the Stoneybrook social scene.

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Unfortunately life isn't like the Ann M. Martin novels that adorned my bookshelf bedhead. This isn't Stoneybrook, Connecticut. I don't know any 13-year-olds and, even if I did, would I leave The Toddler in their constantly texting hands? This is probably the reason I haven't seen a movie or eaten out past 6.30pm since January 2009.

There is a way around this though. Parents who require the service of sitters, who aren't immediate family members or close friends can check their suitability with a National Crime Check (NCC) - a fully accredited service, which produces valid criminal history checks within 48 hours, using the same database that the Federal Police use.

All that parents need to do is get their babysitter to fill in a simple online form and once the process is completed, the certificate can be viewed online or printed.

National Crime Check general manager Martin Lazarevic says it is common for busy parents to entrust neighbours or friends-of-friends with babysitting their children, without the checks that formal childcare workers are required to have.

"Unfortunately people with previous convictions have been known to target these more casual employment roles, given the lack of official security measures in place," he says.

"New online, fully approved services have made it fast, effective and cheap for parents to request that babysitters, nannies or sport coaches obtain a national criminal history check before being hired.

"Unlike checks conducted through police stations, National Crime Check offers reports for as little as $44, delivered in just 48 hours in most cases. The usual waiting period for a police station check is 6-weeks. The ease and efficiency which online checks now afford means there is no excuse for parents not to have peace of mind."

Not that you'd need one for Kristy, Claudia, Mary Anne, Stacey or Dawn of course ...
]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?363-Criminal-checks-for-babysitters Alicia Silverstone feeds her baby like a bird. http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?330-Alicia-Silverstone-feeds-her-baby-like-a-bird Wed, 28 Mar 2012 03:58:24 GMT Have you ever fed your baby like a bird? Once I gave The Toddler some sunflower seeds but that isn't what we're talking about here.

I've been watching a video of Clueless star Alicia Silverstone chewing up some food and then letting her baby eat it from her mouth. Uh huh.

She posted it on her website The Kind Life ... but here it is here ...



Gotta be honest with you here ... before today I'd never heard of this and I'd certainly never seen it done.

What do you think? ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?330-Alicia-Silverstone-feeds-her-baby-like-a-bird The top 5 three-wheeler prams http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?293-The-top-5-three-wheeler-prams Thu, 15 Mar 2012 01:44:39 GMT I don't have a three-wheeler pram - unless you count the times when one of the front wheels falls off my four-wheeler pram (true story ... very frustrating).

I considered buying one before The Toddler was born, you know, in case I ever went jogging! Haha. But I decided on a four-wheeler with proper tyres in case I ever went walking (a much more realistic situation).

Anyway - enough about me - here are the Top 5 Three Wheeler Prams as voted by you in our Bub Hub Parents Review Section.

1. Childcare Trio XT

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"This pram is fantastic. It steers like a dream, is light and easy to push on any surface, even with the toddler seat and my two kids in it!" - guest reviewer

2. Valco Matrix

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"GREAT PRAM! Nothing to complain about! Have it over two years - no issues! Great brand worth the investment. It's worth buying a great pram as it holds the most valuable thing in your life." - Shull

3. Mountain Buggy Swift

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"It drives like a dream - I can easily steer it one-handed. It is streamlined and compact - just what I wanted. I can't rave enough about this pram! It's worth the money." - ButterflyMama

4. Baby Jogger City Mini

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"Awesome pram, easy to fold, easy to stow and comfy for bub."- pamopam

5. Baby Jogger City Elite

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"The City Elite is a smooth, easy-to-manoeuvre pram with excellent tyres and it goes well over various types of terrain. We have pushed it over bumpy footpaths, pebbly walkways, grass, bitumen, sand, gravel and through shopping centres, without any issues whatsoever." - Bellini

What do you think? Is your favourite three-wheeled pram on the list? If you haven't added your review you can visit our Parents Review Section now to have your say!! ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?293-The-top-5-three-wheeler-prams Auction to raise milk money for Ethiopian children http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?271-Auction-to-raise-milk-money-for-Ethiopian-children Mon, 05 Mar 2012 00:12:02 GMT *Cuddle Craft Collective - Making Smiles Happen. * This month, the Bub Hub is proud to support the Cuddle Craft Collective Designer Charity Auction (http://www.facebook.com/CuddleCraftCollective), a project that is putting smiles onto the faces and food into the bellies of disadvantaged children... Cuddle Craft Collective - Making Smiles Happen.

This month, the Bub Hub is proud to support the Cuddle Craft Collective Designer Charity Auction, a project that is putting smiles onto the faces and food into the bellies of disadvantaged children at the Bonga Feeding Centre and Kindergarten in Ethiopia.

The auction will run from 18 - 25 March 2012, and up for grabs will be a selection of limited edition, one-of-a-kind and exclusive designer products that have been lovingly crafted by Australian and International artisans. 100% of the auction profits will be donated to the charity campaign, which means that every cent will make a difference.

Here's a word from the Cuddle Craft Collective spokesperson Amanda Haines:

The Bonga Feeding Centre and Kindergarten is a project of World Families Australia, a not for profit, non-sectarian organisation that provides assistance to communities in need by providing water facilities, micro-loans, food, sanitation, housing, medical support, vocational training and education. WFA is staffed almost entirely by volunteers, and all of the projects that they support are run by local caring people within the country.

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Project officer for the Bonga Feeding Centre, Christine Hoffman, says poverty in Ethiopia is a major challenge, especially in the smaller villages.

"There is also significant drought, floods and famine," she says.

"Lack of access to medical clinics, institutions for the disabled, and even clean water ... the list goes on. It is also very difficult for children to attend school and the schools find it very difficult to provide resources."

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The Cuddle Craft Collective Designer Charity Auction aims to support the Bonga Feeding Centre by providing $2000 to fund a daily glass of milk (essential calcium), and twice weekly eggs (essential protein) to 160 children at the centre for one year.

This is something that we take for granted in Australia, but will have a profound impact on the health of children at the centre.

There has never been a better time to shop... for a cause!

Here are some stats about Ethiopia* that might shock :
  • One in ten children die before their first birthday
  • One in six children die before their fifth birthday
  • Malnutrition is responsible for more than half of all deaths among children under age five
  • Lack of safe drinking water and adequate sanitation currently accounts for around 20 per cent of under-five mortality
  • 1.5 million people are infected with AIDS (6th highest in the world)
  • Ethiopia’s doctor to children ratio is 1 to 24,000.
  • 1 in 4 women dies in pregnancy or childbirth

HOW CAN YOU HELP?

You can support the Cuddle Craft Collective campaign by bidding on an item in the charity auction from 18 - 25 March 2012. You can also enter to win a $650 shopping spree, simply by "LIKING" the Cuddle Craft Collective facebook page.

View the auction items online at www.facebook.com/CuddleCraftCollective

Find out more about the project at: www.cuddlecraftcollective.com

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* References
www.unicef.org/infobycountry/ethiopia_12162.html
www.savethechildren.org/countries/africa/ethiopia.html ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?271-Auction-to-raise-milk-money-for-Ethiopian-children <![CDATA[Kids' activities - benefits, scheduling and the dreaded stage mum!]]> http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?259-Kids-activities-benefits-scheduling-and-the-dreaded-stage-mum! Mon, 27 Feb 2012 11:23:04 GMT So how do you choose which type of activity your child will enjoy and benefit from. And how do you avoid over-scheduling your little ones. Plus how do you know when you've turned into a stage mum?

We chat to Brent Street general manager Suzy Yates ...

What age should you start looking for activities for kids?

This really depends on the activity you are looking for.

There are wonderful activities for little babies like Jimberoo and Kindermusik where the babies are hardly even crawling, yet they benefit greatly from the exercises and development provided. Swimming classes start from 6 months old and children develop early water skills that give them a great start in learning to swim. We have three-year-olds who take their first 45-minute class that combines stretch, jazz and basic ballet steps with storytelling and mime.

Keep in mind that for many activities it is best to send your child once they are toilet trained as dealing with little accidents is not the role of the dance teacher.

What benefits do kids get from extra-curricular activities?

There are many benefits both socially and physically that assists children throughout their lives. A young child involved with other students will develop social skills that provide assistance for them getting ready for school as they learn to interact with other children and begin to follow basic instructions.

Many activities that involve some type of discipline and this can set them up for life where they are required to learn the 'rules' and follow 'instruction'.

Activities such as ballet, gymnastics, physical culture and karate involve discipline and many students later in life are grateful for the lessons learned at an early age.

Children benefit greatly from team activities as they learn about sharing, trusting, and supporting each other through competition.

Any form of physical exercise is wonderful for children and they don't even put the exercise 'label' on it. They are just having fun and the fact that it is good for their bodies is a bonus. A child involved in regular physical activity will most often take that habit into adulthood and therefore continue to look after their physical wellbeing.

Self esteem is boosted through mastering new things and children are particularly encouraged by achievement. A child who is not a brilliant scholar may be a wonderful dancer or actor and their sense of self worth is highlighted when they are performing.

How do you manage too many activities?

Get a big diary! The key is to look for a balance in all things for your children. Just like you aim for a balanced diet, you should also aim for a balance in activities. Too often we see young children burning out as they have too many demands on their time.

There should be at least one or two free afternoons a week where there are no extra-curricular commitments so the child doesn't feel they are always on the go. It is tough for parents too, rushing from place to place so plan your activities as a family and agree on what is achievable and then agree on the things that won't work for all.

How can you prevent being a 'stage mum'?

Don’t start sentences with "now, I am not a stage mum"!

There is a big difference between a stage mum (or dad) and a parent who just wants the best for their child. The latter understands that everyone in the dance or drama class needs to be seen or heard, the stage mum insists on their child performing the most lines in the play or being in the front row in every dance.

The person, who suffers the most if they have a stage mum, is the child. Recently a very talented child missed out on a role in a popular musical because the producer did not want to have anything to do with the child's mother. This is the thing that the stage mum doesn't understand - you are NOT helping your child by pestering the teacher, calling the agent every day or (heaven help you) following the producer around at the audition reminding them how good your child is! Give it a break.

Let your child (through their talent) get the role, be picked in the front row or deliver the lines without the added pressure.

How do you know what will interest your child?

Mostly they will tell you. They might have seen something on TV (every kids who dances in the lounge room to the Wiggles wants to try hip hop!), on YouTube or have seen other kids doing something and they might want to try it. Remember the famous scene in the movie Billy Elliot where Billy watched his sister's ballet class then wanted to try and he was a natural.

They may be influenced by others, everyone is 'into' hip hop, or breakdancing, or they want to be on Dance Academy. If they don't tell you it may be they are worried that you will say no (remember Billy Elliot - boys don't do ballet!) or they may think that they will have to be good at it before you will let them try.

They key is let them try lots of options if they are unsure of what they want to do and book them into trial classes first off.

What type of activities will suit different types of kids?

Drama classes are wonderful for developing confidence. If your child has difficulty expressing themselves it may be that they have never been heard, or they don't know how to make themselves heard.

In a drama class every child is heard. They are encouraged to speak, to get involved, to project their voice, to yell, to scream to tap into fantasy worlds and for many it is the only time they feel safe to 'let go'.

Singing classes are of great benefit to all children. To learn and know they have a voice at an early age and to experiment with their own inbuilt instrument is a gift. Many people never sing as they fear they can't sing in tune and miss out of the joy of music throughout their life. Your child may never be an opera singer but to learn to sing in tune is a gift every child should have.

Very talented children will benefit from private lessons where they can work on developing their strengths. Often one-on-one time with the teacher will assist a nervous child who can't perform in a group so a few private lessons can help build confidence.

What costs are normally involved?

It is not just the cost of the classes you need to consider. Remember most activities have added costs and many parents don’t allow for the additional expenses that come with having a child who wants to sing, act and dance! So here are just a few things to consider that will affect the budget.

Dancing also involves; dance shoes, clothes (leotard for ballet, tights, hair net etc), costumes and entry fees (if your child wants to compete in eisteddfods), examination fees (if your child does ballet or tap exams) tickets for the family to watch the end of year concerts and eisteddfods, costs of photos and concert DVDs, travel costs if your child is chosen to compete interstate or internationally.

Drama costs - scripts, books, costumes, concert tickets etc, travel costs if your child is chosen to compete interstate or internationally.

Singing - backing tracks, sheet music, pianist to accompany for competitions, stage appropriate clothing, shoes and accessories, travel costs if your child is chosen to compete interstate or internationally.

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Suzy Yates is general manager at Brent Street - www.brentstreet.com.au ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?259-Kids-activities-benefits-scheduling-and-the-dreaded-stage-mum! Top 4 Manual Breast Pumps http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?238-Top-4-Manual-Breast-Pumps Sun, 19 Feb 2012 01:44:16 GMT I accidentally used a manual breast pump ... wait a minute ... that sounds like I fell over and landed on one while not wearing a shirt - which is dumb. Although not quite as dumb as what I ACTUALLY did. I bought an electric pump for more than $200 and after using the very first time I immersed... I accidentally used a manual breast pump ... wait a minute ... that sounds like I fell over and landed on one while not wearing a shirt - which is dumb.

Although not quite as dumb as what I ACTUALLY did. I bought an electric pump for more than $200 and after using the very first time I immersed it in water. Yep - even though one of the first things in the instruction manual is "DO NOT IMMERSE IN WATER". Clearly I was suffering from an expensive case of baby brain and sleep deprivation.

Luckily for me the electric pump could easily transform into a manual pump. Unluckily for my wallet - as if I'd bought the manual pump in the first place I could have saved about $150.

Anyway - here are the Top 4 Manual Breast Pumps as reviewed by you in our parenting reviews section.

1. Medela Harmony


"I bought this and this only and have no regrets whatsoever ... it is extremely comfortable. It doesn't leak at all, and is very efficient" - scait

Read all Medela Harmony manual breast pump reviews

2. Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature

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"This was a great price and much more affordable than an electric pump. Very easy to use and came with really good accessories. Is small and compact for travel. It is also easy to clean. Really happy with this product." - Melzy99

Read all Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature manual breast pump reviews

3. Philips Avent ISIS Manual

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"I love this pump. Ive used other manual and electric pumps but this is my favourite! It's very easy to assemble, wash and use. I also love that you can freeze the milk into the bottles or the containers that fit right into the bottles. A fantastic manual pump that I would recommend to anyone."- qtkiwi

Read all Philips Avent ISIS Manual breast pump reviews

4. Medela Manual

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"The pump did do its job though, was very tiring to use, and is definately a two-handed process. One good thing about it was that it fitted any standard baby bottle, and also was easy to attach the special milk bags to store the milk in the freezer, saved a lot of room. The pump is easy to take apart and clean/sterilise." - Shakey

Read all Medela Manual breast pump reviews
Attached Images
]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?238-Top-4-Manual-Breast-Pumps <![CDATA[Girls in sport - by Australian Women's Cricket Captain Jodie Fields]]> http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?232-Girls-in-sport-by-Australian-Women-s-Cricket-Captain-Jodie-Fields Tue, 14 Feb 2012 22:52:57 GMT Did you play sport when you were a young girl? Will you encourage your girls to do the same?

Jodie Fields - captain of the Australian Women's Cricket team The Southern Stars and Females in Cricket Ambassador for Cricket Australia - chats about how she got into the sport and the importance of sport for young girls in Australia.

The Importance of Sport for Young People in Australia

With a growing population in Australia of overweight children, there has never been a more important reason to be involved with sport or physical activity.

With so many activities available to children, like computer games, Wii games, iPhones, and iPods etc., more are leading sedentary and mildly active lifestyles.

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I feel sport for young women is a great way to not only maintain physical fitness but it is also a great means for making friends, having fun, and challenging yourself in many ways.

Growing up in the southwest Queensland city of Toowoomba, I was lucky enough to have many sports available to play. I really enjoyed going to school for that main reason (apart from learning of course!). I regularly looked forward to Monday as I could participate in physical education classes, Tuesday's were spent playing touch football, volleyball training and games took up Wednesday afternoons, Thursday nights I spent training with a tennis squad, and most weekends I was either off playing in Brisbane tennis tournaments or playing cricket with the boys on a Saturday afternoon.

There was never any shortage of sport in our household and I am very thankful for the opportunity my parents offered me in this regard.

As a young child, I was quite shy and sport was instrumental in allowing me to make friends and get out of my comfort zone. The thrill of serving an ace in tennis or scoring a goal in soccer brought a smile to my face and those of my teammates.

One of the best reasons for playing sport is the relationship you build with your fellow teammates. I still recall many names and faces that I grew up with playing sport, and they were some of the best times of my life.

Being a teenage sportsperson growing up in a smaller country town, at times it was difficult as you missed out on social occasions with friends or parties, or you didn't have a part-time job and money but I realised that this was OK as I had many sporting goals which I had set myself.

To achieve these sporting goals, sometimes you had to sacrifice Friday night sleepovers with your friends or Saturday evening nights out but in the long run, it has benefited me greatly by allowing me to achieve many goals in my chosen sport of cricket.

Equally, I have also made many great friends along the way through playing cricket.

There is no greater feeling than playing a sport you love, with people who have the
same desires and goals and having fun along the way.

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Parents play such an important role in encouraging young girls to play sport.

I know as a young sportsperson, I often came home with a brochure from school about playing a new sport, and my parents must have wondered ‘not another one!', but they were always supportive of my goals and the sports I wanted to participate in.

It doesn't matter whether, a young girl wants to play cricket or ride in equestrian events, to know you have the support of your parents is such a powerful thing and will most likely be a big determinant of whether their child will continue in sport.

I believe parents are big role models for children and by participating in sport themselves, can positively affect a child's view on sport.

If parents lead healthy lifestyles, then their children are more likely to lead healthy lifestyles and participate in sport.

The main message about sport is that you do not have to be the best player in the team, but you can participate and enjoy all the benefits that sport has to offer.

In my club cricket team that I regularly play in on a Sunday in Brisbane, we have a great variety of women playing. Mothers with young children, social players who love turning up and giving their best and enjoying a team BBQ afterwards, or university students who play as a stress release on the weekend.

Everyone brings their own experiences to the game and we all enjoy each other's company.

For me, that is the greatest gift sport gives us all – health, friends, and lots of fun!

Four short films about the Southern Stars have been created to promote female participation in cricket. Each film profiles a key player from the team. You can see Jodie's profile film below.



To watch the full series of videos, please visit: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40F79770BB56608C&feature=plcp ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?232-Girls-in-sport-by-Australian-Women-s-Cricket-Captain-Jodie-Fields I had triplets ... then posed for a bikini calendar!! http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?231-I-had-triplets-then-posed-for-a-bikini-calendar!! Tue, 14 Feb 2012 04:44:24 GMT First of all, I'm not talking about myself! I've had two babies - one two very separate occassions - and I've never posed for a bikini calendar.

But Angela Ezzy has! We loved her story and wanted to share it with you all ...

BE PROUD OF WHAT YOU HAVE ...

I was the last person to ever think I would find myself posing in front of a camera, in a bikini and then have it put in print for many to see! However, I did!

I'm a mother of four, I have 5-year-old triplets and an almost-2-year-old. Most days are kept busy with the daily chores, keeping up with therapy needs of my little man with cerebral palsy and trying to slow my youngest down - reminding him he is not 5 years old yet!

An active and healthy lifestyle has always been a priority for me however as all mothers know, you tend to make sure everyone around you keeps healthy and you put yourself at the bottom of the list!

After becoming mum, and adjusting to a new life of nappies, bottles and constant cleaning, I got to the point of realising how much I missed and also needed to get back into some sort of exercise. I also knew my diet was not as good as it needed to be and if I kept living on cups of tea and scotch finger biscuits I was bound to end up malnourished!

Having lost the confidence in my "post-baby" body I tended to shy away from wearing certain clothes and didn't want anyone to look too close at certain areas. So it was time to do something.

The last exercise I did was the City 2 Surf … unbeknown to me that I was five weeks pregnant with my youngest at the time, so fortunately getting back into exercise again wasn't too hard once I got going. The first few sessions of any fitness are always the hardest and things tend to flow on from there if you persevere.

I gradually got back into touch football, running and the gym. I enjoy the gym however for me I couldn't have got the results I did without a personal trainer. I got on top of my diet and as I did my appetite returned for healthy foods and am glad to say I no longer enjoy scotch fingers or any bicky with my tea!

Getting back to the bikini shoot, my personal trainer decided to set a challenge for her clients and over 12 weeks were going to train hard and eat well and show our results in a swimsuit calendar!

My original thought was to do the challenge but not worry about the photo shoot. But I was talked into doing the shoot and couldn't be more grateful!

The stripping off (down to a bikini) in front of a camera was one of the scariest times in my life, but also a time of great release of my insecurities.

Some good results were achieved with the hard training however I wouldn't call myself a bikini model from my efforts!

I did, though, feel confident in my body - still with a few stretchy scars reminding me of my beautiful boys and still curvy in places … but that was OK ... this was me and to reach the point when I say, "I am beautiful" is an amazing accomplishment.

With the other 14 people who posed for the calendar, it was evident of the many types of body shapes out there and I have to say that each one looked just as beautiful as the next.

I will never have the long skinny arms and legs of that girl over there however I am blessed with the body God gave me that is just as beautiful.

With the business of life, trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle can be challenging but very rewarding.

I still have to force myself some days to do some sort of activity and eating well is a constant which can waiver sometimes, but rewards outway the effort.

My routine has had some changes now the triplets have just started school but I am embracing the change!

With all that said I encourage you to get in front of the camera in your bikini!

Be proud of what you have. If what you have needs a little refining then what is holding you back??!

- ANGELA EZZY!!

Oh ... did we forget something ... I bet you'd all love to see Angela's photo ...

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The Calendar of Dreams is available from Fit and Firm Personal Training - RRP $15
 ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?231-I-had-triplets-then-posed-for-a-bikini-calendar!! <![CDATA[Kids Can't Fly ... keep your kids safe near balconies and windows.]]> http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?215-Kids-Can-t-Fly-keep-your-kids-safe-near-balconies-and-windows Wed, 01 Feb 2012 01:56:19 GMT We just wanted to share this with you because we think it is a very important campaign.

The Children's Hospital at Westmead has developed some resources aimed at reducing the number of young children who are killed or injured in window and balcony falls.

Their campaign is called Kids Can't Fly ...

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Please have a read to make sure your home is safe for your little ones!

There are too many preventable accidents happening.

From January 1998 to 8 November 2011, 210 children were admitted to The Children’s Hospital at Westmead following a window or balcony fall. Of these, 113 cases were due to a window fall and 97 cases were due to a balcony fall.

Let's help them get this number to ZERO!

Here are some tips to make sure your home is safe:

Window Safety for Children

Children can fall out of a window which is open more than 10cm, even if a fly screen is present. To prevent children falling from your windows, The Children's Hospital at Westmead recommends:
  • All windows above the ground floor to be opened no more than 10cm.
  • All windows have window locks/latches fitted to stop windows opening more than 10cm, or guards to protect the opening
  • Where possible, open windows from the top.
  • Beds and other furniture are kept away from windows, so that children cannot climb up to windows.
  • Don't rely on flyscreens to prevent a child from falling out of a window.
  • Children are taught to play away from windows.
  • Children are always supervised.

Balcony Safety for Children

To prevent children falling from your balcony, The Children's Hospital at Westmead recommends:
  • Balcony balustrades (railings) be at least 1m high.
  • Make sure that any vertical bars in the balustrade are no more than 10cm apart (use a ruler to measure).
  • Your balustrade should have no horizontal or near horizontal parts that would allow children to climb.
  • All furniture, pot plants and other climbable objects are kept away from the edge of the balcony.
  • Parents be aware of furniture that is light enough for children to drag to the balcony edge.
  • Children are always supervised.
  • Keep doors leading to balconies closed.
]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?215-Kids-Can-t-Fly-keep-your-kids-safe-near-balconies-and-windows Mothers say the darnedest things ... http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?213-Mothers-say-the-darnedest-things Fri, 27 Jan 2012 23:01:16 GMT The other morning I said this:

"No, your bullet train does not need a drink of milk!"

I honestly never imagined I'd utter such a ridiculous sentence. There was context of course ... The Toddler's uncle had brought him a bullet train toy on a recent trip to Japan. The Toddler was dipping the aforementioned train in his glass of milk. Makes sense.

So what things have you been surprised to hear come out of your once-sensible mouth now that you are a mum?

Here are some gems from our Facebook followers:

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Attachment 18586 ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?213-Mothers-say-the-darnedest-things Top 8 nappy rash creams http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?209-Top-8-nappy-rash-creams Sun, 15 Jan 2012 23:03:45 GMT If you're like me you've got quite a stash of nappy rash creams and lotions. And if you're REALLY like me they'll be all trial packs and sample sachets (such a cheapskate!)

At least I've been able to figure out what works and what doesn't ...

The other way to find a product that works is to read reviews by Bub Hub members.

Here is a list of the Top 8 nappy rash creams/lotions reviewed by Bub Hub members ...


1. Am-o-lin Nappy Rash Cream (Bayer)
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"My dd had nappy rash for about a month, tried lots of things, until my doctor put me onto amolin... wonderful stuff" - guest reviewer

"Am-o-lin is the only one that works on my kids butts, usually clearing it up within a day." - TwoSweetPeas


2. Daktozin (Daktarin)
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"I can't rave enough about this stuff! Cleared up a particularly bad case of nappy rash in a matter of days. My 2yo was more comfy and happy, so I was too!" - guest reviewer

"I've tried so many other products but this one blew me away with how fast it was in making my son feel better!" - Saint685


3. Booty Balm (Myrtle & Tuppence)
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"Definitely a must have in all nappy bags" - Going Troppo

"This is the best nappy rash treatment by far. I cannot sing the praises enough about this company's range." - Molly Hampson


4. Magic Stick (GroVia)
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"This cream is great! It rolls on like magic and smells great. In fact, everyone always comments on the smell." - KTEW


5. Papaw Ointment (Lucas)
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"It's perfectly natural and fixes up so many problems! I love this stuff, have been using it for over 10 years! - LibbyAnne

"One thing you would take to a desert island?? Lucas' Paw Paw!" - Picasso


6. Bepanthen Antiseptic Cream (Roche)
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"I love the antiseptic part of this cream - i use it on minor cuts, stratches etc and it is also great on patches of dry skin." - MothersMilk

"This IS the Magic cream of ALL creams!!! You will not be disappointed." - Sunflower5


7. Medicated Nappy Rash Cream (Curash)
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"This is our go-to cream when things looks a bit sore, like when she's teething." - flaneur

"It was a godsend. I highly, highly recommend this product to all parents!" - 23Nicole

8. Sudocrem (Forest Laboratories)
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"I swear by it!" - LibbyAnne

"When my son got his first nappy rash i put the tiniest bit on and the rash was gone by the next nappy change." - Purple Lily

Thanks to all our members and guests who submitted a review.

If your favourite nappy rash cream didn't make the list make sure you head to
the Bub Hub reviews section to add a glowing review.

- JANUARY 2012 ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?209-Top-8-nappy-rash-creams Keeping The Toddler appy! http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?204-Keeping-The-Toddler-appy! Fri, 09 Dec 2011 23:26:30 GMT I've created a monster. The Toddler is obsessed with my iPhone. He gets up in the morning and silently nabs it from my bedside table before I wake.

He rests it on my pillow and stands beside the bed. I'm awake soon enough - this morning I woke to the tune of The Gigglemobile at full volume. Yesterday he was completing puzzles on Tozzle then loudly congratulating himself with an enthusiastic 'yay' and some vigorous hand clapping. Cute ... but less cute at 4.45am.

Last week he called my mum, my brother-in-law and an old work mate at 5am. Doubt they saw the funny side either.

So seeing as though he is already (at 21 months) adept at choosing, opening and closing apps I wasn't sure how he'd react to the new Fisher-Price Apptivity Case, which covers the home key to stop baby from deleting your photos, ringing your boss at the crack of dawn and posting nonsense on your Facebook page.

It was 30 minutes before I was able to find out though ... the lock on the back of the case is so baby-proof that I spent half an hour locating something to pry it open. A keyring did the trick by the way ...

Once I'd choosen an app for him to play (Fisher-Price has three free apps available from the App Store) and loaded the iPhone into the case he was happy to play away. He loved the 'steering wheel' shaped case, and when he got bored of the app he turned it over and checked himself out in the mirror!

He even gave it a chew ...

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Interestingly, with the case on, he didn't play with the phone for as long as he usually would (if I let him) - and I consider this a good thing. When there's no case he will continually press the 'home' key, then find a new app or scroll through all my photos/videos. But with the case on, he played for a little while then abandoned it to play with his cars.

Thank goodness! I don't mind him playing the occassional game but I don't like him a) getting into an iPhone trance and b) monopolising the phone when I need it!

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So here's what I liked about the Apptivity Case:

1. It actually helped him concentrate on one task then move on to other toys.
2. It will be handy on our upcoming road trip (I know ... shoot me now) as I'll be able to put his favourite TV show on for him without having to constantly restart it each time he presses the home key.
3. It keeps my iPhone safe from sticky fingers and the occassional drool plus protects it when it falls on the ground.
4. It stops him deleting photos, moving my apps into very unusual sub-folders and making awkward early morning phone calls

The information bit:

Thanks to Fisher-Price for sending us an Apptivity Case for review.

The Apptivity Case is available from all good retailers (RRP $24.99). It is compatible with iPhone 1G, 3G, 3GS, 4G and iPod Touch 2G, 3G and 4G.

Visit www.fisher-price.com/au/ for details. ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?204-Keeping-The-Toddler-appy! <![CDATA[It's my baby shower ... but YOU get the gifts ...]]> http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?88-It-s-my-baby-shower-but-YOU-get-the-gifts Thu, 08 Sep 2011 02:59:36 GMT I didn't have a baby shower the first time around ... I don't enjoy being the centre of attention and I didn't want to eat tinned baby food as part of some elaborate game that probably also involved my friends guessing how much weight I'd put on ...

But I won't say 'no' to an online baby shower ... especially one I'm going to throw myself!

And of course, you're all invited. In fact, I'm so happy to have you there that I'm going to give you the gifts! AND let you guess how huge my belly is!

So, in case you don't already know, I am due to pop out Second Baby any day now (or more precisely on September 19).

And in an effort to kill some time before that happens I've decided to have a little baby shower game fun and give away some prizes.

HOW TO PLAY:

1. Choose a prize you'd like to win/game you'd like to play

2. Reply in a post below with your answer

3. You can only enter one answer per game.

4. You can play more than one game but you must post each answer as a separate post.

4. Comp ends noon Friday, September 9, 2011 at midnight (EST)


GAME ONE: How big is the bump?
I've measured around my belly and the first person to correctly guess the size (down to the last millimetre) will win a Munchkin Nappy Disposal Unit (RRP $79.99)!

GAME TWO: How well do you know the mum-to-be? The first person to correctly name my favourite TV show as a pre-schooler and tell me the name of my favourite presenter on that show will win a Magical Tales DVD prize pack featuring Vol. 4, 5 and 6

GAME THREE: The Baby name game. I've chosen two boys names and two girls names from all the names listed in this article: Most popular baby names in Australia 2010. List your fave four names from the article and the first person whose list is most like mine will win a Wiggles prize pack featuring a Dorothy the Dinosaur CD, Wiggles stickers, The Wiggly Birthday Fun Book and a Wiggles figurine.

GAME FOUR: Who's the Baby? Check out the three pics below and correctly identify the photo of the mum-to-be as a baby? The first person to guess a) which pic is me AND b) the year the photo was taken will win a pair of Dorothy the Dinosaur size 1 girls' pyjamas (shirt and matching pink shorts). Oh, obviously the cat isn't me but just for fun see if you can guess who the OTHER photo is ...

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]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?88-It-s-my-baby-shower-but-YOU-get-the-gifts <![CDATA[No more Ford Focus ... we're a one-car family again ... sad face]]> http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?83-No-more-Ford-Focus-we-re-a-one-car-family-again-sad-face Tue, 06 Sep 2011 02:59:00 GMT I reluctantly drove the Ford Focus back to the dealership yesterday, knowing that I'll never be that cool again. No more red car with heated leather seats and sunroof for me ...

We are back to being a one-car family. Back to our trusty 10-year-old car, which is maroon (very different to red), and comes with features such as room-temperature fabric seats and no safe way of opening up the roof. :crying:

But enough about me ...

I was given this car to test-drive so that I could judge it in terms of its child-friendliness.

It is a GREAT car, perfect for the city, great on fuel and really really ridiculously good-looking.

It isn't so great if you had to fill it with children, babies, prams and groceries all at once. But, as it is a 4-cylinder hatchback, I'm sure no one's super surprised by that fact. There is a sedan version, which I'm told is roomier.

Anyone with three kids or more would probably be looking to upgrade to a bigger car for the family - even my boring maroon six-cylinder sedan is seeming inadequate now we've installed the baby capsule ready for Second Baby's arrival. Not to mention the fact that I am the proud owner of the least compact pram ever.

But if you've got one or two kids (or three really skinny ones), a compact pram and a small appetite you'd be well served by this car.

It really does have some awesome parent-friendly features. I am SO going to miss its keyless entry, its leather seats and the fact that you can wind down the windows on approach. I've also been loving the fact that it is quite high and the driver's seat can be made even higher with the push of a button - much easier to get my 38-week pregnant body in and out.

It is also built with child seats in mind - with three anchors placed in very sensible positions in the boot, unlike in some cars where the car seat straps end up stretching across the length of the boot taking up valuable pram and grocery space!

And did I mention it was red?

Oh - and there were a few things I didn't test out ...

1. The Active Park Assist. This car reverse parks for you!!!! Given that I failed my first driving exam when I hit a car doing a reverse park :eek: you'd think I'd be keen to try this out ... but I've kind of got a reverse park phobia now ...

2. Whether the leather seats would hold up if my waters had broken. Luckily the spare towels were not needed!! :D ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?83-No-more-Ford-Focus-we-re-a-one-car-family-again-sad-face Keeping the car ... getting a new pram and a new DP!! http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?79-Keeping-the-car-getting-a-new-pram-and-a-new-DP!! Sun, 04 Sep 2011 08:22:47 GMT So I finally remembered to take the pram out of my regular car and pop it into the boot of the Ford Focus.

And it was as if the boot was made for my pram ... as in, it was a nice, snug fit.

This sounds as though I should deduct a point for the Ford Focus (even though I'm not keeping score) but to be honest, this probably says more about my pram than the car.

Don't get me wrong I love my pram but the last thing I needed to consider when I bought it was whether it would fit in the roomy boot of our regular car (a large family sedan). Consequently it is the least compact pram I have ever seen. It doesn't even fold up as one piece - you have to remove the seat, collapse the base, put the base in the car then put the seat on top. Ugh ... obviously public transport is also out of the question with this pram ...

But I digress ... so once the pram was in the boot of the Ford Focus I really could only fit about a quarter of my groceries in there. The rest had to go in the backseat just out of The Toddler's sticky reach. Not ideal, but if I had a smaller car when I was pram shopping I probably would have bought a more compact pram ...

The other thing that doesn't fit in the car well is DP ... at least, he doesn't fit comfortably in the passenger seat when The Toddler's carseat is behind.

Maybe I should have shopped for a more compact DP too ... ;) ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?79-Keeping-the-car-getting-a-new-pram-and-a-new-DP!! Trying to focus on the Ford ... http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?76-Trying-to-focus-on-the-Ford Thu, 01 Sep 2011 07:03:00 GMT We all know there are two things you can't have at the same time ... young kids and plans.

Without fail the moment I make a plan based on The Toddler's current sleeping pattern or other usually predictable behaviour, that will be the day he decides to stray from the norm.

Not that he could help it yesterday ... the poor little guy came down with a 39+ fever and I had to rush him off to the doctor in the Ford Focus.

The whole time I was hoping he wouldn't be sick in the car. It would have been an ideal test on the car's kid-friendliness, but there is only so far I'm prepared to go in the name of product testing. Cleaning toddler sick from a brand new loaner car is beyond the call ...

Luckily we arrived safety and The Toddler is now on the mend.

So instead of writing the blog I was going to, the one where I'd try to see if his feet could touch the window levers and where I'd attempt to fit a pram in the boot, I'm writing this instead. I've distracted The Toddler with some ice-cream to help soothe his swollen tonsils!

Anyway, so far I'm loving driving this new car. Here's why ...

1. It has seat warmers to gently soothe my pregnant, aching muscles.
2. It is quite high off the ground so I don't feel as though I have to lean over to put The Toddler in and out of his seat.
3. It is a smaller car than I usually drive so is a dream to park!
4. It has keyless entry so I don't need to fish around for my keys while carrying The Toddler - it automatically locks as I walk away from it!
5. You can open the windows as you approach the car so by the time you get there a lot of the hot air has escaped! This is brilliant here in Qld, where cars melt in the sun and you have to stand with the doors open for a minute or two before venturing in ... I don't have the time, or the stomach muscles, to stand around nursing The Toddler waiting for the car to return to a temperature fit for humans.

Plus the car is cool in the following non-parent-ey ways ...

1. It has a sunroof ... awesome.
2. It is red
3. It has a push-button start. Just put your foot on the brake and press the button! That still blows my mind a little ...
4. It is diesel and very good on fuel.

Anyway ... promise I'll test out some of your requests soon! ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?76-Trying-to-focus-on-the-Ford Help me test-drive this Ford Focus ... http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?73-Help-me-test-drive-this-Ford-Focus Tue, 30 Aug 2011 01:43:40 GMT So yesterday I went to pick up this ...


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... it is a Ford Focus. And Ford have given it to me to test-drive for a whole week. :D

They want me to give an opinion on it from a parent's point-of-view.

Not sure that they counted on that parent also being 37-weeks pregnant and looking ready to pop at any moment.

Anyway, I'm hoping there will be no 'popping' as such while I'm driving the lovely new car. I did bring towels just in case. I am also hoping the man from Ford who handed over the keys just thought that maybe I was about to go swimming.

So, I was also hoping that YOU might suggest ways I can judge this car.

What 'parent-ey' things should I do with it?

Should I allow The Toddler to eat ice-cream in the back seat and then see if it is hard to get off? Not sure what Ford would think of that one really, although it does have beautiful leather seats so I'd be confident that the ice-cream would just slide off.

Any other ideas? ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?73-Help-me-test-drive-this-Ford-Focus How to find NEW friends on The Bub Hub! http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?71-How-to-find-NEW-friends-on-The-Bub-Hub! Tue, 30 Aug 2011 00:21:46 GMT

Everybody needs support and friendship. Maybe your current crowd is not at the
same stage of family life as you are and you're looking for someone to share your
parenting journey with. Or you are looking for people with similar interests
to chat with. Finding NEW friends is easy on the Bub Hub ...


How to I do find new friends?

1. Visit your local region forum section & subscribe (details on how to subscribe are below)

There are local sections for all Australia. If you'd like a new special section just for your local suburb, just ask! You can also search for conversations about your suburb – check out the search facility. We are also adding an Out & About Section for some regions!

2. Find a special interest forum section & subscribe

There are sections for cooking, gardening, craft, photography, single parents, members with partners in the forces, young mums, older mums, dads, IVF-ers and many more

3. Join or start a Forum Social Group


So how do I subscribe to a forum section?
Never miss out on a meet up, coffee date or playgroup again! By subscribing to a forum section, you’ll receive a notification each time a new thread is posted in that section. For example: if you subscribe to the Partners in the Armed Forces section you'll get an email when someone starts a thread there. Much easier than having to check the section or hope that something appears while you're checking out 'new posts'.

1. Navigate to the forum section of interest. Any time you see this RSS button Name: rssbutton.gif Views: 6090 Size: 405 Bytes, you can subscribe to that section.

2. Click on the orange RSS button Name: rssbutton.gif Views: 6090 Size: 405 Bytes

3. A screen will open up like this. Select where you want the feed to go – most people are happy for it to go to the email inbox, usually Microsoft Office Outlook

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4. Click on the Subscribe Now button

5. A box will open up in Microsoft Outlook

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6. Click Yes (the Bub Hub is a safe and trustworthy source)

7. A sub-folder will appear in your Outlook inbox called RSS. A Bub Hub folder will appear here automatically and your emails will go into this folder each time a new thread is started in your chosen section.

Easy as!


Some tips to remember!

You can delete a subscription at any time by simply deleting the relevant outlook folder

Facebook is great for keeping in touch with the friends that you already have. But it's no good for making new friends.

Remember, you only need share as much as you want to on the forum. If all you want to do is read and post occasionally, that’s fine. Nobody is forced to attend meet-ups or join playgroups! It's your community – share, gain and take as much as you wish!

For your own safety and the safety of your children, never put your address, telephone number or phone number in the open forum. When arranging meet-ups, we recommend that you only specify a potential date and likely location in open forum, with final details only being communicated to attendees via the forum private messaging system. ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?71-How-to-find-NEW-friends-on-The-Bub-Hub! Writing a blog for Bub Hub http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?20-Writing-a-blog-for-Bub-Hub Tue, 09 Aug 2011 02:19:57 GMT Have you always wanted to be a blogger? The Bub Hub has more than 80,000 members and more than 750,000 unique viewers a month. Imagine having your blog in front of that many parents and parents-to-be! *How to apply! * You blog has to be unique (not already featured on another site) and a...

Have you always wanted to be a blogger?
The Bub Hub has more than 80,000 members and more than 750,000 unique viewers a month. Imagine having your blog in front of that many parents and parents-to-be!

How to apply!

You blog has to be unique (not already featured on another site) and a new post should be added regularly! We are particularly looking for information-based blogs. Topics could include planning kids parties, shopping on a budget, decorating nurseries etc etc.

If you have an idea for blog that you'd like to have featured on the Bub Hub, please apply in writing to info@bubhub.com.au.

Register as a blogger!

Once we approved your blog you'll need to register as a user (if you're not already) and then have your membership upgraded to blogger!
1. If you're an existing member and we've approved your blog idea email info@bubhub.com.au with your username so we can change your settings. Not all members can post blogs so we need to give you special access.

2. If you're not a Bub Hub member, please register so you can get started!! Choose a username that is appropriate for your blog. Once you’ve registered please click on the activation email and then email info@bubhub.com.au with your username so we can change the settings to allow you to be a blogger. Oh, and make sure you add an avatar too (find this under the User Control Panel). All avatars must be 80x80 pixels and no larger than 20kb in size.

Write your first blog post!
1. Log into the Bub Hub Blog section
2. You’ll see a list of recent blog posts. To add your first blog post scroll down to the button that says " + Create New Post

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3. Give your post a title and then blog away. It is very much the same as posting a thread on the forum.

4. Preview to see what your blog looks like or just 'Save Changes' - you can always go back to edit later!

5. Make sure you assign your blog to a category so it is easy to search for later and is easy to find using search engines

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Add photos to your blog!


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See the little icon of a tree? That is the upload image icon. Click on it and it opens a new window. To add an image click on 'Select Files' then choose the image from your computer. Once it uploads the window should close and the attached image will be in your text.


Give your blog a name!

So you've put in your first blog post but you can give your blog a general title as well. Don't stress if you don't. It will just default to your username which is probably quite appropriate.

If you'd like to give your blog a title, click on the User Control Panel.

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Scroll down until you see Blog in the left-hand column! Click on Blog to see your blog settings. At the bottom of this page are your Blog Settings. The first one is 'Edit Title & Description". Click on it to give your Blog a title and to add a description. Now each blog post you do will come under than one blog title. Each post will have its own title too.


General tips!

To edit your post, hover your mouse near the post's title and you'll see an image of a pencil. Click this to edit.

Make sure you put a few lines of text in before you upload an image … if you post an image first it will feed through a bit weird when it goes into our ‘Most Recent Blogs’ box on the homepage.

Make sure your images are small before you try to upload them.

To make sure you don't lose your post (in case the forum times out) type it up in Notepad then copy and paste it.

Typing your blog post in Notepad is best. If you type it into Microsoft Word then copy and paste it, it will bring all the formatting with it. Notepad strips the formatting away. ]]> bheditor http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/entry.php?20-Writing-a-blog-for-Bub-Hub