As the world becomes more environmentally aware, many people find that the birth of their first baby is a trigger to lead a more eco-friendly lifestyle. The disposable nappies pile up and parents become aware just how much of an impact their little bundle of joy is making – not only on their own lives, but also on the planet. Luckily, it has never been easier to become a ‘green parent’. From cloth nappies to organic food, there is a whole range of products and services to support the eco-baby, while a host of fun, ‘green’ activities are available to anyone, just about anywhere.

Wholesome food

Breast-feeding babies saves money and the environment, is most satisfying for baby and, more often than not, for the mother, too. If you manage to do it (many mums have difficulties), breast-feeding is a great way of bonding with your baby. For bottle-fed babies, many brands offer organic baby milk options. Read more »

During the first weeks of life your newborn may seem to do little more than eat, sleep, cry, and provide dirty diapers for you to clean up. But in reality, all of your infant’s senses are functioning already, taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of this new world.

What can my newborn actually see?

Babies are born with eyes that are ready to function immediately. Even premature babies can see at birth since the seeing elements of the eye are working by seven months of gestation. The body of a newborn may be small but its eyes are 70 percent of adult size. Read more »

Recipes

PUREE

Potato and parsnip with carrot
Makes 4 portions
Suitable for home freezing

Ingredients
1 potato, peeled and diced
1 parsnip, peeled and diced
1 carrot, peeled and diced
Fresh or dried thyme

Peel and dice the vegetables. Place the vegetables and a small sprinkle of thyme in a steamer or cover with water and bring to the boil. Cook for 15 minutes or until the vegetables are soft. Puree adding some of the reserved cooking water to loosen the mixture so that a soft consistency is achieved. Read more »

Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me…

Sadly sticks and stones are just some of the more rudimentary weapons used by bullies today and whoever said words can’t hurt, lied. Ask any one of the 69% of children who told a recent national survey that they had been bullied*.

Bullying is a hideous thing with which to have to contend, as a parent. The scars are not just physical – they are emotional too – and the repercussions can affect everyone in the family. Read more »