Britain’s children are the unhappiest in the West, according to a Unicef study of 21 industrialised countries and it is estimated that up to 10% of our children are suffering from depression. But how can you tell if your child is feeling stressed or depressed? And perhaps more importantly, what can you do to help?
Childhood stress, like the stress we suffer as adults, can be caused by a whole range of triggers. Common causes include: Read more »
The thought of a child’s party can fill even the most organised parent with dread! But with a little thought and planning there is no reason why they can’t have a celebration to remember – and you can end the day with happy memories… not a migraine!
One of the most important things to do when planning a party for children is to think about how old they are, what they like to do and how they are likely to behave/cope. So for example a one year old (despite your excitement at them reaching their first birthday!) would probably be overwhelmed by a huge affair. Instead, consider inviting a few close friends or family and keep it low key. Read more »
It is generally acknowledged that breast milk is best for a newborn baby since it contains important antibodies and the optimal balance of nutrients to sustain an infant’s rapid growth and development. For you there are the added benefits of saving time (sterilising bottles etc.), saving money (on milk) and the fact that breastfeeding helps you lose some of that baby weight!
However, a Department of Health survey has found that within four to 10 weeks 75% of new mothers have started to wean the baby off the breast and on to infant formula.
This is not surprising since for many women breastfeeding doesn’t come as naturally as they might have hoped. Cracked nipples, problems latching on, nipple thrush and mastitis are only a few of the hurdles many women face in these daunting first weeks – but help is at hand. Read more »
If meal times have become a bit of a circus in your house, rest assured you are not alone. Most children go through fads of fussy eating and in fact it is considered a normal stage of development among pre-school children according to the Royal College of Psychiatrists.
The important thing is to remain calm yourself, as children play up to your reactions, and to do your best to get the greatest variety of nutrients in their diets through what they will eat.
Here are our top tips for avoiding mealtime meltdown: Read more »
