Today’s Motherhood

The coming of the baby is the most anticipated event in the family. Everyone struggles to make things fit and perfect for the baby’s health and comfort. You may have done everything but most parents sometimes forget to prepare their pet dog for the expected arrival. The dog may not be a direct member of the nuclear family but having it around will affect the baby in the most unexpected way. So here are some tips on what to do with your pet dog before the newborn comes home:

• Let your pet dog undergo routine health examinations and vaccinations to ensure a healthy atmosphere for the new born.
• Trim your pet’s nails and neuter them for safety. You may want to opt for plastic nail caps for maximized protection.
• Let you pet become used to baby noises and movements. You can have a recorded sound effect of a baby’s cry or screams including the sounds of toys you will be using for your baby.
• Train the dog for areas in the house which are off-limits to him. Introduce the baby’s room and let him learn that he is not authorized to play around there.
• Invite someone, a friend or a relative, who already has a baby, to train your dog for the presence of a new born. Safety is the most important consideration. Never leave your dog and the baby together without you around.
• Put up a temporary door or gate for the baby’s room. Make sure the dog is still able to see what is going on inside to feed the curiosity and not trigger him to force his way in.
• Inasmuch as you accustom the dog to sounds, you can also make him get used to baby smell. You can do this by sprinkling some baby powder on the floor or applying baby lotion on your skin. You can also bring home some baby clothes from the hospital and let your dog smell it. This way, you are giving the idea that someone is coming soon with the same smell.
• When you are coming home for the first time after giving birth, it is advisable that you greet your dog without the baby. This will ease your dog’s excitement to see you and will prevent you from reprimanding him to go away from the baby.

Your dog has been your company during the time you and your partner are waiting for the baby. You have to prepare him too for the coming of the newborn because, whether you like it or not, your dog is an integral part of you family.

Preparing for baby’s arrival? What are the challenges that you faced? We would like to hear from you.

Ten years ago, The Learning Ladder, consisted of one small centre with 35 children in the heart of Bukit Timah. Today, we celebrate with pride, the expansion and continued growth of three beautifully designed schools as an educational centre for over 500 students from 18 months old to 6 years 11 months. The 3 centres offer both half-day, full day and A5 afternoon enrichment as well as core programmes.

Our English and Mandarin Immersion Programme incorporates the basic principles of child development. The child is the center of our school community and the core of its curriculum. We believe that learning is fun and that children learn best through the process and guided self-discovery. Their learning is as inclusive and relevant as it is interactive.

Individuality is Celebrated

Each child is unique and each one develops at his or her own pace. We are aware of their different learning styles and we take into account their own individual needs. We have an enriched programme that encourages and supports creative learning with skill development. Our curriculum is well rounded and it integrates: personal, physical and social development as well as numeracy, literacy (Mandarin and English), arts, science and technology. One of the nicest compliments we received from a parent was that “the children are having so much fun in your classes that they do not know they are learning”.

Working on Academic, Cognitive, Social, Emotional and Physical skills
Our programme is designed to ensure that children develop cognitive, social and emotional skills. The social and emotional well being of a child is crucial to overall success. The activity-based programme provides opportunities to be independent, creative and confident problem-solvers. The methodological approach to bilingual education allows children to develop a natural ease in both languages.

Preparing your child for Primary 1

Through a gap analysis based on the syllabus for Primary One in the local school system, we have clearly confirmed that our curriculum not only meets the entry criteria of the system but, in fact, goes beyond it in some areas. Therefore, your child will be fully prepared for a successful entry into the local primary school system.

An Environment for Continuous Learning

Various types of learning occur throughout the day. There are times when children either work individually or in small or large groups. There are times when learning is teacher-directed and other times when it is child-initiated. To ensure that gained knowledge and skills can be applied, learning is practical, hands-on, and relevant to the lives of the children. Research confirms that young children learn most efficiently when engaged in interaction rather than in merely receptive or passive activities.

Website : www.learningladder.com.sg

The Facilities

Schoolhouse By The Bay (Off Mountbattern Road)
• Fully Air-Conditioned Classrooms
• Learning Experience Playground
• Gymnasium/Auditorium
• Dance Studio
• Seminar Rooms
• Observation Rooms with One-way mirrors

Contact # : 6348-4223

The Learning Ladder (Bukit Timah Branch)
• 4 Open-Concept Classrooms
• Fully Air-Conditioned
• Covered Play Area
• Outdoor Playground

Contact # : 6467-2714

The Learning Ladder (Woodlands Branch)
• 8 Open-Concept Classrooms
• Fully Air-Conditioned
• Music and Movement Room
• Outdoor Playground
• Snack and Lunch Area
• Observation Rooms with one-way mirrors

Contact # : 6894-1910

Our expectations are high, but not unattainable. Our outcomes are assessed, but not inflexible. Our results are successful, but not without enjoyment. Our staff is diverse, but not without experience.

In our school learning culture, we have established exemplary standards that have embraced the joy of learning.

The Learning Ladder (Woodlands Branch)

Facilities

• 8 Open-Concept Classrooms
• Fully Air-Conditioned
• Music and Movement Room
• Outdoor Playground
• Snack and Lunch Area
• Observation Rooms with one-way mirrors

Address : 24 Woodlands Road Singapore 677918

Tel: 6894-1910

Fax: 6894-1905

Email: admissions@learningladder.com.sg

Website : www.learningladder.com.sg

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The Learning Ladder (Bukit Timah Branch)

Facilities

• 4 Open-Concept Classrooms
• Fully Air-Conditioned
• Covered Play Area
• Outdoor Playground

Address : 2 Highgate Walk Singapore 598754

Tel: 6467-2714

Fax: 6462-0735

Email: admissions@learningladder.com.sg

Website : www.learningladder.com.sg

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Schoolhouse By The Bay (Off Mountbattern Road)

Facilities :

• Fully Air-Conditioned Classrooms
• Learning Experience Playground
• Gymnasium/Auditorium
• Dance Studio
• Seminar Rooms
• Observation Rooms with One-way mirrors

Address : 51, Kampong Arang Road (off Fort Road and Mountbatten Road) Singapore 438178

Tel: 6348-4223

Fax: 6345-5782

Email: admissions@schoolhouse.com.sg

Website : www.learningladder.com.sg

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Hi Lilin,

Thanks for accepting this email interview with us. I am sure as a local celebrity, you need little introducing to our readers.

1) Tell us more about what you have been up to lately.

I’ve just completed a german movie that was shot in Singapore and Vietnam. And I’ve been busy since Sept launching Loopz exercise band! It is an exercise band I’ve developed to help people get in shape using resistance training by targeting the deep, strong groups of muscles right next to your bone. It is effective and super easy to use. Each exercise takes less than 2 minutes to do. So this is your ultimate daily exercise partner really!

2) What’s the inspiration story behind setting up Wureka?

The process of designing my website for Loopz made me realize 2 things: one, that Allan and I have the unique positions of having a public image that is closely tied to our passion for wellness and two, that there really wasn’t a definitive site for wellness businesses to present their services simply and cheaply, nor a place where users could find all things relating to wellness quickly and easily! So Wureka is an umbrella site for wellness businesses and also serves to house the Loopz microsite.

3) What made you decide on the name, “Wureka”? Any association with the word “Eureka”?

Yes of course. Eureka! is the “I got it!” moment much like we hope businesses and users can say “Yes I found it!” and of course the W stands for Wellness. And coincidentally also with Wu, Wong.

4) How do you manage to juggle motherhood and family with your hectic work schedule?

It’s definitely not easy. Family remains my number 1 priority. At the same time I realize the work I have to put in to make the business work. Granted I don’t have the luxury of milling around all day with my kids now. I have to organize my time more efficiently (and this is a process I continue to fine tune) so that I still get a good chunk of time with my kids. This just means less sleep for me really. Sometimes I’m up at 4.30 am!

5) Loopz is an exclusive product that you have come up with and there are various Loopz programmes to complement it as well. How can Loopz help mothers in keeping fit and toned?

OH my gosh. Loopz really is one of the most effective tools for toning – and I’m not just saying this because it’s my product! Use it and you will immediately agree, I assure you!

You will feel it deep in your muscles, nothing can quite produce the same feeling or results, I feel! Loopz exercise band is portable, can be safely used by anyone at any age group and can work your body from head to toe. Most moms don’t have a lot of time to go to the gym, especially the mothers of young children. Loopz exercise bands allow you to exercise using the floor you’re standing on so busy mothers can certainly appreciate how exercise is now made so easy and accessible for them!

6) You offer an interesting Total Wellness Weekend Package in Bintan as a holistic two-pronged approach to help people get back into the pink of health and fitness. It seems like a pretty new concept over here in Singapore. What made you come up with this idea? Does it feel like a rigorous boot camp programme, or more of a total wellness concept to rejuvenate the body and promote physical well-being?

It really was a collaborative effort – I have to give credit to Bintan Lagoon Resort for being as progressive as they are to provide for their guests such a unique and valuable experience. They are truly surpassing themselves as a service provider. It wasn’t a boot camp. It was a wonderful, judgment free time together where people learnt how to prepare healthy foods and to exercise effectively. It married very well R&R with the specific task of learning about wellness.

7) Any tips to our readers as to how to maintain our body at its optimum level for exercise?

I stress the 3 S’s of fitness – Stamina, Strength and Stretch. Stamina you can achieve with cardio work such as walking, biking, taking the stairs etc. Strength is necessary to support our frame as well as to provide definition (rather than flab!) and stretch is vital to ensure a range of movement in your joints to alleviate the risks of injuries as well as to improve mobility. I tell my clients to exercise regularly – so go for a walk a few times a week and use the Loopz exercise band to strengthen and stretch – it takes less than 2 min to perform each exercise. Imagine, 2 min a day this week is better than none last week right? Getting in shape has never been easier!

Today’s Motherhood: Thanks, Lilin for your valuable time taken to answer our interview!

Any thoughts to share with us after reading this interview? Do write in to us!

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Congratulations to the winners of Today’s Motherhood Mini Contest. They have won themselves a set of Libella Pyjamas.

Below are the names of the winners:

1. Winnie Kwa
2. Toh Annie
3. Linda Susanto

**Winners will be notified by Libella Bedwear individually.

** Terms and Conditions apply

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Chinese New Year is just a couple of weeks away. Do you wish to create the opportunities  and environment that are fun and interesting for your child to learn more about the Chinese New Year Culture and Traditional Customs? We have some recommendations that you and your child can engage in during this Chinese New Year Festival!

1. Learn About Chinese Tradition With Taoshu and Friends

Do you face difficulty explaining the Chinese traditional customs to your child? No fret! Taoshu and Friends has come up with a new series of Mandarin DVDs, which teaches about Chinese traditions, customs and practices in simple terms. Taoshu series will bring the kids through the journey of discovering more about the Chinese values and beliefs with songs, fun and laughter while they learn.

More information – Taoshu and Friends

2. Kidz Can Bake!

Engage in cookery session with your child at Genius R Us. During this period from 17th January 2010 to 7th February 2010, Genius R Us will conduct courses on how to bake and decorate Snail Pineapple Tarts and Peanut Butter Cookies. Grab the opportunity to impress your family with these hand-made tasty goodies!
Kidz Can Bake classes welcome children aged 4-12 years old.

Genius R Us is located at:
75B Tanjong Pagar Road Singapore 088496
Tel: 6221 4561 / 81830563 (sms)
Fax: 6221 5320
Website: www.geniusrus.com
Email: info@geniusrus.com

3. Shopping at Chinatown

Bring your child to Chinatown Singapore to shop for Chinese New Year decorations and goodies, as well as to immerse them in the Chinese New Year atmosphere. They will be fascinated with all kinds of colourful decorations, food and street lights.

From 23 Jan 2010 - 13 Feb 2010, the Singapore Chinatown Street will Light-Up with decorations. You can also catch fascinating street performances in Chinatown at the Kreta Ayer Square area.

How to get there?
Take the MRT train to Chinatown Station. Look for the Pagoda Street / Temple Street exit.

4. Kids’ creation - Personalize Hong Bao (Red Packet)

Kids just love craft work! How about doing something different for this new year? Instead of buying those commercialized red packets sold is the market, how about  allowing your child to unleash their creativity by creating and personalizing red packets together? It is going to be simple and fun!

Suggested tools:
1. Construction papers of different colors (including red for the red packet)
2. Stickers
3. Color pencils/Magic Pens
4. Glue and scissors

5. River Hong Bao Carnival

Chinatown isn’t the only place to celebrate New Year. The River Hong Bao is one of the most eagerly awaited carnivals during Chinese New Year in Singapore. You can catch street performances, shop for New Year goodie, savor a great variety of food, engage in games, take tons of pictures with lanterns and decorations and catch a beautiful sight of the blistering Fireworks on every Saturday till 13th February 2010.

It is held at Marina Bay Floating Platform / Esplanade Waterfront Promenade from 12th February - 20th February 2010.
If you are coming from a non-Chinese community, the River Hong Bao is a great place for you and your child to understand about Chinese New Year customs. You will get to see these customs in action and also, signboards that explain what the actions symbolise.

Take Train to City Hall and look for Esplanade Exit.

6. Peek-a-boo!*

Great news for parents! Peek-A-Boo! Will be open daily during Chinese New Year from10.00 am to 8.30 pm. Bring your family & friends along during the festive season and have a great time together! Or simply leave your child in these play haven while you and your partner can spend quality time engaging in other indoor entertainment ranging from movies, bowling, ice-skating etc.

* Peek-A-Boo! is a fun and safe indoor playground where kids can enjoy active play in an air-conditioned environment! Drop-in services are available*

Peek-a-boo! is located at:

Leisure Park Kallang
(next to Indoor Stadium)
5, Stadium Walk, #02-12/13
Singapore 397693

Phone: 6440 8355
E-mail: info@peekaboo.com.sg
Website: http://www.peekaboo.com.sg/

Check out our review here

7. Chingay Parade 2010

Singapore Chingay is the biggest parade in Singapore and Asia’s Grandest Street and Floats Parade. Originating as a procession to mark the Chinese New Year festivities, the parade has evolved into an international event, attracting performers from all over the world. Chingay performers are great fun. They are constantly trying to connect with the spectators, especially with children. It is a great time to expose your child to the rich multi-cultural performance!

Performance will be held on:

Friday - 19 Feb 2010 at 8.30pm & Saturday - 20 Feb 2010 at 8pm

Venue: F1 Pit Building

More information – Chingay Parade 2010

If you have other fun activities that you will like to share, feel free to write in to us or leave your comments! Let’s have a memorable Chinese New Year for kids.

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Asking for What You Want in Bed

The best way to get what you want in bed is to ask for it. However before you can ask for what it is you want, you need to know what you want. This may sound simple.

And yet, because we grew up with little or no sex education, and live in a society where sex is not talked about often, the conversation about sex and sexuality is a difficult one to raise for most people–even between married couples.

Learn what to ask, how to ask it, and improve your love life!

Reality Check

More than ever, we are exposed to sexual images in the media. This might create the expectation that a great sex life is easy to attain.

The first step to starting to have good sexual communication is acknowledging that it is one of the most difficult things to achieve in a relationship, because of the desire not to hurt, impose upon, or (gasp!) inconvenience your partner.

Without honesty, patience, and the ability to be vulnerable, it is not possible to let your loved one know what you like in bed. Also, because your desires and references may change over time, sexual communication must be an ever-evolving process.

Examine Your Sexual Pattern

We are all unique in the way we like to be touched. What one person feels is going to be quite different from the next – from the type of touch, frequency of touch, to intensity and stimulation.

The next step is not to presume what your partner likes, and that just because something feels good one day does not mean it will be the same during every sexual experience. Examine your current sexual pattern. In other words, what is usually happening during love making? How about mixing up the order? Or possibly trying one new thing each time you have sex – varying the location, position, or attire? Just one!

Ask the Right Questions

It can be a turn-off and annoying to answer questions every time one has sex. So experiment with when and how you ask those questions and what works best. Explain why you are asking those questions – because you care and want to better please your partner. When you make the effort, your partner is likely to reciprocate by paying more attention to your desires.

Begin by touching your partner gently and, while you’re doing so, asking what feels good: ‘Do you enjoy having your nipples squeezed?’ ‘Do you like your neck nibbled upon?’ ‘Is this enough pressure?’

Be Open Minded and Non-Judgmental

We want to feel that our desires are normal and acceptable. Since your partner loves you, your opinion of their sexual desires play a bigger role than you might realise. You can also help by touching your partner in a way that feels good to them. While you shouldn’t do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable, remember that you shouldn’t make a loved one feel odd or unclean for enjoying those forms of arousal.

Once again, remember that sexual communication is an ongoing process. Improving how one can speak about love-making will increase the closeness of the relationship and make it a happier one!

Dr. Martha Lee is Founder and Clinical Sexologist of Eros Coaching in Singapore. She provides sex and life coaching, runs sex educational workshops and gives public talks. For more, visit www.eroscoaching.com.

Find this article useful or you have something to share with us after reading this post? Do feel free to write in to us!