Today’s Motherhood

PIRATES THEME PARTY! 50% off Pirates Party @The Rock School! $50 instead of $100

Check out the following Great Deals Singapore
Highlights

• 50% off Pirates’ Night Out! Party @The Rock School - Rock-climbing meets Pirates in this fun, guided theme party during the September holidays!
• All equipment and teaching materials are included in this 3-hour climbing workshop-cum-party
• Inclusive of food (pizza) and drinks!
• Mystery goodie bag for every treasure-climber to bring home!
• One 20% voucher off subsequent courses/programmes

To get this deal, visit Great Parenting Deals

The Fine Print

• Pirates’ Night Out! Party held on 4 September 2011 (Sunday), 6pm-9pm, OR 9 September 2011 (Friday), 7pm-10pm
• Advance booking of at least 3 days before class is compulsory.
• Vouchers are non-exchangeable and non-refundable

To get this deal, visit Great Deals Singapore

When your precious little bundle of joy comes along, your world is changed in an instant. Suddenly, you have a rapidly growing load to carry around with you wherever you go. Whether it’s from the table or the floor, you bend over and lift your child more times than you can count every day. For all the times you cradle your baby, you put your neck into flexion for hours. Poor posture and bad lifting habits contribute to the wearing down of your spine. In this article we will explore healthier spinal habits for parents.

Your spine is made up of twenty-four movable individual bones called vertebrae. These allow you to twist, turn, and bend in varying directions and degrees, while at the same time protecting your precious spinal cord within. Between each vertebra is an inter-vertebral disc designed to absorb shock and facilitate movement.

The ideal shape of the spine is an “S-shaped” curve from front to back. You may be thinking, “Aren’t curves in the spine bad?” Side to side curves are called scoliosis, and this condition can be a problem if not dealt with. The S-curve from front to back is the norm, and it is the other way that our bodies absorb shock every time we take a step.

It takes work to maintain our curves. The first step in spinal degeneration is the loss of curve. If we allow our bodies to follow the path of least resistance, we begin to slouch, roll our shoulders forward, and display forward head carriage. Proper posture maintains that if we drop an imaginary line from our ears down when looking at our bodies from the side, this line should pass through points at the top of the shoulder, the middle of the hip bone, the side of your knees and the outer bony bump of the ankle. If this is not the case, it may be a sign that the curves in your spine have begun to change.

Our spines are taking ‘hits’ and ‘shocks’ in everyday normal activities. Every time we bend forward to pick up the baby or twist awkwardly to make the bed, we are compressing the disc and pushing it backwards. Raising a child requires bending and lifting hundreds of times per day. Combine this with poor posture habits which change the spinal curves. Multiply this by years, and you have the recipe for vertebrae and disc degeneration which manifests as back and neck pain.

So what can you do to help maintain your spine?

• Avoid sitting hunched over your baby with your shoulders rolled forward and chin down. If you notice you have been in this position for an extended period, take a few minutes to drape your body over a yoga ball face up, with your arms out at your sides, palms up, and neck back. This will stretch your anterior chest muscles and help the curve in your neck.

• Don’t hold the phone against your shoulder with your head, especially when your arms are full carrying the baby. Use a hands free headset or speaker phone.

• Switch arms when breast or bottle feeding your baby, even if it feels weird. This is also good for the baby as it allows your baby to turn his head on both sides.

• Be aware of your posture when holding your child. Women have wider hips than men, and this can make a very comfortable seat for the child. However, this position usually leads to women leaning towards the side where the child is sitting on, thus thrusting the opposite hip out for balance. This can throw the pelvis out of alignment, which is the foundation for our spine.

• Men tend to use brute strength of their arms to hold a child. Over time, this may stress the shoulders and cause upper back and neck pain.

• When handing the baby over to someone else, avoid twisting at the waist. Make sure the receiver is standing directly in front of you.

• Use your legs when picking up your child. Don’t bend at the waist. Introduce squats and lunges into your daily routine. For squats, keep your feet side by side with an upright upper body. Make sure both heels are planted on the floor. Keep your knees over your ankles as you sink down. For lunges, slide one foot back and keep both feet pointed forward. Bend both knees, but don’t let your front knee come forward; make sure the knee is directly over the foot. Avoid leaning back.

Ultimately, the only way to know how your curves look is to visit a qualified health professional such as a chiropractor. A chiropractor can analyze your spine, correct misalignments, and give you stretches and exercises based on how far your curves have strayed from normal. If you don’t remember to take care of yourself, then you won’t be able to take care of the people around you! Don’t forget about yourself!

Written by Dr Cassandra Peterson
Dr Cassandra Peterson is an American chiropractor practicing in Singapore who provides chiropractic care to patients of all ages, including babies, children and pregnant women. Dr Peterson received her training in USA and is a professional member of The Chiropractic Association (Singapore) and International Chiropractic Pediatric Association.

Family Health Chiropractic Clinic Pte Ltd
9 Penang Rd, #07-14 Park Mall Singapore 238459
Website: www.familyhealthchirosingapore.com
Email: info@familyhealthchirosingapore.com
Tel: 63367714

T32 Junior launches their unique oral health programme for the young

T32 Junior is the paediatric department of T32 Dental Centre, one of the few dental clinics in Singapore, specially put together with kids in mind. T32 Junior’s aim is to ensure that every child’s visit to the dentist is comforting and educational. Their philosophy is that preventions is better than cure. Parents are encouraged to start their children early on in regular dental care. Young children having their first dental visit will be introduced and oriented to the dentist and the clinic.

In addition, T32 Junior has come up with a unique oral health programme that is catered to different age groups. Toddlers (0-3 years old), Pre-schoolers (4-6 years old) and Juniors (7 – 12 years old), all have different set of potential problems to look out for and the T32 Junior Health Programme ensures that all children undergo a comprehensive examination and screening at each visit to prevent such problems for occurring.

Public Forum:
A healthy smile goes a long way in life. Gear your child towards the right direction in dental hygiene and he/she will thank you for giving them the perfect smile. Get your questions answered, learn brushing techniques and get great advice from our experienced dental surgeons in our Public Forum.

Venue: Auditorium, T32 Dental Centre at Camden Medical Centre #17-00
Date: 3 September 2011, Saturday
Time: 2-4pm
Registration fee: $5 per adult

To register for the forum, please call 6733 1388 or email t32@t32dental.com
Refreshments will be provided

About the speakers
Dr. Shou King Chin
Dental Surgeon
Director, T32 Junior (Kid’s Dentistry)
Marketing Director, T32 Corporate

Dr. Chin graduated from the National University of Singapore, Faculty of Dentistry, after winning two scholarships from Singapore Press Holdings. He served his bond as a Dental Officer in the Ministry of Health under the National Healthcare Group and eventually became the Head of Dental Services at one of NHG’s Polyclinics and also held the portfolio of Assistant Head of Manpower.

Dr Sara Ok
DDS (Washington, USA)
Dental Surgeon

Dr Ok was Valedictorian of her high school and made Dean’s List throughout undergraduate and graduate school. Dr Ok worked for two years at Pope’s Kids Place Dental Clinic in Washington, USA, treating only paediatric patients at the facility. She loves seeing children as she feels they make the work day more enjoyable with their unabashed honesty and are always full of surprises.

Sentosa Busker’s Festival is back with a bang! With 200 live shows by a cast of buskers from all over the world, come and be entertained by acrobats, jugglers, puppeteers, comedians and human statues!

Here is a breakdown of the buskers’ profiles:

• A Moment of Madness by Jonathan Acorn (New Zealand), Puppetry

He’s weird, wacky, outrageous and extremely funny! Be dazzled by ‘A Moment of Madness’, the show presented by the master puppeteer from New Zealand. This interactive performance will have everyone laughing out loud in no time!

• Japanese Jugglers by Senmaru & Yuki (Japan), Juggling

Once a sacred art form, Japanese duo Senmaru and Yuki has revolutionised “Daikagura” into “Edo-Daikagura” – an exciting performance of juggling feats. Hold your breath as they deftly balance various objects on the top of an umbrella!

• Imaginary Mime by Karcocha (Chile), Mime

Expertly embodying the art of mime, Karcocha fluidly engages your imagination through his silent routine. Infusing charm and delicateness in every performance, he acts out creative scenes that stimulate and challenge the minds of all who watch him. Truly an act where actions speak louder than words!

• The Last Balanzo by Aytahn Ross (Canada), Various Acts

With live acts seen by more than a million people throughout Canada and around the world, this veteran performer from Circus Montreal is the last descendent of the fabled Royal Balanzo Family. Watch spellbound as he enthrals you with his various acts of astounding dexterity and skill.

• Jazz Puppets by Valentino (Macedonia), Puppetry

Over 15 years of experience, Valentino is regarded as one of the world’s finest professional puppeteer. He will have you fooled as he deftly manipulates his lovingly hand-crafted Jazz Puppets to play an assortment of musical instruments in a life-like showcase of subtle humour, enthralling music and graceful skill.

• Amazing Acrobatics by Acromanuel (Denmark), Acrobatics & Stunts

After developing an interest in acrobatics and gymnastics at an early age, this dextrous Mexican travelled extensively across the world honing his technique and refining his craft. Now, Acromanuel is coming to Singapore to wow you with gravity defying physical stunts of effortless grace and athleticism!

• Magical Escape by Jeff Collins (Canada), Magic

Having presented his show at most major ‘Busker’ festivals, Jeff has gained a reputation as one of Canada’s finest! His bizarre, unorthodox approach to magic, fire-eating and escapes offers something for everyone. His sharpness of tongue keeps his audience on their toes. Seriously, you just never know what he will be up to next!

• Human Statue by David Engel (USA), Human Statue

If you are looking for a performer that does not stand still, then this vastly experienced, classically trained actor and full-time entertainer will surprise you – without even moving a muscle! You could call him a living work of art. Literally!

• ‘Bentertaining’ Comedy by Benny B (Australia), Comedian

Benny B is one of Australia’s most creative and innovative circus and street artist. This one-time electrical engineer decided to give up his day job to pursue his passion of electrifying audiences as a professional comic entertainer. He has been roaming the comedy circuit and amusing audiences with his unique circus entertainment!

• Circus Comes to Town by Tina Green (Australia), Circus Entertainment

Tina Green’s unique performance style combines high level circus skills with comic ideas designed to create an exciting and silly atmosphere everywhere she performs. This young performer is every bit entertaining as she is versatile!

• Nuts over Aerobics by Louise Kerr (New Zealand), Circus Entertainment

Meet Punk - the coolest clown in town, or just the most intimidating. This chaotic clown blunders her way through a series of misadventures. Don’t miss Sport Suzie turning her unusual exercycles, spandex and sweat bands into a complete cardio workout for all those watching – seated or otherwise!

• Random Painter by John Gowdy (USA), Painter

The award-winning painter cum sculptor creates magnificent art pieces, turning festival into a spectacular and memorable experience.

Clap, sing, shout and cheer!

Don’t be shy to participate in the performances! Show your appreciation through your raucous laughter and applause! Last but not the least, donate generously when the buskers pass around their hats, as its for a good cause! All proceeds will go towards the Community Chest and the 70 charities under its care.

Sentosa Gives!

On September 10 (Saturday), Sentosa will be having its first ever large scale charity initiative event, Sentosa Gives! Public members will enjoy free entry through the Sentosa Boardwalk and Sentosa Express, from 7am to 11.59pm. (This is not applicable to drive-ins by passenger cars, taxis and other vehicles)

So remember to make a trip down to Sentosa this September Holidays for a fun-filled, humorous and light-hearted event for the whole family!

The Busker’s festival is a free event, but Island admission charges apply, except on the 10 September.

Traveling can be a headache for parents, especially if its the first time you are bringing your baby or child along. Here are some tips which might come in handy for first time parents traveling with their little ones.

When is the earliest age after birth a baby can travel?
There is no hard & fast rule on the earliest age when a baby can travel but in general it is recommended that babies under 6 months should not travel abroad.

Why?
Babies under 6 months of age have not completed their primary immunizations. They are also too young to receive certain travel immunizations that are required for certain countries. Hence they are more susceptible to these infections.

What are some of the precautions that parents should take before travelling with their babies and toddlers?
Parents should make an appointment to have their child seen by a paediatrician at least 4-6 weeks before travelling abroad to see if any additional travel vaccinations are required for the destination country. Some vaccinations need to be given at least 1 month prior to travel in order that the child is able to mount an adequate antibody response & have protection against infection. The paediatrician can also determine the child’s fitness to travel.

What are the must-haves in their luggage?
1) Thermometer.
2) Medications for fever eg. Paracetamol, Ibuprofen.
3) Oral rehydration solution (in case of vomiting &/or diarrhoea) eg. Pedialyte.
4) First-aid items – plasters, dressings, bandages, antiseptic.
5) Sunscreen lotion (& hats)
6) Insect repellant (preferably DEET freeor maximum 10% DEET for children).

What precautions should parents be aware of during trips with their babies and toddlers?
Food & Water – Drink boiled or bottled water only (even for brushing teeth in certain countries). Avoid ice, ice-cream, salads, mayonnaise, raw vegetables, undercooked or raw meat or shellfish, un-pasteurised milk or dairy products. Avoid street hawker food. Wash hands before & after meals, after going to toilet (applies also to toddlers) & before preparing infant milk or food. For infants below 6 months, sterilize milk bottles by boiling or using sterilization tablets.

Mosquito Protection – May require malaria medication when travelling to some countries. Wear long sleeves & long pants if possible & apply mosquito repellant to clothing. DEET-free or up to 10% DEET repellants only for children (avoid applying to children’s hands which can come into contact with mouth or eyes). Wash repellant off with soap/water after returning indoors. Sleep under mosquito nets or in air-con rooms. Use mosquito coils or electrically heated repellant devices.

Animal Bites – Rabies vaccination may be required before visiting certain countries. Avoid petting stray animals & approaching wild animals. If bitten, wash the area with soap & water, apply antiseptic & attend a health centre as soon as possible.

Swimming – Only in chlorinated pools. Avoid streams, lakes, beaches (may be contaminated with sewage). Supervise children when swimming. Do not dive head first into shallow pools. Avoid jellyfish, corals. Take note of warning signs, flags on beaches (dangerous currents) especially.

Sun Protection – Apply sunscreen (minimum SPF 15) at least 20 minutes before exposure & reapply after swimming or exercising (sweating). Avoid midday sun.

This article was first published in Today’s Motherhood Magazine Jun-Jul 11 issue Page 14

Article is contributed by SBCC Baby & Child Clinic

20% off BVLGARI ROSE ESSENTIELLE EDP 100ML SPRAY at only $84 instead of $104 at Perfumestore.sg + Free Shipping !

Check out the following Great Deals Singapore
Highlights

• Introduced in 2006
• Sparkling symphony of sophisticated and delicate aromas created for the young woman who lives each moment with intense enthusiasm
• Sophisticated scent of subtle roses
• Free Shipping
• Perfect as gift for friends and relatives

To get this deal, visit Great Parenting Deals

The Fine Print

• For shipping, please remember to fill in your Full Address in your account settings during Check Out
• Each transaction is for one shipping address only. For shipping to more than 1 address, please make a separate transaction
• Shipping only (no self-collection)
• All products will be shipped out within 5 business days of the end of the deal
• Non exchangeable and non refundable

To get this deal, visit Great Deals Singapore

Are you a seafood lover? Describe to us your favourite seafood dish and top 2 most creative entries walk away with a box of TungLok mooncakes!

To take part in this contest, all you have to do is

1. Be a fan of Today’s Motherhood
2. Fill in the forms below

Contest ends 28 Aug 2011
The contest has closed

The prizes are sponsored by TungLok Group

Terms and Conditions Apply.

Do you wish that you always had an ally when it comes to saving time and becoming more efficient in keeping your house clean? Well, here are some natural cleaning allies you should get acquainted with to help you with your chores.

Lemon Juice
Most mothers would agree that lemon juice has the power to counter dirty countertops, cutting boards, dishes, grouts, laundry and plastic food containers. The acid in the lemon juice is very effective against rust and stubborn dirt. It doesn’t take much effort when using this natural product because it is as easy as wiping it off the area. For instance, dipped cut lemons in baking soda and wipe it off stained countertops will help you save a lot of time and also prevent you from scraping off the top’s natural color.

Essential Oils
Oils from some plants have the power to eliminate germs and bacteria. One such plant is the peppermint. A few drops of pepper mint oil can be as potent as 30 cups of peppermint tea. Apply four drops of peppermint oil to scuffed floors or battle gum encrusted items. Make sure that the cleansed items are laundered at once to prevent them from discoloration. You can also use this ingredient on combs, brushes, toilets and shower doors.

Liquid Castile Soap
This material is a plant-based version that is very effective in loosening grime and removing dirt from surfaces. Your problem with showers, sinks and tubs can be eliminated at once as you stir one tablespoon of this ingredient with 1/3 cup of baking soda to create a homemade scrubber. The mixture of liquid castile soap and two cups of hot water can also be applied to burners, vent hoods and stove tops.

Cooking Oils
Things at home will wear and tear with time and constant use. The power of cooking oils in diminishing scratches can be used to polish leather shoes, rattan and wicker furniture, cast-iron pans and stainless-steel surfaces. To deal with wooden furniture, all you have to do is to make a polish by mixing 2 cups of olive oil with lemon juice. Use a soft cloth damped on the mixture and smooth out the furniture’s scratches.

Borax
Cleaning baseboards, countertops, pots, pans and the toilet is sometimes a big burden to a mother, who still have to do the laundry, prepare the meal and take care of the baby all in a day. Borax can be a solution to this problem, once it is mixed with detergent. Acting as an alkaline, Borax has the ability to remove fungus and molds. For toilet cleaning, just pour the borax into the toilet cubicle bowl and let it soak overnight. The next day, you can swish in a brush and flush all the dirt out instantly.

Vinegar
Probably the most common of all natural cleansing products, mineral deposits, soap scum and tarnish can easily disappear as you wipe them off with a few drops of vinegar. The coffeemaker is one of the most difficult appliances to clean if you don’t know home techniques with vinegar as an ally. Mix water and vinegar into the machine and switch on the brew cycle. During the middle of the cycle, turn off the machine and let the mixture sit for approximately one hour. Switch on the machine once more to complete the brewing cycle. Get rid of the mixture and replace it with clean water as you run the cycle over again with clean water.

Washing soda and baking soda
Sodium carbonate or washing soda, sodium bicarbonate and baking soda are the two most influential cleaning armors of modern mothers because of its ability to get rid of dirt and absorb odors. There are a lot of things inside the house that these ingredients can polish anew and one of those is the can opener. Make a paste of 1 teaspoon of water and 2 tablespoons of baking soda. Dip a toothbrush into the mixture and brush over the edges and corners of the can opener to dislodge the gunk.

This article was first published in Today’s Motherhood Magazine Aug/Sep 2011 issue Page 38

Updates: Thank you for your strong support. All the tickets have been fully taken up and registration is closed. For those who have received confirmation call from us, please bring along your NRIC for verification purposes.

2) For parents registered for free, please provide your IC number upon registration for verification.

Allergies in Children by Dr Chng Seo Yi, Paediatrician from SBCC Baby & Child Clinic - Asthma, Lung, Sleep and Allergy Centre. Does your baby or child have a persistent itchy red rash? Does your child have a persistent cough or wheezing? Or does your child here a frequent wet nose? Your baby or child may have an allergic condition. Allergy tests can help to determine the cause of your baby or child’s allergy and allergen avoidance may help to improve your child’s symptoms. Join in to learn more about allergies in children and how to better manage them

Speech and Language Development in the Early Years by Ms Justina Su, Speech and Language Therapist from the Child Development Centre - Thomson Paediatric Centre Communication is a complex process that a child starts to learn since birth. Being able to communicate effectively in the early years is also important for thinking and social skills. Speech and language is one of the major areas that concerns a child’s development. In this information session, we will take a look at the speech and language milestones of children, when to be concern, common beliefs in speech and language development and language stimulation tips.

Date: 10 Sep 2011
Time: 1.30pm to 5pm (Registration starts at 1pm)
Venue: 81 Victoria Street, Administration Building, Singapore Management University Singapore 188065

We are very happy to announce that a kind sponsor has came in to sponsor all tickets to this event. The talk will now be free for all.

Interested readers must fill up this form, limited seats available. We will call you to confirm your seat.

* For those who have purchased the tickets earlier，we will be refund the amount on the day of event. Kindly approach us at the registration counter with your name and email.

We will call you to confirm your seat.

In addition to the talk, participants will also get

• Free door gift by Wink To Learn : Memory Magic Super Flash PC Game worth $24.90
• Discount vouchers by Bridge Learning : 10% discount for Diagnostic Assessment (about $40) and $50 off enrolment fees
• Light refreshment by Chilli Padi after the talk
• Complimentary 1 Year Insurance Coverage by Albert Ng & Associates for children of parents who attend this talk (see below for details). Note: Children need not be present during talk
• AIA is sponsoring child water bottle for all participants. 1 water bottle per participant
• Edu Quantum is offering a $50 discount off their INTELLIGENT LEARNER PROGRAM for all participants. Normal price is $900 for 30 hours personal coaching by Roderick Chua

All the free gifts will be given after the end of talk

Organised by:

Supported by:

Product Sponsors:

Sponsors:

Participants will receive this complimentary insurance for their kids (for age 1 to 14 years old) by filling up their particulars at the end of the talk. The policy will be mailed to them at a later date.

Cover

• Compensation for bodily injuries caused solely and directly by accident which results in death and permanent disablement subject to policy terms and conditions

Basis Of Coverage

• Accidental death - $30,000
• Permanent Disablement - Up to $30,000

Geographical Cover - Singapore Only

• Period of Cover - 10th Sept 2011 - 9th August 2012

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Pregnant women are always portrayed as those with big tummy, fat curves, physically unpleasant and hopeless individuals generally forced to accepting that lump in their tummy as no more than something to get over with as soon as possible. This common notion is not just unfair but also a manifestation of ignorance about what really happens inside a pregnant woman’s body.

People are so affected with the physical appearance that they fail to notice how pregnant women are enhanced by hormonal changes inside. Yes, pregnant women are sexy. They are more sensuous and attractive especially when you consider several bodily changes that add up to the attraction.

Fact #1: A Pregnant Woman’s Body is oh so HOT!

Why not? Increased levels of estrogen and progesterone result to beautiful hair, long nails, glowing skin, and enhanced cleavage. You might have noticed how pregnant women tend to have shiny and smooth locks. Women who have problems growing their nails out don’t have to worry anymore because pregnancy may cause it to grow faster. This means that you have the luxury of painting them with your desired colors and styles. Another factor is pregnancy increases blood flow in the body which causes the skin to glow. Say goodbye to your blusher and rouge, and hello to your new natural rosy skin. Finally, nothing is more sensual and sexy than fully enhanced breasts. You don’t need to use paddings, foams or other breast support for your breasts to look big anymore!

Fact #2: Pregnant women can still engage in sex!

Don’t let that big tummy hinder the satisfaction of your desires. Pregnancy is a great opportunity for you and your partner to be creative and imaginative. Talk about your fears and hesitations. Your partner will understand your limitations and together you can explore ways to be satisfied and happy. Never indulge in the thought that he might be disappointed with your look. Most men actually find their pregnant wives more beautiful and stunning.

Fact #3: Pregnant Women can be sexy!

There are a lot of ways for pregnant women to feel good about themselves. Pregnancy is not the end of beauty and glam for women. Here are some ways on how to make you feel better during pregnancy:

• Get a haircut. A change in hairstyle can be dramatic and surprising. But make sure the cutting is not just brought about by impulsive mood swings. Think of what you really like and how you want to be seen. Otherwise, you hair cut wouldn’t look as planned and you would just end up with coarse hair and split ends.

• Pamper yourself with a relaxing bath. Turn on some soothing music, light up some candles and turn off the lights as you take a dip in lukewarm water, sit back and relax to a cool facial mask.

• Buy some dressy lingerie. Try something new and ditch those traditional long and conservative maternity lingerie and dresses for once. Instill comfort by wearing sexy lingerie when you go to bed. This is not just relaxing but also tempting!

• Think and feel sexy. You are what you think you are. So why get stuck in lonely thoughts of being fat and big when you can imagine yourself to be one sexy woman glowing, with an angel inside you, and an opportunity to enter a new stage in life.