It contains our very popular ring sling
Which can be used from birth to toddler and is very very adjustable – colours to choose from.

And our *New* Sleep Bear

This lovely soft flannel sleep bear is a wonderful companion to help aid sleep in babies and children

The tummy is filled with a removable microwave pouch containing rice and essential oils which can be warmed, this is not only comforting but gives off more of the lavender fragrance which aids sleeping.

Soft body can be easily held in baby’s hands

A perfect gift for a potty training toddler to excite them about this new stage of learning and assist you in making the transition easier.

This pack consists of 5 Earth Babies Single Soakers.
These are pull up pants with an absorbent pad and waterproof layer – just enough to absorb one wee and prevent embarrassment, but cannot be left on for successive wetting. They are traditionally made from fun printed fleece (fleece offers extra waterproofing protection to clothing because of its water resistant properties). Will in the near future also be available in cotton.
These pants are also perfect for that last step in night nappy-ing from occasional wetting to dry nights.

To support and encourage them, you also get a set of 16 very cute Concious Living Potty Training magnets.
“These magnets will help make your transition from nappy to nappyless as seamless as possible, whilst exciting your child and boosting his/her self-confidence!” The magnets are used in the same manner as a reward chart and are available in English & Afrikaans and have positive messages on them to reflect the child’s efforts.

The stage of potty training is quite a big step for parents and children. For some it is a smooth transition and for others it is a daunting task. It is a stage that illicits as many questions, requests for help and guidance as starting solids.

If needing ideas and guidance on potty training, I liked the approach taken by Elizabeth Pantley in her No Cry Potty training book.

A Few Quick Facts About Potty Training

One of the things I love most about Elizabeth Pantley’s books is that she always offers a range of practical and realistic options from which you can use those best suited to your situation, family, and child’s individual needs. Her trade-mark gentle approach is carried through to this book, as always showing her love and respect of children and recognition that each child is a unique individual. The No-Cry Potty Training Solution is set out in an easy to read manner from a ‘jump-start’ of initial steps in preparing both yourself and your child for the journey, through to potty independence.”
~Barbara Lombard, Co-owner a South African parenting website, www.earthbabies.co.za

Nappy rash is for the most part as a result of long periods between changing.
When skin is left wet for extended periods, it becomes sensitive and easily irritated or broken from constant friction. A nappy is a warm, moist and isolated environment which is ideal for the formation of micro-organisms (bacteria), if the skin becomes damaged these microbes move in and cause infection.
Abrasion of fabric and wet skin are the most common arguments for using disposables over cloth, however there are support products for cloth nappies to prevent these perceived problems – nappy 1-way liners function in the same manner as a disposable, drawing the urine away from the skin and keeping baby dry.
A basic rule of thumb is to check your babies nappy once an hour – most parents do this naturally without conscious effort – only change when necessary though (this is generally at longer intervals than one hour, but as it is not a controlled routine the gap between changes would differ and checking increases awareness).
Nappies have a saturation point if nappy is not absorbent enough you can add a booster – this should be done to increase absorbency but not to stretch the time between changes.
Nappies containing faeces should be changed immediately.

cover free time

Be conservative when applying barrier cream.

Many mothers smear a thick layer of barrier cream over the babies skin in order to prevent nappy rash. In reality this can actually have the opposite effect as the cream blocks the porous nature of the nappy eliminating its breathable qualities.
If you change the nappy frequently and properly cleanse and dry the skin, barrier cream is not required (skin can be moisturized with pure aqueous cream or a thin layer of light barrier lotion) and the barrier cream only applied – if a rash is noticed – to the affected area!
Use a light bum balm if needed as prevention (we love the Mother Nature Bum Balm) and only apply thicker cream if there is a rash.

Use a nappy liner.

When using cloth nappies ‘conventionally’ (where you do not change the nappy with each wee), it is advised to use a 1-way liner, which allows the urine through into the absorbent layers but has a dry feel against baby’s skin.
Fleece is ideal for this purpose as it wicks the moisture away from the skin and remain soft and dry feeling against the skin.
Alternatively, you can use of the disposable liners available (choose one with have 1-way qualities).
This ‘dry feel’ means that baby’s skin remains relatively dry and so does not chafe, making for more comfortable extended wear.

nappy free time

Nappy products that are breathable.

A non-porous plastic outer cover prevents air-flow to the skin. This isolates the heat within the nappy, creates a bacteria-incubator (wet & hot) and exacerbates the growth of microbes. As such avoid the common plastic waterproofs and rather spend the little extra on those that are breathable – porous.
• Cloth Nappy covers:
there are various very effective options in nappy covers.
* Breathable & Water-resistant – Fleece and Wool;
* Breathable and Waterproof – PUL, a synthetic laminated fabric which is fully waterproof but porous (commonly used in top-quality waterproof sports wear).

Take preventative steps when washing the nappies.

- Use a mild pure-soap washing powder, not one that contains enzymes (concentrate versions contain enzymes).
- Rinse nappies well to remove all traces of soap, and/or use less powder than recommended (about ½ to 2/3’s) – this is sufficient to clean the nappies.
- Do not use sterilizing solutions or bleach as these are not necessary and residue of these chemicals can damage baby’s’ skin – if you are concerned about sterilizing rather add a drop or two of Tea-tree oil to your soaking / rinsing water as this has antibacterial and antifungal qualities and is gentle on babies skin. There are also some organic nappy soak products on the market.
- Hot wash nappies at 60ºC, this both sterilizes and will dilute the formation of ammonia in nappies (if nappy has a strong smell prior to washing). If you are washing daily a cold wash will suffice however if you are skipping days … the more days the hotter the wash.
- Line dry nappies – the sun also helps in neutralizing any remaining ammonia.

Let babies skin BREATHE.

When changing nappies don’ t hurry to cover them up again, give them a little time for their skin to air-dry.
There is no need to use a cover over the nappy all day, every day – especially around the house – though breathable each layer does make airflow a little limited. Some days just dress her in a nappy and t-shirt for a while when playing.
Let baby play bare-bummed occasionally, the fresh air, sunlight and freedom can only do them good!
Or let them sleep without a nappy in the day (just take care to lay them on a towel or flat nappy to protect the mattress / cushion (a fleece blanket under the towel will act in the same way as a cover protecting the bedding beneath).

Having a newborn baby, especially your first but even subsequent babies, are a lot of adjustment and change one’s world completely. One thing you do not want to worry about is a nappies.

The problem with cloth nappies and the newborn stage is that unless you get a specific newborn nappy size any cloth nappies even One-size-fits-all nappies are going to be very bulky on a new baby.

For cloth nappies and newborn I think you have 3 options:

1. Buy a nappy specially made to fit the new born stage.

   If you are very concerned about the environment and do not want to use disposables at all but would like a nappy that fits for the newborn phases then I would buy a nappy made specifically for that age. We have the Earth Babies Newborn Nappies and the Stegi small which will see you through this stage. It is more costly to buy the newborn stage but if you have more than 1 child they last very well or can be give on to friends or sold in our preloved section. Be prepared that these nappies are not going to last all that long but it is like buying newborn or 0-3 clothes you know that they are not going to wear them for all that long but at least they will fit well. Depending on what size your baby was at birth you can get anything from 6-8 weeks out of your newborn nappies. If you are expecting a big baby it may not be worth getting newborn nappies.

1. Buy disposables for the first stage while you get used to having a new baby and while they grow a bit so they can fit their cloth nappies better. They can then use Earth Babies Medium, Mother Nature one size fits all, Earth Babies one size fits all, Stegi medium, Bio Baba medium. We now have some new eco disposables in stock so you can use disposables and be kind to the environment

2. Buy one size fits all nappies which are said to be birth to potty and just deal with them being a little big and bulky at first. It really does not last long and before you know it they fit really well. It is a bit like putting a newborn in 3-6 month clothes but the savings can be well worth enduring the extra bulky.

Hope this helps you decide what to do with your newborn and cloth nappies. I used cloth from the beginning for both of mine and will have them ready for the 3^rd one next year, they have also been used by a few friends too, so have certainly done there bit.

**CLOSED***

♥♥WIN  Newborn Trail Nappy Pack♥♥

In order to win it you need to comment below AND do one of the following (or already be listed on one or all):

Like us on Facebook / Follow on Twitter or register on the Earth Babies website to qualify.
(remember to let us know in the comment what username to look out for, so we can make a match)

Retweets of this post, Comment on the related Facebook post and Blog posts mentioning Earth Babies Cloth Nappies (remember we need to be aware of the post) get extra entries

South African Entries only
winners name will be drawn 25  September 2010

The prize consist of:

2 newborn Earth Babies Nappies,

1 booster,

1 reusable fleece liner

1 newborn waterproof, in one of our new waterproofs which you can choose from 7 new lovely colours ( Pink, Blue, Lavender, Sage, Butter, Seafoam and white)

and for the competition we are adding 5 newborn eco disposables for 2-4kg to try.

If you don’t have a new baby enter for a friend or as a baby shower gift

]]> http://blog.earthbabies.co.za/cloth-nappies-and-newborns-are-the-2-compatible/feed/ 5 http://blog.earthbabies.co.za/amber-a-natural-remedy-for-teething/ http://blog.earthbabies.co.za/amber-a-natural-remedy-for-teething/#comments Mon, 23 Aug 2010 06:23:30 +0000 Barb http://blog.earthbabies.co.za/?p=925

Benefits of Amber:
♥ Acts as a mild natural analgesic (pain reliever).
♥ An excellent natural antibiotic.
♥ Soothes both emotional and physical – and can calm an irritable and niggly child.
♥ Boosts immune system and general wellness.
♥ Reduces inflammation of the gums, ears, stomach and throat.
♥ Useful in treating bacterial infections (and acne).
♥ Fights inflammation, infections & respiratory disease. (throat infections, bronchial disorders, joint pain, asthma, respiratory disease, stomach infections, rheumatism, earache.)
♥ Acts as a protective shield against radiation (x-rays, sun, technology)
♥ It helps post-operatively with tissue regeneration, scar tissue and helps to prevent secondary infections.
♥ Good for success, abundance, healing, vitality and joy (Enhances patience, love, strength, knowledge, correct choices, wisdom, calmness and healing).
♥ Balances, purifies and energizes body and mind (Great for absent-mindedness, depression, stress and nerves)
♥ Excellent detoxification – treats and aids the function of the abdomen, bladder, blood, eyes, kidney, stomach, spleen, tissue revitalization, throat, liver and gallbladder.

Features of the Earth Babies beads:
- Softly rounded, irregular, pure Baltic Amber beads
- Twist clasp closing (plastic)
- Strong thread, individually knotted between each bead.
- Length: 33 cm
- Bead size: 4×5x6mm to 10×7x5mm

EB mixed amber

Safety of teething necklaces:
One of the most common parental concerns with teething necklaces is whether it is a choking hazard.
The necklace is made from strong silk string and the claps it plastic – this means that though it is durable, if it gets caught on something & baby pulls away it would snap.
There is a knot after every bead so that if the necklace breaks only one bead will fall off.
Beads are non-toxic, light and small so if swallowed, it would pass through easily.

How should it be used:
Teething necklaces are not for baby to chew on and are not a teething toy – the benefit are from wearing amber in direct contact with the skin.
The necklace may be worn from two months and up (for as long as it fits).
Whether to remove or not is up to parent’s discretion. Some put it on and leave it on 24/7 for 2+ years others remove it for sleeping, bathing or if baby is unattended.
Amber summary:
- It is fossilized matter which has taken millions of years to form from tree resin.
- It comes in many colours and shade variations the most common are cognac, honey, lemon yellow, ivory and cream/yellow.
- Amber is an organic substance.
- Did you know? The biggest deposits are located below the Baltic sea and the easiest and oldest way to obtain Amber is by collecting it on the beach where the stones have been washed out by waves during storms.

WHAT IS AMBER? – READ MORE AND SEE DETAILS ON HOW TO WIN AN AMBER TEETHING NECKLACE

This makes a lovely baby shower gift.

♥ this one from www.creative-baby-nursery-rooms.com

What is a belly cast?

A belly cast is a plaster of paris moulding of your pregnant belly. A 3d memory of how it was.

What comes in the kit:

Plaster of paris bandages, tub of Vaseline, Disposable gloves, Tealight candles and relaxing organic Tea (for the ambience) and instructions

How is it made:

It is made using POP bandages (you cut the bandage into strips, dip them in water and layer them over your body to create the mould). You need to first put a layer of Vaseline over your skin so that the plaster of paris releases from you and does not get stuck to your skin. The bandage is quite fast drying depending on how thick you layer it. It is very easy to do though it is advised to have someone help you.

Tips on making a cast:

♦ Use warm water to wet the bandages (from experience cold water makes for a chilly experience )
♦ Do not lie down to do the cast as this widens and flattens the belly.
♦ Make the cast when standing (or sitting)
♦ Lifting your arms above your head lifts your belly and breasts making them appear rounder. (you need to be comfortable to hold this position for 20 or so minutes)
♦ Wear underwear (skimpier the better) or place a triangle of plastic over the pubic area.
♦ You can always do the cast using 2 rolls of the bandages and then strengthen the cast later with the 3rd roll from the inside – this way the drying time on the body is shorter)

Who makes the cast for you?
It is sold as a fun ‘do at home kit’, it is not complicated so requires no qualification to get it done .

♥ It is a lot of fun to do as a couple.
♥ You could do it with a friend or a sister.
♥ Some woman have one made with their doula as this gives them some bonding time and also is a step closer to getting past the self conscious feelings you may be having about having a doula at the birth.

What do you do with it after?

That is totally up to you. There is no reason or need for it to be functional it is after all a memory – like a life size 3d photo.

Things people do with it.

Photograph your newborn inside of it. Decorate it and hang it in babies room, your house, room, as a garden sculpture, turn it into a fruit bowl

How to decorate it:

♦ You could leave it as is, paint it a colour or with black board paint or a picture on it (cute or classy), mosaic,
♦ You could write all the important birth info on it: Name, Birth date, Time of birth, Weight, Height, Place
♦ Allow other children free reign in decorating it for their new baby

Where to buy:

SHOP LINK: an Earth Babies product

Here is a google gallery of decorated belly casts

A pouch sling is by far the easiest of the baby carriers to use. It is a tube of fabric which you wear diagonally across your body (on one shoulder like a sash). The tube is folded double, forming a pocket which you can pop baby into.
At Earth Babies we stock the Rhubarb and Custard Pouch.

Pros:

Cons:

2) PADDED RING SLING

A length of fabric with padding in the shoulder area and the edges of the fabric. Some are thinly padded in the body of the sling. The one end of the sling is sewn closed to form a tab or point and this is threaded through 2 rings on the opposite side to form a circular tube.
It is similar to a pouch in that it has limited adjustment but is easy to use (pro’s and cons are similar apart from that the Padded ring sling has slightly more scope for adjustment and it is a bulkier carrier)
At Earth Babies we no longer stock a Padded ring Sling

Pros:

Cons:

3) UNPADDED RING SLING
An unpadded ring sling is the most practical of the carriers.
It is a length of lightweight fabric with rings sewn in on one end. The open side of fabric is fed through the rings (like a basic belt buckle) to make a secure pouch/pocket for the baby.
The sling is worn over your shoulder and across the body like a sash. You adjust the size and fit of the carrier by pulling the fabric through the rings to get excellent support and comfort for you both.
At Earth Babies we sell Earth Babies Unpadded ring sling

Pros:

Cons:

4) SOFT STRUCTURED CARRIER
Soft structured carriers are more conventional back-pack type carriers. Ideal for heavier, older baby and toddler carrying.
They have an approximately rectangular section which holds your baby securely against your body and straps to attach the carrier to you. Some tie on and some fasten with clips. They are generally easy to use and distribute the weight of your baby evenly, and vertically on your back much like a rucksack or backpack.
At Earth Babies we sell the Khanyisa African Baby Carrier

Pros:

Cons:

4) WRAP
A wrap comes in either stretchy or non-stretchy fabric. It is the most versatile and probably comfortable baby carrier but the one most difficult to learn to use optimally.
It is a length of fabric with which you wrap the baby onto your body in different positions.

At Earth Babies we sell the Traditional Kikoi wrap (non stretchy) – The stretchy Wrap me up Baby Wrapz is coming soon.

Pros:

Cons:

Why not try our fun Which Baby carrier for me? Quiz

***You can choose more than one option per group

rhubarb & custard pouch

a) For the first 6 months
b) For the first year plus
c) For the first year at least
d) For as long as I can carry their weight

2) In what situations do you think you would use your carrier, do you need free hands?

a) Around the house or quick outings – 1 hand free will be enough
b) When out, shopping or working. Need to be hands free.
c) For long periods of wearing. Need hand free.
d) For going on long walks or hikes

earth babies ring sling

a) Only me
b) Anyone who cares for baby
c) Mostly myself and possibly husband
d) Myself & husband (and possibly others)

4) How much time are you willing to spend learning how to use it?

a) Few minutes max
b) I don’t mind practicing a bit
c) I have time and love experimenting, give me a challenge
d) I would prefer something you set up and leave. Not too fiddly

long wrap

a) Stylish, Trendy
b) Boho, Relaxed
c) Casual, Comfortable
d) Sporty, Structured

6) In terms of comfort, how do you imagine carrying baby most?

a) Lying down or sitting
b) Lying or on my front, I like hip carrying
c) Upright snuggled close – on my front able to face out
d) Once big enough definitely on my back and upright.

ABC structured carrier

a) Pregnant or Newborn
b) Pregnant – 8 months
c) Pregnant or Newborn
d) 4months and older

8 ) If breastfeeding – are you wanting something you can breastfeed easily & discretely in?

a) Would be nice if it was easy, discreet not really an issue
b) Yup that is high on my list
c) No I doubt I will be feeding with baby in a carrier
d) If they can but it is not really something I would do

9) Will you be putting baby in and out often?

a) Yes, needs to be quick in and out
b) Yup relatively easy in and outs
c) No once baby is in they will stay there for a while
d) No but would like it to be fuss free when we do use it

10) Do you want to always have it close at hand and is carry space an issue?

a) I want it folded neatly and take as little space possible in my bag
b) I want it close so needs to be able to fit in my bag
c) My bag is BIG – space for everything
d) Dont mind carrying something extra when I need it

If your highest score was A, you might enjoy a pouch.
If your highest score was B, you might enjoy a ring sling.
If your highest score was C, you might enjoy a long wrap
If your highest score was D, you might enjoy a structured carrier

Baby Carrier Comparison (Pro’s & Con’s)

* Mother and baby contact is the baby’s first socio-emotional interaction – it allows for both emotional and sensory stimulation.
* A Study done in 1986 by Hunziker and Barr on increased carrying and its affect on infant crying, showed that baby’s who were carried more throughout the day cried less and the intensity of their crying was less distressed – (this study specifically looks at the occurrence and increased diagnosis of ‘3 month colic’ ).
* Decreased reflux and colic (wind): Many moms have said that a sling helps with colic (wind), by reducing the need for burping as well as babies’ tendencies of vomiting and excess spitting up. Being supported in a more upright position seems to help, as does the soothing movement of the mother’s body.

safe & asleep

* Moms have found that babies who are carried are less likely to become overstimulated – not only is baby happiest when in physical contact with a parent, but in a new environment – especially one with a lot of outside stimulation (eg. shopping centre) – babies often feel insecure. The general trend is covering of a baby’s pram to block out the visual stimulation. This however does not block out the auditory stimulation, which can overwhelm when isolated with no view of the cause. Babywearing helps baby feel safe in all situations.

3. Alternative style carriers are gentler on tiny backs:

* They support the baby’s neck preventing whiplash type injuries to neck and spine.
* Allow for carrying in positions that place no weight bearing pressure on the spine (”The young baby should be horizontal or inclined, with the spine supported along its length” ~ Rochelle L. Casses, D.C)
* The baby is supported by fabric that conforms firmly to their body, this eliminates pressure on their developing backs from hanging upright, unsupported and with all their downward weight on their pelvis & lower back.
* Baby is supported under the entire bum and thighs not only between the legs.

4. Comfortable for mom/dad:

* No rigid frame with set arm and leg openings.
* Baby’s weight is distributed more evenly across the body and supported into the body (usually against the shoulders, back and hips) as opposed to the full weight hanging from the shoulders and away from the body (which pulls your centre of gravity off kilter resulting in the strain of continuously correcting posture).
* Certain of the carriers (unpadded slings & wraps) have unlimited adjustment which allows you to find the most comfortable balanced carry for yourself and baby

5. More confident parents

* A parent able to recognize baby’s needs and triggers and reduce crying, helps to lessen the feelings of panic or being overwhelmed.
* When spending close time with your baby, it is easier able to recognise and relate to her needs, this promotes responsiveness and allows for an increased attachment.
* Can help with maternal depression and aids bonding between mother and baby
* Mothers’ struggling to adjust to having a new baby have found that carrying can help them to bond without the pressure of having to emotionally interact when they feel unable to.

6. Soft carriers such as the slings and wraps offer a variety of carry positions which you can change depending on your baby’s age and mood. eg. lying – horizontal or diagonal, upright – facing in or out, on your front, hip, back etc.

7. Improves baby’s development:

* Babies who are held and cuddled a lot are more attentive and develop mentally and physically much quicker than babies who receive minimal physical contact.
* Enhanced language and social skills: Babies who are worn experience people interacting at eye and voice level, through this involvement in conversation they learn not only language, facial interaction and sounds but the ability to listen.
* Carried babies spend more time in a quiet, alert state which allows for optimal learning – without specific teaching taking place.
* A baby with a sense of security and trust is more receptive to external stimulus.
* The continual movement helps develop and regulate a babies vestibular system which helps with balance and spacial awareness.
* Interaction within their environment helps the brain to grow and learn through stimulating the branching out and connecting of nerves – babywearing helps the right connections to be made

8. Allows for easier breastfeeding

* Contact is an important trigger both for babies latching ability but also a mothers ability to produce milk. Carrying allows for this closeness.
*Slings are ideal for discreet breastfeeding when in public, making it a more comfortable experience for mother, baby and those in the vicinity.
* For a mother with older children sometimes finding time to breastfeed can appear to be a challenge – a sling can help support baby at the breast, leaving mom hands free to give attention to a sibling at the same time (cuddle, read a story, build a puzzle etc).

9. Free hands:

* What all moms’ need … more hands. It is a lot easier to get daily tasks done while wearing your baby than to try and rush to do things before baby starts crying.
* Some carriers allow for hands free wearing, specifically those that hold baby securely against your body (front back carriers, wraps, unpadded slings).
* Having the ability to be able to do things beyond simply holding your baby in your arms, helps to lessen that isolated/trapped feeling mothers often experience.
* Needed when you have other children – see last * of point 8. This also helps with sibling bonding and acceptance as it lessens jealousy, without too much pressure and tug of war for mom-time

10. They are practical.

* They allow for more freedom of movement – eg. when shopping – having a pram can be limiting in terms of moving between floors, maneuvering between people and aisles and it is impossible to push a pram and a trolley.
* They are economical – carrier R200-R300 vs pram R600 +.
* Baby carriers can be folded up and packed into a bag so are close at hand when needed.


Great Babywearing sites and articles
The BabyWearer
Dr Sears on Baby wearing
10 reasons to wear your baby
La Leche League’s view on the benefits
Babywearing International

Research based articles
Baby carriers and Spinal Stress
Hunziker and Barr study on the affects of baby carrying on infant crying

]]> http://blog.earthbabies.co.za/benefits-of-baby-wearing/feed/ 3 http://blog.earthbabies.co.za/proudly-south-african-does-it-matter/ http://blog.earthbabies.co.za/proudly-south-african-does-it-matter/#comments Thu, 24 Sep 2009 19:45:26 +0000 Sally http://blog.earthbabies.co.za/?p=342 How important is it to you as a South African consumer that products you buy are made in South Africa? Imports are often a lot cheaper but how much extra are people willing to pay to support industry in South Africa or is price the bottom line? These questions have been going around in my head as we once again face this dilemma ourselves as we source fabric for our nappies.

We try as far as possible to make Earth Babies as South African as possible and to support other businesses here in South Africa. It has not always been easy and especially with the fabric we use to make our nappies it has been hard to keep it local, but we did find a SA weaver and were proud that our nappies are made start to finish in SA. But even this might be a thing of the past soon as very few local weavers survive at the moment and most fabric is imported. Price and ultimately if these small weavers close might force us to import which is sad.

Please fill in our poll as I would love to see what motivates you when buying.




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