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Being a mum is an extraordinary journey that comes with its own set of challenges and joys. While every mother is unique, there are some universal parenting tips that can make the journey a little smoother and more enjoyable. In this article, we will explore some gentle parenting tips made for mums to help with navigating the joys and complexities of motherhood with confidence and ease. Remember that every motherhood journey is different and ultimately you do what works best for you and your baby. Prioritise Self-Care Motherhood is a demanding role that often leaves little time for oneself. However, it is crucial for mums to prioritise self-care. Taking care of your physical and mental well-being will not only benefit you but also positively influence your parenting abilities. Build a Support System Parenting is a collaborative effort, and having a strong support system can make all the difference. Connect with other mums, join parenting groups, or seek advice from experienced parents. A supportive network can provide guidance, understanding, and a sense of community. Embrace Imperfections No one is a perfect parent, and that's okay. Embrace your imperfections and learn from things that maybe didn't go to plan. Remember that making mistakes is a part of the learning process, and it is through these experiences that you grow as a mother. Be Present In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in distractions. Being present with your children is essential for building a strong bond and understanding their needs. Put away your phone and engage in meaningful conversations and activities with your little ones. Foster Independence As mums, we want to protect and care for our children, but fostering independence is equally important. Encourage your children to take on age-appropriate responsibilities and make decisions. This will build their confidence and self-reliance. Set Boundaries with Love Setting boundaries is necessary for children to understand discipline and respect. However, it's essential to establish these boundaries with love and compassion. Communicate the reasons behind rules and provide gentle guidance. Practice Positive Discipline Discipline does not have to be synonymous with punishment. Positive discipline involves focusing on teaching, guiding, and redirecting behaviour rather than resorting to harsh consequences. This approach fosters a healthy parent-child relationship built on trust and understanding. Be a Role Model Children learn by observing their parents. Be the role model you want your children to emulate. Demonstrate values such as kindness, empathy, and perseverance, and your children are more likely to adopt these qualities. Make Time for Play Playtime is not just fun; it's essential for a child's development. Engage in imaginative play, physical activities, and creative pursuits with your kids. Playtime allows you to bond and create lasting memories together. Limit Screen Time In today's digital age, it's crucial to limit screen time for both children and parents. Excessive screen exposure can hinder social development and disrupt quality family time. Set boundaries and encourage alternative activities. Read Together Reading is a fantastic way to bond with your children and stimulate their imagination. Make it a habit to read together regularly, and discuss the stories to encourage comprehension and critical thinking. Encourage Open Communication Create a safe and open environment where your children feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and feelings. Listen actively, without judgment, and validate their emotions. This fosters trust and strengthens your relationship. Practice Mindful Parenting Mindful parenting involves being fully present and non-judgmental, even in challenging situations. Take a moment to pause, breathe, and respond thoughtfully rather than reacting impulsively. Mindfulness can help reduce stress and enhance your parenting experience. Celebrate Achievements Celebrate your children's achievements, no matter how small. Recognising their efforts and accomplishments boosts their self-esteem and motivates them to continue striving for success. Create Family Rituals Family rituals provide a sense of stability and security. Establish traditions, such as weekly game nights or Sunday brunches, that everyone looks forward to and cherishes. Motherhood is a beautiful journey filled with highs and lows. By prioritising self-care, building a support system, and embracing imperfections, mums can navigate this adventure with confidence. Fostering independence, practicing positive discipline, and being role models lay the foundation for raising well-rounded individuals. Making time for play, limiting screen time, and encouraging open communication enhance family dynamics. Mindful parenting, celebrating achievements, and creating family rituals all contribute to nurturing a loving and harmonious home.

"Hi! Do you have any recommendations for a natural laundry detergent I can use to wash my babies clothes with? He's got very sensitive skin and I want to try something more natural? Thanks." Yes we do! We had the exact same thing with our little one, he had very sensitive skin and when we changed the laundry detergent we were using on his clothes it made a huge difference! We've actually sticked with the same brand since our son was a few months old and he's now almost 3. We highly recommend trying Bambino Mio Baby Washing Powder. A little about Bambino Mio's Baby Washing Powder taken from their website: GENTLE - Bambino Mio's natural washing powder is designed to be kinder to your baby’s delicate skin and the environment too. Perfect for use with reusable nappies, clothing, bedding and more. FREE FROM NASTIES - 100% gentle – free from nasties such as dyes, enzymes, optical brighteners and perfumes. VEGAN FRIENDLY - natural and non-biological (enzyme free), made from plant and mineral based ingredients. BIODEGRADABLE – helping preserve our environment. Effective washing at low temperatures. BAMBINO MIO – A money-saving, planet-friendly choice! Let us know what you think!

We get so many questions from our Community about sex after having a baby, feeling like it isn't spoken about enough, the anxieties surrounding it and mums wanting to open the conversation up, and we couldn't agree more! We would always suggest speaking to your midwife and/or GP around any concerns you may have about when to have sex again post birth and it will be different for every mum! Questions that we get asked regularly are around wanting to 'spice things up' a little more, not feeling the same way towards sex as before little one arrived and how to get back to the excitement that sex was before. With that said, we are delighted to introduce you to The Oh Collective, a taboo-breaking sexual wellness company who have dreamed up a fresh collection of sexual wellness products, created with sexologists and The Oh Collective's community, and a series of inclusive and educational experiences to help more people reclaim sexual pleasure and inspire others to embrace sexual wellness. The Oh Collective collaborates with sexologists, sex educators, and their community to develop products that bring fun and pleasure into the bedroom without the taboo and shame. Some of our favourite products by The Oh Collective are the two massage oil candle sets, "Rub Me Tender" and "Turn Me On", inspired by the inner call to slow down, enjoy the present, and introduce more relaxation to our intimate lives. Confronting a digital world, the sets invite singles and partners to explore the benefits of touch, which is proven to help reduce stress, increase intimacy, boost moods, enhance communication, and improve overall physical health. Both sets include a low-temperature natural soy and coconut wax candle and a complementary white opal stone gua sha body massager which we can't get enough of! ● Rub Me Tender Candle: Made with orange and lavender essential oils that help relax the body and spark a sensation of arousal ● Turn Me On Candle: Made with bergamot and vetiver essential oils that uplift and set the mood for a romantic evening The Massage Oil Candle Sets help to set the mood and introduce relaxation to your evening which can help with slowing down and intimacy. We would recommend giving them a try and let us know what you think! The Oh Collective are offering the Carol Community an exclusive 10% off when you spend a minimum of €30 with code CAROL .

The journey of motherhood has just begun, and we at Carol App are here to be your unwavering support and trusted guide. As you embark on this transformative phase of postpartum and motherhood, we understand the joys, challenges, and uncertainties that lie ahead. With our reliable and empowering resources, we aim to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to embrace this new chapter. Embracing the Postpartum Period The postpartum period is a time of immense change and adjustment, both physically and emotionally. As your body heals and you adapt to your new role as a mother, it's crucial to embrace this time with self-compassion and patience. Carol App is here to provide you with a wealth of information about postpartum care, recovery, and mental well-being, empowering you to prioritise your needs while nurturing your little one. The Realities of Motherhood: Finding Balance Motherhood is a beautiful journey, but it also comes with its share of challenges. Balancing the demands of parenthood, relationships, and personal aspirations can be overwhelming. With Carol App, we'll share practical tips and strategies for finding harmony in your new role, reminding you that you are not alone and that it's okay to ask for help when needed. Self-Care for Supermums As a new mum, it's easy to forget about self-care amidst the busyness of motherhood. However, taking care of yourself is crucial for your well-being and your ability to care for your little one. Carol App believes in the power of self-care and will empower you with simple yet effective ways to nourish your mind, body, and soul, so you can be the best version of yourself for your baby. Nurturing Your Growing Baby As your baby grows, so will your curiosity about their development. With Carol App's hand picked expert guidance, you'll gain insights into your baby's milestones and growth patterns, enabling you to create a nurturing environment that encourages their full potential. From tummy time to first words, we'll be by your side to celebrate each precious moment. The Power of Connection: Building a Support Network Motherhood can sometimes feel like an isolated journey, but it doesn't have to be. Carol App encourages you to embrace the power of connection by fostering meaningful relationships with other mums. Our community is a safe space where you can share experiences, offer support, and find camaraderie with those who understand your joys and challenges. Handling the Highs and Lows: Navigating Emotions The emotional rollercoaster of motherhood is natural and unique to every mum. Carol App recognises the significance of mental well-being during this time and will empower you with coping strategies to navigate the highs and lows. Remember, it's okay to experience a range of emotions, and seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Celebrating You: Embracing the Joys of Motherhood Amidst the responsibilities and challenges, it's crucial to celebrate the joys of motherhood. Carol App encourages you to cherish the precious moments, embrace your growth as a mother, and find gratitude in the little things. Your journey is extraordinary, and we are honoured to be a part of it. At Carol App, our mission is to empower new mums like you with reliable information and unwavering support as you navigate the beautiful path of postpartum and motherhood. We believe in the strength and resilience of every mother and are committed to providing you with the resources you need to thrive in this transformative phase. Remember, you are not alone, and with Carol App by your side, you have a dedicated companion throughout your journey. Embrace the joys, overcome the challenges, and celebrate the wonders of being a new mum with the empowering guidance of Carol App. You've got this!

Congratulations on starting the exciting journey of weaning with your little one! The first month of weaning is an essential and gentle introduction to solid foods. As you begin this new chapter, it's crucial to take it one step at a time and allow your baby to adjust to the new tastes and textures. This is a structure that worked for us when we started weaning our little ones. Remember, every baby is unique, and this plan is meant to be flexible, accommodating your baby's preferences and developmental readiness Week 1: Introduction to Purees During the first week of weaning, focus on introducing smooth, single-ingredient purees to your baby. Opt for mild and easily digestible foods such as: 1. Pureed Apple: Steam or boil apple slices until soft and then mash or blend them into a smooth puree. 2. Mashed Banana: Mash a ripe banana until smooth and offer it to your baby. Start by offering a small spoonful of puree after one of your baby's usual milk feeds. Observe your baby's reactions and cues, such as tongue movements or eagerness for more, to gauge their readiness. Week 2: Introducing Vegetables In the second week, continue offering single-ingredient purees, but this time, introduce vegetables to expand your baby's palate. Some suitable options include: 1. Pureed Carrot: Steam or boil carrot slices until soft, then blend or mash them into a smooth texture. 2. Mashed Sweet Potato: Cook sweet potato until tender, then mash it until smooth and creamy. Alternate between fruit and vegetable purees to expose your baby to different tastes. Keep in mind that your baby may only consume a small amount at this stage, as their main source of nutrition is still breast milk or formula. Week 3: Mixing Fruits and Vegetables As your baby becomes more accustomed to the taste of purees, you can start mixing fruits and vegetables to create new flavours. Some combinations to try are: 1. Apple and Pear Puree: Combine steamed or boiled apple and pear slices and blend them into a smooth mixture. 2. Carrot and Potato Puree: Blend or mash cooked carrot and potato together for a tasty blend. Introduce one mixed puree at a time, allowing your baby to adjust to the new flavours and textures. Week 4: Introducing Soft Finger Foods Towards the end of the first month, you can begin introducing soft finger foods to encourage self-feeding and improve hand-eye coordination. Some suitable options include: 1. Soft Cooked Broccoli Florets: Steam or boil broccoli until tender and cut them into small, baby-friendly pieces. 2. Ripe Avocado: Offer small, ripe avocado slices that your baby can pick up and explore. Always supervise your baby closely during this stage, as they may still be learning how to manage solid foods. Tips for Successful Weaning 1. Follow your baby's cues: Pay attention to your baby's signals of hunger and fullness, and let them guide their eating pace. 2. Be patient: Some babies may take longer to accept new tastes and textures, and that's completely normal. Be patient and try again later if they refuse initially. 3. Offer water: Begin offering sips of water from a sippy cup or open cup to complement their solid food intake. Remember that weaning is a gradual process, and it's essential to continue providing breast milk or formula as your baby's primary source of nutrition. As you progress through the weaning journey, observe your baby's development and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or questions. Wishing you a joyful and empowering weaning experience with your little one!

Introduction Becoming a mother is a beautiful and transformative journey, but it can also be overwhelming and challenging, especially for new mums. The complexities of motherhood can leave new mothers feeling lost and unsure of themselves. However, with the right guidance and support, this journey can be more manageable and rewarding. In this guide, we will unravel the joys and struggles of motherhood, providing valuable insights and tips for new mums to find their way with confidence. Embracing the New Identity Embracing Motherhood: A New Beginning The first step in finding your way as a new mum is to embrace your new identity wholeheartedly. Acknowledge that being a mother is a profound change in your life, and it's okay to feel a mix of emotions, including joy, fear, and even uncertainty. Remember that every mother's journey is unique, and it's essential to allow yourself the time and space to adapt to this new role. Embracing Self-Care: Nurturing Yourself As a new mum, taking care of yourself is crucial for your well-being and the well-being of your baby. Make self-care a priority, whether it's taking short breaks, engaging in hobbies you love, or seeking support from friends and family. Remember, a happy and healthy mum is better equipped to handle the challenges of motherhood. The Balancing Act: Nurturing Your Baby and Yourself Finding Balance: Prioritizing Responsibilities One of the most significant challenges for new mums is finding a balance between caring for their baby and themselves. Establishing a routine that incorporates both baby care and self-care is essential. Seek help when needed, and remember that you don't have to do it all on your own. Bonding with Your Baby: The Power of Connection Bonding with your baby is a beautiful and essential aspect of motherhood. Create special moments with your little one through cuddling, talking, and playing. The stronger the bond, the more secure and loved your baby will feel. Overcoming Challenges: Facing the Unexpected Dealing with Sleep Deprivation: Rest for You and Your Baby Sleep deprivation is common in the early stages of motherhood. Ensure that you rest when the baby sleeps and consider sharing nighttime duties with your partner. Adequate rest is vital for both you and your baby's health. Asking for Help: You Don't Have to Do It Alone As a new mum, it's natural to want to handle everything independently. However, don't hesitate to ask for help from your partner, family, or friends. Accepting support can make a significant difference in your well-being and confidence as a new mother. Embracing the Journey: Celebrating Milestones Cherishing the Moments: Creating Memories Time flies, and your baby will grow faster than you can imagine. Take the time to capture and cherish these precious moments through photographs, videos, or journaling. Creating memories will allow you to reflect on this beautiful journey in the years to come. Celebrating Milestones: Your Baby's Firsts Each milestone your baby achieves is a cause for celebration. Whether it's the first smile, first word, or first step, be there to witness and celebrate these magical moments. They are a testament to your baby's growth and development. Conclusion Motherhood is an incredible and transformative experience that every new mum embarks on with equal parts excitement and apprehension. Embracing this new identity and finding a balance between caring for your baby and yourself is a journey filled with ups and downs. Remember that it's okay to seek help, take care of yourself, and celebrate every milestone along the way. FAQs Q1: How can I overcome the challenges of sleep deprivation? A1: To overcome sleep deprivation, try to rest when your baby sleeps, and don't hesitate to ask for help from your partner, family, or friends. Q2: How can I create lasting memories of my baby's early days? A2: You can create lasting memories by capturing moments through photographs, videos, or journaling. Q3: Is it normal to feel overwhelmed as a new mum? A3: Yes, feeling overwhelmed is entirely normal as a new mum. Give yourself time to adapt to this new role and seek support when needed. Q4: How can I find a balance between baby care and self-care? A4: Finding balance requires establishing a routine that incorporates both baby care and self-care. Don't be afraid to ask for help and prioritize your well-being. Q5: What is the significance of bonding with my baby? A5: Bonding with your baby creates a strong emotional connection, making them feel secure and loved, which is crucial for their overall development.

As a new, first-time mum, you may be feeling a mix of excitement, joy, and even some uncertainty. It's completely normal to have questions and seek support during this transformative time. That's why finding your community is crucial—it's like having a support system by your side, providing guidance, understanding, and encouragement. In this article, we'll explore the importance of finding your community as a new mum and how the Carol App can be your companion in building a strong network of support. Embracing the Power of Connection: Becoming a mother is a life-altering experience, and connecting with other mums who are going through or have gone through similar journeys can be incredibly empowering. Finding your community allows you to share your joys, concerns, and challenges, knowing that you're not alone in your experiences. It provides a space to seek advice, share wisdom, and form lifelong friendships with those who truly understand what you're going through. Supportive Environment for Emotional Well-being: Motherhood can bring about a whirlwind of emotions, from overwhelming love to occasional doubts and moments of exhaustion. Having a supportive community can be a lifeline for your emotional well-being. Sharing your triumphs and struggles with other mums who genuinely care can provide comfort, reassurance, and a safe space to express your feelings without judgment. The Carol App creates an inclusive and nurturing environment where you can find the understanding and empathy you need. Shared Knowledge and Learning: One of the most valuable aspects of a community is the opportunity to learn from others' experiences. Each mum brings her unique insights, tips, and expertise, creating a rich tapestry of shared knowledge. Whether it's advice on breastfeeding, sleep routines, or postpartum self-care, the Carol App allows you to tap into a wealth of information and learn from a diverse group of mums who have been through it all. Building Lasting Friendships: Motherhood can sometimes feel isolating, especially in the early days when you're adjusting to the demands of caring for your little one. Building friendships within your community can be a game-changer. The Carol App helps you connect with like-minded mums who share your interests, values, and even live in your area. You can arrange playdates, meetups, or simply chat online, forging meaningful connections that go beyond parenting and extend to lifelong friendships. The Carol App: Your Companion in Building Your Community: Introducing the Carol App—a dedicated platform designed to connect new mums and foster a strong sense of community. With its user-friendly interface and nurturing environment, Carol provides a virtual space where you can engage with other mums, join support groups, access valuable resources, and even seek expert advice from hand-picked resources. From pregnancy to the early years of motherhood, the Carol App is your reliable companion, ensuring that you never feel alone on this beautiful yet challenging journey. Remember that you're not alone on this incredible path of motherhood. By finding your community, you gain the support, understanding, and friendships that can make all the difference. Embrace the power of connection, share your experiences, and draw inspiration from the strength of other mums. And with the Carol App, building your community is just a few clicks away. Download the app today and embark on this wonderful journey of motherhood with a network of incredible mums by your side. Together, we can navigate the joys and challenges of motherhood and create a thriving community of empowered mums. Welcome to the Carol family!

"Mums, can you share any tips for toddler naps? My son is just 2 and refusing his nap! Thanks" Our son also started refusing his nap at 2 years old as well. When he started doing this, we started to give him the two hours every afternoon to have time to himself in his room to either play or sleep. What we found was he would play for a little bit and then he started falling to sleep after 30 minutes or so! From our experience, giving him this space to decide for himself whether he wanted to have a nap and if he wanted to play for a little first. We also noticed a huge developmental milestone at around 2 and this definitely affected his sleep for a few weeks! Another tip that we found helpful during the nap refusal stage was staying consistent as often as we could - when we were home we would consistently put him in his room after lunch and he started to get familiar with the routine. We also found that his naps did continue when we were out and he was in the pram, although this wasn't always going to work if the weather was terrible and we were at home, but as the weather got brighter and warmer he did consistently nap when he was in the pram for the 2 hours and I was walking with him - also a great excuse to get your favourite podcast on and have a little 'you time'! Every child is different though so definitely try different options and feel what works best for you. It might be that your little one has a nap every other day or every day, and it could also vary from week to week!

"I'm 30 weeks and my friends have said that I need to make a birth plan, what is it? Do I need to do one?" At Carol, we prefer to refer to use the term 'Birth Preferences' over the term 'birth plan' because you never really know how your birth will go and it also takes the pressure off you if things were to move in a different direction during birth and 'falling off the plan' as opposed to having birth preferences which are more 'would rathers' and allow for more flexibility. Whether you want to create birth preferences is ultimately up to you or not, some of us at Carol did write down our birth preferences, and some of us chose not to - it's totally up to you! Birth Preferences are a straight forward way to explain to your health care team what kind of labour you would prefer, what you would like an ideal outcome of certain scenarios to be and what you would rather avoid. Birth is entirely personal and so your preferences are likely to be be entirely different to others - it depends on a number of factors including your medical history, what you want and what the options are available to you at the maternity service you will be using. We would recommend speaking to your midwife about any questions you have about your birth preferences, and can help you create yours if you would like guidance. There are some great free templates available online that you may find useful: Positive Birth Company Birth Preferences Template NHS Birth Plan Template You can write your birth preferences on a piece of paper, they don't need to be on a specific template, but these do give good pointers about what to talk to when writing them.

"My daughter is just 3 months and we are wanting to start getting her into some kind of bedtime routine. Is there a routine you followed and would suggest? Or any tips on how to start with a bedtime routine?" Every baby is different and so their routines will likely differentiate too. However, we did start to implement a loose bedtime routine when our little ones were 3 months old too, to help their own circadian rhythm - we also found that 3 months was when we could start to see a little more predictability with their naps and morning wake ups. We also found that making sure we got outside with our babies every day into natural light really helped with their naps and their nighttime sleep too - just something to note! In terms of a bedtime routine, the most important thing is to try make sure you do the same thing every night for consistency in order to implement the routine. Something that we were conscious of before starting to introduce our bedtime routine was babies wake window before bed time. As a general rule of thumb, and this can absolutely vary from baby to baby, but by 3 months with our babies, we aimed for the wake window before bedtime to be between 90-120 minutes to make sure our little ones don't get overtired before bed and are also tired enough to fall asleep when they head to bed! Generally, we aim for a bedtime between 7-8pm, (and still do for our toddlers!), but for when baby was 3 months, we tried to ensure that the last nap of the day was done by 5.45pm at the latest as often as we could. For the pre-bed routine, we kept it as simple as we could and it looked something like this - - Bath (every other night) - PJ's / nappy - Bottle & Burp - Sleepsuit - White Noise Machine - Bed

"I know I won't be alone in this but it still feels tough, do you have any tips for returning to work following mat leave? I'm due to go back in May and my son will be 10 months. I'm really quite nervous." You are absolutely not alone in this. Returning to work following maternity leave can feel really daunting, especially after such a huge life change and becoming a mama! Here are some of our tips for returning back to work following maternity leave and some tips that other mums have shared with us too. Starting childcare when you head back to work can be tough and the first few days may seem overwhelming, but once you and your little one are in the routine it does get easier. We've been there. Our top tip is preparation. Try to prep everything the night before - get your clothes for work ready, have your babies clothes out ready, bottles/snacks ready - try to make your life as easy as possible for the mornings so it's a lot less stressful. Alongside this, trying to wake up a little earlier than usual can help with creating a more relaxing morning before you head off to work and allow you some 'you-time' before your baby is up and it's full steam ahead! We would recommend taking a spare top to work with you if you are pumping at work incase there are any spillages! Make sure to pack a small cooler bag if you are pumping at work to transport your breast milk home safely. When you head back to the office, try to take it easy and don't be too hard on yourself, you've just been through a huge life transition and will likely need some time to readjust to the new routine as well as get back into work mode - speaking to your colleagues and manager about this can be helpful so they know how you feel. Don't be afraid to ask for flexibility/accommodations to help you in your work and family life if that's something you have been thinking about. If you're pumping at work, some tips that worked for us was time blocking in your calendar for you to pump - if you can have a pump at work and at home this can make life easier and means you won't leave your pump at home and vice-versa! Hands free pumps can be great for at work as they are discreet and you can sit at your desk comfortably and pump whilst finishing off any work if you're in the middle of something and need to pump.