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The Play Table Packed with Possibilities
Harness the power of early learning with the Stokke® MuTable that grows and adapts just as quickly as your child’s imagination! Play isn’t just fun – it’s also the foundation of learning. A children’s play table gives little ones the perfect space to explore with both hands and minds. From building the MuTable Play House (which comes complete with dolls and toys) to tackling puzzles or inventing animal adventures with play dough, every activity sparks creativity, problem-solving, and growth. The MuTable is designed to grow with your child. It comes with three double-sided activity boards, each one offering new adventures and challenges as your little one develops. From quiet solo play to lively group fun, there’s something to spark curiosity at every stage: A wooden cover that flips to become a blackboard for doodles, scribbles, and first masterpieces A reversible landscape board featuring a peaceful nature setting on one side and a bustling city scene on the other A bricks board with surfaces for both small and large blocks, giving building projects endless possibilities The MuTable chairs are perfectly sized for little ones to sit comfortably while they draw, build, and create. Cleverly designed to grow with your child, the seat height can be adjusted as they get bigger. When it’s time for a change, simply remove the backrest and the chair transforms into a sturdy stool that can hold up to 100kg. Why a child’s play table is a game-changer A fun zone for kidsA child-sized play table and chair set creates a safe, comfortable space just for them. It encourages proper posture while giving little ones their very own place to play, build, and create. Nurtures creativityFrom drawing and painting to building towers or sculpting play-dough, a play table becomes the stage for endless adventures. With the MuTable’s colourful, tactile boards, your child can dive into imaginative worlds every day – saving the city, exploring nature, or inventing their own stories. Encourages independenceEasy access to their own table and chairs means children can jump into play whenever they choose. This sense of ownership helps build problem-solving skills, self-sufficiency, and confidence. Brings kids togetherA play table is also a hub for teamwork. Kids can play side by side, sharing space while still enjoying their own chair. This is perfect for collaboration, cooperation, and making memories. Made to lastCrafted from premium natural wood, the MuTable and chairs are built for years of use, backed by a 3-year warranty. Softly curved edges ensure safety, while the award-winning design blends seamlessly with any home. Grows with your childDesigned to adapt as your little one gets older, both the table and chairs come with leg extensions to raise the height as needed. The clever design means the MuTable keeps up with every stage of childhood.
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Dimples Highchair Buying Guide
Choosing the Right Highchair for Your Baby 🍽️ When it comes time to start solids, your baby deserves only the best. A good highchair should be safe, ergonomic, and built to last — not just through the puree phase, but right through toddlerhood and beyond. One key feature to look for? A footrest. It might seem minor, but it plays a big role in supporting healthy hip development. Paediatricians note that having stable foot support helps babies build motor skills, which leads to better eating, improved concentration, and less fidgeting at mealtimes (win-win). At Dimples, we offer a carefully chosen range of highchairs that are beautifully designed and built with your baby’s comfort in mind. Here are some of our favourites: Stokke Tripp Trapp A timeless classic that grows with your child. The Stokke Tripp Trapp is fully adjustable, with height and depth settings on both the seat and footrest, so you can tailor the fit as your little one grows. The Tripp Trapp has two attachments available (see more on these below), so you can use the chair from birth - all the way through to adulthood! Designed to sit right up at the table, the Tripp Trapp helps make mealtimes feel like a family occasion, right from the start. It comes in a beautiful range of colours to match any home. Age range: From birth with newborn set; from 6 months with the baby set Weight limit: Up to 136 kg Tripp Trapp Newborn Set Suitable from birth up to 9 kg, the Newborn Set lifts your baby up to table height and surrounds them in a soft, nest-like seat. With two adjustable angles, great leg support, and a secure five-point harness, it’s perfect for safe and cozy bonding during mealtimes or family chats. Age range: 0–6 months (approx.) Weight limit: 9 kg Tripp Trapp Baby Set Once baby is ready to start solids, the Baby Set provides the right amount of support with a high backrest and secure harness. Add the Tripp Trapp Tray and Cushion for a complete mealtime setup that’s both practical and stylish. The cushions come in a range of lovely patterns to complement your kitchen décor. Age range: From 6–36 months (when baby can sit unaided) Weight limit: Up to 15 kg Stokke Nomi Highchair Designed by the same creator as the Tripp Trapp, the Stokke Nomi brings a modern twist to ergonomic seating. Lightweight yet incredibly sturdy, this highchair supports your baby from newborn through to adulthood. The flowing design offers excellent freedom of movement and encourages active sitting — important for developing posture and coordination. The footrest is easily adjustable without tools, and the chair's curved edges and organic shape make it a standout in any dining space. Age range: From birth with the Nomi Baby Set; from 6 months as a highchair Weight limit: Up to 150 kg Stokke Clikk Highchair Minimalist, modern, and made to make life easier. The Stokke Clikk arrives in one compact box and clicks together in minutes — no tools required. It includes everything you need: seat, tray, footrest, and harness. The ergonomic design supports your baby’s hips and posture, and the tray is dishwasher-safe for fuss-free clean-up. Add the Clikk Cushion for extra comfort, or get the Travel Bag if you’re heading away. Light, durable, and practical — this one’s a winner for home or holidays. Age range: 6 months to 3 years Weight limit: Up to 15 kg Nuna Bryn Highchair Sleek, sturdy, and thoughtfully designed — the Nuna Bryn is all about making mealtimes smoother. This highchair features an easy-to-adjust recline, a secure five-point harness, and a smooth seat surface that wipes clean in seconds. The tray is removable so baby can be brought closer to the table. With its clean lines and high-end materials, the Bryn blends beautifully into any home. Age range: 6 months to approximately 3 years Weight limit: Up to 15 kg Find Your Perfect Fit at Dimples Whether you’re after a highchair that grows with your child, fits your décor, or travels easily, Dimples has a range of safe, stylish, and practical options to suit your family’s lifestyle. Shop online or visit us in-store — we’re here to help you find the perfect seat for your little one’s next stage.
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Tummy Time for Baby's Development
Tummy Time: Why It Matters (and How to Make It Easier) Tummy time is one of those things you hear about early on in parenthood - right up there with sleep routines, feeding cues, and learning to drink a hot cup of tea while it's still warm! It’s recommended for your baby’s development, but the reality is, many little ones aren’t too thrilled about it at first. The good news? There are ways to make it easier for both of you. Before we get into the tips and tricks, let’s take a quick look at what tummy time actually is, and why it matters so much. Why is tummy time important? When your baby spends time on their tummy (while awake and supervised), they’re doing more than just working those tiny muscles. Tummy time plays a key role in helping to: Strengthen their neck, shoulders, arms, and back Support healthy motor development (like lifting their head, rolling over, and eventually crawling) Prevent flat spots on the back of their head (also known as positional plagiocephaly) It’s also laying the groundwork for milestones down the track. Chiropractor Dr Ainslee explains that, “Research has confirmed that tummy time not only helps children meet gross motor milestones like crawling, walking, and jumping. It also supports their social, cognitive, and learning development later in life.” So, what counts as tummy time? Tummy time doesn’t always have to mean placing your baby directly on the floor. It’s any time your baby is tummy-down while they’re awake and being supervised. Dr Ainslee puts it beautifully - it’s about “handling a baby in a way that naturally facilitates the development of interactive head control.” That means there are lots of ways to fit tummy time into your daily routine - even in those early newborn weeks. Gentle ways to start tummy time If your baby isn’t loving tummy time just yet, that’s okay. Start small and keep it gentle. Chest-to-chest: One of the easiest and most comforting ways to begin. Lie back and place your baby tummy-down on your chest. Skin-to-skin adds even more benefits. Football hold: Hold your baby tummy-down along your forearm, with your hand supporting their tummy and your other hand under their head. Keep them close - this one’s great for newborns. Across your lap: Another simple option that gives your baby some tummy time and lets you sneak in a burp or a cuddle. Baby expert Dorothy Waide encourages parents to start early, even just for a few seconds at a time. “The sooner you start, the quicker baby will adapt. If you begin with short bursts after each nap, you’ll soon find your little one starts to enjoy it more and more.” Making tummy time fun Tummy time doesn’t have to feel like a chore - for either of you. The more engaging it is, the more likely your baby will stick with it (and enjoy it too!). Try: Getting down to their level: Lie on the floor beside them, chat, sing, or just keep them company. Using mirrors or books: A mirror or a high-contrast board book placed in front of your baby can be fascinating for those curious eyes. Sensory toys: Toys like this Farm Activity Playmat are designed to make tummy time more exciting. It includes a removable cushion, a flip-up mirror, a delightful 3D farm animal, a squeaker animal, a teething toy, and an array of textures to touch and feel, making it an ideal companion for endless fun and learning. Supportive gear that can help The Little Bee by Dimples Baby Lounger is a handy tool for tummy time. It’s designed with a gently raised end that gives your baby the right angle to strengthen their upper body muscles in a supported way. The flat end provides a comfy space for rest - so it’s a multitasker. The Doomoo Softy is another great tummy time option — especially for younger babies. Drape your little one over the soft cushion so their arms and chest rest on it. It gently raises their upper body, helping them lift their head and build strength without feeling too flat on the floor. Plus, it doubles as a comfy feeding or lounging cushion when tummy time’s done. The takeaway? You don’t have to do it all at once — and your baby doesn’t have to love it right away. Like most things in early parenthood, tummy time is a journey. Start slow, keep it playful, and know that every minute counts. If you’re looking for supportive products to make tummy time easier, explore our collection of sensory play mats, baby loungers, and purpose-designed tummy time toys. You've got this.
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Bath Time With Baby - The Essentials
Bath Time with Baby 🛁 Bath time can be one of the sweetest parts of your day with baby. The warmth of the water, the calm rhythm of washing, and the giggles that follow all help to build those special moments of connection. Most little ones love the gentle splash of bath time, but if your baby isn’t quite a fan at first, don’t worry – it can take time. 💧 There’s no need to bathe baby every day – on quieter days, a quick top and tail (hands, face, and bottom) is enough to keep them feeling fresh. But when it is bath night, having everything ready can make all the difference. We recommend setting out your essentials beforehand: baby soap, a gentle shampoo, a soft flannel, and post-bath must-haves like a fluffy towel, a nappy, and clean clothes. 👶 Skip the jewellery during bath time to avoid any accidental scratches. And always check the water temperature before placing baby in the bath. The Shnuggle Pebbly Bath Thermometer lights up to let you know when the water’s just right – no guesswork needed. If you don’t have one handy, test the water with the inside of your wrist – it should feel warm, not hot. 🌡️ 🎥 New to bathing your baby? Watch our step-by-step guide linked here for gentle techniques and safety tips to help you feel more confident. Here are a few of our favourite bath-time essentials to help you get started with confidence. Shnuggle Baby Bath The Shnuggle Bath is a game-changer. Suitable from newborn to around 12 months, it features a supportive bump to help prevent slipping and a comfy foam backrest to keep baby cosy. Plus, it’s compact enough to fit in most kitchen sinks and uses just two litres of water – win-win. 🛁 Shnuggle Bath Stand Pair your bath with the Shnuggle Folding Bath Stand to bring baby up to waist height. A great option for easing back strain and ideal if you're recovering from birth. Shnuggle Toddler Bath When your little one starts to outgrow their newborn bath, the Shnuggle Toddler Bath offers extra room to play while still supporting their growing body with a padded backrest and non-slip surface. It's compact enough to fit into most bathrooms. Stokke Flexi Bath Need a space-saving or travel-friendly option? The Stokke Flexi Bath folds flat and can be used from newborn to age four (or up to six with the Extra Large Flexi Bath). It even has a clever plug that changes colour if the water’s too hot or cold – keeping bath time safe and simple. Muslin Wash Cloths Muslin Washcloths are a must-have for those early newborn days. Their soft, breathable fabric is kind on delicate skin – just what you need for gentle washes and little clean-ups. Lightweight and quick to dry, they’re practical for everyday use and only get softer with each wash. Gentle shampoo and cleanser Scullys Baby Shampoo & Body Wash is a gentle 2-in-1 formula made with soothing natural ingredients like chamomile and lavender. It’s tear-free, calming, and kind on sensitive skin – perfect for your new little one’s daily wash. An easy, nourishing choice for bath time that both you and baby will love. At Dimples, we’ve curated the best options to make bath time not just practical, but joyful. Whether you’re bathing your newborn for the very first time or transitioning to toddler tub life, we’re here to help every step of the way. 🐣✨
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The Power of Gratitude
The Power of Gratitude Parenting can be incredibly rewarding – but let’s be honest, it’s also really hard. Becoming a mum changes almost every part of your life: your body, your routine, your social life, even your sense of self. And while dads may not go through the physical toll of pregnancy, birth or breastfeeding, they still feel the effects of broken sleep, lifestyle changes, and the loss of independence. When you’re deep in the trenches of early parenting, being told to “count your blessings” can feel irritating at best. But frustrating as it is, there’s some truth to it. Research shows that practising gratitude can genuinely boost your mental health – and even shift the way your brain works. The power of positive language You can’t just switch on feelings of gratitude like a light. Emotions don’t work that way. But you can start building habits that encourage a more grateful mindset. A study from the University of Indiana found that writing about things you feel thankful for – even small ones – can help rewire your thinking over time. Focusing on positive words and thoughts, whether through journaling or writing gratitude letters, helps nudge the brain away from negativity and towards contentment. If you’ve got time, jotting down a few lines in a journal can be helpful. But even if you’re juggling a million things, you can still give it a go – a scribbled post-it, a chalkboard note, or adding to a family gratitude jar are all simple ways to start. Some parents even use social media as their own mini gratitude log. Whatever method works for you, the key is to do it regularly. Over time, it really can make a difference. Gratitude takes practice People who practise gratitude tend to cope better with stress, feel more optimistic, and have greater self-esteem. That said, it’s probably not the gratitude alone that makes life feel easier – it’s the long-term shift in how they view the world. Gratitude isn’t a magic fix. The change happens slowly, as your brain gets used to noticing and appreciating the good. By practising now, even in small ways, you may find you’re better able to enjoy the everyday moments later on. That said, if you’re feeling low for an extended period, or struggling with sadness or anxiety, it’s important to reach out. A gratitude journal is lovely, but it’s not a substitute for professional help. Talk to your midwife or GP – they’re there to support you. Give it a try Gratitude doesn’t have to be another thing on your already long to-do list. And there’ll definitely be days where you won’t feel remotely thankful for the mountain of laundry or a toddler’s meltdown. But on the days you can, take a moment – maybe when they’re finally asleep – to notice what you do feel grateful for. It might just make the ride a little smoother.
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How to Care for Your Baby with a Cold
How to Care for Your Baby with a Cold 🤧🍼 A common cold is a viral infection – rarely serious, but often upsetting for both baby and parent. These colds can last from one to two weeks and are caused by a variety of viruses. While babies are born with some immunity, their immune systems take time to mature, making them more vulnerable in the early months. The best thing you can do is ease their symptoms and keep them as comfortable as possible while their body does the hard work. And remember – catching a cold helps strengthen their immunity over time. Common Cold Symptoms in Babies: What to Look For Symptoms of a cold usually appear about three days after exposure to the virus. You might notice: A stuffy or runny nose (often clear at first, then yellow or green) Sneezing A cough Fussiness or irritability Reduced appetite Trouble sleeping Mild fever General fatigue It’s always a good idea to check in with your GP, especially if your baby is under three months old or if you’re unsure about any symptoms. When your baby is unwell, offer plenty of extra love and cuddles 🤱🏼 Let them sleep when they need to, even if it's outside of their usual routine – rest is just as important as remedies when it comes to helping them heal. Natural Remedies to Help Relieve Baby’s Cold Because a cold is caused by a virus, antibiotics won’t help – but there are plenty of gentle remedies that can. If baby has a blocked or stuffy nose, saline drops can loosen mucus and make breathing easier. You should be able to get this at a good chemist. Pair this with a nasal aspirator to help clear their nose. At Dimples, we stock two great options: Oricom Rechargeable Nasal Aspirator – gentle, quiet, and super easy to use. It’s a popular choice for parents wanting something fuss-free and hygienic. NUK Nasal Decongester – simple and effective, designed to gently suction mucus without irritation. Best Humidifier for Babies with Congestion The Crane 3-in-1 Cool Mist Humidifier with Aroma Diffuser & Sleep Support Light can be such a help when your little one isn't feeling their best. The cool mist adds moisture to the air, helping to soothe stuffy noses, dry coughs, and delicate skin - making it a little easier for baby to rest and breathe. You can also add a few drops of baby-safe essential oils to the aroma diffuser for a comforting, calming atmosphere. And during those quiet overnight cuddles or feeds, the soft glow of the sleep light offers just the right amount of warmth and reassurance💛 The Best Chest Rub for Babies with a Cold 🌿 For natural relief, The Nude Alchemist Baby Chest Rub is a gentle balm made in New Zealand with certified organic ingredients. It can be applied to baby’s chest, back, or feet to help clear airways and promote a more restful sleep. A comforting must-have for cold season. When to See a Doctor About Your Baby’s Cold If your baby is under three months old and showing signs of a cold, always check in with your doctor. For older babies, trust your instincts – if symptoms worsen or you’re concerned, a quick visit can help rule out anything more serious and give you peace of mind.
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Tips & Tricks for Travelling with a Baby or Toddler
Travelling with Kids: Your Fun, Fuss-Free Guide Heading off on a family adventure? Travelling with little ones can be full of magical memories – but let’s be honest, the planning and packing can feel a bit overwhelming. We’ve put together some handy tips and a comprehensive checklist to help make your trip smoother (and a lot more fun!). 🏖️☀️ Before You Go: Planning Ahead Research your destination: Does your accommodation provide a cot, high chair, or other baby-friendly gear? Think about how you’ll get around too – will you need car seats or airport transfers? Book smart: When booking flights, don’t forget the extras. Request a bassinet if needed, look for seats with extra legroom, and pre-order kids’ meals. Check your airline’s baggage policy and what baby gear you can bring. Get your documents sorted: Make sure everyone’s passports are up to date (including baby’s – with at least 6 months’ validity). Don’t forget visas and any required immunisation records. Getting There: In-Flight Tips Arrive early: Give yourself extra time to get through the airport stress-free. Take advantage of priority boarding – it gives you a few bonus minutes to settle in before the crowd. Ears and altitude: Offer a bottle or breastfeed during takeoff and landing to ease pressure on their ears. A pacifier or sippy cup can also help. Keep boredom at bay: New toys or books they haven’t seen before can work wonders – try magnetic books, sticker books, or even a stack of post-it notes for endless sticking fun. Load up your device with baby-friendly apps or videos for those moments a toy just won't do. Snacks, snacks, snacks: Pack food you know they love – and plenty of it! Snacks can be both fuel and entertainment. Once You Arrive: Making the Most of the Holiday Stick (loosely) to routine: Keeping to familiar nap and mealtimes can help your little one adjust. But travel rarely goes perfectly to plan, so go with the flow where you can. Baby-proof your space: Once you get to your accommodation, do a quick scan of the room. Move anything hazardous out of reach so you can relax and enjoy your time away. Stay cool and sun-safe: Keep fluids up and protect sensitive skin with sunscreen, sunhats, and breezy clothing – especially in tropical destinations. Your Ultimate Packing Checklist (with links to products we love!) Important Documents: Passports and visas Luggage ID tags (don’t forget to label strollers and baby gear too) Travel insurance Carry-On Essentials: Nappies and wipes (pack more than you think you’ll need) Disposable change mats - super handy for when you're on the go Spare clothes for baby and you Swaddle or blanket Pacifier and a favourite cuddly toy Snacks and meals Bottles and formula (if needed) Baby-safe hand sanitiser - we love this one from Paume Toys and books Tablet with headphones Baby carrier for hands-free travel For older toddlers, consider the Jetkids Bedbox by Stokke – a ride-on suitcase that converts into an inflight bed! Baby Gear & Equipment: A compact travel stroller (like the YOYO) that fits in overhead lockers is a game-changer Travel cot if your accommodation doesn’t provide one – bonus as it doubles as a play space! For bigger kids, the Stokke Cloud Sleeper inflatable bed is a great option White noise machine - we love the Yogasleep Hushh Stroller fan for warm climates Insect nets for cot and pram Car seat – different countries have different rules, so it's very important to research ahead. We recommend the Maxi-Cosi Nomad for its light weight and compact size (suitable from approx. 15 months to 4 years) Portable blackout blinds for the room, or even a stroller shade to help with daytime naps Clothing & Accessories: Weather-appropriate clothes, including wet bags for damp items Sleep sacks (bring one your child is used to, and adjust for warmer/cooler climates) Sun protection – sun hats, sunglasses, and lightweight layers Feeding: Bottles or sippy cups Enough formula or food for the trip (plus some spares) Bibs, burp cloths, and baby-safe detergent Changing, Hygiene & Health: Nappies and wipes (pack for a few days, then restock locally) Sunscreen and insect repellent Baby-safe medication, thermometer, and first aid basics Travel-sized toiletries and nappy cream Once you’ve nailed your list, save a copy for next time. A notes app on your phone works perfectly! Bon voyage and happy travels with your mini adventurers! ❤️
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The Best Strollers for Travel: Lightweight & Convenient
Your Guide to Travel Strollers: Smooth Adventures With Baby in Tow Travelling with a baby or toddler can be a joy – but it definitely comes with its challenges. Whether you’re navigating airports, jumping on and off trains, or exploring city streets, having the right stroller can make all the difference. Why Choose a Travel Stroller? Everyday strollers tend to be packed with extra features that are great for everyday usage but can make them more bulky. When it comes to travel, compact and lightweight is the way to go. Travel strollers are designed to be easy to carry, fold, and store – perfect for life on the move. What to Look For Foldability: Look for a stroller that’s easy to fold – ideally one-handed. Weight: A lighter stroller is easier to lift into car boots, overhead lockers, or up stairs. Compact Size: Check the folded dimensions – the smaller, the better for travel. Portability: Is there a carry strap or handle? This makes a big difference on the go. Manoeuvrability: Smooth steering and good suspension can help you navigate tight spaces and bumpy pavements. Comfort: Reclining seats, padded cushions, and a sun canopy keep your little one happy on the move. Storage: A basket underneath for snacks, nappies, and must-haves is a handy bonus. Accessories: Travel bags, rain covers, and cup holders can all add extra convenience. Plane Travel Suitability: If you want to carry your stroller onboard, check the size. IATA (the International Air Transport Association) recommends 56 x 45 x 25 cm for carry-on, but rules can vary by airline and aircraft, so always double-check before you fly. You may also be able to use your stroller right up to the gate and have it stored in the hold – ask your airline in advance. Even strollers designed to fit in overhead lockers may need to be gate-checked on full flights. Our Top Picks for Travel Strollers STOKKE YOYO3Weight: 6.2 kg (6+ pack)Folded Size: 52 x 44 x 18 cmCar Seat Compatible: Yes The YOYO3 folds with one hand and opens in seconds – true to its name. Its compact size makes it a favourite for airline travel, and it’s compatible with a bassinet, newborn pack, or capsule. The slim frame and smooth steering are ideal for city life, and it’s customisable with colour/seat packs in a range of colours. It even has a padded shoulder strap so you can carry it hands-free. Perfect for: Urban adventures and families who travel often. NUNA TRVL LX Weight: 7 kgFolded Size: 72 x 52 x 35 cmCar Seat Compatible: Yes With its push-button self-fold, the Nuna TRVL is great for multitasking parents. All-wheel suspension, a reclining padded seat, and a large canopy offer serious comfort, while the MagneTech Secure Snap™ harness makes buckling up easy. It also includes a rain cover and travel bag. Perfect for: Those who want a high-end, luxurious stroller with all the comfort of a full-size model. (Just note it may be too large for carry-on.) The TRVL Dubl is now available too. Glide through doorways and navigate narrow spaces with Nuna’s first side-by-side double. Edwards & Co OttoWeight: 7.3 kgFolded Size: 54 x 50 x 32 cmCar Seat Compatible: No The Otto folds with one hand and lies flat, making it newborn-ready straight out of the box. It’s compact enough for most overhead compartments (excluding NZ’s small regional planes) and includes a generous canopy and travel bag. Perfect for: Families looking for a lightweight, compact travel stroller that won’t break the bank. Finding Your Fit Each stroller has its own strengths, so the right one depends on your travel style, lifestyle, and budget. If you’re not sure, pop into a Dimples store and take them for a test drive – our team is happy to help. Happy travels!
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Beginning your baby on solid foods
Starting Solids: A New Chapter in Your Baby’s Feeding Journey 🥄 Introducing your baby to solids is an exciting milestone for both of you! It’s a time for new tastes, textures, and the inevitable messes that come with it. But as your baby reaches the six-month mark, it’s time to introduce them to new foods to complement their milk diet. For the first six months, your baby relies on iron stores from the womb and breast milk or formula. But as those iron stores begin to deplete, solids are needed to boost their nutrition. It’s recommended to continue breastfeeding or bottle-feeding alongside solids until your baby is 12 months old. Solids at this stage complement, rather than replace, their milk feeds. You can also start offering small amounts of water after six months, either in a sippy cup or with meals, to help your baby stay hydrated as they transition to solids. Signs Your Baby Might Be Ready for Solids Here are some signs to watch for that indicate your little one is ready to start eating solids: They seem hungry after milk feeds Can sit up with support and hold their head steady Show interest in your food, possibly reaching out or opening their mouth Make chewing motions when they see food Open their mouth when a spoon comes near Baby’s First Taste: Making Mealtimes Memorable 💛 Starting solids can be an exciting and slightly messy adventure! You can begin with simple, iron-rich foods to complement their milk diet, such as: Iron-fortified rice cereal mixed with breast milk or formula Purées of cooked vegetables like pumpkin, kūmara, or carrot Mashed avocado – easy to prepare and great for baby’s first tastes Purée of cooked apple or pear – mild, easy-to-digest options Purée of cooked chicken or beef – an excellent way to introduce iron A fantastic way to offer baby their first tastes is with the b.box Silicone Fresh Food Feeder. Simply pop in soft fruits or steamed vegetables, and let baby explore with a self-feeding method that doubles as teething relief. Make Mealtimes Easier with the Right Tools The right tools can make the journey into solids so much easier – and a little less messy! The Zazi Clever Spoon Set is designed for tiny hands, and paired with the Clever Bowl with Lid, they're perfect for portioning, feeding, and storing leftovers. The b.box Roll + Go Mealtime Mat keeps the mess contained, while the classic Mum2Mum Wonder Bib or the Mum2Mum Sleeved Wonder Bib makes sure your baby’s outfit stays clean, even on the messiest of days. After all, less laundry means more cuddle time! Moving to Mash As your baby approaches seven months, they’ll likely be ready to try foods with a thicker consistency. Offer them mashed or fork-mashed foods like ripe banana, avocado, small pasta pieces, or cooked egg. These textures are easy for your baby to swallow and great for practicing chewing. At this stage, avoid harder lumps like whole peas, which can pose a choking risk. Embracing Independence Around 8 Months Around eight months, your baby may begin showing an interest in feeding themselves. They may grab the spoon and try to feed themselves – it’s messy, but it’s also a great opportunity for developing their hand-eye coordination. Give them a chance to explore, but always stay close by to offer a helping hand (and a napkin)! We’re Here to Help At Dimples, we know starting solids can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re always here to support you with expert advice and product recommendations. Visit us in-store or contact our friendly team for any questions – we’ve got everything you need to make this adventure as fun and easy as possible.
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