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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. Or a sling carrier for bigger kids 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 The right Approach for Your Baby There are different ways to approach weaning. Spoon-feeding (offering purées or mashed foods), Baby-led weaning with finger food or a combination of both. There is no one "perfect" approach. The best method is the one that feels safe, enjoyable, and sustainable for your family. This book by Annabel Karmel is a great resource, filled with advice and recipes.. What matters most is offering nutritious foods (including iron-rich options), sharing pressure-free, positive mealtime experiences and supervising baby around food. With patience, consistency, and a little flexibility, you'll be helping your baby build a lifelong healthy relationship with food. 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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All about Baby Wearing – Finding the Right Baby Carrier for you
All About Babywearing: Finding the Right Fit for You and Baby 👶 Babywearing is a beautiful way to stay connected with your little one while keeping your hands free for everyday life. Whether you're folding washing, grabbing groceries, or just enjoying a walk, having your baby close can offer comfort, ease, and reassurance for you both 🤱. Carriers are designed to support your baby while reducing the strain on your arms and back. They also help foster that deep bond in those early months – especially when your baby simply wants to be held close. For breastfeeding parents, babywearing can also offer a practical way to nurse on the go. It may take a little practice at first, but with some patience, it can become second nature – a gentle rhythm of feeding and cuddling, all while moving through your day. Safety First: Babywearing with Confidence Wearing your baby safely is the most important part. You should always be able to see your baby’s face, and they should be positioned so their hips are spread in the “M” position, with knees higher than their bottom. To help guide safe babywearing, keep the T.I.C.K.S. rule in mind: Tight In view at all times Close enough to kiss 😘 Keep chin off the chest Supported back These five simple points help ensure baby is secure, well-positioned, and comfortable in any carrier. Carrier Options at Dimples At Dimples, we stock a thoughtfully chosen range of baby carriers to suit different lifestyles, preferences, and parenting styles. Whether you’re looking for a soft wrap for newborn snuggles or a structured carrier for extra support, our team can help find the right fit for you. Nuna CUDL Clik The Nuna CUDL Clik is designed to make babywearing feel natural and easy – right from day one. With four magnetic buckles, it’s quick to put on and adjust, even if you’re flying solo. The breathable mesh keeps you and baby cool, while padded shoulder and waist straps offer extra support for longer days on the go. Suitable from newborn up to 16kg, the CUDL Clik offers four carry positions and ergonomic support to encourage healthy hip development. Crafted with OEKO-TEX® certified fabric, it’s soft, safe, and gentle against baby’s skin. Ergobaby Omni Deluxe The Ergobaby Omni Deluxe is a great option if you're after a versatile, all-in-one carrier. It supports newborns through to toddlers (up to 20.4kg), with four carry positions including front and back. With padded, adjustable shoulder straps (which can be worn crossed or straight), this carrier is designed with your comfort in mind too. It’s recognised by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute for its ergonomic design, and is available in soft, breathable mesh or classic cotton fabrics. Boba Wrap For those early days, the Boba Wrap Carrier offers a wonderfully cosy and supportive option. Made from soft, stretchy fabric, this wrap moulds gently to your baby’s shape while giving you the freedom to move. It’s ideal for newborn cuddles, and with a one-size-fits-most design, it’s simple to learn and easy to wear 🤍. Try Before You Buy at our Dimples store Choosing the right carrier is a personal decision, and it's important to find one that works for both you and baby. At our Dimples stores in Auckland and Christchurch, all of our carriers are on display and ready to try. Our experienced team will be there to help guide you through the options, show you how each carrier fits, and answer any questions you might have about babywearing. We’re here to support you – every step of the way 💛
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Formula and bottle-feeding tips for new parents
Everything you need to know about bottle feeding During the first year, your baby goes through a great deal of growth and development. Most babies triple their birth weight by the time they hit their first birthday – so it’s no wonder they need lots of energy to grow! While it’s widely acknowledged that ‘breast is best’, choosing how you feed your baby is an important and completely personal decision. For some women, personal circumstance, cultural beliefs and physical or mental wellbeing mean breastfeeding isn’t an option, and therefore a safe alternative is required. If you’ve decided to bottle-feed (if you’re thinking about it, speak with your midwife, doctor or nurse first), it’s vital to have clear and well-informed information on the safe preparation and use of formula. Here’s what you need to know about formula-feeding your wee one: About baby formula Most formula is made from modified cow’s or goat's milk so the protein level isn’t too high and babies can digest it. Unlike regular milk, formula has added minerals, vitamins, and fats essential for human growth and development, and when prepared correctly, it contains enough nutrients for healthy growth in babies. In New Zealand, there are strict manufacturing regulations in place to make sure that the formula in your local supermarket is always of good quality and safe for your baby. But that doesn’t make the baby aisle any less overwhelming. Here’s a quick breakdown of the kinds of formula you can buy: Cow’s-milk formula Most cow’s-milk formulas sold in New Zealand have a similar nutritional profile – so price doesn’t necessarily mean one is better than another. Casein and whey are the proteins in breastmilk, and cow’s-milk formula has the same proteins. It will either have more casein or more whey – you can find the percentage of each noted on the formula’s ingredient label. Key points: Your baby’s first formula should contain whey as the main type of protein, as it’s the easiest to digest. Some formulas will be labelled ‘follow-on’ or ‘step 2’ – these are casein-dominant formulas best suited for babies aged six months and over. They’re also designed for hungrier babies who are not yet old enough to start solid food. Your baby can stay on the first formula for 12 months and as you start to introduce solids. If your child isn’t reacting well to cow’s-milk formula and you suspect an allergy, it’s best to seek advice from a healthcare professional who can advise you on alternative types of formula. Goat’s-milk formula This type of formula also contains whey and casein proteins, but the casein protein is slightly different from that in cow’s milk. It contains beta-casein (rather than alpha-casein) which is more easily digestible. Again, you can find the protein ratios outlined on the nutritional label. Soy infant formula Made using soya beans as a source of protein, soy infant formula is a vegetarian option. It’s best to seek advice from a healthcare professional before switching to the soy alternative. Gold formula Gold formula contains extra ingredients which aren’t strictly necessary for your baby – but may be beneficial. Here we explain a few: Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs). Thought to be important in the development of the brain and eyes. Alpha-lactalbumin. Thought to be nutritious for babies because it’s the main type of whey protein in breastmilk. Pro and prebiotics. These help promote the growth of good bacteria and may help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria. May be good for eye health. How to prepare baby formula Before you get started, always carefully read and follow the instructions on the formula tin – not all formulas have the same size scoops or are prepared in the same way. Check the use-by date and dispose of formula if it has expired. Bottle-feeding equipment Here’s what you’ll need to bottle-feed: Large bottles (saves you buying new ones as your baby grows) Bottle rings and caps Teats (either silicone or latex is fine, graded according to size of the hole or age of the baby) Bottle brushes Teat brushes A steriliser (optional) Check our handy guide to bottles and teats here! Making up a bottle of formula Step 1 : Boil the kettle and let the water cool for about 30 minutes, until it has reached a lukewarm temperature. You can also do this in advance, storing the cooled boiled water in sterilised bottles in the fridge. Step 2 : Pour the lukewarm water into the bottle before carefully adding the scoops of formula powder (levelling the powder with a clean knife or the tin's in-built level). Seal the bottle with a ring and cap, then shake gently to encourage the powder to dissolve. Step 3 : Before feeding your baby, check the temperature of the formula by tipping a few drops on the inside of your wrist – it should feel lukewarm. Never add anything to the formula, and if your baby doesn’t finish the bottle, throw any leftover formula away within an hour. Warming infant formula If you are not feeding your baby straight away, place formula in the fridge immediately (store at the back of the fridge) with a cap over the teat to prevent contamination. It can be stored for a maximum of 24 hours. Once removed, it’s only safe to use for up to one hour. The safest way to warm formula is to stand the bottle in a bowl of warm water for no longer than 10 minutes as harmful bacteria can grow in prepared formula. After warming, gently swirl the bottle to mix the formula, and test the temperature. If it’s too hot, cool it down by putting it in a bowl of cold water or by running it under the cold tap. Microwaving bottles is not recommended because uneven heating of the milk can burn your baby’s mouth. Cleaning and sterilising Hygiene is essential – your baby’s immune system isn’t strong enough to fight off some diseases yet, and formula-fed infants are at higher risk of gastrointestinal infection. You need to clean your bottles, teats, rings and caps after every feed and before you sterilise them. Tips for cleaning bottle-feeding equipment: Wash all bottles, rings, caps and teats in hot soapy water. Squirt water through the teat holes and use a bottle brush to ensure that everything is scrupulously clean, getting into all those nooks and crannies, then rinse well. Check for any cracks in the teats and throw away any damaged ones. Rinse everything well in hot water and leave them to air dry. After you’ve cleaned your equipment, you need to sterilise everything by boiling, steaming, or with chemicals. Boiling - To sterilise a baby bottle by boiling, place the disassembled bottle parts into a large pot and cover them fully with water. Bring the water to a rolling boil and let it boil for at least 5 minutes to ensure all parts are thoroughly sterilised. Use clean tongs to remove the items and place them on a clean, dry surface to air dry completely. You can buy electric (plug-in) or microwave steam sterilisers. These units 'cook' your equipment at a temperature high enough to kill bacteria. If using chemical sterilisers , follow the instructions on the box or packet. If you’re unsure, seek help from a professional Don’t be afraid to take your time deciding about feeding your baby. The most important consideration is that your baby is comfortable and well-fed, and you’re able to enjoy this special (albeit exhausting!) time with your newborn. Get the information you need to make an informed decision, and if you’re not sure, consult with your health professional, who’s in the best position to give you accurate advice for your baby and his or her needs.
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Remembering the Precious Times
The days are long but the years go fast! When you’re deep in the baby days, it can feel like time is crawling – but somehow, those tiny toes and gummy smiles slip by in a blink. One minute they’re curled up on your chest, the next they’re racing down the hallway in gumboots. It’s not always easy to stop and take it all in, but future you (and your child) will be so grateful you did. Here are seven lovely ways to capture those fleeting, precious moments. Here are 8 ways to hold onto those little moments ❤️ 1. Keep a journal from bump to babyPregnancy is a season you’ll never forget – and yet, somehow, the details get fuzzy. A journal makes it easy to jot down milestones, memories, and feelings throughout pregnancy and those early newborn weeks. Whether it’s the first kick, a dream you had, or your late-night list of baby names, these snippets will one day become priceless. 2. Save those tiny printsLittle hands and feet don’t stay little for long. A casting kit or impression set is a beautiful way to preserve the size of your baby’s hand or footprint in time. If you’d prefer something bigger, the Petit Artichaut Baby’s First Year Memory Frame is a beautiful alternative – designed to showcase a photo from each month of your baby’s first year alongside a cast or print. It’s a keepsake you’ll treasure forever. 3. Write them a letterIt doesn’t need to be fancy – a few lines on your phone, a scribbled note in a baby book, or an email you save for later. Writing your child letters throughout their early years is a heartfelt way to share what life was like, what you noticed, and how deeply they were loved. 4. Create a home for keepsakesFrom hospital bracelets to first curls, it’s easy to gather a box of “special things” with no real place to put them. The Petit Artichaut Imprint Box offers a charming way to store and display those first small treasures – whether it’s their first lock of hair, their first lost tooth, or something uniquely your own. 5. Capture quotes and milestonesThe things toddlers say are often hilarious, surprisingly insightful, and unforgettable – until they are. A memory jar in the kitchen or a simple notes app on your phone makes it easy to jot them down in the moment. These snippets of daily life will bring the biggest smiles down the track. 6. Frame the moments that matterPhotos on your phone are great, but there’s something special about seeing them every day. The Petit Artichaut Duo Frame is a lovely way to frame meaningful images – maybe their first bath and first birthday, or a newborn photo alongside your ultrasound and a space for a foot or handprint and a clay model of those little hands or feet too. It’s a gentle reminder of just how far you’ve both come. 7. Record it all in a baby record bookFor a classic, timeless way to record milestones, the Your First Years Book or the Peter Rabbit Baby Book are both beautiful choices. These charming books offer space for photos, memories, and all the little details you’ll want to remember, from their first smile to their first steps. With prompts to help you capture key moments, it’s a keepsake that will take you down memory lane for years to come. 8. Record a second a dayApps like 1 Second Every Day make it incredibly easy to film one moment each day and turn it into a time-lapse of your baby’s growth. It’s simple, low-effort, and incredibly powerful – especially when the year wraps up and you get to watch your tiny newborn become a confident little human. There’s no right or wrong way to capture the early years – only what feels right for you and your family. Whether it’s snapping a quick photo, scribbling a sweet moment in a notebook, or tucking away a tiny hospital bracelet, each memory adds to the beautiful story you’re creating. These baby days pass in a blur, but the little things you save along the way will become treasured reminders of just how much love and magic filled those early moments ❤️
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Shnuggle: Innovative, Safe, and Stylish Baby Essentials for Every Parent
We Love Shnuggle! 🛁🐣✨ Shnuggle was founded by parents Sinead and Adam Murphy with a mission to make life easier, safer, and more enjoyable for families. After experiencing the everyday challenges of early parenthood themselves, they set out to create clever, problem-solving baby products that support parents through each stage of their journey. Their first innovation – a modern, hypoallergenic Moses basket – set the tone for a growing range of thoughtfully designed essentials. Today, Shnuggle is a multi-award-winning brand trusted by families in over 30 countries. With a focus on smart design, uncompromising safety, and a modern aesthetic, every product is created to ease the load and make parenting that little bit simpler – so you can focus on what really matters: enjoying those precious moments with your baby Here are some of our favourite products from Shnuggle: Baths and Bath Accessories Shnuggle’s Baby Bath and Toddler Bath are cleverly designed to make bath time easier and more enjoyable. The Baby Bath features a supportive bum bump and angled backrest to help keep your newborn in an upright position, making it easier to wash them while keeping them comfortable and secure. You can also use this with the Folding Bath Stand to make life just that little bit easier! As your little one grows, the Toddler Bath offers more space and a contoured shape that supports independent sitting, while still fitting neatly in most bathrooms. Both baths use minimal water, are easy to clean, and help make bath time a breeze from newborn to toddler stage. Shnuggle have created a super cute and accurate bath thermometer to ease your mind about temperature as well. The Shnuggle Baby Shampoo Brush is made from soft, antibacterial food‑grade silicone, designed to fit comfortably in your hand. It gently massages baby’s scalp to help cleanse, soothe, and brush away cradle cap or dry skin during bath time—making shampooing calming and easy. Meanwhile, the Shnuggle Eco Washy Rinsing Jug is crafted from 98% recycled plastic, offering a sustainable way to rinse your child’s hair. With a soft, flexible rim that rests gently on their forehead and a secure easy-grip handle, it ensures a tear-free pour while keeping water safely away from eyes and ears. Make bath time fun and fuss-free with Shnuggle’s clever bath toys and accessories. The Wishy Bath Toy lights up and separates into parts for sensory play and scooping, while the Stacking Boat Set encourages imaginative water play and fine motor skills. Once the fun is over, the Shnuggle Toy Drying Caddy keeps everything organised and mould-free with its quick-drain design and handy suction cups for easy storage on bathroom tiles or glass. Your Nappy Changing Station Make nappy changes and toilet training easier with Shnuggle’s smart solutions. The Squishy Changing Mat is soft, supportive, and easy to wipe clean – perfect for comfy, fuss-free changes. Pair it with the Eco-Touch Nappy Bin, designed with a sleek dual-lid system that traps smells and makes disposal simple. When your little one’s ready to start potty training, the Step Stool helps them reach the toilet or basin with confidence, thanks to its non-slip surface and sturdy design. Bedtime bliss Make every bedtime a little easier with Shnuggle’s thoughtfully designed sleep essentials. The Shnuggle Aire Bedside Crib is lightweight and breathable, with dual-view mesh sides and a drop-down panel that makes nighttime feeds and check-ins simple and safe. Its stylish design fits beautifully into modern homes while supporting safer sleep from day one. Add the Shnuggle Moonlight Nightlight, a portable and rechargeable light with soft, dual-colour tones that mimic natural lighting to ease baby into sleep. It’s also perfect as a toddler-friendly lantern once they’re on the move – offering comfort and reassurance from newborn to toddlerhood. From newborn baths to bedtime comforts and everything in between, Shnuggle makes everyday parenting moments simpler, safer, and more enjoyable. With clever design, trusted safety, and beautiful aesthetics, their award-winning range supports you and your little one through every stage. Shop the full Shnuggle collection now.
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