Afleveringen

  • In this weeks podcast on Birthing Empowerment: A Doula's Guide to Birth we are joined by Katrina Meek to discuss the invaluable role of doulas in providing support throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. The discussion starts with the importance of maternal health, highlighting its impact on both mothers and babies, especially within marginalized communities facing disparities. 

    The podcast delves into the essence of doulas, explaining their non-medical yet essential role in offering emotional, physical, and informational assistance during childbirth. It emphasizes how doula support contributes to reducing medical interventions, enhancing birth experiences, and fostering better health outcomes for mothers and infants.

    Addressing disparities in access to doula care, the podcast sheds light on efforts to bridge the gap, particularly focusing on racial and socioeconomic factors influencing access to such support. Personal stories and testimonials enrich the discussion, illustrating the profound impact doulas can have on the birthing journey and the overall well-being of pregnant individuals.

    In conclusion, the podcast advocates for greater awareness and accessibility of doula care, emphasizing its significance in empowering individuals and improving maternal health outcomes for all. It calls for collective efforts to ensure that doula support becomes an integral part of maternal healthcare, accessible to every pregnant person regardless of their background or circumstances.

  • Welcome to another episode of "Sense by Meg Faure," the podcast designed to bring clarity and insight into the parenting journey, especially during the precious first year of your little one's life. Today, we delve into the enchanting, albeit challenging, world of navigating the first few weeks of parenthood in the first 10 weeks. I'm Meg Faure, your host, joined by the esteemed Heather Wood, a beloved antenatal teacher and well-baby clinic specialist from Cape Town. Together, we unravel the complexities of early parenting, from feeding challenges to developing a support system. Establishing a Support System Heather and I discuss the paramount importance of establishing a support system in the early weeks of parenting. The transition to parenthood is monumental, and having a reliable, knowledgeable person or network to turn to can significantly ease this transition. We highlight how dads play a crucial role in this process, especially in supporting breastfeeding and recognizing when to seek help. Breastfeeding Basics A significant part of our conversation is dedicated to breastfeeding - an area filled with anticipation and anxiety for many new mothers. We break down the essentials of establishing breastfeeding, including how to ensure your baby is getting enough through signs like the number of wet and dirty diapers, and the physical changes in the mother's body. Heather shares invaluable tips on managing this critical aspect of newborn care, reassuring listeners that while challenges may arise, support and correct information are key to success. Understanding Newborn Cues Interpreting a baby's cues can be bewildering for new parents. We discuss the common mistakes parents make, like misinterpreting fussiness for hunger or discomfort, and the importance of understanding what your baby is trying to communicate. This understanding helps in addressing the baby's needs more effectively and fosters a more harmonious adjustment period for the family. The Role of Routine Health Checks and Vaccinations Our discussion also covers the essential health checks and vaccinations in the first few weeks, emphasizing the value of regular visits to well-baby clinics. These visits are not only crucial for the baby's health but also provide an opportunity for parents to find support and community with other new parents. Mental Health and Physical Recovery Acknowledging the profound changes new parents undergo, both physically and mentally, Heather and I stress the importance of self-care and seeking support. We talk about the adjustments in personal identity and relationship dynamics, underlining the necessity for both parents to look after their well-being to foster a healthy family environment. Final Thoughts Wrapping up, our conversation with Heather Wood offers a comprehensive overview of navigating the first weeks with a newborn. From establishing a solid foundation for breastfeeding to understanding your baby's cues and ensuring both parents' well-being, we tackle the myriad challenges and joys that come with the early stages of parenting. This episode is brought to you by ParentSense, the app that takes the guesswork out of parenting. For more insights and advice on making the most of your parenting journey, download the ParentSense app and join us here every week. Thank you for tuning in, and we look forward to bringing you more guidance and support on your parenting journey.

    LINKS RELATED TO THIS EPISODE

    www.thulababy.co.za

    CONNECT WITH MEG FAURE

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    I hope you enjoyed this episode of SENSE BY Meg Faure! If you want to support or follow the podcast, here’s how: Subscribe, or listen on Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts Leave a 5* rating and review on Apple Podcasts

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  • In this episode of "Sense by Meg Faure," host Tove Gant and Meg Faure explore innovations in early childhood education's evolving landscape. They start with the rise of micro schools as a pandemic response, highlighting how education is adapting to new demands. Meg shares her journey to founding PlaySense, driven by the search for improved childcare options, resulting in a model combining in-home care with educational guidance. We discuss diverse childcare choices, emphasizing the need for personalized approaches to meet each child's developmental needs. The PlaySense model is spotlighted for its small group settings and tailored programs focusing on both social and cognitive development. Looking ahead, the conversation shifts to future education trends, particularly the importance of creativity, collaboration, and soft skills. Meg underscores PlaySense's commitment to inclusivity and the continuous support and training for educators. This enriching discussion provides insights into nurturing care, educational stimulation, and preparing children for a changing world, showcasing innovations and diverse options in early childhood education.

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    LINKS RELATED TO THIS EPISODE

    https://playsense.orgPlaySense InstagramPlaySense Facebook

    CONNECT WITH MEG FAURE
    Web: megfaure.com

    Social Media Channels:

    Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/MegFaure.Sense
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/megfaure.sense/

    Parent Sense mobile app:

    Download Parent Sense App
    Web: https://parentsense.app/

    I hope you enjoyed this episode of SENSE BY Meg Faure! If you want to support or follow the podcast, here’s how:

    Subscribe, or listen on Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcastsLeave a 5* rating and review on Apple PodcastsFollow my social media channels or sign up to my mailing list

    For episode feedback & suggestions, or to nominate your self or a friend to appear as a guest on the show, please email [email protected].

     

  • The podcast episode from "Sense by Meg Fora," featuring Jo Wilson, delves into the multifaceted world of baby swimming, emphasizing its importance beyond mere physical activity. It opens with a recognition of the challenges many children face in conventional swimming programs, stressing the significance of fostering a lifelong love and connection with water. The episode, part of a series aimed at new parents, combines practical parenting advice with insights from experts in various fields.

    Jo Wilson, introduced as a guest, brings a unique perspective to baby swimming, focusing on sensory methods to enhance the aquatic experience for infants. Her approach is not just about teaching swimming but using the baby's senses to explore the aquatic environment, making her an aquatic educator beyond a traditional swimming instructor. Wilson shares her personal journey from being a new parent herself, finding solace and bonding with her child through swimming, to facing a career shift due to redundancy during maternity leave. This turning point led her to pursue her passion for baby swimming, ultimately creating her own swim centers designed to provide a sensory-rich environment for both babies and their parents.

    The discussion covers essential questions about baby swimming, such as its importance, the right age to start, vaccination requirements, and the best practices. Wilson’s methodology, Aqua Sensory, is highlighted as a way to engage children through a sensory experience, promoting not just physical but cognitive, social, and emotional development. The episode also touches on the critical aspect of water safety, with host Meg Fora sharing a personal anecdote that underscores the life-saving importance of early swim lessons and diligent supervision around water.

    Benefits of baby swimming extend beyond mere safety; they include enhancing confidence, gross and fine motor skills, social-emotional bonding, speech and language development, and cognitive growth, with studies suggesting early swimmers achieve key milestones more effectively. Wilson encapsulates the essence of her teaching philosophy with the notion that baby swimming contributes to creating "brainy babies," underscoring the comprehensive benefits of early aquatic experiences.

    This episode not only provides practical advice for parents considering baby swimming but also enriches the conversation with personal stories and expert insights, making a compelling case for the holistic benefits of introducing infants to the aquatic world.

  • In this episode, Meg, alongside her guest Lara Schoenfeld, delve into the intricate world of choosing and keeping the right nanny or childcare for you and your family. We explore a spectrum of topics aimed at empowering nannies and enhancing the childcare experience. Our discussion begins with the pivotal role of nannies in a child's development, emphasizing the unique position they hold in influencing early childhood experiences. We underscore the significance of fostering a nurturing and supportive environment, not just for the children but also for the nannies themselves. The Nanny-Parent Relationship A substantial portion of our conversation focuses on the dynamics between nannies and parents. We advocate for clear communication and mutual respect as the bedrock of this relationship. By sharing strategies for navigating challenges and setting boundaries, we aim to create a harmonious working environment that benefits everyone involved, especially the children. Empowerment and Professional Development Lara and I delve into the importance of empowering nannies through professional development opportunities. We discuss various avenues for nannies to enhance their skills and knowledge, such as attending workshops, engaging in continuous learning, and seeking certifications relevant to childcare and early childhood education. Our goal is to elevate the profession of nannying to be recognized for its critical role in shaping future generations. Health and Safety Practices A key topic we cover is the paramount importance of health and safety in the childcare setting. We provide practical advice on maintaining a safe environment, handling emergencies, and promoting healthy habits among children. This segment is designed to equip nannies with the knowledge and confidence to manage health-related situations effectively. Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusivity Recognizing the diversity of families and nannies, highlighting the necessity of cultural sensitivity and inclusivity in childcare. We share insights on how nannies can incorporate the cultural backgrounds of the families they work and foster an environment of understanding and acceptance. Support Systems and Resources Lastly, Lara and I discuss the support systems and resources available to nannies. We stress the importance of community and professional networks that offer guidance, support, and camaraderie among caregivers. By tapping into these resources, nannies can feel less isolated and more empowered in their roles. Real-life anecdotes and expert opinions weave through our conversation, adding depth with practical insights and personal experiences, enriching the dialogue.

  • In "Sense by Meg Faure," we explore setting healthy family boundaries, especially with grandparents. As a parent-host, I deeply understand the challenges. Insights from Des Meyer, a nurse and grandmother, emphasize creating a secure space for parents. We explore various scenarios where healthy family boundaries are often tested, including differences in parenting styles, diet preferences (notably sugar intake), and sleep training philosophies. The conversation acknowledges the friction that can arise when grandparents, with their love and desire to help, may inadvertently overstep, impacting the parents' confidence and the family dynamics. The episode emphasizes the significance of "I feel" messages in communicating boundaries, advocating for a respectful and understanding approach to preserve family relationships. Furthermore, we address the broader context of boundaries beyond the family, touching upon social media, workplace expectations during maternity leave, and the transition to motherhood. The discussion underscores the universality of boundary-setting challenges, offering strategies for navigating these situations with grace and assertiveness. This episode blends anecdotes, advice, and listener stories to empower parents. It urges recognizing complex dynamics for strong, supportive family bonds.

  • In this episode of "Sense by Meg Faure," we delve deep into the world of postpartum fitness with our guest, Stephanie, an exercise and training expert and new mom. We discuss the unrealistic expectations set by social media on new mothers to quickly return to their pre-pregnancy bodies and the importance of giving yourself grace and time to recover. Stephanie shares her personal journey of adjusting to motherhood and fitness, emphasizing the significance of starting small, setting realistic goals, and focusing on health rather than rapid transformation. We explore practical tips for incorporating fitness into the busy life of a new mom, the challenges of managing energy and time, and the importance of being gentle with oneself during this transformative period. Join us for a candid conversation filled with real mom talk, motivation, and advice on navigating postpartum life with strength and grace.

  • In this podcast episode we dive deep into the nuanced world of parenting worries, especially concerning child development. Tove Gant shares her personal journey of parenting her first child, Gray, who has special needs and was diagnosed at two years old after missing several developmental milestones. This experience highlighted the delicate balance between worrying about a child's development and recognizing their unique path. Meg Faure, an occupational therapist and infant specialist, joins the conversation, providing professional insight into developmental milestones, the importance of early intervention, and the concept of enriched environments for children. We explore the broad ranges of normal development, the significance of milestone clusters in identifying potential concerns, and the impact of environment and genetics on a child's growth. Additionally, we touch upon the pressures of overscheduling and the societal expectations placed on parents, emphasizing the value of simple, engaged parenting over a plethora of activities.

  • Hey there, it's Meg Faure, and I'm thrilled to bring you a deeply moving and insightful episode of 'Sense by Meg Faure.' Journey Unveiled: Cassidy Mason's Story of Raising Zach Today, we dive into a touching journey alongside Cassidy Mason, a remarkable mother, as she shares her experience raising her son, Zach, born with a complete bilateral cleft lip and palate. Navigating Challenges: From Diagnosis to Daily Realities In this heart-to-heart conversation, Cassidy and I unravel the path leading up to Zach's diagnosis, the tough decisions she and her husband faced, their initial reactions, expectations, and the myriad challenges they encountered along the way. Beyond the practical aspects of raising a child with a cleft, we delve deep into the emotional rollercoaster that parents experience during this unique journey. Crucial Insights: A Podcast for Families Touched by Cleft Conditions Whether you're a parent navigating a similar situation, someone who knows a family touched by a cleft condition, or just an interested listener, this episode is a potpourri of candid conversations, informative facts, and, above all, a narrative of hope and love. This podcast is particularly crucial for parents and families affected by the challenges of having a baby with a cleft lip and palate. Cassidy and I cover it all — from the emotional preparation and impact on family life to the practicalities of feeding these special babies and the journey through possible surgeries. We highlight the importance of a robust support system, including health professionals like cleft teams and specialist charities. So, if you're ready for an episode filled with candid discussions, informative insights, and a touch of hope, join me, Meg Faure, in navigating the journey of raising a cleft baby with Cassidy Mason. It's a must-listen for anyone touched by the extraordinary strength and resilience of families facing similar situations.

    This podcast is proudly sponsored by Parent Sense App, your go-to parenting companion. Don’t forget to listen, subscribe, and check in weekly.

    Associations to assist Navigating the Journey of Raising A Cleft Lip and Palate Baby:

    Cleft Lip & Palate Association – https://www.clapa.com/



  • Welcome back moms and dads to this insightful  episode of Sense by Meg Faure, where we look at ‘The incredible secret to equipping your child for a future in the context of world with AI’ with , Hanneke Mackie, an expert in play and development and hosted by Meg Faure. Hanneke , a mom  shares her background in drama and how it led her to explore the intersection of arts and child development. The influence of her upbringing, with grandparents who were educators, on her passion for working with children. Meg introduces the topic by asking Hanneke about the best super skills   to equip children for the future. Equipping your child for a future in the context of world with AI- Importance of Super Skills for the Future  Hanneke identifies the ability to generate original ideas and the confidence to back those ideas as paramount. Drawing on research and personal experience, she stresses the importance of nurturing a child's imaginative and creative capacities, highlighting that these skills underpin various aspects of human development, from language to problem-solving. With an estimated 65% of current jobs becoming obsolete especially due to the evolving AI, cultivating super skills becomes imperative. These skills, she asserts, extend beyond traditional academic prowess and include qualities like confidence, imagination, and creativity. Art as a tool kit  to equipping your child for a future in the context of world with AI Meg and Hanneke advocates for the arts as a valuable toolkit for child development. These "innate arts" provide a versatile platform for embodied learning, playful exploration, and the development of crucial skills. By incorporating drama, dance, and singing into a child's early experiences, parents can lay the foundation for future success in a world increasingly shaped by AI. Secret to equipping your child for a future Meg and Hanneke wrap up the conversation, highlighting the importance of embracing creativity and providing children with a diverse toolkit. Hanneke also introduces Buzz Kids, her organization focused on child development through drama, dance, and singing. Practical examples of guided play activities for parents, emphasizing simplicity and accessibility. Visit  Buzz Kids website   and Podcast to learn more.

  • Welcome to this week's insightful episode of 'The surprising secret behind babies that wean like champs'. The Weaning guide done by our host, Tovey Gant, a mother of three and devoted Sense fan, engages in a conversation with Meg Faure. A  renowned occupational therapist, bestselling author, and the founder of the Sense series books. The Weaning Guide-The Surprising Secret Behind Babies That Wean Like Champs Tovey begins by sharing her experience in weaning her three kids with each child having different weaning experience from the other which left her feeling  overwhelmed  and unprepared each time. Meg responds by saying that every journey is different with various weaning methods available . The Surprising Secret Behind Babies That Wean Like Champs- Weaning methods The discussion clearly breaks down the different methodologies of weaning from traditional approaches to trendy baby-led weaning and the balanced Collab weaning. Meg and Tovey emphasize the importance of understanding a baby's sensory personality, providing valuable insights into tailoring the weaning journey to each child's unique needs. Homemade Food vs  Jarred Food. Tovey asked about the option of feeding babies with jarred foods and the guilt that get to moms for not always making homemade food for their little ones. Meg responded by saying that’s it’s ok to have convenience food sometime due to circumstances but emphasizes that home made food is always the best option. She also sheds light on the principles of label reading when choosing store-bought baby food, emphasizing the significance of fewer ingredients and natural components. When is the right time to start weaning? Tovey asked a question about the right time to introduce food especially to preemie babies. Meg clarifies at least not to  begin weaning before 17 weeks  and also  follow the  adjusted age for preemie babies. Before then the babies guts are not ready as explained at weaning guide for new parents . Weaning Guide- How to approach it As the episode unfolds, Tovey and Meg encourage parents to approach the weaning journey with instinctive wisdom, highlighting years back when natural, family-based, and garden-sourced foods were the norm. The goal is to empower parents to navigate the weaning process confidently, without succumbing to unnecessary guilt or overcomplicating the science behind it. Tune in to gain valuable insights and make your weaning journey a less perplexing and more enjoyable experience.

  • Welcome to this week's episode, where we embark on a journey of hope and discovery as we delve into 'Age, Lifestyle, and the Untold Truths of Conception' with Meg Faure, the founder of Sense by Meg, and Dr. Jo Pottow, a leading expert in reproductive medicine. Our mission is to shed light on various fertility solutions, providing insights, guidance, and support to those navigating the path to parenthood. Age, Lifestyle, and the Untold Truths of Conception-Understanding Fertility Challenges Meg explains the decision of many couples to have children later in life as the main cause of infertility, environmental stresses, genetics, and other factors. Dr. Pottow agrees with this fact and explains that the age factor mainly affects women who decide to have babies later in life, especially past 35 years of age. Lifestyle factors such as heavy alcohol use, substance abuse are main causes of infertility in men. Secondary Infertility Secondary infertility, a term used to describe infertility experienced by couples after the birth of their first baby, is also explained by the specialist. History of having suffered mumps when young are the main causes of infertility in men, which could also contribute to infertility later if proper treatment is not administered. Fertility Solutions Discussed Dr. Pottow shares that the best thing is to seek help early and starts off with a consultation and a history, then runs some tests that assist in giving the person a firm diagnosis and then a plan to fix the issue. Some of the Infertility solutions that are easy to fix include: Weight management: Being overweight could be a cause of infertility. Losing some weight and eating a balanced diet is an easy solution that has worked for others. -Timing issues -Making sure you're doing all the checks and balances. -Ensuring that your tubes are open, ensuring that you are ovulating. -Ensuring that your hormones are all well balanced and normal and ensuring that you have sperm that can reach that egg are important factors. The IVF fertility solution Dr.  also talks about the reproductive technologies and treatments that have revolutionized the field of fertility, offering new avenues for those seeking to build their families. The IVF solution, which Dr. recommends to comes in after a few months of trying natural conception methods. Meg and Dr. Pottow encourage couples to get into the journey with people, specialists who understand and support them , saying "You will get there with a plan with the right person."

  • Irritable tummy and milk oversupply pose some of the most common challenges for new parents. In this week’s episode, Meg collaborates with Sammy Hammond, a feeding therapist who shares her experience of having her first child and the unexpected difficulties encountered with breastfeeding. The topic, 'The surprising reason your baby could be unsettled and crying,' is a discussion that many parents find enlightening and relatable.

    The Surprising Reason Your Baby Could Be Unsettled and Crying

    Meg and Sammy, both professionals in the field, delve into the challenges and surprises faced during the transition to motherhood.

    When asked about transitioning from professional practice to motherhood, Sammy reflects on her initial confidence, thinking she knew how to handle a newborn due to her experience working with babies. However, she feels overwhelmed and unprepared when her own baby, Kyla, arrives, a situation mirroring Meg's early parenting journey.

    The Milk Oversupply Challenge

    Sammy details breastfeeding challenges, such as an overabundant milk supply leading to discomfort for the baby. She notes that everything about breastfeeding was fine at the hospital, but once home, she continued to have the baby on her breasts almost throughout, experiencing an overabundant milk supply. Failing to read the baby’s cues well, she kept feeding her, leading to a vicious cycle that made Kyla uncomfortable. Eventually, a lactation consultant had to come in to assist.

    Explanation of Infants' Irritable Tummies

    Meg explains that all babies are born with an inadequacy of lactase to break down the lactose in milk. Too-frequent overfeeding may overwhelm the baby and not manage to break down the lactose, causing a gassy, irritable tummy.

    Strategies to Manage Irritable Tummies

    Eliminate cow's milk from their diet, as it's one of those boxes that is easy to tick and makes a difference most times.Stretch feeding intervals: Gradually extend the time between feeds to three hours.Consider test weighing: While controversial, test weighing can provide insights into the baby's intake; however, simply stretching feeding intervals to three hours is a valid starting point.
  • In today's episode, we delve into a topic close to the heart of many, ' Babies Most Common Sleep Challenges', from newborns to toddlers. Our insightful host, Tove Gant, a mother of three, shares her experiences and discusses these challenges with Meg Faure. We went through various challenges associated to sleep including: Understanding Newborn Sleep Patterns: Meg emphasizes that newborns sleep more during the day and feed regularly, establishing a routine within the first 14 days. She suggests waking the baby every three hours for a feed during the day, allowing longer stretches of sleep at night as long as the baby is gaining weight. Common Sleep Challenges with Infants Meg identifies the most common challenge as teaching infants to self-soothe, advising parental support until around 17 weeks. Breastfeeding, rocking, or holding to sleep are common practices during this stage. Reversing Day and Night Sleeping Pattern To address the day and night sleep pattern, Meg recommends encouraging more daytime feeds to reduce nighttime awakenings, helping infants establish a more consistent sleep schedule. Handling Dummy Use Tove raises the common challenge of using dummies effectively. Meg advises providing support for infants up to six months, either by avoiding dummies or assisting the baby in self-soothing until they can manage it themselves. Waking Babies for Feeding Meg dispels the myth around waking babies to feed, asserting that it's unnecessary except for toddlers with extended afternoon naps, which could impact nighttime sleep. Co-sleeping as a sleep challenge Controversies Around Co-Sleeping: Co-sleeping is discussed, emphasizing its benefits for attachment parenting and breastfeeding. While sharing a room is common, having a baby in bed can be dangerous. Meg stresses the importance of doing it safely, using separate bedding for the baby. Nightmares vs. Night Terrors Meg clarifies the distinction between nightmares and night terrors, highlighting that nightmares involve imagination-based fear, while night terrors occur when the baby is fast asleep. She advises handling night terrors with presence and comfort rather than waking the child. Managing Babies Sleep challenges  Navigating sleep challenges with babies requires understanding, patience, and informed choices. Meg's expert insights provide practical guidance for parents on this journey.

  • Welcome to a special episode of our podcast, 'An OT Mom's Journey with a Premature Baby'! I'm Meg Faure, and today we're exploring the journey of preemie parenthood with Anande, the founder of Play More OT and an experienced pediatric occupational therapist with a special interest in sensory integration as well as playfulness. Anande has worked for 10 years in private practice and has added 'MOM' to her title, now being the mother of a little 6 and a half-month-old boy. NICU Insights and Sensory Development Anande, drawing on her expertise as an occupational therapist, reflects on her experience working in NICU and shares insights into creating supportive environments for preemies. We discuss the delicate balance of adhering to NICU protocols while fostering a soothing home environment. Sensory development and the challenges of parenting in the NICU setting are highlighted. Magical Milestones and Individuality The conversation shifts to celebrate magical milestones, challenging adjusted age expectations for preemies. Anande shares the joy of witnessing her preemie's smiling milestone and the emergence of unique sensory personalities. We explore the potential evolution of sensory profiles over time, emphasizing each baby's individuality. Managing Challenges: Medical Issues and Sleep In our discussion, I provide Anande with practical tips, covering adjustments to awake times, raising the cot, and introducing elements like white noise and weighted blankets to create a more comfortable sleep environment. We delve into the management of challenges such as medical issues, allergies, reflux, and gut difficulties affecting sleep. SENSE by Meg Faure is brought to you by Parent Sense - the all-in-one baby app that takes the guesswork out of parenting. The app will guide your parenting based on your baby's sensory personality. Leaving you much more prepared for challenges around feeding, weaning, sleeping, socialising and more. Get the app now and start parenting with sense.

  • Welcome Moms and Dads to our weekly podcast! In this episode we dive into Challenges of Single Parenting. This week am joined by Nadine Kuyper, a Mom and a psychologist, together we go through the challenges experienced in single parenting, the strength and joy that comes along . Solo Parenting Nadine shared that no parenting is easy and the most important thing for a single parent to do is to adjust, not to look at themselves as being Mom and Dad, instead acknowledge that you are one person doing so much more. Coping with Single Parenthood Nadine mention that the first thing to do is to leave the guilt out of the door, there are many scenarios, a lot of which we're not in control and as much as you want to play the role of mom and dad, embracing the situation will help you overcome the guilt that comes with the inclination to want to overcompensate. Practical ways to incorporate selfcare In single parenting you may be overwhelmed trying to balance life to an extent that you forget to take care of your self. Nadine highlighted the need of self care and how important it is for a single mom or a single dad . It should be actually be non negotiable, plan on having some Me’ time and write it down on a diary so that you can actually commit to do it on a regular. Managing Finances as Single Parent Nadine mentioned that apart from having emotional load, you also have financial load and therefore it is important to have a financial planner, work with what is available. Sometimes our kids want a lot of things and it’s okay to say no especially if it’s not necessary. We have to look at our financial capacity to manage it well and not be stressful about the financial load. Raising kids after separation After separation/ divorce ‘’How the parents get along, is the single biggest predictor of what those children like their psychological and emotional health is going to look like’’ A very strong point that Nadine put across, Parents should handle co-parenting as a business where they are both committed to bringing up the the child without creating a psychological split, because this child is made up of both of you.

  • Dive into this special episode; "What Every New Parent Should Know with Destiny" of Podcast Sense by Meg Faure, where I'm delighted to host Destiny. As a notable social media influencer based in South Africa and a loving mother to her precious one-year-old, Destiny's experiences resonate with many moms. In our conversation, we traverse the demanding but incredibly rewarding journey of motherhood, shedding light onto the common challenges and shared joys. What Every New Parent Should Know about Breastfeeding- Struggles, Successes, and Building a Support System:  We begin by delving deep into the intricate experiences of breastfeeding. Destiny openly reflects upon her struggles, wins, and the crucial support and tools that eased her breastfeeding journey. This intimate exploration carries profound significance for all mothers, especially new and expecting ones. It serves as a beacon of support and a wealth of firsthand advice. What Every New Parent Should Know about Sleep Training   Next, we embark on the crucial topic of sleep training. We address the myths and misunderstandings that often surround it, highlighting its true impact on parents and their babies. We provide actionable strategies aimed at defeating sleep deprivation and improving family dynamics. If you find those restless nights challenging, you'd find our take on this subject immensely helpful. Also check out my sleep course. What Every New Parent Should Know about the Journey of Developmental Milestones:  Drawing attention to the exhilarating yet sometimes nerve-wracking world of developmental milestones, I assure parents that each child's milestone journey can vary widely. Destiny expresses her concerns, and I provide reassurances, coupled with insights on the right way to respond. For anxious parents, this segment should offer some relief and guidance. What Every New Parent Should Know about Fostering Early Language Skills in Multilingual Households: Our conversation moves forward as we investigate language development in households that juggle multiple languages. We offer an enriching discussion on nourishing language abilities in toddlers. This eye-opening segment is a must-listen, particularly for proud multilingual families seeking to foster language development in their young ones. Final Thoughts and Encouragement to Tune-in: By tuning in to this episode "What Every New Parent Should Know with Destiny", you'll be rewarded with an amalgamation of inspiring insights, shared experiences and practical advice on breastfeeding, sleep training, navigating developmental milestones, and childhood language development. This episode is not only about sharing Destiny's journey and my guidance as a professional, but it's an empowering platform for all parents striving to make their parenthood journey a little bit easier. Come along, and immerse yourself in these enriching conversations. Tune in now!

  • In our latest episode of the parenting podcast, "Understanding Toddler Behavior", my co-host Tove and I delve into the intriguing world of toddler behavior. We understand that tantrums, biting, and various unpredictable actions can often leave you, as parents, feeling somewhat lost and bemused. The Intricate Interplay of Factors Influencing Behavior Drawing from our extensive experience and expertise, we explore the intricate interplay of physiological, sensory, and emotional factors that contribute to your toddler's behavior. There's a particular emphasis on understanding the unique sensory personalities of each child, which can provide a more empathetic and effective approach to parenting. Balancing Boundaries and Choices: Fostering Autonomy and Control Our discussion also steers towards the critical balance in parenting that navigates between setting firm boundaries and providing a sensible range of choices to your toddler. We believe in the importance of fostering a sense of autonomy within the boundaries of balanced control. Our aim is not merely to manage behavior but to understand it in order to guide our little ones through these challenging years. Embracing the Role of the ‘Good Enough’ Parent Above all, one of the key messages we wish to convey is that it's okay to be a 'good enough' parent. Yes, we may sometimes stumble and make mistakes in the winding path of parenthood, and that's perfectly natural. The focus is on repairing the connection and continuing the journey with love and understanding. Tune in to our latest episode, "Understanding Toddler Behavior" for more valuable insights and reassurances that will support you in the rollercoaster ride of parenting.

  • Welcome to "Sense by Meg Faure." In this episode, "Everything you need to know about C-Sections," we delve into a topic that holds a special place in my heart - cesarean sections. I have the pleasure of welcoming a highly knowledgeable guest, Tina Otte, a specialist midwife, who not only shares her professional experience in maternal care but also her personal journey that led her into the world of motherhood and infant care. Why C-Sections: In this segment, we kick things off by discussing why women might choose or require cesarean sections. We explore various reasons, including health conditions, complicated pregnancies, and personal choices influenced by anxiety or a desire for predictability. The C-Section Process: Moving forward, we demystify the surgical procedure itself. We delve into the three types of anesthesia that physicians may use, ranging from a spinal block to general anesthesia. We examine the operating room setup, the number of medical staff present, and the steps from the initial incision to the baby's birth. This segment provides valuable insights for new moms, helping them know what to expect during a C-section. Post-Operation Process: After the birth, we discuss the invaluable skin-to-skin contact between the mother and the newborn, which remains possible even after a C-section. We emphasize the crucial role it plays in initiating the breastfeeding process and transferring immunity-conferring microbes to the baby. Recovery Tips: Finally, we share practical recovery tips post-operation. We cover the importance of managing pain, breastfeeding, and the support that loved ones can provide during this phase. We also address how premature movement may impede the recovery process. Join us for this enlightening conversation "Everything you need to know about C-Sections," as we demystify C-sections and provide valuable insights to moms considering or planning to have one. This podcast is proudly sponsored by Parent Sense App, your go-to parenting companion. Don't forget to listen, subscribe, and check in weekly.