13Sep

Spring Cleaning with Kids: Freshen Up Your Home This Season

Spring has arrived, bringing with it a sense of renewal and the perfect opportunity for a good spring clean. Spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying up—it’s a chance to refresh your home, declutter your space, and get organised for the months ahead. And yes, you can even turn it into a fun family activity that […]

9Sep

Family Fitness Fun

Winter is almost over, and with that our hibernation comes to an end. It is time to get into the swing of Spring with some much-needed movement. Incorporating fitness into your family routine doesn’t have to be a chore—it can be a fun and engaging way to spend time together while promoting a healthy lifestyle.  […]

30Aug

Navigating Doctor Visits with Babies and Toddlers

Visiting the doctor with your baby or toddler can be a daunting experience, especially for new parents. From deciding whether to see a pediatrician or a general practitioner (GP) for every ailment, to calming a nervous toddler, there are many aspects to consider. Let’s explore some practical tips and insights to make your visits smoother […]

28Aug

Finding Balance: Juggling Work and Family Life

Being a new parent comes with its own unique set of rewards and challenges. It is brand new and all-consuming, and it starts to take its toll on you, your mental health, your relationships and your work life. Finding the balance between it all can become somewhat overwhelming.  Why Balance Matters Managing to find the […]

Posted in Parenting

26Aug

Navigating Toddler TV Time

In today’s digital age, screens are an integral part of daily life. Yes, avoiding it is always the best option, but realistically, sometimes switching on a show while you cook dinner or tend to the baby or just have a glass of wine is the ONLY alone time you get in a day! While excessive […]

2Aug

Developing Social Skills in Toddlers

Helping toddlers develop social skills is a vital part of their emotional and cognitive growth. As parents, we play a key role in guiding them through these early interactions, setting the foundation for their future relationships and social confidence.   Encouraging Social Interaction Playdates are an invaluable tool for fostering social skills in toddlers. They provide […]

Posted in Parenting

26Jul

Sleep Tight, Little One: Mastering Safe and Cozy Winter Nights for Your Baby

Winter brings a delightful change of scenery, but keeping your precious newborn warm and comfortable during these cooler nights can feel like a delicate balancing act. The last thing you want is for your little one to be shivering awake, but overheating is a major concern too, especially regarding Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Creating […]

19Jul

Developmental Milestones: A Month-by-Month Guide 

The first year of your baby’s life is a whirlwind of exciting changes. Watching them grow, learn, and explore the world around them is a truly incredible experience. Being on the lookout for typical developmental milestones you can expect to see in your baby, month by month, is good to have on hand. Remember though, […]

12Jul

Shining Smiles: A Guide to Caring for Your Little One’s Teeth

As your little one grows and explores the world, a whole new set of adventures awaits, including the exciting (and sometimes painful) journey of teething. But with those adorable pearly whites comes the responsibility of keeping them healthy and strong. Brushing Basics: It all starts with good habits! You can begin caring for your baby’s […]

Posted in Child Healthcare

5Jul

Winter Wobbles? Bounce Back with Baby-Friendly Workouts 

Feeling a little cooped up with the winter chill keeping you indoors? Don’t let the season put a damper on your fitness goals! Here’s the good news: staying active is not only possible with a little one, but it can also be a fantastic way to bond. This guide is packed with fun and effective […]

28Jun

Creating a Toddler Routine that Works

I have been on this parenting gig for 13 years! And let me tell you, I’ve discovered that one of the biggest secrets to a happy, harmonious home is a well-structured routine. But let’s be honest, creating a routine that works for a toddler can feel like trying to herd cats. Between their boundless energy […]

24Jun

Overcoming Parent Shaming and Embracing Supportive Parenting

Parent shaming is a pervasive and harmful phenomenon that can have long-lasting effects on new parents. This article delves into the complexities of parent shaming, exploring its roots, consequences, and most importantly, strategies for overcoming it. By understanding the underlying causes and cultivating a supportive community, we can break free from the shackles of parent […]

Posted in Parenting

14Jun

Bon Voyage! Travel Tips for New Parents

The thought of traveling with a little one can be daunting for new parents. Packing for a baby to just go out for the day can cause crazy anxiety. Plus, they use A LOT of stuff that you then need to carry with you everywhere! But fear not, adventurous spirits! With a little planning and […]

Posted in Parenting, Child Safety

7Jun

Creating a Toddler Routine that Works

I have been on this parenting gig for 13 years! And let me tell you, I’ve discovered that one of the biggest secrets to a happy, harmonious home is a well-structured routine. But let’s be honest, creating a routine that works for a toddler can feel like trying to herd cats. Between their boundless energy […]

Posted in Parenting

3Jun

The Benefits of Music and Movement for Toddlers

As a Mum, I’ve always believed in the magic of music. From the first lullabies I sang to my baby to the crazy dance parties in our living room, music has been a constant companion in our home. But it wasn’t until I saw my toddler’s eyes light up with delight during her first music […]

17May

Nourishing Little Bodies: Winter-Wise Tips for Healthy Eating Habits

As the winter chill sets in, ensuring your child maintains healthy eating habits becomes more crucial than ever. With winter settling in and the sniffles seemingly lurking around every corner, the task of keeping your little one healthy can feel like navigating a minefield. Weekly Doctor visits, constant humidifiers blowing, and the never-ending wiping of […]

Posted in Parenting, Nutrition

10May

The Simple Truth About Keeping Your Child Safe in the Car

A Mother’s Unwavering Duty As a mom, nothing is more important than ensuring your child’s safety and well-being every single day. This commitment takes on special significance when you’re travelling by car with your precious little one. The roads can be unpredictable, with hazards and risks that are outside your control. That’s why using a […]

Posted in Child Safety

3May

Embracing the Magic of Autumn: Memorable Activities for Kids

Autumn’s arrival ushers in a vibrant tapestry of changes—golden leaves swirling in crisp breezes, cozy sweaters emerging from storage, and the promise of cherished family traditions. As nature’s annual spectacle unfolds, it presents the perfect opportunity to create lasting memories with your little ones. Embracing the season’s enchantment through autumn-themed activities not only fosters a […]

26Apr

BLOEM MOM DOC – How do I choose formula milk for my baby?

  How do I choose formula milk for my baby? We all agree that breastmilk is, without a doubt, the best and most fantastic way to feed your baby. Even formula companies agree as they formulate their baby formula milk as close to breastmilk as possible. But sometimes, breastfeeding is not feasible, and formula milk […]

19Apr

The Fourth Trimester: A Vital Stage in Your Parenthood Journey

What is the Fourth Trimester? We often hear about the three trimesters of pregnancy, but there’s a crucial fourth trimester that doesn’t get enough attention. The fourth trimester refers to the first 12 weeks after giving birth. It’s a major transitional period for both mom and baby as you both adapt to life outside the […]

Posted in Parenting

12Apr

Packing for the Hospital

A Comprehensive Guide to Ensuring a Smooth and Comfortable Birth Experience Introduction: Preparing for the Big Day As the countdown to your due date ticks away, one of the most important tasks on your to-do list is packing your hospital bag. This can feel like a daunting task, but fear not – with a little […]

Posted in Parenting

3Apr

Introducing Your Toddler to a New Baby Sibling

Firstly, congrats on your pregnancy, such an exciting time once again. While your first pregnancy was probably filled with butterflies and rest, being pregnant with a toddler in tow is a whole different ball game. Not only are you growing a baby, but you are entertaining your oldest 24/7. It is tiring! And it comes […]

Posted in Parenting

22Mar

Easter Fun 

As we all know, celebrating holidays takes on a whole new meaning once little kids come along. Easter, with its colourful traditions and joyful spirit, presents a wonderful opportunity to create lasting memories with your little ones. And while we may love the excuse to indulge in chocolate, there are so many other ways to […]

15Mar

Mindful Parenting

In today’s fast-paced world, where screens are constantly buzzing, schedules are jam-packed, and distractions abound, mindfulness offers us as adults a much-needed pause button. It’s like a gentle reminder to slow down, take a deep breath, and savour the present moment. It is also a vital tool to use when we feel overwhelmed when caught […]

Posted in Parenting

8Mar

Safeguarding: Creating a Safe Haven for Your Baby

Baby-proofing your home is a crucial step in ensuring the safety and well-being of your little one. As babies grow and become more curious, their natural instinct to explore their surroundings puts them at risk of encountering potential hazards. From electrical outlets to sharp edges, and from choking hazards to unstable furniture, the home environment […]

Posted in Parenting, Child Safety

1Mar

Toddler Tantrums Part 3: Understanding What’s Behind the Meltdowns

Welcome back to our toddler tantrums series, the final stretch. If you’ve ever experienced the wrath of a tiny human in the midst of a meltdown, you know just how challenging it can be. We have explored how to calm and regulate our own emotions (Part 1), as well as how to help our little […]

23Feb

Toddler Tantrums, Part 2 – Guiding Your Little Tornado Through the Storm

Welcome back to our adventure in tantrum territory – the wild, unpredictable ride that is toddlerhood. If you’re just joining us, don’t worry, you haven’t missed the memo. We’re knee-deep in the trenches of tantrum survival, and today, we’re diving headfirst into Part 2 of our journey: helping our little ones find their calm in […]

Posted in Parenting

22Feb

Toddler Tantrums: Keeping Your Cool When They’re Not

Let’s talk toddler tantrums – those fiery explosions of emotion that seem to come out of nowhere and leave us feeling frazzled and overwhelmed. If you’ve ever found yourself in the middle of a toddler meltdown, you know just how challenging it can be to keep your cool. But fear not, my friend, because we’re […]

Posted in Parenting

2Feb

Navigating Screen Time for Toddlers

If you have a toddler, you’ve likely encountered the dilemma of screen time for them. Miss Rachel, Peppa Pig and Bluey are starting to encroach on your reality. It’s a hot topic, and everyone seems to have an opinion. So, let’s chat about the pros and cons of screen time, and discuss some hands-free, screen-free […]

26Jan

Early Education: A Guide for New Parents

Deciding when and how to kick off your little one’s school journey is like stepping into a whole new phase of your parenting escapade. It’s a mix of factors to work through, all specific to your kiddo and family groove, that shapes this big decision. Determining the ideal age for your toddler to venture into […]

Posted in Parenting

19Jan

Shopping Second-Hand

Embracing the Chaos: The Journey of New Parenthood In the whirlwind of new parenthood, the constant influx of baby items can quickly turn a cosy home into a chaotic centre of clutter. We all inevitably experience the challenge of navigating through stacks of unused toys, outgrown clothes, and baby gear that has served its purpose. […]

Posted in Baby Cart News

11Jan

New Year

New Year’s Resolutions, What Are Those?! Navigating a new year with little ones brings its own set of challenges and joys. As new parents, the idea of New Year’s resolutions might seem like a distant memory from a time when sleep wasn’t a luxury, the word routine wasn’t synonymous with parenting, and your life didn’t […]

Posted in Parenting

18Dec

Baby’s First Festive Season

As we gear up for twinkling lights, cosy family gatherings, and buying ALL the presents, this festive season brings extra joy as it is your first Christmas with your little one. But while you are feeling the obvious excitement, there are also butterflies in your tummy. Navigating the holiday season with a new baby and […]

1Dec

Fever – Bloem Mom Doc

Little Nina has been battling a fever since yesterday, so I thought I’d repost this. Fever is probably one of the things that causes the most panic in moms. Fever is a natural way for the body to fight infection and inflammation and should not be feared. Every child will eventually experience a fever, no […]

28Nov

First Birthday Parties Done the Right Way

Your little one’s first birthday signifies not only your child’s first year but also your journey through the initial, often challenging, phase of parenthood. It is a significant transition for your little one. No longer a baby, about to become a toddler. Organising the perfect first birthday party can be both exciting and overwhelming. Family […]

20Nov

Sensory Integration 

From the moment a baby is born, their brain embarks on a journey of growth and development. A fundamental aspect of this early journey is the exploration of sensory input and the subsequent integration of these experiences. But what exactly does this involve? And why do we as new parents need to know about it? […]

12Nov

Mastering the Art of Sleep

Ah, sleepless nights. As your baby’s arrival changes your world, one of the most significant challenges you’ll face is understanding the art of infant sleep. Navigating their wake and nap times and how to manage on a SEVERE lack of sleep yourself, will become your new obsession.  Chapter 1: Decoding the Newborn Sleep Cycle Understanding […]

Posted in Parenting

23Oct

Fostering Resilience In Children

  Author: Nikki Preston (Educational Psychologist) If we have learnt anything from this COVID-19 pandemic it is that change is a certainty. Change and transitioning is often hard at the best of times. While some children seem to manage, others have really battled – and understandably so. Observations that you may have noted in your […]

23Oct

Keeping Your Little Sunshine Safe Under the Sun

The sun’s rays can be both beneficial and harmful to our little ones. As parents and caregivers, it’s our duty to soak up the good while protecting them from the bad. With a few practical tips, we can help our children play safely under the sun so they can glow with health – not burn […]

Posted in Child Safety

28Sep

Parenting Styles: How to Choose What Works Best For Your Family

Becoming a parent launches you on a thrilling, challenging journey full of joys, frustrations, milestones, and constant questions. Amidst the explosion of parenting theories and advice out there, one of the biggest dilemmas is: how do I parent in a way that’s right for me and my child? There’s no universally ideal style. Every family […]

Posted in Parenting

19Sep

Spring has Sprung

Friday 1 September saw Spring blossoming all across South Africa, filling the air with the promise of fresh beginnings and new adventures. As a you parent, you know that this vibrant season is the perfect time for new beginnings, with the warmer weather giving us all some much-needed energy. To celebrate, we thought we would […]

8Sep

Indoor Fun

When the weather turns chilly and going outside becomes a bit more of a challenge, it can be difficult to keep your little ones entertained and engaged. But the good news is there are plenty of exciting and educational activities you can enjoy with your babies and toddlers indoors during our winter season. Here are […]

28Aug

Teething Troubles

Becoming a parent is a journey filled with joy and love, but it also comes with its share of challenges, and baby teething is one of them. As your little one embarks on this milestone, it’s essential to understand the teething process, the ages at which teeth typically emerge, and how to recognise the signs […]

Posted in Child Healthcare

16Aug

A New Chapter Begins: Discovering Your Pregnancy, Now What?

The moment you discover you’re pregnant is a time filled with excitement, anticipation, and even a touch of nervousness. As you embark on this beautiful journey of motherhood, it’s important to take the right steps to ensure a healthy pregnancy for both you and your baby.  Discovering Your Pregnancy Confirming the News:  If you suspect […]

Posted in Uncategorized

7Aug

Bringing the Little Ones to the Big Screen

We have noticed quite a few posts on social media regarding the new Barbie movie not being for children, and it got us thinking – are toddlers allowed into cinemas?  The magical allure of the big screen, the scent of popcorn wafting through the air, and the anticipation of a thrilling cinematic experience create cherished […]

26Jul

Fun and Educational Activities to Stimulate Your Baby’s Development

The early years of a baby’s life are a time of extraordinary growth and development. As parents, we have the incredible opportunity to foster our little one’s cognitive, emotional, and physical development through engaging and stimulating activities. These activities not only create a strong parent-child bond but also lay the foundation for their future learning […]

24Jul

Must-Have Baby Products: A Comprehensive Guide

Welcoming a new baby into the world is a joyous and exciting time for new parents. As you embark on this beautiful journey of parenthood, having the right baby products can make a significant difference in ensuring your little one’s comfort and well-being. In this comprehensive guide, we’ve compiled a list of must-have baby products […]

Posted in Uncategorized

21Jul

Warm and Nourishing: Soups to Delight Little Ones

With Winter chills officially all around us, it’s important to keep our little ones warm, nourished, and healthy. One delicious way to achieve this is through hearty and nutritious soups. Get ready to warm both their bellies and hearts with these comforting, kid-friendly options… Butternut and Sweet Potato Tomato and Vegetable Alphabet  Creamy Broccoli and […]

Posted in Nutrition

19Jul

Mandela Day Celebrations with Your Little One

Mandela Day, observed on July 18th each year, is a special day dedicated to honouring the incredible legacy of Nelson Mandela, South Africa’s iconic leader and global symbol of peace and equality. It is such a great opportunity to reflect with our little ones, on Mandela’s values while also teaching them the value of making […]

22Jun

Winter Chills: Keeping Babies and Toddlers Healthy and Happy

Winter brings about a magical time filled with cosy blankets, and warm cups of hot chocolate. However, it also brings with it the dreaded winter chills that can leave both adults and children susceptible to colds and flu. When it comes to protecting our little ones, it’s essential to take extra precautions to keep them […]

Posted in Child Healthcare

15Jun

Car Seat Safety

Ensuring the safety of our little ones is every parent’s top priority, especially when it comes to traveling in a vehicle. One of the most crucial safety measures is the proper use of baby and toddler car seats. In this 2-part Blog series, we will look at the importance of car seat safety, as well […]

Posted in Child Safety

15Jun

Introducing The Baby Cart: Your One-Stop Destination for Second-hand Baby Goods in South Africa

Have you ever wished for a platform exclusively dedicated to buying and selling baby goods without the clutter of traditional marketplaces? A safe, online space designed with parents in mind? Then we have some good news for you – welcome to The Baby Cart.

Posted in Baby Cart News