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Child Care News for Parents & Carers
July 3, 2019 |
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Kia ora, the National party have proposed a three-day stay for women immediately following birth and we consider the impacts. Also, how three countries are tackling obesity rates in preschoolers and what you can do at home.
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What does the '3 day stay' policy mean for new mums?
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Giving birth is a monumental moment in a woman's life, bringing joy and relief. Although the rigours of labour are over, the challenges of motherhood have just begun.
In the first days, a new mum might feel exhausted, unsure, overwhelmed, or simply a bit flat as she cares for a brand-new person. Birth takes a physical toll, and many women are dealing with sleepless nights, breastfeeding challenges and emotional upheaval as they bond with their baby.
The Government recognises the need to support new mums, and women are currently entitled to 48 hours of funded postnatal care provided by their local District Health Board (DHB). Now, National has gone one step further with its '3 day stay' postnatal policy, so let's see what this could potentially mean for new mums.
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Food for thought
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Obesity rates amongst young children
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Preschoolers are sweet little things and we're not just talking about their temperament. Many eat a lot of sugar and while it's tempting to reward young children with treats, and celebrate birthdays with cakes, cookies and lolly bags, all this sweet stuff isn't good for growing bodies…or even grown ones, for that matter.
Of course, sugar isn't the only culprit. As well as being sugary, lots of everyday foods are highly processed and contain much more salt and saturated fat than you think. As a result, many children are carrying extra weight in their early years and are at increased risk of tooth decay, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease moving forward.
All hope is not lost, though. Let's see how we can slow down the sugar rush and make healthy food choices in the face of unsettling rates of childhood obesity here and in other countries.
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