Painting with spices

What do you get when you bring together spice, water and a paint brush? Spice painting!! It's simple and fun, and EV got the opportunity to smell and experience the different spices.

Here's what you need:
- Spices, any type that you can find, in a bottle or otherwise
- water
- egg carton, to be used as a palette for the spice and water
- paint brush
- cardboard

As I poured each of the spices into the egg carton, I described it, the smell and the appearance, and let EV feel the spices in its original state. She had fun helping me with the pouring. Then I added a little bit of water to each of the spices, and away EV went with her spicy creation.

See her intent look of concentration? She also indulged in her own messy play and did finger painting. And when the spice paints ran out, she helped herself by pouring more.

It's a good activity to keep the young one occupied. Some of the spices may drop on the floor, but it is not something that some newspaper cannot solve.

So, go pick up some spices and do some spice painting.

When F-I-T is not desirable

We always talk about keeping fit and staying healthy. Recently, I had an experience which made f-i-t totally undesirable. And I hope it never happens again.

One fine Tuesday

On this fateful day, while at school having a meeting, I received a phone call which I never expected, never wanted.

'AA had a fit!' said my mother-in-law.

I can't quite describe the shock I felt then, the worry and fear that gripped me. I remember uttering 'oh no!', and bringing my hand to my lips. My reaction got the attention of my team mates, though. AA had a fit about 15 minutes before the call. My helper rushed him to the nearby GP, but halfway there, he recovered, and they returned home. What was perplexing was there was no known trigger. He had no fever, and was playing with his grandmother when it happened, though he was having a cough and had a lot of phlegm.

For the next one hour, while the team mates continued with the meeting, I was making calls to the KKH Ask-A-Nurse hotline and my mother-in-law, trying to get a better picture of the incident, and getting advice on what to do next. Because AA had recovered, the advice as to monitor him and if another incident occurred, he was to be sent to A&E immediately.

Five days later 

Early in the morning, AA was playing with his toy truck. The truck slipped, and he bumped his head on the floor. It wasn't from a big height, but it did hurt a bit, so naturally, AA cried. He got more and more agitated, and then it hit again. He recovered again, and it was off to A&E at Parkway East, near our home. AA was admitted to hospital and tests were done. These included a blood test and a Electroencephalography (EEG) which measures the brain's electric activity. The results were normal, but because there were two attacks, the pediatrician prescribed prescribed medicine for it. I stayed with my baby at the hospital and he was discharged the next day.

By this time, everyone at home was on high alert. No one wanted a third incident. The big question on our minds: what was the trigger? We needed a second opinion, but did not know where to start. Luckily, my sister's friend's parents are doctors, and they were able to recommend a few neurologists, most of them situated at KKH. I tried calling, bit the earliest appointment was in May. Hubby and I made a trip down and managed to get an appointment two weeks later, which is today. In the meantime, we set an operating procedure at home, I put all of AA's medical documents and test results in a file, along with $50. If he should have a relapse and hubby and I are not at home, the helper or my parents-in-law are to immediately give him a medicine through the backside to help him recover, gather the important stuff and send him to A&E at KKH. Then hubby and I would rush down from wherever we are. 

I also wrote an incident report detailing exactly what happened during the two attacks, the duration, how he looked, the medication he was on and so on, so that when we finally see the neurologist, we would have everything down, and we didn't have to worry of forgetting anything.

So, fast forward to today. The last week or so has been nerve wrecking. I've tried calling KKH everyday in the hope of getting an earlier appointment with any neurologist available, but well, that wasn't successful. Everyday I leave home worried. Everyday I would constantly check my phone, hoping and hoping that I will not receive a call from home. Everyday my heart will only be at ease when I get home and see my dear AA happily smiling at me and saying a musical 'haaaiiii'. 

We met the neurologist today, a nice lady. She did a quick assessment and said AA was fine, and his development is on the right track. The worry, of course, are the fits, and what triggered them. There is no family history of epilepsy, so that also seems unlikely. Fever was also not the cause. She also shared with us that for babies of AA's age, they can get into breath-holding fits, during which their lungs reflex involuntarily when they are feeling extremely angry, frustrated or uncomfortable, affecting the breathing pattern. Whatever it is, further investigations needed to be done, and this included another round of blood tests and EEG. We will be seeing the neurologist again next week, so hopefully, everything is ok.

One thing I found out from the doc today: during episodes of fits, NEVER put anything in the mouth. There's the common misconception that something like a cloth should be put in the mouth to prevent the person from biting himself. But the doc said that is not right. Doing that may end up hurting the person who's having a fit. So we've modified our standard operating procedure at home now, and it goes something like this.

1. Prevention is better than reaction. So every time AA gets angry or upset, we would try to distract him by singing, clapping, anything. Even opening the refrigerator comes in handy. The point is, make him relax.

2. If he does get another attack, make sure the area is safe, or bring him to another area.

3. Lie him down on the side and keep his airways clear.

4. Do not put anything in the mouth, as forcing open the mouth may break teeth and cause oral injuries. 

5. Observe and record, being as precise as possible, and noting the duration as well. Make a video recording if possible.

6. After he recovers from the seizure, let him rest.

7. Rush him to A&E.

I knew my babies are my everything, but this episode more than reinforced that. I found myself wishing it was I who was going through the ordeal, not my darling AA. And I would do anything for him to be alright. At the same time, I had to be strong and happy and make sure I don't neglect EV. During the two days that AA was in hospital, I only saw EV for barely an hour, but every time I do, I give her a hug and kiss. She was wonderful too, extremely understanding, and gave AA a big hug when he came home. Such a great sister, I'm so proud of her.

The extended family were so supportive too. The parents-in-law stayed home to look after EV. My mum stayed over at the hospital with me. My brother gave me a virtual hug as he's living in Melbourne, and my sister helped find recommendations for neurologists. They were wonderful, and it made the whole ordeal a little easier to endure.

Did I become stronger? Perhaps I have, in some way. What really hit me is the heartache I felt, and how much sacrifice I am willing to make for my babies. Hubby and me both.

Linking up with:

Review: Philips Avent breast pump and bottles

{Sponsored}

I don’t deny it. I’m a fan of Philips Avent breast pumps. My trusty electric Avent has accompanied me through both my breastfeeding journeys with EV and AA. It has been with me at work and in my travels, and it has never failed me. Honestly.  So I would like to give it a place of tribute here on this blog, because in my humble opinion, it deserves it.

So when I was offered a chance to review the new Philips Avent pumps, I jumped at it. I had seen it at the shops and was almost tempted to get it. However, my thrifty self interfered, and since then, I have been curiously wondering how the new models performed. Deep inside me though, I knew it would just excel. Yes, I am that much of a fan.

Still, the skeptic me in exists, so though I was offered only the manual pump, I gamely gave it a try. 

Out of the box, the pump also comes with a teat, so that immediately, a feeding can be done the moment expressing is done. The new model’s redesign resembles its predecessor in some ways, most notably in terms of the type of parts. There is the silicone diaphragm with stem, massage cushion and white valve. The way all the parts assemble together is similar too, though the top where the handle and silicone diaphragm are situated is slightly at an angle for a more comfortable grip. What I really like about the new design is the white walve, which has a ribbed part that allows it to be easily detached from the pump. It also feels sturdier. 

Where a motor would be in the electric version, this manual version has just the handle attached to the silicone diaphragm. At first, it looked complicated to me and I was wondering how to detach it. In reality, it is really easy to remove the handle from the main pump. Here, I have dismantled the whole pump, which is made up of seven individual parts.

Other the redesign, the new Philips Avent retains its usability. Unfortunately, unlike the electric version, there is no base to cover the pump body when the bottle is removed. As I was more used to the electric version, expressing using the manual pump was more tiring. It was as effective, though as time progressed and my hand became more tired, the level of effectiveness decreased. In this respect, I still personally prefer the electric Avent, as it allowed me to maintain a consistent pump throughout. The good thing about a manual pump is that it definitely helps in toning up hand and arm muscles, which means fewer trips to the gym!

My take on the Philips Avent manual pump? A worthwhile investment if you are looking for a more economic alternative. The only question you have to ask yourself is whether you are alright with building up those tactile muscles.

My loyalty must have rubbed off on the kids, as they are ardent users of Avent bottles too. Like the electric pump, we have been using Avent bottles since EV was born. So this time, along with the Philips Avent manual pump, I was also provided with the new Natural feeding bottle to try out.  

The new Natural feeding bottles are more stylishly designed, with a bell-shaped bottle body, and a wide bottle neck. I like the new shape as it is more ergonomic, perfect for small hands, and the bottles are BPA-free. 

The other distinctive redesign is in the teat. The teat now features oval-shaped petals, which makes the teat more soft and flexible and is similar to the teats on the pump’s massage cushion. In the same way that the cushion makes expressing more comfortable, the breast-shaped teat is designed to make feeding more comfortable and natural for the baby. The bottle’s built-in anti-colic system also works to reduce discomfort, by ensuring that air is released back into the bottle, and not the baby’s tummy.

Which means that AA should adapt to the new bottle and teat quite readily. Unfortunately, it is taking a little longer than expected. And I think it is because AA has grown too attached to his old bottles and teats. So while I do not see any flaw in the new redesign, AA’s personal preference and attachment has so far prevented me from executing my plan of keeping his old bottles and teats in the storeroom. However, I will keep persisting, and I am sure that very soon, AA will use the new Avent bottles like a fish in a pond.

Philips Avent Manual Breast Pump
Pros
Simple design to allow for easy dismantling.
Same comfort level as the predecessor

Cons
Pumping manually is more tiring.
Lack of base cover for the pump body.

My verdict
Design ****
Ease of use *****
Performance *****

Philips Avent Natural Feeding Bottles
Pros
Ergonomic bell-shaped design
More comfortable breast-shaped teat with oval-shaped petals

Cons
Usability depends on the baby’s response to the bottle

My verdict
Design *****
Ease of use ****
Performance ****

Disclaimer: The Philips Avent breast pump and bottles were sponsored by Philips Singapore. No monetary compensation was received for this review, and all opinions and images are my own.

Interview: Eye care tips from Dr Lee Sao Bing

It is a constant battle at home, this battle with technology like the TV, iPhone and iPad. It is easy to give in and let these gadgets take over as the 'babysitters' to keep the kids occupied. While the position of 'no TV, iPhone or iPad' have been kept to as much as possible these few years, things do relax a little around the house when the hubby or parents-in-law are watching their favourite movies or Korean dramas. I mean, in today's world, how can you possibly keep these technology away from the kids. We are all bombarded by it everywhere! 

The trick then is to manage the kids' exposure to these gadgets, so that they get the chance to be exposed to the world around them, rather than sit in silos, facing a screen.

And who better to get such tips from than an eye doctor? I am very happy to introduce Dr Lee Sao Bing, Medical Director of Shinagawa LASIK & Eye Centre. A father of two sons, Dr Lee shares eye care tips for children six years and below. 

**********

Could you please share eye care tips for young children aged 6 yrs and below? What should parents know when exposing their children to TV and electronic gadgets like the iPad and XBox?

(1) No watching of TV (eg LCD screen or tablet) or reading while in the car 

(2) No using of tablet while having meals, basically cut down on the use of hand held devices, children tend to hold these devices very close to the eyes, they hold smart phones even nearer.

(3) If educational games are really needed, then Xbox or Wii better than desktop computer, desktop better than laptop, laptop better than tablet, tablet better than smart phone. (Reason: the further away the better)

(4) After every half hour of using these devices, must take a break (eg go get a drink) 

(5) Read under good light

(6) Do not lie down while reading or using hand-held devices

(7) Reading material – the larger the print the better (reason: can view from further away)

(8) Outdoor games better than indoor games (eg, go to the pool, the playground)

(9) Wear sunglasses with proper UV protection if out in the sun for long duration. Eg long drives, a day at the zoo, boating etc

Is it harmful for kids to be exposed to TV and electronic gadgets when they are too young, like a year old? What are the potential harms? Why are they harmful?

The only harm is with regards to increase in myopia (short-sightedness). Research has shown that increase in myopia is associated with more hours spent doing near work. Near work includes use of hand-held devices or computers, reading, writing…etc.

When looking at a near object, the eye muscle (ciliary muscle) has to contract to allow the natural lens of the eyeball to become more spherical in shape in other to allow objects to come into focus. This action is called Accommodation. It has been shown that greater accommodation (seeing nearer objects for long duration) is linked to increase in myopia. Myopia increases when the eyeball grows longer. By having a longer eyeball, the ciliary muscle does not have to work so hard to focus at near objects. 

Is there an ideal age to start exposing young children to these electronic gadgets? Is it true that they should only be exposed once they reach 2 years of age?

From my personal opinion, the later the better in terms of helping to prevent the onset of myopia.  But of course this has to be balanced with the need for education. So, I guess the best is to revert to the style of education from years ago when there were hardly any hand-held devices. 

Children get very attached to these devices. The younger they are exposed to them, the longer time they will spend holding these devices up close. Secondly, when they are very young, they are unlikely to sit at a desk to view these gadgets at a distance. They are more likely to hold the device very close to view the images.

As a parent in a highly technological world, what do you do to help your children take care of their eyes? Do you set rules to limit your children's use of technology? Can you share your personal experience?

I adhere closely to the nine tips that I shared earlier. My two boys do not play games on smart phones. They play once a while (once or twice a week) on the tablet and about 30 minutes on the computer once a day or once in two days. 

Both my boys have homework to do and I feel that’s already enough of near work that they do each day. I make it a point to bring them out for activities – eg, swimming, playing tennis, jogging, roller blading, scootering etc.

As an eye doctor, do you come under pressure to make sure your children have good eye health & care, to set an example for others?

I don’t feel any pressure because I thoroughly believe that these habits are good for them. I practice it myself too. 

Any other advice for parents?

Parents have to believe in this advice first and practice it themselves in order for their kids to believe in it and follow the advice. 

Good eye care habits for everyone (yes, even adults can have an increase in myopia if they do not have good eye care habits, not just young children):

(1) Sit 50 cm from the computer

(2) Sit 30 to 40 cm from the paper while writing

(3) Sit about 2.5 m away from the TV

(4) Read under good light

(5) Do not lie down to read

(6) After every 30 minutes of near work, take a break, eg look outside the window for a while

(7) Change all hand-held games to outdoor games (afraid of the sun? there is indoor tennis, badminton, table-tennis, gym, jog early morning or in the evenings… by the way, no reading or using the tablet while on the tread-mill or cycling machine in the gym)

(8) Taking the MRT or bus and feeling bored? Don’t watch videos or play games on your phone, listen to music instead. 

*****

Thank you Dr Lee.