of humour counting for much. Even babies can be just as superficial as the rest of us. At just one day old, babies have been demonstrated to prefer attractive faces. By school age, research shows that attractive children are still more popular and socially

LONG ACKNOWLEDGED FOR its health benefits for adults, is yoga really suitable for babies? Baby yoga is becoming widely recognised as one of the best ways for mothers to bond with their babies while meeting other like-minded parents. “I think parents

If you don’t fancy singing lullabies, make gentle, soft noises instead (cooing or shushing, for example) to let her know that you are there and that she is safe. 4 Give her a massageBaby massage will relax your baby so she sleeps well; it also helps you bond

of baby massage (bonding, relaxation, better sleep habits) will be Karen Eichhorn, formerly of the Birth Unit at the Hospital of St John & St Elizabeth. The first 50 guests will also get an exclusive goody bag with gifts from Blossom and Tiddley Pom

Sibling rivalry is greatest when the age gap between children is between 18 months and two years; it is lowest when the gap is much smaller or larger than this. It doesn’t only affect first-borns – second and third children can resent a new baby too

the effort for this time of closeness – not to mention the educational benefits of books for babies and young children, which are very well d ocumented. THere are also benefits of shared reading in emotional terms. It is a special time of intimacy, a bonding

Make it a time for bonding… 
Bathtime is one of the most important rituals of being a parent. Don’t ever fall into the trap of thinking bathing a baby is about getting cleanliness: that, in fact, is the least important reason for turning on the taps

to harness the multi-sensory aspects of a spa – aromatherapy, massage and music – which are used so successfully to relax adults, and apply them to relaxing parents and babies. Indeed, it does more than an adult spa treatment, as it helps nurture the bond

From learning language, imparting life lessons and strengthening family bonds, reading holds a wealth of brilliant benefits for your child. Here at Junior, we have long been champions of the developmental potential of the written word, so whether

mother, baby and toy. “Mothers are a baby’s most important toy. We always encourage mothers to play with their babies every day – to bond with them and just sit back, watch and enjoy.” For Weber, the best part is watching the expression on the babies