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We had a bit of a banter the other day about our top three back to school must haves and after a fair bit of oh this needs to be on the list and oh no that needs to be on the list we finally agreed on three.

Top of the list would be a good quality Probiotic such as Viridians Children’s Sybiotic, Bio-Kults Infantis or the Udos Infants or Children’s blend. There are so many benefits to using probiotics but first and foremost they are super important to the healthy functioning of your little ones immune system and so back to school time is an ideal time to begin including probiotics. Probiotics have also proven beneficial in the treatment and prevention of allergies and can also help with skin conditions such as eczema.

Next up is Almond Butter (or any nut butter of your choice). Almond Butter is really versatile and nutritionally rich being high in protein which will keep little bellies fuller for longer, whilst also providing healthy fats, vitamin E, potassium, magnesium, iron and calcium. Add some to a breakfast smoothie, spread on toast with sliced banana for a fantastic energy boosting breakfast toast, add to homemade energy balls or just spread between two slices of apple for the ultimate apple sandwich – any way you like it’s delicious and healthy.

Third on our list has to be Theraneem’s Shampoo and Body wash. Neem has long been used as a preventative and treatment for the dreaded head lice (we hate to mention them). However regular use of this shampoo and body wash (twice a week) can be a really effective deterrrant while also being a great product for sensitive scalps.

So there you have our top 3 must haves for any home with school going kids and all that’s left to say is here’s to a great
school going year!!

Sinead and Eimear xx

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Hi all,

It will be back to school time soon and while some of you may breathe a sigh of relief at the return to routine others will undoubtedly start fretting over ‘how in god’s name to pack for that school lunch that must be prepared five days a week’. Obviously most of us want to give something that is healthy and nutritious as we all love our children, but this is not always as easy as it seems. As a parent myself and haven spoken with quite a few on this topic, I am well aware of the challenges facing parents who want their kids to eat healthy. On the one hand you want to pack something that will be eaten and not be returned to you that evening.

While on the other hand you have the little chreubs in Jane/Johnny’s class who tell your little cherub that the tuna sandwich they are about to eat is horrible/smelly/disgusting. Be under no illusions you will be warned never to pack such an item again. Research clearly shows that eating a healthy breakfast and lunch will result in your child having more energy and better concentration levels throughout the day. Bearing this in mind I will be trying out different recipes and ideas over the coming months and anything that is a success (by success, I mean, eaten by children) I will be posting. I’ll be trying out a recipe with quinoa this weekend so will let you know how that goes. Feel free to post your own successful recipes and ideas and I’m sure between us all we can surely fill their little lunchboxes for the year ahead with healthy, nutritious food. Happy Healthy Kids = Happy Healthy Parents.

Sinead xx

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The Brilliance of Baking Soda:

More traditionally used for baking, read on and find out it’s many other uses and why baking soda is one of the least expensive home remedies to keep to hand.

1. Natural deodorant:

If you want to avoid the parabens and aluminium found in many deodorants and antiperspirants, try a pinch of baking soda mixed with water instead. This makes a simple yet effective natural deodorant. You could also simply sprinkle baking soda under your arms.

2. Insect Bites:

Mix baking soda and water and apply to insect bites to relieve itching. This can also be used on an itchy rash. Baking Soda helps to relieve minor skin irritation and itching by neutralising irritants on the skins surface.

3. Heartburn, Indigestion and Ulcer Pain: 

While not a long term solution baking soda will neutralise stomach acid, helping to relieve heartburn, indigestion and even ulcer pain.

4. Hand cleanser: 

Mix 3 parts baking soda with one part water to make a natural hand cleanser that will scrub away dirt and neutralise odours.

5. Sunburn Remedy:

While it may not seem likely you will have much use for this one right now, it’s still a good one to know. If you add ½ cup of baking soda to a lukewarm bath and soak in it, you will get natural relief. Alternatively you can also mix the baking soda with water to make a cold compress and apply it directly to the area.

6. Tooth Paste:

Baking soda will help to remove plaque and clean and deodorise your teeth due to its slight abrasive action. It will also kill bacteria which contribute to tooth decay. To make a great paste mix six parts baking soda to one part sea salt. 

7.Teeth Whitener:

To whiten your teeth naturally, crush one ripe strawberry and mix ½ teaspoon of baking soda. Spread the mix on your teeth and leave for five minutes. Then brush and rinse. Do this no more than once a week.

Sinead xx