Having a baby in the Year of the Tiger? Here’s what you can look forward to

So, you’re having a baby – and no doubt wondering what their personality will be like, or what their future may hold. A quick look at the Chinese zodiac might just offer a little insight. Each year is associated with one of 12 animals, and 2022 (from February 1st) marks the Year of the Tiger.

While raising a tiger may sound a little scary, the good news is that Tiger babies have a lot going for them – and those born in 2022, even more so.

Personality traits of the Tiger

Chinese New Year has arrived, so if you’re giving birth between February 1st 2022 and January 21st 2023, you’ll have a Tiger baby on your hands. Much like the personality of a tiger, babies born in this year are said to be fiery, passionate, fearless, and daring, and they have strong self-esteem. They’re optimistic, enthusiastic and have endless energy.

They also love their freedom and independence, so get ready for some busy times when you hit the toddler years!

Overall, Tiger babies are lively and cheerful souls. They are well liked and have an obvious vitality that draws people in – and be warned, they often find themselves at the centre of attention.

What makes 2022 Tigers so special?

In the Chinese zodiac, each animal is also associated with an element: wood, fire, earth metal or water. And each element comes around once in a 60 year cycle.

The 2022 Tiger is coupled with the element of water, which offers a further positive influence over the their personality. The Water Tiger is smart, humorous and good at socialising. They make progress in their career and are good at making money. The Water Tiger also has a strong learning ability and easily adapts to new things.

Tigers born in 2022 are believed to be extremely family orientated and have excellent interpersonal relationships.

The health of the Tiger

Fortunately, life looks pretty good for your Tiger baby in this department. Tigers are said to be super healthy and rarely suffer from coughs, colds and fever. They are always energetic and enthusiastic at work. However, they can find them themselves exhausted after a long day and need time out to refresh.

Overall they’re active and sporty, and do well keeping fit with aerobic exercise such as jogging.

Look out for the girl Tigers

Interestingly, in the past Chinese folklore always warned against having a girl born in the Year of the Tiger. Girls were supposed to be good, serene and calm, but those born in the year of the Tiger were thought to be too strong and wild in personality, and therefore difficult to marry off.

Fortunately times have changed, and this is no longer the case. People are only too happy and proud to have Tiger daughters who are brave, strong and highly assertive.

Tiger career paths

For Chinese, the tiger is the ‘king of the animals’, often at the centre of attention. Babies born in this year are therefore destined to be strong, dynamic, confident, and are well suited to positions of leadership. Jobs or careers considered a good match include the below professions – it’s a wide variety but all display a sense of adventure and freedom, and requiring strong independent and determined individuals:

Famous Tigers

There are many celebrity Tigers who have been born over the years, so if you have a baby in 2022, they’re in great company:

Simple hack for transferring baby: “Why not give it a try?”

During those early newborn days, and many days after, it may feel like you’re constantly finding ways to settle your little one and get them off to sleep. Recently a UK baby sleep expert uploaded a TikTok video, offering a sleep hack to help transfer your baby into the cot – and the idea is so simple, it might just work.

Avoid head and shoulders

Lynda Harding, mother of six and founder of Sweet Dreamers, starts the video by asking the question, “Does your baby wake up every time you put them down to sleep?”

She then explains that the reason for this could be the way the baby is being placed into the cot. “Putting your baby down so that their head and shoulders touch the mattress first can give them the sensation of falling and trigger the startle reflex (Moro), even when they’re asleep,” she says.

Lynda demonstrates the “wrong” way to transfer your little one to the cot, using a baby-like doll.

A different approach

Lynda then goes on to demonstrate a possible solution. “To remedy this, try putting them down so that their bum, back and then their head touches the mattress.” The caption also says to try and keep baby close to you for as long as possible.

 “Why not give it a try?” Lynda says. “This small change can make a big difference.”

@ewanandfriends Does your newborn baby wake up every time you put them down to sleep? This could be why… #babysleeptips #babysleephack #newbornsleeptips #mumsoftiktok ♬ Lazy Sunday – Official Sound Studio

But does this work?

The post has proved extremely popular, with over 775, 000 views and more than 33,000 likes. However Lynda’s technique is not for everyone and has received mixed responses.

Many were extremely positive and keen to try out the technique. Others had tried it and found it did make a difference, posting comments such as, “I did this and it worked”, “It worked for my 6 month old” and “Always done this and it works for us.”

However many parents dismissed the idea immediately, saying it doesn’t work with comments such as “I do this all the time and my baby still wakes up,” “Nope doesn’t work” and “That doesn’t work for us.”

One parent wrote, “As soon as the head touch the bed, he woke up” while another said, “I do that put their heads down at the end but still wakes up.”

Others made light of the fact that the demonstration was carried out using a doll, not a real baby, with comments such as “A DoLL won’t wake up” and “easy to keep a doll sleeping.”

Still, babies are all so different, especially when it comes to sleep. What works for one, doesn’t always work for another. My first baby woke every time I put her down, no matter what I tried. My second baby loved going to sleep so I’d put her down awake and off she went.

However, when you do have an unsettled baby, anything is worth trying. And while this sleep hack clearly doesn’t suit every baby, it did help a handful of sleep-deprived parents, which can only be a good thing. Better than good. Amazing.

What will my baby say? Hilarious videos of babies’ very first ‘words’

Hearing your baby’s very first words is a truly remarkable and much anticipated moment. But when does it happen? And what sort of things will your baby say? You just won’t know until it happens. And hopefully you’ll have a mobile phone ready to capture it!

Some parents are lucky enough to be able to record their baby’s first word and share it on social media, giving the rest of us delightful and entertaining internet viewing. Read on to see some super cute first words!

When will my baby speak?

Babies are all so different and develop at different rates, but they generally say their first word somewhere around their first birthday. However before this happens, their communication is developing at a tremendous rate. Not only do they learn to express themselves, but they’re also learning to respond, smiling and laughing when you play with them, waving and pointing, or even reacting to their name.

Development of baby language

3-4 months: Your baby might start to make eye contact and combine vowels and consonants to make sounds such as “ahh goo”. They might also babble and combine vowels and consonants to say words like “ma ma ma” or “ga ga ga”.

5-7 months: Now your baby may start imitating noises that you make, such as blowing raspberries, coughing, clicking and laughing. They will also copy your gestures such as waving, pointing and clapping. They might also start playing with sounds like “ahh” and “booo”, trying different pitches and volume levels.

8-9 months: At this stage, your baby could say ‘mama’ or ‘dada’, without really knowing what it means. They might also put sounds together in a way that sounds like normal speech.

10-11 months: You baby will start to use noises or gestures when ask for something, insisting on something, saying no or greeting someone. They might also understand the word ‘no’ by this stage, not that they will always do as you say. They may also ask for something by pointing, or by looking at a person then at the object they want.

12-14 months: This is when your baby might say “mama” or “dada” and know that they’re talking about you. They will also understand simple instructions with visual and verbal cues.

Amazing ‘first words’

While baby’s first word is often “dada” or “mama”, this isn’t always the case. My first daughter’s first word was ‘ball’ … and I’m not sure about my second daughter’s first word (I’m hoping I wrote it down, because now, at age 10, she keeps asking me).

These days, with mobile phones, parents have more of a chance to capture their baby’s first words – like this one couple managed to do. The scene, which they shared on Instagram, received nearly 68,000 likes and it’s not hard to see why.

Not only do we hear their baby’s first amazing attempt at communication, but also the heart-melting phrase the baby utters is “I love you.” And not just once, but twice. The parents’ reaction is priceless – as are many of the viewers’ comments. “Well that just made this pregnant lady burst into tears,” said one follower. “So beautiful”.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Good News (@tanksgoodnews)

What did he say?

Next we have a TikTok video showing another baby’s first words. This one is also super cute, however not quite what the parents were expecting. The video’s caption says it all: “I waited 8 months for his first words to be “alright bruv”.” While it’s hard to believe, this is, in fact, what the baby seems to say!

@carmenbish0 Answer @im_siowei #roadman #roadbaby #funny #baby #babyboy #firstwords #comedy #fyp #foryourpage #foryoupage #alrightbruv #bruv #alright #cute #silly #babytiktoker #babytiktok ♬ original sound – Cjessiebish

Having a good old chat

This final video is my personal favourite. The baby is not actually saying words but seems to be having a compete conversation with a talking cactus.

The mum places the moving/talking cactus in front of her daughter and says, “Talk to it”. And the baby takes great delight in conversing with the toy, imitating it and laughing at the exchange between them. While the baby isn’t saying any actual words, she’s definitely trying to communicate. And really looks like she understands and appreciates exactly what the cactus is saying.

@millsapmafia Her facial expressions 😂💀🙈 #thesingingcactus ♬ original sound – Brittany Millsap

With 3.8 million likes, I’m not the only one who enjoyed this moment. “Wow a full conversation,” said one viewer. “I wonder what she’s saying.” Another said, “She’s like “FINALLY. A PERSON OF CULTURE THAT CAN UNDERSTAND ME”, while another said, “Awww the little soul, it must be so nice to talk to someone with the same language.”

It is a hilarious video that clearly shows when it comes to speech development, it’s not all about the words. This baby is enjoying a lengthy conversation with a toy. The expressive and happy way she’s communicating is so engaging – what she’s saying is of no importance whatsoever!

Announcing changes to the Tell Me Baby rewards program

Tell Me Baby has been rewarding members of our review community since the site began 6 years ago, helping parents earn Coles, Kmart and Target gift cards for sharing their opinion of products they’ve tried. 

We’ve made a few tweaks in that time, and it’s now time for us to make some changes to the points allocated when you write a product review. This will help us keep rewarding you, our valued reviewers, for years to come.

These changes are now in effect. 

The new points system 

Under the new system, you’ll earn:

Which are the bonus points products?

There are over 600 products featuring the bonus point badge on our site. You’ll be able to recognise them as they’ll have a special logo that says “Earn up to 400 points” (shown below) on their main image. You’ll see this logo when browsing by category or by brand, and it will also be on the product’s page:

This banner will also appear on their product page: 

Tip: this page showcases all our bonus points partners: tellmebaby.com.au/brands. These brands all have products that will earn you up to 400 points. Just click on a brand and you’ll see the bonus point badge on the applicable products. 

What about double points?

The current double points brands will continue running until the end of January (400 points for a written review of a product from a double points brand, and 600 points if you include 3 to 5 photos).

From February 1st there will be no more monthly double points brands.

What about gift cards?

There are no changes to this part of the system – you’ll still be able to redeem 3000 points for a $20 Coles, Kmart or Target gift card.

Help – I have more questions 

There are a few ways to find out what you’d like to know:

Thanks for being a very valued member of our community. We couldn’t do any of this without you.

Mum’s clever COVID-19 hack to protect baby goes viral

Naturally, during these very strange Covid times, we worry about our little ones and do whatever we can to keep them safe. Like this one TikTok mum who came up with a simple yet ingenious idea to keep her baby germ-protected so she could quickly pop to the supermarket.

A pram-size ‘mask’

First time mum Chelle posted a video of her baby boy in his pram, complete with rain cover and the following comment: “The idea is simple; attempt to safely prevent my incredibly loved baby from catching a highly contagious virus, much the same as wearing a mask!”

Her idea is very simple and also sensible. Most parents have a pram rain cover (although I never did and always regretted it). Using it as a “mask” like protective covering for your child during the pandemic makes total sense.

Another use for the rain cover

We see the baby being pushed in his pram around the supermarket and hear Chelle’s narration over the top. “We’ve gotta do whatever we can to keep our babies safe,” she said. “So for me, today, that meant wearing the rain protector inside the supermarket.”

She goes onto explain, ”But it was only a quick trip so he didn’t get too hot and he’s safe from germs.”

@theanxiousmumma Rain cover #fyp #fucovid #protectingourbabies #raincover #covidshield #colessupermarkets #mumsoftiktok #momsoftiktok #cleargenius #helovedit ♬ Life is a Highway – Rascal Flatts

“This is a brilliant idea!”

The post went viral, attracting almost 4.5 thousand likes and over 400 comments. While a few viewers suggested that the mum just get home deliveries instead, the majority thought the idea was fantastic and thanked Chelle for posting it.

Many left positive comments in response like “Such a great idea we did this for vulnerable kids in the hospital” and “Omg great idea!”

One follower said, “I did this all throughout covid since my boy was born. I’d got odd looks but I didn’t care I needed to protect my baby.”

One drawbacks is that the rain cover can make things a bit hot and steamy for your baby, which is why Chelle was careful to only make a quick trip. However one or two viewers came up with some helpful solutions.

“Get a fan for the pram and put it in there if it gets to hot especially if your out longer it can circulate the air for bub,” offered one.

“If you needed it on for a longer trip maybe a mini clip on fan could help the air circulation,” suggested another.

Meanwhile another follower came up with one very important piece of advice: “Wipe over when you get home with disinfectant wipes.”

What to expect when you’re having a c-section

While many women hope for a natural birth, this is not always possible or preferred. Some opt for a caesarean (c-section), an operation to give birth to your baby. This can be a planned procedure, but for some it’s a decision made during birth, known as an emergency caesarean. Both are common and usually safe occurrences.

Here’s what to expect before, during and after a caesarean.

A planned caesarean

A caesarean birth is an operation where your baby is born through a cut in your abdomen and uterus. For some women facing health issues or pregnancy problems this is the safer option. You may choose a planned c-section for the following reasons:

Everyone is different and the above reasons do not necessarily mean you have to have a caesarean. This will depend on your individual situation and your doctor’s advice.

Some doctors may also allow you to choose a caesarean for mental health reasons.

What is going to happen?

For a planned c-section, you will arrive at the hospital and be admitted to the maternity ward. You’ll be given compression stockings to wear during surgery to prevent blood clots. Plus, the top of your pubic hair and stomach will be shaved, to prevent infections.

Once in the operating theatre, you’ll be given (most commonly) a spinal anaesthetic or epidural. A drape can be placed across your chest so you and your partner can’t see the surgery.

The operation takes 30 to 60 minutes and involves 10cm cuts in your stomach and uterus. The baby will then be lifted out through the cuts, and you’ll get that first magical glimpse of look of your precious little one. The umbilical cord will be cut and placenta removed, and the doctor or midwife will check your baby.

You’ll be give antibiotics through a drip and the doctor will stitch up the cuts and dress the wound. Most women are left with a small neat horizontal scar just below your undies line that will fade with time.

Why have an emergency caesarean?

An unplanned c-section will happen in a similar way, however the decision to proceed could be made because of the following reasons:

What to expect afterwards?

Skin-to-skin contact with your baby is encouraged as soon as possible after the birth, to start the bonding process and help make your baby feel warm and secure. If you’re unable to do this straightaway then your partner or support person will be encouraged to hold the baby.

It’s normal to experience pain around your stomach area. The midwife or nurse will check in with you regarding how you’re feeling. They’ll also check your blood pressure, wound and any bleeding. You’ll also probably have a drip and catheter for the first 12 to 24 hours.

It can take a little longer for milk to come in after a c-section, but if you’re intending to breastfeed, you’ll be encouraged to start as soon as possible. If you have any difficulties, hospital staff such as a midwife or lactation consultant will be able to offer help and support.

You’ll expect to stay a little longer in hospital after a c-section. Even when you’re ready to go, you still need time for your body to recover. Activities such as housework, exercise and driving may be restricted for up to six weeks. Take the time to be with your new baby, resting, taking relaxing walks and eating well. And maybe organise family or friends to help with shopping, cooking and cleaning.

Are there any possible risks or problems?

Having a c-section is a major operation, which always carries some risk. Problems that can arise from a caesarean birth include haemorrhaging, blood clots, infections, fever, complications form the anaesthetic, and a higher chance of having a caesarean for future births. There is also an increased risk of postnatal depression, so if you find you’re not coping, contact your doctor or healthcare professional for support.

Can I have a natural birth next time?

After a c-section, you may want to attempt a vaginal birth the next time around. While having another c-section carries the normal risks of this procedure, having a vaginal birth after a c-section can be problematic. The main issue is that the scar on the uterus could rupture, a situation that occurs for 1 in 200 women.

However, most women who attempt a vaginal birth after having a caesarean will succeed. About 30% of those planning a natural birth will end up having an emergency caesarean.

It’s certainly possible to go on and have a vaginal birth, but it’s something you’ll discuss with your doctor or healthcare professional and will depend on your individual situation.

At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter how your baby arrives into your arms, as long as it does so, safe and sound.

Couple names baby after dad’s workplace

We’ve heard some truly unique baby names over the years – but this one comes with a twist.

Samet Wahyudi, 38, reportedly agreed to marry his fiancé on one condition: their first son would be named in tribute to his workplace.

And when Samet and his wife Linda, from Brebes, in Indonesia, welcomed their son in December 2020, it all went ahead as planned. 

The baby’s name? Dinas Komunikasi Informatika Statistik – or, in English, Statistical Information Communication Office.

Samet joined the civil service in 2003, and since then his office has “become a second home for him”, according to The Sun

He wanted his work “to connect to his son somehow”, the paper reported.

‘Statistical Information Communication Office’ as a baby

“I gave this child’s name as a tribute to my workplace,” Samet told Detik News

“Thank God my wife also doesn’t mind this name, even though it sounds strange.” 

His in-laws were not too keen on the unusual name at first, but have reportedly come around.  

As Statistical Information Communication Office is a pretty big name for a little kid, the parents have given him the nickname Dinko, shortened from the Indonesian translation of Dinas Komunikasi Informatika Statistik.

Mum of 10 reveals her evening routine – and it’s exhausting!

As parents, we’re usually done for the night once children are all tucked into bed. However one TikTok mum recently posted a video, showing what she does each evening once her 10 kids are asleep – and while her routine is admirable, not all her followers are impressed.

The big clean

Alicia and Josh Dougherty are parents to 10 children – four biological and six adopted from foster care – and have become an internet sensation. They have a huge following on both TikTok and Instagram and regularly post videos that show what everyday life looks like in a household of 10 kids. In a recent post, Alicia describes her “Evening routine after my 10 kids go to sleep” – and it’s not for the faint-hearted.

The busy mum starts by unpacking all of the kids’ lunch boxes. She puts all their ice packs back into the freezer and washes all the dishes. She then cleans up the bathroom, which is a mess after 10 showers, and hangs out all their towels.

Preparing for the next day

This would be enough for some parents but Alicia then puts toothpaste on all their toothbrushes and lays out clothes for the next day. She even packs their snacks for school. “I put them in their back packs with their water for the next day,” she says, “Then I go through all their coats and take out their wet mittens and make sure the have a nice dry pair and I make sure they have an extra face mask in their backpack.”

She then vacuums and plugs in all their devices to re-charge.

“By that point, it’s midnight,” she says. “So I scroll social media until I fall asleep.”

@doughertydozen #Routine What’s Your #EveningRoutine ? #BigFamily #BigFamilyLife #MomLife #10kids ♬ GOOD VIBES – Ellen Once Again

“You just amaze me!”

The post attracted 1.4 million likes and well over 32,000 comments. However the reactions were extremely mixed. Many viewers are in awe of Alicia and what she achieves each night, leaving comments such as “You’re such an amazing WOMAN” and “I have one kid and I’m exhausted.”

However many of the mum’s followers were highly critical of the routine, saying that her kids should be doing more jobs around the house. “They can’t put toothpaste on their own toothbrushes? Or clean up after themselves?” commented one follower.

“I’m pretty sure most of them are capable of doing a lot of that by themselves and it’s important to make sure they have those skills,” said another.

“Just as my personal opinion – it’s too much,” wrote yet another. “They surely can take out the wet things out of their pockets or put their ice packs in the freezer?”

The comments go on and on, however one or two followers show their support and understanding. “Most (if not all) of her kids have difference diagnoses and special needs. If this routine sets them up for success, let her be!” wrote one.

“Maybe this stuff makes her feel good… I wish I had a mom like you!” wrote another

Ultimately, everyone is different and whatever works is the best plan. Ten children is a huge number to organise and many of this brood do have special needs. Personally, the thought of getting them all dressed, fed and teeth cleaned before school is absolutely exhausting. If putting the toothpaste on brushes the night before helps make the morning run more easily – then why not?

How do I bond with my baby?

Those precious early days you spend with your newborn are magical and so important for the bonding and attachment process. But what does it mean to bond with your baby – and what if it doesn’t happen straight away?

What is bonding?

Bonding is the process where parent and baby form a strong connection, both emotionally and physically. It’s about responding to your baby with warmth and love, enabling your baby to feel safe and cared for. It’s also an important part of their development, helping them to grow mentally and physically.

Any human contact such as cuddling, singing or looking into their eyes makes your baby’s brain release hormones that help their brain to grow. And as babies can’t speak, nor do they know what they need, they look to you, using body language to connect such as a smile, laugh or gurgle. By spending time getting to know your baby, you’ll recognise these signs and strengthen the all-important bond between you.

When do I bond with my baby?

The bonding process can start before your baby is born. Towards the end of your pregnancy, your baby may recognise your voice and find it soothing and comforting. Bonding also occurs after your baby arrives, during those early days and weeks. They need you to look after them and as you respond to their needs, changing, feeding, bathing, settling and soothing them, you will reassure your baby that they’re loved and safe. As you learn their signals and they gain trust in you and feel more confident, the bond will start to build.

What if it doesn’t happen straight way?

While many women fall instantly in love with their baby and experience an immediate gush of love and joy, this is certainly not the case with every mum. For many women, it’s not so easy to bond with their newborn, and the process can take days or weeks – or even months – to come.

It’s important to remember that the lack of an immediate strong bond does not in any way mean that you’re not a great parent. Like any relationship, it takes time, and can’t be forced.

What can I do to bond with my baby?

Here are some simple ideas to help with the bonding process:

Take your time

The first 12 weeks after your baby is born, also known as the fourth trimester, can be a busy and hectic time as you try to establish feeding and sleeping routines and of course form an attachment with your little one. However, friends and family are often desperate to meet your baby too, which adds enormous stress for a brand new sleep-deprived mum. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed, which can make the bonding process even tricker.

Be firm about when and how many visitors you receive, and avoid social media where you might see posts of other mums expressing feelings of joy and happiness. Everyone bonds differently, so take the time you need to let it happen.

However, if you continue to struggle with the bonding process, or are concerned that you’re suffering from postnatal depression, then contact your GP, midwife or maternal child health nurse. There are also organisations you can call for help, such as Pregnancy Birth & Baby or Beyond Blue.

This is why your little one should always wear a swim nappy

While it is a common health requirement that babies and kids up to the age of four wear a tight fitting swim nappy in swimming pools, there’s another reason why it’s essential for your little one.

This important safety tip was brought to our attention by Tiny Hearts Education – and it’s one you might not have considered.

Tiny Hearts Education offers first aid courses for parents and caregivers so that they’re able to act confidently and knowledgeably should their little one ever be in an emergency situation. Run by two sisters, one of whom is a paramedic, the organisation recently posted a message on Instagram showing the difference between a normal nappy and a swim nappy when placed in water.

The post asks the question, “Ever wondered why you should use a swim nappy every time your little one swims?”

The video then shows a regular nappy with the narration, “This is a regular nappy. We put it in water for 5 minutes. Sinks immediately to the bottom.”

The post explains that a wet regular nappy adds 2kg to your baby, which would drag them quickly to the bottom. This makes sense as regular nappies are designed to absorb as much liquid as possible, a feature we love when out and about or overnight, but clearly not in the water.

“If your little one was wearing that, they’d also be on the bottom,” says the voiceover.

Read reviews of swim nappies on Tell Me Baby.

Spot the difference

The clip goes on to show the difference with a swim nappy. “Whereas this one is a swim nappy in the water for the same amount of time and it floats,” it says. “Remember use a swim nappy.”

The difference is huge and something many people may not have considered when popping their little ones in the water. The post encourages people to share this message, as “the drowning toll is alarming”.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Follow for EMPOWERMENT ✊ (@tinyheartseducation)

“I never knew this”

The post has quickly attracted over 14.5 likes and over a thousand comments. Many viewers had not thought of the danger of their baby swimming in a regular nappy.

“Never knew this about the sinking,” said one parent. “Wow need to buy some swim nappies,” said another.

Another parent said what we’re all thinking – certainly what I always thought. “This blew my mind! We use swim nappies but I thought it was just to trap the poo in not a safety thing. I feel so silly!”

Meanwhile many parents suggested that reusable nappies were equally effective with comments such as “Reusable nappies are best for this” and “Cloth is the way to go… about $20 and you re-use it every time.”

One parents explains, “Reusable nappy shells can also be used as swim nappies (take out the absorbent insert otherwise the same problem exists.”

Whichever swim nappy you wish to use, we now know that there’s so much more at stake than just poo. A simple message, but one we’re likely to hold onto and share: “Remember, remove the nappy and go without or wear a swim nappy!”