In this episode, we delve into the crucial topic of children's mental health, exploring how parents can effectively support their children through life's constant companion—change. Our special guest, Kate Berger from Expat Kids Club, provides valuable insights and practical examples on navigating delicate periods of change, whether it's moving to a new country, starting a new school, or facing other significant life shifts. As adults, regulating ourselves during change is challenging, and Kate guides us through scenarios, examples, and suggestions to empower families to navigate life as a cohesive unit. Some websites and book Kate mentioned in the episode are listed below:Families in Global TransitionTilt Parenting Book: "Third culture kids"You can reach out to Kate at www.expatkidsclub.com

On today's episode of DAMChats Eva's voice is back and together with Maren, they discuss the latest episode with Elizabeth Goode from Goode Writes and Reads, and the insights they garnished from the episode.

We wanted to celebrate De Nationale Voorleesdagen which is celebrated across the Netherlands yearly, to stimulate reading to children aged 0 to 6 years of age.

And what better than to speak to a qualified (and awarded!) librarian Elizabeth Goode from Goode Writes and Reads , who breaks down the age groups and whats best for our little literature babes, and why. It's not as simple as you might think.

Did you know of the One Million Word Gap: Kids who have been read 5 books a day before they reach school age have been exposed to one million more words than kids who did not get exposed to books on a frequent level before school age.

Enjoy this episode, take notes, and be sure to check out our Instagram where we will be showcasing some recommendations Elizabeth provides us from newborn right up to starting school!

'Reading is reading is reading'

Some of the suggestions Elizabeth spoke about are below:

Sandra Boynton

MacBarnett

Art of the Picture Book

Eva and Maren are back with another heart-to-heart session on DAMChats, and this time, they're delving into a topic that resonates with every mom out there: Mom Guilt, and sharing their personal experiences with it.

From feeling guilty about taking time for yourself to questioning parenting decisions, mom guilt is an uninvited companion for many. Explore why it creeps in, how it manifests differently for everyone, and why it's okay to acknowledge and address it.

Eva and Maren wonder if there are any practical strategies and share anecdotes on how they try to manage and, at times, even overcome mom guilt.

You are not alone in this journey. Mom guilt is universal, and DAMChats is here to create a safe space for moms to share, connect, and realise that imperfections are a part of the beautiful chaos of parenting.

Parent Mental Health day approaches (January 27th) - which is to raise awareness of the importance of supporting the mental health of parents and carers. Dam Parenting wanted to sit down with Naomi to discuss this crucial topic - one which we feel can be ignored, unseen, avoided, and can cause underlying issues in relationships.

Our lives are all busy, but when we take a moment to realise we are with our partner, whom we love, and have a child(ren) with - its essential to nurture the relationship - check in with each other and make sure we are both getting the rest, space, fun, alone time that each may need.

On this second episode of the DAM Chat series, we chat about the age-old parenting dilemma of spoiling versus nurturing.

Here we look at definitions of spoiling, explore the delicate balance with nurturing, and share our honest experiences as mothers.

Most parents don't think they spoil their child - but the reality is - it's what other people see as they look in. It's not the whole picture of your day - it's just a moment, and we shouldn't beat ourselves up over.

It happens to all of us. We aren't corporals raising an army. It's finding our flexibility at that moment.

Ilena Standring returns and shares her decade long experience of birthing options in Amsterdam, navigating us through the unique aspects and considerations of giving birth here.

BevallliingsBaden

BevalBad

Birthpool (& breast pump) for hospitals

TENS Machine:

To buy - llena has this one in her doula bag. You can pass it on to a friend afterwards and they can just buy new pads!)

Rent TENS Machine

Birth positions (in Dutch but very visual!)

Boven ‘Ij

Ziekenhuis Amstelland (Amstelveen)

AMC

Birth Centres

Beval Centrum West ( OLVG West)

Welcome to first episode of Village Vibes: Birth stories from our community, where the magic and strength of the birthing experience come to life through the power of storytelling. In this heartfelt series, Eva & Maren delve into the unique and profound journey of bringing new life into the world - with Maren launching this series with her own birthing story.

Join us as we celebrate the raw, real, and reflective narratives of mothers who generously share their birth stories. We believe that these stories, filled with joy, challenges, and resilience, are crucial for creating a supportive and empathetic community. Each episode is a testament to the diversity of experiences that make up the tapestry of motherhood.

In a world where birth is often shrouded in mystery and idealised narratives, our podcast embraces the authenticity of the birthing process. We explore the emotional highs and lows, the unexpected twists, and the incredible strength displayed by mothers during this transformative period.

Listening to these stories is not just an exploration of birth; it's an invitation to connect, empathise, and learn from the shared wisdom of our community.

Let's create a virtual village where the beauty of birth is celebrated, and the strength of our collective experiences binds us together. Together, let's embrace the power of storytelling and build a supportive community that honours the unique journey of bringing life into the world.