Unicef report

Just thought I'd share an interesting article I read in the paper this week (The Independant, 14/2/07). This international Unicef report has examined six categories ( Happiness, family&friendships, education, health&safety, poverty&inequality and sex, drink and drugs) for young people's physical and emotional well-being. Don't want to boast or anything but it showed that Holland came top out of 21 countries and unfortunately the UK came bottom! The paper headlines said: Britain's children: unhappy, neglected and poorly educated. It is quite a wake-up call to parents and politicians as considering England is one of the most wealthy economies in the world, we are not doing a very good job in looking after our children. So what's Hollands' secret? ''Let them be free''! Apparently we play more when english children are already learning grammar or doing homework. Is it the maximum freedom, minimum responsibility approach? The paper articles say its down to the child-centred dutch society. Family relationships are generally open and good and children are happy and well-adjusted. I must say, I love the way I used to play outside in safe roads, eat 3 meals per day at the kitchen table with my family, discussing our daily issues and not feeling under pressure to do drink, drugs or sex.
So what am I doing here in England! Well, lets begin with trying to be more salt and light in my little world and if we all start making a difference, England will become a better place don't you think!

Heartbeat

Yesterday we listened to our babies heartbeat for the first time! In the morning at work I mentioned to my colleagues that I hadn't had a listen yet and it was about time! Subsequently they got me on the floor to have a look at my tiny bump and listen to baby blake's heartbeat. Its something we do every day but it doesn't compare with hearing my own baby! Anyway, back home that night I had to bring my sonicaid (the little machine we use to hear the heartbeat) in of course so Chris could have a listen too. Well it was quite an emotional experience and we are quite amazed by all these baby highlights. Despite being a midwife I am certainly no less excited or impressed by these things. Apart from taking till 16 weeks to finally have a listen myself!
As I mentioned I now have a very tiny bump but too early to put on show yet! However I am sure it won't be long now for those who are in eager expectation!