
Playdates: What Are They Really For?
Playdates aren’t about perfect behaviour or instant friendships. They’re opportunities for children to practise communication, confidence, empathy and emotional resilience—one interaction at a time.
At Carla’s Love School, we believe that parenthood is both a science and an art — a journey of love, patience, and discovery. Our blog is a safe, inspiring space for parents, caregivers, and families to find encouragement, practical tips, and heartfelt insights from my experience as a maternity consultant, nurse, and creative educator.

Playdates aren’t about perfect behaviour or instant friendships. They’re opportunities for children to practise communication, confidence, empathy and emotional resilience—one interaction at a time.

Pregnancy is often described as having three trimesters—but many healthcare professionals now speak about a fourth trimester as well. For new parents, these stages can feel confusing. What exactly happens during each trimester, and why is the postpartum period considered part of the journey?
As a registered nurse and midwife, I often remind families that pregnancy and parenthood are not a single event, but a gradual transition for both mother and baby. Understanding each stage can help parents feel more prepared and supported.

Moving homes is often viewed as an exciting new chapter. Adults tend to focus on the practical side of relocation — the paperwork, furniture, timelines, schools, finances, and planning. But for children, especially babies and toddlers, moving can feel far more profound than adults realize. Even when a move is positive and necessary, it can still deeply affect a child’s emotional world.

Toddler tantrums are one of the most commonly misunderstood aspects of early childhood. To manage them effectively, it is essential to understand what they are, why they occur, and what they signal about a child’s developing brain.

The early months after welcoming a baby are deeply meaningful—but they can also be physically exhausting and emotionally overwhelming. Sleep becomes fragmented, routines shift, and the constant responsibility of caring for a newborn can leave parents feeling depleted.

Nutrition for Sick Toddlers: Supporting Immunity, Energy, and Recovery When toddlers become ill, many parents struggle with feeding. Appetite may decrease, favourite foods may be