Online and in the shops: Baby photos

Panasonic’s latest HD camcorder range includes a new baby monitor.

The camcorders allow parents to check, with their smartphone, on a sleeping baby in another room. A notification will also be sent to your phone when your baby’s cry is detected. The top-of-the-range HC-W850 includes the new ‘twin camera’ function, which enables users to capture two scenes at once. You could simultaneously record baby’s first steps and mum’s reaction. The range is selling from €359.99, for the HC-V250 model, to €839.99, for the HC-W850, and will be available in stores from March.

GET IN GEAR: To kick-off the GAA season, Lidl is selling gear as of Monday next, March 3. Get ready for training with hurleys in sizes from 24”, €9.99; up to 36”, €15.99. There are four hurley-grip colours to choose from, €2.49, and sliotars are €4.99. Lidl’s GAA football, €9.99, is signed by former Kerry star, Tomas O Se. There’s also Pro match gloves, €6.99, in a variety of sizes, and junior and senior mouthguards, €4.99; facebook.com/lidlireland.

TOUCHING MOMENTS: Baby massage has physical and emotional benefits for mum and baby, including easing colic, aiding sleep patterns and supporting bonding. Hilary Hooks, founder of Active Mum baby massage classes, says, “Touch is one of the most significant and nurturing early experiences your baby will have.” Hilary advises using slow, gentle, circular strokes and waiting for at least 30 minutes after a feed.

Oil will reduce friction and make massage more soothing. Use a product that is gentle enough for baby’s skin, like organic sunflower or olive oil or Bepanthen moisturiser, €7.49, which has been developed for babies and doesn’t contain alcohol, colours, fragrances, parabens or preservatives; www.activemum.ie.

SWEET GESTURE: Today is Lollipop Day 2014, which involves thousands of volunteers selling lollipops to raise funds for oesophageal cancer. Ireland has one of the highest rates of oesophageal cancer in Europe and it is vital that people know the symptoms. Log onto the websitewww.lollipopday.ie, where you can also make a donation; or buy a lollipop or pin (€2) from volunteers.