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    Easy Delicious Chocolate Cornflakes Clusters (No Bake)
    Merryn Tan
    August 10, 2021
    2 min
    Seven days without Chocolate makes one weak.

    Hence every day, without fail, I eat some chocolate. Preferably dark. Dark chocolate is a powerful source of antioxidants. Anything is good if it's made of chocolate such as my Dark Chocolate Finger Breadstick or Ultra Soft and Moist Chocolate Chip Bun.

    Chocolate Cornflakes Clusters

    Today, I'm going to share a super simple snack made out of only three ingredients—dark chocolate, cornflakes and butter. These no-bake Chocolate Cornflakes Clusters snack is probably one of the easiest festive snacks I've ever made. My kids simply love them and I can't stop snacking on these, too.

    These Chocolate Cornflakes Clusters are the only clusters that we welcome with open arms or rather open mouths.

    It is popular for any festive season. You can make these for Hari Raya, Deepavali, Christmas and Chinese New Year. They are in demand all year round.

    Another version is the one without chocolate but coated with honey. Well, the chocolate monster in me needs my dose of chocolate, so there is no doubt that we'll be making the chocolate version of these cornflakes clusters.

    These are no bake treats so you won't require an oven to make them. It's extremely simple, so let's get started and not waste anymore time.



    Chocolate Cornflakes Clusters Recipe





    • 200 g dark chocolate coins (room temperature)
    • 3/4 tbsp salted butter (room temperature)
    • 4 cups cornflakes


    1. Melt chocolate and butter in a double boiler. If you don't have a double boiler, you can just place the bowl of chocolate in another bigger bowl filled with hot water. Otherwise, you may also melt the chocolate in a microwave about 30 seconds.



    2. Once melted, remove from heat and leave for a couple of minutes to cool before stirring in the cornflakes. This is to ensure the cornflakes stay crispy.



    3. Make sure the cornflakes are well coated with dark chocolate.



    4. Scoop into mini paper cups.



    5. You may decorate it with colourful sprinkles.



    6. Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes for the chocolate to set.



    7. Once the chocolate has solidify, store in an air-tight container. These stay crisp for weeks.







    boy is preparing the Chocolate Cornflakes Clusters My son loves helping me whenever I make these chocolate cornflakes clusters. I am sure he secretly licks the spoon when I am not looking. The evidence clearly shows on his face.

    Chocolate Cornflakes Clusters This recipe makes about 40 cups of these decadent dark chocolate cornflakes clusters so do double or triple the recipe to your needs.

    I have to warn you though that as easy as it is to make these, they are easily gone, too. These are simply irresistible.

    Here's the tutorial video so you can watch how easy it is to make these no bake Crispy Chocolate Cornflakes Clusters.

    https://youtu.be/UdrCkYjgFxQ

    Read more interesting stories and fun recipes on Motherhood.com.my!
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    Vow To Work On Your Weaknesses Today (Especially For Procrastinators)
    Jia Ying
    April 28, 2021
    4 min
    Do you ever wish you had 48 hours in a day? Procrastination happens no matter how much time we have, if we do not cultivate the right daily habits!

    Working as a full-time educator, I've always heard my colleagues (especially working moms) complaining about the lack of time and motivation.

    “Why does my to-do list look like a never-ending script?”

    “I am so tired! How is it possible for Shavon (not real name) to achieve so much?”

    Yet, they waste their time on meaningless chit-chat and scroll through social media feeling stressed and exhausted.

    Instead of assuming you are less competent than everyone else, perhaps what you need is to work on these tiny weaknesses which are killing your productivity at work!

    How to Solve Inefficiency at Work and Procrastination


    #1: Avoid checking emails, social media and gossiping early in the morning


    Checking your phone constantly leads you to procrastination as you waste time looking at other people's agenda. Checking your phone constantly leads you to procrastinate (Photo Credit: Pexels)

    Here's the big problem:
    80% of us check our smartphone within the first 15 minutes of waking up every morning.

    That 15 minutes of checking emails and social media kills productivity and encourages procrastination.

    What we do every day, including those seemingly harmless habits and actions, matters to our lives in the long run.

    When you start your day by scrolling through emails and social media, your day is guaranteed to start with distractions and stress.

    You are bombarded with new messages and notifications which distract you from thinking about what you want to achieve daily.

    And do you think you will stop scrolling after the first 15 minutes of your day?

    Probably not! You will keep going back to your phone to check for notifications.

    Being constantly distracted, you will not be able to complete your work within the day.

    This will then encourage a negative cycle where you carry forward your uncompleted work from the previous day, along with the projects you need to settle by today.

    Feeling distressed and unmotivated, you will retrieve your phone again to experience some instant pleasure from social media.

    You will not be able to resist the temptation, unless you put a stop or fit in some alternative activities.

    For instance, schedule your day in advance with some beneficial activities such as workout, meditation, listening to podcasts and journaling to reduce the possibility of reaching for your phone whenever you are free.

    Chit-chatting As The Procrastination Promoter


    This is exactly the same as chit-chatting with your colleagues. Instead of gossiping about current events early in the morning, have your chit-chats during your lunch breaks and tea breaks.

    You will then see your pile of work getting smaller and smaller.

    #2: Avoid multitasking


    Resolve to do one thing at a time as it will save more time for other important activities (Photo Credit: Pexels)

    You might think that by dealing with several tasks at the same time, you are being more productive.

    However, have you ever experienced a scenario where you are checking too many tabs on a webpage and all of a sudden, you get distracted?

    Often times, we never really multitask, instead we just move from one task to another within the time period.

    Multitasking does not enhance our productivity, what we really need is the intense focus to complete one task at a time.

    Be fully present to complete a task. Then, take a short break whenever you feel tired during the process.

    Take a walk around the office or do some simple stretching before you continue. With this, you will be able to tick off tasks on your to-do list faster.

    #3: Write down the three most important tasks of the day


    You are less likely to procrastinate if you are clear about your daily goals. (Photo Credit: Pexels)

    How long would it take you to write down three tasks you wish to accomplish every day? Not more than 20 minutes, right?

    Forget about procrastination! You will be able to prioritise your tasks by scheduling your day with items that need your immediate attention.

    Unlike checking your smartphone, writing down your daily top three goals will lead you to become more focused and clear about what you wish to achieve.


    Having a much better start to the day, you will be able to see the compound effect in the long run, if you keep this as a daily habit.

    Those goals that once seemed impossible are now feasible with your daily little yet continuous efforts.

    Find out more on how you can map out your career as a working mother.

    #4: Learn to collaborate and delegate


    When you have someone to keep you on track, procrastination is less likely to take place. (Photo Credit: Freepik)

    Having an accountability buddy is one of the simplest ways to stop procrastination. This is because whenever you are working by yourself, you tend to adapt based on your own pace.For starters, ask colleagues or anyone who is trustworthy enough to work together with you. Conduct a discussion on what needs to be done, set deadlines and delegate responsibilities for each task.

    Have a weekly conversation and reflection moment to check your progress and understand how to improve the current situation.

    Talk about your struggles and ask for some constructive advice whenever you need. With this, you can keep your momentum while preventing yourself from experiencing burnout.

    Procrastination Is A Choice


    We were never born to procrastinate; we can be productive and enthusiastic anytime, if we have the right daily life schedule and working habits.

    Whenever you wish to distract yourself with social media, stop for a moment and think about the purpose of checking your phone.

    Whenever you wish to open a new tab on your page, just to escape from your current task, get yourself a cup of tea first for a break.

    Whenever you are uncertain about what to do today, take out a piece of paper and write out what needs to be completed.

    Decide on what's important and take action now. You own the choice of either being productive or distracted!
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    Hospital Bag Checklist That Every Expecting Parents Should Prepare!
    Sya
    May 08, 2021
    3 min
    Have I already packed all the essentials or are there more? I’m not sure either this small towel is necessary or not.

    Mums-to-be are bound to experience this when they are packing the hospital bag for delivery.

    Especially first-time mums, they might get confused and uncertain about many things.

    Though it is quite a list, doing a checklist will surely ease your way.

    When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag?


    hospital bag checklist Photo credit: istockphoto

    So, when is the ideal time to pack your hospital bag actually? Is a month prior to your due date enough?

    Well practically, your due date is just an estimated date for the delivery, but it could be earlier especially if you are having the first signs of approaching labour.

    To be safe, you are suggested to start packing your hospital bag 3 months earlier.

    By arranging earlier, you can start packing according to your pace.

    Hospital Bag Checklist for Mum


    Photo credit: adensmom.com

    You will need a lot of things for before and after delivery. But first, let’s pack the important documents in a file.

    Important Documents



    1. Identification card

    2. Documents of your insurance plan (if you have any)

    3. Pregnancy record book

    4. Your birth plan (especially if you decided to go with C-section)


    Now let’s proceed with mum’s clothes and necessities:

    Mum’s Checklist



    1. A bath towel

    2. 4 pieces of sarong/skirts – it is best if they are made of cotton

    3. 4 pieces of clothes - preferably T-shirts and nursing friendly

    4. A set of going-home outfit – skirt/wide pants with long sleeve T-shirt/nursing blouse

    5. 2 pieces of palazzo pants

    6. 4 nursing bras

    7. 6 mesh underwear/maternity underwear

    8. A pack of disposable panties (just in case of emergency)

    9. 4 headscarves for Muslim mums

    10. 2 thick and long socks

    11. A sweater

    12. A set of breast pads (totally useful if you are expecting guest)

    13. A travel bag of toiletries – shampoo, shower cream, toothbrush, and toothpaste, facial wash

    14. A skincare set – moisturizer, facial oil, compact powder, and lip balm

    15. A pack of maternity/sanitary pad

    16. A pack of wet tissues

    17. 2 pieces of hairbands

    18. A headband (it really helps to manage your fringe!)

    19. A hairbrush

    20. A pair of toilet slipper

    21. A bottle of nipple cream

    22. A breastfeeding pillow (it will ease you to breastfeed)

    23. 2 pieces of breastmilk collector cups

    24. A breast pump

    25. Confinement drink such as fresh dates drink

    26. Snacks – bread, fresh fruits, biscuits, dates, dried grapes and figs

    27. Drinking water

    28. Zamzam water for the Muslim mums

    29. Herbal ointment/hot massage oil

    30. Hot bag – to keep your body warm

    31. A phone charger

    32. A power bank


    When you are done with your things, let’s continue with the items that you should bring for your soon-to-be-born baby.

    Hospital Bag Checklist for Baby


    hospital bag checklist for baby Photo credit: istockphoto

    Baby's Checklist



    1. 2 sets of long sleeve shirts and long pants for newborn (for the night and during low temperature)

    2. 2 sets of short sleeve shirts and short pants for newborn (for the day and during hot weather)

    3. 4 sets of baby mittens and socks

    4. A set of going-home outfits – a romper with a baby beanie and boot would be nice!

    5. 4 pieces of baby binders

    6. 2 pieces of baby swaddles

    7. A baby towel

    8. 2 pieces of the muslin square

    9. A baby handkerchief/small towel

    10. A pack of baby wipes/wet tissue

    11. A small pack of baby diapers

    12. 2 small baby bottles – with the nipples of course!

    13. A small pack of formula milk (just in case if you have trouble with breastfeeding)

    14. A thermos

    15. A bottle of baby oil – telon oil is a good choice

    16. A head-to-toe body wash

    17. Infant car seat


    You can bring extra pieces for each item listed above if you think it's necessary.

    Hospital Bag Checklist for Dad


    Do dads need to pack some stuff too?

    Yes! It would not hurt to include a pair of clothes in the bag. It will be helpful in times of emergency.

    Also, do not forget your full support and prayer for your wife throughout the labour.

    It is not that hard, right? When you pack them one by one, it will be done in no time. Otherwise, you can simply download and use this quick hospital bag checklist specially prepared by Motherhood.com.my.

    Remember, do not stress yourself, but enjoy this journey. It will be such a pleasant memory in the future!

     
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    The Chain Of Contact For COVID-19 Infections
    Audrey Vijaindren
    April 22, 2021
    1 min
    If you've been scratching your head wondering where you stand in the chain of COVID-19 infections, this chart should clear things up.

    So, how do you know if you are a close contact?

    Categories of a Close Contact


    Basically, there are five categories A, B, C, D and E.

    A = Patients with confirmed positive results of COVID-19

    B = Individuals having CLOSE CONTACT with individuals from Category A

    C = Individuals having CLOSE CONTACT with individuals from Category B

    D = Individuals having CLOSE CONTACT with individuals from Category C

    E = No connection at all with any category

    SGH COVID-19 Response Team Image Credit: SGH COVID-19 Response Team

    Now that you know where you stand, do the necessary and stay safe!

    Do keep abreast with these COVID-19 related articles:

    https://story.motherhood.com.my/blog/schools-with-covid-cases-ordered-to-close-for-2-days/

    https://story.motherhood.com.my/blog/should-a-school-close-if-there-is-a-covid-case-heres-the-sop/

    https://story.motherhood.com.my/blog/parents-do-not-let-your-guard-down-in-the-fight-against-covid-19/

    https://story.motherhood.com.my/blog/employment-hero-survey-covid19-vaccine/

    https://story.motherhood.com.my/blog/send-kids-to-school-if-have-covid19-symptoms/ 

    https://story.motherhood.com.my/blog/reopening-schools-with-reported-covid19-cases-yea-or-nay/

     

     
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    Schools With COVID Cases Ordered To Close For 2 Days
    Audrey Vijaindren
    April 22, 2021
    1 min
    Finally, a decision that makes more sense. Just in this morning, any school which has a confirmed case of COVID-19, even if it is only a single case, will now have to close for at least two days.






    Students would have to take online lessons for the two days, during which time, health officials will inspect the school and conduct risk assessments before deciding whether to allow the students back or to extend the school closure beyond the two days, said Deputy Education Minister Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon.



    Image Credit: bharian.com.my



    Apparently, the decision was made at a high-level meeting of ministry officials chaired by minister Datuk Dr Mohd Radzi Md Jinin, as reported in the New Straits Times.







    Speaking to Sin Chew Daily, Mah said this was done due to the spike in the number of COVID-19 cases of late.
    The ministry was closely monitoring the situation in regards to COVID-19 cases in school.

    The announcement comes after increase in the number of school clusters.

    But just yesterday the public was told: "The decision to close an educational institution after a reported COVID-19 case is based on risk assessment by the district health office."

    Just today, pupils in Standard 3 and Standard 4 from a primary school in Subang Jaya were ordered to stay home, because most of their teachers were quarantined, following two confirmed cases of COVID-19 among their pupils last week.

    Decisons, decisions

    For the sake of children, parents, their employers, daycare, school administration, teachers  - basically half the nation, we hope there will be a firm decision and standard operating procedure, once and for all.

    Motherhood recently reported that a total of 464 people comprising teachers, schoolchildren and school staff in Kelantan have been tested positive for COVID-19.

    On top of that, 19 schools in the Petaling district have been ordered to be temporarily closed a few days ag0 for disinfection and close contact tracing of both students and teaches, after several COVID-19 cases were detected.

    Will there be a final, final, final decision on the matter of school closure and quarantine? Or do we all have to keep playing the guessing game?

    We will keep you updated, if there are any changes...again.