Babies are like dogs, not in many ways I admit, but in the way that whatever toy or biscuit or bowl or cup or chair another baby has is sure to be the one that baby wants. Twins have proved this theory. It does not matter whether the object in question is a well chewed biscuit or the most ordinary of all the toys- what one baby has the other baby wants and nothing will change her little made up mind.
It is amazing, quite remarkable that at a matter of months baby can't talk, can't walk- can't even crawl, and yet she can understand the difference between what she has and what her sister has and can feel envious. I use 'envy' carefully here because jealousy (feeling scared of losing something that you have- such as a soggy biscuit) and envy (being in awe of something someone else has- such as an even soggier biscuit) paint two different scenarios. I am referring to envy because, although it might seem a more natural reaction for baby to be scared of losing her biscuit, this is not the case, she is envious of her sister's for the fact that it just might be better than her own and has not yet learnt jealousy- to fear for what she already has.
Envy and jealously, so often confused even in adult discourse, arrive at different time's in a child's life. A baby can already envy another baby but it will not be until (at least probably toddling) that a child will fear for the possession of the object that it holds. I now sit and wait for the day when those tiny darting eyes stop saying "what have you got and is it better than what I have?" and start to say "don't come any closer... I am not letting go..."
Thursday 31 March 2011
Tuesday 29 March 2011
Talking Turkey
Baby talk- I mean real baby talk- the chatter that evolves from a mere few months of existence until eventually it becomes real talk. The more vocal babies get the cuter they get, everyone loves a newborn- sure, but when a baby reaches the babble, gurgle excited arm waving stage they reach new levels of irresistibility. We have reached that stage- the stage where toys are met with arms in the air and baby biscuits with excited if indistinguishable high pitched sounds. Excepting the squeals- (we don't love the squeals) these noises of appreciation are utterly delectable.
Baby talk turns into 'real' talk when baby begins to associate words correctly. While every parent tries desperately to hear full sentences amongst the baby babble and at the very least recognises several highly accomplished words such as 'dada' 'mama' 'duckduck' in reality until baby says 'dada' when he walks in the room (not coincidently) or 'duckduck' when pointing at a duck, in reality, sorry folks, they are just sounds that baby can easily make. Baby talk progresses to real talk when baby can process that a word he says relates to an object or person he sees or wants.
First words have always interested me. My nephew said 'bubble' (very clearly- with the correct association) as his first word. In fact 'bubble' was all he said for a very long time- I can only assume that my brother lives in particularly bubbly house- (although I have never seen evidence of this)- it is certainly not a word that I would imagine is said more often than say mummy or daddy. Yet, the little man clearly only felt compelled to say 'bubble', a sign of contentment perhaps that he never felt the need to ask for anything else. My sister (three years my senior) was born deaf (she hears perfectly now) and as a result had speech therapy having not spoken a word by the age of four. A one year old me- sitting in on the therapy lessons, learnt to speak incredibly quickly- at my 16 month check up the doctor asked my mother how I made my wants known and my mother answered to a bemused doctor "she simply says- 'I want a drink'- 'no go to bed'..." Encouragement then, can help but try to encourage association at the same time. When baby says 'dada' (or what sounds like 'dada') don't repeat it over and over unless 'dada' is actually in the room- guide baby by pointing out who people are. If he says 'duck' show him a duck (in a book..).
Baby's brain is like a filing cabinet- each day he files away new bits of information that he will keep with him for life, whether it is what a carrot tastes like or how to put his toe in his mouth, with the best will in the world the filing system can get on top of him. Give him time to put the files in the right drawers and eventually- on one VERY VERY happy day, he will start to talk the talk.
Baby talk turns into 'real' talk when baby begins to associate words correctly. While every parent tries desperately to hear full sentences amongst the baby babble and at the very least recognises several highly accomplished words such as 'dada' 'mama' 'duckduck' in reality until baby says 'dada' when he walks in the room (not coincidently) or 'duckduck' when pointing at a duck, in reality, sorry folks, they are just sounds that baby can easily make. Baby talk progresses to real talk when baby can process that a word he says relates to an object or person he sees or wants.
First words have always interested me. My nephew said 'bubble' (very clearly- with the correct association) as his first word. In fact 'bubble' was all he said for a very long time- I can only assume that my brother lives in particularly bubbly house- (although I have never seen evidence of this)- it is certainly not a word that I would imagine is said more often than say mummy or daddy. Yet, the little man clearly only felt compelled to say 'bubble', a sign of contentment perhaps that he never felt the need to ask for anything else. My sister (three years my senior) was born deaf (she hears perfectly now) and as a result had speech therapy having not spoken a word by the age of four. A one year old me- sitting in on the therapy lessons, learnt to speak incredibly quickly- at my 16 month check up the doctor asked my mother how I made my wants known and my mother answered to a bemused doctor "she simply says- 'I want a drink'- 'no go to bed'..." Encouragement then, can help but try to encourage association at the same time. When baby says 'dada' (or what sounds like 'dada') don't repeat it over and over unless 'dada' is actually in the room- guide baby by pointing out who people are. If he says 'duck' show him a duck (in a book..).
Baby's brain is like a filing cabinet- each day he files away new bits of information that he will keep with him for life, whether it is what a carrot tastes like or how to put his toe in his mouth, with the best will in the world the filing system can get on top of him. Give him time to put the files in the right drawers and eventually- on one VERY VERY happy day, he will start to talk the talk.
Monday 28 March 2011
Baby Surveillance
Sitting on the sofa watching the blue light on the baby monitor gradually rise and fall last night- never so high that I had to leave the sofa but never quite low enough that I could watch the TV and not the blue light- I started thinking about baby monitors. Friends of mine who have just had their third baby don’t use a monitor anymore- they are relaxed third time around and though baby sleeps at the top of the house (with the door shut due to visiting dog!) they know that if he cries they will hear it slash sense it. Why then do most of us rely on the little rising and falling lights?- The set up of the house plays a part of course- if the walls are thick or the distance to baby is far then there may not be any option but the baby monitors on the market are so extensive and so varied that every parent is allowed to choose their own degree of comfort. I think of the baby monitor as the parent comfort blanket. Here are some of the extreme options that I have used and can recommend.
The angel care monitor is a deluxe al singing all dancing baby monitor- with a sensor pad that detects baby’s breathing and sets off an alarm if movement stops for twenty seconds and all the usual sound settings it is really a very good parent comforter. The sensor pad and sound settings can be set individually if you only need one and the technology makes for super clear transmission.
Downside: It is quite expensive at £79.95- however this is a result of the clever technology that goes into it and reflects its performance and reliability of the gadget.
You also need to have the presence of mind to turn the monitor off before you pick your baby up- very easily forgotten- AS obviously removing baby from the pad will make it think that the baby has stopped breathing and the alarm will sound!
The ditto breathing monitor was designed by a father of triplets (I first came across it with twins). It is a little gadget that you attach to your baby’s nappy and it monitors the rising and falling of baby’s tummy (breathing). If the tummy movement stops an alarm goes off that gradually gets louder. It is great because you can use it everywhere (baby doesn’t need to be in the cot!)
Downside: It is ideal if you are close to baby but not so good if baby is any distance away- it also goes off randomly sometimes which can be a nasty shock. It is also quite expensive at £75.
The video monitor option is another thing altogether- monitor your baby via video link (can be attached to your tv or to skype). Personally while Angelcare and Ditto provide the function of monitoring baby’s breathing and therefore excellent peace of mind for parents with premi or worrying babies- the video monitor is just one step too far. If I was watching my baby sleep and not just the little lights rising and falling I would worry for my sanity. Imagine asking a babysitter to watch the monitor...and not the tv. They do give some mothers peace of mind and if you want to use it instead of having to pop up and down the stairs then it might be good for you but I like to personally check on baby and if baby cries the chances are you are going to have to go to him anyway!
As a parent's comfort blanket- choose the degree of baby surveillance that suits you and puts your mind at rest. If baby is safe and parents are happy then the product is right!
Thursday 24 March 2011
Parent Type
Types of Parent.
It has come to my attention that there are several types of parent when it comes to baby pride.
There is the "look at me and my wonderful baby in the most expensive pushchair I could find, but don't ask me to look at you" parent...
the "oooh isn't that amazing- we both have babies and pushchairs, let's be friends" parent
and then there is the "hi, yes I would love to chat to you, look at your baby even, but no, I don't think we will be friends for life due to both of us having a baby in a pram attached to our fingers" parent.
This came to my attention a few months ago, when, pushing newborn twins around in a rather funky contraption of double newbornness, I was turning heads. I have to admit that the attention was lovely. It felt like I was pushing celebrity babies as people would point and gasp "oh twins!" as I strolled passed nonchalantly pretending that they were always fast asleep and that the stroll was for their benefit and not my own wits end.
Yet, unjustifiably I will admit, it always annoyed me when other pram pushers appeared to take no notice at all as we sailed past them in the park or met them at a crossroads- I always look in prams, admire newborns and dutifully supply answers to questions of all baby varieties. "Both boys?" "NO BOTH GIRLS that is why they are BOTH in PINK!" being a particularly repetitive one. Why then, did some people only care about their own little pram user? I suppose I am more obsessed by babies than most and this explains my incessant pram watch and baby radar but.... THEN one day, in the park, doing the usual 300th lap we crossed a set of newborn twins IN THE SAME (pretty rare) PRAM and there was not even a glance, not a flicker of interest in her twin tired eyes- contrasted to the usual "OH how do you manage?" I was absolutely gobsmacked.
So then, there are different types of parent. Those that aren't interested in your baby, because why would they be- they have their own? Those that are mesmerised by your baby simply because they have their own! And those who are happy to chat, happy to oggle even, but know that at the end of the day, you each prefer your own baby- Well, mother nature would have colossally failed if you didn't walk away thinking "my baby rocks!" wouldn't she?
It has come to my attention that there are several types of parent when it comes to baby pride.
There is the "look at me and my wonderful baby in the most expensive pushchair I could find, but don't ask me to look at you" parent...
the "oooh isn't that amazing- we both have babies and pushchairs, let's be friends" parent
and then there is the "hi, yes I would love to chat to you, look at your baby even, but no, I don't think we will be friends for life due to both of us having a baby in a pram attached to our fingers" parent.
This came to my attention a few months ago, when, pushing newborn twins around in a rather funky contraption of double newbornness, I was turning heads. I have to admit that the attention was lovely. It felt like I was pushing celebrity babies as people would point and gasp "oh twins!" as I strolled passed nonchalantly pretending that they were always fast asleep and that the stroll was for their benefit and not my own wits end.
Yet, unjustifiably I will admit, it always annoyed me when other pram pushers appeared to take no notice at all as we sailed past them in the park or met them at a crossroads- I always look in prams, admire newborns and dutifully supply answers to questions of all baby varieties. "Both boys?" "NO BOTH GIRLS that is why they are BOTH in PINK!" being a particularly repetitive one. Why then, did some people only care about their own little pram user? I suppose I am more obsessed by babies than most and this explains my incessant pram watch and baby radar but.... THEN one day, in the park, doing the usual 300th lap we crossed a set of newborn twins IN THE SAME (pretty rare) PRAM and there was not even a glance, not a flicker of interest in her twin tired eyes- contrasted to the usual "OH how do you manage?" I was absolutely gobsmacked.
So then, there are different types of parent. Those that aren't interested in your baby, because why would they be- they have their own? Those that are mesmerised by your baby simply because they have their own! And those who are happy to chat, happy to oggle even, but know that at the end of the day, you each prefer your own baby- Well, mother nature would have colossally failed if you didn't walk away thinking "my baby rocks!" wouldn't she?
Tuesday 22 March 2011
Your Questions Answered...
Q. When should I take my twins out of baby grows and put them in real clothes? Also do you have any suggestions of where to buy twins clothes?
A. What your baby wears is obviously completely up to you. Some mothers think clothes look cute and some prefer onesies- I personally use onesies for as long as I possibly can because they are so comfy for baby and easy for parents- you can easily carry spares around, you don't need to worry about keeping socks on and you know baby will be comfortable to sleep!
A friends baby is still wearing onesie at night and she is two- they just find that it is easier and she does look totally delicious in them!
I suppose once a baby is moving by themselves then onesies become less practical- as they sag around the feet and restrict movement but ultimately it is your choice- as a very rough guide I would say that about ten months is the day time limit- you don't want people thinking your baby is out in his PJs!
As for where to buy here are a few of our favourite twin choices at the moment:
jojomamanbebe have some gorgeous onesies at the moment in lots of a different colours and as they invert the colours with stripes and trimmings swaps they are great twins who you want to dress similar but not exactly the same!
Our favourite twin make is kikiandbree they do adorable twin clothes from complementary onesies to little t-shirts that only show half the picture each and complete the image when the twins are next to each other- VERY sweet indeed. (see bottom picture)
Very lovely special outfits.
Twin clothing is never the easiest to find- I have found that by buying packs of two quite often you get a similar but slightly different design on each item. Generally single sex twins are the hardest (unless you are happy for them to be totally different or absolutely matching!) The market seems to assume that if you have twins it will always be a boy and a girl! NEXT also do much cheaper onesies in lots of nice bright colours!
A. What your baby wears is obviously completely up to you. Some mothers think clothes look cute and some prefer onesies- I personally use onesies for as long as I possibly can because they are so comfy for baby and easy for parents- you can easily carry spares around, you don't need to worry about keeping socks on and you know baby will be comfortable to sleep!
A friends baby is still wearing onesie at night and she is two- they just find that it is easier and she does look totally delicious in them!
I suppose once a baby is moving by themselves then onesies become less practical- as they sag around the feet and restrict movement but ultimately it is your choice- as a very rough guide I would say that about ten months is the day time limit- you don't want people thinking your baby is out in his PJs!
As for where to buy here are a few of our favourite twin choices at the moment:
jojomamanbebe have some gorgeous onesies at the moment in lots of a different colours and as they invert the colours with stripes and trimmings swaps they are great twins who you want to dress similar but not exactly the same!
Our favourite twin make is kikiandbree they do adorable twin clothes from complementary onesies to little t-shirts that only show half the picture each and complete the image when the twins are next to each other- VERY sweet indeed. (see bottom picture)
Very lovely special outfits.
Twin clothing is never the easiest to find- I have found that by buying packs of two quite often you get a similar but slightly different design on each item. Generally single sex twins are the hardest (unless you are happy for them to be totally different or absolutely matching!) The market seems to assume that if you have twins it will always be a boy and a girl! NEXT also do much cheaper onesies in lots of nice bright colours!
 |
| Kiki and Bree |
Monday 21 March 2011
"OXO" XOXO
OXO have been making some fab baby and toddler products of late and today we are going to talk about a particular favourite. The OXO Tooli.
The Tooli is the modern day nightlight- I used to have a china mushroom on a shelf that had a dim night light in it when I was a wee nipper. BUT this night light is the one that puts mine to shame. Not only a fab night light for keeping in babies room (to enable enough light for seeing baby but not so much as to wake them) but it is a wonderful toddler/child companion too. They provide eight hours of light after charging (but can live on their stand so this should be ample!) and they help your little one off to the land of nod by making them feel they are not alone. They also provide a fab friend for taking on scary trips to the loo in the middle of the night. They are even great for use in power cuts!
Suitable in and outdoors, exceptionally safe (no exposed electrical components- so they are not a fire hazard), they do not get too hot so they are safe for the touch of little fingers and they are rechargeable so no need for expensive battery replacements (light bulbs don't even need changing!)
Tooli is a baby and child's best friend. Spend time naming your child's Tooli with them and make sure to say goodnight to him (helping your child to think of him as his night time friend!)
Suitable in and outdoors, exceptionally safe (no exposed electrical components- so they are not a fire hazard), they do not get too hot so they are safe for the touch of little fingers and they are rechargeable so no need for expensive battery replacements (light bulbs don't even need changing!)Tooli is a baby and child's best friend. Spend time naming your child's Tooli with them and make sure to say goodnight to him (helping your child to think of him as his night time friend!)
Saturday 19 March 2011
Raggy-Tagged Up
The raggy-tag is the baby toy slash comforter that takes the idea that the label is the best part of a toy for a child to the extreme. The square of blanket is edged with brightly coloured silky tags or labels for baby to fondle.
When I was very little I had a friend called Charlie (a boy- I know ew) and he was obsessed with silk labels- to the point that he carried a pair of pants around with him where ever he went as his comforter, held up to his mouth as he sucked his thumb and rubbed the silk label between his fingers. I used to curl my finger around the top of my nose and stroke it up and down as I sucked my thumb. Children then, like to fidget their little fingers and babies simply like the comfort of the soft material. I hand the raggy-tag to the twins as a toy when they are bored, as a soother when they are crying and I tuck one on each side of their heads in their cots when they sleep. They love them. Tucking them in beside their heads instantly calms them down and has become a crucial part of the bedtime routine. They pull them over their faces (which is admittedly terrifying) but they really do soothe them and help them to sleep. They are machine washable and perfect for shoving in the nappy bag.
If only Raggy-Tag had been around in my day to save poor Charlie the pants embarrassment. Get Raggy-Tagged up. We particularly love this Liberty print rose one!
If only Raggy-Tag had been around in my day to save poor Charlie the pants embarrassment. Get Raggy-Tagged up. We particularly love this Liberty print rose one!
Friday 18 March 2011
Feeding Frenzy
Inspired by someone worried about her baby's inability to tackle solid foods without gagging I have decided to explore weaning today.
A gagging baby makes feeding him very stressful indeed. As one of the first rules of weaning is to act casual and make sure nothing is a big deal it cannot be very helpful if you are sat on the edge of your seat ready to perform the emergency eject from highchair that I know so well.
Baby has a tongue thrust reflex that diminishes over time but this is why he pushes the spoon out of his mouth when it first goes in- it is a natural reaction. The less they do this the more ready they probably are for solid foods. BUT if the spoon is persistently rejected try waiting a little longer before trying again (a few weeks maybe?) there is no point trying if you can't succeed.
GAGGING is baby's natural reflex against choking. He is worried that the food will choke him and does not know how to deal with it.
It is very common and very normal and will most likely pass as your baby becomes used to swallowing and dealing with solid food. Gagging is also a sign that your baby could not be hungry- there are only a few ways that he can show you this and if he has let the food into his mouth absent mindedly and then realised he doesn't want it this could explain the gag.
Very smooth foods such as fruit purees etc should not cause gagging like lumpier foods do and a gagging prone baby should be allowed to get thoroughly used to these sorts of 'solid' foods before thicker ones are introduced.
I have often found that this gag can create so much vomiting that the days worth of food and milk comes back up- this is obviously less helpful than if baby had eaten a smaller amount in the first place!
Another thing to try is to get baby used to foods and swallowing and flavours etc is to use a "baby safe feeder"- you pop the finger food into the mesh pocket and baby can safely suck on the food without the risk of a big lump getting stuck in his throat- only problem is that sometimes it can be hard to get anything at all through the mesh!
Finally, if baby really is having trouble with gagging and it is worrying you that he is not eating enough or losing weight etc then you should consult your doctor. The advice above should not be taken as a medical opinion.
A gagging baby makes feeding him very stressful indeed. As one of the first rules of weaning is to act casual and make sure nothing is a big deal it cannot be very helpful if you are sat on the edge of your seat ready to perform the emergency eject from highchair that I know so well.
Baby has a tongue thrust reflex that diminishes over time but this is why he pushes the spoon out of his mouth when it first goes in- it is a natural reaction. The less they do this the more ready they probably are for solid foods. BUT if the spoon is persistently rejected try waiting a little longer before trying again (a few weeks maybe?) there is no point trying if you can't succeed.
GAGGING is baby's natural reflex against choking. He is worried that the food will choke him and does not know how to deal with it.
It is very common and very normal and will most likely pass as your baby becomes used to swallowing and dealing with solid food. Gagging is also a sign that your baby could not be hungry- there are only a few ways that he can show you this and if he has let the food into his mouth absent mindedly and then realised he doesn't want it this could explain the gag.
Very smooth foods such as fruit purees etc should not cause gagging like lumpier foods do and a gagging prone baby should be allowed to get thoroughly used to these sorts of 'solid' foods before thicker ones are introduced.
I have often found that this gag can create so much vomiting that the days worth of food and milk comes back up- this is obviously less helpful than if baby had eaten a smaller amount in the first place!Another thing to try is to get baby used to foods and swallowing and flavours etc is to use a "baby safe feeder"- you pop the finger food into the mesh pocket and baby can safely suck on the food without the risk of a big lump getting stuck in his throat- only problem is that sometimes it can be hard to get anything at all through the mesh!
Finally, if baby really is having trouble with gagging and it is worrying you that he is not eating enough or losing weight etc then you should consult your doctor. The advice above should not be taken as a medical opinion.
Wednesday 16 March 2011
Your Questions Answered...
Q. You mentioned reflux babies in an earlier post, do you know if there are any natural reflux remedies?
A. Whilst reflux babies are all different and a doctor's advice should be sought to ensure that you choose the right product for your baby's particular needs. I have found that zantac is usually prescribed- and it is pretty horrid stuff to negotiate as you have to wait 15 minutes after giving it to baby via syringe before you can feed. I have always used Infant Gaviscon with my reflux babies and it has really worked for them. It is absolutely natural (made from crushed seaweeds) so you do not need to worry about your baby being on it for too long, and the powder is simply poured into baby's bottle and mixed before the feed so there is no need to wait an agonizing fifteen to twenty minutes of other options. You can get it over the counter in pharmacies (not in Scotland though strangely) but I would suggest that you talk to your doctor first and ensure that they think it is a good option for your baby to try. (Technically as it is just seaweed you should be able to ease baby off whatever you are currently using by overlapping- but again check with your doctor to make sure!).
Another thing to try is our favourite- camomile tea. It soothes pain and calms baby so might reduce the distress suffered when reflux takes hold!
Also ensure that with a reflux baby that you never lie them completely flat- put a cushion under one end of their crib or mattress so that the head end is raised (imagine lying down with acid burn in your throat- you would want to sit up!)
Hope this helps.
A. Whilst reflux babies are all different and a doctor's advice should be sought to ensure that you choose the right product for your baby's particular needs. I have found that zantac is usually prescribed- and it is pretty horrid stuff to negotiate as you have to wait 15 minutes after giving it to baby via syringe before you can feed. I have always used Infant Gaviscon with my reflux babies and it has really worked for them. It is absolutely natural (made from crushed seaweeds) so you do not need to worry about your baby being on it for too long, and the powder is simply poured into baby's bottle and mixed before the feed so there is no need to wait an agonizing fifteen to twenty minutes of other options. You can get it over the counter in pharmacies (not in Scotland though strangely) but I would suggest that you talk to your doctor first and ensure that they think it is a good option for your baby to try. (Technically as it is just seaweed you should be able to ease baby off whatever you are currently using by overlapping- but again check with your doctor to make sure!).Another thing to try is our favourite- camomile tea. It soothes pain and calms baby so might reduce the distress suffered when reflux takes hold!
Also ensure that with a reflux baby that you never lie them completely flat- put a cushion under one end of their crib or mattress so that the head end is raised (imagine lying down with acid burn in your throat- you would want to sit up!)
Hope this helps.
Mountain Buggy tots riding free... and long no doubt.
When I first read about this product it was one of those "oh, why didn't I think of that" moments. A simple but extremely clever idea that is set to take the young family world by storm I have no doubt about it. The Free Rider, courtesy of mountain buggy, is a scooter that attaches on to the back of your mountain buggy (no tools required!) and transforms into a buggy board. So instead of dreading the words "I'm tired of scooting" that mean the scooter is about to become your own personal responsibility- hung over the handles of the buggy, slung over your shoulder or keeping baby cosy up front- this will revolutionise the way that mums take their kiddies scooting. "Tired?" they'll say... "no problemo, do you want a free ride home?"... Additionally it will mean that littler kiddies who are not safe scooting by a road will be scooting without the risks entailed. This product is an out and out winner. Now I just have to put the theory behind it into action to see if it delivers on performance as it does on innovation and design!
Baby Hoodies get our thumbs up
Baby Hoodies are a wonderful invention brought to you by morrck. They are fantastic baby blankets- with hoods, that have holes for harnesses. You leave it strapped into your carseat or buggy and simply pop baby in, strap him in and wrap him up. Snug as a bug in a rug-literally. In addition to being brilliantly practical (baby is totally snug and the blanket cannot possibly fall off- also ensuring little break free hands stay warm) but they also look incredibly cute. With twins I have spots on one and stripes on the other and they look adorable. They ALSO help baby to sleep as they are so soft and so cosy. Really there is nothing not to like and as there are even different thicknesses to choose from you can use them all year round!
Our favourites are the spots and stripes and the gingham ones.
But there are lots to choose from and they are one of those items that you once you have bought it you will wonder how you ever managed without it- you know the ones I mean!
Monday 14 March 2011
I've got the Formula
Gone are the days when breast feeding is seen as the only way to go. For those that simply cannot or do not breast feed the stigma associated with bottle feeding is thankfully dying down (although formula brands are still not allowed to advertise as guidelines state that breast feeding must be seen as the better option). Of course there are many benefits to breast feeding and I do not deny that for most women it is a wonderful experience that they wouldn't change for the world (excluding the chapped sore nipples, constantly being at your baby's beck and call and having to whip your milk jugs out in public perhaps). Yet, for those that do not breast feed there are also advantages. I think it is great when a baby is given at least one bottle a day- it enables grandparents and fathers etc to bond with baby further and also frees mummy up to be able to go out once in a while knowing that baby will be just fine.
To be totally honest I don't think it was until twins that I had ever really thought about not breast feeding... and now I cannot help but claim the other side of the unspoken coin as my own. Bottle feeding is OK too.
This is my formula for bottle feeding...
1. Choose a good formula. I personally choose Milupa's Aptamil (and most people I know do the same) but the most important thing is just to pick a brand and stick to it. Aptamil has both powder and ready made carton forms. It is cheaper to use the powder but the cartons are VERY handy to keep in your nappy bag (or use all the time if you have twins!)
2. Make your powder preparing easier by checking out Clevamama- they have great gadgets that make the whole thing less of a palaver. Our favourite is the clevascoop which accurately measures out your formula in one scoop- no more counting or losing count in the middle of the night or whilst listening to a screaming baby- or two!)
3. Make up a few sterilized bottles with three quarters of the water needed for your baby's bottle in them (boil it before putting it in and it will cool down quickly to cold), then fill a thermos with the rest of the boiled water. When it comes to baby's feed pour in the rest of the water needed to make the correct amount for your baby (eg. If baby drinks 6oz then have 4oz already prepared in the bottle and add 2oz of hot water from the thermos) add the powder in (which will be very quick thanks to clevascoop) and mix it up. No need to warm it- the thermos water will have done that for you. A bottle prepared in seconds. Fast Food Indeed!
4. Make sure you sterilize- I know how much of a bore in can be (especially with twins feeding every three hours- 16 bottles to clean every day!!) but it is highly recommended.
5. Do not let people tell you that you are doing the wrong thing, if you have made your choice and you are personally happy with it- then hold your head high and know that if you are happy, your baby will be too.
To be totally honest I don't think it was until twins that I had ever really thought about not breast feeding... and now I cannot help but claim the other side of the unspoken coin as my own. Bottle feeding is OK too.This is my formula for bottle feeding...
1. Choose a good formula. I personally choose Milupa's Aptamil (and most people I know do the same) but the most important thing is just to pick a brand and stick to it. Aptamil has both powder and ready made carton forms. It is cheaper to use the powder but the cartons are VERY handy to keep in your nappy bag (or use all the time if you have twins!)
2. Make your powder preparing easier by checking out Clevamama- they have great gadgets that make the whole thing less of a palaver. Our favourite is the clevascoop which accurately measures out your formula in one scoop- no more counting or losing count in the middle of the night or whilst listening to a screaming baby- or two!)
3. Make up a few sterilized bottles with three quarters of the water needed for your baby's bottle in them (boil it before putting it in and it will cool down quickly to cold), then fill a thermos with the rest of the boiled water. When it comes to baby's feed pour in the rest of the water needed to make the correct amount for your baby (eg. If baby drinks 6oz then have 4oz already prepared in the bottle and add 2oz of hot water from the thermos) add the powder in (which will be very quick thanks to clevascoop) and mix it up. No need to warm it- the thermos water will have done that for you. A bottle prepared in seconds. Fast Food Indeed!
4. Make sure you sterilize- I know how much of a bore in can be (especially with twins feeding every three hours- 16 bottles to clean every day!!) but it is highly recommended.
5. Do not let people tell you that you are doing the wrong thing, if you have made your choice and you are personally happy with it- then hold your head high and know that if you are happy, your baby will be too.
Saturday 12 March 2011
Baby Bug Bears
There are certain things that commonly grind peoples gears... the car that doesn't queue but zooms up in the outside lane and then indicates to join at the front of the line, cyclists who cycle on the road but then dangerously skip the lights, people spitting on the street.... to name but a few.
This morning, I saw two of my baby bug bears, things that most people probably don't even notice; that get me totally uncharacteristically and unjustifiably worked up.
Baby Bug Bear number one.
Babies without socks on in winter. I know it can be hard to keep babies socks on- believe me I know, but if they really wont stay on, then put baby in an all in one, buy some "sock ons" from Boots (Very clever little things that go over baby's socks and keep them in place), long socks from baby gap that go up to baby's knees or booties. There are so many options that I cannot help but fume when I see babies out and about in the cold with freezing
little toes visible to the world around them.
Baby Bug Bear number two.
With SO many amazing baby slings on the market (and lots of places to get them secondhand) there really is no excuse at all for using a bad one. That is why it upsets me when I see a newborn baby being carried in a sling that looks like a glorified piece of cloth strapped to the mothers side. This particular little fella was about two months old and with the sling coming up just under his neck his poor little head (not yet supporting itself) was bobbing all over the place. Poor little man.
This morning, I saw two of my baby bug bears, things that most people probably don't even notice; that get me totally uncharacteristically and unjustifiably worked up.
Baby Bug Bear number one.
Babies without socks on in winter. I know it can be hard to keep babies socks on- believe me I know, but if they really wont stay on, then put baby in an all in one, buy some "sock ons" from Boots (Very clever little things that go over baby's socks and keep them in place), long socks from baby gap that go up to baby's knees or booties. There are so many options that I cannot help but fume when I see babies out and about in the cold with freezinglittle toes visible to the world around them.
Baby Bug Bear number two.
With SO many amazing baby slings on the market (and lots of places to get them secondhand) there really is no excuse at all for using a bad one. That is why it upsets me when I see a newborn baby being carried in a sling that looks like a glorified piece of cloth strapped to the mothers side. This particular little fella was about two months old and with the sling coming up just under his neck his poor little head (not yet supporting itself) was bobbing all over the place. Poor little man.
Friday 11 March 2011
Double the Trouble
Having two babies is not only twice as much fun (and work) but it is at least double the trouble when choosing a buggy. The market narrows to a slim gap and the choices are not only limited but expensive and scary- most double buggies are by their very nature big and bulky and a young “mum about town’s” absolute nightmare.
Let me do my best to help you choose the right buggy for you with my pick of the bunch on double buggies for different uses, prices and parenting.
Let us begin with twins. Trickiest of the lot this one- you need a buggy that will sustain both little ones from tiny to tot without compromising on either babies comfort OR your own!
For newborn twins the icandy peach blossom (see bottom of blog for image or check out their website for all the combinations) is a winner. Light, compact, stylish and really easy to store (almost the size of a single) it really cannot be faulted as a newborn pram. I have not used or seen anything that compares to it as a luxury city buggy the width and length being remarkably slight... Other brands such as the City Select’s equivalent has a MUCH longer frame that is incredibly difficult and heavy to move- you know the kind where you have to put all your weight on the handle bar to get up the curb- The peach blossom goes up and down curbs with minimal effort and everything about it is really rather dreamy. The crib attachments are comfortable and can double up as beds for the first few months or two car seats can fit on in an incredibly compact way and you can have both babies facing you (also great for car journeys and general traveling as you only need the car seats and small frame.)... So it sounds faultless... Well it almost is... until the babies reach the seat attachment stage. I suppose it is inevitable due to its excellent compactness but baby number two is rather relegated to the bottom seat and I do worry for her comfort as there is not much room between the seats at all... One constantly wants to check that her toes aren’t being squished by baby number one on top!
Having said that the icandy peach blossom is a remarkable buy AND although it is rather pricey (coming second in line in the price list at up to £1000) it is a really great investment for all families due to its versatility.
For a baby and toddler combination I cannot fault the icandy peach blossom buy it when you have your first baby (as the icandy peach) and simply upgrade to the peach blossom if you have a second. With toddler on the front and baby snug at the back (facing you in the car seat or cosy in the crib attachment) it maintains its slender size and ticks a lot of boxes. Once baby number one has outgrown the buggy simply remove the (very easy to clip in out) attachment and you are back to a single stroller- really ideal- (especially if toddler is at nursery etc sometimes so you only have baby with you some of the time). Although it is very expensive you get a lot for your money because this one buggy really will fit all.
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| Phil and Ted's |
Moving on then to another baby and toddler combination buggy that we love. The phil and teds range came up with a fantastic idea several years ago now that changes their three wheeler buggy from a duo to a single and back again in a series of ingenious ways. From birth to school this buggy fits all. A cross country buggy (although many people use them all the time in towns and cities too) that like the icandy can accommodate a baby and a toddler, two toddlers, a toddler and a child or just one or the other as and when you need it it is incredibly versatile. With a flat baby section at the back, car seat option on top and two toddler seat options...top or bottom there is something for everyone. They are very reasonably priced at around £450 and they last and last. Compact in size and easily to move about with these buggies have been a huge hit and not without reason.
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| Mountain Buggy Duo |
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| Maclaren Techno |
Another side by side option, and by far the cheapest, is the Maclaren Twin Techno or Twin Triumph. These are city prams and the Techno still offers the luxury of other brands while coming in at a much kinder to the wallet £280. It offers individually reclining seats, separate rain hoods and two roomy shopping baskets (although hard to get to when baby lies down) suitable from birth these buggies are affordable but very reliable and highly thought of. The handles are comfortable and the width is still narrow enough to fit through most doors (even though it looks like a tight squeeze it fits through most very easily), light and fantastic for traveling with every baby household needs a Maclaren!
Last then is Bugaboo Donkey (see bottom of blog for image), already featured on the blog last week it will be on the market in the next few months and is the style lovers answer to a double buggy. A large price tag of over £1200 will put many people off but the Donkey does offer a great deal for the money. The narrowest luxury side by side buggy it offers great comfort for side by side riders and parents alike, it changes easily from a duo to a mono and back again and offers great storage at the side if you want it. There are lots of options to suit all needs and I am sure it will prove its worth over the next few months, perhaps too early to be spending that sort of money before it is out on the open market but we will look forward to hearing from test drivers soon. If the world loves it as much as the chameleon and bee then we will certainly get to see a few on the streets before we buy!
Don't be put off by these prices if they seem out of reach... if you aren't happy with your buggy but cannot justify a new one then a) sell it... and b) look into buying your new one on ebay... or alike, lots of buggies get sold after very little use because they do not suit everyone, a buggy must be tailored to your own needs and is a very personal and very important purchase!
Wednesday 9 March 2011
The Real "Maclaren"
Maclaren have been a household baby brand for many years. Their umbrella folding competitors have been made to look like second choice beside them and as far as we are concerned they have just got better and better. I bought my first Maclaren buggy at 15- before I had a baby I might add- but I was so worried that my sister would buy the wrong buggy that I bought her the best Maclaren on the market at the time (the then equivalent of the XT).
Since my sister's buggy I have had just about every Maclaren on the market from the Volo to the Twin. The volo is an excellent lightweight convenience buggy (not from newborn) but the more luxurious buggies such as the XT and now XLR are equally good in terms of convenience and also great for hardier use.
They do wear out after a while- but that is merely testament to the fact that you will use it day in day out. The only things these buggies are not good for are country, rough or beach terraine- otherwise they are access all areas.
The XLR takes Maclaren to the next level. A travel system designed to give the buggy the use of a more substantial push-chair with the baby sleeping bag and car seat it combines the convenience of Maclaren with the luxury and comfort of other (and I might add far pricier) brands.
And then there are the designer buggies. We love the spotty Cath Kidston one and the Butcher's stripe but there are loads of great ones to choose from....and
the twins which are really narrow and light with individually reclining seats and comfortable handles are fab for twins about town. - although a single handle would make folding more difficult it would make pushing a lot easier when on the phone or carrying a bag.
the twins which are really narrow and light with individually reclining seats and comfortable handles are fab for twins about town. - although a single handle would make folding more difficult it would make pushing a lot easier when on the phone or carrying a bag.
Maclaren are taking over the buggy world, with nothing they can't provide, we think they are the affordable real McCoy. Luxury with a proper price tag and all the extras to go with.
Your Questions Answered
Q. When is it OK to go outside with my newborn?
A. Your newborn is ready to go outside from day one, with the right clothing and the right protection from sun, wind or rain, baby will not be phased by fresh air (excepting perhaps in the middle of winter). The most important thing here is when YOU are ready, most new mummies feel sore and tired for the first few days and would prefer to stay at home and let people come and visit them but after a few days or as soon as YOU feel like a stroll, you can take baby out. I would always use a sling with a very tiny newborn as I think it makes you both feel more secure and confident, it also stops people from cooing too close or asking for a hold! Stick to parks etc in the very early days as you want to limit exposure to bugs and bacteria (which big shopping centres etc are more likely to breed) and don't let strangers touch baby and you will both thoroughly enjoy the experience. It is a very proud time, taking a new baby out and quite rightly you could feel elated by showing the world your beautiful baby! Enjoy it.
NB. We always recommend the babybjorn baby carrier because it has excellent back support for the parent and fantastic head support for a newborn. It gives a secure hold on baby that makes you feel confident having your hands free whilst still giving you the special feel of closeness.
A. Your newborn is ready to go outside from day one, with the right clothing and the right protection from sun, wind or rain, baby will not be phased by fresh air (excepting perhaps in the middle of winter). The most important thing here is when YOU are ready, most new mummies feel sore and tired for the first few days and would prefer to stay at home and let people come and visit them but after a few days or as soon as YOU feel like a stroll, you can take baby out. I would always use a sling with a very tiny newborn as I think it makes you both feel more secure and confident, it also stops people from cooing too close or asking for a hold! Stick to parks etc in the very early days as you want to limit exposure to bugs and bacteria (which big shopping centres etc are more likely to breed) and don't let strangers touch baby and you will both thoroughly enjoy the experience. It is a very proud time, taking a new baby out and quite rightly you could feel elated by showing the world your beautiful baby! Enjoy it.NB. We always recommend the babybjorn baby carrier because it has excellent back support for the parent and fantastic head support for a newborn. It gives a secure hold on baby that makes you feel confident having your hands free whilst still giving you the special feel of closeness.
Cuddle Me Dry
The Cuddledry apron towel, (in case anyone has not seen it), is the towel that you wear as an apron during bath-time, erasing the need to take an eye off baby while you grab the towel and keeping you dry throughout. It is one of those products that was designed for a need and not merely as a luxury and has without a doubt become an absolute baby essential.
I first came across the cuddledry when bathing newborn twins (which is a challenge in itself). Being able to get baby number one warm and comforted the second she came out of the bath made the whole experience a lot more enjoyable and leisurely for baby number two! It is also a lovely experience for mummies and daddies as towel cuddles are one of those unexplainably heart warming moments with baby.
Reducing the risks by enabling you to focus entirely on baby throughout bath time; getting baby warm and comforted as soon as they come out of the bath; improving baby and parent bonding and being ever so practical in keeping you dry all the while...
... the cuddledry towel is an essential item for new parents. At just £24.99 in several colours, an item that you will use for many years to come there isn't even any 'splashing out' required. We love it.
I first came across the cuddledry when bathing newborn twins (which is a challenge in itself). Being able to get baby number one warm and comforted the second she came out of the bath made the whole experience a lot more enjoyable and leisurely for baby number two! It is also a lovely experience for mummies and daddies as towel cuddles are one of those unexplainably heart warming moments with baby.
Reducing the risks by enabling you to focus entirely on baby throughout bath time; getting baby warm and comforted as soon as they come out of the bath; improving baby and parent bonding and being ever so practical in keeping you dry all the while...
... the cuddledry towel is an essential item for new parents. At just £24.99 in several colours, an item that you will use for many years to come there isn't even any 'splashing out' required. We love it.
Tuesday 8 March 2011
Our Favourite Nappy Bag Essentials...
1. Nappies. We think pampers have got it covered with their nappies, we find them the most absorbent, versatile and crucially most comfortable on the market.
2. Wipes. We love Nature Babycare's eco fragrance free wipes- especially in the travel pack. (Although we don't feel that their nappies are as good as pampers as they do not stick back together when rolled after use!)
3. Sudocrem's new tube. Advertised as being sudocrem for adults we think it is very handy for the changing bag for you and baby alike.
4. Muslins, any simple muslin squares are an invaluable nappy bag addition!
5. Bibs, any simple material bib for newborns and ZPM's amazing popper bib for weaning and toddlers. You do up the poppers at the bottom before the meal to create a pouch that catches stray bits of food falling; then simply unpop at the end of the meal and empty the pouch into the bin before putting the clean bib back into your nappy bag- what a fab idea! No more scooping soggy food out of a plastic pouch or off a restaurant highchair! Our favourite is the cow bib but check out all the fab designs.
6. A spare of your baby's favourite toy (not the one they love at home incase it gets dirty or lost). We love Lamaze's Freddie the Firefly.
7. Two baby-grows- yes they look lovely in their little outfits but if you have 'one of those days' you will be grateful that you packed practical rompers and not frilly dresses.
8. Pamper's Disposable Mats so that you can be confident about the surface that you change your baby on and not have to worry about cleaning the mat before putting it back in the bag- just throw it away if it's wet or soiled!
9. An antibacterial AND antiviral hand-wash, our pick of the bunch is Mentholatum's.
10. Ready made carton of aptamil (for emergencies if you are breast feeding or with a clean sterilized bottle if you aren't!) OR an Ella's Kitchen pouch for weaning and toddlers.
11. Bottle of infacol - featured on the blog in "WINDY TIP" if you want to find out why.
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3. Sudocrem's new tube. Advertised as being sudocrem for adults we think it is very handy for the changing bag for you and baby alike.
4. Muslins, any simple muslin squares are an invaluable nappy bag addition!
5. Bibs, any simple material bib for newborns and ZPM's amazing popper bib for weaning and toddlers. You do up the poppers at the bottom before the meal to create a pouch that catches stray bits of food falling; then simply unpop at the end of the meal and empty the pouch into the bin before putting the clean bib back into your nappy bag- what a fab idea! No more scooping soggy food out of a plastic pouch or off a restaurant highchair! Our favourite is the cow bib but check out all the fab designs.
6. A spare of your baby's favourite toy (not the one they love at home incase it gets dirty or lost). We love Lamaze's Freddie the Firefly.
7. Two baby-grows- yes they look lovely in their little outfits but if you have 'one of those days' you will be grateful that you packed practical rompers and not frilly dresses.
8. Pamper's Disposable Mats so that you can be confident about the surface that you change your baby on and not have to worry about cleaning the mat before putting it back in the bag- just throw it away if it's wet or soiled!9. An antibacterial AND antiviral hand-wash, our pick of the bunch is Mentholatum's.
10. Ready made carton of aptamil (for emergencies if you are breast feeding or with a clean sterilized bottle if you aren't!) OR an Ella's Kitchen pouch for weaning and toddlers.
11. Bottle of infacol - featured on the blog in "WINDY TIP" if you want to find out why.
Monday 7 March 2011
Baby Sleep Sheep Counting
Ever noticed how your baby wakes after 45 minutes of sleep during daytime naps? Sadly that's the sleep cycle that our beautiful young ones are blessed with. After 45 minutes they drift into light sleep and the slightest sound can wake them, unless they are pushed over into the next 45 minutes which will take them back into deep sleep they are likely to wake.
The sleep sheep could be the answer to your problems. It is absolutely fantastic for sending baby to sleep at night (I tend to use the crashing wave setting). If you use it every night diligently, a bit like bath time it will become part of baby's routine and will contribute to their ability to relax and fall asleep. Like a darkened room the sleep sheep is a good way to put into your baby's head that it is bed time.
Additionally the sleep sheep noises could be the answer to pushing your baby into the next 45 minute phase of deep sleep. Keep the sheep making his noised throughout the nap and hope it pushes baby through.
Potty about "becothings"
There are so many fantastic environmentally friendly ideas out there at the moment that it can be hard to find the genuinely original ones. We think that becothings have got their fingers right on the baby button.
The becopotty for those of you that have not already seen it, is not only totally recyclable but YOU recyle it yourself by planting it in the garden (hidden under the earth) and it will decompose, biodegrade, how ever you want to say it- magically creating compost. You can even put seeds in it and watch your potty plants grow. What a fab idea to let your proudly potty trained tot literally bury their potty in the garden when they have mastered the art- and teach them about being eco friendly at the same time!
The becopotty for those of you that have not already seen it, is not only totally recyclable but YOU recyle it yourself by planting it in the garden (hidden under the earth) and it will decompose, biodegrade, how ever you want to say it- magically creating compost. You can even put seeds in it and watch your potty plants grow. What a fab idea to let your proudly potty trained tot literally bury their potty in the garden when they have mastered the art- and teach them about being eco friendly at the same time!
Another inspired idea courtesy of becothings is the becohanger. Not only environmentally friendly but beautifully designed and functionally shaped they also save space in the wardrobe. Brilliant as new baby presents or for practical purchases alike.
Personal and well made environmentally friendly products.
Charming.
Your questions answered...
Q. My baby thrashes his little arms around in the night and wakes himself up what can i do to prevent it/calm him so he doesn't do it?
My A.
If your baby is younger than four months I would always recommend swaddling. Mothercare sell fantastic swaddling cloths that make such a perfect little package there will be no wriggling free!
If baby is older than that they probably won't respond well to swaddling. So the alternative is to take a wide blanket and tuck your baby in. Tuck the blanket under the mattress on either side of the cot and pull taught over the chest so that there is not much room for baby to move about.
I would also think about using camomile tea. It is a wonderful natural way to calm your baby down for the night (also an excellent teething remedy) it soothes pain and relaxes your baby into a deeper sleep (when they shouldn't be able to thrash about). If baby is bottle fed simply place a camomile teabag into hot water before adding to the milk (if you used ready made formula then make it strong in a very small amount of water so as not to dilute the milk too much, if you use a powder the teabag can just be added to the water part. Strength is at your own discretion- in our experience most babies enjoy the taste but perhaps try it very weak the first time and see! If baby is breast-fed try drinking camomile tea yourself or for an older baby you can give it in cold tea form if you wish!
Hope this helps.
My A.
If your baby is younger than four months I would always recommend swaddling. Mothercare sell fantastic swaddling cloths that make such a perfect little package there will be no wriggling free!
If baby is older than that they probably won't respond well to swaddling. So the alternative is to take a wide blanket and tuck your baby in. Tuck the blanket under the mattress on either side of the cot and pull taught over the chest so that there is not much room for baby to move about.
I would also think about using camomile tea. It is a wonderful natural way to calm your baby down for the night (also an excellent teething remedy) it soothes pain and relaxes your baby into a deeper sleep (when they shouldn't be able to thrash about). If baby is bottle fed simply place a camomile teabag into hot water before adding to the milk (if you used ready made formula then make it strong in a very small amount of water so as not to dilute the milk too much, if you use a powder the teabag can just be added to the water part. Strength is at your own discretion- in our experience most babies enjoy the taste but perhaps try it very weak the first time and see! If baby is breast-fed try drinking camomile tea yourself or for an older baby you can give it in cold tea form if you wish!
Hope this helps.
Sunday 6 March 2011
Dummy Run
Giving your bambino a dummy either feels like the right thing to do or is something you would not consider as a parent. With the best intentions in the world there are some cases when the use of a pacifier is simply a necessity (bath time with tiny twins springs quickly to mind).
There is one fascinating tip, however, that no parent believes until they see (or hear) it with their own eyes (or ears). That I will shortly enlighten you with.
Whilst babies do naturally have a suckling reflex until the age of about four months (varies from baby to baby and equally varies as to how strong it is) after this they should not have the urge to suckle in the same way. At this age your baby could (depending on weight of course) be sleeping right through the night (and I mean without a dream feed!) but they are unlikely to do so if they go to sleep with a dummy. If your baby sleeps with a dummy the chances are that you are familiar with the in out in out shake it all about experience that ensues. Baby, being to young to put the dummy back in when it falls out, keenly misses it and cries out for it and mummy or daddy as a result are forced through a painful night of dummy rescue.
TOP TIP: Once your baby's suckling reflex seems to have subsided (does not keep dummy in as easily, or can be tested with a clean bent index finger inserted just into your baby's mouth to see whether they suckle and hold); REMOVE the dummies altogether, go absolutely cold turkey, throw the dummies away if you have to (although one or two for emergencies and plane journeys can be helpful), but absolutely do not give in to the temptation to put the dummy into your baby's mouth during the night.
Astonishingly, your baby will (in my experience) forget that they ever had a dummy and sleep more soundly through the night. They will not feel deprived or cry out for it, they genuinely will not remember they ever had one.
It has to be seen to be believed but it really works- just remember to set your alarm from now on- you may need it!
There is one fascinating tip, however, that no parent believes until they see (or hear) it with their own eyes (or ears). That I will shortly enlighten you with.
Whilst babies do naturally have a suckling reflex until the age of about four months (varies from baby to baby and equally varies as to how strong it is) after this they should not have the urge to suckle in the same way. At this age your baby could (depending on weight of course) be sleeping right through the night (and I mean without a dream feed!) but they are unlikely to do so if they go to sleep with a dummy. If your baby sleeps with a dummy the chances are that you are familiar with the in out in out shake it all about experience that ensues. Baby, being to young to put the dummy back in when it falls out, keenly misses it and cries out for it and mummy or daddy as a result are forced through a painful night of dummy rescue.TOP TIP: Once your baby's suckling reflex seems to have subsided (does not keep dummy in as easily, or can be tested with a clean bent index finger inserted just into your baby's mouth to see whether they suckle and hold); REMOVE the dummies altogether, go absolutely cold turkey, throw the dummies away if you have to (although one or two for emergencies and plane journeys can be helpful), but absolutely do not give in to the temptation to put the dummy into your baby's mouth during the night.
Astonishingly, your baby will (in my experience) forget that they ever had a dummy and sleep more soundly through the night. They will not feel deprived or cry out for it, they genuinely will not remember they ever had one.
It has to be seen to be believed but it really works- just remember to set your alarm from now on- you may need it!
Windy Tip
If your baby sometimes has trouble bringing up wind try my top tips...
First top tip is to use infacol which is a magic invention that you drop into your baby's mouth directly before a feed (no waiting around) that joins all the tiny air bubbles in your baby's tummy and creates and more impressive (and relieving for you baby) burp. It is excellently packaged to make it easy and mess free to use (although I would still put the bib on first) keep one at home and one in your changing bag and use it before EVERY feed.
My winding technique has developed from experience with reflux babies that need special attention during burping. Some babies will bring up wind virtually unaided but for babies that need that extra help try this....
1. Place a hand under each of your baby's arms and in doing so raise their arms so that they are straight above their head.
2. Then place your baby gently on your shoulder- high enough that the they are in a straight line from toes to finger tips.
3. Rub your baby's back in circular motions on the left hand side.
Why this works:
Lifting the arms above the baby's head creates a clear straight passage for wind to easily rise up. Rubbing and NOT patting the back will decrease the chances of your babies tummy being bumped about and therefore minimize sickness (although of course some babies will still bring some milk back up this may reduce it). Finally as your baby's digestion happens on the left hand side, there is no point in rubbing on the right.
On a slightly different note, if your baby cries out whilst being fed they might be experiencing some sort of stomach ache- I would always place the baby front down across my lap (so that their stomach is on your legs) and rub their back relatively firmly to see if this relieves the pain.
Give it a go.
Great Gadgets
Many mothers worry about how to keep their baby at the right temperature- there are so many things to consider- room temperature, amount of clothing, windows, blankets, drafts?...
...and of course the risk of every mothers worst nightmare- overheating.
The gro company have the answer with their gro egg. It not only tells you the temperature of the baby's room but changes colour to warn you that the room has cooled down or warmed up to suggest that you might want to alter baby's clothes to suit. A great little tool that helps you relax
While we are talking about the fantastic gro company another absolute must buy is their gro light which attaches to the ceiling light in your baby's room and acts as a dimmer on the second click of the main light switch- providing a light that is just bright enough for you to check on your baby but not bright enough to wake them up.
Genius ideas.
...and of course the risk of every mothers worst nightmare- overheating.
The gro company have the answer with their gro egg. It not only tells you the temperature of the baby's room but changes colour to warn you that the room has cooled down or warmed up to suggest that you might want to alter baby's clothes to suit. A great little tool that helps you relax
While we are talking about the fantastic gro company another absolute must buy is their gro light which attaches to the ceiling light in your baby's room and acts as a dimmer on the second click of the main light switch- providing a light that is just bright enough for you to check on your baby but not bright enough to wake them up.
Genius ideas.
Saturday 5 March 2011
BugaBOOM
We are AnnabelBlanche and what better way to debut our baby blog than by celebrating the fantastic news that following the Bugaboo Bee in April last year, (the ultra light city pram), Bugaboo are bringing out another brilliant idea this April.
The Bugaboo Donkey, following on the animal theme, is indeed a pack horse. Designed to turn from a mono to a duo and back to a mono at the click of button (apparently); it is the Bugaboo lovers answer to the dilemma of having more than one child or loads of shopping.
I am excited about this pushchair- not for the "extra storage" that it is being hailed for, but for the twin mums and dads out there who are saddened by the lack of choice in twin city pushchairs. icandy offer a good luxury solution for newborn twins with the Peach Blossom, the car seat and carry cot options are fantastic (the pushchair being almost no bigger than a single AND converting easily to a single so you don't have an empty seat when you go out with only one of the babies) BUT once you progress onto the seat fixtures, one baby gets demoted to the back seat and you find yourself choosing which baby will be squished underneath and which will have the room with a view on top.
The narrowest luxury twin pushchair at 74cm the Donkey is the city pushchair that the market has been crying out for (and Bugaboo would argue that the wheels are big enough to make it a cross country competitor just as successfully).
At £1219 in twin configuration it is not exactly a steal and is more expensive than its competitors but as Bugaboo claim you shouldn't ever need another pushchair- just turn it from mono to duo as you require and if it is as light as it should be (judging by Bugaboos other buggies) it will change the way twin mums travel.
Bugaboom Bugaboo, strap us in, we love it.
The Bugaboo Donkey, following on the animal theme, is indeed a pack horse. Designed to turn from a mono to a duo and back to a mono at the click of button (apparently); it is the Bugaboo lovers answer to the dilemma of having more than one child or loads of shopping.
I am excited about this pushchair- not for the "extra storage" that it is being hailed for, but for the twin mums and dads out there who are saddened by the lack of choice in twin city pushchairs. icandy offer a good luxury solution for newborn twins with the Peach Blossom, the car seat and carry cot options are fantastic (the pushchair being almost no bigger than a single AND converting easily to a single so you don't have an empty seat when you go out with only one of the babies) BUT once you progress onto the seat fixtures, one baby gets demoted to the back seat and you find yourself choosing which baby will be squished underneath and which will have the room with a view on top.
The narrowest luxury twin pushchair at 74cm the Donkey is the city pushchair that the market has been crying out for (and Bugaboo would argue that the wheels are big enough to make it a cross country competitor just as successfully).
At £1219 in twin configuration it is not exactly a steal and is more expensive than its competitors but as Bugaboo claim you shouldn't ever need another pushchair- just turn it from mono to duo as you require and if it is as light as it should be (judging by Bugaboos other buggies) it will change the way twin mums travel.
Bugaboom Bugaboo, strap us in, we love it.
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