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It's that time of year again! Must read sleep training and sickness tips!
It's that time of year again when the kids start coming home from school or daycare with illness. There is not much worse than seeing your child sick. I am often asked by my client's how this can effect their sleep coaching or get questions from former client s on how to get "back on track" after illness strikes.
What happens if my child gets sick during sleep training?
When your child becomes sick your most important priority is their health and well-being. You need to do what feels best for your family and situation (it won't be the same for everyone and that's OK)! It is very important to consult with your pediatrician and prioritize their recommendations for your child's health and well-being. Sleep is solvable and always possible to get "back on track" when your child is feeling better.
Depending on the severity of the illness, some families will choose to "pause" making progress and just try to maintain while tending to their child's health and well-being. This might look like keeping bedtime, wake time and naps as "on schedule" as you can, but using some sleep crutches to help and comfort your child.
Can illness impact my child's sleep?
Sometimes when our children are sick, we can start offering them additional support in getting them to sleep, whether it's holding, rocking, or feeding them. Whatever state or environment is present when a child enters the first stages of sleep is what they come to expect in order to re-enter another cycle later on, known as a sleep association. This can look something like: Baby is rocked to sleep, at every wake up throughout the night they again want Mommy to rock them to sleep.
To minimize creating any unwanted sleep associations try to only offer "as much as needed." This will look different for each child depending on the illness and its severity.
Sickness can also increase wake ups throughout the night. Try keeping bedtime, wake time and naps as "on schedule" as you can while offering "as much as needed" support.
Sleep and Sick Season Tips
Prioritize health and well-being of your baby above anything. Check with your pediatrician and trust your gut.
Try keeping bedtime, wake time and naps as "on schedule" as you can
Offer "as much as needed" support when getting your child to sleep
Hydration is VERY important when navigating illness. This might mean middle of the night feeds and that’s OK even if you have long since moved away from them.
Bring a mattress into baby's room and sleep on the floor before bed-sharing. This will help their bedtime environment remain the same and should be an easier "fix" once baby is back to themselves.
Prioritize Safe Sleep - make sure you don't compromise safe sleep when taking care of your child with illness. Elevating mattresses are NOT advised, please consult with your pediatrician.
Remember, life happens and that includes illness. If you have sleep coached your child they have independent sleep skills and they can be refreshed quickly. Don't let the "loss of sleep progress thoughts" cause any more stress than dealing with a sick child already does.
To Reduce the Stress of having a sick child (and avoid late night CVS runs) here are some great products to have on hand and tips! Bonus - these are all Amazon links!
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Check those expiration dates and make sure you have some on hand! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MK2D954?tag=kitco079-20&geniuslink=true |
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These single serving Pedialyte Powder Packs are great to have on hand. Easily fits in a diaper bad and you won't find yourself throwing out the rest of the bottle, frantically running out for more next time illness strikes. Buy it once, and it should last all season. |
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This is an incredible product to have for those constant runny noses! Pair this with saline nose spray when needed and it can drastically improve sleep. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00RP0GHBO?tag=kitco079-20&geniuslink=true |
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Extra Sheets and Mattress Protectors Double up on the sheets and waterproof mattress protector layers! If baby is sick it makes for a quick bed change, just pull off one layer and baby is ready to head back to sleep! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001FCK32C?tag=kitco079-20&geniuslink=true |
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A good thermometer is a must have for when fevers strike! Pediatricians often prefer parents to provide them with rectal temps. Another great tip is to record your baby's temperature and when you need to give any Tylenol with date and time. Whether you use an app, a quick text, or on an old fashion piece of paper, recording it can help keep it all straight. |
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These are great to have in the car just in case! https://kit.co/BlissfulBabySleep/sick-baby-kit/hospital-vomit-bags |
To see all my recommended products, check out my Sick Baby Kit .
Is there something you would add? I would LOVE to hear about it.
Are you interested in learning more about Sleep Coaching?
The first step to see if I can help you achieve beautiful, blissful sleep is to schedule a 60 minute ZOOM Sleep Strategy Session ($99). Go to this link and complete the contact me form and I will be in touch within 24 hours with directions on how to schedule your Sleep Strategy Session.
If you are still wondering if I can help, please know I do NOT advocate 'cry-it-out'. I am a Gentle Sleep Coach. If you want to learn about my guilt-free and gentle process, please go to these links.
The Blissful Baby Stairway to Sleep
Please join my Sleep is Bliss Tribe in Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn so we can stay connected and you can continue to get amazing resources on sleep and family wellness.
Sleep is Bliss, Let's Get you more!
Do You Often Worry About Your Child’s Screen Time? You Are Not Alone!
Do you often worry about your child’s screen time? You are not alone!
According to PEW research Center 71% of parents with a child under the age of 12 say they are at least somewhat concerned their child might spend too much time in front of screens. With tablets, computers, TVs, phones, and video games, there are so many opportunities for screen time. Some families have found that establishing rules regarding screen time helps them from having a constant battle of making case-by-case decisions and drastically reduces the resistance their kids show to these limits.
Did you know?
1 in 4 kids think video games are exercise - According to the Youth Sport Trust Charity’s Class of 2035 report which explores the role of PE, sport, and physical activity play in the development of future generations.
On average, children ages 8-12 in the United States spend 4-6 hours a day watching or using screens, and teens spend up to 9 hours.
Roughly 7-in-10 parents (68%) say they are at least sometimes distracted by their smartphone when spending time with their kids. Screen time is not just an issue for kids!
A research study found that evening light exposure suppressed melatonin twice as much in children compared to adults.
“The earlier we introduce screens, the more it affects the child’s brain development and the more likely they will have trouble managing their addiction to screens and technology later in life.” – Dr Laura Markham, Aha! Parenting
As a Gentle Sleep Coach, I am often asked questions regarding screen time and its many effects on sleep. Most of our favorite devices produce blue light which suppresses the production of melatonin (the hormone responsible for sleepiness) and in turn disrupts our natural sleep-wake cycle. It is important to turn off the devices at least 2 hours before bedtime and naps. Setting screen time limits can have tremendous effects on your child’s overall health and, of course, sleep.
It can be a struggle to navigate setting rules and boundaries around screen use. My hope is with the research to back it up, you are able to establish screen time limits that work for YOUR family. Offering alternatives to screen time or having it be something kids can earn can be great to avoid the conflict.
If you want to know the details of the age and stage requirements and alternative activities that are just as easy for your kid to enjoy you want to download this guide.
>>>Know Your Options - Daily Screentime Limits for Your Child<<<
If after reading this guide there are still confusion and questions, remember I am always here to help. You can schedule a time to talk live with me about your unique situation.
The first step to see if I can help you achieve beautiful, blissful sleep is to schedule a 60 minute ZOOM sleep strategy session. Go to this link and complete the contact me form and I will be in touch within 24 hours with directions on how to schedule your Sleep Strategy Session.
If you are still wondering if I can help, please know I do NOT advocate 'cry-it-out'. I am a Gentle Sleep Coach. If you want to learn about my guilt-free and gentle process, please go to these links.
The Blissful Baby Stairway to Sleep
Please join my Sleep is Bliss Tribe in Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn so we can stay connected and you can continue to get amazing resources on sleep and family wellness.
Sleep is Bliss, Let's Get you more!
The Power of a Sleep Strategy Session
Sleep coaching is not 'one-size-fits-all' and as a Gentle Sleep Coach, I see this everyday with the different needs of the families I work with.
The first step in determining what families need in order to achieve beautiful, blissful sleep starts with a Sleep Strategy Session, and for some that’s ALL they need.
What is a Sleep Strategy Session?
In this video I go over what a Sleep Strategy Session is and what you can expect.
Click Here to watch this video and learn more!
The Sleep Strategy Session is our chance to better understand your child’s sleep struggles and discuss next steps to achieve beautiful, blissful sleep.
This 60 minute Zoom Video session ($99) is a unique opportunity to speak to a tenured, Pediatric Sleep Expert to gain personalized insight and determine ‘the why’ behind your child's sleep struggles. We will discuss the details to determine if One-on-One Sleep Coaching is the right fit for you, your child, and your family.
You will complete a detailed intake questionnaire to offer background details of the sleep struggles so I can show up to the session informed and prepared to give you customized insight and perspective.
It’s suggested that you and your partner both participate in our Sleep Strategy Session. Sleep struggles are a "family system" issue, so both parents need to understand the sleep science and behavioral science to create a united front and clarity of purpose.
This is a recorded virtual consultation via phone or Zoom that will answer your questions.
Not to worry, I will never suggest anything related to any ‘cry-it-out’ methods. My process is personalized to your child’s age and stage, temperament and family values and sleep goals. Instead, I offer guilt-free, Gentle Sleep Coaching® and Sleep Shaping for Newborns.
What should I expect from a Sleep Strategy Session?
Families come out of the conversation:
Well informed with accurate, reliable information
Clarity on their child's sleep situation
Hope and confidence that their situation can be improved
New insights and perspectives of why there is broken sleep
A plan to implement and see improvements (for some this is ALL they need)
Options for additional sleep support
Hear What Other Families Are Saying
How can you get started?
The first step to see if I can help you achieve beautiful, blissful sleep is to schedule a 60 minute ZOOM sleep strategy session ($99). Go to this link and complete the contact me form and I will be in touch within 24 hours with directions & payment link ($99) on how to schedule your Sleep Strategy Session.
Want to learn more about me first?
If you are still wondering if I can help, please know I do NOT advocate 'cry-it-out'. I am a Gentle Sleep Coach.
If you want to learn about my guilt-free and gentle process, please go to these links.
The Blissful Baby Stairway to Sleep
Please join my Sleep is Bliss Tribe in Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn so we can stay connected and you can continue to get amazing resources on sleep and family wellness.
Sleep is Bliss, Let's Get you more!
Sleep Success Story: Skeptical Parents Astounded of Success of Gentle Sleep Coaching
This couple made a pact with each other that they would "do things better this time" in terms of sleep habits for their 2nd child. Sleep was going great for months, but then baby started getting older and the sleep demands started increasing, night sleep fell apart and naps struggles came next. With dad working long hours and mom going back to the commute to the office, juggling sleep-deprivation and a family of 4 was getting entirely too difficult.
Even with a family member's glowing personal recommendation for Joanna and her sleep coaching process, Sahar and Ammar were skeptical of sleep coaching, but took a chance because they had "nothing to lose."
This family experienced a Total Family Sleep Transformation faster than they anticipated! The sleep coaching process was a "win-win" for parents and baby alike. Now, baby is sleeping 11+hrs at night and the parents aren't burnt out and are more productive at work. Baby Boy is spending better quality time with the family and Momma even wakes up rested, not needing coffee! Gone are the nights this couple spends watching the monitor instead of having date night, attending birthday parties and going on a girls night!
I am so happy this family reached out for sleep support! Watch Sahar and Ammar's story in the video below to see how working with a Sleep Expert was totally transformative for their entire family!
Click image above or here to watch video: Sahar and Ammar - Child was 10 months old at time of Guilt-Free, Gentle Sleep Coaching
Amidst the sleep deprivation, this couple supported each other, didn’t give up hope and found the right coach to help them Get Their Life Back and keep their pact of good sleep habits!
Thank you for watching Sahar and Ammar's story and I hope this inspires you to realize that it is possible to become a well-rested family. Please share this with any friends that need some help, hope and support right now! Don't ever hesitate to contact me.
Please join my Sleep is Bliss Tribe on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn so we can stay connected and you can continue to get amazing resources on sleep and family wellness.
Sleep is Bliss, Let's Get you more!
Does Family History and Health Conditions Affect the Quality of Child’s Sleep?
Have you considered your current health and family history could have an impact on your child’s sleep?
A study by Bruni identified three “sub-classes” of sleep problems and their underlying physical conditions. They looked at children ages 6 mos-4 years and analyzed sleep problems as well as current health conditions and family histories. The results found three subtypes of sleep problems:
Difficulties in falling asleep, with bedtime and nighttime restlessness, and awakenings during the night were associated with a longer time falling asleep and the presence of restless legs syndrome and anemia in the family history. (This group represented 17% of the sample)
Early morning awakenings were related to a family history of depression and/or mood disorders. - About 21% of the sample.
High frequency of night wakings and difficulties in falling asleep (without restlessness) were related to underlying allergies and/or food intolerance. This group was the largest at 62%.
As a Sleep consultant, knowing links to underlying health issues is important to properly assess sleep problems and offer guidance on how to navigate them. When working 1:1 with my clients to develop a customized sleep plan, I start by learning all about your family by collecting real data and relying on sleep science, behavioral science, and attachment theory. Potential underlying health problems can become evident in this detailed process.
To learn more about Blissful Baby’s Stairway to sleep process
https://www.blissfulbabysleepcoaching.com/stairway-to-sleep
To read more about this study
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpeds.2018.01.036
Please join my Sleep is Bliss Tribe on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn so we can stay connected and you can continue to get amazing resources on sleep and family wellness.
Sleep is Bliss, Let's Get you more!
Are you considering a move to the "Big Kid Bed"? Struggling with a crib climber?
Are you considering a move to the 'Big Kid Bed'?
Deciding when is the right time to move your child to the big kid bed can be a huge and often scary decision for parents.
Maybe your child is starting to climb out of the crib?
Maybe you are expecting and you're considering using the crib for a new sibling?
Maybe your child is potty training and you want them to have access to the bathroom?
It's important to look at your child for readiness before making this transition. Many developmental milestones children experience make parents consider the move, but these behaviors such as climbing are temporary and NOT a reason to rush to move to the big kid bed. I recommend waiting until age 3.5 to 4 years to consider the move to the 'big kid bed'. Cognitively that makes it a lot easier for them to be successful.
By Age 3.5 to 4 years of age children have two new cognitive functions.
Understanding of time- so if you tell them they need to stay in bed until the morning or for 10 minutes they have a better understanding.
Better understanding of boundaries and consequences. This makes for an easier transition to the big kid bed.
Does your child have independent sleep skills? A lot of kids don't have the maturity to learn their sleep skills in a big kid bed, if they've never known their sleep skills in the crib.
In this Get Your Life Back.. It Starts With Sleep video, I did some hot seat coaching and offer recommendations on moving to the 'big kid bed'.
To hear my recommendations on moving to the 'big kid bed' watch here!
When making this transition to the big kid bed, there are a couple of products I recommend to make this transition as easy as possible!
Get your Sleeping Baby Flying Squirrel Pajamas today!
Sleeping Baby Flying Squirrel Pajamas
Ages: 12 months-5t
What is it?
A zip up one-piece pajama and sleep sack all in one.
Why do I love it?
These Sleeping Baby Flying Squirrel Pajamas are a great option for those transitioning from the swaddle! The AAP recommends no loose blankets in babies cribs and these pajamas and sleep sack all in one are a great option to keep them warm and safe. Clients have also had great luck with these pajamas to deter crib climbers!
Get your Sleeping Baby Flying Squirrel Pajamas today!
Ages: All
What is it?
The Hatch Rest is a programmable sound machine with a nightlight. It features 11 sounds, 10 nightlight color options, time to rise features, and it can create customized programs that are all controlled by an app.
Why do I love it?
I recommend White noise for a great sleep environment from birth. For newborns it helps create the calming sounds of the womb and helps drown out background noise that might startle kiddos awake. Go ahead and get a load of laundry in without feeling like you need to tiptoe around. White noise is a great addition to sleep routines for ALL ages.
In my opinion, the Hatch Rest is one of the best options on the market! Not only is it a sound machine, it has also has a nightlight and an easy to use program option you can set up "ok to wake" schedules. Its a one time purchase that works for newborn to adult, no need to keep buying new products woohoo!!
The "ok to wake" scheduling is a great way to help kids feel more independent. No more wondering if it’s time to get up, kids can glance at the Hatch and see the color and/or sound to know! One less battle or potential tantrum, I consider that a parent win!
Order your Hatch Rest today!
Interested in Seeing More of My Favorite Products?
From nursery essentials to children’s books, and more… follow @blissfulbabysleep on KIT.co for direct links to purchase online.
Please join my Sleep is Bliss Tribe on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn so we can stay connected and you can continue to get amazing resources on sleep and family wellness.
Sleep is Bliss, Let's Get you more!
Breastfeeding vs. Baby Formula: A Guide for Parents
I constantly get asked questions around the benefits of breast-feeding versus bottle-feeding so I thought it would be great to provide my parents with a comprehensive blog from an organization that looks at the pros and cons of this decision more closely.
The most important thing I want families to know is that whether you are breast-feeding or you are bottle-feeding, it is always possible to improve sleep. If you are breast-feeding and you want to nurture that relationship it is still possible to do really safe and successful Sleep Coaching while also maintaining a positive nursing relationship and healthy milk supply.
Feel free to read the article below or press the link to learn more.
You may wonder if breastfeeding is an option when you have a full-time career. You may feel pressure from family or friends to choose breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. Some new parents would prefer to bottle-feed but worry about the cost. Others feel uncomfortable with breastfeeding. Some mothers have medical issues that exclude breastfeeding as an option.
Your baby’s feeding method is a private decision that only you can make after carefully weighing what will work best for you and your family. Whether you choose to breastfeed or bottle-feed, you can raise a healthy, happy baby. Nourishment from the breast or the bottle combined with love will set your bundle of joy on track to enjoy good health for many years to come.
What to Know About Breastfeeding
The AAP recommends breastfeeding exclusively for the first six months. Solid food can be introduced at six months and combined with breastfeeding until the baby reaches twelve months of age. After the first year, breastfeeding can be continued according to the preferences of the mother and the baby.
Composition of Breastmilk
Breastmilk contains the ideal proportions of the nutrients your baby needs to grow and develop. The breastmilk you produce changes during the first two weeks following your baby’s birth.
Colostrum
Colostrum is the first milk you produce. It is thick yellow milk that is often referred to as “liquid gold.” It is rich in nutrients and immune factors that protect your baby from infections and promote healthy digestion.
Transitional Milk
Within two to five days following birth, the thick yellow colostrum will transition to bluish-white milk, and your breasts may become full and warm. This transition takes place over the next ten to fifteen days to meet your baby’s changing needs.
Mature Milk
Your mature milk will come in next and continue to change over time to provide all the nutrients your growing baby needs.
Human milk is uniquely designed to promote the health and growth of human babies. It contains a combination of water, protein, carbohydrates, oligosaccharides, and minerals customized for your baby’s needs. The lactose content is lower than in cow’s milk. Mother’s milk contains immune factors and is relatively low in protein but high in fatty acids, such as DHA, that aid in brain development
Breastfeeding Your Baby
Breastfeeding provides special bonding opportunities at each mealtime. It is a natural way to feed your baby, but this does not mean you will instinctively know what to do. The following tips will make your breastfeeding experience successful and pleasurable for both of you:
Start with clean hands. You will need to use your hands to help your baby latch on, especially in the beginning, so wash your hands prior to each feeding.
Achieve a proper latch. The pigmented tissue surrounding the nipple is called the areola. A properly latched baby’s mouth will cover most or all of the areola. To accomplish this, touch the baby’s lips with your nipple until your baby opens his mouth widely. Quickly pull the baby to your breast, so the latch occurs while the mouth is still wide open.
Understand the let-down reflex. When your baby first starts suckling, the milk flows very slowly until it “lets down.” The milk will then flow quickly. You may feel a tingling sensation in your breasts, and the baby may begin swallowing loudly and quickly.
Feed your baby on demand. A newborn infant needs an average of eight to twelve feedings per day or a feeding every two to three hours around the clock. This will decrease as your baby grows older. Over time, you will become familiar with your baby’s hunger cues.
Ensure your baby is getting enough milk. Look for these signs:
Satisfaction after feedings
Consistent weight gain after the first week
Six to eight wet diapers daily
Two to five stools daily at first, decreasing to two or less per day over time
Protect your milk supply. The more your baby breastfeeds, the more you will produce. If you regularly spend time away from the baby, use a breast pump during your absence at the same frequency the baby would feed to maintain your milk supply.
Benefits of Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding has multiple benefits for you and your baby.
Benefits for Your Baby
Breastfed babies enjoy physical and psychological benefits:
Warmth and closeness that strengthens bonding
Easy digestion
Ideal infant nutrition and antibodies for a healthy immune system
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, breastmilk has protective properties that decrease your baby’s risk of developing many dangerous and chronic conditions, including the following:
Ear infections
Pneumonia
Obesity
Sudden infant death syndrome
Eczema
Some cancers
Diarrhea
Meningitis
Diabetes
Asthma
Colitis
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC)
Benefits for Mothers
Women who breastfeed seldom do it for their own benefit, but breastfeeding does afford many benefits for the mom:
Convenience. Once established, breastfeeding is convenient. It is free and readily available.
Hormonal benefits. Breastfeeding releases hormones that promote maternal fulfillment. Prolactin and oxytocin promote relaxation and feelings of nurturing, love, and attachment. Oxytocin also triggers uterine contractions that help return the uterus to its normal size and decrease post-partum bleeding.
Calorie burn. Breastfeeding burns extra calories and helps some women lose their pregnancy weight.
Delay of menses. Breastfeeding delays the return of menstruation in some women.
Health benefits. Mothers who breastfeed experience reduced rates of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, Type 2 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and cardiovascular disease later in life.
Breastfeeding Challenges
Breastfeeding is not without its difficulties. While these challenges can be overcome in many cases, just 43 percent of American women still breastfeed after six months, and only 13 percent breastfeed exclusively at that point.
Breastfeeding challenges can occur at any time, but they are most common while breastfeeding is being established.
Low Milk Supply
Before supplementing with formula, try increasing the number of breastfeeding sessions, and make sure each breast is being emptied. Supplementing with formula will cause your baby to nurse less and further reduce your milk supply. Birth control pills may decrease your milk supply. Supplements containing fenugreek can help increase it.
Engorgement
Breasts that are too full of milk are engorged. Engorged breasts are hard, enlarged, warm, and painful. This is common during the first week after your milk comes in while the body is adapting to your baby’s needs. Engorgement can also happen when you are away from your baby and feedings are delayed.
Engorged breasts can be relieved by emptying the breast through feeding, pumping, or hand expressing. Pumping breast milk while you are away will prevent engorgement. Allowing engorgement to occur can reduce your milk supply.
Sore Nipples
Sore nipples most often occur during the first week of breastfeeding. Some rawness and discomfort are normal as your nipples adjust to suckling. Cracked or bleeding nipples cause severe pain when the baby latches on.
This is usually caused by improper latching. Correcting this will promote healing. A hydrogel pad can prevent a bleeding nipple from sticking to your bra. A few drops of breastmilk applied to the nipples may speed healing. They will heal in a few days, making breastfeeding much less painful, so don’t give up.
Lack of Community Support
Support from family, work, and the public makes breastfeeding easier to establish and maintain.
Well-meaning family members may pressure you to bottle-feed because they think it would be easier for you or they want to assist with feeding. It is okay to firmly but kindly assert that you have made your decision and need their support. After breastfeeding is established, you can allow family members to bottle-feed the baby expressed milk.
Federal law requires employers to provide breastfeeding women with a private area other than a bathroom to pump breastmilk as often as needed. Making arrangements before your baby is born can make this easier.
Federal law gives you the right to breastfeed in public when your baby is hungry. You can practice techniques while you are at home, such as using blankets to cover up. Talking to other breastfeeding moms, even online, can help you find ideas to breastfeed comfortably in public.
Diet and Lifestyle Challenges
Breastfeeding requires sacrifices that can be challenging. It is time-consuming in the beginning. Breastfeeding mothers must avoid harmful substances like alcohol, caffeine, some medications, and even some foods. Just remember, your temporary sacrifices are bringing about a lifetime of benefits for both of you.
When to Contact a Lactation Consultant
Lactation consultants are supportive and knowledgeable. Contacting a lactation consultant at the first sign of issues can help you resolve them more quickly. Lactation consultants provide the following assistance:
Assistance in increasing your milk supply
Treatment for sore nipples and engorgement
Education
Troubleshooting
Identification of medical issues
Encouragement
Medical Conditions That Make Breastfeeding Unsafe
While breastmilk is usually the ideal food for your baby, these medical conditions make breastmilk hazardous to your baby:
Galactosemia—a metabolic disorder that makes a baby intolerant to lactose, including the lactose in breastmilk
HIV in the mother
T-cell lymphotropic virus Type 1 or 2 in the mother—leukemia-causing viruses
Maternal drug use
Ebola in the mother
Tips for Breastfeeding
The following tips will help you establish a breastfeeding routine that is convenient and rewarding.
Allow the baby to empty each breast before switching sides. Offer both breasts at every feeding.
Continue taking prenatal vitamins.
Do not attempt a calorie-restricted diet during breastfeeding.
Don’t give up! It gets easier after just a couple of weeks.
Get support if needed. The National Breastfeeding Helpline can be reached at (800)994-9662.
What to Know About Formula Feeding
If breastfeeding is not the best choice for you and your baby, iron-fortified commercially available formula is the next best option. Formula does not have the immune factors breast milk has, but it does contain optimal proportions of milk proteins, calories, fat, vitamins, and minerals needed for growth and development. Vitamin D supplementation may be needed until your baby consumes at least 32 ounces of formula daily.
Types of Formula
There are a few types of formula available to meet the varying needs of infants. They are specially formulated by experts to safely nourish your baby. It is very important that you only use commercially available formulas.
Homemade formulas lack important nutrients and could be unsafe. Speak with your pediatrician if you are unable to find a commercially available formula you feel good about. The different types include the following:
Cow’s milk-based formula: Regular cow’s milk is unsuitable for infants. It is modified to be closer to human milk when used to create infant formula.
Soy-based formulas: These are used for lactose-intolerant infants.
Special formulas: These are available by prescription and are often used for premature infants or infants with rare disorders.
Hydrolyzed formulas: These are easier to digest. They are used for babies with allergies.
Low-iron formulas: These are not recommended.
All formulas must meet the Food and Drug Administration’s strict standards before being commercially offered. Generic formulas may be less expensive than name brands while offering the same benefits.
Formula comes in powdered, liquid concentrate, and ready-to-use cans. Ready-to-use cans are the most expensive.
Benefits of Formula Feeding
Formula feeding is convenient and offers greater flexibility than breastfeeding.
Conveniences
Formula feeding allows mothers to share infant feeding responsibilities with other caregivers and family members. This provides bonding opportunities for family members and helps them feel more involved with the baby’s care.
Bottle-feeding eliminates the discomfort of feeding in public. It spares working mothers the stress of seeking accommodations at work and pumping during the workday.
Formula is less digestible than breastmilk, resulting in your baby staying full longer and needing less frequent feedings.
Diet and Lifestyle
Moms who bottle-feed can eat their favorite foods, drink coffee, consume alcohol, and take medications without having to worry about how they might impact their baby.
Challenges of Formula Feeding
While formula feeding is a nutritionally sound alternative to breastfeeding, it does have disadvantages.
Lack of antibodies and some nutrients: Breastmilk is complex and includes nutrients and antibodies for which a substitute cannot be manufactured. Breastmilk changes as your baby develops to specifically match his or her needs. Scientists have yet to create a product that mimics breastmilk.
Some inconveniences: Formula-feeding requires you to maintain a stock of feeding equipment and formula. You will need storage space and will have to carry supplies with you when you go out. Middle-of-the-night feedings can be more taxing, as you will have to take the time to prepare the bottle while your hungry infant waits.
Expense: Formula is expensive, and if your baby needs a soy-based or other specialty formula, the cost can be significantly high.
Gastrointestinal effects: Formula causes more gas and firmer bowel movements in some babies.
Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC)
NEC is an intestinal disease that causes inflammation and death of intestinal tissue, which infects infants during the first few weeks of life. Premature infants are the most vulnerable. The condition comes on suddenly after the infant appears to be healthy.
NEC is treated by keeping the stomach empty and administering antibiotics. Surgery is performed in severe cases. Some babies recover without complications, but others are left with chronic health issues, and one-third do not survive.
Exclusive breastfeeding is the most effective preventative measure, with studies showing an 80 percent reduction in occurrences when infants are exclusively breastfed rather than formula-fed. Several studies have found a link between cow’s-milk-based formula and NEC. This is perhaps the most significant disadvantage of formula feeding.
Tips for Formula Feeding
Feeding time is a perfect opportunity to enjoy closeness with your little one and strengthen your bond. These tips will help you make the most of feeding time:
Hold your baby close during feeding. Skin-to-skin contact and eye contact mimic the conditions in breastfeeding and help you and your baby bond.
Never prop the bottle or leave it in the baby’s mouth. Your baby could choke, consume too much, or develop tooth decay later.
Feed only formula in the bottle. Do not add cereal. This creates a choking hazard.
Let the baby decide how much to eat. It is okay if the baby does not finish the bottle.
The WIC program offers assistance that can cover a portion of your formula expense.
While breastfeeding is best, many loving parents choose formula feeding for personal, valid reasons and raise healthy babies. Whatever method you choose, administer every feeding with love and treasure every moment with your precious baby. Most importantly, reach out to your health care provider or other supportive professionals at the first sign of an issue. Your baby is counting on you.
You can also access this article through this link here.
If you are struggling with nights or naps, the first step to see if I can help you achieve beautiful, blissful sleep is to schedule a 60 minute ZOOM sleep strategy session. Go to this link and complete the contact me form and I will be in touch within 24 hours with directions on how to schedule your Sleep Strategy Session.
If you are still wondering if I can help, please know I do NOT advocate 'cry-it-out'. I am a Gentle Sleep Coach. Whether you are breast-feeding or you are bottle-feeding it is always possible to improve sleep. If you want to learn about my guilt-free and gentle process, please go to these links.
The Blissful Baby Stairway to Sleep
Interested in seeing my favorite products? From nursery essentials to children’s books, and more… follow @blissfulbabysleep on KIT.co for direct links to purchase online.
Please join my Sleep is Bliss Tribe on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn so we can stay connected and you can continue to get amazing resources on sleep and family wellness.
Sleep is Bliss, Let's Get you more!
Do you wonder if Sleep Coaching is for you?
Working with clients over the last decade, I consistently hear from families the same hesitations causing the family to delay getting the help they need and ultimately from being well-rested. Often families will try to go at it alone, read the books, blogs and everything else. They compare their selves to friends and neighbors who have naturally born "dream sleepers" and often start to lose confidence in their own parenting.
I have been there! I was irritated, sleep-deprived, and increasingly envious of women who appeared like they had it all together. I was filled with self-doubt, confusion, and frustration. Why couldn’t I help my daughter do the most basic thing: sleep? After experiencing a true Family Sleep Transformation for myself, I became one of the first 50 Trained and Certified Baby Sleep Coaches in the United States.
What I hear so often from families is they wish they reached out for help sooner! There is no need to live in a sleep deprived haze, when hope and help are available.
With my 1:1 Sleep Coaching Packages, I take the time to learn about YOUR child, YOUR family and YOUR goals. I customize each step of the process to ensure success so there is no need for you to "fit the mold" to experience this total family sleep transformation.
Here are success stories from some of my clients....
Do you think your child is a "difficult case" and this won't work for them?
I CAN HELP!
Do you consider yourself "data-driven" and interested in a science backed approach?
I CAN HELP!
Are you hesitant to spend money on something that feels like it should come "naturally"?
I CAN HELP!
The first step to see if I can help you achieve beautiful, blissful sleep is to schedule a 60 minute ZOOM sleep strategy session. Go to this link and complete the contact me form and I will be in touch within 24 hours with directions on how to schedule your Sleep Strategy Session.
If you are still wondering if I can help, please know I do NOT advocate 'cry-it-out'. I am a Gentle Sleep Coach. If you want to learn about my guilt-free and gentle process, please go to these links.
The Blissful Baby Stairway to Sleep
Please join my Sleep is Bliss Tribe on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn so we can stay connected and you can continue to get amazing resources on sleep and family wellness.
Sleep is Bliss, Let's Get you more!
Do you have a crib climber? Considering a switch to the big-kid bed?
Do you have a child trying to climb out of the crib?
Do you wonder if they are ready for a toddler bed because they are trying to climb out of their crib?
It is typical for children between 18 months and 2.5 years of age to start climbing out of the crib. Climbing out of the crib does NOT mean that they do not like their crib. Climbing out of crib does NOT mean that they are ready for a toddler bed. All it means is that they are practicing their newfound climbing skills. During this important physical developmental leap, it is important for children to practice their climbing skills during the daytime shift at the park. We do not want them practicing this skill in the crib at night. After all, SAFETY FIRST!
Technically, children are not ready for a toddler or a “big bed” until they are 3 or 3.5 and moving them out of the crib sooner than they are ready leads to massive sleep regressions. My recommendation is using anti-crib climbing pajamas and/or a crib tent to keep them safe in their crib.
If you are experiencing this problem, then you will absolutely want to download my free guide on Sleep regression guide to help guide you through this difficult developmental phase.
There are also 2 products that can be helpful to stop the climbing behavior at night time. Sometimes parents only have to use these products for a short period of time until their child moves through the climbing phase.
My first recommendation to guarantee beautiful blissful sleep is to implement the crib tent.
Order your crib tent today!
Ages: 18 months and up
What is it?
A see through protective pop up tent with plenty of room for child to move around. This inhibits children from climbing out of the crib.
Why I love it?
Give all moms peace of mind; protect your child from climbing out of the crib.
With a high-end 55" x 52.5" x 28" baby safety net, your child stays safe all night long.
Designed in the USA by Pro Baby Safety
The highest quality construction available on Amazon. 100% satisfaction guarantee—no strings attached.
The other option is to try anti-crib climbing pajamas. Sometimes this can be the perfect solution, especially if your child uses their legs to climb out of the crib!
Order your Little Grounders today!
Ages:
What is it?
Little Grounders™ are patent pending climb-limiting pajamas for babies and toddlers that help keep little ones from climbing out of the crib.
Why I love it?
The one-piece pajamas have a flexible piece of fabric connecting the legs together. This limits the ability to lift the legs to climb while still providing enough flexibility to comfortably walk and play. They can no longer climb out of the crib so you know they are safe!!
Remember, it is normal to have sleep regressions. It sure is nice to know what it is and how to solve it. I think you will like my Sleep regression guide.
Interested in Seeing More of My Favorite Products?
From nursery essentials to children’s books, and more… follow @blissfulbabysleep on KIT.co for direct links to purchase online.
Please join my Sleep is Bliss Tribe on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn so we can stay connected and you can continue to get amazing resources on sleep and family wellness.
Sleep is Bliss, Let's Get you more!