Your First Breastfeeding

Especially for mothers who have welcomed their first child, breastfeeding your little bundle of joy for the first time is for sure a unique experience. What happens when you breastfeed for the first time? How does it happen?

The first breastfeeding usually happens within four hours after birth and is important for promoting the bond between you and your baby and initiating milk production. At first, it is normal to experience nipple pain, which will pass after getting used to breastfeeding. Breastfeeding for the first time is a possible mix of wonder and uncertainty, as you and your little one dive into this world and learn together. A deep sense of fulfilment and joy might welcome you with open arms, as you provide vital nourishment and comfort to your newborn, this time outside the womb. Additionally, close physical contact can evoke feelings of peace and connection, providing for the profound bond between you. 

Skin-to-Skin Contact

The mother’s instinct might not immediately kick in for every mother, but the first skin-to-skin contact is an experience unique to each mother and child, forming the initial steps of your special relationship. Immediately after birth, forming this intimate contact helps regulate your baby’s temperature, ensuring that they have an easier time adapting to the world outside the womb, while they are warm and comfortable. Your contact also provides for successful breastfeeding, as your proximity and warmth encourage your little one to latch on the nipple more effectively. Fostering a sense of security and love between you and your baby, your skin-to-skin contact is crucial for forming the basis of this lifelong emotional bond. 

As a mother, especially if you are a first-time mum, your first skin-to-skin contact with your baby can be overwhelming and profoundly emotional. An intense wave of love and protection might surround your heart, unlike anything you have ever experienced. After carrying them for months, feeling the warmth of your baby against your chest can create a peaceful sensation, helping you both relax after the extensive labour. A deep sense of relief and accomplishment may also surge in, finally feeling your baby safe and healthy in your arms after months of waiting. With this connection, most of your fears and anxieties you had during pregnancy will fly away, getting replaced with a powerful and unique bond made to last forever. 

Establishing the First Latch

Effective breastfeeding happens with a good latch, ensuring both you and your little ray of sunshine have a smooth start in feeding. With an effective latch, your baby takes a good portion of the areola into their mouth, preventing your discomfort and pain as much as possible. A good latch is essential for your baby to take in a good amount of milk, helping them get all the necessary nutrients, as it stimulates your milk production along the way. If this is your first time breastfeeding, a unique mix of emotions awaits you. 

As your baby latches on and makes themselves comfortable, you might experience a slight tugging or pulling which might make you feel uncomfortable initially, but it should not be painful. As you both get used to the sensation, the warmth of your baby’s mouth and the rhythmic sucking can create a soothing and bonding experience. Relief and joy surround you as you realise that your body is providing nourishment for your little one, whom you carried for months. During your first latch, it is common to feel a profound connection and a sense of accomplishment as you witness your baby feeding comfortably.

It is completely normal to be anxious or uncertain! Especially if the latch is not perfect right away, remember that practice makes perfect, and both you and your baby are on this journey together. Overall, we can say that the first latch is a significant milestone that marks the beginning of a nurturing and intimate, unique bonding between you and your baby. 

Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All 

This year, Breastfeeding Week welcomes us with the theme “Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All” which aims to celebrate breastfeeding mothers in all their diversity, throughout the journey of breastfeeding, while underlining the ways families, communities and health professionals have the back of every breastfeeding mother. Breastfeeding comes unique to each mother and child, from your first latch to last, and this celebration is to recognise all of the different experiences and challenges faced by mothers around the globe, whether they are a first time mum or not, and highlights the importance of providing support at every stage for every mother. As the mother’s closest circle, families play a crucial part in this, offering encouragement and practical help to ease the breastfeeding process. Communities can foster a positive environment, ensuring you that you are not alone, and have all the support you need, and promote breastfeeding-friendly spaces and policies. Health professionals are key for offering all the guidance mothers need, tailored to their needs and daily life, and reassurance that they have all the resources and confidence they need. By providing breastfeeding support, we can empower all mothers to thrive in their journey, benefiting both them and their babies. 

Discover our Breastfeeding Guide for everything you need to learn about breastfeeding in detail.

Don’t forget, a single drop of breast milk means countless benefits!

Understand the Types of Breast Pumps

Breast pumps come in various types, each designed to meet different needs:

Manual Breast Pumps:

Manual pumps are hand-operated and ideal for occasional use. They are portable, quiet, and more affordable than electric pumps. However, they require more effort and time, making them less suitable for regular pumping.

Electric Breast Pumps:

Electric breast pumps are powered by a motor, making them more efficient and suitable for frequent use. They come in single breast pump and double options, with double electric pumps allowing you to pump both breasts simultaneously, saving time and increasing milk production.

Hospital-Grade Breast Pumps:

These are the most powerful pumps, designed for mothers with specific needs, such as low milk supply or those who are exclusively pumping. Hospital-grade breast pumps are usually available for rental due to their high cost.

Consider Your Pumping Frequency and Lifestyle

Your lifestyle and how often you plan to pump will influence your choice of breast pump:

• Occasional Pumping:

If you only need to pump occasionally, such as for the occasional night out or to relieve engorgement, a manual or single electric pump might be sufficient.

• Regular Pumping:

For mothers who plan to pump regularly, whether returning to work or exclusively pumping, a double pump is more suitable. It saves time and ensures efficient milk expression.

• On-the-Go Pumping:

If you need to pump while travelling or at work, consider a portable, battery-operated electric pump. Many models come with discreet carrying cases and quiet motors, making them convenient for use outside the home.

Evaluate Comfort and Efficiency

Comfort and efficiency are crucial factors when choosing a breast pump:

• Suction and Speed Settings:

Look for pumps with adjustable suction and speed settings. This allows you to mimic your baby’s natural feeding pattern, which can help with milk letdown and ensure comfortable pumping.

• Flange Fit:

The flange, or breast shield, should fit comfortably around your nipple without causing pain. Many pumps come with different flange sizes, and finding the right fit is essential for effective and pain-free pumping.

• Ease of Use and Cleaning:

Choose a pump that is easy to assemble, use, and clean. Complicated pumps can be frustrating and time-consuming, especially when you need to pump frequently.

Read Reviews and Seek Recommendations

Reading reviews and seeking recommendations from other mothers can provide valuable insights into the performance and reliability of different breast pumps. Online forums, parenting groups, and friends can be excellent sources of information. 

Finding the right breast pump is a personal journey that depends on your specific needs and circumstances. By understanding the types of pumps available, considering your lifestyle, and prioritising comfort and efficiency, you can make an informed decision that supports your breastfeeding goals. Remember, the right breast pump can make your breastfeeding experience smoother and more enjoyable, providing you and your baby with the best possible start.

Visit ebebek.co.uk to find the best breast pumps & discover our Breastfeeding Guide for everything you need to learn about breastfeeding in detail.  

Don’t forget, a single drop of breast milk means countless benefits! 

Right Positions for Breastfeeding 

• Cuddle Position (Cradle Position)

This is the most well-known breastfeeding position which is also called the “cradle position” because of the way the mother holds the baby. In order to experience the cuddle position;

1. Sit in a place where you can lean your back on.
2. If possible, put an item under your feet so that it can raise your feet off the ground. Thus, your baby can stand closer to your chest when they are in your arms.
3. Lean the baby on your arm on whichever side of the breast you will feed.
4. Support the baby’s back and butt with the arm and hand you are holding your baby.
5. With the other hand you don’t use, ensure a good latch (how the baby fastens onto the breast).
6. Do not bend over the baby as their face and body are facing on you.
7. You can put a pillow under the baby to prevent bending over them.

However, this position is more suitable for mothers who have had vaginal delivery. For mothers with abdominal delivery, this technique may not be an ideal choice. Because in the cuddle position, the baby can put pressure on the sutures which may cause pain for mothers. Also, on the other hand, this leads the baby to use their neck muscles to reach the breast. However, newborn babies may have difficulty in this position for the first 1-1.5 months because their muscles are not strong enough yet. Therefore, it is recommended to try the other techniques until your abdominal delivery sutures heal and your baby’s neck muscles develop.

• Reversed Cuddle Position (Cross-cradle Position)

This position is similar to the cuddle one as the mother’s posture is the same as the cuddle position. This one is called the “cross cradle position” because of the way the mother holds the baby. In order to experience the reversed cuddle position;

1. Grasp the baby with the arm on the opposite of whichever side of the breast you will feed.
2. Support the baby’s head with your hand.
3. Hold your baby in a way that they are facing on you and their stomach is aligned with yours.
4. Support the baby’s back with the inner part of your arm, while supporting their neck and head with your hand and fingers.
5. With the other hand you don’t use, ensure a good latch.

This position is the most ideal one for newborns and babies who have difficulty in moving their heads closer to the breast. With this technique, you won’t need to bend down since your baby’s head stands closer to the breast with the support of your hand.

• Side-lying Position

This one is ideal for mothers with abdominal delivery or exhaustion. In order to experience the side-lying position;

1. Lie on a bed or a long sofa sideway.
2. Lie down on the side of the breast you will feed the baby.
3. Thus, your baby can stand closer and reach your breast more easily.
4. Put the baby to bed in a way they are facing on you and sideways.
5. Support the baby’s head with your other arm, or you can use a breastfeeding pillow to support them.
6. This technique can also be applied by supporting your baby’s head and back with your arm under, while you are standing in a semi-lying position by supporting your back with a pillow.

• Armpit Position

This technique is one of the preferences of mothers with abdominal delivery. It is also suitable for breastfeeding a premature baby. In order to experience the armpit position;

1. Sit on a sofa or chair.
2. Take the baby under your arm by bending it from the elbow, and support your baby’s back with a pillow.
3. Hold your baby at your waist level with their face is facing on you.
4. Support the baby’s head with the palm of your hand, while grasping your breast with the other one.
5. In this way, your baby won’t press your stomach as they lie down with their feet behind.
6. Also, this method is the most suitable position for mothers who have twins as it allows you to breastfeed two babies at the same time.

Benefits of the Nursing Pillow

• Helps your baby to settle in the right breastfeeding position.
• When you breastfeed your baby with the correct techniques, you will experience fewer problems like vomiting or taking the milk out.
• Thanks to the pillow‘s height, you don’t need to lean over your baby to provide a good latch and breastfeed properly. 

Visit ebebek.co.uk to find the best nursing pillows & discover our Breastfeeding Guide for everything you need to learn about breastfeeding in detail. 

Don’t forget, a single drop of breast milk means countless benefits! 

Breast Milk: A single drop, countless benefits

Breast milk is a unique nourishment that contains all the essential nutrients such as energy, protein, fat, carbohydrates, and other necessary ones, which enhance babies’ growth and development. It is rich in bioavailability and easy to digest. Therefore, the most ideal nutrition for a newborn is breast milk. Only breastfeeding for the first 6 months and continuing breastfeeding along with complementary foods after the 6th month provide numerous benefits for the baby. 

Colostrum: Directly after birth, the breast milk within the first 1-5 days is called colostrum. It has a yellowish colour and contains high amounts of protein.

The content of the breast milk varies according to your baby’s needs.

Every mother’s milk is unique to their baby. Depending on factors such as whether your baby is born early or late, their weight, the amount of fat and protein their digestive system can tolerate, and even the specific amounts of which protein and fat they require, breast milk can undergo miraculous changes. 

Benefits of Breastfeeding for the Baby

• Reduces the risk of acute and chronic illnesses in terms of health.
• Strengthens the immune system.
• Enhances the mother-and-baby relationship.
• Promotes emotional, physical, and intellectual development.
• Effects jaw and dental development positively. 

Benefits of Breastfeeding for the Mother

• Reduces the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer and endometrial cancer.
• Protects against future risk of bone loss (osteoporosis).
• Protect from excessive blood loss and anaemia.
• Eases weight loss.
• The uterus enlarges during pregnancy and requires a miracle to become smaller, which is breastfeeding. The oxytocin hormone is released during breastfeeding, which causes contractions in the smooth muscles, and helps to uterine become smaller again.
• Stores and quickly replenishes iron in the body that is lost during birth.

The Magical Bond

Breastfeeding is not only about feeding the baby. It is the key to strengthening the bond between the mother and the baby. It is crucial for the baby to feel secure and perceive the

presence of the mother. Therefore, while breastfeeding, the mother should make eye contact with the baby. Throughout breastfeeding, touch and maintain eye contact with your baby, focusing solely on them. You should be calm, relaxed, peaceful, and happy throughout breastfeeding.

Discover our Breastfeeding Guide for everything you need to learn about breastfeeding in detail. 

Don’t forget, a single drop of breast milk means countless benefits! 

How to Increase Breast Milk

The most critical and effective way to increase breast milk is through fluid intake, which is water above all. Try to consume at least 10-12 glasses of water throughout the day. You can enhance your fluid intake with sources rich in calcium and protein like buttermilk drink, kephir and milk. Fennel is also both an excellent milk booster and a natural antiflatulent. You can safely consume fennel tea during the breastfeeding period. You can consume malts and sugar-free compotes as well.

During this period, embrace the foods that boost breast milk and remember that stress also affects the quantity and quality of your milk. So, do not fall into negative thoughts. Let’s radiate positive energy so that it returns to us beautifully. Isn’t that right?

Breast Milk-boosting Smoothie Recipes

Food Should be Avoided Throughout Breastfeeding

We have mentioned that everything breastfeeding mothers consume directly affects their breast milk and so, their baby. Therefore, there are some foods that need to be avoided during this period. Let’s see what they are!

• Green Tea (Due to its caffeine content, it is not recommended as it may affect the baby’s sleep quality.)
• Coffee (Due to its caffeine content, it is not recommended as it may affect the baby’s sleep quality.)

Gas pains are a common issue during the breastfeeding period. To avoid gas problems while breastfeeding, you need to pay attention to certain foods you consume. However, there are some points you should consider before that. 

Gas problems can also occur during mid-season and extremely cold weather. Try to maintain your body temperature balanced as much as possible. Even for the water consumption, try not to consume it too cold as anything cold has a flatulent effect. 

Discover our Breastfeeding Guide for everything you need to learn about breastfeeding in detail. 

Don’t forget, a single drop of breast milk means countless benefits! 

The Best Brain-Boosting Foods for Your Toddler

Foods with high antioxidants, choline, omega-3 fatty acids, and complex carbohydrates all have their own part in boosting brain health and development. Of course, a balanced diet won’t suffice for the best developmental outcome but making sure your little genius gets plenty of these key nutrients ensures the road to good health, and is a smart start to a smart life. But before preparing your kiddo a diet, if you have any doubts and concerns about any allergies and intolerances, it is best to consult your paediatrician or dietician. 

Antioxidants are good for protecting your toddler’s brain and body from daily wear and tear, and choline is essential for brain, memory and muscle development and function and helps the brain communicate with the rest of the body and regulate mood. Omega-3 fatty acids like ALA, DHA, and EPA come in handy as they are crucial to brain and eye development, and can help stabilise mood. And to fuel the brain, complex carbohydrates take the stage as the main source. When the body absorbs complex carbohydrates, they are broken down into glucose, which the body and brain use as energy. Keep in mind that when we say complex carbs, we do not mean sweets and candy. Those are processed carbs that are low in vitamins, minerals and fibre and can cause blood sugar to spike and fall. The fibre in complex carbs on the other hand slows the body’s absorption of energy and ensures the brain has a steady supply of fuel.

Here is a list of the best foods rich in these nutrients, helping your kid climb the stairs of growth:

• Beef
• Broccoli 
• Cauliflower
• Most of the berries like blueberry, blackberry, raspberry, and strawberry
• Salmon
• Shrimp and scallops 
• Seeds like flaxseed and chia seeds
• Walnuts 
• Tofu
• Eggs
• Yoghurt
• Whole grains like whole wheat bread, whole grain pasta, brown rice, oatmeal, popcorn, quinoa, buckwheat and barley.

How to Incorporate Brain-Boosting Foods Into Your Kid’s Meals

Especially in toddlers, preparing meals and getting them to like and eat it all can get tricky. While we should not force them to eat as this can permanently damage their relationship with food and eating and may result in needing medical assistance later in life, we have to ensure they get all the nutrients they need for the needs of their growing body and brain. With some fun recipes, we can integrate fun into mealtimes and ensure our children enjoy all the mealtimes.  

Purées: Introducing a new texture if they do not like the bounciness and unique texture that changes with each berry might be helpful to get your little one to enjoy them more. 

Whole wheat pancakes: Everyone loves a good pancake! Instead of using all-purpose flour, you can opt for whole wheat options to have health and fun at the same time. For an antioxidant bonus, you can make small pancakes with smashed pieces of berries in the batter. 

Peanut butter and homemade jam: Peanut butter and jam sandwiches are always splendid for a quick snack. You can use whole grain bread, peanut butter with no added sugar and fresh berries or your homemade sugar-free jam for a healthier snack time. 

Yoghurt with berries: Slightly smashing the berries or pureeing them, then adding them into the yoghurt provides a fun bowl of food with unique colours and plenty of nutrients. For a more entertaining presentation, you can pour the purée over the yoghurt and instead of mixing it completely, you can swirl it or make other unique designs that they can recognise.

Salmon: serve small pieces of salmon with dinner, or make a salad with ingredients that they like to have and add small boneless pieces of salmon to it. For snacks and quick meals, you can make sandwiches with whole-grain bread or pita pocket, their favourite ingredients and salmon. 

Scrambled eggs: Not every kid might be a big fan of scrambled eggs, we know… To get them to get their daily nutrients and enjoy their meal at the same time, you can add in their preferred ingredients like other vegetables and cheese.

Smoothies: Fun of colours mixed with health benefits! You can toss in yoghurt, fruits, and some milk, and blend to make a fun and easy-to-drink smoothie which your kids will enjoy. 

Stir-fries: Stir-frying pieces of your preferred choice of meat with nutrient-packed vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower and spinach make up the best meal! For added carbs, you can serve it over buckwheat pasta or noodles. 

Trail mixes: If your child does not have any nut allergies, you can make a brain-boosting snack with walnuts, whole-grain cereals, and fresh or dried berries. With this, your child can explore different textures and have fun while getting all the necessary nutrients for their brain. 

Food Safety – How Do We Store Baby Food, Milk, Formula?

Preparing baby food in bulk cuts so much time from preparation, and allows more time for you to create happy memories with your baby. New to the world, our babies have digestive and immune systems yet to mature and they do not have the same immune system as older children and adults. For this, it is crucial to be mindful of safety and hygiene, especially for the amount of food that will be consumed at a later time. Foodborne illnesses are quite common and the symptoms are unpleasant to handle. However, with good food safety and hygiene practices we can help prevent many from happening. 

Storing Homemade Baby Food

After cooking, cooling the food as rapidly as possible is important to be able to store it as soon as possible. Directly putting it in the cold fridge may not be enough to cool it, but dividing it into smaller portions, or spreading it on a larger, pre-chilled container like a tray might do the trick. If possible, you can also place it into an airtight container, and hold it under the cold running tap, stirring from time to time to cool consistently. 

Leftover baby food can be refrigerated and used within 1-2 days depending on its ingredients (products with meat, poultry and rice for up to one day, fruit and vegetables for two days) but if there is any food left in your baby’s bowl after a meal, throw it away to prevent food poisoning.

Freezing is one of the best options to store food for longer periods of time. When properly frozen, the food can be stored for up to two months. For easy tracking, keep in mind to clearly label and date each unit. However, never refreeze baby formula and food that has already been frozen. Dividing into smaller containers for freezing makes everything easier, and an ice tray works great for this. 

To thaw the food, the best way is to refrigerate overnight and use it within 24 hours. Keep in mind to never defrost on the countertop! To reheat, heat the baby food until piping hot to kill off bacteria, and allow it to cool before giving it to your baby. Keep in mind that you can only reheat once!

Storing Store-Bought Baby Food

The majority of store-bought food is shelf-stable until opening. Until the expiration date, baby food can be stored at room temperature. Remember to never use them after the given date by the producer. 

When opening store-bought baby food, check if the product is properly sealed or has any damage on the packaging. Make sure the plastic cap seal is intact and jars make a popping sound when opening for the first time. Once open, baby food is no longer shelf-stable and will need to be refrigerated for storing, can be stored only for 1-2 days, and any leftovers after this should be thrown away. If you wish to store leftovers, do not feed your baby straight out of the jar for double-dipping can introduce bacteria from your baby’s saliva to the food which can culminate. Instead, transfer a small amount to a separate bowl suitable for your baby’s use if you wish to store the leftover baby food. 

Storing Breastmilk

• Freshly pumped breast milk can be stored on the countertop, at room temperature(25°C or colder) for up to two hours, and for up to 4 days in the refrigerator(4°C). You can also freeze breastmilk! When frozen (-18°°C or colder), breast milk can be stored for up to 12 months, but using it within 6 months is the best. 
• After thawing the frozen milk, you can keep it on the countertop for up to two hours, and up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Like baby food, you also cannot refreeze breast milk after it has been thawed. 
• If you have leftover milk from feeding, you can use the leftover milk within two hours but after that discard the leftovers.

Tips and Tricks – How To Store More, and Store Better?

Utilising your storage space in the best way is the other half of storing food. As preparation saves you time, managing your storage in the best way saves you space, and allows for more to be put in. When raising a kid, both time and extra space can be a problem and doing your preparations correctly in this time can be a lifesaver! 

Handling extra breast milk is important to not waste a single drop, and to have it ready in hand when you cannot pump. There are many types of containers, specially designed to store breastmilk. Breastmilk storage bags are a smarter choice especially when you have limited storage space with their flat shape, and allow for quick thawing. Since most of them are made to stand upright as well, they are easy to handle. 

While bags are better for saving up space, breastmilk storage bottles also come in handy since most of them allow usage when pumping, storing and feeding. This not only allows you to save up space by using less but means that not a single drop of your precious breastmilk goes to waste as well. And since you can do many things in one cup, you have less washing up to do. 

When outside or travelling, containers come in just as handy. Having an insulated bottle carrier, or a bottle warmer makes handling breast milk so much easier everywhere and all the time. 

Preparation takes a long time, and each spoon of food is just as precious as the other one. As babies tend to eat in small amounts, storing food in tiny cups can be good when you need to reheat, so that you do not waste any food and always have the best amount of food ready. Store & wean cups are one of the best products to store food for your baby since they usually offer the best sizes for baby portions, thus do not waste a drop of food. Freezer pots in small sizes make both preparation and storage easier as well, allowing you to divide the food into desired amounts and thaw when needed, providing fresh food whenever needed. Small containers like these come in handy when managing storage space as well, letting you fit more in a limited amount of space. For even smaller amounts, you can use ice trays, which allow you to manage the portions better. For more solid foods, you can measure portions and freeze them on a cookie tray, and transfer them into a freezer bag when they have frozen completely. 

Goodbye, goodbye, dear friend goodbye! Babies are born with a sucking reflex, which helps them both eat and comfort themselves. In the process of getting themselves through their ups and downs, dummies become one of their greatest and most important companions, and teaching them to let go of the dummy might even lead to the first real conflict with your little one. Even though this process can seem like a challenge, rest assured that there are tips to make this journey a smooth one both for you and your baby. If you have a couple of minutes, join us as we discover and discuss what we can do to help our babies take another step of growth and leave their dummies behind. 

What Happens When Dummies Are Used for More Than They Should Be?

Though known to be of great help when raising a baby with its benefits from reducing stress to helping them sleep, using a dummy past the age of 18 months can start to affect your little one’s dental health greatly. Frequently using a dummy or sucking on their thumb changes the way the teeth bite together as it changes the shape of their mouth and the alignment of their jaw. Using a dummy for a long duration can cause their top teeth to stick out, and the bottom teeth to go inward, which might lead them to need braces later on. 

After the age of 6 months, frequent use of dummies increases your baby’s risk of getting an ear infection as well, either by altering the pressure in the Eustachian tubes that connect the inner ear to the nose and throat or by bringing up bacteria from the throat into the ear canal causing infection.

Last but not least, your child may simply grow very dependent on the dummy. They may get extremely fussy when they cannot see it, or cry and throw a tantrum in the middle of the night if it falls out of their mouth. As they get older, the tantrums may double as their bond strengthens. Their dependence can both disrupt their peace, cause them unnecessary stress, and disrupt your daily routine and night’s sleep as well. Considering how important and precious sleep is especially during the first months of bringing a life into the world, your and your baby’s sleep is of top priority. In conclusion, we can say that the earlier your child is free from their habit of sucking, the better!

When Do You Wean Your Baby Off of Dummy?

The easiest time to wean your baby off of a dummy is around 7 months of age, as at that time they have not developed an emotional attachment to their dummies. Attachment to dummies usually starts to develop around 9 months, and before that line marks the easiest zone for you to start working on ditching the dummies with your baby. But don’t you worry, unless your paediatrician recommends you stop, your baby can still resort to their dummy to calm themselves. Sucking is wonderfully calming for your baby and helps them deal with all the crazy new things they come across in their unique world. But when proceeding, keep in mind that after your baby is 9 months old, they’ll start to form an emotional attachment to their dummies. We do not want to rush you, but we warn you that after this age, protests and tantrums may increase.

If you want your baby to benefit from their dummy for longer, we have some good news for you! If you think that weaning your baby off of their dummy at 7 months is early, know that most children are emotionally ready to let the dummy go on their own by 2 to 4 years old. At that time, planting the seed in your little one’s mind that the time to let go of their dummy is close is easier both for you to explain to them, and for them to understand. 

How to Wean Your Baby Off the Dummy

Weaning your baby off the dummy requires patience and gradual steps. Observe when and how they resort to their dummies and if you notice them sucking “just because,” offer an alternative form of stimulation like a lovey. You can also limit their dummy use to naps and bedtime, replacing it with a lovey or soft toy for comfort. White noise can also help by providing a soothing background sound to calm them and ease the transition. 

Weaning a toddler off their dummies can be a challenge, but with several tricks, you can make the process easier both for you and your baby. If your baby is one year or older, replacing the dummy with another comforting lovey, like a blankie or a stuffed toy can provide the necessary comfort. You can also set specific times and limit dummy use to sleep or particularly stressful times for your kid, and communicate these boundaries to your child. You can teach your kid to stretch and breathe during stressful times, and help them cope with stress with different methods. Establishing “dummy-free” times, starting with short durations like 30 minutes, and using compliments to reinforce the concept and behaviour can also encourage them to let go of the dummy. Create engaging stories about inspiring characters giving up their dummies and finding comfort in other ways to inspire and encourage them.

While trying to make your baby give up the dummy, avoid telling your child that the dummy is being given to another baby, as this can lead to temper, jealousy and stress. Instead of wording it like that, you can create another story for the dummies being sent to another place, like to a fictional hero that they have so that the hero can build a playground for small kids. 

You can turn this into a special moment by choosing a day with your child to say goodbye to the dummy, marking it on the calendar, and creating a countdown. You can also offer an exchange on this day, where your child gives up the dummy in return for a new toy.  

Try to maintain a positive attitude throughout this journey, and avoid showing extra emotion to prevent your child from feeling pressured into giving up their dummy. Remember that each child is unique, and some may have stronger attachments to their dummy and may need more time to let go. When in doubt, consult your paediatrician for additional guidance. The most important thing in this journey is your patience, understanding and awareness that taking away the dummy is a gradual process. Keep calm and consistent, and soon your child will take another step of growth and adapt to life without their dummy. 

The fun is around the corner! To keep the fun going through the summer, it is essential to keep in mind the importance of nutrition and hydration, especially under the heat of the sun. From the essentials of nutrition to fun meal ideas to turn mealtimes into moments of joy, let us explore ways of keeping our little ones full and satisfied with their meals and hydrated through the summer together.

Hydration

Encouraging your little ones to drink water frequently throughout the day is important during summer, with general guidelines suggesting about 5-8 cups (1.2-2 litres) for younger children and around 0.5-1 cup for babies older than 6 months. Not all children might enjoy drinking water, but do not worry; there are some options to compensate. Many fruits and vegetables, such as watermelon, cucumbers, strawberries, oranges, and celery, have high water content and can help keep kids hydrated, although they should not be seen as the primary source of hydration. On days with intense physical activity or extreme heat, consider giving them foods rich with electrolytes to replenish lost minerals. It’s also just as important to limit sodas, sugary juices, and caffeinated beverages to avoid the risk of dehydration.

Nutrition

Nutrition is always key, and especially under the sun, it cannot be risked. While preparing meals for your child, it is important to ensure that each meal includes a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats to provide enough energy throughout the day and prevent any possible health issues. Offering your kids nutrient-dense snacks like yoghurt, nuts, cheese, whole grain crackers, and fresh fruit between meals or when they do not feel like having a full meal can help you provide the necessary vitamins and minerals. Take advantage of summer produce such as berries, tomatoes, corn, and leafy greens, which can be more appealing to kids with their colours and different tastes. Summer is also great for grilling lean meats, fish, and vegetables, and you can make chilled dishes like salads with whole grains like quinoa and barley, beans, and veggies adjusted to your family’s tastes. While in the summer it’s tempting to indulge in ice cream and chips, try to limit these and offer healthier alternatives like homemade popsicles made with pureed fruit and yoghurt.

Practical Tips

During summer, getting your children to take a break from fun and eat is another challenge for parents. It is important to stick to regular meal and snack times to avoid grazing and ensure balanced nutrition. You can keep healthy snacks handy when on the go, such as trail mix, fruit, and whole grain snacks. Engaging kids in choosing and preparing meals and snacks can make them more interested in eating healthy foods. Be aware of signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, dark urine, dizziness, and fatigue, and ensure that your kids take breaks from playing and drink water regularly.

Meal Samples for You and Your Baby

Having to come up with a different combination of meals can be just as difficult for you. Here is a sample meal plan to ensure balanced nutrition and hydration for kids during the summer. This meal plan provides a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, along with plenty of fruit and vegetables to keep your little ones energised and hydrated throughout the day:

• Start the day with a breakfast of whole-grain cereal with milk and fresh fruit, accompanied by a glass of water or milk. 
• For a morning snack, offer fruit slices with peanut butter. 
• Lunch can include a grilled chicken wrap with vegetables of your children’s choice, served with stick vegetables and hummus, followed by fruit slices, and water. 
• An afternoon snack of yoghurt with granola and a drizzle of honey keeps them going until dinner. 
• Dinner features grilled salmon with quinoa and steamed broccoli, along with a mixed green salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers. 
• You can end the day with an evening snack of a homemade fruit smoothie made with banana, spinach, and mango, along with water.

While applying this plan, it is important to mind any allergies and other health conditions and consult a professional if you have any doubts.

Fruit and Veggie Snacks

Let’s explore some fun and healthy snack ideas for kids to keep them both nourished and entertained:

• Make Fruit Kabobs by threading pieces of watermelon, pineapple, strawberries, grapes, and melon onto skewers, and for added fun, use cookie cutters to cut the fruit into shapes. 
• Create Veggie Faces using a variety of vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, carrot sticks, and bell pepper strips to make funny faces on a plate. 
• For a cool treat, try Frozen Banana Pops: Dip banana halves in yoghurt and roll them in crushed nuts or granola before freezing them until solid. Another tasty option is 
• Apple Nachos: slice apples thinly, arrange them on a plate, drizzle with peanut butter or almond butter (mind any possible allergies before doing so), and sprinkle with granola, mini chocolate chips, and coconut flakes. These creative snacks not only provide essential nutrients but also make healthy eating enjoyable for kids.

Protein-Packed Snacks

Any type of food has its significance, but protein is key to keeping your kids satisfied with their meals and full for longer. Let’s discover some additional healthy snack ideas for kids for an extra source of protein and fun: 

• Pair whole grain crackers with slices of cheese, and add some grape tomatoes or apple slices on the side for a simple yet satisfying Cheese and Crackers snack.
• Yogurt Parfaits are another great option: layer yoghurt with granola and mixed berries in a clear cup, and let kids build their own parfaits for added fun. 
• For a savoury snack, serve Hummus Dippers with various dippable veggies like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and bell pepper strips; whole grain pita chips are also a great option. 
• Trail Mixes with nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and a few chocolate chips or pretzels.

Fun and Creative Snacks

During the summer, under the heat and surrounded by fun, not all kids might be interested in eating, which is a problem that can lead to possible health issues. Adding the extra element of fun makes eating for kids entertaining during summer, helping parents keep them both nourished and happy. Here are some more creative and nutritious snack ideas for kids to enjoy:

• Mini Sandwiches take on a fun shape with whole grain bread and can be filled with nut butter and banana slices or ham and cheese for a delightful snack. 
• Rice Cake Faces are both nutritious and entertaining, using nut butter or cream cheese spread on rice cakes to create fun faces with fruit and veggies. These snacks not only offer the key nutrients but also encourage children to explore new flavours and textures playfully.
• Ants on a Log provide a playful twist on celery sticks by spreading them with peanut butter or cream cheese and topping them with raisins or cranberries. 
• Smoothie Popsicles is a refreshing option which can be prepared by blending together fruits, yoghurt, and honey, and then freezing them into popsicle moulds. 

Sweet Treats

Many, many snacks! Having as many options as possible can help you adjust them to your child’s wants and needs, and have the best selection tailored for your little one. Here are some snacks to keep the children with a sweet tooth entertained and satisfied, helping you keep them away from processed sugar as much as possible at the same time:

• Fruit Leather is a homemade alternative to store-bought fruit snacks packed with preservatives and added sugar. By blending fruit and spreading it on a baking sheet to dry in a low oven or dehydrator, you can create a delicious and healthy snack free from guilt. 
• Frozen Grapes offer a refreshing and easy snack option, perfect for hot days. Their natural sweetness and satisfying crunch make them a delightful treat. 
• For a customisable option, try making your own Homemade Granola Bars with your children’s favourite foods. With ingredients like oats, honey, and peanut butter, and extras like dried fruit, nuts, and chocolate chips, these bars offer a nutritious and energising snack for kids. 

Interactive Snacks

Letting your kid participate in preparing their own meals adds to their enjoyment. Interactive snacks not only offer nutrition but also another activity for you to keep your kids entertained, as finding new activities for your little one can also be a hassle during summer. Here’s a fun and delicious way to engage kids in mealtime with: 

• Build-Your-Own Tacos: Simply set out small whole-grain tortillas along with black beans, shredded cheese, chopped tomatoes, lettuce, and avocado, allowing your kids to assemble their own mini tacos according to what they like. 

• For a creative twist on dessert, try making Fruit Pizza by spreading a thin layer of cream cheese or yoghurt on a whole grain tortilla or a graham cracker, then topping it with sliced fruits to make a colourful “pizza.” 
• When it comes to satisfying cravings for both sweet and salty, Popcorn Trail Mix is the perfect solution. Mix popped popcorn with nuts, dried fruit, and a few dark chocolate chips for a tasty blend that offers a delightful mix of flavours and textures. 

Introduction to Solid Foods

Breast milk is liquid gold but at around 6 months babies are typically ready to be introduced to solid foods alongside breast milk or formula. The first steps are always the most important, and if you have any concerns about any health issues it is always better to consult a paediatrician before introducing any food to your baby. Better safe than sorry. 

What Can They Eat?

Let’s explore what you can add to your 6-month-old baby’s menu on this new journey:

• Fruits: As they are generally low-fat foods and do contain some essentials like vitamin C, dietary fibre, and potassium, fruits are a great option to get your baby started with solids. Apples and bananas are best for this age. 
• Vegetables: A 6-month-old baby’s menu can contain more than one type of vegetable each day. Like fruits, they are also low in fat and are a very great source of dietary fibre, vitamins C and A, folic acid, and potassium. Potatoes, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, and carrots are great options. Keep in mind that vegetables for a 6-month-old must be free from all kinds of gas-forming foods like beans, broccoli, and cabbage to give them as little stomach issues as possible. 
• Cereals and pulse: Rice is a very good food to get your baby started. It is a rich source of vitamin B, iron, and calcium with little protein. Pulses can be a great source of protein when mixed with rice, plain soft-boiled rice with or without a clear pulse soup can be given to the baby. 

Single-Ingredient Purees:

Simplicity is key. Starting with simple, single-ingredient purees of soft fruits and vegetables such as mashed bananas, avocado, sweet potato, or cooked apples is a great way to introduce solids to your baby’s diet. These simple purees provide your baby with essential nutrients while allowing them to get accustomed to new flavours and textures gradually. As your baby grows older, you can gradually introduce more complex combinations of ingredients to expand their palate and encourage healthy eating habits.

Iron-Rich Foods: 

Incorporating iron-rich foods into your baby’s diet and making their taste buds acquainted with sources of protein is important for their overall health and development. Pureed meats, such as chicken or beef, provide a natural source of iron, ensuring your baby receives the necessary iron for optimal growth and cognitive function. 

Textures: 

As your baby progresses in their solid food journey and expands their palate, gradually introducing thicker textures can help them develop their chewing and swallowing skills. Start with smooth purees, and then move on to mashed foods with a slightly thicker consistency. As you introduce different textures and different consistencies, observing how your baby reacts and their cues of readiness for more textures are keys to guaranteeing a smooth transition to solid foods and a better, easier process.

Allergenic Foods: 

Allergies can be a source of distress for every parent but they are as easy to manage as they are easy to come across. Introducing allergenic foods one at a time allows you to closely monitor your baby’s responses and identify any potential negative reactions. It is better to start by introducing small amounts of each possible allergen like fish, eggs, and wheat, and watching for any symptoms such as hives, vomiting, or difficulty breathing. Consulting with a paediatrician before introducing allergenic foods can ensure an easier process for you and a safer one for your baby.

What Can’t Your Baby Eat?

At around 6 months old, babies are typically ready to start solid foods, and one by one they can be introduced to them all. Still, certain foods should be avoided due to potential choking hazards or digestive challenges. Please note that if you have any concerns, it is always better to consult a paediatrician for better guidance on risky foods. Here are some examples of ingredients that can potentially be a risk for your little one:

• Honey is best avoided until after the first year due to the possibility of infant botulism, which is a rare but serious illness.
• Cow’s milk should not be introduced as a main drink until after the first year as it contains high concentrations of protein and minerals, which can stress your baby’s kidneys when consumed in large amounts. But small amounts can be used in cooking or mixed with other foods. 
• Foods such as whole grapes, nuts, popcorn, and large chunks of hard foods and chunks of meat should be avoided to reduce the risk of choking. Such foods should be prepared in ways like mashing, cutting into smaller pieces, or cooking until very soft if they will be introduced and any potential reactions while eating should be monitored for safety. 
• Highly allergenic foods are usually recommended to be introduced early to help prevent allergies but some paediatricians may advise against certain high-risk allergens like nuts, shellfish, or egg whites until later in infancy, especially if there is a family history of allergies. 
• Salt and sugar should be limited as your baby’s kidneys are still developing and they do not need extra sodium or sweeteners in their diets.
• Certain types of fish that contain high mercury levels, such as shark, swordfish, king mackerel, or tilefish should be avoided but options with lower mercury levels like salmon or light canned tuna can be introduced in small amounts.
• Water should not be offered to babies under 6 months of age as well. As they meet their daily fluid needs in other ways such as breast milk and formula, giving a baby under 6 months of age water can deter their access to all the vitamins and nutrients they need. When introducing water after 6 months, be sure to progress in small amounts and follow your child’s lead.

Baby-Led Weaning

Allowing your baby to self-feed by offering them soft, appropriate foods can promote their independence along with their fine motor skills, and giving them the freedom of action can result in a good relationship with food as well which is an important issue in everyone’s lives. Baby-led weaning encourages your little one to explore a variety of textures and flavours at their own pace under your guidance, which fosters a positive relationship with food. Letting them feed themselves also improves their grasping and chewing skills, promoting independence and fine motor development. Of course, supervision is key to ensuring their safety and your inner peace as it is a new journey both for you and them, allowing babies to self-feed can empower them to become more adventurous eaters as they grow.

Breast Milk or Formula

While introducing your babies and letting them explore is always key, your breast milk and/or formula should remain the primary source of nutrition at this age, providing the essential nutrients for their healthy development. Solid foods should be introduced gradually alongside breastfeeding as complementary rather than a total replacement for breast milk or formula at first. It is crucial to continue offering your little one milk feeds on demand or according to their weaning times to ensure they receive enough nutrition and hydration.

Feeding Schedule

Observing your baby’s needs and establishing a flexible feeding schedule tailored to them can help you lead a positive feeding experience. Initially, you can offer solids twice a day, observing your little one’s cues for hunger and satisfaction. As their interest grows along with their bodies you can gradually increase the frequency of meals, while always being mindful of their readiness and health.