First Trimester (Week 1-12):
The first trimester is when the fertilized egg implants itself in the uterus and starts to grow. During this time, expectant mothers may experience morning sickness, fatigue, and breast tenderness. It’s important during all stages of pregnancy to eat a healthy diet and take prenatal vitamins as directed by your obstetrician (OB). Expectant mothers should also avoid smoking, alcohol, and drugs.
Second Trimester (Week 13-28):
The second trimester is often referred to as the "honeymoon" phase of pregnancy. During this time, many women experience increased energy and a decrease in morning sickness (YAY!). The baby's movements become more frequent and noticeable. This is also when the baby's sex can be determined through an ultrasound. Expectant mothers may experience some discomfort as their body changes and the baby grows.
Third Trimester (Week 29-40):
The third trimester is when the baby grows the most and gains weight rapidly. Expectant mothers may experience Braxton Hicks contractions, back pain, and difficulty sleeping. They may also experience swelling in the legs, feet, and hands. As the due date approaches, the baby may drop lower in the pelvis, making it easier to breathe but increasing the need to urinate. It is important to prepare for labor and delivery during this time.
Each trimester of pregnancy comes with its own set of challenges and changes. However, with proper prenatal care and attention to one's health and well-being, expectant mothers can have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.
]]>Traditionally, parents have started their babies on purees and spoon-feeding, but there is growing interest in baby-led weaning as a more natural and effective way to introduce solid foods to babies. Here are some of the key benefits of baby-led weaning:
Encourages independence and autonomy
Baby-led weaning allows babies to be in control of their own feeding, which can help them develop a sense of independence and autonomy. This can also help to build their self-confidence and self-esteem.
Helps babies develop their fine motor skills
When babies are allowed to feed themselves, they have to develop their fine motor skills by picking up and manipulating different foods. This can help them develop hand-eye coordination and improve their dexterity.
Encourages healthy eating habits
Baby-led weaning encourages babies to explore different tastes and textures of food, which can help them develop a taste for a wide variety of healthy foods. This can help set the foundation for healthy eating habits that can last a lifetime.
Saves time and money
With baby-led weaning, there is no need to buy special baby food or spend time preparing purees. Instead, babies can eat what the rest of the family is eating, which can save time and money.
Reduces the risk of choking
Contrary to popular belief, baby-led weaning does not increase the risk of choking. In fact, research has shown that babies who are allowed to feed themselves are actually less likely to choke because they are in control of their own feeding and can regulate the amount of food they put in their mouths.
If you are considering baby-led weaning, here are some tips to get you started:
Baby-led weaning is a safe and effective way to introduce solid foods to your baby. By allowing your baby to take control of their own feeding, you can help them develop independence, healthy eating habits, and fine motor skills. So, why not give it a try and see how it works for you and your baby?
]]>Becoming a new parent can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when it comes to getting your baby to sleep. Sleep deprivation is a common problem among new parents, and it's essential to understand the basics of baby sleep to help your little one (and you!) get the rest you both need. In this blog, we'll cover everything you need to know about baby sleep and provide tips for helping your baby get the best rest possible.
Understanding Baby Sleep Cycles
Babies have different sleep patterns than adults, and it's essential to understand their sleep cycles to help them get the rest they need. A baby's sleep cycle lasts about 50-60 minutes and consists of two stages: non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. NREM sleep is the deeper stage of sleep, while REM sleep is when babies dream and their brain is more active.
Newborns sleep an average of 16-17 hours a day, but they don't sleep for long periods at a time. Instead, they sleep for short periods of 1-2 hours and then wake up, often needing to be fed or changed. As babies grow and develop, their sleep patterns change, and they start sleeping for longer stretches at night.
Creating a Sleep Environment
Creating a comfortable and safe sleep environment is crucial for your baby's sleep. Here are some tips for creating a cozy sleep-friendly room:
Establishing a Sleep Routine
Establishing a sleep routine can help your baby learn when it's time to sleep and promote better sleep patterns. A sleep routine can include a bath, feeding, a lullaby, book and cuddles. Try to stick to a consistent routine every night to help your baby understand when it's time to sleep.
Helping Your Baby Sleep Through the Night
Helping your baby sleep through the night can take time, patience, and consistency. Here are some tips for helping your baby sleep for longer stretches:
In conclusion, getting your baby to sleep can be a challenge but with the right routine, environment and consistency, your baby will be sleeping through the night in no time!
]]>How Much Sleep do Babies Need? Tips for the First Year
After waking up several times last night, are you heading for your third or fourth cup of coffee? Are you worried that the nighttime wakings and constant rocking will never come to an end? You’re not alone. It's okay to feel unsure, have lots of questions and even some concerns about your baby's sleep habits, particularly if you're a little — well, a lot — sleep deprived.
How Many Hours of Sleep do Babies Need?
Newborns (0-3 months)
Newborns should get a total of 15 to 18 hours of sleep in a 24 hour period, with 2-5 naps during the day, lasting between 2 to 4 hours each.
3-6 Months
By 3 to 6 months of age, your baby should be sleeping anywhere from 12-16 hours, with some being able to sleep 5-6 hours stretches at night (yay!). At around 5 months, your baby’s sleep routine will start to kick in and should be sleeping longer stretches at night and about 3 naps during the day.
6-9 Months
At 6 months old, your baby still needs anywhere from 12-16 hours but they’ll start to sleep longer stretches at night and will transition from needing 3 to 2 naps per day.
Creating a consistent nap and bedtime routine will help your child more easily fall asleep so they can wake up rested and ready to take on the day.
Set Up A Relaxed Pre-Nap Routine
The concept for the pre-nap routine is that it should make babies realize what's going on. We all need a couple of moments of relaxation and unwinding time before we hit the bed!
Pre-Nap Routines may incorporate changing your little one into some more comfortable dress like a swaddle, night suit, or sleep bag if age-appropriate. Shutting shades and turning on a fan or sound machine are pre-nap signals too.
Set Up A Soothing Routine at Bedtime
Infants who follow a daily sleep time routine sleep easier, better, and cry out less frequently in the middle of the night.
You may begin your little one's bedtime routine as early as six weeks old. Your baby's sleep routine can be any sequence of sleep-time activities. The keys to progress are to:
Sleep Safety
Safe sleep is critical during the first year of life, so always place your baby on their back (never the tummy) for naps and bedtime. Your baby should also always sleep on a firm surface that’s free of soft toys, blankets, pillows and bumpers.
For most parents, their child's security is a top priority at sleep time. So, ensure to:
A few babies have a harder time than others to go to sleep. Finding the ideal way to make your baby sleep is a process of trial and error. Follow a consistent timetable and use calming techniques to make baby sleep faster. Be adaptable and receptive to your kid's evolving needs, and don't overthink it, you got it... MAMA!
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