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Do you think it is important to track the developmental milestones of a baby?
By: Lakmini Balasuriya
Tags: Developmental Milestone, Medical Professionals, Newborn, Typical Development, Speech Delay

A bundle of joy is always a blessing. Whilst everyone enjoys the cuddles and visits and love, the parents will eventually make plans for the future, with the baby in mind. This is when the importance of a typical development plays a role.

Typical Development

Do you know at which age a child blabbers out the first word, starts to crawl and walk? With my experience at various hospitals and clinics, majority of the parents aren’t aware of the development milestones. Henceforth, they are unable to spot a delay or a timely response.

When medical professionals witness a delay in a milestone during their routine check-ups and vaccinations,-a typical parent’s response for a speech delay will be like:

“The child’s father or mother was also late to speak, so we shall wait until the age of 3 years to see how the baby speaks”

“The child has had an evil eye, we have been doing poojas and alms giving to waive those off”

A typical response for a delay in a child’s gross motor milestones like standing or walking would be like, “the child is chubby and heavy, and he cannot control the weight of the body. We shall wait till 2 years”

It is vital to keep an eye on a child’s development milestones. These are categorized in to two areas: Speech & Language and Motor Milestones.

A speech delay may hint an issue related to hearing or any other unidentified issue. A motor skill delay may be due to a syndromic disorder or due to a complication during pregnancy or delivery.

So, if you observe any of the aforementioned, you need to contact your child’s pediatrician right away. There is a team that works with children who encounter such delays in milestones such as, but not limited to, speech and language therapists, audiologist, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, behavioural therapists and psychologists.

If there were complications and risks involved at the time of your pregnancy, delivery or if your family has a history of related medical issues, it is important to track the development milestones of their children.

In no way it is a shame to have a child with delayed development milestones. Observe early and correctly. This will help detect the delays in advance and work with teams to address them at an early stage. What more, when they all come together to uplift a child’s quality of life for a better future.
Breastfeeding Pillow — Facts and Myths
By: Susan Urban
Tags: Newborn, Baby, Moms, Breastfeeding, Pregnancy

Breastfeeding pillow appears on „New mom’s must-have” lists for a while now. Is this really necessary accessory? What is the best shape? When would you use that? I’ll try to bring the topic closer to your mind.

Every mother needs breastfeeding pillow — MYTH

In fact, most mothers don’t need a pillow. Seriously, mothers have been breastfeeding babies for ages now. Increasing comfort is important, and there are some useful mom-gadgets, but this one is at a very bottom of the must-have list.

C-shaped soft pillows are best — TRUTH

If you decide to buy a pillow — soft C-shaped pillows may be useful. You can use it for breastfeeding but also for placing a baby safely on the bed or changing table. Some mothers used to sleep with those during the last trimester of pregnancy.

Breastfeeding pillow with help a baby latch properly — MYTH

In fact, it may cause right the opposite! Laying your baby on the pillow can make it difficult for him to latch. Your baby’s head is too hight and not facing the right direction. You need to pay attention to it.

Pillow may be useful for your comfort — TRUTH

If your pillow is not too big and doesn’t affect the baby’s positioning, it may be very comfy to lay your arm on. Just make sure that your baby latched first. Also, placing it behind your back may help to keep your spine relaxed.

Bad positioning with a pillow may cause sore nipples — TRUTH

If your baby is not able to latch correctly, it will cause trouble for both of you. Baby won’t be getting enough food, and your nipples will probably go sore and painful.

Before you buy your breastfeeding pillow, try natural positioning first. Try even a few different positions! You can check my How to make breastfeeding pleasant and easy guide; there are the most common positions with notes and drawings. Of course, breastfeeding your child is natural, but it is better to be well-prepared!

Susan Urban
Will Death Be Like Birth? Questions for my Newborn.
By: David Foster
Tags: Birth, Newborn, Afterlife, Death And Dying, Mwc Reentry

Do you suppose the transition from life into death is as unbearably confounding as that of “death” into life? Suddenly we will be thrust into a world where we are practically blind, if not seeing through a blurred fog, and if discomfort should arise, should we feel exhausted, hungry, filthy from shitting our own pants, or just painfully alone, our only recourse is to scream and cry, and pray that some foreign being thirty times the size of us will quickly arrive to fill our voids. Unfortunately, when they do, we feel manhandled, utterly helpless, without awareness of our arms and legs, which would be futile anyway for their pathetic lack of strength. In every moment it feels as though death is imminent. Every hunger pang, every dampened diaper (or whatever we wear in the afterlife), every insufferable moment of isolation from love might kill us, and then when its source of remedy arrives there are a few moments of transition that bring us even closer to death. We are under their control. We rely on these beasts and there is nothing we can do but hope that they take mercy on us.

For a while there is no potential for joy. We are not alternating between sadness and happiness, the way the beasts seem to, but instead terror and relief, terror and relief. Fuck, I am about to die! No, wait, I’m OK. No, I am about to die! No, wait, I’m OK. I’m OK. They saved me. I’m OK. I’m OK. I am OK, thank God. I wake up. I am about to die!

Time shall pass, and will we acclimate like they do? Will we begin to recognize what and whom we like, understand, even if unconsciously so, the passage of time and our new routine? Will we learn the language of our new surroundings in death, no longer rely only on our loudest and most guttural sounds in desperate cries for help? As we transition from terrified confusion to a particular familiarity, we acquire preferences and specific displeasures. We can communicate them, but it is apparent that we are still not in control. Will we ever regain control? In moments where our newly learned communication fails we regress back to the bestial screams that served us previously. Are we destined to suffer all of the same stages of growth in death? Will time heal our wounds, we’ll gradually forget about our “before world,” and finally experience true joy in our new existence? We’ll have friends and things we enjoy doing, places that feel like home, and instead of labeling the terrifying beasts as mere caretakers, they will become our favorite people in our new world, by which everything and everyone else is defined. Around the same time we finally discover control we will briefly hate them and reject all that they are, until finally, somewhere in the depths of our unconscious we decide, for better or worse, that they were right all along. Our death was in fact no death, but another gift of life, and we shall begin our own journey back to life, by giving life, “or death” to another. This is what I think about every time I watch my newborn scream as I change her diaper.
What no one tells you about being a new parent
By: Sindhura Gade
Tags: Parenthood, Newborn, New Parents

What no one tells you about being a new parent

“Say good bye to your sleep”.

“Watching a late night movie? Enjoy before the baby is here”.

“There will be no me-time”.

“I felt stuck in a single room all day”.

“You will lose your sanity”.

All I heard throughout my pregnancy were warnings and disclaimers about how hard my life was going to get once the baby arrives. Although none of them were untrue, the emotion attached to them was multifaceted. The simple ones such as fear and hardship came through, but a lot else was left behind.

What no one tells you is that even after struggling with the demanding baby hours and cluster feeding, you will miss your baby when she is away from you. A tug in your heart when you are apart.

What no one tells you is that after striving hard to put your baby down for her nap and sneaking out into the living room to watch a movie (finally!), you will be staring at the baby monitor all through. And more surprisingly, there will be times when you will wait for her to wake up wondering why she hasn’t yet, despite the fact that once she is up it is just the mundane routine. Because that mundane routine means holding her, cuddling with her, watching her smile a little and just being with her.

What no one tells you is that when you are alone and finally have that me-time, often you will find yourself reflecting on your journey as a new parent, thanking the universe for your little peanut, filling up your baby books and having those special moments with your partner as new parents.

What no one tells you is the boundless love you will feel when your baby puts her arms around you and falls asleep.

What no one tells you is how honored you will feel when your baby wakes up from her sleep slightly, only to check that you are still there, before falling back to sleep with no worry in the world.

The struggle is passed along in its entirety but the bright side is left for personal exploration. I will surely remember all the sleepless nights and endless breastfeeding sessions. And it does feel prepared and supported to know that I am not alone in the hard times. That somewhere there are sleepless parents awake along with me trying to get to the other side. That it will get better. That I just need to hang in there. But, I will also cherish the newborn time in so many ways and that needs to be said out loud.

So the next time I talk to a pair of to-be parents, I will be sure to add — What no one tells you is that while there will be times you will feel lost and tired as never before, there will also be moments that will make it all seem absolutely worth it!

So what were the beautiful moments you shared with your newborn? Leave a comment. I would love to read :)
First and Last Breath
By: Graeme Franks
Tags: Poetry, Newborn, Perspective, Death, Life

When Elliana

Was born…

The hospital

Announced It…

With a…

Chime bell

Played…

Over the

Hospital Intercom

System…

(As they did

For each

Newborn)

What a

Wonderful

Surprise!…

An…

Honoring and

Celebration

of

Life!

Then…

In a…

bizarre…

Moment…

I wondered…

How…

Many people…

Had…

Died…

In the…

Hospital

That day?

The neatest

I could

Find…

Per day

In the

World…

360, 000 Births

Vs

151, 600 Deaths

I stagger…

When I

Realize…

These

Are not just

Numbers…

But real…

Actual…

Human

Beings…

Who

People

Cared as

Intensely

About

As I

Cared for

Elliana…

And I was

Transported

Back to…

The numb…

Breathless…

Chilling…

Days…

My mother…

And Father…

Died…

Realizing….

They were

Days…

Of…

Unspeakable…

Joy…

For others.

Here

We…

Were…

Life…

And

Death…

Passing…

Like neighbors…

If only…

For a moment…

Over…

the…

Fence…

Of…

Life…

One in…

Celebration…

The other in…

Mourning…

Both…

Existing…

In the

Same…

Moment

First…

And last…

Breath.
Why Breastfeeding Wasn’t For Us, Not Just Me
By: Alexis Kraut
Tags: Newborn, Moms, Breastfeeding, Self Love, Parenting

Why Breastfeeding Wasn’t For Us, Not Just Me

“She needs you more than she needs your breastmilk.”

⠀

To quote an amazing Facebook post written by a post-partum mother. ❤️

⠀

This is me. One week post-partum. A rollercoaster of emotions-mostly anxiety and depression. I’m holding my daughter right after yet another unsuccessful latch with the nipple shield. Forcing a half-smile, thinking about my alarm going off soon to try and pump.

⠀

I pumped every 3 hours, round the clock. I took supplements, ate well, did whatever I could to boost my supply. I cried every-time I stared at the empty bottles. I got anxiety looking at my daughter wondering if she would need anything that could interrupt my pumping session.

⠀

I didn’t feel bonded. I didn’t feel love for her. I felt more in a relationship with my pump and breastmilk diet than I did my own flesh and blood that I birthed one week prior.

⠀

I was not present. My mental health was quickly declining. I couldn’t sleep. I cried and cried.

⠀

So we switched and went full formula. We had been supplementing with formula and I said, ENOUGH. Fed IS best.

⠀

I will never forget the moment when I felt so free and gave my daughter a bottle of formula not worrying about pumping or trying to get her to latch. I felt this rush of love towards her. I finally felt bonded. I looked into her eyes and saw ten years of her life. I saw myself braiding her hair, taking her to STEM club.

⠀

My daughter needed me, not my breastmilk. ❤️

⠀

To any mamas struggling in the way I did, I hope this post helps you feel supported and understood.

⠀

#fedisbest #beingpresent #mindful #mindfulfamilysolutions #bozeman #montana
Dressing Up Baby
By: First Time Mama
Tags: Newborn, Baby

Right! Before the fun police start sucking in their cheeks, let’s just say that the absolute baseline for dressing up of any kind is that you only go for flame retardant options. That’s babies, children and whopping great hunks of adults too.

Also, think very carefully about the ‘bits’ that are part and parcel of many dressing up outfits. Watch out for choking hazards — that’s things they could choke on and things that could choke them.

Sermon over, let’s get on with the show.

NOT NEWBORNS THOUGH

Ahhh — that’s where you’re wrong. You can totally dress up newborns but, let’s be practical about this, it is probably going to be a case of finding a very small, seasonally appropriate Babygro. Think red and white stripy legs with a printed-on elf outfit for Christmas or an orange pumpkin style affair for Halloween (there are white mummy options for Halloween too, but they look very, very odd).

One piece of advice would be to dress with comfort in mind. You’ve still got a baby, a very new human being, so the key to successful dressing up is that they don’t scream the house down for the duration because they’re not comfy.

SITTING DUCKS

Is the sitting stage the best time for dressing up? For me, it’s a huge yes. Your baby is still so new to the world and they are so imbued with a sense of wonder at everything. Team that with a fluffy lamb costume and you are on to a winner.

What’s more is that they are still so very much under your control. Sounds mercenary but just wait until they have an opinion on what you dress them in and you’ll swoon at the thought of these easy days.

Whether you create a little ghost or a spider, a bunny with dingly dangly ears or a Christmas fairy, this is your chance to capture it forever and pop it in the family album. What seems like a cute photo opportunity can turn into the ultimate in leverage during the teenage years (they come round quicker than you think) and the perfect addition to the photo wall at a wedding in 25 years’ time. You will stand and marvel at how your baby is not only walking and talking but head over heels in love with someone else (that isn’t you). These are the opportunities to make moments to cherish.

LITTLE WALKERS

It depends how long they’ve been walking for. You don’t want to make it hard for someone taking their first steps by hanging all sorts of décor on them but, if your little one has got the hang of it, it can raise a laugh.

Imagine a first Halloween party with 10 little pumpkins charging at you!

CAN YOU GO TOO FAR?

Hell yeah. You’ve got to draw the line at fake blood or guts spilling out of bandages. This is family fun, so don’t go too heavy handed on the horror side of things.

And, one final thing, on behalf of babies everywhere who cannot yet speak for themselves…

Do not ever, ever, ever, ever carve out a pumpkin and set your baby inside. Cold, squishy with that weird pumpkin smell. Will traumatise them for life.

read more articles on the first time mama blog
Experience Natural Newborn Photography with the Help of Professionals
By: Kylie James Photography
Tags: Newborn Baby Photography, Newborn, Photography, Newborn Photography, Newborn Photographer

Natural newborn photography is interesting and at the same time, trickier than other photography. A baby, a little life, can change your whole life. If you are a new mom and dad, then you can celebrate your new life with natural newborn photography. Yes, your little baby’s activities must be captured that you can cherish these moments for the lifetime. Memories will fade away, but photographs are the only thing which you can treasure for the whole life. So, you need to hire a professional photographer in New Castle. You will find many experienced photographers. Therefore, it is hard to select the right one.

But, friends as you are reading this post no need to worry. In the end, it will provide you with a reputed photography company’s contact information. Now, move on to the subsequent passage to know the importance of professional photographers.

Find out the significance of hiring experienced photographers

A newborn photo shoot is not an easy task as it sounds. It is a big responsibility to capture beautiful natural photos of a baby causing no harm or pain. The number one rule of newborn photography is safety. And, a good safety measure comes with an experienced photographer. So, by hiring an expert, you can enjoy peace of mind that your little love will be in good health.

Here are the other benefits you can enjoy with a professional.

· Newborn photoshoot is quite different, and the photographer needs to be very careful. An experienced person knows how to deal with the baby while photography. Many years of experience have made him perfect. Thus, he can take the baby carefully.

· If you hire a professional one, you can rest assured that he will touch the baby after washing his hands. As the baby does not have a fully developed immune system, it is important to maintain good hygiene.

These are a few benefits of involving professionals for natural newborn photography.

Now, scroll down to the ending passage to get connected with a popular service provider.

A reputed photography company to contact

Looking for a good professional for natural newborn photography in New Castle? Well, contacting “Kylie James & Associates Photography” would be your ideal consideration. All the professionals are well-experienced and well trained in handling newborn babies. At an affordable rate, they can give you satisfactory service.
Steps For A Newborn Baby
By: Raja Khizar Mehmood
Tags: Parenting Toddlers, Newborn, Parenting Advice, Parenting Tips, Parenting

Steps For A Newborn Baby

First step for parents is to consider finding support during this time, which can be overwhelming and overpowering. While in the emergency clinic, talk to the specialists around you. Numerous emergency clinics have taken care of authorities or feeding specialists who can assist you with nursing or feeding. Nurses likewise are an incredible asset to tell you the best way to hold, burp, change, and care for your child.

Childs Development: One to Three Months

During this first advancement stage, babies’ bodies and minds are figuring out how to live in the outside world. From birth to three months, your child may begin to:

Smile at an early stage, it will be simply to herself. But within three months, she’ll be smiling because of your smiling and trying to get you to smiling back at her.

Raise her head and chest when on her belly.

Open and shut her hands and carry his/her hands to her mouth.

Hold objects in his/her hand.

Take swipes at or go after dangling objects, however, she normally won’t have the option to get them yet.

Baby Development: Four to Six Months

During these months, children are truly figuring out how to connect and control their general surroundings. They’re learning the use of their amazing tools, their hands. Furthermore, they’re discovering their voices.

From 4 to 6 months old, your child will most likely:

Roll over, Front-to-back usually comes first.

Babbling, making sounds that can seem like a real language.

Snicker.

Reach out for and grab objects, and control toys and different items with her hands.

Sit up with help and have incredible head control.

Thinking about Yourself

It’s very easy to forget about yourself when you have a newborn. Yet specialists agree that it’s a must that you take care of yourself as a new mother so you can be at your best for your baby.

Here are a few tips:

• Accept help when offered and get enough rest during the first few weeks to increase your ability to enjoy your baby.

• Take comfort in realizing that baby blues are typical for the first couple of weeks. Yet, in the event that you are discovering you are having outrageous issues dealing with yourself or the infant, look for help immediately and let your significant other know what’s going on.

• Rather than having your parents help the first week, ask them to visit a month after the baby arrives. You will feel more adjusted, and you will have a better idea of where you could use the help.

• Even with the sleep deprivation and normal stresses that come with having a newborn in the house, it’s meant to be a time to enjoy to the fullest. It’s easy to lose perspective, but take a quiet moment each day to just gaze at your little wonder and soak it all in. This time goes by too fast.

For More Parenting Tips & Advice. Visit http://parentskidstime.com/
Hurrah, Motherhood — 3 weeks postpartum
Tags: Newborn, Life Lessons, Parenting

The mommy forums online have exploded with pictures of newborns and stories of L+Ds that we’ve been collectively dreading (sometimes, terrible, jesus-among-us-i’m-sorry-that-happened-to-you type of stories). There are now stacks upon stacks of posts that run, I have not Y’ed since Z. They say no one tells you about how hard it is, but actually, plenty of sources and voices tell you how hard it is. You just don’t listen before stepping into the ring, and assume that you’ll make it through just fine until you don’t.

Jasper is currently lying on my chest, face to the side, sleeping off a fussy night, morning, and early afternoon wherein after downing 3 oz of milk, most of the white milk rose up out of his pink throat like some wizard had struck the ground with the end of his wand to make an everlasting spring of sustenance for the people. His expression didn’t even change.

I caught most of the deluge in a little blankie I had at hand. I also was grateful that none of it came out of his nose, which to me is the grossest thing — does he just smell old milk for hours afterwards? If so, does it even bother him?

Nights, my partner feeds him at 8 or 9, again around 1, again around 4, and I feed him at 7. Each time he’s feeding, I am sitting in bed, pumping. We’ve been relishing the 7 hours of sleep a night, interrupted though it may be. To another week of positivity, growth, and learning more about each other.
Welcome, Baby!
Tags: Childbirth, Newborn, Babies Babies Babies

When you let out your first cry, I imagine a bell ringing in heaven to announce your arrival and the church triumphant erupting in songs of praise, rejoicing for a life that will live to glorify the almighty.

As I hear your cry, my heart leaps for joy. I am neither your mother nor your relative, but my heart leaps nonetheless. I rejoice because it’s a thing of beauty and wonder to see the one whom God loved into this very minute. The one He called and knew from the very first day in your mother’s womb. It is an honor to have this front-row seat to witness the miracle that is the gift of life. Your cry is worship to a God so good and so wonderful. I imagine your parents prayed for you, longed for this day with anxious hope, and now here you are, little one. You are your parents answered prayers, a mother’s dream, a grandmother’s wish.

As I leave you in the arms of your mother, I pray your life brings her unimaginable joy and peace. May you be a blessing to all those you meet. May you be who God created you to be and do what he created you to do. Therein lies the fullness of life. And whenever the Holy One wills that your time here is over, I have no doubt it would have served its purpose. Go on now and reflect the image of your God. Welcome, baby!
So last night was the first night since Colton has been born that I was so overwhelmed and…
By: Jennifer Antoniewicz
Tags: Newborn

So last night was the first night since Colton has been born that I was so overwhelmed and frustrated. I couldn’t understand why Colton wouldn’t go to sleep after getting up five times every twenty minutes to eat a little bit then fall asleep. I was at my wits end, and I didn’t want to wake Johnny cause I knew he had a long day ahead of him. Rationally I knew it was not Coltons fault, he’s most likely going through a growth spurt, but emotionally my brain was just fried, so I would feel the frustration grow and I had to swallow that frustration like a bitter pill and just breath. Finally he settled by 1am and slept till 445. I’m sharing this because I feel like the only things mommas share are the positive moments in fear of being looked at as a bad mom or a whinny momma. I told my brother that once Colton was born I wanted to share my experiences with others because I felt that all you ever see are professionals telling you how to raise your child or moms that only share the good parts of being a mom. There is nothing wrong with processing and expressing the tough times too. I feel it helps other moms to see that they aren’t the only ones going through the good and bad and that it doesn’t make you or your child any less than anyone else it just makes you human. And any person who tries to tell you that you can’t talk about these things can shove it. So with that being said be prepared folks for more of these exciting and somewhat comical posts as I navigate my way through the terrible twos and the newborn stage all at the same time! Hope it helps those who need it and hopefully we can all laugh about it too!
On Baby Reflexes and Understanding Early Behaviors
Tags: Child Development, Newborn, Baby, Parenting

So why should I care about reflexes?

Being aware of reflexes can help you be better attuned to your baby’s needs, read your child’s stress signals, reduce irritability, and facilitate sensorimotor exploration.

If you know that stroking a baby’s cheek will stimulate searching for food, you can use that knowledge for your parenting. When it’s not time for your baby to eat, be careful not to create confusing stimulation to his or her cheeks. For instance, when you dress your baby avoid collars that touch the cheek, or when holding your baby, make sure your scarf is not rubbing against his or her cheek. However, if it’s feeding time you can stroke the cheeks to stimulate active feeding. This is important particularly for babies who are less alert and need help facilitating feeding.

Another example is the startle reflex which can cause your baby a bit of distress. Unfortunately, we can’t tiptoe around the house all the time and there are going to be unexpected loud noises. However, when we can control the timing of the loud sound; like turning on the mixer or vacuum cleaner, we can avoid dramatic startle by having someone hold the baby or talk to the baby while the sound starts.

The palmar grasp reflex can be harnessed for development by teaching your baby the concept of cause and effect. You can practice this by placing various play objects in your baby’s hand; A rattle, spoon, wooden cylinder and let your baby explore his/her movement by bringing the object to his/her mouth etc. The flip side of this is when your baby unexpectedly grabs your necklace or hair- so be wary! To release his/her grip, stimulate the back of the child’s hand and they should let go without too much damage.

What to watch out for-

During child wellness checkups your baby’s doctor will check various reflexes as a sign that your baby’s nervous system is intact and working properly. Your baby’s doctor will also look out for when these reflexes start to disappear- a sign that your child is maturing normally.

If you have any concerns about your child’s reflexes- either that they don’t express them or they don’t disappear at the appropriate age, consult your baby’s doctor since this could be a sign of developmental delay.

For more information about baby reflexes and visual examples, check out this link: https://www.toolstogrowot.com/blog/2016/01/11/primitive-motor-reflexes-their-impact-on-a-childs-function

Disclaimer: Eliciting reflexes such as parachute and tonic neck requires expertise to ensure the child is positioned in a non-harmful position. Please consult with your provider if you have any concerns regarding your child’s reflexes.
Little T
Tags: Newborn, Baby, Family, Memories, Nephew

My nephew is arriving today.

We’re all very excited. His big sis Abbie is only 18 months old and we’re so proud of her for taking on this new role with gusto. Although, she doesn’t know about it yet. But some day when she’s a bit older, something will click, and someone will ask her and she’ll say: yeah, I’m a big sister.

It’s almost 3PM now, and Little T hasn’t arrived. His parents have picked a name for him, to be revealed once he’s here. A planned c-section is funny. People ask when the baby’s due, and you give this odd reply of, well his scheduled arrival time is 10:30am, February 27.

I want to see him today, mainly for selfish reasons. I’m greedy. I want to share in all of his and big sister Abbie’s milestones. I want to see him on the same first day that he ever saw the world. I want to meet him before he’s had his first sleep. I want mine to be one of the first faces he sees. I want to see him when he is exactly newborn, so that I can compare him to how he looked on that day. I want the mental image of the hospital with my sister-in-law Anne, brother Conor, and new baby all there, exhausted but happy. I want to reference that first time I ever saw him back to him as he grows up. I want to say “I remember the day you were born…” over, and over again for the rest of my life. At his 21st birthday, I want to tease him about how tiny his hands were. How pink and angry his little face looked. If he ever tells me that he’s stressed over one of life’s mundanities, I want to tell him about that first time I ever saw him, tiny and safe in the hospital.
Dance baby, dance (Day 43)
By: Sara Tomsic
Tags: Newborn, Baby, Motherhood, Family, Parenting

Photo by Nainoa Shizuru on Unsplash

Today our baby and I traveled to Ljubljana for another craniosacral therapy and I was just to write an account about how our day went, how we met with my husband at his workplace and went to lunch, how we went for a coffee with my best friend but then the most amazing thing happened.

My heart grew this evening a little bigger.

As I’ve written before, Otto has been really clingy and crying a lot because he is going through a sensory developmental leap. And each night, when my husband comes from work late (he has a managerial position, so he stays extra late at the office to see all is done), he takes our baby and gives him a bath and consoles him.

He has special ways of communicating with Otto and he is so good with our son. They have already created a special bond and I’m so proud of my husband for going all-in into fatherhood as he did.

Tonight, we planned on watching a film, but our little boy was inconsolable in any other way but at my breast since four-thirty p.m. So my husband took him as he does and they ended up dancing to rock in the nursery. It has now been over an hour and Otto is snug as a bug on his changing table, listening to music, watching my husband dance to it and moving his little arms to mimic his father. And he smiles and sighs of contentment.

I went in and observed the dance they did to ‘Where the streets have no name’ by U2 and they both were so adorable that I cried. And I could just feel the love I have for my favorite two humans on this planet. It warmed up the evening immediately and I still can’t stop smiling from sheer happiness.

Motherhood in numbers:
When we’re together (Day 44)
By: Sara Tomsic
Tags: Newborn, Baby, Home, Motherhood, Family

Photo by Scott Webb on Unsplash

We have now two days of national holidays followed by a weekend, which means four days of mommy, daddy and baby time. We always look forward to these kinds of days. I love them because I know how hard my husband works and he deserves some free time, but also that means he gets more quality time with his fast-growing son.

It also means we can go on adventures or have special moments together that make us appreciate the home we created for our little family. They say home is where you are and that is completely right. My husband and I still have to work on creating a more permanent home for us as we’re renting the current apartment, but we managed to create a beautiful little nest for us.

We have chosen my home town Novo Mesto, for our permanent residence and I couldn’t be happier. Fortunately, my husband also likes his new home town. But if our life would take us anywhere else, I know we would be fine. Both my husband and I are really adaptable and children tend to get used to any setting you put them to. As long as we are together.

I can’t say what the future holds or where we’ll be in ten years’ time. I just know, we’ll get there as a family.

Motherhood in numbers:
Baby Shoes
Tags: Newborn, Ivf, Life Lessons, Life, Pregnancy

Photo by twinsfisch on Unsplash

The scalpel sensed a call of duty. It prayed for skilled hands. Anaesthesiologist nodded in agreement. Long slender fingers, holding the scalpel, made a horizontal incision. The scalpel effortlessly cut through skin, fear, prayers and hope. I watched with a pounding heart, befitting a would be father.

The would be mother, squeezed my hand. I shifted my gaze towards her. She didn’t seem to be in pain. Instead, she smiled, but not in her usual disarming way. My wife worked as a soft skill trainer for corporate offices.

Nine months of pregnancy had followed eight years of marriage. The void had grown bigger every year. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow had whispered now and then…

“Though the mills of God grind slowly; Yet they grind exceeding small;Though with patience He stands waiting, With exactness grinds He all.”

I glanced at the surgery, once again. It progressed at breakneck speed. Scalpel displayed a unique blend of purpose and finesse. Like an artisan, the guiding hands sculpted in time. It explored the surgical wound, desperately seeking new life. I stood mesmerised by the rapid turn of events. The explorer gave me a fleeting glance. Surgical mask hid her facial expressions well, but not the panic in her eyes. My pounding heart skipped a beat.

Ernest Hemingway’s six-word short story flashed before my eyes

“For sale: baby shoes, never worn”.

The would be mother, calm and composed, continued to smile. I smiled back, painfully aware of the tempest that had begun to brew. Soft skills were not my cup of tea.

In quick time a newborn was whisked away by the attending pediatrician. I told her. Overcoming the power of sedative anesthesia, a new mother, strained her neck to catch a glimpse.

The pediatrician and the newborn were some distance away. An eerie silence permeated the operation theatre. The gynaecologist stood still, straining her ears. The surgical wound gaped in anticipation. My eyes closed to contain the tempest. Reality receded. Memories persisted. Hope flickered.

Then, I heard it. We heard it. A baby’s shrill cry filled the room. Gynaecologist smiled and resumed her surgery. Excited, I looked at my wife. Her soft skills had vanished. The shrill cry made the mother weep, with tears of joy.
So, breastfeeding hurts (Day 5)
By: Sara Tomsic
Tags: Newborn, Baby, Nursing, Motherhood, Breastfeeding

Photo by Jordan Whitt on Unsplash

There is absolutely no other thing that has occupied my day today more than breastfeeding and that says a lot, given that we also changed eight diapers and had my father- and mother-in-law over to see their first grandchild.

I have breastfed about ten times so far and the night still has to prove itself.

Given that Otto’s birth was so straightforward and one could say easy for a first-time mom, I do have to say that I would go through another birth like I had if it meant I could get rid of these breastfeeding pains.

Apparently, there are some women and their babies that click automatically and they start this beautiful journey of bonding and providing their young one the basic and the best nutrition with your body. And obviously, there is a fair amount of us, who have some troubles.

Otto is considered full-term but is fairly little. I don’t know if that brings any issues, but he did take about two days of his life to get the hang of it — and in this time — with me also being a total newbie to this baby business — my nipples became sore and occasionally, they bleed as well.

I am however very persistent and we asked for a lot of help in the hospital. They also concurred that I wasn’t producing as much milk as I should, but they said we shouldn’t worry, because it should happen sooner or later. I think that this happened yesterday, as supply is steady. And so is Otto’s demand.

I have decided to breastfeed on my own because of the benefits both Otto and I get from this process. I firmly believe it would do him good. Not that bottle-feeding is not perfectly good choice in numerous circumstances. I, however, think I will stick with this as long it takes.

My husband, amazing as he is, is now as I write this, in our bed, doing some research on how to ease the pain and help with the healing quicker. Earlier today he has read a section about troubleshooting breastfeeding in our favorite baby book ‘What to expect when expecting’ where it says that if it hurts, it could probably hurt for up to two weeks for the process to get easier and my nipples harden.

So I’m counting the days until day 14 to stop grinding my teeth and yes, sometimes crying from the pain that feeding our precious boy brings me. But still, today was all in all a good day.

Motherhood in numbers:
Letters to Devon
By: Devon'S Grandma
Tags: Grandchildren, Pandemic, Newborn, Love

Letters to Devon

When news first started circulating about a novel virus I deliberately chose to not pay attention. I have a certain level of anxiety about health issues and can easily verge into hypochondriasis if not left unchecked. I knew when the time came (if it did) I would learn enough then. Fast forward two months… I am quite aware now — as we all are. Even if I distract myself, the thoughts about covid19 and the safety of my family, community, country and the world are right there, ready to become foremost in my mind. How are you feeling? Is your throat scratchy? Nose running? You feel chilly — no! I question family members and friends constantly. We are all giving up so much to stop the spread of this virus — and we will as a world community slow the spread, whether that comes in 18 months with a vaccine or in 2 months with unimaginable numbers of dead, we will stop the spread. Yet despite it all, spring is coming to the Northeast, birds are chirping and crocuses are appearing.

Our first grandchild made her appearance into the world on March 5th. I was privileged and honored to be present at her arrival. It was an unbelievable experience to be there when my daughter who I birthed 30 years ago, birthed her own daughter into this world. A beautiful, 9 pound 4 ounces baby girl. Immediately yelling and screaming about being brought into this cold, bright place, leaving the warm, dark haven where she had resided. She calmed at my daughter’s breast, Dad cut the cord and all was well with the world. Life repeats itself over and over. The only constant is change.

And now we are here. March 23rd. Mom, Dad and baby safe in their house, letting no one in and no one out. Two weeks of isolation on March 25th. Groceries being delivered, doctor’s appointments cancelled. I told my daughter she is like the pioneer women of old — on the homestead with no other women who have done IT to tell her how wonderful she is doing, to ohhh and ahhh over her beautiful baby. She has facetime and texting and calls but there is nothing like a warm touch on the arm saying — wonderful — you are doing amazing. She gets it from her husband but what does he know? It is new to him too. No one to tell him — wow you are doing a great job, look at you bathing a baby!

I am starting this blog to tell Devon what it has been like — the beginning of her life. What it would have been like without the pandemic, what it is like with the pandemic. May she always know that her arrival was one of great joy for her families and friends. Hopefully we will be telling stories about this one day soon.

Looking forward to writing more each day.
Pregnancy to Parenthood during COVID-19, Monarch’s got your back.
By: Monarch Parents
Tags: Doula, Childbirth, Newborn, Postpartum, Pregnancy

At Monarch Parents, we know a vital part of every family’s journey from pregnancy to parenthood involves having access to support and expert information. You and your pregnancy are unique, and we’ve always believed that this should be celebrated. This is why we built Monarch in the first place. We fundamentally believe that we can improve experiences and outcomes for growing families by giving them access to a pregnancy coach they can trust — one who knows what they need and is available whenever they are needed.

COVID-19 has presented a difficult path forward for everyone, but especially for those facing the uncertainty that comes with bringing a newborn into the world. With the severe restrictions that have been put in place in several cities, many hospitals and independent centers have been forced to cancel all prenatal and postpartum classes. This includes access to childbirth education, newborn basics, lactation consultations, and more.

Monarch’s virtual pregnancy coaching package was designed to give families access to customized care and information from the comfort of their own home. In trying times like the ones we’re currently experiencing, we want to make sure that ALL families have access to the critical care and support that they deserve. Monarch is proud to support families across the US and will be providing free 1:1 pregnancy and newborn coaching up until April 15th. Whether your childbirth education class or lactation consultation got cancelled, Monarch is here for you.

Monarch coaches are all experienced Nurses, Doulas, and Lactation Consultants who have worked with thousands of families across the country. They will be extending their hours during the COVID-19 outbreak so that they can accommodate as many families as possible.

Please use this link to learn more about Monarch or sign up directly here. Your first session with a Monarch coach will likely cover some basic information so that your coach can serve you best and then be followed by a customized plan so that you receive all the information and training you need before the arrival of your newborn. All sessions are designed to be taken over video-call and you’ll be able to message your coach in between sessions in case any questions arise.

While we have no idea when the severity of COVID-19 will decrease, Monarch is committed to doing our best to be a trusted partner for the well-being of the world’s children.

Stay safe!

Natasha, Ratul, and Paul — Monarch Founding Team
Leaps of crying (Day 39)
By: Sara Tomsic
Tags: Newborn, Baby Development, Baby, Motherhood, Parenting

Photo by bady qb on Unsplash

I had always imagined having a baby boy named Otto. For years this was the name I knew I wanted to give my firstborn son. Fortunately, my husband also liked the name and agreed with my long-time wish.

Even though our real little boy probably won’t be curly or wear glasses as I imagined him, he is perfect like he is. And we love him unconditionally.

These last few days were exciting as they were challenging. Otto is now over five weeks old and has crossed the mark of his first developmental leap. He is aware more and he sees with more accuracy, so his world has widened all of a sudden.

He has been more demanding these past three days as he wishes to be close to me or my husband non-stop. If not, he cries big time. And it is a real sad cry. With his first little tears.

We believe that is because he sees tons of new things and is scared of them all. So he seeks the comfort of our arms and familiarity of our smell. Others, even people, he was already held by, are now like strangers.

They say that developmentally, if your small child is clingy to you, that you’ve done something right. That is true for the first three years. That means that you’ve established the right kind of trust with him, so he can differentiate between the known and the liked and the unknown and not trustworthy. If not, if your child isn’t that clingy, that means that even you don’t have his trust and in his eyes you’re like all others. After that age, his exploration should make him braver with each month, so there is no real threat that you will end up with an overly-dependent offspring.

Anyhow, even with knowing all we do, it is still hard to hear your helpless little one wail all the time. We give him closeness and care, but it has been noticed that we are stretched thin with patience and energy.

But still, people say it gets better. Eventually.

Motherhood in numbers:
BABY CRIES AT NIGHT — WHY AND WHAT ARE THE SOLUTIONS?
By: Sophia Imran
Tags: Parenting Advice, Newborn, Newborn Care, Parenthood, Baby Sleep

Parents know this well. Your baby wakes up regularly at night and starts to cry and cry. Parents and especially new parents wonder why babies cry at night suddenly.

Sometimes this only happens once or twice during the night and your baby calms down quickly, but often it is not that easy.

So what are the reasons babies cry at night?

A baby’s sleep cycle

A baby’s sleep cycle is very different from that of an adult. His cycles are shorter and he has not yet developed a steady rhythm between day and night. In addition, babies go through several phases of sleep during the night, which can be very short, sometimes only a few minutes.

Between phases of sleep, a baby wakes up more often. It also alternates between phases of active sleep and calm sleep. Babies sleep lighter as well, so they wake up faster due to typical baby needs such as hunger, cold, or even loneliness. When this happens, they usually start to cry or scream. Distraught, you ask yourself: “What can I do when my baby cries in his sleep?”

read the complete article here: baby’s sleep