First Time Parents

World Breastfeeding Week is a worldwide celebration held in the first week of August every year, and this year’s theme is Closing the gap: Breastfeeding support for all.

This year’s campaign is all about recognising breastfeeding mums, ensuring they’re seen and heard, as well as sharing relatable, genuine experiences about breastfeeding and the importance of multi-level support.

Thinking about breastfeeding?

If you’re pregnant you may already be considering breastfeeding your baby when they’re born, or maybe you’ve already decided that you want to breastfeed, either way it’s good to find out as much as you can about breastfeeding before your little one arrives.

Speaking to your midwife is a great place to start. You might even want to ask family and friends about their experiences breastfeeding. The NHS also has lots of helpful information and support available on their website and can recommend useful helplines and online resources.

Benefits of breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is a great way to bond with your baby when they’re born and has multiple health benefits for them.

According to the NHS, some of the benefits of breastfeeding are:

• Your breast milk meets all of your baby’s nutritional needs
• Breast milk protects your baby from infections and diseases
• Breastfeeding provides health benefits for you
• Breast milk is available for your baby whenever your baby needs it
• Breastfeeding can build a strong emotional bond between you and your baby

How to breastfeed

The NHS website covers the main aspects of breastfeeding such as latching on and signs your baby is ready to feed. But you may also want to attend antenatal classes while you’re pregnant to find out more about breastfeeding, how to tackle common breastfeeding problems, and you will also have the opportunity to meet other expectant mums that are in the same position as you.

Breastfeeding support

You may be worried about breastfeeding your baby for the first time, how they’ll latch on, or if you will know when it’s time to feed.

These concerns are completely normal. Breastfeeding is a skill that takes time to get the hang of, so be kind to yourself and trust your natural mum instinct. Be patient, everyone’s feeding journey is different, and what works for one person might not necessarily work for you.

Remember, breastfeeding isn’t the only option, so don’t be hard on yourself if things don’t go to plan.

You can always speak to your midwife, health visitor or GP about any concerns you have about breastfeeding.

The trend for gender-neutral nursery interiors has continued to grow over the last two years with celebrities such as Molly-Mae Hague opting for soft shades of beige and cream for their nursery colour scheme.

Whether you’re keeping the gender of your baby a surprise or simply want to create a nursery that will grow with them, a gender-neutral interior is perfect, and can easily be adapted to suit their personalities and interests as they get older with nursery wall art, soft textiles, and their favourite toys.

Design ideas and nursery themes

When planning the interior of your little one’s room you might want to consider a nursery theme. A theme can help steer the design of your nursery and give you inspiration for how you could decorate the room.

For example, safari is a fun, gender-neutral nursery theme that can easily be incorporated through stuffed animals and playful wall art. Other trending nursery themes you might want to consider are woodland and botanical themes which use colours and textures from nature.

Choosing gender-neutral nursery furniture

There are lots of different things to consider when shopping for nursery furniture such as how big your nursery is, whether you want a matching nursery set or just a cot bed, and of course the style and design of the furniture.

When creating a gender-neutral nursery you’re probably going to want to opt for a neutral colour palette. White is a popular option for nursery furniture as it can help make the room feel light and spacious, or if you prefer something with more depth a two-tone design like our bestselling Luna range could be the perfect option for you.

Nursery décor and accessories

Gender-neutral doesn’t have to be boring, look at it as a blank canvas for you to add your own personal touches through décor and accessories. Even the storage solutions you choose can add character to your nursery, like our adorable teddy bear baskets which are perfect for storing your baby’s toys.

Another thing to remember when designing your baby’s nursery is to create a space you’ll both be able to relax in. After all, both of you will be spending a lot of time together in the nursery. One item that’s sure to come in handy is a rocking nursing chair. It’s the perfect spot for you to bond, feed, and rock your little one to sleep. Our Etta Boucle Nursing Chair ticks all the boxes when looking for a comfortable but stylish nursery chair.

Other smaller additions like a printed changing mat, bookshelves and cot bedding can all contribute to creating the perfect gender-neutral nursery.

Deciding on a theme or a colour scheme for your nursery is a great place to start. This will impact what style of nursery furniture you choose and will guide you when looking for complementary accessories and décor.

World Book Day is a global celebration of books and reading that takes place every year. It's a day where people all over the world celebrate the joy of reading and promote literacy. It's a great opportunity for parents to introduce their babies to the wonderful world of books and reading.

On World Book Day, many schools and libraries organise special events and activities to encourage children and families to read more. Parents can use this day to gift their babies one of the books mentioned in this blog post and start a tradition of reading together. World Book Day is a great reminder of the importance of reading and how it can shape a child's future.

Books are not just meant for adults, even babies love them too. Reading books to babies is not only a great way to bond with them but also helps in their development. Books with bright colours, textures, and sounds can help babies develop their sensory skills and cognitive abilities.

1. Where’s Spot by Eric Hill

Where's Spot is a classic lift-the-flap book that follows a mother dog, Sally, as she searches for her puppy, Spot. Curious babies love lifting the flaps to see where Spot is hiding. This bestseller is available in a smart cased-board format with sturdy flaps that can withstand heavy-handed babies.

2. The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

The Very Hungry Caterpillar is a classic children's book loved by kids of all ages, including babies. The book follows the journey of a caterpillar as it transforms into a butterfly. The book features die-cut pages that eager little hands can easily turn.

3. That’s not my lion by Fiona Wells

That's not my lion is a touch and feel book that encourages babies to explore different textures. The book has different materials on each page with textured patches to stroke, helping babies develop their sensory skills.

4. Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney

Guess How Much I Love You is a heart-warming book about the love between a parent and child. The book follows Little Nutbrown Hare as he tries to express how much he loves his father. The book has simple text and beautiful illustrations, making it perfect for babies.

5. Baby Touch: Tummy Time by Ladybird

This interactive carousel playbook is the perfect choice for tummy time! Simply fold the book out and tie it together with the ribbon provided. The book will securely sit on the floor as your little one explores the vivid colours and different textures. Ideal for boosting motor skills and sensory development.

6. Peter Rabbit Finger Puppet Book by Beatrix Potter

The Peter Rabbit Finger Puppet Book is a fun book that includes a finger puppet of Peter Rabbit. The book follows the adventures of Peter Rabbit as he explores his garden. Babies will love playing with the finger puppet while parents read the story.

7. Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown

Goodnight Moon is a classic bedtime story that has been loved by generations of children. The book follows a young rabbit as he says goodnight to everything in his room. The rhythmic words are perfect for winding down after a day of fun and play. This bedtime story is a perfect nursing chair addition.

8. Who? A Celebration of Babies by Robie H. Harris

Who? A Celebration of Babies is filled with bright and brilliant illustrations perfect for little ones. This storybook includes a repetitive verse that is ideal for engaging babies during those precious bonding moments.

9. Ten Little Fingers and Ten Little Toes by Mem Fox

Ten Little Fingers and Ten Little Toes is a sweet book about the diversity of babies around the world. The book has rhyming text and charming illustrations, making it perfect for babies. The book also helps babies develop their counting skills.

10. We’re Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen

We're Going on A Bear Hunt is a fun book that follows a family as they search for a bear. This family favourite has repetitive text, which babies love. This playful storybook is a must-have addition for your little one’s library.

Why Should I Read to my Baby?

Reading to your little one is not only a great way to bond with them but also plays a crucial role in their development. It helps them develop language skills, cognitive abilities, and emotional intelligence. These ten books are perfect for babies under 12 months old as they have simple text, bright colours, and interactive features that are perfect for little ones.

Parents can read these books to their babies, or they can let their babies explore them on their own. Either way, these books are sure to provide hours of entertainment and foster a love for reading in babies from a young age.

Your baby won’t stay so small forever, and before you know it, your baby will be crawling from one end of the room to the other. Its a good idea to start thinking about potential dangers in your home before they get to this stage. The babyproofing process is important to avoid any unnecessary accidents to keep your little one safe.

What is Babyproofing?

If you are a first-time mum, babyproofing your home will be a whole new experience for you. Unfortunately, it isn’t one of the most exciting parts of becoming a mum. In fact, it can be quite stressful. This is why preparation is essential.

Babyproofing your home simply means removing anything that can cause harm to your baby and taking precautions to make your home a safe place.

Where to Start?

The best way to babyproof your home is to look at each room in your house through the eyes of your baby. We recommend you go into each room and get on your hands and knees as if you were crawling like your baby. Take into consideration what is within easy reach, sharp edges and any furniture they may use to help them stand up. As crazy as this sounds, it will give you a ‘tots-eye-view’ of each room.

When is the best time to Babyproof a Home?

When your baby arrives, you will be occupied with feeding, changing and settling them into their new routine. So we recommend doing the majority of child proofing before they arrive. During pregnancy, most women find the second trimester a lot easier than the first. Therefore, you may find this the best time to start.

📷 @camillathurlow

Safety around the House

Multiple babyproofing tips can be applied to all rooms of your house. You may want to start with these first.

• Keep all small objects out of reach – make sure that there aren’t any loose change, buttons or button batteries within reach of your baby. Check down the sides of your sofa and the floor to be sure you have removed any choking hazards.

• Blind cords – can be a strangulation hazard if they are loose and within reach of your little one. Ensure that you tie them up, cut them shorter or use blind cord safety devices.

• Furniture – take into consideration any furniture that could topple over if your baby was to use it to help them stand up, for example, a bookshelf or a set of chests of drawers. This type of furniture should be anchored to the wall.

• Electrical cables – are another strangulation hazard, and your baby may be tempted to chew them. Hide any electrical cables or keep them out of reach.

• Electric sockets – that meet British Standard 1363:1995 have an inbuilt safety system. You should avoid using socket covers as they could make your plug socket less safe.

• Sharp edges – some furniture in your house will need corner and edge guards.

• Cleaning products – can be harmful to your baby and need to be locked away.

• Medicines – babies and toddlers may mistake medicine for food or sweets. Keep them away from your little one in a locked cupboard.

• Stairs – will require baby gates at the top and bottom.

• Doors – will need door stoppers, and some may need finger guards over the hinges.

• Cupboards – there are many safety devices to choose from that will help keep your little one from getting into cupboards and draws.

Baby and You

Before your baby can crawl or walk, you will spend a lot of time carrying them around in your arms, especially in the first few weeks when skin-to-skin contact is advised. And your baby is comforted by being close to you.

It is important there are no trip hazards on the floor. And you are always aware of your surroundings. Remember, you won’t be able to do day-to-day things like making a hot drink while holding your little one.

Other Safety Tips to Consider

• Fitting smoke detectors

• Purchasing a children’s first aid kit

• Taking first aid training and downloading an app to use at home

• Don’t leave windows open or unlocked

• If you have a fireplace, make sure it is babyproofed

• Ensure houseplants aren’t poisonous

Don’t Forget

Your child should always be supervised by yourself or another responsible adult.

As part of Child Safety Week, we are looking at car seat safety, concentrating on the different factors you should consider when shopping for a child-safe car seat.

1. Is it TUV and FAA aircraft approved for travel?

Now that Covid restrictions have lifted. Many families will be planning their first holiday with their little ones. If you are considering travelling abroad this summer, you have probably already contemplated taking your baby’s car seat. However, you may not have checked whether its TUV and FAA aircraft approved for travel.

You can check this by simply looking for the label on your car seat. It should read, “This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft”.

Even if it is TUV and FAA approved, you should still contact the airline to ensure its okay.

2. Don’t buy a second-hand car seat

You may currently be preparing for the arrival of your baby and shopping for the essentials you will need to keep your little one safe, comfortable and happy. One staple you’ll need is a car seat. The NHS recommends not buying a second-hand model as it could have been damaged in an accident. It also may not have all its original parts or instructions.

3. Do you need a car seat that is part of a travel system?

There are many different models, designs and styles available. But knowing the difference between them can be difficult, especially when you want the best for your baby.

One term you may come across when searching for a car seat is ‘travel system.’ Most travel systems contain a pushchair alongside a compatible Group 0+ car seat. Although, some do come with a carrycot as well as other accessories. These are popular with parents that are on the go and want a car seat and stroller in one. To fit in with their busy lifestyles.

4. Is your car seat EU-approved?

In the UK, there are two different types of car seats you can purchase – height-based seats and weight-based seats. Below you will find the requirements for each.

Height-based seats – As stated on the gov.uk website, only EU-approved height-based child car seats can be used in the UK. These have a label showing a capital ‘E’ in a circle and ‘R129’.

Weight-based seats – As stated on the gov.uk website, only EU-approved weight-based child car seats can be used in the UK. These have a label showing a capital ‘E’ in a circle and ‘ECE R44’.

5. Does your car have ISOFIX connectors?

An ISOFIX base makes fitting your baby’s car seat easier. But, more importantly, ensures that it is secured correctly.

Most new cars have ISOFIX connectors. However, if you are unsure. You can usually find them hidden between the padding of your car’s seats. Alternatively, you can check your car’s handbook.

6. Will you be using the seat in any other vehicle?

Having time away from your baby when they first arrive is unlikely to cross your mind. Your first few weeks together are a precious time for bonding and trying to develop a new routine. But at some point, you will feel ready to leave your baby with their grandparents or a friend.

Therefore, when shopping for a car seat, you will need to keep this in mind. It will not only need to fit your car. But also family and friends who will be looking after your child.

7. How long can a baby stay in a car seat?

It is important to remember that car seats are designed to keep babies safe while travelling and not as somewhere for them to sleep when outside of the car. The Lullaby Trust recommends that babies should not be in a car seat for longer than 2 hours at a time. And they should be taken out frequently.

They also advise that when travelling in a car with an infant, an adult should be sat in the back of the car with them to ensure they’re safe
and comfortable.

 📷 @lullabytrust

📷 @lullabytrust

8. The benefits of a rear-facing car seat

Ultimately, rear-facing car seats are much-safer and offer better protection than forward-facing car seats. It’s also a legal requirement for children under 15 months to travel rear-facing.

9. Practice fitting the seat before your baby is born

Leaving the hospital to return home for the first time with your new arrival is a special moment for all parents. You will be filled with a range of emotions, ranging from excitement to nerves. It’s completely normal to feel nervous or anxious about the start of your new journey with your little one.

One thing that you don’t want to have to worry about when leaving the hospital or birth centre is fitting your baby’s car seat for the first time.

10. Babies are more vulnerable to injury than adults

When choosing a car seat for your baby, their safety should be at the forefront of your mind. Babies need protection that adults don’t. This is because of their physical traits, such as their proportions.

Travelling with a baby can be quite a daunting thought when you consider the day-to-day essentials this tiny human needs. Add to this the sun, an unfamiliar environment and time spent on a plane with a fussy baby, you have enough reasons to avoid booking a holiday altogether. However, we're here to take any anxieties you may have about travelling abroad and replace them with excitement about creating lasting memories with your little one.

Plan Ahead

Just like you would plan for a trip to grandma's or a stroll around the park. Going on holiday is no different, it just requires a little more thought. The more careful planning you do before your departure date will make for a more relaxing holiday for the whole family. Our list of baby holiday essentials will help you begin to develop a checklist of everything your baby will need during your trip away.

Doona Car Seat

The Doona Car Seat is a holiday must-have. It is the world's first complete and fully integrated travel system, allowing you to move from car seat to stroller in seconds. Not only is it practical, but it has been designed alongside medical and engineering experts to ensure that the baby's body is properly supported in the correct ergonomic position. Furthermore, it is TUV and FAA Aircraft Approved for travel. So, whether you are wandering along the promenade or exploring in a rental car, the Doona has everything you need to keep your baby safe and supported.

📷 @jessimalay

Sun Protection

It is important to keep your baby out of the sun as much as possible while on holiday. The NHS states that babies under the age of 6 months should not be in the sun at all, and babies over the age of 6 months should be kept out of the midday sun between 11am and 3pm. However, sun protection doesn't just include using an appropriate sunscreen. You should also consider buying a suitable sun cover for the stroller. The Doona 350° Car Seat Sun and Insect Protection Net has been created to protect against direct sunlight and insects.

First Aid Kit

A first aid kit is a baby holiday essential that should be a priority on your checklist. Hopefully, you will not need it, but it is better to have it on hand should it be required. As recommended by the NHS, your first aid kit should contain paracetamol suspension, ibuprofen suspension, barrier cream, a thermometer and rehydration sachets.

Changing Mat

Make sure your holiday is as stress-free as possible with a quality changing mat. This baby holiday essential will ensure that each nappy change is on a hygienic surface and involves as little mess as possible. Any accidents can easily be wiped clean on a waterproof changing mat. During your time away, you may want to explore outside of the hotel. Therefore, a changing mat is a must-have for when you are unsure what facilities the local restaurants and shops have. 

A Bag for Essentials

Whether you are spending the day around the pool or heading out to explore, you will need a bag to store your baby's essentials. We recommend making an alternative checklist dedicated to this bag, so you always have everything you need nearby. There is nothing more annoying than having to return to your hotel room to grab something that has slipped your mind. Some items you may want to consider for the bag are sunscreen, muslins and swim nappies.

Travel Cot

Although some holiday accommodations provide a travel cot, you will need to check beforehand. Remember to pack a cot sheet to make sure that your little one has a comfortable night's sleep. Don't worry if your hotel doesn't provide a travel cot as they are lightweight and easy to pack away. They are also an investment as they will come in handy for any future holidays or trips away.

Time to Make Some Memories

Now that you have put together your checklist of baby holiday essentials, it is time to make the most of your time away from home together. Remember to take lots of pictures and enjoy every moment!

Check out our 7 sleep safety tips to reduce the risk of SIDS. Share our blog or use the downloads to promote Safer Sleep Week to raise awareness of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. 

You won’t be surprised to learn that having a baby comes with a lot of new “stuff”. It can be hard to work out which items are essential. Read on to discover the essentials. 

Find out which nursery furniture you'll need for a newborn baby. Plus a list of useful additional accessories you might not have considered yet.

Gender neutral nursery furniture designs are becoming increasingly popular for multiple reasons. See our gender neutral products. 

Though it might not seem like it to sleep-deprived mothers, babies sleep most of the time during their first 2 years. Making Cot beds important.