After reading the blog post by Sarah Ockwell Smith on how dangerous she thinks teaching babies to self-soothe is, I felt I had to respond.
You can't compare teaching a baby to self-soothe and learning to fall asleep independently, to the stress and trauma that a neglected or abused child will be going through, or babies in Romanian orphanages, which are both comparisons she makes.
The links to the research she provides, are all about babies who have been subject to the trauma of neglect, or major emotional stress, like losing a parent for example.
That is completely different to short term sleep training, with reassurance from parents, as it is done.
Toddler FAQ’s
After asking for opinions on my Facebook Page for ideas on blog posts to write, there were quite a few toddler related questions. Therefore, I decided it would be easier if I just did a quick Q and A blog post that answered the most common queries that are sent to me via message and email each day.
At what age should I begin toilet training?
- There is no specific age to begin. It's about noticing signs as to when your toddler is ready. This usually happens between the ages of 2-3 years old as a general rule but can be earlier with some toddlers and later with others. Full details of the signs and how to toilet train without stress can be found in chapter 6 of my toddler book.
Sibling rivalry and how to help prevent or calm it
Encouraging your children to get on can be one of the hardest tasks at times, but equally will be one of the most rewarding to witness when they do play together nicely and help and support each other.
Introducing a new sibling to your firstborn is a sensitive task. They have got used to being the centre of your world and are now expected to share you with someone else. It's understandable that they may become upset and frustrated about their new siblings' arrival and empathizing with that is important to be able to work on, building a good relationship between your children. [Read more...]
Raising money for Children’s and Teenage Cancer
On Saturday 23rd September I will be doing the Cancer Research Shine walk Half Marathon and walking 13 Miles along the streets of London on a dedicated route, with my husband, brother in law and sister in law.
Developing Speech and Language
There are many things that can influence and determine how quickly your childs speech develops as they transition from being a baby to a toddler [Read more...]
Slow down…..
Slow down
It seems like only a few months ago that my husband and I became parents for the first time and we drove slowly home from the hospital, with our brand new baby boy strapped safely in. [Read more...]
Baby Acne
Infant acne affects around 40% of newborns according to the NHS website, although in my experiences with the hundreds of babies I have worked with, I would say the figure is much higher than that and very common with the majority of babies. I have only had 2 babies in my whole career (including my own 3 children,) who weren't affected by it. [Read more...]
New baby-4th trimester
Bringing your baby home from the hospital for the first time can be very daunting and can create feelings of anxiety in parents. No matter how prepared you may have felt before the birth, suddenly you are completely responsible for this little person and that can feel overwhelming.
It's ok to admit you are scared (even terrified!) It's ok to ask for and accept help. That doesn't mean you are failing as a parent, more, it shows strength and love for your baby that you want to do your best for them.
Listen to advice from trusted family members or friends, read books to help guide you if you want to, but ultimately, TRUST YOUR INSTINCT and go with what you and your partner feel are right for you all as a family. [Read more...]