Growing up together

Breast milk is the best food for babies, and exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first 6 months. Breastfeeding is a skill that mother and baby learn together, and early difficulties are very common.

• Newborns usually feed 8–12 times a day, whenever they are hungry.
• Your baby should take in a large mouthful of breast, not just the nipple.
• Regular wet nappies and steady weight gain are good signs that your baby is feeding well.

If you have pain, hard areas or any worries, ask a midwife, health visitor or breastfeeding specialist; most problems are easier to solve with early support.

Solid foods are usually introduced at around 6 months. Your baby may be ready if they can sit with support, hold their head steady and show interest in food.

• At first the aim is to explore tastes and textures, not to fill up; start with a few spoonfuls.
• Starting with vegetables can help babies accept bitter and sour tastes too.
• Introduce new foods one at a time, a few days apart.
• Don’t add salt or sugar to baby food, and don’t give honey before 12 months.

Please talk to your doctor or health visitor before starting solids.

After 6 months your baby’s need for iron increases. Mashed pulses, well-cooked egg, meat and fish are good iron-containing foods at this stage.

• Move from smooth purées to mashed food, then to small soft pieces.
• Avoid whole grapes, whole nuts and other choking hazards; cut round foods lengthways into quarters.
• Always sit your baby upright and stay with them while they eat.

From 6 months you can offer a few sips of water from an open or free-flow cup with meals.

• Cow’s milk should not be the main drink before 12 months, though it can be used in small amounts in cooking.
• Choose water rather than fruit juice or sugary drinks.
• Drinking from a cup is a good habit for mouth development and teeth.

Routine matters for toddlers: three meals and two small snacks a day is a good starting point for most children.

• Let your child decide how much to eat; try not to insist on finishing the plate.
• A new food may need to be offered 10–15 times before it is accepted, so be patient.
• Eating together and following your example is the strongest way to build good habits.
• Choose conversation at the table over screens.

Always put your baby to sleep on their back, on a firm, flat mattress. Keep pillows, duvets, bumpers and toys out of the cot.

• For the first 6 months, the safest place for your baby to sleep is in a cot in the same room as you.
• Keep the room cool and avoid overwrapping.
• A short, repeated evening routine such as a bath, a story and dim lights can help your baby settle.

Sleep patterns vary a lot between babies; talk to your doctor or health visitor if you are worried.

A little preparation makes travelling with a baby much easier.

• Keep feeds, water, a change of clothes and nappies in an easy-to-reach bag.
• Rather than storing made-up formula during a journey, prepare it when needed, following the pack instructions.
• Keep babies under 6 months out of direct sunlight; use shade, a hat and light long-sleeved clothing.
• Take regular breaks on long journeys and make sure your baby has plenty to drink.

Baby skin is thinner than adult skin and dries out more easily.

• For newborns, a few short baths a week in lukewarm water are usually enough.
• Choose fragrance-free products with simple ingredients, and try any new product on a small area first.
• Change nappies often to keep the nappy area dry.

If redness, dryness or a rash doesn’t settle, talk to your doctor.

Pregnancy isn’t about eating for two; it’s about eating a varied, balanced diet.

• Aim for plenty of vegetables, fruit, wholegrains and enough protein.
• Avoid raw or undercooked meat and eggs, and unpasteurised dairy.
• Limit your caffeine intake.
• Take supplements such as folic acid as advised by your doctor or midwife.

Always make decisions about your diet and supplements together with your doctor or midwife.

The weeks after birth are intense, physically and emotionally. Asking for help isn’t a weakness; it’s good for the whole family.

• Try to rest when your baby sleeps.
• Ask family and friends to help with household tasks.
• Keep eating regularly and drinking enough water.

If you feel low, anxious or exhausted for a long time, please talk to your doctor or health visitor; support is always available.

• Feeling thirsty while breastfeeding is normal; keep a glass of water nearby.
• Keep eating a varied, regular diet.
• Check any medicines or supplements with your doctor or pharmacist.