12 Benefits of Breastfeeding for both mother and baby

Nutritional Benefits:

Breast milk is the perfect food for a baby, providing all the necessary vitamins, minerals, and nutrients for growth and development. The composition of breast milk changes over time to meet the changing needs of the baby. It is also easier to digest than formula and contains antibodies to protect the baby from illnesses and infections. Breastfeeding can also reduce the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other chronic diseases later in life.

Bonding

Breastfeeding creates a strong bond between mother and baby through skin-to-skin contact and the release of hormones such as oxytocin. This hormone is sometimes referred to as the “love hormone” and helps to create a sense of comfort and security for the baby. This bond can also help the mother to feel more confident and secure in her role as a mother.

Healthier Uterus

Breastfeeding helps the uterus return to its normal size after giving birth, which can reduce the risk of postpartum bleeding and help the mother recover more quickly. It also helps to release the hormone prolactin, which promotes feelings of relaxation and reduces stress levels.

Weight Loss

Breastfeeding burns calories, which can help the mother lose weight gained during pregnancy. It also releases hormones that regulate hunger and metabolism, making it easier for the mother to control her weight.

Lower Cancer Risk

Breastfeeding has been shown to lower the risk of breast and ovarian cancer in mothers. This is believed to be due to the hormonal changes that occur during breastfeeding and the removal of potentially cancer-causing substances from the body.

Cost-effective

Formula can be expensive, especially if a baby requires a specialized formula. Breastfeeding, on the other hand, is completely free and requires no additional expenses. It also saves time, as there is no need to prepare bottles or clean and sterilize equipment.

Convenience

Breastfeeding requires no preparation, making it convenient for mothers who are on the go. It can also be done anywhere, at any time, without the need for additional supplies or equipment.

Better Sleep

Breastfeeding releases hormones that help the mother and baby relax and sleep, making it easier for both to get the rest they need. This can also help to reduce stress and anxiety levels in both mother and baby.

Fewer Allergies

Breastfeeding has been shown to reduce the risk of allergies and asthma in babies. This is believed to be due to the transfer of antibodies and immune cells from the mother to the baby through breast milk.

Increased Intelligence

Studies have shown that breastfed babies have higher IQs and perform better in school than formula-fed babies. This is thought to be due to the positive impact of the nutrients and hormones in breast milk on brain development.

Better Dental Health

Breastfeeding can improve oral health by promoting the growth of jaw bones and improving the way the jaw is positioned. It can also reduce the risk of developing cavities and other dental problems later in life.

Reduced Risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

SIDS is the sudden and unexplained death of an infant under one year of age. While the exact cause of SIDS is unknown, research has shown that breastfeeding can reduce the risk of SIDS. This is thought to be due to the immune-boosting properties of breast milk and respiratory problems in breastfed infants. Breastfeeding has also been shown to improve the baby’s sleep patterns, reducing the risk of SIDS.

How to Breastfeed and Proper way to Breastfeed

Breastfeeding can be a wonderful experience for both mother and baby, but it can also be challenging for first-time mothers. Here are some tips for successful breastfeeding:

1. Find a comfortable position: Experiment with different positions until you find one that is comfortable for you and your baby. Some popular positions include the cradle hold, cross-cradle hold, and side-lying position.
2. Latch correctly: A proper latch is essential for successful breastfeeding. Your baby’s mouth should be wide open, with the bottom lip turned down and the top lip curled back, to ensure that the entire areola is in the baby’s mouth.
3. Pay attention to hunger cues: Watch for your baby’s hunger cues, such as rooting, sucking on their hands, or making sucking noises. These cues indicate that your baby is ready to feed.
4. Let your baby set the pace: Your baby will let you know when they are full. Do not force your baby to finish a feeding if they seem satisfied.
5. Alternate breasts: Alternating breasts during each feeding can help to ensure that both breasts are emptied and can help to prevent engorgement or clogged ducts.
6. Offer both breasts: Offer both breasts during each feeding, even if your baby only feeds on one breast. This will help to keep your milk supply balanced.
7. Use breast massage: If you are experiencing engorgement or clogged ducts, using gentle breast massage can help to release the milk and promote circulation.
8. Avoid using pacifiers: Pacifiers can interfere with the baby’s ability to effectively latch and can reduce the baby’s interest in breastfeeding.
9. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is essential for maintaining a healthy milk supply.
10. Seek support: If you are experiencing difficulties with breastfeeding, seek support from a lactation consultant, a breastfeeding support group, or your healthcare provider.

It is important to remember that breastfeeding can take time and practice to get used to. Every mother and baby is different, so what works for one mother may not work for another. With the right support and perseverance, most mothers can successfully breastfeed their babies and enjoy the many benefits it provides.

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How Much Sleep Does a Kindergarten Child Need?

According to the National Sleep Foundation, Kindergarten children need between 11 and 13 hours of sleep each night. This sleep time is essential for the growth and development of their bodies and minds, and helps support healthy habits, including physical activity and good eating habits.

Consistent Bedtime and Wake-Up Time for Better Sleep

Consistency is key when it comes to children’s sleep patterns. That’s why it’s important for parents to establish a consistent bedtime and wake-up time for their kids. This helps regulate the child’s biological clock and improve sleep quality.

Relaxing Bedtime Routine for Better Sleep

In addition to a consistent sleep schedule, a relaxing bedtime routine can also help improve children’s sleep quality. This can include activities such as reading a book or taking a bath, which signal to the child that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep.

Comfortable Sleep Environment for Better Sleep

Creating a comfortable sleep environment is also important for children’s sleep quality. A quiet, cool, and dark room can help children fall asleep faster and stay asleep throughout the night. In addition, limiting exposure to electronic screens, such as televisions, smartphones, and tablets, before bedtime can help prevent sleep problems and improve sleep quality.

Physical Activity and Diet for Better Sleep

Physical activity and diet also play a role in children’s sleep patterns. Engaging in physical activity and maintaining a healthy diet during the day can help children fall asleep faster, stay asleep, and wake up feeling refreshed.

Conclusion: Helping Kindergarten Children Get the Sleep They Need

In conclusion, Kindergarten children need between 11 and 13 hours of sleep each night to support their physical, cognitive, and emotional development. By maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, relaxing bedtime routine, comfortable sleep environment, and limiting exposure to electronic screens, parents can help their kids get the quality sleep they need. By doing so, they will be setting the foundation for a healthy and happy future for their children.

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“We cannot play with them. They cannot play here. This is our space. They can play near theirs” she said. I was appalled!  Another child walked up to me and said the same thing “Aunty, we don’t play with them”. I tried calling the girls from the other building but they were too shy to talk to me. I was surprised to see such groupism in kids. But I knew where all this had started from…Both these buildings are in a common compound  but there has been some property and boundary related disputes which would have often come up in their homes in their parents’ conversations. I believe the kids’opinions were shaped accordingly and the feud between adults extended to become the feud between kids.

I discussed this with my husband at night and he said – that is why education should begin at home. That got me thinking. Do I make the same mistake? How do I interact with others?  Am I setting a good example for my child?

What a child thinks and how he shapes up depends to a great extent on the relationships and the conversations he witnesses in his own house. Today, we live in a world divided due to  financial , caste , religious differences etc. but we as a parent should strive to teach our child to not judge others unfairly , have an open mind and be a kind person. After all, today’s kids are tomorrow’s young people who will shape our world.

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It (Anxiety) is really not worth it.

Anxiety among parents is very common. The anxiety comes out in different ways. I yell at my daughter for no reason. I pick fights with my partner. I get depressed and prefer to remain in bed. The head and every other part of me seems to cry in pain. My work suffers and more. It is draining. It is really not worth it.

Here are some habits and routines that make me anxious. Being aware of them help me handle anxiety. (Yes, on somedays it is a losing battle I wage trying to fight anxiety but I still fight on.)

Sleep Habits

The arrival of a baby changes sleep patterns. But at many households, long after the baby starts sleeping through the night, the parents remain awake. It is the time for chores, TV, that glass of wine, personal time and more. Having regular sleep habits helps manage anxiety. Getting 7-8 hours of sleep everyday does make a difference.

Sustenance

Often I forget to eat. Racing against the clock is a norm and often we end up developing bad eating habits.  Many of us tend to binge eat or skip meals. Meals in front of the computer and TV, endless cups of caffeine are all norm. Making sure that you eat three square meals (or six small meals) filled with healthy choices helps one tackle anxiety. A full tummy makes a happy person.

Your Phone

We also depend on our phones more than ever. We are constantly overloaded with information, most of which make us anxious. Screen-based entertainment and social media, while interesting and educative can also depress and make us anxious. Next time, you are waiting or bored, don’t pull out your phone. Put it away and use it only as needed. Instead hum a song, watch the road, read a book or simply, close your eyes and rest!

Caffeine Overload

Caffeine does improve short-term memory and keeps us focused on the tasks at hand, but it also can make people jittery, nervous and irritable. Coffee also dehydrates the body. Restricting caffeine consumption is an easy way to get your anxiety under control.

TV As Entertainment

Snuggling on the couch with the TV streaming the latest, seems like a relaxing activity but recent studies have shown that people who spend more than two hours a day watching television are more anxious and depressed. Entertainment, like everything else, is best in small quantities.

Work-Life Balance

We live in a world where we don’t have concept of clocking out. We are constantly checking our emails and answering work calls. Work sneaks into our personal lives and leaves us irritated and anxious. Try to stop working when you step out of work (or have set hours if you freelance/work from home.) Put work thoughts away and balance life.

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Parenting your child: Why do we react?

My daughter’s perception of me doesn’t have make me a ‘good’ or a ‘bad’ mother. This is where most of us mothers judge ourselves too harshly, I think. Parenting your child isn’t an easy process.

How my daughter sees my parenting is her own experience and I don’t have to justify it. But I can learn about myself through her experience, and respond in an appropriate way, rather than judging myself as a mother (in terms of success or failure).

What is the difference between a reaction and a response?

Reacting means noticing only the superficial elements of a problem. Responding is to address the actual issue at hand. It is fascinating to watch what children think of us or themselves in certain situations.

These opportunities are invaluable for my learning and growth. Am I willing to listen without judging myself or my child, and instead develop curiosity about who I am? Making this commitment is critical in these moments of disagreement or conflict.

The work of Carl Rogers, Haim Ginot, Thomas Gordon, Kabat-Zin, Kristin Neff and Brene Brown has facilitated this process for me. I am looking forward to sharing these ideas with mothers who are also reflecting about these matters.

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