Changing with the times

Thanks to research, there have been significant changes to Child and Family Health practices over the years, particularly in the areas of breastfeeding, settling baby and mental health.

Breastfeeding

• Breastmilk is considered the best food for your baby and mothers are encouraged to exclusively breastfeed until their babies are 6 months of age.
• Generally very young babies feed every three to five hours and older babies, every four hours, but this can and does vary enormously. Importantly, there is no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ way. The important thing is to make sure that your baby is gaining weight.
• NSW Health recommends that babies do not start solid foods prior to six months of age.

When putting baby to sleep

• Baby should always be put to sleep on his/her back to prevent Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
• Tresillian does not advocate or in any way endorse ‘Controlled Crying’. Babies of any age should not be left to cry.
• Comfort an upset baby with a hug and try to re-settle.

Mental well-being

Research shows that both parents are susceptible to emotional distress and sometimes longer lasting mental health problems. Be aware of the mood of the new mum and dad and encourage them to talk about how they are feeling.

Finally, be careful about giving advice and remember times have changed since you had your children.

Home Safety

Your house may not be childproof. When your first grandchild is very young check that poisons (from medicines to dishwashing powders) are out of reach and that china and special items are put away during visits. If you don’t have a pool fence, now is the time to invest in one, or check that the existing fence is in good repair.