Any breastfeeding mother will tell you there are just some things she wish she knew sooner – like breastfeeding hacks or tips and tricks that make nursing a little easier. Because let’s face it, breastfeeding can come with its share of challenges.

Download the BREASTFEEDING TRACKER to better manage your baby’s feeding sessions!

Genius Breastfeeding Hacks

Today I’m sharing a few nursing tips moms will truly appreciate, from best ways to store breast milk and increase milk supply to relieving engorgement and pumping like a pro (and BONUS: Watch a quick video with 5 additional breastfeeding tricks at the end of this post!)

Such genius ways to make breastfeeding easier and a must-read for moms who feed on demand or moms who want to keep baby full.

How to help make breastfeeding easier

First, let me just say nursing is not always an easy endeavor. Sure it’s what the experts say is best for baby, but sometimes we encounter many breastfeeding challenges along the way that don’t always make it a very long experience for moms.

So anything that can make that process a little easier in the day to day (like this sanity-saving nursing/baby basket you can tote from room to room – yes, I wish I had one sooner!) is a God-send.

I breastfed all three of my boys (even nursed during the hottest, uncomfortable weather!) and each experience was a little different — a learning curve for the baby as well. But there were several things that made it a success for me that I want to share.

Feeding on demand

Feeding my baby on demand meant just that. Anytime baby would show hunger cues, like rooting or smacking his lips together I would let him breastfeed. Many people choose to follow a 3-4 hour window feeding schedule, but I found that bringing the breast to baby whenever he showed the signs helped me cater to his developmental and nutritional needs. For two of my kids, this meant feeding very frequently for 1-2 hours or so. It was exhausting, but that initial schedule helped breastfeeding become second-nature for both me and baby.

Hydrating

When you’re breastfeeding, it’s essential to keep hydrated. Your body is working extra hard to produce fluids to nourish baby with. Drinking lots of water was key to produce more breast milk. This was something I always tried to do while nursing. During the day I made sure I was drinking plenty of water and kept a non-toxic water container at my bedside when I really needed it. The reason I recommend getting a reusable water bottle is because a.) it makes refilling super easy throughout the day b.) you can avoid any BPA-related toxins that some plastic bottles may contain AND c.) it gives you a visual tracker and reminder of when you need to re-fill throughout the day!

Support

Finally, another key factor that helped make breastfeeding easier was the support I had. My spouse encouraged it because of the all the health benefits (and of course this freed up some of his time hehe) and my sisters and mom provided priceless advice from what pump to use to what creams and foods to eat to help the production coming — this helped immensely when it was time to build up a stock for when I needed to be away from baby for a day!

NOTE: If you don’t have a support group, please join our >>breastfeeding mama tribe << to ask any questions! 

Keep these tips in mind throughout your breastfeeding journey AND let your family know their support means the world. Plus, if they are looking for gift ideas for the breastfeeding mom you can direct them to this post with unique ideas!

Breastfeeding Tips and Hacks New Moms Need

Read More: Pumping Hacks for the Breastfeeding Mom

Find a nurse-friendly shirt.

To make breastfeeding doable, when you may want a little more privacy you’ll need a nursing cover. If you don’t have one handy, a nurse-friendly shirt is the quick solution.

Try the two-shirt method so you literally just have to lift one shirt up to feed baby. Since you have that second shirt underneath, no more exposing your whole tummy. This also helps a nursing mother feel more comfortable when she has the top shirt covering the top portion of the breast.

This is the method I use now with my third baby, but I didn’t even think of this simple strategy the first time around. I depended on this nursing top that basically used that two-shirt principle, however. Whatever you choose, this is one tip you must keep in mind!!

Use a scarf as a nursing cover.

Another great alternative to a nursing cover or nursing shirt is an infinity scarf. These things are so amazing — not only are they a fun way to dress up an ordinary outfit (new mom clothes aren’t always the greatest), they make it super easy to get a little privacy for nursing in public!

Try the hairband hack.

A pediatrician shared this great nursing tip with me. When you are feeding baby at night and switching from one boob to the other, it’s easy to forget which breast you last fed from. Wearing a hair band on the breast you are feeding on helps to remind an exhausted new mom what side she should start feeding from for her next session. (The nursing clips that attach to the bra are another option to help you remember!)

If you don’t know why this is important you may want to read my post about keeping a breastfed baby full.

Stock up on nursing pads.

Every nursing mother will experience that moment of let down. When it’s time for a feeding and your milk comes out with or WITHOUT baby around. I’ve lost count on the number of times I had to toss another soaked shirt into the laundry basket or feel a little mortified when out in public without breast pads. Whether you like the disposable or washable kind, nursing pads make your life a LOT easier…can help you avoid embarrassing situations!

Purchase milk savers.

I WISH I knew about these when I first started nursing. Simply attach the milk savers to your bra to catch any otherwise-wasted-excess milk you release with the opposite breast during/after a feeding session. These would have made it so much easier to build up a milk stash for bottles. And any nursing mom will tell you how painful it is to see their precious breast milk go to waste.

Use soda boxes to store breast milk.

I definitely had a case of buyer’s remorse with a number of baby products I purchased for my kids. Extra baby bottles and storing containers topped the list. Because I rarely used them or I could have gone the DIY route with soda can boxes.

Use cabbage to alleviate engorgement.

Breast engorgement is a very painful feeling many breastfeeding moms experience either when they are between feedings, away from baby or just have to stop nursing baby and begin the weaning process. Cold cabbage leaves are a homemade relief option many moms swear by!

Carry a nursing or teething necklace.

I never gave much thought to this, until I experienced the inevitable baby grab. You know…when your little bundle of joy decides to squeeze your breast with all his might and dig those little nails into you. OUCH!

Wearing a nursing necklace is a great way to keep those wandering hands full and make for a little less painful feeding.

I LOVED this teething necklace because it kept baby occupied and mama, mostly pain-free!

Make a Pumping Bra

I missed the memo on those pumping bras for nursing moms the first time I created a baby registry. It definitely was frustrating to have to juggle bottles of milk and just sit in a chair listening to the whirring of a pump when I wanted to do things…anything than just sit there with my hands occupied. Little did I know I could have just used an old sports bra and got a little crafty like this gal who created her own hands-free pumping bra – genius!

Lactation Stimulating Smoothies

Of course, healthy food consumption can be a great way to boost your milk production — even as your pregnancy reaches it’s full-term. Fruit-filled smoothies made with natural oats are a very easy and yummy way to help with milk production. I love this lactation smoothie perfect for the nursing mother!

Related: Pregnancy Hacks to Make Life Easier for Mom-to-be

BONUS HACK: Use a Feeding Tracker

When you need to keep better track of when baby last fed (for yourself or pediatrician visits), use a breastfeeding track like the one below. You can easily note which side of your breasts you last fed from which will help you identify if baby is full or not (and therefore fussy!). It will also help you look for signs of colic and gas as you make notes about the baby’s mood and behavior after each feeding. You can also track wet and soiled diapers!

CLICK THE IMAGE TO DOWNLOAD THE BREASTFEEDING SUCCESS KIT TO BETTER MANAGE FEEDINGS!

 And if you need breastfeeding tips when you’re just getting started, my friends from Milkology are offering an online Breastfeeding Course worth checking out!

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Get more breastfeeding tips:

• Breastfeeding Pros and Cons Moms Should Know
• 10 Breastfeeding Tips to Succeed the First Few Days at Home
• Simple Tool to Reduce the Overwhelm for Breastfeeding Moms
• Super Useful and Practical Gift Ideas for Nursing Moms

Ana @ Mommy's Bundle

Ana, a mom to three rambunctious little boys, has supported hundreds of thousands of women throughout their pregnancy and motherhood journey since 2012 as a blogger and maternal health advocate at MommysBundle.com.

mommysbundle.com

The post 10 Breastfeeding Hacks the Nursing Mom Needs in Her Life appeared first on Mommy's Bundle.

If you’re newly pregnant and asking yourself whether there are skincare or beauty products in your everyday beauty regimen to avoid, the answer is a resounding YES. Well, at least in the first trimester.

But if you search online or ask the experts, you will find an overwhelming amount of differing opinions on this topic.  Some look at their own parents or family members with kids and say that all turned out fine despite the use of every product out there. Others point to new research that links various household chemicals and products to birth defects and stress the importance of going organic or avoiding each and every product in question.

Related: Pregnancy-Safety: Everything You Need to Avoid

My opinion on the matter?  I simply say why not meet somewhere in the middle and (while not limiting yourself completely), do all you can to prevent your unborn child from having any major issues…especially during the first trimester when baby’s organs are starting to develop and are the most vulnerable.

Here are my picks for pregnancy-safe beauty products:

This post may contain affiliate links.

Related: What to do when you know you’re pregnant

1. Non-Whitening Toothpaste

Didn’t think your toothpaste mattered? Well, look a bit closer.  Toothpaste often contains whitening chemicals — strong chemicals that are potentially harmful to your baby that can even cause you teeth and gum sensitivity (something pregnant women often already suffer from).  Therefore when choosing a toothpaste safe for pregnancy, you really want to stick to the basics here and choose a paste free of any dental bleaching or whitening agents.  I like a really great, yet simple toothpaste brand like Colgate — the type with just the basic cavity protection.

Note: Most toothpastes contain SLS a chemical which is often confused with a related cleaning chemical called sodium laureth sulfate, or SLES. It’s important to note the difference and steer clear of the latter cleaning chemical (SLES). Don’t forget to check your body wash and shampoo for SLES free. Download the printable at the end of this post to help you know which chemicals to avoid!

2. Chemical-Free Deodorant Safe for Pregnant Women

Most people don’t know it but the majority of deodorants and antiperspirants out there contain aluminum zirconium — a very dangerous chemical for pregnant and nursing mothers.  The chemical which can pass through the mother’s skin upon application, has been linked to a number of issues in fetuses. Pretty scary!

Despite knowing that strong perfumes should be avoided, I actually wasn’t aware of this one myself until an older sister pointed it out.  Phew!  

Luckily, one natural brand that is aluminum-free is Tom’s of Maine — you can go with the unscented kind or a lightly fresh scent that gets the job done just as well as any other brand. I usually go with the lavender scent since it keeps me a little more relaxed during pregnancy.

Another chemical-free deodorant that is safe to use during pregnancy is Earth Mama Organics. The line offers a super special formulation in four scents including:

• GingerAid Deodorant,
• Bright Citrus Deodorant,
• Natural Non-Scents Deodorant,
• Calming Lavender Deodorant

NOTE: Use our printable checklist below to track all the toxic ingredients to avoid in your skincare and beauty products!

3. Gentle Cleansers/Neutrogena Naturals

This is a big one.  Most beauty products (and cleansers especially), contain a handful of severe chemicals that need to be avoided during pregnancy.  You may have heard of the culprits: sulfates, parabens, petrochemicals, phthalates etc.  These are chemicals that have been linked to some issues in fetuses and should, therefore, be used with caution.

Armed with such knowledge, I try to avoid these harmful agents all together and look for a pregnancy-proof face cleanser like Neutrogena Naturals.  This cleanser is not only free of harsh chemicals but it also leaves my face feeling fresh and clean.

4. Aquaphor / Safe Skincare for Pregnant Women

Aquaphor is just one of those products you will fall in love with!  I did when I came to rely on it as my daily lip treatment during pregnancy #1.  Why is that?  One of the many issues that expectant mothers  experience is dry skin — especially chapped, cracked or even bleeding lips!  Aquaphor works to repair that irritated skin with enriched shea butter, soothing chamomile and Vitamins C and E.  It is fragrance-free, preservative-free, and dye free! I typically get a large jar for baby, a medium-size one to keep in the bathroom and a mini one for on-the-go use. (Amazon typically has 20% coupon for the first order!)

Read: The Best Gift Ideas for an Expectant or New Mom

5. Gentle, pregnancy-safe moisturizer

Aveeno has always been one of my moisturizers of choice even before pregnancy. For starters, it contains natural ingredients and is both hypoallergenic and noncomedogenic — something a breakout-prone individual looks for.  However, and more importantly, it is free of the most dangerous chemicals in many skin treatments.  Chemicals like salicylic acids and retinoids that have been closely linked to birth defects. Pregnancy is definitely not the time to use the harshest of chemicals. There are various lines of Aveeno products, always check the ingredients to make sure you have the best options.

6. Pregnancy-friendly body lotion

Ever tried cocoa butter? Besides the obvious fact that cocoa butter works wonders for dry skin, I love the advanced formula equipped with bio c-elaste that is especially made to treat and prevent stretch marks!  And yes, we all know stretch marks can be genetic, but why not try to prevent any new ones from forming if you can? Palmer’s Cocoa Butter is dermatologist tested and both paraben and phylate – free!

I used this lotion religiously on my growing belly during the first pregnancy and it definitely did its job…but a word to the wise: don’t be afraid to use it everywhere!!

7. Formaldehyde-free hair detangler

The Wet Brush is my FAVORITE. Okay, so this one is more of a hair tool, but also a must toiletry item I used to replace my chemically-heavy detangler and leave-in-conditioner.  The “Wet” Brush is one of the best detangling brushes I’ve used to date. Because I have naturally wavy/curly hair that I often straighten, I needed to find a safe solution to reduce the knots and breakage I often experienced. This brush was able to unravel my toughest tangles without me resorting to using any harsh chemicals or conditioning treatments. You can buy the brush here.

8. Sulfate-free, Non-toxic Shampoo/Conditioner for Pregnancy

Finding a pregnancy-safe shampoo was never something that really crossed my mind with my first child.  I mostly avoided the big hair no-no’s like color treatments and chemical straightening procedures that contain formaldehyde, but I didn’t really think twice about shampoo for pregnancy.  But of course, the more I looked into this one I found another long list of questionable chemicals already being used in the most popular shampoos and conditioners available. So with this one I honestly tried not to worry too much. I just made sure to use a product that was sulfate-free. I chose to alternate between Dove and Aveeno shampoos as I found them to be the most skin/hair-friendly.

Although it’s impossible to really avoid every harsh chemical out there, I do believe it is wise to make small changes here and there as life permits to give your new little bundle of joy the best shot at life.

Want a more comprehensive guide? Click below to get our Pregnancy Safety Pack with the TOP foods, chemicals and activities you need to avoid for a healthy pregnancy –>

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Did you make any major changes to your daily beauty routine while pregnant?

Read more pregnancy posts here:

Ana @ Mommy's Bundle

Ana, a mom to three rambunctious little boys, has supported hundreds of thousands of women throughout their pregnancy and motherhood journey since 2012 as a blogger and maternal health advocate at MommysBundle.com.

mommysbundle.com

The post 8 Pregnancy-Safe Beauty Products Every Expectant Mother Needs appeared first on Mommy's Bundle.

And that’s exactly what I’ve rounded up today: baby items that make a heck of a difference in the day-to-day when you’re juggling life with a toddler and baby and simply struggling with the basics, and ready to pull out your hair!

Check out all of these very cool baby products below…I’m sure you’ll find something you wish you had sooner!

This post may contain affiliate links.

1. Woombie Swaddle

Let’s start with the basics. You’re home with a new baby and haven’t quite mastered the swaddle. No need to fret. It does take a bit of practice (even if those nurses in the hospital made it look easy-peasy!). This Woombie Swaddle is your solution. Not only does it keep baby safe and warm, but it also keeps your baby’s arms down to prevent the startle reflex which can keep them up at night. Win-win!2. Onesie with Shoulder Flaps

Ever wonder about the purpose of those shoulder flaps adorning most onesies? They aren’t just a fashion statement! These bad boys help you handle those unexpected diaper blowouts. You simply pull the onesie flaps down each arm working your way towards the tushie, instead of the opposite direction! You can pretty much find this design everywhere these days, but here’s a super cute one moms can’t seem to get enough of.3. WubbaNub Infant Pacifier

I recently discovered this genius invention that provides a new mama with much relief! I’m sure you know what I’m talking about. When baby just needs to be comforted but the darn paci won’t stay put. Instead of hovering over to pop it back in place, use the WubbaNub pacifier. This sanity-saving “toy” acts as a weight to help keep the paci in place for longer, happy sucking!4. Keep-it-Kleen Pacifier

Hailed as the only pacifier that closes as it drops, the Keep-it-Kleen Pacifier is another product to help mommy stop stressing the small stuff. No more running to the kitchen to sanitize that binky every 5 minutes. Another amazing invention you can buy here!

5. Leg Warmers

Most newborns go through about 8-12 diapers a day; that number may drop a bit as baby grows, but it’s still pretty significant. Knowing you’ll be changing diapers around the clock, makes these leg warmers super attractive. It means less clothing to pull on and off baby, speeding up the process! Just leave baby in his/her onesie for easy diaper-changes while the leg warmers work their magic!6. Mirror

Let’s face it: as a new mama, it’s a bit nerve-wracking to drive around with a newborn. You just want to be certain your baby is comfortable while rear-facing. Ease those fears with a special mirror that helps you keep a close eye on baby with a quick glance, and focus on driving safety to your destination.7. Mommy Hook

I’ve lost count on the number of times I’ve had to run to the store to grab just a FEW THINGS, that turn into MANY THINGS. Having a mommy hook that easily attaches bags to stroller, is just what a mom with her hands’ full needs!

8. Laundry Bags

Sick of all those mismatched socks filling your laundry bins?? Me too. But with little kids, this is the norm.

I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve spent way too many hours scrambling around the house for missing socks. I was so glad to discover these mesh laundry bags that you just fill with dirty socks and toss in the wash to make sorting later, that much easier!9. Seatbelt Holder

I simply love this idea! Getting the kids buckled into their car seats is always a huge ordeal. I’m always struggling to get the seatbelt straps and harness in place, but this awesome carseat helper uses magnets to keep the straps out of the way so I can get my kids into the car quickly.

10. Carseat Canopy

Chilly outside? Braving a blizzard? Need to protect baby from direct sunlight? Whatever the weather, take baby out of the house with confidence using the car seat canopy. This brilliant car seat cover shields your precious little one from seasonal changes or unpleasant temperatures. It has velcro straps that attach to your car seat handle and a slit down the front so you can keep a close eye on baby with plenty of air.

11. Sippy Cup Leash

What mom hasn’t found herself playing the case of the missing sippy cup yet again and again?! If you’re tired of losing all those cups, this sippy cup strap will help you have one less thing to worry about! Simply secure the strap to the cup, and attach the other end to wherever it is you want to keep it. 

12. Nose Frida

Whether its cold season or allergies, there comes a time when mommy will need to clear baby’s snotty nose. It may feel strange to “suck” out baby boogers as the technique calls for, but the nose frida is a painless, genius way to clear those boogies in a jiffy!

13. Safety Harness (aka Leash)

Before you look away in shock, think about it. Once your baby is a little older and becomes a toddler, things are bound to get a little hectic. Even more so when you’re a mom to a baby, toddler (and maybe an older child too!) and need a way to keep tabs on all kids when out in public. This kid-safe harness or “leash” is a MUST for those who have a rambunctious toddler and runner!

14. Traveling Poncho

We’ve all heard about the dangers of wearing bulky coats in the car during the cold season. But how do you put a baby or toddler in a freezing vehicle in the middle of winter? Fear not! Just have your child wear this adorable traveling poncho. It goes OVER the seat belts, acting as a warm blanket to keep your child happy while you wait for the car to get comfy, without compromising safety! Genius!

15. Baby Carrier

I can’t stress enough, the importance of having some kind of carrier or wrap like this one to wear your baby. It just gives you the ability to multitask during those crazy moments in motherhood. This is a MUST if you have more than one kid!16. Portable High Chair

When you’re out and about, and your kid won’t stay put, sometimes you need more than a harness. Thank goodness for new inventions like these portable high chairs to take to grandma’s or the next family party. No more balancing baby on your lap to eat while you try to grab a bite yourself (mom-life at it’s finest!).

17. Infant Airplane Seat

Any mom who’s had to travel with a baby on a plane will tell you what an adventure it can be. So anything to ease the experience is welcomed. This adorable little airplane seat that resembles a hammock, may be just what the doctor ordered to help get mommy and baby through the trip!

18. Toddler Urinal

I just had to throw this last one in as a boy-mom! But really, isn’t it simply awesome?! As your baby grows and turns into a dirty little toddler, potty training will surely be an experience. Help those little boys transition from sitting on the potty to standing with this fun little frog urinal so they’ll really want to go pee-pee. Hey, if it works, why not?So many great unique ideas for new moms — which is your favorite?

More on Motherhood and Baby:

• How to Handle New Mom Overwhelm
• Breastfeeding Hacks Moms Need to Know
• 15 Diaper Hacks to Avoid Scary Diaper Moments

Ana @ Mommy's Bundle

Ana, a mom to three rambunctious little boys, has supported hundreds of thousands of women throughout their pregnancy and motherhood journey since 2012 as a blogger and maternal health advocate at MommysBundle.com.

mommysbundle.com

The post 18 Sanity-Saving Baby Hacks for New Moms appeared first on Mommy's Bundle.

As a new mom, there’s nothing worse than the helpless feeling that hits when you hear the incessant cries of your baby and struggle to find an instant solution. Babies, especially newborns, can cry for a variety of reasons.  Sometimes there is a quick fix. Other times the answer may not be so clear with a colicky baby.

In hopes of sharing my learnings from experience, I’ve put together the top reasons your baby is probably crying…and the simple solutions to soothe them with.

This post may contain affiliate links at no additional cost to you.

1. Hungry

The most obvious and number one reason babies cry is due to hunger. But sometimes feeding doesn’t always seem like the obvious answer, especially if your baby is wailing shortly after a feeding. New moms should keep in mind that newborns can feed as much as every 1-2 hours those first few weeks, so expect to be feeding often.

Solution: Keep an eye out for hunger cues such as funny mouth movements or sucking fingers – this will help you better anticipate when baby needs to eat and prevent those heart-wrenching cries.

2. Dirty Diaper

Another popular reason your baby may cry is due to a wet or soiled diaper…and this will happen often if baby is feeding frequently.

Solution: Remember to change diapers after every feeding — even at night during the first few weeks.

3. Gas

Gas is something that many new moms can overlook, simply because most focus on #1 and #2. Bottle-fed babies especially can swallow air during feedings leading to gas pains. However, it can also greatly affect nursing mothers. Case in point: our second child who showed many signs of fussiness and would cry often after feedings, even after burping. This made it difficult to determine the cause. However, after many tears, we found that gas was often the culprit…it was just buried so deep we didn’t expect him to burp more than once!

Solution: Make sure to burp baby before, during and after feedings…and possibly multiple times. Also, be sure to invest in some of my favorite burp cloths and a few bulb syringes to help clear mucus and other fluids that may buildup and contribute to gas issues.

4. Boredom

Yes, it’s true! Babies can get bored too! Although they are simple creatures, they are learning so much and just as over-stimulation can cause them to fuss, too little stimulation or boredom is bound to happen if they are cooped up in the nursery all day.

Solution: Take your baby around the house or on a nice stroller walk for a change of scene. The fresh air, new smells and sights can do wonders! It’s also never to early for some playful learning toys — this mobile/projector and rocker are a few of my favorite boredom busters!

5. Too Hot/Too Cold

Another possible reason your baby is crying is due to the temperature. Is your baby over bundled? Is it a little chilly in the house? Most people assume babies are cold and overdress them, but pay attention to signs. If you see a lot of squirming it could mean your little one is working up a sweat.

Solution: A good rule of thumb, and what my pediatrician told me is to dress the baby according to the seasons. In warm weather, a onesie and socks are usually fine when indoors. If heading outdoors, dress baby in one more layer than you have on to keep them comfortable.

6. Pain

Occasionally you will find that baby is crying due to some sort of discomfort. But it may take some trial and error to determine. Look around baby’s body for any physical signs of pain. There may be a tag on the clothing causing irritation or it could be pain from teething which can start as early as 3 months!

Solution: Scan all baby clothes, sleep and play areas to ensure it is comfortable. If your little one is teething try a cold washcloth or a soft rubber teether. TIP: One thing I noticed with my kids was sometimes the zipper at the very top of the pajama onesies caused a lot of discomfort un-beknowest to me!

7. Sick

As your maternal instincts will tell you, from time-to-time baby may indeed be inconsolable due to sickness. This is when you’ll really have to pay attention to those cry signals to see if it sounds a bit different than the normal cries. If you determine there is an issue, be sure to call your doctor first!

Solution: Although it is normal to stress, remain calm and try as much as you can to alleviate baby at home. A temperature over 101 is usually indicative of a fever and therefore a need to call your doctor, who will most likely recommend Tylenol or ask you to come in. You’ll also need a rectal thermometer to get the most accurate reading during the first few months.

8. Tired

This is the one that actually surprised me most as a new mother: Your baby can actually cry to indicate exhaustion!! It’s a concept that was hard for me to grasp because I just assumed if a baby was tired, they’d fall asleep! And while that is possible, more often than not, a baby will simply cry to tell mommy he or she needs a nap. So if you’ve run through all the other things that could be plaguing your baby and still can’t find the answer, this is probably the main reason baby is crying.

Solution: Check for signals — rubbing eyes is good indicator that your little one is tired. You can also keep track of babies sleep schedule to determine any patterns. As they grow, babies will tend to take a nap in the morning and afternoon before it’s bedtime.

So remember, even when it seems as though baby is colicky and just won’t stop crying…look closely and you may find there indeed is a reason and SOLUTION to put an end to those tears.

I hope these tips will help you learn to soothe your baby quickly and spend more time enjoying motherhood! If you need some tips on how to stay calm when you’re baby is crying read this post!

Thank you to Huggies for allowing me to share these tips and for providing reliable diapers and wipes to new moms everywhere.

Here are some of my favorite things about the new Huggies® Little Snugglers Diapers and Natural Care Wipes:

• The new GentleAbsorb liner helps to provide a cushiony layer of protection with hundreds of tiny absorbent pillows to draw mess away from the delicate skin of a newborn
• There is a cottony-soft inside and outside to help keep new baby comfy
• A wetness indicator lets you know when it’s time to change
• The umbilical cord cut-out helps protect sensitive belly buttons for newborns
• The flexible, pocketed waistband to help keep in mess
• The wipes are made from the simplest formula ever for a gentle clean and are hypoallergenic

BONUS: Is there something you wish you could add to your baby registry, but simply can’t? Register your wish at Huggies.com/RegisterWish for your chance to make it a reality. If you’re selected as a winner, Huggies will do everything they can to make your wish come true!

This is a compensated campaign in collaboration with Huggies Little Snugglers and Latina Bloggers Connect.

I’m so happy to share my next post in a series for new mothers sponsored by Huggies. If you missed my first post, on preparing for baby be sure to read it, print it, and share with any expectant mommies in your life.

Ana @ Mommy's Bundle

Ana, a mom to three rambunctious little boys, has supported hundreds of thousands of women throughout their pregnancy and motherhood journey since 2012 as a blogger and maternal health advocate at MommysBundle.com.

mommysbundle.com

The post Top Reasons Babies Cry + Easy Solutions to Soothe appeared first on Mommy's Bundle.

It’s the final countdown here…in a couple weeks we welcome our second little bundle of joy!  Although I’ve been in full “nesting” mode prepping old baby clothes and gear for re-use, it feels like there’s still a bit to do…especially in terms of preparing our almost 2-year-old toddler to be a big brother!

I am a bit scared about that first reaction. When our guy sees mommy holding another baby…and then sees it happening all the time! I know he won’t be happy at first and it will probably take a bit of getting used to, so I’ve been looking for ways to make the introduction a little easier.

Although it’s still a work-in-progress for us (and maybe tough for young toddlers to truly understand the concept of a new baby)…below are a few preparation tips that have helped make the transition a little less traumatic.

1. Practicing with a Baby Doll

One of the MAIN things we wanted to teach our toddler about babies (especially newborns) was the need to be nice and gentle. As any boy would, ours likes to rough-house and doesn’t always play nice.  So we knew having a baby doll to practice on would at least get us moving in the right direction.

I used a Cabbage Patch baby to help our little guy practice being gentle.  Of course, at first, he would throw the doll across the room and smack it every now and then. But he gradually began to gently cradle the baby and give kisses. I thought it was so precious and hope he will continue to practice this type of behavior when the real baby arrives!

2. Talking about Mommy’s Belly

Once my belly really popped, I started to let our toddler carefully examine and feel around. I told him that there was a “baby growing” inside mommy and tried to reinforce that idea by showing pictures of babies.  He would pat my belly each day it grew and eventually started to kiss it goodnight!

Although I’m sure he still doesn’t know a baby is coming out, he clearly can see the big belly growing before his eyes. Talking to him about what was going on and letting him be a part of the process really helped to set the tone.

3. Reading Intro to Baby Books

This is one of the easiest things you can try to help prepare your kid for a new sibling. Toddlers love reading/being read to, so it’s a no-brainer to grab an intro to baby book.

For some reason, our toddler was fascinated by all my pregnancy prep books around the house (whoops!) and started to really enjoy seeing the pictures of babies in bellies.  That’s when I realized I had to get him a fun and age-appropriate illustrated book to read. One of my favorites was the Hello Baby! book by Lizzy Rockwell. I love the cute little storyline, colorful pages and images of the baby growing in the womb.

4. Giving a Gift from the Baby

Whether it’s a teddy bear or one of your child’s favorite farm animals, having a gift ready to give your toddler as if it were from the new baby is so important. It’s natural for your toddler to start feeling a little jealous when he sees a bunch of new stuff in the house that he’s not allowed to touch.  So a special gift(s) wrapped up for his new role as “big brother” may help him adjust a tad better.

I plan on keeping the gift at the hospital to give right when our guy comes to visit. That way he can better make the connection that he has a special role to play in the new baby’s life!

What tips have helped you prepare a toddler for a new baby in the house!

Read More… 

Ana @ Mommy's Bundle

Ana, a mom to three rambunctious little boys, has supported hundreds of thousands of women throughout their pregnancy and motherhood journey since 2012 as a blogger and maternal health advocate at MommysBundle.com.

mommysbundle.com

The post Preparing Your Toddler for the New Baby appeared first on Mommy's Bundle.

Never did I ever really consider how challenging it would be caring for a toddler while carrying another baby in my womb.

When I found out I was expecting again, I knew two kids would be more work than one.  What I didn’t realize was from that moment on, I was met with the extra challenge of splitting time between feeding/changing/carrying/disciplining/playing with a very demanding toddler while attempting to care for the new life forming inside my body.

Why so challenging you might ask?

Here are a handful of reasons and things you have to tackle simultaneously:

• coping with morning sickness that goes beyond the first trimester
• fighting the exhaustion from your toddlers 6/7 am wake up call or midday urge to roughhouse with you and your growing belly
• finding time to eat a nutritious meal while preparing food for your picky eater
• managing to even cook yourself a meal while making sure your toddler doesn’t eat the dog’s food, climb into the fridge or break through the baby-proofed areas of your home
• spending an hour wrestling with a toddler just to change a diaper and get ready for  bed

And I know raising twins or multiples must be an immense challenge in itself for new mothers to face, but at least with two babies (minus the big belly) you can tackle things a bit more fluidly without having to worry about your own body too much. Plus, it’s a bonus for baby to have a 24/7 buddy to play with when needed!

What I don’t think many people truly understand is how equally challenging it is to have toddler in the midst of the terrible-twos while you try all you can to protect and nourish your own body and unborn child. Let me just say it is HARD. Realizing this, I wanted to put together a few tips for other moms going through the thick of things as they prepare for baby #2.  Tips to let them know they can get through it all…with support.  

Tips for Surviving Pregnancy While Caring for a Toddler

Let go of expectations.

Forget about having an immaculate home…at least for now. You are totally within your right to slack off a bit and you shouldn’t feel guilty. With so much going on in your life keeping a perfectly clean house isn’t always possible if you are doing it alone. If you are hell-bent on getting that clean home appearance however, check out my easy tips for tidying up.

Prep for the morning, the night before.

I wish I had taken this piece of advice earlier in my pregnancy – makes perfect sense and would have helped immensely!  If you find yourself in the same predicament every morning (i.e. no time to make food for yourself while watching the little one) prepare something in advance which you can easily heat up in the morning.  Whether it’s just pre-slicing fruit or boiling an egg at least you can have some type of nutrient-rich food waiting for you when you need it most.

Find activities to keep your toddler busy.

Teaching your toddler independent play is SO important as you prepare for the arrival of baby #2. Whether it’s setting up quiet activities for him or her while you relax or even letting them watch some tv for a little while, you’ll NEED that time to regain your energy. This busy board activity and toddler-friendly Melissa & Doug puzzles were a sanity-saver that easily gave me 15-20 minutes to rest my feed!!

You can also start introducing the idea of a new baby through books. Below are some of my favorite I’ve used with my kids!

Nap.

If your toddler still naps, by all means sleep when that baby sleeps! Growing a little one while chasing another one, is exhausting, especially during that first semester and while you experience extra sleepiness and the inevitable morning sickness. Make it a priority to get more sleep during this vulnerable time in your life, mama!

>>Related: How I Survived Pregnancy Fatigue With a Toddler At Home

Get help. 

This is probably the most important piece of advice. You have to be willing to take help that is offered and ASK for it from family and friends when needed.

If you don’t have family near, hiring help can be a life-saver! Ask neighbors, check sites like SitterCity.com or Care.com for someone who can lend a hand a few hours a week — you don’t have to break the bank.

Otherwise your task may seem even more insurmountable. Even if it’s just an hour to nap or grab a quick bite to eat, making time for yourself is crucial to getting that second-wind and energy to face the everyday challenges you have before you.

Hang in there — it’s a tough season in life, but know you CAN get through it!

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What piece of advice can you add for pregnant mothers raising toddlers?

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Ana @ Mommy's Bundle

Ana, a mom to three rambunctious little boys, has supported hundreds of thousands of women throughout their pregnancy and motherhood journey since 2012 as a blogger and maternal health advocate at MommysBundle.com.

mommysbundle.com

The post Raising a Toddler While Pregnant: How to Survive the Chaos appeared first on Mommy's Bundle.