Year: 2024

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Creative Pregnancy Announcement Ideas to Share Your Big News

Creative Pregnancy Announcement Ideas

Discovering you’re expecting is one of the most exciting moments in life, and announcing your pregnancy to loved ones can be just as thrilling! Whether you’re looking for something sweet and simple or planning a grand reveal, here are some fun and unique pregnancy announcement ideas that will leave everyone buzzing with joy.

1. A Personalised Puzzle Pregnancy Announcement

Why not have your family and friends solve a mystery to discover your exciting news? Customised jigsaw puzzles are a wonderful way to turn your pregnancy reveal into an interactive moment. Order a personalised puzzle online with a message like “We’re expecting!” or “Baby on the way!” Watch the delight unfold as they piece it together and realise what it means.

2. Printable Escape Room Reveal

For something truly unique and immersive, try a printable escape room. It turns your announcement into a fun challenge: your loved ones solve puzzles and follow clues to unlock the final message – your pregnancy news! You could choose a theme such as woodland animals or a holiday, or something that reflects your family’s personality. At the end of the game, players might crack a 4-digit code that reveals the big surprise. It’s an exciting way to make the moment unforgettable! You’ll find my ready-made printable pregnancy announcement and gender reveal escape rooms in my TG Games collection. If you’d like a bespoke escape room, get in touch.

3. A Baby Book Reveal

Take an unexpected approach by gifting family and friends a classic baby book. Inside, write a heartfelt message announcing your pregnancy. You could also include an ultrasound photo or a handwritten note. This is a sweet, sentimental way to share the news, perfect for those who appreciate personal touches.

4. Pet Announcement

If you have a pet, let them take part in the big reveal! Dress up your dog, cat, or even your rabbit with a cute sign or bandana that says something like “Big Brother” or “Big Sister.” Snap a photo of your pet looking proud (or confused!) and send it to family and friends. This light-hearted approach is sure to get plenty of smiles.

5. A Family Photo with a Twist

Organise a family photo shoot with a little twist. Pose with your partner in a way that subtly hints at your pregnancy – holding a tiny pair of baby shoes, a tiny outfit, or an ultrasound picture. Later, you can send out the photos or post them online to reveal your news. A picture says a thousand words, and this one will say just the right thing!

6. A Bunting or Banner Announcement

Create a banner or bunting with the words “Baby on the way” or “We’re expecting!” Hang it somewhere special in your home and invite close family and friends over for a casual get-together. As they walk in, they’ll be greeted by your big news. This idea works beautifully for intimate gatherings or even a surprise video call.

7. A Creative Cake Pregnancy Announcement

Everyone loves cake! You can announce your pregnancy by bringing out a beautifully decorated cake with a hidden message inside. You might choose to have the cake filled with coloured icing or even a small note or toy that reveals your exciting news when cut. Whether you opt for a simple design or something a bit more elaborate, it’s bound to be a sweet surprise.

8. A Custom Scratch Card

For a creative and unexpected announcement, custom scratch cards are an excellent option. You can create personalised cards that have a message like “We’re having a baby!” hidden under a scratch-off layer. Hand them out to friends and family and watch their faces light up as they reveal the big news. It’s a clever, interactive way to share your happiness.

9. Baby-Themed Gift Reveal

Wrap up a baby item, such as a tiny vest, a baby book or a small toy, and give it to family or friends as a “just because” gift. When they open it, the meaning will dawn on them and you’ll get to see their priceless reactions. It’s a lovely, personal way to share the news with those closest to you.

10. Holiday-Themed Announcement

If you’re sharing your news around a holiday, make the most of the festive spirit! A Christmas announcement could be a special bauble that says “Baby’s First Christmas – Coming Soon”. For Halloween, try a tiny pumpkin or a little baby costume with “Due in [month]” written on it, or a spooky-themed printable escape room. It adds a playful touch to an already joyful time of year.

No matter how you decide to announce your pregnancy, the most important part is making it memorable for both you and your loved ones. Whether it’s through a personal photo, an interactive escape room, or a simple gift, sharing this exciting news in your own way will make it truly special.

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  • hypnobirthing scripts
  • written information
  • infographics and other imagery
  • printable handouts
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Teaching about Birth Preferences and Birth Plans: A Guide for Perinatal Educators

Teaching about Birth Preferences and Birth Plans

Teaching about Birth Preferences and Birth Plans. As perinatal educators, antenatal teachers, doulas, and birth workers in the UK, one of the most important roles we play is helping expectant parents navigate the often overwhelming world of birth preferences and birth plans. These tools empower parents-to-be to make informed decisions, advocate for themselves, and communicate their wishes clearly with healthcare providers. However, it’s crucial to teach this topic in a way that is flexible, inclusive, and respectful of the unpredictable nature of birth.

In this post, we’ll explore some effective strategies and activity ideas for teaching about birth preferences and birth plans, whether you’re working with groups or individuals, and whether your sessions are in-person or online.

Understanding Birth Preferences vs. Birth Plans

What Are Birth Preferences?

Birth preferences are a flexible approach that allows parents to outline their wishes for labour and birth while recognising that circumstances may change. This mindset encourages a sense of adaptability and can reduce feelings of disappointment if things don’t go exactly as planned.

What Are Birth Plans?

Birth plans are more detailed and structured, typically outlining specific choices regarding pain relief, birthing positions, who will be present, and what to do in case of complications. While still subject to change, birth plans can be a useful tool for clear communication with healthcare providers.

Group Activities

In-Person

1. Birth Preferences Brainstorming Session
Activity: Divide participants into small groups and give each group some scenario cards describing different birth situations, such as an unplanned caesarean or an early arrival. Ask the groups to brainstorm possible birth preferences for each scenario. The My Birth Story dice game is a fun way to generate scenarios.
Objective: This activity helps parents understand the range of possibilities and encourages flexible thinking.
Materials: Scenario cards, flip charts, markers.

2. Birth Plan Role-Play
Activity: Organise a role-playing exercise where participants take on the roles of parents, midwives, and doctors. Using sample birth plans, each group acts out how they would discuss and implement the plan in different scenarios.
Objective: This role-play helps build confidence in communicating birth plans and adapting to changing circumstances.
Materials: Sample birth plans, role cards, props (e.g., stethoscopes, blankets).

Online

1. Interactive Birth Preferences Quiz
Activity: Create a quiz that participants can take during the session. The quiz should cover different aspects of birth preferences, asking parents-to-be to choose their preferred options in various scenarios. Discuss the answers as a group to highlight the diversity of preferences and the importance of flexibility.
Objective: This activity helps to engage participants and allows them to reflect on their own preferences.
Tools: Online quiz platforms like Kahoot or Google Forms.

2. Virtual Birth Plan Workshop
Activity: Share a birth plan template with participants and guide them through filling it out during the session. Encourage discussion and questions in real-time, either through chat or by unmuting participants to share thoughts.
Objective: This workshop ensures participants leave with a concrete, well-thought-out birth plan while feeling supported and heard.
Tools: Video conferencing software with screen-sharing capabilities, editable templates.

1:1 Activities

In-Person

1. Personalised Birth Preferences Discussion
Activity: Sit down with the parent(s)-to-be and have an in-depth conversation about their birth preferences. Use open-ended questions to explore their values, concerns, and hopes for the birth experience.
Objective: This personalised discussion allows for a deep understanding of the parents’ unique situation and helps tailor the birth plan accordingly.
Materials: Birth preferences worksheets, note-taking materials.

2. Creating a Visual Birth Plan
Activity: Work with the parent(s) to create a visual birth plan using images and icons to represent their preferences. This can be particularly helpful for those who find it easier to communicate visually rather than through text.
Objective: A visual birth plan is a quick-reference tool that can be easily shared with healthcare providers.
Materials: Magazines, scissors, glue, poster boards, markers, or digital tools like Canva.

Online

1. 1:1 Virtual Birth Preferences Consultation
Activity: Conduct a private video call to discuss the parent(s)’ birth preferences in detail. Use screen-sharing to show examples of birth plans and answer any questions they may have.
Objective: This ensures the parent(s) feel supported and informed, even in a remote setting.
Tools: Video conferencing software, digital birth plan templates.

2. Guided Birth Plan Creation via Shared Document
Activity: Use a shared online document to guide the parent(s) through the process of creating their birth plan. Make suggestions and edits in real-time, allowing them to see the birth plan come together as you discuss it.
Objective: This collaborative approach ensures that the birth plan is comprehensive and tailored to the parent(s)’ needs.
Tools: Google Docs or other shared document platforms.

Final Thoughts

Teaching about birth preferences and birth plans is about more than just providing information—it’s about empowering parents to feel confident and prepared for their birth journey. Whether you’re working with groups or individuals, in person or online, the key is to create a supportive environment where parents feel free to explore their options, ask questions, and express their hopes and fears.

By integrating these activities into your sessions, you can help parents-to-be create birth preferences and plans that are both realistic and empowering, setting the stage for a positive birth experience no matter what unfolds.

Remember, birth plans and preferences should always be flexible. The goal is a safe birth in which parents feel informed, respected and involved in every decision, whichever path their birth takes.

Let’s continue to support, educate, and empower expectant parents across the UK, helping them navigate their birth journey with confidence and clarity.

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Starting Solids: The Benefits of Using a Meal Planner and Food Diary for Weaning

Weaning food diary

Introducing solids is one of the most exciting milestones in your baby’s first year. It’s a time filled with curiosity, mess, and a whole new world of tastes and textures. However, it can also be a bit overwhelming. With so many questions—What should I feed my baby? How much should they eat? Are they getting a balanced diet?—it’s easy to feel uncertain. This is where a meal planner and food diary can become your best allies in the weaning journey.

Why Consider a Meal Planner?

1. Ensures Variety and Balanced Nutrition A meal planner helps you ensure that your baby is receiving a variety of foods, which is essential for balanced nutrition. Babies need a mix of fruits, vegetables, proteins, and grains to develop healthily. By planning meals in advance, you can make sure your baby gets a good mix of nutrients each week, and you can avoid repetitive meals that might limit their exposure to different foods.

2. Saves Time and Reduces Stress Planning meals ahead of time can significantly reduce the daily stress of deciding what to feed your baby. With a meal planner, you’ll know exactly what you’re preparing each day, which can save you time and make shopping easier. It’s also a great way to ensure you’re always prepared, even on those busy days when things don’t go to plan.

3. Helps Identify Allergies and Preferences Introducing solids is also the time when food allergies may show up. The NHS recommends introducing the foods that most commonly cause allergic reactions (such as egg, peanut, milk, wheat and fish) one at a time and in very small amounts, so you can spot any reaction. Planning and noting down what you introduce and when makes it much easier to identify a food that causes a problem. A meal planner also helps you track your baby’s preferences, so you can see which foods they enjoy and which might need a bit more time.

The Advantages of a Weaning Food Diary

1. Tracks Your Baby’s Progress A food diary is an excellent tool for tracking your baby’s weaning journey. It allows you to document what they’ve eaten, how much they’ve eaten, and their reactions to different foods. Over time, this record will give you a clear picture of your baby’s likes, dislikes, and overall progress with solid foods.

2. Supports Healthy Eating Habits Recording your baby’s meals can help you establish healthy eating patterns from the start. You can monitor portion sizes and ensure your baby is getting regular meals and snacks throughout the day. This consistency is key to developing a healthy relationship with food as they grow.

3. Useful for Health Appointments Bringing a food diary to health visitor appointments can be incredibly helpful. It provides a clear record of what your baby has been eating, which can be useful if you have any concerns about their nutrition, growth, or any possible food intolerances. Health professionals can offer tailored advice based on the detailed information you provide.

4. Reflects on Your Weaning Journey A food diary is not just practical—it can also be a lovely keepsake. Looking back on those first foods, the messy meals, and the milestones like the first time they fed themselves can bring back fond memories. It’s a personal record of an important phase in your baby’s life.

How to Get Started

1. Find the Right Tools There are many meal planners and food diary templates available online, or you can create your own. Some parents prefer paper-based diaries, while others use apps for convenience. Choose what works best for you and your lifestyle.

2. Keep it Simple You don’t need to plan elaborate meals or write detailed diary entries. Simple notes about what your baby ate, how much they ate, and any reactions or preferences are enough to start with. The key is consistency.

3. Make it a Routine Incorporate meal planning and food diary updates into your weekly routine. Set aside a time that works for you—perhaps on a Sunday evening—to plan the week’s meals and review your baby’s progress.

4. Be Flexible Babies are unpredictable, and your plans might not always go as intended. It’s important to remain flexible and adapt as needed. If your baby doesn’t like a food one week, don’t worry—try again later. The goal is to make the weaning process as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Download my weaning food diary here.

Baby weaning meal planner and food diary printable

Final Thoughts

Starting solids is a big step for your baby, and using a meal planner and food diary can make the journey more manageable and enjoyable for both of you. These tools provide structure, reduce stress, and ensure your baby gets the balanced diet they need to grow and thrive. Plus, they offer a wonderful way to track and cherish these precious firsts.

So why not give it a try? With a little planning and documentation, you can navigate the weaning journey with confidence and peace of mind.

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Preparing Expectant Parents for Their Infant Feeding Journey: A Guide for Birth Workers, Doulas, and Infant Feeding Supporters

preparing for infant feeding journey

As birth workers, doulas and infant feeding supporters, you play a crucial role in preparing expectant parents to feed their babies. Giving parents knowledge and confidence can make a real difference to their experience and their baby’s health. This guide offers evidence-based information, practical teaching activities, and the key signs that feeding is going well or that extra support may be needed.

Teaching activities for expectant parents

  1. Hands-on sessions: Let parents explore different feeding positions, how to get a good latch and how to use feeding aids. Lifelike dolls and feeding pillows help bring real-life situations to life.
  2. Visual aids and handouts: Clear visuals showing breast anatomy, how milk production works and baby feeding cues make the information easier to understand. Resources from the NHS, First Steps Nutrition Trust and UNICEF UK Baby Friendly are also very helpful.
  3. Role-play scenarios: Let parents practise responding to different feeding situations, such as a baby who is fussy at the breast or a parent with engorged breasts. This builds their confidence for real-life challenges.
  4. Q&A sessions: Create a safe space for parents to ask questions and share concerns. Tackle common myths and misconceptions about infant feeding so they have accurate information.
  5. Ready-made resources: Browse all my infant feeding activities, posters and tools, including the Nappy Detectives activity for exploring whether a baby is getting enough milk.

Signs that feeding is going well

Breastfeeding:

  • A good latch: The baby’s mouth covers a large part of the areola, not just the nipple, and you can hear rhythmic sucking and swallowing.
  • Weight gain: After the usual weight loss in the first few days, the baby starts gaining weight and is typically back to birth weight by about two weeks.
  • Plenty of wet and dirty nappies: From day 5 onwards, at least 6 heavy, wet nappies every 24 hours, and from day 4, at least 2 soft, yellow poos (about the size of a £2 coin) a day for the first few weeks. My Newborn Nappy 101 guide explains what to look for.
  • Contentment after feeds: The baby seems satisfied and settled after most feeds.

Bottle feeding:

  • Steady feeding: The baby sucks steadily and swallows regularly without gulping or choking. Encourage responsive, paced bottle feeding that follows the baby’s feeding cues.
  • Contentment: As with breastfeeding, the baby seems settled and satisfied after feeds.
  • Weight gain and nappies: The baby gains weight steadily and has plenty of wet and dirty nappies.

Signs that feeding may not be going well

Breastfeeding:

  • A poor latch: Signs include ongoing nipple pain, clicking sounds or the baby often slipping off the breast.
  • Slow weight gain: The baby isn’t back to birth weight by about two weeks or isn’t gaining weight steadily.
  • Fewer wet and dirty nappies: Fewer than expected can be a sign the baby isn’t getting enough milk.
  • Constant fussiness: The baby seems unsettled and unsatisfied after most feeds.

Bottle feeding:

  • Frequent gulping or choking: The flow may be too fast, or the baby may be finding feeding difficult.
  • Poor weight gain: The baby isn’t gaining weight as expected.
  • Irritability or discomfort: A baby who often seems uncomfortable or very windy may be having feeding difficulties.

If you notice any of these signs, encourage parents to speak to their midwife, health visitor or GP promptly.

Sources and places of support

  1. UNICEF UK Baby Friendly Initiative: Comprehensive, evidence-based resources on breastfeeding and infant feeding. Visit UNICEF Baby Friendly
  2. NHS: Detailed information on breastfeeding, bottle feeding and common feeding challenges, including how to tell if a baby is getting enough milk. Visit the NHS
  3. First Steps Nutrition Trust: Independent, evidence-based information on infant milks, feeding and weaning. Visit First Steps Nutrition Trust
  4. The Breastfeeding Network (BfN): Resources for practitioners and independent breastfeeding support in the UK, including the National Breastfeeding Helpline (0300 100 0212). Visit the Breastfeeding Network
  5. Local breastfeeding groups: Encourage parents to join local groups where they can share experiences and get peer support. Many are run by trained volunteers.
  6. Lactation consultants and health visitors: For ongoing feeding difficulties, point parents towards professional support from an IBCLC lactation consultant, infant feeding team or health visitor.

By giving expectant parents the knowledge and skills they need, you help lay the foundations for a positive infant feeding journey. Your support and guidance can make a big difference to parents and their babies.

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Empowering Expectant Parents: The Importance of Teaching Solo Labour Skills

As antenatal teachers, hypnobirthing instructors, doulas, and childbirth educators, we play a crucial role in preparing expectant parents for one of the most significant experiences of their lives. While much of our focus is on partnership and support during labour, it is equally important to equip pregnant women and people with the skills to cope with labour on their own. Whether due to the absence of a partner, unexpected illness, or logistical challenges, there are various reasons why a birthing person may find themselves alone during labour. Here’s why teaching these skills is essential and how it can empower those we support.

The Reality of Solo Labour

While many envision labour surrounded by supportive partners, family, or friends, the reality can sometimes differ. A birthing person might be alone due to:

  1. No Partner: Single parents by choice or circumstance may not have a partner to accompany them.
  2. Illness: A partner’s sudden illness or other health issues can prevent them from being present.
  3. Logistical Challenges: Work commitments, travel restrictions, or unforeseen emergencies can lead to a partner’s absence.
  4. Personal Choice: Some may prefer to labour alone for personal or cultural reasons.

Recognising these scenarios, it becomes clear why teaching solo labour skills is not just an option but a necessity.

The Rationale for Teaching Solo Labour Coping Skills

  1. Empowerment and Confidence:
    • Knowing they can handle labour on their own empowers expectant parents. It builds confidence, reducing anxiety and fear associated with the birthing process.
    • Self-reliance instils a sense of control and capability, which can significantly enhance the birthing experience.
  2. Practical Preparedness:
    • Solo labour skills include practical techniques such as breathing exercises, visualisation, and self-massage. These methods help manage pain and maintain calm.
    • Educating about the hospital environment, including how to communicate effectively with medical staff, ensures they are better prepared for any situation.
  3. Emotional Resilience:
    • Labour can be an intense emotional journey. Equipping birthing individuals with tools to maintain emotional balance, such as affirmations and mindfulness, is crucial.
    • Encouraging a positive mindset and resilience helps them cope with unexpected challenges and changes in their birth plan.
  4. Reducing Dependence:
    • While support is invaluable, over-reliance on others can lead to increased stress if things don’t go as planned. Teaching solo skills reduces this dependence, fostering self-sufficiency.
    • It also helps in situations where professional support like a doula or midwife may not be available at all times.

Practical Steps to Teach Solo Labour Skills

  1. Include it in your antenatal classes:
    • Dedicate a session, or part of one, to solo labour techniques. Use role-play scenarios so parents can practise these skills.
    • Highlight the importance of mental preparation and teach strategies such as hypnobirthing scripts adapted for solo use.
  2. Provide resources:
    • Share handouts or digital resources covering solo coping strategies, relaxation techniques and comfort measures. Visual prompts such as positions for childbirth flashcards are easy to use alone.
    • Recommend apps or audio tracks with guided relaxations and affirmations for labour.
    • Give clients audio recordings they can listen to during pregnancy and in labour.
  3. Simulate real situations:
    • Use simulations to help expectant parents experience different scenarios, including being on their own during labour. This can demystify the process and build confidence.
    • Encourage questions and discussion about fears and concerns around labouring alone.
  4. Support networks:
    • Encourage parents to build a wider support network beyond their partner. Friends, family and community resources can be invaluable.
    • Talk about virtual support, such as video calls, if someone can’t be there in person.
    • Discuss the option of hiring a doula for extra support during pregnancy, birth and the early postnatal days.

Conclusion

Preparing expectant parents for the possibility of solo labour is not about fostering fear but about empowering them with confidence and practical skills. By teaching these vital techniques, we ensure that every birthing person feels capable, prepared, and supported, no matter the circumstances. As childbirth educators, let’s continue to expand our teachings to embrace all scenarios, promoting resilience and self-reliance in the beautiful journey of bringing new life into the world.

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Baby Shower or No Baby Shower? Tips and Ideas for Expectant Parents

Expecting a baby is an exciting time, full of anticipation, joy and perhaps a few nerves. One question many expectant parents in the UK ask is whether to have a baby shower. Baby showers are a well-loved tradition in the United States, and they have become increasingly popular here too. So, should you have one? And if so, how do you plan it? Here’s a guide to help you decide, with tips and ideas if you choose to celebrate.

To baby shower or not to baby shower?

Whether to have a baby shower is an entirely personal decision that depends on your preferences, cultural traditions and comfort level. Here are a few things to consider:

Pros:

  1. Celebrating new life: A baby shower is a lovely way to celebrate your little one’s arrival with friends and family.
  2. Support: It gives loved ones a chance to show their support and share your excitement.
  3. Gifts and essentials: You’ll probably receive gifts that help with the costs of a new baby, from nappies to adorable outfits and useful kit.
  4. Making memories: It’s a chance to create lasting memories and take lots of photos to look back on.

Cons:

  1. Planning stress: Organising a party can be stressful, especially if you’re already tired or overwhelmed.
  2. Being the centre of attention: Some parents-to-be feel uncomfortable in the spotlight.
  3. Cost: Parties can be expensive, although there are plenty of ways to keep it budget-friendly.

If you like the idea but are worried about the hassle, ask a close friend or family member to organise it for you.

Baby shower ideas

If you’ve decided to go ahead, here are some ideas to inspire you:

1. Themes:

  • Classic blue or pink: A traditional choice if you know the baby’s sex.
  • Neutral and natural: Earthy tones and natural decorations.
  • Storybook characters: A classic children’s book theme can add a charming touch.
  • Seasonal themes: A spring garden party or a cosy autumn gathering, inspired by the time of year.

2. Venues:

  • Home: Cosy and cost-effective.
  • Garden: Lovely if the weather is kind.
  • Tea room: For a quintessentially British afternoon.
  • Community hall: Ideal if you’re expecting a larger crowd.

3. Activities and games:

  • Guess the baby food: Blindfolded guests taste different baby foods and try to identify them.
  • Nappy raffle: Guests bring a pack of nappies for a chance to win a prize.
  • Baby predictions: Guests guess the birth date, weight and other fun details.
  • Craft station: Guests decorate baby vests or make personalised baby blocks.
  • Printable games and escape rooms: For ready-made baby shower games and gender reveal escape rooms, see my TG Games collection.

4. Food and drink:

  • Afternoon tea: Finger sandwiches, scones and a selection of teas.
  • Buffet: A variety of finger foods and snacks to suit all tastes.
  • Mocktails: Refreshing alcohol-free drinks everyone can enjoy.
  • Cake: No party is complete without one. A themed cake can tie everything together.

Top tips for a successful baby shower

  1. Plan ahead: Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
  2. Share the jobs: Don’t be afraid to ask for help with planning and hosting.
  3. Set a budget: Decide how much you want to spend and stick to it.
  4. Send invitations early: Give guests plenty of notice, especially if they need to travel.
  5. Think about comfort: Make sure there are plenty of seats and the venue is comfortable for everyone, especially the parent-to-be.
  6. Capture the moments: Ask someone to take photos so you don’t miss a thing.
  7. Thank your guests: Prepare thank-you cards in advance to send after the shower.

Whether or not you decide to have a baby shower, this is a special time for you and your growing family. Celebrate in a way that feels right for you, and enjoy the journey towards meeting your new bundle of joy.

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Top Tips for Encouraging Your Toddler to Drink Water

Keeping your little one hydrated matters, especially in warmer weather, but persuading a toddler to drink water can feel like a monumental task. Don’t worry: here are some tips and tricks to make it easier.

  1. Lead by example: Children copy their parents. Drink water regularly throughout the day and let them see you enjoying it, and they’ll be more likely to follow suit.
  2. Make it fun: Choose colourful, child-friendly cups, or let your toddler pick out their own special water cup. An open cup or free-flow cup is better for their teeth than a bottle.
  3. Add some flavour: Plain water can seem a bit boring to little taste buds. Pop in a slice of cucumber, orange or a few strawberries for a hint of flavour without the sugar in fruit juice or squash.
  4. Create a routine: Offer water at regular times, such as with meals and snacks. Consistency is key!
  5. Gentle reminders: Toddlers easily get caught up in play and forget to drink. Offer sips throughout the day, for example whenever you stop for a break.
  6. Stick to milk and water: The NHS recommends milk and water as the main drinks for young children. If you do offer fruit juice, dilute it well (about 1 part juice to 10 parts water) and only give it at mealtimes. Sugary drinks, “baby” drinks and herbal drinks aren’t recommended, and tea and coffee aren’t suitable for young children.
  7. Make it easy to reach: Keep a filled water bottle or cup within reach throughout the day, whether they’re playing in the garden or reading a book.
  8. Praise and encourage: Positive reinforcement goes a long way. Praise your toddler when they have a drink or reach for their water bottle on their own. A simple sticker chart can also help build the habit.
  9. Be patient: Habits take time, and every child is different. Keep going, celebrate small wins, and drinking water will soon become second nature.
  10. Ask for advice if you’re worried: If you’re concerned about how much your toddler drinks, or they seem unwell, talk to your health visitor or GP.

Keeping your toddler hydrated doesn’t have to be a battle. With a little creativity, consistency and patience, you can build healthy habits that will benefit your child for years to come. Here’s to happy sipping!

Further reading: NHS. Drinks and cups for babies and young children

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A Guide to Normal Infant Sleep and Safety for Expecting Parents

Congratulations! You’re about to start one of life’s most incredible journeys: parenthood. As you wait for your little one to arrive, it helps to prepare for the reality of broken nights that come with a new baby. Understanding normal infant sleep and how to keep your baby safe while they sleep is important for your baby’s wellbeing and your own peace of mind.

Normal infant sleep

Babies’ sleep patterns can seem puzzling at first, but it is completely normal for them to wake often during the night because their tiny tummies need regular feeds. Newborns typically sleep for around 14–17 hours a day, usually in short stretches of 2–3 hours. Over the following months, their sleep gradually changes and longer stretches start to appear.

Safer sleep tips from the Lullaby Trust

The Lullaby Trust gives clear guidance to help your baby sleep safely:

  1. Always place your baby on their back to sleep, for every sleep, day or night.
  2. Keep your baby in a cot or Moses basket in the same room as you for at least the first six months.
  3. Use a firm, flat, waterproof mattress in good condition, and a cot that meets current safety standards.
  4. Keep the cot clear: no pillows, duvets, cot bumpers, toys or loose bedding.
  5. Keep the room at a comfortable temperature, ideally 16–20°C, so your baby doesn’t overheat.
  6. Keep your baby’s head uncovered. A well-fitting baby sleeping bag is a safe alternative to blankets.
  7. Keep your baby smoke-free during pregnancy and after birth.
  8. Breastfeeding, if you can, lowers the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome).
  9. Never fall asleep with your baby on a sofa or armchair.
  10. If you do bring your baby into your bed, make the space as safe as possible. Do not share a bed with your baby if you or anyone in the bed smokes, has drunk alcohol, has taken drugs or medication that makes you drowsy, or is extremely tired, or if your baby was born prematurely or at a low birth weight.

Coping with less sleep

  1. Prioritise sleep: let go of non-essential jobs and rest as much as you can.
  2. Share the load: take turns with your partner, family or friends, for example with night feeds or early mornings.
  3. Start a simple bedtime routine: as your baby grows, a calm, consistent routine can help signal that it’s time to sleep.
  4. Accept help: say yes to offers of support, whether it’s a home-cooked meal or an hour of babysitting.
  5. Eat well and drink plenty of water to help fight tiredness.
  6. Lower your expectations: embrace the chaos and let go of perfection.
  7. Find your people: connect with other parents going through the same thing, in person or online.
  8. Be kind to yourself: it’s okay to feel tired and overwhelmed at times.
  9. Rest or nap when your baby naps, if you can, and forget about the chores.
  10. Remember, this phase is temporary. It may feel never-ending, but the sleepless nights will pass.

You can find out more about normal infant sleep at BASIS (Baby Sleep Info Source), which shares research-based information about baby sleep, development and safety.

Keep these tips in mind as you prepare to welcome your baby, and you’ll be better equipped for the early days. Cherish those precious newborn moments, and remember that looking after yourself helps you look after your baby.

Birth workers: my safer sleep paper doll activity and baby 24-hour clock are hands-on ways to explore baby sleep with expectant parents.

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Choosing the Perfect Birthplace: A Guide for Expectant Parents

Choosing the Perfect Birthplace: A Guide for Expectant Parents

Choosing where to give birth is one of the first decisions you’ll make when you are pregnant.

Having a baby is a big journey, full of excitement and perhaps some nerves. Where you give birth affects your birth experience, your safety and your wellbeing. This guide explains your options in the UK and shares findings from the Birthplace in England study to help you decide.

Your options

  1. Hospital (obstetric unit): Hospital labour wards are led by doctors and midwives together. They can handle emergencies and complications, and offer the full range of pain relief, including epidurals, plus specialist care for you and your baby.
  2. Birth centre (midwife-led unit): Birth centres offer a calm, homely environment, run by midwives who focus on supporting physiological birth. They are for women and people with straightforward pregnancies. Some are “alongside” units on the same site as a hospital labour ward; others are “freestanding” units, where transfer to hospital would mean an ambulance journey.
  3. Home birth: A home birth lets you labour in the comfort and familiarity of your own surroundings, supported by NHS midwives. If you need extra help, you would transfer to hospital.

What the Birthplace study found

The Birthplace in England study compared outcomes for healthy women with low-risk pregnancies who planned to give birth at home, in a birth centre or in a hospital labour ward. Key findings:

  • Birth centres: For low-risk pregnancies, planning to give birth in a birth centre (alongside or freestanding) was as safe for the baby as planning a hospital birth.
  • Home birth for a second or later baby: Planning a home birth was as safe for the baby as planning a hospital birth.
  • Home birth for a first baby: There was a small increase in the risk of a serious problem for the baby, from about 5 in 1,000 for a planned hospital birth to about 9 in 1,000 for a planned home birth. Around 45% of first-time mothers planning a home birth transferred to hospital during or soon after labour.
  • Interventions: Women who planned to give birth at home or in a birth centre had fewer interventions, such as caesareans, assisted births (forceps or ventouse) and episiotomies, than those who planned a hospital birth.

Things to consider

  • Your medical history: Any health conditions or pregnancy complications may affect which options are recommended for you.
  • Your preferences: Think about pain relief, interventions and the kind of environment you would like to give birth in.
  • Access to care: Consider how far you are from hospital and how quickly you could get there if you needed extra care.

Talk to your midwife

Your midwife is a valuable source of support throughout your pregnancy. Talk to them about your options, any concerns and what is available locally. You can change your mind about where to give birth at any time.

In the end, where you have your baby is a personal decision that should reflect your needs and values. Trust your instincts, lean on your partner and healthcare team, and go forward with confidence.

Birth workers: my Birth Place Decisions card sort is a ready-made activity to help clients explore their options.

Online Birth Preparation Course only £35!

Please also check out my online course! No videos, just text and images to learn in your own time. Includes hypnobirthing mp3s, scripts, workbook, handouts, infographics and much more! Lots and lots of information at your fingertips! Includes:

  • hypnobirthing mp3s
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Sources and further reading:

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Waterbirth: A Natural Approach to Childbirth

Waterbirth: A Natural Approach to Childbirth

During a waterbirth, you labour in a pool of warm water and may also give birth in the pool. Using water in labour has become popular because of its soothing effects and the benefits many people experience.

Benefits of using water in labour

Pain relief: The warmth and buoyancy of the water can ease contractions and help you relax. Research shows that labouring in water reduces the need for an epidural.

Relaxation: Warm water can help you feel calmer and more in control, which supports the hormones of labour.

Freedom to move: The water supports your weight, making it easier to move and change position as your body guides you.

Fewer interventions: Studies have found that women who use water in labour are less likely to have an episiotomy and report high satisfaction with their birth.

A gentle arrival: Many parents feel that being born into warm water offers their baby a gentle transition into the world.

The practicalities of a waterbirth

Preparation: For a home waterbirth, set up your pool somewhere with plenty of space. Your midwife will want to reach you from at least three sides. Keep essentials such as towels within easy reach. In hospital or a birth centre, ask whether a pool is likely to be available.

When to get in: Many midwives suggest getting into the pool once labour is well established and contractions are regular and strong. Some people find that getting in very early slows things down, so if your contractions ease off, you can always get out, move around and get back in later.

Giving birth in water: Your baby won’t try to breathe until they meet the air. If you give birth in the pool, your baby needs to be born completely underwater and then brought gently to the surface. Your midwife will advise you not to lift your bottom out of the water once the head is born.

After the birth: Your baby is lifted gently out of the water and placed on your chest. The cord is usually left unclamped for a while, often until it stops pulsating.

Birthing the placenta: Most midwives will recommend birthing your placenta “on dry land”, because it is easier to judge blood loss out of the water. If you would like to birth your placenta in the pool, talk to your midwife in advance.

Here are some waterbirth affirmations you might find useful:

  1. “My body is designed for this, and I trust it.”
  2. “With every wave, I feel more relaxed and confident in my ability to birth my baby.”
  3. “As the water holds me, I surrender to the rhythm of labour and welcome my baby with joy.”
  4. “Each breath fills me with strength and peace.”
  5. “I am surrounded by love and support, and I am safe.”
  6. “The warmth of the water eases my body and lets me focus on meeting my baby.”
  7. “With each contraction, I release tension and fear and bring my baby closer.”
  8. “I float, I breathe, I let go.”
  9. “The gentle water reminds me to stay present and connected to my body and my baby.”
  10. “I am strong, I am capable, and I can do this.”

Planning a waterbirth

Start planning early. Talk to your midwife about whether a waterbirth is suitable for you, add it to your birth preferences, and find out about pool availability where you plan to give birth. If you are planning a home birth, look into hiring or buying a birth pool well in advance.

With preparation, support and attention to safety, a waterbirth can be a positive, empowering experience for you and your family.

Note: Always check with your midwife or doctor whether a waterbirth is suitable for you, based on your own health and circumstances.

Online Birth Preparation Course only £35!

Please also check out my online course! No videos, just text and images to learn in your own time. Includes hypnobirthing mp3s, scripts, workbook, handouts, infographics and much more! Lots and lots of information at your fingertips! Includes:

  • hypnobirthing mp3s
  • hypnobirthing scripts
  • written information
  • infographics and other imagery
  • printable handouts
  • printable workbook/journal
Enrol now

Sources and further reading

  • Birthplace in England Collaborative Group (2011) Perinatal and maternal outcomes by planned place of birth for healthy women with low risk pregnancies: the Birthplace in England national prospective cohort study. BMJ 343:d7400.
  • Burns E, Feeley C, Hall PJ, et al. (2022) Systematic review and meta-analysis to examine intrapartum interventions, and maternal and neonatal outcomes following immersion in water during labour and waterbirth. BMJ Open 12:e056517. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-056517
  • Cluett ER, Burns E, Cuthbert A. (2018) Immersion in water during labour and birth. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Issue 5. Art. No.: CD000111. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD000111.pub4
  • Gilbert RE, Tookey PA. (1999) Perinatal mortality and morbidity among babies delivered in water: surveillance study and postal survey. BMJ 319(7208):483–7. doi: 10.1136/bmj.319.7208.483
  • NICE (2023) Intrapartum care. NICE guideline NG235.
  • Ulfsdottir H, Saltvedt S, Georgsson S. (2019) Women’s experiences of waterbirth compared with conventional uncomplicated births. Midwifery 79:102547. doi: 10.1016/j.midw.2019.102547