Baby
Whatever you want to know about parenthood, from breastfeeding to when your baby will have their first vaccinations, you should find it here. We're here to give you the essential guide and lots of free tools for having a healthy, happy baby.
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Weaning
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How much food does my baby need?
To start with, your baby only needs a small amount of solid food, once-a-day, at a time that suits you both. Then you can gradually increase the amount and variety of food your baby eats.
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How do I introduce solids?
Start introducing solids by offering your baby small amounts of smooth, or blended food. you'll gradually increase the amount and variety of food your baby eats.
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What is weaning?
Weaning or 'complementary feeding’ is when you start to introduce your baby to solid foods and gradually breastfeed less and less. It’s best to start introducing solids when your baby is six months old.
Baby moves
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When can I start tummy time?
You can start tummy time from birth by lying your baby on your tummy (only when you are wide awake).
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What activities can I do with my baby?
Going to local playgroups is a great way for your baby to play with new toys, and for you to meet other parents. Babies also love being in the water, see if your local pool offers parent and baby sessions.
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How do I play with my baby?
Newborns love your attention, especially when you sing songs or read to them - they won’t mind if you make up the words either!
Vaccinations
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How often does my baby have vaccinations?
Your baby will need vaccinations when they’re eight weeks, 12 weeks, 16 weeks and one year old. They’ll be vaccinated against 11 things including measles and rubella.
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When is my baby’s first injection?
Your baby will need their first injection when they’re eight weeks old. They’ll get the 6-in-1 vaccine, the Pneumococcal vaccine, the Rotavirus vaccine and the Meningitis B vaccine.
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What is ‘the red book’?
The red book is also known as a Personal Child Health Record. Your baby’s weight and height will be recorded in here, as well as any vaccinations they’ve had. It’s a useful way to keep track of your child’s health.
Vitamins
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Can I get free vitamins?
If you’re under 18 or on benefits you might be able to get free Healthy Start vitamin drops. In some areas all families are entitled to Healthy Start vitamins.
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Does my formula-fed baby need vitamins?
If your baby is having more than 500mls of formula a day they shouldn’t need a vitamin D, A or C supplement.
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Which vitamins should I give my baby?
Breastfed babies should have a daily vitamin D supplement. When they’re six months old, they should also have vitamin A and C daily.
Breastfeeding
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Why do I have sore nipples?
The most common cause of sore nipples is your baby not latching on properly when they feed.
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What is mastitis?
If you have mastitis, a condition that makes your breasts inflamed and painful, see your GP straight away. Symptoms include feeling feverish, a swollen, hot or painful breast, a lump, hard area or red patch on your breast.
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What food or drink should I avoid when breastfeeding?
When you’re breastfeeding, it’s best to keep your caffeine intake fairly low (don’t worry, you can still have your daily cuppa). Also stick to no more than two portions of oily fish per week.