# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Baby product information - The Lullaby Trust

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
It can be hard to know which products are safest for your baby to sleep in. We’re here to help you find the safest baby products…

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Peer support session - Beside You Medway

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Free breastfeeding support sessions in Medway. For any support with feeding challenges, we’ve got you covered

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Gastro oesophageal reflux and the breastfed baby - ABM

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Many babies bring milk back up through their food pipe at different times of the day or night. This is called reflux (short for Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux, or GOR). Simply put, the valve between the stomach and the food pipe (oesophagus) is not keeping the baby's milk down and it comes back up the pipe the wrong way.

# data[].attributes.headline
Talking to your preterm baby (36+ weeks)

# data[].attributes.subject
Talking to your preterm baby (36+ weeks)

# data[].attributes.headline
Start for life breastfeeding information 

# data[].attributes.subject
Start for life breastfeeding information 

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Breastfeeding is a skill that takes time to get the hang of. Lots of mums wonder if their baby's feeding well and getting enough - especially in the first few days.

But once you've mastered it, you'll probably find it's the easiest and most satisfying way to feed your baby.

We're here to provide lots of helpful information and advice on breastfeeding.

If you have any breastfeeding worries or concerns, the best thing to do is speak to your midwife or health visitor, or join a local breastfeeding support group.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Breastfeeding can take practice - read our guides on breastfeeding to find out what works best for you

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Baby Development | Tummy Time | Tummy Time on Chest

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Explore Medway Hospital Oliver Fisher NICU in 3D

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
This video guides mothers on how to hand express and talks about the times when hand expression might be useful.

See the Breastfeeding Network website for FAQs and a leaflet all about expressing and storing breastmilk.

Problems viewing this video? Contact us.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Hand expression video - Baby Friendly Initiative

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This video guides you through how to hand express, and talks about the times when hand expression might be useful for you.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
'Tummy Time.... Tummy to Play Everyday'. This poster highlights the importance of Tummy Time and offers suggestions for Tummy Time activities for babies of different ages.

The Tummy Time poster is currently only available to download. APCP is happy for the poster to be re-produced by any physiotherapist or other healthcare professional / healthcare organisation.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
'Tummy Time.... Tummy to Play Everyday'. This poster highlights the importance of Tummy Time and offers suggestions for Tummy Time activities for babies of different ages. The Tummy Time poster is currently only available to download. APCP is happy for the poster to be re-produced by any physiotherapist or other healthcare professional / healthcare organisation.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
We hope this reassures you that there is not one, straightforward feeding experience, and that every parent's journey is different.

On this page, we will talk about the different types of nutrition that your baby might be fed in neonatal care. Breast milk provides the best nutrition and protection for your baby, but there are also reasons why your baby may need to be fed with other types of nutrition or need more support with feeding during their stay in neonatal care and beyond.

How to know if your baby is getting enough nutrition

You can be sure that your baby is getting enough nutrition if they:

Have plenty of wet and dirty nappies (the consistency and amount will change as babies get older and depending on what they are fed)

Are growing and gaining weight

Are mostly settled and calm between feeds, if they are fed by tube, or are breastfeeding or bottle feeding.

Steady weight gain is a good way of showing that your baby is feeding and growing well. But all babies will gain weight at a different rate. This will be monitored during your baby's stay on the neonatal unit and when you get home. Always talk to a member of staff on the neonatal unit if you have any concerns.

Parenteral nutrition (PN)

Some babies born very premature or sick will not be able to have milk straight away.

Parenteral nutrition (PN) is nutrition in a liquid form that is given directly into your baby's bloodstream intravenously (through a vein). The solution has nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, proteins and fats. It is called total parenteral nutrition (TPN) where it is used as the only source of nutrition.

Colostrum and first milk

The first milk that mothers produce is called colostrum. Colostrum is often thicker and more yellow in colour than breastmilk. It contains a rich mix of proteins, including antibodies that can help protect against infections. Colostrum comes in small amounts, but this will increase the more times you express. Some research has shown that introducing colostrum as early as possible to babies born premature or sick can reduce the time it takes for them to be able to feed successfully, and can reduce the risk of infections.

Breast milk

Breast milk is the best milk for nutrition, growth and development for all infants. It has many benefits, including the following:

It boosts your baby's immune system and protects against infections, such as gut and chest infections.

It has antibodies from the mother that can protect your baby against bacteria and viruses.

It can reduce the risk of your baby developing necrotising enterocolitis (NEC), a serious condition that can happen in babies born premature.

It provides other nutrients, growth factors and hormones that help your baby grow and develop during the vital early months after birth.

It improves brain development.

It is very easy to digest and is absorbed more easily than formula milks.

Your baby may not be well enough or strong enough to breastfeed straight away. If this is the case, the staff at the hospital will help you to express (collect) your breast milk, as soon as possible after the baby's birth. You can do this by hand or with a breast pump. There are other reasons why parents may express milk for their baby.

After expressing your breast milk, the milk can be frozen and stored until your baby is ready to feed. Expressed milk can also be given to your baby directly into their stomach using a feeding tube, which is useful if they are too unwell to feed from a breast or bottle. Breast milk can be given by bottle once your baby has learned to suck, swallow, and breathe on their own.

Expressing breast milk can take time to learn, and the staff looking after your baby will give you positive support and practical help with this. Try not to worry if you are not expressing a lot of milk at first. Speak to your midwife or feeding specialist on the neonatal unit for more support.

Supplements and fortifiers

Babies born premature or sick may also need extra vitamins and minerals for growth, so your baby may be given supplements to breast milk. Your baby's doctor may prescribe a breast milk fortifier (which is usually a powder made from cow's milk) which can be added to breast milk. This can help with growth and bone development.

If your baby needs more milk than is available, your baby's doctor may prescribe donor breast milk or a formula (see below) for preterm babies, to be taken alongside your milk.

We have more detailed information about expressing milk and breastfeeding.

Donor milk

If you have a low supply of milk, or are unable to breastfeed, some hospitals can provide donated breast milk for your baby. Donor milk may be used for a baby who is at a high risk of necrotising enterocolitis (NEC), because they are very premature, or at a very low birthweight. This is because there is some evidence that donor milk can reduce the risk of NEC in premature babies when compared to formula milk. This makes it a good alternative to breast milk for these babies. However, donor milk is not as effective as mother's own milk.

Speak to unit staff for more information, or if you have any concerns about receiving donor milk. They can also give you information about what to do if you have extra milk.

For more information about donor milk, visit the United Kingdom Association for Milk Banking (UKAMB) or The Human Milk Foundation website.

Formula

If you decide not to breastfeed or express your milk, your baby may be prescribed a special preterm formula designed especially for their nutritional needs.

This may be given by a feeding tube at first, but can be given by bottle once your baby has learned to suck, swallow, and breathe on their own. Your doctor will talk to you if they think your baby will benefit from a preterm formula milk. If needed, your doctor may prescribe your baby a preterm formula milk to be used at home.

Some parents may choose to feed their baby using a first infant formula. These do not contain the additional nutrients of preterm formula, but sometimes preterm formula is not needed or recommended. Formulas do not have the same benefits as breast milk for your baby, and does not provide protection from infection. Formula milk is also not as easy for your baby to digest as breast milk. However, formula may be the right choice for some families for other reasons.

If you feed your baby using formula, staff on the neonatal unit should show you how to make up feeds safely before you go home from the unit. The NHS website also has some information about this. On some units, staff may ask you to bring in your chosen formula (if not prescribed), but will supply you with sterile bottles and teats at first. In time, you may want to bring in your own bottles so your baby can start to get used to them.

We have more information about bottle feeding your baby.

Combination feeding

Some parents may feed their baby through a combination of breast milk and formula. This is often known as combination feeding. Combination feeding may be used if you are unable to produce enough milk, or are finding it difficult to breastfeed. Some parents choose to combination feed so that they can share feeds between them. Combination feeding may be something you had planned to do. But if this is not the case, don't be hard on yourself if you combination feed for other reasons. Talk to a feeding specialist, your midwife or health visitor if you have any questions or concerns about combination feeding.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Babies born premature or sick often have different nutritional needs. Find out more about the different types of nutrition that your baby might be fed in neonatal care.

# data[].attributes.headline
Neonatal Transport Service- Bump, Birth and Beyond

# data[].attributes.subject
Neonatal Transport Service- Bump, Birth and Beyond

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
Kent and Medway - Bump, Birth and Beyond

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
This website was created with women and expectant families from Kent & Medway. Your maternity care is safest when you understand your choices and can make the right decisions for you and your baby. Bump, birth and beyond gives local, trusted information. Your local midwives and maternity team look forward to meeting you and answering any questions.

This website does not provide specific medical advice.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Home :: Kent and Medway - Bump, Birth and Beyond

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This website was created with women and expectant families from Kent & Medway. Your maternity care is safest when you understand your choices and can make the right decisions for you and your baby. Bump, birth and beyond gives local, trusted information. Your local midwives and maternity team look forward to meeting you and answering any questions.

# data[].attributes.headline
Bliss: 'Look at me - I'm talking to you' 

# data[].attributes.subject
Bliss: 'Look at me - I'm talking to you' 

# data[].attributes.body
A free downloadable resource to support caregivers in reading preterm baby behaviours

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
This site uses cookies to help us provide you with the best possible online experience. By using this site you agree to our use of cookies.
Learn more about our cookie policy and usage.

Shop

Parent resources

Look at me - I'm talking to you

Free

An information guide about watching and understanding a premature baby, available to download by clicking the button below.
More...

You may also be interested in

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This site uses cookies to help us provide you with the best possible online experience. By using this site you agree to our use of cookies.Learn more about our cookie policy and usage.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Sensory doesn't have to be something that you need to think too much about. For young babies, everything they do is a new sensory experience and really enriches their early learning.

But it's always good to try and stimulate more than one sense at a time, as this can help babies and toddlers make sense of the world around them.

There are loads of activities that count as sensory play. In the video above we highlight a couple of examples, but here is some more inspiration for you:

A lot of the activities on our website stimulate loads of the senses, which is why they're so great for language development. If you're looking for any other ideas to try with your child, check out our activity selector page . This is also a great opportunity to find an activity that fits your child's age and stage.

Want to find out more about sensory play and why it's so great for language learning? .

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
What is sensory play? Some parents use noises and touches to engage their babies and help them to learn. Try talking them through the things they feel, see and hear. Watch our baby sensory play video for some ideas.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Positive touch is a way of communicating your love and reassurance to your baby and hearing your baby's needs in return. Babies do communicate, and by watching and listening to your baby you can learn what kind of touch to use and when it is appropriate, safe and pleasurable for your baby.

It's harder for your baby to communicate when exposed to too much noise, too much light, too much cool air, or an uncomfortable lying position. See whether the environment can be calmed down first. In time, you will get to know your baby's individual ways and you may find your baby responding more often and for longer.

Comfort holding

Comfort holding is one of many ways for you and your baby to get to know each other. Your baby may be more comfortable lying in the incubator than being held. In this case, the staff may suggest that you try comfort holding if they think your baby is well enough. Comfort holding is 'still touch'. Cradling your baby with still, resting hands can be more comforting than stroking or massage, which are more stimulating.

Comfort holding can:

soothe your baby during uncomfortable procedures.

settle a restless baby.

help your baby to get back to sleep after feeds and care.

encourage your baby to be quietly awake and responsive.

Comfort holding is a way to experience loving touch when your baby is not ready to be held.

Talk to your baby's nurse about comfort holding. Together you can watch for signs from your baby that will guide you as to when and how to do it.

Be careful to:

Remove watches and jewellery, pull your sleeves up to the elbows, and wash your hands and lower arms. This reduces the risk of infection inside the incubator.

Always make sure that your hands are warm before touching your baby.

If your baby has difficulty keeping warm, make sure there is a layer of fabric (a hat, vest or blanket) between you.

Speak to your baby before touching, so that they are aware of your presence before you start.

Cradle one or both hands around your baby's feet, head or body, and keep them still. Your baby may also like to grasp one of your fingers.

Wait and watch for signs that tell you that your baby is relaxed.

You can continue for as long as you are both comfortable. When you finish comfort holding, move your hands away from your baby very slowly.

Kangaroo Care

Kangaroo Care is skin-to-skin contact when a baby is placed against the parent's chest. Benefits include improvements with lactation and with establishing breastfeeding, and better weight gain for the baby. In the longer term, it helps parents to feel closer to their babies and more confident in caring for them. Kangaroo Care can be used with babies with high medical needs, but this will require careful planning and collaboration with the neonatal staff.

Talk to staff and plan a good time and comfortable place for you to try Kangaroo Care.

While Kangaroo Care is based on direct skin-to-skin contact, removing your baby's clothes is not vital if this is upsetting for him or her. A hat and a blanket for extra warmth might be necessary for very small babies.

Hold your baby chest-to-chest tucked inside your clothes, enclosing him/her to keep his/her temperature stable. Check that the head is well supported and if you can't see your baby easily, try using a hand mirror.

Explore what you both like to enjoy together. Some babies like to have their eyes shielded, others like to be sung to softly or while having a tube feed. Allow time for your baby to settle and get the full benefit.

If you baby is happy, you can cuddle for as long as you are both comfortable. Lie back, relax and enjoy.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Premature and sick babies undergo many medical procedures that can cause them some discomfort. As your baby's parents, you are the best people to balance this with a positive, reassuring touch.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Breastfeeding has lots of benefits for you and your baby. As well as the health benefits of breast milk for your baby, breastfeeding is a good way to have skin-to-skin contact with your baby, which can help you and your baby to get to know each other.

Your baby may not be ready to breastfeed as soon as they are born. They may not be well enough or strong enough to breastfeed. Some babies who are born at term and sick may find it more difficult to breastfeed because of surgery or difficulties swallowing. Some babies with breathing or heart problems may also have difficulties coordinating breathing and feeding.

If your baby is very premature or sick, they may have to be fed using parenteral nutrition (PN) and/or tube feeding before they are well enough to breastfeed. We have more information about the signs a baby being tube fed may show if they are ready for breast or bottle feeding.

You can still provide breast milk for your baby if they are unable to breastfeed by using a technique called expressing. We have more information about expressing.

Sometimes premature babies need more nutrients than you can provide in your breast milk. If this is the case, your baby's doctor may prescribe a breast milk fortifier (which is usually a powder made from cow's milk) which can be added to breast milk. This can help with growth and bone development.

Some parents may feed their baby through a combination of breastfeeding and bottle feeding. This is often known as mixed or combination feeding. It is recommended that your baby, if possible, establishes breastfeeding before introducing another type of feeding. Combination feeding may be used if there are problems with breastfeeding, such as there not being enough breastmilk, or for other reasons. If you are thinking about mixed or combination feeding, talk to your neonatal team, feeding specialist, midwife, health visitor or GP.

Staff on the neonatal unit may recommend that your baby is fed your breast milk using cup feeding. They might suggest this if your baby is looking to feed but cannot latch onto the breast or is separated from the mother for any reason. If you are unsure, speak to the staff on the neonatal unit.

If you decide not to breastfeed your baby, it is very important that you are given information about the other options that are available. Your baby can still get many benefits of breastmilk if you express. Talk to your midwife, neonatal nurse or health visitor about how you are feeling and how they can support you.

The let-down reflex

Each time you breastfeed your baby, you may notice tingling or prickling in your breasts and nipples, or a feeling as if the milk is rushing in to fill them. This is called the let-down reflex (it is sometimes called the milk ejection reflex). During the let-down reflex, a hormone called oxytocin is released, which helps with milk flow. At first, this takes a few minutes to be released, but later it will happen within a few seconds.

The let-down reflex feels different to different women. Some women describe a slight pain and some have no sensations at all. Your body may respond to certain things you do, which can trigger your let-down reflex. For example, it is normal for the let-down reflex to happen in response to having a warm bath or shower, or to breast massage. It can also happen in response to being close to your baby, hearing your baby cry or having a picture or something close by that smells of them.

Staying as relaxed as possible and having skin-to-skin contact with your baby can all help to trigger the let-down reflex. Taking some deep breaths and concentrating on your breathing can also help.

How do I start to breastfeed my baby?

You may not know where to start with breastfeeding your baby, especially if your baby has previously been tube fed. A nurse, midwife or feeding specialist (such as an infant feeding coordinator) on the neonatal unit will be able to support you.

Both parents can be involved in breastfeeding, and other people close to you can also provide encouragement and support, such as grandparents. Having as much support as possible can help ensure that you continue to breastfeed when you go home from the neonatal unit. It might be helpful to talk about how you are going to approach breastfeeding with your partner, and how they can best support you. The NHS website has more information about how dads and partners can support breastfeeding, and signposts to more support that is available.

It is important to recognise the signs that your baby is hungry (feeding cues) before breastfeeding. Early feeding cues might include putting their fingers into their mouth, making sucking motions (rooting) and becoming restless.

What breastfeeding positions should I try?

When you are on the neonatal unit, a healthcare professional such as a neonatal nurse or midwife should support you to try to breastfeed your baby. They will help you to find feeding positions that are most comfortable for you. There are positions that may be more suitable for mothers who have had surgery, or whose baby was born premature or sick. Unit staff may recommend that you use pillows to support your arms or back.

If you have twins or multiples, you may also need more support with pillows when feeding, so that you are more comfortable and your babies are supported. Some mothers benefit from a hard pillow that ties at the back or a sling. It can be daunting at first to hold multiple babies at once, but staff in the neonatal unit will help with this. Twins Trust have some more information about breastfeeding multiples that you may find useful.

I am having difficulties getting my baby to breastfeed and latch on. Why is this?

As with all newborn babies, some find breastfeeding easier than others. This can depend on factors such as your baby's age, maturity and any medical conditions they have. It is normal for babies who are born premature or sick to take slightly longer to establish breastfeeding than babies born at term. Every baby is different, and it is important to ask for help and support, especially when you start.

There are some common problems that parents experience when starting breastfeeding. Some babies born premature can be too sleepy to feed effectively, and it can be difficult to get the right position for feeding when your baby is so small. We have a page that lists common problems you may have when breastfeeding or expressing milk for your baby and what can help.

For some mothers, it can take a while to gain confidence in breastfeeding. This is normal, even if you have breastfed before. Having a baby born premature or sick is a unique experience and it is okay to find things difficult at times. Having plenty of support around you can help you build up confidence. We have more information about support you can get with breastfeeding below.

Where can I get help and support with breastfeeding?

Many parents find breastfeeding a rewarding, empowering experience. But establishing breastfeeding can be challenging at times. It can be tiring, especially when you are travelling to and from the unit, and some mothers experience discomfort when they are starting to breastfeed. There are many places where you can get help and support.

Most parents find that having lots of support helps them to get started and to continue to breastfeed. Support can come from your partner, family and friends, and from medical professionals on the unit and at home.

Support on the unit could come from your unit's feeding specialist, a neonatal nurse, or your midwife. Some neonatal units also have a lactation consultant or feeding specialist, who are trained to help parents who are having problems with breastfeeding and expressing.

If you are at home, support with breastfeeding could come from your health visitor, a community neonatal nurse, if you have one, or your GP. You can talk to your health visitor for more information about any breastfeeding support groups in your area. It is always important to speak up and ask if you need more help and support, or if you have questions.

There are also helplines and organisations that can help:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Find more information about breastfeeding your premature or sick baby here, including how to get started and how to find support.

# data[].attributes.headline
Talking to your preterm baby (less than 32 weeks)

# data[].attributes.subject
Talking to your preterm baby (less than 32 weeks)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
It allows baby to get used to the sound of your voice, crucial for their later language learning

It makes the most of face-to-face time with your baby, the close contact lets them watch your face as you sing the words and helps them to begin to see how words are formed by your mouth

Your baby loves hearing your voice, they've been hearing it since before birth, so it can help them to stay calm and happy during feeds

The skin to skin contact while feeding, coupled with the sound of your voice singing, will give a big boost of happy hormones to you and your baby. These are great for forming a strong bond with one another

What should I sing to my baby?

You can sing anything you like to your baby while feeding - what matters is that they hear your voice, feel your touch and that you make plenty of eye contact with them as you sing.

Try to be as expressive as you can to engage your baby as you sing to them.

You might want to sing a traditional nursery rhyme, or you could make up your own rhymes and have some fun. Alternatively, you could sing along to your favourite artist.

It doesn't matter if you're not a natural singer - your baby will love it no matter what. However, if you're not keen on singing, then you could try telling them all about your day.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Why should you sing while feeding your baby?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Feeds are a great time for early singing and chatting with your baby. It's great for them to get used to your voice - not only that it might help you to keep them calm.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Communicating with your deaf baby or child

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Emma Fraser from the National Deaf Children’s Society shares her advice for parents raising a Deaf child. Find out how you can support your child’s communication skills and language development if they are deaf.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Nappy times are a great time to chat face to face with your newborn, perfect for their very early communication development. Keep them occupied as you change them.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Babies typically start to make eye contact from around 6 weeks of age, though all babies develop at different rates.

How far can babies see?

Babies can only focus on things a short distance away at newborn stage - typically only about 20-30 centimetres. For this reason, it's important that adults get up close and face to face when talking to babies, so they can see your face and follow your expressions.

The benefits of getting face to face with baby

If you get up close to your baby as you're talking to them, they can watch the movements you make with your face as you speak and they listen to the sounds that you are making. This is the first step toward them learning about making speech sounds for themselves.

If you couple being face to face with sing-song baby talk, they'll find it easier to pick out the sounds that you're making in words and how you're making them.

Face to face time with baby

There are lots of great opportunities for you to get down to babies' level. You could try chatting to baby through nappy changes, getting up close during singing to baby during a feed or talking through bath time.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Tools for Talking 0-3 months: Why getting face to face with your baby is brilliant

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Do you know babies learn so much from your face? The best thing you can do when talking to a newborn baby is to get up close and make eye contact with them. Watch the video on our page to find out why.

# data[].attributes.headline
Support for Parents with Multiple Babies 

# data[].attributes.subject
Support for Parents with Multiple Babies 

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Twins Trust - We support twins, triplets and more...

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Supporting you through every milestone of your journey with twins, triplets or more. From being pregnant with twins, triplets or quads through to parenting twins, triplets or quads, we are here for you.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
In this video, a breastfeeding counsellor helps a mother with her positioning and attachment whilst breastfeeding.

Key to achieving the Baby Friendly standards is a workforce able to support mothers to breastfeed effectively. This video provides some guidance on this.

You can see more of the 'From Bump to Breastfeeding' DVD on the Best Beginnings website.

Video not working? Contact us

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Positioning and attachment video - Baby Friendly Initiativ

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
In this video, a breastfeeding counsellor helps a mother with her positioning and attachment whilst breastfeeding. Watch to learn more.

# data[].attributes.body
Help to pay travel costs to be with your baby in hospital

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
If you’re referred to hospital or other NHS premises for specialist NHS treatment or diagnostic tests by a doctor, dentist or another primary care health professional, you may be able to claim a refund of reasonable travel costs under the Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme (HTCS).

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Neonatal Animation: A guide for parents on what to expect when on a neonatal unit

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Baby Development | Tummy Time | Tummy Time with Towel

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
Sands - Saving babies' lives. Supporting bereaved families.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Sands | Saving babies' lives. Supporting bereaved families.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Sands works to support anyone affected by the death of a baby; improve the care bereaved parents receive; and create a world where fewer babies die.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This information is about introducing your premature baby to more solid foods, and the steps you can follow as your baby moves from milk to eventually only eating solids. This is called weaning.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Professional Counselling - Making Miracles Bereavement Care UK

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We provide professional counselling to families who have experienced birth trauma or baby bereavement. Get up to 6 sessions for free.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
A note on Vitamin D: In the UK, recommendations are for everyone to take a vitamin D supplement[2], Sunlight is the ideal source of Vitamin D, but unfortunately most of us don't get enough of it due to indoor lifestyles. People with darker skin tones and babies who are born in winter are also at higher risk due to lower exposure to sunlight. The amount of vitamin D in your breast milk IS affected by your own vitamin D levels, so this is an important consideration. Vitamin D is vital for the good health of bones, teeth and muscles. Infants consuming 500ml or more of formula per day receive their supplement in this way as it is added to the formula itself.

Generally with supplements it's a good idea to talk to your health professional if you are considering taking something.
Special circumstances - Vegetarian and vegan diets
It is perfectly possible to breastfeed and follow a vegetarian or vegan diet. However, there are some important considerations which you might need to think about more while you're breastfeeding:

Vitamin B12 - B12 is an essential nutrient, but unfortunately it's difficult to get from plants. Therefore, it's important for those who don't eat any animal products at all to consider how they are going to get enough B12 in their diet. Nutritional yeast and yeast extract are both good sources, and it is often added to plant milks and breakfast cereals, so it's worth double checking the ingredients when you're buying those. Many vegans also choose to take a B12 supplement. B12 is one of the few nutrients in your breast milk which IS directly related to your own diet. Therefore, to make sure that your baby gets enough B12 from you, you need to make sure that you are consuming enough.

Protein - contrary to popular belief, protein is not generally an issue for vegetarians and vegans, and can be found easily in plant-based sources including beans, pulses, nuts, seeds and tofu. However, protein requirements when lactating are slightly higher than normal (see table above), and low protein may be associated with reduced breast milk production in some cases[3].

Calcium - calcium needs are increased from 700 to 1250mg per day when breastfeeding. For those who consume it, dairy is a convenient source. For vegans or anyone else who doesn't, good sources of calcium include tofu, almonds and leafy greens. Non-organic plant milks are usually fortified with calcium, B12 and sometimes other nutrients such as iodine as well.

Iodine - iodine is important for thyroid function and is easily found in seafood. Sea creatures actually get theirs from algae and seaweed, which are also potential sources for those who don't eat seafood. However, most people are not going to eat enough seaweed for all their dietary needs, and other plant sources may be variable.

Omega-3 - omega-3 fatty acids may be important for our cardiac and brain health. Oily fish is a great source, and the general population is recommended to eat 2 portions a week. We know that the amount of fat in breast milk is not influenced by diet, but the types of fat are[4]. Vegetarian sources of Omega-3 include several types of nuts and seeds, or an algae-based supplement. Currently as there is little research into potential benefits of supplementing with Omega-3 when breastfeeding, you might wish to do your own reading on the subject to make an informed decision. See the useful links section below for further information.
Special circumstances - Dairy-free breastfeeding
If your baby is diagnosed with Cow's Milk Protein Allergy (CMPA), you can continue breastfeeding by removing all dairy products from your diet. Key considerations in this case are vitamin B12 and calcium (see the sections above for further information). You may be prescribed calcium and vitamin D supplements[5].
Other special circumstances
For all special diets for allergy, lifestyle or medical reasons please do consult with your medical professionals and make sure they are aware that you are breastfeeding.
Losing weight when breastfeeding
Rest and recovery are important when you have had a baby, particularly in the early months. Your body has just grown a baby and continues to nurture them - how amazing! There is no rush to "snap back" but if somewhere down the line you'd like to lose weight, most sources agree that a sensible weight loss of up to 1.5 lbs a week is not going to cause any problems for lactation. It is important to remember though, that breastfeeding uses an extra 300-500 calories a day, so do remember to include that when thinking about your diet. Some popular diet plans do have specific rules for breastfeeding. Supposed "quick-fix" strategies such as weight loss supplements, meal replacements and low-carb diets are best avoided as they will not include all the nutrients you need for your own wellbeing.
Taking vitamin supplements
There are lots of vitamin brands now offering specific "breastfeeding" vitamins. Some of these are quite expensive, although you can also find own-brand vitamins at a lower cost. There is no specific need to take these, and a standard multivitamin is fine if you wish to take one. If you do decide to take vitamin supplements, it's worth double-checking quantities against the table above to avoid excessive quantities of vitamins A, B6 and iodine in particular.

Caffeine is found in coffee, tea, chocolate, energy drinks, some fizzy drinks and some medications. Around 1% of your caffeine intake will pass through into your breast milk, which is a very small amount. As with most things, consumption in moderation is not a problem for most people, but there are a couple of considerations. Most sources agree that under 300mg of caffeine per day is not generally going to cause problems when breastfeeding, however, some babies may be sensitive to it, particularly in the first 3 months or so. A standard cup of coffee has around 100-150mg, though this will vary depending on the size, strength and type of coffee. Signs of sensitivity in a baby include jitteriness, irritability and fussiness. There are, of course, many reasons why babies may be fussy or irritable, so you may wish to contact some breastfeeding support if you are worried.

Caffeine may also be associated with vasospasm and Reynaud's Phenomenon. A high intake (over 450mg per day) may also lead to reduced iron in breast milk.

Like caffeine, alcohol does pass into breast milk, but only in very small amounts. The occasional or small amount of alcohol is not likely to harm your baby. Alcohol levels peak in breast milk between 30-60 minutes after drinking, so you could reduce the amount going to your baby by drinking and feeding around the same time, and then waiting 2-3 hours before feeding again. However, this is a cautious approach and not all sources agree that it's really necessary. More conservative sources also suggest minimising alcohol consumption in the first 3 months after the baby's birth, as newborns are not able to metabolise alcohol as well as slightly older babies.

Excess consumption of alcohol and binge drinking can be risky. Large quantities of alcohol can affect the let-down, which in turn can cause babies to become fussy and impatient at the breast. Excess consumption can also cause babies to become drowsy and weak, and can lead to poor weight gain.

It's also important to consider how well you are able to look after your baby while consuming alcohol. If you are planning to have more than one or two drinks, consider whether someone else will be there to take charge of your baby's care. It's also very important not to fall asleep with your baby if you have been consuming alcohol, as this increases the risk of SIDS.

Despite common perceptions, it does not help to "pump and dump". Alcohol will clear from your milk at the same rate as your bloodstream. It takes approximately 2-2.5 hours for one unit of alcohol to leave your system depending on your size, and 8-10 hours for four units to leave your body. One unit is roughly equivalent to a single spirit measure, half a standard glass of wine, or half a pint of beer.
Galactogogues & Lactation cookies
You will often see recommendations to eat certain foods to encourage your milk production (known as galactogogues), and there are also increasing numbers of commercial "lactation cookies" and similar products making claims that they will help you. Common foods and ingredients include oats, fenugreek, blessed thistle, milk thistle, fennel, brewer's yeast, goat's rue and many others. There is little evidence to support most of these, and nothing will work to increase your milk production without frequent, effective milk removal (i.e. feeding and/or expressing). However, the recommended foods do tend to be nutritious and we know that the placebo effect can be powerful, so there's no harm in eating them if you enjoy them. Oats, for example, are a good source of zinc, iron, protein and fibre (among other things), and many people find a warm bowl of porridge a great comfort food. If eating oats makes you feel good, and that in turn helps you with feeding, that's a good thing, but don't rely on them to do everything for you.

Commercial lactation cookies tend to be very expensive, and are, sadly, a marketing gimmick. If you particularly want to use ingredients which are traditionally thought to be galactogogues, you can probably save lots of money by making your own.

A note about Fenugreek: there is some research that fenugreek helps to increase milk production for some people. However, there are some important contra-indications (meaning cases where you shouldn't take it), particularly in relation to blood disorders, hypotension, hypoglycaemia and miscarriage. More information can be found here https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/galactagogues/
Useful links https://breastfeeding-and-medication.co.uk/fact-sheet/breastfeeding-and-multivitamin-and-mineral-supplements https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/galactagogues/ https://breastfeeding.support/breastfeeding-and-drinking-alcohol/ https://breastfeeding.support/coffee-caffeine-breastfeeding/ https://kellymom.com/nutrition/mothers-diet/mom-weightloss/ https://www.vegansociety.com/resources/nutrition-and-health/life-stages/pregnancy-and-breastfeeding
[1] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/vitamin-d/

[2] https://academic.oup.com/jn/article-abstract/106/3/312/4763550?redirectedFrom=fulltext

[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18936218/
[4] https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/cows-milk-allergy-in-children/management/suspected-cows-milk-allergy/

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A note on Vitamin D : In the UK, recommendations are for everyone to take a vitamin D supplement[2], Sunlight is the ideal source of Vitamin D, but unfortunately most of us don't get enough of it due to indoor lifestyles.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
In this video, we look at the importance of developing close and loving relationships with babies in their early days and weeks.

Responding to babies' needs for comfort and food is hugely beneficial for brain development and makes for more confident toddlers. Parents should be supported in breastfeeding responsively and keeping their babies close to help them become happy, healthy and secure children and adults.

For more information:

Find more relationship building resources

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The Importance of relationship building video - Baby Friendly Initiative

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This video looks at the importance of developing close, loving relationships with babies in their early days and weeks.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Babies who are born prematurely (before 37 weeks) or of low birth weight (under 2.5kgs) are particularly vulnerable and it is important that all the safe sleep advice is followed. Premature babies are sometimes slept on their front in hospital for special medical reasons. When they are getting ready to go home these babies should always sleep on their back to reduce the risk of sudden infant death.

Download our Safer Sleep Advice for Premature Babies guide below for further information on reducing the risk of SIDS.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Babies who are born prematurely (before 37 weeks) or of low birth weight (under 2.5kgs) are particularly vulnerable and it is important that all the safe sleep advice is followed. Premature babies are sometimes slept on their front in hospital for special medical reasons. When they are getting ready to go home these babies should [...]

# data[].attributes.headline
Learning to feed: responsive bottle feeding pathway in NICU 

# data[].attributes.subject
Learning to feed: responsive bottle feeding pathway in NICU 

# data[].attributes.headline
Breastfeeding and relationship building early days

# data[].attributes.subject
Breastfeeding and relationship building early days

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
This video looks at both the theory and practice of relationship building and responsive breastfeeding, supporting families to get their relationship with their baby off to the best start.

Hear mothers and professionals give tips and advice on what it can mean to have a close and loving relationship with your new baby.

Find more relationship building resources

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Breastfeeding and relationships in the early days video - Baby Friendly Initiative

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Baby Friendly's video on breastfeeding and relationship building covers views and tips from both mothers and health professionals.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
What is parenteral nutrition (PN)?

Parenteral nutrition (PN) is nutrition in a liquid form that is given directly into your baby's bloodstream intravenously (through a vein). The solution has nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, proteins and fats. It is called total parenteral nutrition (TPN) where it is used as the only source of nutrition.

How does PN work?

PN provides food to help your baby grow. An infusion pump is used to deliver the nutrition to your baby. This allows a stream of nutrients to flow into the bloodstream over a period of time. In newborn babies it is common for the vein in the baby's umbilical cord to be used for this.

A doctor or advanced neonatal nurse practitioner will insert a tube (catheter) into your baby's umbilical cord (tummy button). The nutrition passes through this into the bloodstream. After some time, if your baby still needs PN, they will place another tube (called a long line) into one of your baby's veins (usually the arms or legs). They will then remove the tube in the tummy button.

At first, this may be their only source of nutrition.

Why does my baby need to be fed using PN?

Although very premature and sick babies can have milk feeds, these often need to be introduced gradually so their gut can learn to cope with them. Very premature babies are usually fed using PN at first, as they have an immature digestive system that needs time to develop enough so they can tolerate enough milk to meet their nutritional needs. For both very premature and sick babies, PN can be used to make sure they get enough nutrition and can start to grow while they are gradually introduced to feeds.

We understand that seeing your baby being fed using PN can be quite scary. But it will allow your baby to feed without reducing their energy. It also enables them to absorb the nutrients required to grow.

When will my baby stop needing PN?

As your baby begins to grow and becomes stronger, a method called tube feeding will be introduced. This is so your baby can start to have milk. Tube feeding is where breast milk or formula is given through a tube passed into your baby's nose or mouth to their stomach. Milk feeds will be introduced as soon as possible alongside PN.

Once tube feeding has been established, PN will stop. Some babies need PN for a week or two, but others can take longer.

We have more information about tube feeding that you may find helpful.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Parenteral nutrition, also known as PN, is used to feed extremely premature or very sick babies.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Before you leave the neonatal unit, a trained doctor or nurse will show you how to resuscitate your baby if they stop breathing.

The thought of having to resuscitate your baby can be very scary, and is something that no parent or carer ever wants to have to do or think about. But the training is designed to help you be as prepared as possible.

Research suggests that learning how to resuscitate your baby could help increase your confidence and reduce any anxiety you may have.

If your baby stops breathing, it is important to stay calm and call 999; the emergency call handler will help. If you need to perform CPR on your baby, the call handler will talk you through the process until the ambulance arrives.

We have more information on what to do if you think your baby is becoming unwell.

We are currently reviewing our resuscitation video and will upload the new version later this year. Until then, our friends at the St John's Ambulance have an instructional video about what to do if your baby stops breathing.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Having resuscitation training can help you be more prepared to care for your premature or sick baby after leaving the neonatal unit.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Going home from the neonatal unit | Bliss

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
You may have a lot to think about when you go home from the neonatal unit with your premature or sick baby. Find out more about preparing to go home, and what support is avaliable.

# data[].attributes.body
Help to decide if your unwell baby needs to see a doctor

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
We use cookies to give you the best possible online experience. If you continue, we will assume you are happy for your web browser to receive all cookies from our website. Accept

Baby Check App

Baby Check features 19 simple checks that parents can do if their baby is showing signs of illness. Each check tests for a different symptom and when completed, a score is calculated that tells parents or carers how ill their baby is. The app then lets parents know whether their baby needs to see a doctor or health professional.

Download for FREE from Google Play or the App Store.

Buy posters, business cards and other materials to help promote Baby Check to your clients and patients

Shop

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Baby Check App helps parents decide if their baby needs to see a doctor or health professional

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Routine childhood immunisations from February 2022 (born on or after 1 January 2020)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We'd like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
All adults, children and babies experience illnesses. We become protected from infections by either catching them or through vaccination.

Babies and young children get more colds than adults as their resistance to infections builds up over time. For babies born premature or sick, the risk of complications can be higher.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
All adults, children and babies experience illnesses. We become protected from infections by either catching them or through vaccination. Babies and young children get more colds than adults as their resistance to infections builds up over time. For babies born premature or sick, the risk of...

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Baby newborn activity logger and tracker, breastfeeding timer, sleep timer, diaper log, growth chart, medication, temperature, vaccine

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Peeps HIE Charity | HIE Awareness & Support

Welcome to Peeps HIE

We provide support to parents, families & friends of those affected by HIE (Hypoxic-Ischaemic Encephalopathy), raising awareness of HIE.

Some of the things we do include:

Provide information about HIE

Buddy/peer support

Counselling and therapy

Funding for equipment

Find out more about what we do...

Our Family stories

We pride ourselves on the support we can give to families experiencing the challenges of day-to-day life with children affected by HIE.

Read our Family Stories

Peeps on Twitter

Our information leaflets are written by families, with families, for families.
They can be downloaded from our website, or printed copies sent out - please get in touch if we can help support.

https://www.peeps-hie.org/resources-downloads/

#HeardOfHIE

2

If you'd like to find out more about our new book club, starting in 2024, and register an interest, please check out our website:

It will be online, peer-led, from the comfort of your own home, and just for H.I.E. parents/grandparents/carers.
Suggestions...

We recognise that each H.I.E. journey can be unique; we aim to provide support and guidance tailored to the diverse needs of our community.

Inclusion matters and is an agenda item on every meeting we have with Trustees and employees.

From informational resources to emotional...

Twitter icon
View more

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Peeps HIE Charity | HIE Awareness & Support

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Peeps is a UK charity, dedicated to supporting those affected by HIE (hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy). We provide emotional, practical and financial support.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
21 Together is here to provide support for family members, carers, friends, and professionals supporting children and young people with Down's syndrome.

Everyone has the right to live their lives to the fullest of their potential. Our specialist services provide the tools for our community to realise that potential.

For all the latest news, opportunities and information straight to your phone, simply join our mailing list.

We promise to only send you information relevant to 21 Together and you can unsubscribe at the click of a button!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Providing training, therapy, resources, interventions, peer support and expert guidance to support children and young people with Down's syndrome, their families and the professionals that support them. Includes the Teach Me Too resource library.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We hope that the information in this section will be useful to you at this very difficult time, and will help you and your family get through the coming days, weeks and months.

# data[].attributes.body
Signs to look for in your baby

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Symptoms of meningitis can appear in any order. Some may not appear at all. In the early stages, there may not be a rash, or the rash may fade when pressure is applied.
You should get medical help immediately if you're concerned about yourself or your child.

Trust your instincts and do not wait for all the symptoms to appear or until a rash develops.

Symptoms of meningitis and sepsis include:

a high temperature

cold hands and feet

vomiting

confusion

breathing quickly

muscle and joint pain

pale, mottled or blotchy skin (this may be harder to see on brown or black skin)

spots or a rash (this may be harder to see on brown or black skin)

headache

a stiff neck

a dislike of bright lights

being very sleepy or difficult to wake

fits (seizures)

Babies may also:

refuse feeds

be irritable

have a high-pitched cry

have a stiff body or be floppy or unresponsive

have a bulging soft spot on the top of their head

Someone with meningitis or sepsis can get a lot worse very quickly.

Call 999 for an ambulance or go to your nearest A&E immediately if you think you or someone you look after could have meningitis or sepsis.

Call NHS 111 for advice if you're not sure if it's anything serious.

If you've had medical advice and are still worried or any symptoms get worse, get medical help again.

Meningitis rash

If a rash does not fade under a glass, it can be a sign of sepsis (sometimes called septicaemia or blood poisoning) caused by meningitis and you should call 999 straight away.

Help us improve our website

Can you answer some questions about your visit today?
Take our survey

Page last reviewed: 25 October 2022
Next review due: 25 October 2025

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Read about the main symptoms of meningitis, including the meningitis rash, and find out when and where to get medical advice if you have any concerns.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Respiratory syncytial virus ( RSV) is an enveloped RNA virus, in the same family as the human parainfluenza viruses and mumps and measles viruses. RSV is one of the common viruses that cause coughs and colds in winter.

Transmission

RSV is transmitted by large droplets and by secretions from contact with an infected person. The virus can survive on surfaces or objects for about 4 to 7 hours.

The incubation period - the delay between infection and the appearance of symptoms - is short at about 3 to 5 days.

When RSV circulates

In temperate climates such as the UK, RSV occurs regularly each year. Epidemics generally start in October and last for 4 to 5 months, peaking in December. The sharp winter peak varies little in timing or magnitude, in contrast to influenza virus infection which is much less predictable in its timing.

Risks of RSV infections

For most people, RSV infection causes a mild respiratory illness. For a small number of people who are at risk of more severe respiratory disease, RSV infection might cause pneumonia or even death.

RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis in infants. Over 60% of children have been infected by their first birthday, and over 80% by 2 years of age. The antibodies that develop following early childhood infection do not prevent further RSV infections throughout life. The full extent to which adults are affected by RSV remains unknown.

The NHS website has more information on RSV bronchiolitis and when to seek help.

High-risk groups

The very young (under 1 year of age) and the elderly are at the greatest risk. While most RSV infections usually cause mild illness, infants aged less than 6 months frequently develop the most severe disease such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia, which may result in hospitalisation. Children born prematurely, or with underlying chronic lung disease, and the elderly with chronic disease are also at increased risk of developing severe disease.

Only a minority of adult infections are diagnosed, as RSV is not widely recognised as a cause of respiratory infections in adults. Elderly patients are frequently not investigated microbiologically, as there are fewer viruses present in their respiratory secretions compared with children. This results in the number of adult infections being underestimated.

Symptoms and diagnosis

RSV infection causes symptoms similar to a cold, including rhinitis (runny nose, sneezing or nasal congestion), cough, and sometimes fever. Ear infections and croup (a barking cough caused by inflammation of the upper airways) can also occur in children. RSV is the leading cause of bronchiolitis, an infection of the small airways in the lung, in babies and infants which make breathing harder and cause difficulty feeding.

During the RSV season a laboratory diagnosis is not always necessary as infection can be managed. Specific laboratory tests to confirm RSV require a sample to be taken from the nose and throat.

The Respiratory virus unit (RVU) provides laboratory services for respiratory virus infections including RSV.

Treatment

There's no specific treatment suitable for general use, and treatment is therefore aimed at supporting the patient and relieving symptoms. Ribavirin is an anti-viral drug licensed for treatment of RSV infection which is sometimes used in the management of severe illness. Its effectiveness is not established, and it may be associated with toxicity.

Prevention

Transmission can be reduced through standard infection control practices such as respiratory hygiene, hand washing with soap and warm water, and cleaning of surfaces. Ideally, people with colds should avoid close contact with newborn babies, infants born prematurely (before 37 weeks), children under 2 born with heart or lung conditions, and those with weakened immune systems. Smoking around young children is a risk factor for severe RSV infection.

Immunisation

See the chapter about RSV immunisation in Immunisation against infectious disease: the Green Book.

Palivizumab, a monclonal antibody therapy, is licensed in the UK for the prevention of serious lower respiratory tract infection caused by RSV in infants at high risk of infection.

Human metapneumovirus ( hMPV) is a respiratory pathogen closely related to RSV. It is associated with a range of illnesses from mild infection to severe bronchiolitis and pneumonia. Symptoms may include a runny nose, cough, temperature, sore throat, and wheezing. Like RSV, hMPV is thought to be a seasonal virus occurring mostly during the winter months. However, the number of people which suffer from hMPV each year is still to be determined.

HMPV infection occurs in infants and young children with studies suggesting that nearly everyone has had hMPV infection by the age of 5 years old. However, hMPV has also been found in older children and adults suggesting re-infection may occur later on in life.

UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) activity

Information about levels of RSV activity in the UK is reported by the UKHSA throughout the winter period.

Read the latest respiratory reports.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV): symptoms, transmission, prevention, treatment

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Respiratory syncytial virus ( RSV) is an enveloped RNA virus, in the same family as the human parainfluenza viruses and mumps and measles viruses. RSV is one of the common viruses that cause coughs and colds in winter. RSV is transmitted by large droplets and by secretions from contact with an infected person.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The story behind grow my brain

The idea for grow my brain came to midwife Jo Maynard one night when she was lying in bed and couldn't get to sleep.

Jo started thinking about how best she could support the families that she meets every day as part of her job as Lead Midwife for Infant Feeding at Medway Maritime Hospital.

She shared her idea with another midwife called Trude, who in her spare time is a very talented illustrator. Together they created the beautiful illustrations and words that are at the heart of the grow my brain campaign.

Grow my brain is supported by the Medway NHS Foundation Trust, Medway Community Healthcare and the council. It was launched on Valentine's Day 2019.

The science behind grow my brain

The first 1,000 days of your baby's life (the time between when you get pregnant and your baby's second birthday) are really important for the human brain.

Your baby's brain is developing really quickly, the quickest that it will grow during their lifetime.

Advances in science mean that we know a baby's brain develops better if they feel safe and secure. This is true when a baby is still inside their mother's tummy and once they are born.

Simple actions like singing to your baby, stroking or talking to your bump, helps your little one to feel loved and safe.

Scientific research has revealed that when unborn babies and young children feel stressed they release a hormone called cortisol, which prevents healthy brain development.

UNICEF have reported that the right side of a baby's brain develops best when they enjoy a strong bond with their parents or carers. This brain development is really important as it's the right side of the brain that is responsible for our emotions and how well we communicate.

So the development of your baby's brain can affect what sort of adult they will grow up to be, from how well they are able to manage their feelings to whether they can form positive relationships.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Find out how to help your baby's brain development with our short videos as part of our Grow My Brain campaign.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Expressing milk can take time to learn. Find out how to express in neonatal care and how to look after yourself while expressing.

Expressing means collecting breast milk which you can store and feed to your baby later. You can express milk by hand or with a breast pump, which can be electric or manual.

Expressing can be helpful:

If your baby is not well enough or strong enough to feed from the breast straight away

So that both partners or others are able to share feeding

If you are too sick to feed your baby from the breast

If you cannot be near your baby and want to establish a good milk supply

If your baby has difficulty latching on to the breast, but you still want to give them your breast milk.

If your baby is not able to breastfeed straight away, the staff at the hospital will help you to express (collect) your breast milk as soon as possible after your baby is born. This means that your baby will still get the benefits of breast milk until they are ready to feed from the breast or bottle, as it can be given to them by a feeding tube.
It is important to express in the way that is most comfortable and convenient for you.
A small amount of milk is produced in the first few days after a baby is born. This milk is called colostrum, and is often thicker and more yellow in colour than breastmilk. Colostrum is really important for your baby. It helps to boost your baby's immune system, protect them from infections and helps them grow.

Some parents are worried that they are not producing enough milk in these first few days. This is normal - most parents start by expressing less than 1ml of milk at a time. This will increase gradually the more times you express. Around two to four days after giving birth, you will notice your milk becoming more white and your breasts might feel fuller. This is often referred to as your milk 'coming in'.

Later on, the amount of milk you express may change depending on the time of day and how you feel.

After expressing your milk, the milk can be kept in the fridge or be frozen and stored until your baby is ready to have feeds. We have some more information about how to store breast milk at the bottom of this page.

Your milk is best suited to your baby's needs, but sometimes premature or sick babies need more nutrients than are provided in breastmilk alone. If this is the case for your baby, your baby's doctor may prescribe a preterm fortifier (which is usually a powder made from cow's milk) to go in your milk. This will provide more nutrients that will help with your baby's growth and bone health.

Many parents tell us that expressing can feel like a big pressure. It is important not to be too hard on yourself if you are not able to express a lot of milk in the early stages. No matter how much or how little you can express, your baby will benefit.

Many parents find comfort in expressing as it is something positive and important they can do for their baby. Try not to compare the amount you are expressing with others, as they may have faced different challenges or situations to you.

Expressing breast milk can also take time to learn. The staff looking after your baby will give you support and practical help with this. Speak to your neonatal nurse, feeding specialist or midwife for more support.

In this section, we have more specific information about:

If you have any questions about expressing or are not sure what to do, you should always ask questions or seek more support. Most units will provide specific support with expressing, and your neonatal nurse will be happy to help with any questions that you have.

How often should I be expressing milk for my baby?

It is important to start expressing milk as soon as possible after your baby is born - ideally within two hours. It is recommended you express frequently to keep your milk supply up. To begin with, this is around eight to ten times in 24 hours, including at least once at night. This is because breast milk is produced on a demand and supply system, so you are likely to produce less milk overall if long periods of time are left between expressing.

In time you will find what works best for you. You may find that your milk flow responds to a fixed routine and will trigger a let-down reflex (see below), which will make it easier to express. This might include actions when you prepare to express, such as removing equipment from the steriliser, or putting the pump together.

The let-down reflex

When you express milk, you may notice tingling or prickling in your breasts and nipples, or a feeling as if the milk is rushing in to fill them. This is called the let-down reflex (it is sometimes called the milk ejection reflex). During the let-down reflex, a hormone called oxytocin is released, which helps with milk flow. This takes a few minutes to appear at first, but later it will happen in a few seconds.

The let-down reflex feels different to different women. Some mothers describe a slight pain and some mothers have no sensations at all. Your body may respond to certain things you do, which can trigger your let-down reflex. For example, it is normal for the let-down reflex to happen in response to having a warm bath or shower, or to breast massage (see below). It can also happen in response to being close to your baby, hearing your baby cry or having a picture or something close by that smells of them.

Staying as relaxed as possible and having skin-to-skin contact with your baby can all help to trigger the let-down reflex. Taking some deep breaths and concentrating on your breathing can help with this. It will also help to express at your baby's cotside if this is possible, so you can be close to your baby. Speak to the staff looking after your baby about this.

Gentle breast massage

Breast massage before expressing can help to trigger the let-down reflex and stimulate your milk flow. You can do this by gently stroking, rolling, kneading, and tapping your breasts with warm hands before hand expressing and/or using a breast pump. You should do this for at least two minutes. Breast massage during expressing can help to drain your breasts.

Looking after yourself when expressing

Expressing milk for your baby can be a great way for parents to feel more empowered and in control of their baby's care. Many mothers also tell us how difficult and exhausting it can be to express, especially at night. This can be a particularly difficult experience if their baby is not with them.

It can be a very stressful time, but it is important that you try to stay as relaxed as possible when expressing, as this helps with the let-down reflex and milk flow. Some research has shown that higher stress levels may contribute to the delay of milk production. Some parents find that having a photograph or something that smells of their baby nearby when expressing helps. It may also help to distract yourself by doing something like reading a book or watching TV when you express. Listening to soothing music, meditation or taking time to focus on your breathing may also help you to relax.

Partners can help with expressing. For example, they can offer encouragement, help you to relax, or get equipment ready.

It is not unusual to find feeding your baby a difficult experience. In our survey of over 100 parents, over 60% said that their mental health got slightly or significantly worse during the experience of feeding their premature or sick baby. It is okay to find the experience difficult, no matter your situation. Every parent will have a very different experience of neonatal care.

It is important to talk to someone if feeding your baby is having an impact on your mental health. This could come from your feeding specialist, neonatal nurse, midwife, doctor, partner, or friends and family. We have lots of information about the impact having a premature or sick baby can have on your mental health, and where you can get support.

How to store expressed milk safely

You can store milk if your baby is unable to drink it at the time it is expressed. It is very important that expressed milk is stored safely. This is something that partners can be involved with. On the neonatal unit, breast milk is stored in fridges and freezers that only store infant milk.

Many units supply sterile disposable bottles and labels for you to use. You should label each container with your baby's name, the date and time of collection.

If you will be using your breast milk within 48 hours of expressing, you should refrigerate it. If you are at home, breast milk that has recently been expressed will keep in a refrigerator for 48 hours (24 hours if it is defrosted). The breast milk should be stored at the back of the fridge and not in the fridge door. This is because the temperature in the door compartments goes up and down when the fridge is opened and closed.

If you will not be using your breast milk within 48 hours of expressing, it should be frozen. Milk can be frozen for up to 6 months in a home freezer. If you are freezing your milk, always leave at least one centimetre of free space at the top of the milk container. This is because milk will expand when frozen.

If you are on the neonatal unit, ask the unit staff about the best way to safely refrigerate and freeze milk. Different units may have different guidelines.

Once your milk is defrosted, it will need to be used within 24 hours. Try to use small containers to freeze your milk so that no milk is wasted. Defrosted milk may have a slightly soapy or sour smell, but this will not be harmful to your baby.

Fortified b reast milk that has been supplemented with addi tives should be used with the following one to two feeds. It is not suitable f or freezing and defrosting.

Talk to the hospital staff looking after your baby for more guidance on storing and defrosting breast milk.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Expressing milk can take time to learn. Find out how to express in neonatal care and how to look after yourself while expressing. Expressing means collecting breast milk which you can store and feed to your baby later. You can express milk by hand or with a breast pump, which can be electric or manual.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Skip to main content

This parent-facing leaflet provides information on expressing breastmilk and includes a helpful chart to record how expressing is going

The breastmilk you produce for your baby is unique. Research shows that the earlier you start and the more often you express, the more milk you will produce for your baby. This is really important, especially in the early days and weeks after birth.

Parents are invited to use this leaflet produced by Healthier Scotland and UNICEF UK to learn more about the value of breastmilk and kangaroo care (or skin-to-skin) for a preterm or unwell baby. It also includes detailed instructions on how to hand express, as well as important information on using a breast pump.

LEARN MORE

A workbook for neonatal nurses

Read more

Read more

Neonatal care resources

Read more

Read more

Neonatal National Infant Feeding Network

Read more

Read more

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Expressing milk for your baby on the neonatal unit - Baby Friendly Initiative

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This parent-facing leaflet provides information on expressing breastmilk and includes a helpful chart to record how expressing is going

# data[].attributes.headline
Milk as Medicine- Colostrum use on the NICU 

# data[].attributes.subject
Milk as Medicine- Colostrum use on the NICU 

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
This checklist can be used to ensure that mothers are expressing their breastmilk effectively and to address any issues or concerns mothers may have.

For sick and preterm babies the importance of breastmilk cannot be overestimated. Breastmilk supports growth and provides protection from infection, with evidence suggesting that its use decreases the incidence and severity of the life-threatening disease necrotising entercolitis.

By providing breastmilk, a mother can be assured that she is uniquely contributing to the wellbeing and development of her baby. However, expressing breastmilk over a long period of time is extremely demanding and if a mother is to succeed she needs the support from those involved with caring for her and her baby.

Assessment of breastmilk expression checklist

Assessment of breastmilk expression - staff guidance

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Assessment of breastmilk expression checklist - Baby Friendly Initiative

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This checklist ensures that mothers are expressing their breastmilk effectively and to address any issues or concerns mothers may have.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Transcript of 'Breastfeeding: Mini Parenting Master Class' video

"Did you know that your nipples have good bacteria? So you don't need to wash them before breastfeeding.

My name is Dr. Michele Griswald, and this is my Mini Parenting Master Class on breastfeeding."

Is breastfeeding easy?

"Sometimes mothers get messages that breastfeeding is natural and it's easy. Sometimes breastfeeding can be easy with the first baby, and hard with the second baby for the same mother. So it really just depends."

> Read: 14 myths about breastfeeding

Does breastfeeding hurt?

"You shouldn't stop breastfeeding if your nipples hurt. You should keep breastfeeding but you should get help to see why it's hurting."

> Read: Common breastfeeding challenges

How much should my baby eat?

"They should see signs of hunger about 8 to 12 times in 24 hours. Newborn babies need to eat a lot because they're growing rapidly. They double their birth weight in the first six months of life, or before. So you can imagine how much you would need to eat if you had to double your weight."

Should I wash my nipples before breastfeeding?

"It's not necessary to wash your nipples before you breastfeed, because the breasts and the skin around the nipple actually produces good bacteria. And it's that good bacteria that helps to prevent infections on the mother's breast."

When should I start breastfeeding?

"The first hour after birth is a very important time for the mother and the baby. Breastfeeding is a very organized, neurological behavior. And so right after birth, keeping them against the mother's skin can help them to be calm enough to start to seek the breast. And if we do just leave mothers and babies like that after birth, then they will usually start to go towards the breast on their own. Within about 30 minutes to one hour."

What should I eat while breastfeeding?

"Most mothers can eat anything they want when they breastfeed. They can follow their normal diet. And the interesting thing is whatever they eat, the babies will taste through their milk and start to get them ready for table foods when they're about 6 months old."

Will I have to stop breastfeeding my baby when I got back to work?

"We would hope that mothers who return to work do not have to wean their babies. Mothers need time and they need support to continue to breastfeed their babies. They need the support of their family, they need the support of their workplace, their employers, they need the support of their entire community.

Breastfeeding is not just about food. It's part a nurturing care package that helps children to grow and thrive throughout their entire life."

[UNICEF and WHO recommend that infants are breastfed exclusively for 6 months, starting from the first hour of life. From the age of 6 months, children should be provided with complementary foods, while continuing to be breastfed for up to 2 years or beyond.]
UNICEF Mini Parenting Master Class with Dr. Michele Griswold PhD, MPH, RN, IBCLC. Dr Griswold is a lactation consultant, registered nurse, breastfeeding researcher and advocate. She represents the International Lactation Consultant Association to the WHO/UNICEF Global Breastfeeding Collective, which calls on governments and society as a whole to provide mothers the support they need to breastfeed.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Breastfeeding: Mini Parenting Master Class

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A lactation expert answers some of the most common breastfeeding questions

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Published by the Department of Health and the Baby Friendly Initiative, this leaflet provides mothers and health professionals with key information about introducing solid foods to babies.

The leaflet is intended to be used as a teaching aid when health professionals are discussing when and how to introduce solid food to babies.

For free printed copies please contact the Department of Health. Please note that printed copies are not available from UNICEF UK.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Introducing solid foods leaflet - Baby Friendly Initiative

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The leaflet is intended to be used as a teaching aid when health professionals are discussing when and how to introduce solid food to babies. For free printed copies please contact the Department of Health. Please note that printed copies are not available from UNICEF UK.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Research on the links between breastfeeding and cognitive development
Human milk: From complex tailored nutrition to bioactive impact on child cognition and behaviour
This narrative review presents a complex picture of the current state of knowledge on the role of human milk and its components in the development of neurological processes and cognitive performance in infants. It offers practical and theoretical recommendations to advance research in this field, including innovative directions for future studies on cost implications and current support structures with the aim of inspiring social and political support for improvements in breastfeeding opportunities.
Weerth, C. et al. (2022). Human milk: From complex tailored nutrition to bioactive impact on child cognition and behaviour. https://doi.org/10.1080/10408398.2022.2053058. To what extent does confounding explain the association between breastfeeding duration and cognitive development up to age 14? Findings from the UK Millennium Cohort Study
This study evaluates whether the association between breastfeeding duration and improved childhood cognitive development can be explained by socioeconomic position (SEP) and maternal cognitive ability. The study uses multivariable linear mixed-effects models to compare verbal and spatial cognitive scores at ages 5, 7, 11, and 14 with reported breastfeeding durations. At all ages, longer breastfeeding durations were associated with higher cognitive scores after accounting for the child's own characteristics, however the effect was modest. Adjustment for SEP approximately halved the effect sizes.
Pereyra-Elias, R., Quigley, M., Carson, C. (2022). To what extent does confounding explain the association between breastfeeding duration and cognitive development up to age 14? Findings from the UK Millennium Cohort Study. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0267326 Preterm nutrition and neurodevelopmental outcomes
Whilst survival of preterm infants has been steadily improving due to advances in perinatal and neonatal medicine, it does not reach the ideal target level of the normal fetus of the same gestational age. Postnatal weight gain is also often not achieved because extrauterine growth has higher energy requirements than intrauterine growth, due to the intensive care environment, illness and inadequate nutrition. This review focuses on the role of nutrition in preterm neurodevelopment, including the primordial importance of human milk and oligosaccharides and how these help to prevent neonatal complications and contribute to increased preterm survival.

Preterm infants are at increased risk of alterations in brain structure and connectivity and subsequent neurocognitive impairment. This study explores the extent to which breastmilk exposure is associated with improved markers of brain development and connectivity in preterm infants at term equivalent age. Findings from an analysis of data on 47 preterm infants' neonatal breastmilk exposure and brain MRI suggests that breastmilk feeding in the weeks after preterm birth is associated with improved structural connectivity of developing networks and greater fractional anisotropy in major white matter fasciculi.
Blesa M, Sullivan G, Anblagan D, Telford EJ, Quigley AJ, Sparrow SA, Serag A, Semple SI, Bastin ME, Boardman JP. Early breast milk exposure modifies brain connectivity in preterm infants. Neuroimage. 2019 Jan 1;184:431-439. doi: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2018.09.045. Epub 2018 Sep 18. PMID: 30240903.

Impact of breastfeeding on intelligence, educational attainment and income at 30 years of age in Brazil
Victora et al (2015). Association between breastfeeding and intelligence, educational attainment, and income at 30 years of age: a prospective birth cohort study from Brazil. Lancet Glob Health, 3: e199-205 Horta, B. L. et al (2015). Breastfeeding and intelligence: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Acta Paediatrica, Special Issue: Impact of Breastfeeding on Maternal and Child Health. Volume 104, Issue Supplement S467, pages 14-19.

Impact of Baby Friendly accreditation on breastfeeding rates, cognitive outcomes and maternal mental health
Del Bono E, Rabe B. Breastfeeding and child cognitive outcomes: Evidence from a hospital-based breastfeeding support policy. ISER Working Paper Series: 2012-29

Breastfeeding and child development outcomes
Huang, J., Vaughn, M.G. & Kremer, K.P. (2015). Breastfeeding and child development outcomes: an investigation of the nurturing hypothesis. Maternal and Child Nutrition, DOI: 10.1111/mcn.12200

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Research on Brain and Cognitive Development - Baby Friendly Initiative

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The latest infant health studies that we have found to be most pertinent about brain and cognitive development.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Find out how using an NHS stop smoking service can improve your chances of quitting smoking. Plus, how to contact a stop smoking adviser and what sessions involve.

# data[].attributes.headline
Communicating with babies with visual impairment

# data[].attributes.subject
Communicating with babies with visual impairment

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Alys Mathers is a Highly Specialist Speech and Language Therapist and works with children who have a wide range of speech, language and communication needs. Here she talks about how you can support your child's speech and language development if they have a visual impairment...
Babies and children learn using their five senses - they look, listen, touch, taste, and smell, and take it all in. When they're learning to communicate, they link the words they hear to information they get from their senses. So, how can we help children when one of their senses can't be used to learn to talk?

Many children with visual impairment go on to develop communication skills without much extra help, using the information from their other senses to learn to talk.

And there are lots of ways you can support their speech and language development, as well as helping them communicate with you. You know your child's unique needs and interests, so are the best person to 'be their eyes' and help them on their way to confident talking for learning and life.

By talking about what you can see, and giving them experiences which use their other senses, you are helping your child grow and develop.

Simple changes you can make

Language learning starts at home through daily routines and play. Your baby or child will find it easier to understand you, and learn to talk, if you make some simple changes.

Get down to their level so they can hear your voice clearly and know it's your sounds they should listen to.

Turn off background noise, like the TV or radio, to help your child concentrate on your voice.

Say their name to show them you're about to start talking to them. Some children might need a gentle touch to focus their attention before you start talking.

Use your voice to show how you're feeling, as your child may not be able to see your face and gestures clearly.

Talk about what you're doing, using short, simple sentences. For example, you might say 'I'm drinking tea' before taking a drink, to help your child link the drinking (slurping!) sounds they can hear with the word 'drinking', and with your action if they can see this.

Tell your child if someone new comes into the room - 'Hi Ben!' This is particularly important with people they don't know so well, as it helps them link voices to people's names.

Fun games you can play at home

What may feel like fun and games to your child, can also be a great chance for multi-sensory language learning.

Have fun playing with sounds, such as raspberries . Your baby will enjoy the vibration of raspberries on their skin, and this encourages them to play with sounds themselves.

Songs and rhymes build babies and children's awareness of sounds in words. Don't miss out on the actions, even if you're not sure your child can see them. Instead you could make the actions and signs bigger , or put your hands over theirs and show them the hand movements to make. You could also try other actions your child can feel, such as bouncing them on your lap or holding their hands and rowing back and forth in Row, Row, Row Your Boat.

Encourage your child to use their other senses by exploring textures during activities . For example, if you are cooking together, talk about how the ingredients feel (soft, squishy, wet), smell and taste.

Feeling creative? Try making your own sensory space like Jade and Stevie .

Books are more than pictures and words. Make up your own sound effects to the story (creaking doors, the 'woosh' of a rocket), or find toys or household objects from the story. For example, if you're reading Julia Donaldson's Stick Man, you could find a stick for your child to hold and play with while they're listening. Some libraries have story sacks you can borrow, which have a book, CD with sound effects, and toys linked to the story.

Activities when you're out and about

Go on an adventure outside, and you'll find lots of opportunities to keep on using all the senses and boost your child's communication skills.

Go on a listening walk , talking about everything you can hear. Your child may be able to hear the sounds in the world around them, but not spot exactly where they're coming from. So if you pass a building site and hear banging... turn them towards the direction of the noise, and explain what it is.

You could go on a treasure hunt to find the nicest - and the nastiest - smell, and have fun going 'urghh!' when you find a nasty smell.

Where to find help

Your child's eyesight develops gradually with age - the world to a newborn baby will be blurred. If you are concerned about your child's vision as they get older, speak to your GP or health visitor. Eye tests can be carried out even with very young babies , and are recommended before children start school.

If you find your child has a visual impairment, there are lots of organisations out there providing extra information, advice and support. Seeability and the are good places to start. Gracie's mum Kazmin also recommends finding a support group, either locally or on social media.

The best thing you can do to help your child is to spend time learning about their individual strengths and needs, then use their skills and interests to help them learn. With your help, they can learn to talk, learn all about the world around them, and you can all have fun at the same time.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Communicating with your baby and child if they have a visual impairment

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Speech and Language Therapist Alys Mathers talks about how you can support your child's speech and language development if they have a visual impairment.

# data[].attributes.headline
Speech and Language progress checker for babies over 6 months corrected age

# data[].attributes.subject
Speech and Language progress checker for babies over 6 months corrected age

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
You're not alone, find out what emotional and practical support is available to you here.

# data[].attributes.headline
Support if your baby is born between 22-24 weeks 

# data[].attributes.subject
Support if your baby is born between 22-24 weeks 

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The Royal Society for Blind Children offers a range of services including emotional support and practical advice for families, opportunities for children and young people to build confidence and skills through activities, and a specialist further education college.

What we do

RSBC Dorton College of Further Education

RSBC Dorton College is an independent specialist college in the London Borough of Bromley. We offer a day provision for vision impaired 16-25-year-olds and many of our students have additional needs.

Learn more

Activities

RSBC's wide range of fun online and in-person activities for vision impaired children and young people to reduce isolation, build friendships and teach new life skills.

Book

Follow Us On Social Media

We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking "Accept", you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Welcome to the Royal Society for Blind Children

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Royal Society for Blind Children supports blind and partially sighted children and young people, and their families.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
National Deaf Children's Society | Supporting deaf children

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We are the National Deaf Children's Society, the leading charity for deaf children and young people. We're here to support every deaf child who needs us.

# data[].attributes.body
Help to pay your water bills

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
What is Healthy Start?

If you're more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under 4, you may be entitled to get help to buy healthy food and milk.

If you're eligible, you'll be sent a Healthy Start card with money on it that you can use in some UK shops. We'll add your benefit onto this card every 4 weeks.

You can use your card to buy:

plain liquid cow's milk

fresh, frozen, and tinned fruit and vegetables

fresh, dried, and tinned pulses

infant formula milk based on cow's milk

You can also use your card to collect:

Healthy Start vitamins - these support you during pregnancy and breastfeeding

vitamin drops for babies and young children - these are suitable from birth to 4 years old

If you live in Scotland

You can get help from Best Start Foods (opens in a new tab) instead.

Advice on healthy eating

For more advice on healthy eating, visit:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
If you're more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under 4, you may be entitled to get help to buy healthy food and milk. If you're eligible, you'll be sent a Healthy Start card with money on it that you can use in some UK shops.

# data[].attributes.body
Meet NOAH team

# data[].attributes.body
Help if your child has a disability

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
There are a number of benefits and tax credits that you may be entitled to. Some benefits can be paid because your child is disabled while others may be paid to you for other reasons. For example, you may be getting disability living allowance (DLA) for your child and carer's allowance as their carer. However, depending on your income and certain other factors you may also be able to claim benefits such as income support, child tax credit and housing benefit.

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is the disability benefit for disabled people aged 16 or above. Like DLA, PIP has two types of payment - a mobility component and a daily living component. However, the decision about whether someone qualifies for PIP is based on different rules than DLA and depends on the number of points you score following a medical assessment.

There are a number of organisations that can provide you with information about all the benefits that you may be entitled to:

The national charity for families with disabled children, Contact, has a freephone national helpline on 0808808 3555 and can provide you with a free benefits check service and have a wealth
of information and factsheets on their website:www.contact.org.uk

Your Local Citizens Advice or welfare rights unit can carry out a full benefits check for you. A range of useful information about benefits is available from their country-specific website pages:

The Gov.UK website signposts to independent online benefits calculators to help you to work out what benefits you may be entitled to claim: www.gov.uk/benefits-calculators

Personal Budgets

A personal budget is a sum of money that is made available to someone who needs support. The money comes from their local authority's social care or education department or the NHS and is allocated to the individual or family to spend on help, care and/or support to meet their assessed eligible needs and to achieve agreed outcomes.

Children and young people with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) and/or with a continuing care package are able to access a personal budget. When the money comes from the NHS it is referred to as a Personal Health Budget.
Click here to download this resource as a PDF.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Benefits for parents caring for a seriously ill child

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Together for Short Lives factsheet explains what benefits and tax credits that parents caring for a seriously ill child might be entitled to.

# data[].attributes.body
Cerebral Palsy support

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Cerebral palsy is a condition that affects muscle control and movement. It affects about 1 in every 400 children in the UK.

It is usually caused by an injury to the brain before, during or after birth, but there may be no obvious single reason. The main causes include:

infection in the early part of pregnancy

lack of oxygen to the brain

abnormal brain development

a genetic link but this is quite rare

Clinical negligence
There is no cure, but physiotherapy and other therapies can often help people become more independent.

Treatments and therapies should reflect individual needs, as CP affects people in different ways.
CP therapies and treatments
Causes of cerebral palsy

The following factors can increase the likelihood of CP:

difficult or premature birth

twins or multiple birth

mother's age below 20 or over 40

father under 20

first child or fifth (or more) child

baby of birth weight less than 2.5 pounds

premature birth, less than 37 weeks

A combination of factors such as low birth weight and being a twin can increase the probability.

Symptoms of cerebral palsy

Symptoms of cerebral palsy normally become noticeable around 18 months to 2 years old. Although sometimes diagnosis is later in childhood. Your child might have problems with movement, co-ordination and development.

Possible signs of CP can include:

delays in reaching development milestones

being too stiff or too floppy

fidgety, jerky or clumsy movements

muscle spasms

walking on tiptoes

Symptoms will vary depending on the severity and type of cerebral palsy.
Cerebral palsy - Symptoms (NHS)
Types of cerebral palsy

There are 3 main types. Many people will have a mixture of these.

The Gross Motor Function Classification System shows how someone's CP might affect them.
Download CanChild's PDF of Gross Motor Function Classification System
Spastic cerebral palsy

Spasticity means the muscle tone is tight and stiff. This reduces a person's range of movement. As the muscle tone is so tight, spasticity can be very painful with muscles often going into spasm. It can affect different areas of the body.

Dyskinetic cerebral palsy

Sometimes called dystonic, athetoid or choreoathetoid cerebral palsy. Dyskinetic CP causes uncontrolled, involuntary, sustained or intermittent muscle contractions. It may be difficult to maintain an upright position. The person may find it difficult to control the tongue, vocal cords and breathing. This may affect speech and language.

Ataxic cerebral palsy

Ataxia is defined as an inability to activate the correct pattern of muscles during movement. This affects balance and spatial awareness. It can make it difficult to judge your body position in relation to things around you. Ataxia can affect the whole body. Most people with ataxia can walk but they will be unsteady with shaky movements. Ataxia can also affect speech and language.

Mixed cerebral palsy

Many people will have a mix of types.

You may also come across terms such as:

hemiplegia (1 side of the body affected)

diplegia (2 limbs affected)

monoplegia (1 limb affected)

quadriplegia (4 limbs affected)

Cerebral palsy: associated conditions

Some people may have associated conditions; while others may not. These can include:

Last reviewed by Scope on:

Was this page helpful?

Close

Was this page helpful?

Need more information on cerebral palsy?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Cerebral palsy (CP) | Disability charity Scope UK

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
What is cerebral palsy? Including types and causes of cerebral palsy, life expectancy and associated conditions.

# data[].attributes.body
Building a brighter future for high risk infants

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
EiSMART is an evidence based framework to give high risk babies the best start in life. We span all aspects of a child's development: Sensory, Motor, Attention and Regulation, and Relationships. Professionals and parents work Together to support premature and sick infants from birth ( Early I ntervention).

parents

We are here to help. You are the expert on your baby; let us work with you and provide the resources, tools and education that can help fulfil your baby's potential.
DISCOVER MORE

free resources

Our developmental play leaflets suggest activities to support all aspects of a child's development. You can get free access to these resources, plus webinars, posters and more.
DISCOVER MORE

professionals

We are committed to supporting your development. We are working to advance knowledge, skills and practice in early intervention.
DISCOVER MORE

Latest News

Training Courses

Published October 20, 2023

Study Days and Ei SMART Implementation Workshops

The Ei SMART Framework - Foundation Training. This study day provides an in-depth introduction to the Ei SMART framework and is our Foundation level training before progressing to our advanced half days.

Dates for 2024 will be announced soon. Watch this space or subscribe to our newsletter for more information.

Download

Giving Every High Risk Infant The Best Start In Life

EiSMART is a framework for improving developmental outcomes for high risk infants. It is an approach founded in research, which combines multiple disciplines, to address every aspect of development in premature and sick babies. EiSMART is a uniquely collaborative approach, where professionals and parents work T ogether to provide early and more effective interventions for infants and young children with developmental challenges. Click on the balls to learn more.

How We Help

We provide resources to support child development, and deliver training courses to support professional development. We collaborate on research to advance practice in early intervention, and we influence policy on the care of high risk infants.

DISCOVER MORE MEET OUR TEAM

Invaluable For Us & Our Baby

"In the beginning of my NICU journey I cried every day. There is no other outlet for the hurt, the sadness, the fear - especially the fear - of giving birth so early. In NICU, everything about those first weeks is different to how it should be. You emerge from that darkness into an intense, overwhelming, medical world where you feel utterly helpless to do the most natural thing: care for your baby. Stumbling upon EiSMART was like finding fresh air, after a long, dark time under water. It helped me recover purpose; recover focus; recover the ability to care for my baby."
- Parent of baby born at 24 weeks' gestation
DISCOVER MORE OUR APPROACH

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Building A Brighter Future For High Risk Infants: EiSMART is a transdisciplinary approach to early intervention for infants at risk of developmental delays.

# data[].attributes.body
Small changes, Big Difference

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Infant milks for parents & carers — First Steps Nutrition Trust

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
First Steps Nutrition Trust is a charity which provides clear, evidence-based and independent information and support for good nutrition from pre-conception to five years of age.

# data[].attributes.body
Singing with babies- Demelza

# data[].attributes.body
Guide to services

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
Kent and Medway - Bump, Birth and Beyond

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Neonatal :: Kent and Medway - Bump, Birth and Beyond

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
“When your child has had such a rough start and then they do start to hit milestones (whatever that might be) it feels incredible.

# data[].attributes.body
Information for your first few days in the neonatal unit. Read about what to expect, finding your feet, and how to get more support.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Information for your first few days in the neonatal unit. Read about what to expect, finding your feet, and how to get more support.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Postnatal depression (PND) is a type of depression that many parents experience after having a baby. It can affect any parent, regardless of whether they've suffered from a mental health condition before. Postnatal depression is linked directly to giving birth and is a common problem, affecting 1 in 10 women within a year of giving birth.