Juggling Breastfeeding and Work: Best Practices

May 30, 2023 | Families

Introduction

Breastfeeding, the natural act of nourishing a newborn, can be an exceptionally rewarding experience for new mothers. However, as maternity leave concludes and returning to work looms, the prospect can appear daunting. The task of balancing work commitments while maintaining a breastfeeding schedule can seem nearly impossible. Yet, with the right strategies, you can juggle both effectively. Drawing from the experience and knowledge of professionals at The Impeccable Nanny Agency, we provide a guide that simplifies this process and ensures that both mom and baby’s needs are met.

Understand Your Rights

Before delving into the best practices, it’s important to familiarize yourself with your rights as a breastfeeding mother. As per the Affordable Care Act in the U.S., most employers are required to provide time and a private space (that is not a bathroom) for breastfeeding mothers to pump milk. Therefore, don’t shy away from discussing your breastfeeding needs with your employer.

Developing a Pumping Schedule

Once you are back at work, developing a pumping schedule that aligns with your baby’s feeding routine will be crucial. Generally, the rule of thumb is to pump as often as your baby feeds. A newborn usually feeds every 2-3 hours, so try to mimic this schedule at work. Consistency will help maintain your milk supply and prevent uncomfortable engorgement.

Pumping Tips

1. Privacy: Make sure you have a comfortable, private space for pumping. You should be able to relax and not worry about being disturbed.
2. Pump parts: To save time, consider buying extra pump parts. This way, you don’t have to spend time cleaning parts at work; you can do it at home instead.
3. Storage: Ensure you have an insulated bag with ice packs to store the expressed milk safely until you get home.
4. Clothing: Dress in layers or wear clothes that provide easy access for pumping.

Communicate with Your Childcare Provider

If you are working with a nanny from The Impeccable Nanny Agency or another provider, clear and open communication is key. Let them know about your baby’s feeding schedule, the quantity of milk they usually consume, and any signs of hunger or fullness your baby displays. This will help maintain the baby’s routine and make the transition smoother for everyone involved.

Take Care of Yourself

Last but not least, take care of yourself. The stresses of work combined with the demands of a newborn can take a toll on your health. Stay hydrated, maintain a balanced diet, and take time for self-care. Remember, your health is paramount for your baby’s health too.

Conclusion

Returning to work while continuing to breastfeed may seem like an uphill task. However, with planning, communication, and some adjustments, it can be managed successfully. Remember, every mother’s journey is unique, so what works best for you may differ from others. Embrace your journey, seek support when needed, and, most importantly, be patient with yourself. You’re doing an incredible job!

We recommend consulting an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant for more info on Lactation. We partner with Catheen Walker. lactationconsultantathome.com/

Is Your Child Developmentally Ready for Potty Training?

Jul 18, 2022 | Families

It’s an exciting time when your little one begins to display the signs of being ready to transition from using diapers to using the toilet. But how can you tell when that time has arrived and how do you move forward when it has? Below are some tips to help caregivers make the leap from diaper to toilet.

Signs Your Child is Ready:

• Your child is between the ages of 18 to 24 months. Please note that this is a general estimate and the age may differ slightly.
• Their diaper remains dry for two or more hours.
• They are able to understand and follow basic instructions.
• Words like “potty,” “pee,” and “poop” make sense to them.
• They understand the urge to pee and poop and connect these two things to the potty.
• They are able to get on and off the toilet and successfully pull down and pull up their pants.
• Your child shows an interest in using the potty.

Prepping for Toilet Training:

• Use the correct language for the potty, such as “poop” and “pee.”
• Express that using the toilet has benefits! This could mean talking with your child about how they will soon be just like mommy and daddy, using the toilet just like them.
• Make sure that your little one is wearing clothing that is easy for them to pull up and down. You can figure out what works by having them practice during diaper changes.
• Actions speak louder than words, so show your child how to use the toilet. This allows them to easily mimic potty expectations. 
• Help them recognize when they need to go to the bathroom. This can be as simple as asking them “Are you peeing right now?” to guide them to identify the urge.
• Get a potty that works for them. Make sure they can easily sit down and get up. 

Toilet Training Tips:

• Praise your child whenever they sit on the toilet. They don’t have to actually go to the bathroom for it to be a training success!
• Have your child sit on the toilet 15 to 30 minutes after a meal. This is a natural time for the urge to hit.
• Do not force your child to use the toilet; if they are kicking and screaming as you place them on the potty, it probably won’t help them learn to use it. 
• Allow it to become part of each day. This means instead of insisting they use the toilet, weave it into your routine.
• Use rewards, such as stickers, when they use the potty. 

Take solace in that potty training is not a straight path for most caregivers. Children can use the toilet one day, then not use it the next. Times of stress or change in routine can also slow the process. But that’s life! Remember to be easy on yourself and your child. And if you need guidance, you can always reach out to your pediatrician.

Source – KidsHealth.org. March 2019. “Toilet Training.” Accessed July 14, 2022. https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/toilet-teaching.html.