Jessica Thorpe IBCLC

07/06/2025

Simeticone (infacol) is no more effective than a placebo, and is not recommended but the NICE guidelines for treatment of colic.

02/04/2025

Babywearing is wonderful but make sure your baby is correctly positioned in the sling or carrier. Incorrectly fitted slings can be dangerous.

Carrier height matters. Babies have large heavy heads with a prominent occipital bone at the back which can be easily pushed forwards by fabric/panels, forcing the chin onto the chest and obstructing airway. This can happen in loose carriers also as baby curls forward and sinks down.

The ideal height is at the nape of the neck so the head is free to move and airway is open. The body of the carrier must be snug to support the chest.

Carrier height can be too low: small/young/sleeping babies need support to their upper back. Older awake babies who have trunk control may enjoy arms out (typically the age they can be perched on the hip and held with one arm).

Please see your local sling library for support if your carrier is too tall or loose. If your baby has a floppy head, let us help you, *don’t be tempted to put the panel height up*. Usually the carrier needs tightening around the chest or the carrier may too big for your baby. See the link below for more information and help/suggestions.

https://www.carryingmatters.co.uk/safe-carrier-height/



Thanks to Ronnie's Creative for the gorgeous artwork

16/03/2025

Breastfeeding isn’t just for the first year—it’s a dose-dependent biological process that continues to provide critical health benefits for as long as it’s sustained. The idea that breast milk somehow “loses” its value after infancy is simply false. In fact, the immunological, neurological, and emotional benefits increase the longer a child breastfeeds.

Breast milk doesn’t just supplement nutrition in toddlerhood—it actively adapts to meet a growing child’s needs. The antibodies, probiotics, stem cells, and growth factors in breast milk continue to protect against infections, boost gut health, and support brain development well beyond the first year. Studies show that children who breastfeed longer have lower rates of respiratory and ear infections, better emotional regulation, and even a reduced risk of chronic diseases later in life.

For mothers, the benefits of extended breastfeeding are just as powerful. The longer a mother breastfeeds, the greater the protection against breast and ovarian cancer, heart disease, metabolic disorders, and osteoporosis. The hormonal balance created by continued nursing can also help regulate stress and lower the risk of postpartum mood disorders.

Breastfeeding is more than just food—it’s a lifelong investment in health, connection, and well-being. A lucky child, indeed. 🤍

28/02/2025

A good latch on a bottle is important for comfortable, paced bottle feeding.