Our Eco Nappies

Array
(
    [0] => WP_Post Object
        (
            [ID] => 6298
            [post_author] => 6
            [post_date] => 2021-10-14 16:57:34
            [post_date_gmt] => 2021-10-14 03:57:34
            [post_content] => [vc_row][vc_column][article_heading_e37c eyebrow="The R+F Blog"][vc_column_text]
What is Mum Guilt?
[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]The looming feeling of guilt that you aren't doing enough as a Mum, or what you are doing isn't good enough. The repetitive cycle of disappointment, confusion, even frustration that your parenting skills aren't up to par with your (or others) expectations.

As gloomy as those statements sound, they're the very real feelings all mothers experience in some shape or form. A feeling so common, it's even been given a name, 'Mum guilt.'[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="16" spacer_tablet="24" spacer_desktop="24"][vc_column_text]
How to overcome it:
[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="16" spacer_tablet="24" spacer_desktop="24"][vc_column_text]The thing is - there is no 'by the book' method to parenting. Different challenges will come and go, and learning to understand or overcome them is all part of your parenting journey. There's no need to find a quick fix or compare yourself to other parents. In fact, you might try a few things before finding a solution that's right for you.

And while there's no shortage of resources and advice on the Internet, we've summarised 5 simple tips to understanding Mum Guilt.  Even if you only try out a few of these ideas, we hope this helps you find your feet again.

 	
Be kind to yourself
 	
Surround yourself with a support network
 	
Make time for self care
 	
Create a care plan
 	
Let go of the ideal

[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]
 Be kind to yourself
[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="8" spacer_tablet="16" spacer_desktop="24"][vc_column_text]Before you dive deep into finding solutions, take a step back and give yourself time to regroup. This first step is important for setting yourself up for success.

Take stock of what you have, why you're doing this and give yourself credit for the incredible work you've done so far.

Part of being kind to yourself is prioritising self-care. Especially with a newborn, it can feel like there is simply no time for the simple parts of your daily routine - such as personal care, exercise, socialising or time on your own. Giving yourself the time and space to be the best version of yourself will only positively impact your ability as a parent.

While it can be confronting to admit feelings or guilt or shame, it can be extremely liberating. Validating these feelings isn't a sign of defeat, but helps you understand the areas affecting you most and what you need to prioritise. Sharing your experience with close friends, family or your GP should help you rationalise the thoughts whirling through your head. You might even find short term solutions that help lighten your load![/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]
 Surround yourself with a support network
[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="8" spacer_tablet="16" spacer_desktop="24"][vc_column_text]Especially in the postpartum period, your support network is important. Ask for help.

Early parenthood can be lonely. Your previous way of life has dramatically changed - you've taken on the responsibility of a newborn and are experiencing both physical and emotional change. While it's okay to feel this way, know that you're the only one going through similar emotions. Good and bad days will come in waves, and

This is why a support network is so important. It can be as formal or informal as you like, such as an antenatal group, healthcare professional or just a few friends and family you have on speed dial for when you need a baby sitter or a some light relief!

Don't be afraid of calling on your network when you need it.[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/2"][common-image image="5727"][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/2"][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="32" spacer_tablet="64" spacer_desktop="64"][vc_column_text]
The best thing for parents to do is to let it go! A new baby doesn't care if there is laundry on the floor or dishes in the sink
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]
 Make time for self care
[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="8" spacer_tablet="16" spacer_desktop="24"][vc_column_text]While finding time to do anything other than take care of your newborn is far easier said than done, it's an important way to manage the stress of new parenthood.

Find some time for a friend or family member to take care of the baby so you can have a moment to yourself. Recharge your batteries and come back refreshed and ready to go. Plus, you'll be amazed how much good it can do you to turn off parenting brain for even an hour![/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]
 Create a care plan
[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="8" spacer_tablet="16" spacer_desktop="24"][vc_column_text]Organise a schedule with your partner so it’s clear who's taking care of the baby, day and night. A plan can help you schedule breaks for each parent, and prevent a lot of frustration at 3:00am.[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]
 Let go of the ideal
[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="8" spacer_tablet="16" spacer_desktop="24"][vc_column_text]Prioritise what's important to you and your family at the moment. Sometimes trying to do it all can be overwhelming, and it can feel like you're getting nothing done!

Many new parents feel creeping guilt about all of the tasks they neglect when taking care of a new baby. Managing housework, keeping up with a diet and exercise routine, or maintaining relationships with friends and family suddenly all become more difficult with a newborn.

The best thing for parents to do is to let it go. A new baby doesn't care if there is laundry on the floor or dishes in the sink, and they certainly don't care if you haven't worked out this week. Complete these tasks as is comfortable, functional, and fulfilling for you, but don't pressure yourself.

Give yourself the grace to be a little behind on things right now, and focus on what's important - the health and happiness of your family. The special moments of early parenthood will fly by, so make the most of them.[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]
RELATED: Dealing with Anxiety as a new Mum
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
            [post_title] => Understanding Mum Guilt
            [post_excerpt] => 
            [post_status] => publish
            [comment_status] => open
            [ping_status] => open
            [post_password] => 
            [post_name] => understanding-mum-guilt
            [to_ping] => 
            [pinged] => 
            [post_modified] => 2022-01-27 16:55:18
            [post_modified_gmt] => 2022-01-27 03:55:18
            [post_content_filtered] => 
            [post_parent] => 0
            [guid] => https://rascalandfrien.wpengine.com/?p=6298
            [menu_order] => 0
            [post_type] => post
            [post_mime_type] => 
            [comment_count] => 0
            [filter] => raw
        )

    [1] => WP_Post Object
        (
            [ID] => 2119
            [post_author] => 2
            [post_date] => 2021-09-23 13:29:23
            [post_date_gmt] => 2021-09-23 01:29:23
            [post_content] => [vc_row][vc_column][article_heading_e37c eyebrow="The R+F Blog"][vc_column_text]
Quick tips to potty training
[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="32" spacer_tablet="48" spacer_desktop="48"][vc_column_text] Let your child know what is happening. It can be daunting for them to suddenly start using a potty, so talk them through it.

 The learning process will take time, so be patient, especially when they have accidents.

 Don’t ditch the nappies right away. Instead, choose ones that are easy to get in and out of like Rascal + Friends premium training pants. Made with an extra stretchy waistband and pull-up design to make change-time easier, they're perfect for potty training.

 Encouragement and positive reinforcement goes a long way in helping them adapt. Read below for ways you can make potty training fun.[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="32" spacer_tablet="48" spacer_desktop="48"][vc_column_text]
When to start potty training
[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]Knowing when to start potty training is a common question with an answer as simple as: when your child is ready, there's no one size fits all approach. Sometimes this starts as early as 18 months, in other cases it doesn't happen until age 4. That said, most children typically start potty training between 18 and 30 months.

Potty training is more than simply using the potty. It involves the steps you take in teaching your little one how to use the potty and the cues you learn from them. For many kids, this is the first big step in their maturity and development, so you want to make this an enjoyable experience for all.[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]The following signs may indicate that your child is ready to start potty training:[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]



 	
They try to remove their diaper after weeing, or when they are uncomfortable.
 	
Communicating that they need their diaper changed.
 	
They stay dry in their diaper for at least two hours during the day, or are dry after naps.
 	
They start to show interest in underwear or "big kid" pants.
 	
They can follow simple instructions, like walking to the bathroom, sitting down and removing their clothes.


[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width="1/2"][common-image image="5195"][/vc_column][vc_column width="1/2"][common-image image="5181" image-align="right"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]
How to start
[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]Successful potty training requires consistency and patience. As mentioned, timing is important - so try to avoid times where there could be major distractions or environmental changes, such as moving house.
 Introduce the idea of a potty
Even before using the potty, there are a number of fun ways you can introduce it. Such as reading children's books, teaching your little one what it looks like, or using craft activities like this colouring-in maze. Find more fun activities on our News + Resources hub.

You may also like to involve them in purchasing the potty, making the process fun from day one! This is also a good way to check that they sit comfortably on it.

Normalise the idea of going to the potty by introducing it into everyday conversation; saying things like: "I wonder if Jay Jay (or your child's favourite character) needs to go potty" or "I have to go wee, I'm going to use the potty." The idea is to raise awareness about going potty and make your child comfortable with the concept before introducing action. These techniques may also pique their interest and get them excited by the potential of trying it themselves.[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]
 Make it a habit



You may like to follow a schedule or introduce key times throughout the day that they should go to the potty. For example, first thing when they wake up, every couple of hours, before leaving the house, before and after nap time and the final step in your bedtime routine. Even if they object to "not needing to go," the ritual of going to the potty and through the motions involved with this process, reinforces the habit. Eventually, it should become part of their routine.

Make a habit of the routine by asking them to remove their pants, diaper, and sitting on the potty for a few minutes. Switching from nappies to Rascal + Friends premium training pants help make change-time easier and are perfect for potty training. Made with up to 12 hour leak protection, an extra stretchy waistband and easy-tear sides, learn more about our seriously good features and find the right size.



[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]


 Teach proper hygiene
Teach good hygiene habits early on, and stick to them. The final part of "going to the potty" should include using toilet paper to clean, proper disposal and washing up. Make the sink, soap and hand towel accessible to them (you could use a stepping stool), and help them wash their hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.

Make hand washing fun with colourful soaps and singing their favourite song with them. With time, they may like to start doing this independently.



[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]
 Positive reinforcement and patience 
Essential to the potty training process is positive reinforcement and patience. It will take time for their body to adjust to using the potty, and accidents are part of the learning process. Try not to react to these occasions with frustration. Instead, offer reassurance, help them change into a clean diaper, and explain why we use the potty and what we can try do next time.

When they use the potty successfully, offer gentle praise or a small reward like a sticker chart. Positive reinforcement of their behaviour and what they did successfully also helps them learn.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
            [post_title] => Your guide to potty training
            [post_excerpt] => 
            [post_status] => publish
            [comment_status] => open
            [ping_status] => open
            [post_password] => 
            [post_name] => potty-training
            [to_ping] => 
            [pinged] => 
            [post_modified] => 2022-01-27 20:58:38
            [post_modified_gmt] => 2022-01-27 07:58:38
            [post_content_filtered] => 
            [post_parent] => 0
            [guid] => https://rascalandfrien.wpengine.com/?p=2119
            [menu_order] => 0
            [post_type] => post
            [post_mime_type] => 
            [comment_count] => 0
            [filter] => raw
        )

    [2] => WP_Post Object
        (
            [ID] => 1322
            [post_author] => 2
            [post_date] => 2021-09-23 13:27:54
            [post_date_gmt] => 2021-09-23 01:27:54
            [post_content] => [vc_row][vc_column][article_heading_e37c eyebrow="The R+F Blog"][vc_column_text]
Building a better bedtime routine
[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]A consistent bedtime routine helps your toddler understand that it's time to wind down for the day, and prepares them for a restful night. Bedtime is an opportunity to spend quality time with your little one - but it can also be chaotic as kids want nothing else but to play, and tired parents become frustrated. You may have tried to introduce a routine of your own but are struggling to make it stick.
Here are 3 easy tips to help get your bedtime routine back on track, and (most importantly) a good night's sleep for the whole family!
[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="48" spacer_desktop="48"][vc_column_text]
Tips to improving your toddler's bedtime routine
[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="48" spacer_desktop="48"][vc_column_text]
1. Create a calm sleep environment
Their environment is key, especially when you're trying to switch the mood from playtime to quiet time. Try keep their bedroom calm and soothing - it's much easier for them to drift off that way.

 	
If your little one is easily distracted by playful toys, take these out of the bedtime-battle equation and leave them outside of the bedroom. You can gently introduce this rule by explaining that their toy is to also going to sleep, and that they can see them again in the morning. Your child may also like to act out the motion of putting their toys to bed as well.
 	
If they enjoy the company of a toy during the night, opt for a soft toy that specifically becomes their 'night time teddy' (or whatever their favourite toy is). It may stay in their bed and be the incentive to help them leave behind other toys. Just make sure this bedtime toy doesn't make any playful animations or sounds!
 	
Dim the lights or use a side lamp to signal that it's time to wind down.
 	
Ensure their room is dark, especially for when the days are longer and the sun is still up when they're going to sleep. You could also use a night light or alarm clock to teach them day from night, and when they're allowed to get up again.
 	
A noise machine can create a gentle, soothing ambiance.

[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]
2.  Keep it fun!
Your bedtime routine doesn't need to be just about completing tasks. Use this daily ritual to spend quality time with your little one, and make it fun for both of you. Some ideas include:

 	
Run a soothing bath. If playful toys, soap and bubble bath equal playtime in your household, try keep this bath simple with warm water and a wash cloth.
 	
Letting them choose their pjamas.
 	
Using a toothbrush in their favourite colour.
 	
Playing a special song before bedtime. Check out Rascal + Friends on Spotify. We've got a range of FREE playlists for music inspiration!
 	
A quiet craft activity, like a colouring-in book or short learning activity. Download coluring-in sheets, maze activities and alphabet flashcards on our News + Resources hub.
 	
A special story told by you or read from a storybook.
 	
Each sharing a highlight or something special about their day. If your little one is in preschool/daycare, this is a nice way of catching up on their day.

[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/2"][common-image image="6063"][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/2"][common-image image="6049"][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]
3. Routine, routine, routine
The most important tip we can offer, is to keep it routine!

That means even after a long day or even when the kids are extra fussy, still try to follow the sequence of events in your routine. Of course, that's easier said than done, and there will be times where you can't go through all the motions. This won't impact progress. Just know that with these steps will start to become a habit with consistency. Your little one may also start to take on some of the responsibility as they learn what to expect.

Remember, a bedtime routine doesn't have to be a complicated series of events. It should include the range of motions that help you get the essentials done, and be an enjoyable experience for the whole family.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row]
            [post_title] => Quick Tips: Bedtime routine for your toddler
            [post_excerpt] => 
            [post_status] => publish
            [comment_status] => open
            [ping_status] => open
            [post_password] => 
            [post_name] => quick-tips-bedtime-routine-toddler
            [to_ping] => 
            [pinged] => 
            [post_modified] => 2021-10-14 22:44:52
            [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-10-14 09:44:52
            [post_content_filtered] => 
            [post_parent] => 0
            [guid] => https://rascalandfrien.wpengine.com/?p=1322
            [menu_order] => 0
            [post_type] => post
            [post_mime_type] => 
            [comment_count] => 0
            [filter] => raw
        )

    [3] => WP_Post Object
        (
            [ID] => 1231
            [post_author] => 2
            [post_date] => 2021-09-23 13:21:58
            [post_date_gmt] => 2021-09-23 01:21:58
            [post_content] => [vc_row][vc_column][article_heading_e37c eyebrow="The R+F Blog"][vc_column_text]
How to change a baby's nappy
[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]
First time changing a nappy? Follow this simple step-by-step guide and save for later.
[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]
  Grab your supplies:

 	


 	
Change table or change mat
 	
A fresh nappy (Rascal + Friends, of course!)
 	
Baby wipes or wash cloth
 	
Nappy cream or ointment
 	
Change of clothes for your baby (in case of a blowout)
 	
Disposable bag or bin




[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]
  Follow these simple steps:

 	


 	
Get ready with your change table or change mat, and a fresh nappy.
 	
Lay your baby down on their back and remove the used nappy. Dispose of the nappy by rolling it into a bundle, and sealing it with the grip tabs.
 	
Gently clean your baby's nappy area, taking extra care to clean between the folds of the skin where moisture can get trapped. You can use baby wipes, like Rascal + Friends sensitive wipes, or a damp washcloth. For girls, wipe front to back. For boys, use the front of the nappy to cover their nappy area as you clean (and to protect yourself from any surprise sprays!)
 	
If necessary, apply a nappy ointment or cream and allow to completely air dry. You can read more about how to treat nappy rash in this article.
 	
Open the fresh nappy so the inside is facing up toward you.
 	
Open the two grip tabs (on either side of the nappy), untuck the double leak guards (elasticated sides that run down the nappy) and soft leg cuffs (ruffled-like material). These should sit flat on your baby's skin.
 	
Gently raise your baby's legs and lower body by their ankles, and slide the fresh nappy underneath. Their bum should be in the middle of the nappy.
 	
Pull the front the nappy (side closest toward you) up and over your baby's nappy area. The Rascal + Friends logo on the front of the nappy should be facing you.
 	
If necessary, untuck the double leak guards and soft leg cuffs. These should sit flat on their skin.
 	
Secure the strong grip tabs, by folding them up and over your baby's hip. These should sit comfortably on your baby's hip - no need to make the fastening too tight. The tabs are also resealable.



[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]
Did you know: On average, each baby will have 3,500 nappy changes before they are toilet trained
[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/2"][common-image image="5040"][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/2"][common-image image="5054"][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="48" spacer_desktop="48"][vc_column_text]
How the nappy should fit
Made with seriously good features, Rascal + Friends premium nappies also have a unique fit. Here's a few tips on how the nappy should fit:

  Our high back waistband is soft and stretchy, designed to sit a little higher on your baby's back. This makes for a comfy and snug fit to reduce the chance of sneaky leaks or blowouts.

  Our soft leg cuffs and double leak guards should not be tucked in, as they help to contain sneaky leaks. Be sure to unfold them when opening a new nappy, and sit them flat on your baby's skin.

  We recommend choosing a nappy size based on your baby's weight. Our nappy calculator helps you find the right size and an estimate of how many nappies you'll use per day.

If your baby is in-between sizes, contact our Customer Love team to get their expert advice on the perfect Rascal + Friends fit.

 Our strong grip tabs are resealable, but designed to stay in place once fastened. They should sit comfortably on your baby's hips when fastened.

 Our nappies have a stretchy high back waistband and strong grip tabs, which can sit further apart when fastened onto the front of the nappy.

 Our fit means that when the nappy is on your little one, it should be snug on their tummy (pulled up just under their belly button) and at the same level on their back.

Learn more about our seriously good features here.[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/2"][vc_column_text]
How often you should change their nappy
Babies need frequent nappy changes to keep their skin clean, fresh and to help prevent nappy rash. If your baby has sensitive skin, changing their nappy as soon as they wet themselves can prevent further irritation.

It is recommended that your baby's nappy is changed as soon as possible when they have done a poo.

Newborns may need changing as many times as 10 to 12 times a day, while older babies average 6 to 8 times per day.[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="48" spacer_desktop="48"][vc_column_text]
Knowing when to change their nappy

 	
For sizes 1 and 2, our premium nappies have a wetness indicator (on the centre line of the nappy) that changes colour from yellow to blue when the nappy is full and should be changed.
 	
For larger sizes without a wetness indicator, the core of the nappy will swell, indicating that it is ready to be changed.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/2"][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="48" spacer_tablet="0" spacer_desktop="0"][common-image image="6240"][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]
            [post_title] => How to change a nappy
            [post_excerpt] => 
            [post_status] => publish
            [comment_status] => open
            [ping_status] => open
            [post_password] => 
            [post_name] => how-to-change-a-nappy
            [to_ping] => 
            [pinged] => 
            [post_modified] => 2021-11-30 20:05:21
            [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-11-30 07:05:21
            [post_content_filtered] => 
            [post_parent] => 0
            [guid] => https://rascalandfrien.wpengine.com/?p=1231
            [menu_order] => 0
            [post_type] => post
            [post_mime_type] => 
            [comment_count] => 0
            [filter] => raw
        )

    [4] => WP_Post Object
        (
            [ID] => 4869
            [post_author] => 6
            [post_date] => 2021-09-06 10:57:46
            [post_date_gmt] => 2021-09-05 22:57:46
            [post_content] => [vc_row][vc_column][article_heading_e37c eyebrow="The R+F Blog"][vc_column_text]
Helping you prepare for the baby's arrival
[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="16" spacer_tablet="24" spacer_desktop="24"][vc_column_text]
Welcome to your third trimester! Now that you're counting the weeks (even days!) until the baby's arrival it's time to take care of a few things before that little one arrives.
Read below our suggestions for final preparations in your third trimester, and then use our Newborn Checklist to make sure you've got all the essentials on hand.[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="16" spacer_tablet="24" spacer_desktop="24"][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="16" spacer_tablet="24" spacer_desktop="24"][vc_column_text]
 Make a birth plan
An important part of your preparation is making a birth plan with your midwife, obstetrician, doula or specialist doctor. The plan should describe your wishes for the labour, birth and any additional support you may require. A birth plan is also useful if your midwife can't be with you during labour, as backup support will know what your wishes are.

Some things to consider when writing your plan:

 	
Where you want to give birth – at home, in a birthing centre or in hospital
 	
Who you want with you during the birth
 	
How you would like to give birth
 	
What pain relief you would like, if any
 	
What you would like to do with the afterbirth/placenta
 	
Postpartum care

[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="16" spacer_tablet="24" spacer_desktop="24"][vc_column_text]
 Take a newborn care class
If you're a first time parent, you may like to take a newborn care class to run through the basics of caring for you and baby. Such as How to Change a Nappy, swaddling, soothing and feeding.[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="16" spacer_tablet="24" spacer_desktop="24"][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/2"][common-image image="6121"][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/2"][common-image image="6135"][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="16" spacer_tablet="24" spacer_desktop="24"][vc_column_text]
 Schedule maternity photos or art
While the end of your pregnancy might feel like a long time coming, the final trimester will sneak up on you. You may like to organise a creative way to document your final stages of pregnancy, such as a maternity or family photoshoot, getting a cast taken of your bump, or creating a keepsake. Find more inspiration on our Pinterest board.[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="16" spacer_tablet="24" spacer_desktop="24"][vc_column_text]
 Get comfortable
The third trimester of pregnancy can get pretty uncomfortable as your baby (and belly!) grows and as your body starts to prepare for childbirth. You may experience abdominal pain, lower back and hip pain, restless legs, even insomnia.

Quick tips to helping you get comfy:

 	
Take a warm bath
 	
Sit in chairs with good back support, or try an exercise ball
 	
Get a prenatal massage
 	
Try a body pillow for extra back, hip and tummy support at night

[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="16" spacer_tablet="24" spacer_desktop="24"][vc_column_text]
Read and print out our ultimate newborn checklist to make sure you've got all the essentials before the baby arrives.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
            [post_title] => Preparing for the baby's arrival: Third Trimester
            [post_excerpt] => 
            [post_status] => publish
            [comment_status] => open
            [ping_status] => open
            [post_password] => 
            [post_name] => preparing-for-the-babys-arrival-third-trimester
            [to_ping] => 
            [pinged] => 
            [post_modified] => 2021-10-14 22:50:16
            [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-10-14 09:50:16
            [post_content_filtered] => 
            [post_parent] => 0
            [guid] => https://rascalandfrien.wpengine.com/?p=4869
            [menu_order] => 0
            [post_type] => post
            [post_mime_type] => 
            [comment_count] => 0
            [filter] => raw
        )

)

Understanding Mum Guilt

For Parents Newborn

Tips for managing stress in early parenthood.

Read More

Your guide to potty training

Infant Toddler

Potty training can seem a bit intimidating no matter how many times you’ve done it. No worries - we’ve got you covered! Here’s what you need to know before you get started on your potty training journey.

Read More

Quick Tips: Bedtime routine for your toddler

Toddler

A clear bedtime routine can make sending your toddler off to sleep much easier. Getting there however, can be a challenge. Here's 3 easy tips for introducing a smooth routine.

Read More

How to change a nappy

For Parents Infant Newborn

Follow this step-by-step guide to changing a baby's nappy. Everything you need to know about the fit, change-routine and our changing tips.

Read More

Preparing for the baby’s arrival: Third Trimester

For Parents

Our guide to preparing for the baby's arrival in your third trimester. Including suggestions for enjoying your final stages of your pregnancy and getting prepared with newborn essentials.

Read More