The Challenges Of Being A Parent
Baby Care Videos
Should you give your child a routine? What should I do if my baby wakes in the middle of the night and has sleep problems? Dr Carol Cooper answers your questions here.
As a parent it can be difficult to deal with your toddler when their teeth are coming through. Dr Carol Cooper explains how to cope with teething here.
What is whooping cough? Find out about its symptoms, diagnosis and treatment here.
How long do I wait before bathing my newborn? Click here to find out how and when to bath your newborn baby.
Find out how to treat and avoid nappy rash on your newborn baby in the following short film.
You know what happens to your body during pregnancy, but what about after childbirth? Click here to find out.
Can’t wait to take your newborn baby home? Find out how long your hospital stay is likely to be here.
Do you know what is cradle cap? Watch this video to find out about the scalp condition.
How can I tell if my baby has reflux or just colic? Find out the symptoms of reflux here.
Ever wondered why women become sad and tearful for a few days after giving birth? Watch and find out.
Why do some newborns get tongue-tied? Watch to learn more…
Changing a baby’s nappy can be a daunting experience for first time mums. Watch on to learn the steps and pick up some tips.
A newborn baby can sleep for 20 hours in every 24. Learn about sleeping patterns in new babies and how to put your newborn down for a nap safely.
If your baby is regularly crying for more than 15 minutes at a time then they could have colic. For more information click here.
Do you think your baby is ready for food? Find out the signs a baby is ready and how to start weaning a baby from expert Dr Carol Cooper
Older babies can cry for many reasons, including thirst, frustration and boredom. Dr Carol Cooper gives tips on comforting an older baby.
When should you should be taking your baby to the doctor. GP and baby expert, Dr Carol Cooper, explains the symptoms of illness you shouldnt ignore.
Dr Carol Cooper, GP and baby book author, shares her advice on how parents can make returning to work simple and stress free for themselves and their child.
Struggling to get enough sleep? Baby expert, Dr Carol Cooper, offers advice to parents on coping with the challenges of being a parent and more.
What APGAR score is normal for a newborn? Learn how your newborn baby is assessed and what happens when your baby is born.
How soon will a midwife visit once I take my baby home? Find out from baby exert, Dr Carol Cooper, here.
Advice for struggling parents
No matter what type of parent you are, how many children you have, whether you work or stay at home, there will be days when you struggle with the challenges of being a parent. There will be days when you struggle to relate to your child. These feelings do not make you a bad parent or a bad person.
The important thing is not to be too hard on yourself. You are doing a better job than you think. In particularly stressful moments, as long as your baby or child is safe, it’s okay to leave the room for a few moments to calm down. Remember – it is the behaviour you don’t like, not your baby.
Adjust your expectations
New parents may find it particularly difficult when their expectation about what they thought parenting would be like doesn’t match the reality. Before your baby is born, it’s natural to day dream about the special bond you will form with your baby and the fun you will have being a family.
Holding onto this day dream when you are up for long periods of the night with your new born can make it harder to adjust to your new life.
Getting out, meeting other parents, and talking about your feelings with your partner and your health visitor can help.
Coping with a lack of sleep
Sleep when your baby sleeps – it’s easier said than done when you have a long list of household chores to do, but try to prioritise. Getting much needed sleep will make everything easier to cope with. Jobs like washing up, folding clothes and cleaning can be done whilst you talk and play with your baby.
Dr Carol Cooper, General Practitioner
Author of Baby and Child – Your questions answered
10664 Many parents seek advice for returning to work and most return before their baby’s first birthday. This can be a difficult time for your baby as he is too young for you to explain properly what going back to work means. Many babies suffer with separation anxiety around six months which can make going back to work even harder. At this age your baby has no concept of time. It will take a while for him to learn the routine of his childcare situation and to understand that you will be returning at the end of the day.
Finding the right childcare
Many parents put off thinking about their return to work. However, taking the time to research the best childcare options in the area will help you and your baby when the time comes. Approaching it in a similar way to job hunting, going for visits and listening to recommendations, will help you make the best decision for their baby. Once you’ve selected a childcare option it will leave you free to enjoy your last few month before you return to work.
Advice for parents
Once you return to work it is even more important that you dedicate quality time with your baby each day and leave weekends free to spend together as a family. Shopping online, cooking simple meals and batch cooking are just some of the ways to increase the amount of time you will have to spend with your baby.
It is common to have days when you feel that you are failing at being a parent and failing at work. Sharing concerns with your partner or friends can help.
Dr Carol Cooper, General Practitioner
Author of Baby and Child – Your questions answered
10664 Published April 2012
Revised November 2012
Review Scheduled November 2013
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