Hello!
Today we want to share many things with you. First, we’ll tell you about a tool to track your baby’s milestones. Then we’ll talk about eating while breastfeeding. Then we’ll give you some ideas on how to listen and respond to your baby. Finally, we’ll talk about the 6-week postpartum appointment and what to expect! |
Looksee Checklist
Today we want to share a tool that many parents love. The Looksee Checklist can help you track your baby’s development by just answering a few questions.
By one month of age, does your child:
- Look at you?
- Startle to loud or sudden noises?
- Calm down when comforted?
- Suck well on the nipple?
Follow up with your health care provider if you answered ‘no’ to any of these questions or if you have concerns about your child’s development. The sooner a delay is addressed, the sooner you can help your baby.
If your child was premature, check the website for guidance about which checklist to use. |
Healthy eating and breastfeeding
There are lots of myths about what you can and can’t eat while breastfeeding. The truth is, you can eat just about anything while breastfeeding! Here are a few healthy eating tips.
- Aim to eat three meals a day with healthy snacks between. Meeting your energy and nutrient needs will help you feel your best when feeding your baby.
- Choose water to quench your thirst. Limit or avoid sugary drinks. These include pop, juice, fruit drinks, sports drinks, and sweetened teas and coffees.
- Limit caffeine to 300 mg per day (about 2 to 3 cups of coffee). Too much caffeine can make you feel jittery. It also passes into breastmilk and can make your baby wakeful and irritable.
- Know the risks of other substances before using them. Alcohol, cannabis, and tobacco pass into breastmilk and can harm your baby.
For more information about healthy eating and breastfeeding:
- Call Telehealth Ontario to speak to a Registered Dietitian at 1-866-797-0000
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Listen, respond and connect with your baby
Your baby's relationship with you is key to their health, development, and well-being.
Listen:
- Be face-to-face. Smile at your baby.
- Phones, tablets, and televisions can distract you. Put them aside until your baby is sleeping.
Respond:
- Comfort your baby when they are sick, hurt, or upset. You cannot spoil a baby with love and comfort.
- Talk to your baby. Speak in a soft and gentle voice. Repeat the sounds your baby makes.
Connect:
- Read and sing to your baby. Your baby loves to listen to your voice.
- Get to know your baby. Discover what makes them happy or sad.
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Appointment alert: postpartum check-up
Most health care providers will offer a 6-week postpartum check up.
Birth control
This is a great time to discuss birth control. You can get pregnant before your period returns! It is usually suggested to wait at least 18 months to 2 years after birth before becoming pregnant. Talk to your doctor or check out itsaplan.ca to decide what is right for you.
Mental health
Your appointment is also a great time to discuss your mental health. About 1 in 5 new moms and 1 in 10 dads will develop a mood disorder in the first year after their baby is born.
Remember: you are not alone, you are not to blame, and with help, you will get better.
How do I know I’m at risk for Postpartum Mood Disorders?
- Talk to your health care provider about the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Screening (EPDS).
- You can take the EPDS yourself and share the results with your health care provider.
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Libraries
Libraries have programs for every age, at locations across KFL&A.
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Happy one-month old birthday wishes to your baby from all of us at KFL&A Public Health! We’ll connect with you in two weeks when your little one is 6 weeks old. |
KFL&A Public Health, 221 Portsmouth Avenue, Kingston, Ontario K7M 1V5
kflaph.ca |
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