thomson first time mum tour

A Community Baby Shower Across America

The MOMS Tour (Maternal Outcomes Matter Showers) is a Community Baby Shower Tour that will target new and expectant mothers in communities with high maternal and morbidity rates.

Serving Those at Greatest Risk

The tour is focused on reducing the unacceptably high maternal mortality and morbidity rates in the U.S., especially among Black and American Indian/Alaska Native moms. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), Black women are three times and AI/AN women are two times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women, and over 80% of those deaths are preventable. The M.O.M.S. Tour will intentionally serve those at greatest risk: Black and AI/ AN moms in urban and rural communities.

Mom's Lounge

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A brief look back in Time

The History of Thomson Travel Group & Britannia Airways

Thomson travel - faqs.

• How Thomson Holidays was formed
• Thomsons & Britannia grow big in the 1980s
• Preussag AG acquires Thomson
• TUI AG merger with First Choice Holidays PLC

Holiday4.com

In this article, Holiday4 takes a 'step back in time' to discover how Thomson Holidays and Britannia Airways were formed.

Affiliate Disclosure & Article Disclaimer. We may use affiliate links - you can view our affiliate statement and article disclaimer here.

A Brief History of Thomson Holidays & Britannia Airways

The Thomson Travel Group (TTG) was a highly successful UK travel agency, charter airline & package holiday provider and cruise line operator. The company was formed by the Thomson Corporation of Canada back in 1965, after the acquisition of four independent UK tour operators, Gaytours, Luxitours, Riviera and Skytours (conveniently, Skytours came with its own airline Britannia Airways - formerly known as Euravia, founded in 1961).

Britannia Airways played an important role in the success of the newly formed Thomson Travel Group, and in 1970 the business was re-launched as "Thomson Holidays". In the early 1970s, Thomson Holidays were offering two weeks in the sun flying from Manchester (with hotel and board included) for under £50 per person.

Thomson Holidays 1980s

During the 1980s (and with the support of independent British Travel Agents), Thomson Holidays and sister company Skytours became two of the UK's largest and most successful package tour operators. During this period, Britannia was one of the first holiday airlines to sell 'seat only' fares on its package holiday routes - which helped the pioneering airline become one of Europe's largest and most successful charter carriers.

The Thomson Travel Group was floated on the London Stock Exchange in May 1998 with a valuation of 1.7 billion pounds. See this article on early package tour operations .

Thomson Travel Group acuired by Preussag AG

At the turn of the millennium, the Thomson Travel brand dominated the UK travel industry and in 2000, the group was acquired by German-owned Preussag AG, an industrial and transportation conglomerate based in Berlin, with origins dating back over 75 years.

Preussag AG involvement in travel and tourism started in 1997 with the acquisition of one of Germany’s leading tourism companies Hapag-Lloyd. From 1997 onwards, the company acquired several leading European tourism businesses, including Fritidsresor and Nouvelles Frontières - plus involvements in hotel groups RIU and Magic Life.

The start of TUI AG - and its merger with First Choice Holidays PLC

Soon after its merger with Preussag AG in 2002, the Britannia Airways name was dropped and replaced with Thomson Airways (Thomsonfly). With a change of name - came the addition of a new blue and red livery in keeping with other TUI carriers. In 2017 the names Thomson Holidays and Thomson Airways were fully retired, and the company started trading as TUI UK, with Thomson Cruises rebranded as Marella Cruises. With the current rebranding now complete, the name TUI has become one of the world's leading and most recognised international travel brands.

Author: Chris Booth - Date: 24/06/2023. Chris has been involved in the travel industry for over 20 years.

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents of this article. The use of this site and third-party links is subject to our T&Cs.

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Are you a first-time mother? Here is everything you need to know

Finding out you're gonna be a mum for the first time can be a beautiful experience, but it can also be terrifying! Not to worry, the experience of being pregnant and being a first-time parent doesn't have to be a scary one. Below is everything you need to know about being a first-time mum, and things we recommend you use to keep yourself relaxed, happy, and healthy!

Pregnancy Time

Being pregnant for the first time might bring up many questions for first-time mums. One of the most common questions with pregnancy is, how long will the pregnancy time be? Or possibly, how long have I been pregnant for? For many women, it can come as a surprise to find out they're pregnant! Luckily, there's a simple way to figure out how long your pregnancy time will be, and how long you've been pregnant for.

How long will the pregnancy time be? 

The length of a pregnancy varies from woman to woman. In addition, no two women have the same bodies or menstrual cycles! Because of this, it's important to remember that there are only general guidelines for pregnancy time. On average, women will carry a child for 280 days, or roughly 40 weeks. This is a little over 9 months, however, most people use this 9 month timeline as a general timeline.

During these 9 months, women generally find out they are pregnant around the time of their first missed period, which is around week 5 or 6. If you have irregular periods, it can be difficult to find out right away whether or not you're pregnant, as you won't notice a missed period. This is why it's important to take a pregnancy test either at-home or at the doctor's office if you think you might be pregnant. Usually, it takes around 2 to 3 weeks after conception (where the sperm meets the egg) to become pregnant and have that egg attach to your uterus. Once this happens, signs and symptoms of being pregnant can happen as early as one week after pregnancy! 

Signs and symptoms to look out for include:

• Sore breasts
• Spotting (usually light and pink)
• Mood swings
• Irritability
• Frequent urination
• Dark spots on the face

Although it's rare, some women might not have any signs and symptoms of pregnancy at all! However, according to the UK National Health Service, or NHS, most women start to feel symptoms of pregnancy within the first trimester, or first 12 weeks of pregnancy. There are three trimesters during pregnancy that have different time periods ranging from:

• First trimester- Weeks 1-12
• Second trimester- Weeks 13-28
• Third trimester- Weeks 29 to 40

It's important to make an appointment with a doctor as soon as you find out you are pregnant, if you have heavy bleeding or severe pregnancy symptoms such as frequent vomiting, or even if you aren't sure whether you're pregnant or not. Visiting a doctor can lower your chances of experiencing a miscarriage, which unfortunately happens in 10 to 15 percent of pregnancies. Although miscarriages can happen any time, they are most common in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.

Fortunately, there are many ways you can have a healthy and stress-free pregnancy! Finding out you'll be a first-time mum might be nerve-wrecking, causing stress, anxiety, and depression. This is especially true since your hormones during pregnancy are constantly changing. 

To have a less stressful and healthy pregnancy, some tips you can follow include:

1. Prioritizing your body- Listen to what your body is telling you, and make sure you're putting your health and safety first. If you need to take some time off work, work less hours, or work from home, ask your workplace for accomodations.

2. Practicing mindfulness- Meditating is one of the best ways to practice mindfulness, and can also help you relax and unwind during your pregnancy. Audio-guided meditation is especially useful, in addition to prenatal yoga!

3. Use aromatherapy- Aromatherapy can be a great tool to help you reduce stress while also making your flat smell amazing! Aromatherapy candles and oil diffusers are a simple, yet effective way to distress.

4. Take childbirth education classes- Many times, the anxiety that comes with pregnancy is due to not knowing what to expect during childbirth, or beyond pregnancy. By taking childbirth and parenting classes, you can put your mind at ease about the labour and birthing process and eliminate this stress from your life.

5. Consider a Counsellor- Pregnancy can be a beautiful time, but if you feel like your stress levels are too much, or you have other mental health concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to a trained counsellor for help. 

6. Continue to eat healthy and exercise-  Unless you have a high-risk pregnancy or are told otherwise by your doctor, you can still continue to exercise and of course, eat healthy! During pregnancy, hormones and changes in your body can significantly increase your hunger and cravings! Exercising and eating a healthy diet can also help you avoid common medical complications that can result from pregnancy, such as pre-gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, or high blood pressure. 

7. See your doctor regularly- Pregnancy is a natural process which women's bodies were literally made for! However, this doesn't mean you shouldn't get medical help during your pregnancy. It's important to continue to see your doctor regularly for all your check-ups and ultrasounds leading up to childbirth. During these checkups, your doctor can inform you about the health of you and your baby, and recommend any lifestyle or medication changes especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions.

Labour and giving birth

After you've gone through your 9 months of pregnancy, have followed up with your doctor, and practiced the above tips to relax and stay healthy, it's finally time to have your baby! This can be an exciting, yet stressful time for first-time mums and dads, so it's important to clarify a few things first about labour and giving birth. The first thing to note is that not every woman will give birth at exactly 9 months of pregnancy. Only 1 in 20 women will do so! Your doctor will more than likely give you a time frame of about one week for when your baby will be born.

In addition, babies can be born at 39 to 40 weeks (known as at term or term babies), or early or later than this. Babies born before prematurely are those that are born before 37 weeks of gestation. If you experience any signs of labour at or before 37 weeks, reach out to your midwife or doctor immediately for consultation.

According to the NHS , some signs of labour include:

• Contractions and spasms
• The "show" of mucus that comes away from your cervix
• Water breaking
• Feeling the urge to use the restroom and have a bowel movement

If you're having signs of labour, your midwife or doctor will make a treatment plan based on if your water has broken or not, or if your symptoms are caused by something else such as an infection. Don't worry if you're having early contractions or a premature birth! There are many medications and treatments your midwife and doctor can provide to help prevent medical complications from premature births, including injecting steroids to help your babies lungs, medicine to slow or stop the labour, or giving you antibiotics to treat any infections that are causing your symptoms.

In addition, if your baby is born prematurely, they will get help from a hospital in what is known as a neonatal unit. This neonatal unit will provide round the clock care for premature babies, who can survive premature births even at 24 weeks! 

Just the opposite, babies can safely remain in the womb for weeks after the initial birth date. This is known as a prolonged pregnancy, and isn't necessarily dangerous. Rarely are babies born up to four weeks after the initial date. This is because your doctor will induce, or make the birth happen, at one to two weeks after the due date has past. 

Will giving birth hurt?

Giving birth can be extremely painful, however, a recent survey done by the American Society of Anestheologists showing that almost half of all first-time mums said their labour wasn't as bad as they thought it'd be! During labour, women can have a natural birth, a birth done at home, or a c-section where the baby is taken out from an incision made in the abdomen. Your doctor and midwife will provide medical care, including pain medication, to help you through the birthing process.

Is giving birth dangerous?

Giving birth is now much safer than it used to be thanks to advances in science and proper medical care. In the UK, The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists is constantly updating guidelines on what to do in case of complications during birth, such as hemorrhages. Overall, however, giving birth is a safe, albeit painful, yet manageable and beautiful experience!

Recovery after childbirth

After giving labour, you'll of course be enchanted and amazed by the birth of your baby, who will then be examined by medical professionals and given further medical treatment if necessary. This includes checking their vital signs, giving them vaccines such as a Hepatitis B shot before they leave the hospital, going through a newborn screening, weighing, and much, much more! Your doctor and midwife will be with you in hospital for 24 to 48 hours before you are discharged if you had a regular vaginal birth. If you had a C-section, you might stay between 3 to 4 days depending on your circumstances. 

Immediately after child birth, your uterus will begin contracting, you will deliver your placenta after 5 to 30 minutes, and best of all, you will get to bond with your baby during the golden first hour after birth! During this time, it's recommended mums get skin-to-skin contact with their baby as much as possible. In addition, breastfeeding can also be done during this first hour while your baby is energetic and full of life. After breastfeeding, you might feel your nipples are sore or the skin around them is dry and chaffed. You can take balm with you ahead of time to help sooth this irritation, along with other items in a care bag before your delivery. 

Having a care bag can help you during childbirth recovery at the hospital. You can take items including:

• Supportive bra or nursing bra
• Personal gowns
• Personal toiletries
• Medications
• Support underwear for C-Section aftercare
• Extra pillows

and any other items you think you'll need during your stay at the hospital! 

Childbirth recovery will also be quite different and vary from woman to woman. Some women might find they feel just fine after giving birth, while other women might take some extra time to recover even after coming home.

Some signs to look out for that indicate you should go to the hospital after child birth include:

• Severe headaches
• Blurry vision
• Pain or tenderness in the legs
• Signs of infection at C-Section site, such as pus and redness
• Open c-section wound site

The period after child birth might also bring with it postpartum depression, which can be serious if left untreated. If you notice any signs of depression, such as crying fits, low mood, fatigue, and thoughts of harming yourself, seek medical care right away.

Thankfully, most women recover from childbirth in about 6 to 8 weeks, but it can take months to feel their physical best again. During recovery, take time to practice self-care, including taking baths that can help soothe pain from vaginal lacerations, using a body oil to treat stretchmarks and help nourish your skin, and taking some much-needed rest time and time off work to heal.

Breastfeeding and baby's burping

According to the CDC, breastfeeding is the best nutrition you can give your baby, as it is unique to your infant and provides a plethora of health benefits for your baby!

These benefits include preventing the following conditions in breastfed babies:

• Type 1 diabetes
• Severe lower respiratory disease
• Ear infections
• Sudden infant death syndrome or SIDS
• Diarrehea and vomiting

First-time mums should also be aware that breastfeeding has health benefits for them too, including:

• Lowering blood pressure
• Lowering risk of type 2 diabetes
• Lowering risk factors of ovarian and breast cancer

Breastfeeding can be done as early as the first hour after childbirth. If you need help breastfeeding, a lactation consultant from the Lactation Consultants of Great Britain can help you find the right method to breastfeed your baby. Although breastfeeding can be painful, using nipple cream, a breast pump, or switching to formula can help!

Babies will usually breastfeed for 6 months to a year, with the last 6 months incorporating new foods along with breast milk. Newborn babies will need to eat every 2 to 3 hours, taking in about half an ounce in the first few days of life, followed by one and then 2 ounces of milk. After 8 weeks, they will consume 4 to 5 ounces of milk every 3 to 4 hours, followed by 4 to 6 ounces at 4 months of age. At 6 months, they can consume 8 ounces of food every 4 to 5 hours, and afterwards begin to eat solid foods!

Babies are well-equipped to let you know if they're hungry. Crying, fussiness, and opening their mouth or reaching for your breast can all be signs that your baby is hungry. It's important to not overfeed your baby, especially if you are bottlefeeding them. Talk to your doctor about getting your baby a pacifier to prevent overfeeding issues like stomach pain, gas or vomiting.

In addition, you should burp your baby gently after feedings to make sure gas doesn't build up in their tummies, as they suck in air during feedings. To burp your baby:

1. Hold your baby over your shoulder while gently patting their back with a cupped hand until you hear them burp

2. Put your baby face-side down on your lap and pat their back this way

3. Sit your baby down on your lap while supporting their chest and chin with one hand, and patting their back with your other hand

Baby hygiene

Besides burping your baby, there are other hygiene regimens you will have to do with your baby. These include changing their diapers and learning how to run a newborn baby bath!

Basics of nappies

Nappies are a beautiful invention that help keep your baby clean and capture poop and urine from your baby. Nappies can either be disposable or made of absorbent cloth to capture waste material from your baby. Your child will need nappies from the time they are newborns up until they are toddlers and are sufficiently potty-trained. When choosing what nappies you will use, consider the following factors:

• Convenience
• Performance
• Amount you will need

Generally, using cloth nappies will lead to bigger savings if you can re-use your nappies efficiently and even use them on your future children. It's cost effective to use nappies that are "one size fits all" instead of having to purchase new nappies every time your baby grows. These nappies can be made of cotton, hemp, or bamboo with a leak-proof shell over top. Nappies that are reusable can be cost-effective, however, they are time-consuming as you must wash them continuously. It's best to purchase about 25 to 30 cloth nappies if you decide to go this route. 

Disposable nappies, on the other hand, are usually made of a plastic outer shell with absorbent materials inside. They come in various sizes for newborns up to toddlers, and can be quickly disposed of in the trash (never flushed). However, it can be pricey buying disposable nappies constantly, so it's best to buy them in bulk. 

Whether you choose to buy cloth or disposable nappies, you must change them as soon as your baby has soiled them in order to prevent nappy rash or irritation to their bottoms. First-time mums, be aware that you can tell either by the smell, or if your baby is being fussy, that they have soiled themselves and need a changing. To change your baby:

1. Wash your hands before you change your baby's diaper to reduce the risk of infection

2. Gather your new nappy, any nappy skin ointment, wipes, and a disposable bag or have a trash can nearby

3. Lay your baby flat on their back on the changing table

4. Unfasten the nappy pins (in a cloth nappy) or tabs

5. Lift your baby's bottom up by grabbing their ankles and lifting them off the diaper, then sweep the diaper off them moving it towards you

6. Set the dirty diaper aside and wipe your baby with moist towelettes. Wipe girls front to back to avoid UTI's.

7. Place the new diaper with the tabs on the back side of your baby

8. Pull the front of the diaper between the baby's legs and fasten the tabs or cloth pin

9. Apply any nappy ointment your doctor has prescribed

10. Throw away rolled up diapers and disinfect the changing table

11. Wash your hands and that of your baby

All about bathing a newborn

If your baby has soiled themselves too much, it might be better to run then a newborn baby bath to clean up. The World Health Organization recommends delaying your baby's first bath 24 hours if possible, or at the very least 6 hours. Newborns can then take baths about 3 times per week afterward since they won't get dirty or need them much more than this.

To bathe your newborn:

1. Place them on a flat surface such as an infant tub that is kept clean

2. Do NOT submerge your newborn under water until after their umbilical stump has fallen off (1-2 weeks after birth)

3. Gently bathe your baby with a spongebath, using warm washcloths and minimal or no soap, as it can dry out and irritate their delicate skin

4. For girls, pay attention to their genital areas, and for all newborns, clean creases between their necks, legs, underarms and elbows

5. Use a non-scented baby bath in 4 to 6 weeks, and only water before that

6. Keep your baby covered in a towel and only expose areas you are washing to keep them warm 

7. After their umbilical cord stump has healed, you can try to submerge them under warm water that fills about 2 inches of an infant tub

Soothing and putting the baby to sleep

Newborn sleep can last up to 16 hours a day, and over time, their schedule will be more and more consistent. At 3 to 4 months, they eventually sleep nightly for about 10 hours. Newborns can be lulled to sleep in a manner of different ways, including through cuddling, bathing, singing or reading to them. These are soothing things you can do as a first-time mum, and you'll eventually find what methods works best to relax your baby.

It's important to set your baby down in a small bassinet next to your room, as this can help you keep an eye on your baby and reduce the risk of SIDS. Other things to consider during your newborn sleep routine include:

• Being consistent, and developing a sleep routine that lets your baby know it's time to settle down. 
• Diming the lights and limiting stimuli such as loud noises and TV before sleep
• Considering using a pacifier which can soothe your newborn and also reduce the risk of SIDS
• Removing soft items like blankets from the bassinet to prevent SIDS also

What all first-time mums need to know?

There's many things to consider being a first-time mum. The most important things are to practice self-care during your pregnancy and beyond. Self-care practices like pampering yourself in a bath and shower gel, meditating, and taking time to rest are all important. Afterward, it's important to know you can always reach out for support, whether that's through your partner, friends and family, your doctors, and even lactation consultants to help get you through the first stages of having a newborn.

How to prepare as a first-time mum?

No one is ever ready to be a parent, but that doesn't mean you can't prepare to be a first-time mum! Follow up with your doctor, prepare your nursery and items you will need after your newborn arrives. These can include things such as:

• Baby Nasal Aspirator
• Infant bathtub
• Medical supplies such as a rectal thermometer
• Blankets and toys
• Nappy ointments and creams

You should also continue to reach out for support from friends and family during your pregnancy. Following all these tips above can help you experience what it's like to be a first-time mum while staying stress-free, happy, and healthy!

© 2024 Cradle & Tonic | Cradle & Tonic Limited

Travel Babbo

A Family Travel Blog

A Panama Vacation with Thomson Family Adventures

By Eric Stoen on July 27, 2017 • Last Updated November 10, 2023 This post may contain affiliate links. Read my Disclosure here .

Group Travel with Thomson Family Adventures

For the longest time, one of the major gaps in my family travel knowledge was group travel. I’m not opposed to group trips – I’ve done 10 photography trips around the world the past decade – but I hadn’t gone on a family one and had questions. Would my kids be ok with a more structured vacation? Would they get along with the other kids? In short, is this a good vacation option going forward?

The best thing about group travel: everything is arranged for you, from airport transportation to activities to tour guides. The worst thing: if you don’t like the people in the group, or if you want to stray from the itinerary, well, you’re stuck.

So I booked a trip. I chose Thomson Family Adventures as they’re the largest family tour operator, and I had met and been impressed with two of their employees at travel events the past year. But I didn’t make things easy for them. First, I selected a trip to a destination that I considered unexciting from previous travel there, Panama. It’s easy to do an amazing trip to somewhere amazing. How would Thomson do with a Panama vacation? Second, I took my most difficult child – my 9-year-old son. He likes structure, but his own self-imposed structure. And he’s typically not social with new kids. If he liked the trip with Thomson Family Adventures, that would give me confidence in recommending group travel to virtually anyone else.

Panama with Thomson Family Adventures

I was impressed with Thomson Family Adventures. The trip signup was easy and the pre-departure information was good. If I had questions, I got answers by email immediately – definitely not the case on several other group trips I’ve done. A week before our departure, I received a box with trip information, an activity book for my son, water bottles, duffel bags, and a mini frog. I packed based on the itinerary and the 25-pound weight limits on the internal flights. Given that it was warm and humid virtually everywhere, packing light was easy.

The other thing I liked about Thomson Family Adventures: not only did we have the same guide everywhere (again, not always the case), but we had a “Rafiki”, an assistant guide who knew Panama and who was there to make sure the kids on the trip were engaged and had fun. Between the two of them and everything that had been arranged in advance, there were zero glitches over the course of seven days.

The Itinerary

Our Panama itinerary was excellent. It was a good mix of culture, adventure and fun, and appropriate to virtually all ages. We never started too early or returned to the hotel too late. But it was also flexible. Twice we asked to walk around town more after dinner, and our guide Christian and Rafiki Mica re-scheduled our transportation around the later schedule. And my son didn’t feel like taking a surfing lesson with everyone else so, knowing he liked birds, Christian arranged for a boat to pick us up and take us to Bird Island (otherwise not on the schedule) while the others surfed. I was fully prepared to simply hang out watching the surfers, so that was a nice touch.

There were seven people on our Thomson Family Adventures trip – the two of us, a mom and two daughters (6 and 8) from Michigan, and a mom and daughter (10) from Southern California. It was one of my favorite groups ever. The adults got along great, and the girls all hung out. My son didn’t interact with the three girls at all on day one. Then something funny happened – partway through day two we were at the Panama Canal gift shop and one of the girls handed him a kaleidoscope. He took it, and then he started looking at other toys with them, and all of a sudden he was part of the group. It was fun to watch. He and the 10-year-old even asked to sit together on our flights, and on a lot of the bus rides the kids all sat together in the back.

Panama Vacation Highlights

The schedule never seemed packed, but after seven days in Panama we felt like we had been there for twice that long and had had an incredible range of experiences. Our favorite things:

The Emberá Tribe

Our first day we drove outside of Panama City and took a dugout canoe 45 minutes upriver to visit the indigenous Emberá tribe. While the Emberá village hosts visitors every day, it didn’t feel like a touristy experience, and I always like exposing my kids to other cultures. We had a great lunch of fish and plantains served in banana leaves, learned about their customs, and watched a pickup game of football played by village kids in pouring rain. The canoe ride to and from the village was a lot of fun, with stunning scenery.

We saw animals throughout Panama, including iguanas, dolphins, sloths, several species of monkeys, and dozens of types of birds. Plus the kids had a blast playing with dogs and cats in the streets.

The Panama Canal

When my son and I visited the canal three years ago we saw a couple of ships near Gamboa but were disappointed not to see any going through the Miraflores Locks. Thomson Family Adventures arranged for lunch at an outdoor table at the locks and we were able to watch a sailboat and container ship pass through. So cool! And our guides turned the Panama Canal Museum into a scavenger hunt for us, making the museum visit far more fun (and educational) than the last time we were there.

Panama Snorkeling

I’ve snorkeled all around the world, with the kids joining me periodically with varying degrees of success. The snorkeling was excellent – I could have stayed out all day. The kids on the trip all joined to some extent – some fully snorkeling, some entering the water only briefly, and some floating on tubes to make it a little easier. This was my son’s least-favorite activity since he doesn’t enjoy snorkeling, but at least he tried it. I loved it.

Meals were excellent, and we dined at some really cool places, including a small restaurant in Panama City’s Casco Viejo neighborhood where we had the only table, and two seaside restaurants in Bocas del Toro with gorgeous sunsets and lots of space for the kids to run around. I kept trying to pay for wine and other drinks and was nicely surprised when Thomson Family Adventures covered everything – compared to every other group trip I’ve been on where participants pay for their own drinks at every meal.

Boat Rides Around Bocas del Toro

We took a boat everywhere in Bocas del Toro – from the pier at our hotel to all restaurants and most activities. Fun to practically live on the water for three days.

Starfish Beach

So cool to be able to walk into the water and see starfish (sea stars) everywhere! The kids had a great time picking them up – always gently, and never removing them from the water.

Hanging Bridges

In Boquete, we did a 4.5km hike through the cloud forest, including passing over six hanging bridges. The kids loved learning about plants and jungle secrets along the way. A very fun afternoon in a stunning setting.

The day after our hanging bridges trek, we zip-lined through the same cloud forest. The zip-line tour consists of 12 separate lines, some of which were extremely long. My son had gone zip-lining on his own various places, but in Boquete he was attached to a guide, as were the younger kids. The 10-year-old in our group was just over 100 pounds so she went on her own, but still got stuck once or twice on the long lines.

The Yaguara Foundation

We closed out the week with a meeting with Ricardo from the Yaguara Foundation, who told us about the importance of the Jaguar in Panama and what his organization is doing to save the animals. This was a nice addition to the trip – inspiring the kids to get involved when they feel like they can make a difference in the world.

I really enjoyed this trip, and wouldn’t hesitate to travel with Thomson Family Adventures again with any of my kids. My son enjoyed a lot of the trip elements, including the hikes, the scavenger hunt, the dugout canoe ride, the scenery, and animals everywhere, and several of the restaurants we visited. He didn’t like when the schedule was out of our control – waiting to eat because everyone was enjoying the evenings too much to order right away, waiting for others to finish snorkeling, etc… – which was predictable based on his personality but was overall a minor issue.

We were both impressed with Panama. We’ve been to Costa Rica several times and Panama is a great alternative – all of the nature, fewer people, less expensive, and it has ships! Panama City isn’t the most interesting place, but it’s worth basing out of there for a day or two to see the canal. Boquete in the highlands and Bocas del Toro on the Caribbean were both great and definitely places for your travel list. I’ve also heard good things about Panama’s San Blas islands – they’ll be on my list when I return on our next Panama vacation.

This was a slightly truncated version of Thomson Family Adventure’s Panama Multi-Sport Adventure tour – one day shorter than the typical itinerary with everything but the whitewater rafting. Pricing varies by date – anywhere between $4,190 and $5,090 for adults and $3,990 and $4,890 for kids under 12. Virtually everything other than internal air ($350) is included in that. If you’ve traveled with Thomson Family Adventures before, there’s a family discount. I received a media discount, but that didn’t affect my impression of the trip.

Note: Thank you to Nicole from The Jet Set Family and Patricia from Our Whole Village for letting me post photographs of their kids!

More from Travel Babbo

July 28, 2017 at 12:13 pm

Thank you for such a wonderful recap of our trip! Coco and I had such a wonderful time with you, and everyone else on the trip. I hope we can travel together again soon.

July 28, 2017 at 2:07 pm

Thanks Nicole! We loved traveling with the two of you too! We’ll see you somewhere in the world soon.

August 26, 2017 at 6:22 am

What time of the year was your trip?

August 27, 2017 at 4:22 pm

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I'm a first-time mum and here's what you need to know about breastfeeding

Breastfeeding advice and tips from a first-time mum and feeding experts.

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Breastfeeding is recommended by the World Heath Organisation due to the overwhelming benefits of breastmilk, but many mums will tell you, it's not as easy as it looks! With that in mind, I'm going to share my personal experience along with some helpful advice I've learned along the way and tips from the experts to help you master this new skill. 

My experience of breastfeeding

I'm a first-time mum who has experienced the highs and lows of breastfeeding. A disclaimer before I start - although I'm continually amazed by the wonders of breastfeeding for both mum and baby, I'm not here to preach. I'm of the belief that a fed baby is a happy one so please do whatever works for you personally, but here's my story...

I became a mum in 2023, giving birth to a beautiful baby boy. The moment after he was placed on my chest he latched perfectly. The midwife turned around to the student and said: "You'll never see that again!" I beamed with joy - it was just like I had imagined. Sadly the coming days, weeks and months were a different story. The latch became painful, and I ended up with mastitis (a nasty breast infection) on three different occasions! I was once even told by a specialist breast consultant that maybe it was the end of the road for my breastfeeding journey because of the recurring problems.

But I had what can only be described as a guardian angel on hand to help. My local children's centre runs a free baby feeding group. I began frequenting it to soak up all the advice from community breastfeeding expert Amanda. As well as Amanda's incredible help, I also had so many friends and family lending their support. One friend who had been through the same struggles was just a text message away during the 3am night feed hell. 

With wonderful women around me and a very supportive partner, I’m proud to say my baby is now five months old, and I’m still breastfeeding him! We combi feed with some formula each day as well as breastmilk and it works really well for us. I’m out of the other side, and now I LOVE breastfeeding - I find it easy, convenient and so rewarding.

I had what can only be described as a guardian angel on hand to help 

Here are the things I want to tell all new mums before they breastfeed…

It's natural, but it might not feel natural .

It's something our bodies are made to do, but so is childbirth and that's still certainly no walk in the park. Breastfeeding requires time, effort and practice.

You'll feel like all you do is feed your baby 

One of my biggest complaints during the early days of motherhood was that I was sat down too much. Hear me out! Genuinely, I hated it. Not only was it frustrating to not be able to make my own lunch or potter around the house, I actually had physical pain from being so sedentary. I couldn't believe how often my son did feeding cues, and I'd have to sit down again to feed him. At this stage, you may think you have a supply problem due to the frequency, but cluster feeding is so, so normal at the start.  

Ask for help, and ask again 

You're going to need it! Whether it's someone to make you a cuppa while you sit and feed your little one or someone to run to the shop for emergency breast pads. I was too proud to ask for help in the beginning, but I soon realised I was going to need all the support I could get. 

I read a hypnobirthing book ( Hypnobirthing: Practical Ways to Make Your Birth Better ) when I was pregnant, which massively helped me during labour but little did I know that the breathing techniques would come in so handy postpartum too. I used calm breaths to get through the initial latch pain (which happened very often in the early days).

I’m so proud of how I’m feeding my baby 

Preparation is key  

Feeding your baby in public can be very daunting at first, and my best advice is to think ahead. Choose the chair facing away from the majority of the room and have a muslin or cover-up to hand if you’re feeling self-conscious. Personally, I do neither of these things now because I'm so proud of how I’m feeding my baby. 

Focus on your baby when feeding in public

Getting your little bundle of joy to latch on while it feels like the whole world is watching can be a nerve-wracking experience but I found that just focusing on my son and drowning out everything else around helped me keep my cool.  

Order lots of vest tops

Wearing a vest under your clothes is a top tip for any winter baby mamas as lots of hoiking up your jumper will happen, and a vest top will ensure your midriff isn't out each time.

Don't forget to look after yourself

Breastfeeding is physically demanding as your little one is literally draining you! Although you may feel like they are your number one priority, you need to look after yourself if you’re going to be able to feed them. Did you know exclusively breastfeeding mums can need to consume up to an extra 500 calories a day?

Make a breastfeeding caddy

As I mentioned earlier, you're likely to be spending a lot of the time on your sofa. Once you start feeding, you do feel a bit trapped and for me the early days of breastfeeding involved very long feeds for my son, so having a breastfeeding caddy of essentials to hand was a lifesaver. What to include, I hear you ask? A water bottle for the crazy breastfeeding thirst, a few snacks in case you can’t move for a while, and not-so-fun things like breast pads and nipple cream.

Learn your pump beforehand

I made the major mistake of not getting any of my baby stuff out of the box before my son was born. Reading instructions at 2am when you’re desperate is not useful! If you’re going to be using a breast pump, I'd suggest getting to grips with it before your baby arrives - take it out of the box and read the instructions so it’ll be plain sailing when it comes to actually using it. 

I mentioned that my son's feeds were rather long to begin with, which is why getting him and me into a comfy position was really important. I found a feeding pillow was really useful for this - I even took it to my mum's on Christmas Day!

 I never thought it could be this easy and amazing, but I got there in the end

When other mums told me they would simply lie down and feed their baby during night feeds, I was in disbelief. At the start, I was in so much pain that I would need to sit upright and stare at my son, praying he wouldn't move a millimetre and cause any more pain. Fast forward a few months and now that’s me. I lie down and even doze off slightly while feeding, totally pain-free. It’s such a game-changer! I never thought it could be this easy and amazing, but I got there in the end. 

When my son was around two and a half months old, I thought I was going to have to stop breastfeeding and move him fully onto formula. Once we upped him to two formulas in the daytime, I began to experience no breast pain and so as the days went on, I decided to stick with what was working and not give up breastfeeding. But the main thing was that I came to the decision myself. It wasn't the doctor, the lactation consultant, my friends, my family or my partner saying what would be best, it was me. And listening to my body every step of the way has got me to my happy place. You've got this mama, you're doing amazingly!

Meet the experts

As well as my own experience, I'll be sharing some advice from Amanda (aforementioned guardian angel) and her equally fabulous colleague Sandra, who are breastfeeding experts from my local community. Amanda Lyon is an abm Breastfeeding Counsellor and a supporter with the Bristol Children's Centre Infant Feeding Team and Sandra Tanner is an abm Breastfeeding Counsellor, IBCLC and Bristol Children’s Centre Infant Feeding Team Lead. 

Advice from the experts

Why is breastfeeding recommended by the nhs.

Amanda explains: "Breastmilk is the biologically normal food for babies, so it meets all of a baby's nutritional needs, protects them from infections and diseases and as a 'live' substance, constantly changes to adapt to a baby's growing needs for as long as it is given. In addition to this, it is always available at the right temperature and requires zero preparation and packaging – the ultimate convenience food, and great for the planet too.

"WHO recommends babies drink only breastmilk for the first six months to achieve optimal growth, development and health. Thereafter babies should be offered nutritious complementary foods and continue to breastfeed, into their second year if possible. 

" But did you know that breastfeeding also has positive health outcomes for the breastfeeding parent? Like lowering the risk of breast and ovarian cancers, osteoporosis, and heart disease."

WHO recommends babies drink only breastmilk for the first six months to achieve optimal growth, development and health

Where can mums get help and advice when it comes to feeding?

Sandra says: "The primary people within the NHS who support you with any aspect of feeding your baby will be your midwife and health visitor. In addition, many towns and cities in the UK have a variety of other ways in which you can access support: infant feeding groups or breastfeeding cafes for example.

"There's The National Breastfeeding Helpline: 0300 100 0212, which is open every day 9:30am – 9:30pm.

"The UK also has four national charities who can provide evidence-based information about feeding and these are the Association of Breastfeeding Mothers (abm), La Leche League (LLL), National Childbirth Trust (NCT) and The Breastfeeding Network (BfN).

"All of this support is free, however some people choose to pay for help in their own homes, from a lactation consultant. You can find out more about this at lcgb.org .

"But don't forget family and friends. How did they feed their babies? Are you doing something similar? Other parents might have tips and tricks which might be useful in your particular situation."

How do you achieve a 'good latch'?

"Ah, the million-dollar question!" says Amanda. "It's worth remembering that the baby latches onto the breast, and it isn't always necessary for mum to do much other than get into a comfortable position so that baby can do what comes naturally. Although it may feel like it should come naturally, it can take time and perseverance to get to a place where mum feels confident, and baby feels relaxed. Sometimes a small adjustment can make all the difference.

FIRST PERSON: Why do I have to 'dress like a mum' just because I'm pregnant?  

"If the baby is born at term and is healthy, they usually have a good instinct for how to find, latch and feed at the breast. The best way to tap into these instincts are to allow baby to be in full body contact with mum. Skin to skin can be a great way to encourage this too and is usually a great way to achieve a deep latch."

How will you know when your baby needs feeding and if they've had enough?

Sandra explains: "Most babies will show 'feeding cues' long before they start crying, things like licking their lips and sucking their fists. It is a good idea to feed them at this point rather than wait until they are crying. Whether breastfeeding or bottle feeding, the advice is to adopt a baby-led approach rather than feeding to a timed schedule.

"Breastfeeding is more than just a method of delivery milk to your baby, and babies will ask to 'feed' for all sorts of reasons, including the need to feel safe and warm. In the first few months it is as well to assume that the baby is hungry and feed whenever they seem unsettled as this will ensure that they drink enough milk, and that your body makes enough milk for the future. A funny (but useful) quote I heard from the dad of a breastfed baby was, 'If in doubt, get 'em out!'.

If in doubt, get 'em out!

"Your breasts may also signal that it's time to feed, before baby wakes. You might notice a tingling sensation in your nipples or that your breasts feel uncomfortably full. Breastfeeding is a two-way relationship, and it is fine to feed the baby because you need to, as well as because baby needs to.

"Nappy contents are a good guide when it comes to how well breastfeeding is going. Your midwives will talk to you about this and weigh baby approx. three times in the first two weeks to make sure that everything is going well.

"Another way of making sure that your baby is drinking well, is to listen for swallowing. Ask your midwife to show you what to look for, and if you are worried, always ask for help."

A disclaimer from the pros: Although we say mother, woman and breastfeeding in our advice, we understand that not everyone uses these terms. We support any parent with any aspect of feeding their baby.  

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March 6th, 2024 Uncategorized blog Being a First Time Mom

by Jalisa Robinson

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Being a first-time mom is an incredible and transformative journey, especially for Black women whose experiences are uniquely rich and diverse. In this article, we’ll navigate the joys, challenges, and reflections that come with being a first-time mom from the perspective of a Black woman, offering insights and understanding tailored to the beautiful tapestry of Black motherhood.”

Being a First-Time Mom: A Black Woman’s Perspective

Embarking on the path of motherhood for the first time is a profound experience, and for Black women, it is an opportunity to embrace the unique layers of cultural richness and resilience that define our journey.

Navigating Identity and Motherhood

Being a first-time mom as a Black woman involves a dance of navigating identity and embracing the complexities that come with it. From heritage to traditions, each step in this journey is an opportunity to weave the tapestry of our cultural legacy into the fabric of our child’s upbringing.

The Power of Community

In the world of being a first-time mom, the strength of community plays a pivotal role whether it’s in your neighborhood or world wide . Black moms find solace and support in shared experiences, creating a village that celebrates triumphs and navigates challenges together. Click here for some of our top resources for moms in Pittsburgh and around the country.

Cultural Celebrations in Motherhood

Being a first-time mom provides the canvas to paint vibrant strokes of cultural celebrations. From naming ceremonies to traditional practices, Black women infuse the journey with the rich tapestry of their heritage, creating a nurturing environment for both mother and child.

Navigating Health and Wellness

The journey of being a first-time mom as a Black woman involves a nuanced approach to health and wellness. From embracing natural hair care rituals to prioritizing postpartum fitness that aligns with our diverse body types, the path to wellness is uniquely ours. Make sure you take care of yourself with some essentials for new moms.

Self-Care in Black Motherhood

Balancing the demands of motherhood requires a commitment to self-care. Being a first-time mom invites Black women to cultivate self-love through skincare rituals that embrace the beauty of melanin-rich skin and moments of reflection that honor the strength and resilience of Black mothers. Click here for our list of 8 great self care gifts for black moms.

Legacy of Love

Being a first-time mom is an opportunity to sow the seeds of love and resilience, creating a legacy that spans generations. The wisdom passed down from mothers and grandmothers becomes a guiding light, illuminating the path of motherhood with a deep connection to our roots.

Educational Empowerment

Navigating parenthood for the first time involves an ongoing journey of educational empowerment. Black moms are dedicated to learning, understanding, and advocating for their children, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge and tools to thrive.

Being a first-time mom as a Black woman is a symphony of love, culture, and resilience. Each step in this journey is an opportunity to celebrate the richness of our heritage, create a supportive community, and leave an indelible mark of strength and love on the canvas of motherhood.

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7 travel experiences best shared with your Mum

Recently updated on November 27th, 2023 at 04:37 pm

Unless she’s still your number one travel buddy, the chances are it has been a while since you made plans to travel with your mum. So, rather than gossip about your aunties and cousins over a cup of tea, why not do something extraordinary together? 

Making plans to travel with your mother is one of the best – if not the best – ways to bond and create new memories. Whether it’s a mother-daughter trip, mother-son travel or a whole family travel experience, creating those special and extraordinary moments together on the road will be memories you’ll talk about for years to come.

Here are seven types of trips and travel experiences that are best shared with your dear mum.

A city break

A classic in terms of mother-daughter or mother-son travel escapes, a city break is a perfect trip to reconnect over a few days together. Exploring a new city means different things for different people, and when you travel with your mum it might mean days shopping small boutiques and high-end stores in the CBD, and nights spent enjoying a fancy fine dining degustation experience. Whatever your style, a city break is a great type of trip to reconnect with your mum. Whether you want to explore London or New York , Cape Town or Bangkok , there are plenty of options for an escape.

GET INSPIRED: Paris Explorer

A multi-stop adventure

Step it up to an international adventure and spoil your mum with the trip of a lifetime. If it’s been a few years since you traveled with your mother, planning a big international tour that will take you through many countries could be the ultimate way to make new, incredible memories together. Maybe your mum has a long list of countries she would love to tick off her bucket list. Imagine helping her make that happen while spending time together and experiencing these new places for yourself too. Sounds like a win-win.

GET INSPIRED: European Whirl

Going on safari might be on your personal bucket list, and who better to take than your family? Imagine surprising your mum with an unforgettable family travel experience like a safari trip. Bouncing around in the back of a jeep, bond over the great outdoors as you try to spot the Big 5 up close in the wild. On a safari tour or wildlife holiday you could be exploring South Africa’s incredible national parks, watching the Great Migration across Kenya and Tanzania, or spotting Bengal tigers in the wild in India.

GET INSPIRED: African Safari Adventure

A Christmas markets trip

There is something childlike and magical about visiting European Christmas markets. Travel with your mum to a cosy winter wonderland as an early Christmas treat. When dreaming of where to go, don’t limit yourself to the most obvious Christmas destinations like Berlin, Vienna, Cologne or Salzburg. In fact Zagreb, Prague, Budapest and even Bath in the UK, have amazing Christmas markets where you can wander around city squares with mulled wine in one hand and gingerbread in the other while looking at stalls and enjoying old-world entertainment.

GET INSPIRED: Christmas Markets of Austria, Germany and Switzerland

There’s something extra relaxing about being surrounded by a body of water. Soak in incredible views while traveling to new places in an exciting way that you just can’t experience while exploring by road. Maybe you dream of a sun-drenched holiday hopping between the Greek Islands, or want the adventure of voyaging the wild landscapes of Alaska. Some people love cruising for the fact that you don’t have to unpack and repack at each destination and if your mother is in a much older demographic with limited mobility, cruising can be a great way for her to experience new sights and places with less walking. 

GET INSPIRED: Majestic Alaska

A foodie adventure

Travelling via your stomach is one of the best ways to experience the local culture. If you and your mum are big foodies then expand and inspire your palettes with a culinary trip. Base your mother-daughter or mother-son travel experience around visiting restaurants and farms, attending cooking schools, dropping into cellar doors and dining on the best local produce. It could be drinking wine in Tuscany or learning how to cook traditional Peruvian food.

GET INSPIRED: Tastes and Sounds of the South

A walking holiday

Love the great outdoors and always wanted to try a walking holiday? While out there soaking in mother nature, you never know what types of new deeper conversations you might strike up when you travel with your own mother. Learn more about yourself, the environment and your own family on a special walking holiday. City lovers can hit the pavements of Paris and London on a walking tour, while keen hikers might prefer guided hikes through national parks in the USA and Canada.

GET INSPIRED: Scenic Parks Explorer

Will you travel with your mum on your next family travel experience? Let us know where you will go in the comments…

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firsttimemums.co.uk

First time mums.

A blog for curious mums

My most recent blogs

I live in Kent with my husband, John, and our three children – Mayah, Jeremiah and Judah. I started this blog in 2020 as it has been a difficult year for a lot of people, especially new mothers. Being a mum of three has been a journey and having a child during the pandemic has been a big eye opener for me. I hope I can share my story, some tips and we can journey together towards being a “Super-mum”.

What first time moms need to know (80 things that will help you)

Just stop for a moment and ask yourself:

Hey! By the way… any links on this page that lead to products on Amazon are affiliate links and I earn a commission if you make a purchase. Thanks in advance – I really appreciate it! .

“Do I know all there is about babies as a first time mom?

Because you know what…there are new moms who are stuck with babies and don’t know what to do.

So, the dreaming stops here – it is time to learn more about babies once and for all.

Are you serious about having a baby, or it just an idle fantasy to cheer you up when you don’t know what to do in life anymore?

If you are serious, then make up your mind to know more about babies.

And you know what? Here are 80 things to know as a first time mom.

There are so many things to know so I will classify them into four categories (pregnancy, labor, and delivery, breastfeeding. It will make it easy for you to understand.

What first time moms need to know about pregnancy?

• Download a pregnancy app to help you monitor your baby’s development. Best pregnancy apps you can use include WebMD pregnancy, the bump pregnancy countdown and Hello belle pregnancy tracker.
• Take folic acid daily before you get pregnant and 12 weeks into your pregnancy to help prevent birth defects.
• Expect to have cravings and baby kicks in your stomach
• Ah! fart! That is one thing you have to endure and enjoy when you are in the second trimester.
• Ensure you take your Vitamins daily to prevent deficiencies
• Get ready for morning sickness. Yours may not be in the morning. It can occur at any time of the day.
• Expect your feet to swell, but not to worry, it will return to normal.
• Sleep as much as you can before the baby arrives. You may not have such ‘luxuries’ when the baby finally comes.
• Gender disappointment! No. don’t let it bother you. Whether you hope to have a girl and a boy shows up on the ultrasound machine or vice versa, don’t worry about it. You can always have them.
• Flaunt your bump! It looks good on you. Fitted clothes bring out the beauty of your pregnancy.
• You can become tired and very emotional. Take time to rest.
• Wash your baby clothes before you use them. Some of them contain harmful chemicals and dust. These substances can irritate your baby’s skin after birth.
• Engage in exercise to keep you active, reduce stress and improve blood circulation.
• Join childbirth classes to educate yourself and get prepared for delivery.
• Avoid alcohol, tobacco, illicit drugs, and even pain thinners and removers during pregnancy. They are harmful and can cause birth defects and miscarriages.
• Ask your doctor or caregiver before you take over-the-counter medications, supplements or natural remedies. It will put you on the safer side.
• Drink lots of water (at least 8-10 glasses) to prevent constipation, fatigue, headaches, swelling, and hemorrhoids.
• Eat foods rich in folate such as wheat germ, orange juices to help with fetal development.
• Eat lots of fruits as the natural sugars in fruits will help to increase your energy level.                      
• Eat fish to help increase your child’s I.Q, Motor and communication skills.
• Wear sunscreen to prevent sunburn and Chloasma
• Sanitize your hands regularly to prevent infections such as Streptococcus and chickenpox.
• Planning to travel? It is best done in the mid-pregnancy, say between 14-28 weeks when you are over morning sickness and the risk of having a miscarriage or early delivery is low.
• If you notice pain of any kind, strong cramps, or contractions, please call your doctor.
• Always be positive. Look for ways to make yourself happy.
• Shop for baby things early.
• Expect to flush and sweat more as the pregnancy hormones speed up metabolic processes.
• Expect a change in your libido, it can increase or decrease.
• Tell your unborn child stories in the womb.         

What first time moms need to know about labor and delivery

• Don’t listen to horror birth stories, they will make you get scared.
• Stop thinking about the pain of childbirth, instead think about meeting your new baby.
• Choose your place of the birth – hospital, nursing home, and home birth that suits your needs.
• Don’t be afraid when it comes to children or you could increase the time it will take to give birth. This is because fear and anxiety increase blood concentrations and the catecholamine hormones which can make the uterus to be weak to contract.
• Choose who will be with you during the labor. You need emotional support.      
• Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor questions related to labor and delivery.
• Eat enough food during the labor because it may take long
• Get ready! You may poop during delivery. It is a good way to clear the way for the baby.
• Choose the best position comfortable for you. It could be squatting, standing, side-lying, holding onto a bar, etc.
• Although shaving is great, it is optional.
• Let your doctor knows about anything you want during labor. You are entitled to lots of things.
• Don’t worry about screaming during labor. If you want to scream, it is all right.
• Use relaxation techniques to help calm your nerves before and after labor.
• Know that every birth is natural birth. Be it C-section, epidural, it is the same. What is important is the miracle of the new birth.
• Expect to feel exhausted and hungry after giving birth
• Be prepared to push for how long it takes to get the baby out
• Be prepared for people to see in between your legs, such as the medical residents, physician’s assistants, and midwives if you use a big hospital.
• The baby’s heart rate can drop
• You might be puffy after giving birth
• Educate yourself about labor and delivery. Knowledge is power

What first time moms need to know about childcare

• Babies outgrow their newborn clothes very fast, so mix up the sizes.     
• Use more onesies for your baby, as they are more comfortable than the 2 pieces.
• Breastfeeding can be painful for some women
• It is normal to still bleed up to four to six weeks after delivery
• Accept help when offered and when you need it. It will give you time to rest.
• You can’t do everything at the same time. Be flexible.
• Childhood goes quickly, enjoy every bit.
• Parenting can be a lonely experience, connect with other parents.
• Bathe your newborn baby with a sponge 2 to 3 times a week
• Ensure you breastfeed your baby for 6 months and introduce good food thereafter.
• Hold your baby and cuddle them as much as possible. It helps in brain development
• Don’t worry about your baby’s cry. It is the only way babies communicate and reveal their emotions and feelings.
• Talk to your child daily. If you have the time, read a book to them and tell them stories to help in stimulating their brains.
• Pay attention to hygiene at home to keep your child’s immunity system in good shape.
• Eat dinner early, to help your baby sleep faster and better.        
• Ensure your newborn sleep on their backs but place them on their tummies once in a while when they are awake.
• Put sharp things away in your living room so that your toddler can roam freely.
• Learn to understand your baby’s needs through their expressions and body movements.
• Feed your baby every 2 to 3 hours.
• Newborn babies sleep for about 2 to 4 hours. Expect less sleep. But as they grow up to about 3 months, they can sleep more.
• Never leave your baby alone in the bathing tub.
• Have enough diaper at home so you can change your baby as at when required.
• Give your baby proper vaccinations according to the pediatric chart
• Use gripe water for tummy aches.
• Interact with your baby by talking, singing and smiling as often as you can
• Let your baby mingle with people to help her brain development
• Speak to them in the language you want them to be fluent in later on in life
• Keep your baby warm when it is cold and not too warm too
• Give your baby massage from time to time, it helps to improve their sleep.
• Always be available and responsive to baby needs.

Time to be a super mom

Now, you know more about babies and what you should expect during your pregnancy, labor, delivery, and breastfeeding. It is always good to seek more knowledge.

The more you know, the better you will become until you are a super mom.

About The Author

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• Motherhood, Pregnancies And Babies

first-time mum!! any gynae recomendation? mount E or thomson!

• Thread starter incognitoperson
• Start date Feb 8, 2022
• incognitoperson
• Feb 8, 2022

beccallingyou2

• Sep 7, 2022

You can try Dr Ben Choey, he delivers at Thomson and Mt E Novena.  

• Sep 16, 2022

Dr goh Shen Li but she delivers at mount A only.  

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Epic list of 27 things first-time mums should know

It’s true – no amount of reading books, parenting classes and Googling will ever prepare you for what comes your way when you become a mum for the first time.

But what is helpful is sage advice from mummas who have been there, done that, and lived to tell the tale. Our sisters in motherhood who have gone before us and learned the hard way are our best teachers, and one mum has decided to share what she’s learnt so other first-time mums have a bit of an easier ride. Everything from whether you really need those teeny baby shoes to dealing with unwanted parenting advice.

Casey Huff’s no-nonsense post on ’27 Things I Wish I Could Go Back And Tell Myself As A First Time Mum’ went viral for a reason. Because it’s all true.

27 things first time mums should know – by Casey Huff

• You will in fact sleep again. Someday.
• Breastmilk is really good for babies. So is formula. Do what you gotta do. They’re your boobs, it’s your baby.
• Screen time is not the enemy. Make sure whatever your kids are watching is age-appropriate, then sit back and drink your coffee in peace. (Also, prepare yourself to have at least one cartoon theme song stuck in your head at all times).
• I know those baby shoes are sooo cute, but put them back. Your baby will wear them exactly one time before the left one goes missing forever.
• Always have an extra large bag of chicken nuggets waiting in the freezer for quick lunches or nights you’re too tired to cook dinner.
• The one time you forget to take an extra change of clothes for your baby will be the one time she has a massive blowout in public. You’ve been warned.
• The only people who need to approve of your parenting decisions are you and your spouse. YOU are the parent. As long as you have the best interests of your children at heart, ignore the naysayers.
• Trust your intuition—it’s almost always right and it’s a valuable gift.
• The pediatrician isn’t going to judge you if your kid is wearing mismatched socks at his well-check appointment.
• Google can be both your best friend and your worst enemy when it comes to researching your kids’ well-being.
• You will make mistakes. Push the guilt aside, and do better the next time around.
• The $1 craft projects in the dollar spot at Target are sanity-savers and boredom-busters for the toddler years of stay-at-home-motherhood. Throw a couple into your cart every time you’re there. You’re welcome.
• The list of things you “would NEVER do” as a parent will get shorter and shorter as time goes by. It’s okay to laugh at pre-kid-you’s optimism and “insight”.
• Your mood rubs off on your kids 90% of the time. If you’re struggling with their behavior, take a look at your own.
• Make the pancake before you decide which shape to tell your kid it is. Accidental “dinosaur pancakes” are a whole lot easier to make than intentional ones.
• No one who has ever had kids expects your house to be spotless—you’re the only one putting that pressure on yourself. Keep your house as clean or as messy as YOU are comfortable with.
• Anyone who gets tired of seeing photos of your kids on social media or elsewhere can choose to keep scrolling. Don’t feel awkward about being proud of your kids. Show those babies off!
• Your kids are just as lucky to have you as you are to have them.
• If you ever get a photo of your whole family looking at the camera at the same time, frame that sucker. You might not get another until your kids are all teenagers.
• Even when you swear up and down that you are SO READY for a break from your kids, you’ll find yourself missing them when you’re apart.
• The best days are the days when everyone in the family stays in their pajamas. Cherish them.
• Loving your kids in all of their forms is 95% of a job well done.
• Marriage is a tough job, and throwing a baby into the equation will rock the boat more than you ever imagined. Keep working at it; your spouse is worth it.
• Find your favorite kind of sweatpants or yoga pants and buy two pairs for the days you’re behind on laundry (AKA, every day).
• Don’t be fooled—no one has it all together all of the time.
• You are a good mom. SUCH a good mom. Extraordinary, really. There will be many days when you forget that, but that doesn’t make it any less true.
• You don’t have to be perfect for your kids to really, really, REALLY love you.

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Want even more great parenting advice? The mums in our Pregnancy and Baby Facebook Groups helped us out with amazing advice for these articles:

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