Useful Links
Makaton:
https://www.makaton.org/
Helicopter Stories: https://www.makebelievearts.co.uk/helicopterstorieslettingimaginationfly
NHS Change4Life (Healthy eating):
https://www.nhs.uk/change4life
BBC Tiny Happy People:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/tiny-happy-people
Hungry Little Minds
https://hungrylittleminds.campaign.gov.uk/
Trainline - family tickets and discounts:
Family Train Tickets | Book Family Train Travel Online | Trainline (thetrainline.com)
CPR Training for parents: Online ACLS certification & recertification | PMT (pacificmedicalacls.com)
Cerebral Palsy Guide - Your Guide to Cerebral Palsy
Help with mental health and addiction for Hampshire residents:
https://www.rehab4addiction.co.uk/country-wide/drug-alcohol-rehab-hampshir
Healing through your fourth trimester - An article by Emily Graham:
Tips for Healing Throughout Your Fourth Trimester
Throughout your pregnancy, you researched what you should expect with every trimester. But now that your baby has arrived, you’re struggling with the ups and downs of the postpartum period, also known as the fourth trimester – and perhaps you feel like nothing has truly prepared you. Luckily, 3-2-5 Pre-School has a few tips that will help you through the fourth trimester, from managing your medical documents to staying awake without caffeine.
Keeping Your Medical Documents Organized
After having your baby, you will need to return to your doctor for postpartum checkups. Right now, you might have lots of medical documents floating around from your appointments during pregnancy and your hospital stay while giving birth. Gather these files and organize them into categories so that you don’t lose track of anything important.
When it comes to transferring digital documents to your doctor, it’s often easier to email PDFs than other file formats. Therefore, it’s a good idea to look for an online tool that allows you to convert PDFs and carry out other functions, like compressing, reordering, rotating, or editing pages within documents.
Postpartum Nutrition
It’s a good idea to stock up on freezer-friendly meals, healthy non-perishable snacks, and other nutritious foods before giving birth. Eating a healthy diet during the fourth trimester can give you more energy and help you physically recover. What to Expect recommends focusing on staying hydrated and eating plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and protein.
Recovering From a C-Section
If you had a C-section, pay close attention to the recovery guidelines from your doctor. Healthline states that you should anticipate healing to take anywhere from six to eight weeks, avoid lifting anything heavier than your baby, and do not walk up or down stairs. Ask your partner or loved ones to get items for you if you need them.
Managing Your Sleep Schedule
The idea of maintaining a fixed “sleep schedule” with a newborn probably might sound unrealistic but while it’s true that exhaustion is practically unavoidable with an infant, you’ll eventually get into the groove of a relatively predictable sleep routine. To fall asleep more easily, keep your room dark and cool, and avoid using screens before bed.
When you’re running on so little sleep, it’s normal to pour yourself a cup of coffee in the morning, but relying on excessive caffeine to stay awake can be harmful in the long run. Try to nix heavily caffeinated beverages like espresso shots.
Coping With Breastfeeding Discomfort
If you are breastfeeding, you might be struggling to feel comfortable with the entire process. Getting used to breastfeeding can be tough for new mothers, and sometimes, it comes with surprising aches and pains. You may want to create a cozy space at home where you can relax while breastfeeding, pick out a few supportive nursing bras, and use a soothing cream.
Finding Time for Self-Care
Now more than ever, it’s okay to ask for help. By delegating certain household tasks to your support system and taking people up on their offers to help, you can create a bit more free time for yourself. When someone wants to help around the house or cook for you, let them! You’ll thank yourself for doing so. This can also be a big help when it comes to optimizing your home for comfort and positivity.
For many women, the fourth trimester is far more challenging than pregnancy. Understanding the changes the fourth trimester can bring will allow you to anticipate and overcome these challenges. By following these tips, you’ll learn how to keep track of your medical files, stick to a healthy sleep routine, and even find pockets of self-care time.
3-2-5 Pre-School is here to help your children flourish. Reach out today if you have any questions!