So when do we make decisions like: do we give Jayden a pacifier? at what age do i introduce a bottle? do i introduce a bottle? do i just go from breastfeeding to a sippy cup? When do i give him table food?I have heard that these decisions just "come to you". Hmm... I'm not too sure about that... So what are the pros and cons of a pacifier. I have heard that it damages their teeth and they grow up with buck teeth and they drool everywhere and that it will make them talk funny. I would appreciate any insight you all might provide.
I personally do not have any feelings against using the pacifier. i used one (i think) and i know several children who have. they seem like they talk just fine.
I just don't want my baby to get attached to it and then not want to give it up. My biggest fear is that he will scream and cry for two weeks because mommy won't give him his pacifier....
What do you think?
11 comments:
As for the pacifier.. I would give him a pacifier as babies have a sucking instinct and need something to suck on. I have many kids here that use them and they dont talk funny nor do they have buck teeth. You will have to slowly start taking it away so that he has the smooth transition of not having it anymore. As for bottles.. depends on how long you plan on nursing for. It isnt good to take away the bottle too soon. :o) Hope this bit of information helps ya out. Love ya
None of my children ever used a pacifier...
Breanna-you never used a pacifier-you hated them and thought it was a play toy. Jared definitely used one, past the age of 2-we had to "lose it" one day, poor little guy was sad and clung to his Curious George and blankie! Kendra used one while a baby and was a bottle baby all the way! Do whatever works for both Jayden and you!!!
Love, Mommy
I can't speak for all children, but I gave Levi a pacifier from the time we were in the hospital. It was great for soothing him back to sleep when he didn't need to be fed, but just wanted to suck. After about 4 - 8 weeks, he became uninterested in it and hasn't used one since. All kids are different though. It's one of those things you just have to play by ear. Don't worry about all the scary stories though... if half of them were true, our generation would all be cross-eyed, unable to talk and drooling. lol
You mentioned baby food...? The pediatrician recommended age to start baby foods (and rice cereal) is 6 months, but they are now also recommending that 4 months is ok, depeding on your baby's needs (stage 1 foods only...it's indicated on the jars). You only want to start them wotj a little bit once a day, otherwise their stomachs will stretch and overeating is more likely to happen. It's not supposed to actually REPLACE breastmilk or formula until they are a couple months older - It is just to introduce them to the taste, texture and to make sure they do not have an allergic reaction. (according to what I've been told anyway.)
As far as bottle feeding... it's totally a mom choice. Some mom's exclusively breast feed without pumping/bottle feeding until the baby is completely weaned. I had to use a breast pump a lot because after about a week, breastfeeding became very difficult for Levi.. he was a slooooow eater....always falling asleeping while eating....we're talking, 1 - 2 hr feedings, 10 - 12 times a day (as a newborn) that is not typical at all! Anyway, my only advice for breastfeeding moms is, get the highest quality breast pump you can find, and use it. Because when you are completely ragged and need just 1 or 2 hours of sleep, whoever is helping you with the baby can bottle feed the baby some already pumped and stored breastmilk while you rest. And trust me, naps are vital for your sanity & energy after you've just spent hours and hours (or days!) laboring and delivering that baby! ;o) Don't feel like you are a bad mom for letting someone else feed your baby every once in a while. Baby needs to bond with other important people other than just mommy! (Daddy, Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles and close friends).
Whatever you do, don't get discouraged by breastfeeding. I went into it thinking it would be simple as pie, but it isn't that easy for everyone. So just be prepared. I hope it is EASY for you though!!! (I wouldn't wish what I went through on anyone.. lol)
Good luck!!
Rach
Jessimo,
You are a genius and one day you will make a better mother than me. i just feel it in my bones!
HAHAHAHHAHAA! Sis. McElhaney you are HILARRRRRRIOUUUUUUSSSSS!!!
Rachel... you should write a book about mommyhood. You are so good at giving advice. i printed out your comment and i will stick it in my baby journal. these are things your mom's never teach you.. Thank you for all the helpful information. You are great!
Ha! I figured that was the case. I was such a good baby. So content... right, mom? i didnt need my pacifier. oh i do remember plotting against jared... that was fun! Lets do it again.. except this time will take away his laptop! HAHAHA
Hah! I feel so mommy-dumb most days, but I've learned everything mostly from other mommies! They are the best resource :o)
By the way - if you give Jayden a paci, you should definitely get the one in the picture you posted. lol!! It made me laugh. Too cute!!!!
Oh i know! Isnt it adorable! I have to get one! LOL If you find one for Levi- make sure you post a pic.
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