1st Hack: The Co-sleeping and Breastfeeding Method

Initially, I was apprehensive about co-sleeping, having heard alarming tales of mothers inadvertently harming their babies. However, a touching illustration I encountered piqued my curiosity, prompting me to delve into the subject. A comprehensive review from UNICEF provided insights into the safety of bed-sharing with infants.

I concluded that co-sleeping could be safe, provided certain precautions were taken—namely, avoiding substances that impair judgment and ensuring a firm sleeping surface. The benefits became evident quickly, making the idea of not trying it seem irrational.

How is it Safe?

While sleeping, adults maintain a level of awareness, preventing accidental falls or movements that could harm a baby. It's natural for new parents to worry about inadvertently crushing their infant, which is why setting up a crib adjacent to the bed can be a practical solution. This allows the baby to have their space while remaining easily accessible.

In our compact bedroom, we created a cozy setup with a shelf and a mattress, allowing our baby to sleep close by. Once we adjusted to co-sleeping, we transitioned our son to sleep between us.

Why This Hack Works Wonders

Being in proximity to your baby allows for quick responses to their needs, reducing the likelihood of them becoming fully awake and distressed. Stress can elevate a baby's cortisol levels, complicating their ability to return to sleep. While some advocate against breastfeeding to sleep, I found it to be a natural and soothing practice that benefited both of us.

2nd Hack: Swaddling and Slinging

At first, I dismissed swaddling as an outdated practice meant for parental convenience. However, after observing my son’s clingy phase, I reconsidered. My mother’s advice to swaddle him to prevent startling himself awake began to resonate.

With a wrap sling already in our possession, we found that placing our son in it calmed him significantly, allowing him to sleep peacefully. The sling proved to be more than just a hands-free option; it replicated the comforting sensation of being in the womb.

Womb-like Comfort

The first few months of life are often likened to a "fourth trimester," as babies are born before they are entirely ready to navigate the world. They thrive in snug environments that provide security. Slings and swaddles mimic this, offering a sense of safety that helps soothe them.

3rd Hack: Baby-Led Weaning

The transition to solid foods can be a source of anxiety for many parents. Concerns about choking and nutritional adequacy often lead to the preparation of purees, stripping the process of its adventurous spirit. However, babies are naturally curious, eager to explore flavors as they begin teething.

If They're Putting It in Their Mouth, They're Ready

When babies start mouthing objects, it signals readiness to explore real food. Nutritionally, they will still rely on breastmilk or formula, alleviating concerns about their food intake. When my son reached six months, I shifted from traditional recipes to simply preparing steamed vegetables, allowing him to join us at mealtime.

4th Hack: Cloth Diapers and Elimination Communication

Using cloth diapers can significantly ease the potty training process. Babies generally dislike the sensation of being in a soiled diaper, prompting them to learn to communicate their needs more quickly. This ties into the concept of Elimination Communication, where caregivers learn to interpret their baby's cues.

Our Nappy Journey

Despite initial skepticism about cloth diapers, I eventually embraced the idea and saw remarkable results. My partner and I used cloth diapers for daytime use, allowing our son to become aware of his bodily functions. By 18 months, he was fully potty trained, marking the end of our diaper days.

While some experts caution against early potty training, what we practiced was more about tuning into our child's natural instincts rather than imposing strict training methods.

These four hacks transformed my parenting experience, allowing me to navigate the early challenges of motherhood with ease. Each area presented its own stresses, but with an open mind and a willingness to adapt, I found joy in the journey.