Setting your newborn up to thrive—the impact of c-section birth, why you shouldn't swaddle your baby, ditching infant swings, and the importance of hitting milestones

In this conversation, Carrie and Jenny from On Track Baby discuss the profound impact of birth experiences on children's development, particularly focusing on the differences between C-section and home births. They explore how these experiences shape emotional resilience, developmental milestones, and the importance of responsive parenting. The discussion also delves into the common misconceptions surrounding newborn sleep patterns and emphasizes the need for closeness and connection between parents and their babies.

Key Takeaways

• The type of birth can significantly influence a child's development.
• Emotional resilience varies between children based on their birth experiences.
• C-section births may lead to different developmental outcomes compared to natural births.
• Responsive parenting is crucial for a child's emotional and physical well-being.
• Skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth is essential for bonding.
• Newborns do not have sleep issues; they have separation issues.
• Crying is a form of communication for babies, not a behavior to be ignored.
• The environment during birth can affect the mother's stress levels and the baby's response.
• Understanding the natural progression of sleep can help new parents manage expectations.
• Parental roles in early childhood development are distinct and important. You're probably battling your own biology by being separate.
• What works for you works; trust your instincts.
• Movement builds the brain; allow your baby to move.
• Baby containers can hinder development; be aware of their use.
• Milestones show your baby's brain growing; they need stimulation.
• Let your baby move and you're gonna be set as a parent.
• It's not just age-related; it's stimulation-related.
• You can always go back and replace the movement.
• The best kept secret in parenting is movement.
• Trust your instincts as a parent; they will guide you. It's easier for therapists to address issues sooner rather than later.
• Crying is often a natural response that needs to be understood.
• Children lack the ability to self-regulate their emotions early on.
• Responding to children's emotional needs is crucial for their development.
• Tears can be a release of stress hormones like cortisol.
• Parents should not shut down children's emotional expressions.
• Emotional maturity develops over time and is influenced by experiences.
• Offering choices can empower children and reduce emotional outbursts.
• Understanding the triggers behind crying can help parents respond better.
• Physical activity is essential for emotional regulation in children.

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