Avoid These 5 Things for Better BABY DEVELOPMENT

Summary

In this informative video, Bridgette, a childbirth educator and mom, discusses five common parenting practices that may hinder a baby's development. She advises against forward-facing babywearing, using developmentally inappropriate gear, relying on jumpers and walkers, using baby mittens excessively, and putting shoes on babies too often. Instead, she recommends practices that encourage natural development, such as proper babywearing, using the Up Seat, and allowing babies to explore freely. Bridgette also shares her favorite baby products that support healthy growth.

Takeaways

• 👶 Proper babywearing is crucial; forward-facing or incorrect babywearing can lead to hip dysplasia and spine issues.
• 🤱 Babies should be worn facing in towards the parent with legs in an 'M' shape to support their hips and spine.
• 🧘‍♀️ Developmentally inappropriate baby gear, like certain infant seats, can hinder proper hip and spine development.
• 🪑 The UP Seat is recommended as an alternative to the Bumbo, as it promotes better posture and core stability.
• 🚼 Avoid using jumpers, activity centers, or walkers too early or too much, as they can negatively impact a baby's physical development.
• 🛏️ Encourage tummy time and free movement on the ground for optimal baby development instead of relying on activity centers.
• 👐 Baby mittens should be used sparingly to allow for proper hand use and sensory development.
• 👣 Babies benefit from experiencing the world through their feet, so avoid shoes that restrict movement unless necessary.
• 🥿 When shoes are needed, opt for wide, flexible, and soft-soled options like moccasins for better foot development.
• 👀 Babies learn and develop through interaction with their environment using all their senses, so 'less is more' in terms of equipment.
• 🌟 Lovevery and UP Seat are recommended products designed to aid in a baby's skill and physical development.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video?

The main topic of the video is discussing five common things that parents do or use that may negatively impact their baby's development.

Who is Bridgette and what is her role?

Bridgette is a childbirth educator, doula, and a mother who is focused on providing evidence-based ways to birth and raise babies.

Why should parents avoid forward-facing baby wearing or incorrect baby wearing?

Forward-facing baby wearing can lead to hip dysplasia and put pressure on the baby's spine. Babies' legs should be in an 'M' shape with knees slightly elevated above their hips for proper hip and spine development.

What is the recommended way to wear a baby for the first six months of life?

The recommended way is to wear the baby facing in towards the parent, ensuring the baby's legs are in an 'M' shape and the spine is in a straight, neutral position.

What is the issue with using certain baby gear that is developmentally inappropriate?

Developmentally inappropriate baby gear, such as some infant seats, can cause poor posture, slouching, and poor core engagement, as well as negatively affect the development of hip joints.

What is an alternative to the Bumbo seat that promotes better posture and core stability?

The UP seat is an alternative designed under the guidance of physical therapists, which promotes better posture and core stability due to its design features.

Why should parents limit the use of jumpers, activity centers, or walkers for their babies?

These items do not provide proper support for a baby's immature spine and hips, and can hinder the development of motor skills and cause injuries.

What is the recommended duration for using jumpers, activity centers, or walkers for optimal baby development?

The recommended duration is about 15 minutes, two to three times a day.

Why should parents avoid using baby mittens most of the time?

Baby mittens limit the baby's ability to interact with the world through their hands, which is important for sensory input, calming, microbiome growth, and finding the breast.

What is the impact of having babies wear shoes on their development?

Wearing shoes can impact the way a baby learns to use the bones and muscles in their feet, which is crucial for learning to roll over, crawl, and walk.

What type of shoes are recommended for babies when they are necessary?

Wide, flexible, and soft-soled shoes, like moccasins, are recommended as they allow for better foot movement and development.

What is the key takeaway from the video regarding baby's development?

The key takeaway is that 'less is more' when it comes to baby's development; allowing babies to interact with their environment and engage with their hands, feet, ears, mouth, and eyes is beneficial for their growth.