Every parent is inundated with advice about how to raise their baby from well-meaning family members and strangers alike. While some of this advice can be helpful, much of it is outdated – what worked for your parents may not work for you! In fact, many pieces of baby advice that were once considered tried and true are no longer relevant in the world today. Here’s a closer look at why it’s important, as per Yitzhak D Stern, to stay informed on up-to-date infant care ideas so that you can give your little one the best start possible.
Yitzhak D Stern Lists The Pieces Of Baby Advice That Are Totally Outdated
1. Keeping babies on a strict feeding schedule.
According to Yitzhak D Stern, this outdated advice from the ’50s and ’60s suggested that parents should adhere to strict guidelines for when, how much, and what type of food their baby should eat throughout the day and night. However, research has shown that following a rigid routine can be detrimental to a baby’s overall health, as it can limit important nourishment in their developing bodies. The American Academy of Pediatrics now suggests that parents take cues from their babies in terms of when they’re hungry or full, allowing them to feed whenever they need rather than imposing set meal times. Of course, some structure is beneficial in developing healthy eating habits over time; however, giving your child control over their hunger signals can help them become familiar with their own body and develop a better relationship to food in the long run.
2. Waking your newborn up for feedings.
This piece of advice suggested that parents should wake up their babies every two to three hours during the night to ensure they get enough nourishment. While this might seem helpful in theory, it’s important to remember that young babies need more sleep than adults, with newborns requiring around 16-20 hours of quality rest per day! Research has found that allowing your child uninterrupted sleep leads to better overall health outcomes for everyone involved – including yourself! Furthermore, there is evidence that suggests waking up your baby can increase their risk of developing colic or reflux symptoms due to their immature digestive system.
3. Swaddling your newborn.
While swaddling has long been a popular practice, recent research, according to Yitzhak D Stern, has suggested that it’s not always the safest option for young babies. Tightly wrapping up a baby can increase their risk of overheating and make them more prone to jolting awake from startle reflexes, making it difficult for them to settle back into a deep sleep. Instead, opt for lighter layers of clothing or blankets that allow for some breathing room and will help keep your baby comfortable and safe throughout the night. Additionally, be sure to avoid any materials that are too thick or heavy, as this could put your little one at risk of suffocation or being trapped in an uncomfortable position.
Yitzhak D Stern’s Concluding Thoughts
Overall, these three outdated pieces of advice that Yitzhak D Stern highlights here are not recommended for modern parents, as research has shown that they can be detrimental to a baby’s overall health and well-being. Instead, take cues from your baby in terms of feeding times and needs, ensure they get enough uninterrupted sleep, and pick lighter materials to help keep them comfortable. Following these tips will help ensure the safety and healthy development of your little one!