Key Takeaways
1. Establish consistent sleep routines for better nights and happier days
"Babies learn by association and routine. Babies will associate bath time with bedtime, darkness with bedtime, and white noise with bedtime."
Create a sleep-conducive environment. Set up a pitch-black room with a temperature between 68-72°F. Use a white noise machine loud enough to be heard from outside a closed door. This helps babies enter deep, refreshing REM sleep and stay there longer.
Implement a consistent bedtime routine. Start with a warm bath, followed by dressing in comfortable sleepwear. Engage in quiet activities like reading a book or singing a lullaby. Feed the baby well, then place them in the crib awake but drowsy. This routine signals to the baby that it's time to sleep.
Stay consistent and patient. It may take 3-5 nights for a baby to adjust to a new sleep routine. During this transition, babies may cry because it's different from what they're used to. Resist the urge to intervene immediately. Give them the opportunity to self-soothe and fall asleep independently. This skill is crucial for establishing healthy sleep habits that will benefit the entire family.
2. Implement a structured feeding schedule to support growth and development
"Order of introduction: baby cereal first, then fruits and veggies."
Gradual introduction of solids. Begin introducing solid foods between 4-6 months, when the baby shows signs of readiness such as good head control and sitting up with minimal support. Start with iron-fortified baby cereal, then introduce single-ingredient purees of fruits and vegetables. Wait 3-4 days between new foods to watch for any allergic reactions.
Establish regular mealtimes. As the baby grows, aim for three meals a day plus snacks. This structure helps regulate hunger and fullness cues. Offer a variety of nutrient-dense foods to ensure balanced nutrition. Remember that breast milk or formula remains the primary source of nutrition until 12 months.
Transition to self-feeding. Around 7-8 months, begin offering soft, mushable finger foods to encourage self-feeding skills. This promotes fine motor development and independence. Be patient as babies learn to manipulate food and utensils. Mealtimes may be messy, but this exploration is an important part of learning.
3. Navigate common illnesses with confidence and know when to seek medical help
"Seeking medical care whenever you are concerned is recommended by Moms on Call."
Understand common symptoms. Familiarize yourself with typical childhood illnesses such as colds, ear infections, and fevers. Know what's normal and what's cause for concern. For instance, a fever over 103.5°F rectally in a baby over 6 months old warrants a call to the pediatrician.
Implement home care strategies. Many minor illnesses can be managed at home. For colds, use saline drops and a nasal aspirator to clear congestion. For fevers, ensure proper hydration and use age-appropriate fever reducers if the baby is uncomfortable.
Recognize red flags. Seek immediate medical attention for:
- Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing (more than 60 breaths per minute)
- Signs of dehydration (no wet diapers for 6+ hours, no tears when crying)
- Inconsolable crying for more than 2 hours
- Seizures or loss of consciousness
- Severe vomiting or diarrhea
4. Transition from breastfeeding to bottle-feeding and introduce solid foods
"Fed is best."
Gradual weaning process. When transitioning from breast to bottle, replace one feeding at a time every 3-5 days. This allows the baby to adjust gradually and helps maintain milk supply if continuing to breastfeed partially. Choose a consistent time each day for the bottle feeding to help the baby learn the new routine faster.
Introduce a variety of foods. Start with single-ingredient purees and gradually increase texture as the baby develops. Offer a wide range of fruits, vegetables, grains, and proteins to expose the baby to different flavors and nutrients. Remember that it may take 10-15 exposures to a new food before a baby accepts it.
Encourage self-feeding skills. Around 6-7 months, begin offering soft, pea-sized pieces of food that the baby can pick up. This promotes fine motor skills and independence. Always supervise during mealtimes to prevent choking. As the baby grows, gradually increase the variety and texture of foods offered.
5. Create a safe sleep environment to reduce risks and promote healthy sleep habits
"Cribs are the only sleep environment that we recommend: one less than 5 years old with a new mattress, a mattress cover and tight-fitted crib sheet."
Ensure crib safety. Use a crib that meets current safety standards with a firm mattress and tight-fitting sheet. Keep the crib free from loose bedding, pillows, stuffed animals, and other soft objects that could pose suffocation risks.
Optimal sleep conditions. Maintain a room temperature between 68-72°F. Use blackout curtains to create a dark environment for nighttime sleep. During naps, some indirect light is acceptable to help the baby distinguish between day and night sleep.
Consistent sleep location. Place the baby to sleep in their crib for all sleep periods, including naps. This helps establish a strong sleep association with the crib. Avoid letting the baby fall asleep in swings, car seats, or other locations not designed for prolonged sleep.
6. Adapt daily routines as your baby grows from 6 to 15 months
"There is a delicate balance between being so scheduled that you cannot enjoy life and being so flexible that you cannot enjoy your family."
Evolving schedules. As babies grow, their sleep and feeding needs change. Adjust routines gradually to accommodate these changes. For example, transition from three naps to two around 6-7 months, and then to one nap between 12-15 months.
Flexible structure. While maintaining consistent meal and sleep times, allow for some flexibility to accommodate daily life. Use the provided schedules as guidelines, adjusting them by 30 minutes earlier or later to fit your family's needs.
Balancing activities and rest. Incorporate age-appropriate activities and playtime into the daily routine. This might include:
- Tummy time for younger babies
- Exploring textures and simple toys for older babies
- Interactive games and outdoor time for toddlers
Ensure there's a balance between stimulation and rest to prevent overtiredness.
7. Manage behavioral challenges and promote positive discipline techniques
"Your child's behavior is not an indication of your self-worth. You are valuable no matter how they behave."
Understand developmental stages. Recognize that certain behaviors, such as throwing food or having tantrums, are normal parts of development. This understanding can help parents respond more patiently and effectively.
Positive reinforcement. Focus on praising good behavior rather than only addressing negative behavior. This encourages children to repeat desired actions. Use specific praise, such as "I like how you're sitting quietly" instead of just "good job."
Consistent boundaries. Set clear, age-appropriate rules and consistently enforce them. This helps children feel secure and understand expectations. When disciplining, remain calm and use brief explanations suitable for the child's age.
Redirection techniques. For younger children, redirect their attention to an appropriate activity when they're engaged in undesirable behavior. This can be more effective than saying "no" repeatedly.
8. Prioritize safety through childproofing and understanding developmental milestones
"Childproofing/Safety"
Comprehensive childproofing. As babies become mobile, ensure your home is safe for exploration. Key areas to address include:
- Covering electrical outlets
- Securing furniture to prevent tipping
- Installing safety gates at stairs
- Locking away potentially harmful substances
Anticipate developmental changes. Stay one step ahead of your child's physical development. For example, lower the crib mattress before your baby can pull to stand, and secure bookcases before they start climbing.
Water safety. Never leave a child unattended around water, including bathtubs. Babies can drown in as little as two inches of water. Install toilet locks and keep bathroom doors closed.
Car seat safety. Use an appropriate car seat for your child's age and size, and ensure it's correctly installed. Keep children in rear-facing seats as long as possible, ideally until at least age 2.
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FAQ
What is "Moms On Call Next Steps Baby Care: 6-15 Months" by Laura Hunter about?
- Practical Baby Care Guide: The book is a comprehensive, reality-based manual for parents of babies aged 6-15 months, written by two experienced pediatric nurses and mothers.
- Covers Everyday Challenges: It addresses common concerns such as feeding, sleep, illness, safety, and daily routines, offering step-by-step solutions.
- Focus on Confidence and Routine: The Moms on Call method emphasizes predictable routines, practical advice, and empowering parents to enjoy their children while maintaining household order.
- Accessible and Encouraging: The tone is supportive, aiming to reduce parental anxiety and provide actionable, easy-to-follow guidance for real-life parenting.
Why should I read "Moms On Call Next Steps Baby Care: 6-15 Months" by Laura Hunter?
- Real-World Experience: The authors combine over 40 years of pediatric nursing and personal parenting experience, offering advice that works in real homes.
- Step-by-Step Solutions: The book provides clear, actionable routines for sleep, feeding, and daily schedules, making it easier to manage the challenges of early toddlerhood.
- Confidence-Building: It reassures parents that they are capable and that perfection is not required, helping to reduce guilt and stress.
- Covers Key Topics: From illness management to safety and behavioral issues, the book is a one-stop resource for the most common questions parents have during this stage.
What are the key takeaways from "Moms On Call Next Steps Baby Care: 6-15 Months"?
- Predictable Routines Matter: Establishing consistent sleep, feeding, and play routines leads to happier, more content babies and less stressed parents.
- Sleep Training Works: The Moms on Call method provides a structured approach to help babies sleep 10-12 hours at night, emphasizing the importance of environment and consistency.
- Feeding Evolves: Guidance is given for introducing solids, transitioning to sippy cups, and weaning, with a focus on low-stress, enjoyable mealtimes.
- Safety First: The book details essential childproofing, first aid, and illness management strategies to keep babies safe and healthy.
How does the Moms on Call method approach sleep training for babies 6-15 months?
- Consistent Bedtime Routine: The method emphasizes a nightly routine including bath, tender time, feeding, and a dark, quiet sleep environment with white noise.
- Crib-Only Sleep: Babies sleep in a safe, stimulation-free crib, with no toys, blankets, or mobiles, to associate the crib with sleep.
- No Night Feedings After 6 Months: Healthy babies over 6 months are encouraged to sleep through the night without feedings, with parents staying out of the room to allow self-soothing.
- Gradual Adjustment: Parents are guided to expect 3-5 nights of adjustment, with options for more gradual or direct approaches based on comfort level.
What feeding and weaning advice does "Moms On Call Next Steps Baby Care: 6-15 Months" provide?
- Gradual Introduction of Solids: The book offers a detailed schedule for introducing baby foods, finger foods, and increasing texture as the baby grows.
- Sippy Cup Transition: Parents are encouraged to introduce sippy cups early, using formula or breast milk, and to gradually replace bottles by 12 months.
- Weaning Methods: Two main approaches are outlined—one feeding at a time or cold turkey—tailored to the baby’s age and family preference.
- Stress-Free Mealtimes: Emphasis is placed on making mealtimes fun, offering variety, and not forcing amounts, as babies will generally eat what they need.
How does "Moms On Call Next Steps Baby Care: 6-15 Months" address common illnesses and when to seek medical care?
- Symptom-Based Guidance: The book provides clear descriptions of common illnesses (fever, colds, ear infections, vomiting, diarrhea, etc.) and practical home care tips.
- Red Flag Symptoms: It lists specific symptoms that require immediate medical attention, such as difficulty breathing, persistent vomiting, or unresponsiveness.
- When to Call the Doctor: Guidance is given on when to monitor at home versus when to contact a pediatrician, helping parents make informed decisions.
- Emphasis on Parental Intuition: The authors encourage parents to trust their instincts and seek care whenever they feel something is wrong.
What are the recommended daily routines and sample schedules in "Moms On Call Next Steps Baby Care: 6-15 Months"?
- Age-Specific Schedules: The book provides sample daily routines for each age group (6-8, 8-10, 11, and 12-15 months), including wake times, naps, meals, and bedtime.
- Flexibility Encouraged: Schedules can be shifted by 30 minutes to fit family needs, with the goal of maintaining consistency rather than rigidity.
- Nap and Meal Structure: Each schedule includes two naps (dropping to one between 12-15 months), three meals, snacks, and a bedtime routine.
- Predictability Reduces Stress: Regular routines help babies know what to expect, leading to fewer meltdowns and easier transitions.
How does "Moms On Call Next Steps Baby Care: 6-15 Months" help parents manage behavioral issues and crying?
- Normalizes Frustration: The book explains that crying and frustration are normal parts of development, especially as babies approach toddlerhood and assert independence.
- Encourages Distraction and Limits: For children under 12-15 months, distraction is recommended; for older toddlers, clear boundaries and brief "simmer time" are suggested for aggressive behavior.
- Routine Reduces Meltdowns: Predictable routines and adequate sleep help minimize behavioral issues and over-stimulation.
- Parental Confidence: The authors remind parents that a child’s behavior is not a reflection of their worth and that mistakes are part of the journey.
What safety and childproofing advice is included in "Moms On Call Next Steps Baby Care: 6-15 Months"?
- Comprehensive Childproofing: The book covers room-by-room safety tips, including outlet covers, cabinet locks, stair gates, and securing furniture.
- First Aid Preparedness: A quick-grab first aid kit checklist is provided, along with advice on handling choking, poisoning, and minor injuries.
- Car Seat and Bath Safety: Detailed instructions are given for proper car seat use and never leaving a child unattended in the bath.
- Emphasis on Prevention: Parents are encouraged to take CPR classes and regularly review safety measures as their child becomes more mobile.
How does "Moms On Call Next Steps Baby Care: 6-15 Months" support parents of twins or multiples?
- Synchronized Schedules: The book strongly recommends keeping twins on the same feeding and sleep schedule for family sanity and better rest.
- Practical Tips: Strategies are provided for solo parents, including how to manage bath and bedtime routines with two babies.
- Accepting Help: The authors encourage parents to accept help from friends and family to reduce exhaustion.
- It Gets Easier: The book reassures parents that while the first years are intense, twins become playmates and routines become easier with time.
What are the best quotes from "Moms On Call Next Steps Baby Care: 6-15 Months" and what do they mean?
- “Your child’s behavior is not an indication of your self-worth. You are valuable no matter how they behave.” — Reminds parents to separate their identity from their child’s actions, reducing guilt and self-doubt.
- “Fed is best.” — Emphasizes that the method of feeding (breast, bottle, or both) is less important than ensuring the baby is nourished and loved.
- “Children are amazing and wonderful creatures, full of mysteries and wonder. He thought you were the best parent for this child/children.” — Encourages parents to trust themselves and embrace their unique parenting journey.
- “This book will not make you a perfect parent, but perhaps we can help you enjoy the ride.” — Sets realistic expectations and focuses on enjoying parenthood rather than striving for perfection.
How does "Moms On Call Next Steps Baby Care: 6-15 Months" address parental stress and confidence?
- Encouragement Over Perfection: The authors openly share their own mistakes and learning curves, normalizing the ups and downs of parenting.
- Practical, Not Overwhelming: The book avoids “psychobabble” and exhaustive lists of disorders, focusing instead on what works for most families.
- Supportive Community: Testimonials and references to online resources and consultations offer ongoing support beyond the book.
- Faith and Positivity: The book weaves in messages of faith, hope, and humor, helping parents feel less alone and more empowered.
What resources and additional support does "Moms On Call Next Steps Baby Care: 6-15 Months" offer to parents?
- Online Courses: The book is complemented by online video courses for more in-depth, visual instruction.
- Personalized Consultations: Moms on Call offers in-home and virtual consultations with trained consultants for tailored support.
- Mobile Apps: Scheduling and parenting apps are available to help implement routines and track progress.
- Product Recommendations: Curated lists of recommended products and first aid kits are provided, making it easier for parents to find trusted items.
Review Summary
Moms on Call | Next Steps Baby Care 6-15 Months receives mixed reviews. Many praise its practical advice, schedules, and tips for new parents. Readers appreciate the straightforward approach and find it helpful for sleep training and feeding routines. However, some criticize the book for promoting cry-it-out methods and rigid schedules. Critics argue it's repetitive from the first book and lacks flexibility. Despite controversies, many parents and grandparents find it a valuable resource, especially for first-time caregivers. The book's overall rating is 4.43 out of 5 based on 919 reviews.
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