Moms On Call Next Steps Baby Care

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.