As we move through our Puddle Ducks journey we are always ready to meet Freda's needs and adapt to where she is at today. A new baby does not come with an agenda for the day. I've learnt, and am still learning, through my five parenting experiences that a little give and take and being responsive to each others needs goes a long way.
I'm not saying that a baby doesn't develop patterns of activity, but routines are set and patterns can change. This approach is absolutely supported by the Puddle Ducks ethos and that really works for us.
Our floaties sessions are at 12 and it's about a 20 minute drive to get there. We try not to cram anything else in on the morning of the session, so that Freda isn't too overtired and I'm not too frazzled, but sometimes with five kids and two step sons, that is not always possible.
If we have had a busy morning I know that I can arrive a little early and we can have a cuddle and a feed in the reception area on the comfy couches. This helps us both be ready for the session, if needed there is also space in the changing room. On arrival this week we were met by another mummy feeding in the changing room, as even getting ready is thirsty work.
With lots of wonderful skin to skin contact in the pool throughout the session, Freda and her Floatie friends can often need a feed during the session. Donna has always let us know that we can sit down at poolside to feed at any point to be responsive to our babies and join back in when we are ready. There is even a little screened area free if you prefer a little privacy poolside.
Feeding out and about for some families can be a milestone to overcome, so having a think about your swimwear can be useful. A twin set, rather than a full costume, may help you access your feeding 'equipment' easier.
Knowing that we are fully supported, throughout our journey, in our responsive feeding approach is so important to us as a family.
There is also an amazing local support network that families living in Wirral and Cheshire can access. Its called Koala North West and local parents, who have personal experience and the most up to date evidence, support both pregnant and new families through their infant feeding journey. They can be contacted on 0151 608 8288 or visit the website www.koalanw.co.uk. Families can also access support on the telephone by calling the National Breastfeeding Helpline 0300 100 0212.