This article debunks some common sleep myths while helping parents to make informed sleep choices that support their parenting philosophy as well as their infant or child’s developmental needs.
Four Relationship-Saving Questions To Ask Before Baby Arrives
In the third trimester—or sooner!—make some time to ask each other four essential questions that can help avoid unnecessary stress. You may not have the exact answers, but simply bringing these topics to the table before baby gets here can set the foundation for a strong relationship later.
Dad Real Talk: Andrew Gentry Law on how dads can become the father they want to be
Episode 18 is the Fourth Trimester Podcast episode that is all about Dads. We talk with an at-home Dad, Andrew Gentry-Law, who shares his personal experiences with newborn twins, and about his work in helping other new dads in their roles as fathers. Listen to hear more about a real life “Dudes Group”.
Chicken, Red Dates & Ginger Soup
This twist on a classic “first food” for mom may sound strange. Dried fruit in chicken soup, you ask? But go with it: Chinese red dates—also known as jujubes, available at Chinese markets or online—plus ruby-colored goji berries is a time-tested combo used to boost circulation and enhance inner warmth. Your eyes will delight at the look of these little gems in your soup bowl. Your taste buds will love the subtle touch of sweetness against the savory chicken. I recommend making every effort to use Chinese red dates, which bestow amazing postpartum health benefits, as they are not difficult to find online or in local Asian markets. Medjool dates are okay in a pinch but they do not have the same medicinal effects.
Covering the Basics for the First Few Weeks with a Newborn
What does every new parent need to know for their first few weeks with a new baby? We directly and specifically look at the first days and weeks after baby comes and speaks to the needs of recovering parents and how those dovetail with their baby’s. The social-emotional experience and how it is effected is considered thoroughly.
Kabocha And Red Lentil Soup
Orange is a color of celebration, ritual, and happiness—a shade that instantly lifts the spirits. This pureed soup is so easy to make from ingredients stocked in your pantry, and it’s a great one to ask a visitor to whip up for you. The slightly sweet taste and grounding properties of kabocha squash are especially comforting on days when you might feel teary or blue, and a generous amount of lubricating oil helps to remedy inner dryness and wind, soothing the nerves further. Serves 8
Seven Factors That Influence The First Forty Days (& Recipes!)
Familiarize yourself with the key factors that influence the postpartum period—and then imagine how you will handle each one and what kind of help you would be comfortable accepting in the process.
We’ve got recipes for you to try and/or tell your helpers to make!
Fourth Trimester Podcast Recipe section
What is the Fourth Trimester? What is a doula?
The introductory episode of Fourth Trimester answers questions around doula care, postpartum care, and helps provide parents with an overview of some care options. For example, what are the strategies for taking care of the partner and the rest of the family while looking after your newborn?