The moment that your baby is born is a special and indescribable experience. You can not comprehend how tiny they are going to be until you hold them in your arms and embrace them. 

Newborn babies enjoy being close to their mothers and often find it difficult to adapt to life outside of the womb. One of the most widely recommended practices for newborns is skin-to-skin contact with their parents and there are ever-growing cases for the benefits of skin-to-skin contact for newborns. 

Skin-to-skin contact, sometimes referred to as kangaroo care, is the practice where a naked newborn baby is placed against their parent’s (usually the mother’s) bare chest directly after birth, with a blanket placed over the top. While it may seem like a simple act, the benefits of skin-to-skin contact are profound and can help new babies regulate their body temperatures and boost a mother’s milk supply. 

The advantages of skin-to-skin contact are incredible, and in this article, we will explore some of the amazing reasons why you should practice skin-to-skin contact with your newborn following their birth. 

Promotes Bonding and Attachment:

Being close to your baby physically is essential for bonding and creating a strong emotional connection between you and your baby.

Skin-to-skin contact signals to your baby that they are safe and is reassuring for them to be close to their mother directly after giving birth. This not only helps babies to create a strong bond with their parents but also is beneficial for their healthy brain development.

Skin-to-skin contact also encourages the release of the ‘love hormone’ – oxytocin, which helps parents bond with their newborns and can help reduce post-natal depression in new mothers. 

third trimester pregnancy
Close-up of baby hand on mother’s breast. Mother breastfeeding baby. Concept of motherhood and breastfeeding.

Helps Newborns to Regulate their Temperature:

Newborn babies are unable to regulate their temperature until they are several weeks old and rely on their parents to keep them warm. When a baby is born they struggle to keep themselves warm so placing them on their mother’s chest helps them to regulate their body temperature. 

If the mother is unable to practice skin-to-skin contact, being skin-to-skin with their other parent or family member is just as beneficial and will help to regulate a newborn’s temperature instantly. 

Stabilizes a Newborn’s Heart Rate and Breathing:

The first moments once they are born can be difficult for a newborn baby as they learn to cope with being outside of the womb.

Their little bodies are put under a lot of strain as they have to learn how to breathe and feed without the help of the umbilical cord. Therefore skin-to-skin contact can greatly help newborns stabilise their breathing and heart rates, creating a stable pattern for their lungs and hearts to follow. 

It is also thought that the sound of their mother’s heart during skin-to-skin contact is soothing and familiar, and allows babies to relax. 

Allows a Newborn to Initiate Breastfeeding:

While practicing skin-to-skin contact a baby will instinctively begin to initiate breastfeeding and providing they are not interrupted are very capable of searching for their mother’s breast and latching on. UNICEF describes this process excellently here and emphasises how important it is to allow a newborn the time and patience to complete this process. 

Skin-to-skin contact also stimulates the release of prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk production, and together mother and baby can successfully breastfeed shortly after birth. This is an important process for newborns, as the process of childbirth is exhausting for your baby too. 

Soothes your Newborn and Reduces Stress 

Being apart from their mother, especially after birth, is stressful for a newborn, as they are entirely reliant on their parents for survival. There have been studies that show that babies held by their mothers during skin-to-skin are less prone to crying and generally less stressed than those who were separated. 

The practice of skin-to-skin is soothing to a newborn, which reduces their stress which in turn is crucial to their healthy brain development and beneficial to their sleeping patterns.  

Boosts your Baby’s Immune System:

Allowing your baby to lie on your chest during skin-to-skin exposes your newborn to your skin’s natural flora which can aid in the development of your baby’s immune system. Early exposure to their mother’s natural skin bacteria can assist your baby in creating their own good bacteria which in turn boosts their brand-new immune system. 

This sharing of good bacteria during skin-to-skin can help to decrease the risk of infections and illnesses, giving your baby the best start in life. 

Regulates Blood Sugar Levels:

Another key benefit of skin-to-skin contact is how it can stabilize blood sugar levels. Before birth, a newborn’s blood sugar is regulated via the placenta, by the mother, however, once a baby is born they need to learn how to regulate their own blood sugar. 

The closeness of skin-to-skin contact helps to regulate your baby’s temperature and in turn conserves a newborn’s brown fat, which stabilises their blood sugar level and prevents it from dropping. Ensuring that your baby’s blood sugar level is regulated will help your baby to feed more effectively and be beneficial to their overall health. 

Safety Considerations: 

The safety of a newborn baby should always be prioritised over the benefits of skin-to-skin contact and during this practice, the health of the baby should be monitored. A close eye should be kept on their breathing, skin colour, and temperature to ensure that the baby does not have any health concerns. Special care should be taken to make sure that a newborn baby is kept warm, so regular checks on their condition during skin-to-skin contact should be made. 

During skin-to-skin contact a close eye should also be kept on the mother, to ensure that her health remains constant and help should be given to the mother if requested or needed during skin-to-skin contact. 

Final thoughts

Skin-to-skin contact is not only a chance to cuddle your new baby, it’s a vital practice that helps newborns adapt to their new environment. Being skin-to-skin with your newborn has a multitude of benefits that are important to help newborns regulate their body temperature, boost their immune system, and promote a strong connection with your child. 

Embracing this beautiful practice not only nurtures your baby’s health and development but also strengthens the loving bond that will last a lifetime. So take advantage of these precious first moments, hold your newborn close, and be safe in the knowledge that you are helping your baby to thrive in your warm, loving embrace.

Keeping on top of your pregnancy cravings can seem like a never-ending task. As your bump grows you will find eating larger meals more difficult and snacking will become your full-time job. 

As your appetite increases you will want to make sure you are reaching for healthy snacks. Bonus points if they are easy and quick to make. Ensuring that your snacks are nutrient-dense and healthy for you and your baby. 

Below is a list of delicious and healthy snacks that you can reach for when those cravings hit. Each snack offers excellent nutrition such as healthy fats, protein, and vitamins that are perfect for growing a small human.

Pregnancy Cravings: Healthy Food Ideas

  1. Hummus and crudites: Hummus is an excellent source of protein and is low in fat. Raw crudites like carrots, bell peppers, and celery will give you a vitamin kick and a welcome crunch. 
  2. Apple with natural peanut butter: Quick to assemble and easy to take with you on the go. Natural peanut butter is a great source of fat and includes vitamin E, B6, magnesium, and iron. While apples are a great source of fibre and antioxidants. 
  3. Greek yogurt with honey and fruit: Greek yogurt has natural live cultures which is great for your gut health and is an excellent source of calcium. Top it off with your choice of berries and honey for a sweet treat. 
  4. Smashed avocado on rye bread: Avocados are full of potassium and are a great source of healthy fat. Rye bread is a great source of fibre and is even better if you can choose a wholegrain version. 
  5. Trail Mix: A healthy combo of nuts, dried fruit, and dark chocolate can help keep pesky cravings at bay. You can make your own and choose your favourite nuts and fruit to keep handy in your bag when hunger hits. 
  6. Smoothies: Smoothies are a great way to consume healthy foods that aren’t appetising to you. If you need to eat more leafy greens then incorporate them into a fruit smoothie and you won’t even taste them. 
  7. Baked potato with low-fat cream cheese and chives: A baked potato can be a great mid-afternoon snack as it will give you a much-needed energy boost. Top it with low-fat cream cheese for calcium and chives for flavour. 
  8. Popcorn. Popcorn you make at home can be very healthy and the perfect low-calorie snack. To make it tasty without adding salt (which will make you bloat) or sugar, try topping it with grated cheese or dark chocolate shavings. 
  9. Salsa and corn chips. Salsa is packed with fresh ingredients such as tomato and onion and baked corn chips are a great source of fibre and carbohydrates. This snack will give you an energy boost and keep cravings at bay for a while.
  10. Hard-boiled eggs: A simple and easy snack yet packed with nutrition, including calcium, vitamin A, and protein. Boiled eggs are the perfect on-the-go snack that you can prepare a few days ahead of time.  
  11. Cheese, fruit, and nut plate: Cheese is an excellent source of calcium and you can make your plate as colourful and interesting as you like with fresh fruit and nuts. This is another great snack you can prepare to take with you to the office or on the go. 
  12. Protein bars: If you are out and about a lot, or have a long commute to work packing a protein bar or two in your bag could save you from surprise hunger pangs. Most protein bars are low in fat and sugar and are packed with nuts and fruit. You could even make your own at home at the beginning of the week to keep in your bag. 
  13. Edamame: These bright green soybeans are often served as a snack at Japanese restaurants and are the perfect pregnancy snack. Edamame is rich in antioxidants, fibre, soy protein, and vitamin K and they are so satisfying to nibble on. 
  14. Sweet potato crisps: Sweet potato crisps are sweet and wholesome, made from 100% sweet potato they are rich in potassium, fibre, and are brilliant for maintaining gut health. 
  15. Fresh-cut vegetables: Possibly the simplest and healthiest snack that is easy to prepare and which you can munch on all day long, guilt-free. Carrot battens, cucumber slices, bell pepper, and celery will help satisfy your need to eat something while keeping you healthy. 

Pregnancy Cravings: Foods to Avoid (if you can!)

There are a few foods that you should avoid during pregnancy that are not safe for you to consume for both you and your baby. These foods are noted on the NHS website as foods to avoid during pregnancy. It is worth checking out the list to ensure your favourite snack isn’t on the list.  

While pregnant you should aim to limit foods high in sugar such as fizzy drinks, cakes, and sweets, as you will likely endure a crash in your sugar levels and be craving another snack soon after. Instead, choose healthy options that will keep you full for longer and offer beneficial nutrients to you and your baby. 

Pregnancy Cravings: Final thoughts

Finding snacks to nibble on during your pregnancy that are healthy, quick, and easy can be tricky, however with a little bit of preparation you can make things easy for yourself. When doing your food shop make sure to buy plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables that you can happily eat raw. Stock up on your favourite natural nut butter and high-quality cheese so you can make snacks quickly when hunger strikes. 

If you enjoy smoothies but dislike the prep you can dedicate a day to slicing fruit and vegetables and freezing them in packs ready to throw in the blender. Crudites are also easy to make in advance by chopping your preferred veg and storing it in the fridge for when you need it. 

As long as you are choosing snacks that interest your tastebuds and you keep a variety in stock you will find eating healthier easier and more satisfying than reaching for pre-packaged snacks. Experiment with recipes and combinations until you find what is right for you and makes you feel happy during your pregnancy. 

Many of the options in this article such as yogurt, and cream cheese have dairy-free or vegan alternatives however if you have any dietary restrictions it might be worth having a chat with your midwife who will be able to give you some nutrition advice. 

We hope you have found this article helpful and you have found a snack from our list that interests you to eat healthily. 

Welcome to Paula Veverka Photography!

So, you are thinking about a newborn session… I’m thrilled that you are considering me as your photographer for capturing your baby’s first weeks of life.

As a mum myself, I understand how important it is to have beautiful images of your little one that you can cherish for years to come.

And, what’s better than showcasing those images in the perfect way with the right wall art!

In this blog post, I’m going to share with you some of the different wall art options available at Paula Veverka Photography to help you choose the right products to display your newborn images. Whether you’re a first-time mum-to-be or a seasoned parent, choosing the right wall art can be overwhelming.

But don’t worry, I’m here to help!

We’ll cover the benefits of digital images vs. printed artwork, and explain why printed artwork is a warm and tangible way to showcase your images that can be passed down from generation to generation as a family heirloom.

Plus, I’ll walk you through the different options available, including prints, canvases, and frames, and explain the differences between single and multi-aperture frames. So, let’s dive in!

Digital Images vs. Printed Artwork

When it comes to displaying your newborn images, you have two main options: digital images or printed artwork. Digital files offer flexibility, allowing you to print, share and use your photos in a variety of different ways. However, they come with some downsides too. Digital files rely on technology, and anything digital might not stand the test of time. Formats change, and files can get lost due to tech issues or hard drive failure.

Digital files are also very difficult to be passed on to future generation. Years from now, imagine giving your little one (then an adult) a beautiful album… versus a USB stick!

Printed artwork is a warm and tangible way to showcase your images that can be passed down from generation to generation as a family heirloom. Unlike digital files, printed artwork is not dependent on technology and can be enjoyed for years to come. They’re not just something that you can hold in your hands, but also display on your wall, and they add a touch of personality to your home decor.

Whether you’re looking for classic prints or modern canvases, I offer a range of products created using high-quality materials to ensure they last a lifetime.

Prints: A Classic Option

Prints are a classic and timeless way to showcase your newborn images. There’s something about holding a physical copy of your baby’s photo in your hands that makes it all the more special. It’s a tangible way to remember and cherish those precious moments.

At Paula Veverka Photography, we use a professional laboratory that only prints for professional photographers, ensuring the quality is top-notch.

Prints come in a range of sizes, types of paper and finishes, from matte to glossy, and everything in between. Choosing the right finish depends on your personal preference and where you plan to display them, but of course… I’m here to help!

At your viewing and ordering appointment I will have available for you a few recommended options that you can see in person… and touch!

Canvases: Turn Your Images into Art

If you’re looking for a modern yet elegantly rustic way to display your newborn images, canvases are a great option.

The combination of wood and canvas makes it for some stunning wall art for your home.

Of course, when it comes to frames (and wall art in general) the quality of the wooden structure used matters as much as the printing quality! I rely on professional labs for all your printed artwork, as this ensure that only use a high-quality materials are used… so whenever ordering wall art from me you’ll know that it’s built to last.

When you come to the studio for your session, you will find on display a range of different sizes and styles of products to choose from.

In addition to single statement pieces, I can also help you designing wall art collections, which are multiple canvases displayed together in a series. These are a great option if you want to create a more complex display with multiple images, for example combining a family image with a few portraits of your baby alone.

At your viewing and ordering appointment we will be able to discuss all option and even design mockups to show you what your final product will look like.

wall art paula veverka

Frames: Classic and Versatile

Frames are a classic and versatile way to display your newborn images, that can add a touch of timeless elegance to any room… including nursery!

Being able to choose between a range of frames and styles means creating art that perfectly fits your home.

Something you might not know is that frames are also available as a “multi aperture” product, meaning more than one images is included within the same framing structure (a bit like a collage, but created by combining multiple prints inside the same structure) – these are one of my best selling products, as parents love the idea of creating a visual story of their newborn session!

Single aperture frames are a great option if you have a single photo that you want to highlight or if you’re looking to create a more minimalist display.

Ahead of your session we will make sure to discuss these options, as knowing which products you love the most means we might be able to customise shots and setups to create the perfect images for your artwork.

Get in touch!

Whether you have already decided to book your session at Paula Veverka Photography or you simply want to discover more about my approach to working with newborn babies, don’t forget to get in touch as soon as possible during your pregnancy: not only this gives us an opportunity of sourcing props for your session if necessary, it also gives us a chance of discussing options for a Maternity Session at my studio in Glasgow!

The newborn phase is a whirlwind of  night feeds, constant nappy changes, sweet snuggles, and cute baby gurgles. It is both a beautiful and chaotic phase in your life and your baby’s and passes in in the blink of an eye. 

For many parents, taking photos of their baby in the newborn phase is a special moment for the family and can create beautifully cherished memories. It is something you can only do once, becaus despite how those sleep-deprived nights feel, the newborn phase whizzes by quickly. 

In this article, we will discuss the best time to  have newborn photos taken  and what you can do if you have waited too long to book. There are many beautiful moments in a baby’s first year of life and we will show you how you can still have a gorgeous baby photoshoot at any stage.

What is the best age for a newborn photoshoot? 

Most newborn photoshoots are staged with the baby curled up in a cute position, sleeping and looking peaceful. In order to achieve this your baby has to be very young and still in that sleepy phase of their life. This means that most newborn photoshoots are booked in advance of the baby’s birth and usually take place in the first two weeks after the baby is born. 

For many, newborn baby photos hold many special memories and can be taken either in your home or in a warm studio with soft lighting and snuggly fabrics for your newborn to sleep on. There are many different styles of newborn photography, with many options to capture your baby curled up and sleeping soundly or in your arms in a sweet family portrait. 

It is best to do some research online as to the style of photographs you would like, as all photographers will offer you different options. Also  talk to your photographer about the type of photo you are hoping to achieve.

Your photographer will also provide a selection of props and outfits for your baby to help make the photos extra special. 

Can I still get beautiful photos with an older baby? 

The first two weeks of a baby’s life don’t always go to plan, and even if you have booked in advance and planned your newborn photoshoot, plans can change. For whatever reason, if you were unable to have  a newborn photoshoot don’t worry, you can still capture  truly stunning photos of your baby when they are a few weeks or months older. 

Newborn photographers are experienced with working with both young babies and children and will have quite a few tricks up their sleeves for getting beautiful photos. Even if your baby is past the newborn sleepy stage. 

Older babies still nap for long periods of time, often at least twice a day, so with some careful time management you still can get those sweet sleeping baby photos. However, if your baby is older and very active there are some other wonderful photo opportunities you can capture on film. 

3 months ( 12 weeks) 

At around 3 months babies are smiling and their eyes are fully open, taking in the world around them. It is the perfect time to capture those first smiles, photos of them interacting with their parents, or playing with a soft toy.

newborn photoshoots

3 – 4 months (12 – 16 weeks)

Between 3- 4 months babies are developing their neck strength, with exercises such as tummy time. At this age, babies do not need to be held or laid on their backs and they are much more alert and will interact with people and objects. It is the ideal time to get some beautiful photos of their little personality starting to shine. 

4-  9 months (17 – 26 weeks) 

Between 6 – 9  months babies start to sit up unaided and they are developing their hand-eye coordination. At this stage, you can expect to get some excellent photos of them sitting up  with a big smile on their face. It is also a great age if you would like siblings to join them as they can sit next to them and play. 

Babies at this age will naturally be reaching and grabbing objects so you can also stage a sweet photo with their favourite toys such as a teddy or ask your photographer about what props they have available. 

6- 10 months (27 – 34 weeks) 

At around 6-10  months babies are beginning to crawl, or in some cases, they are already expert crawlers and are a flurry of activity. This stage may be a bit more challenging as they are unlikely to sit still for long, however, this can create some excellent photo opportunities of your baby crawling toward the photographer, or images of baby inside a wooden box etc. Photographers will have many props that can contain baby for a moment, which will also make beautifully cute pictures. 

As your baby is a bit more robust at this age you can also consider an outdoors photoshoot and capture some exciting images of your baby exploring the surroundings of a nearby park or enjoying a gentle push on the swings. 

8 – 12 months (35 – 52 weeks)

Finally, at around 8 – 12 months, you can expect your baby to be on the move, exploring by either crawling or cruising by holding onto furniture or your hand. Some babies may even be walking at this age, taking their first wobbly steps either holding their parent’s hand or using a walking aid. It is a great time to take some photos of them in their element, discovering the world around them. This could include chasing bubbles in the park, enjoying a bath, or exploring pictures in a book by themselves. 

Of course, there is also the event that is their first birthday which is a very special milestone for any family, and one that you most certainly will want to capture. You can take some great photos of them receiving gifts or tasting their birthday cake. And of course then there are also cake smash photoshoots!

Final thoughts 

We hope that by the end of this article, we have either convinced you to book a newborn photoshoot or given you some great ideas for photos as your baby grows. However, no matter what age you choose to take a photo of your baby, you will be creating beautiful memories that you will cherish and look back on with love. 

Newborn Photoshoots at Paula Veverka Photography

Thinking about a session for your little one? Visit our dedicated page Paula Veverka is a specialist Maternity, Newborn and Baby photographer based in Blantyre, Glasgow.

Becoming a parent is one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences in life, but it can also be inundating and tiring. One of the biggest challenges that new parents face is getting their newborn to sleep through the night. Newborns have rather a tiny appetite and need to be fed frequently, which can disrupt their sleep patterns. They also have a lot of activity happening in their brains and bodies as they adjust to the outside world, making it hard for them to settle down and sleep.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about newborn sleep, including how much sleep your baby needs, how to create a safe and comfortable sleep environment and strategies for helping your baby to fall and stay asleep. So, let’s get you started!

How Much Sleep Do Newborns Need?

Newborns need a lot of sleep – up to 16-17 hours per day – but they tend to sleep in short bursts of around 2-4 hours at a time. This means that you may have to wake up frequently during the night to feed and care for your baby.

As your baby gets older, they will sleep for longer stretches and may only need to be fed every 3-4 hours.

By the time they are 3-4 months old, most babies will be able to sleep for around 6-8 hours at a time. You must keep in mind that every baby is different and will have their own unique sleep patterns. Some babies may sleep more or less than others, and this is completely normal.

Creating a Safe and Comfortable Sleep Environment

To help your newborn sleep well, it’s primary to create a safe and comfortable sleep environment. Here are some tips for doing so:

  • Use a firm, flat surface for your baby to sleep on, such as a crib or bassinet.
  • Avoid placing your baby on soft surfaces, such as a waterbed or couch, as these can increase the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome).
  • Keeping the room at a comfortable temperature – around 68-72°F (20-22°C) is ideal.
  • Use a fitted sheet on the crib mattress and avoid using loose bedding or pillows.
  • Remove any toys or stuffed animals from the crib to prevent your baby from rolling onto them.
  • Keep the noise and light levels in the room low to create a calm and soothing atmosphere.
  • If you’re using a pacifier, make sure it’s clean and in good condition.
Newborn Sleeping Guide

Newborn Sleeping Guide: Helping Your Newborn Fall Asleep

Once you’ve created a safe and comfortable sleep environment, there are some additional strategies that you can use to help your newborn fall asleep. These may include:

Swaddling

Swaddling can help your newborn feel calm, which can make it easier for them to fall asleep. To swaddle your baby, lay them on a flat surface and wrap a blanket around their body, tucking the edges in under their arms and between their legs.

White noise

White noise can help to drown out any external distractions and create a soothing environment for your baby. You can use a white noise machine or play calming music or sounds through a speaker.

Gentle rocking and massage

Gently rocking your baby in a rocking chair or holding them close and swaying can help to soothe them and encourage sleep. Moreover, massaging your baby’s back or legs can help to relax their muscles and promote sleep.

Feeding

Feeding your baby before bedtime can help to create a sense of fullness and comfort, which can encourage sleep. However, be sure not to overfeed your baby as this can lead to discomfort and may actually make it harder for them to fall asleep.

Sticking to a bedtime routine

Establishing a bedtime routine can help to signal to your baby that it’s time to sleep. This can include activities such as a warm bath, reading a book, or singing a lullaby. Make sure you are being consistent.

Newborn Sleeping Guide: Dealing with Common Sleep Issues

Let’s continue our Newborn Sleeping Guide with some… sleepless nights!

Yes, because even with a safe and comfortable sleep environment and a bedtime routine in place, your newborn may still experience some common sleep issues. Here is the list of potential issues and some strategies for dealing with these issues.

Night waking

Newborns need to eat frequently and may wake up during the night to be fed. To make night feedings as easy and efficient as possible, keep a supply of diapers, wipes, and burp cloths within reach, and have a nightlight or flashlight handy to help you see.

Crying

Crying is a natural way for babies to communicate their needs, and it’s normal for newborns to cry a lot. However, if your baby is crying excessively or for no apparent reason, it’s important to try to figure out what might be causing the crying. Is your baby hungry, wet, or in need of a diaper change? Do they feel too hot or too cold? Are they in pain or discomfort? Once you’ve identified the cause of the crying, you can take steps to address it.

Colic

Colic is a common condition that causes newborns to cry excessively and inconsolably for no apparent reason. It usually starts when a baby is around 2-4 weeks old and peaks at around 6-8 weeks. Colic usually goes away on its own by the time a baby is 3-4 months old, but it can be distressing for both the baby and the parents. To help manage colic, you can try swaddling, rocking, and using white noise to soothe your baby, as well as feeding them in an upright position and burping them frequently to reduce gas.

Sleep regression

Around 4-6 months of age, your baby may experience sleep regression, which is when they start waking up more frequently during the night and have a harder time falling back asleep. Sleep regression is a normal part of development, as your baby’s sleep patterns are changing and they are learning new skills, such as rolling over and sitting up. To help your baby through this phase, try to stick to a consistent bedtime routine and be patient and understanding.

Newborn Sleeping Guide: goodnight little one…

Helping your newborn sleep well can be a challenging task, but with a safe and comfortable sleep environment, a bedtime routine, and strategies for dealing with common sleep issues, you can encourage healthy sleep habits that will benefit both you and your baby.

As a parent, it is your duty to be patient and understanding, as every baby is different and will have their own unique sleep patterns. With time and practice, you’ll find what works best for you and your baby to get a good night’s sleep.