The NeoBulle Journal

Dry skin and baby: what to do to hydrate your baby's skin in winter?

Cold, heating, and pollution are all assaults on your little one's fragile and sensitive skin. The consequences are quick to appear: it turns red, dries out, irritates... And even if you use tons of cream, it seems that your little heart slowly but surely turns into a crocodile.So what can you do to hydrate your baby's skin in winter? Here are our little tips! Why is my baby's skin dry in winter? Winter, we all know that our skin is vulnerable, and it's also the time when we pull out very rich creams for the face or hands and sticks for chapped lips, but why? Due to our cold and dry climate, ambient humidity decreases significantly. The air then draws moisture from our skin, which dehydrates and weakens. We observe the same phenomenon inside our homes where heating also dries out the environment considerably.In parallel, when it’s cold, the body tends to prioritize the functioning of vital organs, leaving a bit of the epidermis aside... Sebum production is slowed down, body energy being mobilized for more essential functions. Think of sebum as a small greasy film that protects the skin by helping it retain water inside. Without this film, the skin evaporates more easily, which further facilitates dryness of the epidermis.You understand, if these mechanisms apply to you, they are also certainly true for your little ones! Additionally, rubbing certain clothing, the tine creating a maceration zone around the mouth which is also conducive to irritations, and skin that is much more fragile than that of adults, and therefore more sensitive to all aggressions. Limit skin aggressions on my baby Since it is not always possible to expatriate to latitudes with more temperate climates to escape the cold, what can we do daily to protect our baby's skin?One of the simplest actions to implement first is to limit baths. Indeed, baths tend to weaken the epidermis (notably by disrupting the hydrolipidic film that protects it) and to dry it out. This is especially true when your region's water is hard. A bath every 2 to 3 days (or more if your little one has very reactive skin or eczema) is more than enough, as long as the only 'dirty' areas (like the diaper area) are already cleaned at each change.It is recommended that the water used is not too hot (between 35 and 37°C) and that the bath remains short (10 minutes maximum). For drying, gently pat with a very soft towel (link to cocoon bath) (avoid rubbing) while giving a big cuddle to your little heart to help evacuate remaining water without irritating. Regarding skincare products, generally it is important to pay attention to the ingredients of cosmetics used on the skin of your little ones. Many ingredients can be very irritating and cause redness and inflammations.We recommend that you prefer simpler formulas, containing few ingredients, hypoallergenic, ideally natural and organic, and suitable for the specificities of children's skin.Clothing can also be adapted to preserve as much as possible the sensitive skin of your little one: ditch the synthetic which heats, rubs, and dries out! Opt for natural materials… Soft cotton first and foremost. And why not test merino wool or wool and silk blends? Wool and silk have thermoregulatory virtues perfect for winter, keeping baby warm and cozy without making them sweat, which is appreciated since sweating can also irritate the skin! Nourishing and rehydrating my baby's skin: which products to use? Fat is life! As we have seen, the skin no longer produces sufficient sebum, so now is not the time to hesitate on quantities, you can generously spread it on your little one until they shine!For washing, the most sensitive skin can appreciate a gentle, extra-rich soap at 8% without any perfume or additives. Rich in glycerin, it leaves the skin soft and nourished.For families preferring the gel format, the Bubble Baby Gel offers a pH that is physiologically compatible with the skin and contains no sulfate surfactants. Are you breastfeeding your baby? Do not hesitate to express some of your milk into the bathwater to offer a real moisturizing treatment to your little one (like Cleopâtre and her milk baths). If you have bottles of milk that are unsuitable for consumption, it is a good solution to avoid wasting them.Right after getting out of the water, while the skin is still a little damp, we invite you to massage your child with a neutral massage oil that will penetrate the epidermis well, for enhanced hydration. It’s also a perfect moment to share a moment of tenderness with your little one!For the facial skin and hands, which are more directly exposed to wind and cold. and on which we often find red and dry patches (especially on the cheeks, or around the mouth when the scalp creates a zone of friction and maceration), we can apply treatments more repeatedly, ideally morning and evening. You can choose based on texture preferences:Soothing skin cream : a rich and nourishing cream, made with organic shea butter, calendula, and fine lavender essential oil. Ideal for soothing irritations and redness. From 3 months old.Aloe Caresse Gel : a gel with a fluid, non-greasy texture, which hydrates and regenerates the skin. From birth.Want to learn more about our Aloe Caresse Gel? Don’t hesitate to check out our article on the benefits of aloe vera for the whole family.Generally speaking, don’t hesitate to take advantage of diaper changes to apply a bit of liniment or oil (or your milk!) on the rest of your baby’s body, everything helps, and their skin will thank you!You now know everything! Grab your cream and oil bottles, what a perfect excuse to give lots of massages and cuddles to your little ones!

Properly cover the baby in a carrier during winter

Winter is coming… Even though you've explained in the article on "How to protect your baby from winter viruses" that a poor outfit won't make your little one sick, you still fear that he might be cold.Is he sufficiently dressed? Or on the contrary not enough? How to ensure that your baby has enough warmth in his stroller during winter? Shall we take stock together? Why wear warm clothing in winter? Generally speaking, wearing turns out to be more practical on a daily basis, and this is even more true when winter is beginning. Winter means cold and bad weather… Ah the joys of the stroller and its rain cover with obscure installation, which leaves us completely perplexed (and soaked!): we never know which way this thing goes! And anyway, except for some models, the stroller requiring 2 hands to maneuver, it rules out using an umbrella to shelter yourself. Does that sound familiar?More generally, the farther away your baby is from you, the harder it is to assess his comfort. When you carry him, he is in your contact and it’s easier to make sure he has adequate warmth regularly and to know how to dress him.Finally, some activities are simply incompatible with using a stroller. Going away for the weekend to the mountains? Wheels and snow don’t mix well, for example. Covering baby in his carrier system… To keep his baby warm enough, one might be tempted to wrap him up in a snowsuit or thick clothing and a big coat. In fact, this is the first reflex most people will have to protect their little one from the cold.Totally counter-intuitive, it is actually the opposite of what is recommended.Why?The thickness of clothing affects the proper fit of the baby carriers, making carrying uncomfortable and potentially less safe.It can also compress the joints and hinder proper blood circulation in the legs, as well as obstruct breathing.It keeps your baby away from your body, which prevents the thermoregulation mechanisms from working properly and modulating heat according to his needs: he will suffer more easily from the cold.We also add that if you place your baby over your coat , in addition to being very uncomfortable and feeling particularly constricted in your jacket, the buttons or decorations on it could hurt your little one. For a baby carrier, it is therefore recommended to dress your baby normally, as if indoors. The carrying system counts as an extra layer of clothing (if outside of carrying your baby was wearing a small jacket, for example, the carrying scarf will replace the jacket). Your little one thus benefits from the thermoregulation of your own body, which helps him stay warm against you.It is also advised to cover what extends from the baby carrier and is more likely to get cold: a hat for the head, leggings and booties for the legs. Hands are generally tucked between him and you and your baby would hardly appreciate not being able to put them back in his mouth at will, so let’s leave them alone! … and wrap yourself in a cozy blanket Once your little one is dressed (normally, then) and settled in his baby carrier, the wearer can put on their usual coat and wrap their baby in a soft carrying blanket! The carrying blanket allows you to naturally retain the warmth generated by your body and that of your baby, like inside a bubble. No risk of suffering from the cold! Our blanket also features a windproof and water-repellent softshell layer, preventing icy air from seeping into the clothing and causing an unpleasant sensation.Essential for winter, it adapts to your daily needs. You go into a store? Just detach it to reveal your little one and avoid him getting too hot during shopping.Universal, it attaches to all baby carriers and can be used just as well by mom or dad.Is it REALLY cold? If the temperatures become very very low, around -10°C, -15°C or even less, don’t hesitate to opt for woolen clothing, or a blend of wool and silk. Very thin and flexible, they thermoregulate and can pleasantly complement your little ones’ winter outfits. Rest assured, merino wool has nothing to do with the wool of our childhood: it is soft and doesn’t itch! What to watch for when carrying your baby in winter? Despite these little tips do you have some concerns? Don't panic! We provide you with a small checklist of points to watch during the walk:Clear respiratory pathways: even if it's cold, breathing well is always a priority! Resist the temptation to pull up coats and blankets behind the little ones’ heads, not higher than the neck, and their face should remain visible.If the walk lasts longer, regularly move the extremities and possibly massage them a bit, to properly activate blood circulation.Is it freezing cold? Maybe it's better to shorten the hike! Remember that if you warm up when walking because you are active, your baby is passive in their carrying system and may get cold if external conditions are too harsh. And outside of carrying, how to cover the baby? Did you know? It’s not just in carrying that thick clothing is prohibited, it’s also in car seats!To stay well protected in case of shock, your baby needs to be securely held in the seat, so the straps should be relatively tight on them (they shouldn’t be pinched). If they are wearing a coat or a suit, the straps will be adjusted not on their body but on the padding. In case of an accident, this padding will flatten, and since the straps can no longer do their job, the baby risks being ejected.By the way, in a car there is heating, after the first few minutes after departure, it generally feels good and the suit is no longer really necessary!Again, the 3-in-1 blanket is a good asset: placed at the bottom of the seat, it has an opening designed to pass the straps, which will allow you to attach your little one, then if necessary, fold it over them until the temperature rises enough in the cabin to uncover them.In a stroller, it’s up to you to choose between blanket/footmuff and suit! The suit has the disadvantage of considerably restricting your child's movements, while the footmuff is less covering. If you have both, don’t hesitate to test to see what your little one prefers. The cold can arrive, are you ready to face it?

How to protect your baby from winter viruses

COUGH!!!Runny nose, cough, fever… You have to face the truth: your little one is sick. Winter is settling in and with it its load of small viruses that are not always very friendly… Is it necessarily inevitable? Fortunately not. Even if unfortunately we cannot prevent everything, some simple little gestures can help limit infections and help preserve at least your little one's health. Shall we talk about it? "He's going to catch his death!" or the truth about winter viruses You all have heard it, that sharp little remark:"Cover him up, he's going to catch cold!"or its famous variant: "Close his coat, he's going to catch his death!" There is Aunt Jeannine horrified that babychou is not wearing socks on the cold tiles, passersby offended that the hat does not cover his ears sufficiently, and on top of that, the weather keeps changing, one moment it's cold, the next it's hot... There are no more seasons, my good lady... Obviously, it's because of that that he fell ill, isn't it?Well no!"Falling ill" as we say, only requires one thing: contact with a pathogenic element (a virus or bacteria in this case).Your little one could go sledding in just a diaper in the snow, if he didn't come into contact with a "microbe", he wouldn't have a cold!The truth about winter viruses is that they have absolutely nothing to do with how we dress our children, which is more about their comfort (which is not insignificant). To protect against illnesses, it is therefore crucial to focus on the modes of transmission of pathogens and act on these! Protecting your baby: precautions between individuals The very first precaution to take, one that we shouldn't even have to mention because it is so obvious: unless necessary, do not visit a young child if you are sick yourself!"But it's just a little cold" in a healthy adult, can easily turn into a bronchiolitis with more serious consequences in a fragile infant.For viruses spread through aerosols (in the air), such as those causing the cold, flu, bronchiolitis, or COVID-19, the good practices to limit transmission include:Wearing a mask at the slightest symptom (and recommended systematically when visiting a newborn or any vulnerable person)Ventilating the room to reduce viral concentration in the airAdults who regularly come into contact with a baby are also encouraged to get vaccinated against the flu and COVID-19! NB: another rising pathology currently (not only seasonal), whooping cough! A vaccine booster is strongly recommended during pregnancy (between the 5th and 8th month), as it allows the fetus to develop antibodies that will protect him at birth, until the first vaccines are administered at 2 months. Other adults who are in regular contact with the newborn are also advised to get the booster shot.For manually transmitted illnesses like gastroenteritis, recommended precautions include: with soap or an alcohol-based solutionRegular disinfection of high-risk surfaces (toilets, countertops, door handles…)More generally, some places are more conducive to epidemic proliferation. Unless necessary, it is generally advised to avoid crowded and poorly ventilated places such as shopping centers or public transportation during peak hours. Protecting your baby from winter viruses: boosting their immunity Another possible and significant protection: help strengthen your child's immune system!If baby is breastfed, breast milk contains lots of targeted antibodies against pathogenic organisms to which the mother is exposed. Even with mixed feeding, even just one breastfeeding per day, can help their bodies fight more effectively. It is worth noting that, contrary to some misconceptions, in case of maternal illness, you should definitely not stop breastfeeding! Viruses are not transmitted through breast milk (antibodies, however, are!), and treatments completely incompatible with continuing breastfeeding are in fact rarer than you might think. If in doubt, compatibility can be checked on the CRAT (center for the evaluation of teratogenic agents, managed by AP-HP and ANSM). Certain vaccines can also be offered to reduce the risk of developing potentially serious illnesses in the youngest. This is particularly true for rotavirus gastroenteritis (the most virulent strain), and recently, for bronchiolitis! Don’t hesitate to discuss with your child's doctor to assess their relevance. Alongside all this, aromatherapy can gently support seasonal changes and bolster the immune system from the first cold days. For the youngest (from 3 months), you can, for example, offer a small course of Atchoum oil in a massage on the soles of the feet, and from 3 years old, the Shield oil can take over! Oops, baby is still sick, what to do? Despite all your precautions, it is difficult to completely avoid all epidemics, especially if older children go to school or daycare (or if your baby is kept in a group setting)!For issues related to ENT problems However, the basic advice remains quite classic:Frequent blowing of the nose*Humidify the bedroom air (with a real humidifier, leaving the laundry to dry inside is not enough, especially since it may tend to recapture the released humidity once dry!)Divide feeding times, especially if your little one is very congested and struggles to feed* It is recommended to use a physiologic saline dropper per nostril for a true effective cleaning. For more comfort for your baby, you can warm it slightly beforehand. There are nasal cleaning syringes sold in pharmacies that are very practical. Helpful tip: place the baby lying on their stomach with the head turned to the side. This way, it’s easier to hold them and the saline flows out more easily without passing into the throat. For gastric troubles, dehydration can be problematic, so it is important to ensure that the baby receives maximum liquids. Do not hesitate to give them rehydration solution if vomiting and diarrhea are too severe.Additional Neobulle tips to bring comfort and well-being during illness:Atchoum Oil, to be applied on the chest from 3 months old, for a revitalizing massageWinter ambient spray, for purified air with a light and pleasant scentCalm Bidou Oil, to soothe tummy tuggings When to see a doctor if my baby is sick? If your baby's overall condition is very compromised, in case of persistent fever for more than 3 days or worrying symptoms, it may be helpful to seek advice from your child's doctor to know what steps to take. If necessary, emergency services at 15 can also advise you or refer you to a urgent consultation center. Despite some worries, a high fever is not necessarily a worrying sign requiring urgent consultation! Observe your child and their tolerance to it. Discover it, hydrate it, and offer him a little paracetamol if necessary.Is the baby lethargic? No longer eating (milk counts as food)? Does his coloring seem strange to you? Does he seem to have difficulty breathing (retractions)? It is preferable to go to the emergency room so that a doctor can quickly assess his health condition. A fever in an infant under 3 months is also a reason to go to the emergency room.To go further on the subject, the book "Urgencies or not Urgencies", written by a pediatric emergency doctor, is a treasure trove of information and can help you know the right actions to take in the most common situations. That's it, you're ready for winter! A few herbal teas and boxes of tissues in your cupboards, and viruses will have to behave...

Working with your baby

For some, resuming a professional activity does not necessarily mean childcare arrangements! The choice is made differently by working while having your baby with you. Of course, this is not possible for everyone and can be adapted in various ways. Shall we talk about it? Why work with your baby? Choosing to not have your baby in daycare despite returning to work is a decision that can surprise in our cultures. The reasons are often very diverse depending on families, including notably: The desire to stay with your baby as long as possible The difficulty in finding suitable childcare Specific child needs requiring parental presence or making care more complex Working with your child is also a matter of compromise, with part-time childcare only, which allows you to spend more time with them while preserving a space 100% dedicated to your job. What jobs can be combined with having your baby? Before imagining organization, it is relevant to question the jobs that can be combined with the presence of your child by your side. If you are self-employed, all activities with flexible hours at your convenience and done from home can easily allow you to keep your baby. During their wakeful times, you can take care of them, and during their naps and in the evening and/or early morning, you can work, for example. With a salaried job, on paper it’s a bit the same, but in reality it depends on the flexibility of your schedule and your employer’s tolerance! If for various reasons your hours are not flexible, for example, keep in mind that teleworking with your child can quickly become a source of discomfort and frustration, especially if considered full-time. Many self-employed parents also bring their children with them including for missions outside the home: you can find babies in some stores, fields, markets, etc. They integrate into community life! It requires a little organization but is entirely feasible if that’s your wish. However, we advise against activities that could compromise the safety or well-being of the child. If you are a taxi driver, for example, it’s not really advisable for your baby to spend their day in a car seat with you! Organizing when working with your child Working with your child requires a minimum of organization… and especially flexibility!!! If you imagined that your little one would nap most of the time and that you could simply work during those times, you are very likely to be disappointed. Here it is.So, how do we manage?Well, as always, we adapt because we are super-parents! The golden rule of parenting is that children always have a knack for being the most demanding of attention and fighting as much as possible to NOT SLEEP because SLEEP IS A SURFACE when you absolutely need to finish an important file or connect to a video meeting. Here are some tips that might help you: It’s better to start by addressing your child's need for attention rather than trying to delay it: once this need is satisfied, your little one will be calmer and you will be able to work more efficiently (and thus save time!) Take advantage of moments when you have others who can look after your little one to schedule meetings or tasks requiring more concentration. Is it a no-day? It happens. Take your baby carrier and go get some fresh air with your baby, you'll work better once everyone is relaxed! Secure as much as possible the space where you work with your child, once they start moving it will allow you to be more serene and not fear that they put themselves in danger if you are a little less attentive for a few moments. If possible, schedule as many work blocks as you can early in the morning and/or late at night, at times when your child almost certainly sleeps and when you have your partner’s support. If you work , a good baby carrier is essential to free your hands and meet both your baby’s and your own needs. The ideal is to learn how to install the baby on your back as quickly as possible! Until when can you keep your child with you to work? Very young, your little one takes several naps, can be placed in a baby carrier and does not move much yet or only a little, so it’s fairly easy to organize your work in their presence. As they grow, sleep times decrease, and they demand more and more attention and vigilance, and it is important to gradually incorporate more awakening activities into their days, as well as outings so that they can meet other children of their age. This is no longer very compatible with most jobs. So, it is often around 10-12 months that you should start a transition to a childcare mode… Not necessarily full-time, a few hours a week can sometimes suffice to meet everyone's needs! Useful resources when working with your baby Always useful to have or plan: A carrying system, ideally dorsal harness mastery as soon as possible, the parent’s hands-free kit which meets everyone's needs! An attractive toy to take out in anticipation of a moment when you want to focus your child on an activity so you can concentrate on an important task. Food: a hungry child is a grumpy child. Delaying meal times to finish a task is always a bad idea. A grandmother, a friend, or a kind neighbor you know well and who could look after your little one for an hour or so from time to time, always convenient occasionally! What are the advantages of keeping your child with you If working with your child involves a certain organizational headache, it also brings a lot of joy in parallel. When it’s a choice, it’s often an opportunity to rethink your lifestyle, adapt your rhythm to that of your baby and it allows you to see them grow and develop. This enables a smoother and more gradual transition to a childcare mode, more gentle and progressive… Sometimes in some families, it’s an opportunity to ask other questions and completely change life plans! In short, you understand, having your child with you when you work is a little exercise in flexibility and organization, but what a happiness to be able to enjoy them daily! It’s worth more than gold.

10 "chill" activity ideas with baby

Autumn is settling in… Temperatures are becoming cooler, days are shorter, and the weather is more unstable and humid… It's the time of year when we love to bring out our cozy chunky sweaters, curl up under a blanket with a mug of hot cocoa, and relax. Has baby arrived since your last autumn of cuddling under the duvet with your loved one? Never mind! We give you 10 relaxation activity ideas for the family. "Chill" idea No. 1: Family massages A small amount of P'tits Câlins oil and off we go for a little family massage session!With the youngest, you can target the tummy that twists or have fun tickling the feet a little…For the older children, why not make it a ritual? Print cards showing different areas of the body. Every Sunday, draw one at random to see what we will massage!Nothing beats filling up with softness and releasing all the tensions of the week… Did you notice that the P’tits Câlins oil smelled like frangipane? Chill idea #2: A walk in the forest Even if freshness settles in, the sun is sometimes still part of the scene, illuminating with its rays the blaze of the trees.Baby snuggled in its baby carrier, the carrying blanket to stay warm, and hop, off for a little walk in the forest to admire the beautiful autumn colors.If you have older children, they will also love making bouquets of fallen leaves and then creating beautiful drawings to give to the rest of the family! Chill idea #3: Making pancakes or a good cake Even if your baby is still a little young to taste (you have to wait until they can manage pieces), nothing stops you from preparing it!As soon as they are old enough to be seated, don't hesitate to put your little one in their high chair next to you during the preparation so they can observe the different steps. Children love to imitate you: give them a plastic bowl and a wooden spoon in their hands to pretend to be like mom/dad, guaranteed delight!For the older children, cracking eggs, pouring flour into the bowl, or stirring the dough are activities generally very appreciated. Prepare clothes that are easy to wash (or even better: an apron) to avoid stress over stains. Don't miss the moment. Chill idea #4: Go to the museum A calm atmosphere, the opportunity to learn a lot of things, and a sheltered place from bad weather... What more could you ask for?We don't always think about it but it's an original outing and an opportunity to ignite the natural curiosity of the youngest and to make them discover new worlds.Did you know? All museums and national monuments are free for teachers and those under 25 all the time, and for everyone on the first Sundays of each month! Chill idea #5: Take a bath with baby There is much talk about the virtues of skin-to-skin contact, but have you ever tried taking a bath with your baby?With you in the water, they rediscover certain reflexes and sensations known in utero, maximum relaxation guaranteed.Caution, getting out of the bathtub can be a bit of an acrobatic feat. We advise you to always have your partner nearby to ensure the towel logistics. Chill idea #6: A sensory discovery workshop Different textures of fabrics, tubs with flour or chickpeas, small jars filled with spices with very characteristic smells... Sometimes it’s not necessary to invest in very expensive toys, just open the cupboards to improvise learning-rich workshops for your babies!Taste, sight, hearing, smell, touch… Choose your theme, find as many varied accessories as possible related to it, settle comfortably with your little one, and depending on their age: let them explore the workshop freely or offer them different sensations. Sensorial discovery can be offered from the first weeks of life, but it must be adapted to your toddler's age. The younger your baby, the more the elements should be differentiated and the activity time should be short because it is very . We invite you to be quite attentive to your little one's reactions and to stop the session when you feel they are starting to get upset, even if it seemed quick to you (a few minutes may suffice for a baby of a few weeks for example)! "Chill" Idea No. 07: Listening to Soft Music Music soothes the soul, they say, and rightly so.Melomaniac friends, now is the time to introduce your favorite playlists to your children!Which team will you be on?Rather classical music, jazz, Tibetan bowls, nature sounds… For a calming atmosphere…Or percussion, pop, rock, metal… to dance, have fun, and let loose!Let your desires run free and enjoy yourself!If you play an instrument yourself, your little ones will also be delighted to see and hear you repeat… something that could spark a vocation in them later, who knows? "Chill" Idea No. 08: Going to the Aquarium If there is an aquarium near you, it’s a trip worth taking with your little one!The atmosphere is , especially thanks to reduced bluish lights. From its stroller, your baby will be able to observe the fish swimming in the different tanks. "Chill" Idea No. 09: Reading Stories Sober, simple, effective: reading!!!Travel, discover the world, the universe, without leaving your couch? Thanks to books, anything is possible. From the first weeks of life, your little one can listen to you tell stories, you can show him picture books, and encourage his love for tales and paper adventures.Does your child develop a fierce appetite for reading? Don’t hesitate to browse libraries to stock up on new books without breaking the bank. "Chill" Idea No. 10: Napping When you have a baby, sleep becomes a rare and precious commodity. Has your little one fallen asleep in his cradle? Quick, your warm and cozy bed is calling for a little rest that is comforting and restorative!Isn’t it nice here, wrapped in the soft cocoon of his bedding, peacefully drifting into Morpheus’ arms, rocked by his gentle breathing? Close your eyes, ENJOY! Now you’re ready to face winter weekends! Which activity will you try?

Breastfeeding and working: interview with Camille, a seamstress at Néobulle

During this World Breastfeeding Week 2024, breastfeeding is in the spotlight at Néobulle! We invite you to exchange with Camille, our workshop seamstress but especially a mother of a little Hella, 8 months old.Everyday life, logistics, Camille shares everything about her organization and her experience around breastfeeding and returning to work! Hello Camille! How old is your baby? What is her name? Her name is Hella, she is 8 months old How old was she when you returned to work? I returned to work in September, she was 7 months old.Actually, when I was pregnant, I was working at another company, I requested a parental leave which was refused to me (Note: refusal of parental leave by the employer is illegal, an employee affected by this situation can take legal action at the labor court). Not wanting and lacking the energy to go to conflict, I chose to negotiate a mutual termination. I thus decided to take advantage of my pregnancy and spend time with my daughter during her early months of life. It was also an opportunity to reevaluate my personal and especially professional plans. I attended 3 workshops at Néobulle as a mother and learned about their needs for seamstresses... and that’s how I joined the company in September! How did you decide to continue breastfeeding when you returned? (Naturally? Someone told you? Other?) For me it was natural. I talked about it with a very good friend who had done it. I could not see myself stopping my breastfeeding. I did some research to see how to balance breastfeeding and work. Were you encouraged in this project? I discussed it during my very first interview with Néobulle. There were no problems on this subject and measures were put in place to allow me to express my milk.My close ones, however, supported me a bit less. They questioned how the employer or other colleagues might perceive it (it was not out of malice, but more due to misinformation). The remark "Oh, but you’re still breastfeeding at 7 months?" was made to me…Some also worried that it would lead to a lot of fatigue.My partner, on the other hand, was very supportive. How do you organize yourself concretely? I pump my milk with a breast pump that was rented on prescription from the doctor (via the Tire-lait express company). I bring her to the workplace, I express my milk for 20 minutes in the morning and a second time around noon for 10 minutes. I have the company fridge available to store my small jars of milk. During the commute, I put them in a cooler with an ice pack. At home, I freeze some, and the rest goes to the daycare. Is your baby on exclusive breastfeeding? Does she receive other types of milk? Is she diversified? Hella is still nursing at home, and if it’s me, she refuses to take a bottle. However, at daycare, or with other people (if I’m not around!), she accepts the bottle.Level of diversification: it’s a bit delicate. She definitely prefers fruits over vegetables, and she rarely accepts the spoon.She had a tongue-tie issue that complicates things a bit. How do you experience this project on a daily basis? I would do it again without hesitation! For me, it’s really great. My breastfeeding journey required courage because it was difficult to start, but now that we’re in the groove, it’s fantastic. It’s a special bond with my daughter. In summary, I feel really good about it. Things you would like to say to a mother who is hesitant? I wouldn’t be able to influence her to go towards this or that way of doing things. Breastfeeding is very personal. I would share my experience, but afterwards, I would tell her that it depends on her feelings and desires. A big thank you to Camille for sharing her experience!

End of maternity leave: how to properly prepare for your return

Your maternity or parental leave is coming to an end and after a more or less long break, it's almost time for you to return to work.How to prepare your return properly? What should you consider to make everything go smoothly? Let's try to cover it together? Accepting the ambivalence of feelings related to returning to work You love your baby and your heart breaks at the thought of leaving them in someone else's care…BUT you are so happy to do something for yourself…BUT it’s a heartbreaking feeling to leave your little one…BUT there’s also joy in talking with adults!You oscillate between intense joy and despair regarding this return to work, sometimes several times within the same hour.Rest assured, you're not crazy!You are just a normal mom experiencing all the ambivalence of feelings generated by contradictory emotions…Within each of us can coexist multiple desires, not always aligned with each other, and it is completely legitimate to love your child more than anything, but also to get a bit tired of it and want to regain a bit of your active woman’s life… But despite everything, it’s still difficult to leave them with someone else and to part from them (even though we dream of that moment without them!).Is there a magic solution to manage this? Unfortunately not. But knowing it’s normal is often already helpful!NB: often it’s also guilt that sneaks into the celebration, returning to work does not make you a “less good mother”! You have the right to really want and be eager to return to your activity without it meaning that you don’t love your little one! It’s not a competition of who does more for their child, each family should find the balance that suits them according to their constraints. Who will take care of my baby at the end of my maternity leave? Returning to work means finding a childcare arrangement for your little one. The process can sometimes be delicate because it involves many constraints that depend on parameters sometimes beyond your control.Some times of the year are more favorable for searching: especially September, or January. Indeed, with the start of the school year, many places become available. However, keep in mind that it’s not impossible to obtain a childcare arrangement for the rest of the year: structures open up, and childminders start their activities. , parents move or change their childcare arrangements… Sometimes you have the impression of searching for the perfect solution but aren’t quite sure what you can or cannot compromise on ? A little trick might be to make a list of criteria ranked by importance: you can easily cut back on items at the bottom of the list, but not on those at the very top, otherwise it’s likely you’ll find yourself urgently looking for a new childcare option shortly after resuming work! Continue breastfeeding or wean my baby to prepare for my return? If your baby is breastfed, the question may arise of weaning or not in view of the return. Know that contrary to many received ideas, it is quite possible to combine breastfeeding and professional activity, and it’s not even that complicated!Want to learn more about this topic? Don’t hesitate to visit this comprehensive article which will give you several tips and small tricks to evaluate the feasibility (or not!) of this project for you.We also invite you, in parallel, to discuss it with a trained health professional (IBCLC certified lactation consultant, midwife). You can also contact breastfeeding support organizations that often offer support groups which can help visualize and exchange with other mothers facing the same situation. Flexibility and letting go, the key words for a peaceful return to work Even if, of course, we know that taking care of your little one is not easy and that the "maternity leave" only has the name… Let’s be honest, after several weeks at home, rejoining 7 hours of work (+ commutes, lunch breaks, etc.) into your daily schedule creates some disorganization! Maybe it’s best, initially, not to set the bar too high and to organize your return gently… Give yourself time to find your bearings, see what new balance is established for your family, and avoid trying to be perfect on all fronts! Since parents’ time is not unlimited, each family must set its priorities, which will vary depending on personal circumstances Some people's house will be a bit more messy and the mop will be used a bit less diligently, for others it will go through a period of all ready meals, etc... And that's okay! As long as everything is roughly clean and you have something to eat that's roughly balanced on your plates, well, everything is fine. It will always be time later to get a slightly more organized routine!Don't hesitate to ask for some help in advance: family members or close friends will probably be happy to give you some time to accompany you through this important step of your new life. A little hello to colleagues before maternity leave ends If you have a good relationship with your colleagues, don't hesitate to come and introduce your little miracle before you return to work...Because it's the most beautiful baby in the world and it's essential that they know and can see for themselves! This is also a good way to gradually reconnect with the company, get some news, and if you feel like it and your return is fairly soon, start to see how your return will be organized.Generally speaking, it is wise to have contact with your manager before your return date to find out what is planned for you, ask if a handover period has been considered with the person who replaced you, etc. Don't hesitate to discuss any specific constraints that may be related to your new needs.Pampering yourself for a beautiful return Self-esteem is often somewhat diminished postpartum, we feel fat (baby is born but the kilos, they are still there!), flabby, we lose our hair…And why not take advantage of the adaptation hours at the nanny or at the nursery for your little one to take a quick trip to the hairdresser to refresh your hairstyle?After several weeks (months) of taking care of this little heart 24/7, you have earned this moment just for yourself! It can also be an opportunity to refresh your wardrobe so you can approach your return wearing clothes that make you feel beautiful. Isn't it less stressful like this?This time you're ready for the big day... Courage, everything will go well for you and your little one!

Taking transportation with your baby

Whether living in the city or in the countryside, there inevitably comes a time when the question arises of taking transportation with your baby. This could be a daily bus or metro, but also a more occasional train or plane trip!What are small tips to know so that everything goes smoothly? We tell you everything! Carrying your baby in public transport If you are required to take the bus, metro, or tram, we invite you to store your stroller and prefer the baby carrier!Between stairs, sometimes tricky access, and the reduced interior space, you will appreciate traveling lightly!Transport can be quite demanding for very young children who are sometimes quickly overwhelmed by noise and crowds. Being against you reassures them and allows them to observe this new environment at their own pace while enjoying lots of cuddles.The small bonus, especially during winter season: if you are reluctant to let strangers touch your baby without your prior permission (especially without washing their hands AND in public transport), it is likely that the situation feels less with your baby carried in a carrier than in a stroller! Your little heart being nestled against you, they need to penetrate your personal space to reach it, which acts as a barrier for most people. Carrying your baby on the train On the train too, we strongly encourage you to prefer the carrier system over the stroller! It is much easier to move around the station while pulling your suitcases, allows for easy climbing into the carriage, and avoids the hassle of storing the stroller in already full spaces (not to mention the risk of theft).Sometimes, if the journey is a bit long, your little one may have trouble finding sleep, and carrying them can help you "walk around" a bit between the different cars and help them fall asleep. In the baby carrier, your toddler can also enjoy snuggling and feeling "protected" from all the stimuli around them and may sometimes get a bit annoyed. Carrying your baby at the airport Traveling by plane with your baby, is quite an expedition! The adventurous parents know that light traveling is so much more practical, and for that, nothing beats a good baby carrier that will faithfully accompany all your adventures, even the wildest ones!And the very first of these is passing through the airport security gates… Removing shoes, the coat, the belt, and everything in your pockets, while holding your baby who himself shouldn’t carry anything delicate… A real Koh-Lanta challenge!Equipped with your baby carrier, the operation will be less acrobatic. We recommend a system that can be easily removed, such as a sling or a preformed carrier, which will allow you to put your little one in or take them out as needed. It will also be very useful for peacefully managing boarding and disembarking, which can be quite sensitive with little ones but also sometimes difficult to control with older children! Occupying baby during transportation To ensure that the trip with baby goes smoothly, it is highly recommended to prepare something to keep them occupied!For a short daily trip, a basic toy usually suffices:RattleBook to read if you manage to get a seat on the busSmall sensory bottle that’s easy to carry A hungry child, being by nature a grumpy child, having a packet of biscuits and a bottle of water in their bag is generally a good idea when you feel the trip becomes complicated. It also helps to cover unexpected situations such as a subway breakdown or other incident causing significant delays, which can alter the usual mealtime!For longer trips, by train or plane, you can opt for new entertainment options to distract your little one! Pack a special bag filled with small toys bought specifically for the occasion, which you will take out gradually during the trip (not all at once!).Whether for short or long journeys, for everyone’s comfort (yours, of course, but also that of other passengers), we strongly recommend avoiding battery-powered sound games and other musical instruments ! Adjusting the outfit in transportation When we move around, we like to be comfortable in our clothes : it’s the same for our babies!In the city during winter, outdoors, we protect ourselves from the cold and humidity by bundling up in our coats. Then we get on the bus where there are people and where the heating is on, and naturally we take off a little.Think about doing the same with your little one! Remove their hat and lightly uncover them so they don’t get too hot.Now you are ready to take transportation with your baby, what will be your next trip?