Episode 40 of the Airway First podcast is now out! You can catch this and all other episodes on Apple, SoundCloud, Podbean, RSS, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts. And check us out on YouTube!
My guest today is Kelsey Baker, a Holistic Pediatric Occupational Therapist. She has worked in Early Intervention (EI) since 2009 and has been working with children between the ages of 0-5 in the Philadelphia area since 2011.
Kelsey is focused on proactive care to best support babies in their feeding and overall development as she believes that feeding is a vital sign and can be indicative of so much happening in a child’s body. She uses a combination of bodywork and therapeutic modalities to help regulate nervous systems, increase mobility and strength, and help parents best support their babies where they are on the way to where they want to be.
You can find out more about Kelsey at bwellot.com.
Throughout my years of practice as an Occupational Therapist, I have learned that focusing on one area of delay or difficulty, is almost never enough. Looking at each person as a whole within their own unique world is vital to see progress and allow for healing ~ Kelsey Baker
Show Notes:
Website: bwellot.com
What exactly is bodywork? Read the blog
What to look for in bottles? Read the blog
WHY BREASTFEED YOUR BABY?
1) Breastfeeding provides ideal nutrition for babies
In the first six to twelve months of a baby's life, breast milk contains everything they need. Furthermore, breast milk's composition changes as the baby grows, ensuring your baby receives exactly what it needs.
Truly, the only thing missing in breast milk is a high volume of vitamin D. In fact, unless you have a very high intake of vitamin D, it might be the only thing your breast milk lacks. Talk to your pediatrician about vitamin D drops to see if they might be right for your baby.
2) Breastfeeding provides critical antibodies for babies
The antibodies in breast milk help your baby fight viruses and bacteria during the first few months of life. The main way this occurs is that your body will begin producing antibodies as you are exposed, which your baby will receive through your breast milk.
Breastfed babies become healthier children and adults experiencing:
Fewer instances of issues with allergies, eczema, and asthma
Lower risk of developing type I and II diabetes
Lower rates of respiratory illness
Lower rates of developing speech and orthodontic problems
Better dental and jaw development with fewer cavities --- growing healthier faces
Lower risk of becoming obese later in childhood
Greater immunity to infection and a stronger overall immune system
Less likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease, and multiple sclerosis
Lower risk of childhood cancer and postmenopausal breast cancer
While formula can contain many vitamins and minerals your baby needs, it is unable to provide these critical antibodies.
3) Breastfeeding helps to reduce disease risk for babies
Exclusive breastfeeding provides your baby with long-term health benefits. In addition to reducing the risk of many illnesses and diseases, breastfeeding also helps prevent:
Middle ear infections
Excessive colds and gut infections
Intestinal tissue damage
Respiratory tract infections
Allergic diseases
Additionally, breastfeeding helps your baby develop habits that will have an impact on their breathing and airway health. It also helps to properly develop their pallet and strengthen their tongue and mouth muscles.
EDUCATION IS THE FIRST STEP TOWARDS HELP FOR YOUR CHILD
Education is the first step for any parent concerned about their child's ability to breastfeed and oral health.
The Children's Airway First Foundation Resource library has information that can aid in identifying symptoms and providing guidance on the first steps towards helping your child with an airway disorder.
As with any medical condition, consult your child's pediatrician should you see any of these symptoms in your child or if you suspect your child is suffering from an airway disorder.
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