Bringing a newborn into the world creates new roles for all – women become ‘mums’, men become ‘dads’ and their parents take on the proud title of grandparent.
Many grandparents claim that being a ‘nanny’ or ‘gran’, a ‘pa’ or ‘pop’ is one of the most wonderful things in life. For those who are about to become a grandparent for the first time, there is likely to be a sense of anticipation about what is about to come.
While the fundamental elements of baby care and parenting have remained the same over time, there are some things that have changed as a result of new evidence and research. Throughout a pregnancy and in the lead up to a birth, it’s a good idea for expecting parents to set expectations and educate newborn changes with future grandparents.
*Breastfeeding
In the 1970s and 80s, 70 per cent of babies were bottle fed. Today, thanks to new research findings, there has been a shift in public health initiatives to promote breastfeeding as the preferred method of feeding a newborn. Family support and knowledge can strongly influence breastfeeding success. If you are intending on breastfeeding, talk to grandparents about the benefits of for both you and your baby.
*Safe sleeping guidelines
Safe sleeping guidelines have been developed to reduce the instances of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). This is one area that has changed quite a bit over the years based on SIDS research, and safe sleeping guidelines should be followed for newborns and infants (available at rednose.com.au).
*Immunisations
Anyone who will be spending time with a newborn should have their vaccinations up to date. Whooping cough is dangerous for babies as they are not fully immunised until they are 18 months, so they are reliant on those around them to be vaccinated against the condition. Adults require a Boostrix (diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis – whooping cough) vaccination every 10 years and should have an influenza vaccination annually.
*New parent support
Navigating the role of a grandparent can be hard on our parents. They want to help, but don’t want to get in the way. Establish boundaries with your parents and communicate openly, honestly and tactfully the best ways that they can support you. It might be as simple as taking your other children out to play, helping you with groceries and meals or even getting you out of the house for some fresh air and adult conversation.
Epworth Geelong maternity educator Heather Anderson knows how important positive support relationships are for new parents.
“Our parents often know us better than we know ourselves and can tell when we might be struggling,” she said.
“With more than 1 in 7 mums and up to 1 in 20 dads diagnosed with postnatal depression, it’s important to encourage those around us to check in and make sure that we’re doing OK.”
A ‘Grandparent refresher’ class is available for the parents of those who are having their baby at Epworth Geelong. As part of the workshop, midwives will provide guidance on the role of a grandparent, provide ideas on how grandparents can support their own children throughout pregnancy and early parenting and teach practical tips like baby swaddling.
