Jouke: “When you start practicing, use freshly pumped milk. This is because if it comes from the refrigerator or freezer, it can taste slightly different. Also, make sure your baby is not too hungry. Then he is more likely to feel like trying something new. And find a quiet environment so he has all his attention on you and the bottle.”
“Move the teat gently over your baby's lips first. Then he will open his mouth himself to latch on and drink. Then stroke gently from his ear, across his cheeks to his chin. This helps with the sucking motion. And, of course, it's cozy and soothing, for both of you.”
Tips from Jouke
“Not going so well yet? Stay calm and try again later. Or try something else. For example, see if the teat is deep enough in his mouth. With babies the gag reflex is at the front of the mouth. Sometimes making the milk warmer or colder also helps. You can also try a different position or have someone else give the bottle. That can really do wonders!”
“Does your baby keep refusing the bottle? Then we are happy to think with you and help you explore the options,'' says Jouke. “Because what doesn't work at home, sometimes works at daycare. Not because you don't do it right, but because we have different experiences. You're really not the only one with this challenge. Sometimes we even feed with a cup, cup or spoon.” Jouke: “It's a bit of an investment those first few weeks, but you get it back more than once!”
Continue feeding yourself
Jouke: “For various reasons, some mothers like to keep feeding themselves during the first period. That is allowed! You can - in consultation with the pedagogical staff - just come by for that.” Tip: do always leave a bottle or bag of milk with us, in case one time you don't manage to come (in time).
From the refrigerator
We usually give the pumped milk from a bottle. You can then put it in the fridge with us in the morning. Jouke: “Frozen or refrigerated, just discuss how it works at your daycare. Always use a clean bottle or bag and write your child's name and the date of pumping on it. Oh yes, also always provide an extra feed in case your baby is extra hungry, a bottle falls over or the feed is no longer good.”
The moment your child shows the first signs of hunger, we warm up your milk. We find a quiet place to feed him, where the we have full attention to him. This one-on-one time is golden. We not only get to know your child better this way, it's also good for his development. How? By teaching children that they can rely on us, their (self)confidence grows. And that in turn is necessary to be able to learn new things.