Parenting has changed over the last couple of decades. In the 90s, a lot of birthdays were simply birthday-themed. Most parents didn’t think as much about screen time and probably would have just called it “how much TV my kids watch.” Babies slept in cribs full of soft blankets and stuffed animals.
Yes, in the past couple of decades, parenting has evolved. While many social changes have taken place, a great deal of the changes have come from new medical recommendations or scientific discoveries.
Many well-meaning grandparents are often startled to find best practices from when they were new parents are no longer recommended.
Here are some things new grandparents may not be aware of.
Babies Rear Face In Car Seats For A Lot Longer Now
Car seat regulations have undergone intense changes in the past few decades. In 2011 the AAP and NHTSA updated their guidelines for children to rear face until at least two. They go as far as to state children should ideally max out the weight and height limits on their car seat before flipping forward.
It’s only been since 1985 that every state had car seat laws. Understanding children’s developing spines and how to keep them safe in car accidents has undoubtedly come a long way!
Only Baby In The Crib
Most of us probably have baby pictures in cribs with bumpers covering the bars, blankets, and an absurd amount of stuffed animals. At the time, it was viewed as cute and cozy.
Research has shown that babies sleeping in an empty crib is safest. The current guidelines from the AAP state that pillows, quilts, comforters, bumpers, and stuffed toys should not be in the crib.
Babies Sleep On Their Backs
Until 1992, parents were told to put their babies to sleep on their stomachs. Doctors and other health experts advised it would help prevent choking.
However, in 1992, after SIDS studies, the American Academy of Pediatrics discovered that infants should sleep on their backs or sides. By 1996, the current recommendation for babies to sleep on their backs was implemented. Studies suggest that it reduces the risk of SIDS by about 50%.
“Tummy Time” Is A Thing Now
This one comes in conjunction with the “back to sleep” recommendation. Once babies spent 10-12 hours more on their backs, it became apparent that they needed more intentional time on their tummies.
In came the recommendation for “tummy time,” or making sure your infant spends time on their stomach throughout the day. Pediatricians state that tummy time can help improve babies’ motor skills and develop core and neck strength, among other benefits.
No Old Cribs
If you have an old crib in storage from your childhood (or earlier), you might want to take a moment to reconsider using it for a baby. Cribs guidelines have significantly changed over time.
The AAP’s guideline is not to use a crib made before 2011, when federal safety standards changed. Older cribs often don’t meet current safety guidelines. A significant change you (and your back) might notice? Drop-side cribs are no longer legally sold.
No Popcorn Before 4
This one hurts my movie lover’s heart. However, the safe age for eating popcorn in the past decade has risen to four.
The popcorn kernels in popcorn add an extra risk to younger chewers. There is also a chance of inhaling the kernel. Even under careful parental supervision, it’s recommended that you wait until your child is 4 years old.
No Coats In Carseats
Have you ever seen a mom rushing a blanket-covered baby through a parking lot? There is a reason- and it’s not because of laziness.
With increased car seat awareness, children are no longer recommended to wear coats in the car. Bulky jackets, coats, and snowsuits make the harness loose, which can send a child flying out of their car seat during an accident.
No Rice Cereal In Bottles
Rice cereal in bottles was once a common suggestion for parents who wanted their baby to sleep longer. The idea was the rice cereal would “fill them up.”
However, no evidence exists that this method works, and experts no longer recommend it. The American Academy of Pediatrics says in addition to not helping sleep, the practice is a choking risk and can lead to weight gain.
Only Breastmilk Or Formula Before 6 Months
For a long time it was commonly accepted that young babies needed water to be hydrated. Now, we know differently.
Breastmilk and formula provide all the hydration young infants need. Even after 6 months, babies should only drink limited water during the first year of life. Prolonged breastfeeding well beyond six months has also been shown to have numerous benefits for developing children.
Umbilical Cord Care Has Changed
It is no longer recommended to use alcohol on the umbilical cord. This one is a pretty recent change.
Not too long ago, many hospitals sent new parents home with cotton swabs and alcohol for care. However, it’s recommended that parents use warm water and be sure the area dries. Health experts found that alcohol use on the umbilical stump could interfere with natural healing.