The wide range of information and advice, often conflicting or at odds with instinct, is sometimes more of a hindrance than a help.
We’re always aware that when research into feeding, sleeping and health of young children is published, it will arouse strong feelings in both parents and those who care for and educate infants. There is a balance between providing the latest information and evidence and not provoking panic or unnecessary changes in behaviour.
So it was with the study into ‘controlled crying’ that we reported on on our website recently, and analyse in more depth in this issue (see pages 4-5).
The original story led to quite an adverse reaction from some early years experts, who believed that the findings that such techniques did not raise cortisol levels in babies and improved sleep patterns would lead to parents imposing harmful routines on their babies.
We think it would be remiss of us not to tell readers about interesting new research, even if results run counter to expectation. However, it is also important to put this research into context and present alternative views from child development experts, which is what we have done in this issue’s story. There is such a welter of influences and environmental and cultural factors that affect the welfare of babies.
As Suzanne Zeedyk points out, listening to your baby is the most vital technique of all.