Baby's First Years
Here you’ll find information on feeding, safer sleep, vaccinations, and how your health visitor can support you.
There’s also support for parents, with tips on looking after wellbeing, staying active, eating well, and quitting smoking, plus ideas for things to do locally.
Feeding your baby
Feeding your baby in a way that works for you both is what matters most. Some parents breastfeed, some bottle feed, and others use a mix of both.
Breastfeeding is recommended for several health reasons. For some, breastfeeding is ideal, for others it may be challenging. Some choose to express milk, and others choose formula feeding. All of these choices are okay.
There is lots of support available in Sandwell. You can access this support in Sandwell through our Family Hubs.
If you have questions or concerns, you can talk to your midwife, health visitor, or local breastfeeding support services.
Your baby's sleep
Babies sleep a lot in the early months, even if it doesn’t always feel like you do!
The safest way for your baby to sleep is on their back, in a cot clear of blankets and pillows with a firm, flat mattress in a smoke-free environment.
Babies are safest sleeping in a room that is not too hot, with a temperature between 16 and 20°C.
It is also recommended that your baby sleeps in the same room as you for the first six months, day and night.
The Lullaby Trust have lots more useful on their website information about Safer Sleep.
Getting to know your Health Visitors
Sandwell’s Health Visiting Team are qualified nurses or midwives with extra training in supporting families with babies and young children.
You will usually see a member of the Health Visiting Team around six key times:
- During pregnancy (between 28 and 32 weeks)
- Within 10 to 14 days after your baby is born
- When your baby is around six to eight weeks old
- When your baby is around nine to 12 months old
- When your child is between two and two-and-a-half years old
You can also contact the Health Visiting Team if you have questions or concerns at any time.
Your baby's first vaccinations: what to expect
Your baby’s immune system is still developing in their first year.
Vaccinations help protect your baby from serious illnesses when they are most vulnerable.
Why does my baby need vaccinations?
Your baby’s immune system is still developing, which means they are more likely to catch infections in their first year.
How do vaccines work?
Vaccines help your baby’s immune system learn how to recognise germs and make antibodies to fight them. This protection is built without your baby having to become ill first.
Why can’t babies just build immunity by catching illnesses?
Because babies’ immune systems are still immature, catching infections can make them very unwell. It is much safer for their immune system to learn how to fight diseases through vaccination rather than through infection.
How long does protection last?
Once your baby’s immune system has learned how to respond to a disease, the protection from vaccination can last for many years.
How will I know when my baby is due a vaccination?
When your child is due for their vaccinations, you will receive a letter inviting you to attend a clinic. This usually comes from your GP or health visiting team.
Looking after yourself
Becoming a parent can bring lots of different feelings, especially in the early months.
Some days may feel joyful, others tiring or overwhelming.
All of this is normal. Looking after yourself matters, and small things can make a difference.
Connecting with others
Local baby groups and activities offer a relaxed space to chat, share experiences, and meet others who understand what these early months can be like. You can find local activities through Sandwell Family Hubs.
Getting out and moving
Gentle activity, like a short walk or joining a local session, can help lift your mood and energy. There are programmes for new parents and activities across Sandwell. You can explore what’s available using the Healthy Sandwell activity finder and the Sandwell Family Hubs programme list.
Support with money worries
If things feel hard
If you have been feeling low for a long time, or things start to feel too much, help is available and you do not have to cope on your own. You can find information and support for post-natal depression on the NHS website.