The journal.

The danger in your DMs: Who exactly is putting your baby to sleep?

Unlicensed baby sleep consultants in the UK are giving advice that directly contradicts NHS safe sleep guidance — including placing newbor…

Are we doing the right thing? A Dubai Mum's honest thoughts

The question of whether you give up yourself — your ambitions, your work, your drive, the bits of you that existed before you became a mot…

So you left Dubai. Who's looking after you and your baby?

With a health visitor shortfall of 5,000 posts in England alone and very few IBCLC-qualified lactation consultants offering home visits in…

You packed a bag. You didn't pack your village.

For every Dubai/UAE mum living with uncertainty right now. Whether you've left, you're thinking about it or you're staying put and wonderi…

Why antenatal classes in Dubai are different (and why generic online courses won't prepare you for birth here)

You're 28 weeks pregnant in Dubai. You've downloaded that popular UK-based online antenatal course everyone recommends. You've watched thr…

The first 48 hours: What happens after birth that no one warned you about

Everyone prepares for labour. Almost no one prepares for what comes after. You've packed your hospital bag, practiced your breathing, mayb…

What actually happens in labour: A midwife and lactation consultant answer the questions you're too embarrassed to ask

You're lying awake at 2am, 34 weeks pregnant, googling "what does a contraction actually feel like" for the seventeenth time this week. Th…

The questions that really help you decide if a nursery is right for your family

The questions that really help you decide if a nursery is right for your family

What every parent should look for in childcare in 2026

Choosing childcare in 2026 feels very different to how it did even five years ago. Parents are more informed, more questioning, and far le…

Mums’ WhatsApp groups: The good, the bad, the ugly (and the downright unsafe)

Mums’ WhatsApp groups: The good, the bad, the ugly (and the downright unsafe). If you're a Dubai Mum, chances are you’re in at least one W…

The KHDA school cut-off age changes: what options do you have?

This is where nurseries really matter... One thing I hope comes out of this whole conversation is a renewed respect for nurseries — becaus…

New Dubai school admissions age rules 2025–26: What the KHDA cut-off change really means for parents

New Dubai school admissions age rules 2025–26: what the KHDA cut-off change actually means (without the panic).

Returning to work after having a baby in Dubai: The honest guide I wish I’d had

One minute you’re figuring out newborn sleep, nipple shields and how on earth to get out of the house with a baby in 45-degree heat… and t…

Skin-to-skin and the golden hour: the quiet magic of those first moments

Discover why skin-to-skin contact and the golden hour after birth matter so much. Learn how this first connection supports breastfeeding, …

Why won’t my newborn baby latch? Looking at the reasons behind latch challenges

If you’ve just had your baby and breastfeeding isn’t going to plan, you’re not alone—and you’re certainly not doing anything wrong.

Are maternity systems failing parents? A look at gaps in postnatal care and community support

What happens when families fall through the cracks: A local and global perspective on perinatal support.

Your baby’s wellbeing: A holistic approach to health and happiness

As parents, we all want the best for our little ones. We want them to grow up healthy, happy, and thriving—not just physically, but emotio…

Breast Is best — or Is It? Reframing the feeding conversation for 2025

Why it’s time to talk honestly about breastfeeding, formula, and what Mums really need. Few topics spark as much debate—or as much guilt—a…

From birth plans to birth preferences: Why flexibility matters more than control

Are modern birth plans setting parents up for disappointment? Read on for an honest look at birth expectations, and why they matter.

Nanny or Nursery? An honest guide for Dubai parents thinking about childcare options

Dubai Mums, you’re not alone: Deciding between a nanny or nursery for your little one? Read on for some info to help you make the right ch…

Babies before bottom lines: Why investing in breastfeeding means investing in the future

Every August, World Breastfeeding Week gives us the opportunity to reflect, advocate, and act on one of the most impactful health interven…

Wondering whether to have your baby in Dubai or 'back home'?

Weighing up where to welcome your baby: Home country vs Dubai? Read on for all the pros and cons.

Language development in multicultural families: Strategies for raising bilingual children in Dubai

Dubai is home to over 200 nationalities, and it’s common for children to hear and speak multiple languages every day. In this blog, I look…

Maternity leave in the UAE: What every working mum needs to know

Whether you’re planning to return to full-time work, seeking a more flexible role, or dreaming up a business of your own, you deserve supp…

Beating the heat: How to survive the Dubai summer with a baby

The Dubai summer can be intense, especially with a baby in tow—but you are not alone. With some simple planning, the right support, and a …

Gentle night weaning: A loving approach to ending breastfeeding at night

Breastfeeding your toddler at night has been a source of comfort, bonding, and nourishment—but if you’re starting to feel ready for night …

Embracing your new identity: Growing into motherhood

Becoming a mother is often described as the most beautiful, life-changing experience a woman can have. But what people don’t always tell y…

High lipase in breastmilk: What it is & how to prevent that soapy taste

If you've ever expressed and stored your milk only to find that it smells or tastes soapy, metallic, or even sour, you might be dealing wi…

The role of nutrition in sleep

How does nutrition affect you child's sleep patterns? Read on to find out, and how to incorporate sleepy foods into your little one's diet.

Improving your baby’s wellbeing: A holistic approach to health and happiness

A holistic approach to baby and child health isn’t about doing everything perfectly—it’s about making small, mindful choices that support …

Navigating motherhood in Dubai: Finding your village of support, connection & compassion

You weren’t meant to mother in isolation, so if you’ve just landed in Dubai, had a baby, or are navigating motherhood for the first (or th…

Empowering your nanny: The benefits of professional training for nannies in Dubai

Most Nannies in Dubai have no formal childcare training. While 'on the job' experience is invaluable, we should never underestimate the va…

Let's talk about postpartum rage

'Postpartum rage' can be a standalone issue or coexist with conditions like postpartum/postnatal depression (PPD/PND) and anxiety. Recogni…

Boosting milk supply: Effective strategies for nursing mothers in Dubai

Establishing successful breastfeeding: A guide for new mothers in dubai

Whether you're preparing for your breastfeeding journey or need postpartum support, this blog will offer practical tips and resources to h…

The value of antenatal class education: Preparing for Birth and Beyond in Dubai

At Lullabies, we’re passionate about empowering families to approach birth and early parenthood with confidence and knowledge. That’s why …

Why does nobody speak about post-breastfeeding depression?

Breastfeeding is often described as one of the most intimate and rewarding aspects of motherhood. But what happens when it ends?

The benefits of baby massage

Baby massage is more than a soothing experience; it’s a powerful way to support your baby’s development, well-being, and bond with you. Fr…

How to manage sleep and feeding schedules as a working mum

Returning to work after having a baby is a big transition, especially when you’re balancing feeding and sleep schedules. It can feel overw…

10 common breastfeeding challenges and how to manage them

Worried about breastfeeding? In this blog, I’ll talk about some of the most common breastfeeding problems (tongue tie, latching problems, …

Why prenatal breastfeeding education is essential for expectant parents

At Lullabies, we know that a good start is essential for successful breastfeeding. This is why our prenatal breastfeeding workshops in Dub…

The essential guide to hand expressing: benefits, techniques, and when it’s most useful

Hand expression is a simple, yet effective technique to express breast milk manually. Whether you're a new mum or have experience breastfe…

Milk blebs: Causes, treatment, and prevention

Milk blebs, also known as nipple blebs or milk blisters, are a common but painful issue that breastfeeding mothers may encounter. Let's lo…

What to eat while breastfeeding: Nutrition for mums

Maintaining a nutritious and balanced diet while breastfeeding is essential for your health and your baby’s development. By focusing on ke…

Nighttime breastfeeding: Tips for tired mums

Managing the challenges of frequent overnight breastfeeding: practical tips to make nighttime breastfeeding more manageable for tired mums.

Breastfeeding in hot weather: Do babies need water?

As a lactation consultant in Dubai, I frequently encounter questions from mothers about whether their babies need additional water, especi…

Managing breast engorgement and sore nipples

Two common issues that many new mothers face are breast engorgement and sore nipples, especially in the early days of breastfeeding. In th…

What is colostrum harvesting, why and when is it advised?

If you'd like to know what colostrum harvesting is, why and when to do it, keep reading for all you need to know.

Is my baby getting enough breastmilk?

One of the most common concerns for new mothers in Dubai (and around the world!) is whether their baby is getting enough breast milk, espe…

How to choose the right breast pump as a new mum

Considering pumping or expressing breast milk? Read on for everything you need to know about choosing the right breast pump for your needs.

Do I need a Lactation Consultant?

If you’re wondering why you might need a Lactation Consultant or how they can make a difference in your breastfeeding journey, keep readin…

Clogged ducts and mastitis: A guide for mums

Mastitis and clogged ducts. Words that strike fear into the heart of every breastfeeding mother. In this blog, I'm going to take a look at…

Breast milk pumping essentials for working mums: What you need to know

What you need to know about breastmilk pumping when returning to work.

Building your breast milk stash: A guide for working mums

Breastfeeding and worried about your baby not feeding when you return to work? Here's everything you need to know to help you build a free…

The benefits of Power Pumping for low breastmilk supply

What is Power Pumping for low breastmilk supply? Do i need to Power Pump? How do I Power Pump? Read on below for the answers to all of tho…

Understanding parenting styles and how they influence sleep coaching and breastfeeding

Let's learn about parenting styles and how they play a significant role in shaping the parent-child relationship and influence your child'…

Navigating sleep coaching for children with epilepsy

Spotlighting epilepsy and its impact on sleep in babies and children.

Children's mental health, and why it matters

As we find ourselves in Mental Health Awareness Month, it's a fitting time to spotlight an often overlooked aspect of mental wellbeing: ch…

The sleep-mental health connection: nurturing children's well-being

In the world of childhood development, sleep emerges as a vital thread, woven in with mental health and overall well-being.

Matrescence: Navigating the journey of motherhood with awareness and understanding

Let's look at what matrescence is, how it impacts maternal mental health, and why acknowledging this transition is crucial for women's wel…

The importance of maternal mental health

As we mark Maternal Mental Health Month, it’s important to spotlight a topic still overlooked amidst the chaos of new motherhood: the impo…

How do I wean my baby or child from the breast?

Weaning your baby or child from breastfeeding marks a significant transition for both you and your baby, so how do you start?

Tandem feeding: Loving and growing two babies, one boob at a time

It’s National Siblings Day today, so let’s talk about the world of tandem feeding–where breastmilk feeds and nurtures not just one, but tw…

Does traditional sleep coaching work in children with autism?

For children with autism, sleep can present unique challenges, often requiring a unique approach that goes beyond traditional methods. In …

Marking Parental Mental Health Week

As we mark Parental Mental Health Week, it’s important to spotlight a topic still overlooked amidst the chaos of new parenthood-hood: the …

Guest Blog: Nikki Steele-Osborne on Parental Mental Health Awareness Week

When a new baby arrives, it's a whirlwind of adjustments that often goes unacknowledged. Few people acknowledge the struggles faced by par…

Why is sleep important for mothers? Understanding the vital role of quality rest

Amidst the chaos, it's essential to recognise the profound impact that quality sleep – or lack of it – can have on maternal and family wel…

How to find the best sleep consultant for your family's needs

How do you find the best sleep consultant for your family? Read on to find out.

Natural sleep cues part 3 - secret baby sleep cues you may be missing

A sleep coach's guide to the subtle baby sleep cues that are easy to miss.

Natural sleep cues part 2 - Learning your baby's early sleep cues

Learning your baby's sleep cues to know the best time for naps.

Understanding and embracing natural sleep cues - Part 1, the baby sleep mantra

What is a 'sleep mantra'? How does it help your little one get to sleep?

Lactose intolerance in baby sleep coaching

This blog explores topics that will sadly strike a chord with many parents - the topics of reflux, CMPA (cows milk protein allergy) and la…

Nurturing Breastfeeding Etiquette: A Guide for Sleep-Deprived Mums

Nursing aversion? Toddler gaining bad habits when breastfeeding? Read on for some tips to help.

Cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA) in baby sleep coaching & sleep training

Part 2 of my 3 part blog covers CMPA, otherwise known as Cows Milk Protein Allergy and how responsive, gentle & holistic sleep coaching or…

Reflux in baby sleep coaching & sleep training

Part 1 of a 3 part series on reflux, CMPA and lactose intolerance in babies & children. Part 1 covers gastro-oesophageal reflux and how sl…

Is a floor bed right for your family? The ins and outs of floor beds for toddlers

Should I move my little one to a floor bed? What are the advantage and disadvantages of floor beds for my child?

What are false starts and how can you fix them?

If you've ever experienced your baby falling asleep only to wake up shortly after, you're not alone. In this blog post, we'll dive into th…

Helping Your Baby Sleep Better: Understanding Reverse Cycling & Sleep Aversions

What is reverse cycling, and how does this relate to sleep aversion?

Do you have to night wean to sleep train?

Ever wondered if you have to night wean to sleep train? Where do you even start? How do you do it? How do you know when it's the right tim…

Why do parents give up on sleep coaching?

Have you tried sleep coaching before and it didn't work? Tried with either a standard self guided sleep training programme or with advice …

What does your baby's crying mean?

Still getting to know your baby? Confused as to what their cries mean? Worried about starting sleep coaching or sleep training and being t…

Why is my baby waking up for hours at night?

Is your baby awake for hours overnight? Read on to find out why and some sleep training tips to help you resolve it!

How does your parenting style affect sleep coaching?

Explore how your parenting style—be it authoritarian, permissive, authoritative, or attachment-based—impacts the sleep training process fo…

Understanding Child Cot Aversion During Sleep Training and Coaching

What to do when your baby or toddler suffers from cot aversion and how to help them feel safe, secure and happy in their sleep environment.

The Power of Micro-Steps in Sleep Coaching for Infants and Toddlers

Learn how micro-steps in sleep coaching can help improve your child’s sleep patterns and create a happier, healthier household.

Smooth Moves: Transitioning to a big bed

Transitioning your toddler from cot to bed can be exciting yet challenging. Introduce the bed gradually, maintain a consistent bedtime rou…

What is 'reverse cycling'?

Tiredness, irritability and difficulty sleeping are all signs of reverse cycling... but just what is it and what can we do about it?

6 Beliefs That Influence Lullabies Sleep Coaching

Want to know my core beliefs and ethics that govern how I practice sleep coaching? Read on to find out if we align!

Spring forward - adjusting your child's sleep for the clock change.

What's the best way to cope with the dreaded clock change? I've got some tips to help.

Just why are naps so important?

Sleep is a big part of your child's overall health. For young kids to get enough of it, most need some daytime sleep.

How to choose the right sleep trainer for your child

Read my blog for the questions to ask your potential sleep coach!

So just what is sleep coaching or sleep training?!

So just what exactly is sleep coaching/sleep training and how does it work?! Read on to get a better understanding of just what a sleep co…

The Sweet Spot: Unlocking the Right Time to Sleep Coach Your Little One

When is the right time to start sleep coaching your little one? There's no right or wrong answer but I can help you decide on the time tha…

Travelling with your child

Travelling with your little one this holiday season? Here are my top tips and coping strategies!

Nap transitions

Nap transitions can be stressful, exhausting, and downright frustrating to figure out what’s best. Here are my top tips for a successful n…

Early risings

Early wakings are usually the last piece of the sleep puzzle to slot into place. I've got some ways to help convince your little one to sl…

Sleep Coaching Methods

There are a few sleep coaching and training methods, from cry it out to baby-led, that you may have stumbled upon during some 3 am despera…

Why sleep coaching hasn't worked so far

It can be hard to persevere with sleep coaching our children. After days and nights of not getting the expected results it's not hard to s…

Safe sleep for your baby

As a new parent, one of the most important things you can do for your baby is to ensure they are getting safe and restful sleep. However, …