David Withers

David WithersSenior Parenting Advisor David Withers brings over 15 years of expertise in child development and family dynamics to his role as Senior Parenting Advisor at Makes Parenting Watch. A respected voice in the parenting community, David has worked extensively with families, helping them navigate the complexities of raising children through every phase of life—from infancy to adolescence. His articles are known for their evidence-based approach, offering parents practical, actionable tips on topics such as sleep training, positive discipline, developmental milestones, and fostering emotional resilience in children. In addition to his writing, David conducts workshops and webinars to provide personalized advice to parents dealing with specific challenges. His deep understanding of child psychology and development ensures that Makes Parenting Watch remains a valuable and reliable resource for parents seeking guidance in today’s fast-paced world.

Parents bonding with baby

Bonding with Your Baby: Proven Techniques to Connect from Day One

Understanding the Importance of Bonding Bonding with your baby from day one is crucial for their emotional and physical development. Studies show that babies who form secure attachments with their parents tend to have higher self-esteem and better stress management skills later in life (source: American Academy of Pediatrics). Early bonding also promotes brain development, […]

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Newborn is crying

Effective Coping Strategies for Newborn Crying: Tips to Stay Calm and Carry On

Understanding Newborn Crying Newborn crying can feel overwhelming for any parent. It’s crucial to understand why babies cry and decode the reasons behind their cries. Common Reasons for Crying Babies cry to communicate their needs. Common reasons include: The Science Behind Newborn Cries Crying is a critical part of newborn development. According to the National

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Holding a baby crying

Common Newborn Rashes and How to Treat Them: A Parent’s Guide

Understanding Newborn Skin Newborn skin is delicate and sensitive, making it prone to various rashes and irritations. The skin of a newborn is much thinner than that of an adult, which means it’s more susceptible to external factors like friction, moisture, and irritants. This sensitivity requires careful attention and gentle care. Newborns are born with

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Mother wrapping the baby

Caring for a Newborn’s Umbilical Cord: Essential Do’s and Don’ts for New Parents

Importance of Umbilical Cord Care Caring for a newborn’s umbilical cord is crucial for preventing infections and promoting proper healing. An untreated cord stump can become a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to severe health issues. Cleaning and monitoring the stump minimizes risks. The umbilical cord stump typically falls off within the first 1-3 weeks

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Babys First Bath A Step by Step Guide for New Parents

Baby’s First Bath: A Step-by-Step Guide for New Parents

Understanding the Importance of Baby’s First Bath Bathing a newborn serves more than just cleanliness. It’s a bonding experience that strengthens the emotional connection between parent and baby. When babies enter a warm bath, they feel comforted, reminiscent of the womb, instilling a sense of security. A baby’s first bath also offers parents a hands-on

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Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding vs. Formula: Making the Right Choice for Your Baby’s Nutrition & Health

Breastfeeding Basics Breastfeeding offers numerous benefits but also comes with its own set of challenges. I’ll detail these aspects to help you understand what to expect. Benefits of Breastfeeding Breastfeeding provides essential nutrients and antibodies that boost a baby’s immune system. The American Academy of Pediatrics states that breast milk offers ideal nutrition and supports

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Effective Tips for Dealing with Sibling Rivalry Advice for Peaceful Parenting

Effective Tips for Dealing with Sibling Rivalry: Advice for Peaceful Parenting

Understanding Sibling Rivalry Sibling rivalry usually begins after the arrival of a new sibling and continues through adolescence. It typically manifests as jealousy, competition, and fights over attention, resources, and validation. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, it’s a normal part of growth and development, yet it can be a source of stress for

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mother and child doing painting

Building Self-Esteem in Your Child: Practical Tips Every Parent Should Know

Understanding Self-Esteem in Children Children’s self-esteem refers to their perception of their own worth and abilities. It’s a critical component of their overall development. According to the American Psychological Association, self-esteem significantly influences a child’s mental health and behavior. High self-esteem typically results in better coping skills and a more positive outlook on life. Several

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Kids Having Tantrums

Effective Strategies for Managing Tantrums: Tips That Really Work

Understanding Tantrums Tantrums are sudden emotional outbursts, often seen in toddlers and young children. They’re typically characterized by crying, screaming, and physical actions like kicking or hitting. Understanding why they happen is the first step in managing them effectively. Developmental Phase Tantrums are part of normal child development. Children around 1-3 years old experience them

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