Posted by: Beth Martin, RN , Jennifer Hofherr on Jan 22, 2026


Learn how skin-to-skin time, pacifier practice, and non-nutritive breast/chest feeding help preterm babies in the NICU develop coordinated sucking, swallowing, and breathing so they can transition from tube feeds to successful oral feeding.

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Pediatric News You Can Use From America’s Largest Pediatric Hospital and Research Center

700 Children’s® features the most current pediatric health care information and research from our pediatric experts – physicians and specialists who have seen it all. Many of them are parents and bring a special understanding to what our patients and families experience. If you have a child – or care for a child – 700 Children’s was created especially for you.

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Blog formula substitution

Formula Shortage: What Parents Can Do

May 17, 2022

The infant formula shortage that is currently impacting the United States has reached an unprecedented level. It has left families wondering what they should feed their children if they cannot find their usual formula. Read More

family with toddler and new baby.

Helping Your Child Adjust to a New Baby

Feb 15, 2022

Bringing home a new baby means many changes for the whole family. Here are some ideas to help prevent and manage behavior problems and help your child transition into the role of “big sibling.” Read More

pregnant mom holding her belly.

What Pregnant Moms Can Do to Keep Baby Healthy

Jan 11, 2022

Since more than half of pregnancies are unplanned, people who were assigned female at birth and are of reproductive age should take at least 400 micrograms of folic acid every day to help decrease the risk of neural tube defects. Read More

baby being bathed.

How to Bathe Your Baby: What You Need to Know

Dec 16, 2021

Giving a baby a bath can be intimidating at first – they are wiggly and slippery and SO tiny. Below are some tips that will help you have a positive and safe bath time experience. Read More

Baby bottle feeding.

How to Choose a Baby Formula

Nov 18, 2021

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends human milk as the sole source of nutrition for the first six months of life. However, if human milk is not an option, a baby formula should be used to help meet a baby’s full nutrition needs. Read More

baby laying on its back with a hand caressing its head

All About Baby's Soft Spot

Sep 28, 2021

You may have noticed one or two areas on your baby’s head that do not feel like they contain a bony covering. These are your baby’s soft spots, or fontanelles. Read More

baby in NICU.

Necrotizing Enterocolitis: What You Need to Know

Aug 26, 2021

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a disease of the intestines that most commonly affects premature babies. It is characterized by excessive inflammation of the intestines that can lead to intestinal damage and death. Read More

Mother sitting on a couch, breasfeeding her baby

Breastfeeding/Chestfeeding Older Infants: Nutrition and Weaning

Aug 19, 2021

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends human milk exclusively for the first six months. In many countries, it is common to breastfeed/chestfeed for two years or longer. Read More