Is it Play Before Eat or the Other Way Around?

Yesterday was another excellent day for Parker. He fed very well, consumed just over 600 mL and gained a full two ounces. Mommy and daddy were very pleased with the progress the little monkey made on their anniversary.

The dietitian came to visit Parker to measure and record how well he has been growing. Parker’s head circumference has grown a full two centimeters, measured 39 centimeters. His length was recorded at 19.5 inches, half an inch greater than his birth length. These measurements are meant to act as a baseline to refer to from here on in. Although Parker’s measurements were taken at birth the apparatus used here at Sick Kids is much more precise.


Parker may not be growing extremely quickly but all the doctors, nurses and staff have been commenting on how well he is doing developmentally. During his tummy time, Parker was able to lift his head even higher than Thursday. Parker’s climbing has also continued to improve. The little monkey is not a happy camper when I hold him unless I let him climb up my body. Today, his doctor commented on how immpressed she was with his head control. Parker loves his new gymni. You can see him playing with the toys while lying on his back. Something that he really gets a kick out of doing.


If there is something that daddy has learned the past couple of days, it is not to over stimulate Parker after he has eaten. Sometimes it is difficult when all daddy wants to do is play and all Parker wants to do is climb over his daddy’s stomach and look over his shoulder. The end result is usually a good vomit setting us back a 75 – 100 mL feed and daddy feeling a little down for causing it. Parker doesn't like it when daddy feels bad so daddy has learned that it is definately play before food and not the other way around.