Hello,
I have only ever read forums and never actually voiced an opinion but I feel very interested in this one as Gina Ford has been my saviour!
I was lent a well worn copy of the CLB book by my sister in law when I was pregnant. I had always wanted to follow my sister in laws' (I have two) example as they have such happy family lives.
I was very careful not to mention my intention to be a routine mum to my wonderful midwife as there is so much pressure to be a demand feed mum these days - the times and fads change but unfortunately the only thing that remains the same is that the current ideas are always heavily instructed upon us.
To my delight my daughter didn't lose any weight in her first week and she gained on her birthweight in the second week but I was still very careful not to mention the word 'routine' to any of the nurses who made home visits (I had a different one visiting me at home every day for a week). In fact, I remember in a moment of panic hiding Gina Ford under my couch before one of these visits - I felt like a heretic or something!!
After following this book I felt so much more confident in being aware of my babies behaviour especially when she talks about babies drifting in to a light sleep and needing to learn to settle themselves.
Most of my close friends are demand feed mums and they are wonderful mums. We are all doing what we feel is right for our children.