Bringing Your Baby Home: Part 3 of 3

Newborn baby care is an important part of parenting. Knowing how to take care of a baby properly is essential for their health and wellbeing. To make sure your baby is healthy and safe, there are a few key points to keep in mind.

First, it’s important to make sure your baby is getting enough sleep. Most babies need around 16 hours of sleep every day, so make sure they have a comfortable place to sleep at night and during naps. Choose a safe and comfortable environment that is free from hazards and noise. In our previous post, we discussed safe sleep–please refer to the AAP and CDC guidelines to reduce the risk of SIDS/SUIDs. Once you’ve established a good sleeping routine, stick to it as much as possible. Your newborn will not sleep through the night right away…no matter what you see on social media

Second, make sure your baby is getting enough nutrition. Breastfeeding is the healthiest and most natural way to feed your baby, but if you’re unable to breastfeed, formula is a perfect alternative. Your newborn infant should eat every 2-3 hours around the clock, unless your pediatrician tells you otherwise. When it’s time to introduce solids (not before 6 months of age), choose soft, nutrient-dense foods that are easy for baby to digest.

Third, keep your baby clean and dry. This means changing diapers frequently, washing hands and surfaces often, and bathing your baby at least once a week. As an aside, bathing your baby immediately out of the womb is not necessary and can be detrimental to the mother-baby bonding process. Wait on soap until it’s absolutely necessary at home. It’s important to make sure your baby’s skin stays hydrated and doesn’t get irritated. Lotions are rarely necessary for the newborn, but if you do use a moisturizer, make sure the ingredients are limited and simple (like olive oil or coconut oil would be good choices)

Fourth, make sure your baby is getting enough physical activity. Say what?! Babies need exercise and movement to help them develop. Some activities to consider include tummy time, playing on the floor, and going for walks. Tummy time is an important part of helping your baby develop motor skills and can be performed for a few minutes at a time, right from the start.

Finally, spend time bonding with your baby. Babies need love and attention to feel secure and well adjusted. Talk to them, read to them, and play with them. They may not be able to understand all the words yet, but they’ll pick up on your emotions and body language. I used to tell my babies what everything was all over the house…so much so that my youngest daughter’s first word was ball (followed by mama, of course)

By following these tips, you can help make sure your baby stays healthy, happy and safe. Not only will this help your baby grow and develop, but it will also ensure that you both have a great experience in the first few months of your child’s life, and set the stage for a lifelong bond. All of these tips hold true for 2 parent families as well as solo parents!