We often hear that there’s no such thing as a textbook for raising children. We say that’s debatable. We’re only joking; there is no textbook, but practical tips and advice from those who are experienced with the actual physical care of a newborn are almost as good as having a textbook. The tiny bundle of joy requires constant attention and care. Here are some essential tips to help you navigate the early days of parenthood.
Feeding Your Little One
- Breast or Bottle? Decide whether you’ll breastfeed or bottle-feed. Both methods provide essential nutrients. Remember to do what is good for you and our baby.
- On-Demand: Feed your baby when they’re hungry. This is often signalled by fussiness, rooting, or sucking on their hands. Their tiny bodies will need more frequent feeds.
- Burping: Burp your baby after feeding to help expel any swallowed air. It can be particularly painful for them if you don’t help burp them.
- Feeding Cues: Pay attention to your baby’s feeding cues, such as rooting, sucking on their hands, or making sucking sounds. Learn what they are so that you can remove some of the guesswork and respond accordingly.
- Breastfeeding Challenges: If you’re breastfeeding, be prepared to address common challenges like sore nipples, engorgement, or latch issues. While the experience is beautiful, the start can be somewhat rocky. Bottle-Feeding Tips: Hold your baby close and maintain eye contact, just like you would when breastfeeding.
Sleep and Safety
- Back is Best: Always place your baby on their back to sleep. This reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Remember “back to sleep” so that you remember to put them on their back while sleeping.
- Safe Sleep Environment: Ensure a safe sleep environment without loose blankets, pillows, or stuffed animals.
- Swaddling: Swaddling mimics the womb, which is why babies love being swaddled. It can help soothe your baby and promote sleep. However, be cautious not to wrap your baby too tightly.
- Sleep Schedules: As your baby grows, you may start to establish a consistent sleep routine. They won’t be born with a sleep routine in their systems, so be realistic with your expectations.
- Nighttime Wake-Ups: Be prepared for frequent nighttime wake-ups during the early months.
Nappy Care
- Frequent Changes and Gentle Cleaning: Change your baby’s nappies frequently to prevent diaper rash. Use warm water and a soft cloth when you’re at home, and save the wet wipes for when you’re out and about.
- Nappy Rash Prevention & Treatment: Apply a nappy rash cream as needed. If nappy rash makes an unwelcome appearance, consult your healthcare practitioner for treatment.
- Disposable or Cloth Nappies: Decide whether you’ll use disposable or cloth diapers. Both have advantages and disadvantages. Today, more cloth nappy options are available to parents than just a few years ago.
Bathing Basics
- Delayed Bath: Wait at least 24 hours after birth before giving your baby their first bath. Allow that wonderful vernex to absorb into their skin.
- Proper Baby Bath and Warm Water: Use lukewarm and gentle baby soap. A proper baby bath may seem like a luxury, but it is designed to hold your baby comfortably at a height that allows you to take strain off your back and abdomen.
- Support Their Head: Always support your baby’s head and neck during bath time.
- Bath Time Safety: Be cautious of hot water scalds and slippery surfaces.
Bonding and Comfort
- Skin-to-Skin Contact: Holding your baby skin-to-skin can help regulate their temperature, heart rate, and breathing.
- Soothing Techniques: Try swaddling, rocking, or singing to soothe your baby.
- Pacifier: A pacifier can help soothe your baby.
- Baby Massage: Gentle massage can help relax your baby and promote bonding. It also helps stimulate their developing muscles.
- Tummy Time: Remember to place your baby on their time when their little necks get stronger. This encourages strengthening all their body muscles.
- Consult Your Paediatrician: If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to consult your paediatrician or midwife. Adhere to their immunisation schedule and ask questions, even if you think they are silly.
- Wear Your Baby: No, you’re not spoiling your baby. Hold them close and comforted while keeping your hands free.
- Join a Support Group: Connecting with other parents can provide emotional support and valuable advice.
- Trust Your Instincts: As a parent, you’ll develop a strong intuition about your baby’s needs. Your intuition will always tell you when you feel something is working, or doesn’t so allow yourself space to learn to trust your inner voice.ย
Be patient and flexible, enjoy the precious moments with your newborn and donโt be afraid to ask for help. This is the time to lean into your tribe, even if itโs for a good cry, a glass of your favourite drink or having them look after the baby while you and your partner have an hour to yourselves. Youโve got this, mamaโฆtap into your magic!
