Taking care of a newborn - what you should know

Having a baby is like the beginning of all new things – the wonder, the hope, a world of possibilities. Even when you are challenged by the demands of caring for your baby, look for the little joys in each day…gummy grins, sweet snuggles and cute coos.

On this photo are me with my little daughter in her 2 days and

there are 6 main things you should know about that age:

1. Breastfeeding.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding ( no formula, water, juice or foods such as infant cereal) for the first 6 months. After solids are introduced, continued breastfeeding is recommended until your baby is at least a year old.

- Feed your baby whenever you see their feeding cues.

- Breastfeed about 8-12 times in a day, including night feeding.

- Let your baby breastfeed as long as they are actively sucking and swallowing.

2. Newborn’s stool.

- A baby’s first bowel movement, called meconium is black, sticky and should be passed in the first 24 hours after delivery.

- A breastfed baby’s stools should become loose, yellow and seedy by Day 5.

- Your newborn should have at least 6 wet diapers with pale-colored urine every day bu Day 5.

- The number of stools may decrease after 4-6 weeks.

3. Diapering.

Most newborns cry while being changed so keep it quick;)

You will need a diapers, wipes, warm water and ointment in case they have a rash. But I really suggest you to use a warm water instead of wipes every time when you have a water!!!

4. Bathing and dressing)

You can bathe your baby in an infant tub or basin just after hospital in case everything is fine and unless your doctor tell you something.

But please remember next safety guidelines:

- never leave your baby alone on or around water;

- stop running the hot water before putting your baby in; the temperature can change quickly;

- don’t add water while your baby is in the tub!

- Dip your elbow in the water to check the temperature before using.

Something about dressing:

- use soft and comfortable clothes ( perfect if it will be cotton) without rough tags, zippers or seams.

- One-piece outfits with a wide neck and snaps at the crotch can make diaper changes easier.

- Use only baby’s detergent for doing laundry. It means that you should use it not only for baby’s clothes but for parents clothes too since baby’s skin may contact with it!

5. Nail care.

Your baby’s little nails are soft but sharp. Keep them short so they don’t scratch themselves.

Some parents use hand mitts to avoid nail scratches, but I don’t recommend you doing that. These may interfere with your baby’s hand-to-mouth feeding cues. And this is also not good for developing your baby nervous system.

6. Skin care

-Infant acne - you may notice some red or white bumps on your baby’s face, especially chicks, nose and forehead. It develops within the first 3-4 weeks after delivery due to hormones that stimulate oil glands. They typically clears up on its own within 3 months.

- Cradle cap - scaly yellow or white patches on your baby’s scalp. It is harmless and usually goes away on its own in 6-12 months.

Best wishes as you begin your parenting journey!