Top 10 Things To Know When Caring For A Newborn Baby

If you’re about to become a new parent, you probably have all kinds of questions about caring for your newborn baby. Are you wondering about how frequently to feed your baby? Should you wake her up at night? What if she cries and cries, but won’t stop crying? Find out the answers to these questions and more by following our guide on caring for your newborn.

1. All babies are different

Just because your best friend’s baby is adorable and slept through night for three months doesn’t mean that your little bundle of joy will do things exactly as his sibling did. There are so many factors that go into every baby: genetics, stress level, temperament and environment to name a few. If you want to keep your sanity intact, don’t compare your child to others! Instead, focus on what works best for your baby (and your family). Every newborn is different; they all have their own personality quirks and needs. Don’t get discouraged if something doesn’t work right away or if you need to try something new in order to get some sleep.

2. Be prepared before you go home

You’ve probably spent a good deal of time preparing for your baby to come home from the hospital. This includes making sure you have all of her supplies and equipment, and getting yourself mentally prepared to care for an infant. But what about when she actually arrives? Here are ten things you should do before you bring your baby home. These steps will help ensure that both you and your newborn settle into parenthood without any major hiccups.

3. How to bath a newborn

Your baby is born with a full coating of vernix, a waxy substance that protects her delicate skin during pregnancy. You can use an infant bath sponge to remove it from her face and body. Hold your newborn facing you, so she doesn’t slip beneath the water. Squeeze warm water onto her back in circular motions, gently moving up toward her head. Rinse well under warm running water and apply a small amount of mild soap if desired—but be sure to rinse her thoroughly after.

4. How to swaddle your newborn

Proper swaddling helps make your newborn feel safe and cozy. Start by wrapping a blanket (or receiving blanket) with a tight but loose knot at one end. Place your baby on his back, then fold in both sides of the blanket across his chest and tuck them under his arms. Bring up both ends of the blanket, crossing them over his shoulders, then wrap them around him twice to create a snug fit.

5. What’s the right temperature?

Is your baby too hot or too cold? This is a common concern for new parents. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that room temperature be kept at 70-75 degrees, but every infant is different. While you should dress your baby in as little clothing as possible, some newborns feel most comfortable when swaddled in blankets. As always, check your baby’s hands and feet to make sure they’re not getting too cold or hot. If you’re worried about your child’s comfort level, take his/her temperature with a rectal thermometer (if it’s under 100 degrees) or an armpit thermometer (if it’s over 100).

6. Choosing the right type of crib

Some parents love to have their newborn sleep right next to them, while others would prefer a crib that’s adjacent or near to their bedroom. We’ll take a look at some of the factors you should consider when choosing between these two options—including safety and practicality—to help you decide which is best for your family.

7. What are colic, tummy troubles and reflux?

You might hear these words often when caring for a newborn. They’re all different symptoms of stomach pain in babies, caused by a baby’s immature digestive system, intestinal immaturity and still-growing body. Colic is abdominal pain that occurs more than three times per day and lasts more than three hours at a time, more than three days per week, for more than three weeks in an otherwise healthy baby who is growing well.

Tummy troubles are similar to colic but do not include colicky crying; they are also longer-lasting (more than five hours) and occur less frequently (less than three days per week). Reflux is when food or liquid comes back up from your baby’s stomach into his or her esophagus. It can cause vomiting, coughing or gagging. Reflux typically happens within one hour after eating and will resolve on its own after several minutes to several hours without treatment.

8. Understand normal newborn behavior

Knowing what is and isn’t normal for a newborn will help put your mind at ease when caring for a new baby. Babies can be unpredictable, and it’s important to know that fussiness and crying are all part of their normal, ever-changing newborn behaviour. One day they might want to nurse every hour, while another day they might not want anything to do with it. One day they might sleep for five hours straight through, while another day they wake up every two hours. The best thing you can do as a parent is learn how to care for your newborn and adapt accordingly as needed.

9. Understanding teething pain

Babies often experience pain with teething, which can cause irritability and even sleeplessness. If your baby is uncomfortable or fussy, try to soothe her with cool water or a teething ring; if that doesn’t help, it may be time to contact your pediatrician. Baby toothbrushes are also available and often work well as a helpful distraction. Be sure to speak with your doctor before giving any kind of medicine or drug to a child.

10. Do’s and don’ts when caring for a newborn

Babies are a lot of work, but they’re also cute and fun. These little humans bring joy into your life like no other person can. However, when you decide to have a baby, there are some things you need to know before they come into your world—and once they arrive. Here are our top ten must-knows for caring for a newborn

Also read:- Caring For A Newborn Babyhttps://www.parents.com/baby/care/american-baby-how-tos/newborn-baby-boot-camp/