All you can think about during pregnancy is keeping your baby safe, religiously sticking to your diet, and staying healthy for yourself and them. Besides that, you are occupied with maternity clothes, baby names, and the architecture and decorations of the nursery. But you get a clearer picture during Lamaze when you hit the right trimester. Still, the gravity of the responsibility does not unfold until after delivery.
But it is essential to prepare, especially if it is your first.
Baby care basics are straightforward; you just need a gentle hand, patience, and a lot of love. We’ve compiled some basics in this blog for you to sift through. So here’s your quick, albeit ultimate, baby care guide.
Jump to:
Visit the doctor
It’s crucial to never miss your baby’s doctor’s appointments. The doctor will ensure vaccinations are on time, monitor your baby’s vitals, and will suggest how to modify the diet as the child grows older.
Your doctor will also help spot any signs of birth injuries and prevent the condition from worsening. These injuries are very common, and while most quickly heal in a few weeks, some conditions like cerebral palsy and Erb’s palsy can be life-altering. If your child shows signs and symptoms of the latter type, visit the birth injury justice center for more information on legal help. You can sue the negligent medical staff and facility for damages.
Diaper management
Diapers can be dreadful – especially for the dads. However, diaper changing requires the most focus of all baby care activities. Once you get the hang of it, it will be like a stroll in the park. Diapering has, over the years, become easier for moms and dads. You can opt for the disposable diaper brand that fits your baby’s and your needs the best in terms of costs and comfort.
You must be very careful with every baby care activity, even changing diapers. It is easy. You are better off creating a small diaper station in your baby’s nursery with all the supplies – wipes, ointments, lotions. Once prepared, gently lay the baby down and unlatch the diaper holding the baby’s legs up by their ankles. Carefully fold the diaper and discard it. Quickly use wipes and clean and put on a new one.
It’s bathtime
Bathing is fun. It can be very relaxing for both the baby and you. It gets more exciting when there are siblings and when the babies are older. Older babies enjoy the interaction, which also helps them learn and stimulates brain growth.
But it can also be dangerous if you’re not careful, especially for young babies. Leaving them alone in their bathtub looking for bathing supplies is dangerous. Have the basics within arm’s reach – a towel, washcloth, and any soaps, shampoos, and lotions you use. Ensure these are gentle on the skin. The water needs to be at the right temperature – not too cold, not too hot. Remember to test the water first. Ensure the nursery or the room where you’ll bring the baby after the bath is warm so the baby doesn’t catch a cold.
How to hold the baby
Who does not love holding a baby? If you are a beginner, the first few times can be tricky. Your baby will be old enough to walk in a year or two, but parents must learn how to hold their child securely.
There are different ways to go about this. You can cradle the baby with the cradle hold. This comes naturally and is simple. Gently place the baby’s head in the crook of one arm and wrap the other arm around the baby. Cradling is perfect for holding or talking to your baby. Some other holds include the belly hold used for burping the baby, the hip hold, the shoulder hold, and the sling hold used for breastfeeding.
Feeding the baby
Feeding your baby is not only about nutrition – comfort and nurturing are also important considerations. For breastfeeding, you will need to choose a position. It can be sitting or lying down – most mothers prefer the former. This position will vary with the baby’s weight, needs, and age. For early nursing, the sling hold is perfect.
Some mothers prefer breastfeeding in the dark. While this may lend them comfort, it is not the recommended way. You are advised to monitor your baby closely as there are certain things you want to ensure. Record your baby’s behavior when breastfeeding in a journal and adapt accordingly.
Moving from breastfeeding to bottle feeding is not too complicated. However, switching to formula milk is better left consulted with your doctor. As your baby grows, they will find the transition natural. What you need to ensure with both formula and non-formula feed is temperature. Never microwave bottles as they are dangerous for infants. Bottle feeding gives you a lot of room with positions. It is tricky with young babies but more manageable with older ones. Come up with something that suits your baby’s needs, and you are good to go.
Conclusion
Babies require a gentle touch, love, and attention. Even when you do everything right, from changing diapers to warming milk at the right temperature, it carries no meaning without love. Babies channel their parents’ feelings. Ensure you have nothing but love and warmth to offer, and stick to the tips mentioned above to ensure proper care
