7 Practical Ways To Care For A Newborn Baby
Taking care of a newborn is a huge responsibility. The first few weeks with your newborn can feel a bit overwhelming. Also, getting to know and providing your tot with the care they need is a long process.
So if you have just entered into motherhood, we congratulate you on embarking on this incredible journey. However, if you are a little confused and don’t know where to begin, we’ve got you covered.
Keep reading and find out the most effective and practical ways to provide your newborn with the care and love they deserve. And new mums in Jacksonville could undoubtedly benefit from the information below. Without further ado, let’s get started:
1. Find the Right Baby Healthcare
Choosing the right pediatrician for your little one is an important decision and one that you shouldn’t take lightly. So, consulting with a pediatrician is the best way to provide your baby with adequate care.
Pediatricians specialize in providing care for children from birth through early adulthood, so families must maintain a relationship with their pediatrician for several years. Many families in Jacksonville prefer consulting with a pediatrician even before the baby is born. So, if you want to find the “Best Pediatrician in Jacksonville Fl,”we suggest you start looking early. The pediatrician of your choice will quickly become your advisor and partner in caring for your baby.
In addition, your pediatrician will closely monitor your baby’s physical, mental, and behavioral development during the most influential years of their life.
2. Holding the Baby Safely
Infants and toddlers often prefer to be cuddled and require you to hold them in a secure position while supporting their heads. Your tot may feel the happiest when nestled against your chest, where they get to hear your heartbeat. They also have a great time when cradled or supported in the safety of your arms.
Most new babies enjoy being swaddled, and there is some proof that suggests swaddling soothes infants and helps them sleep quickly. So, if you are having trouble getting your baby to sleep, you can try doing just that.
3. Properly Feeding Your Baby
Infants feed in small amounts and several times a day. So you can conclude knowing how to feed your baby correctly will be a significant focus of your everyday routine. Your baby will probably demand you to feed them at least eight times a day during the first few weeks.
Knowing when your baby is hungry will help you feed them in a relaxed manner. Also, feeding your baby several times a day can be tiring, especially when you have to do it at night. So, you must take good care of your health and find time to rest while providing your baby with care.
It’s also good practice to keep an eye on the contents of your baby’s diapers, as they can tell you if your baby is drinking enough milk and is in good health.
4. Bathing the Baby
If you need some instruction on how to give your baby the first bath, a midwife at the hospital can show you the right way. They can also show you how you can keep your baby’s umbilical cord clean and dry until it falls off after a week or so.
However, there’s no need to hurry when bathing your baby. You can wash the face and the bottom of the baby every day. Make sure you check the water temperature to prevent any discomfort to the baby.
Also, avoid using cleansing agents, bath products, or medicated baby wipes on your newborn baby’s skin. Their skin is sensitive, so just using water and cotton to clean and wash them can give them the required cleansing benefit in their early days.
As part of your newborn’s bedtime routine, you may try massaging. It will help them fall asleep. Babies usually enjoy this, and it’s a great way to help them relax before bedtime.
5. Changing the Nappies
Changing your little one’s nappies for the first time is a significant milestone. Some parents prefer using washable, and some are happy with disposable. In any case, babies usually need a nappy change 10 to 12 times every day.
Make sure you check your baby’s wet and soiled diapers. It will help you know that your baby is healthy and producing the ideal amount of wee and poo.
6. Keep Your Baby Warm
Your baby needs warmth, especially when you take them outside. But, it’s also crucial that you make sure your baby isn’t getting too hot.
A good rule to follow is that you give your baby the warmth of one extra layer of clothing than what you are wearing. For instance, if you wear a t-shirt and a jumper, dress them in a vest, cardigan or jumper and a sleepsuit.
Be sure to remove the extra layer when coming in from outside or getting into a warm car, bus, or train.
7. Baby’s Sleep Routine
To put your baby to sleep, you may have to learn some tricks. Make sure you put your babies on their backs to help them sleep while following all the safe sleeping guidelines to help the baby. You’ll also have to put them in the “feet to foot’ position when placing them in their cot.
In the beginning, your baby will wake any time of the day to get fed and to be comforted. But don’t be alarmed as it’s not going to last forever. With time your little one’s tummy will grow, and they will start knowing the difference between day and night – they will ultimately need fewer occasions to feed and start sleeping for a longer time.
Also, keep in mind that babies often need movement to get them to sleep. They enjoy being carried as it makes them fall asleep while moving in your arms. You can also use a baby carrier, sling, or pram for movement. Some parents feel swaddling, white noise, or holding their baby against the warmth of their skin also helps them sleep.
Wrapping Up
Motherhood is a blessing, but it is also a huge responsibility to fulfill. At first, taking care of your baby may feel a bit overwhelming, but with time and practice, you will find the courage and support you need to accomplish your duties.
However, make sure you keep in touch with a paediatrician as your baby grows. Because sometimes, your baby may be telling you something that only a health expert can understand.
