You have survived through nine months of pregnancy. Hey, no one said pregnancy was all rainbows. You have even made it through the excitement of labor and now you are ready to go home and start a life with the new baby. One you are home though, it finally sets it. You have no idea what you are doing! You go into a panic as you try to be the best mom and dad ever. Chill. Calm down. Relax. I am a mom of a 5 year old little girl, Ariela. She’s my life and I want only the best for her. I am going to give you 10 tips for first time parents…
10. Getting Help after Birth is Important
Believe it or not, you cannot do everything all by yourself when you are in the hospital, so it is important to get some help. Use the expertise that is surrounding you. There are specialists and consultants that can help you get started with bottle-feeding or nursing. In addition to this, nurses can show you how to change, burp, hold and care for the baby. For in help in your home, you may want to ask your mother to help you out. Make sure it is someone that you trust.
9. Handling a Newborn
If you have not spent a whole lot of times with newborns, then you may not know how to handle one. It is important that you wash your hands before you handle them. Young babies do not come with a strong immune system.
8. When You Hold the Baby, Support the Neck
When you are holding the baby, make sure you are careful to support the neck and head. When carrying the baby, cradle the head. When carrying the newborn upright, support the head. It is important that you do this, because the baby does not have strong enough muscles to do this yet.
7. Never Shake the Baby
Whether in play or in frustration, be careful not to ever shake the baby. Vigorous shaking can cause the baby to bleed in the brain. It could even cause death. If you need to wake the baby, do not do it by shaking them. Instead, tickle the baby’s feet or gently blow on the cheek.
6. Make Sure the Baby is Fastened Securely
When you are traveling with your baby, it is important that you make sure they are securely fastened. This includes the stroller, carrier and car seat. It is important to follow directions when fastening your child into these devices. Never take a child in the car without a car seat.
5. Babies Love Being Swaddled
Spread the receiving blanket out with one corner slightly folded over. Lay the baby face up on the receiving blanket with the head above the corner that has been folded. Wrap the left corner over the body and tuck it under the back of the child. It should go under the right arm. Bring the bottom up over the feet and pull it toward the head. Fold the cloth down if it is too close to the face. Wrap the right corner of the blanket around the baby and tuck it under the back on the babies left side. This leaves only the neck and head exposed.
4. When You Are Diapering the Baby, Have All Supplies Ready
When you are changing the baby’s diaper, make sure all of the supplies are within your reach. This way, you will not have to leave the baby unattended on the changing table. You will need a clean diaper, a fastener (if you use cloth diapers), diaper ointment, a container of water that is warm and diaper wipes.
3. Does the Baby Have Diaper Rash?
Typically, the rash is going to be bumpy and red. It will go away in a couple of days with some diaper cream, war baths and some time out of the diaper. Rashes show because the baby has sensitive skin and it becomes irritated when they have a poopy or wet diaper.
2. Never Leave Your Child Alone in the Bath
Your child should have a sponge bath until the umbilical cord falls off (1 to 4 weeks), the circumcision heals (1 to 2 weeks) and the naval heals completely (1 to 4 weeks). In the first year, a bath two or three times a week I sufficient. When you give your baby frequent baths, this could dry their skin out.
1. Do You Need Some Burping Strategies?
Hold the baby upright with the head placed on your shoulder. Make sure you are supporting the baby’s back and head as you are patting gently on the back with your hand. This is one of the most common techniques. Of course, make sure you have a burp cloth on your shoulder!
Those are 10 tips for first time parents. If you know a first time parent, then forward them this blog as I have covered the basics. When you first became a parent, what was your fondest memory?
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the essential items to prepare before the baby arrives?
- Focus on necessities like diapers, baby clothes, a crib, and feeding supplies to get started.
- How can new moms handle sleep deprivation?
- Try to sleep when the baby sleeps and share nighttime duties with your partner if possible.
- What’s the best way to soothe a crying baby?
- Gently rocking, swaddling, or softly singing can often calm a fussy baby.
- How can first-time parents manage stress effectively?
- Take breaks when needed, ask for support, and practice deep breathing or mindfulness exercises.
- When should I call the pediatrician?
- If your baby has a high fever, is vomiting, or shows unusual behavior, it’s best to consult your doctor.
- How do I balance self-care with caring for a newborn?
- Include small moments for yourself daily, like a short walk or quiet time, to recharge your energy.
- What feeding options are best for a newborn?
- Breastfeeding is recommended but formula is a safe alternative; choose what works best for you and your baby.
- How can dads get involved in newborn care?
- Dads can help with diaper changes, feeding, and comforting the baby to share bonding and responsibilities.
- What are simple ways to keep baby safe at home?
- Use baby-proofing products like outlet covers, keep choking hazards away, and always supervise your little one.
- How do I know if my baby is developing normally?
- Regular pediatric checkups and tracking milestones can help ensure your baby is on the right track.