Being a new parent can be pretty daunting. Whether the baby is your first, second, third, and so on, being prepared to care for and attend to the baby’s every need is critical. Understanding what a baby needs is not always a simple task, yet it can be more comfortable with a few tips.
Caring for a newborn involves everything from sleep cycles, nappy changes, and feeding. All of which is pretty easy to get the hang of with practice and tips. Here is everything you may want to know for those with a newborn.
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Feeding
All babies begin with drinking milk only. Whether that be directly from the breast or a bottle, this is the only way to feed the baby the essentials nutrient it needs for healthy development.
For new mums that find it difficult to (or simply cannot) breastfeed, then a formula is a great alternative. A popular option is a happy baby organic formula. Organic formulas provide optimal nutrition that babies need to grow healthily and happily. These particular formulas provide more omega-3 fatty acids than regular formulas, which is essential for maximum brain development.
Knowing when and how often to feed the baby is also useful. You may feel like you are constantly feeding your newborn, which is typical for the first few weeks. A newborn needs a lot of patience and time when it comes to feeding. After all, it is an essential part of their growth.
Then, the baby will decide a pattern they like and let you know when they need feeding. Often, they cry, or you just know when they want more. You can feed your baby as often as you or the baby likes. The baby will usually let you know when they have had enough.
Sleep Cycles
The second thing you may feel is constant is lack of sleep. A baby’s sleeping pattern will always vary throughout the first few months as newborns cannot determine the difference between day and night.
Typically, newborns sleep for two to three hours at a time. Sleep can occur throughout the day and night, and the baby will often want feeding in between sleep.
If you feel restless due to lack of sleep, the best advice is to nap with the baby during the day if possible. Naps allow downtime for you, which will help push you through night feeding. After a few months, the nighttime sleep cycles should get longer, which will allow you more sleep.
Washing and Clothing
When it comes to washing your newborn, you may not need to wash them for the first few days thoroughly. It is often best to clean them using the top and tail technique. Washing their head, neck, face, hands, and feet with a baby wipe is enough.
Then for full washes when the baby is ready, using a bowl is the most suitable option. Ensure the room you are using is warm, and the water is warm. Use a gentle baby wash and soft cloths to wash the baby. For drying, use a super soft towel and a clean nappy.
For clothing, babies often feel most comfortable in soft cotton clothing. Not only is cotton breathable, but it is kind to even the most sensitive skin. Keeping the baby warm or cool enough is essential to make them happy and prevent illness.
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Personal Care
For new parents, personal care may seem like the most obvious job. This is because they are. Changing a nappy and soothing your baby when they are restless is self-explanatory. But, there are a few tips to help if you are unsure throughout the first few weeks.
Nappy changes should often occur, as newborns go to the toilet a lot more than you might expect. Every few hours is about right. Never leave a baby with a wet or soiled nappy as it can lead to sores and rashes.
When they cry, it is always useful to walk them outside or sit by natural light for soothing the baby. Soft lights will help relax the baby. Other ways to ease the baby is by feeding, changing their nappy or clothes, or playing background noise. Music and noise help a baby to relax and stay calm. Distraction is often the best way to prevent a baby from becoming restless or stopping them from crying.
Always Keep Spares
When your newborn is ready to take outside, it is essential to keep spare nappies, clothes, formula, and more with you. Whether you are taking the baby on a quick errand or a long walk, it may need a nappy change or feeding at any time.
Newborns do not have particular feeding or toilet cycles, so keeping spares in emergencies will prevent stress for yourself and the baby.
Keeping spares in a baby bag, the car, and your handbag is a useful way to ensure you always have what you need with you. Replenishing the extras when you use them is an excellent way to stay on top of things.
A lack of sleep can cause you to become disorientated and forgetful. Thus, ensuring you plant spares in different areas before taking the baby outside is a great way to make sure you are always prepared for the worst-case scenario.
Caring for a newborn as a new parent gets more comfortable with time. At first, it is daunting for anyone. Even if you have a child already, the newborn may require different feeding and changing times than your first child. Every baby is different, but in time, you will get used to what it needs when it needs it, as well as its preferences.
Ensuring you are prepared to feed and nurse the baby is the most essential step. Then, the washing, clothing, and soothing will come naturally. The first few weeks are the most tiring as you are constantly learning and adjusting to the new routine. Yet, it soon becomes more natural and relaxing when you get into the rhythm of it.
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