Becoming a parent is an incredible and rewarding experience. Nevertheless, this represents a great upheaval in the daily life of new parents who often find themselves at a loss when faced with the needs of their little one. In order to help these new mums and dads get off to a good start in this new adventure of parenthood, we have gathered here 10 essential tips for taking care of a newborn.
1. Prioritize skin-to-skin
From the first hours after birth, practice skin-to-skin contact with your baby. This method strengthens the bond between you and your child while promoting their body temperature and heart rate.
2. Watch the power supply
Breastfeeding is ideal for meeting the nutritional needs of infants during their first months of life. However, if this is not possible or you prefer to use a bottle, be sure to follow the recommendations for the type and amount of infant formula appropriate for your baby's age.
3. Change diapers regularly
It is important to check and change diapers frequently to avoid skin irritations, diaper rashes and other infections. Remember to use soft, hypoallergenic wipes.
4. Learn to bathe
For the first few weeks, a bath every other day is usually enough to keep baby clean and healthy. Be sure to use products suitable for the fragile skin of infants and to maintain a constant temperature during bathing (37°C).
5. Sleep close to your child
Sleeping in the same room as your newborn facilitates nighttime breastfeeding, reduces parenting stress and significantly decreases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome. However, it is preferable to avoid sharing the bed with baby to limit domestic accidents.
6. Bet on good oral hygiene from birth
Even before the appearance of the first teeth, regularly clean your child's mouth with a damp cloth or compress to remove any food residue that could promote bacterial proliferation.
7. Quickly establish a daily routine
Establishing a regular rhythm for eating, sleeping and other activities will make life much easier for the whole family. Baby will appreciate this stability which will give him a feeling of security.
8. Pay attention to crying
Crying is the primary means of communication for infants. Learn to identify the different types of crying in order to quickly anticipate your baby's needs (hunger, fatigue, discomfort or need to be reassured).
9. Stimulate his development through play
From his first weeks, promote the sensory and motor awakening of the newborn by offering games adapted to his age and by exchanging with him regularly through hugs and simple conversations.
10. Ask for advice
Finally, always keep in mind that you are not alone in this parental adventure: surround yourself with people available to support you (friends, family) and do not hesitate to consult a professional if you need for help or if you have any concerns about your child.
