Possibly as nerve-racking as teaching an adolescent to drive, caring for an infant can seem overwhelming. Babies come with a long list of instructions, lots of equipment and many demands. Just one gurgling greeting from your baby, however, can instantly erase the confusion and boost your confidence. Taking care of an infant involves some research mixed with plenty of love, patience and common sense.
Step 1
Read about what to expect in infancy before your baby arrives. Ask your health care provider for recommendations on books, tapes or other resources available to expectant parents. Write your questions or concerns down before prenatal appointments and ask, regardless of how silly you might think the question sounds.
Step 2
Arrange for help from friends, neighbors, siblings and grandparents who can provide physical, mental and emotional support. For many parents, the arrival of a new baby means seemingly unending stacks of laundry, months of interrupted sleep and emotional waves that can mimic the dancing figures on your infant's mobile. A good support system can give you time to adjust to your new role and schedule. Since having a houseful of even well-intentioned helpers can increase your stress level, you might prefer your supporters drop off meals, run errands or take the new baby's siblings to a movie.
Step 3
Take time to bond with your baby. Infants respond quickly to cuddling, holding, soothing voices and gentle touches. When she coos or makes noises, talk back to her or sing a silly song. Praise her with smiles and encouraging words when she finds her mouth with her hand or kicks her feet during diapering. Scientists know that appropriate bonding between caregivers and infants positively affects a child's self-esteem and social and cognitive development, according to Kids Health. Lack of bonding can lead to what doctors call "failure to thrive," a condition that can cause developmental delays, decreased weight gain and other serious concerns.
Step 4
Monitor your baby's nutritional intake as well as his urination and stool patterns. Newborns generally feed every two to three hours and take 2 oz. to 3 oz. of formula, or spend 10 to 15 minutes at each breast during each feeding, according to Kids Health. Infants should produce about six wet diapers and have several bowel movements daily. Contact your physician if your baby does not nurse regularly, has difficulty feeding or if you have other concerns about his nutrition.
Step 5
Schedule and keep all appointments for well-baby checks, immunizations, etc. as directed by your physician. Infants grow quickly. Your baby's overall health and nutritional status can decline just as rapidly. Doctors can often make minor adjustments in formula or feeding schedules to get your baby's weight back on track or identify and treat a minor health issue before it develops into something concerning.
Step 6
Inspect your home for safety issues. Carefully monitor younger children or pets who might have access to your infant. Toddlers have no idea a toy tossed in an infant's crib can lead to serious injury. Never shake a baby, even in play, since this can cause irreversible brain damage or death. Continue to reevaluate your space according to your infant's development. In just a few weeks, an infant who can barely turn his head will develop the skills he needs to wriggle off the bed.
