Most people care for infants the same way they were raised, in addition to any education and training they may have received. Knowing what to expect from a newborn can help parents prepare for the changes that are common as infants undergo normal developmental stages. While you may be nervous about caring for infants, following certain steps and keeping in touch with your pediatrician can help relieve the anxiety that often accompanies the new baby home.
Step 1
Feed your baby by breastfeeding, if at all possible. The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development reports that breastfeeding is the ideal source of nutrition for newborns. In addition, nursing increases healing in mothers, improves the mother/infant bond and reduces the incidences of postpartum depression.
Step 2
Expect to wake up in the middle of the night with an infant whose tiny stomach empties about every few hours. The NICHHD reports that infants need to sleep between 16 and 20 hours per day, with regular wake-up calls for feeding. Help babies develop regular sleep patterns by putting them in bed at your normal bedtimes.
Step 3
Place your infant on her back to sleep. The NICHHD reports that babies who sleep on their backs are less likely to succumb to sudden infant death syndrome, which is the leading cause of death in infants between one month and a year old.
Step 4
Put your infant in a car seat that faces the rear until he is 1 year old and weighs at least 20 lbs. Doctors at the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend checking your vehicle statistics to make sure you purchase the right kind of car seat for your make and model. Both infant-only and convertible car seats can be used as long as they are rear-facing and sit in the back seat.
Tips and Warnings
- Take care of yourself to make sure you have the appropriate energy to take care of an infant and maintain a positive attitude. Reach out for help if you feel overwhelmed. Doctors at the Mayo Clinic report that stressed-out parents should contact a mental health provider if they feel overpowered by stress and anxiety.
- Keep a copy of your infant's medical records and immunizations handy in case of emergency. The March of Dimes recommends that parents prepare for disasters by keeping information, clothes, food, diapers and blankets in a place that is easy to grab if you have to evacuate the home.
Things You'll Need
- Infant car seat
- Medical records
