Newborn babies are completely dependent on their parents. Caring for newborns includes providing them with proper nutrition, a safe place to sleep as well as quality time and attention. The first year of your baby’s life is a time of rapid growth and development. With the appropriate care, your child is more likely to grow into a healthy and well-adjusted child. Alternatively, without the proper care, your baby could be at risk for long-term illness and stunted growth and development.
Doctor Visits
Ensure that your baby is evaluated by a pediatrician. Most pediatricians will want to evaluate your baby a week or two after birth. After that, doctor visits are recommended at 1, 2, 4, 6, 9 and 12 months. At these visits, your doctor will discuss immunizations. Immunizations protect your child from illnesses, including hepatitis B, diphtheria and polio. Your child's doctor also will confirm if your baby is developing appropriately. Your baby’s height, weight, vision and hearing should be examined at each visit. Prepare for these visits by writing down any questions or concerns that you want to discuss with the doctor.
Feedings
It is essential that babies younger than 12 months drink only breast milk or FDA-approved infant formula. Your newborn should not drink whole, low-fat, almond, soy or rice milk. Breast milk provides an optimal source of nutrition for your infant, because it helps to strengthen her immune system. Newborn babies also can drink approved infant formula. If your baby has a milk allergy, her doctor probably will recommend a hypoallergenic soy-based or amino acid-based formula. To avoid bacteria and germs that could make your baby sick, always mix powdered formula with sterile water and use clean hands, equipment and bottles. Feed your infant on demand and wake her if necessary so that she eats at least every two to three hours during the first month.
Sleep
It is common for a newborn to sleep 16 to 20 hours a day. Place your baby on his back to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome, SIDS. Choose a safety approved crib mattress that is firm, and cover it with a sheet. Clear away pillows, toys and soft objects. Do not let your baby overheat at night. Dress him in lightweight pajamas, keep the room temperature at a comfortable level and avoid blankets and quilts.
Attention
Contrary to popular belief, you cannot spoil your baby with too much time and attention. Hold her and allow your baby to experience skin-to-skin contact, especially during feedings. Talk to your baby and look directly into her eyes. Bonding is essential to newborn care for both parents. Fathers should be as involved as possible and should read and sing to the baby while holding her close.
Crying
Dr. Ronald Barr explains that infants are more likely to have a period of inconsolable crying. This "Period of Purple Crying" might peak at age 2 months and is characterized by unexpected crying that can last for as long as five hours. Although your baby might not respond to your efforts at consolation, never shake him.
References
- National Institutes of Health: Infant Health
- National Institutes of Health: Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
- PurpleCrying; What is the Period of Purple Crying?; Marilyn Barr
- KidsHealth: Bonding With Your Baby
- BabyCenter: Immunizations for Children -- What You Need to Know
- MayoClinic.com: Milk Allergy
