No matter how well prepared you think you are, there is nothing that can compare to the sense of responsibility that you'll experience when you first hold your newborn baby, states the Child Development Institute. A bond is formed as you and your new baby get to know each other and figure out how to handle each other. There are some basic steps that can help you handle a newborn baby while your learn your child's needs and personality.
Step 1
Learn to recognize the signs of sickness in your baby. Healthy babies can cry for as long as two hours each day, so it's important to know when you need to get medical help. A sick baby cries louder and stronger and won't stop crying when you hold or rock her. Her stools may be looser or different in color. She may have a fever or have trouble breathing. If she stops crying when you hold her upright and rub or pat her back, chances are she is not sick.
Step 2
Support your baby's head and neck completely for at least the first month. For the next month he will try to lift his head when lying on his stomach and will be able to turn it slightly while you're carrying him on your shoulder. He will be shaky until about three or four months so be ready with a nearby hand to support him when he loses strength in his neck so his head doesn't flop around.
Step 3
Feed your baby every three hours, advise Mayo Clinic doctors. Newborns typically lose weight over the first week to 10 days and need the regular nourishment. Cradle your baby in the crook of your arm whether you are breastfeeding or using a bottle. Use a chair with armrests or support your arm with pillows and turn the baby towards your chest. Mayo Clinic doctors say babies should be held close while feeding to prevent choking and to build a bond with your child.
Step 4
Bathe your newborn in about two to three inches of warm water. Babies only need baths two or three times a week if you change the diapers often and keep the face and neck clean. Use a newborn plastic tub or line your sink with a rubber mat or towel. Hold the baby with one hand while you wash. Keep the room warm too, as newborns tend to chill easily.
Step 5
Place your baby on her back to sleep. Mayo Clinic doctors report that babies who sleep on their stomachs are at higher risk of sudden infant death syndrome. Babies at the highest risk are those who have been sleeping on their backs and are switched to sleeping on their stomachs.
Tips and Warnings
- Take care of yourself too. You'll better deal with the stress and new adventure of dealing with a newborn baby if you are healthy, according to the Mayo Clinic. Get fresh air, drink plenty of water and eat regular healthy meals. Sleep when your baby sleeps and do something fun everyday. Babies don't have to be held every waking moment either. Put her in a bassinet or crib for part of the time she's awake to acclimate her to being out of your arms.
- Set boundaries for visitors so that you won't get stressed out. Let family and friends know what times are best for visiting and require that they wash their hands before holding the baby. Ask sick friends to stay home and allow others to sit with the baby while you rest or run errands.
Things You'll Need
- Newborn washtub
- Pillows
