Bringing Home Baby

When I had my first baby, it was a roller coaster of emotions. Looking at this little bundle of joy was like a dream come true. I was young and confident, thinking I could handle anything. But then doubt crept in, and I realized it was going to be tough.

Bringing home a newborn can be both exciting and overwhelming but with some preparation and knowledge, you can navigate this new chapter with confidence. As a mom of four, I’m here to share some tips about sleep, waking hours, feeding, changing routines, bathing, and introducing pets to your little one.

Sleep

Understanding your baby’s sleep patterns is crucial for both of you. Creating a safe and comfortable sleep environment is key, like using a firm crib mattress and avoiding loose bedding. Establishing a consistent sleep routine with regular nap times and a calming bedtime routine is important. To encourage better sleep try soothing your baby by either swaddling, white noise machines, or gentle rocking.

Waking hours

Newborns sleep a lot, but they also have periods of being awake. It’s important to engage with your baby during these waking times by talking, singing, and making eye contact. Tummy time is also great for strengthening their muscles and promoting development. As your baby grows, you can start exploring age-appropriate activities to stimulate their senses and encourage their intellectual growth.

Feeding

Feeding your newborn is a crucial part of their growth and development. If you decide to breastfeed, it’s important to reach out to a lactation consultant or ask for assistance before leaving the hospital. Pay attention to your baby’s hunger signals, and you’ll quickly learn to recognize them.

Diaper changing

This will be a frequent task with a newborn. Remember to maintain good hygiene during diaper changes, such as washing your hands and using gentle wipes or washcloths. This will help prevent diaper rash and potential infections. A clean baby is a happy baby, so do it often.

Bath time

Bath time can be stressful, so make sure you have all the essentials within reach. At first you will want to sponge bath your baby until the umbilical cord stump falls off. Allow it to fall off on its own. Usually one to two weeks, up to 21 days.

Pets

Many households have pets, so it’s important to ensure they are well-behaved and trained when introducing a new baby. Help your dog associate the baby’s scent with something positive, such as a blanket or a clothing item that the baby has used. Involve your dog in supervised activities with the baby, such as sitting nearby while feeding or playing, can help them adjust to the new addition. Reward your dog for good behaviour! With patience and positive reinforcement, your dog and new baby can develop a strong bond and become the best of friends.You’ve got this!

Mary Racioppo
Editor-In-Chief, City Parent