Becoming a new parent can be both exciting and overwhelming. There’s so much to learn and so many things to consider when caring for a new baby. In this guide, we’ll cover some of the basics of baby’s first year to help you navigate this exciting time and feel more confident in your parenting skills.
First, let’s talk about feeding. Newborns typically need to eat every 2-3 hours, around the clock. They will typically need to eat every 3-4 hours during the day, and every 4-5 hours at night. Breastfeeding is the recommended method of feeding for newborns, as it provides all the nutrients your baby needs and also helps with bonding. If you choose to formula feed, be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging carefully. It’s important to note that it’s normal for babies to have growth spurts, during which they may want to eat more frequently.
Next, let’s talk about sleep. Newborns typically sleep around 16-17 hours a day, but they do so in short bursts of 1-2 hours at a time. They will also wake up frequently to eat. As your baby grows, their sleep patterns will change, and they will start sleeping for longer stretches at night. To help your baby sleep, create a bedtime routine that includes soothing activities such as a warm bath or a lullaby. Make sure the room where your baby sleeps is dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature.
Another important aspect of caring for a baby is keeping them clean. Newborns need to be bathed once or twice a week, but more often if they’re particularly dirty or sticky. Use a mild baby soap and make sure the water is warm but not too hot. When washing your baby’s face, be sure to use a clean washcloth or cotton balls and water only. Use a soft brush to gently massage your baby’s scalp to prevent cradle cap. It’s also important to keep your baby’s bottom clean and dry, by changing diapers frequently and using a gentle wipe.
In addition to these basic care tasks, you’ll also want to pay attention to your baby’s development. Newborns will begin to focus on faces and start to follow objects with their eyes around the 2nd month. They will start to reach for and grab objects around 4-6 month. They will learn to sit up around 7-9 months, and will be crawling or walking by around 12 months. Encourage your baby’s development by providing age-appropriate toys and interacting with them regularly.
As your baby grows and reaches new milestones, you’ll no doubt encounter new challenges and questions. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician or a lactation consultant if you have any concerns or need additional support. Remember to take care of yourself as well, and don’t be afraid to ask for help from friends and family. And most importantly, enjoy this special time with your little one!
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