Caring for a Newborn Baby During Their First Months of Life

It is normal for parents, and particularly first-time parents, to have trouble caring for a newborn baby. It’s especially difficult to recognize all the signs that babies use to show us how they are feeling.

This is why it’s essential to be aware of the vital care and attention babies need during their first months of life, when they can’t express what they need.

Parents often feel overwhelmed by learning to deal with their new role.

They don’t always know what they need to do during their baby’s first few months of life, and they will sometimes make mistakes, or need help from others with more experience.

Caring for a newborn baby during their first months of life

Strange though it may seem, there are people who have no idea how to care for a newborn baby, which is why we wrote this article.

It may also be useful for those who think they’ve been doing everything right, which may not be the case, or for anyone who wants to confirm what they already know.

Remember, the lives of our little ones may depend on the proper application of this kind of advice.

General care and attention

1. Care for their nails. Babies’ nails grow very quickly, so it is a good idea to cut them using specially designed scissors or clippers. Ideally, you should cut their nails while they are asleep.
2. Hold them firmly. Babies are not as fragile as many people think, so hold them gently but firmly, and nothing will happen to them.
3. Try not to frighten them when you pick them up. Pick the baby up gently, as they feel every movement and can easily get startled.
4. Keep a close eye on their bath. Remember that babies can only be bathed in lukewarm water, in the sink. It is vital to pay very close attention, so that they don’t hit themselves on the taps or anything else.
5. Changing diapers: your baby’s bottom is a very delicate part of their body. When changing a diaper, make sure the area is completely dry, to avoid any irritation. You can apply a special cream to areas that are prone to diaper rash.
6. Avoid using talc. Specialists advise against the use of talc, as your baby could easily breath it in. We don’t want that!
7. Pay attention to how much clothing they are wearing. It is a common mistake to wrap babies up in too many clothes. Believe it or not, this may even give the baby hot flushes. Always keep extra clothing close at hand, in case of diaper accidents.
8. Ear care: avoid using cotton swabs to clean their ears. These can be very damaging. It is better to clean the outer ear with a cloth and warm water.

Dietary needs

1. Measure their food. Remember that babies have tiny stomachs. Carefully measure the amount of milk that you are giving them when bottle feeding.
2. Don’t skip feeds, however. Pediatricians recommend feeding babies whenever they are hungry.
3. It’s normal for your baby to spit up a little after feeding. Don’t be afraid when your baby dribbles a little milk; this is normal in small quantities. It is just your baby getting rid of the excess food.
4. Avoid foods that can cause gas. You should be careful with gas, as it can be very painful for babies. Experts recommend avoiding food that can give babies gas, and learning how to burp them correctly.
5. Pay attention while they are nursing. It is important to check that the baby latches on properly to your nipple during breastfeeding. This means that the areola should also be inside their mouth.

Caring for a newborn baby is complicated, and at the beginning it might be somewhat difficult. But don’t lose hope, follow this practical advice and little by little you will learn more about it.

Pediatricians are there to support us as we raise our children. They will be there to help and advise you on any concerns or questions you might have.

Never be afraid to ask!