Newborn Baby Tips
The birth of a new baby comes with many challenges despite all of the preparations that new parents undertake. Most parents experience a sense of awe at the realization that a new life depends on them for survival. Gain strength in knowing that there are legions of parents before us, including yours, who have successfully raised their children. In time, you'll join those ranks.
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Sleeping
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One issue that new parents have to deal with is lack of sleep. This is because babies can't tell time and governed solely by their needs. They need to be fed, changed and comforted. This leads to constant interrupted sleep for the parents. Most babies don't begin sleeping through the night until reaching the age of 3 months old. Establishing a routine at bedtime, such as rocking the baby or singing to him.
Bathing
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Before bathing your newborn, have supplies such as a plastic bathing basin, mild baby soap and shampoo, washcloth, towels and a cup for scooping water handy. Give newborns sponge baths to keep the umbilical cord dry until it falls off, usually within the first three weeks of life. Once the cord falls off, give the baby a bath. Check the water temperature. It must be warm, not hot or cold, before placing the baby in it. Never leave the baby unattended for any reason during a bath. If you have to leave the room, wrap her in a towel and take her with you.
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Dressing
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If the weather is warm, dress the baby in lightweight clothing such as cotton. When going out for walks on a sunny day, raise the hood on the baby stroller to cover the baby and protect him from sunburn. If it's cold out, dress him warmly in layers and wrap him in blankets. Once inside, remove some of the blankets so the baby doesn't get overheated.
Diapering
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Allergic reactions to chemicals in diaper wipes, urine and feces staying too long on the baby and a too-vigorous cleaning can cause diaper rash. Change the baby's diaper often and keep her as dry as possible. Use baby soap as adult soaps may have chemicals that irritate the baby's skin.
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- Photo Credit Baby image by Yvonne Bogdanski from Fotolia.com
