Choose a pediatrician with whom you feel comfortable. You and your child's doctor will work as a team to give your child a healthy start. Your pediatrician will also be there for you to answer your questions and address your concerns about your child's health.
Make sure you have your baby's car seat installed in your car. You will need this to bring the baby home from the hospital. Hospital nursery staff can help you if you are unsure how to install base. Or you can request assistance at the local police station or fire department.
Conducted a study to decide whether you want to breastfeed or give formula your baby in a bottle. Some parents even do a combination of both. If you decide to breastfeed and your baby is having trouble sticking to, or experiencing other problems, check with a lactation consultant at a local hospital or call your local La Leche League.
Remember never leave your baby unattended on the couch, changing table or bed. Babies can move suddenly. That's a good idea to always keep your baby's hand or a rope on him at the table turned right from the start.
If your baby is circumcised, check with your doctor about the best way to treat the wound until it heals.
Also follow your doctor's advice for treatment of the umbilical cord. Some recommend cleaning every day with alcohol, while others now prefer to let it dry itself. Either way, expect the stump falls within the first few weeks or more.
Always put your baby to sleep on his back or in a crib or bassinet with a firm mattress covered by a sheet tight. You can use a baby sleep positioners to ensure that the baby remains in place. Be sure to remove all pillows, blankets and stuffed toys, because it can cover your baby. Sleeping blanket or sleeping bag is the safest option to use if you need to keep your baby warm.
Have a rectal thermometer ready in case of sick babies. If your baby registers a rectal temperature above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or 38 degrees Celsius, you should contact your pediatrician immediately.
Prepare to do lots of laundry. Babies can easily go through three or four garments in one day. You can buy special detergent for baby's delicate skin of your baby. You may also need the power of Super stain remover for baby spit up and leak-out diaper stains.
Try to establish routines early as possible. This will help your baby to know what to expect each day and will help build a sense of security.
In the process of caring for your baby, do not forget to take care of yourself, too. Sleep whenever you can, and do not be afraid to ask for help from family and friends when you need it. Many women suffer from baby blues for a few days after birth, but if you experience prolonged sadness or feel unable to cope, seek professional help as soon as possible.
Quick Tips:
Remember to take lots of photos of your baby, so you can look back at this later stage!
