Congratulations! You’re going to be a parent very soon! It’s an exciting journey filled with anticipation and joy. However, it’s also normal to feel a bit apprehensive about the unknown. Don’t worry though, we’re here to share what to expect with your newborn baby. From feeding and sleeping to bathing and crying, we’ve got you covered with helpful tips and tricks. So, read on for everything you’ll need to know about welcoming your new addition to the family.

Feeding Your Baby:

One of the first things you’ll need to learn about is feeding your baby. It’s recommended that infants are breastfed for at least the first six months of their life. However, if this isn’t possible or you choose not to, formula (milk for babies) is a great option. Your baby will need to feed regularly – every two to three hours in the early days. It’s also vital to ensure your baby is burping after each feed. This helps reduce the amount of air swallowed during feeding that can cause discomfort.

Sleeping Routines For Baby:

It’s essential to establish a sleep routine for your baby as early as possible. Initially, a newborn sleeps for around 16 hours a day. At first, they’ll sleep for a few hours and wake up for feeds and nappy changes. However, you’ll need to start creating a routine for bedtime. Start getting your baby used to the idea of night and day by creating a calm evening routine. This could involve dimming the lights, bath time, lullabies and settling them in their cot.
It’s important to note that all babies are different, and you’ll soon discover your baby’s sleep patterns and preferences.

Bathing Your Newborn:

Bath time is an excellent bonding opportunity between you and your baby, but it can also be a little daunting. Initially, you don’t have to give your baby a bath every day, as they don’t get very dirty at this age. Bathing your baby two to three times a week is sufficient. Bath water should be warm and not too deep, just enough to cover your baby’s shoulders. Start by washing your baby’s face, then move to arms and legs. Use baby soap or a mild shampoo, remembering to rinse your baby thoroughly to prevent soap residue. Always make sure that baby towels and other clothing are clean and dry.

How To Deal With A Crying Baby:

Crying is your baby’s way of communicating with you. Initially, you’ll find that your baby cries a lot, and you’ll try everything to soothe them. Some of the common reasons why babies cry include hunger, discomfort, dirty nappy, and overtiredness. It takes some time to figure out the reason for your baby’s cries and establish a comforting strategy that works for your family. Always call your GP or health visitor if you’re concerned about your baby.

Baby’s Development:

Every new parent wonders about their baby’s development. It’s essential to note that developmental milestones are a guide only, and each baby develops differently. In the first year of your baby’s life, there will be many developmental milestones, such as crawling, sitting up, and speaking their first words. It’s important, to be honest with your GP or health visitor, if you have any concerns. They will monitor your baby’s progress to ensure they’re on track.

Welcoming a new baby home is both an exhilarating and daunting experience. It’s natural to feel unsure and even scared about many things. However, knowing what to expect goes a long way in making you feel confident and equipped to handle parenthood. Remember, every baby is unique and develops at their own pace. Don’t compare your baby’s progress with others’; instead, focus on nurturing your baby in a loving, caring environment.

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