Caring for a baby
 

For new parents bringing their newborn home is a time for joy and celebration. A brand new nursery, a baby-proofed house, exciting experiences - there are so many things waiting for the happy family. But, it doesn't take long for mom and dad to discover that the newborn baby has a mind of his own and will make his presence felt in a hundred and one ways - not all of them amusing. As most parents will tell you, it's all a matter of practice and patience.

Feeding your baby: The first of the many tough decisions you have to make is whether to breastfeed or bottle-feed your baby. Research suggests that breast milk is the best food for a young baby. Always remember to burp your baby gently after a feeding. While feeding from the bottle, make sure your baby is not taking in air bubbles. When your baby is ready to accept semi-solids and solids, introduce one food at a time. Allow him some time to get used to each food. Give him lots of fresh juice and water. Avoid store-bought articles that are high in starch and sugar.

Diapering: This is the next major decision you have to make. Cloth, disposables or diaper service - which will it be? Each has its own pros and cons. Parents usually make a decision based on time, convenience, environmental concerns and financial considerations. The sanest advice I've received is to avoid a puritanical fascination for any one type. Use a combination - probably cotton diapers for home, and disposables while traveling.

Bathing and Grooming: If your baby makes his bath look like the closing scene from a battleground, use baby baths to secure him and lots of toys to distract him. Never leave you baby unattended near water. After your baby's bath, bundle him up in a nice fluffy towel and dry him thoroughly. Make sure the umbilical area is dry and that the eyes, ears and nose are clean. You may need to clean these with a wet washcloth, but never insert buds into them. Trim your baby's nails just after a bath. Applying moisturizer or baby powder is a matter of personal choice.

Sleeping: Put your baby to sleep on his back. Your baby is bound to steal a lot of your sleep. During the first year of his life, he will wake up a number of times at night. Many parents try different techniques from co-sleeping to a no-hands approach. Choose whatever works for you.

Common health problems include colic, diaper rash, cradle cap and skin rash. Many of these problems need just a little extra care and patience. If your baby is in pain, take him to your doctor. Remember to record his inoculations and keep a height-weight chart to evaluate your baby's progress.

Traveling: Pack all the items you need along with plenty of extra clothes and diapers. Place your baby in a safe and secure car seat. Go easy on feeding while you travel. Avoid crowds during the first few months.

Safety and comfort are two of the most important things to keep in mind when you handle your baby. It is a good idea to have a fairly regular schedule for bathing, feeding, playing and sleeping.

Your baby will always respond to a warm, loving environment. Hold your baby, cuddle him and respond to his cries. It is impossible to 'spoil' a little baby. Let your love overflow. Most of all enjoy early parenthood - kids grow up very fast.