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Things To Look Out For When You Bring Home A Baby

We all know that bringing home a new baby is a huge adjustment. But what are some of the things you should be looking out for? Here are a few things to keep in mind when you bring your new bundle of joy home.




Crying

Crying is a normal and necessary part of life for babies. It is their way of communicating their needs and emotions. However, it can be difficult to understand what your baby is trying to tell you when they cry. Here are some things to look out for when trying to decipher your baby's cries:

1. Hunger: This is usually the most common reason for crying. Your baby may cry when they are hungry or thirsty. They may also cry if they need to be burped or have a wet or dirty diaper.

2. Pain: If your baby is crying and appears to be in pain, it could be due to gas, colic, or teething. Sometimes, a simple change in position can help alleviate pain. You should always consult with your doctor if you think your baby is experiencing pain.

3. Fatigue: A tired baby will often cry as a way of signaling that they need to sleep. This can be especially true if your baby has been overstimulated or if it is close to their bedtime routine. Try rocking or nursing your baby to sleep if they seem tired and cranky.

4. Separation Anxiety: Many babies experience separation anxiety when away from their parents or caregivers. This can manifest as crying when you leave the room or try to put them down for a nap/bedtime. reassured by your presence and may stop crying once you return or pick them up again.



Sleeping

When you bring home a baby, one of the things you'll need to pay close attention to is their sleeping habits. How often do they sleep? Newborns will typically sleep for 16-20 hours per day, but this can vary. Where do they sleep? You'll want to make sure your baby has a safe, comfortable place to sleep. This could be a crib, bassinet, or co-sleeper. Additionally, the FDA is warning parents not to use infant head shaping pillows that claim to help with Flat Head Syndrome. How long do they sleep at a time? Newborns usually sleep for short periods of time, around 2-4 hours at a time. As they get older, they'll start sleeping for longer stretches. Do they have any trouble sleeping? Some babies may have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. If this is the case, you may want to talk to your pediatrician about possible solutions.


Eating

Assuming you're referring to solid foods, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends starting your baby on solid foods around 6 months old. But every baby is different, so it's important to watch for signs that your baby is ready to start eating solids. Look for when your baby:
  • Is able to sit up with minimal support
  • Has lost the tongue-thrust reflex (where they push food back out with their tongue)
  • Can move food from the front of their mouth to the back
  • Is showing an interest in what you're eating

If you start too early, your baby may not be developmentally ready and could become frustrated. If you start too late, your baby may become accustomed to breast milk or formula and not want to try new foods.

When you do start introducing solid foods, do it gradually. Start with just a few spoonfuls at a time. You can also try giving your baby finger foods like soft fruits or vegetables, which they can pick up and eat on their own. A healthy option is Serenity Kids baby food pouches. Remember to always supervise your baby while they're eating in case they choke.


Bath time

  1. Make sure the water temperature is just right. You don’t want it too hot or too cold. Test the water with your elbow or a thermometer before you add your baby.
  2. Gather all the supplies you need before you start. This includes things like towels, soap, and a washcloth. Having everything within reach will make the experience much more relaxed for both of you.
  3. Cradle your baby’s head while supporting their back and neck gently with your other hand. Use a gentle touch as you lower them into the tub so they don’t get scared or overwhelmed.
  4. Talk to your baby throughout the bath, letting them know what you’re doing each step of the way. This will help them feel more comfortable and let them know that they’re safe with you.

As you and your baby begin to feel more comfortable with the basic bathtime routine, you can introduce some fun with safe and stimulating bath toys that engage your little one's visual and tactile senses!  It's also recommended to use a natural and organic bubble wash for the hair and skin that both cleanses and moisturizes.  

Use code SWEETSOFTIES20 on Mimmo for 20% off the best baby bath products in the market!


There are a lot of things to keep in mind when you bring home a new baby. But don't worry, you'll get the hang of it in no time! Just be sure to keep an eye out for these common issues so that you can address them quickly and easily. With a little preparation and a lot of love, you'll be a pro at this parenting thing in no time.