Newborn 101

If you're new to newborn care or haven't cared for a newborn in a while, there are some important things for you to know or remember to cater to the special needs of an infant.

What are a newborn's needs?

Newborns need to be loved, kept clean and warm, and fed. As you meet each of these most basic needs, you are building your child's sense of security, which is the foundation for much of her later development. Newborn babies cannot be spoiled. Therefore, hold him often to show him he's loved and develop his sense of trust in you as his caregiver.

How often should newborn babies eat?

Newborn babies eat frequently - some as often as every one to two hours - until their stomachs grow large enough to handle more food at one time. Most newborns need to be fed several times during the night as well. If you're lucky, your newborn may sleep through the night at only a few months old. Newborn babies tend not to have a set schedule until they are about 3 - 4 months old.

Is nursing the best way to feed a baby?

Breastmilk is best for a new baby. However, if a mother is opposed to breastfeeding or unable to breastfeed, formula is fine. Breastfeeding can give babies much needed immunity against infections caused by many viruses. If you are formula feeding, mix the formula carefully as directed. You can use tap water to ensure the baby gets fluoride to help prevent cavities. Ask your pediatrician what to do if you are on well water.

Burp your newborn!

Whether you feed breastmilk or formula, be sure to burp the baby during and after each feeding. This can be done either by holding the baby in a sitting position or placing the baby on your shoulder. This will reduce air bubbles in your newborn's stomach and prevent your baby from being too gassy and develop stomach aches.

How should I handle a colicky baby?

Usually around three or four weeks of age, some babies begin to be colicky. That is, they cry excessively for reasons you can't figure out. The best news about colic is that it rarely lasts longer than to the third month of age. Some believe colic is due to the baby's system getting used to foods or formula; others say some babies are just more sensitive. Certain foods in a breastfeeding mother's diet can lead to baby's problems (chocolate and broccoli for example). If your baby seems to have colic, talk to your pediatrician or health care provider to first rule out other causes.

How should I hold a newborn?

It is very important to support a newborn's neck and head as the newborn baby hasn't developed the muscles, yet, to support her own head. You can hold the baby in a cradle hold in your arms or pressed snuggly against your chest.

How much sleep does the baby need?

Newborn babies tend to sleep a lot during the day. When baby gets fussy it's usually a good indication that she needs a nap. Babies should always sleep on their back to prevent Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). You should not give your baby a pillow or blanket as these items represent choking hazards.

How can I calm a crying baby?

There are many techniques to calm a fussy baby, but most have to do with motion and sound. Give these a try:

• Swaddle the baby
• Offer a binky
• Place the baby in an infant swing, the motion might be calming to baby
• Turn on a radio with white noise or a noise machine
• Rock the baby in a rocking chair or sway her in your arms
• Talk to the baby or sing to him
• Go for a walk in the stroller. The motion and sounds might be calming to the baby.
• Give the baby a warm bath.

If you cannot calm your baby and the newborn has been crying for a long time, call your pediatrician to be sure nothing else might be upsetting him.