After nine months of anticipation, you have stepped into a new life with the arrival of your baby. Alongside the sweet excitement of meeting your little one, you may also experience the sweet worry and uncertainty of challenges you’ve never faced before. In this article, we will share brief baby care tips to help ease your mind.

First and foremost, while there are general care tips, remember that every baby is unique, with their own personality and needs. Evaluate your baby’s sleep, care, and developmental processes individually, take your doctor’s developmental assessments into account, and avoid comparing your baby’s development with others.

Over time, like your own parents, you too will become an expert in baby care. Allow yourself time during this period to experience a joyful newborn phase free from anxiety. The first and most important rule in baby care is: don’t panic.

For new parents, having supportive individuals to share the responsibilities of baby care is invaluable. This can be a grandparent, neighbor, or friend. Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Sharing duties and allowing the mother some peaceful bonding time with the baby is crucial for mother-baby communication and secure attachment.

Feeding:

Feeding your baby exclusively with breast milk for the first six months is extremely important. For those who cannot breastfeed, formula appropriate for the baby’s age and weight should be determined by your doctor. During the newborn phase, babies must be fed every 2-3 hours, even at night.

Sleep:

From the first day, ensure your baby sleeps in a separate bed but in the same room as the parents. Avoid unnecessary items in the baby’s crib. Using a sleep sack is safer than blankets.

It may take 3-6 months for your baby’s natural biorhythm to develop. During this time, daytime naps may be more frequent. After the third month, you’ll notice your baby starts sleeping better and for longer stretches at night. By the sixth month, your baby can begin sleeping alone in their own room if desired.

Hygiene and Cleaning:

For the first month, clean your baby’s bottom with cotton and water whenever possible, as wet wipes can irritate sensitive newborn skin. After the first month, fragrance-free and additive-free wet wipes can be used for cleaning.

Diapers should be changed before or after every feeding.

Do not bathe your baby until the umbilical cord stump falls off. Afterward, you can bathe them as needed using clean, appropriately heated water, baby shampoo, and necessary bathing tools.

Bath time can be scheduled before sleep, as a relaxed body helps babies sleep more peacefully. The room temperature for bathing should be 25°C, and the water temperature can be checked by dipping your elbow in.

After baths, combing your baby’s hair with a suitable brush can help prevent cradle cap.

You can cut your baby’s nails anytime after birth or shorten them using appropriate baby nail files.

Supporting Your Baby:

Since babies cannot control their heads and necks, always support their head and neck when holding them.

Communication and Bonding:

From birth, mothers and babies are connected. Babies start recognizing and listening to their parents while in the womb. Talk, sing, and maintain eye contact with your baby. This interaction is crucial for language development and building a sense of trust.

Safety:

From birth, never leave your baby unattended without ensuring their safety. Avoid placing hazardous items in their crib or play area. Using safety equipment like outlet covers, baby gates, and corner protectors is essential for your baby’s health and safety. Store detergents, medications, and similar items out of your baby’s reach.

Take Time for Yourself:

Caring for a baby is intense. Ensure you get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed. The healthier you are, the healthier your baby will be.

We wish you a joyful and healthy journey in raising your baby.

The Little Gusto Team