After the nine months of pregnancy comes the real challenge. Taking are of newborns can be rewarding, as well as exhausting. Here are some amazing tips that can help even the most nervous first-time parents feel confident about raising their newborns:
- Don’t hush when the baby is asleep
Most parents think that the tiniest of sound can wake their baby up. That’s why they prefer to keep quiet while the baby is sleeping. Remember that your baby has been in the womb for nine months. It is pretty loud in there and newborns are used to sleeping in the noise. Let your baby adjust to normal sounds around her, even while she’s asleep. You could talk on the phone, do the dishes or even watch some television as she sleeps without worrying too much.
- Help your baby in breastfeeding
Newborns find comfort in breastfeeding. However, if you are having latching issues, you can use breast shield or silicone nipples to help the process. Most lactation consultants advice using this to help the baby latch on and aid nursing. Sometimes the baby may need to use it for an entire month before they can get the latch right. Don’t worry and keep trying to help them succeed.
- Keep your baby awake during feeding
Babies tend to nurse themselves to sleep and may wake up feeling super hungry and fussy. Try to keep them awake by massaging their cheek. This will stimulate them to eat faster as they stay awake. When babies eat efficiently until they’re full before going to sleep, they sleep for longer between feeds. This means they would be calmer and you would have more time to finish up on other chores.
- Let your baby have some Daddy-time
While you might be tempted to be around your little one, make sure your baby has enough daddy time. It is important for your child to get used to his touch and voice, and to give yourself some much needed break. The first few times can be hard. Make sure your baby is fed and well rested, as this will give you at least a few hours break. Let the daddy and baby bond over this time alone. Resist the urge to go into the room if your baby starts crying and let daddy fix it in his own way. This will also help your child learn about more ways to receive comfort and they can be pacified by other family members later on.
- Let your baby lead
Being a first-time parent can be very stressful. While everyone might give you their own advice from their experiences, it is better if you cue in to what your baby needs. Avoid being on a schedule for nursing and everything else. If your baby is fussing, maybe he’s hungry even before his schedule. Let your baby tell you when he is hungry or tired and you will find that both of you are much happier and comforted.
Raising newborns is no rocket science. Just do what feels right and you’ll be fine. For more tips on newborn care, talk to our lactation experts at KIMS Cuddles.
*Information shared here is for general purpose Please take doctors’ advice before taking any decision.
