Handling your baby with care

Children, especially newborns, need to be held, cuddled, and caressed. A parent’s touch is an expression of love. It gives a child a sense of security and helps her grow into a confident and happy adult.

There is no truth to the belief that your baby will be spoiled if you hug and carry her frequently. In fact, according to some studies, babies who are held more cry less. All babies need the warmth and love of their parents’ arms. A single hug goes a long way in ensuring the emotional stability of your child.

It is important, though, to hold you baby with the utmost care. The muscles and bones of infants, especially in the neck area, are delicate, so make it a point to support the neck when holding your baby. Do not stretch her arms or pick her up hastily. Use both your arms to carry the baby, otherwise you might drop her. And even though throwing babies in the air seems fun, it may be very dangerous since there’s always the possibility that you might not be able to catch her. Being a parent is a huge responsibility. Recklessness, even in the simple act of holding your child, may have dire consequences that are best avoided.

Being Aware of Baby’s Need

- As he adapts to his new environment, your new born will be wholly dependent on your care and touch. That’s why you should be very familiar with all his needs. Even if you decide to go back to work and you cannot be at your baby’s side all the time, you can leave him in the care of a responsible person who understands the medical and physical needs of infants. Here’s a list of things that every mother or babysitter should know.

IMMUNIZATION. During the first few months, immunization program is done to protect the baby from possible diseases in the future. Suggested immunization varies greatly from one country to another. It always helps to conduct your pediatrician regarding proper immunization for your child.

BURPING. Your baby may suck in air while feeding. If the air is not expelled, it may cause stomach pains and discomfort. It is wise to burp your baby halfway through or at the end of feeding. If he doesn’t burp within 30 minutes, don’t persist.

CLEANING THE UMBILICAL CORD. It takes 2 to 3 weeks after birth for the remaining portion of the cord to fall off. Clean your baby’s umbilical stump at least once a day by dabbing it with a cotton swab in 70% Isopropyl alcohol. Always keep it dry and clean for fast healing. Don’t pull the stump; it will fall off in due time.

REGULATING ROOM TEMPERATURE. Keep your room warm and dress the baby comfortably because babies can’t regulate their body temperature.

SPITTING UP. The muscles at the top of the mouth may not be fully closed that’s why babies spit up after feeding. This is normal and it will pass as the baby grows, so there’s nothing to worry about.

BATHING. A daily bath is not necessary for a baby. But if you live in a warm place, you may have to bathe your baby once a day to keep him comfortable. Follow the following tips for an enjoyable bath time:

1. Sponge bath the baby until the umbilical stump dries or falls dries off.
2. Lukewarm water is best. Feel the temperate of the water with your elbow to make sure that it’s neither too warm nor too cold.
3. If your baby cries (perhaps because he’s uncomfortable being in the water), divert his attention, for example, by giving him a toy.
4. Use mild soap and shampoo so as not to irritate his gentle skin.

CHANGING DIAPERS. Your baby often soils his diaper due to frequent urination and bowel movement. Change his diapers as needed to keep him dry and clean. But before you put a clean diaper, clean up the genital area and buttocks to prevent infection. If redness and rash develop in the genital area, consult your pediatrician. Apply the prescribed cream or powder to the affected area. IF irritation continues, switch to a different brand of diapers.