Caring for Newborns

Newborns are very fragile yet in their smiles are promises of hope, peace and love. During their first few weeks, they learn many important skills that all parents should note.

Most babies look on their mother's face and follow it with their eyes. They respond best to their parent's voices by turning their heads and usually, sudden sounds or movements make them startle. 

Here are some important notes to familiarize yourself about your baby's behavior:

1. The most important communication of a baby is crying. Sometimes they create cooing sounds that signals pleasure; arching their backs, grimacing and clenching their fists for displeasure. A high pitched cry often means pain or hunger. Observing your baby is still the key to master their art of communication.

2. When your baby is trying to convey something; pick her up, change her or feed her. You may try to talk to her, sing to her, and cuddle her gently. 

3. Most babies show social smile at 2 months. This is a common response to a friendly face or gesture. Smiling is a developmental ability that parents and doctors are truly proud of.

4. Your baby's temperament is affected by genes. However, it is partly affected by the environment that is why parent's immediate response to their baby is very crucial.

Knowing these behaviors, the physical growth of a baby is important to observe too.Take note that a newborn's height is increased by 50% in 12 months while its weight is doubled at 6 months.

Another development milestone of a baby is his teeth eruption. The first tooth that erupts is the lower central incisor usually at 4 months. Common signs are drooling, red and inflamed gums, awakening at night, fussiness, and chewing on rubber toys and their fingers. 

To soothe their pain, here are some helpful ideas for parents or caregivers:

1. Give him something to chew on.

2. Try teething rings or rubber toys and check which works best for your baby.

3. You may apply a cold and frozen washcloth to numb the pain.

4. If these didn't work, as your doctor for any OTC pain relievers.

Now let's go to the basics of caring for your babies. 

1. In bathing your baby, wash face and ears first using a washcloth. Use a mild soap and shampoo only. Make sure to play and have fun so she will look forward to her next bath.

2. In making your baby fall asleep, it is necessary that you wait few minutes before comforting your baby. Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule each day and follow a bedtime ritual. 

3. Introduce soft foods at 4-6 months of age. This can be in the form of iron-fortified infant cereals, strained fruits and vegetables, and even strained meats like chicken, beef and pork. 

4. To encourage movement, put interesting toys on the floor for her to grab. Sit her on a chair or you may want to let her stand on your lap. Let her practice push up by lying on her stomach. Most importantly, give her alot of time to develop this skill. 

To be continued. Happy reading!!!!