Caring for a newborn can be overwhelming, but with some guidance, you can make the experience smoother. Here are some top tips for new parents:
FEEDING
Breastfeeding: Feed your baby every 2-3 hours, or on demand. Newborns may need 8-12 feeds a day.
Formula Feeding: Follow the guidelines for formula preparation, and ensure the bottle is sterilised.
Look for hunger cues like sucking on hands or rooting (turning head toward your breast).
SLEEP
Newborns sleep for about 16-18 hours a day but in short stretches of 2-3 hours.
Safe Sleep: Always place your baby on their back to sleep on a firm mattress to reduce the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).
Keep the crib clear of blankets, toys, and pillows.
NAPPIES
Expect to change nappies frequently – 8-12 times per day for newborns.
Clean your baby’s bottom thoroughly, and use a nappy rash cream if necessary to prevent irritation.
Let their skin air out for a few moments during changes to reduce moisture and nappy rash.
BATHING
For the first few weeks, give your baby sponge baths until the umbilical cord stump falls off.
Once ready for a full bath, keep the water warm (around 37°C or 98.6°F) but not too hot.
Use mild baby soap and keep bath time brief to avoid drying out the skin.
UMBILLICAL CORD CARE
Keep the cord stump clean and dry, and avoid submerging it in water.
It will fall off naturally in 1-2 weeks. Call your GP if you notice any redness, swelling, or discharge.
BURPING
Newborns can swallow air while feeding, so burp them after each feed.
Hold your baby upright against your shoulder or sit them on your lap while gently patting their back.
SKIN TO SKIN CONTACT
Skin-to-skin contact helps regulate your baby’s body temperature, heart rate, and breathing, and it promotes bonding.
It’s especially beneficial right after birth and during those early weeks.
TUMMY TIME
Give your baby supervised tummy time a few times a day to strengthen their neck and shoulder muscles and promote motor development.
Start with a few minutes and gradually increase the time as they get stronger.
HANDLING WITH CARE
Always support your baby’s head and neck when carrying them or picking them up.
Avoid shaking your newborn, as it can cause serious injuries.
CRY INTERPRETATION
Babies cry to communicate. They might be hungry, need a diaper change, or simply want comfort.
Try different soothing techniques like swaddling, rocking, or gently shushing.
HEALTH CHECKS
Keep up with well-baby checkups and vaccinations.
Monitor your baby’s temperature if they seem unwell. Anything above 100.4°F (38°C) in babies under 3 months warrants a call to the doctor.
BONDING
Talk, sing, and read to your baby. They may not understand yet, but they’ll respond to the sound of your voice, which helps with bonding and brain development.
MAMA’S INSTINCT – TRUST YOURSELF
Every baby is different, and it takes time to learn what works best for yours. Trust your instincts and reach out for help when needed.
Caring for a newborn can feel like a lot at first, but with practice, it becomes second nature.
