Essential Newborn Care Tips for Parents

Bringing home a newborn is an exciting and life-changing experience, but it can also feel overwhelming, especially for first-time parents. Newborns require constant care, and understanding their needs can help make the transition smoother. It’s important to talk to your pediatrician so that you understand how to care for your newborn and make the process as easy as possible. Dr. Carol Calabrese, Dr. Inna Meskin, Dr. Alexis Capozzoli, Renee Thomas, APN, and Joe Larena, APN at Skylands Pediatrics in Sparta, NJ, can explain what newborn care may consist of and how to care for your child.

Caring for Your Newborn

Being a new parent may feel overwhelming, and you might not know where to start. Your pediatrician in Sparta, NJ, can give you newborn care tips to ensure you make the best choices for your baby. This can help ease some of your worries about being a new parent!

Feeding is one of the most important aspects of newborn care in the early days. Whether you choose to breastfeed or formula-feed, feeding your baby on demand is essential, usually every 2-3 hours. Whether you decide to breastfeed or formula feed, it’s important that your child is getting enough milk. Keep an eye on signs that your baby is hungry, such as rooting (turning their head towards your chest), sucking motions, or fussiness. After each feeding, help your baby release air by gently patting their back to prevent gas and discomfort.

Newborns sleep often, typically 16-17 hours a day, but wake frequently for feedings. Creating a safe sleep environment is crucial to reducing the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Always place your baby on their back to sleep, not their stomach or side. Ensure your baby sleeps on a firm, flat mattress in a crib, bassinet, or play yard. To prevent suffocation hazards, keep the crib free of pillows, blankets, stuffed animals, and crib bumpers.

Newborns will need frequent diaper changes, as they can wet or soil their diaper up to 10 times a day. Check your baby’s diaper every few hours to keep them dry and comfortable, as prolonged exposure to wetness can cause diaper rash. Always wipe from front to back (especially for girls) to avoid infections. Use gentle wipes or warm water and cotton balls for cleaning.

Handling your newborn with care is essential for their safety and development. Bonding with your baby through touch, eye contact, and skin-to-skin contact is vital for emotional and physical health. Always support your baby’s head and neck when lifting or carrying them, as their muscles are still developing. Pay attention to your baby’s signals. If fussy, try to soothe them by rocking, swaddling, or gently talking to them.

Contact Our Pediatricians Today

Make sure you’re ready for your newborn. Contact Dr. Calabrese, Dr. Meskin, Dr. Capozzoli, Renee Thomas, APN, and Joe Larena, APN at Skylands Pediatrics in Sparta, NJ, to learn about newborn care. Call for more information and to schedule your appointment today at (973) 729-2197.