useful Tips

Having a New Baby, particularly your first, is one of the most exciting events of your life, but at times it can also feel like one of the most frightening!
Tasks that you may expect to "come naturally", like breastfeeding, bathing or settling a crying baJaundice in the Newborn Baby.Do not be alarmed if the whites of your baby's eyes and their skin turns a slight yellow color after 3 days. This is a condition called jaundice and is caused because your baby's liver cannot work fast enough to dispose of a pigment called bilirubin. Premature babies are more likely to suffer from jaundice.It usually clears up after a few days and this can be aided by exposure to sunlight (through a window).You may also be encouraged to feed your baby as often as possible. Sometimes when the bilirubin levels are very high a baby may need to be exposed to controlled amounts of ultra violet light in the form of phototherapy. Ultra violet breaks down the pigment levels in the skin. This will be carried out in hospital. Your baby will be placed in a special crib sometimes in Special Care. This is a routine treatment and is very effective.
Baby NailsTry cutting your baby's nails when they are asleep, it's less stressful and there is less chance of cutting the end of there fingers off.
Bottle refusal If your baby starts to refuse a bottle don't give up, try a different type of teat. Many main outlets stock the same main brands and types of teat so try your local chemist as they may have more variety, especially different shaped ones. If you have been usingsilicone teats, try a latex one. Although they are a bit smelly and probably won't last as long, they seem softer on your baby's gums, a problem particularly if they are teething.
An alternative to baby wipesIf you can't afford or don't want to use baby wipes when you go out, take a damp flannel in a plastic bag to clean and wash and a dry flannel to act as a towel to dry your baby. Carry this around in a small plastic bag e.g.: a sandwich bag or freezer bag.
When should your baby sleep in their own roomDon't feel that you have to keep your baby in your room at night. It's down to the individual. Most new parents keep their baby with them at night for the first few months and this can obviously make it easier for night feeds etc. If your partner has returned to work, nightly disruption can cause tension and stress from lack of sleep. If, by placing the baby in his/her room, you are worried about not hearing your baby cry, then purchase a monitor and place one in your baby's room and another in your bedroom. On whatever you decide to do and whenever, try not to feel guilty. It is a big move when your baby sleeps in their own room for the first time but you and they will soon adjust to the change and routine will soon settle in.
Register your baby's birthDon't forget to register your baby's birth. In the When you receive the birth certificate, make sure it's correct and if not, get it corrected as soon as possible.by can become traumatic if your new baby does not seem to want to cooperate!
Get some air to the baby's bottom !If your baby is suffering from nappy rash, try bathing them in lukewarm water. This will remove all traces of urine. Do not add any bubble bath. Let their bottom dry naturally in the air. Nappy rash is caused by ammonia, in urine, reacting on the babies skin. It breaks down their natural protective skin barrier. This then makes the skin red, sore, spotty and can lead to blisters. This leaves the skin open to infections such as thrush (candida). Nappy rash is a very common problem but should not be overlooked. If the nappy rash does not clear up after a few days with using normal antiseptic barrier cream at nappy changes, consult your health visitor or doctor.
Sleeping problems from ear ache Babies can be extremely susceptible to ear infections and this can cause them immense discomfort. Problems like this are usually recognized by prolonged periods of screaming and generally not able to settle at all. After your doctor/health visitor has diagnosed that the problem lies with an ear infection, a warm rice bag may help to soothe. These come in many different shapes and colors but are essentially a cloth bag filled with rice. They can also help with sore muscles. Warm the bag in a microwave oven until warm and place it under the baby's head, next to his/her ear. It will stay warm for a long time and help to relax them.
Ready for bath timeBefore you bath your baby ensure that you have everything you need near to you, as you should never leave a baby or small child unattended in the bath. Things you will need: - Nappy, cream, babygro/clothes, warmed towel
Dressing Your BabyDon't overdress your infant. Although well-meaning people may tell you otherwise, use your own comfort level as a barometer—dress your baby as lightly or heavily as you dress yourself.Observe the condition of your baby's skin and her degree of fussiness. Her skin condition and her cries will let you know when she is uncomfortable. Dress your baby in soft, loose-fitting clothing to minimize friction against the skin. Avoid rough, course or tight fabrics, bands or straps, especially if it’s hot.After baby's bath, pat dry her skin thoroughly before dressing her, paying special attention to the folds and creases in her skin. Apply lotion or cream to the skin to seal in moisture and use powder to reduce friction before dressing your baby to create a smooth layer between your baby's skin and her clothing. Before going out into the sun, dress your baby in protective, light colored clothing and a hat with a brim.
Calming a Crying Baby
Nurse your baby
Rock, sway or walk with the baby in your arms or in a sling or front carrier
Stroke your baby's head or tummy, or give a gentle full-body massage.
Patting the baby's back may release a trapped burp
Go outside for a short time. Fresh air and new distractions often do the trick
Swaddle your baby snugly in a "security blanket"
Sing or talk
Remember that too much stimulation can overwhelm your baby. Lower your voice, move more slowly, stop whatever hasn't been working and simply cuddle your baby in a dimly lit room.
Bathing Your BabyThis is a great opportunity for a "fun time" with your baby! Be sure the room is warm (but not a sauna) and without drafts. Have all the articles you will need for the bath and for dressing after the bath. A sponge bath is given until the cord has fallen off and the circumcision is healed. A full bath is given only 2-3 times a week. This is a change from daily full bath. However, it is a good idea to wash the face and behind the ears, neck, hands and bottom on a daily basis. Don't use soap on baby's face.