NEW BORN CHILD

HEALTH ISSUES

Encourage Breastfeed.
Avoid applying kajal or Surma to the eyes.
For first few days child may require early feeds may be at an interval of 30 to 45 minutes and once the flow is established the interval can be increased to 2 hrs.
After every feed burp the baby by keeping him on your shoulder for 5 to 10 minutes.
Learn how to use a thermometer to take a rectal temperature
Do not over-bundle baby - a simple rule is to add one layer (like a blanket) for baby to whatever seems comfortable for you (if a T-shirt is comfortable for you, have baby wear a T-shirt PLUS one layer).

Place seat in the middle of the back seat, rear facing.
Use the "H" or "I" clip if you have a retractable shoulder harness.
Ensure that the crib you use is safe and relatively new. Spaces between slats should be no more than 2 3/8 inches.
Do not place fluffy pillows, blankets or stuffed animals in with baby.
Place baby on his or her BACK for sleeping.
Always keep a hand on your baby when lying on a changing table, bed or sofa.
Place, baby on a lateral position after the feed to avoid aspiration.
Install a smoke detector in or near your baby’s room

Respond to sounds by startling or blinking.
By a few weeks of age, looks at your face and follows with eyes.
Initially sleep a lot, up to 20 hours a day.
Have bowel movements at least once every 3 days if formula fed, once every week if breastfed (most breast fed babies will pass stool many times a day in the first few weeks).

Hold, cuddle and rock baby.
Talk and sing regularly to baby.
Start reading books to baby - it’s never too early!
Get your naps during the day when baby is resting.
Encourage your partner to assist in caring for baby.
Spend time alone with your partner - one of the best things you can do for your baby is to maintain a quality relationship with your partner.
Spend time alone with your baby’s sibling(s) to make them know they remain special.