The introduction into your life of a newborn baby, especially for the first time, is a joyful, wondrous experience and of course it brings with it some new challenges, often unexpected.
As all first time parents find out very quickly, a baby does not come with a “user manual”, and although there are plenty of books filled with useful advice, everybody’s situation is unique in its own way and you will find yourself constantly looking for answers to the most commonly-asked questions.
For example, what is the right feeding schedule to follow? How to help my baby sleep better? How can I be sure we are bonding?
Initially you can feel overwhelmed with the responsibility of a new life in your family, but with an understanding of the critical milestones throughout the early months, and with some appropriate guidance, your journey with your new baby will be rewarding and enjoyable.
Understanding the Critical Milestones
The early years of your new baby’s life are measured in critical milestones, from their first smile to their first small steps. These milestones, both physical and emotional, are not only thrilling and adorable but are also key indicators of the infant’s growth and development.
At first, your baby seems to be in a world of its own, focusing on immediate needs such as feeding and nappy changing. However sometime during the first three months you should start to notice your baby responding to voices and recognising faces.
Usually around the six month mark babies will start to become more active, rolling over, trying to sit up, and even attempting to talk – although it will just be a cute babble!
Every one of these incidences is a milestone showing progress in their growth and development, although timings can vary considerably. Each baby develops at their own pace, and if you have any concerns you can check with your pediatrician or Whānau Āwhina Plunket.
Creating a Healthy Sleep Routine
Every new parent will understand this, and will experience sleepless nights, tired mornings, and daytime naps.
As with everything else in your child’s life, it is important to establish good routines right from the start. Your baby will feel comfortable knowing what to expect, and you will retain your sanity!
The first step is to set a consistent bedtime with regular activities, such as warm baths, playing soothing music, low lighting, or even reading aloud, but avoid play which might keep the baby stimulated. The general idea is to create a calm, peaceful environment where the baby feels safe, secure and loved, and most parents find this can be a real bonding time.
An important point to note: most babies do not sleep through the night, and it is normal for them to be awake at times when you are usually sleeping. However eventually they will start to sleep for longer.
You need to follow any cues such as frequent yawning which indicate the need for a nap. Remember your baby is learning as well as you, and it takes time to adapt to new routines.
Feeding Challenges and Milestones
One thing you can guarantee is that your baby will always let you know when they are hungry, and an understanding of the basics of baby feeding whether breastfeeding or using formula can relieve most of your worries.
If breastfeeding, first make sure you are comfortable and that you help the baby to latch on correctly. You should try for a regular feeding time routine, although be prepared for feeding on demand. This helps with bonding and can assist in regulating your milk supply.
Although new mums are encouraged to breastfeed, this is not always possible and many children have developed well and thrived on infant formula.
Using formula can be a little daunting at first but you will soon become familiar with the appropriate measuring and preparation. Sterilising the bottle and equipment is naturally important and the formula should always be mixed in a clean bottle at the right temperature for your baby’s safety.
Solid foods can usually be introduced into baby’s diet around the six month mark, starting with pureed vegetables, mashed fruit, and simple grains such as porridge oats, avoiding foods with high sugar or salt content. It is critical to watch for any allergic reactions and immediately consult your pediatrician with anything that concerns you.
Bonding with Baby
Time spent bonding with your baby is an opportunity that you will remember for the rest of your life. It is a special and rewarding time that lays the groundwork for a healthy emotional relationship with many future benefits.
Spending real quality time with a newborn creates a sense of security and feelings of attachment. Activities such as skin-to-skin contact and gentle rocking and loving words in a low voice are all interactions that help to release the natural hormone oxytocin, sometimes called “the love hormone” that gives feelings of warmth, love and well-being.
You may think that baby will not understand when you speak to them, but even if they can’t respond they are learning the sound of your voice, creating an emotional connection. This also helps develop language and attune their ears to different word sounds.
It is of course important for the baby to be part of the whole family, so your partner, siblings, or grandparents should be involved in the bonding process – you will be glad of that in later years when you want a babysitter!
Conclusion
The first 12 months of a baby’s life will be full of change and discovery for both of you, and for your family.
It is a journey that embraces the critical milestones, establishing sleeping routines, feeding routines, and fostering a strong bond that should last a lifetime.
At first the challenges can seem overwhelming, but you should realize that every new parent has shared the same experiences, and most of us have survived!
Most importantly, trust your personal feelings and instincts and find out who best to go to for support when you need it.
Just remember, this is a journey that you are not taking alone, many have walked the same path through the ages, they have thrived successfully, and so will you.