Helpful things to know about having a newborn.

Helpful things to know about having a newborn.

I thought that I would talk a little bit about newborns and one or two helpf ul things about newborns.  Newborns can be confusing.  And for many brand new parents, who perhaps prior to the baby being born felt like they could handle anything or even think- “how hard can it be?” , feeling vulnerable and confused may be their reality.

This is particularly when they go home  and are on their own for the first time with their baby. If you have a new baby or if you know someone with a new baby the following may be helpful in squashing fears and old wives tales when it comes to knowing what to do.

Follow their lead. Watch baby behaviours and let them tell you what is going on.

Again this will take time.  However if you put the time in, stop and respond rather than become fearful and react, you will be much more effective in giving your baby what they need and calming them more quickly.

Don’t be scared of the crying. It is your baby talking to you. It sounds like there is something really wrong for the little things, but each time you respond, your baby is learning to trust and soon the crying for minor things will subside.

Carrying in a pouch or sling will not spoil a baby. In fact carrying a bay in a pouch or sling can help them sleep better, build trust faster and help you get on with your day because your baby is portable.

As your baby gets bigger – ie heavier,  it may not be so comfortable or practical for you.  For small babies though, this is magic in most circumstances and will not spoil your baby particularly while they are immature in that first 3-4 months of age.

Cuddling your baby to sleep will not spoil your  baby in the  first 3-4 months either.  A lot of people will tell you that it will.  You cannot spoil a baby by cuddling them when they are young.

If they get over stimulated by  active cuddling and lots of stimulation and handling they may become over tired, but not spoiled. Cuddling builds trust and a feeling of safety and security.

So cuddle those babies.