Infant Care Guide & Advice for New Parents

‍

Welcome to parenthood. Bringing a newborn home is a whirlwind of emotions – pure joy, a touch of anxiety, and a whole lot of "what do I do now?" 

‍

You're not alone. 

‍

While every baby is unique, a fundamental infant care guide can help new parents looking for advice navigate this incredible journey. Let's break down the essential aspects of newborn care.

‍

Heading From Hospital to Home 

Before discharge from any hospital in Singapore, your baby would have gone through screening for hypothyroidism (low thyroid function), oximetry (critical congenital heart defects), jaundice, G6PD deficiency (lack of an enzyme), hearing loss, and metabolic disease.

‍

Now, time for the big move home! First-time parents often feel a little shaky when handling their newborn. It's perfectly normal. The key is to always support the head and neck as they haven’t developed muscles to support their head which is the heaviest part of the body.

‍

If you own a car, invest in a rear-facing infant car seat suitable for your baby's age and size. This provides the best protection in case of a collision. If you’re taking a private hire vehicle, do opt for the ones that offer car seats. 

‍

Feeding Your Baby

‍

Breast milk is the gold standard, as recommended by the World Health Organisation. It's perfectly formulated for your baby and packed with nutrients, antibodies, and probiotics. In the first six months, breastfed babies also don't need additional water.  

‍

Latching on demand is generally advised – let your bub guide the frequency. 

‍

Remember, breastfeeding is a learned skill, and it's okay to seek help from a lactation consultant if you encounter challenges.

‍

Caring for Your Baby

‍

Figuring out the first days of being a new parent is like solving a mystery. A word of advice? Knowing what your baby needs is the key to taking good care of them.

‍

This guide offers comprehensive information on essential infant care, including interpreting cries, maintaining hygiene, and establishing safe sleep and bathing practices.

‍

1. Baby Cries

‍

Babies cry for a multitude of reasons, ranging from simple discomfort to more pressing needs. Learning to differentiate these cries is a skill that develops over time, but here's a breakdown of common types.

‍

Hunger cries often start as soft whimpers and escalate into more insistent wails. Look for accompanying signs like:

• Moving their head from side to side, as if searching for a breast or bottle (rooting reflex).
• Sucking on their fingers, hands, or anything within reach.
• Making lip-smacking or sucking noises.

‍

A tip is to feed your baby before they reach the screaming stage. Crying is a late hunger cue, and a calmer baby will feed more effectively.

‍

Discomfort cries are often more high-pitched and agitated. Check for these potential issues and address them promptly:

• A wet or dirty diaper.
• Being too hot or too cold.
• Clothing that's too tight or irritating.
• An uncomfortable position.

‍

Colic cries are intense and prolonged, often occurring at the same time each day (usually in the evening). Your bub may draw their legs up to their tummy, clench their fists, and have a flushed face. Colic can be very distressing for both baby and parents. While the exact cause is unknown, it typically resolves on its own by a few months of age.

‍

Meanwhile, pain cries are sharp, sudden, and often accompanied by a gasp or a wince. They can indicate gas pain or stomach cramps, teething pain, or illness or injury.

‍

Sometimes, babies cry simply because they want to be held, rocked, or comforted. Babies crave physical closeness and the reassurance of their parents' presence. These are known as comfort cries, which may be softer and more intermittent. Try different methods to comfort them, such as:

• Holding them close.
• Rocking them gently.
• Talking or singing softly.
• Using a baby carrier or sling.
• Swaddling.
• Gentle patting or rubbing their back.
• White noise.

‍

2. Baby sleep

‍

Establishing healthy sleep routines, deciphering night cries, and creating a calm sleep environment are crucial for both baby’s and parent's well-being.

‍

Newborns sleep a lot – around 14 to 17 hours daily in the first three months. They typically sleep for periods of 2–4 hours but those sleep patterns can be unpredictable. Like adults, babies develop their own sleep patterns and cycles.

‍

The best advice for new parents is to establish a consistent sleep routine in a calm, dimly lit environment. Swaddling, gentle rocking, and soothing sounds can also work wonders

‍

To reduce the danger of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), babies should always be placed on their backs to sleep. 

‍

Further safe sleep guidelines in our infant care guide include: 

• Maintaining a bare crib or bassinet, free of blankets, quilts, sheepskins, bumpers, stuffed toys, and pillows, as these can pose a suffocation hazard. 
• For the first six months to a year, parents should share a room with the baby, but not the same bed. 
• To prevent flat spots on the baby's head, alternate the direction their head faces each night.

‍

3. Baby Hygiene

‍

Keeping your baby clean and comfortable involves mastering diaper changes, bath time routines, and understanding proper hygiene practices.

‍

Nails

‍

Baby nails grow surprisingly fast and can be sharp, posing a risk of scratching their delicate skin, especially their face. Our advice is to trim nails when bubba is calm or asleep.

‍

Use baby nail clippers or small, blunt-ended baby scissors specifically designed for infant nails. 

‍

Simply hold the baby's finger firmly and press the finger pad away from the nail. Trim straight across, following the natural curve of the nail. For toenails, trim straight across to prevent ingrown nails.

‍

Some new parents use baby nail files to gently file down sharp edges, which can be less intimidating than clippers.

‍

Diapers

‍

Meconium is the baby's first stool. It’s a dark, sticky substance that accumulates in the intestines during gestation. This is normal and will transition to regular stool within a few days.

‍

Meconium can be difficult to clean, so gentle wiping with warm water and cotton balls or soft wipes is recommended.

‍

Newborns require frequent diaper changes, often 10-12 times a day, as they eat and poop frequently. Breastfed babies will typically have mustard-yellow, loose stools, while formula-fed babies may have firmer, tan-colored stools. 

‍

Keep an eye on any changes in consistency or frequency, and consult your doctor if you notice persistent diarrhea.

‍

Here are the diaper-changing steps to follow in our infant care guide:

1. Gather the needed diaper, wipes, diaper rash cream, and a changing pad.
2. Lay baby down and unfasten the diaper.
3. Clean the baby's bottom thoroughly with wipes from front to back (especially important for girls).
4. Apply diaper rash cream if needed, creating a barrier between the skin and urine/stool.
5. Fasten a clean diaper snugly, ensuring it's not too tight.
6. Dispose of the soiled diaper properly.

‍

Baths

‍

Contrary to popular belief, newborns actually don't need daily baths. Two to three times a week is sufficient as over-bathing can dry out their delicate skin.

‍

Until the umbilical cord falls off, sponge baths are recommended. Once the cord falls off, you can transition to tub baths.

‍

Here’s a bathtime routine to follow in our infant care guide:

1. Gather your baby wash, a soft washcloth, a towel, and a clean diaper.
2. Test the water with your elbow or wrist to ensure it's comfortably warm (36°C).
3. Support the baby's head and neck.
4. Gently wash the baby's face, neck, and body with a washcloth and mild baby wash
5. Pay attention to creases in the skin, such as underarms and neck folds.
6. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
7. Wrap the baby in a towel and pat them dry, paying attention to the skin folds.
8. Moisturise the baby's skin with a gentle, fragrance-free lotion if needed.

Confinement Nannies Guiding You On Infant Care

‍

While these first months brim with gummy grins and gurgling laughter, they can also feel like navigating uncharted territory. Let's talk about the real deal – the sleep deprivation, the endless diaper changes, and the constant wondering if you're doing it right.

‍

Besides reading up on infant care tips to guide yourself through the intricacies of early parenthood, there’s another solution – the confinement nanny. 

‍

Far from being mere childcare providers, confinement nannies are companions who can be seamlessly integrated into your family unit. You can expect:

• Expert infant care guide: From feeding and bathing to soothing cries and establishing routines, their experience and skillset guarantee your baby's needs are met with meticulous care and gentle attentiveness.
• Domestic orchestration: Laundry magically folds, dishes vanish, and delicious meals appear, allowing you to prioritise rest and bonding with your newborn.
• Postpartum pillar of support: Beyond practical assistance, they offer emotional guidance and understanding, celebrating milestones, addressing anxieties, and providing a safe space for vulnerability.
• Confinement ritual navigator: Armed with knowledge, they can help you navigate traditional confinement practices, promoting your physical and emotional well-being through this unique period.

‍

Choosing the Right Confinement Nanny is Crucial

‍

Choosing the right confinement nanny isn't just about finding a capable caregiver, it's about finding an extension of your family. 

‍

This trusted partner will share the responsibilities, offering their expertise, advice, and emotional support during this vulnerable time for new parents.

‍

The right nanny is:

• Experienced and qualified: Their knowledge and skills ensure your baby's needs are met with confidence.
• Compassionate and nurturing: They build a strong bond with your baby, providing warmth and emotional support.
• Respectful and adaptable: They adapt to your family's unique routines, creating a harmonious environment.
• Communicative and transparent: They keep you informed about your baby's well-being and address any concerns with clarity.

‍

Finding the perfect match may seem daunting, but at NewBubs Confinement, we take the guesswork out of the equation. Our expert matchmaking services connect you with the ideal nanny to seamlessly integrate into your family and become your invaluable infant care partner.

• In-depth consultations: We understand your family's unique needs and preferences, from cultural nuances to childcare philosophies.
• Nanny selection: We meticulously choose candidates with the right experience, qualifications, and personality to be a perfect fit.
• Mutual interviews: Open communication and comfortable connections are key – you get to interview the nanny before making your decision.
• Seamless transition: We provide ongoing support and guidance to ensure a smooth and harmonious integration into your family life.
• Application assistance: We handle all the paperwork and communicate directly with the Ministry of Manpower, ensuring accuracy and efficient processing.

‍

NewBubs Confinement - Your Infant Care Guide & Partner

‍

At NewBubs Confinement, we believe every new parents deserves a stress-free and joyful confinement experience, filled with love, support, and expert advice.

Beyond reading our infant care guide, contact us today and let our team of dedicated professionals from our confinement centre orchestrate a harmonious confinement journey for you and your precious little one. Together, we'll make the first symphony of your parenthood a masterpiece of love, joy, and unforgettable memories.