10 Things You Need to Know II

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6. Introduce only one new food each week. The best time for offering new foods is in the morning. This makes it easier to observe your baby for signs of an allergic reaction, such as a rash, runny nose, congestion, ear infection, fussiness or an upset tummy. Watch for severe reactions. If these occur they should be reported to your baby's health care provider.

7. Expect a change in your baby's stools. As you add solid foods to your baby's diet you will see a change in the color, consistency and frequency of your baby's bowel movements. It is normal to see the stools change color, depending on the food your baby eats. It is also likely that you will see undigested bits of food in your baby's stool.

8. Remember that babies have tiny tummies and do best with small amounts offered through the day, rather than three bigger meals.

9. Follow baby's cues. If your baby doesn't like a food, or just isn't hungry, don't force the issue. (It won't hurt your baby to go back totally to breast or bottle and take a solid food break for a few days.) It's important to keep mealtime enjoyable.

10. Make meals a social event. Allow your baby to sit with the family at mealtime so she can begin to enjoy the social side of sharing a meal with the family. Babies usually love this interaction.

Article From :http://parenting.ivillage.com/baby/bnutrition/0,,69w0,00.html

10 Things You Need to Know I

1. Make sure your baby is ready. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends waiting until your baby is at least four to six months of age before introducing solid foods. Around this time your baby will begin to show signs of readiness for solids. She begins to sit up well, unsupported; she can pick up small items; and she is very interested in what is on your dinner plate. Every baby is different: It is more important to watch your baby for signs of readiness than to decide an arbitrary time for introducing solids.

2. Go slowly. You and your baby have lots of time to explore this whole new world of culinary delight. Offer your baby very small amounts of food to start out (a half teaspoon or so). Gradually increase the amount you are offering until you are giving your baby one-quarter cup or so of food at a time.

3. Breast milk or formula comes first during baby's first year. To keep an adequate milk supply, if you are breastfeeding, and to provide your baby with his most important food during his first year of life, nurse or feed your baby formula before offering solid foods.

4. There is not one best, set-in-stone, method of food progression. Your baby's likes and dislikes and your family history of allergies/asthma will play a big role in which foods you offer your baby -- and when.

5. Expect things to be a bit messy. Much of the food you feed your baby will end up on her clothes and on the floor. This is par for the course, so dress appropriately.

Continue Part II

Article From : http://parenting.ivillage.com/baby/bnutrition/0,,69w0,00.html

Car Seat Baby Safty Tips

Be wary of used car seats. Be careful about using a car seat that belonged to someone else, it may have been damaged.

Always put your new baby in a rear-facing car seat in the back seat of your car. The back seat is the safest place for all children to ride. It is estimated that children ages 12 and under are 36 percent less likely to die in a crash if they are sitting in the back seat.

Don't put your baby in front of a passenger-side air bag. Here's another reason to put your baby in the back seat. About 20 percent of children killed by passenger-side air bags are infants in rear-facing child seats in front of an air bag. If you absolutely must put your baby in the front seat, make sure the air bag is turned off.


Infants (babies under one year) should ride in a rear-facing seat at least until they weigh 20 pounds and are one year of age. If your child fits in a rear-facing seat, leave her there past one year. It's really the safest position and it offers the best protection for your baby's head, neck and back.

Use the car seat every time baby rides. If someone offers to take your baby out, make sure the car seat goes too. And make sure it is installed correctly in the back seat. No one plans to have an accident. Most crashes happen close to home on roads with low speed limits.

Don't use your baby as an airbag. Never, ever put your child in your lap in a car. No matter how tightly you hold your child, he or she will not be safe in a crash. The baby could fly through the windshield, hit the dashboard or be crushed by your body. Always put the baby in his or her car seat.

Never leave your baby in the car, even just for a moment. Sadly, many babies die each year because they were left in an overheated car, while Mom or Dad ran to do a quick errand. Cars can heat up fast in the hot sun and a baby can overheat quickly. Avoid this tragedy by taking your baby with you when you leave the car.

If you're not sure your car seat is installed correctly, get it checked out. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully when you install the car seat. Then get it checked out. Visit the Safe Kids Web site to find an event near you where trained people will inspect your car seat and make sure it is installed and used correctly�free of charge. Some local police stations and hospitals also offer this service.

Article From :http://www.marchofdimes.com/pnhec/298_1041.asp

Bathing and Skin Care For Your Baby II

How to give your newborn a tub bath:

Once your baby's umbilical cord has fallen off and the stump is healed, and after a boy's circumcision has healed, you can give your baby a tub bath. This can be a pleasurable experience for you and your baby. However, some babies may not like to be bathed, especially the first few times. Talk softly or sing and try some bath toys if your baby protests.

What equipment is needed for a tub bath?

• baby bathtub (preferably with a bottom drain plug)
• nonslip mat or pad
• bath thermometer (these often have "safe" bath temperature ranges marked on them)

When bathing your baby in a tub:

• Clear the counter or table top of breakable objects and electrical appliances to prevent injury.
• Fill the tub with warm water, using a bath thermometer.
• Follow the same general bathing instructions for a sponge bath.
• NEVER take your hands off your baby, or walk away, even for a moment.
• Be sure to clean the bathtub after each use.

Providing proper skin care for your newborn:

A baby's soft and delicate skin needs special care. Generally it is best to use products made especially for babies, but your baby's physician can advise you about other products. Products for adults may be too harsh for a baby and may contain irritants or allergens. Many parents like to use lotions for the sweet baby smell. However, unless the baby's skin is dry, lotions really are not needed. Powders should be avoided, unless they are recommended by your baby's physician. When using any powder, put the powder in your hand and then apply it to the baby's skin. Shaking powder into the air releases dust and talc which can make it hard for the baby to breathe.

Many babies have rashes and bumps that are normal. Some rashes may be a sign of a problem or infection. Diaper rash can be irritating to the baby and needs to be treated. If you have concerns about a rash, or your baby is uncomfortable or has a fever, call your baby's physician.

Laundry detergents may cause irritation to a baby's delicate skin. Even if you use a detergent marketed for baby laundry, it is a good idea to rinse the laundry an extra time to remove residues.

Article From:http://www.chp.edu/greystone/newborn/bathcare.php

Bathing and Skin Care For Your Baby I

Proper bathing and skin care for your newborn:

A newborn's skin is soft and delicate. Proper skin care and bathing can help maintain the health and texture of the baby's skin while providing a pleasant experience for both of you.

Contrary to popular thought, most babies do not need a bath every single day. With all the diaper changes and wiping of mouth and nose after feedings, most babies may only need to be bathed two or three times a week or every other day.

Baths can be given any time of day. Bathing before a feeding often works well. Many parents prefer to bathe their baby in the evening, as part of the bedtime ritual. This works well especially if bath time is relaxing and soothing for the baby.

Sponge baths are required at first. Bathing in a tub of water should wait until the baby's umbilical cord falls off, and a baby boy's circumcision heals, to prevent infection.

What equipment is needed for bathing newborns?

• thick towels or a sponge-type bath cushion
• soft washcloths
• basin or clean sink
• cotton balls
• baby shampoo and baby soap (non-irritating)
• hooded baby towel
• clean diaper and clothing

How to give a sponge bath:

• Make sure the room is warm, without drafts, about (75° F).
• Gather all equipment and supplies in advance.
• Add warm water to a clean sink or basin (warm to the inside of your wrist or between 90 and 100° F.).
• Place baby on a bath cushion or thick towels on a surface that is waist high.
• Keep the baby covered with a towel or blanket.
• NEVER take your hands off the baby, even for a moment. If you have forgotten something, wrap up the baby in a towel and take him/her with you.
• Start with the baby's face - use one moistened, clean cotton ball to wipe each eye, starting at the bridge of the nose then wiping out to the corner of the eye.
• Wash the rest of the baby's face with a soft, moist washcloth without soap.
• Clean the outside folds of the ears with a soft washcloth. DO NOT insert a cotton swab into the baby's ear canal because of the risk of damage to the ear drum.
• Add a small amount of baby soap to the water or washcloth and gently bathe the rest of the baby from the neck down. Uncover only one area at a time. Rinse with a clean washcloth or a small cup of water. Be sure to avoid getting the umbilical cord wet.
• Wash the baby's head last with a shampoo on a washcloth. Rinse, being careful not to let water run over the baby's face. Holding the baby firmly with your arm under his/her back and your wrist and hand supporting his/her neck, you can use a high faucet to rinse the hair.
• Scrubbing is not necessary, but most babies enjoy their arms and legs being massaged with gentle strokes during a bath.
• Wrap the baby in a hooded bath towel and cuddle your clean baby close.
• Follow cord care instructions given by your baby's physician.
• Use a soft baby brush to comb out your baby's hair. DO NOT use a hair dryer on hot to dry a baby's hair because of the risk of burns.
• Expect your baby to cry the first few times you bathe him/her. Usually, this is just because a bath is a new experience. However, be sure to check that the water is not too warm or cold or that soap has not gotten in your baby's eyes if your baby suddenly starts crying during a bath.

Continue part II

Article From:http://www.chp.edu/greystone/newborn/bathcare.php

Bathing your newborn Techniqe II

Should I wash my newborn's hair?

Yes, if it seems dirty or your baby develops cradle cap — a common condition characterized by scaly patches on the scalp.

Supporting your baby's head and shoulders with your free hand, gently massage a drop of mild baby shampoo into your baby's scalp. Rinse the shampoo with a damp washcloth. If your baby has cradle cap, loosen the scales with a soft-bristled baby brush or toothbrush before rinsing off the shampoo.

What type of baby tub is best?

When your baby graduates from sponge baths, you'll have plenty of choices. Many parents use plastic tubs specifically designed for newborns. Others opt for plain plastic basins or inflatable tubs that fit inside the bathtub. Lined with a towel or rubber mat, the kitchen or bathroom sink may be another option.

Safety is the most important consideration — not necessarily the type of tub. Gather your supplies ahead of time so that you can keep one hand on the baby at all times. If you're interrupted, take your baby with you. Never leave your baby alone in the water.

How much water should I put in the tub?

You'll need only a few inches of warm water. At first, you may want to lather your baby on a towel and use the tub only for rinsing.

What about water temperature?

Warm water is best. To prevent scalding, set the thermostat on your water heater to below 120 F. Always check the water temperature with your hand before bathing your baby.

Keep room temperature in mind as well. A wet baby may be easily chilled. Be sure the room is comfortably warm — about 75 F.

What's the best way to hold my newborn in the tub?

Use your arm and hand to hold your baby in the tub or under the faucet.

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A secure hold will help your baby feel comfortable — and stay safe — in the tub. Support your baby's head and torso with your arm and hand. Wrap your arm under your baby's back, grasping your baby firmly under the armpit. When you clean your baby's back and buttocks, lean him or her forward on your arm. Continue to grasp your baby under the armpit.

To rinse your baby's hair, try a football hold under the faucet. Support your baby's back with your arm, keeping a firm hold on your baby's head while you rinse.

What should I wash first?

Most parents start with the baby's face and move on to dirtier parts of the body. Wash inside skin folds, and rinse the genitals carefully. You may want to save the hair for last to help your baby preserve body heat.

Do I need a special type of soap?

No. In fact, plain water is fine for newborns. When needed, use a mild moisturizing soap. Avoid bubble bath and scented soaps.

Will lotion after a bath help prevent rashes?

No. Most newborns don't need lotion after a bath. In fact, greasy lotions or ointments may make a rash more likely by blocking your baby's tiny sweat glands. The best way to prevent rashes is to dry inside your baby's folds of skin after each bath.

Is it better to bathe my baby in the morning or at night?

That's up to you. Choose a time when you're not rushed or likely to be interrupted. Some parents opt for morning baths, when their babies are alert and ready to enjoy the experience. Others prefer evening baths as part of a calming bedtime ritual.

Article From :http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/healthy-baby/PR00041/UPDATEAPP=0

Bathing your newborn Techniqe I

Bathing a slippery newborn can be a nerve-racking experience. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you master the basics.

Bathing a slippery newborn can be a nerve-racking experience. Your baby may not like it much, either. But stay calm. With a little practice, you'll both start to feel more comfortable at bath time. Start by learning the basics.

How often does my newborn need a bath?

There's no need to give your newborn a bath every day. In fact, bathing your baby more than several times a week may dry out his or her skin. If you're quick with clean diapers and fresh burp cloths, you're already cleaning the parts that really need attention — the face, neck and diaper area.

Is a sponge bath good enough?

Yes. Sponge baths are usually the best option at first, at least until the area around the umbilical cord heals. Sponge baths are more convenient than tub baths, and they're easier on your newborn.

Here's what you need:

• A warm place with a flat surface. A bathroom or kitchen counter, changing table or firm bed will work. Even a blanket or towel on the floor is OK if it's warm enough.
• A soft blanket, towel or changing pad. Spread it out for your baby to lie on.
• A free hand. Always keep one hand on your baby. On a changing table, use the safety strap as well.
• A sink or shallow plastic basin to hold the water. Run several inches of warm water into the basin or sink. Check the water temperature with your hand to make sure it's not too hot.
• Essential supplies. Gather a washcloth, a towel, cotton balls, mild baby shampoo, mild moisturizing soap, baby wipes, a clean diaper and a change of clothes.

How do I give a sponge bath?

Keep your baby warm during a sponge bath. Expose only the parts you're washing.

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Undress your baby and wrap him or her in a towel. When you're ready to begin the bath, lay your baby on his or her back on the towel or pad you've prepared. Wet the washcloth, wring out excess water and wipe your baby's face. There's no need to use soap. Use a damp cotton ball or clean cotton cloth to wipe each eyelid, from the inside to the outside corner.

When you're ready to move on, plain water is usually OK. If your baby is smelly or dirty, use a mild moisturizing soap. Pay special attention to creases under the arms, behind the ears, around the neck and in the diaper area. Also wash between your baby's fingers and toes. To keep your baby warm, expose only the parts you're washing.

Continue in Part II

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Basic breast-feeding techniques

Basic breast-feeding techniques

• Get comfortable. Find a position that is comfortable for both you and your baby. For all positions, make sure the baby's head and chest are lined up straight and facing your breast. Have 2 or 3 pillows and a glass of water or juice nearby.
• Decide which breast to start with. Although it is best to offer your baby both breasts at each feeding, alternate which breast you start with. If the baby takes only one breast at a feeding, which is common in the first day or two, start the next feeding on the other breast. Try to offer both breasts at each feeding.
• Get the baby latched on properly. An improper latch is painful and frustrating. It causes some women to stop breast-feeding. A proper latch-on helps prevent problems such as sore nipples, blocked milk ducts, breast infections, and poor infant weight gain. Position your baby's chest against your chest with his or her head and body aligned straight. Skin-to-skin contact while breast-feeding, especially during the first few days, helps promote bonding with your baby.
  • Start by lightly touching the middle of your baby's lower lip with your nipple until the baby opens his or her mouth. The baby's mouth needs to be wide open, like a yawn, before attempting to latch.
  • With your fingers under your breast and your thumb resting on top of your breast (the "C hold"), bring the baby quickly onto the nipple and the areola (the dark circle around the nipple), so it goes deep into your baby's mouth. You may feel pain briefly when the baby latches on to the breast, especially in the first few days of breast-feeding. The pain should go away in less than a minute. If the pain does not go away after the first minute of breast-feeding, remove the baby from the breast and re-latch the baby. If that fails, try a different position.
  • As you are getting started, if the baby does not immediately get the idea to suck, squeeze a little milk into his or her mouth.
  • Look for signs that your baby is getting enough milk. Listen for a regular sucking and swallowing pattern while the baby is feeding. Dimpled cheeks and clicking or smacking noises may mean that the baby is sucking on his or her tongue instead of the nipple. Remove and reposition the baby. If you cannot see or hear a swallowing pattern, watch the baby's ears, which will wiggle slightly when the baby swallows.
  • If the baby's nose appears to be blocked by your breast, reposition him or her by raising the baby's hips or relaxing the baby's head back slightly, so just the edge of one nostril is clear for breathing. Do not press on your breast to clear the baby's nose, because this pulls on your nipple and may cause nipple soreness.
• Removing your baby from the breast. Any time you need to remove your baby from the breast, put one finger into the corner of his or her mouth and push your finger between your baby's gums to gently break the seal. If you do not break the tight seal before you remove the baby from your breast, your nipples can become sore, cracked, or bruised.
• Switch to the other breast. Offer the other breast when the first breast feels empty and the infant sucks more slowly, pulls off, or loses interest. Usually the baby will continue breast-feeding, though perhaps for less time than on the first breast. At first, the baby may breast-feed only 3 to 5 minutes on one breast. Later, feedings may last 10 to 25 minutes or longer on each breast. These rates vary, and you do not need to time each feeding. Let your baby feed until he or she is satisfied.
• Burp your baby. When your baby is satisfied, gently pat his or her back to help him or her let out any swallowed air. After the baby burps, offer the breast again. Sometimes a baby will want to continue feeding after being burped.

Breast-feeding may go more smoothly in the first days and weeks if you and your baby are relaxed.

• Keep the room darkened. Bright light makes it difficult for newborns to open their eyes.
• If your baby falls asleep before finishing breast-feeding, you may need to stimulate him or her to finish the feeding. (Newborns and babies with jaundice may be hard to keep awake.) Tickle the baby's feet or neck, keep the baby cooler by undressing him or her, change the baby's diaper between breasts, or use a cool damp washcloth on the baby's face. After a while, you will learn your baby's patterns and will know whether he or she needs rousing or has fed long enough.
• In the first few days, you may need to wake the baby to breast-feed every 2 to 3 hours.
• Make sure the room is quiet and warm, and that you are able to relax. Eliminate or ignore distractions, such as the phone.
• Keep something to drink nearby. Most women get thirsty as they breast-feed. Drink enough to satisfy your thirst.
• Avoid using artificial nipples such as bottles or pacifiers, at least until breast-feeding is well established (usually about 4 to 6 weeks). This also means other caregivers should wait to give a bottle to the baby. Feedings should be given only by the mother at the breast. The other caregivers can bond by holding, cuddling, changing clothes and diapers, and generally spending time with the baby.
• Once your baby latches onto your breast and is feeding well, try using a pillow or receiving blanket to maintain a comfortable position for both of you. Many women get sleepy while breast-feeding; having your baby fully supported while you doze allows you to get some needed rest.

Breast-feeding in public

To feed your baby on demand, it is inevitable that you will need to breast-feed in public on occasion. It may help to think ahead about strategies that would help make these feedings comfortable for you.

• Look for a private or semiprivate area, such as a fitting room or a quiet corner in a lobby.
• Wear a loose-fitting blouse or a shirt that can be raised easily (a loose T-shirt or sweater works fine). If you are wearing a top with buttons, unbutton it from the bottom up and leave the top buttons closed. You can wear a top that is specially designed for breast-feeding, but it is not necessary.
• For added privacy, lay a lightweight blanket over your shoulder and chest to cover your breasts and the baby.

Article From :http://health.yahoo.com/ency/healthwise/hw130283