Baby Basics

Introduction

The early weeks of being a new parent bring joy and fulfillment, but also anxiety and bewilderment. In this chapter, which is divided into three sections, you can find just about everything you need to know about adjusting to life with your newborn baby.

Young father playing with his daughter inside with toys

1. Feeding

Feeding is your baby’s prime need – you can’t settle a hungry baby. So the first thing you need to learn is how to feed your baby. Your baby’s day revolves around their feed/sleep cycle.

Highlights

Breastfeeding – Besides creating a close bond between you and your child, breastfeeding also increases your baby’s resistance to infection and disease. Learn how to begin breastfeeding, and get practical tips and answers to common questions such as breast and nipple care, mastitis and expressing breastmilk.

Formula feeding – Whether you choose to formula feed or need to use an occasional bottle, keeping your baby safe and healthy is the utmost priority. Get to know the basics of bottle feeding, from learning how to make up formula milk to bottle feeding frequency and tips.

2. Settling for sleep

During the first few weeks, your baby’s day is a continuous cycle of feeding, quiet time, settling and sleep. Remember, unsettled behaviour is normal in newborns.

Senior woman getting out of bed holding lower back in pain

Highlights

Developing a settling technique – Crying is a way for babies to communicate their needs. Learn more about the importance of developing a settling technique that your baby becomes familiar with – which can help reassure and calm them.

Strategies for resettling – If you are having trouble settling your baby, don’t be disillusioned. It takes time for you and baby to learn. You can adopt various strategies such as using rhythmical movement or playing soft music to soothe your baby

Young father playing with his daughter inside with toys

3. Looking after you

Becoming parents is a huge adjustment and can be both a time of joy and great stress for new parents. It’s important to look after your own needs, as well as your baby’s.

Highlights

Postnatal exercises – Pregnancy and childbirth will weaken your pelvic floor muscles, which can cause problems such as incontinence. Learn how you can strengthen your pelvic floor muscles by doing a simple exercise at home.

For new dads – It’s just as important for dads to bond with your baby. After all, the most valuable gifts you can give them are your time and love. Try playing with, bathing or dressing your baby – these are great ways to bond and engage with them.

Related articles

Chapter 1 Baby Basics

Breastfeeding

Chapter 1 Baby Basics

Breast and Nipple Care

Grandmother and grandchild making dough in the kitchen

Chapter 1 Baby Basics

Developing a Settling Technique

Grandmother and grandchild making dough in the kitchen

Chapter 1 Baby Basics

Strategies for Resettling