Video:Are You Ready to Take Care of a New Baby?
with Dana MooreTaking care of a new baby is a massive responsibility and it's a new parent's duty to learn as much as possible beforehand. This About.com video will offer some advice on preparing to care for a newborn.See Transcript
Transcript:Are You Ready to Take Care of a New Baby?
Hi, my name is Dana Moore. I'm a practicing doula, here today with About.com to answer the question, "Are you ready to take care of a new baby?"
Baby Care Necessities
While there are a wide variety of accessories for a new baby, certain items are necessary to properly care for your new baby. A few of the basic necessities include diapers, wipes, appropriate clothing for the weather, a car seat, a crib or bassinet, bottles, breast pads, nursing clothing and a breastfeeding pillow. If you're not planning on breastfeeding, you will need to purchase formula.
Installing a Car Seat
Federal law requires that your baby is securely strapped into a car seat, while traveling in a vehicle. The car seat will need to be placed in the backseat of your vehicle, preferably in the middle of the seat, facing the rear of the car. This will ensure that you're baby is the safest position possible in the event of a collision. Most car seats have a built-in level that will show you when the carseat is in the proper position. The bubble in the level should be in the center of the two lines. Be sure to install your car seat before the baby is born. Installation may be more difficult that it appears.
Setting Up a Crib
Although you may want to make your new baby's crib look and feel comfy, you will need to avoid placing any pillows, stuffed animals or blankets in your newborn's crib. The crib should not have anything in it aside from the mattress. This is to prevent a condition called SIDS, or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that your baby sleep on her back to reduce the chance of SIDS. Other precautions to reduce SIDS include: avoid loose bedding, do not overheat your baby while sleeping and avoid placing your baby on plush surfaces.
Feeding a Baby
If you choose to breast-feed your baby, you may want to purchase a breast pump to store your milk, especially if you will be returning to work. If you choose to bottle-feed your baby with formula, only give your newborn the recommended formula manufactured for his age-group. Never give a newborn cow's milk, soy milk or formula intended for an older child. When heating a bottle, never use a microwave. Microwaves do not heat evenly, which can lead to a potential burn in your baby's mouth. Always heat it by running it under warm water and checking the temperature on your skin.
For more information on infant care, go to About.com.
