Preparations for Baby's arrival

After a tiring 9 mth of pregnancy, many women expect to ease into their roles of mothers as naturally as their love for their children, but such expectations are unrealistic.
Newborn babies:
- are actually much trickier to handle than toddlers, and are more delicate and prone to injury.
- muscles are not strong enough for them to hold their heads upright or even to turn from side to side.
- have underdeveloped immune systems, making them more prone to bacterial infections.

Safe environment for Baby
- make sure there're no pillows or stuffed toys around the cot that may cause suffocation.
- remove any strings used to secure the beddings as these can cause strangulation of baby's limbs.
- pets should be kept in separate rooms.
- wait until your child is 5-6 yrs old to get a new pet for him/her.

Handling guidelines
- cradle the head when carrying a newborn.
- keep one hand gripping his thigh firmly to keep him from falling.
- never shake or toss a newborn up and down as this can result in serious brain injuries.
- avoid shining bright lights into the eyes or place newborn underneath a lamp while changing his diapers.


Bathing
- gently clean the face with water, and do not use soap.
- do not attempt to clean his ear canals with cotton buds.
- wipe the baby's gums with a damp washcloth/gauze pad to remove plaque.
- for baby girl, clean the genitalia area by wiping front to back.
- make sure all the essentials such as soap, shampoo and towels are nearby.
- use warm water, and test the temperature of the water before bathing.
- make sure the neck is well supported and made sure he doesn't slip into the water.
- use mild soap and shampoo and soft face towel or cotton wool to wipe his face, ears and eyes.
- never dunk the baby's head underwater.

Diaper changing
- keep the diaper area clean and dry.
- change wet or soiled diapers immediately to prevent rashes.
- gently clean the diaper area with water and a soft washcloth or cotton wool.
- use soap and water if the stool does not come off easily and pat dry; do not rub.
- allow the area to air-dry fully and apply a thick layer or protective ointment or cream.
- avoid using alcohol wipes that can dry and irritate the skin.
- pour out the baby powder carefully and keep the powder away from baby's face.
- cornstarch or talc in baby powder can injure a baby's lungs.

Taking baby for a walk outdoors
- avoid crowded places and close contact with people who are ill.
- dress baby according to the temperature and weather.
- place baby in car seat when travelling in a vehicle.