The arrival of a child can be a wonderful time for any mother or father, and as a new parent, it is only natural to worry about your child’s safety and well-being. All parents want the best for their child, and bringing a newborn into the world can feel like a daunting experience, especially when it is your first time.
To put your mind at ease, we have compiled some useful tips to prepare you for parenthood, ensuring your baby is safe and looked after when they first arrive in the world.
Baby Monitor
This invaluable device can put first-time parents’ minds at ease and allow them to leave their baby for a few hours while they sleep, relax or tend to other things. Knowing your child is safe in another room can give you the freedom to get on with your day, and can also give you the confidence to be apart from your baby without worrying about them.
When choosing a baby monitor, opt for one that has night vision, an adjustable camera and two-way communication allowing you to soothe your baby with the sound of your voice if you hear them cry. Another handy feature is the ability to play lullabies, making it easier for you and your baby to both sleep through the night.
Child Car Seat
Fitting a car seat may be a legal requirement, but it is also one that will give you peace of mind when driving with your baby alongside you. When deciding how to choose the right car seat for your child, make sure you choose a model that is certified and approved and comes from a reputable child car seat manufacturer such as Diono. Since your child will grow quickly, it is also a good idea to buy one that will last them until they outgrow the need for a car seat.
Sleep Time
When it comes to sleep time, it is important to create a safe sleeping space for your baby. Always make sure to place your baby on their back and use a firm, tight-fitting mattress in their crib. Remove any loose bedding such as quilts, comforters or pillows and soft objects or stuffed toys.
Check that there are no sharp objects such as diaper pins or other small objects in their crib which they could accidentally swallow. Their crib should also be clear of any hanging objects such as mounted frames or baby mobiles that could fall and injure them.
Sharing the same room, but a different bed, from your newborn is also advisable to reduce the risk of any harm coming to them.
Bathtime
Before bathing your baby, make sure the bathroom is at a comfortable temperature and is free from drafts. Check the water is safe for your baby by dipping your elbow into it to check that it is neither too hot nor too cold. As a general guide, aim for bathwater that is around 100F, using a thermometer to check.
To keep your baby warm during bath time, you can place a warm sponge or washcloth over their tummy to prevent them from getting cold. Keep your child held at all times and have a towel at hand to wrap them in as soon as you take them out of the bath.
With these four tips, you can feel confident taking on your role as a new parent.