Instruction Manual For New Parents – Being Parents
Having a child is a unique experience. Despite all the good things, the arrival of a baby brings parents to new situations, like changing the diaper or choosing the perfect cradle for their first naps. In order to offer you a little help, we have prepared a small instruction manual for new parents.
This is a set of essential tips to help you anticipate the baby’s arrival. So, while you prepare the house for the coming of the baby, this instruction manual will provide you with the basics you need to take on the challenge of caring for your first baby.
Instruction manual for new parents
1. Changing diapers
It’s no secret that babies need frequent diaper changes. Some of them have very delicate skin and require a diaper change as soon as it gets wet. Otherwise, their skin may become irritated and turn red. Other babies may wait to be changed before or after each feeding.
In any case, it is advisable to change diapers as soon as possible after a bowel movement; the goal is to prevent a rash.
2. Wash and bathe the baby
To wash your little one, we recommend that you choose a time when he is awake and happy. Also, make sure the room is warm and everything is ready in advance.
The main thing at such times is to have a container with lukewarm water, a towel, cotton, a clean diaper and, if necessary, clean clothes.
3. Cut the nails
When it comes to trimming the baby’s nails, you have several options. If you are using scissors, make sure the bottom part is under the nail.
At this time, the baby should be still. You can do this while he is sleeping or with the help of another person holding the little one’s fingers firmly.
As a tip, know that after the bath, the nails are softer and it will be easier to cut them. If you accidentally pinch the child’s skin, press the wound with sterile gauze to stop the bleeding.
“You are not raising heroes, you are raising sons. And if you treat them like sons, they turn out to be heroes, even if it’s fair to their own eyes ”.
-Walter M. Schirra-
4. The choice of the cradle
The fourth tip that we introduce in this instruction manual for new parents is the choice of the cradle. There should not be a lot of items to keep the baby safe. The main thing is that the mattress is firm, flat and comfortable, and that it includes a fitted sheet.
On the other hand, mobiles and hanging toys should always be out of reach of the baby. Do not use cords to hang toys in the bed, as they can cause strangulation.
Be careful that the cradle is not too close to a window, as there is a risk that the child will fall or even be injured by the cords of blinds or curtains.
5. The chair for eating
The choice of chair is important to prevent babies from falling. We advise you to take the following steps if you want to make the right choice:
- Look for a high chair with a wide base.
- Secure the baby firmly to the chair.
- Make sure it is suitable for his weight and size.
- Do not let older siblings get on the chair, as it may tip over.
6. The stroller for walking
Getting outside is fun for parents and babies. When buying the stroller, you should take this into account:
- Choose a sturdy stroller with a wide base.
- Check that it has easy-to-operate brakes.
- If it includes a basket, it should be placed on the back part.
7. Toys
Finally, before choosing toys for your baby, be aware that small toys with tiny parts can lead to choking. Indeed, there is equipment to check if they are the right size. For example, a good choice for children under one year old is a rattle, a soft doll, or animal cuddly toys.
In addition, you must keep the baby away from magnets. They can be very dangerous if swallowed or aspirated. The same is true with uninflated balloons, as they can cause choking hazards in children under 8 years old.
We hope this instruction manual for new parents will help you deal with the situations involved in this valuable step. We take this opportunity to wish you good luck!