You have delivered the baby - but where is the instruction manual?

Infant Care

Parenthood is a huge learning curve. You have been preparing for your baby's arrival for 9 months, but no matter how hard you studied during your pregnancy, you may still feel completely unprepared once you are holding your new infant. The following section has some useful information on the basics of caring for a newborn, covering areas such as bath time, immunizatons, teething and diapers.

In This Section

Bath Time

Bath Time

Bathing a newborn is one of the scariest jobs for new parents. Babies are slippery, squirmy and usually crying, which makes for a nerve-wracking experience. Rest assured, practice makes perfect and soon both baby and parents will grow to love their bath time!

Cutting finger and toe nails

Cutting finger and toe nails

It is important to keep your baby’s nails short so that they don’t cut themselves. Fingernails grow very quickly and may need to be cut up to twice a week. Toenails grow slower and can be left longer than the fingernails.

Diapers

Diapers
Disposable or cloth? It's a personal choice but be prepared for whichever one you choose - you will be going through a lot of them!

Immunizations

Immunizations
Many stories circulate on the internet about the "dangers" of immunizations. The bottom line is, immunizations are safe and help protect infants and children from diseases that could make them seriously ill. Immunizations are recommended for all children and begin at 2 months of age and continue throughout your baby's life.

Recognizing the signs of illness

Recognizing the signs of illness
Knowing when your baby is sick and when to seek medical attention can be difficult for new parents but always trust your instincts and keep your eye out for these common symptoms and signs of illness.

Sun care for baby

Sun care for baby

Practice safe sun this summer with your new baby! Before 6 months of age, a lightweight, wide brimmed hat is the best form of protection against the sun's rays.

Teething

Teething

When your baby is teething saliva production is increased, causing certain things such as drooling, rashes, irritability and loose stools. Teething babies tend to be irritable because the swallowed saliva can give them an unsettled stomach and loose stools.