What to Expect At This Visit:
Congratulations! A new baby is an exciting time in life, but also full of questions. Use this visit to ask questions about your baby, but also teach the physician about your baby and the transitions in your family. Share with your pediatrician who you have for support and who will help raise your child.
Daily Life:
Feeding:
Please let your physician know if you are breastfeeding or bottle-feeing with formula.
*A newborn uses most of his energy eating. A newborn eats on average 20 ounces a day.
*If you are breastfeeding, wait until your child is one month old to give a pacifier. Until then, your child will get used to the feeling of the natural nipple and connect that feeling to feeding.
*For breastfeeding mothers who are vegetarians or vegans, please add Iron, Zinc, and Vitamin B12 to your vitamin supplements. These vitamins and minerals are commonly deficient in vegetarian diets, and supplements will ensure your child gets the required amount through the breast milk.
*Breastfeeding is very beneficial for both mother and child. It helps build bonding between mother and child, as well as provide your baby with essential nutrients. However, please let your physician know if you are using any medications, as some can be transmitted through the breast milk.
*Never use a microwave to heat bottles.
*Do not feed your infant honey. Refrain from feeding your baby solid foods until 4 to 6 months old.
Breast and bottle fed babies should get a multivitamin beginning at 2 weeks of age.
Sleeping:
*Place your child on their back when sleeping to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). A simple way to remember this is that you are putting your child "back to sleep." Never let your baby sleep in your bed. Additionally, it is not recommended that your baby sleep with any blankets in their crib. In fact, nothing should be put in the crib. This prevents the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
Fun & Play:
*At this age your child cannot be spoiled. Feel free to help calm your baby when she/he is upset.
Safety:
*It is best before your baby comes home to make sure you have working Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Detectors in your home. Have a working fire extinguisher in your home. Set your water heater thermostat to less than 120 degrees. This helps prevent scalding water and burns.
Health:
*Because your baby's immune system is still developing, it is best to avoid crowded places for the first month to prevent the spread of germs.
Parents & Family:
*A new addition to the family is very exciting, but siblings may react differently. While very busy with your baby, make a choice everyday to spend some "alone time" with each child in your family. It will help remind each child that they are important and loved.
*A new baby is exciting, but can also be stressful. If you ever feel too stressed, it is all right to take a break and perform some breathing exercises. If you feel overwhelmed, place your baby in the crib for a few minutes while you take time to de-stress. It is NEVER all right to shake your child.
Useful Resources & Links:
TIPP (The Injury Prevention Program) safety sheet for 0-6 months
American Academy of Pediatrics' Information on Infant Car Seats
Read Me A Story Check-up Guide
Safety for your baby from birth to one year