• Your newborn baby will have special nutritional and wellness needs 
• You should become aware of the newborn development milestones and keep a track of your baby’s steady growth  
• You can utilise this time of infant care to develop a stronger bond with your baby

Your baby will pass through several growth landmarks, especially during the first year. Every baby is unique and grows at his/her own pace and there is no rigid tracker. However, you may want to keep a note of certain developments. 

Here are some infant developmental milestones to notice in your baby:

• Your baby will begin to smile at you by 6 weeks of age 
• You may hear your baby laugh by 4 months 
• By 4-6 months of age, most babies are able to sleep through the night 
• Your baby may begin to sit up with support around 5-6 months 
• Between 8-12 weeks, your newborn will start to utter certain sounds like cooing
• In a period of 6-9 months, your baby may start saying soft words like ‘mama’ or ‘papa’ 
• Your baby will begin to have hair growth on the head by 6 months or later 
• You can expect your baby to start crawling by 8-9 months of age 
• Your baby may start to wave goodbye by 9 months 
• Your baby may hold and grab certain objects like food items and toys between 9-12 months 
• Within 12 months, your baby may begin to stand briefly without support 
• Most babies take their first step between 9-17 months 

Breastfeeding is among the first elements of new born care. Breast milk is very healthy for infants as it contains several essential nutrients such as protein, vitamins and fat. Furthermore, breast milk includes certain antibodies that help your newborn fight against viruses and bacteria. It is recommended that new mothers should breastfeed their babies at least until 6 months. If you choose to feed your baby formula milk, you should ensure to use a BPA free plastic bottle. 

As your baby grows, you may eventually introduce partially solid foods such as cereals and puree of certain fruits and vegetables. It is recommended that you should feed solid foods to your baby by the age of 4-6 months old. However, your newborn will continue to need breastfeeding support to meet his/her nutritional requirements. By 9 months, your baby may be ready to try finger foods such as ripe banana pieces, chunks of carrots and dry cereal.

Your infant will spend most hours of the day sleeping. Newborns usually sleep for small periods of 2-4 hours throughout the day and require nourishment within a few hours. However, eventually, your newborn will develop his/her sleeping pattern. 

Here are some things to consider while putting your baby to sleep:

• You should put your baby to sleep on his/her back 
• Avoid using heavy quilts, blankets and pillows on or around your baby 
• Change the position of your infant’s head from time to time to prevent the development of a flat spot 
• Avoid covering your baby’s head

It is important to understand and decipher the cries of your baby in order to calm them and provide the best new born care. Most babies cry when they feel hungry as they require frequent feeding. Another reason why your baby may be crying could be his/her discomfort post-feeding. It is because babies usually swallow air during feeding. You should always burp the baby after feeding them in order to avoid such discomfort. 

Uncomfortable or wet nappies can be another reason behind your baby’s woes. Make sure to check their diaper and change it timely. Similarly, too many layers of clothing can be uncomfortable for the baby. Your baby may also feel distressed if and when they feel tired and crave your touch. 

It is recommended that you give your baby sponge baths in the first few weeks until the umbilical cord heals. Bathing your baby twice or thrice a week is sufficient as frequent bathing can cause skin dryness. Here are some bathing essentials you should take care of:

• Always use a soft and clean washcloth 
• Do not use scented and chemical products on your baby’s skin 
• Make sure the water temperature is mild (not too cold or hot for the baby)
• Always bathe your baby in a safe place 
• Regularly pour water gently so that baby does not get cold 
• Give your baby a gentle massage before bathing

Your paediatrician will conduct a few tests and checkups to ensure your newborn is healthy. These tests include a thorough physical examination to understand your baby’s breathing, behaviour and activity. Your healthcare provider will also examine your baby’s reflexes towards light, touch and sound. 

Your paediatrician may further order a few tests and scans to better understand your baby’s health. Some common newborn baby tests include:

• Ultrasounds to detect genetic anomalies or physical defects 
• Blood tests 
• Hearing screening 
• Pulse oximetry test (a test to check oxygen levels in the blood) 
• Heel prick test