When taking home a new baby from the hospital for the first time, many first time parents are completely perplexed and overwhelmed at their new responsibility. Even if one has extensive experience babysitting, changing diapers, and making bottles, having a child of your own changes everything. Many first time parents cannot believe that the hospital, doctors, or government actually entrusted them with the new little life that they are in charge of keeping safe and healthy. While there are many books on the market about different parenting strategies, they are all from different voices and very often contradictory, leading parents to doubt their innate instincts to make good choices, and the ability to do the job effectively. Since there is no handbook, a checklist with a few necessary tasks can be very helpful in organizing one’s thoughts and feeling back in control of the situation.

When newborns are hungry, they often root around looking for food before they cry in hunger. Feeding them during that period prevents them from getting too upset to eat well. Once you have seen it a few times, you will know the cues that are unique to your baby. Fussiness is also similar with eye rubbing and head bobbing as they get sleepier. Check diapers frequently and you will soon notice a correlation between an irritated fuss or cry and other cues for pain, sleepiness, and hunger.

Most umbilical cords stay attached for a few weeks after birth. Disinfect the area at least once daily with 70-100% rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. While it may make you squeamish, you need to be gentle but very thorough when cleaning. If it starts to smell unpleasant or is not drying out, make sure you show your pediatrician. They can recommend the appropriate treatment when they see it. Do not try to remove the cord stump as it should be allowed to shed itself when it is ready. When bathing the baby, use a special newborn net that comes with most baby bathtubs to prevent the baby from being submerged. The cord should remain as dry as possible.