Congratulations! You're a parent!
I'm sure you have anticipated holding your baby for several months and now you can't let go. Whether you are a first timer or a veteran parent, life with your newborn will be an adjustment. You may have a thousand questions about infant care, feeding, what's normal and what's not and overall development. You can ask your pediatrician, doula and lactation consultant any specific questions, but for now, let's start with the basics. So what should you expect during the newborn phase? Here are 10 things to know about your newborn:
1. Newborns Sleep A Lot. Newborns typically sleep between 14 and 17 hours a day, but they wake up frequently to feed—often every two to three hours. Establishing a sleep routine will take time, so patience is key.
2. Feeding Is Frequent and Unpredictable. Whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, newborns have small stomachs and need to eat frequently. In the first few weeks, expect to feed them 8-12 times a day. Their feeding patterns may seem erratic, but this is completely normal.
3. Crying Is Communication. Crying is how newborns express their needs—whether they are hungry, tired, uncomfortable, or need a diaper change. Over time, you’ll start recognizing different cries and responding more confidently.
4. Skin-to-Skin Contact Is Beneficial. Holding your newborn close has many advantages, from regulating their body temperature and heart rate to strengthening the parent-child bond. Skin-to-skin contact is especially important in the first few weeks.
5. Their Poop Changes Often. A newborn’s first bowel movements (meconium) are dark and sticky. As they start feeding, their stool color and consistency will change. Frequent diaper changes and monitoring for any unusual changes will help ensure they stay comfortable and healthy.
6. Newborns Have Reflexes That May Surprise You. Babies are born with several natural reflexes, like the Moro (startle) reflex, rooting reflex (turning towards touch when hungry), and grasp reflex (holding onto your finger). These reflexes are signs of healthy neurological development.
7. Their Vision Is Blurry but Developing. Newborns can only see about 8-12 inches away, which is the perfect distance for looking at their parents’ faces. High-contrast patterns and gentle movement help stimulate their visual development.
8. They Need Gentle, Supportive Handling. Newborns have weak neck muscles, so always support their head and neck when picking them up or laying them down. Gentle handling helps keep them safe and comfortable.
9. They May Have Peeling Skin and Baby Acne. Many newborns experience peeling skin, baby acne, or other minor skin conditions as they adjust to life outside the womb. Most of these conditions resolve on their own without intervention.
10. Every Baby Develops at Their Own Pace. While there are general milestones for newborns, each baby is unique and develops in their own time. Avoid unnecessary comparisons and focus on supporting your baby’s individual needs.
Understanding these aspects of newborn care can help new and expecting parents feel more prepared and confident in their journey. While the first few weeks can be challenging, they are also filled with incredible moments of bonding and joy. Take things one step at a time, and don’t hesitate to seek support when needed.
I'm sure you have anticipated holding your baby for several months and now you can't let go. Whether you are a first timer or a veteran parent, life with your newborn will be an adjustment. You may have a thousand questions about infant care, feeding, what's normal and what's not and overall development. You can ask your pediatrician, doula and lactation consultant any specific questions, but for now, let's start with the basics. So what should you expect during the newborn phase? Here are 10 things to know about your newborn:
1. Newborns Sleep A Lot. Newborns typically sleep between 14 and 17 hours a day, but they wake up frequently to feed—often every two to three hours. Establishing a sleep routine will take time, so patience is key.
2. Feeding Is Frequent and Unpredictable. Whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, newborns have small stomachs and need to eat frequently. In the first few weeks, expect to feed them 8-12 times a day. Their feeding patterns may seem erratic, but this is completely normal.
3. Crying Is Communication. Crying is how newborns express their needs—whether they are hungry, tired, uncomfortable, or need a diaper change. Over time, you’ll start recognizing different cries and responding more confidently.
4. Skin-to-Skin Contact Is Beneficial. Holding your newborn close has many advantages, from regulating their body temperature and heart rate to strengthening the parent-child bond. Skin-to-skin contact is especially important in the first few weeks.
5. Their Poop Changes Often. A newborn’s first bowel movements (meconium) are dark and sticky. As they start feeding, their stool color and consistency will change. Frequent diaper changes and monitoring for any unusual changes will help ensure they stay comfortable and healthy.
6. Newborns Have Reflexes That May Surprise You. Babies are born with several natural reflexes, like the Moro (startle) reflex, rooting reflex (turning towards touch when hungry), and grasp reflex (holding onto your finger). These reflexes are signs of healthy neurological development.
7. Their Vision Is Blurry but Developing. Newborns can only see about 8-12 inches away, which is the perfect distance for looking at their parents’ faces. High-contrast patterns and gentle movement help stimulate their visual development.
8. They Need Gentle, Supportive Handling. Newborns have weak neck muscles, so always support their head and neck when picking them up or laying them down. Gentle handling helps keep them safe and comfortable.
9. They May Have Peeling Skin and Baby Acne. Many newborns experience peeling skin, baby acne, or other minor skin conditions as they adjust to life outside the womb. Most of these conditions resolve on their own without intervention.
10. Every Baby Develops at Their Own Pace. While there are general milestones for newborns, each baby is unique and develops in their own time. Avoid unnecessary comparisons and focus on supporting your baby’s individual needs.
Understanding these aspects of newborn care can help new and expecting parents feel more prepared and confident in their journey. While the first few weeks can be challenging, they are also filled with incredible moments of bonding and joy. Take things one step at a time, and don’t hesitate to seek support when needed.
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