Caring for infants, especially if you’re new parents, can be difficult. Taking proper measures is crucial for ensuring infants receive proper care and don’t suffer any unnecessary health issues in their early years. There are many things to consider when caring for an infant, and it’s easy to overlook something important and end up with a serious problem for your baby. If you’re looking for tips on taking good care of your infant, keep reading.
1. Never leave your child alone or unattended
Always check on your child before leaving and ensure they are safe where you left them. Even if you think you can trust someone completely, never leave your child unattended. You may feel like you are just running into the other room to grab something quickly, but it doesn’t matter; don’t take the risk.
2. Avoid carrying your baby in a baby carrier
This Is the number one cause of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). Babies should not be carried in anything but their strollers, and even those items need to be used carefully. Use them correctly, and do not let your baby sleep in a carrier. If you must carry your child in a carrier, ensure the US Consumer Products Safety Commission has approved it and there are no potential suffocation hazards such as loose blankets.
3. Don’t miss your pediatrician’s appointments
You must see the doctor ensure proper medical care for your child. This will help you stay on top of vaccinations, develop a proper nutrition plan for the baby, and spot possible birth injuries. In case of trauma to the child, you can contact the Birth Injury Justice Center for legal advice. This will help you secure funds for life-altering injuries.
4. Keep your home clean
Most people know that a clean home is safe because there won’t be any hidden dangers lying around. Ensure all dangerous chemicals and cleaners are out of your child’s reach and that your house is free from clutter so that your baby doesn’t get its hands on anything sharp. A clean house means a safer home.
5. Get rid of all old furniture and toys
If you have any old furniture or toys from when you were a kid, get rid of them immediately. Children can easily swallow these items containing materials that may be toxic for infants. They pose a choking hazard, and they can cause stomachaches and diarrhea, so you will want to get rid of them as soon as possible. You don’t want your child putting anything toxic in their mouth.
6. Change your baby’s diapers regularly
Babies poop and pee regularly; therefore, you should also change their diapers regularly. Try to change your baby’s diaper right after feeding, right before nap time, and right before bedtime. If your baby starts to smell foul or seem uncomfortable, it is best to change the diaper right away. If you fail to do this, your baby may develop a rash.
7. Feed your baby properly
It is important to feed your baby in the correct position. Babies should always be fed in a high chair or a booster seat at the table, so they don’t fall over and choke. It is also a good idea to hold your baby while feeding to help prevent choking and allow you to keep an eye on the baby while eating.
8. Be sure to wash your hands before touching your baby
You must wash your hands before touching your baby. Germs and bacteria can easily spread from one person to another, and your child can develop illnesses by coming into contact with these germs. Babies are prone to getting sick, and they often end up in hospitals due to illness. It is best to keep your hands clean and wash them thoroughly when handling your child.
9. Use natural oils for skincare
Many skincare products that we use today contain harmful chemicals that could harm your baby. Instead of using chemical-based products, try natural oils instead. Tea tree oil and lavender oil are two examples of great natural oils to use for your baby’s skin. Essential oils work wonders for babies’ skin, and they will help reduce irritation and redness. However, do ask your doctor first.
10. Avoid using plastic bags around your baby
Plastic bags are a choking hazard, and they can cause suffocation to infants. They can easily be swallowed, posing a danger to babies because they are made of thin material. The FDA states that “a plastic bag that is roughly the size of a grape can block the airway of a small child.” Always keep plastic bags safe, such as in a locked drawer.
11. Do not let your baby use a pacifier too often
Pacifiers can cause cavities, and they can even interfere with your baby’s teeth development. Some studies have shown pacifiers can cause speech problems and ear infections. If you continue giving your baby a pacifier, you should only use a silicone one that the FDA has approved.
Conclusion
As you can see, many of these tips are common sense when it comes to caring for infants. Many of them seem rather obvious, but you would be surprised by how many parents choose not to follow them. Follow these tips to ensure your infant stays happy and healthy.