It’s perfectly normal for first-time parents to feel nervous about how to take care of their newborn. One great source of support is your hospital where you gave birth. They often provide lactation specialists to guide you through the process of nursing your baby. They also can teach you the in’s and out’s of burping, changing, and holding an infant properly. Remember to always wash your hands prior to handling the baby to prevent transmittal of infections. Understand that newborns do not yet have the muscle tone and strength to tolerate being bounced on a knee or tossed into the air. Bond with your infant by setting aside ample time to cradle the baby and enjoy lots of skin-to-skin time, which will feel wonderful for both of you.

Key Takeaways:

• In the first hours and days after birth, bond with a baby through physical contact and vocal sounds.
• Support the head and neck of a newborn when holding them, and never shake the child.
• For the first few weeks, limit your baby to sponge baths, then you can graduate to brief, gentle tub baths.

“But if you don’t feel up to having guests or you have other concerns, don’t feel guilty about placing restrictions on visitors.”

Read more: https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/guide-parents.html