You and Your Baby

During the first month of your baby’s life, you
and your baby spend a lot of time getting to know each other. Your baby will spend most of his time
sleeping. You will spend most of your time learning
the best way to meet your baby’s needs. Sometimes,
you may feel tired and nervous. These feelings are a signal that you need to
take care of yourself. Here are some ways to do it:

• Make sure you get enough sleep. Take a nap when your baby does. If

  you can’t, try to spend some time relaxing.

• Keep your home as quiet and calm as possible. Turn off your radio and

  TV. This will help calm your baby.

• Simplify housework. Just do the basics. Older children can help dust,

  pick up toys, sweep the floor and wash dishes. Dad or other family

  members can help, too.

• Be sure to eat nutritious food. If you are breastfeeding, avoid alcohol and

  limit caffeine. Avoid drinking more than two to three cups of coffee a day.

• Simplify your meals. Nutritious salads, soups and sandwiches are quick

  and easy to prepare.

• Make some time for yourself. Take a hot bath to relax or do some reading.

  You can look forward to taking a break when you are stressed.

• Enjoy spending time with your baby. You can put your baby in a sling,

  backpack or stroller and take a walk through a mall or a park. Be sure

  that your baby is safely secured in these devices. Never leave your baby

  unattended in a stroller.

• Do something you enjoy. If you breastfeed, you can read while nursing

  your baby.

• Call a relative or friend if you have questions or when you are feeling

  stressed. Talking to someone who has had similar experiences and feelings

  can help you.

This content has been provided freely by CMC. Click Healthy Start, Grow Smart—Your One-Month-Old for your free download. Click GreatDad Free Ebook to download the entire Health Start, Grow Smart series.

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Next: One Month Checkup