First 10 Days of Parenting

During the first 10 days home with your baby, some things will come very naturally, others may not. to help you get off to a good start, we created this quick guide for navigating the baby basics.

Holding Your Baby

Because your newborn’s neck muscles are not yet developed, you will need to support your newborn’s head whenever you pick them up. You should also support your newborn’s head against your shoulder or with your opposite hand while carrying them.

Some parents find that a sling or baby carrier provides an extra sense of security when carrying their newborn babies. And your baby will love it too!

Bathing Your Baby

Some paediatricians recommend cleaning your baby with a sponge bath until the umbilical cord heals and falls off (usually in a week or two). Learn how to give your baby a sponge bath and make sure you have all of the necessary bathing supplies ready before your baby arrives, so you don’t have to miss a moment with your new little one.

How to Choose Products for Your Newborn

An ideal baby product should not irritate your baby’s skin or eyes or disrupt the natural pH of your baby’s skin. It should not contain ingredients that dry out skin, but should contain adequate and appropriate preservatives to maintain the quality of the product.

Learn about our commitment to only providing products that meet the highest JOHNSON’S® baby standards.

Changing a Nappy

Many first-time parents are surprised by how many nappies they go through in a day. To make life easier for yourself, have plenty of nappies on hand before you bring your baby home. It’s also helpful to learn how to change your baby’s nappy ahead of time (and even practice!).

Comforting Your Baby

To comfort your baby, first try to determine the cause of your baby’s discomfort. Is your baby hungry? Does your baby have gas? Does your baby’s nappy need changing? Is it time for a nap? Is your baby overstimulated by noise, lights or activity?

To help soothe a sleepy or overstimulated baby, hold your baby on your shoulder while gently rocking them. Sing or speak softly to your baby — reassure them with a calm voice. It can also help to rub your baby’s back as you do so. Try different positions to find one that’s comfortable for both of you.

Something else to consider: Your baby doesn’t have much mobility in the first few weeks and may cry for help if lying uncomfortably in the cot. You can help your baby get comfortable by gently shifting your baby’s position. But for safety, always place your baby on their back for sleeping.

Baby Massage

Research has shown that massage can relax babies, improve their sleep patterns and calm them when they are irritable. Giving your baby a massage is also a great way for you both to bond, and it’s easy to do.

Baby/Infant Feeding

Many healthcare professionals agree that nothing is better for your newborn baby than breast milk. Nutritionally speaking, it’s tailor-made for your infant. Of course, sometimes mothers cannot breastfeed, due to medical problems or other special circumstances. Discuss with your paediatrician how best to feed your newborn.

No matter how you decide to feed your baby, always be sure to hold your baby while feeding. The cuddling that comes with nursing and feeding helps to build a strong, loving bond between you and your baby.

Your Baby’s Sleep Routine

The way your baby sleeps changes as they grow. Newborns tend to sleep a lot, but wake up often throughout the day (and night). You can help your baby gradually develop a sleeping pattern with JOHNSON’S® 3-Step Routine.