Is it your first time having a baby? Having one can be both beautiful and confusing.
As new parents, it can be hard to know what to do, especially when it comes to something as important as feeding. The first year of your baby’s life is important for growth and development. They will be learning to eat and drink on their own, so it’s important to build their confidence so they grow healthy.
If you’re just a new parent and don’t know how to feed your baby, we can help with that.
Read on to learn more about the feeding tips for your newborn.
Prepare for Messy Mealtimes
When you are feeding, a baby spitting up clear liquid can get messy. Be sure to have plenty of burp cloths or towels on hand to clean up after yourself. It is also a good idea to have a spotter nearby in case your baby spits up or has any other accidents.
To help minimize the mess, start by dressing your baby in a bib. You can also put a towel down on their lap or highchair tray. If you are using a bottle, be sure to use one with a slow-flow nipple.
Start Slowly
If you’re feeding, start by offering your baby small amounts of milk at each feeding. You can gradually increase the amount as your baby gets older. Remember, it’s important to let your baby eat at his or her own pace.
Do a Breastfeed
It‘s recommended to new mothers to start breastfeeding within the first hour after birth when the baby is alert and ready to latch on. Support your back and neck with pillows, bring the baby to your breast rather than leaning over to them, and use a mirror to check your latch.
To help with supply, consider pumping after feedings. Drink plenty of fluids, eat a balanced diet, and get rest when possible. Seek professional help if you are having difficulty or pain while breastfeeding.
Use the Right Nipple Size
It is important to use the right nipple size when feeding a newborn. If the nipple is too large, your baby may have a difficult time latching on. If the nipple is too small, your baby may not be able to get enough milk.
The best way to determine the right nipple size is to try different sizes until you find one that works best for your baby. You can find different sizes of nipples at most baby stores.
Know the Exact Feeding Time
It’s also important to pay attention to your baby’s cues. If your baby is rooting around or putting their hand in their mouth, they may be ready to eat. Crying is often a late sign of hunger, so try to feed your baby before they get to that point.
Know that newborns need to be fed about every 2 to 3 hours. They may not always eat for the entire duration of the feeding, but it is important to allow them to eat as often as they need.
Enjoy Being New Parents
New parents need to know how to feed their newborns. As expecting mothers should start slowly when feeding. Also, you should use the right nipple when bottle feeding, know the exact feeding time, and prepare yourself for a messy mealtime.
If you want your baby to have healthy feeding, do breastfeeding.
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