How to Be a Good Mom to a Baby
Believe it or not, the idea of motherly instinct is a myth. Not every new mom always knows what she is doing. That new bundle of joy does not come with an instruction manual, and family members and friends may overwhelm you with (sometimes unwanted) advice.
How to Be a Good Mom to a Baby
If you are wondering how to be a good mom to a baby, here are some tips that will guarantee your little one’s comfort and help form a strong bond between the two of you.
Keep Them Close to You
Many cultures have been swaddling their babies and carrying them this way during at least the first few months of their life. It helps comfort their child and maintains close contact while freeing up mom’s hands to do other tasks.
Fortunately, you do not have to learn how to make a swaddle to reap the same benefits. Just invest in one of these babywearing coats with a special panel in the front for carrying your baby and keeping them cozy while running errands.
Give Baby Plenty of Daddy Time
There are so many benefits to fathers being involved in their child’s life, even from day one! It is so important for your baby and their father to spend time alone with each other.
First, it’ll give you more free time to get things done like resting! They will also get used to being nurtured and cared for by someone other than her mom, which can help them become more comfortable with a babysitter later.
Whether Dad feeds, diaper changes, baths, or just cuddle her while singing, it all encourages bonding time. Experts have even found that fathers experience less stress and increased confidence when they have their own special time with their newborns.
Skip the Bedding
When it comes to a baby’s crib or bassinet, do not use soft bedding or other objects for their first year of life. These items includes blankets, bumper gards, stuffed animals, pillows, or any other items.
If you feel you must use a blanket, use a lightweight, breathable blanket and make sure it is tucked under the bottom of the mattress, extending no higher than the middle of your baby’s chest.
Place Them on Their Back to Sleep
The safest place for your baby to sleep is on their back. The AAP recommends that infants be placed on their backs for sleep during the first year of life.
Do not Forget Plenty of Affection
Give your baby plenty of kisses and cuddles. Sing to them and engage with them as their sight develops, and they become more aware of the world around them. A baby needs affection and nurturing to turn into a secure child and, later, an adult.
Keep Baby Warm, Dry, and Comfortable
Learn how to change your baby’s diaper and how to check it for signs of wetness or soiling. Change it as soon as you notice it is dirty, so your baby feels dry and comfortable. Doing this will reduce their chance at getting a diaper rash, which is no fun for baby!
Noise During Bedtime isn’t Bad
Many people believe that a newborn’s home must be silent. However, your baby heard and got used to all kinds of noises while they were in the womb. While you do not want to disrupt their rest with any loud or distressing sounds, you should not shy from watching TV, listening to music, running the vacuum cleaner, and having conversations.
Get your baby used to the little household noises, and they will feel more comfortable falling asleep and will get used to the stimulation.
How to Be a Good Mom to a Baby
Knowing how to be a good mom to a baby may not come naturally at first, but by following these tips, you will help your little one feel safe and loved. For more tips for new moms, see our baby section.