New Baby, New Routine: A Guide to the First Week at Home

Welcoming your newborn baby home is such an exciting time, but we all know it can become very stressful. The first two weeks can feel like a blur of feeding, crying, googling, and wondering if you’re doing the right things. In this week’s blog, we’ll outline some of the important things to focus on, some normal things you may notice about your baby, and when it may be time to visit the pediatrician. 

1. What’s the most important to focus on? 

-Feeding: Whether breastfeeding, formula, or combo feeding it’s important to remember that newborns need to be fed every 2-3 hours. Each feeding session could look slightly different so make sure to pay attention to signs that your baby may be hungry (lip smacking, rooting, or fussiness) as well. 

-Sleeping: Newborns typically sleep for around 16 hours or more a day. Always place your baby on their back, on a flat, firm surface (like a crib or bassinet), with no pillows, blankets, or toys.

-Connection: Connecting with your baby is essential during this time. Be sure to have skin-to-skin, eye contact, talking, cuddling, and comforting when needed. You cannot spoil a newborn, this is crucial for their development! 

2. What’s Normal 

-Peeling skin, hiccups, noisy breathing

-Crossing eyes occasionally

-Cluster feeding

-Startle reflex (Moro), grunting, occasional sneezing

-Day-night confusion

3. What’s NOT Normal (and When to Call Your Pediatrician)

-Poor feeding or lethargy

-Yellowing beyond the chest/legs (jaundice)

-Fever over 100.4°F 

-Persistent coughing or trouble breathing

-Umbilical cord that is red, swollen, or oozing 

The first couple of weeks being home with your newborn can be stressful but we are always here to help if needed! Take it one day at a time and remember that you are doing a great job!