Bathing
Most babies love their bathtime, even tiny newborns. First you need to get everything you will require ready and to hand. Towel, flannel or sponge, mild baby soap, nappy, clothes, and a toy! You must never leave the baby alone in the bath, even for a second.
Bathing
Wash his face with damp cotton wool balls. Babies can get cold easily, so to help him keep warm you can wash his hair over the side of the bath or sink before you remove all of his clothes.
Bathing
Babies have sensitive skin, so you don't have to use soap every bathtime. The water should be about 37 degrees, and the room warm. Support her head and gently lower her into the water, you only need a few inches. Make sure she can't wriggle out of your grasp!
Bathing
Some babies can occasionally be frightened of the water. If your son seems upset throughout every wash you could try a soak together instead of using the baby bath. He may feel happier having you holding him.
Bathing
After the bath dry her with a clean towel and get her dressed. If her skin seems dry you can use a moisturising cream, and it might be a good idea to cut down on baths too as they can dry skin. She won't need one every day until she's bigger.
Sleeping
Newborn babies sleep for much of the time, but in short sessions, so we're afraid you won't get a good night's rest for a while. To help to cut the risk of SIDS always put your baby to sleep on his back and don't let him get too hot.
Sleeping
Using a dummy can also reduce the risk of cot death. Many babies seem to find them very soothing although you might worry about persuading her to give it up when she is older.
Sleeping
Here you can learn something from this mother from Mongolia! A lot of babies find it a shock to be out in the big world after nine months in the womb. They may sleep better when swaddled. Give it a try if your baby doesn't sleep well.
Sleeping
You want your baby to learn the difference between night and day, so treat these sleeps differently. There's no need for everyone to be silent when the baby is asleep in the daytime, you can probably even hoover without disturbing him.
Sleeping
You would probably be happy to gaze at your beautiful new child for hours as she dozes in your arms. However, it is a good idea to notice when she is getting tired and let her fall asleep in her own cot or moses basket.
