14 Dec 5 Useful Feeding Tips for New Parents

Welcoming a new baby to the house is the most precious moment for every parent. Apart from the joy and excitement of the arrival of the baby, feeding a newborn baby is an equally difficult task, especially for new mothers.

Feeding a newborn is difficult because it’s a clock commitment. Essentially, feeding the little one becomes the first step of forming a bond with the newest member of the family. This is why new mothers need to be extra careful when it comes to feeding their babies.

Here are a few useful tips that will help in feeding your newborn baby with care:

1.    Breast Milk Is Important for Your Baby

Breast milk is the best and most complete food for your newborn baby. It will provide most of the required nutrients that are needed for early growth and development of your child.

However, there are a few cases where breastfeeding is not possible. If that’s the case with you, switch to using infant formula, which is equally healthy for your baby.

Healthy newborns don’t need anything else except breast milk until the first six months of their life.

2.    Feed the Little One at Intervals

Most newborns need to be fed every two to three hours a day, which totals up to about 12 feedings each day.

You need to closely examine the signs your baby showcases when they are hungry or ready for a feeding. For instance, your baby is hungry and needs feeding if he or she is moving its tiny hands to the mouth, sucking on fingers, and smacking lips.

And if your baby is extremely hungry, he or she will start crying. The best way to avoid your child’s tears is to pick up the early signs and start feeding before the baby starts crying.

Once your baby is fed, then try burping him or her before sitting for another feeding session. Make sure that you have natural baby wipes and napkins handy whenever you are feeding your little munchkin.

3.    Look out for Vitamin D Supplements

Vitamin D is very essential for your baby because it helps them absorb calcium and phosphorus. These nutrients are important for developing strong bones in newborns.

But if you are breastfeeding your baby, there are chances your baby might not get enough vitamin D. Breast milk does not provide enough vitamin D that babies typically need. In such a case, you might need to consult your pediatrician or gynecologist to prescribe some good Vitamin D supplements, which can help in the overall development of your baby.

4.     Consider Each Feeding Time an Opportunity to Bond with Your Baby

Feeding your baby is a very precious moment for mommies because it helps them create and enhance the bond with the baby.

Hold your newborn close to your breast every time you are ready to feed. Try to maintain eye contact with your baby and while feeding, keep talking and interacting in a gentle, soothing voice.

Use each feeding as an exercise to build your newborn’s sense of comfort, trust, and security.

5.    Make Sure the Feedings Are Consistent

There will be times when you are away from your baby during their feeding time.  During these times you will need your partner, other family members, or caretakers to babysit and feed your baby. Make sure that they are using the same feeding routine, portions, and methods that you use.

These are some useful tips that every new mom needs to consider while feeding her little one. Along with this, make sure that you have all the right baby care products that will help you in feeding your baby.