New parents have a lot to learn in a short amount of time. There’s much to remember, such as how to swaddle a baby. One of the most important things new parents need to know is how to keep their newborn happy and healthy. Luckily, there are some simple tips and tricks that can help.
For example, burping your baby after feeding can help prevent gas and crying, especially in the newborn stage. Similarly, a white noise machine can help soothe a fussy baby and promote better sleep. Singing or talking to the baby often can also help boost brain development.
Of course, every baby is different, so it may take trial and error to find what works best. But with patience and trial-and-error, any parent can quickly become an expert at keeping their newborn happy and healthy with these parenting tips.
Tips and Tricks for the First Few Weeks
Baby’s first few months are full of wonders and new adventures. Every day brings something new, and it can be tough to keep up. To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite newborn baby tricks.
From soothing a crying baby to helping babies sleep longer at night, these tips will help you easily navigate those early months. So go ahead and add them to your repertoire – as a first-time parent, you’ll be glad you did!
1. Get a Baby Routine App Tracker
New moms have a lot to keep track of, and a newborn baby can be a big adjustment. One way to help ease the transition is by downloading a baby routine app tracker. Many different apps are available, but they all essentially perform the same function: tracking when your baby sleeps, eats, how many ounces they ate, and the number of dirty diapers.
This information can be extremely helpful in establishing a regular schedule for your baby. These apps will help you see when your baby will fall asleep and how long you should keep your baby awake.
2. Make Portable Baby Changing Baskets
If you’re a new parent, you know that diaper changes are a regular occurrence. You might feel like you’re spending half your time changing diapers! To make things easier, we recommend having multiple portable diaper changing baskets scattered around your house.
That way, you can always grab one when you need it, and you won’t have to hunt for a clean changing surface whenever your baby needs a change. Plus, it’s always helpful to have extras on hand for accidents. Trust us, having multiple diaper-changing baskets will make your life as a new parent much more manageable!
3. Coconut Oil for Cradle Cap and Baby Eczema
Coconut oil is a natural remedy that you can use to treat cradle cap and baby eczema. To use coconut oil for cradle cap, massage a small amount into the affected area and leave it on for a few minutes before using a soft brush to brush away the cradle cap.
For baby eczema, coconut oil can be applied directly to the skin or added to a bath. Coconut oil is also effective in preventing diaper rash and can be used as a natural body lotion.
4. Remind Yourself the Newborn Phase is Short
Newborns are a lot of work; there’s no doubt about it. But the newborn phase is also very short; before you know it, your baby will be sleeping through the night and experimenting with solid foods. It can be hard to keep this in perspective when you’re up all night with a fussy baby but remind yourself that this phase won’t last forever.
5. Eliminate Gas with Bicycle Kicks
Bicycle kicks are a great way to get rid of gas in newborns and prevent baby spit-up. All you need to do is lie your baby on their back and gently kick their legs in a bicycling motion. The movement will help to break up any gas bubbles and relieve your baby’s discomfort or upset tummy.
Baby Sleep Tips and Tricks
Most new parents quickly discover that getting their newborn to sleep through the night is no easy feat. However, there are a few simple tips and tricks that can help babies sleep. First, establish a bedtime routine and stick to it as closely as possible.
A bath, a story, and a lullaby can help to signal to your baby that it is time to wind down for the evening and fall asleep faster. Below are a few other simple tips to help you be on your way to better sleep for your baby.
6. Swaddle Baby at Night
Swaddling involves wrapping your baby in a snug, soft blanket so that their arms and legs are constrained. This can help to calm fussy babies and mimic the security of being in the womb. Many parents find that swaddling helps prevent their baby from startle reflex, which can lead to interrupted sleep.
7. Use Velcro Swaddle Blankets for a Quicker Swaddle
A velcro swaddle blanket can be a new parent’s best friend and is perfect for newborn babies to sleep in. Not only does it help to keep your baby warm and snug, but it also prevents them from wiggling out of their swaddle.
8. Use White Noise
White noise can help to block out other sounds, making it easier for both baby and parent to fall asleep. There are various ways to create white noise, from running a fan to using an app on your phone. You can also purchase white noise machines specifically designed for babies.
9. Have a Portable Diaper Change Station Right Next to the Sleeping Area
Consider setting up a mobile diaper change station next to your baby’s sleep area. This way, you won’t have to fumble around looking for your baby’s diaper supplies in the dark.
Instead, everything will be within reach. Having everything you need in one spot can help make the process go more smoothly and help you get back to sleep more quickly.
10. Heat Crib with a Heating Pad Before Laying Baby Down
When you lay your newborn down in their crib, the last thing you want is for them to be cold. Unfortunately, sometimes cribs can be a bit chilly, which can make your baby uncomfortable. A simple solution is to warm up the baby’s crib with a heating pad before you lay your baby down.
Just put the heating pad on their mattress for a few minutes before you put them down, and they’ll be nice and cozy. This is an excellent trick for parents who live in colder climates or have drafty homes.
Parenting Tips for a Crying Baby
New parents often have many questions about how to best care for their new baby. One of the most common questions is how to deal with a crying baby. While it can be challenging to know what to do, some simple tricks can help.
First, ensure the baby is comfortable and has a full tummy. Sometimes, all a crying baby needs is a little food or a clean diaper. If the crying continues, try some of these other tips.
11. Get to Know the Wonder Weeks
Every parent knows that a newborn can be a handful. They require round-the-clock care and attention, making it difficult to get them to fall asleep at night. However, some things parents can do to help make life with a newborn a little easier. One of these is to understand the wonder weeks.
The wonder weeks are when babies experience rapid brain development and go through major developmental leaps. Many babies may be fussy and sleep less than usual during these times. However, understanding the wonder weeks can help parents know what to expect, what’s totally normal, and how to best support their baby during these periods of growth. You will be able to tell whether your baby is having a nap strike or a sleep regression.
If you haven’t heard of the wonder weeks or don’t know the specifics, don’t wait! Download the wonder weeks app or get the book now. By familiarizing yourselves with the wonder weeks and learning some simple tricks, you can help make mom life with a newborn a little bit easier.
12. Take Baby Outside/ New Environment
One of the simplest and most effective tricks for calming a crying baby is to take the baby outside or to a new environment. The change of scenery often has a calming effect on babies, and the fresh air can help to soothe them. If possible, try to find a quiet spot where the baby can look around and take in their surroundings.
13. Try Different Holds
Another effective way to calm babies is to hold them in various positions. For example, you can try keeping them upright against your chest or cradling them in your arms. You can also try rocking them gently from side to side or bouncing them lightly on your knee.
My kids loved being swayed in my arms while gently patting their bottom. Experimenting with different holds will help you to find what works best for your baby.
14. Calm Yourself Before Dealing with a Fussy Baby
It is important to calm yourself as a parent before you react to your fussy baby. Take a few deep breaths and focus on relaxing your own body. If you feel tense, your baby will likely pick up on your stress and become fussier. Once you have taken a moment to calm yourself, you can try different soothing techniques with your baby.
15. Baby Wear
New moms often want to know the best ways to soothe their newborn baby, especially during the first few weeks. One of the most effective methods is known as baby wearing. This involves carrying your baby in a soft carrier close to your body and keeping the baby’s head supported.
Babywearing has several benefits, both for babies and new moms. For babies, it can help to promote bonding and attachment while also helping to reduce crying and fussiness. Even new dads will love babywearing.
For parents, it can help to free up their hands and allow them to get on with other tasks. Babywearing can be done using various carriers, from slings and wraps to structured carriers.
Newborn Tricks for the Bath
Bath time can be a magical bonding experience for you and your baby – or it can be a battle. If you want to make bathing easier (and more fun) for both of you, check out these five tricks for newborns.
16. Keep Baths Short
When bathing your newborn, it’s essential to keep the bath short and sweet. Not only will this help to prevent your baby from getting cold, but it will also help to prevent them from getting too agitated.
Newborns are easily overwhelmed, and a long bath can be pretty overwhelming. So, keeping the bath a few minutes can make a big difference. That way, you can get your baby clean without overstimulating them.
17. Warm the Environment First
While there are many things you can do to make a bath easier on your newborn, one of the most important is to make sure the environment is warm. Babies regulate their body temperature differently than adults and can quickly become cold.
For that reason, it’s essential to warm up the room before starting the bath. You can do this by turning on the heat or using a space heater. You should also make sure the water temperature is just right. It should be warm but not hot.
18. Keep a Large Washcloth or Blanket on the Baby with Warm Water and Only Expose Parts as you Wash Them
One simple trick to help keep your baby calm and warm during a bath is to keep a washcloth or blanket over the baby’s body with warm water. This will help to keep the baby warm and prevent them from getting a chill.
19. Have Everything Nearby and Ready Before Starting
Before you even think about running the water for your baby’s bath, there are a few things you need to have ready. First, gather all the supplies you’ll need: a towel, a washcloth, soap, an outfit, and a clean diaper.
You might also want to have a small cup or pitcher on hand to rinse your baby off with. That way, you can avoid having your baby get too cold or having to reach around too much for stuff.
20. Use a Laundry Basket in the Bathtub
Use a laundry basket in the tub, if you don’t have a baby bath, to contain the baby during their bath. This simple trick can save you a lot of stress and hassle, as it keeps your little one from slipping and sliding around in the tub.
Not only does it provide a safe and secure place for your baby to sit, but it also allows you to wash and rinse your baby easily.
Baby Care Tips
Being a new parent is both a joyful and overwhelming experience. There are so many things to think about and keep track of, and it can be challenging to know where to start. When caring for a newborn, there are a few essential tips that every parent should know.
21. Keep Umbilical Cord Clean and Dry
It’s essential to properly care for the umbilical cord until it falls off on its own, usually within the first two weeks after birth. Keep the area clean by gently wiping the area around the cord with a clean, damp cloth.
Avoid getting the cord wet during baths, and pat it dry after each diaper change. Don’t try to remove the cord yourself. The umbilical cord falls off on its own when it’s ready. Trying to remove it yourself can cause bleeding or infection.
22. Fold or Cut Diaper if There is no Umbilical Notch
One of the best newborn baby tips for first-time parents is folding the diaper or cutting a little notch if the diaper doesn’t have a gap for the cord. This will help to make sure that the cord does not rub against the diaper and will also help to keep the area around the cord clean and dry.
23. Avoid a Diaper Blowout by Making Sure Leg Ruffles are Out
Make sure the leg cuffs are pulled out before putting the diaper on. This allows the diaper to fit more snugly and prevents unwanted leaks during bowel movements.
24. Roll up Babies Arms in a Onesie
Any new parent knows that diaper changes can be challenging, especially when your baby is squirmy. One way to make the process a little easier is to roll your baby’s arms up with the bottom of their baby’s onesie before you start. This will help to keep them from flailing around and making a mess.
Newborn Tips for New Moms
Newborns are a special breed. They sleep a lot, eat a lot, and poop… a lot. New moms will quickly learn that there is much to keep track of when it comes to your new bundle of joy. However, some simple tips can help make the first few months easier, especially if this is baby number two.
25. Have a Basket of To-do Stuff for Siblings While you Nurse
Any new parent knows that finding time to breastfeed can be a challenge. When you have a newborn and an older child, it can feel impossible. Try keeping a basket of toys and books within reach of your breastfeeding station. This will help occupy your older child while you feed the baby.
26. Help Baby Distinguish Night and Day
Newborns have a lot to adjust to in those first few weeks, and one of the biggest challenges is getting used to a regular sleep schedule. Unfortunately, that can be difficult when their nights and days are mixed up.
However, you can do a few things to help your baby start distinguishing between day and night. First, keep the blinds open during the day and let in as much natural light as possible. At night, close the blinds and keep the lights low.
You might also consider investing in a small nightlight for nighttime feedings. In addition, try to be noisy and active during the day, but keep things quiet and calm at night. With a bit of patience and effort, you should be able to help your baby start sleeping more soundly through the night.
27. Have Tummy Time on your Chest
One of the best ways to get your baby to like tummy time is to do it on your chest. This way, they can feel your heartbeat and be comforted by your smell while lying on their tummy.
You can also sing or talk to them while they are on your chest. This will help them to associate tummy time with positive experiences. Another benefit of tummy time on your chest is that it gives you a chance to bond with your baby.
28. Use the Haakaa to Build a Freezer Supply Without Pumping
A great tip for new moms is using a Haakaa to build a breastmilk supply without pumping. A Haakaa is a simple, handheld pump that can collect breast milk from one breast while your baby nurses from the other.
It’s a great way to build up your milk supply during nursing sessions without having to pump after every feeding, and it’s also much gentler on your breasts than a traditional pump.
29. Cheerio Necklace for Baby when Grocery Shopping
If you need to occupy your little one during a grocery trip, try giving them a cheerio necklace. It’s an easy way to keep them content and distracted from the commotion around them.
Plus, it’s a healthy snack! To make the necklace, simply thread cheerios onto a piece of string. Tie the ends together, and then loop the necklace over your baby’s head.
30. Use Laundry Basket for Playpen
One of the best ways to keep your baby safe and secure is to create a playpen using a laundry basket. This simple trick can help you create a designated space for your little one to play without worrying about them crawling or toppling over.
To create a laundry basket playpen, simply line the basket with a soft blanket and place it in a room where you can keep an eye on your baby. Then, fill the basket with their favorite toys and let them enjoy their own safe space.
Tips when Traveling with Baby
Traveling with a baby can be a daunting experience for any parent. However, you can do a few things to make the trip easier for you and your little one. First, pack all the essentials, including diapers, wipes, food, and formula. Additionally, you can try these tips to help make traveling with a newborn baby a breeze.
31. Bring a Black Trash Bag or a Dark Sheet for a Make-shift Blackout Curtain on the go
First-time parents often find that creating a dark, quiet environment is one of the best ways to get their newborn to sleep. But what do you do if you’re traveling and don’t have access to blackout curtains?
One trick is to bring a black trash bag or a dark-colored sheet. Simply tape the bag or sheet over the window, and you’ll be able to create a temporary blackout effect that can help your little one get some much-needed rest.
32. Pack Some Painter’s Tape While Traveling to Put Over Outlets
Baby proof your home away from home by bringing along painter’s tape while traveling. You can use the painter’s tape to safeguard any outlets that might pose a danger to curious little ones.
Additionally, painter’s tape can secure loose cords and keep them away from curious little fingers. So next time you’re packing for a trip with your baby, don’t forget to throw a roll of painter’s tape into your bag. It might just come in handy.
33. Pack Outfits in Ziploc Bags to Compress and have Everything Organized
When it comes to packing for a baby, organization is vital. One way to keep baby’s clothes organized and easy to find is to put each outfit into a separate zip-lock bag. This way, you can simply grab a bag and know everything you need is inside.
You can also use this system for items such as burp cloths, bibs, socks, and hats. This simple trick will save time and allow you to fit more since it keeps things compact.
Teething Tips and Tricks
One of the things you’ll need to deal with is teething. Here are some tips and tricks to help make the process a little easier for you and your baby.
34. Frozen Washcloths with Applesauce
One helpful tip for dealing with teething pain is to use frozen washcloths. Simply wet part of a cloth and freeze it for a few hours. Give them the frozen material to chew on when your baby is feeling pain. You can also add a bit of applesauce to the cloth for an extra incentive for them to chew on it.
35. Mesh Bag with Frozen Fruit
Use frozen mesh bags to soothe your baby’s teething pain. Simply fill a mesh bag with frozen fruits and let your baby chew on it for relief. The coldness will help numb the gums, and the fabric will provide gentle pressure, which can be soothing for teething babies.
Additional Best Advice from Real Moms
Stay positive to help build your baby’s self-esteem and confidence early on.
Stay positive is essential to helping your newborn baby develop a positive self-image. Every time you interact with your baby, you have an opportunity to help build their self-esteem and confidence.
When you smile, make eye contact, and speak in a warm and loving tone, you send the message that they are valuable and worthy of your time and attention.
Use encouraging words whenever you speak to your baby; use words that convey warmth, happiness, and love. Avoid using negative words or phrases like “no” or “don’t.”
Use hospital resources.
One of the best newborn baby tricks is to use hospital resources after birth. Many hospitals offer programs and services to help you care for your new baby. For example, many hospitals offer breastfeeding support groups. These support groups can provide information and support as you breastfeed your new baby.
In addition, many hospitals offer a lactation consultant who can help you with breastfeeding difficulties. Many hospitals also have new parent education classes. These classes can teach you about newborn care, including how to bathe, diaper, and feed your baby.
Don’t be afraid to ask about the resources available for postpartum depression. There are a lot of other moms that experience this, and you should not feel alone.
Lastly, if you are unsure about something, ask the on-call pediatrician about it. They will be able to provide you with the information and resources you need to care for your new baby.
Use Grocery Delivery or Subscriptions Services.
Using a grocery delivery or subscription service during the newborn days can be a lifesaver. With just a few clicks, you can have everything you need, like groceries, formula, and diapers, delivered right to your door. In addition, many of these services offer discounts for first-time users, making them even more affordable.
Accept Help.
Although trying to do everything yourself can be tempting, taking a break now and then will help you avoid burnout. In addition, don’t hesitate to ask for advice from experienced parents, even if it’s just to vent; we’ve all been there.
Accepting help from a family member or friends can be a huge relief. Whether it’s a friend who comes over to cook dinner or a grandparent who offers to watch the baby for a few hours, accepting help is vital for maintaining your sanity.
It is important to remember that you are not alone. Family, friends, and even strangers are all eager to help however they can. So don’t be afraid to accept help when it’s offered.
Conclusion
Congratulations on the new addition to your family! These first few weeks and months with a newborn are both precious and challenging. Luckily, there are a few simple tricks that can help to make things a little easier.
All the tips and tricks above include newborn tips for sleep, bathing, and traveling tips and great advice from other moms.
For example, try swaddling your baby in a blanket. Keep your diaper bag stocked with all the supplies you need. With patience and trial and error, you’ll soon be an expert at caring for your new bundle of joy.
These tips will help you survive those first few weeks with your new bundle of joy, from learning how to swaddle your baby to burping them properly. So take a deep breath and get ready to be a pro at this parenting thing in no time.
