A Bundle of Joy

Long before a new mother brings home a baby, shes read up on the latest child-raising techniques and discussed the subject with countless people. By the time baby arrives, Moms head is overflowing with conflicting facts. It can simply be overwhelming. As Mom calms down, she realizes some information is more relevant than others and that she knows her baby better than any book. A lot of love and some attention go far in keeping a baby happy and content. There are, however, a few things she can do to keep both herself and the baby happy.

Swaddling has been around for thousands of years. By being gently bundled, infants are probably reminded of all the warmth and comforts of the womb. While most babies enjoy it, not all do, and Mom just needs to pay attention. If baby likes being bundled, Mom can wrap it gently in a soft blanket. If the baby is sweating or crying, its probably too hot from being swaddled too tightly. Mom needs to be aware of how her baby is reacting.

Most babies are happy with a predictable routine. A regular bedtime schedule which includes a warm bath and a story can prepare a baby for a comfortable night of sleep. Its probably not a good idea to stimulate a baby excessively after dinner. Bedtime should be kept serene and tranquil. Its best to avoid extraneous noise from radio or television while putting baby to bed.

Some babies cant get enough of being rocked. When a baby is feeling fussy and doesnt want to settle down, the back-and-forth motion of a swing can have a calming effect. Babies love gentle movements, whether its being rocked in Moms arms or being swayed by a baby swing. Being rocked will usually pacify the most colicky infant. If it calms baby, itll calm Mom.

A baby cant communicate it, but it needs a steady stream of love and attention. To a newborn, the environment can seem strange and puzzling. Being held fills a baby with a sense of security. Theres no such thing as spoiling a baby with too much affection. Even newborns respond positively to being touched and hugged. Sometimes, a baby will be colicky and wont stop crying, regardless of what Mom does. A new mother needs to realize that its okay and that the baby will soon be itself again. Nasty crying spells happen less frequently as a baby realizes the world isnt such a scary place. After all, Mom is always there to comfort it. Like any adult, a baby is happiest when feeling loved and secure.