Just like you learned multiple languages by mastering the basics of their alphabet first, your baby’s journey begins the same way. If your basics or foundation of language are strong, then you will have a full command of the language.
Similarly, the first 100 days after birth are like the foundation that shapes everything ahead. If you implement certain steps in your baby’s care during these days, then they can lay the groundwork for lifelong health, growth, and emotional security.
From regular pediatric visits to gentle massages, safe sleep, and bonding time, every little thing adds value to your baby’s strong start. Think of them as building the “alphabet” of your baby’s well-being: one day, one cuddle at a time.
If you’re a new parent and unsure of where to begin, do not worry; we've got your back. This simple newborn care checklist will guide you through your baby’s first 100 days with confidence.
Baby's First 100 Days Care Checklist
These first 100 days after birth can be a roller coaster for you, as you could be drained mentally and physically. Read the following infant care tips to make your life and baby care routine a little simpler.
1. Timely Feeding
Benefit: Make a proper feeding routine. This helps your baby get the right amount of nutrition to stay healthy at present and in the future. Breastfeeding plays a crucial role in a baby's first 100 days of care, as it strengthens immunity.
How to Feed: Normally, a baby requires feeding after every 2-3 hours. Make sure the baby latches well if breastfeeding. However, if you are unable to fix a schedule, don't over-stress about it. You can opt for breast pumping for a steady milk supply if there is any medical need.
2. A Proper Sleep Routine
Benefit: Good sleep helps your baby feel happier and grow in a healthy way. This helps the baby learn the difference between day and night.
How to make a baby sleep: Swaddle your baby to keep them cozy and comfortable. Dim lights at night while feeding. Make sure to keep the room quiet and calm.
3. Safe Bathing
Benefit: Keeping your baby clean without hurting delicate skin keeps them feeling fresh, happy, and less itchy.
How to do safe bathing: It could be scary at first; ask your doctor or elders for help. Give sponge baths until the umbilical stump falls off. Make sure the water is warm and use mild baby soap. Prepare all bathing essentials before starting.
Many hospitals, including the best pregnancy and neonatal care hospital in Jaipur, like Cocoon, provide hands-on instruction if necessary to help you learn how to bathe your baby safely.
4. Changing Diapers
Benefit: Changing your baby’s diaper on time helps keep their skin healthy and rash-free. They do not feel discomfort.
Diaper change tips: Change diapers 8 to 12 times a day or as soon as they are wet or soiled. Make sure to gently clean with mild wipes. However, let their skin breathe without a diaper time daily.
5. Follow Bonding Methods
Benefit: Try to bond with your baby as it develop emotional connection helping in brain development and security.
How to bond with your baby: Hold your baby close/skin-t0-skin touch, talk, sing, and gently touch to develop deeper love and trust.
6. Creating a Safe Environment
Benefit: A safe nursery environment helps your baby sleep better and feel safe.
How to set-up a safe environment: Spread a firm mattress with no loose items. Maintain a cozy room temperature (around 20-22°C).
7. Keeping Baby's Skin Clean & Hygienic
Benefit: Proper hygiene practices help prevent dryness and irritation for delicate skin.
How to do: Apply gentle baby lotions and avoid harsh chemicals or powders on their delicate skin. Test products on a small skin area first. The product should be fragrance-free and without harmful products. Read the label carefully.
8. Closely Observing Baby's Health
Benefit: Keep an eye on their health as early detection of any issues keeps the baby safe and well.
How to monitor a baby’s health: Keep a thermometer and first aid kit handy. Pay attention to fever or unusual behavior and consult your pediatrician if concerned.
When to Seek Medical Help for Pediatric Care for Newborns
Knowing when to seek professional help in your baby's first 100 days is crucial to ensure safety. If you are noticing the following symptoms in your baby, contact an expert at Cocoon Hospital for timely help:
- If your baby refuses to feed
- If the body temperature is high
- Their skin feels too hot or too cold
- If the baby is unusually sleepy, floppy, or crying a lot
- Has breathing problems
- Rashes
- Yellowing of skin (jaundice)
- Unusual discharge from eyes or ears
Don’t ignore these signs. Cocoon Hospital in Jaipur provides expert care for these signs to protect your baby's health. Always trust your instincts and seek help when worried.
Why is Cocoon Known for Neonatal Care
Because we are equipped with the Latest Technology in the NICU, such as:
- Invasive and non-invasive ventilation services
- High-Frequency Oscillation Ventilation (HFOV)
- IND (Inhaled Nitric Oxide)
Our Top-Notch Neonatal Services Include:
- 14 Bedded Neonatology Department
- NICU level III
- High End Nursery
- Vast Expertise in Handling: Premature Babies | High Risk Newborn Babies
- Advanced Ventilator & Blood Gas Analyzers
- Infection Free Environment
- 24*7 Availability of Neonatologist
- Trained Neonatal Nurses
- Baby Package
- Separate Viewing Area