The Itty Bitty Newborn, how to interact with your newbie

I get asked many times how to interact with a newborn, especially by new parents. For those that don't work with children or don't have nieces or nephews...bringing home baby can be very intimidating. However no need to panic! both mom and dad can do lots of things to interact and bond with their new little treasure.

For me, being pregnant and having to deliver a child...was the scary part. I was absolutely stoked and excited about bringing home baby! That was the easy part, but for most parents that is not the case. The idea of having this little floppy person that looks a little bit like them and poops all day long...freaks them out! Between feedings, crying, lots of sleeping and pooping there is little awake time in the first couple of months. Your baby is mostly adjusting to life outside the womb. There are few moments when baby is actively awake and this is your chance to have some fun with your Newborn. 

Paddy Cake, Stef, 3 months

bicycle time, Stef, 3 months

The moments asleep are also moments to treasure because as they grow those moments are few and far between!

10 things you can do with your newborn in the first couple months

1. Even though they cannot see well a lot of eye contact is still important. You can do this while holding baby close to you and looking into their eyes while singing or talking softly to your baby.
2. Babies like brightly coloured objects. Hang a mobile or hold one up close to their face. Remember babies can get overstimulated and this is stressful on them, but they do have the ability to withdraw by turning away or falling asleep. A cue that playtime is over.
3. Do some soothing and reassuring activities like holding your baby closely and rocking them or place them on your legs while you sit and slowly rock back and forth.
4. Read a book aloud. Your own book will do during the first few months. This makes it entertaining for you and baby. Babies love the sound of your voice and it is one of the first ways they bond with you...from inside they have been listening to you talk!
5. Take a class that allows you to bring baby along. I did a strollercise class when my son was 6 weeks. You can also look into parent and baby yoga.
6. Take a walk! put baby in carrier or stroller and head outside or to your local mall if the weather isn't so great
7. Lots of hugs and kisses!
8. Play with babies feet. Do bicycle or make them dance. This also can help alleviate some gas if baby is being fussy. Kiss each little toe!
9. Blow bubbles on their tummy
10. Give baby a warm bath and a baby massage. Their are baby massage classes you can take. Babies love the soothing massage. There are a lot of benefits to baby massage.

xx