BRINGING YOUR BABY HOME: NAVIGATING THE FIRST DAYS TOGETHER

WRITTEN BY SALLY HILLS-DAVIS, CHILDREN'S OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST

Bringing your newborn home is a time of joy, love, and adjustment. While it’s an exciting milestone, it can also feel overwhelming as you navigate this new chapter. Just as you are adapting, so is your baby—transitioning from the familiar, cosy environment of the womb to a world filled with new sights, sounds, and sensations. In this guide, we’ll explore what these first days are like for your baby and offer practical advice to help ease the transition.

A Whole New World for Your Baby

For nine months, your baby has been warm, snug, and surrounded by the rhythmic sounds of your heartbeat and voice. Now, they are introduced to bright lights, unfamiliar noises, new scents, and different textures. This can be a lot to process, which is why many newborns seem unsettled or cry frequently in the early days.

Their senses are on high alert as they take in the brightness of daylight, the chill of the air, and the new sensations of being touched, clothed, and moved. This adjustment takes time, so don’t be discouraged if your baby seems fussy or overstimulated. They are simply trying to adapt to their new surroundings.

Feeding and Comfort

Your newborn’s tummy is tiny—about the size of a marble at birth—so they must feed frequently, often every two hours or more. While this can feel exhausting, it’s completely normal and essential for their growth and development.

Feeding on demand is the best approach in these early days. Newborns instinctively suck not just for nourishment but also for comfort. Skin-to-skin contact during feeding releases oxytocin in both you and your baby, strengthening your bond and helping them feel safe and secure.

Newborns are also born with reflexes that support their survival. One of the most noticeable is the rooting reflex—when you touch their cheek, they’ll instinctively turn their head and open their mouth, ready to feed. These reflexes are crucial for their early development and ability to thrive.

Establishing a rigid feeding schedule right away can be stressful for both you and your baby. Instead, focus on responding to their cues and allowing the feeding routine to develop naturally.

Understanding Your Baby’s Poops

You might be surprised by the appearance of your baby’s first poops. These dark, sticky stools, called meconium, consist of what your baby ingested in the womb. As they start feeding, their poop will change in colour and texture. Breastfed babies typically have yellow, seedy stools, while bottle-fed babies may have slightly firmer, brownish stools. Both are completely normal.

Crying: Your Baby’s First Communication

Crying is the only way your baby can communicate in the early days. It could mean they’re hungry, cold, uncomfortable, overstimulated, or simply need to be held. Learning to interpret their cries takes time, so be patient with yourself. Responding to their needs helps build trust and reassurance.

Navigating Sleep and Fatigue

Caring for a newborn can be overwhelming, especially when sleep is scarce. Your baby’s feeding schedule may mean waking every couple of hours at night, so rest whenever possible. Even short naps during the day can help you recharge.

Don’t hesitate to ask for help from family, friends, or healthcare professionals. Whether it’s someone assisting with household chores, holding the baby while you rest, or offering advice on feeding, support can make a world of difference.

Recovery and Support for Parents

Mothers often feel pressure to do it all, but remember—you are recovering from childbirth, too. Prioritise rest, hydration, and nourishing meals to aid your recovery. If you’re breastfeeding, don’t hesitate to reach out to lactation consultants or support groups for guidance.

Partners also play a crucial role in the early days. Whether it’s helping with feeds (if bottle feeding), changing diapers, soothing the baby, or managing household tasks, their support is invaluable. Skin-to-skin contact isn’t just for mothers—it’s a wonderful bonding opportunity for fathers and partners as well. Holding your baby against your chest helps regulate their temperature, heartbeat, and breathing while strengthening your connection.

Embracing Your Unique Journey

Every baby is different, and every parent’s experience is unique. Try not to compare yourself or your baby to others. Instead, focus on your baby’s cues, celebrate small victories, and remind yourself that you are doing a great job.

Between the sleepless nights and frequent feeds, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but these early days are fleeting. Take time to cherish the little moments—the way your baby curls their tiny fingers around yours, their soft yawns, and the peaceful way they sleep in your arms.

Parenting a newborn is a learning curve, but you’re not alone. With time, patience, and support, you’ll find your rhythm and grow into your role. These first days are just the beginning of a beautiful journey with your baby.