10 Things You Should Never Do Around a Newborn: Essential Safety Tips for New Parents

Welcoming a newborn into your life is an exciting and precious time. As a new parent or caregiver, you'll want to ensure the safety and well-being of this tiny, vulnerable human. Knowing what actions to avoid around a newborn can help protect their health and development.

 

Babies require special care and attention, especially in their first few months of life.

By understanding potential risks and adopting proper practices, you can create a secure environment for your little one to thrive. This article outlines key behaviors to steer clear of when caring for a newborn, helping you navigate this crucial period with confidence.

1) Ignore baby's cries for long periods

 

Responding promptly to your newborn's cries is crucial for their well-being and development. Babies communicate their needs through crying, whether they're hungry, uncomfortable, or seeking comfort.

Prolonged crying can cause stress for both the baby and parents. It may lead to increased cortisol levels in the infant, potentially affecting their developing brain.

Regularly ignoring a baby's cries can harm the parent-child bond. This may impact the child's ability to form secure attachments later in life.

Attending to your baby's cries helps you learn their unique cues and needs. Over time, you'll become more adept at distinguishing between different types of cries.

If you're feeling overwhelmed, it's okay to take a short break after ensuring your baby is safe. Ask a partner, family member, or friend for help when needed.

Remember, responding to your newborn's cries doesn't spoil them. You're building trust and helping them feel secure in their new environment.

2) Leave baby unattended on high surfaces

Leaving a newborn unattended on elevated surfaces is extremely dangerous. Babies can roll or move unexpectedly, leading to falls and serious injuries.

Always keep one hand on your baby when they're on changing tables, beds, sofas, or other raised areas. Even if you think your newborn isn't mobile yet, it's better to be safe than sorry.

Use changing tables with safety straps and buckle your baby in securely. However, don't rely solely on straps - maintain physical contact at all times.

If you need to step away, even for a moment, place your baby in a safe area like a crib or playpen first. It only takes a split second for an accident to happen.

Be especially vigilant as your baby grows and becomes more active. Newborns can start rolling over as early as 2 months old, often catching parents by surprise.

Remember that falls are a leading cause of injury in infants. Protect your baby by always keeping them within arm's reach on elevated surfaces.

3) Shake or toss baby playfully

Shaking or tossing a newborn, even playfully, can have severe consequences. A baby's neck muscles are not yet strong enough to support their head, making them vulnerable to injury.

Sudden movements can cause their brain to move within the skull, potentially leading to brain damage, bleeding, or even death. This type of injury is known as Shaken Baby Syndrome.

Always handle your newborn with gentle, supportive movements. When picking them up, support their head and neck carefully. Avoid any quick or jerky motions that could cause their head to snap back and forth.

If you want to play with your baby, try gentle rocking or swaying instead. These motions are soothing and safe for newborns. You can also engage in quiet activities like talking, singing, or making soft facial expressions.

Remember, your baby's safety is paramount. What may seem like harmless fun could have serious repercussions. Always err on the side of caution when interacting with your newborn.

4) Expose baby to loud noises

Newborns have sensitive hearing that can be easily damaged by loud sounds. Protect your baby's ears from excessive noise levels, especially during the first few months of life.

Avoid taking your infant to noisy environments like concerts, sporting events, or construction sites. These places can have sound levels far beyond what's safe for a baby's developing auditory system.

Keep the volume down on TVs, stereos, and other devices in your home. Even everyday household appliances like vacuum cleaners or blenders can startle and upset a newborn.

Be mindful of sudden loud noises around your baby. Slamming doors, dropping objects, or shouting can cause distress and potentially harm their hearing.

When using white noise machines or other sleep aids for your infant, keep the volume low and position them away from the crib. This helps create a soothing environment without risking hearing damage.

If you must be in a noisy area with your newborn, consider using infant earmuffs designed to protect their delicate ears. These can significantly reduce sound levels reaching your baby.

5) Let anyone kiss the baby's face

Protecting your newborn's health is crucial, and limiting physical contact with their face is an essential precaution. Babies have fragile immune systems that are still developing, making them susceptible to various illnesses.

Allowing people to kiss your baby's face can expose them to harmful bacteria and viruses. Even seemingly healthy individuals might unknowingly carry germs that could be dangerous for a newborn.

Respiratory infections, cold sores, and other contagious conditions can be easily transmitted through close facial contact. These illnesses can have serious consequences for infants, potentially leading to hospitalization.

You should politely but firmly ask family members, friends, and visitors to refrain from kissing your baby's face. Explain that it's a necessary measure to protect your child's health during their vulnerable early months.

Encourage alternative ways for people to show affection, such as gently touching the baby's feet or hands. This allows loved ones to bond with your newborn while minimizing health risks.

6) Use heavy blankets in the crib

Placing heavy blankets in a newborn's crib poses serious safety risks. Light, breathable blankets are the safer choice for your baby's sleeping environment.

Heavy blankets can lead to overheating, which is dangerous for infants. Newborns struggle to regulate their body temperature, making them susceptible to heat-related issues.

These blankets also increase the risk of suffocation. If a heavy blanket covers your baby's face, they may not be able to move it away, potentially obstructing their breathing.

Instead of heavy blankets, opt for sleep sacks or wearable blankets. These provide warmth without the risks associated with loose bedding.

Keep the crib free from pillows, stuffed animals, and other soft items. A firm mattress with a fitted sheet is all you need for a safe sleep space.

Remember to always place your baby on their back to sleep. This position, combined with a clutter-free crib, helps reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

7) Forget to support the baby's head

Newborns have weak neck muscles and cannot support their heads on their own. Always cradle the baby's head and neck when holding or carrying them. This support is crucial for the first few months of life.

When picking up a newborn, place one hand behind their head and neck while using your other hand to support their body. Maintain this support even when the baby is in a seated position or lying down.

Be extra cautious during transitions, such as moving the baby from a lying to a sitting position. Sudden movements without proper head support can cause discomfort or potential injury to the baby's delicate neck.

Remember to inform family members, friends, and caregivers about the importance of supporting the baby's head. This precaution helps prevent strain on the neck muscles and ensures the baby's safety and comfort.

As the baby grows stronger, they will gradually develop the ability to hold their head up independently. Until then, consistent head support remains essential for their well-being.

8) Smoke or vape around the baby

Smoking or vaping near a newborn poses serious health risks. Secondhand smoke contains numerous harmful chemicals that can affect your baby's developing lungs and overall health.

Exposure to tobacco smoke increases the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). It can also lead to respiratory issues, ear infections, and asthma in infants.

Even if you smoke outside, harmful particles can cling to your clothes and skin. These toxins can transfer to your baby when you hold them.

E-cigarettes and vaping devices are not safe alternatives around newborns. The aerosol from these products contains nicotine and other potentially harmful substances.

To protect your baby, quit smoking or vaping if possible. If you can't quit, never smoke or vape inside your home or car. Always do it outdoors and away from your infant.

Wash your hands and change your clothes after smoking before handling your baby. This helps reduce their exposure to harmful residues.

9) Feed solids too early

Introducing solid foods to your newborn prematurely can lead to various health issues. Wait until your baby is around 6 months old before offering solids.

Newborns' digestive systems are not fully developed to handle anything other than breast milk or formula. Giving solids too early may increase the risk of choking and digestive problems.

Early solid introduction can also interfere with important nutrient absorption from breast milk or formula. This may impact your baby's growth and development.

Waiting until the recommended age ensures your baby has developed the necessary motor skills to eat safely. These include holding their head steady and sitting upright with support.

Look for signs that your baby is ready for solids, such as showing interest in your food or being able to move food to the back of their mouth. Always consult your pediatrician before making changes to your newborn's diet.

Remember, breast milk or formula provides all the necessary nutrition for your baby's first months of life. There's no need to rush into solids before your little one is ready.

10) Dress baby too warmly indoors

Newborns can easily overheat when dressed too warmly indoors. A good rule of thumb is to dress your baby in one more layer than you're wearing.

Avoid bundling your infant in heavy blankets or multiple layers when inside. Overheating can make babies uncomfortable and irritable.

Watch for signs that your baby is too warm, such as flushed cheeks, sweating, or rapid breathing. If you notice these, remove a layer of clothing.

Keep the room temperature comfortable, around 68-72°F (20-22°C). This helps prevent the need for excessive clothing.

Choose breathable fabrics like cotton for your baby's clothes. These allow air circulation and help regulate body temperature.

Remember that babies can't regulate their body temperature as well as adults. It's better to dress them lightly and use a blanket if needed.

For sleep, avoid loose blankets. Instead, use a sleep sack or wearable blanket appropriate for the room temperature.

Understanding Newborn Behaviour

Newborns display unique behaviors and characteristics that can seem puzzling at first. Recognizing these traits helps parents respond appropriately to their baby's needs.

Common Characteristics of Newborns

Newborns sleep for 16-17 hours a day, often in short 2-3 hour bursts. Their sleep patterns may seem erratic as they adjust to life outside the womb.

Crying is a newborn's primary form of communication. You might notice different cries for hunger, discomfort, or tiredness.

Reflexes play a crucial role in a newborn's behavior. The rooting reflex helps them find food sources, while the startle reflex is a protective mechanism.

Newborns have limited vision, focusing best on objects 8-12 inches away. They're drawn to high-contrast patterns and human faces.

Connecting with Your Newborn

Skin-to-skin contact is vital for bonding. Hold your baby against your bare chest regularly to promote attachment and regulate their body temperature.

Talk to your newborn often. They recognize your voice from their time in the womb and find it soothing.

Respond promptly to your baby's cries. This builds trust and security, setting the foundation for healthy emotional development.

Mimic your newborn's facial expressions and sounds. This simple interaction helps them learn about communication and emotional expression.

Proper Handling and Safety Tips

 

Newborns require extra care and attention. Proper handling techniques and safe sleep practices are crucial for their well-being and development.

Supporting the Neck and Head

Always support a newborn's head and neck when holding them. Their neck muscles are not yet strong enough to hold up their head on their own. Cradle the baby's head in the crook of your arm or use your hand to support it when holding them upright.

When picking up the baby, place one hand under their head and neck and the other under their bottom. Avoid sudden movements or jerks that could strain their neck.

Remember to support the baby's head during diaper changes and while bathing. Use a secure changing pad and keep one hand on the baby at all times to prevent falls.

Safe Sleeping Practices

Place your newborn on their back to sleep, every time. This position reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Use a firm, flat sleep surface covered with a fitted sheet. Avoid soft bedding, pillows, blankets, and toys in the crib.

Keep the baby's sleep area in your room for at least the first six months. This allows for easy monitoring and feeding.

Maintain a comfortable room temperature, around 68-72°F (20-22°C). Dress your baby in light sleep clothing to prevent overheating.

Never leave your baby unattended on elevated surfaces like changing tables or beds. Even newborns can roll unexpectedly.

Navigating Health and Hygiene

Proper hygiene practices are crucial when caring for a newborn. These habits protect the baby's delicate immune system and promote overall health.

Dealing with Diaper Changes

Change your baby's diaper frequently to prevent diaper rash and discomfort. Always wipe from front to back to avoid spreading bacteria. Use gentle, fragrance-free wipes or warm water with a soft cloth.

Keep diaper changing supplies within reach but out of the baby's grasp. This includes diapers, wipes, diaper cream, and a clean change of clothes.

Dispose of dirty diapers promptly in a sealed diaper pail or bin. Wash your hands thoroughly after each diaper change to prevent the spread of germs.

Maintaining Clean and Sanitized Hands

Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds before touching your newborn. This is especially important after using the bathroom, changing diapers, or handling raw food.

Keep hand sanitizer nearby for times when soap and water aren't available. Choose an alcohol-based sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content.

Remind visitors to wash their hands before holding the baby. It's okay to be firm about this rule - your baby's health comes first.

Consider using disposable gloves for diaper changes or when applying diaper cream. This adds an extra layer of protection against germs.