The advantages of daycare for babies are pretty self-explanatory. It allows you to go back to work and know that your child is in a secure and structured environment. The thing about daycares is that as your child gets older you will find them learning new things all of the time. You might not get that by leaving them with a friend or relative.

The disadvantages of putting your baby in daycare are numerous as well. You don’t want your newborn baby to end up sick and it is rumored that children who go to daycare have more illnesses than those that stay at home. Many parents worry also about what goes on behind the scenes in daycares and little ones can’t talk to tell us what’s wrong.

In a nutshell, the best thing you can do is not let anyone pressure you and make this all important decision with your spouse. It is your baby and you have to do what makes you feel most comfortable.

There are a few things that will help you to prepare for this unique bonding experience with your child. Turn off all distractions when you get ready to breastfeed baby. This time not only allows you to provide nourishment for the baby, but it also allows you and baby to bond on a deeper level. This helps baby to stay calm and the added perk for you is that you will start to lose some of the pregnancy weight you have gained.

Calmly help your baby to latch on properly. This will prevent unnecessary pain and discomfort for you. This will also allow your new baby to get acquainted with your nipples so he can get the right amount of nourishment each time you feed him. Be prepared to breastfeed every few hours. Breast milk digests much easier than formula, so the average breastfed baby will need to be fed more often; about eight to twelve times every twenty four hours which is approximately every two to three hours. Watch your baby for signs that they are hungry. Do not wait until baby is fussy or crying as this is a sign that baby has been hungry for awhile. Avoid the use of pacifiers to avoid nipple confusion

For the newborn baby that still has the umbilical cord attached, bathing is a bit trickier than bathing babies who are slightly older. These babies do not like to get cold, and get cold very quickly. Before undressing the baby, make sure to have everything ready – the water, washcloth, towel, soap and maybe a pacifier. Undress the baby and wrap him or her in the towel. Uncover one area at a time, as that part is being washed. Hold the baby while washing his or her hair.

Moisturizing baby’s skin is also important. Use only products that are approved for baby, as these products tend to be more hypo-allergenic. Fragrance is a personal preference. For parents who don’t particularly like the smell of certain lotions, try another lotion, making sure not to exclude the generic or store brands. Pay attention to the diaper area on baby. It’s not a bad idea to keep some sort of moisture protection on the diaper area, especially at night, to avoid a rash.

Bathing baby can be scary, but it doesn’t have to be. Take the time to relax and then bathe baby when he or she is relaxed. New babies don’t need to be bathed every day, and soap is not needed during every bath as it tends to dry out the skin. Make bath time a relaxing experience and baby will eventually learn to love it.

To add peace and harmony to the family unit you should bring a level of structure. By waking up at the same time and napping at the same time your baby can regulate their bodies. Their body will become cohesive to the world around them. There is security and peace of mind knowing I should be asleep right now or it is time to eat soon.
All this being said we lead busy lives and there has to be a balance. Allowing the schedule to differ occasionally is a healthy way to prepare your newborn for life. Being so structured that your child will only sleep in her bed in total silence is not always practical and can actually add to your burdens.

The best schedule is unconditional love. With this your baby will sense your love and find a way to acclimate to the world they live in.