Baby care 101

• Always put baby to sleep on her back to avoid SIDS.
• Respond quickly to your crying baby, but don’t shake her.
• Give your baby some tummy time when she’s awake.

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Too bad she didn't come with a set of instructions! How do you know what your baby wants or needs? Why is she crying? Can she sleep with you? How often does she need a bath? And what about all those diapers? 

Babies sleep a lot. Even though it may seem natural and intimate to sleep with your baby, it's not a good idea. A grown-up's bed isn't the right place for a baby to sleep. She could fall our, get caught under pillows and blankets, or you or your partner could roll over on her. The best spot for your baby to sleep is in her own bed. And always put your baby to sleep on her back. This can help prevent sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Babies cry a lot, too. And it's usually for a reason. Your baby may be hungry, have a dirty diaper or she may not feel well. She also may just want to be cuddled! Learn to recognize your baby's cries. She may cry differently for different reasons. Don't shake your baby when she cries—this can really hurt her. If you can’t soothe your baby or you think she cries way too much, talk to her health care provider.

Babies need to develop their neck, shoulder and arm muscles. The best way to help your newborn build her muscles is to give her some tummy time while she’s awake.

See also: Caring for the umbilical cord stump, Reading to your baby