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Welcome to Parenthood!

Having a new baby is exciting but can feel overwhelming. Here’s a quick guide to navigate this incredible journey.

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Emotions You May Feel

• Relief: Your baby is finally here!
• Exhaustion: Rest whenever possible; it’s normal to feel tired.
• Happiness/Worry: Adjusting takes time. Seek help if you feel consistently sad (postpartum depression info on p. 42).

Support Network

• Rely on family, friends, and parent support groups.
• Libraries and health departments often offer free resources for new parents.

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Preparing for Baby’s Homecoming

• Safe Sleep Setup: Crib or bassinet with firm mattress, no loose slats, or soft bedding.
• Rear-Facing Car Seat: Ensure proper installation for safety.
• Baby Essentials: Diapers, mild soap, cotton clothes, and a thermometer.

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Caring for Your Baby

• Getting to Know Your Baby: Each baby is unique. Spend time observing their needs, likes, and temperament.
• Playtime: Talk, sing, and read to your baby to boost development.
• When Babies Cry: Learn their cries (hunger, sleep, discomfort) and try calming techniques like rocking or soft music.

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Shaken Baby Syndrome

• NEVER shake or hit your baby.
• Consequences include brain damage, blindness, or even death.
• If overwhelmed, put the baby in a safe place and take a short break.

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Feeding Your Baby

• Breastfeeding: Provides perfect nutrition, boosts immunity, and fosters bonding. Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for 6 months.
• Formula Feeding: If using formula, prepare it safely and bond during feedings.

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Safety Tips for Home and Beyond

• Home Safety:
• Install smoke/carbon monoxide alarms and baby-proof hazards (e.g., outlets, sharp objects).
• Avoid holding hot drinks or cooking while holding your baby.
• Prevent falls with baby gates and constant supervision.
• Car Safety: Always use a rear-facing car seat in the back seat.
• SIDS Prevention:
• Place baby on their back to sleep in a crib or bassinet with no clutter.
• Avoid overheating and secondhand smoke.

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Sibling Adjustment

• Spend one-on-one time with older children.
• Involve them in baby care (e.g., fetching diapers, sharing updates).
• Praise them for helping and teach safe ways to interact with the baby.

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Childcare Tips

• Start early and visit several options. Look for clean, safe environments with qualified staff.
• Stay involved through regular communication and occasional drop-ins.

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Health and Immunizations

• Ensure your baby receives recommended shots to protect against diseases like measles and polio.
• Keep a personal record of your child’s immunizations.

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Preventing Childhood Lead Poisoning

• Test for lead at 1 and 2 years old.
• Avoid lead hazards in paint, water, toys, and dishes.
• Serve foods rich in calcium, iron, and vitamin C to reduce lead absorption.

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Parenting Resources

• Helplines:
• Parent Helpline: 1-800-244-5373
• Poison Help: 1-800-222-1222
• Websites:
• Safe Sleep
• Lead Prevention
• Childcare Resources

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New Parent Guide: Summary & Tips

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Dental Health Habits

• Avoid sharing saliva (e.g., using the same spoon) to prevent passing cavity-causing bacteria.
• Clean gums and teeth after feeding. From age 2, use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
• Avoid putting babies to sleep with bottles or sugary drinks.
• Begin dental visits between 6 months and 1 year old.
• Talk to your dentist about fluoride supplements if your drinking water lacks fluoride.
• Limit sugary foods and drinks to meal times.

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Developmental Milestones: Birth to 3 Years

• 3 Months: Smiles, coos, tracks objects, lifts head.
• 6 Months: Rolls over, plays with toes, babbles.
• 12 Months: Crawls, pulls to stand, waves bye-bye.
• 18 Months: Walks alone, says 6+ words, feeds themselves.
• 24 Months: Uses 2-3 word sentences, identifies body parts, builds towers.
• 36 Months: Rides tricycle, throws a ball, names colors, uses 3-5 word sentences.

If concerned about milestones, contact your doctor or local Early Intervention Program.

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Health Insurance Options

• Medicaid: Covers children under 19 with qualifying family income.
• Child Health Plus: Provides low-cost coverage for doctor visits, hospital care, and dental services.
  Call 1-800-698-4543 for more info.

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Routine Health Care

• Newborn screenings test for over 40 conditions.
• Hearing screenings are required in NY State hospitals.
• Regular checkups: Birth, 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 24, 30, and 36 months.
• Include dental checkups by age 1.
• Immunizations protect against illnesses like polio, measles, and whooping cough.

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Special Care for Premature or Sick Babies

• Seek support from family, friends, and programs like the Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs Program (CYSHCN).
  Call 1-800-522-5006 for assistance.

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Tips for Parents

Postpartum Recovery

• Eat well, sleep when baby sleeps, and exercise gently.
• Watch for signs of postpartum depression. Seek help if sadness persists.

Sleep Strategies

• Establish a bedtime routine (bath, story, cuddles).
• Sleep when the baby sleeps to avoid burnout.

Self-Care

• Take breaks: Ask someone to watch the baby while you relax.
• Stay active: Walks with the baby can rejuvenate you.

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Back to Work Planning

• Start childcare arrangements early; test them out before returning to work.
• Breastfeeding moms can pump at work; NY law supports workplace accommodations for nursing.
• Plan for backup childcare for emergencies.

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Special Tips for Dads & Partners

• Take an active role in caregiving: diaper changes, feeding, bedtime routines.
• Be supportive of your partner; teamwork is key.

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Additional Resources

• Early Intervention: 1-800-522-5006 or visit NY Early Intervention Program
• Parent Helpline: 1-800-244-5373
• Breastfeeding Info: www.breastfeedingpartners.org
• Child Health Plus: 1-800-698-4543

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Remember: Every child and parent is unique. Take it one day at a time, seek help when needed, and enjoy this special journey!

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