Bringing your baby home is a moment filled with love, wonder, and—yes—a little nervousness. If you're feeling anxious, you're not alone. Every new parent has questions, and every baby is different. But with a few thoughtful steps and a lot of grace, you’ll find your way.

Before You Leave the Hospital

1. Car Seat Peace of Mind
Before heading home, make sure your baby’s car seat is safely installed. Many hospitals and local fire or police stations offer free inspections by certified child-safety professionals. It’s a simple step that helps you feel secure from the start.

2. Learn from the Nurses
Labor and delivery nurses are incredible teachers. Ask them to show you how to swaddle, bathe your baby, trim tiny nails—and care for the umbilical cord. The cord stump will dry and fall off naturally in the first few weeks. Keep it clean and dry, and avoid covering it with diapers or clothing.

3. Breastfeeding Support
Even if things are going smoothly, meeting with a lactation consultant before discharge can help you feel more confident. They’ll guide you on latch techniques, pump setup, and how to get help once you’re home.

4. Take the Freebies
Hospitals often provide samples of diapers, formula, lanolin cream, bulb nose syringes, peri bottles, and postpartum supplies. Don’t be shy—these items are incredibly helpful in those first few days.

5. Insurance and Appointments
Add your baby to your insurance plan as soon as possible to avoid surprise bills. If you haven’t chosen a pediatrician yet, now’s a great time to ask for recommendations and schedule your baby’s first checkup.

Settling In at Home

1. Embrace Your Feelings
It’s normal to feel overwhelmed, joyful, exhausted, and unsure—all at once. Your body is healing, your emotions are shifting, and your world has changed. Be gentle with yourself. You’re doing something extraordinary.

2. Create a Calm Space
Limit visitors at first so you can rest and bond. It’s okay to ask guests to wash their hands or wait until they’re feeling well. Your baby’s immune system is still developing, and your comfort matters.

3. Support for Siblings and Pets
Help older children feel included by letting them “help” with baby care. Introduce pets gradually using familiar scents and supervised time together.

4. Know When to Call the Doctor
If your baby has a fever over 100.4°F, shows signs of dehydration, is hard to wake, or has trouble breathing, call me as your baby might need immediate evaluation.  I am here to support you, and answer your questions.

Supplies to Stock Before You Get Home

Having a few essentials ready can make those first days smoother:

• Diapers: Expect to use 250–300 newborn diapers in the first month (~10/day!). Have some size one diapers on hand too.

• Wipes and gentle detergent: Wash baby clothes, towels, and bedding with fragrance-free detergent before baby arrives.  Get unscented wipes.

• Clothing: Soft onesies, footie pajamas, and a few hats. Dress baby in layers and avoid bulky coats in the car seat.

• Feeding supplies: If bottle-feeding, have 4-5 bottles and nipples, plus a cleaning brush. Wait to buy formula until your doctor recommends one.

• Safe sleep space: A crib, bassinet, or play yard with a firm mattress that meets safety standards.

• Bathing items: Gentle baby soap, washcloths, and a small tub.

• Umbilical cord care: Keep the area clean and dry. Avoid submerging baby in water until the stump falls off.

Finding Your New Rhythm

1. Diapering and Feeding
Newborns eat and need diaper changes every 2–3 hours. Keep supplies nearby and don’t worry if it feels nonstop—it’s temporary.

2. Rest When You Can
Sleep deprivation is real. Nap when your baby naps, and accept help from loved ones. Your well-being matters just as much as your baby’s.

3. Coping with Colic
If your baby cries inconsolably, especially in the evenings, they may have colic. Try burping during feedings, warm baths, stroller walks, or adjusting your diet if breastfeeding. Colic usually fades by four months.

4. Ask for Help
Whether it’s meals, laundry, or just someone to talk to—reach out. You don’t have to do this alone. Your pediatrician, family, and community are here for you.

You’re not expected to know everything. You’re learning, loving, and growing—just like your baby. And every day, you’ll get a little more confident. You’ve got this.

Ready for your baby’s first checkup? Schedule a visit with us at YouBelong Pediatrics. We’re here to walk beside you, every step of the way.

Trusted Resources:

• Boston Childrens: Click here

• UPMC: Click here