About to have a baby? Here are some useful tips for first-time parents
Sep 28, 2017, 4:42 AM
Having a child for the first time can be anxiety-inducing, panic-worthy and overall downright terrifying for new parents, especially mothers.
But a little healthy paranoia is normal for first-time parents, and can even be useful to help keep your little one safe, according to one Arizona expert.
Dr. Kathleen Van Leeuwen, the surgical director at Arizona Mother-Baby Care, said parents who have any concerns about their child, whether it be their breathing or the color of their skin, should talk to their pediatrician immediately.
While pediatricians typically follow up with parents a few days after their child is sent home, some of the most common issues that new parents see with their child involve feeding, pooping or crying, Van Leeuwen said.
“You are their safety net, you really can’t take your eyes off of them until they’re sturdy,” she added.
First-time parents should also ensure that the car seat and baby chairs are secure and make sure that there are no small items that their child can get their hands on.
“You have to have a house that has no small airway objects for that whole period of time,” she said.
