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Published on 27 Sep 2024 by Hina U.
Caring for a newborn baby is an incredible experience, filled with joy and challenges. As a domestic helper, understanding the basics of newborn care can help you feel more confident and prepared.
At Ministry of Helpers, we partnered with StepUp, an online training platform to support employers and helpers in Singapore. We launched a series of online training videos to help improve the skills of maids. While you have the option to check out the videos, you can also refer to this blog to learn how to take care of a newborn baby.
1. Feeding the newborn
- Bottle feeding: If you’re using formula, ensure that you follow the instructions on the packaging. Hold the baby upright during feedings and make sure to burp them afterward to prevent gas and discomfort.
- Feeding positions: Finding a comfortable position for both you and your baby is crucial. Experiment with different positions, such as the cradle hold or football hold, to see what works best.
2. Sleeping and soothing
- Sleep patterns: Newborns sleep a lot—typically 16-17 hours a day. However, their sleep is often broken into short periods, usually 2-4 hours at a time. It’s normal for their sleep patterns to be irregular initially.
- Safe sleep environment: Always place the baby on their back to sleep, on a firm mattress with no loose bedding or toys. This reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
- Soothing techniques: Newborns may cry for various reasons, including hunger, discomfort, or the need for attention. Soothing methods like swaddling, rocking, gentle shushing, or offering a pacifier can help calm the baby.
3. Diapering essentials
- Diaper changes: Newborns typically need their diapers changed every 2-3 hours or whenever they’re soiled. Keep the diaper area clean and dry to prevent diaper rash. Use baby wipes or a soft cloth with warm water for cleaning.
- Diaper rash prevention: Apply a thin layer of diaper rash cream if you notice any redness. Make sure the diaper isn’t too tight and give your baby some diaper-free time to let their skin breathe.
4. Bathing the baby
- Sponge baths: Until the umbilical cord stump falls off (usually within the first 1-2 weeks), stick to sponge baths. Use a soft washcloth, warm water, and a mild baby soap.
- Regular baths: After the cord falls off, you can start giving the baby regular baths 2-3 times a week. Use a small tub with warm water, and always keep one hand on your baby for safety.
- Gentle care: Be gentle with the baby’s skin. Use mild, fragrance-free soap and shampoo, and avoid scrubbing. Pat the baby dry with a soft towel and apply a gentle moisturizer if needed.
5. Clothing and dressing
- Layering: Newborns can’t regulate their body temperature well, so dressing them in layers is key. Start with a onesie and add layers as needed, depending on the room temperature.
- Comfort first: Choose soft, breathable fabrics that won’t irritate the baby’s delicate skin. Avoid clothes with rough seams or tight elastics.
- Check for comfort: Regularly check that the baby isn’t too hot or cold by feeling their
You might be interested:
What Are the Different Types of Domestic Helper Jobs in Singapore?
How to Pass Your Helper Interview with Ease
How to Develop Essential Skills for Domestic Helpers in Elderly Care
How to Pass Your Helper Interview with Ease
Helper Tips: Home Cleaning and Management
Caring for a newborn baby is an incredible experience, filled with joy and challenges. As a domestic helper, understanding the basics of newborn care can help you feel more confident and prepared.
At Ministry of Helpers, we partnered with StepUp, an online training platform to support employers and helpers in Singapore. We launched a series of online training videos to help improve the skills of maids. While you have the option to check out the videos, you can also refer to this blog to learn how to take care of a newborn baby.
1. Feeding the newborn
- Bottle feeding: If you’re using formula, ensure that you follow the instructions on the packaging. Hold the baby upright during feedings and make sure to burp them afterward to prevent gas and discomfort.
- Feeding positions: Finding a comfortable position for both you and your baby is crucial. Experiment with different positions, such as the cradle hold or football hold, to see what works best.
2. Sleeping and soothing
- Sleep patterns: Newborns sleep a lot—typically 16-17 hours a day. However, their sleep is often broken into short periods, usually 2-4 hours at a time. It’s normal for their sleep patterns to be irregular initially.
- Safe sleep environment: Always place the baby on their back to sleep, on a firm mattress with no loose bedding or toys. This reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
- Soothing techniques: Newborns may cry for various reasons, including hunger, discomfort, or the need for attention. Soothing methods like swaddling, rocking, gentle shushing, or offering a pacifier can help calm the baby.
3. Diapering essentials
- Diaper changes: Newborns typically need their diapers changed every 2-3 hours or whenever they’re soiled. Keep the diaper area clean and dry to prevent diaper rash. Use baby wipes or a soft cloth with warm water for cleaning.
- Diaper rash prevention: Apply a thin layer of diaper rash cream if you notice any redness. Make sure the diaper isn’t too tight and give your baby some diaper-free time to let their skin breathe.
4. Bathing the baby
- Sponge baths: Until the umbilical cord stump falls off (usually within the first 1-2 weeks), stick to sponge baths. Use a soft washcloth, warm water, and a mild baby soap.
- Regular baths: After the cord falls off, you can start giving the baby regular baths 2-3 times a week. Use a small tub with warm water, and always keep one hand on your baby for safety.
- Gentle care: Be gentle with the baby’s skin. Use mild, fragrance-free soap and shampoo, and avoid scrubbing. Pat the baby dry with a soft towel and apply a gentle moisturizer if needed.
5. Clothing and dressing
- Layering: Newborns can’t regulate their body temperature well, so dressing them in layers is key. Start with a onesie and add layers as needed, depending on the room temperature.
- Comfort first: Choose soft, breathable fabrics that won’t irritate the baby’s delicate skin. Avoid clothes with rough seams or tight elastics.
- Check for comfort: Regularly check that the baby isn’t too hot or cold by feeling their
You might be interested:
What Are the Different Types of Domestic Helper Jobs in Singapore?
How to Pass Your Helper Interview with Ease
How to Develop Essential Skills for Domestic Helpers in Elderly Care
How to Pass Your Helper Interview with Ease
Helper Tips: Home Cleaning and Management