Welcoming a newborn into the world is an incredible, life-changing experience. But let’s be honest—those first few weeks can also be exhausting, overwhelming, and filled with uncertainty.
Every baby is different, and as new parents, we often find ourselves wondering if we’re doing things “right.”
That’s why we love learning from other parents who have been there. Today, we’re sharing real, firsthand notes from our guest contributor, an Australian based mum Jannet Tang.
After her beautiful baby boy was born, she jotted down tips that helped her navigate those early days, and now, she’s passing them on to you.
These practical, real-life newborn care tips will help you feel more confident as you adjust to life with your little one.
1. Establishing a Bedtime Routine: Teach Baby the Difference Between Day and Night
Newborns don’t come with an internal clock—they don’t know the difference between daytime play and nighttime sleep. That’s why teaching bedtime cues early on is essential for better sleep habits.
• During the day, keep the house bright, talk to your baby, and engage in play.
• At night, dim the lights, keep things quiet, and use soft voices to signal bedtime.
• Follow a simple routine before bed, like a warm bath, feeding, and a lullaby.
Why it helps: Over time, your baby will start recognizing the difference between daytime activity and nighttime rest, which can make sleep training easier down the road.
2. Keep Nights Dark, Quiet, and Boring
Newborns wake up frequently to feed, but that doesn’t mean nighttime needs to feel like party time!
• Avoid bright lights and loud noises. Use a small nightlight or lamp instead of overhead lighting.
• Keep interactions minimal. Try not to talk too much or play—simply feed, change, and soothe.
• White noise machines can help. Gentle sounds mimic the womb and create a calming sleep environment.
Why it helps: Babies learn that nighttime is for sleeping, not playing—helping them sleep longer stretches over time.
3. Put Baby Down While Drowsy, Not Fully Asleep
One of the most important sleep habits you can teach is independent sleeping.
• Instead of rocking or nursing your baby to sleep completely, try placing them in the crib when they’re drowsy but still awake.
• This helps them learn to self-soothe and fall asleep on their own, rather than relying on being held.
• If they fuss a little, wait a few moments before intervening—they might settle themselves.
Why it helps: Babies who learn to self-soothe tend to sleep longer and wake up less frequently during the night.
4. Dealing With Wind Pain: Help Baby Release Trapped Air
Newborns often struggle with gas, which can cause discomfort and fussiness.
• After feeding, hold baby upright for a few minutes to let air bubbles rise.
• Gently pat or rub their back in a circular motion to help them burp.
• If baby seems uncomfortable, try bicycle leg exercises—gently moving their legs in a pedaling motion can help release trapped gas.
Why it helps: Trapped wind can cause discomfort, leading to crying and disrupted sleep. Helping your baby burp after every feed can prevent this.
5. Babies Make Noises While Sleeping—Pause Before Picking Them Up
Newborns are noisy sleepers! They grunt, sigh, and even cry briefly before falling back asleep.
• Before rushing in, pause for a few moments and observe.
• If they continue fussing or crying, gently check on them—but sometimes, they’ll settle back to sleep on their own.
Why it helps: Giving your baby a chance to resettle on their own prevents unnecessary wake-ups and encourages longer sleep stretches.
6. Let Baby Be Content and Settled—No Need to Overstimulate
Sometimes, as parents, we feel the need to constantly entertain or soothe our baby. But newborns are also happy just lying down, looking around, and taking in the world.
• If your baby is awake and calm, there’s no need to always pick them up or distract them.
• Let them observe their surroundings, listen to soft music, or enjoy quiet time.
Why it helps: Babies learn to enjoy their own company and don’t become overly dependent on constant stimulation.
7. Place Baby at the Bottom of the Cot
Newborns tend to wiggle downward while sleeping, so it’s safest to place them at the bottom of the crib.
• This prevents them from sliding under blankets, reducing the risk of suffocation.
• Always follow safe sleep guidelines: place baby on their back, on a firm mattress, with no loose bedding or toys.
Why it helps: This keeps your baby safe and comfortable while they sleep.
8. Feeling Overwhelmed? It’s Okay to Take a Step Back
Parenting is tough, and it’s completely normal to feel frustrated, exhausted, or even angry at times.
• If you feel overwhelmed, put baby in a safe space (like their crib) and step away.
• Take a few deep breaths, drink water, or call someone for support.
• Sometimes, a short walk outside with baby can reset both of your moods.
Why it helps: A calm parent = a calm baby. Taking breaks prevents burnout and helps you be a more present, loving parent.
9. Tummy Time: Strengthen Baby’s Muscles & Relieve Gas
Tummy time is essential for building neck strength and preventing flat head syndrome.
• Start with a few minutes a day, gradually increasing to 20 minutes.
• If baby dislikes tummy time, try placing them on your chest instead of the floor.
• Tummy time also helps relieve trapped gas, making babies more comfortable.
Why it helps: Strong neck muscles support motor development and prepare baby for rolling, crawling, and sitting.
10. Check for Overheating: The Back of the Neck Test
Babies can’t regulate their body temperature well, so overheating is a common concern.
• Feel the back of their neck—if it’s sweaty or hot, they may be too warm.
• Dress them in a Bonds vest, nappy, and a light muslin wrap for breathability.
• If they’re too hot, a damp muslin wrap can help cool them down.
Why it helps: Overheating is linked to increased SIDS risk, so keeping baby at a comfortable temperature is important.
11. Parenting Is a Team Effort—Talk to Your Partner
Both mums and dads can experience postnatal depression, and parenting stress affects relationships.
• Communicate openly with your partner about how you’re feeling.
• Share the load—take turns with feeds, diaper changes, and night wake-ups.
• Support each other and seek help if needed.
Why it helps: A strong support system leads to a happier, healthier family.
Final Thoughts: You’re Doing Great!
We hope these real-life notes from mum Jannet Tang help you feel more prepared and confident as you navigate newborn life.
Do you have your own tips for surviving the early days of parenthood? Share them in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!
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