Baby Health: Practical Care You Can Use in the First Year

The first year is full of questions: Is the baby eating enough? Why won’t they sleep? When is a fever dangerous? Focus on a few clear habits—feeding, safe sleep, regular checkups, and spotting red flags—and most weeks will feel a lot easier.

Feeding and Nutrition

If you can breastfeed, aim for exclusive breastfeeding about six months; it gives immune support and easy digestion. Formula is a safe alternative—follow package instructions and your doctor’s advice. Give vitamin D drops if recommended, and start iron-rich solids around six months (pureed meats, iron-fortified cereal, mashed beans). Introduce common allergens like peanut in small amounts once solids are established, but check with your pediatrician if there’s a family history of allergies. Never give honey before 12 months because of botulism risk.

Watch wet diapers and steady weight gain rather than clocking every feeding. Frequent small feeds are normal in early weeks. If feeds are distressing or baby isn’t gaining, call your pediatrician—early help makes a big difference.

Sleep, Safety, and Common Concerns

Always put your baby on their back to sleep on a flat, firm surface. Keep the crib clear: no loose blankets, pillows, or stuffed toys. Room-sharing for the first six months lowers risk of sleep-related problems; bed-sharing increases risk. Use a fitted sheet and a sleep sack if you want extra warmth.

Tummy time matters for motor skills—start with a few minutes several times a day and build up. This prevents flat spots and helps neck and shoulder strength. For bathing and cord care, sponge baths are fine until the umbilical stump falls off; keep it clean and dry.

Know when to call: any fever in babies under 3 months, trouble breathing, blue lips, not waking to feed, fewer than expected wet diapers, or severe vomiting/diarrhea. For older infants, call if fever lasts more than 24–48 hours, a rash appears with fever, or your baby seems unusually limp or hard to rouse. For mild fevers in older infants, check temperature and ask your pediatrician about safe use of acetaminophen or ibuprofen and proper dosing.

Growth and checkups: Attend scheduled well visits—those weigh-ins and shots matter. Vaccines at 2, 4, and 6 months protect against serious illnesses. Your pediatrician will track growth curves; brief growth spurts and fussy periods are normal, but steady patterns are what you want to see.

Keep a simple journal: sleep, feeds, diapers, and any medicines. It helps you spot trends and makes pediatric visits faster. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, call your doctor. With a few safe routines and quick help when needed, you’ll handle most bumps in the first year with confidence.