The arrival of a newborn is a momentous occasion filled with joy, wonder, and a bit of anxiety. Once your baby is actually here, you might feel overwhelmed when it comes to newborn care. Providing the right care during these early days is crucial for the baby’s health, development, and overall well-being. Dr. Alexandra Kostur at Jacksonville Kids Pediatrics in Jacksonville, FL, can explain newborn care and why it’s so important for your child’s well-being.

Why Newborn Care Is Important

The first few weeks of a baby's life are critical. Proper care ensures that newborns get the best start possible, laying the foundation for healthy growth and development. It’s important to talk to your pediatrician in Jacksonville, FL, about newborn care so that you understand what decisions to make and how to enhance your child’s life.

Newborn care fosters bonding between parents and their baby. This emotional connection is vital for the baby’s emotional and psychological development. Early care includes vaccinations and health screenings that can prevent illnesses and detect potential health issues early, ensuring timely intervention.

Newborns need frequent feeding, whether breastfed or formula-fed. Proper nutrition is essential for growth and development. Breastfeeding offers numerous benefits, including immunity boosts and bonding time, but formula feeding can also be a healthy choice when breastfeeding isn't possible.

Newborns sleep a lot, typically 16–17 hours a day, but often in short bursts. Creating a safe sleep environment by placing the baby on their back in a crib without loose bedding or toys is crucial to reducing the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Regular check-ups with your pediatrician monitor your baby’s growth and development, ensure vaccinations are up-to-date, and address any health concerns early.

Contact Our Pediatrician Today

Make sure you understand newborn care. Contact Dr. Alexandra Kostur at Jacksonville Kids Pediatrics in Jacksonville, FL, to learn more about newborn care and why it’s essential for your child’s health. Call for more information and to schedule your appointment today at (904) 446-9991.