Your Special Newborn

Volume 2: The Premature

Baby Comes Home

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 Contents
At home with your new baby............................................................. 1
Learning about your baby’s world ................................................... 11
Feeding your baby........................................................................... 14
Your baby’s medical needs ............................................................. 21
Everyday baby basics ..................................................................... 23
Making parenthood a little easier .................................................... 27
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At home with your new baby
It’s finally here—the day you’re taking your new baby home! No more long days
and nights in the NICU, surrounded by nurses, doctors, and equipment. Now,
you can bring your baby home to his very own bed, in his very own room! This
is an exciting time, and one you’ve looked forward to forever. But you still have
doubts. After all, the hospital environment you’re anxious to leave behind is
the one you’ve depended on for support. You may wonder if you’re ready to
take care of your baby on your own. Don’t worry—these are normal feelings.
All parents, and especially those of premature babies, are nervous as they get
ready to go home with their baby. They know that they’re really on their own.
The first few weeks at home with your baby will be both rewarding and
challenging, as you learn more about one another. Give your family time to
get to know its newest member. It usually takes at least three months or so to
get settled. You’ll be creating new routines for your whole family. All of this takes
time, and energy, so it’s no wonder you’ll feel tired at the end of the day. You
may also feel overwhelmed in your new role as a parent. You’ll probably have
lots of questions about your baby and how to care for him. Remember, you’re
not alone. Your baby’s doctor, friends and family, and even baby care books
can help you find the answers you need. When you know more about how to
care for your baby, you can relax and enjoy every minute with him. And you’ll
want to treasure every moment—your baby will never be this tiny again.
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 Bonding with your baby
While your baby was in the NICU, you might have felt like it was difficult to really feel
close to him, or to show him how much you love him. Some parents of premature
babies are afraid they’ve missed out on bonding with their baby. While this may be a
normal feeling, it’s really not the case. That’s because every time you’re with your baby,
you’re bonding with him. So now that you’re home together, you’ll find each time you
smile at your baby, hold him, talk to him, or just look at him, the bond shared by just
the two of you is growing stronger. This bonding will continue throughout your baby’s
lifetime, and plays a key role in helping your baby develop to his full potential.
It’s easy to encourage bonding—just play with and enjoy your baby! Interact with him
as much as you can. It’s fine to treat your premature baby just as you would a full-term
infant. Sometimes, parents think their preemies are more fragile than full-term babies.
They may be extra cautious, or too indulgent, or even too attached. Of course, your
baby is the most special baby in the whole world! But treat him just as you would any
baby, so you don’t interfere with his normal development.

Baby talk
Even though it will be some time before you hear your baby’s first words, you’ll still be
amazed at how quickly the two of you learn to communicate with each other. He may
be very tiny, but he can still let you know what he wants and needs. As you watch your
baby’s body language, you’ll see that he’s extremely sensitive to the world around him.
At first, your baby will sleep most of the time. But when he’s awake and alert, he’s ready
to “communicate” with you.

When your baby wants your attention, you’ll notice:

• His eyes are wide open
• He’ll look at you, look away, then look at you again
• His breathing is relaxed
• His arms and legs will be slightly bent and relaxed
• He may put his hands together, or bring his fists to his mouth

When your baby has had too much stimulation, he may:

• Fuss and cry
• Stiffen his arms and legs
• Arch his back
• Shut his eyes, look away from you, or turn his head away
• Fall asleep
Whenever your baby seems tired, let him rest. Quietly hold him without talking or
moving, or lay him down. Babies can handle only one activity at a time. If your baby
seems stressed, try to relax with him. He’ll let you know when he’s ready to play again.

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 How your preemie baby may behave
Your preemie will most likely do all of the things that all babies do—it just may take
him a little longer. If he’s like most NICU babies, he came home even before his original
due date. That means he has some catching up to do when it comes to acting like a
full-term baby. While your baby is tiny, he’s very aware of his surroundings. He just
doesn’t have the same communication skills as an older infant. For the first few weeks at
home, it may be hard to guess how he’s going to behave. But, after a short time, you’ll
be able to predict his reactions and responses—his behavior will become part of your
routine.

Helping your baby learn

You’ve watched your baby try to get his hand to his mouth—over and over again, and
without much success! It’s not that your baby isn’t graceful. It’s just that his nervous
system isn’t fully developed, and his movements aren’t smooth and coordinated.
But your baby is eager to learn. You can help him by:
• Holding him so you’re supporting his head and body, but leave his arms and legs
free. Let him kick with his legs and wave his arms. This helps build his muscles.
• Gently playing with your baby by slowly moving his arms and legs.
• Talking to your baby in a warm, enthusiastic voice. When he senses your love,
he’ll be excited to learn even more.
• Placing your baby on his tummy to play. Do this as often as possible. You’ll
notice that as he gets older, he’ll practice raising his head up off the crib mattress.
However, never place your baby on his tummy to sleep.
• Encouraging him to lift his head by coming close to him with your head above his.
Talk gently to him. He’ll want to look at you and will probably try to lift his head.

Baby’s breathing
Your baby’s breathing patterns can change rapidly without warning. To learn what’s
“normal” for your baby, you may want to follow these tips:
• Count how many times he takes a breath each minute.
• Watch his chest as he breathes while resting, playing, crying, and while he’s upset.
This can help you identify his moods.
• Listen to the noises he makes as he breathes.
You can become more familiar with your baby’s
While your baby is
behavior so that it will be easier to recognize when
he’s acting differently. Remember, if you’re ever
tiny, he’s very aware
concerned about his breathing or color,
of his surroundings.
call his doctor right away.

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 Sleep tight
Babies sleep…a lot. In fact, your baby will probably sleep more than anything else
during his first weeks at home—sometimes 15 to 22 hours a day. Some babies
have trouble adjusting from the bright lights and noisy NICU to a more peaceful
environment, like their own rooms at home. If your baby has trouble sleeping, you
may want to try these tips to help him drift off to dream land:
• Use a night light and try playing soft music in the background.
• Over a period of several days, slowly turn down the extra noise and light, helping
him adjust to his new home.
• Try not to play with your baby when feeding him at night. He’ll learn that evenings
are for sleeping and eating, instead of for playing.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that healthy infants be placed on
their backs for sleeping. Based on information about Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
(SIDS), this is the safest position for your baby.1 Always place your baby on his back
to sleep during the first year of life, unless his doctor tells you to place him in a different
position for sleeping. For more important information on reducing the risk of SIDS,
visit www.aap.org.

Understanding your baby’s cries

Crying is one of the ways your baby communicates with you. He can let you know if he’s
hungry, or tired, or needs a diaper change. The trick is learning when your baby is crying
from hunger, pain, or another reason. You’ll soon be able to tell what your baby needs
just by his cries. Sometimes your baby may be crying for no reason—he’s just had a
meal, a nap, and a fresh diaper. Most babies have fussy periods now and then. This kind
of crying seems to help them get rid of extra energy so they can become more relaxed
and content.
The best way to handle your baby’s crying is to go to him right away when he cries,
especially during the first few months. You can’t spoil your baby by giving him attention.
In fact, if you answer his calls for help, you may find he’ll cry less overall.

Comforting your crying baby

Babies cry for lots of reasons, and parents try to figure out what it will take to comfort
them. Try some of these tips:
• Offer a feeding. Premature babies will need frequent, small feedings, and will need to
The American Academy of Pediatrics
be fed around the clock.
recommends that healthy infants be
placed on their backs for sleeping. • Whether you’re breastfeeding or formula-feeding, feed your baby in a calm, quiet
place. Too much noise or activity can overwhelm your baby and may keep him from
eating as much as he should. If your baby doesn’t eat enough at each feeding, he
may wake again more quickly and repeat the cycle of crying.

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 • Try burping him to see if he has any trapped gas bubbles. • Take time away from your baby. It will help re-energize you to care for
• Change your baby’s diaper. If his diaper is dirty or wet, he’s uncomfortable, and will him when you return.
have a hard time settling down to eat and then sleep. • Make time to exercise, even if it’s just a brisk walk to reduce stress.
If your baby has already been fed and changed, and is still unhappy, you might try: • Keep your sense of humor! It makes it easier to get through the tough
parts of parenting.
• Holding your baby closely in your arms. You can also try wrapping him snugly in a
blanket, or swaddling him.
• Talking to your baby, or singing to him, in a low constant tone. Handle him smoothly
and gently.
• Giving your baby more physical contact and movement. Try walking or rocking him.
Or, gently stroke his head or pat his back or chest. Start with one activity and repeat
it for five or ten minutes before you try another.
• Taking your baby for a stroller or car ride.
• Playing soft music. Or try rhythmic noise or a vibrating chair.

If nothing seems to work, you may want to just leave your baby alone. Many babies
can’t fall asleep without crying. Your baby won’t cry for long if he’s really tired.
If you’re frustrated because you can’t comfort your baby, try to stay calm. No matter
how angry or impatient you become with your baby’s crying, do not shake your baby.
SHAKING AN INFANT CAN CAUSE BLINDNESS, BRAIN DAMAGE, OR DEATH.
Have a family member or friend give you some relief.
Remember, newborn babies can cry from one to four hours a day as they adjust to life
outside the womb.2 Don’t expect to be able to console your baby every time he cries.
Just do your best, and be sure to enjoy him when he’s in one of his happier moods!

Care for yourself so you can care for your baby

Even though your new baby is your whole world right now, it’s important to remember
to make time for yourself, too. Any parent would agree that taking care of a new baby
can be exhausting. This new little person in your life demands so much of your time and
energy. Sometimes, it seems as if you don’t have time to do anything except feed him,
change him, and meet his needs. That’s why it’s important to care for yourself, too:
• Read a book or start a much-enjoyed hobby.
• Pat yourself on the back. You’re a great parent! Only you can give your baby the love
and care that you do.
• Don’t try to be perfect. Your best is good enough for your baby.
• Ask for help from relatives, friends, and neighbors.
• Sleep when your baby sleeps.

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 Learning about your baby’s world
One of the greatest joys of being a parent is watching your baby learn about the world
around her—and knowing you’re her first teacher. Enjoying your baby as she grows and
develops is what being a parent is all about!

Corrected age
Normally, a baby’s age is calculated from the day she was born. But for the premature
baby, a corrected age is used to help determine physical, social, and emotional
development. To find your baby’s corrected age, take her actual age and subtract the
number of weeks premature that she was born.

Sight
One of the first skills your baby will have is focusing her eyes on your face, watching the
people near her, and tracking bright objects as they move. At first, she won’t see clearly
at a distance. But as she grows, her ability to focus will improve.

Keep these tips in mind as you encourage your baby’s visual development:
• Hold your baby so your face is six to eight inches from hers. Talk gently to her. When
you know you have her attention, slowly move your head from side to side so she
can follow you with her eyes. She might not be able to track your face across her
nose until she’s a bit older.
• Bright lights can be irritating to babies. Be sure the lights are not shining directly in
her face. Then, hold her in a sitting position while looking at her so she can make
eye contact.
• The first few weeks your baby is home she’ll like simple black and white patterns.
Babies also like mirrors. Seeing herself in the mirror is exciting! Later, show your
baby bright, colorful toys or other objects. Move them slowly before her eyes so she
can learn to follow them.
• Remember, you are your baby’s whole world! Your voice, your smile, and your love
are key to her healthy development.

Your baby is very aware of the

sounds and sights around her.
The sound of your voice is one
of her favorites!

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 Sound
Your baby is very aware of the sounds and sights around her. The sound of your voice is
one of her favorites!
You’ll encourage your baby’s hearing development when you:
• Talk to her as much as possible in a calm, cheerful voice. Tell her stories about you
and your family. She may not understand what you say, but she’ll respond to hearing
your voice.
• Vary the sound of your voice by changing your tone and your volume.
• Sing or hum to your baby often.
• Introduce your baby to new sounds like musical toys or rattles.

Touch
With just the slightest touch, you may be able to turn your fussy baby into a calm,
content baby. Your slow, gentle touches help her feel secure and safe. Be sure to:
• Hold her often. Don’t worry about spoiling her during these early months—
you won’t.
• Watch for her signals. If she wants to be cuddled, she’ll be relaxed and snuggly.
If she seems upset, simply hold her without moving, or lay her down.
• Introduce your baby to lots of different textures—towels, diapers, stuffed animals,
water, your skin—anything that feels good to your baby.

Smell and taste

All babies explore their worlds by putting things in their mouths. That’s because taste
and smell are two of the senses that help your baby learn more about her world.
Keep in mind:
• Newborns seem to prefer the taste and smell of their own mother’s milk.
• Right now you don’t have to go out of your way to stimulate these senses—your
baby’s taste buds are stimulated at every feeding, and normal household smells
keep this sense well exercised.

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 Enfamil® EnfaCare® provides the extra nutrition
babies who were born prematurely need.

Feeding your baby

To bottle feed or breastfeed, that is the question
Experts agree on the many benefits of breast milk, but many mothers have
questions about breastfeeding and bottle feeding. And the answer is not always
either/or. Sometimes, a combination of the two might be best. Talk to the doctor
and make an informed decision that works for you. Either way, your baby will be
healthy and happy with your decision.
Scientifically designed with more protein, calcium, and
Enfamil® EnfaCare® nourishes your baby’s growth other important nutrients than routine formulas to help
and development provide better growth and development for babies born
prematurely.
Babies born prematurely have special nutritional needs. For this reason, many
In fact, babies fed a program of Enfamil®
doctors recommend Enfamil EnfaCare through 9 months of age, to help with
formulas* achieved growth similar to full
growth and development.
term, breastfed babies.3

Now that’s a big deal for little babies.

*Enfamil® Premature, Enfamil EnfaCare, and Enfamil LIPIL®
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 Some directions on preparing formula Whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle feeding your baby, use these guidelines as you
learn more about your baby’s feeding schedule:
How do you prepare infant formula? Simple. By following the label directions. Your
baby’s health depends on carefully following the instructions. Improper hygiene, • Support your baby’s head during feedings, keeping it higher than his stomach.
preparation, dilution, use, or storage may result in severe harm. Ready-to-use and This aids in digestion and helps avoid ear infections.
Concentrated Liquid infant formulas are commercially sterile in the sealed container. • Your baby will eat at his own pace. You’ll soon recognize his pattern of swallowing
Powdered infant formulas are not sterile and should not be fed to premature infants or and breathing. Babies who eat slowly seem to take more milk at each feeding,
infants who might have immune problems unless directed and supervised by your baby’s and may be satisfied and sleep longer between feedings. If your baby ever seems to
doctor. Ask your baby’s doctor which formula is appropriate for your baby. have trouble catching his breath while eating, or is coughing, choking, or sputtering,
sit him up until he seems ready to eat again.
Tips for feeding time
• Keep feedings relaxed, with as few interruptions as possible.
Your baby may need to eat on demand, or may feed well on a newborn schedule. A
breastfed baby usually has 8 to 12 feedings in 24 hours, while a bottle fed baby may • Hold the bottle at a 45-degree angle, and keep it steady so he can get
have 8 to 10 feedings during that time. Whatever feeding method you choose, your baby the right suction.
will need small, frequent feedings around the clock. • Keep your baby from swallowing air by keeping the bottle nipple full of formula.
You may need to wake your baby every three hours or so if he’s sleeping through a He shouldn’t suck on an empty bottle or drain the bottle.
feeding. Wake your baby gently by removing his blanket or stroking his arms and legs. When your baby is finished eating,
Don’t rush him or he may be too upset to eat. Once he’s wide-awake, hold him, and the nipple will fall out of his mouth
touch your nipple, or the bottle nipple, to his cheek or lip. He’ll be encouraged to open and his whole body will become
his mouth and turn toward it to eat. relaxed. Your baby will probably
need about 20 to 30 minutes*
Preparing bottles • If you want to warm a bottle that has to finish his bottle. If he seems
been in the refrigerator, run warm tap finished after only 15 or 20 minutes,
• Wash everything—bottles, nipples,
water over the bottle or place the bottle
and caps—in hot, soapy water before you may want to wake him and try
in a pan of hot (not boiling) water. Take
using them. Check with your baby’s to get him to eat for a little longer.
care that the cap and nipple do not get
doctor about the need to use cooled, You want him to have a tummy
wet. Shake the bottle occasionally while
boiled water for mixing and the need that’s full enough to satisfy him for
warming. The warming time should be
to boil clean utensils, bottles, and
less than 15 minutes. Test the formula another few hours.
nipples in water before use.
temperature before feeding; it should
• Once prepared, infant formula can spoil not feel warm or cold when dropped
quickly. Opened containers of liquid on your hand—neutral is close to body
formula, once prepared, need to be fed temperature (about 100°F). Warmed
immediately or covered and refrigerated formula should be discarded within
and used within 48 hours. Formula one hour.
prepared with powder needs to be fed
• WARNING: Never warm formula in a
immediately or covered and refrigerated
microwave. Serious burns can result.
and used within 24 hours (check product
label for specific guidelines). • Discard formula remaining in the bottle
within one hour after feeding begins.
• Most babies don’t seem to mind whether
their bottle is warmed or straight out of the
refrigerator. Some may prefer a consistent
temperature from one feeding to the next.
*If your baby takes less than 15 minutes to eat, you may want to use a nipple with a smaller hole. If he takes
longer than normal, and doesn’t seem to be sucking actively, make sure the nipple hole isn’t clogged.

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When your baby
is finished eating,
the nipple will fall
out of his mouth and
his whole body will
become relaxed.
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How to tell if your baby’s
getting enough to eat
So, your baby takes three fluid ounces
of formula at every feeding, then
falls off to sleep. You’re wondering if
you should wake him and offer him
another ounce.
The best way to tell if your baby’s
getting enough to eat is to check
his growth. Your baby should be
gaining about an ounce a day in
the first few weeks home from the
hospital. His doctor will watch his
weight gain carefully during the
first few months to make sure it’s
increasing steadily. Also, if your baby
has six or more wet diapers a day, and
seems pretty happy between feedings,
he’s probably getting plenty to eat.
Your baby may give you signs when
he’s had enough to eat. He may fall
asleep, or close his mouth and turn
away from his bottle. He may also bite
or play with the bottle nipple, or even
fuss if you keep trying to feed him.
The important thing is to follow
your baby’s lead. He’ll let you know
how hungry he is and how much he
wants to eat.
If you’re worried that your baby isn’t eating like he should, talk with your baby’s doctor.
If you see any of these signs, let your doctor see your baby promptly:
• Constant or inconsolable crying.
• Unable to wake your baby.
• Consistent feeding refusals.
• Persistent coughing,
choking, or breathing
problems.
• Noticeably fewer wet or
soiled diapers.
Understanding your
baby’s bottom line
You can learn a lot about your
baby from what’s in his diaper!
Occasional changes in the
color and consistency of your
baby’s stools are normal.
Breastfed babies usually have
yellow stools. Formula fed
babies usually have yellow,
brown, or green stools.
Those babies fed Enfamil®
PREMIUM™ may have softer
stools, more like a breastfed
baby. But if you have changed
his formula, there may be
a change in his stool color.
And if you’re feeding your
baby an iron-fortified formula
like Enfamil® EnfaCare®, or
if your baby is taking an iron
supplement, he may be more
likely to have green stools.
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 Your baby’s medical needs
By the time you take your baby home, you may have already established a relationship
with the doctor or other healthcare professional who’ll continue to provide medical care
for your baby.

Your baby’s doctor—your partner in caring for your baby

Your baby’s doctor is your partner in caring for your baby. Be sure to keep him or her
informed of any changes in your baby’s health. It’s important for you to feel comfortable
enough to talk with your baby’s doctor and medical staff about any issues you and your
baby are facing.

Your baby’s doctor will track your baby’s progress based on necessary exams and
testing, and on the information that you provide about your baby. It’s helpful to have
your questions and concerns ready each time you visit or call your baby’s doctor.
When you visit your baby’s doctor:
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions—there’s no such thing as a silly question.
• Make sure you understand the doctor’s instructions. Your doctor will gladly explain
any information that you don’t understand.
• Tell your baby’s doctor about what’s happening with your baby. Describe her
activities, her attention level, how she sleeps and eats, and her personality.
• Keep all appointments with your baby’s doctor who is the expert when it comes to
your baby’s growth and development. The care your baby receives during these first
few months of life will lay the foundation for later childhood.
How to tell if your baby is sick
Most babies get sick at one time or another. It’s a good idea to know a few warning
signs of sickness. Just because your child has one or more of these signs doesn’t mean
she has a severe illness. But, let your baby’s doctor know if your child has any of these
warning signs that might indicate she’s sick:
• Rectal temperature of 100.4°F or higher.
• Vomiting—not just spitting up.
• Refusal to take feedings.
• No energy.
• Diarrhea, especially if there’s mucus, blood, or an unusually bad smell.
• Hard crying—with no obvious cause.
• Inability to see or hear normally.
• Unusual rash.

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 Fever
If your baby develops a fever—a rectal
temperature of 100.4°F or higher4—
call your baby’s doctor. Fever is a sign of
infection somewhere in the body. The
best way to measure your baby’s fever is
to take a rectal temperature. Follow these
steps to take a rectal temperature:
• Use a rectal (in the bottom)
thermometer. Digital thermometers
usually provide the quickest, most
accurate readings. Rub the end with
rubbing alcohol or soap and water,
then rinse it with cool, clear water.
Lubricate the thermometer with a small
amount of nonpetroleum lubricant.
• Place your baby on her tummy. With
your thumb and index finger, spread the
baby’s buttocks.
• With your other hand, insert the
lubricated thermometer 1/2 to 1 inch
into the anal opening. Hold the
thermometer in place for the time
recommended by the thermometer
instructions.5
• If the rectal reading is over 100.4°F,
your child may have a fever.4
Let your baby’s doctor know if she has a
fever so you can receive instructions on
whether you should give your baby any
medicines, or other steps you should
take to reduce the fever.
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Everyday baby basics
Diapers and clothes
You may need to buy diapers and clothing especially made for preemies.
These preemie sizes are available in department and discount stores, and
over the internet. Just don’t buy too many small clothes and diapers. Your
baby will grow quickly.
Comfortable temperatures in your home
Most small babies can’t tolerate temperature extremes. Make sure your home
is warm enough by setting your thermostat in the low- to mid-70s. Your baby’s
body temperature regulating mechanism is functioning by the time he leaves
the NICU. But because he’s so little, and doesn’t have much of a protective
fat layer, it may be harder for him to stay comfortable. It’s also important to
note that when your baby uses a lot of extra calories to keep warm, that can
interfere with his weight gain. If your baby seems fussy, try checking the room
temperature to make sure it’s warm enough. Feel your baby’s arms, legs, or the
back of his neck to make sure it isn’t too cool. And, even though you want to
keep the room warm, don’t overheat it.
Car seat safety
Whenever your baby is traveling in the car, he should be strapped safely in his
car seat. Car seats are required by law in every state, and parents must know
how to use them properly:
• Choose a car seat that’s designed for your child’s size.
• Use a car safety seat without a shield. Shields often are too high and
too far from the body to fit correctly. A small baby’s face could hit a shield
in a crash.6
• An adult should ride where they can watch your premature baby breathing.
Never place a rear-facing car seat in the front seat with a passenger side
air bag.
• Talk to your baby’s doctor about ordering a car seat test before discharge
to make sure the semi-reclined position doesn’t cause or add to breathing
problems.
If your baby develops a
fever—a temperature of
100.4ºF or higher—call your
baby’s doctor.
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 • If your baby has trouble breathing when sitting up, your baby’s doctor may Bath time
recommend using a crash-tested car bed so he can lie flat.6
Your baby doesn’t need much bathing if you keep his diaper area washed and clean.
• The back seat of the car is the safest place for your child to ride. Place the car seat Two or three baths a week during the first year are plenty. Until the umbilical cord falls off,
facing the rear of the car. your newborn should have sponge baths only:
• Be sure the car seat is installed properly, according to the manufacturer’s directions. • In a warm room, place your baby on a flat surface, like a changing table or counter
• Ask the doctor if you should roll up blankets and place them on either side of your next to a sink. Pad any hard surfaces. Make sure your baby is secure, with a safety
baby’s head, to help keep him from slumping over or moving about dangerously. strap or with your hand on him at all times. Even with a safety strap, never leave your
baby alone, even for a moment.
Crib safety
• Use a basin of water, a damp washcloth, and some mild baby soap. Keep your
Your baby’s crib is one place where he’ll be alone, so this should be a totally safe baby wrapped in a towel, and
environment. Follow this checklist to make sure your baby is always safe in his crib5: expose only the body parts
you’re washing. Wash your
baby’s face first, and work
• A firm, tight-fitting mattress your way down, washing
• No loose, missing, or broken hardware or slats the diaper area last.
• No more than 2 3/8” between the slats (about the width of a soda can) • Once your baby’s umbilical
• No corner posts over 1/16” high area is healed, try placing
• No cutout designs in the headboard or footboard him directly in the water.
The water should be warm.
• No soft objects such as pillows, loose bedding, or stuffed toys should
be in the crib Check it with your wrist or
elbow before placing your
• Visit www.aap.org for more crib safety instructions
baby in it. These first baths
should be kept short and
very gentle. Many parents use
a bathinette, sink, or plastic
tub.6
• Wash your baby with smooth,
soothing motions to help him
Your baby’s crib is one place where he’ll be alone, relax and enjoy his bath. After
so this should be a totally safe environment. bathing your baby, swaddle
him in a soft towel to dry and
warm him.

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 A big welcome from
big brothers and sisters
If you have other children, they Making parenthood
probably can’t wait to get to know
the newest member of the family! a little easier
You want them to feel close to their
new baby brother or sister. Let them Formula delivered to your door
know how important they’ll be to You’re so busy taking care of your new baby. So, let our Home
the new baby. You can help them
Delivery Program take care of delivering Enfamil® EnfaCare® infant
adjust by:
formula —in the form your baby’s doctor recommended—right to
• Talking to your other children.
your door. Choose:
Let them know that the baby was
born early and may need some
extra attention.
• Taking time to really listen to
your other children. They may • Enfamil EnfaCare
be unsure about how the new Nursette® bottles
baby will fit into the family, and Just shake, open, add the appropriate
what their role might be as an older
nipple to the bottle, and feed.
brother or sister. You can help them
feel confident that while the family
is changing, it’s a change for the
better!
• Including your children in caring
for their new brother or sister. Ask • Enfamil EnfaCare powder cans
them to help diaper or dress your
baby. Or ask them to snuggle with Just measure water and add to bottle,
you as you feed the baby. add powder, and shake well. Follow label
• Making time just for you and instructions carefully.
your older children. They need • Enfamil EnfaCare
you, too. Reassure them that Ready-to-use cans
they’re just as special and
important to you as ever!
Ready-to-use product. Add to
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• Keeping in mind that it takes
several months for a family to
adjust to a new member. Give
everyone time to get used to You can order Enfamil EnfaCare, as well as all Enfamil® formulas, for home
the new baby and their roles delivery. Just call 1-800-BABY123, or visit enfamil.com/delivery.
in the family.

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 Make Your Baby Shower References:

Last All Year Long

1. American Academy of Pediatrics. Shelov SP, Hannemann RE, eds. Caring for Your
Baby and Young Child, Revised Edition: Birth to Age 5. New York: Bantam Books;
2004:45.
Get up to $250 in FREE gifts.
2. American Academy of Pediatrics. Shelov SP, Hannemann RE, eds. Caring for Your
Baby and Young Child. Revised Edition: Birth to Age 5. New York: Bantam Books;
2004:43-44.

3. Clandinin MT, Van Aerde JE, Merkel KL, et al. Growth and development of preterm
infants fed infant formulas containing docosahexaenoic acid and arachidonic acid.
J Pediatr. 2005;146:461-468.

4. American Academy of Pediatrics. Shelov SP, Hannemann RE, eds. Caring for Your
Baby and Young Child, Revised Edition: Birth to Age 5. New York: Bantam Books;
2004:448-449.

5. US Consumer Product Safety Commission. Is Your Used Crib Safe: CPSF

Document #5020. http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/5020.html. Accessed
6/16/2008.

6. American Academy of Pediatrics. Shelov SP, Hannemann RE, eds. Caring for Your
Baby and Young Child, Revised Edition: Birth to Age 5. New York: Bantam Books;
2004:22.

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 Our commitment to you
and your baby
We are committed to making the highest-quality formulas,
and we continuously strive to provide formulas with nutritional
benefits closer to breast milk than they were before.
Our trained and caring staff is here to support you.
Contact us at
1-800-BABY123 or enfamil.com.

*Studied before the addition of prebiotics

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