You can't be any more excited about welcoming a new member to the family. If this is your first child, you may have questions and worries about proper baby care. Don't be overwhelmed. Parenthood has its challenges, but new moms and dads shouldn't be fearful of the little hurdles along the way. Here are just a few of the basics for new parents to know as they get ready to welcome a baby.

Feeding Time

If you decide that you are going to breastfeed your newborn, it's important to start breastfeeding ASAP. New moms should invest in maternity bras that allow for comfort and support while feeding or pumping milk. Hands-free pumping bras afford moms the ability to take care of a baby or complete tasks throughout the house while comfortably getting milk. This stretchy fabric accommodates any breast size to make sure the newborn is taken care of.

These bras are able to even deal with a high load of milk production, slipping seamlessly under your garments to make sure that your comfort is king. The right bra will help you as you try to have your baby latch to prevent your nipples from becoming sore. In addition to having a comfortable bra, you'll want to make sure you have as much support as possible for the comfort of your baby.

Bathing

While many people have opted for the sink for bathtime for their baby, you can actually get your baby adjusted to the bathtub a lot quicker by getting them in there a few months down the line. If you need to install a replacement tub, you may want to take on those repairs before the baby is born. The last thing you want is for construction to be limiting the use of the bathroom, and the noise of the project impacting your newborn's naptime.

Be sure to look into a contractor that will take care of the removal of the old tub and the safe installation of the new tub to accommodate your household's needs. Before taking it to the tub, focus on making sure your newborn is cleaned gently, using soft cloths and brushes to wash your baby's face and scalp.

Sleeping and Naptime

The first three months of your newborn's sleep cycle can be very fluid, but after that, it's time to start setting a schedule that works for your situation. Make sure the baby gets bright light in the morning, staying active during the day. Keeping your baby moving is an important thing as it helps their early circulation and muscle building, but also naturally tires them out, making naptime and sleeptime easier. Winding-down activities can help infants the same way cooling down helps an adult after a workout. Massages, baths, storytime, or rocking can help soothe a baby to sleep. When you lay your baby down to sleep, be sure that their bedding and clothing are not constricting them in any way, and limit the number of toys and other items in the surroundings of the crib.

Crying

Babies cry. It's just a natural expression. Crying can be anything from needing a diaper change to needing to be burped. It's the only means of getting attention for newborns and infants. There are a variety of styles that can get your baby calmed down, especially through the colicky stages. Sometimes, a simple ride around town in their car seat can relax the baby. Things can change in a single day regarding what works and doesn't work for your infant. Don't fret. Be open-minded to trying newer options, like swaddling your baby or even giving yourself a breather. You're going to do a good job, and your baby is going to be grateful.