Preparing for Baby
Where is the safest place for a baby to sleep?
In a safety-approved crib, bassinet, or Pack ’n Play in the baby’s own sleep space.
What are Braxton Hicks contractions?
Practice contractions that help prepare the uterus for labor and usually do not become stronger or closer together.
What is the first milk called that a mother produces after birth?
Colostrum
Where is the safest place for a car seat?
In the back seat of the vehicle.
How many wet diapers should a healthy newborn usually have by about one week of age?
About 6 or more wet diapers each day
What position should a baby always be placed in to sleep?
On their back for every sleep (naps and nighttime).
What are three signs that labor may be starting?
Regular contractions, water breaking, and losing the mucus plug/bloody show.
How often should a newborn usually breastfeed?
About 8–12 times in 24 hours.
Every 2 to 3 hours
What type of car seat should a newborn use?
A rear-facing infant car seat.
How often should a newborn usually eat?
Every 2–3 hours (8–12 feedings in 24 hours).
Name three things that should NOT be in a baby’s sleep area
Blankets, pillows, stuffed animals, crib bumpers, or loose items.
When should a pregnant person call their provider or go to the hospital?
When contractions are regular and getting stronger, water breaks, bleeding occurs, decreased baby movement, or they have concerns.
True or False: Breastfeeding should hurt the entire feeding.
False. Some tenderness can happen early, but ongoing pain may mean latch needs to be adjusted.
True or False: A baby can wear a thick winter coat under the car seat straps.
False. Thick coats can make the harness too loose. Use blankets over the straps instead.
True or False: You should wait until the umbilical cord falls off before giving a baby a full tub bath.
True. Sponge baths are recommended until the cord stump falls off and heals.
True or False: If a baby rolls onto their stomach by themselves, you should keep flipping them back over all night.
False. Once a baby can roll both ways independently, you can allow them to find their position, but always place them on their back initially.
What is an epidural?
A medication given through the back to help reduce pain during labor.
Name two hunger cues a baby may show before crying.
Rooting, sucking on hands, opening mouth, moving head, bringing hands to mouth.
How tight should the harness straps be?
Snug enough that you cannot pinch extra strap material at the shoulder.
Name three times you should call your baby's healthcare provider.
Why is room-sharing recommended but bed-sharing is not?
Room-sharing allows parents to respond quickly while reducing the risk of suffocation and sleep-related deaths.
Put these stages of labor in order:
What are benefits of breastfeeding for babies and parents?
Provides nutrition, antibodies, bonding, lowers risk of some illnesses, and supports recovery after birth.
Why should a child remain rear-facing as long as possible?
It protects the head, neck, and spine during a crash.
Name three things you should have ready before changing a diaper.
Diaper, wipes, clean clothes, diaper cream, changing pad, or a safe place to lay baby.