For Babies

• Not changing diapers frequently
• Wet Wipes (they contain alcohol which sometimes irritates baby bottoms)
• Wiping bottom with diaper/ rough cloth.
• Wet bottoms. (Bottoms must be dry before using a new diaper)

• Boil the bottle nipple every time the baby is fed.
• Wash breasts before and after feeding your baby.

• Always feed your baby in an upright position.
• Clean nostrils frequently during colds.

• Feed immediately after birth and on demand (when baby cries)
• Breast milk is the BEST
• Breast milk boosts immunity (breast fed babies visit the doctor less frequently)

• For term babies, wait at least 24 hours after birth
• For pre-term babies, until they weigh 2.2 kilos. (Sponge baths are advised till that time)

Massages stimulate growth and help with brain maturity. (However, massages are to be done very gently as they can result in fractures if done incorrectly)

• For pre-term babies, 7-8 days after birth when they are stabilized and attain temperature control
• For term babies, from 2nd day of birth.

• The cord usually sheds within 7-8 days.
• The cord should always be kept dry.
• The cord should not be covered with the diaper.
• The cord can be cleaned gently with surgical spirit only if required.

• Do not apply any kajal/mascara.
• Watery eyes are normal.
• If there is yellow/sticky discharge consult your pediatrician.

• Talcum powder should never be used under the neck, groin, armpit or other covered area.

Pacifiers are not advised by HOPE as they are known to cause the following

• Protrusion of the upper jaw
• Lack of appetite
• Frequent diarrheas

• Thumb sucking is normal during infancy.
• At a later stage, it could mean lack of attention/insecurity.

• The room should be airy, and have ample cross ventilation.
• The room must be clutter-free (especially of dust collecting items).
• The room should never be damp.

In a breast fed baby frequent small loose stools are normal after each feed (Due to gastro-colic reflex)

Breast fed babies do not require extra water

Always wrap the baby and ensure head is covered (maximum heat loss in a baby is through the scalp)