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CARING FOR YOUR NEWBORN
Dressing & Swaddling
Activities
Discussion
Hands-on practice
Resources
SIWB book pages 46 – 47 PowerPoint slides 102 – 104
Clothing and swaddling supplies Demo dolls Hands-On Stations
Knowing how to dressing and swaddle a newborn are important skills . Parents may find that they have to change several outfits a day due to mishaps ( leaks , spit ups , etc .).
Discussion Prompts
• What are some essential items to have in your newborn wardrobe ?
Key Points
• Dressing tips :
• For clothing that goes over the head , stretch so fabric does not rub across baby ’ s face .
• Reach in and pull limbs through rather than pushing clothing on .
• Support baby ’ s head while dressing and undressing .
• Be patient and go slow . Newborn dressing can be harder as they tend to flex their limbs and pull in their feet and hands close .
• Swaddling :
• Easy and quick with specially-made swaddling blankets ( often made with straps or Velcro ).
• Step-by-step using a regular blanket .
• Keep baby ’ s hips and legs loose and able to move freely , allowing proper hip development .
• Stop swaddling around two months .
• Clothing guidelines :
• Comfort .
• Layers .
• Cotton / breathable .
• Practical ( avoid tiny pieces , easy diaper access ).
• No hard soles on shoes until baby is walking well .
• Watch for skin reactions and launder baby ’ s clothes separately if needed .
• Wardrobe pieces :
• Onesies / undershirts with crotch snaps to allow layering .
• Bodysuits / sleepers : Long or short sleeves , feet or no feet .
• Sleep sacks .
• Gowns ( similar to sleep sacks with elastic opening at the bottom for easy diaper access ).
• Avoid clothing with strings , buttons , choking hazards , etc .
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