Parent Tips

Tips For You...

We have a broad range of tips provided by the Oregon Commission on Children & Families. These include expectant mothers and families as well as suggestions for parents of newborns and toddlers. If you have a tip to share, the please let us know.

Please select from the following:

• If you are thinking about having a baby
• If you are pregnant
• If your child is birth through 2 months
• If your child is 2 to 6 months
• If your child is 6 to 9 months
• If your child is 9 to 12 months
• If your child is 12 to 18 months old
• If your child is 18 to 24 months old
• If your child is 2 to 3 years old

If your child is birth through 2 months

WHAT TO EXPECT:

• During the weeks after your baby is born you may have strong emotions, which may be due to the changes your body is undergoing.
  
  
• Taking care of a newborn can be challenging! Moms, dads and babies learn together. Be patient with yourself - don't expect to know how to handle everything all at once.
  
  
• Talking, reading and singing softly to your baby can have a calming affect and creates brain connections which develop language skills.
  
  
• Babies see best at a distance of 8-12 inches - the distance between your face and theirs when you hold them close to feed or talk to them.
  
  
• Touching is very important to babies. Being in Mom or Dad's arms and hearing their heartbeat makes your baby feel safe.
  
  
• Breast fed babies receive important natural protections against allergies and disease. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding for the first twelve months.

WHAT YOU CAN DO:

• Learn how your baby likes to be held, what her different cries mean and how to respond to them. Hold your baby as often as possible - especially when feeding. Read and talk to your baby daily.
  
  
• Take your baby for regular well-child checkups. Talk to your health care provider about immunizations and any questions you may have about your baby.
  
  
• Change your baby's position so he can look at different things. Put your baby to sleep on his back and do not use a lot of bedding.
  
  
• If you feel overwhelmed, ask for help from family, friends and neighbors. Join a support group or get counseling.
  
  
• Choose your child care provider carefully. Contact your child care resource and referral for guidelines on how to find quality care (1-800-342-6712).

Tips courtesy of the Oregon Commission on Children & Families.