Varun Dhawan and Natasha Dalal are on cloud nine as they welcome their first child, a baby girl, into the world. The joyous news was confirmed by veteran filmmaker and proud grandfather David Dhawan. Friends and celebrities like Arjun Kapoor, Karan Johar, and Rakul Preet Singh have extended their warm wishes to the new parents.
Varun Dhawan shared the news a while ago on Instagram with an adorable animated video with a basket decorated with balloons and flowers. A pet, representing the couple's dog, Joey, was also part of the video holding a card that read, "Welcome lil sis." While the newborn baby girl's name hasn't been revealed yet, the actor said on behalf of the 'elated family—Dalals and Dhawans', he is absolutely thrilled and requested privacy during this special time.
With the arrival of their baby girl, life will change for Varun and Natasha, just as it does for all new parents. For those embarking on this journey, here's an ultimate checklist of newborn baby care to help you navigate these early days with confidence.
View this post on Instagram
Your Ultimate Checklist Of Newborn Baby Care
Getting Help After Bringing Baby Home
Welcoming a newborn can be overwhelming. Consider the following tips to ensure you get the support you need:
- Seek Help: Relatives and friends may offer assistance. Even if you disagree on some practices, their experience can be valuable.
- Health Precautions: Ensure anyone handling your baby is up-to-date on their vaccinations and in good health to prevent infections.
- Limit Visitors: If you're not comfortable with visitors, it's okay to limit them. Your baby's health and your comfort are paramount.
Handling Your Newborn
Newborns are delicate, and handling them requires care:
- Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer before handling your baby to protect them from infections.
- Support Head and Neck: Always support your baby's head and neck when carrying them.
- Avoid Shaking: Never shake your baby. To wake them, gently tickle their feet or blow softly on their cheek.
- Secure Carrying: Ensure your baby is securely fastened in carriers, strollers, or car seats and avoid rough play.
Bonding With Your Baby
Bonding is important during the first hours and days:
- Physical Closeness: Cradle and gently stroke your baby to establish a deep emotional connection.
- Skin-to-Skin Contact: Hold your newborn against your chest. This technique, known as kangaroo care, calms and regulates their heartbeat.
Soothing Your Baby
Here are safe ways to calm your new baby:
- Infant Massage: Gentle massages can help babies relax and improve bonding.
- Sounds and Music: Talk, sing, or play soft music to calm your baby. Babies enjoy vocal sounds and gentle rocking.
- Swaddling: Proper swaddling keeps a baby warm and secure. Ensure you do not wrap too tightly around the hips to avoid the risk of hip dysplasia.
Feeding Your Baby
Feed your baby on demand, usually every 2-3 hours:
- Breastfeeding Signs: Ensure your baby is getting enough by checking for satisfaction, frequent wet diapers, and weight gain.
- Formula Feeding: Measure your baby's intake to ensure they are well-fed.
- Burping: Burp your baby often to prevent fussiness caused by swallowed air.
Diapering Your Baby
Expect to change diapers about 10 times a day:
- Preparation: Have all supplies ready before you start.
- Cleaning: Wipe your baby gently from front to back to prevent infections.
- Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly after every change.
Bathing Your Baby
Start with sponge baths until the umbilical cord stump falls off and any circumcision heals:
- Gentle Baths: Keep initial baths brief and gentle. If your baby becomes upset, revert to sponge baths for a while longer.
- Frequency: Bathe your baby two to three times a week to avoid drying out their skin.
Baby's Sleep Patterns
Newborns sleep about 16 hours or more, usually in 2-4 hour periods:
- Safe Sleeping: Make sure your baby sleeps on their back and doesn't have any blankets, pillows, or stuffed animals in the crib.
- Sleep Cycles: Remember that babies get their own sleep patterns. For starters, it is normal for them not to sleep through the night.
Bottomline
Varun Dhawan and Natasha Dalal's journey into parenthood is a beautiful reminder of the joys and challenges of welcoming a newborn. First-time parents can now feel more confident and prepared for parenthood with this guide. Remember, for any concerns, speak to your doctor to get personalised advice and support.