Congratulations! A newborn baby in the house (or on the way soon) is very exciting. Breast milk is the best food for your baby, and may continue all the way until 2 years old, even beyond. The Canadian Paediatric Society Nutrition Committee recommends exclusively breastfeeding your baby for the first 6 months. Starting around six months, your baby will need a supplemental source of iron (usually provided by infant cereal). Discuss breast feeding with your doctor to ensure there are no complications.

Physical & Social Development Signs

After about two months, you will notice that your baby…

• Can briefly raise her heads and shoulders off crib mattress
• Follows objects with her eyes
• Starts pronouncing single vowels - 'ah', 'eh', and 'uh'

Feeding Tips

• Start breast-feeding as soon as possible after giving birth. Your baby's sucking reflexes are strongest immediately after he's born
• In the beginning, you will be feeding whenever your baby is hungry - about every 2-3 hours
• Feed your baby from both breasts at one sitting or alternately at successive feedings. You will produce the most milk if your breasts are emptied during the feed.
• Avoid using a bottle or soother in the first few weeks, as it may discourage her from breastfeeding
• Avoid dieting, drinking alcohol, and smoking while breastfeeding
• Nursing should not hurt, so if you experience soreness, cracked skin, or inflammation, consult your doctor or health care provider

Links

Click here for a listing of Canadian Prenatal Nutrition Programs by city, so you can join a group to get advice about prenatal nutrition.