Baby will be sensitive to light, even the first day. Do not allow the sun
to shine in his eyes, or gas or electric light if that must be used. The
baby's skin may change to yellow for a few days, but this soon passes away
and frequently there is scaling. The fine soft hair usually comes out and
is replaced later by a second growth. The open spot on the head should not
be touched. When the head is out of shape or is swollen, this need not
cause worry for it will soon disappear. Mold it a little. Do not allow the
baby to lie in one position, as the soft skull may become flattened or all
the hair rubbed off in one place. The baby sleeps about nine-tenths of the
time, but he should be wakened regularly for his food and kept awake while
taking it. This will soon become a regular habit to him, and he will wake
of his own accord in a short time. Do not allow the baby to fall asleep
nursing at the breast or while taking food in his bottle. He will not get
enough nourishment and will want to nurse too often. Also if he is
bottle-fed the milk is apt to grow cold and cause colic. He should be
taught to nurse slowly and if he tries to nurse too fast the breast or
nipple should be taken away for a minute, and then given again. The baby
should nurse from fifteen to twenty minutes. A certain amount of crying is
necessary for a baby if he is to be strong and healthy. It exercises his
lungs. "Soothing syrup" should never be given to quiet him.
[562 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]