You finally mastered the whole sleeping-in-pregnancy thing (kind of…) and got the hang of those hypnobirthing techniques to get you through labour. Now your newborn’s here (yay!) – and there are a whole load of new skills to get to grips with. Good job we have these baby care guides, then.
The 12 baby care skills all new parents need
![Nappy changing](https://images.bauerhosting.com/affiliates/sites/12/motherandbaby/2021/09/42-23885543_c1.png?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
Nappy changing
Whether you go for disposable or reusable nappies, there are now new roles for you and your partner to embrace – Chief Leg Holder and Lead Get-The-Nappy-On-Before-She-Wees-Again Negotiator.
![Feeding](https://images.bauerhosting.com/affiliates/sites/12/motherandbaby/2021/09/baby-care-skills-feeding.png?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
Feeding
From breastfeeding to expressing or making up formula, use the feeding support out there and try these tips if you’re struggling.
![Swaddling](https://images.bauerhosting.com/affiliates/sites/12/motherandbaby/2021/09/42-26116312_c1.png?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
Swaddling
This can help you newborn sleep and feel secure – it reminds her of the cosiness in your womb – but it’s important to get clued up on how to swaddle safely.
![Topping and tailing](https://images.bauerhosting.com/affiliates/sites/12/motherandbaby/2021/09/42-18574408_c10.png?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
Topping and tailing
Your newborn’s skin is sensitive so she doesn’t need a bath every day. Try a wipe down – otherwise known as topping and tailing – instead, using just warm water and cotton wool.
![Bonding](https://images.bauerhosting.com/affiliates/sites/12/motherandbaby/2021/09/42-35302954_c1_.png?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
Bonding
The bond between you and your baby can hit straight away or take a little time to develop. Things like eye contact and skin-to-skin contact can really encourage the connection.
![Baby massage](https://images.bauerhosting.com/affiliates/sites/12/motherandbaby/2021/09/42-473031311_c1_.png?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
Baby massage
Speaking of bonding, this is great for it – massage helps the production of the nurturing hormone oxytocin.
![Soothing](https://images.bauerhosting.com/affiliates/sites/12/motherandbaby/2021/09/crying-newborn_c1.png?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
Soothing
![Using a sling or carrier](https://images.bauerhosting.com/affiliates/sites/12/motherandbaby/2021/09/42-26107342_c1_.png?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
Using a sling or carrier
Not a necessity but a good way of a) keeping your newborn close and b) leaving your hands free if you have things to do. Whether it’s a sling or a carrier you go for, learn how to use it safely. And get inspired with the M&B Awards shortlist.
![Winding](https://images.bauerhosting.com/affiliates/sites/12/motherandbaby/2021/09/csm102931_c1_.png?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
Winding
If your baby gets air trapped in her tummy, she’ll feel uncomfortable and unable to settle. Give her instant relief by getting the winding technique right.
![Bathing](https://images.bauerhosting.com/affiliates/sites/12/motherandbaby/2021/09/42-376100641_c1_.png?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
Bathing
OK, so as we said, she doesn’t need daily baths right now, but you still get to grips with the basics when she does have one – from water temperature to supporting her in there.
![Holding](https://images.bauerhosting.com/affiliates/sites/12/motherandbaby/2021/09/42-50840791_c1_.png?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
Holding
Yep, it sounds easy enough but there are a couple of things to keep in mind when picking up your little one. Buttons, anyone?
![Dressing](https://images.bauerhosting.com/affiliates/sites/12/motherandbaby/2021/09/42-57309615_c1_.png?auto=format&w=1440&q=80)
Dressing
From what to buy to how to do the actual dressing, put all those cute newborn outfits to good use with some handy keep-calm tricks.