Keep your child safe
Keep your child safe in a fenced area away from driveways, roads and water.                            
He mahi pai mēnā ka whakawhāiti koe I tētahi wāhi tākaro mō tō tamaiti; he wāhi ārai atu I ngā ara kuhunga waka, ngā ara kuhunga waka, ngā rori me te wai.   

What is the safest way to make up baby’s bed?
Baby’s bed should have a clean, firm, flat and comfortable mattress. It should fit the cot snugly so baby cannot get stuck down the sides. Gaps at the side and ends should be less than 25cm.  Any plastic coverings on a new mattress should be removed to reduce the risk of baby suffocating.  The mattress should be aired regularly to prevent dampness and a blanket under the bottom sheet will help to keep baby warm. 

When are my baby’s immunisations due?
The first immunisations are usually given when baby is six weeks old, then at 3, 5, 15 months, four years and eleven years. Hepatitis B vaccine for babies of Hepatitis B carrier mothers is started at birth.  BCG, for Tb is given to some at risk infants.

Where can I get more information about immunisation?
You can discuss immunisation with your Plunket nurse, Plunket Line, well child health provider,  your doctor, Public Health services or the immunisation free phone 0800 466 863.

How often will my baby have a bowel motion?
Breastfed babies usually have a motion at least once a day until four weeks of age. Then, after four weeks, babies vary from one motion per feed to only one every 7-10 days. It is normal for babies to suddenly change their pattern. Motions are often runny with small lumps. Formula fed babies usually have a motion every day or every second day and tend to have firmer-formed motions.

How can I help my baby if he is constipated?
A baby's motions should be soft. If the motions are soft the child is not constipated. It is common for babies to go red in the face, push and seem to strain when they are passing a motion even when they are not constipated.  It is very rare for breastfed babies to have constipation. If your child is constipated the most common cause is not enough fluid. 

Where can I get information about formula feeding?
Information about formula feeding is available from your health professional. The Ministry of Health has a useful pamphlet called "Feeding your baby infant formula". http//:www.healthed.govt.nz/detail/content or phone your local public health service to order one.

When do I start to introduce solid food to my baby?
It is ideal to wait to around six months to start solids. Some babies may show signs of being ready for solids before this time. However babies are not physically or developmentally ready for solids before 4 months.How will I know if my baby is over tired?

How can I help my baby to settle?
Baby may be tired after a feed, change, playtime and cuddle.  It's best to put her to bed before she becomes very tired.  Overtired babies can be harder to settle.  It is important to settle baby on her back and keep her face clear to help prevent SIDS (cot death).  You may like to relax her by patting or stroking her or using a musical mobile.  If you are putting baby to bed while awake she may cry when first put to bed but this does not necessarily mean there is anything wrong (so long as she is not too upset). Some babies take longer to settle and may grizzle or cry themselves off to sleep. If she does not settle, it may help to go in and settle her by patting or stroking or picking her up to comfort her before putting her in bed again. For more information contact PlunketLine (0800 933 922, 7am to Midnight, 7 days a week), your doctor or your well-child health provider.

How much sleep does my baby need?
The length of each sleep varies between babies. Each baby has their own sleep pattern and often babies do not have regular sleeping patterns until they are older. If baby is sleeping for long periods, not waking for feeds, not feeding well, not having many feeds or is too tired to feed it is important to contact PlunketLine (0800 933 922, 7am to Midnight, 7 days a week), your doctor or your well-child health provider.

Five hot tips for healthy teeth, mouth and gums:
1) brushing teeth twice a day after breakfast and dinner - to avoid build up of plaque.
2) using a soft toothbrush to avoid wearing of teeth and replace once worn - typically every three months.
3) limiting the number of snack and sweet drinks during the day to reduce the amount of sugar.
4) regular dental check-ups - these are free from 12 months of age.
5) using fluoride toothpaste to help strengthen teeth - but you only need a pea sized amount!

For more information talk to your Plunket Nurse, your local dentist or visit www.moh.govt.nz

What position should baby be in when put to bed?
To help keep baby safe in bed it's best to lie them on their back with their face kept clear. The risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) is reduced if baby always sleeps on their back. Making up the cot so that baby sleeps with their feet at the foot of the cot to stop them slipping under the covers and tucking them in securely also helps.

How will I know if my baby is getting enough milk?
Baby will have six soaking wet nappies a day, daily (or more) soft yellow bowel motion, weight gain and growth are signs to watch for. You will usually be able to hear her sucking and swallowing on the breast. If you have concerns about her feeding talk to your midwife, Plunket Line, Plunket nurse, well-child provider, lactation consultant or doctor.

How do I keep up my milk supply?
The more your baby takes the more milk you make. Baby's sucking stimulates your breasts to produce more milk. Breastfeeding mothers usually need three meals a day, plus snacks and plenty of fluids. Rest and relaxation also help keep up the milk supply. It is useful to remember that baby is not always hungry when she cries.

Preparing bath water for baby
To prevent burns, fill the bath with cool water, then add the hot water. Check the water to make sure it is not too hot before putting baby in the bath.
Meatia ko te wai makariri i roto i te täpu o tö pëpi i mua i te whakakïnga ki te wai wera kia mahana ai te wai. Mahia kia pënä, kia kore e wera te taputapu kaukau mai i te wera o te wai. Whakaritea kia pai te mahana o te wai i mua i tö whakakaukautanga o tö pëpi.

When would I see a doctor?
It can be hard to decide if your baby is ill and whether you need to go to the doctor.  You know better than anyone what is unusual for your child.  You can phone Plunket Line 0800-933-922, 7am to midnight, to speak to a Plunket nurse. If you are worried see your doctor.

For more information visit www.plunket.org.nz

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