The Average Time Parents Spend with Newborns

There's no doubt about it; having a baby changes your life forever -- starting with how you spend your time. While babies may not be scintillating conversationalists, parents are naturally drawn to spend a lot of time with their new bundles of joy. Because newborns spend so much time sleeping, you may not feel like you are spending that much quality time with your new baby. But, particularly if you are a stay-at-home parent, you'll find yourself spending all of your baby's waking hours with her.

  1. Sleep

    • Babies sleep an average of eight to nine hours in the daytime and eight hours during the night, according to Lucile Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford, giving parents the chance to catch up on some sleep themselves or get a few things done around the house. Mom and Dad can rock baby until she is drowsy and then place her in a bassinet or crib to sleep. Certainly, no one would mind if you simply want to hold your newborn while she naps peacefully in your arms. Staying close by ensures that you are ready when baby wakes for the next feeding.

    Feeding

    • Parents spend a lot of time each day preparing bottles and feeding their baby. A newborn̵7;s stomach is very small, so he needs to eat every two to three hours around the clock. Frequent feedings also help a breastfeeding mother's milk come in more quickly. A single feeding can take approximately 30 minutes or more, including burping and a diaper change.

    Play Time

    • Sweet newborns are irresistible, and many new parents enjoy spending time talking to their infant, gazing into her eyes and singing quietly to her. All of these behaviors help the baby recognize her parents and connect with them. Rattles, toys with contrasting colors and musical toys can all help newborns develop and learn. Placing baby on her tummy for a few minutes while you lie on the floor with her can help strengthen her neck and arm muscles over time to prepare her for holding her head up on her own.

    Cuddling

    • While newborns require a considerable amount of care, parents also spend plenty of time simply holding the baby and cuddling with him. Regardless of what well-meaning relatives might say, you cannot spoil a baby by holding him too much. Your instincts direct you to respond to your little one, whether you carry him around in a sling or place the baby's bassinet next to your bed. Responding to your child̵7;s cries and whimpers lets him know that you are there for him and he can trust you.

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