How To Survive the First 100 Days of a Newborn: Tips for Parents

Many South Koreans celebrate “Baek-il,” or the first 100 days ni baby. The tradition stems from the belief that making it past the 100th day means the newborn has survived a difficult period of being vulnerable to many diseases.

While Filipinos don’t celebrate “Baek-il,” we understand that the first 100 days after giving birth is a time of significant adjustment. How can parents get through the first 100 days ni baby? The following tips might help:

1. Take Time To Learn (Or Re-Learn) Skills

First-time parents and those who are no longer used to having a baby at home, may need time to learn or re-learn some skills, like:

• Carrying a baby
• Feeding and burping them
• Bathing them
• Caring for their umbilical cord stump
• Changing diapers

Take your time. If necessary, ask for help from family and friends.

2. Shop Wisely

Another thing that will help you survive the first 100 days ni baby is to take it easy on shopping.

The amount of things your baby needs might overwhelm you, but shop wisely and stick to the basics. How many clothes does he or she need? Remember that babies grow fast! Will you use cloth or disposable diapers? Also, be careful with skincare products. Be sure to check in with their doctor first before using anything.

Finally, stay safe when purchasing a crib, playpen, carriers, carseat, or a stroller — even in buying the baby’s first toys/hanging mobiles.

3. Learn About Milestones and Warning Signs

Parents often have a lot of worries when it comes to their newborn’s growth and development. To help survive the first 100 days ni baby, consider learning about their milestones. Also, learn about “warning signs” that indicate the need for medical help.

For milestones, you can check these articles:

• Week 1
• Week 2
• Week 3
• Week 4
• Second month milestones
• Third month milestones

For reflexes, which can be indicative of a newborn’s nervous system health, you can head over here.

Finally, find time to learn about common baby issues, like rashes, kabag, sipon, coughing, and diarrhea.

4. Find What Sleep Schedule Works

Parents are often told to sleep when the baby’s sleeping. But sometimes, that strategy doesn’t always work.

So, when it comes to sleep schedule, find what works for you and your baby. It doesn’t have to conform to others’ standards. If you need to sleep while the baby’s awake, consider asking someone to babysit for a while.

Remember that parents need adequate sleep to care for their precious baby, especially moms who are still recovering from the stress of labor and delivery.

5. Find Time To Bond With Your Baby

Is bonding important in the first 100 days ni baby? Absolutely! Bonding with your newborn isn’t just crucial in building a parental relationship. You can also use bonding time to check your baby’s development.

For instance, calling out their name helps them recognize who you’re talking to. At the same time, seeing them turn or reach out to you when you call them lets you know they’re hearing just fine.

Of course, let’s not forget that bonding with your baby does so much for your mental health.

6. Take Care of Yourself

Finally, surviving the first 100 days ni baby is impossible without taking care of your overall health.

Spend some time with other family members and friends. Continue or start devoting time to yourself. And, if needed, skip on doing some chores.

For mothers, be mindful of postpartum blues and postpartum depression as it might also affect your ability to connect to and care for your baby.

Learn more about Baby Care here.