All newborns require special care to adapt to their life outside their mother's womb. However, those babies born in winter need some extra measures. Dr. Patricia Salinas, a German Clinic pediatrician, explains the most important ones.
Layers of clothes
In general, children use one piece more than adults. The important thing is that it is loose. However, to check if the baby is cold or hot, just touch the neck or forehead. In case you have cold feet or hands, do not worry, it is normal in them.
Temperature
The newborn's room should be at 20 °, but in the case of premature babies the thermometer should rise to 22 °.
Bath
There is no ideal time to bathe them, but it is advised that it is when both parents can participate. The important thing is that the ambient temperature is adequate and that the water temperature is close to 37 °.
First outings
Ideally, do not take them out of the house during the winter period, except for their medical checks. In case of going out with the baby, the recommendation is not to take it to public places with many people, avoid sudden temperature changes and keep them away from sick people, especially children.
Linens
The newborn's crib must have a sheet fitted to the mattress and a thin blanket to shelter it. The latter should cover it only up to the armpits, leaving his arms out of it, to prevent his movements from covering his head. It is also recommended to use baby bags, since it keeps your face uncovered and you don't need extra coats.
In addition to the measures mentioned above, Dr. Salinas delivers some tips for the well-being of newborns in winter:
• Do not over-coat them.
• Remove their hat and warm clothes while they are indoors (home or car), as they sweat through the head.
• Use a blanket tailored to the crib. A folded blanket equals two.
• Feed them with breast milk.
• Do not cut their hair, since it maintains body temperature.
Layers of clothes
In general, children use one piece more than adults. The important thing is that it is loose. However, to check if the baby is cold or hot, just touch the neck or forehead. In case you have cold feet or hands, do not worry, it is normal in them.
Temperature
The newborn's room should be at 20 °, but in the case of premature babies the thermometer should rise to 22 °.
Bath
There is no ideal time to bathe them, but it is advised that it is when both parents can participate. The important thing is that the ambient temperature is adequate and that the water temperature is close to 37 °.
First outings
Ideally, do not take them out of the house during the winter period, except for their medical checks. In case of going out with the baby, the recommendation is not to take it to public places with many people, avoid sudden temperature changes and keep them away from sick people, especially children.
Linens
The newborn's crib must have a sheet fitted to the mattress and a thin blanket to shelter it. The latter should cover it only up to the armpits, leaving his arms out of it, to prevent his movements from covering his head. It is also recommended to use baby bags, since it keeps your face uncovered and you don't need extra coats.
In addition to the measures mentioned above, Dr. Salinas delivers some tips for the well-being of newborns in winter:
• Do not over-coat them.
• Remove their hat and warm clothes while they are indoors (home or car), as they sweat through the head.
• Use a blanket tailored to the crib. A folded blanket equals two.
• Feed them with breast milk.
• Do not cut their hair, since it maintains body temperature.