Every parent experiences a unique mix of emotions when caring for a newborn baby. You’re filled with an overwhelming sense of pride, love, and awe for this tiny, precious person in your arms. There are also feelings of nervousness and anxiety at the sudden responsibility of new parenthood. And, of course, you’re exhausted. There’s no instruction manual to refer to, but you’re in charge, and you’re immediately faced with lots of decisions. And people online are more than eager to tell you what to do and how to do it.
I know this feeling well. I’m a parent myself, but I’m also a pediatrician who has talked to thousands of parents navigating their first days and months with a new baby. After caring for children for more than 30 years, what I can say is that one thing hasn’t changed: Every parent wants to do what is best for their child.
