Caring for Newborns & Infants: What Every Childcare Provider Should Know

Providing care for newborns and infants is one of the most rewarding and delicate roles in childcare. These early months are a time of rapid development, bonding and constant change. As a caregiver, your presence, attention and responsiveness make a lasting impact on both baby and family. Here’s what you need to know to offer excellent, confident care.

🕚 1. Be present, be patient: Infants thrive on predictable routines and gentle responsiveness. They may not have a schedule yet, but your calm presence helps them feel safe.

  • – Learn the baby’s unique cues (crying, eye rubbing, rooting, etc.)
  • – Speak softly and move slowly—babies respond to tone and touch
  • – Patience is key, especially during fussiness, cluster feeding or growth spurts

🍼 2. Feeding & burping basics: Whether the baby is breastfed, bottle-fed or both, be sure to follow the family’s feeding plan exactly.

  • – Always hold the baby upright during feedings and burp gently afterward
  • – Watch for signs of hunger and fullness (rooting, turning away, sucking hands)
  • – Clean bottles thoroughly and track feedings if asked
  • Pro tip: Never prop a bottle or put baby to bed with one—it’s a safety risk.

💤 3. Safe sleep practices: The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends the “Back to Sleep” method:

  • – Always place baby on their back in a crib or bassinet
  • – Use a firm, flat mattress with a fitted sheet—no pillows, blankets or toys
  • – Keep baby’s sleep area in the same room as an adult, if family requests
  • – Stay alert while supervising naps and check in frequently.

👶 4. Diapering & hygiene: Frequent diaper changes help prevent rash and discomfort.

  • – Check every 2–3 hours or after feedings
  • – Always clean front to back, especially with girls
  • – Apply cream if requested and wash your hands before and after
  • – Be sure to track changes if the family is monitoring for health or feeding concerns.

💗 5. Soothing & bonding: Your ability to soothe a fussy baby builds trust and security. Try:

  • – Swaddling
  • – Rocking or gentle bouncing
  • – White noise or humming
  • – Offering a pacifier (if allowed)
  • – Wearing the baby in a wrap (if the family uses one)
  • Remember: Every baby is different. Ask what works at home.

🧠 6. Stimulating development: Even newborns benefit from interaction! These moments of connection lay the groundwork for early brain development.

  • – Talk, sing or read in a soothing voice
  • – Offer supervised tummy time (2–3 times a day, starting with a few minutes)
  • – Let them safely observe different textures, colors and sounds

🚩 7. Know the red flags: Call the parents right away if you notice the following (in emergencies, always call 911 first):

  • – Sudden fever (100.4°F/38°C or higher)
  • – Lethargy or unusual sleepiness
  • – Refusal to eat for multiple feedings
  • – Difficulty breathing
  • – Skin color changes (blue, pale or blotchy)
  • – Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, no wet diaper for 6+ hours)

💬 8. Communication with parents: Open, respectful communication helps build trust and a lasting relationship. Keep parents in the loop with a daily summary:

  • – What and when baby ate
  • – Naps and diaper changes
  • – Mood and any milestones or concerns
  • – Photos (if approved)

Caring for newborns is a specialized responsibility. With the right knowledge, patience and heart you can make a powerful difference in a baby’s earliest days. Continue to show up with care, professionalism and love—our families notice and so do we.

Looking to hire a babysitter or nanny? Bell Family Company provides fully vetted on demand babysitting, including full and part time nannies, baby nurses, temp sitters after school sitters and more! Learn why BFC is the best childcare agency, with childcare providers available across the U.S. (on-demand service available in the Tri-state & Dallas areas). Contact us today to hire!