Bringing your baby home is a big moment—and a big adjustment. In the early days, focus on bonding. Hold your baby, talk to them and respond to their cries. Your touch, voice and care help build a strong foundation of trust and love.

The connection you build with your baby helps them feel secure and loved and that’s what they need most. Don’t worry about “spoiling” your baby. You can’t. What they need most is you.

Adjusting to Your New Lives

As your family welcomes the new baby, your daily routines will change. If your family includes a partner or other children, you may want to talk about these changes. This is to help everyone get used to your new family structure. It’s normal for older children to want more attention. Be patient with yourself and other family members and find ways to share the chores and joys of parenthood.

Try to Get Enough Sleep

For the first few months, your baby will need to eat and be changed every few hours, including at night. That means your sleep will be short and broken. It’s tough, but it won’t last forever. Here are a few ways to get the rest you need:

• Sleep when your baby sleeps. Even a short nap can help.
• Take turns with overnight duties. If you have a partner, family member or trusted friend, let them help.
• Lower the pressure. The laundry can wait. Your rest matters, too.