Page 56 - What to Expect

Going home

When he is a loud and active toddler, or a teenager or adult, you will find it
hard to believe he was once so fragile, and vulnerable, unable to live on his
own.
Some parents can become too protective with their premature baby, even
when they have been assured that everything is alright by the doctor. This
can interfere with the baby’s normal development. It can even alienate
the child from the rest of the immediate and extended family if they are
protectively swaddled against siblings and their peers.
Set realistic progress goals and skills for your child. Use the advice and
recommendations from your paediatrician, neuro-developmental therapist
and other health professionals you may see. They will be able to give some
indication as to how well (and realistically) you are working with your child
in encouraging him in his progress.
Experts believe that the single most important factor in the development
of premature infants is their home environment. It is your attention and
caring that will help your child develop his potential.

Clothing and nappies

One of the most important things for any new baby is warmth. This is even
more so for a premature or small for-gestational-age baby.
Your baby will have been helped to keep warm by incubators and being
well wrapped up in cots, and although he is more mature when he goes
home, he may still have minimal fat reserves beneath his skin. This means
that he is prone to losing heat very quickly. Be aware that overheating is
dangerous also!

What is the best way to dress my baby?

It is best to use natural materials such as cotton and wool. These materials
let a baby’s skin breathe i.e. absorb slight dampness from crying or
nappies, helping the skin to stay dry. It is recommended that pure wool be
used for hats, booties and singlets, as well as cardigans and jackets.

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