Infant Care and Safety

 Mother holding infant.

Welcome, baby.

The moment you’ve been waiting for is here: Your precious baby has arrived, and you’re embarking on the journey of parenthood. You’ve promised to love and protect your baby, and BJC HealthCare’s promise is to partner with you every step of the way as you get to know your new addition and learn how to care for them with confidence.

Whether you’re a first-time parent or this is your second—or third or fourth—baby, there is some important infant safety and educational information that can help empower you to be the best parent you can be.

The videos below can help you as you transition to life with a newborn at home. At BJC HealthCare, we believe you deserve extraordinary care because you and your family are at the heart of everything we do. If you ever have questions about how to care for your baby, please contact your provider or visit our St. Louis Children's Hospital Parent Tool Kit for additional resources.

What you need to know to keep your newborn healthy and safe.

Videos for discharge

Please watch the following videos before you leave the hospital. 
Baby Care: Safe Sleep – English | Español
Baby Care: Car Seat Safety – English | Español | Safety Stop Resources
Feeding: Latching On and Breastfeeding – English | Español
*Never Shake: Preventing Shaken Baby Syndrome By Missouri CTF – English | Español

* Required for Missouri and encouraged for Illinois

Formula Feeding Parents
Please watch the below video in addition to those listed above.
Feeding: Preparing Formula – English | Español

Feeding your baby

The first few weeks with your infant will be all about feeding. Whether you choose breastfeeding, bottle-feeding or a combination, learn more about how to get your baby the nutrition they need.

Day-to-day routines with baby

As a new mom or dad, your world revolves around your baby’s needs — and there are many you’ll have to meet. Learn more about what a typical day with your bundle of joy will be like.

Taking care of your health postpartum

Your baby isn’t the only one who’s going to need some extra care in the weeks after their birth. Learn more about how to meet everyone’s needs once you arrive home from the hospital.