Ask the Expert Siblings and a new babyQ: How will my older child do with a new baby? A: Most kids do great when the new baby gets home, but there is often some transition. The older child is used to the routine that was present before the new arrival. The baby changes many things in their world and often the older sibling feels some displacement from mom. Many times parents tell me that their three year old wants to take the baby back to the hospital and get a baby that does not cry. Expect some regression from the older child. They will want to be changed like the baby or misbehave. These actions are the older child trying to get attention that they perceive is being directed to the new arrival. If the child realizes that misbehaving does not get them attention, then the behaviors will stop. The other important tip is to focus on the older sibling when they do things that are positive. If the older child sees that being kind to the new baby and helping gets lots of praise, they will continue with those behaviors. Make sure visitors who come to see you pay attention to the older child as well as the new baby. Special time and trips alone with the older sibling will show the child that being the big brother/sister is great because you get special privileges. It is important to frequently let the older sibling know that there is enough space and love in your heart for all of your kids! — Aidan deRenne, MD, Evergreen Pediatric Clinic Infant EczemaQ: My newborn has a scaly, itchy rash that I believe is eczema. How can I be sure it’s eczema, and if so, how can I treat it? A: Eczema is most often characterized by dry, red, itchy patches on the skin. In infants, eczema typically occurs on the forehead, cheeks, forearms, legs, scalp, and neck. In some cases, eczema may “bubble up” and ooze. Look for rashes that reappear over and over again; the more regularly you see this the more likely it is that eczema is the cause. The surest way to confirm a diagnosis is to ask your pediatrician to look at the patches during your baby’s next check up. Eczema can rob the affected skin of moisture, so keeping newborns’ skin adequately moisturized can be the most effective treatment. Limiting baths to two to three a week using a very mild soap helps to keep the skin moist. Avoid anything with perfumes or dyes. Dove unscented soap is manufactured without harsh fragrances, oils, alcohols, or chemicals. Pat the skin dry, never rub, and immediately apply a mild, unscented thick moisturizer such as Eucerin or Vaseline petroleum jelly. Apply the emollient or cream again four or five times a day to help keep the skin moist. Another important component of an eczema treatment routine is to prevent scratching. Cold compresses applied directly to itchy skin can help relieve itching. Keep fingernails well trimmed; you may also need to put mitts and socks on hands and feet while baby is sleeping. The following may help reduce the severity and frequency of flare-ups:
— Kathleen Hutchinson, MD, Evergreen Pediatric Clinic Submit your question > Read more Q&AsPreconception Questions > Visit the Ask the Expert archive > |
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