Shelby Lipscomb

Your Baby’s First Year: Expert Advice from Pediatrician Dr. Gabriella Dauer

16 septembre 2024

We had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Gabriella Dauer (@oncallpeds), a double board-certified Pediatrician specializing in the care of children from newborns to young adults. Dr. Dauer, who graduated from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, completed her Pediatric Residency at the Children's Hospital at Montefiore in New York City. With experience as a Pediatric Hospitalist and Assistant Program Director for Pediatric Residency at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, Dr. Dauer is passionate about medical education and healthcare. Now back in her hometown of South Florida, she balances her career with raising two young children. Today, Dr. Dauer answers common questions parents may have during their baby’s first years.

Key Milestones in Baby's First Year

During a baby’s first year, parents should look for several key milestones. By around two months, babies often show a reciprocal smile, which is a significant indicator of social development. At six months, many babies begin sitting up with some trunk stability. By nine to twelve months, pulling up to stand is common, though crawling is not a key milestone. Walking can happen anytime up to 17 months, so there’s no rush if steps aren’t taken by 12 months.

How to Tell if Baby is Getting Enough Breast Milk or Formula

The best way to gauge if your baby is well-hydrated is through weight checks at the doctor’s office and counting how often they pee. In the first week, the number of wet diapers should increase daily, reaching six to eight wet diapers by day six or seven. Proper hydration is crucial, and these simple checks will ensure your baby is getting enough to eat.

Soothe a Colicky Baby

Colicky babies, typically between four and six weeks old, often cry for long stretches. Dr. Dauer suggests the “S” method: swaddling, shushing, sucking (pacifier), swinging, and possibly stomach positioning. Music and outdoor walks can also help calm a colicky baby. Though challenging, this phase is temporary.

Boosting Baby’s Immune System Naturally

The best way to naturally boost a baby’s immune system is through breastfeeding, which provides essential antibodies from mom. These antibodies protect babies during their first few months of life.

When to Call the Doctor if Baby Has a Fever

For babies under two months, a rectal temperature above 100.4°F (38°C) is considered a medical emergency, and you should call your doctor immediately. Babies, especially under 21 days, need urgent attention if they develop a fever.

Signs of Food Allergies in Infants

Food allergies in babies can present as gastrointestinal symptoms or hives. If your baby vomits after eating or develops a rash that moves or spreads, it could be a sign of food allergy. More severe reactions, such as hives with vomiting, swelling, or wheezing, indicate anaphylaxis, and you should call 911. Introduce new foods every two to three days to monitor for any allergic reactions.

Safely Introducing Solid Foods

There’s no single best first food, but introducing real, whole foods like avocado, banana, sweet potato, or butternut squash is ideal. Make sure food is cut or pureed appropriately based on your baby's age to prevent choking. Avoid highly processed cereals and aim for nutritious, natural foods.

Essential Vaccinations in Baby’s First Year

Vaccines like the hepatitis B shot, which protects against a liver virus, and the flu vaccine offered at six months are essential. Vaccinations prevent serious infections such as pertussis, which can cause apnea in infants. Dr. Dauer strongly encourages parents to vaccinate their babies against all recommended illnesses.

Helping a Constipated Baby

For constipation, ensure your baby is drinking enough water, eating fiber-rich foods, and possibly taking probiotics if old enough. Prune puree and tummy massage are great natural remedies. Bicycling baby’s legs can also help stimulate bowel movements.

When to Be Concerned About Developmental Milestones

If your baby is not meeting key milestones and you're worried, talk to your pediatrician about getting an evaluation from physical, occupational, or speech therapy. Early intervention is the best way to address any developmental delays.

Caring for Baby’s Skin: Diaper Rash and Eczema

While many newborn skin conditions resolve naturally, eczema requires extra care. Keep your baby’s skin barrier strong and moisturized to prevent irritation. For diaper rash, airing out the affected area and using a diaper cream can help. If those measures don’t work, consider increasing diaper-free time.

Preventing and Treating Common Colds in Babies

To protect your baby from colds, avoid crowded areas, especially in the first two months. If your baby does catch a cold, use a cold-air humidifier, saline nasal drops, and suction to ease congestion. Keep infant Tylenol on hand for fever management.

Ensuring Baby Gets Enough Vitamin D

While formula provides essential nutrients, breastfed babies need a vitamin D supplement of 400 IUs daily, as breast milk doesn't contain enough of this important nutrient.

Baby-Proofing Your Home

To effectively baby-proof, get down on your baby's level and scan the home for potential hazards. Secure cabinets, lift dangerous items out of reach, and store chemicals on high shelves to keep your baby safe from harm.

Handling Separation Anxiety When Returning to Work

Separation anxiety often affects parents more than their babies. Dr. Dauer suggests bringing pictures of your baby to work or FaceTiming them for comfort. It’s normal to feel anxious when returning to work, but this feeling eases over time.

We hope this Q&A session with Dr. Gabriella Dauer provided helpful insights as you navigate your baby's early years. From understanding key milestones to practical tips for boosting immunity, feeding, and more, Dr. Dauer’s expert advice offers reassurance for parents in every stage of their baby’s development. If you have more questions or want to learn more, be sure to follow Dr. Dauer on Instagram @oncallpeds for ongoing support and guidance.