254 chapter 12: Caring for your baby
Building a relationship for life
The relationship a baby develops with her mother or main caregiver affects the
baby’s physical and emotional development. As a close relationship is formed,
a baby learns to find security in it and it will be easier for the baby to form new
relationships with other people later on. While other family members can help you
look after the baby, it is important for you to be recognized as the main caregiver so
you can form this deep bond with your baby.
Women who have trouble learning or understanding
Many women who have trouble learning or understanding are good
mothers. You can discuss with your family what things you may need help
with to be a good mother to your baby.
Things to think about
Small babies need to be fed and cared for day and night, and you will not
be able to get much sleep. So even though your baby will probably wake
you up several times during the night, and you will most likely feel very
tired during the day, your baby will still need to be
taken care of. Will you be able to ask for help to:
• keep the baby clean.
Babies are so tiny. I’ll
be afraid I may drop
my baby. Will you help
• know when the baby needs medical care.
me, Mama?
• measure medicines, if necessary.
• make sure the baby is safe from:
— falling.
— getting burned.
— animals.
— poisons.
— swallowing something and choking.
— accidents that may break a bone or cut the skin.
If you can breastfeed, there will be no need to prepare formula. But if
you do not breastfeed, you will need to make sure bottles are clean and
the formula or alternative milk is prepared properly.
A Health Handbook for Women with Disabilities 2007