Conclusion

This article has provided new parents and caregivers with the concrete, everyday knowledge necessary to care for babies and young children from birth to 2 years of age. It provided information on how caregivers can safely and expertly meet basic needs such as feeding, bathing, dressing, carrying, soothing, comforting, stimulating, and disciplining. It also helped caregivers to understand how to work with pediatricians to monitor and maintain an infant's health, including in-depth information on vaccinations and common illnesses and conditions. Once again, with time, patience, and lots of love and support, even the most novice parent or caregivers can feel confident and secure in their parenting and childcare abilities.