PSY FPX 7220 Assessment 2 The Top Things Not to Do When You are Expecting a Baby

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Capella University

PSY FPX 7220 Child Psychology

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Avoid These Behaviors When Expecting a Baby

Refrain from Alcohol Consumption: The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) strongly cautions against the intake of any amount or form of alcohol during pregnancy. Exposure to alcohol can lead to fetal alcohol syndrome and other congenital anomalies, resulting in lifelong challenges for the offspring. It is crucial to assess the risks before consuming alcohol during pregnancy (American Academy of Pediatrics, 2021).

Quit Smoking and Steer Clear of Secondhand Smoke: Smoking, including exposure to secondhand smoke from tobacco, THC, or vaping, can impede the fetus’s growth and development in utero. The chemicals present in THC can adversely affect fetal development and contribute to deformities (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, n.d.).

Avoid Shaking Your Baby: Infants are extremely fragile, and even a single instance of shaking can cause irreversible harm, manifesting as Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS). SBS may result in severe repercussions such as intracranial hemorrhage, paralysis, or fatality.

Supervise Bath Time: Never leave your child unattended during bath time, irrespective of their ability to sit upright. The risk of slipping or drowning is ever-present, posing a significant threat to the child’s safety.

Baby-Proof Your Home: Take proactive measures to ensure that your home is a safe environment for your child. This includes utilizing socket covers for electrical outlets, installing baby gates, and securing cabinets to prevent accidents and injuries.

Keep the Crib Free of Hazards: Ensure that your baby sleeps alone in a crib devoid of bumpers, pillows, stuffed animals, or blankets. A cluttered crib heightens the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), as infants lack the capability to prevent suffocation.

Cultivate a Positive Environment: During pregnancy and postpartum, steer clear of negative environments. Surround yourself with tranquility and optimism, as stress can detrimentally impact both your and your baby’s well-being.

PSY FPX 7220 Assessment 2 The Top Things Not to Do When You are Expecting a Baby

Provide Adequate Stimulation: Avoid subjecting your baby to prolonged periods of inactivity. Encourage exploration and muscular development by allowing them to play on the floor and move freely.

Stay Physically Active: Exercise is crucial during pregnancy, albeit without overexertion. Opt for gentle activities such as yoga to maintain physical activity levels and tranquility throughout gestation.

Never Leave Your Baby Unattended in a Hot Vehicle: Leaving a child alone in a hot car can have fatal consequences, as vehicles heat up rapidly. Always ensure that your baby accompanies you when exiting the vehicle, even for brief intervals.

PSY FPX 7220 Assessment 2 The Top Things Not to Do When You are Expecting a Baby

References

American Academy of Pediatrics. (2021). Healthy Children. Retrieved from https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/on-the-go/Pages/Car-Safety-SeatsInformation-for-Families.aspx

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Child development. Retrieved from http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/childdevelopment/