Prepare a bathing space. You don’t have to use an infant tub. Some parents prefer to give their newborn a sponge bath. Choose ...

Your baby will squash and chew the sponge - a mini workout for their arm and mouth muscles! Pretend to wash your baby's face, arms and feet with the sponge, naming the parts of their body as you play.

Sponge baths are especially useful during the first few weeks, before the umbilical cord stump falls off and the area heals. First, gather your supplies so you can focus on the baby during the bath.