If you decide to breastfeed your baby, you should give it at least 3 months for you and your baby to learn how to do it and get settled into a routine. After this time, it will be easier and more enjoyable.

Try not to schedule any playdates or activities right after your baby has had her immunizations because if she has a bad reaction, you might not notice it right away.

Within the first 24 hours after an immunization, your baby may be irritable and less energetic than usual. The area of the skin may be red and she may develop a slight fever (less than 102). These are normal reactions which last no longer than 48 hours.

If possible, both parents should attend the first few visits to the pediatrician so they can get to know the doctor and learn important things about their baby together.

Don't bathe your baby more than two to three times a week during her first year or her skin may get dried out. If a bath is part of the daily bedtime routine, then keep it brief.

Place a thermometer in your baby's armpit to take his temperature if he's under six months old.

Don't heat bottles in the microwave because the milk could get too hot and burn your baby.

Wipe down toys and counters regularly with disinfectant to prevent colds.

Soaking in a warm tub may ease your labor pains.

Send grandma and grandpa a list of food your baby likes so you don't have to bring it with you.

Many women swear by tea and toast for morning sickness relief.

Consider hiring a doula for extra support during labor and the first weeks of child care.

In the months before trying to get pregnant, eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly.

Don't put off decorating your nursery because you might not have time after the baby arrives.

Before you visit the grandparents, ask them to make sure their house is baby-proof.

If you newborn has a face rash, witch hazel works well to clear it up.

Women who breastfeed lose weight faster after giving birth.

If you're pregnant and you're dying for a massage, be careful. Pressing hard on certain spots could be bad for your developing child.

If traveling while pregnant, be sure to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.

Don't worry about airport metal detectors--there's no evidence they harm a developing fetus.

Don't forget to make time for a romantic rendezvous with your husband after the new baby comes.

While pregnant, don't go for a sauna because it could harm the baby.

When speaking to an infant, look her right in the face and speak clearly so she can learn new words.

Build a fun story time into your baby's schedule every day to build language skills.

Don't let your baby play with balloons or plastic bags -- they could be a choking hazard.

Look for a toy chest without a lid that could slam down on tiny fingers.

Never leave a child alone in a car.

Keep plastic bags, balloons, and baby powder out of reach.

Ask your doctor or nurse for ideas about how to keep your baby alert during the day so he'll sleep better at night.

To be on the safe side, remove all pillows and blankets when your baby is sleeping in her crib.