Breastfeeding
Some think that breastfeeding comes easily and naturally, but it actually requires a lot of practice and patience. Remember that nursing shouldn't be painful. The baby’s mouth should cover a big part of the areola below the nipple, and your nipple should be far back in your baby's mouth.

Nursing for ten to 15 minutes per breast eight to 12 times every 24 hours is pretty much on target.  You should nurse your newborn whenever he shows signs of hunger, such as increased alertness or activity, mouthing, or rooting around for your nipple. Crying is a late sign of hunger.

During the first few days, you may have to gently wake your baby to begin nursing, and he or she may fall asleep again in mid-feeding. To make sure your baby is eating often enough in these days, wake him or her up if it's been more than three hours since the last time he or she has nursed.

Bottle feeding
New bottles, nipples, and rings, should be sterilized in a pot of boiling water for at least five minutes prior to use. After that, a good cleaning in hot, soapy water, or a cycle through the dishwasher is sufficient.

A baby sucks from a bottle very differently from the way he or she does from your breast, since getting milk from a bottle is easier. Ideally, bottle-feeding is just as nurturing physically as breastfeeding, so the bottle provider should cuddle the baby close.

Some babies like to be held in a nursing position while drinking from a bottle; others find that position disconcerting. If the baby resists, warm the nipple with warm water, let them play with the nipple, or try another position.

Offer the bottle every two to three hours at first or as your baby seems hungry. Until the baby reaches about 10 pounds, they’ll probably take one to three ounces per feeding. Don't force more than they seem ready to eat.

Never use a microwave to heat a bottle of breast milk or formula; since a microwave oven heats unevenly, it can create hot pockets, leading to burns and cause a breakdown of the nutrients.  Instead, try running the bottle under warm water or heat in a pan (not too hot however).  

Formula

• If you do decide to purchase formula, there are many brands to choose from. Your doctor will make suggestions, and ultimately,  you and your baby will have to choose which one he/she likes best.
• The powdered version is the cheapest form of formula. You measure as you go, and there is less waste. If you have the concentrate or the ready to use, you will have to throw it out if not used. Most brands have a powdered version.
• Wal-mart and Super Stores are the cheapest places to buy formula. Wal-mart doesn't have any limits on how many cans can be purchased at the specified price, whereas Super Store has a price for the first one or two and then it rises in price for subsequent cans.
• Watch for manufacturer coupons – you will receive valuable coupons from Nestlé Baby as a member of the Canadian Mother Resource.
• A lot of manufacturers make MEGA cans, if you have decided on your brand, stock up.

• You can introduce solids any time between 4 and 6 months if your baby is ready.
• Until then, breast milk or formula provides all the calories and nourishment your baby needs and can handle.
• Their digestive system simply isn't ready for solids until they near 6 months.

Baby Food / Cereal

• You, your doctor and baby need to decide when you are ready to try more solid food.
• There are different age levels for baby food and pablum.
• The cheapest place to buy jarred baby food is the Super Store (although they still have their limits ie: First 10 $.38, after that $.58) It is still cheaper than any other store. (Grocery stores, drug stores average $.60+ a jar)

Tip

• You can invest in a portable/handheld food processor and make your own food for your baby from what you are eating. You can also prepare some ahead and freeze it in ice cube trays.
• When you see a sale at Super Store, send your partner through a different line to take advantage of the sale.
• Don't buy 40 jars of one thing until you are sure baby likes it. Yes, they will eat a lot, but you don't want to get stuck with 39 jars of peas!!
• Wal-mart has competitive prices for baby food/cereal.
• The Canadian Mother Resource is a partner of Nestlé Baby, so as a member, you can expect to receive valuable information on feeding your baby, product samples and coupons for Nestlé Baby formula and cereal. Please visit Nestlé Baby: www.nestle-Baby.ca