Parenting in the First 100 Days: What Parents Can Expect

The first 100 days with your baby

The first 100 days with your baby can be some of the most rewarding and most exhausting days you'll ever experience.

Between sleepless nights, frequent feeding, changing nappies and learning your baby's unique cues, it's completely normal to wonder if you're doing everything right.

While every baby is different, there are some common experiences that many New Zealand families share during this time. Understanding what to expect can help you feel more confident and remind you that you're not alone.

1. Your Baby Is Learning Everything

During the first few months, your baby is adapting to life outside the womb.

Their:

• digestive system
• immune system
• nervous system
• sleep cycles

are all still developing.

This means crying, feeding frequently and waking overnight are completely normal parts of newborn life.

2. Sleep... or Lack of It

One of the biggest surprises for new parents is just how little uninterrupted sleep everyone gets.

Newborns typically:

• sleep 14 to 17 hours over 24 hours
• wake every 2 to 4 hours
• often confuse day and night
• rarely follow a predictable routine

This gradually improves as babies grow.

Instead of trying to create a strict schedule, many parents find it easier to learn their baby's natural sleep cues.

3. Feeding Takes Time

Whether you're:

🤱 Breastfeeding

🍼 Formula feeding

Or combination feeding,

feeding is about much more than nutrition.

It also provides:

• comfort
• closeness
• security
• opportunities for bonding

Every baby feeds differently, and feeding patterns often change during growth spurts.

4. Little Tummies Are Still Developing

A newborn's digestive system is still immature.

It's common for babies to experience:

• wind
• gas
• temporary bloating
• hiccups
• frequent burping
• unsettled periods after feeds

This doesn't necessarily mean something is wrong.

For many babies, these digestive changes improve naturally as they mature.

Gentle routines such as:

• burping
• holding your baby upright after feeds
• tummy massage
• bicycle legs

may provide comfort.

Some parents also choose dietary supplements containing traditional plant extracts or probiotics as part of their baby's daily routine.

5. Colic Can Feel Overwhelming

Around 1 in 5 babies experience colic.

Colic is often described using the "Rule of 3s":

• crying for more than 3 hours a day
• more than 3 days a week
• for at least 3 weeks

Although the exact cause isn't fully understood, colic usually improves by 3 to 4 months.

If you're concerned about your baby's crying, always seek advice from your healthcare professional.

6. Looking After Baby's Gut

Your baby's gut microbiome begins developing from birth.

Many things can influence this, including:

• birth type
• feeding method
• antibiotics
• environment

Parents interested in supporting their baby's digestive health sometimes choose probiotic supplements alongside a healthy feeding routine.

7. Looking After Yourself Matters Too

New parents often focus entirely on their baby, but your wellbeing matters too.

It's normal to experience:

• tiredness
• emotional ups and downs
• feeling overwhelmed
• self-doubt

Don't be afraid to:

❤️ Ask family for help.

❤️ Rest whenever possible.

❤️ Accept meals from friends.

❤️ Speak with your Lead Maternity Carer (LMC), GP or Plunket nurse if you're struggling.

8. When Should You Seek Medical Advice?

Contact your healthcare professional if your baby:

• has a fever
• isn't feeding well
• isn't gaining weight
• vomits repeatedly
• has blood in their stool
• seems unusually sleepy
• has persistent or worsening crying that concerns you

Trust your instincts. You know your baby best.

Final Thoughts

The first 100 days aren't about being the perfect parent.

They're about getting to know your baby, building confidence and finding what works for your family.

Some days will feel easy.

Others will feel incredibly challenging.

Remember, you are not alone, and support is available every step of the way.

At Colic Calm NZ, we're passionate about providing practical information and gentle options to support New Zealand families during those precious early months.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the newborn stage?

The newborn stage generally refers to your baby's first 28 days of life. However, many parents find the first 3 months, often called the "fourth trimester", are a time of significant adjustment for both baby and family.

Why does my baby cry so much in the evenings?

Many babies experience a fussy period during the late afternoon or evening. This can be part of normal development and often improves as your baby grows.

Is it normal for my baby to wake every 2 hours?

Yes. Newborns have small stomachs and need to feed frequently, including overnight. Waking every 2 to 4 hours is common during the early weeks.

How can I help a windy baby?

Gentle burping, holding your baby upright after feeds, tummy massage and bicycle leg movements may provide comfort.

When should I worry about my baby's crying?

If your baby has persistent crying, a fever, poor feeding, vomiting, blood in their stool, seems unusually sleepy or you're worried for any reason, contact your healthcare professional.

What is the fourth trimester?

The fourth trimester describes the first three months after birth, when babies continue adjusting to life outside the womb while parents adapt to caring for their newborn.

Does my baby need probiotics?

Every baby is different. Some parents choose probiotic supplements as part of their baby's daily routine to support digestive balance. If you're unsure what's right for your baby, speak with your healthcare professional.

How do I know if my baby has colic?

Colic is often described as crying for more than 3 hours a day, more than 3 days a week, for at least 3 weeks in an otherwise healthy baby. If you're concerned about your baby's crying, seek advice from your healthcare professional.

Always read the label and use as directed. Dietary supplements are not a replacement for a balanced diet. This information is not medical advice. If symptoms persist, see your healthcare professional. Colic Calm NZ, Wellington.