Breastmilk is the perfect food for your baby and provides them with all the nutrition they need for healthy growth and development for the first 6 months.

There are benefits to your baby if you continue to breastfeed exclusively until they are around six months old, and continue to breastfeed once your baby has started solid food.

The ideal time to introduce solid food is at around 6 months when your baby is showing signs of being ready. Most first foods will be available from your own pantry, although you may wish to use store bought as well.

Parents have the choice of using cloth or disposable nappies. There are advantages to both types. Many parents use both, depending on their activities.

Cleaning should start as soon as your baby's first tooth appears. Baby's first toothbrush is given to you free at baby's 2nd core Plunket visit. Ministry of Health recommends adult fluoride toothpaste so baby can use a smear of your paste.

You'll need varying sizes to suit every growth stage: newborn, 3 months, 6 months, 9 months. Clothes made from natural fibres like cotton and wool may help baby keep baby's body at the right temperature.

Childcare services offer opportunities for children to learn and play while giving parents a chance to be actively involved or even return to work.