Baby Basics for New Dads, Part 2

A newborn's fingernails can grow long and sharp, and can inadvertently scratch baby's face. Dr. William Sears, MD, author of The Baby Book: Everything You Need To Know About Your Baby From Birth to Age Two recommends filing or (gulp!) clipping nails while the baby is asleep (but not in the dark). Until you feel more confident, ask your spouse to help hold baby's hand still. For that task, use a clipper intended for use with an infant's nails, as it's less likely to catch baby's skin. If you prefer to use scissors, use safety scissors with rounded safety tips.

Parents who are uncomfortable with clipping Baby's nails can use an emery board for filing, though that can be a challenge with soft baby nails! Newborn cotton mittens and sleepwear with hand flaps are another line of defense in the war against scratches.