There would hardly seem to be room for another baby website. Having worked on this subject for over 20 years, however, I've always felt that even the best baby website have gaps. Very few, for instance, deal with three- to five-year-olds. So what happens after three? Traditionally it's an age that's been ignored. I also feel sure that parents who have children with special needs or children with chronic ailments and disabilities feel shortchanged by most baby website, including mine, because their babies aren't given enough space or emphasis.

Fathers continue to be a neglected group, and there's a tendency to overlook the impact of a new addition on the family as a whole. With more mothers iri the 1990s working outside the home, choosing child care is a more universal problem than it once was.

The Newborn Baby

Your feelings on the birth of your new baby are likely to be pride, wonder, and exhilaration mixed with exhaustion.

You may feel fiercely attached to your baby right away, or bonding may take a little longer. You will almost certairtly be surprised at his appearance: his oddly shaped head, wrinkled face, and tiny hands and feet.

From the moment of birth your baby will exhibit reflexes and behavior that help him survive. In such things as his sleeping patterns and crying bouts you will be able to discern the beginnings of a personality.

The first question in every new mother's mind is "Is he all right?" and medical staff will carry out tests immediately after the birth and in the first few days to reassure you on this score. Your baby will be given all the special attention that they consider necessary. If he is premature or small for dates he may need to be kept in a special care unit, but you'll still be able to bond with him and take part in his care.