Warm-mist vs. cool-mist humidifier: Which is better for a cold?

For safety, always use cool-mist humidifiers with children. Hot water or steam from a warm-mist humidifier or steam vaporizer can burn a child if he or she gets too close.

Humidifiers add moisture to the air, which helps ease coughing and congestion due to a cold. Warm-mist and cool-mist humidifiers are equally effective in humidifying the air. Also, by the time the water vapor reaches your child's lower airways, it's the same temperature regardless of whether it started out warm or cool.

Another benefit of cool-mist humidifiers is cost. Cool-mist humidifiers are less expensive than warm-mist humidifiers because you're not paying for the heating element. If you use a humidifier, be sure to keep it clean to prevent the growth of bacteria and molds.

Breast milk or formula is the only food your newborn needs. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breast-feeding for about the first six months. Newborns don't need water, juice or other fluids. In fact, introducing juice or other fluids too early may cause diarrhea. You can gradually begin introducing solid foods when your baby's doctor gives the OK — often by age 6 months.

Look for early signs of hunger, such as stirring and stretching, sucking motions and lip movements. Fussing and crying are later cues. The sooner you begin each feeding, the less likely you'll need to soothe a frantic baby. Of course, not every cry means hunger. Sometimes your baby may simply need a clean diaper, a change of scenery or some cuddle time.

When your baby stops sucking, closes his or her mouth, or turns away from the nipple, he or she may be full — or simply taking a break. Try burping your baby or waiting a minute before offering your breast or the bottle again. If your baby is ready to end the feeding, he or she will resist more vigorously.

For babies, feeding is as much a social activity as a nutritional one. Your baby's growth and development are based, in part, on the powerful bond that forms during feedings. Hold your baby close during each feeding. Look him or her in the eye. Speak with a gentle voice. If you're using a bottle, resist the temptation to prop it in your baby's mouth while you do other things. This could lead to choking or tooth decay — and a missed opportunity to build your baby's sense of security, trust and comfort.