Diaper Changing, Step-by-Step

The problem: The bar on the machine doesn't give, which can force the body into risky positions. Plus, people tend to put their feet farther in front of their bodies when doing squats on the machine, which makes matters worse.

From a reclining position, you push the plate up and bring it down in this common exercise to work the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes. The greater the motion, the more joints are worked through full range, which is good. However, if there is pain at any point during the motion, do not go any further.

The problem: Pulling weights, a barbell, or a weighted cabled bar up under your chin can compress the nerves in the shoulder area.

This shoulder move, in which you lift a barbell up and down behind the head, can cause the same problems as the lat pull–down behind the head.

The problem: Only people with very mobile shoulder joints can keep their spines straight enough to do this exercise properly. And if the bar hits the back of the neck, it could injure cervical vertebrae.

Infants have a strong sucking instinct, so a pacifier can calm your colicky baby. Bonus: Studies show binkies may help prevent sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

A little white noise can help your baby feel like they are back in the womb. There was a lot of whooshing and background noise in there. To re-create these soothing sounds, turn on a fan, put the bassinet near the dishwasher, run the vacuum, turn on the shower, or tune a radio to static. You want a constant, low-level sound.

Many moms and dads find that a diaper change is a great time to connect with their babies. After all, you're leaning over your baby, touching, and talking or cooing to him or her. Your baby looks up at you and listens to your voice. Take some time to sing a song or play peekaboo. Although some diaper changes will have to be done quickly because you only have a few minutes, try to enjoy the ritual.

Close the tabs on a disposable diaper, or snap or Velcro a cloth diaper shut. Make the diaper snug, but be sure you can place two fingers between the diaper and your baby's waist. With a newborn, fold the top of the diaper down so the umbilical stump is exposed. Or use a newborn diaper with a cutout for the stump.

Wash your hands, and place your baby on the changing table or a flat surface. Use the safety straps, or keep one hand on your baby so he doesn't roll off. Never leave your little one unattended, even for a few seconds. If he wiggles a lot, distract him with a mobile or a brightly colored toy. Undo the dirty diaper. Hold your baby's legs with one hand, and use the other hand to pull down the front of the diaper. Don't remove it yet.