Baby's First Illnesses: Calm care for the inevitable firsts

Lena Fairwood

The first fever, the first cough that will not quit, the first night of watching a chest rise and fall a little too fast: every parent meets these firsts eventually, usually while running on little sleep. This is a steady companion through them: how colds, ear infections, stomach bugs, and rashes actually progress, what comfort measures genuinely help, and the clear signs that mean it is time to call the doctor. Reassuring, clear-eyed, and built for the middle of the night.