Canon EOS 350D kit set (camera with lens) around $6,830
Nikon D70s kit set, around $7,980
Nikon D50 kit set, around $6,950
you can check the price here : Camera Price
you may also have to buy an external flash which cost about $1,380 (Canon 420EX) or $1,500 for Nikon's SB600
So think carefully if you are really interest to invest in the DSLR.
I'm using 350D and indeed it is quite small for man to use if without vertical grip. But on the other hand, it small size also reduce the burden of bring too many stuff especially going out with our lovely baby.
I will ususally bring my 350D with a 35mm f/2 for normal outing. If i want to take some more lovely photos, then i will bring along the vertical grip as well as the 28-70 or 70-200.
For beginner, i will suggest just buying the 350 kit set as well as 50mm f/1.8 (a cheap and large apperture lens suitable for shooting new born).
Alternatively, i will also recommend the Nikon D70s kit set if you don't have any Canon lens at the moment.