Parenting is a wonderful feeling. Nothing is more rewarding than seeing and holding your baby for the first time. But as a new parent, you can’t help but worry and wonder how you are going to handle the baby once you’re discharged from the hospital. While baby blues are very common especially for first-time parents, here are a few reminders that can help you and your parenting experience more fun, exciting and memorable.
1. Avoid Buying Too Much Baby Items
It is normal for new parents to purchase items that they think their baby needs during the first year. Be careful. There are some products that need not be bought. As much as possible, purchase only the essentials such as bottles, sterilizers, car seat, crib, swaddle blankets, baby bags, and diapers.
Take it easy on clothes because most babies will only wear that for two months or less. Hand-me-downs are good since it can save you a lot too.
2. It’s Okay to Ask for Help
Most mommies are afraid to let other people hold their babies. That shouldn’t be the case. In fact, new moms need all the help they can especially during the first few months. There’s nothing wrong with having an extra hand when it comes to bathing, burping, feeding, and even changing diapers.
And new dads should also do its part too when it comes to taking care of the baby. They are parents too who should partake in this role.
3. Take Care of Yourself
Once the baby is born, you are going to need all the nutrition to regain your strength and energy, especially when you are breastfeeding. Eat at least three meals a day that is rich in protein and carbohydrates as well as fruits and vegetables. Drink lots of water and avoid any caffeinated or artificially sweetened drinks.
When the baby’s sleeping, get some sleep too or read a book. When you are strong enough, go back to your physical activities but don’t rush and overdo it yet.
4. Make Time for Your Spouse
Once you have a baby, everything else revolves around them. Hence, it’s normal for first-time parents to sacrifice and give all of their time to their little ones. However, there’s nothing wrong with taking some time off once in a while. Organize a date night once a week with your husband by watching a movie or eating out in a restaurant.
Communication is also important so talk to your spouse about your feelings and experiences as a new parent.
5. Savor and Enjoy the Moment
Babies grow up so fast so as much as possible, spend time with your baby and savor each moment while they’re still young. It’s normal for parents to get excited and see their babies smile, laugh, crawl, walk, and even talk but everything has to take its own time.
Enjoy the little things and bonding moments you have with your baby because, in just a blink of an eye, you won’t notice that your baby is big enough and wants to do things on its own.
Having a baby is definitely one of the best feelings in the world. So enjoy each moment and learn from your mistakes because each parent has to undergo a different kind of experience as they go through this stage.