So, you have just delivered your little one into the world. You are exhausted and euphoric, and there is this little bundle looking up at you. At some point, many parents will ask, “Now what do I do?” This is a typical reaction, as your world is now completely different and there will be some adjusting to do.
As a new parent, you will constantly be second-guessing yourself, so it is always nice to know there are support networks if you feel overwhelmed or unsure about something. To get you started, we have prepared a few childcare tips for all new moms.
Build a Nurturing Support Group
One of the common mistakes new parents make is to think they have to do everything themselves, and that asking for help will somehow make them a bad parent. Well, our first tip is to blow that myth out of the water and tell you that asking for help is a great thing to do. Family and friends will be happy to provide support, especially if they have kids themselves.
Mother and baby groups are excellent places for both of you. It enables the baby to get used to socializing with new people, and it gets you out of the house. When you are there, you are likely to find someone who is currently having the same experience as you, which offers reassurance and comfort from people outside your close circle.
Don’t Miss Appointments with the Pediatrician
Before the birth, your pediatrician will have provided you with a schedule of newborn checkups, which need to be carried out at regular intervals. During these checks, you will have time to address any concerns and ask any questions about your baby’s general health, sleeping patterns, or current eating habits.
To destroy another myth, no question is too stupid, and if you have concerns, then voice them. As a new parent, you are going to ultra-sensitive and react to every little change. You may convince yourself you are overreacting, but it is always better to be safe than sorry. If you have some concerns, call your clinic to see if further investigation is required.
Lots of Cuddles
When your baby is born, they are likely to sleep a lot, and this is a good time to get some cuddles in. Babies really benefit from feeling close to other people, and it will form a bond between parent and child that will last forever. The importance of cuddles can’t be underestimated, as it helps the baby feel safe and loved, something that has been proven to help with their later mental development. It also helps to soothe them when they are upset about something.
Just be careful not to nod off yourself to avoid any accidents.
Get into a Routine
There is no right or wrong way to do this, but it will make life easier for everyone once you have found a routine that works for parents and baby. In fact, it may feel like every day is one routine after another after birth, as you start creating a sleeping, feeding, bathing, and diaper changing schedule. Our advice is to trust your gut and learn to notice what your baby wants.
In the beginning, this will be challenging, as your baby has a tiny stomach and has no circadian sleeping rhythm. It may be that you and your partner have different work habits, which can be a great thing during nighttime feeds. It will take an adjustment, and there may be significant trial and error involved, but you will find a system that works for you.
You Are Not Alone
We have mentioned this already, but you are not alone on this journey of discovery. If you are having trouble getting your baby to breastfeed, to sleep at night, or anything else, give your clinic a call for advice.