By Sr Teresa Hayward (RN, RM, Lactation consultant, Infant & Paediatric Nutritionist, Baby Sleep Consultant)
When new parents bring their baby home, the feel a variety of emotions – excitement, concern, tiredness, they feel overwhelmed, to name just a few
You are have probably and will still receive a lot advice from well meaning family, friends, and co-workers.
Advice for New Parents
There is so much information available to new parents, and this makes it even more overwhelming. Try and avoid DR Google and choose one person you trust to listen to, so as it doesn’t become confusing. This article should hopefully help to ease any anxieties you may have
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
Often new parents feel guilty asking for help, but people want to help. Family and friends will want to help you, let them, its not possible to do everything alone. Just make sure they realize, they are not there to help with baby, but the other things that need to be done, this is time for mom and baby to bond, and their help means mom can concentrate on baby.
Take Time for Yourself
Taking care of yourself is essential to being a good mom. There will be many rewarding and joyful moments with your newborn, but it is an all-consuming job that can leave your feeling burned out and stressed. Its important to continue to do the things you loved pre-baby to feel balanced and fulfilled, such as reading a book, having your nails or hair done, going to the gym, or catching up on your favourite TV shows
Sleep
All new moms get told “Sleep when the baby sleeps” but very few take this advice. The household chores can wait, rather try and get some rest. Ask for help with the household chores from family and friends. You need to get as much rest as possible so you can be the best mom you can be.
Trust Your Instincts
In the beginning, you will want to do everything perfectly, as the books say. Babies are individuals and haven’t read the books, so trust your instincts. You are your baby’s parent, no one else, and you know your baby best, so do what works for you. Every baby is different, and your way is not wrong.
Take Pictures and Make Memories
Take lots of pictures, but make sure you are in those pictures. Often, we find as moms, we are the ones taking the pictures, and we’re never in them. They grow up so quickly.
Expect Stress
The first few weeks of being new parents will be stressful. Remember everything is a phase, even though the sleepless nights seem endless, every phase ends. Some days will be more challenging than others but remember tomorrow is another day and every day will get easier as you get into a routine. Be patient with yourself and ask for help if you need it.
Don’t Compare
Never ever compare your baby to other babies. While you are comparing, you are missing out on what makes your baby special and an individual. Even if it seems like your family and friends’ babies are reaching milestones earlier than yours, remember that every baby is different, with different needs, personalities and strengths. Rather focus on the amazing and wonderful things your baby is doing, instead of comparing them to others
Find a Tribe
Parenthood can feel very isolating at times, and you often become to wrapped up in this incredible change that you feel like you are the only going through it. Everyone needs a support system. As a new mom, it is important to find others who know what you are going through and can provide love, support and laughter through the challenging times. Try join a group where you can meet up with other moms.
Remember, You’re Amazing!
The best advice I can give to new parents, always be kind to yourself. Take a deep breath and know that you’re doing a great job, and you’re the best Mom you can be. Your baby won’t remember if you make a mistake. To them you are always the best. There is no better parent to them than you!
This is some of my advice that I give to all new parents. Please always know that you are doing an amazing job. If you are struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Your baby is loved, safe and lucky to have you. You are the perfect parent for your Baby!
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