Becoming a first-time parent is one of the most exciting but challenging experiences. You must learn and prepare for so many things, from choosing the right baby gear to understanding your child’s development milestones. You may be overwhelmed, but with enough preparation and support, you can adjust well to your life with a baby.
What to Expect the First Year
Be prepared for a lot of screaming. The first year is an incredibly loud time in a baby’s life, who may not be able to express their needs clearly if they are sick or hungry.
Be prepared to be up at all hours of the night as you take turns taking care of your baby, and you will inevitably put plans on hold until your child is sleeping again. If you must return to work after your parental leave expires, this can mean running on very little sleep for months.
A mother’s health will be crucial during this stage since you’ll be breastfeeding and the baby will live off your body for the first few months. A balanced diet and good health will help to produce healthy milk. Drink enough water, get adequate rest and take care of yourself before you begin caring for your baby to provide them with a steady stream of nutritious breast milk.
Your Baby’s Health and Safety
Baby proofing your home is also very important during these first months. You’ll want to move anything sharp or dangerous high up onto shelves or walls. Getting into the habit of putting your baby in a safe place to play will ensure they do not hurt themselves. If you have stairs, install a gate at the top and bottom of them, as babies can quickly learn how to climb.
Once your baby starts to crawl, they will be getting into everything. Their little legs will take them places quickly, so it is important to find ways to keep them entertained without having them go unsupervised. No matter how safe your child is, you should always stay in the same room as they are playing in for their first year of life.
This also means child-proofing your home further to avoid injuries and accidents from happening to your child. Cover outlets, install baby locks on cabinet doors and drawers and choose soft carpeting for your baby to play on.
Some features and functions of your house will need attention, too. If the heating system isn’t working well, call for HVAC or furnace service. Babies are sensitive to cold floors and hot water temperatures, so make sure that your house is running efficiently.
When it comes to interactions with other people, make sure your baby doesn’t go anywhere without you. Babies younger than a year should only be around people who you know and trust, as they can easily catch viruses and other illnesses. They also have a very fragile immune system, so it is important to monitor what your baby eats and drinks closely.
Practice Self-Care as a New Parent
While it can be extremely challenging adjusting to having a new baby in the house, there are some things you can do to make life easier on yourself. Make sure you take time for yourself, even if it is just an hour of alone time every day. This will help you stay healthy and maintain your sanity so that you continue to give your baby the attention and love that they need.
It is also important that you have a support system to help you take care of your newborn so you don’t over-exhaust yourself. Your spouse, a family member, or a nanny can help with tasks like cooking, cleaning, or bathing your child. Self-care is important in the first year, but it is equally important to make sure you’re providing everything your baby needs to grow healthy and happy.
Get Help for Postpartum Depression or Anxiety
It’s not often talked about, but postpartum depression and anxiety are real, and a lot of parents experience it. If you are feeling this way, make sure you talk to someone about it. Your doctor can help you with this, or you can speak with close friends and family members, too. It’s important that your feelings are acknowledged and taken seriously, as this condition has the potential to be dangerous if ignored.
The first year of a baby’s life is filled with fun, excitement, and new experiences. It can also be very tiring and emotionally draining as you adjust to life with your little one! Being aware of everything happening during this time will allow you to feel ready for all the challenges that come your way so that your child grows up happy and healthy.
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