Expecting a baby can be a time of great excitement and anxiety. Of course you cannot wait for your new little bundle of joy to arrive, yet at the same time the thought of how to take care of a baby and what to do in certain situations may strike fear into the hearts of even the toughest people. You certainly do not want to do something wrong, so how do you overcome your fears and make sure your baby is well cared for? Here are a few tips to help you get started.
First, relax, take a deep breath, and understand that there are no perfect parents, and you must learn from your mistakes. This is absolutely normal and is precisely what grandparents are for; to provide helpful information for a variety of situations. That being said, do not feel as though you have to listen to every single suggestion that comes your way either. You must learn how to keep a healthy balance between what you believe is right, and what others say.
Next, you will need to go with the flow and be somewhat flexible. Your baby is going to set your pace, at least for the first several months. This means you will sleep when your baby sleeps, and you will use random nap times to catch up on things you need to do for yourself, or around the house. You will also find that your baby gear, such as a gliding nursing chair, comes in quite handy along the way.
Also, it is acceptable to do something you want or need to do on your own, without your baby. This does not mean that you are a bad parent; it could actually help to make you a better parent. A quick trip to the store, a new outfit, or even a date night with your spouse, while a babysitter watches the baby can cause you to feel more relaxed and more able to focus on your child.
Make sure you do not neglect your own health either. Even though you may feel as though you have to give all of your attention to your new bundle of joy, and provide everything that may be needed to him or her, you can’t start to neglect your own health and needs because of that. Eat healthy, be sure to drink plenty of fluids, and as I am sure you will anyway, sleep when you can. If you are not at your best, and in great physical and emotional condition, you will not be able to provide your baby with the very best care.
Finally, as more time passes, you will learn exactly what your baby needs, and exactly when he or she needs it. You will know right away what every cry means, what every noise means, and what makes him or her the happiest. When this light bulb moment hits, you will realize that you can do it, you are a great parent, and that there is no better job in the world!