For a first time mom, things can be daunting, and overwhelming. I remember facing these emotions, and so many more when I first had my baby! I still consider myself a first time mom, and no matter how many children I have, I’ll never know it all! But here are a few tips I’ve learned myself and gathered from talking to other moms along the way. You can benefit from their advice, so please keep reading if you’re a first time mom!
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1. Do What Works for You
Every first time mom will receive hundreds of words of advice, read several books telling her how and what she should do in every scenario, and stumble onto blogs proclaiming why this is better than that on the parenting scene. Remember that you need to do what works for you! When offered advice, just smile and remember that you don’t have to do what Aunt Sally does if it’s not what you want!
2. Take Help when It’s Offered
You don’t need to be supermom 2 weeks after giving birth! Take help when it’s offered, and don’t be shy about asking if no one offers! Your family and friends will most likely take any excuse to come see the new baby, even if the price means bringing you a casserole or folding your laundry while you take a nice shower.
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3. Motherly Instinct is Powerful
Doctors have their place and certainly know a lot. But sometimes our motherly instinct kicks in, and mother always knows best. Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, it probably is! Don’t allow doctors, well-meaning family members, or pushy friends to bully you into something you don’t want to do or talk you down from something you want to try. Some of my biggest regrets lie in this area.
4. Remember That Every Day is New
Everyone has a bad day occasionally. As a mom, sometimes it can feel like bad days stack up! But just take each day, one at a time, and remember that tomorrow is new! Your baby will go through growth spurts, teething, and crankiness like everyone else. It will eventually pass, and things will be okay again! Cherish every day, because there is always good, even in the bad.
5. Do Your Research on Controversial Topics
You will soon learn that everyone has an opinion, and everyone’s opinion is the right one. Do your own research on all controversial topics before making a decision. Those 9 months of pregnancy are good for that! If someone questions your parenting choices, you will already know what you believe and why you believe it. And you can make informed decisions if you do research first!
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6. Do Some Prep Work
Babies are a lot of work, and can be exhausting. Combined with just going through labor, you may be wiped for a few weeks! After all the hub-bub of neighbors bringing lasagna and pot roast for two weeks, it will help to have some frozen dinners or pre-made casseroles on hand in your freezer for easy meals. Stock up on paper and plastic dishes, as well as personal hygiene and cleaning products so your grocery store trips can be easier in those first weeks. Cleaning wipes are a big time saver for essential household chores.
7. Bonding is Crucial
Don’t worry about a few dishes in the sink. Those first weeks of baby’s life are crucial to bonding with you. Hold your baby as much as you can, and let others help out or let the housework wait. Rock your baby and enjoy a little rest. You need as much as you can get in order to heal and re-energize!
8. Don’t Worry about Schedules Right Away
In the first few weeks of baby’s life, don’t worry about setting a schedule. Baby will let you know when he is tired, hungry, or wet. Respond to his needs, and as he grows, you will find him settling into his own pattern! Especially for breastfeeding mothers, feed on demand, because you’re establishing your milk supply, and bonding with your sweetheart!
9. Never Guilt-trip Yourself
Sometimes, we have to cut our losses. Maybe you made a decision you regret, or had to do something you really didn’t want to do. Those things can’t be helped. Don’t live with guilt, forgive yourself, realize you are still a great mom and love your baby more than anyone else ever will, and move on!
One more thing in closing I’d like to send out to all first time moms. You’re doing great! Always remember that you are doing the best you can. Love your baby, and value the time you have, because it goes by quickly! What advice do our readers have to offer first time moms out there?
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