Becoming a parent is one of Mother Nature’s most beautiful gifts. The joy of adding to your family, whether you are a first-time parent or already have some kids, never goes away. The change in your life will be significant, and it can be overwhelming to have so many things to do and prepare for. But this process can be simpler and more enjoyable with a few pointers and preparations.
- Create a birth plan
If the baby is yet to arrive, then making preparations in advance will simplify your post-labor to-do list and allow you to concentrate on welcoming your new baby.
Whether you want to give birth at home or in a hospital, whether you want an epidural or pain medication; you must make these decisions in advance because you may not have time later. Similarly, you must organize your maternity or paternity leaves and attend to any workplace requirements.
Additionally, look for nearby facilities that provide prenatal care, such as hospitals or clinics with emergency equipment. To be on the safe side, familiarize yourself with possible birth injuries. 7 in 1000 babies sustain these; while most heal quickly, some can be particularly dangerous. In case you doctor messes up, get in touch with a Birth Injury Justice Center for advice on handling mishaps.
- Sort your baby’s nursery and essentials
You will need to make room for your little bundle of joy in your life and home. A place should be ready for them when they arrive with you. A nursery doesn’t always need to be a large or separate space. It can also be a part of your room if you want to keep the baby close.
When setting up a nursery, keep in mind that it needs to be cozy, airy, and quiet, with adjustable lighting and temperature. It is common to get carried away with the design, hues, furnishings, and wide array of accessories available, but incorporating everything reduces the comfort level. Ensure the location is convenient and cozy for both you and the baby.
A few things that might be useful are a crib or a cot with a fitted sheet, a room thermometer, a night bulb, a white noise machine, and a couch for you to sit on while feeding the baby. You will also need a cupboard or a dresser to keep all their clothing items in. Whatever you purchase, keep in mind practicality, sustainability, and affordability.
Some other essentials you must purchase include diapers, creams, sleeping bags or swaddles, a grooming kit, bathing supplies, feeding supplies, and clothes. Stock them up to avoid the hassle of shopping after labor.
- Baby-proof the house
No matter their age, babies require a secure environment to live in. Ensure your home has been baby-proofed so you can bring your baby home to a safe and secure space. Ensure the air is clean, there aren’t any sharp edges, there aren’t any big, flashy lights, and any animals you have are well-groomed and immunized.
Once your child starts growing and crawling around the house, ensure there are no broken items, open electrical outlets, exposed wires, and sharp edges. Cover these with protective material and keep dangerous objects out of the baby’s reach.
- Prepare the siblings
As exciting as it is to welcome your first child, it is equally challenging to welcome a baby if you already have kids. You never know how a child is going to react, seeing there is someone else to share the attention and love that they are so used to getting.
You do not need to break the news to toddlers early on. You can start mentioning it to them a few days or maybe a month before your due date. There are many ways to prepare your older children, including reading stories with siblings in them, talking about the baby and how they all will be friends, etc. For kids in the late teens and above, tell them as soon as you find out so they can help you prepare.
Divide the responsibilities with your partner or caretaker to avoid disturbing their routines, and they don’t feel neglected. Show them love and attention, spend time with them, involve them in tasks, and make them feel important. When your child or children are secure about their relationship with you, they will wholeheartedly accept and welcome the new baby.
- Take care of yourself
Taking care of a newborn is easy, said no one ever. It is a great responsibility. There will be frequent feedings, waking up in the middle of the night, crying, diaper changes, rocking, and more crying. The best way to welcome a new baby is by being healthy, happy, and relaxed. Eat healthy food, carry on with light exercises, or at least walk daily to stay active and keep your body and mind well rested.
Once the baby arrives, let go of the idea of perfection. Freeze some pre-cooked food or get something delivered. The dirty dishes can wait for a little. The laundry can be done later. Sleep whenever you can to restore your energy, and do not forget to fuel yourself with food.
Never be afraid to ask for assistance. Many responsibilities cannot be handled alone, including caring for newborns, other children, the house, and your partner. Share the workload with your partner, and ask for help from anyone who can complete a task for you.
Conclusion
You’ll feel much more ready when the time comes if you prepare in advance. This article mentions a few tips to help you prepare for the arrival of a new family member. If you’re a first-time parent, brace yourself because you’ll need all the help you can get.