As a new mother, there is an abundance of unsolicited advice that tends to flood in during pregnancy and after the baby arrives. While many individuals are eager to share their opinions on diet, sleep patterns, and baby care practices, the truly valuable insights can often get lost in the noise. Here are some key points that I wish I had been informed about when I first became a mom.
1. Breastfeeding vs. Formula Feeding
While breastfeeding is often touted as the best option, it’s important to recognize that formula feeding is a perfectly valid choice as well. I had high hopes of breastfeeding and envisioned myself as a natural, nurturing mother. However, my experience with my daughter Clara was challenging. Despite the overwhelming guidance I received about positioning and pumping, no one mentioned that using formula was not only acceptable but would allow for bonding and healthy development, both of which Clara experienced.
2. Take Your Time at the Hospital
Take your time before heading home from the hospital. The luxury of having nurses at your beck and call, room service, and freshly laundered linens will soon become a thing of the past. Enjoy those moments of assistance—they’re fleeting.
3. Keep It Simple
Remember that your newborn is a baby, not an alien. Don’t get caught up in extravagant baby gear. I spent months searching for the perfect changing table, only to find out that the kitchen counter was the most practical and accessible changing station for my three children. Simplicity often trumps fancy items.
4. Accept Offers of Babysitting
Accept every offer of babysitting. New parents often have friends and family eager to hold your newborn, and this is an excellent opportunity for you to take a shower, prepare a meal, or catch some much-needed rest. Enjoy these moments now; they may be rare once your child becomes more mobile.
5. A Tip for Parents of Boys
For parents of boys, remember to point the penis downward to avoid leaks. It’s a simple tip that surprisingly isn’t widely shared.
6. Avoid Excessive Infant Clothing
Avoid purchasing excessive infant clothing. While it’s tempting to buy cute outfits, you will likely receive plenty from friends and family. Plus, you may only end up using a few items repeatedly. Keep tags on new clothes until you’re certain you’ll need them; I learned this the hard way with Clara.
7. Choose Practical Garments
Steer clear of garments with too many buttons or snaps. As adorable as they might be, those can turn into a source of frustration during late-night changes. Opt for elasticized onesies in the early weeks.
8. Maintain an Emergency Diaper Kit
Maintain an emergency diaper kit in your vehicle. I once arrived at a pediatrician’s appointment without any diapers or wipes, which was a lesson learned the hard way. Be prepared for inevitable diaper blowouts.
9. Don’t Hesitate to Ask for Help
Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Joining the “mom club” means that many others have walked a similar path. Whether it’s borrowing wipes from a fellow parent or offering a snack to a toddler at the park, there’s no shame in reaching out for support.
10. Savor the Experience
Finally, savor the experience. The early months may feel overwhelming, but they are also some of the simplest times. If you go on to have another child, you’ll likely find yourself reminiscing about how manageable one newborn truly was.
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In summary, being a new mom encompasses a wide array of experiences and emotions, and the path can be smoother with the right knowledge and support. Embrace the journey, and remember that every challenge is a part of the growth process.
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