Because I’m about to give birth to my second any day now, today I’m sharing some tips on making the first week at home with your newborn (a little) easier! Let’s just say I’m writing this post for myself, too! I asked my husband what his number one tip for this list would be and he responded, “Live near family.” Ain’t that the truth? That’s not always possible so I’m adding a few more…
- Sleep when the baby sleeps, if you can. If this is your first baby, please follow this rule completely. If you’re like me and already have littles in the house, it may not work as well. If you ever get all kiddos down for a nap at the same time, hit the hay IMMEDIATELY.
- Always remember there’s a light at the end of the tunnel and that time with a newborn goes by fast. I wish I could go back and tell myself this when I had my son four years ago. I was so tired and felt so terrible that it was hard for me to enjoy anything. I was too worried that I would never sleep or walk again. This time around I know better and I want you to know too. This too shall pass.
- When your milk comes in, FEED, FEED, FEED! Don’t let yourself become engorged and come down with mastitis like I did!
- Clean and assemble your breast pump before your baby is born. You’ll want that thing working right away!
- Make sure you’re stocked on heavy flow pads. You’ll need them for 4-6 weeks after delivery.
- It’s completely normal to cry for no reason. Remind yourself of that when you’re crying for no reason.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Even very experienced moms need help sometimes!
- When people ask what they can do to help you, have a list ready. Make a meal, clean your house, take your older children to the park for a couple hours, etc.
- Stock up on paper plates and cups before your newborn arrives. No dishes!
- Stay in your robe when visitors come over and don’t make apologies for it.
- Have your freezer preloaded with food so you don’t have to do any cooking and you won’t be held down to having to do take out each night. In fact, share this list on your Facebook page, so your friends can bring you food to freeze!
- You need more diapers and onesies than you think you do for your newborn. Go buy another pack tomorrow.
What would you add to this newborn list? Leave us a comment and tell us!
Sheri
Wednesday 3rd of February 2016
I would add that having a reacher and leak-proof water bottles are also very helpful. I used my reacher on an almost daily basis, when something would fall on the floor and I couldn't pick it up easily because my son was attached to me or asleep on my lap. Leak-proof water bottles are one of the best additions to a nursing/feeding nest; if it falls over, it doesn't spill, and it helps the mother stay well-hydrated. I kept leak-proof water bottles on each side of my pillow, too, because my family co-slept and I would get thirsty during the night when Isaac woke up for a "snack"!
Sheri
Wednesday 3rd of February 2016
I want to add that your list is wonderful. Great information for new parents. Thanks for sharing it!