Becoming a new parent is an exciting time in anyone’s life. However, looking after a newborn certainly comes with its fair share of challenges. Knowing what to expect in the first few months as a new parent will help you to face each day with more confidence, allowing you to enjoy the parenting process to the fullest.
Before your baby arrives, you need to ensure that your home is ready. From baby cots to changing tables, baby monitors and nursing stations, there is a lot to consider. Be sure to use equipment that will help you to manage your first few months as a parent with ease. It’s also wise to spend some time pre-preparing and freezing meals so that you always have plenty of nourishment to keep your energy levels up throughout these first few months of parenting.
Let’s take a look at what you can expect during your first few months as a new parent.
In This Article
Lack Of Sleep
The first unglamorous but very real part of being a new parent is the lack of sleep. Newborns require regular feeding and they will be sure to let you know when they need you. Sleep deprivation can be a real issue for new parents so be sure to figure out a routine that works for you and your partner. With a considered approach, you can find a schedule that will allow you to get some rest when you need it.
Getting To Know Your Baby
Every newborn is different and babies don’t come with an instruction manual. Over the course of the first few months as a new parent, you will need to spend time getting to know your baby. This is usually a very natural process. Be on the lookout for behaviours and changes in their appearance as they develop, get to know your baby and begin building a bond together.
Washing And Bathing
In the first few days after your baby arrives home, you will not need to bathe them. Instead, you can wash their hands, face and neck carefully with some warm water. As time goes on, you can start to bathe your baby more often. This can be a lot of fun and a great bonding experience between parents and their children. Be sure to get everything you need before you begin to make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible.
Nappy Changing
Changing dirty nappies is not something that most parents look forward to. With that said, it’s definitely something that you will be doing a lot of so you had better prepare yourself for plenty of changes. Babies require frequent nappy changes and leaving them in dirty nappies for too long can lead to sore skin and nappy rash. While it may not be one of the most glamorous aspects of parenting nappy changing is essential for your baby’s comfort.
Helping Your Baby Sleep
While you might like the idea of getting your baby on a schedule, the truth is that typically you will be on the baby’s schedule. Most babies only sleep for two to three hours at a time, whether it is during the day or night. As babies have not yet adapted to the idea of night and day, their body clock does not understand the difference between the two. As time goes on, your baby will start to sleep longer at nighttime so remember that there is light at the end of the tunnel.
Embrace Your New Role As A Parent
Parenting is a wonderful journey with so much to learn, share and experience. Yes, there will be challenges along the way but with a positive mindset, the right approach and lots of love, you can ensure that your parenting experience is nothing but positive. Embrace your role as a parent and enjoy the experience of watching your baby grow up right in front of your eyes.
