10 Ways To Survive The Newborn Stage

Becoming a parent can be one of life’s more rewarding moments for many people. While there are many wonderful things of being a parent, there can also be the tougher times. Having a newborn baby is considered one of the toughest times of being a parent. While your beautiful new baby is getting used to life outside and in the real world, you are also adjusting to life with a new baby in your arms, in your home, and in your life. There are so many beautiful moments and memories that you will have with your baby, so dealing with the more difficult times is essential.

The following is a list of the 10 best ways to survive the newborn stage. Humor and patience are the best two ways to deal with any situation, especially for adjusting to life as a parent. Just remember new parents, the newborn stage does not last long, and before you know it you’ll be chasing your happy baby all over the place, missing the days when you could just cuddle with that little baby on your chest. As a side note, understand that baby blues are normal and will pass, but keep an eye out for signs of Post Partum Depression, seek help if you experience PPD.

Sleep When Baby Sleeps, For Real

If you do not take any advice at all, make this the one piece of advice you take. Sleep deprivation is no joke, all of those little naps will make a big difference. Sleep when baby sleeps, the chores can wait until later. The house will not crumble.

Accept Help From Others

Seriously, stop trying to be a superhero. You just had a baby, your body has to recover. Parents, relatives, friends, whoever wants to help you, let them help, there is no shame in accepting help. From cleaning to cooking to doing laundry or helping with baby, accept help from others.

Nurture Yourself

It’s easy to forget to take care of yourself when you are taking care of your sweet little newborn baby. Take time for yourself, take that extra long shower, do your nails, read, meditate, eat right, do what makes you feel good. This will do a lot for your mental health.

Nurture Your Marriage

This is so very important. You guys are a strong unit. You’re in this together, have that date night, let someone watch baby so you can have some alone time together. Cuddle, kiss, relax, have fun in the bedroom (don’t forget birth control), do what makes you feel like the strong couple you are.

Lower Your Expectations

Do not expect things to be perfect, or your body to snap back to it’s pre-pregnancy shape within a month, or to be able to keep the cleanest house and cook elaborate dinners, all while making sure your hair and makeup is perfect at all times. Relax, give yourself a break!

Keep Essentials Nearby

Whether you are breastfeeding or bottle feeding, baby eats frequently. You need to sit, kick your feet up, and rest as much as possible. No matter what type of birth you had, rest is essential to full recovery. Keep everything you need nearby, water, snacks, book, remote, phone, etc.

Ease Into a Routine

Your baby will go through a lot of changes during the year. Babies thrive on consistency, routines are important. You can do a baby led, parent led, or combination led routine. Find what works for you and baby, listen to your baby, let your routine change when baby needs a change.

Stand Up For Your Parenting Choices

Everyone will have an opinion on everything you do as a parent. From how you feed your baby, how your baby sleeps, if you vaccinate, etc. Stop trying to please people, do what’s best for your baby. Do your educated research and make the right choices for baby.

Wear Your Baby

Baby just had the biggest transition ever, from being in the warm, cozy, dark environment of the womb, to the loud, bright world. Wear your baby in a carrier, or carry baby in your arms. The comfort of being close and cozy with you will help baby’s transition.

Laugh, Take Pictures, and Enjoy

Remember, this is temporary, and this time period goes by so fast. Laugh, enjoy your baby with your partner, take tons of pictures, document everything that you want. Keep your head up, your baby loves you. Absolutely enjoy every moment together, one day you will miss it.