Disclosure: This post is sponsored by hydraSense®. To make sure hydraSense® products are right for you, always read and follow the label.
A few weeks ago we visited my brother- and sister-in-law who live out of town. They recently moved into a new house and have a three-month-old, so we were due for a visit. Being around a newborn again made me realize how far removed we are from this phase of parenting. Life is still busy, but in a different way. My parenting experience of having raised three babies (who are now ages 7, 5 and 3), came in handy at my friend’s recent baby shower. When asked for my advice for first-time moms and parents of newborns, I didn’t hesitate. Here are my top tips for new moms.
Becoming a family of 5!
Go with the flow
Throughout your pregnancy and leading up to your labour, you probably read every single book ever made about raising a child. You probably also received a lot of well-intended, often unsolicited, advice from family, friends and yes…even strangers! Your mind will be full of information, conflicting advice, and ideas about how parenting will pan out. The truth is, reality is often nothing like you imagine. That’s because you can’t truly prepare for it. Which is why it’s best to keep all of that information in the back of your mind to draw upon when you need it, but ultimately, just go with the flow. Do what works best for you, your newborn, and your family. People will always point out what you should or shouldn’t be doing, but only you can truly know what’s best for your baby. Your bond and relationship is so unique and special, you’ll have to trust your guts. And if you need a second opinion, get it from the professionals!
The ‘HOW’ doesn’t matter
The media is full of information on what is “best” for babies. The problem with that is that the advice is not always relevant to every single parent and in turn, makes new moms feel guilty. For example, not all new moms are able to breastfeed. Some parents may prefer to use reusable diapers and the ‘cry it out’ method for sleep training. As well, not all parents choose to feed their kids organic food. The truth is, as long as your kids are safe, fed, loved, clothed and sheltered, the ‘HOW’ doesn’t matter.
Be prepared for the unexpected
If there’s one certainty when you have a new born baby is that things don’t always go as planned. For example, I had a hard time breastfeeding for the first two weeks of Kyle’s life. I wish I had some formula at home instead of worrying and getting my husband to run out and get some in my hours of despair. The other thing that you really don’t expect to happen is for your child to get sick so young. But even something like the common cold can make any parent anxious. I highly recommend having a thermometer handy and some hydraSense products like Ultra-Gentle Mist, Easydose vials (for on-the-go), and Nasal Aspirator. Moderate nasal congestion in newborns and young infants can make breathing difficult, which can make new parents constantly worried. hydraSense Baby Nasal Care products effectively help reduce and relieve nasal cold symptoms, helping your baby breathe better.
Ask for help!
Last, but not least, I would say that the key to having a newborn is asking for help. When people offer help, take them up on their offer. Don’t feel like you need to carry this parenting gig on your own shoulders. The saying is true after all, it takes a village! Besides, your sanity will thank you for it!
My parents are always helping us!
What tips would you share for parents of newborns?
Disclosure: This post is sponsored by hydraSense®. To make sure hydraSense® products are right for you, always read and follow the label. The opinions in this post are my own.
I shared this link with my expecting daughter. Good advice 🙂
Very good advice indeed. I feel like the MOMGUILT is such a problem for many – thanks for addressing that!
HydraSense does have some amazing products!
Just read your entire post 🙂 Your so right, every baby is different. That parents must trust their own instincts. Except the help if you need it. Well written as always 🙂
The best advice we were given with our firstborn was to do what works for us even if goes against what people say should be doing. No family or child is the same.
Lots of good advice. I’d say too, get rest whenever you can. Sleep makes everything better.
Perfect advice! I’d just add that you need to let some people’s comments roll off your back (like the well meaning grandparent that is always telling you that your baby needs more to eat when he clearly doesn’t).
Great tips! Thank you for sharing.
Great tips Thank you so much