Congratulations on the little bun in the oven. Expecting a newborn, especially for the first time, can be exciting and panicky at the same time. But with some good preparation, you wouldn’t have to worry much. All you’ve got to do is get the right information you need and prepare everything in advance so that nothing catches you unawares.
Ready to get started? Here are some tips on how to be ready for your little bundle of joy.
1) Mental Preparation
Your life is about to change forever. You will now have someone else to think about and care for other than yourself. There are also fears regarding the childbirth process. The fear is expected, though, considering that almost every woman out there goes through it. It’s, therefore, essential to educate yourself to put your worries to perspective. Talking to family and friends ,even your doctor will also be therapeutic in managing your fears regarding getting through the challenging parts of childbirth and preparing for your newborn.
2) Moving Houses
Based on your budget, you can determine the kind of house you can afford to move into should you need more space. That’s essential because you’ll need enough room to accommodate all the coming changes, including your new bundle of joy and her nanny should you choose that direction to maintain your privacy. If you intend to use a baby crib, you’ll need enough room for this. Baby items also take up some space. For example, rocking chair among other baby toys will need their storage space. Baby clothes and small essentials will also need their closet.
3) Go Shopping
All the zest that the moment brings may already have taken you shopping in anticipation for the little cupcake. But it’s essential to have a checklist so as not to miss out on essential items you may not have put to perception in the excitement. There are a lot of aspects to have in mind when it comes to shopping.
For example, when it comes to feeding, do you plan to breastfeed, express or formula feed? Each piece has its demands. Breastfeeding doesn’t require much, though. Express, on the other hand, requires that you get a pump and feeding bottles. Formula feeding, however, will require the formula itself. You may need this at the point the baby comes because of durability. You’ll need it along with the feeding bottles and bottle sterilizers. In all, you’ll need a lot of bibs, burp cloths, milk storage containers.
Your checklist shouldn’t miss diapers, changing pad, baby ointment, wipes, clothing, special laundry detergent for babies, infant bathtub, baby soap and towels, among other necessities. Oh, and don’t forget to check bubs warehouse shoes for some cute baby shoes.
4) Arrange for Help
Having a newborn is a game-changer, and you would need all the help you can get. Childbirth can be quite taxing on the body, and it needs time to heal, whether its standard delivery or cesarean section. Not to mention the sleepless nights you will endure as you both get used to each other. Yes, you’ll need time to heal while bonding with your new guest. That means you’ll need some responsibilities taken off your shoulders. These responsibilities may include cleaning, cooking and general house maintenance.
If you can afford a nanny, go for it. If this is not an option, you can make arrangements for a willing relative, say sister, mother or close friend to lend a helping hand for the first few hectic weeks.
5) Pack your Hospital Bags
Not sure where to start or what to throw in there? You want to ensure you’ve got all the essentials without overdoing it – it’s a simple hospital visit that might last about five days. Most baby essentials might be provided at the hospital- diapers, blankets, wrapping clothes so you may need to look out for you. Don’t forget the towel, some comfy change of clothes that you can find at bubswarehouse sale, dental kit, charger, slippers and maybe that cute outfit you set aside for your little bunny the day you leave the hospital.
6) Preparing and Maintaining a Set Schedule
They say scheduling is a modern concept. As accurate as it may be, getting your little one on the schedule will do the both of you and the family some greater good. Given that we are talking of an infant here, make sure it’s flexible to accommodate the baby’s cries and emergencies.
Schedules are used mostly for feeding, playtime and sleeping. Infants generally feed every 2 to 3 hours. Once you’ve set up a reasonable timetable, the infant will eventually respond to these timings. In setting up a sleep routine, make sure to turn the lights, give a warm bath followed by a smooth massage, some milk and some lullaby is enough to set the sleeping mode for the baby. In no time, the schedule will be wired in the baby’s routine.
7) Have a Chat with Your Partner
Having a prior discussion and planning with your partner will help you avoid any possible conflicts when it comes to sharing duties, including taking turns in late-night feeds. He may prefer to take the early morning turn while you catch some sleep right before he sets to go to work, for example.
The early days make the perfect time to plan your financials for this is also an aspect of your life that’s going to change significantly. From deciding on health insurance, setting aside funds for the hospital bill to saving for rainy days, it’s prudent to have this discussion ahead early to avoid arguments about money later on when you’re all worked up, tired and cranky from sleepless nights.
For sure, you’ll be glad you had this chat, a week down the lane.
There is no return button once this train has left the station, so better make your ride smoother by preparing in advance. You’ll have peace of mind and a smooth transition to your brand new life with your little one. As they say, preparation is the key to success.
