If you’ve ever had a new baby, you know what a whirlwind it can be. Learning new things daily, sleep deprivation, along with the helpful or not-so-helpful advice from family friends and even strangers, it’s no wonder new moms are so exhausted. If you’re planning on having a baby, or are pregnant right now, hold on. It will be the greatest ride of your life, but also the most tiring and bewildering.
And then the baby is born. Suddenly he’s thrust into a room with bright lights glaring down on him, unfamiliar voices and people poking and prodding ? all he really wants is to be next to mom. This desire lasts for a very long time. Mom is a safe haven, somewhere he can go when he’s frightened or tired. Of course, for mom this attachment can get frustrating because it’s very difficult to do anything – cleaning, cooking, shopping – when you have a baby attached to your hip. Thankfully, there are solutions to this problem.
Moms are busy. Somebody became aware of that, and decided to try to make life a little easier for them. Why are baby pouches popular? Because having the freedom to use your hands while simultaneously holding your child, makes mom feel like she has four hands and the ability to get things done.
Another great solution is to get some sort of snuggli or newborn sling. If you’re going to go the snuggli route, buy the nicest one you can find. You want one that will support baby’s back and neck while at the same time being comfortable for you to wear strapped to your body. Snuggli’s can sometimes be confusing to get on, so keep that in mind when shopping for one.
Learn to say NO! As soon as that baby comes home, everyone will want to be the first to come take a peek at your new bundle of joy, But with sicknesses like RSV, as well as the germs that can come into your house through visitors, it’s best to wait a few weeks before you invite over the masses. Even if you’re itching to show your baby off, take time to think about his or her health. It’s okay to tell them to hold off for a week or two until you feel comfortable.
Sleep! This piece of advice is much easier said than done. But that old adage about “sleeping when the baby sleeps” is completely true. Remember that the time after having a baby doesn’t run on the same time as the rest of the world.
Just make sure he has a safe environment to play in and he’ll be fine without you holding him. For those occasions when you simply can’t stand having him away from you, invest in a newborn sling or bouncer. You’ll both be glad you did.
