One of the most exciting moments of any parent’s life is when they bring home a new baby. As much as you look forward to cuddling with your child, you probably worry about whether you’re prepared and ready for that arrival. Today is the perfect day to stop worrying about the things that might happen and take steps to prepare for your little bundle of joy.
Plan for Meals
Babies take a lot of work. They don’t always follow a set sleeping schedule and can cry for hours. This leaves you little time to cook and sit down to a meal. Planning in advance for your meals can save you some time and frustration. Look at online recipe sites and find meals that you can prep and freeze. These meals will keep in your freezer for months and ensure that you always have a delicious meal when you need one.
Pack Your Go-Bag
Your go-bag is a simple bag that includes all of the supplies you will need in the hospital. Many mothers pack a charger for their phone or tablet and comfy clothing they can wear after giving birth. It’s helpful to add a few bottles of water or your favorite drink and a few snacks in case you don’t like the meals the hospital serves. Other must-haves for your go-bag include pillows and blankets along with toiletries such as deodorant and shampoo. And don’t forget the baby’s comfy outfit to ride home in such as kickee pants pajamas.
Talk to Your Partner
Many couples have major issues when they have a baby because they do not talk about their expectations. While you might assume that your partner will stay home for a few weeks, they may plan on only taking a few days off. Even if you’re both home, you may think that they will handle the cooking and cleaning while you do the baby care and your partner thinks that you’ll split those chores. Sit down and make a plan on what you will both do to make sure you’re on the same page.
Find a Support Group
Whether you have a partner or are a single parent, you need a good support group. These groups give you a safe place to talk about things you don’t want to discuss with your partner such as a loss of libido or sore nipples. Facebook and other social media sites have loads of virtual support groups for new moms. These groups often verify the identity of members before they join to ensure that all members are new parents.
Prepare the Nursery
Taking care of your nursery before the baby arrives, helps you avoid the hassles of working on that room while dealing with a crying baby. You need furniture such as a crib and changing table along with storage for the baby’s toys and clothes. Babies do not need as many clothes as some new parents think. However, if you plan on doing laundry once a week, you may need around 10 full outfits. If you’re planning on doing laundry daily, then you need less clothing.
Speak to Your Employer
Always take time to speak to your employer before the baby comes. Many employers allow mothers to take maternity leave that runs from a few weeks before the baby comes to several months later. Others only offer paid time off after the baby comes. If you only get a set amount of paid time off, go over your budget to get an idea of when you can return to work. Let your employer know the date you plan to come back.
Write Out Your Birthing Plan
Your birthing plan is important because it shows both your doctor and hospital what you want during your birth. Most doctors recommend that their patients complete this form a few weeks before their due dates. It should include the type of birth you want and the name of the doctor you prefer. You can also include the names of anyone you want in the delivery room and any loved ones who can visit later.
Conclusion
While you might feel nervous and anxious as well as excited in the weeks leading up to your due date, you can calm your nerves when you know how to prepare for your new arrival. Some tips include writing out your birthing plan and finding a support group.
