If you feel as though life as a new parent is utterly terrifying, then you are not alone. So many people are in the same position as you, but there are some things you can do to try and make sure that you’re taking it all in your stride, and not compromising sleep needlessly.
Consider your Priorities
One of the first things you need to do is try and consider all of your priorities. You need to write them down, and in the first few weeks, you also ideally need to cut everything down to the bare minimum. Let someone else deal with the cooking and washing; if you have supportive family members, they’d probably be more than happy to do so. If you can do this, then you will find it easier to unwind, and to also make sure that you’re not overwhelming yourself, which is so important as a new parent.
Make Lists and Batch Cook
Another thing you need to do is try and batch cook. Stock up your freezer, and also make sure that you are doing things in the most efficient way possible. Make lists of everything you feel as though you need, and also make sure that you are taking the time to make your life easier. If you can, make sure that you ask family and friends to help out by dropping off nappies, wipes, and formula, if you’re bottle feeding. Having sterilization tablets is also good. By doing this, alongside cooking meals, you will find it easier to not only make sure that you’re simplifying the process, but also avoiding having to go out at the last minute to buy things when you have a newborn in your arms.
Try a Sling
Another thing you should try and invest in is a baby sling. If you can slip your baby into a baby sling that is tied to your front, then this will help you to get more done around the house, and your baby will also enjoy being close to you. If you haven’t thought about it yet, then getting a sleep sack is also one of the best things you can do. This will help them to feel really close to you, as it mimics the feel of being embraced, and it will also help them to relax when you put them down for a nap. Even if you haven’t given much thought to how you are going to sleep, it is still a good idea for you to look into getting things like this. If you don’t, then you may find that it becomes harder for you to try new things when you are desperate for it, so be sure to keep that in mind if you can.
Of course, you can also ask your family and friends for recommendations, as they can help you understand the things you need and what they found helpful. Hearing stories from real-life parents will help a lot here, so make sure that you consider that.
