No matter your circumstances, these 8 “must do” parenting guidelines are lifesaving!
Index: Congratulations on your new baby and welcome to motherhood (or fatherhood)! Becoming a parent means adjusting to a very different lifestyle and this blog offers answers to some of your biggest questions.
Sleep Deprivation
Baby Blues/Mood Swings
Crying, Crying, and More Crying
Everyone keeps saying “sleep when the baby sleeps” but it’s not always that simple!
When your nighttime routine is totally out of whack and napping is out of the picture, the important thing to remember is that you are not alone, crazy, or doing anything wrong.
How do those sleep deprived parents survive? “Sleep when the baby sleeps” doesn’t always cut it, because as soon as the baby dozes off you think, “Now would be a great time to work on my mile long to do list.” “I could really use a shower.” “How does anyone sleep when it’s so bright outside?”
If this is you… try making a few simple adjustments.
More resources/sources: Tips and tricks
It is okay to be emotional and having mood swings is normal. Whether you are parenting your baby, placing you baby with an adoptive family, or adopting a child, you will experience a lot of things that can contribute to “baby blues”.
Whether it’s heightened pregnancy hormones, financial stress, social criticism, self-doubt, or anything in between, these tips are sure to help you feel better.
More resources/sources: Easy things to do & Moody mama tips
It’s natural to stress when your baby is crying. But try to remember that crying does not always mean that something is seriously wrong. Think of it as their way of talking to you. Rather than stressing when they cry, try responding to them with a smile and saying, “what’s up sweet pea?” Talk with them through your process of trying to figure out what they need.
If your baby will not stop crying, do not shake him or her! Try placing your baby in a safe space, going around the corner and taking a minute to regain your composure. Sometimes when a child sees their mom who they deeply love in a state of distress, it causes them to feel upset. Simply taking a moment to regroup yourself may help your baby’s emotions as well.