Newborn babies do not come with a set of instructions.
That is left up to you, the parent, to figure out during your new on-the-job training, 24/7 work week. And, newborns are completely dependent on you to figure it all out in that little sleep-deprived head of yours. It can be, at times, exhausting and relentless. However, in the end, it truly is the beginning of the most rewarding journey you will be fortunate to travel in life.
Taking those first steps out the front door of the hospital, it really hits you that your life will never be the same whether this is your first newborn or fourth newborn. Your challenge will be to continue your life as you know it while providing round the clock care to your baby. It is very easy during this time to forget your needs and neglect to maintain basic hygiene as days seem to run together and you lose track of time. You must remember that, if you want to provide the best care for your newborn, you MUST take care of yourself first. Do not, I repeat do not avoid eating meals, showering, and resting. If you are fortunate enough to have some help from family and friends, accept it. If not, just take it one day at a time and, although it can be hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel, each day WILL get a little easier.
I think the most difficult adjustment was learning to function while extremely sleep deprived. All 3 of my sons did not sleep through the night until 1 to 2 years of age and my daughter did not sleep through the night until around 9 months old. However, my daughter was the easiest to get to sleep and she slept the best because she sucked her thumb and could quiet herself very easily. The boys all had colic and one had reflux so the only way to get them to sleep was rocking in my arms, in their car seat on top of the dryer, or in the car while taking late night rides through the neighborhood. It took every ounce of patience I could muster to make it through each day, but again, you have to take things in small steps one day at a time. If it ever seems too overwhelming, be sure to ask for some help. There are no superhero awards given out for the most stressed out moms or dads.
I have compiled a list of websites at http://makemybabysmarter.com with valuable newborn information that can help you find answers to so many common questions that arise when trying to care for a newborn baby. Whether you are a first time parent or you are an old pro, it is always helpful to have information on hand about basic newborn care, newborn health, newborn safety, and newborn growth and development. These resources will help you understand your newborns world a little better. The deeper the understanding you have, the better the care you can provide.
Lisa Russolillo is a mother of 4 amazing children (ages 10, 8, 6, and 2) and an in-home child care provider. If you would like more information about children, parenting, and child care, please visit http://makemybabysmarter.com to find many great resources. Child care providers can also list their child care businesses for free.
That is left up to you, the parent, to figure out during your new on-the-job training, 24/7 work week. And, newborns are completely dependent on you to figure it all out in that little sleep-deprived head of yours. It can be, at times, exhausting and relentless. However, in the end, it truly is the beginning of the most rewarding journey you will be fortunate to travel in life.
I think the most difficult adjustment was learning to function while extremely sleep deprived. All 3 of my sons did not sleep through the night until 1 to 2 years of age and my daughter did not sleep through the night until around 9 months old. However, my daughter was the easiest to get to sleep and she slept the best because she sucked her thumb and could quiet herself very easily. The boys all had colic and one had reflux so the only way to get them to sleep was rocking in my arms, in their car seat on top of the dryer, or in the car while taking late night rides through the neighborhood. It took every ounce of patience I could muster to make it through each day, but again, you have to take things in small steps one day at a time. If it ever seems too overwhelming, be sure to ask for some help. There are no superhero awards given out for the most stressed out moms or dads.
I have compiled a list of websites at http://makemybabysmarter.com with valuable newborn information that can help you find answers to so many common questions that arise when trying to care for a newborn baby. Whether you are a first time parent or you are an old pro, it is always helpful to have information on hand about basic newborn care, newborn health, newborn safety, and newborn growth and development. These resources will help you understand your newborns world a little better. The deeper the understanding you have, the better the care you can provide.
Lisa Russolillo is a mother of 4 amazing children (ages 10, 8, 6, and 2) and an in-home child care provider. If you would like more information about children, parenting, and child care, please visit http://makemybabysmarter.com to find many great resources. Child care providers can also list their child care businesses for free.
No comments:
Post a Comment