When you’re expecting a new addition to the family very soon, it’s only natural to feel both excited and a bit nervous about what the first few months will entail. The early months of a newborn’s life are often discussed in the media as a time of sleeplessness and/or stress for the parents, which can feel discouraging to anyone getting ready to welcome a child. However, all it takes is some early preparation to feel ready for your baby’s first six months. From stocking up on healthcare basics like Wellements baby tooth oil to learning the differences between colic vs reflux, you can prep by taking these essential steps.
Prepare Some Essential Items But Be Ready To Adapt as Needed
One of the tricks to getting through the first six months is to have your house stocked up with essential baby items that every new parent needs. Make sure you’ve got the following basics on hand at all times:
• Diapers
• Pacifiers
• Clean changes of clothes
• Baby wipes
• Baby powder
• Soap and hand sanitizer
However, remember that no matter how well stocked up your house is or how much early prep you do, there can still be scenarios that pop up during the first six months that will simply require some adaptability. For instance, you may find yourself in a public setting with your baby needing a diaper change, but the diaper bag was left at home. You may have to use a makeshift cloth diaper to last until you get home. One of the keys to getting through the early months successfully is to be prepared but to also be adaptable whenever needed.
Ask Your Pediatrician Your Pressing Healthcare Questions
Don’t feel that your child healthcare questions like how to improve baby immunity or what to do if your kid gets colic are too simple to ask your doctor. Your pediatrician is there to answer these questions and more, and it’s always better to gather more information so you’ll be informed and know how to handle different scenarios. Be sure to get your questions answered during your prenatal visits.
Do Research and Listen to Family, But Don’t Get Overwhelmed by All the Advice
Whether it’s your style to read every parenting book out there or just to learn the basics and go by instinct, it’s important to understand what your baby will need early on and what developmental milestones you should look out for. That said, too much research can become overwhelming, especially when combined with unsolicited family advice – and as every new parent finds out, everyone’s got opinions when it comes to childcare. Remember to trust your parental instincts and to stay informed without giving in to stress and overwhelming pressure.
Getting ready to welcome a newborn baby to the family is exciting in and of itself, but preparing for the first six months of life can sometimes feel disorienting and even overwhelming. It’s simple to start preparing early and getting informed, however, which can soothe those fears and help you feel ready to tackle any challenges that could pop up. With these essential steps, you’ll be prepared to welcome your new child and keep them safe and healthy for the first six months and beyond.