Advice for New Parents
The decision to start a family is one of the most important and life-changing decisions you will ever make. Babies bring tremendous joy and anticipation, but they do not come with a set of instructions! Parents are suddenly responsible for a new person who is dependent upon them for their every need, yet many new parents do not know what those needs will be. What follows are tips to help you adjust to your new role.
Understand that parenthood is a transition.
You may be overjoyed at the arrival of your child, but it is also likely that you may be afraid, depressed, and yes, exhausted. You might also resent the demands of time and attention that the baby is placing on you. You may feel inadequate about your caregiving skills or fret about your child's pattern of development. Remember, this transition is normal and will take some time to complete.
Be aware of the signs of stress.
You cannot eliminate all the stress in your life, but you can manage it. Pay attention to times when you are feeling at the end of your rope. Think of positive ways to de-stress your life. Prioritizing tasks and assigning jobs to others can be a good stress reliever.
Play.
Have fun with your baby. Cuddle and sing and experience the world through their eyes. If your leisure time suffers, you may find that your relationships suffer as well. Show your family that they are important to you by making time to laugh and enjoy each other.
Simplify your life.
Don't allow yourself to schedule something every minute of every day. Stay home. Don't make a commitment that it is not worthy of your time. Get into the habit of saying no, and don't feel guilty about it. Let your voicemail pick up the phone calls. If it is within your budget, consider hiring help for household duties and other tasks.
Take care of your physical health.
Eat nutritious meals, and exercise on a regular basis. Be sure you get plenty of rest: When the baby naps, you should lie down, too. Ask for help from family and friends, if you need time to exercise, rest, or meal plan.
Try not to procrastinate.
If something needs to be done, do it. Get started with the project by beginning with the easiest part and easing into the more difficult part. Work on your project a little every day until it is completed. You will worry about it anyway, so just get it done!
Don't neglect your partner.
Make time every day to talk and share your feelings and fears. Take advantage of opportunities to just sit and cuddle up with your partner. Don't wait too long before you leave your baby in the care of a qualified caretaker, so you can have some time alone as a couple. Build up to having dates with your spouse or partner on a regular basis.
Keep a sense of humor.
Your life is forever changing, and you cannot possibly anticipate all of the challenges that will come your way. Remember that all parents started out like you, with the same dreams and fears and expectations. Children are wonderful, and they turn into young adults in a flash. Enjoy them (and yourself) as you take this journey together, and don't take it all too seriously. It is most important that your baby feels secure, nurtured, and loved—and you can do that!
Trying to find the balance after the arrival of a child is challenging and takes time. There may be times when you actually question your decision to have children. Even though this may be the most hectic time you have experienced this far, you'll be amazed how fast the time will go. Your baby will be off and exploring this big world before you know it. Cherish this time of your life.
Workplace Options. (Revised 2023). Advice for new parents. Raleigh, NC: Author.