Kindersteps

10 Ways To Make Life Easier For New Parents

05 Jan

New parents are usually in a state of vulnerability, sleeplessness, and confusion, and just want to do their best. There’s a weird belief that if you’re sufficiently kitted out with enough baby equipment, it will somehow make you a more prepared, and therefore a better, parent.

Being a new parent it is normal to feel overwhelmed as it brings more joy and stress than you feel at about any other point in your life. However, in order to put your best foot forward as a parent, you must first ensure you take care of yourself. 

So, when it comes to self-care, your main goal should be to:


1. Eat well
Keep in mind that your body requires additional calories and nutrients. Good nutrition increases your mood and keeps you energized. As a result, get lots of protein, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids, and limit your sugar intake. Caffeine should be consumed only in the morning. This is especially true if you're breastfeeding because your body needs additional energy, so be kind to yourself and concentrate on eating healthy foods.

2. Drink water
This may seem self-evident, but many mothers are so preoccupied that they fail to stay hydrated. Hence to add some variation to your water, try placing lemon or cucumber slices in it. Carry a water bottle along with you at all times.

3. Get regular exercise
Exercising keeps you healthy, improves your mood,  provides you with more energy and better sleep, and also assists in your weight management — everything that a new parent requires. And if going to the gym isn't an option, consider walking or jogging with your baby in a jogging stroller, biking with your infant, or signing up for a local "mommy and me" exercise class. Furthermore, online workouts are a great way to stay fit at home, but you need to start slowly.

4. Guard your sleep
Plan to sleep in one day a week while a family member looks after your little one. To compensate for all the night feedings, try to coordinate your sleep with your baby's. Use an app like Relax Melodies to help you fall asleep faster by providing ambient sound. Also, some nursing mothers may find that co-sleeping allows them to feed on demand without having to get up.

5. Find some me-time
Permit yourself to let go, as it is critical for your emotional well-being. And take some time for yourselves at home by simply creating a cozy nook where you can unwind. Every day, spend some time doing something you enjoy like reading a magazine while soaking in a hot tub, or going through your social media feeds, making a cup of tea, or spending some time with your pet. You'll feel rejuvenated. Additionally, plants and natural light, as well as the relaxing sounds of a fireplace, bird feeder, fountain, or fish tank, or even a special chair or rug can also aid in the creation of a sense of "place."  

6. Enjoy the great outdoors
You would not believe how much sunshine and fresh air can lift your mood. So just strap your baby into a stroller and head to the park. Alternatively, a rocking chair or a porch swing can also be good, without going anywhere.

7. Get the help you need
One out of every 9 women suffers from postpartum depression, and even new dads can get depressed, too. Consult your doctor, if you're experiencing any of the following symptoms:
  • Feel worried, sad, or angry for more than a couple of weeks

  • Having no interest in the baby

  • Feeling unworthy

Your family and friends care about you and want to help, so when someone makes an offer, be clear about what you require, give them your shopping list, lend them a basket of laundry to fold, show them a place to empty the trash, but remember that it's fine if they don't do things the way you would.


8. Cut yourself some slack
Don't worry if your house is dirty or if you haven't shared any fresh baby photos on social media. While you focus on yourself and your kid, you have permission to let things slide.

9. Be kind to yourself and your partner
Parenting is a tough job, and to feel sad, negative, or angry sometimes, is normal. So don’t be too hard on yourself. Focus on the things you have control over and congratulate yourself and your partner on tiny accomplishments. Sometimes, a simple “You’ve got this” or “You’re doing great” means everything!

10. Use a parenting app
Whether it’s your first baby or you have witnessed a friend/family member go through it, trust us when we say that a little help can make ALL the difference for new parents. From receiving recommended activities, tips, reminders, tracking milestones, sharing photos, gaining access to a wide range of parenting articles and so much more, a parenting app is a must-have these days.

With Kindersteps, daily activity suggestions are designed specifically for your baby’s age and stage to support gross motor, cognitive, speech, sensory, self-care and social-emotional development. Watch your newborn grow and keep track of every accomplishment along the way.


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