Preparing for motherhood can feel overwhelming. It is a new journey, but one full of love! Check out these awesome checklists and tips to help you prepare for the first few months of parenthood.
When you’re a kid, you expect that one day someone will wave a magic wand, and you’ll just become a “grown-up” overnight. As we get into our twenties, though, it becomes clear that it’s a much more gradual process. I’ve read about teenagers with more financial sense than me, and middle-aged people with serious Peter Pan syndrome.
If you’re not sure where you are on the scale, here are some signs that you’re finally growing up. However, there is one more step when it comes to getting pregnant and starting a new journey of motherhood. So what should you consider when preparing for motherhood?
Preparing For Motherhood: Checklists And Tips
Mentally. Physically. Spiritually. A lot goes on, and hormones begin very early on, which puts pressure on our bodies and the way we think. We can feel lethargic, stressed, and often overwhelmed, but this is OK. You are never alone.
So when we think of the first checklists for our babies, we should start them in order of importance. What comes first and what matters the most. Supplies. Clothing. Enough mental support.
Being a new mother can be difficult and lead to depression, but with the right help, you do not have to feel so anxious. Let’s break it down further to give you all the checklists you need for baby to make sure you’re prepared, on the ball, and ready to rock!
Start With Feeding Supplies
When it comes to feeding, your newborn will drink a lot of milk, so if you’re breastfeeding, then you will need to think of what you need to assist that, and if you’re not breastfeeding, you need to make sure you have formula. Formula is good to have regardless of how you choose to feed your baby.
- Lots of bibs.
- Burp cloths.
- Breast pump.
- Milk storage containers
- Nursing pillow.
- Nursing bras (you should buy one cup size larger than your pregnant bra size)
- Breast pads (disposable or washable – you can go eco friendly if you should wish!)
- Lotion for sore nipples.
The Other Essentials
Now that the feeding is taken care of, you should look at what else is on the first checklist for your baby. Bear in mind that a lot of things can be bought as you go and also thriftily. Let’s take a look at the items that need to be looked at first.
Your baby will last in their initial clothes for at least the first three months, relatively comfortably, but it’s good to ask for clothes for three months onwards at your baby shower.
- Clothes – you can easily buy baby clothes thriftily because, from three months onwards, they will start outgrowing their clothes quickly, try to be thrifty and save money where you can.
- Car seat – this will need to be compliant with road safety.
- Food – your baby will start eating solids or part solids at around six months onwards, so be sure to buy a range of baby foods to see which ones your baby likes the most.
- Blankets – lots of blankets will help your baby feel secure when you aren’t holding them. Have a range of blankets, if you don’t know the sex, white and lemon work well!
- Crib or bassinet- babies can comfortably lie in a Moses basket in your room nearby them or a designated nursery. As long as it is safe and secure, your baby will sleep soundly.
- Stroller or baby carrier – for strolls out and about. Even if you feel uncomfortable doing this alone, try and do it with your partner, or a friend or family member, it will be good for both mother and baby.
- Diapers- these will need to be plentiful, you will go through a lot!
What To Expect As A Parent
Every woman’s journey is different. Some mothers face harder journeys than others, but they are all valid, and every problem is something new to deal with. Sometimes our babies are diagnosed with a physical or mental disability, which can change the entire complexion of your journey.
Science proves becoming a mother for the first time is generally more intense both physically and emotionally than after the firstborn. This is natural, and life is unexpected.
You will find that your personality adapts to your life as a mother, things will become less important and your baby will become the most important thing to you. You will find that you become a very protective and stronger person, on the whole, putting your love and efforts into your baby.
If you own a pet, especially a large dog, it’s important to take some precautions before bringing your newborn home. Since dogs are a common household pet, getting them prepared long before you are due is essential for getting them accustomed to your new family member. If you have been holding off getting your dog spayed or neutered you should go ahead and get the procedure done as soon as possible.
Having your pet fixed can make them less aggressive and solve many behavioral issues. Your pets health and well being can have an impact on your newborn, be sure to make sure your dog’s vaccines are all up to date and they have had a general wellness examination before bringing your newborn home from the hospital.
If your dog has a history of aggression or shows signs of anxiety it’s important to discuss this with your veterinarian, routine appointments and special training can be used to manage and often resolve behavioral issues in dogs that could be dangerous to newborns.
Moving Around And Getting Out Again
When you have had a baby, naturally, at some point, life must return to normal, or at least a version of it, that gives everyone a better routine. Of course, one thing that needs to be done is the baby registry.
You must register your child’s birth and provide them with a name, to make it official. Some of the items that you might need will change as time goes on, but it’s good to get out with a baby, as it will make you feel more confident and more comfortable getting them around and less nervous as you may have been at first.
Preparing for motherhood includes many items, but not every item available is needed. These items are the ones most parents use and enjoy many benefits from!
Beneficial Items For Parents
- Diaper bag – one that is comfortable to keep on your shoulder and will be easy to manage.
- Travel system – who will drive, and if you do not drive, do you have the right equipment to handle on public transport.
- Bouncy chair – this provides a lot of entertainment for them and also helps their muscles grow and develop.
- Video baby monitor – see what baby is doing all the time, if they’re trying to climb out of their cot, if they’re doing anything dangerous, you can be very aware of their actions all the time.
- Baby carrier – a front or back carrier for baby, whichever seems the most sense for your lifestyle.
- Teething toys – babies tease towards six months or thereabouts.
- Burp cloths – they will be messy after feeding, so be prepared!
According to most pediatric health experts, infants can be taken out in public or outside right away, just days after they are born. You will need to provide some safety measurements. There’s no need to wait until six weeks or two months of age because getting out will help build up their immune systems.
A newborn shouldn’t be taken out too regularly, though, as their immune system is still developing. Some doctors prefer parents to wait until their baby is a few months old before going to crowded public places, though, but parks should be OK. Get vaccines when they are due, it will be available to you, and you should be informed by your GP when they are upcoming.
Is Fresh Air Good For Babies?
A daily dose of fresh air helps babies to sleep longer at night and may help them during nap times. It will be good for their general help and can allow their brains to develop with what they say during their time outdoors. Babies are active in light and fresh air, which will help them grow well.
If your child is born with some type of illness or disability, then you may want to seek advice first. Autism is a common developmental disability that can range from mild to severe. Birth injuries are also a factor many parents face after the birth of their child.
The key thing to know though, is that you are never alone! If your child is diagnosed with autism, there is nothing to stop you from still enjoying a healthy and happy journey with your child.
Preparing For Motherhood
It takes a lot to be a mother, but it’s well worth the journey! Make sure to check out parenting articles for more tips for being the best parent you can be. Also, make sure to subscribe to our email list below!
