Being first-time parents could be exciting, but at the same time, it can also be seriously anxiety-inducing for many. This may not be the case for everyone, but some parents, especially single moms and dads could be having it a lot harder. They’re diving headfirst to uncharted waters, doing so all on their own. You’d always want what’s best for your child, but that’s kind of hard to accomplish since you don’t really have any before-hand experience in taking care of an infant.
Some of you may have attended a parenting class or training for upcoming first-time parents, but it’s so much different when you’re already holding a real live baby instead of a plastic one. There isn’t much room for mistakes and you have to be extra careful. You may find yourself a little bit skeptical about every action you make, and you doubt your own decisions because you aren’t sure of what you’re doing. It could be frustrating at first, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be doing things automatically like it’s a natural reflex. With that being said, here are some tips to help first-time parents boost their confidence in taking care of their babies.
Don’t Panic
Babies are sensitive and fragile. New and unfamiliar experiences in the outside world can frighten or irritate them. This can cause them to throw a fit and cry every so often and it can be frustrating for first-time parents who don’t know how to handle them. You will also experience your baby throwing tantrums when they don’t get what they want, and you end up not knowing what to do because you don’t really understand what they’re trying to say. You worry that they might be experiencing some kind of pain and you’re not even aware of it.
Calm yourself and be patient. Don’t let your emotions get the best of you. Think of everything that may have caused their tantrum and address them one by one until you finally get the right one. Panicking will only cause you to prolong both you and your child’s agony.
Baby’s Milk
Breastfeeding can be easy for some moms, but not so much for others. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Most hospitals have lactation consultants you can approach to help you with your breastfeeding struggles. When you get the hang of it, let your baby breastfeed whenever they want for it can cause some negative effects on your supply. Additionally, don’t worry about running out of milk because the more you feed your baby, the more you’ll produce.
Learn how to latch as well. Having your baby and their mouth’s grasp on your nipple in the proper position can prevent sores and damages on them. This can also help your child get the most milk.
However, some women cannot breastfeed, but do not worry. Breast milk may be the most recommended, but baby formulas are created as an alternative option for mommies who cannot breastfeed or need to supplement with baby formula every so often. Have a consultation with your pediatrician so that you will be able to get the right milk as well as the number and amount per bottle a day.
Sleep when your baby sleeps
When your baby’s awake, it can get exhausting tending to all their needs. It’s not much of a problem for parents with babies that are pretty shy and naturally well-behaved. Some parents would consider it a blessing because they wouldn’t give them that much of a hard time. However, this isn’t the case for all parents.
When your baby finally falls asleep, don’t get too excited about it. Some parents would let out a sigh of relief and then immediately think about all of the things they can finally do. Hold that thought because that might be not such a good idea. When your baby wakes up again, you won’t have enough energy to get back at it. Try to sleep when your baby is sleeping because that might be the only rest you’ll have and the means to regain your sanity. This way, you’ll have more energy to better take care of your baby.
Don’t Be Afraid to Seek Help
Some first-time parents tend to get shy or embarrassed when they have something to ask about regarding their baby. Some hold themselves back for the fear that they’ll be shamed for not knowing such things, and some just feel like it would be better if they just figure it out on their own. We get it. It’s understandable. However, this doesn’t have to be the case for you or anyone. You shouldn’t be afraid to ask questions and for help. Know that it is okay and it is normal for someone to lack information about something you just encountered for the first time.
Don’t shy away from asking your own parents or other relatives. You can even try asking your fellow mothers and fathers in your neighborhood. If you’re too shy to ask in person, an option would be joining a chat room for moms and dads. There, you’ll be able to freely ask anything and everything you want, as well as receive other tips to better take care of your child. There are so many other mommies and daddies out there, some more experienced than others, that are willing to help you. You are not alone in this.
These are just some of the tips you can take into consideration as a first-time parent. These can help you a lot in easing slowly to the parent life. It can be difficult for some or even most parents out there, but that’s the thing. Being a parent requires a lot of sacrifices but in the end, it’ll all be worth it because you’re doing it for the ones you love. However, the most helpful advice would be to trust your own instincts. You may be a first-time parent but nothing beats a parent’s intuition and natural response. As long as it’s not a high-risk decision, stop doubting yourself. Be confident with yourself. You got this!
