12 Insights Gained in Just Six Weeks of New Parenthood

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Being a new parent is no stroll in the park. You’ve probably waded through a mountain of books and articles offering conflicting advice, not to mention the well-meaning but often bewildering suggestions from friends and family. Sometimes, it feels like raising a baby is an exercise in futility. So, let me toss in my two cents on what I’ve actually found helpful, amusing, or just plain true during my first six weeks as a brand-new mom.

  1. Nothing will unfold the way you anticipate—good or bad. In just six weeks since my son was born, we spent a week in the NICU because of a minor infection, I discovered I couldn’t breastfeed, our car’s battery died unexpectedly, and my partner developed a temporary eye condition that left him looking like a pirate. So, good luck with your plans!
  2. Babies couldn’t care less about what any parenting manual says they should do.
  3. All those tips about how to lay your baby down on their back in a perfectly flat crib? Yeah, that only works for the ideal baby—who likely doesn’t have reflux or a strong desire to be close to you. Spoiler alert: most babies do. So be ready to adjust your expectations.
  4. Your living space will transform into a chaotic landscape of baby gear, both used and unused. It’ll look like a mini version of Mad Max, with a lot of items you thought you needed but your little one despises. Like, say, the expensive bassinet.
  5. Baby poop comes out at an astonishing speed—like a rocket launching into space. Honestly, it’s pretty hilarious, even when it ends up on you.
  6. After feedings, babies enter a state of “milk-drunk.” It’s simply delightful.
  7. Find a pediatrician you can reach out to with all your silly questions because trust me, you’ll have plenty, and they’ll help you feel like less of a clueless parent.
  8. The love you feel for your child is immense, but so is the weight of responsibility. It can feel overwhelming at times, but you’ll manage (and hopefully only check to see if they’re breathing every five minutes instead of every two).
  9. Babies are adorable, but they also make some pretty strange faces that could rival classic movie villains.
  10. Create a playlist of shows to watch during those late-night feedings to keep yourself awake. I recommend comedies like Parks and Recreation since they fit the perfect time frame for keeping a reflux baby upright post-feeding.
  11. Seriously, prioritize your own well-being; otherwise, you’ll be of no use to your little one. It’s totally okay to put them down for a bit.
  12. I have a feeling that after another six weeks of this parenting gig, I’ll have a whole new set of discoveries—none of us really knows what we’re doing, right?

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Summary

Parenting is unpredictable and filled with surprises, from the chaotic environment of baby gear to the reality of late-night feedings. Embrace the journey, seek help when you need it, and remember to take care of yourself during this new adventure.