You’ve got nine months to gear up for your little one’s arrival, but you could spend a lifetime diving into every book and guide about caring for a newborn. The bookstores are filled with how-to manuals aimed at helping expectant parents feel like they’re ready for the big day. But honestly, how much do these resources truly prepare you for the chaos that unfolds when your bundle of joy finally arrives? I devoured these books like they were the ultimate guide to life, highlighting key sections and jotting down notes. But guess how many times I referenced that knowledge during sleepless nights and messy diaper changes? Not once.
Why? Because bringing home a newborn is like jumping onto the wildest rollercoaster ride imaginable. You can read all about it, but until you’re strapped in and the ride begins, you have no idea what to expect.
So here’s the one thing I really wish someone had told me before I became a parent—something every new mom could use as a mantra during those 3 a.m. meltdowns when your baby just won’t settle: It’s perfectly fine to just wing it.
From the moment you walk through your front door with your newborn, you’ll be improvising. It doesn’t matter how many parenting books you’ve read or how many classes you’ve attended. Every little task, from diaper changes to figuring out the best way to wrap your baby in a swaddle, will involve some trial and error. And that’s totally okay.
Your baby is not going to behave like your neighbor’s child, your best friend’s little one, or even how your own parents described you as a newborn. You will have to experiment to find the right way to hold, soothe, burp, and feed your baby. Some techniques will come from the books, while others will be the result of sheer desperation and creativity. And that’s just fine.
You’ll encounter a parade of unsolicited advice from family and friends. Your in-laws might suggest you’re cradling the baby incorrectly, your cousin could chime in about your swaddling technique, and even that old schoolmate you bump into at the grocery store will have thoughts on how warm your baby should be dressed. While some advice might be helpful, remember that you’re the expert on your own baby. No one knows your little one like you do. You’re the one who sees them every moment of every day, so trust your instincts on how to hold, dress, and care for your child.
Those initial weeks at home? That’s your time to experiment and discover your baby’s unique rhythm. You’re going to mess up, make mistakes, and find yourself frustrated when the baby books don’t seem to work. But guess what? You’ve got to just wing it. Step away from the manuals, the online tutorials, and the well-meaning spectators who are just waiting to critique your every move. This is your baby, and you are their mom. Even if you’ve never held a newborn before, no one is more qualified to care for yours.
It’s natural to feel scared and question your decisions most of the time, but through a mix of trial and error, celebrations, and moments of tears, you can do this, new parent. So buckle up, embrace the unpredictability, and enjoy the ride.
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In summary, preparing for a new baby is an exhilarating journey filled with unpredictability. Remember, it’s okay to wing it and trust your instincts as you navigate the joys and challenges of parenthood.