When my youngest son turned one years old at the end of June, I felt we should be celebrating me, too.
I have three young children, and of all of the first years, this one was the most challenging. Mostly, because my kids are so close in age.
No matter how many children you have, that first year does go by fast, even though some nights seem never-ending.
As a three-time mom, I’ve learned a thing or two about what to let go and what’s really important in the days and months after a baby is born. I like to think of it as my own Formula for Happiness.
I wanted to share some tips I’ve received or discovered that helped me keep my cool and my baby happy during their first few months of life.
It’s totally normal for it to take an entire day to try to shower or do anything else. Time slips away quickly with a new baby in the beginning. Just get to it when you can. In the meantime, just focus on you and that happy baby of yours.
On that note….
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. A lot of people will offer to do something for you once you get home from the hospital. Let them. I know you might feel like it’s putting them out, but trust me, they would not offer if they weren’t happy to do it. You would return the favor I’m sure, so if they’re willing to empty your dishwasher or run an errand for you, use that time to cuddle your baby or just sit still.
Sunlight and exercise are good for you and baby. Going for a walk while baby is in a stroller or carrier is a great idea. It gives your little one a chance to nap and you some exercise. Research has shown that sunlight and exercise can lift a person’s mood, so why not go on a mini adventure.
Help baby bond with Dad. Baby should have some alone time with Dad. And that’s not just to give you a break, but so they can begin their bonding. My husband, thankfully, is a hands-on dad, but it was great to have him up overnight sometimes. Before my youngest baby woke to nurse, my husband would get up and change the baby’s diaper. Just that small act helped those middle of the night feedings. Dads are always great at making silly faces, too!
Putting your child to bed late does not mean a later wake up time. Kids have an amazing internal clock and will most likely wake up their normal time regardless. According to sleep experts, infants and babies do best with a bedtime between 7:30 and 8:00 p.m. Later bedtimes have shown to have a negative effect on children’s attitudes and their ability to focus, and can result in instances of early rising.
In fact, Gerber® Good Start® Gentle knows that good sleep–for your baby and your family—is an important part of your family’s new journey and getting support every step of the way really helps.
For moms who need it, Gerber® Good Start® Gentle is offering a Certified Sleep Consultant for your little one’s needs.
You can make a free appointment with their new certified baby sleep consultant, or with a nutritionist or certified lactation consultant at gerber.com/experts. This awesome service is brought to you by Gerber® Good Start® Gentle.
As us moms know, or if you’re pregnant, you’ll soon find out… there are many unknowns during the first few months of a baby’s life, but every mom finds her way through somehow.
What’s your formula for happiness during baby’s first few months of life?