helpful hints

Helpful Hints

Crying Baby?

Advice for frustrated parents

Caring for a newborn is one of the most rewarding and difficult tasks you will ever encounter. All babies cry, but I bet you never expected it would be so stressful. You might even start to question your abilities as a parent. You are not alone. Almost everyone goes through it. Whatever you do, make sure you know your limits and when it’s time to raise the white flag.

Never take your frustrations out on your baby! Please reach out to others. Talk to your mother, grandmother, sisters, mother-in-law, and friends. They can be the support team you desperately need. You are not meant to do this big job alone.

Know when to take a break for yourself. If your baby won’t stop crying and you have tried everything to comfort your baby, walk away. If your baby is safe in his or her crib and you need to calm down it’s ok to shut the door for a few minutes and let your baby dry.

Set boundaries for visitors. Your family and friends can’t wait to see the new baby but you need to tell them what time works best for you. Discourage drop-in visits. Get your rest when visitors do come and let them tend to the baby. That’s whom they really came to see!

Pay attention to your emotions. Don’t be afraid to tell your family if you are getting overwhelmed.

They won’t know if you don’t tell them.

It’s time to take care of you. Eating healthy now is more important than ever, especially if you are breastfeeding. Watch the caffeine and drink plenty of water.

If someone can watch the baby, get out of the house and go for a walk. Even a trip to the grocery store alone is a treat.

Workout a schedule with your partner and share nighttime duties. This will allow both of you to get much needed rest and share in the care of the baby. Getting the sleep you need is vital, so get it when you can. Sleep when your baby sleeps. You have to so quit feeling guilty about the laundry building up or the dirty dishes in the sink. Moreover, take the word perfect out of your vocabulary. There is no such thing, especially in raising children. Doing your best is all you should ask of yourself and of others. Ask your partner to help you!

So you don’t feel rushed, allow extra time if you need to go out with your baby. Everything takes longer now, so plan for it. Try not to over schedule yourself for a few weeks.

Pay attention to your relationship with your partner. The best gift you can give to your children is happy parents. Schedule date nights on a regular basis. Take advantage of babysitting offers from trusted friends and family.

Thank goodness this doesn’t last for too long. Babies grow up so stay positive!

Know when you are having trouble adjusting to your life with a newborn. Don’t be afraid to reach out to your health care provider for help. Be honest about what you are feeling.