Parenthood 101: Tips and Tricks for New Moms and Dads
NEWS FLASH: ALL PARENTS MAKE MISTAKES! The first lesson in Parenthood 101 is that every parenting experience is unique because every child is different. You can read books and listen to parenting podcasts, but it comes down to trusting your instincts. Only you know what’s best for your child and your family.
1: Learn Your Baby’s Cues
Recognizing the cues a baby gives for hunger, comfort, sleepiness, or diaper changing is essential. It also helps you establish a routine. Babies thrive on routine, and that enables you to maintain self-care.
In general, newborns sleep 17 or more hours each day. As they sleep less, you can interact with them more. Anywhere from 2 to 4 months is the perfect time to begin a routine.
2: Hold Your Baby Often
As you learn to respond to your baby’s cries, you help them know they can depend on you. Experts recommend having skin-to-skin time each day. Also known as “Kangaroo Care,” skin-to-skin time enables you to bond with your baby.
Kangaroo Care is also beneficial for the following:
- Stabilizes your baby’s heart rate
- Improves your baby’s breathing pattern
- Supports healthy sleeping
- Encourages growth
Don’t worry about holding your baby too much. It helps them feel safe.
3: Take Care of Yourself
Getting worn down with a new baby in the house is easy. The lack of sleep, schedule inconsistencies, and focusing on someone else’s constant needs impact your mood and ability to function.
Prioritize rest. Instead of doing the dishes or vacuuming the living room, rest when your baby sleeps. Sitting and relaxing for 15 minutes without your phone or another distraction can make a big difference.
Share the responsibility with others and take family members or close friends up on the invitation to help. When Mom and Dad rest, everything else runs smoother.
How Can Women’s Care Medical Center Assist Us?
Parenting support is one of our specialties. We provide resources, support, and services at no cost. Our goal is to equip you for successful parenting. Contact our Scheduling Line at 251-274-1151 or text 251-929-4702 to learn more about our available resources.
You can also schedule a free appointment online. Choose the nearest location, pick a time, and we’ll get back to you. Be the best parent you can be with help from Women’s Care Medical Center.
Pregnancy Testing
Even if you’ve taken a home pregnancy test, you should verify the results. We provide confidential, no-cost pregnancy testing to help you receive the answers you need.
Ultrasounds
A positive pregnancy test isn’t enough information to make an informed decision. An ultrasound scan can determine how far along you are, the pregnancy’s location, and if it’s viable.
STD Testing
Before making a decision about your unplanned pregnancy, it’s important to know if you have an STD. Take control of your health, get tested today, and receive the peace of mind you deserve!
Pregnancy Testing
Even if you’ve taken a home pregnancy test, you should verify the results. We provide confidential, no-cost pregnancy testing to help you receive the answers you need.
Ultrasounds
A positive pregnancy test isn’t enough information to make an informed decision. An ultrasound scan can determine how far along you are, the pregnancy’s location, and if it’s viable.
STD Testing
Before making a decision about your unplanned pregnancy, it’s important to know if you have an STD. Take control of your health, get tested today, and receive the peace of mind you deserve!
