5 Things Every New Mom Should Know

As a new mom, you know that caring for an infant can be both joyous and challenging. Unfortunately, parenting doesn't come with a manual, so it's normal for new moms to feel overwhelmed at times. However, with the right parenting tips, being a new parent can be made a little less daunting. Here are five useful parent tips to make the transition into motherhood easier.  

Tops Parenting Tips for New Moms

1. Create a Routine

Ranked first on our list of parenting tips is creating a routine. Why? Because routines provide structure and security for parents and babies alike. A good one will help keep track of feedings, diaper changes, naps (yours included!), and more throughout the day and night.

2. Get organized

Having everything you need within easy reach is essential when caring for an infant, especially during midnight feeds. Invest in a diaper bag and create an overnight kit with diapers, wipes, ointment, burp cloths, and extra pajamas so you don't have to make multiple trips around the house during the night.

3. Ask for help

Don't be afraid to ask family, friends, or neighbors for assistance while you adjust to parenting. Asking for help with chores such as laundry, grocery shopping, or meal preparation is perfectly acceptable as you settle into your new role, and it doesn't mean you are failing as a Mom! We'll let you in on a well-kept secret, most people (adoring baby fans) will be willing to lend a hand if offered a glimpse of the sleeping cherub! Furthermore, having someone else help with these tasks gives you much-needed downtime.

4. Take care of yourself

Make sure you are getting enough rest when your baby is napping, and take time for yourself each day. Try to do something that relaxes you, like taking a yoga class or going for a walk. It's important to take care of your physical and mental health so that you can be the best mom for your baby. Many moms agree that this is one of the most important tips for parents!

5. Connect with other moms

Bonding with other new moms can help reduce feelings of loneliness and provide you with emotional and physical support. Don't hesitate to reach out if you need someone to talk to!

Moms Truly Are Amazing!

Below are three amazing facts about mothers that might seem strange but are actually backed by research:

• Mothers have a sixth sense when it comes to their babies; they can smell their infant from six feet away! This is due to the chemical changes present in breast milk as well as hormonal changes during pregnancy (Grewen et al., 2005).

•  Newborns can recognize the smell of their mother's breast milk and the sound of her voice from birth (Lecanuet et al., 1987).

•  When a mother holds her baby, it lowers her cortisol levels and increases oxytocin (Condon & Boyce, 2009), which is why being close to your baby can feel so calming.

Final Thoughts

Finally, remember to trust your maternal instincts, no matter how many parenting tips you read. After all, Mothers really do know best!

References:

Condon, J., & Boyce, P. (2009). Intranasal oxytocin administration changes mothers' interactions with their infants. Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience, 4(3), 248-253. https://doi.org/10.1093/scan/nsp022

 Grewen KM, Girdler SS, Amico JA, et al.: "Effects of partner support on maternal physiology and behavior during the postpartum period" Dev Psychobiol (2005) 47:31–44

Lecanuet JP, Granier-Deferre C, Jacquet AY et al