Being a new parent is exciting. But let’s be honest, if you’re a first-time parent, it also can be a bit scary. You want to do everything you can to protect your little one and keep him healthy and happy. So it’s natural to worry whether you’re doing everything right. While it may be impossible to completely prevent new parent jitters, there are several things you can probably stop worrying about including the following:
- Reaching Baby Milestones on Schedule: You may have read all the baby books and learned when your baby should roll over, crawl, walk and say her first words. But babies have their own timeline. A combination of factors determines when your baby reaches certain milestones including genetics and temperament. While it’s important to recognize development delays, it’s also helpful to understand milestones are averages and have a wide range. If you remain concerned, just talk to your paediatrician about it.
- The Little Things: Yep, your baby will make a mess and laundry may climb the walls. Sometimes you’ll eat junk for dinner and your house may not be very tidy. But it’s not worth it to get stressed about the little things. Learning to chill a bit can prevent you from feeling overwhelmed and help you focus on what matters.
- Spoiling Your Baby: You may have been told if you hold your baby too much you will spoil her. But researchers have concluded during the first six months, you can’t spoil a baby. Babies at this age benefit from being comforted when they cry.
- Doing Everything Perfectly: Sure, you might know a parent who makes their own baby food, knits cute outfits and always looks like they have it together. But that’s the exception, not the rule. As a parent, there will be good days and days you’ll wonder if you’re doing it right. The good news is, you don’t have to be perfect to be a great mom or dad!
- What Other People Think: Everyone has an opinion about when to wean your baby, how to get her on a schedule and whether you should go back to work or stay at home. But what really matters is what you and your partner think. You won’t please everyone. Trust your instincts and do what’s best for you and your family.
- The Future: Sure, it’s normal to worry about whether you’ll be able to provide financially or if your little one will get into the best schools. But if you spend too much time worrying about the future, you may not enjoy the present. One day your baby will be three or seven or packing for college. It may sound cliché, but they really do grow up in the blink of an eye. Don’t be so busy thinking about tomorrow that you don’t live today.
Written by MaryAnn DePietro @writerlady34
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.
