If you’re expecting, you’re probably wondering how you can best prepare for your baby. This might not be your first rodeo, but every pregnancy and child is unique and special. You might feel like you’re in the trenches alone, even if your partner is caring and doting. If you’re seriously feeling the impulse to nest, the go with it, Mama Bird. You know what you need best, and the rest, you can fill in the blank with your mother’s intuition. If you need a little guidance on what to focus on next, here are a few hints for soon-to-be mothers.
Pamper yourself when you can.
You’re literally growing another life inside of you. That’s hard work mentally, physically, and emotionally. If there’s ever a time to let others treat you like royalty, it’s right now. Take up the space you deserve and need. Yes, you’re saving up for your baby’s future, but make sure you’re still spending money on yourself when you need it.
Pregnancy comes with a lot of aches and pains. You might also find your level of anxiety’s considerably higher, especially as your pregnancy progresses. Treat yourself to a pregnancy massage to help you unwind and find some peace of mind. There are specialists who see pregnant women all day long. Helping you on your journey is their passion and they’ll know just what you need. Good moms know how to take care of themselves as well as their children. You deserve a little extra love right now so book an appointment today.
Plan ahead for when your hands are full.
Your bundle of joy is going to keep you very busy pretty much from the second that he or she arrives. This is particularly true while you’re breastfeeding. Breastfeeding can be compared to a full-time job when you break it down into the hours spent each week. Obviously, your baby comes first, but you still need to be able to get other important things done too – like your career – once maternity leave ends.
In order to be able to work while you pump, a hands free pumping bra is a must-have as a new mom. It’s important when you’re shopping for one to find a pumping bra that can change with you as your body transitions post-pregnancy. Not all women’s bodies are alike. That’s what makes them so beautiful! Find a pumping bra that has the option of a center panel, so you can adjust the bra to fit comfortably.
Find a stroller that fits your lifestyle.
It would be nice if every stroller on the market fit all of your needs. Unfortunately, that’s wishful thinking. Some strollers are great for urban moms, while others are better for soccer moms who have to load and unload kids from the car. Some strollers are better for jogger moms, while others are good for moms with twins.
It can be difficult to decipher what the best option is for you. That’s why with Stroller Buzz you don’t have to do any guesswork. Stroller Buzz is a website made for parents so that they can easily compare types of strollers across brands and even compare strollers within the same brand. Their charts break it all down into easy categories, like what the stroller is suitable for, what its key features are, and if it’s in your price range. It’s truly never been simpler.
Get some extra support.
Being a new mom can feel isolating if you don’t have a great support system around you. Even if your family is wonderful, it might be nice to talk to other women who are in the same situation as you. Find a mommy group that’s local and chat with them. If groups aren’t your style, just reach out to someone else that you know who’s pregnant. Having someone who really understands can be monumental. It also might mean you have the start of a playgroup.
Follow Your Gut
You’re going to hear a lot of different opinions about how you should raise your baby. Remember that ultimately, it’s your choice. You decide whether you want to breast or bottle-feed. You decide on your child’s bedtime. If people are being pushy, let it roll off your back. The only person you need to collaborate with is your partner on the rearing of your child.
Anna Marikar, mum of four and seasoned blogger, has spent over a decade sharing her parenting journey and passion for kid-friendly crafts and free printables.
Her easy-to-follow craft ideas and practical parenting advice have transformed In The Playroom into a cherished resource for parents.