Advice for new mothers –from a father

There is so much advice out there for new moms that you probably find it
hard to take it all in. Having said that, would you kindly indulge me, as a father, to offer a few tips of my own?
Firstly, don’t cram the crib. Stacks of baby paraphernalia can look adorable, but too many toys and other objects can be over-stimulating and, even downright dangerous.

As a mom, the chances are you are great at taking care of others, but not so wonderful when it comes to taking care of yourself.

Even allowing for the fact that life is now SO busy, don’t omit to look after yourself. You wouldn’t feed your baby crisps and Coke for lunch, so why are you doing that to yourself. Find 20 minutes in your day to prepare yourself a good, healthy meal – or ask someone else to.
Thirdly, don’t compare. Remember, every baby is unique and special. Some cry a lot, others do not. Some reach “milestones” on time, others do not. Relax – your baby will get there in her own time! As always, go to your paediatrician with any
major developmental concerns.
Fourthly, let dad help. Sure, he can’t breastfeed, but he can do just about everything else. Make a concerted effort to include him.
Routines are helpful — but trying to stick to a military-style schedule will make everyone miserable. You’ll end up fighting to put the baby to bed when she’s not tired or keeping her up when she’s pooped. Outings can get tricky if you can’t deviate from “the schedule.”
The Fix
Fifthly, don’t be too wrapped up in all your chores not to find the time to actually enjoy being with your baby. Take a few minutes each day to count your blessings.
They are many.
Lastly, don’t try and be a supermom. Accept all offers of help. Let others do the dishes, and cook the family dinner. After all,  babies benefit from more that one caregiver.
In closing, let me say this: chill. Don’t panic. You are not perfect. Who is? Be YOU, and enjoy every second with the very special little human being you brought
into the world.

Contributor – Collette Merritt lives in Cape Town with her Husband,
two Daughters and two of the cutest kitties in all of the world! Collette
loves to share the delights of travel and exploration with her husband and
children, to introduce new foods to the family and she loves a bit of bling.
Collette’s passions are writing, empowering people, being real and laughter
(as often as possible), which she incorporates in her blog zenith-thinking.blogspot.
co.za. Being Pregnant or a New Mom can truly be overwhelming, but it can also be very
precious … a time in your life to slow down a little, work in natures time, to nurture both
yourself and baby … because these early years fly by.