I’ve got you covered with a list of first-time mom tips or some friend-to-friend advice for first-time moms. However, you want to look at it. Your friends and relatives share an awful lot with you when you finally decide to share you’re expecting. From kids’ gear, nursery items, and their feeding experience to childbirth. But during all that pre-planning for pregnancy, no one tells you the nitty and gritty of what to expect well after you’ve delivered.
Some may feel judged and others may find it too personal. For me, I struggle with the idea of perfection. I want people to know they are not alone; we are all dealing with some of the very same things. So, you need to leave your judgment behind.
There is no such thing as perfect. You will get upset; you may even raise your voice sometimes. Give yourself some grace. Parenting is hard work. Some days you’re going to feel like you are drowning and other days you will feel like you’re winning at motherhood and you probably are!
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First-Time Mom Checklist
Before we get into the good stuff I’ll start with basic newborn needs. So use this first-time mom checklist as you need to. You may want it all and you might want to leave out some things. Either or is ok. These are just first-time mom tips to help your preparation for pregnancy and beyond.
1. Nursery essentials: crib, changing table, rocking chair, and baby monitor.
2. Baby gear: stroller, car seat, diaper bag, and baby carrier.
3. Feeding supplies: bottles, breast pump, nursing pillow, and burp cloths.
4. Clothing essentials: onesies, sleepers, hats, socks, and swaddle blankets.
5. Diapering must-haves: diapers (disposable or cloth), wipes, diaper rash cream.
6. Health and safety items: thermometer, baby nail clippers or file, first aid kit.
7. Bathtime necessities: baby bathtub, washcloths, hooded towels.
8. Newborn care products: baby lotion, baby shampoo, baby bath wash.
9. Parenting books/resources for new moms.
10. Postpartum self-care items for mom: Nursing pads, postpartum recovery underwear, and nursing bras.
Check out by Baby Essentials Checklist.
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First-Time Mom Tips For First-Time Moms
- Privacy- It will be a long time coming before you can go to the bathroom alone again. Privacy, what is that? Everywhere you go they will be right at your heels following along. Turns out this helped a lot with potty training.
- ” Hey Mama”- You have waited months for your child to say, “Mama” now you want to change your name for a day!
- Patience- Parenting requires lots of patience. No one will test your inner gansta like these little humans. I mean seeing red or the colors of the rainbow as my husband describes it. They will have you putting your own self in a corner and counting to 10! Like when is bedtime?! And forget the terrible twos everyone talks about, three will give you a “run for your money”.
- The Little Guys- Boys are harder to keep alive! They have no fear. They climb on anything, they try to jump off everything, then fall only to want to do it all over again. You are constantly in savior mode.
- Housekeeping- You will clean up all day long. It is a battle of cleaning in the moment or letting your child enjoy the colorful mess they have created and worry about it later. You may find yourself complaining about needing to clean often, but you probably will never complain about the joyful moments that were created during the mess.
- Looking For Greatness- The overwhelming feeling of just wanting to get it right all the time. Trying to be the parent you may not have had. Not wanting to create the same dysfunction you may have experienced growing up. Wanting to be the best parent you can possibly be. Listen! It’s no accident, you were chosen to be your child’s mother. They need you; they trust you and feel safe and secure with you. Honor that! Show up every single day as your best self but do not forget the importance of self-care.
- Our Little Secrets- I saved the best one for last! Hemorrhoids- the rite of passage into motherhood! You hear all about them during pregnancy well some pregnant moms do not want to talk about that either. No judgment here! No person, no book, no doctor not even in nursing school does anyone tell you hemorrhoids can come well after having a baby and there you are walking around like, “something doesn’t feel right”. Ha-ha. Don’t you dare ask your partner to take a peek? J/K. Off to the doctor’s office, you go like, “Umm”.
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Being a first-time mom can be both exciting and overwhelming. Remember to trust your instincts, ask for help when you need it, and give yourself grace as you navigate this new journey. Each day is a learning experience, and with time and some practice, you will become more confident in your role as a mother. Cherish the moments with your little one, lean on your support system, and most importantly, enjoy this time together. Come back to this post if you need a reminder of some first-time mom tips. You’ve got this mama!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What do first-time moms struggle with?
There are a few things first-time moms often struggle with. One common struggle that many new moms face is the lack of sleep. You are absolutely exhausted during the first few months. Babies have their own schedules.
Another challenge for first-time moms is the constant feeling of responsibility. Suddenly being in charge of another human being’s well-being can be intimidating, well downright scary. And many of us constantly worry about whether we’re doing everything right. Remember, it’s okay to make mistakes.
Finding time for yourself can be a struggle too for first-time mothers. Between feedings, diaper changes, and trying to keep up with your household, it can feel like there is never a moment to relax or take care of your own needs. Remember that self-care is important too.
What not to say to a first-time mom?
1. “You should have your pre-baby body back in no time!”
2. “Are you sure you’re doing that right?”
3. “You look tired, maybe you should get more sleep.”
4. “When are you going back to work?”
5. “Don’t worry, it’s just a phase.”
6. “You’re so lucky to stay home all day and be with your baby.”
7. “Why aren’t you breastfeeding? It’s the best you can do for your baby.”
8. “You’re going to spoil your baby by holding them so much.”
10. “When are you going to have another one?”
What do first-time moms need the most?
First, sleep! Yes, I know it may seem impossible with all the late-night feedings and diaper changes, but rest is crucial for both you and your baby’s well-being.
Support, whether it’s from your partner, family members, or mom friends, having someone to lean on during this new chapter of motherhood is everything. Look for local mommy groups or online communities where you can connect with other moms.
How do I prepare to be a first-time mom?
It’s important to take care of yourself both physically and mentally. Attend your prenatal appointments, eat a healthy diet, stay active (if approved by your doctor), and get plenty of rest.
Educating yourself about pregnancy, childbirth, and newborn care is a great way to prepare for motherhood. You can take prenatal classes or read books to feel more confident. But just know none of these compare to the actual events.
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