1. The long road to ‘normality’
Give yourself time to adjust to the new ‘normal’! It can take a while before you feel like you're back on solid ground. And if you never quite get there, that's okay too.
2. Surviving the Bedtime Routine (and Thriving After)
The first year can feel like a never-ending road especially when establishing a bedtime routine. But once your little one settles into their sleep schedule, you’ll appreciate the effort. Enduring a year of repetition paves the way for countless nights of peace and quiet. Trust me, its worth it!
3. Daytime Naps: Embrace Flexibility
And whilst we are on the topic of sleep. While it may seem like everyone else has it all figured out, don't stress if your baby resists napping during the day. Trying to force it can lead to unnecessary frustration. Instead, engage with your little one, keep them entertained, and they'll eventually drift off. A deviation from the routine here and there won't derail everything - I even asked a sleep coach. So don't sweat it.
4. Lean on your partner (& basically everyone else around you)
If you have a partner, allow them to contribute in their own way (even if it's a little different from yours!) Everyone will survive, and you'll get some much-needed "me" time or an extra nap. Always ask for help when needed. It truly does take a village. If you can afford it, don't hesitate to seek assistance, especially if family isn't nearby. If you haven’t heard of a postnatal doula, google it. I wish I had known about this service!
5. Baby TV and snacks: Lifesavers
Sometimes you need ‘hey bear’, sometimes you need ‘cocomelon’ and you need them on repeat and that is ok. Other times you need to give your baby snack after snack after snack and that is also ok. As @mummysmental says drop the idea of perfectionism and embrace the journey!
6. Quality over quantity with toys
Your house doesn’t need to be filled with toys. Work out what is developmentally appropriate and focus on those. Shameless plug: W&F website will help - our toys will be labelled by age and skill.
7. The power of a shower
Take a moment for yourself each morning. Every. Single. Day. Even if it's just five minutes, a hot shower can work wonders for resetting your mindset. P.S this doesn’t count as ‘me time’ - you need that too!
8. The cleaning can wait
Took a while for me to accept this one but seriously, it's not a priority right now. Easier said than done but don’t sweat the small stuff. In the grand scheme of things, it's not worth stressing over. The pile of washing isn’t doing any harm on the bed.
9. Fresh air is essential
Make it a daily habit to get outside, even if it's just a quick trip around the block. Even better if you can catch up with a friend at the same time. My mum friends have been lifesavers this year <3
10. You need these items
Stock up on Calpol, snuffle babes products, Nespresso capsules, wine, and chocolate. Trust me, you'll thank yourself later. Ps. Podcasts became my best friend this year. Night feeds were so much easier with ‘Two New Mums’ If you haven’t listened already - check it out on spotify!
A love like no other
Finally, parenting has bought a love that's unparalleled. Despite the phases and challenges, my heart has overflowed with unconditional love every single day. My trivial worries have faded away as I have focused on what truly matters: my gorgeous little boy. I have learnt to remember to prioritise myself too amidst it all and I am so very grateful for the support I have received from all of my family and friends. I’d love to hear from you. How was your first year?
