The first three months of a baby’s life are unarguably the most exhausting. Although it’s never easy at any age to look after a human being, those first few moments of a child’s life can be especially trying on your mind, body, and sanity. Babies don’t come out of the womb naturally capable of sleeping longer stretches than a few hours at a time. Unfortunately for you, that means interruptions of your sleep all night long and juggling their sleep schedule during the day.
Once you make it past the first three months, it usually gets easier. The trick is making it through in the meantime. If you’re the parent of a newborn, then take a look at these key tips for surviving those often grueling the first three months.
Sleep When Your Baby Sleeps
A lot of people hear this advice and laugh at it. After all, it isn’t very realistic when you’ve got an overflowing hamper full of laundry and a sink full of dishes.
It’s natural to want to catch up on housework during those precious moments of napping. However, it can be dangerous to run yourself too thin. Sleep deprivation is a real health risk. It would be unimaginable if you were to get into a car accident from falling asleep at the wheel, or injure your baby due to a lack of coordination. Take the age-old advice of napping when your baby naps and leave the laundry for later!
Stay Social
Don’t believe the hype that says once you have kids. Your life has to end! Having a social life is more important than ever. Set aside some time for some much-needed friend time. It can be as simple as setting up a coffee date while your baby naps in the stroller. It may be only an hour or two, but it will do you a world of good!
Share Duties With Your Spouse
It’s vital that both parents chip in. Just because your spouse is working doesn’t mean what you’re doing at home isn’t work too. It’s 2020, and the times they are a-changing! Both parents should be an active part of their baby’s upbringing, from diaper changes to feedings at night! The more duties that you share, the less crazy you’ll feel!
If you’ve never had a baby before, you may find yourself at some point during the first few months, wondering if it will ever end. It can be difficult to make it through the day without falling asleep or stressing about your ever-growing pile of to-dos. However, over time, it will become more manageable. Just follow these tips and remember that this too shall pass!
Leave a Reply