1. Everybody has an opinion: When my wife and I had our first child in February, we quickly learned that everyone has an opinion on parenting. And they’re not afraid to offer it! Some of the advice is good, some of it gives you a headache. The key is to be openminded to listening, but staying focused on what’s important to you and your family. Older generations tend to offer suggestions that were widely used during their time. Typically it will contradict what your pediatrician has suggested. Just thank them for their thoughts, and say we have decided to follow our doctor’s suggestions for now.

2. Sleep when you can: I’m sure you’ve all heard people say, “You won’t be sleeping anymore”. Well, this statement couldn’t be more true. Lack of sleep doesn’t begin to explain the reality of it. You will soon find out that the end of one feeding, seems to be followed by the beginning of the next feeding. By the time you get comfortable to go to sleep, something happens where you have to get up. The key is to work as a team, taking turns and allowing your partner to take a nap or get some sleep, whenever possible. If your partner isn’t available, try to get a family member to come over and give you a hand. Getting rest is very important, because you start to go crazy from sleep deprivation. I know, as a parent, it won’t be easy to sleep, because you will be worrying about your child. Even if you lay down and close your eyes to rest, it will be very helpful relieve some of your stress. Trust me, you will feel much better in the long run.

3. Document your child’s ins and outs: Although it is not that exciting, and it’s easy to forget, documenting your child’s food intake, urinations, and bowel movements is very important. It not only helps you keep track, but it is valuable information to your doctor. They want to know how much food the baby is getting, and how much is leaving the body. Making sure your baby’s insides are working properly, and they are getting enough nourishment. Also, it is one of the first steps of being a parent, experiencing that responsibility factor. My wife and I use a small, spiral, memo notebook, about 3×5 inches in size. Across the top we have four headings: Time, Amount (Food), Pee, Poop. Every time we feed him, we write the time and amount of food. If you change the diaper when you feed them, then mark down any pee or poop with a check mark. Otherwise, when you change them, write the time and check mark what you find in the diaper. This activity of record keeping really catapults you into the realm of parenthood. It takes you to your first level of responsibility, and begins creating that bond and feeling of protection for your child. Enjoy every minute!

4. Get out of the house, it’s not a jail: In the beginning, it’s very easy to stay in your home. You’re tired, sore, scared, and many other feelings that make you want to stay home. However, as soon as you feel better, and get clearance from your doctor, get out of the house! It’s crucial to interact with the outside world, such as friends, family, hobbies, etc. Obviously, you want to take every precaution to protect your baby, just don’t use that fear as an excuse to stay in. It is vital for your sanity, and recovery from childbirth to make this step outside. If you stay inside all the time, you begin to feel trapped and detached from your previous life. Just because you had a child doesn’t mean that your life gets put on hold. It just changes to a different station on your radio of life. There are many benefits to getting out of the house, so get out there, show off your baby, and enjoy your new life.

5. Don’t be afraid to ask for help: Everyone feels independent, like they have the ability to conquer the world. Trust me, we all need help at some point and time. So don’t be afraid or embarrassed to ask for help. Remember, these people who have children, that you might be asking for help, went through the same thing you’re going through. A good friend or family member should be honored to help you, especially if you ask them. Anything is helpful, from cleaning, grocery shopping, cooking (or take out), babysitting, taking a walk with you, anything that might be helpful. The comfort of knowing you have help really takes the pressure down a notch or two. It is easy to become overwhelmed with responsibilities, and truthfully it is a lot  of responsibility. So don’t be afraid to ask for help, and more importantly, don’t refuse any help when it is offered.

I hope these thoughts have been helpful, and you thoroughly enjoy your knew life as a parent and a family.