Since the New Year has finally arrived, I started thinking about what I would’ve loved to have known before I became a new mom. As you may or may not know from previous posts, I had done research on what it might be like for me having a disability and being a mom as much as I could through books but, looking back now, I’ve learned some things as the years have gone on, that not only would’ve been helpful to me for certain reasons, but would’ve made the journey of parenting a bit less stressful. My hope is to inspire people, disabled as well as not disabled alike, and put more ideas in their toolbox of parenting to make their days a lot more productive and a little less stressful. Included are three things I’ve found most important so far that I wish I would’ve known, but am glad to have recently discovered, that have been of great help to me.
Organization is a big thing, especially right before baby arrives. We spend lots of time painting rooms, buying cribs and washing clothes before the first time our baby will wear them. This is very important and part of the excitement of our little one’s arrival. Although this can be a very hectic time, it would also be a good idea to reorganize your home too. Places like the kitchen might be a good place to start. This would help so that during those 2 a.m. feedings, you have a good idea exactly where things can be found. As our kids get older, this idea will help make it easier to organize things like toys, books and even games.
Make a simple routine commonplace. At first, there’s more times than not an adjustment period to your babies sleep habits. Once that has been worked out, it’s a good idea to get them into a routine that works for you and your family. It may take some time to figure this out, but the benefits can be many and help your child in a variety of ways. It helps set expectations at home and at school so that they have a predictable environment where they can feel safe and secure. This is also helpful to you as their parent because you can have a better idea of how you’ll be able to get certain things, like laundry or paying bills done in a timely manner. Although these may not be our favorite things to do, it’s no doubt a stress reliever one they’re done.
Find fun and low or no cost “baby and me” activities to help in the development of not only your baby but also for yourself as a parent. Local libraries and community centers have great activities and resources from almost birth for you and your baby. Starting early to develop not only your bond with your child, but also bonds for both of you in your community is a great resource. Not only can your child play with friends their age but, you could also connect with parents and get advice on different aspects of parenting, or even the name of a good pediatrician in your area.
Everyone parents differently, and there is no one “right” way to do it. It’s really all about what works for you and your family. You may decide that none of these ideas are for you, or all of them work great. It might be that this post gets you thinking about what might work for you and how to implement it into your life. It’s never too late to try and make changes to improve your home life in ways you see fit. Lastly, enjoy your baby at every stage of their growth and development. The time passes very quickly, and before you know it you’re wondering where your baby has gone. Hopefully these tips can help you maximize your enjoyment, time and memories you make with your child,  while minimizing the everyday stress that’s a normal part of life.
Thanks for reading..
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