After bringing home a new baby, the whole family will need time to adjust. Here are some tips to help make this easier for your family.
Becoming a new parent
Becoming a parent is one of the most significant events someone can experience. While some of the changes that come with parenting can be challenging, they can also be positive. The first year can be a time of personal growth. Parents will develop new skills.
Becoming a parent will change your life. Changes may include:
- Lower energy level
- Emotional and mental health changes
- Finances
- Housework
You may find that your personal relationships change with your partner, family and other children, as time for yourself, others, and your partner will be reduced. With your partner, you may experience changes related to communication, sex and intimacy. Your own personal interests, hobbies and social life will have to be balanced with the responsibilities of parenting. In addition, your career goals may be impacted by having a child.
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Here are some tips for new parents to help with these changes:
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- Accept a helping hand for cooking, household chores and caring for the baby.
- Think about family and friends that can support you.
- Be flexible. A baby's needs can change daily.
- It is normal to feel happy one day and sad the next. If you are feeling sad for more than two weeks, talk to your health care provider.
- Talk with your partner about your feelings and concerns.
- Work together with your partner as a team.
- Take care of yourself:
- Eat well.
- Exercise.
- Get as much rest as possible.
- Limit visitors, if needed.
- Try to find time to do things you enjoy.
- Bond with your baby.
For more information, read Adjusting to Parenthood.
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Becoming a big sister or brother
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Children often have mixed feelings about a new baby. Here are some tips to help your child adjust to their new sibling.
Before baby arrives
- Tell them your love for them will never change.
- Talk about the changes that will happen and answer any questions they may have.
- Include your child when talking about baby names and picking out baby clothes.
- Bring your child to prenatal visits.
- Let your child feel the baby kicking.
- Take your child to visit someone else's baby
- Read books about babies.
After baby comes home
- Help your child hold the baby safely.
- Call the baby by his/her name, not "the baby".
- Spend one on one time with your child. Ask family members to help with this.
- Talk to your child about how they're feeling about the new baby.
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Becoming a grandparent
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Seeing your child become a parent can be exciting.
Grandparents can help in many ways. You can:
- Listen and share experiences.
- Provide support and encouragement.
- Be a role model for grandchildren and provide them with love.
- Offer to babysit.
- Help with household chores
- Share family history, values, and traditions
Many things about baby care have changed over the years. For more information, read Grandparents can make a difference!
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