Welcome to the rollercoaster ride called Parenthood! Or welcome back if you’re crazy enough like me to have more. (Fourth on the way!) Strap in, because you’re about to experience the most thrilling, challenging, and rewarding journey of your life. As a new parent, or even a returning one, you’re probably bombarded with a million questions, from the serious to the downright absurd. Fear not! In this guide, we’ll tackle some of the most common questions new parents have and I’ll do my best to give practical advice that can make you the best parent you can be. Grab your newborn baby, brew a fresh pot of coffee and let’s dive in!
#1: Is it normal for my baby to resemble a tiny, wrinkly old person?
Answer: Absolutely! Don’t panic if your newborn looks more like Benjamin Button than a cherubic angel at first. Babies often come out looking like they’ve just finished a marathon or a stint in the sauna. Give it a few days, and those wrinkles will smooth out, revealing the adorable little munchkin you’ve been dreaming of.
#2: How do I survive on zero sleep?
Answer: The secret? Embrace the power of power naps. Forget about eight hours of uninterrupted slumber; that’s a distant memory now. Instead, grab shut-eye whenever and wherever you can. Invest in blackout curtains, earplugs, and a white noise machine. And remember, coffee is your new best friend (but don’t overdo it, unless you want to be jittery AND sleep-deprived). Take advantage if your newborn has finally fallen asleep, now is your chance! Sleep! Literally anywhere, your couch, on your kitchen table, in your car (just don’t do this while driving)
#3: Help! My newborn won’t stop crying. What do I do?
Answer: First things first, take a deep breath. Now, let’s troubleshoot. Is your little one hungry? Tired? Gassy? Overstimulated? Sometimes, babies cry for no apparent reason, and that’s okay too. Try different soothing techniques, from rocking and swaddling to singing off-key renditions of nursery rhymes. And don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Remember, it takes a village to raise a child, so enlist the help of friends, family, and fellow parents.
#4: When can I start sleep training?
Answer: The truth is, that every baby is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some parents swear by sleep training methods like the Ferber method or the cry-it-out approach, while others prefer a gentler approach. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what works best for your family and your newborn. Just remember, that consistency is key, and don’t be afraid to adapt your approach as your baby grows and develops. You can read my ultimate guide to sleep training to learn more!
#5: How do I keep my sanity intact while juggling parenthood and work?
Answer: Repeat after me: I am not Supermom/Superdad, and that’s okay. Balancing parenthood and work is no easy feat, but it’s not impossible either. Set realistic expectations, prioritize your tasks, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Whether it’s hiring a babysitter, enlisting the help of family members, or outsourcing household chores, find ways to lighten your load. And most importantly, don’t forget to carve out time for self-care. You can’t pour from an empty cup, so make sure to refill yours regularly.
#6: How much screen time is too much for my baby?
Answer: Ah, the age-old debate! While experts recommend limiting screen time for babies under two, let’s be real – sometimes you just need a few minutes of peace and quiet. The key is moderation and quality over quantity. Opt for educational content geared towards infants and toddlers, and use screen time as a tool rather than a babysitter. And remember, nothing beats good old-fashioned playtime and cuddles. However, I do have a guide that will help! Especially as they get older and are surrounded by screens.
#7: Help! My baby won’t latch during breastfeeding. What should I do?
Answer: Breastfeeding your newborn can be a steep learning curve for both you and your baby, so don’t panic if it doesn’t happen right away. First, ensure you’re in a comfortable position, and gently guide your baby’s mouth to your nipple. If latching remains a challenge, seek support from a lactation consultant or a breastfeeding support group. Remember, fed is best, whether it’s breast milk or formula, so don’t hesitate to explore alternative feeding options if needed.
#8: When will my baby start sleeping through the night?
Answer: Ah, the elusive full night’s sleep! While every newborn is different, most start sleeping longer stretches at night around three to six months of age. Establishing a bedtime routine, creating a sleep-friendly environment, and teaching your baby the difference between day and night can help encourage longer periods of sleep. And remember, this too shall pass – eventually.
#9: Is it normal for my baby to have a weird-shaped head?
Answer: Fear not, Mama Bear (or Papa bear)! Your baby’s noggin might look a little wonky at first, especially if they spent a lot of time in the same position during birth. This is totally normal and usually corrects itself over time as your newborn grows and develops. In the meantime, plenty of tummy time and repositioning during sleep can help round out that adorable little head. Unless you have a weird-looking head, in that case, your baby might be screwed because of genetics and all (kidding!)
#10: How do I baby-proof my home without turning it into a padded cell?
Answer: While it’s impossible to eliminate every potential hazard, there are plenty of simple steps you can take to baby-proof your home without sacrificing style. Start by securing heavy furniture to the wall, covering sharp corners with soft padding, and installing safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs. And don’t forget to stash away choking hazards, lock up cleaning supplies, and invest in outlet covers. Your home might look like a toddler fortress, but hey, better safe than sorry!
AMSW Photography -Alisha Smith Watkins
#11: When should I start introducing solid foods?
Answer: While the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends starting solids around six months of age, every baby is different. Look for signs of readiness, such as sitting up with support, showing interest in food, and losing the tongue-thrust reflex. Start with single-ingredient purees, and gradually introduce new foods one at a time, watching for signs of allergies. And remember, mealtime is as much about exploration and sensory development as it is about nutrition, so let your little one get messy and have fun!
#12: How do I handle unsolicited parenting advice from strangers?
Answer: The bane of every newborn parent’s existence! While well-meaning strangers might offer unsolicited advice on everything from breastfeeding to sleep training, remember that you are the expert on your own child. Politely thank them for their input, smile, and then promptly forget everything they said. Trust your instincts, seek guidance from trusted sources like your pediatrician or fellow parents, and remember that no one knows your child better than you do. You’ve got this!
#13: My baby’s poop looks weird. Should I be worried?
Answer: Newborn poop comes in all shapes, sizes, and colours, and most of the time, it’s nothing to worry about. Breastfed babies often have mustard-yellow, seedy stools, while formula-fed babies’ poop tends to be firmer and darker in colour. Keep an eye out for changes in frequency, consistency, or colour, as these could be signs of an underlying issue. When in doubt, consult your pediatrician, and remember, no topic is off-limits in the world of parenting discussions – poop included! Be sure to talk to your pediatrician if you do have any concerns, after all, I’m not a doctor.
#14: How do I handle the dreaded diaper blowout in public?
Answer: While diaper blowouts are a rite of passage for every parent of a newborn, they’re especially fun when they happen in the middle of a crowded mall or restaurant. Fear not – arm yourself with a fully stocked diaper bag, complete with plenty of wipes, spare clothes (for both baby and you), and a healthy dose of humour. Embrace the chaos, find a clean(ish) surface to change your little one, and remember, you’ll laugh about this later. Probably.
#15: Help! My baby hates tummy time. What should I do?
Answer: Sometimes, the struggle is real! While some babies take to tummy time like a fish to water, others view it as a form of torture. Fear not – there are plenty of ways to make tummy time more enjoyable for your little one. Start small with short, frequent sessions, and gradually work your way up to longer periods. Use toys, mirrors, and colourful blankets to capture your baby’s interest, and don’t be afraid to get down on the floor and join in the fun. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep at it, and soon enough, your baby will be rolling and crawling like a pro.
#16: How do I find time for intimacy with my partner with a newborn in the house?
Answer: Between diaper changes, feedings, and sleepless nights, finding time for romance can feel like Mission Impossible. But fear not – where there’s a will, there’s a way. Get creative with your scheduling – naptime and early bedtime are prime opportunities for some alone time. And don’t underestimate the power of a quickie – sometimes, a little spontaneity is all it takes to reignite the spark. Remember, intimacy is about more than just physical connection, so make time for meaningful conversations, cuddles, and laughter too.
#17: How do I survive travelling with a baby?
Answer: Whether you’re embarking on a road trip or braving the friendly skies, travelling with a newborn baby requires careful planning and a healthy dose of flexibility. Pack plenty of snacks, diapers, and entertainment options to keep your little one happy and occupied. Stick to your baby’s routine as much as possible, but don’t stress if things don’t go according to plan – babies are surprisingly resilient. And remember, it’s okay to ask for help – from fellow passengers, flight attendants, or sympathetic strangers. Bon voyage!
#18: What’s the secret to surviving the dreaded teething phase?
Answer: As your baby’s first pearly whites make their debut, brace yourself for drool, tears, and sleepless nights. Stock up on teething toys, frozen washcloths, and over-the-counter pain relievers to ease your little one’s discomfort. And don’t forget to shower them with extra love and cuddles – sometimes, a little TLC is the best medicine. Remember, this too shall pass, and before you know it, your baby will be sporting a toothy grin that melts your heart. Hang in there!
#19: How do I handle unsolicited comments about my parenting choices from family members?
Answer: While it’s natural for loved ones to offer advice and opinions, it can be frustrating when those opinions don’t align with your own parenting philosophy. Remember, you are the parent, and ultimately, you know what’s best for your child. Politely thank them for their input, and if necessary, set boundaries around certain topics. Remember, it’s okay to respectfully disagree, and you don’t owe anyone an explanation for your parenting choices. Trust your instincts, and surround yourself with supportive voices who uplift and encourage you.
#20: How do I navigate the world of parenting advice overload?
Answer: From books and blogs (though this one you’re reading is the best! Right?) to well-meaning relatives and strangers on the internet, it seems like everyone has an opinion on the best way to raise a child. So how do you separate the wheat from the chaff? Start by trusting your instincts and filtering advice through the lens of your own values and priorities. Seek out reputable sources, like pediatricians, child psychologists, evidence-based parenting books and random Canadian Dad blogs that you stumbled across on the internet. And remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to parenting – what works for one family may not work for another. Take what resonates with you, leave what doesn’t, and remember, you’ve got this!
Conclusion
Embarking on the journey of parenthood is a wild ride filled with laughter, tears, and plenty of unexpected twists and turns. While the road may be bumpy at times, remember that you are not alone. From the sleepless nights to the diaper blowouts and unsolicited advice, every challenge is an opportunity for growth and learning. Trust your instincts, embrace the chaos, and cherish the precious moments with your little one. And remember, there’s no one “right” way to parent – as long as you approach each day with love, patience, and a healthy dose of humour, you’re doing an amazing job. So here’s to you, fearless parent – may your days be filled with joy, your nights be filled with restful sleep, and your heart be filled with endless love. You’ve got this!
