Jessica Kosinski

5 Simple Tips to Help New Parents As a new parent or soon-to-be new parent, you are probably excited, but you are also probably a bit terrified. Having a baby changes everything. It alters your entire lifestyle. As one of the biggest steps you can take in life, it can be quite overwhelming. Here are five simple tips to help you and your spouse stay on track and sane during your first months as new parents. 1. Have Emergency Information Ready As a parent, you will always worry about your child. All you can do is try to reduce the stress of that worry as much as possible. One way to do so is by preparing ahead of time for emergencies. Always have the number for your pediatrician handy. Also, know where the nearest hospital is. If you visit relatives with your new baby, check for the nearest hospital to your destination ahead of time. Store the information in your cellphone for easy access. 2. Set Up an In-House Support System Chances are, your friends and family will be chomping at the bit you come see your new bundle of joy. Take advantage of that by setting up a support system of people you trust to watch the baby for short periods. Then you can squeeze in a quick nap or a short break. Great support system options include: Parents Siblings Aunts/Uncles Close Friends Close Neighbors If you do not have any people in your family and friend group close by, find a local sitter you can trust. Get recommendations from co-workers or take advantage of trusted online resources to find one with the best reputation. Once your support system is in place, you and your spouse can enjoy some much-needed relaxation time whenever you feel the need. 3. Find More Experienced Parents and Ask Them Questions More experienced parents have a lot of great advice to offer. You can start by turning to your own parents for help and advice. Some of your friends may also have had children before you. Since they are a few years further along in the process, they are sure to have some useful tips and words of wisdom. If those options do not work, try asking your co-workers who have kids or seeking out advice in online forums. 4. Talk to Other New Parents One of the best things you can do as a new parent is join a support group full of other new parents. It might seem like other new parents are likely to feel lost, too. However, pooling your knowledge and resources can help all of you. Often, groups of new parents even join together to help each other with babysitting, form exercise or morning coffee clubs, and otherwise socialize outside of the set group meeting time. That socialization with other like-minded adults is vital during the early months of parenthood. 5. Get Outside as Much as Possible Many parents make the mistake of “holing up” with the new baby. Some new parents do not even allow guests. They completely isolate themselves, which can be damaging to their mental health. In certain cases, they may not even see the light of day for weeks or months, other than through windows. It is great to have some initial alone time with your child, but exposure to the outside world is also important for you, your baby, and your spouse. Let the fresh air refresh your bodies and spirits at least once each week. Once each day is even better.