As a mom, I can tell you this: You can prepare all the things and read all the books, but you will STILL feel clueless when the nurses help you buckle that tiny baby into the carseat and send you home! I wish there was a real-life instruction book that would help all new parents figure out how to bring home a newborn, but the reality is that you learn as you go. That being said, there were a ton of things I wish I had known before I arrived at the hospital to give birth to our firstborn. I’ve compiled a little list of tips below, of things the books won’t always tell you, and why they’re important:
-Book a newborn or Fresh 48 photographer ahead of time and work out the logistics: You may feel silly booking a newborn or hospital photographer ahead of time, but it’s really the best time to do this while you are pregnant. Once baby arrives, your attention will be elsewhere, and you can miss the chance to document the phase that truly goes the fastest. If you book a hospital session, be sure you check with the hospital to make sure your photographer is able to enter/exit and what the process is (visitor passes, parking, etc). That way, you can give them all the info ahead of time. If you book traditional newborn photos, you can always communicate with your newborn photographer (me!) about your wishes.
-Pack your bag way in advance: Don’t neglect packing your own items for the hospital, such as pajamas, nursing supplies, or chargers for all your phones/tablets. Many moms focus on the newborn bag and pack plenty of diapers or tiny outfits, but forget that sometimes, mamas and babies have extended stays at the hospital and you may need extra comfy clothes, or chapstick/hairties, etc. If you are able to and have the space, you can keep your bag in the car starting at around 34 weeks, just in case. Babies have their own schedules!
-Have people you can call on: Ask a few close friends or family members whom you feel comfortable with, to check on you during the postpartum period. This can be a challenging time with a lot of sleep deprivation, and with the addition of hormones, sometimes you need additional support. Having people on your team, who know and love you, can be really needed. Line up a few trusted people who you know will check on your mental health and postpartum emotions, and who can swoop in to hold baby, help you shower or rest, and leave meals on your door. Don’t be afraid to ask for help in those first few weeks.
-Lastly, know that every baby is different: Your newborn experience may not look like anyone else’s, and that’s okay. Comparison is always the worst thing you can do as a newborn parent (or a parent in general), because your baby may be calm, fussy, challenging, or easy, and that’s not because of your parenting skills! Trust yourself, and ask advice from people you really know have your best interests at heart, and try to steer clear of social media comparisons, judgmental friends, or things that make you doubt yourself and your baby. Know that you are equipped to be their mom!
If you’re ready to book newborn photos, let me know! I’d love to work with you, and get to know your sweet family.
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