Becoming a new parent is one of the most exciting and life-changing experiences that you will ever have. There are so many things to learn and prepare for. In this blog post, we will discuss the top essentials that every new parent should know about. These tips will help you get started on the right foot and make your transition into parenthood a little bit easier.
Rest
Rest is so important for new parents. You are going to be up all night caring for your new baby, and you need to make sure that you are getting enough sleep during the day. Try to take naps when your baby is sleeping, and don’t be afraid to ask for help from family and friends.
Stock up on Baby Essentials
Here are some examples of items you should include on your registry or ensure you have on hand from day one.
A burp cloth is a functional absorbent piece of material used to keep all those yucky fluids caused by leftover milk and other spit-ups off you and your baby, which is a must-have!
A baby bib is a garment, paper, or other material your tot wears from the neck and covers the chest to protect clothing and delicate skin from foods or drinks that accidentally spill during meals. A bib not only has to be worn when feeding but is also used for infants when they drool, which happens a lot when they are teething.
Below are the 10 items we deem to be true, can’t-do-without, “baby basics.”
- Bottles (and related accessories)
- Crib
- Baby monitor
- Swaddle blankets
- Bodysuits and footies
- Bibs and hats
- Pacifiers
- A playmat and/or lounger
- Car seat
- And of course: diapers
Think about baby's first year
Most stores that offer baby registry will give you a completion coupon for any items you don’t receive as a gift so don’t be afraid to registry for some things you aren’t going to use for a while. Think about what baby might need when they are 9-12 months like a convertible car seat but don’t get carried away and registry for a potty seat. Remember, this is your baby registry and not a toddler registry.
Babyproofing Equipment
You need to babyproof your home before your little one starts crawling around. This means getting rid of any hazards that could pose a risk to your child. Put safety covers on all electrical outlets, lock up any poisonous chemicals, and make sure that there are no small objects lying around that your baby could choke on.
A Good Diaper Bag
You are going to be spending a lot of time out and about with your baby, so it is important to have a good diaper bag. This bag should be big enough to fit all of your baby’s essentials, like diapers, wipes, bottles, and snacks. It should also have a few pockets for your own things, like your wallet and keys.
Home Security System
A home security system is a must-have for any new parent. This will give you peace of mind when you are away from home, and it will also help to protect your family in case of an emergency. Make sure to research the best home security systems for you. These include ones that are easy to use and that have all the features that you need.
Don't register for too much or too little.
If you don’t choose enough items for your registry people will start to purchase items for you that they like and not what you need (picture getting lots of blankets and monogrammed items). Although you want to register for items at all price points, we don’t suggest including personal items such as breast shields or stocking items like infant gas drops.
Plenty of Groceries
Having a newborn is hungry work! Make sure your pantry and fridge are stocked with plenty of healthy snacks and meals. This will help you to stay nourished and energized, and it will also give you something to eat when you don’t have time to cook.
A Good Stroller
You are going to be doing a lot of walking with your baby, so it is important to have a good stroller. Look for one that is comfortable to push and that has all the features that you need, like storage space and a sunshade.
Additionally, pay attention to the little features such as cupholders for you, as these will really come in handy when you have your hands full.
A Supportive Partner or Parenting Group
Having a supportive partner or parenting group is essential for any new parent. These people can offer you advice, help with childcare, and a shoulder to cry on when things get tough. Find a group that you can connect with, and lean on them for support.
Remember, it takes a village.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a new parent is a wonderful and challenging experience. By following these tips, you can set yourself up for success. From getting enough rest to finding a supportive village, these essentials will help you through this amazing journey.
