5 Ways to Nail Parenthood - Advice for First Time Mums

16 August 2017

Aww, babies, aren’t they cute? The most precious, most adorable, most perfect beings. A real bundle of joy. However if you’re a first time mum, you’re bound to have a few little worries ahead of their arrival.

That’s why our baby experts here at B&M have knocked their heads together and come up with some of the best advice for new mums, to help put you at rest.

Speak to other mums

It’s natural to be nervous about becoming a mum. The best way to put your mind at ease is to speak to mums who’ve been through it before, whether friends or in the family. No question is too silly, so don’t be afraid to ask for their advice.

You can also speak to other mums at local toddler groups. Chances are they’re feeling exactly the same way you are, and if they have more than one, they’ll have been in your newbie shoes before and will more than likely be happy to put your mind at rest.

Fill the freezer

This one takes a bit of forward planning but your preparedness will pay handsomely. Cook a batch of meals a week or two before you’re due so you can delve into the freezer in-between sleeping, feeding and sleeping some more! It’s best to stock up on easy meals likes pasta, chilli, stews and soups, which can be left out to defrost and warmed up in minutes.

B&M Top Tip: stockpile baby wipes and leave them EVERYWHERE! You never know when a leakage, seepage or ‘projectile’ is going to occur. Pampers Fragrance Free Baby Wipes are just 79p!

Get out of the house

The first few weeks after birth, you’ll probably want to relax and adjust to your new arrival, but it’s important to get out and about once you’re feeling up to it. Even if it’s just a walk with the pram down to the local shops or nipping round to friends or family for a brew.

Look for mother and baby groups in the area which you can go to on regular occasions. Knowing you have somewhere to be will help set a routine that works for you and your newborn.

When they sleep, YOU sleep!

Until your newborn comes to terms with the concept of ‘day and night’, they’re going to have some very restless nights. And with such a small stomach in those early months, they’ll need to feed little and often. Both factors contribute to their short sleep patterns, but don’t worry, this is perfectly normal.

It’s important that you grab forty winks when they’re sleeping too, but if you’re simply not in the same routine, don’t panic, and don’t worry about keeping quiet while baby is sleeping. They’ll soon get used to the noise – believe us, it’s best that they can sleep through anything!

Why is my baby crying?

Ah the age old question. One of the great philosophical musings humankind has ever encountered, along with “what is the meaning of life?”, “why are we here?” and “how did that red sock get in with the whites?”

Here are the most common things you baby is trying to say to you:

Feed me!
Change me!
Put me to bed!
Wind me!
I’m too hot/cold!

Check out the NHS website for further professional advice on how to get your baby settled.

B&M Top Tip: babies are the original dribblers (sorry Messi), so stock up on plenty of muslins and bibs! These 3 pack of dribble bibs come in three gorgeous designs and are only £2.99.

Do it your way

At the end of the day, remember that parenting isn’t a ‘one-size-fits-all’ job. Getting advice from other mums and dads? Up to your ears in parenting books? You shouldn’t have to feel overwhelmed. Remember, babies don’t come with a manual and there are some things you’ll only discover by throwing yourself in at the deep end.

Oh, and one final piece of advice: accept all offers to change nappies!

B&M Top Tip: don’t forget you can get all your baby clothes, nappies, toys, lotions and other essentials at your local B&M store. We have all the best baby products from the biggest brands like Pampers.

What’s the one piece of advice you wish you’d known before you became a mum? Share your experiences and tip with other mums in the B&M Community on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram.

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