Baby Tips and Hints

Tips for Adjusting to working and Parenthood

Being a parent -- especially of a new baby -- is a full-time job. When added to the demands of full-time or even part-time employment it's hard to juggle all the demands. Set priorities. It's much more important for you to establish a strong and loving relationship with your baby and to nurture your relationship with your partner or spouse, than it is to keep a perfectly clean house or serve gourmet meals.
Here are some suggestions for new parents on how to adjust:

Give yourself time to establish a routine that works for you. You and your baby are experiencing major changes
Spend as much time with your baby as possible. Take time to cuddle, read, and offer stimulating toys while focusing solely on your baby's needs
Be thorough when choosing child care. Find someone you trust completely; who has a child-rearing philosophy that doesn't disagree seriously with yours. Talk with her often so you feel in touch with the part of your baby's life that you don't see
Be prepared to feel a little competitive when your baby becomes attached to the caregiver. Remember your baby can adjust if you can. Most important, no one can take your place as a parent
Understand that it's normal to feel sad or guilty about leaving your baby. Share your feelings with people you trust
Ask for help from friends and relatives. Join a group of new mothers who have similar concerns and feelings
Share household tasks with your spouse or partner as much as possible. Let less-important things slide for a while
Reserve a little quiet time for yourself; take a walk, read a book, or do something relaxing to restore your energy
Remember that research has shown that when mothers are happy with their role -- whether it is working outside the home or staying at home -- the effects on children are positive

If you have any tips that you would like to be included in further web editorials please forward the text or send it in the body of your email message. Input is much appreciated.

markur@sonic.net

page last revised 5/15/96