Those first few weeks of becoming a parent are amazing but there is no doubt that parenthood throws up some pretty hardcore challenges, especially in those first few exhilarating, yet exhausting, weeks! In celebration of Mother’s Day we have put together a few tips on how to best cope with the demands of your gorgeous newborn.

Sleep – get it when you can!

Sleep deprivation is torture, of that there is no doubt but if you can try and snatch sleep when your baby does it will really help. Try and keep visitors to a minimum, in the first week at least, and don’t be afraid to say no to well-wishers who want to “pop” round. Use this precious time if you can to bond with your baby and get as much rest as possible. This is one of the few times that the housework really can wait and you shouldn’t feel guilty about putting your feet up.

Help newborns to sleep

Wherever you choose for your baby to sleep initially whether in a moses basket, cradle, Alongside Cot or cotbed, then consider using a Swaddle. The Gro-Swaddle is a simple, cleverly-shaped wrap that fits comfortably around your baby without the need for fastenings of any kind. This can really help comfort your newborn as it creates the same soothing effect of being held securely in the womb.

Eat

Your body has gone through an amazing journey over the past few months and now that baby is born you can eat what you want and even enjoy a glass or two of wine without worrying. Do try and vary your diet to include fruit and veg where possible and snack on things like toast and peanut butter to keep your energy boosted.

Feeding your baby – MAM breastfeeding pumps

As we all know, if you can, breastfeeding is best for your baby as it contains all the nutrients your newborn baby needs. Check out the Mam Breast Pump, which is simple to use and allows you to express breastmilk that can be bottled and given to your baby by your partner or parents (while you catch up on some sleep!)

MAM microwave sterilisers

Microwave sterilisers are a must as they can be stored in your microwave and bottles can be sterilised in as little as 4 minutes – a necessity when you have forgotten to sterilise your bottles and you have a screaming, hungry baby! Also Check out the Self-Sterilising Bottles by MAM, a great time-saving invention.

Use a Widgey Pillow at feeding time to help get your baby in the correct position and supports their little backs when feeding. These pillows are also great if you have had a c-section as they alleviate any pressure away those sore bits!

Let Daddy help

Although we all like to think that we are Superwoman at times, the first weeks of motherhood is not time to be a martyr. Involve your partner as much as possible with your baby. Yes, they may not do things quite how you want them to but remember that they are also learning on the job. Try not to be too critical, babies are very resilient, even though they look vulnerable, and can withstand a cack-handed Daddy changing their nappy!

Let family and close friends help around the house too and maybe cook the odd meal.

Get Some Fresh Air

After you have cocooned yourself at home in the first few days of motherhood, it is important to get some fresh air, even it is just a walk around the block. It will help to clear your foggy head, making you feel a little more human and generally babies love the contact and motion of being in a carrier or sling or snuggled in a buggy. Make sure that baby is warm enough, they can’t retain their body heat as well as we do, so use a footmuff or baby blanket if its chilly outside.

Finally, try and enjoy the first few weeks of your new status as a mum. Generally, if you work you won’t have to return for a while and there will be plenty of time to race around once your baby is on the move. Also if you go on to have more children you probably won’t have the luxury of time to sit and stare at the little wonder that you have created!

Happy Mother’s Day!

Other Newborn Products Available at Just Another Baby:

• Tots Bots Nappies
• Bababing Lobo Bouncer
• Bababing Changing Bags
• Oxo Tot Bottle Drying Rack
• Dribble and Soc Ons
• Cuddledry Bath Towel