Survival Guide For New Parents

Having a new baby in the family is one of the most special times in a parent's life. As you look at that little one you think about the miracle of life and how special this little person is to you. Children are a precious resource and parenting a very important role.

In our role as parents, we are the prime educators of our children. It is important to remember that no two children are alike. Each child is a unique individual with strengths and weaknesses. Accept children for what each of them are and love them all unconditionally.

Most parents have no formal training for their parenting roles. Our knowledge comes from watching our own parents or other parents. We learn through experience, education, and observation. There is no one right way to parent. In addition, there are no perfect parents.

Trust Yourself

Many new parents are nervous when they bring their newborn home from the hospital. Trust in your own abilities to be a good parent.

You will have the most contact with your child and will be aware of changes in behavior and appearance. If you have a question or a concern, don't be afraid to ask about it. If you don't agree with the first answer you receive, ask several others and compare answers. A physician, health professional, and Family and Consumer Sciences Extension agent are good sources of information.

To Work or Not to Work

Deciding whether one or both parents will work will be a personal one made in consultation with others in the family. Going to work doesn't make you a "bad" parent just as staying home doesn't automatically make you a "good" parent. Whatever decision your family agrees upon will be the right one for you. Try not to feel guilty about the decision you make.

If you do choose to work outside the home, quality child care is important. Quality child care includes three important things:

1. A caregiver who provides your child with care and guidance and who works with you and your family to make sure that your child grows and learns in the best way possible.
2. A setting that keeps the child safe and healthy.
3. Activities that are suited to your child's stage of growth and development and that help your child develop mentally, physically, socially, and emotionally.

With all the demands of parenthood, it is easy to put your own needs aside and concentrate exclusively on your new baby. You may be up late, up in the middle of the night, up at the crack of dawn, and up all day long. It doesn't take long to get tired and grouchy.

Take the time to enjoy parenthood. Have fun playing with your baby. Hold, rock, and cuddle your baby. Talk to each other. Read stories. Go for walks. Sing. Play gentle games together like peek-a-boo or patty-cake, but only as long as you both enjoy the game.

Enjoy it because the years will fly by.