Tips for moms to be

Tips for moms to be from a new mommmy

Here are some things I wish someone had told me:

1. Research and meet up with expectant moms/new moms in your neighborhood BEFORE you give birth. That way you will already have people to support you and compare notes with when the baby arrives.

2. Arrange to have someone very close to you (your mom, mother-in-law, or sister, or hired help) provide ROUND THE CLOCK help during as much of the first month as possible. Especially when your husband/partner has to go back to work. It should be someone you won't feel shy about asking to help you with specific tasks, like making you a meal, taking out the garbage, and doing your laundry.

3. If you plan to breastfeed exclusively, you should try to pump a few feedings early on and have your husband, or other helper give the baby some night feedings so you can get a few long stretches of uninterrupted sleep.

4. It may sound silly, but practice opening and closing your stroller and taking the car seat in and out of the car before the baby comes so you are really familiar with these new tools. It was overwhelming and frustrating to wrestle with them and deal with the baby at the same time.

5. Stock your pantry and freezer with healthy food that is easy to make and eat quickly.