13 Things a New Mom Should Never Forget
Look, we all know that motherhood is hard. It’s a 24/7 job with no pay and no breaks. But it’s also one of the most rewarding experiences out there. There are so many things to learn and remember as you care for your new little one. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you out! If you’re a mom, or about to become one, here are some of the most important 13 things a new mom should never forget to do. (PS – You’re amazing!)
1. Don’t leave your baby alone with a pet.
This seems like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people do it. Dogs, in particular, can be very protective of their new human siblings and may not understand that they need to be gentle.
2. Don’t forget to secure the carseat.
Don’t put your baby in a car seat without first securing him or her in a five-point harness. Car seats are essential for keeping your baby safe, but they’re only effective if they’re used correctly. Make sure you follow all the instructions when installing and using your car seat. If you are having trouble installing it, take it to a local fire station or police department. They should be able to help you out.
3. Don’t forget to take your prenatal vitamins.
It’s so important to keep up with your prenatal vitamins, even after your baby is born. They help to ensure a healthy pregnancy and can even help with postpartum recovery.
4. Don’t let anyone smoke around your baby.
Secondhand smoke is just as harmful to babies as it is to adults. If you or anyone in your family smokes, make sure to do it outside and away from your baby.
5. Don’t forget to burp your baby after each feeding.
This helps to prevent gas and discomfort for your little one. It’s also a good opportunity for you to bond with your baby.
6. Don’t ignore the signs of postpartum depression.
Postpartum depression affects up to 1 in 7 women. Symptoms include feeling sad, anxious, or hopeless; trouble sleeping; and loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy. If you’re experiencing any of these, please talk to your doctor.
7. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
No mom is an island! It’s okay to ask for help, whether it’s from your partner, family, friends, or a professional. Don’t try to do it all on your own, because you’ll just end up feeling overwhelmed and stressed.
8. Don’t forget to take care of yourself, too!
As a mom, it’s easy to get so caught up in taking care of your little ones that you forget to take care of yourself. Remember to schedule some time each week for a mani/pedi, workout, or just some much-needed R&R. Your mental and physical health are important too!
9. Don’t compare yourself to other moms.
We all have our own unique journey through motherhood. Some days you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world and other days you’ll feel like you’re barely hanging on. Embrace the chaos and know that you’re doing an amazing job!
10. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to your baby.
Apply sunscreen to your little ones, even on cloudy days. And reapply it every few hours, especially if you’re swimming or sweating. Here is my favorite sunscreen.
11. Don’t forget to restock the diaper bag.
Every time you run out of diapers or wipes, refill the bag immediately. You don’t want to be caught without them when you’re out and about!
Download this Diaper Bag Checklist for free now!
12. Don’t forget to setup a bedtime routine for your baby.
Create a bedtime routine that works best for you and stick to it as much as possible. A consistent bedtime routine will help your baby (and you!) get a good night’s sleep.
13. Don’t forget that you are not alone in this journey called motherhood!
There is a whole community of moms out there who are ready and willing to help and support you and it starts right here at Momster Strength!
Whether you’re a first time mom or have been one for years, there are some things that are just too important to forget. By following our list, you can make sure that your days (and nights) with your little one run as smoothly as possible. And if all else fails, don’t worry – we promise that coffee will always be there for you. Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments!
For more helpful advice and tips on everything from sleep deprivation to postpartum depression, head over to our blog page. We’ve got you covered!