Preparing Your Home For Baby’s Arrival: Anticipate The Expected And Unexpected

New parents will discover quite a bit goes into preparing for a new baby’s arrival. There are many supplies needed as well as preparing for parent’s time and energy (or lack of due to erratic sleeping schedules). My number one rule for all new parents—expect the unexpected and you will have a head’s up in what could be a chaotic time.

Here are some helpful tips for baby’s arrival not only to meet the needs of your newborn but that of Mom too:

Should haves for baby:

Bottles with the right sized nipples for newborns (bottle brush for proper cleaning)

Diaper pail—for disposal of diapers or to contain cloth diapers

Changing table—it is always a good idea to have it fully stocked with t-shirts, diapers and sleepers (those first few weeks can be overwhelming for new moms) wipes- diaper cream (Young Living Tender Tush or Butt paste are my recommendations)-baby wash
Crib or bassinet with a receiving or swaddling blanket

Baby monitor in case you are in other rooms

Diaper or big tote bag fully packed—diapers, at least one change of clothing, blankets, plastic bags for dirty diapers, wipes, comfort item {wubie, musical item, blankie}, diaper cream, bottles and formula

Expect the unexpected

Should haves for Moms:

Sanitary napkins

Nursing bras (if breastfeeding) and a blanket or boppy for comfort) nursing pads and breast pump if going to be away from baby

Relaxing outlets, either time for naps while baby sleeps, soothing music or Young Living’s Peace and Calming, whatever helps relax you

Expect the unexpected

Should dos:

Never too early to baby proof house (they grow faster than you will ever imagine and before you know it they will be crawling)
Keep a steady level of noise when baby comes home so they can adjust to sleeping through almost anything

Get any siblings ready for a new addition to household. If they are toddlers, try getting them their own special baby to care for so they understand the tender touch and maybe even the need for quiet. Be sure to spend extra time with them explaining what you think they can understand about how a baby is coming but they are still loved and could even help in some small ways. They could help set up baby’s table or pack away diapers or something that makes them feel a part of the decision making (age-appropriate of course)

Make arrangements for siblings care during birth/hospital stay

Wash bedding, clothing, towels or whatever is used for the baby prior to using (a great idea is to have all this set up weeks before baby’s arrival if possible)

Stock up on meals for family and make sure you have plenty of good foods for the Mommy. Preparing meals/freezing in advance of baby’s arrival is a good idea

Stock up on paper products and necessities for bathroom and cleaning

Let family and friends know prior to baby’s arrival when would be best for visits. Do not be afraid to request a waiting period before you have company.

Make hospital preparations

If it is possible arrange for help around the house either by hiring or making plans with family members to do laundry and cleaning and maybe extra duty with a sibling

A wonderful idea is to preplan any work needed for events/special occasions. You will be caught up so if you know of birthdays or special events coming up, perhaps it is possible to get cards/gifts or RSVP’s completed ahead of time

Prepare home, making it ergonomic for parents to move around in and everything handy

Expect the unexpected—I cannot emphasize this enough. It will save you in so many little ways. And enjoy that little bundle of joy, you will receive so much more than you could ever imagine.

Welcome Home Baby!

 

 

debbietwomey.com is a website founded on the principle that children are not only our most precious commodity, but that proper parenting is not always instinctive and requires constant development through many avenues of information and experiences. Some of those avenues are family, training, advice and of course, Debbie. This website is a font of valuable insights and information that not only take the guesswork out of some of the most difficult parenting aspects but create an inspiring and memorable environment that will benefit all.

 

Disclaimer: This information is not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. It’s strictly for informational, educational, or entertainment purposes ONLY. The products I talk about are not meant to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any illness or disease. Any information I give you about them is for informational or entertainment purposes only. They have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. Please seek the qualified health professional of your choice when making health decisions for yourself, your family and your pets.