Mistakes Parents Make With Newborns And How To Avoid Them

Parenthood is not easy and we are all going to make mistakes along the way.  It is important to remember this, as it is easy to focus on the negatives and forget about all the good you are doing as parents.

It is my belief that we should treat everyone the way we would want to be treated.  Stick with this theory and you are likely to keep on track. When you do hit the odd speed bump along the way.  Take time to reflect and learn from the mistake.

Mistakes to avoid

1. Ignoring your relationship with your partner

Coping with the daily routine of a newborn is very tiring.  It is easy to get snappy with one another and focus purely on your child.  Take time out in your day to reconnect and talk to each other. Communication is the key to a healthy relationship.

2. Too much research

Research is good but should be taken at face value.  What works for one person may not necessarily work for another.  Trust your gut and stick with what feels right for you and your family.

3. Listening to others

New parents are often bombarded with advice from friends, family and healthcare professionals. Don’t feel like you have to do things their way.

4. Feeling anxious and panicky

Try to relax and go with the flow.  You will be unable to control your baby’s every move.  Learn to be flexible and avoid over planning your day.

5. Over stimulation

Avoid over stimulating your baby, especially at bedtime.  His bedroom should be calm and soothing. Too many soft toys, bright colors and decorations could over stimulate him, making it hard for him to fall asleep.

6. Expecting baby to sleep through the night

Every baby is different.  Some will sleep through the night very early on, while others can take up to a year before they sleep throughout the night.  Be patient, and understand that he will sleep through when he is ready.

7. Over heating

Avoid over heating baby, particularly at bedtime.  Keep the room temperature warm, not hot. If he is too hot he will have difficulty sleeping.

8. Not burping properly

After a baby is fed it is important to make sure he is properly burped.  Leaving wind trapped inside of your baby will cause discomfort and fussiness.

9. Not feeding on demand

It is now recommended to feed your baby on demand.  This means when he is hungry feed him. Avoid watching the clock and only feeding him when the clock says to.  Gauge his feeding times based on your his appetite. He will let you know when he is hungry.

10. Purchasing too many clothes

Avoid going crazy in the shops before your baby is born.  Trust me when I say that he will live in onesies for the first 6 months of his life.  Onesies are practical and easy to get on and off. Whilst designer outfits look great, keep them for special occasions.

11. Car seats

Invest in an approved car seat.  They are more expensive but will provide you with assurance that your baby is protected. Get the car seat fitted by a professional and always use as directed.

12. Buggies

Avoid overloading the buggy when out and about as they can tip.  Always have the safety strap attached to you, incase you let go of the handle. Make sure your baby is always buckled in and secure.

13. Relying on motion

We have all had moments when our baby just won’t sleep and we’ve taken them for a drive in the car to help them fall asleep.  This is ok once in a while; however, do not fall into the trap of doing this all the time. You will create a rod for your back and in a habit that will be hard to break.

14. Routines

It is recommended to form routines around times such as bedtime.  This way your baby is clear on your expectations and you are more likely to have the desired result.