For You and Your Baby
TOP 6 TIPS FOR
THE FIRST NIGHT HOME
WITH YOUR NEW BABY
1. Don't Overplan!
When you bring your baby home for the first night, give yourself some time to adjust. It is normal to feel overwhelmed or out of control. Make sure to give yourself some time to adjust to your new role as caregivers. Do not plan to unpack from the hospital or do household chores. Give yourself time to enjoy your new baby!
2. Keep a Notebook Nearby!
You will probably think of many questions during your first days at home. Make sure to keep a notebook and pen nearby so you can write down anything that might pop into your head.
Make sure to take your list to your well-baby checkup and get answers from your doctor!
3. Don't be afraid to ask for help (or tell people to leave!)
During your first night, you might need a little extra help. Do not be afraid to ask people in your support system to help out with anything you might need. Let them bring you dinner or shovel your sidewalk.
But also do not feel bad asking them to leave and let you spend time with your partner and new baby as well! Don't feel bad for recognizing what you need.
4. Consider having other siblings stay with family or friends
If you do have other children (or furbabies) consider having them stay with other family members or friends on the first night that you bring your new baby home. This will give you time to focus on the new baby's needs without worrying about delegating your time.
Here are some tips to help make the introduction of the new baby and other siblings smoother!
5. Don't forget to feed yourself
There is a lot going on during the first night home with your new baby! But do not forget to feed or take care of yourself. Tag team with your partner if possible and make sure you get the nutrition you need to continue to care for your little one.
Make it easier and have a meal prepped and frozen, have someone bring your dinner, or order using a home-delivery service such as Uber Eats or Door Dash.
6. Rest when the baby sleeps!
You might have heard "sleep when baby sleeps" before, but it is the truth. Make sure that when your new baby is sleeping your are taking time to rest. Do not push yourself to get everything else done, but instead try and take a nap or just spend some time resting.
Do not try to push through or think you can sleep later. Seize the moment because getting enough sleep is important for you and your new baby!
Bonus Tip:
Trust yourself!
Trust your instincts when it comes to your new baby's needs. It is scary being in charge of this tiny human but believe in your abilities to care for and know your infant.
You've got this momma!
