By: Jamie Parker
Updated: Jan. 23, 2016
Originally Published: Oct. 17, 2012
As friends prepare to welcome their first child, I can’t help but reflect on the things I wish I had known—or hoped for—during my own journey into parenthood. Here’s what I hope for them:
- I hope your little one develops an aversion to Caillou. Ideally, they’d dislike that show as much as Max and Ruby, but let’s not get too ambitious.
- I hope your baby discovers a beloved item that brings them comfort—a pacifier or, perhaps, a quirky plush giraffe. Ideally, it won’t be something irreplaceable, and definitely not your breast. (My older child had a pacifier and a blanket named Chachi, after the character from a classic show.)
- I hope you experience just one of the typical challenges: sleepless nights, car rides from hell, diaper changes gone wrong, or the struggle with potty training. Most parents seem to get stuck with at least one of these!
- I hope your baby enjoys being carried in the way you prefer—be it in a bucket, sling, or ergonomic carrier. Just don’t let them get too attached to sleeping in it!
- I hope you steer clear of Pinterest for now. There’s a time and place for those perfect ideas, and it’s definitely not in the early days of parenting.
- I hope you manage to write lists without repeating items and then insisting you didn’t—good luck with that!
- I hope you remember that television didn’t ruin your childhood, and it won’t ruin theirs either. If you’re worried about it, I hope your friends are understanding.
- I hope you don’t encounter a so-called parenting expert in the women’s lounge at Nordstrom, who insists their method (whether it’s attachment parenting or the baby whisperer) is the only way. What works for them may not suit you or your child.
- I hope you find a trustworthy friend to confide in—a fellow mom, an old friend, or someone from your birthing class. I didn’t have the supportive Lamaze class community I imagined; mine was a high school bestie and a lactation consultant named Sylvia. They listened, reassured me, and helped when I felt overwhelmed.
- I hope someone gives you a heads-up about the postpartum experience and mentions things like “mesh underwear” and “surfboards” when discussing the necessary pads.
- I hope your partner is a true ally, whether that means helping with chores or just knowing when to give you space.
- I hope you receive the grace you need from those around you without having to resort to dramatic pleas for slack.
- I hope you don’t feel pressured to compete with other moms. If they seem pushy, remember they might be even more anxious than you are!
- I hope you gain a realistic perspective on the “post-baby body.” Avoid any articles with that title—it’s all about genetics and a bit of luck!
- Most importantly, I hope you discover what took me far too long to learn: you are inherently equipped to be your child’s parent. You’ve got this! Your instincts are likely spot-on, and what your baby truly wants is you—dark circles and all.
For additional insights on your journey into parenthood, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy at March of Dimes. Also, if you’re looking for tools to support your family planning, consider visiting Make A Mom and their at-home insemination kits at Make A Mom’s 21-piece kit.
Summary:
These are heartfelt hopes for new parents, ranging from avoiding annoying shows and finding supportive friends to embracing their unique parenting journey. Each wish reflects the trials and joys of becoming a parent, reminding them that they are capable of nurturing their child with love and intuition.
Keyphrase: new parents advice
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