Page 24 - FWG Issue 3_April_2022

Today’s Child

10 SURVIVAL TIPS FOR NEW PARENTS

B Y MICHELLE L R A YMOND

Being a parent is one of the hardest jobs you will
ever have to do, yet the rewards far outweigh the
struggle.

f you are a new parent, perhaps you have yet to experience the
reward part of parenthood. Don’t worry - it will come.
ILet’s be honest for a moment – those first six weeks are gruelling!
But fear not, I have put together 10 survival tips for becoming a new
parent.
Please know this – you are not alone! It does get better and you do
get stronger.

1. Lower your expectations
It is totally ok to wear your pyjamas all day and only brush your
hair once a week, never mind putting on make-up and shaping
your eyebrows. That can wait. Your baby will take up all your time,
especially if you choose to breastfeed. The house doesn’t need to
be clean all the time and it’s ok to let the washing pile up.

I had a rule for anyone who wanted to visit. They were not allowed
to play with the baby unless they helped to clean the house, put a
load of washing on or brought a meal for myself and my husband.
Do the same for your friends with babies!

Fourways Gardens • 22 • April 2022