Page 25 - FWG Issue 3_April_2022

Today’s Child

2. Rest! 6. Read reviews on products
People usually don’t take this seriously enough. My mother always This will give you real insight. Also, help a mother out and give
tells me not to be a martyr; it doesn’t do anyone any good. I’m sure reviews on products you’ve used.
you’ve heard the saying, "Happy mommy, happy baby!". Rest is
the only way you can recover from giving birth. Sleep when your 7. Take time for your partner, but not now
baby sleeps. Don’t be tempted to tidy up or have people over; that Set up a date once a month to start. Pick the time of day that’s the
can wait. And for the Dads, going back to work and still trying to easiest with the baby. Just go out for breakfast or lunch, or a short
function on little sleep is hard. It is important for you to prioritise walk and catch up with each other.
correctly.
8. Eat well
3. Drink a lot Now is not the time for fancy diets and fads, especially if you’re
Drink lots of water. Dehydration can make you feel even breastfeeding. You need wholesome, fresh foods and a variety of
more lethargic and exhausted than you already are. If you are foods. Rule of thumb – don’t eat anything your Granny doesn’t
breastfeeding, feeling thirsty will be a normal sensation for you. recognise.
If water gets a bit boring, try jungle juice. You can download the
recipe from my website: https://www.michellelraymond.com/10- 9. Vitamins
survival-tips-for-new-mothers/ Your doctor or midwife will generally recommend supplements
like calcium, vitamin D and iron. Everybody is different. If you
4. Ask for help are unsure, speak to your health care professional first. This also
It’s ok not to have all the answers. You may have been diligent includes the Dads. Your health and well-being is just as important,
at your prenatal classes, read all the books on early childhood so don’t neglect yourself and your health.
development, you may even have a natural affinity for babies.
The truth is – nothing can prepare you for when it finally happens. 10. Don’t read too much
Nothing! Trust your instincts! They are your best guide.

5. Buy second-hand On that note, you are doing
Babies are only expensive when you want them to be (unless they
are ill or there are complications). the best that you can. Keep it up!

Here are some links to great second-hand goods online:
Baby-Go-Round - www.babygoaround.co.za
Pre-Loved items - www.facebook.com/groups/170032456941679 -
FB Moms
Yaga - www.yaga.co.za/category/kids/products

Photo by Ben White on Unsplash

Fourways Gardens • 23 • April 2022