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I had a rule for anyone who wanted to visit. They Here are some links to great second-hand goods online:
were not allowed to play with the baby unless they Baby-Go-Round – www.babygoaround.co.za
helped to clean the house, put a load of washing Pre-Loved items – www.facebook.com/
on or brought a meal for myself and my husband. groups/170032456941679 – FB Moms
Do the same for your friends with babies! Yaga - www.yaga.co.za/category/kids/products

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

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

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