Okay, I am not the Mother Theresa of parenting. Obviously.
We all make our own choices and do what works for us…. and that’s the way it should be.
But, if you were to ask me for advice, I might tell you this:
Buy a Ergo Baby Carrier.
I looooove my baby carrier. You have to have one! It makes parenting so much easier — and better. I can wear my baby/toddler on my front or back and do things around the house or whatever I need to do.
Happy baby = Happy Mama.
I use it a lot for hiking/walking. This was back in Oregon when Lucas was around 7 months old!
If you can, breastfeed your baby. Not only is it one of the healthiest things you can do for yourself and your baby, but it’s the easiest way to feed your baby!
Those two things; breastfeeding and baby wearing, are probably my most important words of “advice” I could give you, or anyone. I truly believe that they make your life – and your child’s life – better, safer, healthier and easier.
A couple other little things…
Get out of the house. You have to get out of your house and go to play groups or other activities. It’s a great way to meet other moms and let your kids play with other kids.
Make time for yourself. I don’t care how you do it, just make it happen. Sometimes you have to just tell your husband, “I’m leaving, be back in an hour!”
Those are my words of advice that come to me right away. I think the most important thing, though, is finding what works for you and your family and doing it that way. No one knows you or your kids like you know them, so do what works for you! Everyone (including your grandparents, in-laws, neighbors, friends) is going to give you advice and tell you “the right way” to do it. Take anyone’s advice, apply parts of it that you like into your life, and live!
Parenting is a wild ride, just remember that. 🙂
{Linking up to Kelly’s Korner!}
Love this! I hope to be a baby wearIng, breastfeedIng, awesome mom like you in… 3-4 years. :).
Fantastic advice! I used a sleepy wrap and then graduated to an ergo and love both of them! I loved my nursing relationship with my daughter until she weaned at 13 months. I wouldn't have it any other way.
Another piece of advice I would add is to let your baby take the lead a little. I've been reminded so many times of how much my daughter is her own person with her own rhythms and preferences. I have no need to freak out about where she is in her development. She will grow and learn at her own pace as I provide stimulation and learning opportunities.
i heart motherhood!
JDaniel didn't follow any manual. We had to go with the flow.
everyone keeps telling me to get an ergo!
Great advice! I agree that breastfeeding was easiest.
Visiting from KK.
Amanda
I love my ERGO: http://thegnomesmom.com/?p=60
I also have a post with a video showing how to nurse in an ERGO – that's #1 & #2 covered 🙂 http://thegnomesmom.com/?p=439