bringing baby home


bringing baby home
The idea of bringing baby home, of the absolute unknown, of all the ways that your life is about to change in perhaps the biggest way to date, can be overwhelming. Does that feel like the understatement of the year? We hear you. For first-time parents, the idea of being solely responsible for the tiny human you’ve just created isn’t just daunting, it’s incredibly, monumentally scary. And once you sign those exit papers at the hospital, there’s no turning back. Aside from your village, you guys really are entirely on your own.
But here are all the reasons you’ve got nothing to fear. Consider, first, that people have been doing this for a very, very long time (the real understatement of the year). You’re not the first, and you’re certainly not the last, to face the daunting first night home with baby. More importantly, even if you aren’t perfect (and nobody is), we can assure you that you’re not the worst. Just the simple fact that you’re reading this means something, so you’re already way ahead of the game. And to help you ease into things, here are a few pointers.
first thing’s first: home base
So much of what goes into leaving the hospital actually comes before you even step foot inside the hospital. Preparing in advance for your newborn’s first day at home will make the transition smoother for both you and baby. Baby needs a place to sleep as well as a place for you to change their clothes and dirty diapers.
Ensure your changing station is well-equipped with diapers, wipes and a soft and sturdy changing pad cover. And before you can even think about transporting baby anywhere, they will also need a car seat. If your due date is approaching, make sure that your home is baby-proofed ahead of time and that you have all of your essentials on-hand before bringing home baby. For sleep-deprived nights and days that seem to have no end, make sure you’re prepared.
leaving the hospital
first night at home
Your first night home with baby will be difficult, there’s no doubt. But you – like everyone before you – will be fine. And these tips? Well, they’re here to make things easier, even if only a little.