As a parent of a newborn, you're likely exhausted, nervous and unsure about your new station in life. Luckily, newborns only need a few basic necessities and much of learning about newborns is done on the job. By employing some helpful tips, you can make the transition from the hospital to your home a little easier on you, your spouse and your family. Newborn babies need your constant attention, but soon you'll relax into a routine that feels right for you.
Step 1
Purchase a car seat. Although your baby doesn't need to have expensive swings, chairs, bouncers and slings, a car seat is the one piece of baby equipment that is required for you to leave the hospital. If possible, purchase a new car seat because car seats expire in most states after six years. You can borrow from a friend or family member as long as you know the car seat has never been in an accident or had anything happen to weaken the materials. The National Highway Traffic Safety Association has all of the information and rating you need to select a safe car seat (See Resources).
Step 2
Arrange for help after your baby is born, suggests KidsHealth, a division of the Nemours Foundation. Your newborn will be getting used to the difference between day and night, which means that you'll be getting less sleep. Asking family members to bring by meals, help clean or take care of other children will reduce your stress level so you can focus on your new baby.
Step 3
Stay at home for the first month or two, especially if your baby is your high risk and prone to infection, warns CNN. Your baby's delicate immune system has not had a chance to be tested, which means bacteria and germs from stranger's hands can make your baby stick. Avoid public places, including grocery stores, malls and churches. Amuse yourself at home and plan for a quiet month or two while you get settled.
Step 4
Bond with your baby on a daily basis. Some parents may find that the immediately love that other parents talk about isn't easily found with a newborn. For some parents, bonding and loving your baby will be a process, notes Fisher-Price pediatrician Laura E. Stache. Touch, sing to and spend time with your baby to foster bonding moments. The dishes and dirty floors can wait as you become acquainted with the newest and most demanding member of your family.
Step 5
Spend time apart from your baby for a few hours each week, suggests the New York State Department of Health. Caring for a newborn is exhausting, and can make you feel tired and stressed out. Taking a few hours to get out of the house while you leave your baby with a trusted family member can help you relax and come back a better parent. If there's no ne to talk your baby and you feel stressed and exhausted, it's fine to place your baby in a safe spot and take a timeout so you aren't pushed to your breaking point.
