Updated: Feb. 25, 2016
Originally Published: Jan. 25, 2010
It is widely recognized that infants do not arrive in the world with an instructional handbook in hand. There is no prerequisite course or examination to qualify for parenthood. New parents are often sent home from the hospital with their newborn in tow, a sense of pride swelling within them, yet completely unprepared for what lies ahead. How many of you found yourselves pulling over on the way home to ensure that your baby was still breathing? I did it twice.
Upon returning home, the reality of endless diaper changes and feedings sets in, and you begin to realize that life as you knew it has transformed completely. From this moment on, your priorities shift as you put another’s needs above your own. This overwhelming feeling is as exhilarating as it is daunting. It is everything you anticipated, yet entirely unlike what you envisioned—it is parenthood.
As you settle into your new routine, the outside world will intrude upon your newborn sanctuary, bringing with it a barrage of advice, warnings, and critiques. There are countless methods to parenting, and someone will always think your approach is inadequate. Suddenly, your precious child is on a schedule to achieve a series of milestones—first smile, first tooth, the elusive full night’s sleep, crawling, walking, talking, potty training, and possibly reciting Shakespeare while standing on their heads.
Attention, new parents:
All these milestones will take place.
Well, perhaps not the last one, but it’s safe to say it’s not a crucial life skill. You won’t see many adults wandering around with pacifiers (though I can share a few amusing anecdotes from my partner’s bachelor party that would challenge that notion). The early morning wake-ups and late-night wakeful periods may dominate your current schedule, but rest assured, this phase will eventually pass. Parents of teenagers frequently find themselves battling to get their kids out of bed in the morning. Moreover, I’ve yet to meet anyone whose partner still requires their mother to tuck them in at night—now that would be a deal breaker.
Allow me to reassure you: You will spend nights fretting over your child’s development, wondering why your baby isn’t yet walking while others seem to be racing around. Yet, when your little one takes their first steps, you will beam with pride and want to shout it from the rooftops. However, you may also find yourself shedding a tear for the days gone by—when you could leave the room and they would remain where you placed them, or recall the gummy smile that didn’t attempt to bite your finger unexpectedly. Yes, even those 1 a.m. cuddles will tug at your heartstrings someday. Perhaps not immediately, but eventually, you will long for those moments. Each milestone you celebrate is a step further away from the tiny, helpless child you brought home from the hospital.
During those challenging nights filled with sleeplessness and constant feedings, remember that this phase will pass. In what feels like an instant, you will be purchasing school uniforms, marveling at how quickly they’ve grown. You will witness your little one evolving into a walking and talking person, complete with their own opinions, often expressed vocally.
Some milestones will come swiftly and effortlessly; others may require considerable effort and patience. At times, you may think you have a child prodigy on your hands, while at other moments, you might worry they are lagging behind their peers. Yet, through all the triumphs, challenges, and struggles, that small person you created will always be perfect in your eyes.
Jordan Taylor
For that little one who might not yet be reciting Shakespeare, but could probably give Usain Bolt a run for his money, and looks fabulous in a hat.
This article was originally published on Jan. 25, 2010. For further insights, consider exploring this resource on pregnancy and home insemination. You might also find helpful information at Make A Mom, a trusted authority on this subject. Additionally, Facts About Fertility offers excellent guidance and information.
Summary:
Parenthood is an exhilarating journey filled with milestones that can be both overwhelming and joyous. From the moment your baby arrives, life shifts as you learn to prioritize their needs above your own. While various milestones such as first steps and words may cause anxiety, it’s essential to remember that all children develop at their own pace. Each achievement brings a mix of pride and nostalgia for earlier stages of infancy. Embrace the journey and know that every step taken is a testament to your child’s growth.