It’s cliché, but the past twelve months have been an absolute whirlwind. It all began last August when I brought my little one into the world. Six months later, we relocated from a quiet town in Maryland to the bustling streets of New York City. Both my partner and I transitioned into new jobs, we attended an exhausting number of weddings (264, to be exact), drove countless miles, and, let’s be honest, developed a few more gray hairs along the way. Now, that little bundle of joy is about to celebrate her first birthday, so here are some key lessons I’ve learned about babies, parenting, and myself during this transformative year:
- Contrary to what the registry consultant at the baby store may suggest, babies don’t need nearly as much gear as you might think. These experts capitalize on the emotional state of expectant parents. Remarkably, we managed to keep our daughter safe and happy without needing to warm her wipes or own more than one bouncy chair.
- I firmly believe that most children’s television shows are conceived by individuals who enjoy chaos. Opt for channels like the Food Network or HGTV instead. By the time she turns two, I hope she’ll not only know how to make a delicious meal but also pick out stunning kitchen tiles.
- Always protect your newborn’s “danger zone” during diaper changes. Otherwise, you might find yourself unexpectedly sprayed with urine or feces—definitely not the best start to your morning.
- Focus on your child’s unique milestones and ignore comparisons with others. Each child develops at their own pace. If there’s a serious concern, your pediatrician will inform you. So, feel free to brush off anyone who questions why your 10-month-old isn’t yet crawling.
- Meal times can feel like front-row seats at a chaotic performance once your baby starts eating solid food. Dress accordingly—most of what they eat will end up on you.
- For the sake of your sanity, establish a sleep schedule for your baby as soon as possible. Experts agree that a routine helps children feel secure, and teaching them to sleep properly is crucial. Our daughter has been a champion sleeper since she was two months old.
- Finding reliable child care is one of life’s greatest challenges. Whether you’re interviewing nannies or navigating daycare waiting lists, prepare for a stressful experience that can drain both your time and wallet.
- Summer playgrounds in NYC can feel like Dante’s Inferno—sweltering heat, echoes of children’s screams, and kids crawling over one another can be overwhelming.
- Surround yourself with friends who have children. They will provide essential support and advice, all while managing to engage in conversation amidst the chaos.
- It’s inevitable—your baby will roll off the couch or bed. No amount of vigilance can prevent it. Just ensure that some cushions are nearby.
- If you have hardwood floors, consider attaching Swiffer cloths to your baby’s hands and knees when they start crawling. It’s a humorous way to keep the floors clean.
- Before giving your child free rein with the remote control, remove the batteries to avoid disastrous DVR settings.
- Don’t waste money on fancy baby toys; household items like kitchen utensils, empty bottles, and paper bags will provide far more entertainment.
- Anyone who manages to take monthly photos with numerical stickers for an entire year deserves recognition. I lost my stickers in the chaos of moving, and keeping track of the months became a challenge.
- If you’ve ever judged another parent for their child’s public tantrum, prepare for karma. You may find yourself with a little screamer who demands attention with a fervor that can be quite embarrassing.
- Forget overpriced teething rings; a damp washcloth works wonders. And if that fails, Tylenol can be a lifesaver.
- Puff snacks are a must-have. Once your baby has even a single tooth, never leave home without them.
- Germs are part of the deal. Your child will inevitably put everything within reach into their mouth. After a while, you’ll adopt the mindset that it’s okay—after all, it builds their immune system.
- Don’t hesitate to bring your baby along wherever you go. We take our daughter to various outings with the hope of instilling a love for good food over fast food chains.
- During your first year, don’t make the mistake of skipping birth control or indulging in too many drinks if you’re not ready for another baby. You might find yourself in a panicked situation at the pharmacy with an infant in tow.
- While many new moms share feelings of overwhelming love upon childbirth, my experience was more complicated. In those early weeks, I felt disoriented and somewhat disconnected, which is a normal response for some. It’s essential to talk about these feelings openly.
In summary, the first year of parenthood is filled with unexpected lessons and challenges. Embrace the chaos, and remember that each day brings new experiences and opportunities for growth—both for you and your baby.
For more insights on pregnancy and home insemination, check out this excellent resource from the CDC. You can also find valuable information on your fertility journey at Make a Mom.