It’s hard to believe that this past year has flown by in a whirlwind. It all started with the arrival of my little one last August. Just six months later, we packed up and moved from a quiet town in Maryland to the bustling streets of NYC. Alongside starting new jobs, my partner and I found ourselves juggling more weddings than I can count and navigating the chaos of city life. And now, that tiny bundle of joy is nearing her first birthday! Here are some key lessons I’ve learned about parenting, babies, and a bit about myself along the way:
- Contrary to what the experts at baby supply stores will tell you, infants don’t need nearly as much stuff as you think. They thrive on love and attention, not a mountain of gadgets. We managed just fine with one bouncy chair instead of the recommended four.
- I’m convinced a large portion of children’s programming is designed by people who’ve lost touch with reality. I suggest swapping out those shows for the Food Network or HGTV when you can. By the time she turns two, I hope she can whip up a gourmet meal and remodel our kitchen!
- Always cover your newborn’s “danger zone” during diaper changes. Unless you enjoy an unexpected shower of bodily fluids first thing in the morning.
- Ignore the pressure of other babies’ milestones. Every child develops at their own pace. If something’s off, your pediatrician will let you know. Therefore, feel free to roll your eyes at the next person who questions why your 10-month-old isn’t crawling yet.
- Mealtimes can feel like you’re front row at a wild comedy show. Prepare to get messy, so dress accordingly. You might have an important meeting, but that mushy food will likely find its way onto you.
- If you wish to reclaim your sleep, establish a routine for your baby early on. Experts agree that children find comfort in structure. Teaching your little one to sleep was a game-changer for our sanity.
- Finding reliable childcare is a daunting experience. It’s like navigating a twisted dating scene. Whether you’re interviewing nannies or trying to secure a daycare spot, it’ll test your patience and your wallet.
- NYC playgrounds on a hot summer day? Think of them as the Ninth Circle of Hell: crowded, noisy, and chaotic.
- If you don’t have friends with kids yet, it’s time to make some. They provide invaluable support and can chat through the chaos of screaming toddlers.
- Your baby will inevitably roll off the couch or bed, no matter how careful you think you are. It’s a rite of passage, and you’ll probably miss it while scrolling through social media. Thank goodness kids are tough! Just keep some pillows nearby.
- For those with hardwood floors, attach Swiffer cloths to your baby’s knees and hands to create a DIY cleaning machine as they crawl.
- Remove batteries from your TV remote before giving your child free reign. Trust me, you’ll thank me later when they don’t mess up your DVR settings.
- Skip the pricey baby toys; everyday items like kitchen spoons, empty bottles, and cardboard boxes will keep them entertained longer (though this might only translate to about 50 seconds).
- Anyone who manages to take monthly milestone photos with those cute stickers deserves a medal. I lost mine in the move and forgot to take pictures during months four and five!
- If you’ve ever judged another parent during a public meltdown, prepare for karma. I now have a little one who loves to shriek at the top of her lungs for no apparent reason. It’s not cute, and I can’t control it.
- Forget fancy teething rings; a wet washcloth is the real MVP. And if that fails, there’s always Tylenol.
- Puff snacks are like gold. Once your child has a tooth, never leave home without them.
- Germs are a part of life. Everything within reach will eventually go into their mouth. You can only sterilize so much before you adopt the motto: “Eh, it builds immunity.”
- Take your baby everywhere, including the bar. We take our little one along to show her that $1 oyster happy hour is far superior to fast food chains.
- During the first year, don’t make the mistake of foregoing birth control after a few drinks. Trust me, you don’t want to be in a drugstore line with your infant, buying pregnancy tests.
- While social media often showcases heartfelt moments of new parents, I’ll admit my experience was different. Initially, I felt overwhelmed and disconnected. It’s okay to admit that. As I’ve gotten to know my daughter, my love for her has grown immensely.
In summary, the first year of parenting is filled with unexpected lessons and challenges, but it also brings endless joy and humor. Embrace the chaos, and remember to take it one day at a time.
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