New parents have nine months to prepare for the arrival of their child, but are often overwhelmed when their new bundle of joy arrives. No matter how much parents read and learn, nothing is quite the same as on-the-job training.
Being a new parent can be overwhelming – as such, it is vital to have different supports in place to help adapt to this new phase of life and postpartum.
Parenting Classes
There are a variety of parenting classes that new parents can take in preparation for the delivery and arrival of their new child. Many of these classes can be found at their chosen hospital.
These classes might include information about nutrition, birth, newborns, breastfeeding, and postpartum. There are also other classes that include CPR training, development, childhood wellness, baby wearing, sign-language, solid foods, potty training, and sleep training.
These classes extend far beyond the needs of your child during that first year, but are a teaching tool for all of childhood.
Lactation Specialists
While expecting parents can take a breastfeeding class before the arrival of their baby, this is often only a preliminary course. Many women need additional support before and after the arrival of their baby as they learn and face different challenges.
A lactation specialist can be covered by your health insurance, helping new parents to receive the support needed as they adjust and learn how to effectively provide nourishment and care for their child before and after postpartum. Seeking lactation care from an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) either in an office or in the comfort of your own home can provide valuable guidance and personalized lactation care for your breastfeeding journey. An IBCLC can also assist with unforeseen challenges such as mastitis or clogged milk ducts while breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding can be a challenging and sometimes overwhelming experience for new mothers. It’s important to know that there are resources available to help make the journey smoother and more enjoyable. One such resource is a lactation consultant or an IBCLC who can provide support, guidance, and expertise to support lactating parents navigate any issues or concerns they may encounter.
Scheduling an in-person consultation with a licensed lactation specialist can be beneficial in obtaining the lactation education you need.
Support Groups
Not only are there hospital programs and classes, as well as additional classes online, but the government has also created many programs to help provide support for new parents .
Programs created by the government include healthy start, which helps to improve the health of mothers and children. Programs like these are supported by WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) which provides additional nutritional support. Other support mechanisms include Early Head Start and Head Start, that act not only as a source of childcare, but also education for your child.
Community Support
Despite the many programs and classes that have been created, never underestimate the importance of a good community support system. It’s more than okay to ask for help. Studies show that a good support network and leaning on your village of support helps to decrease the risk of postpartum depression and anxiety. This community support can be found in both supportive family and friends, as they not only support a parent in their new role, but can also recognize any potential risks and pitfalls you might face
General Tips
With the many different tools and resources available for new parents, there are also many general tips that new parents should be aware of as they embrace their new role as a parent. Most everything rarely goes according to plan, and parents need to recognize that and pivot according to their current needs, as well as those of their child.
Most importantly, remember to love your new child and try to enjoy the time you have with them. This time is precious, and despite the many external stressors in your life, it’s just a temporary state in a long span of your life. Many problems won’t last forever, so keep this in mind as you approach life’s different challenges and problems.
Conclusion
Finding support as a new parent is often just a click or phone call away. Never be afraid to ask for help during this time. With the combination of lack of sleep and new stresses on yourself, your marriage, and your financial situation, many programs and tools have been created to help offset these issues.
Reach out and find the support you need. They say it takes a village to raise a child, and it’s true.