Being blessed with a baby is one of the greatest joys for parents. But the present COVID-19 situation has indeed messed up with our minds and economic prospects. While on the one hand, it can be delightful to have a new family member, it can also be a nervous time for parents. Thus, we thought it would be great to learn about ten tips to cope with a new baby during COVID-19. With these at your fingertips, you can be sure to lead a happier life.
Do you know how to soothe a crying baby?
New parents are often unaware of how to soothe a crying baby. While you could have sought help from a babysitter, the present pandemic lockdown does not encourage visitors to come in and out. Thus, you should learn how to soothe the child. Some of the most common methods are singing to the child, rocking him gently, patting his back, swaddling him, or likewise. Sometimes, it may take you time to calm down the child. Ensure that he is in a safe environment, and his pillowcases, sheets, and clothes are regularly disinfected and sanitized.
Give equal importance to self-care.
Being new parents can be overwhelming when you focus on your child’s needs to ensure one hundred percent comfort. However, it is essential to engage in self-care. While both the parents need to put in hard work, the mother can especially grow tired quickly since her body has undergone severe changes. You must make time to listen to music, do yoga, or connect with your pals and share what’s running on your mind.
Feel free to reach out to others.
The present Coronavirus lockdown demands every citizen to practice social distancing. However, it does not imply that you cannot connect with your extended family members, colleagues, and friends over the digital medium. One of the most useful technologies that has been helping one is video calls. You may be located in one part of the world while your friends may be right on the other end- but distance makes no difference to relationships.
It is the time when your family needs to work together.
Familial support is one of the best ways to tackle any adversity. You can always seek help from your parents or elder siblings who are living with you in this lockdown. Moreover, an elder with experience can also be of immense help. Sometimes, your grandparents have the best advice on how to handle newborns, since they are a treasure box of household remedies and natural healing processes.
Help can come in unexpected ways.
While a lot has been discussed regarding help to look after the child, let’s focus on mental support for the parents. Postpartum depression is a real problem, and medical authorities have now started acknowledging it. You can contact doctors, nurses, other parents, and counselors to share what you are feeling. Talk about what is going on and share your anxiety.
Stock up on essential supplies.
Parents must remember to stock up on essentials such as baby food, diapers, toys, and other vital items. These play a pivotal role in the proper development of the young one. While the world is stuck in a state of lockdown, it doesn’t imply that your child has stopped growing. The early development years are the most crucial ones.
Use parental leave from work.
All offices have moved to work from home. Be it an international MNC or a local business, people have entirely transferred to the world of digital video meetings and online sales. However, just because you are working from home, it does not mean that you cannot use your parental leave. By law, every company must allow new parents to use paid leave for a specified period. Both the mother and father should give equally to bringing up the child.
Find a forum for new parents to connect.
There are several online portals where you can connect with new parents. When you meet new people who are in the same boat as you, it is relieving and reassuring that you are not alone. It also gives you a chance to meet new people and create your own group. Online portals can be great places to share problems that you are facing and get answers from experienced parents.
Do not forget to consult your pediatrician.
A pediatrician is very important for new parents. When you have a small child, you need to focus on his all-around growth and development. Nutritious food plays a pivotal role. During the pandemic lockdown, there is a high possibility that certain edibles may be out of stock in the market. An adequately certified pediatrician helps you identify the alternatives without compromising on your child’s health.
Read up online.
Last but not least, cope with a new baby during the COVID-19 lockdown by reading online and accumulating as much information as possible. It is an excellent idea to use the digital world and imbibe data from wherever possible. You can sometimes come across great hacks and views on different blog posts that you did not know earlier.
These are some of the best ways to cope with the pressure of having a newborn during the present COVID-19 pandemic. 2020 is undoubtedly a year that no one will forget anytime soon. While the baby needs care and love, parents also need the same and must look after themselves. Remember to stock up on essentials and reach out to others, in case you need any help. Other than that, stay sanitized and avoid visitors who want to meet the little bundle of joy. This shall be over soon!