Preparing your home to welcome a new baby
PREPARING your family and by extension your home for a baby can be quite exciting, but it always seems as if there are a million and one things to get through. And while this might be true, clinical psychologist Dr Pearnel Bell has generated a list of tips that will ease your burden.
1. Have a family talk first
Everyone who lives in your household and who will engage with your baby needs to know what is expected of them. This is no different for your spouse. Don’t assume that he knows what his responsibilities are and how best he can assist you. He is worth more to you equipped with the knowledge on how to help you rather than being clueless.
2. Talk to your other children
The children will need to know that the new baby is an addition, not a replacement. They will need to understand the importance of having fun while being quiet to allow mom and the baby to rest. Too many parents know all too well how frustrating it is when, as soon as you get the baby to sleep, a loud outburst from an older sibling wakes him or her up.
3. Spend extra time with your older child or children
Since it is so easy for children to get jealous, especially when they are used to having you for themselves, note that while your newborn will need your attention, your older children may take this to mean they are being robbed of time with you or that you favour the newborn. While on maternity leave, remind your other children how much you love them. Find activities you both enjoy and help them to be a part of the experience of another life growing so they feel a part of the process and will be more appreciative when the baby comes. Include them in decisions about the newborn as well, and engage them in conversations that include topics such as the importance of sharing.
4. Accept tips from family and friends
It’s true that no two babies are the same, but it’s also true that there are generally guidelines that can be helpful when caring for most children. Ask questions, as many as you need to, because the expertise of these experienced moms will allow you to provide the best care to your baby.
5. Clean the house
A baby’s immune system at birth is very weak. This makes them susceptible to numerous infections. In order to protect them, it is important to clean the house and get rid of as many unwanted parasites as possible that may be lurking in the corners.
6. Baby-proof your house
Naturally, children are inquisitive about their environment, and since they are oblivious to the many dangers that exist, parents have to create a safe place for them. Extension cords and other appliance cords strung across a room, wall sockets, sharp edges and bits of glass are not baby-friendly. Don’t procrastinate with these things.
7. The baby’s room
The baby’s room should be the safest place. You should ensure that there is no hazard to your child. Create a checklist to address all possibilities. Make sure that you do adequate research and get advice from the right professionals when choosing the appropriate room colour, furniture, toys and other accessories.
8. Your support system
A new baby will mean additional responsibilities, and you’ll need the support whether there are other children in the picture or not. Don’t hesitate to accept help from trusted family members and friends. Create a schedule to prevent overburdening a particular family member. Relatives and friends can also help with your other children so that they don’t feel neglected.
9. Prepare for emergencies
If you are alone with your older children and the baby, there are some things they should learn, such as how to use a cellphone. Show them emergency contacts that they should call, in case you might be unable to do this on your own.
10. Your pet
Your pet is as much a part of your family as anyone else. Before the baby comes, let the animal be checked by a vet. Also, consider the animal’s temperament. Is it friendly? Could it pose a potential risk to the baby? Knowing these things will help you to make the right decisions.
