Parenting 101: 10 Tips for first-time mothers

Dione Chen

24 May 2016

updated the 3 May 2019 à 11:05

Parenting can be stressful, especially for the first time, but not when you know exactly what to do.

1/10
Enjoy the journey
Don't be too fixated on what you should or should not do. Go with the flow, and listen to the needs of your child, instead of fixing a daily schedule down to the minute. You may feel tired, but don't forget to enjoy the moments despite your fatigue. After all, they only come by once.
2/10
Be realistic
Remember that you and your children are human too. Just because you've always dreamed of a "model child" doesn't mean that your child will turn out to be that way. Maybe you're going to have days where you wonder what it's like to remain childless. Perhaps you'll resent yourself for comparing your children with others. But once you understand that all of us are human and learn to give up your ideals, you will learn to love your kids for who they really are.
3/10
Do it your way
Fellow moms or parents are going to bombard you with tonnes of advice, especially since you're a first-time mom. You are not obliged to take their words seriously if you don't agree with their tips. Ignore all unsolicited advice and follow your heart. Mom knows best!
4/10
Let them play
Don't be overprotective of your children. Let them climb things, crawl in dirt if they want to, and have the time of their lives. This is how they build a strong immune system and a memorable childhood at the same time.
5/10
Sleep
Take more naps when you're pregnant. When the baby is out, sleep when the baby sleeps. Don't underestimate the power of sleep deprivation. You need your rest.
6/10
Eat well & stay hydrated
Do this for yourself and for your baby. Getting 3 healthy meals a day will ensure you have the energy to take care of your child, while staying hydrated is essential when breastfeeding.
7/10
Don’t overwork yourself
It's common to see mothers trying to struggle with the piling housework along with taking care of their newborns. However, you have to note that your child is your priority and that housework can wait. Lower your standards, keep a to-do list and make your baby your priority.
8/10
Find like-minded company
You may miss your old life, but there are tonnes of ways to meet new moms, such as joining a postnatal group. Parents usually learn a lot from these sessions, and feel a lot better as well knowing that others are going through almost exactly the same situation as them. Trust us, you're not going to be the only one with milk stains down the front of your shirt.
9/10
Don’t neglect your me-time
Whether it be reading a book or taking a nice, long bath, prioritising some alone time for yourself is extremely important. You'll feel rested, rejuvenated and ready to tackle the tasks ahead.
10/10
Remember that you’re doing a great job
This is the most important piece of advice when you are feeling inadequate and insecure about your ability as a mom. Sometimes, you may feel like crying and breaking down, but remember that you are completely normal and that you are doing the best that you can. You are the perfect mom for your child - never forget that.

If you’re pregnant for the first time, or even if you’ve just given birth, you must have gone on one heck of an emotional roller coaster. Your overwhelming joy after seeing those two tell-tale red lines on the pregnancy test kit was probably taken over by some temperamental mood swings and serious food cravings, then perhaps you were engulfed with feelings of hope and excitement as you imagine what life with a baby would be like, and possibly worry, when you realise you know nothing about parenting. Oh no!

Now, now, don’t fret. We’ve predicted your concerns, and, in a bid to help ease your anxiety, we’ve gathered the best pieces of advice we think will help you very much in your journey of being a mom. Simply scroll through our gallery, and you’ll be one step closer in maintaining control over the household.

Dione Chen

Photos: Getty Images

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