TB. ADMIN
Welcoming a new baby into your life is an incredible joy, though it can also feel a bit overwhelming at times. Whether you’re a first-time mom or a nervous new dad, it’s completely normal to feel like you have no idea what you’re doing. But take a deep breath—you’ve got this!
At Total Bump, we’ve gathered 25 helpful and practical tips for new parents to guide you through those first weeks and months. From feeding to sleep, bonding to baby gear, this is your go-to list of new parent advice. We hope it helps you feel a little more calm, clear, and confident.
1. Trust Your Instincts
Trust me—I read so many books during my pregnancy and asked every mom I knew what it’s like to care for a newborn. But here’s the truth: no book, no blog, and no advice know your baby better than you do. It’s good to stay informed, but don’t let it drown out your instincts. New parents often second-guess themselves—I’ve been there. Just trust your gut. It’s stronger than you think.
2. Sleep When You Can
When my baby was a week old, I didn’t sleep for two nights—no one tells you that’s normal.
Yes, it’s cliché—but it’s true. Lack of sleep hits hard in the early days. If your baby naps, try to rest too, even if it’s just lying down and closing your eyes.
3. Accept Help
If someone offers to bring food, fold laundry, or hold the baby while you take a shower—say yes! New moms and dads really need support. When my sister stayed with me for a week, it made a huge difference. I truly appreciated her help, especially since I was being pretty hard on myself.
4. You Don’t Need Everything
That fancy wipe warmer or the vibrating rocker? Maybe nice, but not essential. Focus on baby gear you truly need, like diapers, a safe sleep space, and onesies.
5. Feed Your Baby Your Way
Whether you choose breastfeeding, formula, or both, fed is best. Don’t feel pressured to follow what others are doing—do what’s best for your baby and your body.
6. Keep It Simple
Newborns don’t need a complex routine or constant entertainment. Snuggles, feeding, sleep, repeat—it’s enough.
7. Diaper Duty Doesn’t Have to Be Scary
You’ll be changing a lot of diapers. Don’t panic—after the first few, you’ll be a pro like I was. Stock up, learn what diaper rash looks like, and have wipes on hand.
8. Crying is Communication
On my very first day as a mom, I felt so sad and overwhelmed when my baby kept crying—I kept thinking I must be doing something wrong. But after a few days, I learned that babies cry to communicate all kinds of needs. It doesn’t mean you’re failing. They might be hungry, gassy, tired, or simply adjusting to this big, new world.
9. New Moms, Prioritize Your Recovery
You just gave birth—your body needs rest, nourishment, and time. Don’t rush to “bounce back.” Be gentle with yourself.
10. New Dads, Get Involved
Changing diapers, doing skin-to-skin, bottle feeding—these simple, everyday moments are where love grows. The more you’re hands-on, the deeper your bond becomes, and with every little thing you do, you’ll feel more confident and connected to your baby’s heart.
11. Bonding Happens Gradually
It’s perfectly normal if the bond doesn’t happen right away. Bonding grows with time, cuddles, and care.
12. Limit the Visitors (If Needed)
It’s okay to say no to guests or ask for quiet time. Your healing and bonding as a new family come first.
13. Don’t Compare
I’ve always been on social media, but I never compared my baby to others because I truly believe every baby—and every parent—is unique. So don’t let those perfect highlight reels make you feel like you’re not enough. You’re doing just fine.
14. Use Safe Sleep Practices
Follow the ABCs of safe sleep: Alone, on their Back, in a Crib. So, to reduce the risk of SIDS, always place your baby on their back, in a crib, without blankets or toys.
Follow the ABCs of safe sleep: Alone, on their Back, in a Crib, to reduce the risk of SIDS by placing your baby on their back in a crib without blankets or toys.
15. Babies Make Weird Noises
Grunts, sneezes, hiccups—babies are noisy! It’s normal. But if something seems off, trust your gut and call the pediatrician.
16. Postpartum Emotions Are Real
Feeling weepy, anxious, or overwhelmed? You’re not alone. But if emotions feel heavy or last more than a few weeks, reach out. Postpartum depression and anxiety are common—and treatable.
17. Take Lots of Photos (and Videos)
You’ll blink and they’ll grow. Capture the messy, sweet, sleepy moments—they’ll become treasures.
18. Keep Baby Essentials Handy
Set up diaper caddies around your home—especially for nighttime. It’ll save you from a lot of sleepy scrambling. And if you’re not sure what to include, here’s what I used to keep my baby cozy and healthy, especially during winter and spring.
19. Find Your New Parent Tribe
Whether it’s online, in a local group, or just a friend going through the same phase—talking to other new parents is incredibly validating.
20. It’s Okay to Say “I Need a Break”
Parent burnout is very real—I’ve been there too. Needing a little space doesn’t make you a bad mom or dad; it just means you’re human. Sometimes, a simple shower, a short walk, or just 15 quiet minutes can recharge your spirit more than you’d expect.
21. Learn Your Baby’s Cues
You’ll start to notice patterns—how your baby signals hunger, tiredness, or overstimulation. This helps you respond more confidently.
22. Celebrate the Small Wins
Got the baby to nap in the crib? Took a shower before noon? Made it through a growth spurt? Celebrate those victories—you’re doing great!
23. Keep Your Pediatrician’s Number Handy
You’ll have questions. Lots of them. That’s okay—never hesitate to ask your baby’s doctor for guidance.
24. Your Relationship Will Shift
Having a baby changes dynamics. Make space for honest conversations, check-ins, and a little grace for each other as new parents.
25. Enjoy the Tiny Moments
The newborn phase is intense—but it’s also packed with once-in-a-lifetime moments. Sniff that baby’s head—there’s a special smell that I absolutely fell in love with. Hold them a little longer, soak in those tiny details, and remind yourself: this season is fleeting. When your baby grows up, you’ll be surprised at just how fast time flies.
Being a new parent is a rollercoaster—filled with joy, fatigue, wonder, and growth. You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to be present, patient, and loving.
We hope these tips for new parents give you clarity and comfort as you begin this incredible chapter. If you found this article helpful or have tips of your own to share, leave a comment below—we’d love to hear from you!
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings