Babies change and develop like it’s their job - because, well, it is. As parents, that leave us with the task of supporting them, encouraging them and trying to keep up with the breakneck pace of babyhood.
That’s because even if the days can feel long, these early years are actually oh-so short when you look back and consider how on earth it was possible your baby went from a newborn who couldn’t hold up his head to a running, jumping, questioning toddler.
The challenge for us, of course, is that right when we feel like we have it figured out, babies have a way of throwing us curveballs.
Finally figured out when baby is ready for a morning nap? They want to drop it.
Feeling comfortable with the feeding routine? Time to introduce solids.
Got the hang of your daily schedule? Maternity leave is over.
Although we so often talk about the monthly milestones that children experience in their first year, it’s these little daily ones that can send the biggest shockwaves through our lives - especially when you’re trying to adjust to the new role, too.
Right along with parenting, you are still the person you were before with needs, interests and goals of your own. So how exactly can you make time for those when your child’s schedule changes on the daily? Take it from us and our collective knowledge on parenthood: You need to ask yourself what really matters and then prioritize from there.
That’s because the one thing we can predict will be the trend in parenthood is that it’s unpredictable - and there’s nothing like assuming your baby will take a two-hour nap like usual, only to have them wake up acting fully rested after 20 minutes.
This is a lot easier said than done, especially for first-time parents. Society, grandparents and even the lady behind you in the checkout aisle at the store can have a way of making it seem like every. little. decision. you make has the power to adjust the course of your child’s life. In reality, though, the most important thing you can bring into parenthood is a set of good intentions.
So when your baby changes her mind and no longer likes the stroller, or suddenly isn’t sleeping through the night or gets picky about what bottle she likes? Sometimes all you can do is roll with it - and know this, too, will pass.
Kids2 provides information of a general nature and is designed for educational purposes only. This site does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.