Before Baby Arrives

Creating a cozy space for your little one is a top priority! Start by choosing a cot that meets safety standards and a changing table with plenty of storage. Stock up on baby essentials like nappies, wipes, and onesies so you’re always prepared. Add some personal touches with cute decor and soft bedding to make it extra special. Your baby’s nursery will be their little slice of heaven! I love home décor and enjoyed decorating both my baby’s rooms and even hand-made unique pieces for their rooms. It was a way for me to feel connected to my babies before they arrived.

Organising baby clothes can be a blast! Babies grow at lightning speed, so having a variety of sizes ready to go is critical. Sort those adorable outfits by size and season, then wash everything with baby-friendly detergent. Finally, stash them in drawers or bins for super easy access. You’ll be ready for any growth spurt or weather change in style! Fun fact: my first baby was a girl, and I spent too much time on cute outfits that she never got to wear. My tip is to buy the adorable outfits in larger sizes when they will get more wear out of them.

Planning your hospital bag is a must! Pack it a few weeks before your due date to avoid last-minute stress. Toss in comfortable clothes, toiletries, and a phone charger for you. For the baby, don’t forget a cute coming-home outfit, blankets, and diapers. And, of course, include important documents and your birth plan. Fun fact: With my first baby, I brought way too much stuff. It looked like I was taking an international trip.

Booking your maternity and newborn photography sessions well in advance is critical to securing your preferred dates, especially around your baby’s birth month. Finding a photographer whose style you love and who makes you feel comfortable is crucial. Most importantly, choose someone trained in posing and handling your baby safely. Capturing these moments is priceless, so ensure you’re in good hands!

Safety first, folks! Make sure that the car seat is correctly installed before your baby arrives. Opt for a rear-facing seat for your newborn, and if you’re unsure about the installation, have it checked by a certified technician. Peace of mind and safe travels for you and your little one!

It’s never too early to start making your home safe for your little one. If you have pets, get them ready for the baby’s arrival. Cover electrical outlets and secure furniture to the walls. Install baby gates to keep your baby away from stairs and other unsafe areas. And don’t forget to keep small objects and choking hazards out of reach. Funny thing, my daughter never bothered with exploring to far from me, so baby-proofing was a breeze at first. Then along came my son, and let’s just say he made sure I stayed on my toes!

Cooking can be a real challenge in the early days with your baby, so get ahead of the game by preparing and freezing meals in advance. Stock up on easy-to-make foods, and maybe even consider a meal delivery service for those first few weeks. You’ll thank yourself later when dinner is one less thing to worry about! I was so lucky with both my babies to have my mum stay with me for two weeks. This meant I could focus on recovering and bonding with the new baby.

Having a solid network of friends and family can make a difference when you have a new baby. Sit down with your partner and discuss how they can pitch in and support you. Arrange for help from family or friends during those first few weeks—it’s a game-changer! Consider joining a new mum’s group for valuable advice, friendship, and support. You’ve got this, and you’re not alone in this amazing journey of parenthood! I have met so many amazing mums on my journey and now have some pretty cool friends.

Don’t forget to take time and unwind before the baby arrives. Treat yourself to a prenatal massage or a spa day for some well-deserved pampering. Engage in relaxing activities like reading, meditating, or taking leisurely walks. And don’t forget to cherish quality moments with your partner, soaking in this special time before your family expands. It’s all about savouring these precious moments and preparing yourself mentally and physically for the journey ahead!

A baby checklist isn’t just a piece of paper. It’s your new best friend on this wild, wonderful journey of parenthood. Imagine assembling a crib without instruction or cooking a fancy meal without a recipe. That’s what parenting without a checklist feels like! Having a trusty list keeps you on track, reduces stress and ensures you don’t forget those tiny but oh-so-important details (like diapers and pacifiers). Plus, checking off items is oddly satisfying, right? It turns the chaos into a game plan. So grab a pen, start ticking those boxes, and enjoy the ride! Your future self will thank you, and your baby will, too, in an adorable way. Let’s get organised and embrace the adventure of parenthood with confidence and a smile!