Beyond Birth Day: Simple Joys, Shared Moments

Congrats! You're embarking on parenthood, a wild ride. Some days are a breeze, others feel like navigating a jungle. The wins might be obvious or sneak up on you later. But with every giggle and goo, life with your little one is anything but boring!

Finding Your Groove

Totally normal to feel a little overwhelmed about caring for your baby. Let your baby lead the way. She'll tell you when she's hungry, tired, or needs a cuddle. When you respond with love, she learns the world is safe and you're her rock. You'll also start trusting your instincts as you learn her cues – the obvious and the subtle. Feel her relax when she's snuggled close. Notice her turning away when she's had enough of something. Listen for those little smacking sounds when she's ready to eat. Watch and learn!

Early Bonding

Think of yourself as your baby's everything – favorite face, voice, food source, and nap spot. Before and after birth, you're her natural habitat! Even if it takes a few days to feel that connection, babies arrive already head-over-heels. They're ready to connect and are super attached to their parents. So, soak in those moments when she sleeps soundly on your chest or calms down in your arms after a visit.

Since she's been hearing your voice for months, it's her favorite sound. Seriously, even if you think you can't sing, to her, you're a rockstar. She also knows your body's rhythm and loves snuggling up to hear your heartbeat. Hold her close, and she'll recognize your smell in days. She'll be mesmerized by your face when nursing or cradled. Believe it or not, you already know how to comfort her just by being you! This is especially true if you are planning a homebirth with midwifery care; your baby already knows your home and your touch.

What Do Babies Really Need?

Food, clean diapers, comfort, safety, and sleep, right? But emotional needs are just as important. Like us, they need to feel loved, safe, and connected. Babies are wired to connect. This could be gazing into each other's eyes, kissing her toes during a bath, dancing and singing, reading aloud, or playing peek-a-boo. Think of all this love as brain food! We all need connection to thrive. As long as you follow her cues, you can't be too responsive or playful, so have fun.

Understanding Crying

Crying is how babies communicate. They're reaching out for help – maybe they're hungry, need a diaper change, feel lonely, or are bored. Respond quickly to their cries. Tuning in to her cues will help you figure out what she needs, sometimes before she even starts crying.

Making her feel secure can help reduce crying. Many babies love being swaddled; it reminds them of being snug in the womb. When babies cry hard, they flail their arms and legs. Maybe that's where "kicking and screaming" comes from! If she seems stressed during diaper changes, gently hold her arms to her chest to mimic that snug feeling.

When babies cry after a day of too many visitors, they need what we all need after a tough day – comfort and understanding. Unlike us, they can't excuse themselves and take a break. This often leads to crankiness. If you've checked her diaper and offered a feeding, tap into your comforting skills. Hold her close, find a quiet spot, and really focus on her. Talk and listen. Babies respond to compassion in our voices. Say what you would to a friend who's upset. We don't always know why they're crying, but reducing the noise and distractions (dimming the lights, turning off the TV, and speaking softly) often helps.

Daily Discoveries

You're your baby's best teacher, and every day is a learning opportunity. There are endless ways to connect, and you'll probably find it easier to get things done. Life isn't always just fun – there are always chores and responsibilities. It's good for kids to learn this early and find joy in everyday moments, even laundry day!

Besides the basics, your baby doesn't need a ton of stuff. Choose gear that helps you connect. Since everything is new and exciting to him, don't stress about creating a super stimulating environment. Including him in your day exposes him to new sights, sounds, and smells. Wearing him in a sling or carrier is fun because he gets a grown-up view. As you go about your day, tell him what you're doing. Around three months, he'll start babbling back. Pause after you speak and let him "reply" to help him learn the rhythm of conversation. As he finds his voice, he'll love making squeals, growls, and coos, especially if you copy him.

Enjoying the Ride

Our babies remind us to appreciate the simple things – blowing bubbles, splashing in the tub, walking barefoot. Many parents love rediscovering their favorite childhood books and songs. Let your baby guide you and trust that he'll give you the cues you need. Most importantly, enjoy your baby. They grow up way too fast! If you are planning a homebirth with midwifery care, enjoy these moments in the comfort of your own home.