If you’re anything like me, the moment you found out you were going to be a parent, your brain probably went into a full-on panic spiral. (“Wait, they’re going to hand me a tiny human? With no manual?”) Yep, same here.
I’m still in the thick of preparing and learning all of this newborn stuff before my baby arrives, but I wanted to share some basics that are making me feel a little more capable—or at least a little less terrified. If you’re an overwhelmed first-time parent, you’re not alone. Let’s figure this out together.
1. the basics of Feeding Your Baby (And Feeding Yourself Some compassion)
One of the first things I’ve learned? Feeding can be way harder than it looks.
Whether you’re planning to breastfeed, pump, or formula feed, the biggest tip I’ve gotten (and am trying to keep in mind) is: just make sure your baby is fed.
Breastfeeding is natural but not always easy. Formula feeding is safe and valid. Pumping is its own kind of workout. No matter what path you take, there will be some trial and error. And honestly, that’s okay.
What’s helping me prepare:
- Setting up a feeding station with a water bottle and snacks
- Learning about lactation consultants and formula options
- Mentally preparing to view each feeding as a time to bond
2. simple baby Diaper Changing tips: Preparing for the Blowout Club
Changing a diaper sounds pretty straightforward… until you dive into the messy details.
I’ve been reading and watching videos, and one thing’s clear: blowouts happen. A lot.
Newborn Diaper Tips I’m Learning:
- Always have everything within arm’s reach BEFORE you start
- Slide a clean diaper under the baby before taking off the dirty one
- Expect leaks and blowouts—it’s not because you’re doing anything wrong, it’s just part of the deal
3. parents Sleeping while caring for a newborn (or, Preparing for the Lack of It)
If you’re picturing peaceful baby snoozes… I’m learning that newborns have their own chaotic sleep schedules. (And yes, that’s totally normal.)
They’ll sleep a lot, but in short bursts. Night and day mean nothing to them yet. It’s exhausting, and I’m trying to mentally prepare for that now.
What I’m Planning to Try:
- Napping when the baby naps (even if that’s at weird hours)
- Taking shifts with my partner if possible
- Reminding myself this phase won’t last forever
(Related Reading: When to Use a Sleep Sack vs. Swaddle)
4. baby Bath Time Basics
Bathing a slippery, wriggly newborn sounds terrifying to me (and honestly, it probably will be at first).
Here’s the simple routine I’m planning:
- Bathing only 2-3 times per week unless there’s a major mess
- Using lukewarm water and a soft washcloth
- Supporting their head and neck with one hand
- Laying everything out before starting (towel, soap, clothes, diaper)
Also: Babies are shockingly resilient. Even if bath time feels awkward, it’s okay.
5. Asking for Help as a first time parent (Without Feeling Guilty)
One thing I’m working on—and maybe you are too—is accepting that I won’t be able to do this alone.
People want to help. Letting them bring meals, run errands, or hold the baby so I can rest isn’t weakness. It’s smart.
We plan to ask people for help with meals as a part of our Baby Registry for example.
Helpful support ideas I’m keeping in mind:
- Asking for “help with a task” instead of “help with the baby”
- Letting trusted friends and family pitch in
- Joining an online parent group for advice and encouragement
Final Thoughts (From One Anxious Parent-to-Be to Another)
Preparing for newborn care is messy, beautiful, overwhelming, and full of tiny victories that don’t always make it onto Instagram.
If you’re scared, uncertain, tired—you’re not doing it wrong. You’re just becoming a parent. 💛
We’re learning together, one tiny milestone (and one diaper disaster) at a time.
You’ve got this. And if you don’t feel like you do? That’s normal too.
(High five for showing up.)
Coming next on The Anxious Parent:
I’ll be diving into “Parenting Anxiety” soon and why its totally normal!