Newborn Parenting During a Global Health Crisis

Add the confusion and uncertainty of a global health crisis and it can be a pretty scary time for people about to or who have just embarked on the journey of parenthood. The good news is you can make it through these trying times and emerge on the other side with a gorgeous little baby in tow. Here are a few ways that can help you manage and even thrive as a parent during these trying times:

Create a “new” normal

The global pandemic has upended many family’s day to day lives, throwing routines and structure out the window. This, however, doesn’t mean that you can’t forge some sort of new normal for you and your little one. If anything, it’s time to see the silver lining – turn a crowded home into an opportunity for everyone to bond and forge meaningful connections. Or turn being away from friends and family into an opportunity for you, your partner and your newborn to get to know one another and bond.

Don’t neglect yourself

Sure, having a baby is a full-time job but that doesn’t mean that you can’t attend to your needs as well. Make sure you take time for self-care to ensure the overall wellbeing of both you and your little one. Enjoy your bath time, drink plenty of water and don’t forget to eat proper, balanced meals. Being a parent is a team effort so lean on those around you wherever possible for support while you take time for yourself.

Use other channels to socialise

Your baby is a powerful connection – they have the remarkable ability to bring people together. While you may not be able to show off your beautiful bundle of joy in public, you can use other social tools such as video chats or phone calls and social media mediums you are comfortable with. There are plenty of other safe ways of communicating that don’t involve direct contact, so utilise whatever you can to share your happiness and joy with those around you.

Turn to a professional

Midwives, paediatricians and even general practitioners have special training to help you get through the difficult emotions that can arise after having a baby. Don’t forget your regular post-partum appointments and if need be, schedule an extra appointment to see a healthcare professional to help you along the way.

Use the time to bond

Use this time to bond in any way you can, from languid baby bathing to tender massages with loads of cream to keep away baby dry skin. There is no greater satisfaction than spending time with your little one, forging a long-lasting and meaningful relationship. Whenever you can spare a moment, bond with your baby because it will have far-reaching benefits for you and your family.

Keep calm and carry on 

Shift your expectations and priorities to focus more on what gives you a sense of calm, peace, purpose and fulfilment. There are going to be things that you can’t change. So, try to put your energy into things that you can have a meaningful impact on – such as the health and wellbeing of your newborn child and the rest of your family.

While having a baby during a global pandemic may be unnerving, it’s certainly not impossible to manage. Enjoy the whiffs of that new baby smell and the soft touch of their delicate skin because before you know it, they are rolling over, sitting up, walking and telling you how much they love you – it’s these moments that make it all worthwhile. And in the end, it’s important to remember that there is no such thing as a perfect mum, only a real one.