My daughter will be one towards the beginning of 2018. As I sit here and think back on all the new experiences I had with a new baby in 2017, I realize that it’s important for other new moms to have some ideas. So if you (or someone you know) will have a new baby in 2018, check out my top five best ideas from having a new baby.
5. Go shopping. I started this really early because I just had to get out of the house. I’d browse Target or wander at Liberty Center while my newborn slept. Now that she’s older, we love looking at things together. Her perspective allows me a new view of ordinary things, like the produce section (which she loves), and she can also help pick things out (Did you know that nine-month-old babies have an opinion on pears?).
4. Go outside. We loved laying on a blanket in the shade when it was warmer outside, and now we bundle up in the carrier and take walks around the neighborhood. The fresh air is great for both mom and baby and it gives us a chance to see new things and visit any neighbors who are outside.
3. Get a membership. I stay home with my daughter, so I have lots of time to use my zoo membership, but even if it’s just on weekends or for an hour when you get home, having an activity that you can do that’s already paid for is nice. Crabby day? Head to the zoo. Mom is stir-crazy? Zoo it is!
2. Take tons of pictures. I love looking back at our ordinary days when she was tiny and remembering her little fingers and sweet expressions. I try to take at least one picture a day. Keeping them somewhere organized is nice as well, so you can see specific dates (I use an app that uploads them calendar-style and also shares them with family).
1. Set up a space to play (and spend lots of time there). We turned our relatively-unused front living room into a playroom. It’s nice because it keeps her stuff corralled but more importantly, it’s a place just for her. Now that she’s trying to walk, I know she has room and things to keep her stimulated, and I love spending time with her there.
So there you have it! Do you have any ideas from your first year with your baby that you want to share with a mom expecting a new one in 2018? Leave a comment below!
