You are not alone! Lucky for you, when it comes to raising kids, there is a whole community out there of seasoned parents willing to share their newfound knowledge regarding all things parenting. The staff from Giggle Magazine has reached out to our readers and a few have kindly shared their favorite advice for new parents.
What is your best advice for new parents?
The “tenth month” is the hardest!!! You don’t know what they want, they don’t know what they want and everyone is crying. But knowing this is just a short phase and it will get better helps.
– ERICA OWEN, MOM OF 2
Every time I’ve been asked this, I answer the same. Go with your own instincts. If something feels off, explore it. Or if your little one needs to be held longer, love on them as long as needed. If you feel tired or need a break, take it. Listen to your own body as you learn their needs too.
– AMY LEIGH, MOM OF 2
1. Limit your phone use
2. Always teach your kids to tell the truth
3. Stick to your word
4.Respect adults and never talk back to them
5. Know who your kids are hanging out with. It takes a village to raise kids these days.
– DEANA NECHODOM, MOM OF 3
Breathe. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Go on adventures as a family. Read aloud often! Do it your way!
– KD ZUR BENDER, MOM OF 2
Don’t forget to prioritize your health as you enter motherhood. So many women sacrifice themselves and their health in lieu of caring for their families. Being a healthy woman makes you a better Mom and example to your children. Whether it’s a daily walk, lifting weights, swimming or running, remember that self care is an important part of being the best mom you can be. (Note: This is in no way a “moms must bounce right back” piece of advice! Only that we have to care for ourselves in order to properly care for those we love!)
– ALLISON SENKARIK, MOM OF 2
Fed is best. Don’t get caught up in all the hoopla of breastfeeding vs. formula feeding. Do what’s best for your family and respect others’ decision that they are doing what’s best for theirs!
– TARYN BUCKLEY, MOM OF 2
Soak it up, rest, ask for help, talk to people and stay connected even if it’s a text.
– KELLI ANN WINKEL, MOM OF 3
Don’t listen to anyone’s advice! Whatever you do is the right decision.
– JODI HUNT, MOM OF 2
Don’t get caught up in mom shaming in person or on social media! You do you and remember there are 2-99 ways to do everything. We should all support one another!
– MERISSA MAIMO, MOM OF 2
It’s the hardest transition you can ever make because you are now completely devoting your life to someone else! When they are little babies, it’s not easy, so give yourself grace. Try to rely on help as much as you can. Remember we have all been peed, pooped and vomited on! And it’s OK to lose your patience and need a break! With every phase know that challenges will pass but another phase comes new challenges. But it’s the best job in the world.
– TRACY WRIGHT, MOM OF 2
It’s all a stage! When you feel like the sleepless nights, tantrums, independence, etc are never ending, it eventually ends. It’s all a stage of their life! And also of yours.
– STACEY HALL, MOM OF 2
Take them everywhere, let them experience everything and they would have to adjust to your schedule not the other way around. They grow up so fast.
– MEGAN DEGANCE, MOM OF 3
When people say “the days are long but the years are short,” it’s true. So much of parenthood is the day to day hustle of keeping them alive, fed and healthy, so don’t forget to stop and soak it all in. But on that note, don’t feel bad if you don’t love being a parent EVERY single minute of every single day. Some days are unbelievably hard (and some unbelievably beautiful) so give yourself grace through it all and know you’re doing your best.
– CAROLINE LOUISE LENTZ, MOM OF 3
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For more advice for new parents:
#ParentHacks: Moms Make the Rules!
Benign Neglect: Parenting Style of the Stars?
6 Snacks for the On-The-Go Parent!