Preparing for Baby S Homecoming

Preparing for Baby’s Homecoming.... By Val Dinklenburg

There's much to do before baby comes home and 9 months may seem like an eternity, but you'll be surprised how it sneaks up on you! Getting as much done as possible before the arrival of your sweet bundle will make a world of difference. Here are a few tips that will make life easier when that joyful day arrives:

1) Educate yourself, spouse/partner, & other family members. Learn as much as you can about childbirth, infant care, breast feeding, etc. Many classes are offered at the local hospital/medical center where you have chosen to give birth. Take a moment to make that call and find out what classes are available when. Arrange to take a tour of the hospital's labor & delivery department, so you know where you're going when the time comes. You'll also want to pre-register for admission, one less thing to think about when you arrive at the hospital.

2) Prepare baby's room. Have fun with this. You may be spending a lot of time here those first few weeks. Make it cozy and comfortable. Start with the basics: crib, changing table, dresser, comfy chair. You’ll want to stock up on baby wipes and diapers. I know you're thinking all those cases of diapers & wipes from your baby shower will last months, right? Wrong! They'll be gone in the blink of an eye! “Babyproof" the room, as well as the rest of your home. Start with safety cover plates for electrical outlets and keep hazardous products out of baby's reach.

3) Make meals in advance. Preparing meals in advance and freezing them will save much needed time and energy when you need it most. Make sure you have plenty of healthy food choices on hand when you feel like a snack (fruit, cut veggies, nuts, granola, etc.).

4) Purchase a "safety approved" car seat. An infant car seat is needed to bring your baby home from the hospital. It is also required by law. Make some trial runs, putting the seat in and removing it from your vehicle. If you need help, check with your local police/fire department. Many offer assistance in placing the seats properly.

5) Arrange for help where needed. You may find keeping up with household chores and errands a bit challenging at first. Recruit family/friends in advance to help out with other children, meals, pets, laundry, etc.

6) Pack a bag. You'll want to be ready to go when it's time, so pack some items a few weeks before your due date. Some essentials: personal toiletries (toothbrush,toothpaste, etc), nursing bra, underwear, nightgown, baby clothes/blanket.

7) Choose a pediatric physician before you go into labor. If you don't already have one, ask for recommendations from friends and family. Your obstetrician is another good source when searching for a trusted pediatrician for your baby. Be sure to confirm your insurance plan is accepted and ask which hospital(s) the pediatrician uses. These are just a few ideas to get you started and feeling confident for baby's arrival. The more prepared you are, the more time you'll have to enjoy your new little one. More importantly, you may have time for much needed rest and perhaps even a little pampering!