Parenting Tips for New Mommies (and Daddies Too)

I am a self-proclaimed baby expert. I figure having three babies over a five year span entitles me this title. I have accumulated a number of great tips for new parents which I want to share with you! Some of these things may seem like "no brainers" but honestly, there will be at least one thing on this list that you will benefit from as a new parent. Read on and enjoy your new babe. The majority of these tips focus on diapering, bathing, and dressing your new bundle of joy.

1. All diapers are different. Try different ones until you find one that you think fits your baby's bottom well. Be willing to change it as your baby grows. Sometimes Pampers and Huggies will be the only ones you'll want to use. Sometimes you'll be okay with the store brands. Don't be afraid to change things up.

2. Use Coupons. Sign up online at all the diaper and formula websites. Get on their mailing lists. You will get coupons in the mail regularly. It's worth it.

3. Be sure baby is done pooping before you change the diaper. Oh the mess that can happen should you not wait! Spoken from personal experience!

4. If you have a boy, be sure to cover his penis when changing him to keep from getting pee'd on. Also, if the little boy is "at attention" cover it quickly or you'll be sure to get the "fountain" effect. Again, spoken from personal experience!

5. if baby's diaper leaks at night, go up a size. Baby may be ready for a larger size, even if it seems huge. Diaper sizes have an overlap in weight. Even though your little one is in the weight range for a size 2, he may also be in the weight range of a 3. Check it out and change it up. They shouldn't leak.

6. You don't need to change baby's diaper every time they wake at night. Give a quick feel and you'll know if your little one needs changing.

7. Babies don't need bathes daily. Water dries out their skin. Sponge bathes work great. A nice wet washcloth with your favorite baby bath soap will get all of the necessary parts clean and smelling perfect on baby.

8. Bibs are great. Have lots of them because sooner or later, baby will be going through bundles of them.

9. The best things to use for burp rags are cloth diapers. They're the perfect size and not as flimsy as other burp rags.

10. Don't overdress your baby. Dress baby as you would be dressed (similar layers). Always cover your little one's ears though since ears are so prone to infection.

11. When suctioning baby's nose with the little bulb sucker (aspirator), be sure to block the other nostril to ensure the best suction.

12. If you are giving baby medicine, try this: Squirt it in their cheek and blow in their face. This will cause the baby to startle and swallow. Giving them no time to spit it out.

13. Regarding baby clothes and sizes, use the "months" and "weight/height" as a guide. Some babies will last longer in certain clothes and some will grow out of clothes quicker. For example, my baby was wearing 0-3 onesies and at the same time was in a couple of 12 months pants. The variation is huge.

14. When buying baby outfits, know that the best shirts are the onesies. Outfits with regular shirts can be annoying and need to be fixed and pulled down often. Snaps are wonderful since they keep things pulled together.

15. For baby gas, bend the baby's legs up against his tummy and push lightly. Release and repeat. The gas comes out, really it does! This is kind of amusing but it really does help.

16. Always keep a change of clothes for baby and mommy on hand. I keep my "mommy set" in the car, just in case. Baby inevitably will pee, spit up, or whatever when you are out of the house. Good to be prepared.

17. Always take an extra bottle if you're out. Just in case you are later than you anticipated, you'll always be prepared. Also, you never know when baby will decide they are hungrier than normal on a given day.

18. Pacifiers are wonderful. If your baby will take one, give it to her! Current research also says that it decreases SIDS.

19. Hooded towels sold at baby stores are cold and non-absorbent. Use regular towels to keep your baby warm and dry after a bath. The baby robes are nice as well.

20. Babies aren't breakable. Handle them with care and know that you won't hurt them when you pull their arm to maneuver it into jammies or a shirt. Wet babies are slippery, be careful when bathing your little one.

Enjoy your baby. If you're not sure of something consult your pediatrician, they are a great resource for any concerns or questions you might have about your new baby.