Blog// LGBT Adoptive Parents

Newborn Basics

Your newborn is finally about to arrive. The excitement is incomparable. Unfortunately for many soon-to-be parents, so is the terror.

The anticipation of newborn adoption is really an experience like no other. Adoptive parents can feel so many emotions in the months, weeks, and days leading up to the birth of their new baby. As the time draws near, many parents begin to worry. While bringing a newborn home can feel overwhelming, with love and support, there is nothing to fear.

Basic Learning

There is a wealth of information on basic newborn baby care at your disposal, so use it however often you need. Before your baby comes home, read up on everything from proper feeding to how to change a diaper and keep these resources close at hand. Although there is always a learning curve with every newborn, especially if it is your first, this can help you feel a little better prepared for handling the everyday needs of your new baby. This will also help in avoiding panic. There are many common things that all newborns will do that may startle or confuse new parents. Researching when to worry and when not to worry is a must for all parents. If you have a better idea of what to expect, you are less likely to stress over every little thing that your little one might do.

Seek Support

Reach out to family and friends, particularly those who have children. Connecting with other parents can be a lifesaver with a baby in the home. If no one within your network comes to mind, seek out support online or even in local community groups. Talking with others who have been through it will give you a great perspective. Firsthand experiences are the most valuable teachers. Moreover, you may be able to get firsthand help.

Self-Care

Having the help of family, friends, and other parents can be wonderful with a newborn. This is especially true because you need to remember to take care of yourself. Newborn adoption is thrilling, but exhausting. Bringing home your baby is the beginning of the most important chapter of your life and this chapter begins in a whirlwind. Even experienced parents can feel drained very quickly. It is a 24-hour job to care for a newborn, and while at first you may be fueled by your own joy and excitement, it doesn’t take long for fatigue, and stress, to set in. Don’t be so hard on yourself. Work with your partner or support group on coordinating break time, even if it’s just an hour or two to yourself for a relaxing bath or a nice walk. Try to prepare your own meals in advance whenever you have a spare moment so that you stay properly nourished. Nap whenever you can. You must take care of yourself to be able to take the best care of your baby.

A new baby is an absolute blessing, but that blessing comes with a lot of work. It’s natural for all parents to feel stressed and tired at points in time, so prepare as best you can. Do some research, ask doctors and nurses, and consult with other parents to get a better idea of what to expect. Most importantly, as difficult as it may be at times, remember to enjoy the little moments as this chaotic time will actually fly by faster than you may realize.

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