10 STEPS TO BECOME A BETTER PARENT
Here are the 10 steps to become a better parent.Things do tend to get on top of you, post baby. Feelings assail you and you feel like a bad parent. But these are feelings- they come and go.
1. YOUR PRESENCE: Always be there for your baby. Take care of him by cleaning him, feeding him, dressing him and crooning. These are routine things, but as you keep him in your arms, there will be a flow of emotion and you will connect with your baby.
2. PATIENCE & TIME: You’ll need to spend a major portion of your time with your baby. Be patient. It is not easy – but since he is your flesh and blood, give him all the attention you can possibly give him.
3. AFFECTION: Show affection to your child. Cuddles will not only provide a sense of security to your baby but will also satisfy you and give you joy.
4. CARRY: Settle on a relaxed way of carrying your baby that won’t strain your back. Use a back pack if you’re going on a long journey.
5. TALK: Talk to your baby. By smiling and talking to your baby and showing your pleasure when he responds, you are giving him his very first lesson in communication.
6. ORGANISE: After pregnancy, organization can be the key to survival. During pregnancy, if you took time to plan how you would allot your time for each day, it’ll be easier for you to slip into a good routine.
7.DIVIDE TIME: If you have not done so, it is not too late. Divide your time into slots- baby-related, husband-related, work- related (house or office) and yourself.
8. ROUTINE: Most of the baby-related jobs are repetitive and it will be easier if you have a time table. It will take time to settle into a routine (at least 3 to 6 weeks). So let the time table suit the baby’s needs and not vice-versa.
9. INVOLVE YOUR SPOUSE: Raise your child together. Take turns to care for the baby. He will definitely benefit from the attention he gets from both parents.
10. TIME OUT: Being 24 hours with a baby can ‘freak ‘one out. Being irritable and grumpy will neither help you nor your baby. Plan to take at least half an hour a day just for yourself. Use the time to relax, doing the things that you like doing- reading, listening to music, or just having a scented bath. That means take help of other people to take care of your baby while you have the time off.
