Being pregnant with your first child is one of the most special times in your life but it can also be one of the most overwhelming. There is so much to do before your little bundle of joy arrives that you may not know where to start. Follow these three steps to prepare for the baby’s arrival so you can take some of the stress out of preparation and focus on enjoying your pregnancy.
Buy Baby Clothes
It’s easy to get carried away when buying baby clothes because there are so many cute options. Remember to buy a wide assortment of sizes so your baby will have plenty of clothes for the first year of his or her life so you aren’t constantly buying new clothes when the currents ones no longer fit. Finding a few online boutiques such as Matisaurus is a great way to find cute clothes in a variety of sizes with minimal hassle.
Set Up the Nursery
Your baby will spend a significant amount of time in the nursery so making sure it is all set up is a great way to alleviate stress about the baby’s arrival. This task will also help you grow even more excited about this major life change. Start by painting the walls and adding decorations to the room. You can then decide where you want furniture to go. Not only will you need a crib and a changing station, but make sure you also have a comfortable chair for late-night feedings. Next, organize all of your baby supplies so you can find everything easily when you need it. Place items such as diapers, wipes, crib sheets, soap and lotion within easy reach. Finally, add a few age-appropriate toys so the baby can stimulate his or her brain after outgrowing the newborn stage. Place a few books and a tummy time mat in the nursery so you can give your baby a few minutes of playtime each day.
Purchase Baby Equipment
You will need a lot of equipment once you bring your baby home. You’ve probably already invested in a crib and changing station but these items are just the start. If you want the baby to sleep in your room for the first few months, you’ll need to invest in a bassinet. You also need a car seat and a stroller for when you take the baby to different places. You may even want to add a swing and baby carrier so you can free your hands occasionally throughout the day. Try purchasing one of these items each month to avoid overstretching your budget.
Preparing for your baby’s arrival should be a fun and happy time. Instead of stressing about everything you need to get done, take things one step at a time so you can enjoy the experience. Using these three steps is a great way to prepare for the baby’s arrival throughout your pregnancy instead of all at once so you can truly enjoy the experience and anticipate meeting your baby.
