Parenting is not easy.

No one ever said it will be easy. And no one ever said things will just be the same as they were. If you or someone you know is having or has recently had an infant, they are often exuberant in this new role. It is a wonderful thing, but there are a few wise rules that make you see just how it will be in reality. Here are some popular points (I am sure there are many others!)  to ponder as you partake on the parenting path:

1. Not everyone knows how to parent a child — it should come naturally, but it is truly a learn-as-you-go experience and confidence takes time.
2. No one “sleeps like a baby” because babies don’t really sleep. Instead, they do something more like I would call “power naps.” You  need to adjust to this new wake/sleep cycle (Yes, I know it’s not easy).
3. Emotional roller coaster here we come!! Ask any new mom and they are often so profoundly in love and star struck with this new member to their family that they forget to eat, sleep, call you back and maybe even shower. Babies are a full time job and “maternity leave” needs a new name.
4. Oh the bonding experience! As new grandparents anxiously await that boy/girl bundle, you just want to hold, cuddle and bond with that infant.  Anyway  you are the mother/father and they really do need to know who you are, right! Don’t worry they will know you better than maybe you know yourself.
5. Finally and most importantly, sing, talk, hum and communicate with that baby as often as you can. They learn much from their environment and a silent home is not what most infants need.

Yes we all change a little with the arrival of an infant but you are the most important person in that babies life and they need you just as much as you need them. Oh, and don’t forget to enjoy them, HAPPY PARENTING!