Tips and Tricks for New Mommy and Daddy

No matter how many parenting books or videos you have watched, nothing, absolutely nothing, truly prepares you for the moment you become a parent. The tiny cry, the sleepless nights, the wave of love that hits you so hard that it is overwhelming at times. It is all new, raw, beautiful, and a little terrifying. As a new mommy and daddy, you will often find yourself learning, unlearning, and relearning every single day. It is completely fine, as parenthood is not an exam you must pass but a journey.

It’s Okay Not to Have It All Figured Out

You might scroll through social media and wonder how these parents have it all figured out—the spotless nurseries, the smiling babies. But here's the thing: no one has it all figured out. They are also learning along the journey, just as you are. First-time parents often feel an invisible pressure to “get it right”. Parenting is messy, unpredictable, and full of trial and error. Some days you will feel like you have cracked the code to parenting ; other days, you will end up questioning yourself, “Am I doing anything right?”, or Googling, “Why won’t my baby stop crying?” at 3 a.m.. It is completely normal to feel this way - let go of perfection; all your baby needs is you being truly present.

Divide and Conquer, Literally

Both Mommy and Daddy are adjusting to the new life, physically, emotionally, and mentally. Parenthood is not meant to be a solo act. The newborn demands teamwork, patience, and understanding. Moms, please don’t hesitate to ask for help. You are not failing or being a bad parent if you need to rest or want your partner to take over the baby duties—simply ask them. As for Dads, jump in and help out wherever you can. Be it burping the baby, handling laundry, or being calm during 3 a.m. storms.

Here is what divide and conquer really look like:

• Take turns with night duties. Maybe Dad handles diaper duties while Mom feeds.
• Or you alternate nights entirely so each gets one decent stretch of sleep.
• Tag-team the chores. One washes bottles, the other folds laundry. One rocks the baby while the other showers.
• Trade breaks. Give each other guilt-free timeouts. A 20-minute shower or coffee alone can feel like a vacation in those early days.
• Communicate, even when you’re tired. Instead of assuming the other person “should just know,” say what you need, whether it’s help, rest, or just a hug.

Rest Isn’t a Luxury, It’s a Need

You might hear people telling you “Sleep when the baby sleeps,” but let’s be honest, that’s easier said than done. There’s a never-ending list of chores. Still, find your moments of rest where you can. Nap while your partner watches the baby; close your eyes for ten minutes; relax. Rest is not a reward you have to earn; it is what keeps you going. A well-rested parent is a happier one, and trust me when I say that your baby feels that energy.

Ease Up on the “What Ifs”

It is easy to spiral into the "what ifs": “What if the baby is not eating enough? What if I’m doing something wrong?”. Here is something that helps with the what-if spirals: every time you start worrying, stop and say, “What if... everything is actually okay?”. Most of the time, it is. Babies cry. Parents worry. And somehow, it all evens out. If you ever feel too overwhelmed, talk it out with your partner, your doctor, or another parent. You’re never alone in this.

Keep Your Relationship Alive

When the baby arrives, your relationship shifts, and that’s natural. But, in spite of the diapers, feedings, and midnight chaos, don’t forget each other. At the end of the day, you two are still a unit, still a team. Steal little moments together - a shared cup of tea, a chat before bed - and appreciate the value your partner adds in your life, because they need to hear that. Your baby will thrive in the warmth of your connection and the healthy bond you share.

Remember to Be Present

You will want to capture every giggle, every yawn, every “first,” but sometimes, put the phone down and just be there. Hold your baby a little longer, breathe in that baby smell, because, before you know it, they will be crawling, talking, and running away with your heart.

Final Thought

Being a new mom or dad is not about getting everything right. It is about love, patience, and showing up every single day. Even when you don’t feel like it or you are tired. 

One day you will look back and realize you were doing better than you think, and you never gave yourself credit for it. 

So here is to you, the new mommy and daddy: you have got this. 

Even on the days you think you don’t!