Newborn baby checklist for new mums

Caring for a baby can sometimes feel like rocket science, especially if it’s your first time, but there are ways to simplify the process. The less stressed you are, the more you can focus on appreciating this new and wondrous life!

Here’s a simple newborn baby checklist for new mums to help guide you through the first few months of parenthood. You can print it out so it’s easier to use.

◯ Register the birth

♀♂The rules and regulations for registering a birth varies from country to country but generally, it’s a simple and straightforward process. Make sure to be acquainted with what you need to do ahead of time, and bring the required documents with you to the hospital.

If you are an expatriate, you may also have to secure a residency visa for your new born. Reach out to the proper government agencies for guidance.

◯ Take a multivitamin and mineral supplement

♀ Nutritional requirements for new mums are further increased with the arrival of their babies, so they need multivitamin and mineral supplements to augment.¹⁴² If you’re breastfeeding, you may need to ensure you’re getting enough of the important nutrients for both you and your baby.

◯ Send out birth announcements

♀♂Having a new baby is a wondrous thing that is worth celebrating, so it’s only natural for you to want to announce it to your friends, family, and loved ones. An email or a card will be lovely, but even a simple post on social media will do just fine.

Take in as much positivity as you can and enjoy every second of this milestone.

◯ Arrange your postnatal health check

♀ Your baby’s regular checkups should be booked between1 to 4 weeks, 6 to 8 weeks, and 6 to 8 months. First year vaccinations are due at 2, 4, 6 and 12 months.

◯ Check childcare & education options

♀♂If you are planning to go back to work after you’ve given birth, it’s always a good idea to prepare a childcare plan as soon as you can. Moreover, it’s never too early to start considering education options for your child.

If you’re considering a private education, start making enquiries now, as some private schools have a waiting list.

◯ Start postnatal exercises

♀♂Your pelvic floor and tummy muscles will need toning up after birth. Plan to have a moderate-intensity exercise for at least 30 minutes preferably every day.

◯ Look after your own emotional health

♀ It’s quite normal to feel a bit down in the first weeks following birth as you juggle the demands of a new baby. These feelings usually ease of their own accord, but if you’re feeling overwhelmed or sad more than 2 weeks after baby has arrived, speak to your midwife or doctor.

It is obvious that this checklist for new mums will help you make effective plans in managing important tasks and activities in the first few months of childbirth. Get more advice for new parents here.