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For those of you who have just received the news, or indeed are just trying for a baby we’ve covered a little of the essential science behind having a new baby; we examine issues like ‘why immunise.’ Babies-Worldwide is here as an online information service for getting an initial overview of the many issues new and expectant mothers will face. You’re going to get yourself prepared for your new baby, mentally, physically and you will need to adjust your house and car for the new baby too! Mentally preparing for the new baby It is a fact that we men do not adjust to having a new baby as quickly as women do, so don’t be surprised if we don’t come out all fatherly like when the announcement is made. My other half jokes we are slow learners! I’m guessing it is because women are the ones experiencing the physical, emotional and psychological changes that they react so quickly. We men only start to feel fatherly when we see the bump begin to develop or can feel baby move in mommy’s belly! Physically preparing for the new baby Fathers have to play a waiting game for the first nine months while awaiting the new arrival but there are a few things we can do. If men smoke they can give up it up and offer a smoke free environment (of course new mums should also avoid the cigarettes and alcohol. As someone who is anti-smoking I figure it is a great time to quit the habit. Planning for the new baby: the house and car Like it or not you’ll have to make changes to your home are you planning to co-sleep with the baby or are you planning a separate room for it. If space permits we recommend having a separate room for your new baby, even if the new baby is going to be sleeping with the new parents for the first couple of months. That’s where most of us men come in handy, I mean doing the decorating. A baby crib, some toys, a place to put all the baby’s clothes, shelves to convenient grab lotions, creams, diaper wipes, diapers, etc. off near the changing table is a MUST. A baby chair for the car is essential, get it now before baby arrives home from hospital. If you’ve had previous babies before, you probably don’t need too many new baby clothes. New babies outgrow their clothes terribly fast and it’d be a waste of money to splurge on new clothes. You can get hand-me-downs from nieces and nephews too, if you want. What you should probably get are blankets, sweaters, coats, and clothes for going out. At home, your new baby’s not going to mind old clothes. In fact, it’s a fact that your new baby is probably going to like wearing the old clothes better than the new clothes. If this is your first baby don’t forget the feeding utensils like baby bowls, breast pump (if you’re planning to pump breast milk for your new baby at work), baby bottles, cloth nappies, diapers, baby wipes, lotions, shampoo, bath gels, towels, baby blankets, baby bedding, bibs, stroller, etc. The most important thing though is not to worry and enjoy the experience. If you have any difficulties you can always ask a friend or another family member for some unbiased advice. One final word, and it really is most important, if you have any concerns at all about your baby’s health see your doctor or health care worker straight away – your baby is precious. Kevin Hart MA
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