7 Growing Pains New Parents Face and How to Survive Them
It is nothing less than a metamorphosis to become a parent for your first child. From being “you”, with your freedoms and routines, to someone whose entire world revolves around an infant, it is a metamorphosis. It’s exhilarating and terrifying. While everyone is gushing about the joys that come along with parenthood, nobody prepares you to deal with the inevitable growth pains.
You have to go through some difficult early days before you can fly with confidence as a parent. You know those moments where you feel as if you have been thrown into a whirlwind without a map or manual? The silver lining is that these challenges will make us more experienced. These challenges shape us and make us stronger. They also prepare us to advise other parents who are just starting.
What are the biggest growing pains that every new parent experiences? I’ll walk you through seven of the most common growing pains that every new parent faces.
1. Early Feeding Worries: The First Big Hurdle
The first speed bump for new parents is usually feeding your newborn. Feeding can be overwhelming, confusing, and exhausting, whether you are formula-feeding, breastfeeding, or combining the two. It’s not just a matter of “put the baby on boob” and voila! For many parents, it is a frustrating process of trial and error.
Breastfeeding is not without its challenges, such as nipple cracks, painful engorgement, and latching issues. Bottle feeding can be emotionally heavy for those who choose to switch, either by choice or necessity. It may make you feel like you’ve “failed” breastfeeding, when in reality, ty you haven’t. You are not alone if you feed your baby formula.
Just as babies must learn to crawl, talk, and eat, they also need to learn to feed. You may find that they are fussy or fall asleep in the middle of feeding, or appear to be always hungry. Once you and your child get into a routine, she will start guzzling her milk like a lamb.
Tip: If your child is struggling to feed, seek help early. Lactation consultants, your doctor, or parenting groups may be able to provide more support than you think.
2. Calling BS on Sleep Like a Baby
Let’s call it for what it is. The phrase “sleep as if you were a baby” is false news. Whoever said that has never been a parent of a baby.
Sleep deprivation is brutal. Sleep deprivation is brutal.
The newborns don’t sleep for long periods. They wake up frequently to be fed, soothed, or have their diapers changed. This can last for many months. It’s better to accept that your sleep pattern is going to be thrown out of whack for a little while.
Tip: To survive this phase, you need to get as much sleep as possible — even if that means taking short naps now and then — and become comfortable asking for assistance. If your partner, friends, or family are willing to help, let them. It is possible to improve your sleep (hang in there).
3. Accepting that You Have a Velcro Baby
Did you know that newborns and toddlers were made primarily of Velcro? They want to stay connected with you all the time.
This stage may seem overwhelming at first because you cannot put your child down without them crying. Once you’ve accepted this stage and lean into it, perhaps by using slings or babywearing, suddenly your hands are free. Yes, literally.
Wearing your child close will give them security and calmness, while allowing you to move around freely. You can now cook, clean,, even have a cup of tea without causing chaos. You learn to multitask, juggling both chores and cuddling your baby at the same time.
Tip: If not already done so, consider investing in a high-quality baby wrap or carrier. Your Velcro Baby (and your arms!) will thank you. Your Velcro baby (and your arms!)
4. Sleep Regression Torture: How to Survive it
You think you have cracked the code of sleep, and then BAM! You’ve worked hard to establish good sleep habits for your baby, but suddenly they forget them.
Sleep regressions are torturous. They often occur around four, eight, or later months. You’re wondering when the peaceful days of sleep will return. Your baby is waking up every hour or two, resisting bedtime, refusing naps, or fighting against bedtime.
What should you remember? Sleep regressions are temporary. It’s a normal stage of development for your child, whether it’s because of growth spurts or teething.
Tip: Even though it can be difficult, a consistent bedtime routine and a calm response to the situation will help to ease the transition. Sleep will return. It will always happen.
5. How to Deal with a Shocker Poonami
Consider yourself fortunate if you have never heard of the term “poonami.” If you have a child, it’s almost certain that you will experience this phenomenon at least once.
Poonamis are exactly as they sound: an avalanche poop that spills out of the diaper and covers every surface. Nothing is safe, whether it’s a shoppingcentera a trolley, or a fancy outfit.
The initial shock quickly gives way to frantic cleaning and lots of laughter (and sometimes tears). The “explosions”, which are messy and smelly, feel like a rite-of-passage. You will quickly learn that you need to always carry extra wipes and clothes with you.
Tip: Some parents swear that reusable cloth liners, or specially designed disposable diapers, will help to contain the mess. But it’s all part of the chaos, and you’ll be fine.
6. Understanding Teething Problems
Teething can be a frustrating and mysterious phase. Your baby becomes a restless, cranky creature who drools and cries at night. They may also refuse to eat. It’s often difficult to tell if teething really is the cause.
It is possible to get contradictory advice from family members, healthcare professionals, online forums, or other well-meaning people. The good news is? The good news?
You can use teething toys, ice, or even pain relievers that are safe for babies (check with your doctor first).
Tip: Be prepared to make this difficult phase easier for both you and your baby!
7. How to Deal with a Public Tantrum
Ah, the public meltdown. It’s a moment that every parent secretly fears.
It’s embarrassing when your toddler throws themselves on the ground in the aisle of the supermarket, screaming because she has to get the purple yogurt. You want to shrink on the floor when you see people looking at you with judgmental eyes.
You’re not the only one. All parents have experienced public tantrums. Keep your cool and avoid eye contact with the judgmental crowd. Remember that this t, oo will pass.
Tip: You are learning to be patient and graceful under pressure, while your child learns how to express their frustration and push boundaries. Over time, meltdowns will become less frequent, or at the very least, more manageable.
Growing Pains are Not All Bad: They matter!
These moments, while challenging, are also milestones in your parenting journey. Every growing pain teaches you new skills and insights. It also helps to strengthen your bond with your child. Your love, commitment, and resilience are reflected in their struggles.
There is no perfect way to overcome these challenges. It’s important to keep moving, learning, and loving. You are doing a remarkable thing, no matter how many poonamis or sleepless nights you endure. You are becoming parents.
Conclusion
Parenthood can be a rollercoaster of ups and downs. It’s also full of unexpected twists. Growing pains are part of parenting, and they can be overwhelming at first. But, in the end, these growing pains will make you a better parent. Remember to embrace the beautiful, messy chaos and that every challenge will pass. Every tear will teach you a valuable lesson. And every moment, no matter how difficult, helps you grow.
