How to Hit the Ground Running With A New Baby

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Walmart. All opinions are 100% mine.

Having a baby is one of those defining moments in life. Becoming a parent is a million emotions rolled into one. Joy and terror. Love and exhaustion.

The transition is often times rocky and full of unknowns. As any “nesting” pregnant mom knows, the best you can do is prepare, prepare, prepare.

Stock the Freezer with Quick Meals and Snacks

When the baby comes, all he or she will be thinking about is food! And I have yet to see a baby that waits patiently for their turn to eat! If you don’t want to starve, it’s best to be prepared with lots of quick meals that others can just stick in the stove and heat up. And don’t forget snacks! Your post-baby appetite is often more intense than when pregnant. Chalk it up to breastfeeding or your stomach not having to share it’s space!

Solicit Help from Friends and Family 

This is so important. No matter how rock star you think you are, no matter how perfectly behaved your new born is, you’re going to need help. Your body just did something miraculous and exhausting. Your focus should be on the baby, let others take care of the rest. But if you don’t assign tasks, often well meaning friends and family are like an army without a General! Command those troops beforehand so you can relax and enjoy that chaos that is new parenthood!

Start a Baby Registry at Walmart.com

It’s no secret that a new baby is going to require some new gear. Now, you don’t have to go out and buy every fancy product on the market. That’s a good way to go broke and grow out of your home at the same time. Baby’s needs are simple. Feed them, clothe them, carry them, change their bums, and let them sleep.

Registries help you stay focused on what you really need and they’re also easy to share with friends and relatives.  I made a basic registry on Walmart.com with my personal must-haves.A sturdy breastfeeding pillow is something I always recommend. As I said before, a baby’s world revolves around eating, and your back and arms will be desperate for support by day two!

Another essential in the earlier days are diapers. While we like to use cloth diapers, it’s no secret that we also use disposables, especially during the turbulent first couple of weeks. Our favorites were Pampers® Swaddlers because they fit the best and the wetness indicator was so darn helpful! This Pampers Swaddlers Super Pack will prepare you for all those little messes your child makes.

(Are you looking for help in filling out your Walmart.com Baby Registry? Pampers Baby Basics for Any Mom on Walmart.com’s Parent & Baby Center is a great resource. There are articles about everything from the best baby gear, to what to look for in a childbirth class. Check it out!)

Settle In with Your Gear and Your New Little One

Once you’ve been blessed with the items on your Walmart.com Baby Registry, unpack and set up shop in your home and nursery. Be sure to take a picture, because this is the last time that room will look quite so cute and perfect! When your baby arrives, sit back and enjoy those precious moments.