Taking time for yourself
Month 10, week 1
As a parent, you can be so busy with your child that you can easily
ignore your own well being.
Your child needs the very best from you. So, now that you're out of the
newborn marathon stage, it's time to make sure you're taking the time to take
care of yourself.
Focus on these three areas to increase your energy and regain some
control.
- Sleep. That is yours. Now that your baby has started moving, you will need all your energy to keep up. Take advantage of their longer sleep times to ensure you get enough sleep.
- The exercise. Exercising will
help you get in shape, clear your head and give you energy. Maybe your partner
can watch your baby first thing in the morning while you go for a run, or you
can turn on a workout DVD while you sleep. A long walk with a baby in a
stroller also counts.
- Smart snacks. Be sure to stock up on healthy snacks like nuts, fruit, and yogurt. That way, you won't be tempted to buy candy or other goodies that can give you a quick energy boost that runs out quickly.
Your baby's development this week
Games are not only entertainment for your child. Give them a new object
and watch them put it in their mouth, throw it, roll it, and turn it over,
learning all they can about it.
You may notice these growing signs of cognitive development:
- Your child's attention span is increased. They used to switch between
toys in seconds, but now they can focus on the same subject for longer periods
of time.
- They
begin to use objects correctly. They imitate how you drink from a bottle, talk on
the phone and comb your hair. They begin to understand that each object has its
own function.
- They
may start pointing at things. When something piques their interest, they want you
to watch it too. Reinforce their understanding by saying, "This is a
cup," etc.
You may wonder about:
- Anger. Is this an emotion your child might be feeling? The answer is yes. If you take something they want, they might get mad at you.
- Walk. Many children at this age can already take a few steps. Others will be a little less confident and try a little later.
- A
security blanket. If they haven't already identified an object that calms them when
they're upset, they probably will soon. It can be a helpful tool to help them
calm down and can become an integral part of their sleep routine.
Month 10, week 1 tips
- Schedule a date. Relationships need
maintenance. And when you go, try to talk about something other than the baby!
- Gather the spark. You're tired and
your libido may be low, but sex can really help. You will connect with your
partner and maybe even get more energy.
- Do Kegel. These pelvic
exercises are not just for pregnant women. Keep doing them to strengthen your
pelvic floor muscles, which can help if you have urinary incontinence problems.
- Do you have friends who do not
have children? Don't cut them out of your life. Look for common ground.
- Schedule your own doctor
appointments. The pediatrician should not be the only follow-up appointment on your
schedule. You should also take care of your own health.
- Brush your teeth. Changes during
pregnancy can lead to gum disease, and mothers can pass the bacteria that
causes cavities to their babies.
- Are you so exhausted and
depressed that it ruins your life? Ask for help. Postpartum depression does not always
occur immediately after the birth of a child. Talk to your doctor or trusted therapist.