Guest blog: 8 Sweet Things to Treasure About the Baby Stage
Guest blog by: Arleen Atienza
8 Sweet Things to Treasure About the Baby Stage
If there’s one thing that parents don’t want to say goodbye to, it’s the baby stage.
Yes, caring for a baby can be challenging (you’ve likely looked up “newborn baby hacks” at some point), but it is, without a doubt, the best part of parenthood. There’s something about the baby stage that makes every parent want to pause the clock and spend time with their babies while they’re babies.
In this article, let’s set aside the unglamorous side of newborn babies, as well as the struggles of new moms, and dwell on the things to love about the baby stage.
#1 The Snoozes
Babies, particularly newborn babies, sleep when they want, wherever they want. That means moms can catch some Z's when their child snoozes, too.
The best part? Babies sleep a lot — in fact, they’re almost always asleep for the first few weeks. If you’re a new mom, you can use this time to get some undisturbed sleep in the middle of the day. You can also spend that time on self-care (put on a face mask and soak in the tub, maybe?).
Plus, babies look so peaceful when they’re asleep. It makes you want to whip out your phone, snap a couple of pics, and take the time to admire them.
#2 The Scent
If there’s anything that the best perfumers can’t do, it’s recreating a baby’s soapy and powdery scent.
One of the best things about the baby stage is their sweet scent. There’s something about a baby’s scent that’s so calming — every time you hold them close, you’ll feel a wave of comfort wash over you. You won’t be able to stop yourself from sniffing them!
Unfortunately, this scent fades by the time the baby is 6 weeks old, so you better breathe it in while you can! Now, if only you could capture the scent of your newborn baby and put it in a bottle...
#3 The Baby-Proofing
Baby-proofing the home can be time-consuming, but trust us — you’ll want to baby-proof your home when your baby is born. The second that baby pops out, their safety will be your priority.
If you don’t want your home to look like a daycare center, you can choose modern baby chairs, tables, and more. Shop for safe and classy start-up sets for your baby that complement your home’s interiors. That way, you can maintain your home’s aesthetic and keep your baby safe at the same time.
You should start to baby-proof the house at least three months before your due date. You’ll be too busy to baby-proof the house when they’re born. Babies start to crawl when they’re 6 to 10 months old, so be sure to do a full sweep of the house to ensure there aren’t any sharp corners.
#4 The Tiny Teeth
The teething stage can be painful, but the pain will be worth it when your baby shows your their gummy grin. They’ll be unbelievably cute that you’ll want to tickle their tummy and flash all of your funny faces to keep them grinning, gums and all.
When your baby’s first teeth show up, you’ll feel a sense of relief. Not long from now, they’ll be able to eat solid food — whew!
#5 The Clinginess
Time flies fast — too fast. Before you know it, your kid will be wearing a backpack over their shoulders and walking up the steps to kindergarten. The good news is that they will be clingy during the baby stage, so you’ll be able to bond with them before that time comes.
Your baby will be glued to you during the baby stage. They don’t want to be away from you — and the other way around! Your baby will be wrapped in your arms at all times. And even if you can always put them in the crib, you’ll find yourself peacefully sleeping beside them on the bed. You’ll be tethered to one another.
#6 The Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is magical. Not only is breast milk better for your baby, but it is also a bonding moment for you and your newborn baby. Studies have shown that skin-to-skin contact can create a better bond between the mother and child.
Sometimes, your baby will even fall asleep the moment they stop drinking your breast milk, also known as a “milk coma”. Babies look so cute when they’re “milk drunk”. They try not to nod off but succumb to it in the end. Plus, the feeling of your baby’s breathing rate syncing with yours is something else.
#7 The Clothes
You’ll be able to dress up your baby in the cutest clothes. Whether your want your baby to wear a Kangaroo-like onesie or you want them to wear fashion-forward babywear, your options are limitless. You will spend a lot of time (and money) online, “window-shopping” for baby clothes that will last throughout their baby stage.
Since baby clothes are so cute, there’s a good chance that you will get carried away! You will soon have drawers that are overflowing with cute onesies, tees, dungarees, and more!
#8 The Help
Being a new mom can be challenging, but you don’t need to do it all on your own. When you have a baby, you’ll be surprised at the number of people who are there to help. Even family members who live far will offer to babysit your kids, cook for you, and take care of your errands for you. You will feel pampered.
The Bottom Line
The baby stage doesn’t last forever, so be sure to treasure it. Sure, it can be stressful to care for a newborn baby, but don’t forget that it’s not all about changing diapers. Focus on the rare moments in between — moments that you won’t get back.