What do you do when you get your first baby?

Here are a few basics to remember:

1. Wash your hands (or use a hand sanitizer) before handling your baby.
2. Support your baby’s head and neck.
3. Never shake your newborn, whether in play or in frustration.
4. Make sure your baby is securely fastened into the carrier, stroller, or car seat.

How do I prepare for my first child?

Preparing for a Baby Tips

1. Make a plan. Having a baby (especially your first) can feel like a huge leap into the unknown.
2. Cut yourself some slack.
3. Take care of yourself while pregnant.
4. Manage relationship stress.
5. Use your support network.

What do you need when you first have a baby?

Baby Nursery Essentials

• Crib, cradle or bassinet.
• Firm, flat mattress that fits snugly in the crib (less than two fingers should fit between the mattress and crib)
• 2-4 fitted crib sheets.
• Rocking chair or glider.
• Baby monitor.
• Diaper changing table or dresser with changing pad.
• Toy basket.
• White noise machine (optional)

What age should you have your first kid?

Experts say the best time to get pregnant is between your late 20s and early 30s. This age range is associated with the best outcomes for both you and your baby. One study pinpointed the ideal age to give birth to a first child as 30.5.

Is it hard having a baby?

PARENTHOOD IS EXHAUSTING Young babies need almost-constant care: They need to be fed every couple of hours; they wake up multiple times per night (making a good night’s sleep a thing of the past for you); and they may require specific (and bizarre) rituals to get them to eat, stop crying, or fall asleep.

What age is best to start a family?

Generally, the biomedical evidence suggests younger is better. There is an increase in maternal and child health problems with older mothers and women’s fertility declines, especially after the age of 35. The sociological evidence suggests that the older the better.

How much money should you save before having a kid?

A normal pregnancy typically costs between $30,000 and $50,000 without insurance, and averages $4,500 with coverage. Many costs, such as tests that moms who are at-risk or over age 35 might opt for, aren’t totally covered by insurance. Plan to have at least $20,000 in the bank.

When do you have a baby shower?

When should you plan a baby shower? Baby showers are typically held four to six weeks before the baby’s due date—late enough that the pregnancy is well along, but likely early enough to avoid an untimely arrival.