Whether you’re a seasoned pro with a clan of little ones at home, or a first-timer eagerly counting down the days to that special due date, there’s something universal about preparing for a new baby – the time always flies by faster than we expect!
Being a mom myself, I’ve gathered a treasure trove of wisdom on what truly matters when prepping for the arrival of your little one, and what might just be extra noise.
So, let’s dive in and explore my top NINE tips on preparing for your new baby while you’re still pregnant!
This is the real-deal, tried-and-tested, straight from the heart advice that you’ll be glad to know!
- Designing the Perfect Nursery (and this likely won’t be what you’re thinking)
So, let’s chat nurseries and dream a little!
What do you want it to look like?
Calming ocean vibes?
An out-of-this-world galaxy theme?
Or, maybe, a whimsical enchanted forest?
Trust me, setting up a nursery that’s both soothing and practical will help keep your sanity when you’re changing the umpteenth diaper at 3 AM.
Let’s start with functionality.
Make sure you’ve got room for the essentials: a crib, changing station, and, of course, a comfy chair for those late-night feedings.
Next, let’s sprinkle some magic on it.
The aesthetics are totally up to you and what you want your baby to experience. Your nursery, your rules.
Important!! If you’re unsure about the theme, no worries, just go with colors or elements that you love.
Speaking of love, guess what? Richmond, Virginia and Midlothian, Virginia are a treasure trove for nursery decor. Have you visited this cute little store in Richmond, Virginia yet? I came across this gem of a shop that had the most adorable clothing and baby nursery decor in Richmond, Virginia. Here’s a link to their website! https://1z2z3zshop.com/
- Here are a couple more places to shop, one baby nursery and baby clothing in Charlottesville, Virginia.
- https://cottagebabyboutique.com/
- https://littlenomadshop.com/collections/for-the-nursery
- https://www.ecobabybloom.com/
- https://www.greenbeanbabyboutique.com/
Who wouldn’t want a calming oasis instead of chaos of mismatched furniture and clutter at the 3AM feeding? I know which one I’d pick.
Remember, creating the perfect nursery isn’t just about it looking cute for Instagram (though that’s a nice bonus!). It’s about creating a space where you and your baby feel comfortable, relaxed, and happy.
Psst: If you don’t plan to have a nursery until baby is older, that’s ok too! You can always come back to this later!
-
- Save Your Sanity by Organizing Baby’s Clothes Ahead of Time
- https://milbysjustkids.com
- https://cottagebabyboutique.com/
- https://shopcloverkidsrva.com/
- Keep the Diaper Station in Order
-
Clear bins, closet shelves, or even a hanging shoe organizer can work wonders for keeping those diapers within reach.
Pro tip: Keep a stash in each room you spend time in — nothing like a diaper emergency in the living room with no supplies in sight.
(click here to read about how to create a “baby care” basket – link the blog post “Get your house newborn-ready in just 2 weeks”)
And here’s a bonus for you — keep an eye on local supermarket sales or join one of those parenting groups in Midlothian, Virginia. Some of them run diaper-sharing programs, which can be a lifesaver, especially for those first few months when your little one will race through sizes so fast!
- Ask Midlothian Moms https://www.facebook.com/groups/421783154646210
- RVA moms: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1624278254457408
- Capital Diaper Bank https://urbanbabybeginnings.org/community-cares/?fbclid=IwY2xjawIm9HlleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHUX6wwUC2rbYv7mLcNUBx3obey42JRS881doR9GluWBbHJgGZ2o62m03vQ_aem_2t4znh30Z3pEl_aH7c6TrQ
-
. Meal Prep Like a Masterchef
The 4th trimester is all about giving your body the love and nutrients it needs to heal and power you through those early, sleep-deprived weeks with your little one.
The solution? Meal prep, my friend. Now, I’m not talking about slaving in the kitchen for hours. You’ve got enough on your plate (pun totally intended!). I mean simple, delicious, and nutritious make-ahead meals.
We’re talking big-batch veggie lasagna, hearty chicken soup, or black bean enchiladas – all that you can easily freeze and reheat when hunger strikes.
But hey, if you’re looking at your third trimester belly and thinking, “There’s no way I’m cooking up a storm right now,” there’s an alternative. You can explore local meal prep services or food delivery options right here in Midlothian, Virginia.
-
Clean Eatz https://locations.cleaneatz.com/va/midlothian/meal-prep-120.html
- https://www.egourmetrva.com/wellfedrva
- https://greenkitchenrichmond.com/customized-meal-delivery/
Investing in your health during this time is so important! It’s not about “bouncing back” (anyone else totally over using that term), it’s about giving your body the fuel it needs to heal, to nurture, and to adjust!
Here are some of my favorite freezer meals to make ahead!
- Lasagna
- Burritos
- Quiche, whole and slices
- Chicken stew
- Heavy soups
- Chili with bone broth base
- Stuffed peppers
-
Pro tip: include meal deliver services, door dash gift cards or local crockpot meal services on your baby registry!
- Rock-a-bye Baby: Creating a Soothing Sleep Environment
Let’s chat about sleep.
Yeah, I know, it’s that elusive thing that everyone says you’re gonna miss once your baby arrives. But don’t worry, you’ve got this. Sleep is all about setting up the right vibes, for both you and your little one.
First off, you want to make sure your baby’s room is calm, cozy, and free from distractions. Think of it like creating a little zen bubble for your baby to drift off to sleep.
Noise-cancelling curtains and white noise machines will become your new BFFs. They create a gentle, soothing backdrop.
Setting up a sleep-friendly environment is more than just about catching some Zs. It’s about creating a space that helps your baby (and you!) feel secure, comfortable, and relaxed.
Want more help with newborn sleep? Postpartum doulas/nighttime nannies and sleep specialists can make a world of difference. Here are some resources for you.
- Navigating Richmond, Virginia with Your New Baby
Just because you’ve got a mini-me in tow doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the best of Midlothian, Virginia and Richmond, Virginia.
First things first, invest in a good stroller. Find a stroller that’s comfy for your little one, easy for you to maneuver, and rugged enough to handle Charlottesville, Virginia sidewalks.
Richmond, Virginia and Midlothian, Virginia are full of baby-friendly places that you’ll love too. Our parks are a great starting point – they’re perfect for leisurely strolls, and they’ve got those oh-so-important diaper changing stations.
- Maymont https://maymont.org
- Taylor Farm Park https://henrico.gov/rec/places/taylor-farm-park/
- Park 365 (extra great for kiddos with disabilities) https://soar365.org/park365/
- Pony Pasture
- Pocahontas State Park
- Midlothian Mines
- Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
- Huguenot Park
- Wishing Well Park in Midlothian https://www.wishingwellpark.com
And if you’re a foodie like me, you’ll appreciate the many cafes in that offer a warm welcome to moms and their babies. My personal favorite?
- Art Factory in Midlothian https://artfactoryva.com
- Boulevard Burgers and Brew https://boulevardburgerandbrew.com
- Toddling Around in Chester
- Busy Bee Play City in Ashland
- Sunshine Play Cafe in Richmond
- Kids Empire’s Tots Playground in Henrico
If you’re into yoga or looking to get into it, there are some great mom and baby classes in Richmond, Virginia and Midlothian, Virginia too. It’s a great way to get some exercise, bond with your baby, and meet other moms.
- https://www.wholeheartspace.com/
- https://www.humblehavenyoga.com/workshops/postnatal-yoga-babyme
Exploring Richmond, Virginia and Midlothian, Virginia with your baby isn’t just about getting out of the house. It’s about making memories, experiencing new things together, and showing your baby the world – starting with our little corner of it. Trust me, the fresh air, the change of scenery, and the adventures you’ll experience are all worth it!
- Local Support for Richmond Moms
This journey of motherhood, it’s not something you have to do alone! In fact, it’s way more fun when you have people to share it with.
There’s an army of fellow moms right here in Midlothian, Virginia and Richmond, Virginia who are ready to join forces with you. You’ve just got to find them.
So where do these moms hang out?
Start with your local community center. They usually host mom-and-baby meetups where you can chat about everything from diaper brands to sleep schedules while your little ones play. Nothing beats an in-person heart-to-heart with another mom who gets it.
But what if getting out and about isn’t in the cards?
There are plenty of online communities full of RVA moms and Midlothian Moms just like you. Facebook groups, Instagram pages, even Reddit threads – there’s a wealth of information, advice, and support out there. These are my three local favorites.
- http://instagram.com/thewestendmom
- http://Facebook.com/askmidlothianmoms
- http://Facebook.com/rvamoms
Libraries are a great place to check out because they often have storytime sessions for little ones. You get to meet other moms, and your kiddo gets entertained!
The importance of having mom friends can’t be overstated. It’s about more than just having someone to vent to when your baby won’t sleep or your toddler throws a tantrum in the supermarket (although that’s pretty important too). It’s about shared experiences, mutual support, and growing together as parents!
- Hospital Bag: It’s More Than Just Socks and Snacks
First things first, you’re gonna want the essentials. Yes, socks and snacks make the cut. Trust me, hospital floors are cold and hospital food… well, it leaves something to be desired. But there’s so much more you’ll want to pack.
Next up, baby gear. You’ll need an outfit for your little one, a swaddle blanket, and don’t forget the car seat. Hospitals won’t let you leave without one, and you don’t want to be stuck shopping online in the recovery room!
Of course, we can’t forget about you, mama. Pack a comfy outfit for your trip home, toiletries, and any medication you might need. Make sure to include your favorite lip balm because hospital air can be drying.
Remember, your hospital bag is more than just a bag; it’s your lifeline to comfort and sanity during your hospital stay. So pack wisely and don’t skimp on those homey touches!
- Planning to Introduce Pets to Your Newborn
Okay, I know you’ve been thinking about this one!
How is your four-legged friend, going to react to the new family addition?
Just remember that each pet is unique. So, while my pet may adjust quickly, your pet might need a little more time and that’s perfectly okay. The key is patience, and yes, a lot of it!
But here’s some advice: before the baby arrives, try to gradually decrease the attention you give your pet. I know it sounds a bit harsh, but it’s to avoid a sudden shift in attention when the baby comes.
Once the baby is here, slowly introduce your pet to the baby’s scent by letting them sniff baby’s clothes or blanket before you get home from the hospital.
And don’t forget, safety first. Never leave your newborn alone with the pet. It’s all new to them too, and it will take time for everyone to adjust.
Now, if you’re feeling a little overwhelmed, and I don’t blame you, there are local pet training classes in [YOUR CITY]. They’re fantastic for providing extra guidance and helping to smooth out this introduction process. Plus, it’s a great excuse to meet other pet-loving parents in town!
The pet-baby introduction is an incredible journey filled with cute moments that will melt your heart. Trust me, the sight of your fur baby and your real baby becoming best buddies will be worth all the effort!
- Hire your newborn (and/or birth) photographer! No surprise that I’m going to add this to the list right?This is not just about capturing cute baby pictures, it’s about freezing those precious moments in time and creating tangible memories that will take you back to the early days of parenthood (the good parts anyway 😉 )
A skilled newborn photographer knows how to capture the delicate details, the overwhelming love, and the pure magic that surrounds your little bundle of joy.
They have a knack for creating stunning compositions that reflect your unique journey into parenthood.
Click here to read more about finding a newborn photographer in Richmond, Virginia
Imagine snuggling up with your newborn, looking through a beautifully crafted photo album, and reliving those fleeting moments. Or proudly displaying a stunning wall gallery that showcases the love and joy that fills your home.
It’s these heartfelt memories that will last a lifetime and bring smiles to your faces for years to come (trust me on that one)!
So, go ahead, add “Hire a Newborn Photographer” to your list (I know a great one 😉 ) Check out my birth and newborn galleries HERE and HERE.
