Either because you didn’t know, or you didn’t realize, chances are you have done one of the mistakes below- and that’s the best case scenario. How about having done all five mistakes? Well, it’s not the end of the world and you are definitely not alone! Some of the most typical and recurrent parental mistakes can be avoided.
Just take a deep breath and one step at a time.
1. Don’t add sugar or salt to the baby’s food! Maybe to you yogurt is too sour, or lentils become inedible without a pinch of salt. Yet, this is not how babies feel. Being unaccustomed to different tastes, they can get used to eating everything the right way, which usually means closer to its natural form. Why don’t you see it as chance for you to start up right again?!
2. Never yell at a baby. A piece of paper is just a piece of paper to it and its natural place is the mouth. Now, if Picasso painted and then signed on it, too bad for you. Remember: yelling will not help solve the problem, will scare the baby and make you feel as guilty as hell.
3. Respect the baby’s pace. Babies should be born when it’s the right time for them and will breastfeed as much as they need to. They usually don’t enjoy having all kinds of crap on their heads; neither do they feel comfortable in tiny suits and gowns or over-sized shoes. The time for everything will come. Try to enjoy the moment- it flies.
4. Don’t fight in front of the baby. Ideally, don’t fight at all. Yet, you are tired, probably haven’t had sex for ages, you are sleep deprived and your hormones might be still a little crazy – give each other some space and a lot of understanding. When that seems impossible, wait for a naptime or take it outside!
5. Don’t violate your own rules. If the fireplace is “boo-boo”, it won’t make any sense to baby if you are tampering with it all the time. Be consistent. Babies are very perceptive and will do as we practice, not as we preach.
Parents are only human and so are mistakes. None of the above will scar your baby, if they occur randomly. If you are being systematic, though, be prepared to deal with the consequences.
(Tip: Apply for a job at momfatale.com, if your baby is one and you haven’t done any of the above.)
