- Trust Your Intuition - Many new moms are afraid of trusting their own intuition and seek advice from anyone willing to dish it out. Instead of waiting for the pediatrician to give the go ahead on every little thing, second time moms are more comfortable going with their gut.
- Ask and Take Help - Many first time moms hesitate accepting a helping hand. Don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it, and if someone says they want to give you a break, graciously take them up on it.
- Dad Is Not Mom - Many new mamas can stare at their newborn breathing and be in total awe. New dads don't always follow suit, but that doesn't make them a bad dad. Proud papas often show the love for their little ones in a different way from smitten mothers — you'll save yourself a lot of grief if you don't expect your husband to react to your baby exactly as you do.
- The Beginning Is Harder Than You Think - It's no secret that motherhood is not easy, but seriously, it's not easy. Bringing baby home often involves a lot of tears, soiled diapers, sleepless nights, and gas relief. Just know that it will get better.
- Books Got Nothing on Experience - Most expectant moms read mountains of books and take oodles of classes preparing her partner and herself for parenthood. The literature and courses are indeed helpful, but the truth is that you're going to learn more from first hand experience than the pages of a book. Don't worry if you feel that you or your partner doesn't know exactly what to expect — you will figure it out when the time arrives.
- You Don't Need Everything on Your Registry - Frazzled pregnant mamas often register for far more things than they need or want. In the end, many mothers discover they never needed half of the loot on their registry. By round two, mama will know what she needs and chances are, she'll already have it.
- Take Advantage of the Infant Days - Fearful and tired new parents are hesitant to even leave the house with their newborn, but truth be told it's often easier when the baby sleeps its way through the day rather than once he or she actually is awake. Go out to dinners, shop, and see old friends because once that child is older or has a sibling, these things become a lot harder.
- Hire a Professional Photographer - Most parents capture every single moment of their newborn's life with their own photographic equipment. While taking snapshots of your babe is fun, a few professional photos are priceless.
- Don't Sweat the Small Stuff - Time is fleeting during motherhood, but somehow many new mamas spend a majority of their time worrying about everything. It's natural to worry, but second time moms often find it easier letting go of the small stuff and enjoying each second instead of fretting over every tear and sniffle.
- Keep a Journal - If it's not written down it could be fleeting. Second time moms often think back to their first child and realize they are at a loss for memories. When did he start crawling? How did you get him to sleep through the night? Try to treasure what you may otherwise forget in a journal. Not only will you enjoy having the memories down the line, but you'll also love having your very own cliff notes for number two.
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