My advice for new mums a year on

I love to share what I have learnt with others but I am also weary of being the know-it-all new mum who bombards everyone with her opinion. I suppose that's one of the reasons this blog exists - I can give as much advice as I like and only those who want it read it.

Recently one of my fav mummy bloggers, Latte Mum, has been talking about her first year as a mum and what advice she would give herself if she could go back before her bubba was born. It got me thinking, what advice would I give myself if I could go back in time?

So, after some time considering this same question to I came up with my top three pieces of advice for new, or any really, mums.

Actually it's really only one piece of advice, but we'll call it three for now ;)

1. Trust your instincts. Above everything else.
Honestly this is the most important thing you can do for yourself and your baby. No one knows how to parent your baby better than you do, no one.

Sure, take advice form others, listen to the great and not-so-great hints and tips from other mums, aunts and uncles, Nanna's, pops, friends and complete strangers, but only take on those that feel right to you. Trust that you know what is best for your family.

Don't get me wrong, it will be hard at times but it is always worth it.

2. It's ok to change your mind (as long as you are doing #1)
I found that I went into this parenting thing with quite a few preconceived ideas that I never considered there was an alternative to (starting on pureed foods for example). But then as I travelled along I discovered that there indeed was alternatives and often they suited me much more than the original idea.

So I changed my tact and that was ok. Actually it was better than ok, it was perfect because it was right for my family and I was following my instincts.

Don't get bogged down in how you thought it would happen, if it doesn't feel right or if its not working, try something different. You never know, it might just be perfect for you :)

3. Find your 'parenting rock star' (for the times you doubt #1)
Its all well and good to say trust your instincts but some days that is really, really hard. On those days you need a few things, good friends - often other Mums who think like you do and a parenting expert to back you up!

Mine, as many will know, is Pinky McKay. When I am struggling to find what works for me or when the 100th person that day has questioned the way I am doing things (or given me that wonderful unsolicited advice I have talked about before...) I turn to Pinky. She doesn't always agree with me, don't get me wrong, but in general her parenting philosophy suits mine and that makes me feel better.

There are also a few facebook pages I am a member of that do this as well. The Natural Parent Magazine and Natural Parenting tips are great ones.
 
So there it is - my collective wisdom eleven months down the track. I hope it helps and I wonder what I will be writing this time next year when Matilda is almost two (yikes!)?

Have a great night xoxo