Postpartum Guide for Couples: Week 14
Is your child at an age where they love different types of toys? Educational toys are an excellent way to help your child hit those early developmental milestones, all while they have fun.
What’s Going On With Baby
Baby is becoming interested in various toys, from rattles to dangling and multi-textured toys. They will also show interest in bright primary colors and different sounds. There’s a reason why baby toys comprise all these features! If you’re looking for great toys for your 3-month-old, here are some that stimulate senses, encourage exploration, and support early developmental milestones:
High-contrast toys. High-contrast patterns or black and white toys catch baby’s attention.
Mirror toys. Babies love faces, including their own!
Texture toys. Different textures encourage sensory exploration.
Soft books. Books with bright colors and patterns make it easy to introduce baby to them.
Gym mats. Soft mets for tummy time can provide a fun space for baby to play.
Teething toys. Teething may begin around 3 months, so teething toys can be a way to explore and give baby relief.
Sensory balls. Textured balls that can be gripped will develop baby’s hand-eye coordination.
Musical toys. Musical toys are calming and engaging.
Soft stacking toys. Rings or cups help baby’s fine motor skills as they practice grasping and stacking.
Plush stuffed animals. Cuddly animals with cute faces are a comfort to little ones.
What’s Going On With Mom
Are you planning on being a stay-at-home mom, or are you already one? While being a stay-at-home mom gives you plenty of time to bond and play with baby, it can sometimes become exhausting if you don’t balance baby time with “you” time. You're working, too! Here are some tips for balancing being a SAHM and caring for yourself:
Set realistic expectations. Being a stay-at-home mom is a full-time job, and not every day will go as planned. Be flexible with your expectations, and don’t be hard on yourself if you don’t get everything you want done.
Establish a daily routine. A daily routine will help you feel less crazy and more structured throughout the day. It is also beneficial for your baby to get used to a daily routine, so they know what to expect.
Remember self-care. Make a list of things you enjoy and incorporate some of them into your weekly routine (e.g., reading, meeting with a friend, exercising, etc.).
Be okay with asking for and accepting help. If you need to grab some time for yourself, don’t be afraid to ask someone to watch over your baby while you do so. It’s common for moms to feel guilty about getting some time to themselves, but it’s essential to do so.
Combine activities. Combine some of your self-care activities with your baby. This might look like walking and chatting with a friend as you push your baby in a stroller. These activities are excellent for bringing joy to you and your little one.
What’s Going On With Partner
Parenting can feel lonely if you don’t spend time with other adults. We highly encourage you to find a community of dads to hang out with! Yes, these exist! Here are some ways to find community with other local dads:
Baby Storytime at the library
Church groups/classes
Facebook events
Balanced Families Dad Class Private Group (more on this below)
Park district family events
Asking around!
When you find a community that fits your schedule and lifestyle, you’ll be grateful to share these early months and years with baby alongside other fathers.
RESOURCE OF THE WEEK
If you're looking for an online community of like-minded moms and dads, check out our private online communities. They are free with purchase of any of our courses. Access information and passwords are included at the Intro section of your course portal! If you're one of our students, here's the link:
