Overview
Welcoming a new baby is an exciting time — but it can also feel overwhelming. Preparing ahead can help you feel more confident, reduce stress, and make the transition smoother for your whole family.
Every family is different, and there’s no “perfect” way to get ready. It’s about finding what works best for you, your baby, and your support network.
Plan for the early days
Think about what you might need in the first few weeks at home. This could include:
- Support with meals and chores - ask friends for family if they can help. It can be a great idea to pre-prepare some meals that can be stored in the freezer before baby arrives.
- A safe sleep space - a cot or bassinet that meets Australian safety standards.
- Nappies, clothes, and feeding supplies - enough for the first week or two.
Learn about newborn care
Reading, attending parenting classes, or talking to a child and family health nurse can help you feel prepared. You might want to learn about:
- Feeding your baby (breastfeeding or formula).
- Safe sleep
- How to soothe and settle a newborn
- Recognising your baby’s cues for hunger, tiredness, and comfort
The Karitane website is a great place to start, we have helpful resources with information about sleep, feeding, settling and routines. You can also join one of our FREE webinars on Sleep and Settling or Breastfeeding to help you feel prepared for baby’s arrival. Find the next webinar dates here.
Organise your support network
Parenting is easier when you have help. Support could come from:
- Your partner, family, or friends
- Health professionals like midwives, GPs, or Karitane nurses
- Parenting groups, community support groups or online communities
Looking after your mental health
It’s normal to feel a mix of emotions when preparing for a baby. Make time to rest, eat well, and do things that help you relax.
If you’re feeling anxious or low, talk to someone you trust or seek professional help.
The ForWhen helpline can be a great place to start if you need help. ForWhen Navigators are experienced, local mental health experts. They listen to understand your concerns and challenges and help guide you to the right support for you. You can call ForWhen on 1300 24 23 22.
Prepare for changes in daily life
A newborn will bring changes to your routine, sleep, and relationships. It can help to:
- Discuss household responsibilities with your partner
- Maintain respectful, honest and open communication with your partner and family
- Plan simple meals ahead of time
- Be realistic about visitors in the first weeks
- Remember to take things one day at a time
- Think about some of the things you do for self-care, make a note of them, let your partner know or leave yourself a note or reminder for yourself. This will help you have something to come back to during the busy post-partum period to remind you to take some time for you.
When to seek help
If you’re feeling stressed, burnt out, or struggling to cope, it’s okay to ask for help.
Call the Karitane Careline on 1300 227 464 to speak to an experienced Child and Family Health Nurse.
