Preparing for a new baby, especially the first time, can feel a bit like studying for the world’s most complex exam, except there’s no one way to truly “ace” it. There are tons of resources available, advice from family and friends, and plenty of “must-know” lists, but no official handbook that teaches you how to become a parent. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all there is to learn, you’re not alone.
That’s why we’ve rounded up a list of essential things to know (plus, links to our favorite resources for expert-backed advice!). Learning more can help you feel more prepared and confident before the big arrival. You can also check out our recommended collection here.
Essential Things to Learn About Before Baby Arrives
1. Newborn Care Basics [view Baby 101]
The first few weeks with a newborn are all about getting into the groove of caring for your baby, learning about feeding & sleep, and just getting to know each other. Here are a few key things that can help:
- Sleep Patterns and Tips: Newborn sleep is famously unpredictable, and knowing what to expect can save you some worry and maybe even help you get a little shut-eye. Most newborns sleep in short spurts throughout the day and night, so know it's totally normal if your newborn is up every 2-3 hours around the clock. Don’t stress too much about schedules in the early days, but know there are things you can do to help establish healthy sleep habits and set your baby up for success. You can learn more about them in Tinyhood’s Newborn Sleep Section.
- Feeding Know-How: Whether you’re planning to breastfeed, bottle feed, or do a combination of both, having a basic understanding of feeding cues, schedules, and safe storage and preparation of breastmilk and formula is key. (If you’re breastfeeding, seeing demonstrations of how to get a good latch, learning about signs your baby is getting enough milk, and how to troubleshoot common challenges can be especially empowering to ensure you’re able to work through any early issues—Tinyhood’s has a class dedicated to this!).
- Diapering 101: It’s more than just a quick change! From dealing with up-the-back blowouts to treating diaper rash to understanding what normal poop should look like, a little preemptive know-how goes a long way. [Diaper Changes: A Quick and Dirty Guide]
2. Baby Safety Basics
Every parent wants to keep their baby safe, but the amount of information and products to help you do so can be overwhelming. Focus on a few essential things so you can protect your baby and feel confident without stressing too much.
- Safe Sleep Guidelines: Babies should be placed on their backs, in an empty crib for all night and daytime sleep. Following safe sleep guidelines has been shown to save lives, and learning about creating a safe sleep environment is essential. There are things you can do now, before baby’s arrival to ensure their sleep environment is safe. Learn everything you need to know in our FREE Safe Sleep Guide.
- Car Seat Safety: Most hospitals require newborns to be buckled into an infant car seat before they’ll discharge you, even if you’re walking home or taking the bus. So you’ll definitely want to install your car seat and learn how to securely buckle baby in it before you’re in the hospital parking lot. Trust us; check this one off the list sooner rather than later. [Free Car Seat Safety Download]
- Baby-Proofing 101: Don’t worry about overhauling your whole home right away. Start with the areas your baby will be in the most, like where they’ll sleep, and gradually work on other spots as they grow and start exploring. [Free Baby Proofing Guide]
3. Infant Health: Knowing What’s Normal (and When to Call for Help)
Babies are famous for keeping parents on their toes, especially when it comes to health. A little knowledge about common health concerns will empower you to confidently make decisions. Here are a few key things to know:
- Fevers and Symptoms: It’s okay not to be an expert, but it’s helpful to know the basics like how to check baby’s temperature and when to call your pediatrician or seek emergency care. Tinyhood’s common illnesses class covers this and so many more scenarios in-depth. And trust us, it’s way better than Googling at midnight. [Tinyhood’s Ultimate Safety Class]
- Digestive Ups and Downs: Babies are full of farts, burps, and sometimes a little spit-up. Most of this just comes with the territory, but knowing how to comfort them, what’s normal, and when to talk to your pediatrician can help prepare you and ease any anxieties.
You don’t have to memorize every symptom or diagnose any illnesses—just learn the basics and trust your intuition. And if something feels off, don’t second-guess yourself– always reach out to your pediatrician or seek urgent care.
4. Childbirth: Knowing Your Preferences and Preparing for the Unexpected
Childbirth is often the event that parents spend the most time preparing for, as it comes with a lot of questions and unpredictability. Many new parents go into birth with a solid plan in mind, and while having preferences is empowering, it’s equally important to stay flexible. Knowing what options you have and understanding the range of experiences you might encounter can help you feel prepared to advocate for yourself, even if things don’t go exactly as you envisioned. [Tinyhood’s Expecting Collection covers all of this & more!]
- Birth Plan Basics: Having a birth plan doesn’t mean every moment will go exactly as you planned, but it does help you think about what you want from your birth experience. Start by identifying your preferences, such as the use of birthing tools like a yoga ball, pain management options, and who you want in the room. Your plan can also include preferences around things like gentle cesareans (or c-sections), delayed cord clamping, and skin-to-skin time with your baby.
- Pain Management Options: From breathing techniques to epidurals, having an idea of available pain management options can help you feel in control, whatever your choice may be. There’s no “right” way to manage pain in labor—only the way that feels best for you.
- Birthing Positions: Movement and position can make a big difference during labor, and knowing various birthing positions, like squatting, side-lying, or leaning forward, can help you not only stay comfortable but also help your labor progress. Tinyhood’s classes demonstrate the different positions, showing you how to use them to your advantage. There are even handouts you can save to your phone to refresh your memory once you’re at the hospital.
- Advocating for Yourself: Knowledge is power, especially in a fast-paced hospital environment. When you’re informed about your options, it’s easier to make quick decisions when needed. Talk to your provider to communicate your preferences, slow things down if you’re feeling overwhelmed, and ask questions, while being open to adjustments as necessary.
Pro Tip: Childbirth is unpredictable, but educating yourself and your birth partner can make a big impact on your birth experience. Share your birth preferences with your partner, so they can help advocate for you during the labor, birth, and postpartum process.
Understanding your preferences and what to expect from labor & birth can make a big difference. Tinyhood’s expert-led childbirth classes offer insights into labor, delivery, and options to consider so you can approach your birth experience with confidence. Whether things go as planned or take an unexpected turn, knowing your options ahead of time allows you to be an active participant in your own birth story. [Expecting collection]
5. Managing Your Own Well-Being
It’s no secret that parents can sometimes put themselves last, but prioritizing your own well-being is actually a really key part of parenting. Here are a few things to prioritize when it comes to taking care of yourself:
- Sleep and Rest: We know this one is tough and we won’t tell you to “sleep when the baby sleeps” but, try to rest when you can. Accept offers (and ask!) for help, and remember that getting sleep when you can is important.
- Mental Health and Well-Being: Adjusting to parenthood is a major life transition, and your mental health deserves attention. Talking with other new parents can help you know you’re not alone. And, reaching out to a therapist if you’re feeling overwhelmed is another great way to support yourself. Tinyhood has FREE mental health classes on topics like….. And their postpartum class, includes a list of places where you can find support, both on and offline. [Free Tinyhood Talk: Navigating Postpartum]
- Self-Advocacy Skills: This journey involves so many people, from healthcare providers to family and friends. You know yourself and your needs best—feel empowered to ask for help, take breaks, and communicate what you need and what you’re comfortable with.
6. Communication and Partnership
Whether you’re parenting with a partner, family, or support system, clear communication is key.
- Set Realistic Expectations: Chat about how you’ll divide responsibilities early on (even before baby is born), keeping in mind that flexibility is key.
- Make a 'What Works for Us' Plan: From feeding to diapering, creating a loose plan together helps you both feel more prepared.
- Encourage Each Other: There’s no perfect path, and supporting each other’s efforts (even when things go sideways) builds a positive, cooperative vibe at home.
Friendly Reminder: No one has it all together. Share your wins and struggles, and lean on each other when things feel tough.
Preparation is empowering, but parenting is one big learning experience that’s always evolving. If you ever feel unsure, remember that no one has it all figured out, and parenting is about learning, adapting, and growing alongside your child. Tinyhood’s classes and resources are here to support you with expert advice that fits into your life, helping you learn and grow confidently as a parent.
Ready to dive deeper? Explore Tinyhood’s classes & step-by-step guides on topics like newborn sleep, breastfeeding, bottle feeding, baby safety, and more.
