*This guest blog was contributed by Dee Styles*
I’m scribbling and crossing out as I try to write my article for The Stork Bag – it’s a bit difficult to concentrate now as an expecting mother. And my 2 year old toddler isn’t helping at all, with her constant questioning; “Mommy what is this? Mommy what is that?”
One of the hardest parts of writing these blogs is finding the right topic, which my fellow moms will find fun and insightful. I was just about to grab my hair and start tearing it out, when I thought to myself, “exactly!” I’m going to write about how to get by as an expecting mother with a toddler! My hubby and I are expecting our second baby and we are super excited (well he is more excited than I am since I’m the one going through the discomforts that come with pregnancy!).
It’s been an adventurous journey so far, taking care of my toddler (a super hyper active 2 year old girl), my hubby and myself, plus the little one in me. Trust me, it’s no joke -sometimes I wonder how moms with twins get by!
But it’s not all bad, and below are some tips to make your journey through this phase a little more comfy.
- First, you need to have a good support system. Surround yourself with friends and family you can trust and that can cater to your needs or help you out when you really need them – especially on short notice. Maybe having a parent or sibling on standy if you need someone to watch your toddler for a few hours so that you can have a (much needed) break.
- Second, talk to your toddler about the coming baby, prepare them mentally, and try engage them in DIY activities such as crafts. Fostering independence in your child will benefit both of you
- Third, when you forget to take care of yourself (as we mothers tend to do every once in a while), remember the little one inside you. For their sake, you need to ensure that you are healthy and fit.
Try to eat a balanced meal each time whenever possible: infuse green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, cucumber, and fruits into your everyday meal plan. If you are a busy mom like me and you run around and driving a lot, it helps to have a water bottle or smoothie, along with a protein bar to take with you on the go.
Carry healthy snacks around like apples, dried fruits, nuts or a healthy sandwich. As the pregnancy progresses, I’ve discovered that I burn more energy quickly while catering to my toddler and the little one inside of me seems to want food more often than usual (especially when I am out!). Rather than get hungry and stop for some unhealthy fast food, I go to my pre-packed healthny snacks. Best of all, I can share these with my toddler if they are long.
Waking up in the morning has become a major chore as I am getting closer to my 3rd trimester and preparing my toddler for daycare every morning is always easier when I plan ahead the night before. I sort out her backpack with a change of clothes, ensure she has her snack and lunch for the next day available the night before, so all I have to do in the morning is warm it up and package it. I also sort out her clothing for the day the night before. Being a fashion oriented mom, I’m kind of particular about what my kid wears to school.
p.s. Remember to look after yourself! I can’t stress this enough. If I feel the need to rest I don’t push it. I found out the hard way during my first pregnancy that high blood pressure in pregnancy is not good for you or your baby. Relax, and take the time for some self-care.