Yes, that precious little thing you've been waiting for has arrived! Everything is ready at home : clothes, diapers, crib , changing table, bottles, pacifiers, blankets, accessories, etc. You feel that excitement wash over you and you spread it to those around you.
Everything's fine, except that even though you knew you were going to be up all night, you realize you weren't as prepared as you thought, and those first days, that first month, you're overwhelmed by exhaustion between feeding, changing diapers, bathing, and putting your baby to sleep—an endless sequence. And yes, that's how babies are: they take up your time, they need you, they're adjusting to this world because they didn't need anything in your womb.
Babies require a lot of attention, and even if you've already had children, each one is different and has their own personality. That's why, little by little, a communication bond is formed. They get to know each other, and you learn what each movement, each cry, and each smile mean. This will give you an advantage in knowing how to help your baby stay calm.
At first, the demand for food is so frequent that all you can do is take advantage of the little sleep he has to relax. Maybe there is a lot to do at home and you don't have any help. Housework can wait! You need your partner's help in this first stage, but always take advantage of resting when you have finally been able to put him to sleep in his crib. It doesn't matter if it's just for 5 minutes, believe me, it'll do the trick.
Little by little, it will become easier to entertain him. Get him used to spending time on a play mat so he can discover colors and exercise his body by reaching for them. Always find a safe place to put him where you can be calm and relax. Sit beside him, raise your legs, and rest while you watch him. You'll realize that this moment of independence will be a learning experience for him, and a relaxation experience for you. You'll both enjoy it.
Talk to your baby so he feels secure whether you’re near or far, and even if you sing rancheras badly, learn some children’s songs; they’ll like them, they calm them down, and you can do it with the baby by your side without having to carry him all the time, because strong arms also get tired. It’s exhausting to carry the baby in your arms all day long because of all the sleepless nights. You can take advantage of this and lie next to him, hugging him or just letting him feel your warmth; maybe you’ll both fall asleep! Don’t get nervous because you’ll only transmit your concern to him, the baby will get more restless, and you’ll get less rest.
When grandparents or aunts and uncles visit, take advantage of the opportunity to get some help carrying and entertaining your baby. Your partner can also support you, and don't feel bad about needing a few moments of rest; any mother can tell you she's been through the same thing. At first, avoid having large groups of people over; they can disrupt the baby's schedule or disturb his peaceful environment, and you'll struggle more to get him to sleep.
And finally, breaks may be few and far between, but you have to find the right moment. It's important, and there is one. Just stay calm, know that this will pass, ask your partner or a family member for support from time to time, and little by little, you'll see. Your baby will require less attention at night, will sleep in his crib all night, and you'll rest too. And remember, there will be many more pleasant moments that will erase all fatigue: his smile, his first gurgles, that gaze that never leaves yours. He's your baby, he loves you, and he's been alone with you for 9 months. Give him time.