Top preparation tips: Bringing your newborn baby home

The exciting day is fast approaching; you are about to meet your new baby for the first time!

To help ensure you can enjoy and cherish this special time as much as possible here are some things you can do to ease your transition into parenthood those first few weeks:

Select Your Healthcare Provider

ou can call and make an appointment while you are still pregnant. This will give you a chance to begin getting to know one another. You can also ask any questions you have about your baby's care, such as:

• How soon after you're discharged from the hospital should you bring your baby in for a first visit?

• Does your provider's office have scheduled telephone hours for non-emergency questions?

Prepare Some Meals

Make a few of your go to dishes and freeze them to make dinner time a breeze for the first couple of weeks as a new family.

Think About Family And Friend Visits

No doubt your friends and family will be just as excited to meet your new baby as you are. Consider if you are ok with them just popping in, or if you would prefer to set days/times when you are happy to have visitors around.

You may also want to consider if a close family member will stay with you for the first week or so as you recover.

Catch Up on Home Chores and Laundry

While the nursery is anxiously awaiting your new arrival, it may be worth getting the rest of your house in order and the laundry up to date - one less thing to worry about when you come home from the hospital.

Choose Going Home Outfits

Select a cute outfit for both your new baby and for you to wear the day you bring your baby home from the hospital.

That's it! These few tips can be added to your "bringing baby home checklist" should help you read just more quickly to life with a new baby and as a family.

Now go pack your hospital bag