Becoming a first-time parent is a daunting prospect
Love Island stars Molly-Mae Hague and boxer Tommy Fury are expecting their first child together.
They shared the news on Instagram with a video showing Molly-Mae, 23, saying: “I can’t wait for the adventures that we haven’t even dreamed of yet.”
“Becoming a parent for the first time can be one of the most exciting times in life – but also one of the most daunting. Most of us are unprepared, we learn as we go, and sometimes we make mistakes,” says Matt Buttery, CEO of Triple P Parenting (triplep.uk.net).
“Everyone’s parenting journey will have different challenges along the way. However, with preparation and a positive approach, along with the confidence to ask for help when you need it, raising your first child will be joyous, rewarding, and enriching.”
What do firsttime parents need to know about what lies ahead of them?
Ask for help
“Many parents feel a stigma around asking for help, and that it means they are failing at parenting – we have to change this as a society,” says Matt. “Whether you are reaching out for social support from a partner or friend, or a professional for advice, ideas and strategies that have been tested in research, asking for help with parenting is a strength.”
“You don’t have to be super mum or dad from day one, accept the help and remember no one is perfect,” adds Liat Hughes Joshi, author of Help Your Child Cope With Change (Summersdale, £10.99).
Be kind to yourself
“Go easy on yourself in the first weeks, because it can feel like you’ve been hit by a bus physically and mentally. You will be tired so sleep when baby sleeps,” says Liat.