Preparing For Baby: Strategies, Tools, and Tips for First Time Grandmothers

Author: Theresa V. Wilson

Preparing for baby is an exciting process that can be as unique

as childbirth for first time grandmothers. Once you recover from

the initial shock that your baby is no longer your baby, it's

time to get mentally and physically prepared to offer proactive

support to both mommy and daddy from the beginning of the

pre-birth process until the end of the new mom's recuperation

phase. It is truly more than preparing for baby showers, opening

gifts, and recording cards.

It all begins with the announcement. From the moment you're told

you are about to be a grandparent, nothing is the same. My

husband and I received our announcement on Christmas Day. Our

daughter and son-in-law came to the living room of their home to

say "the test was positive, congratulations grand mom". A new

life had formed, a child was in the wings. The excitement is

indescribable. It is one of many times you realize that it is

only through the power of God that such a miracle would be

possible. The months of preplanning begins by encouraging the

mom to eat and sleep properly, initiate planning the baby shower

with save the date cards, helping to monitor gift registries and

coordinating materials that would be useful after the baby is

born. Even selection of what the mom and baby would wear on

their first trip home is reminiscent of the bridal planning

process.

There are several issues, however, that are often overlooked

during the preparation phase. The future Grandmother needs to be

proactive about getting ready for the level of hands on input

and support that will be needed from her before, during, and

after the birth. Essential elements of grandmother preparation

should include one of several things:

Watching your diet, taking vitamins, starting an

exercise program - you could be "actively" involved in the

birthing process. I was part of the designated support team and,

as such, participated in the breathing exercises, hand holding

and offering the gentle conversations my daughter needed while

experiencing labor pains. In addition to singing songs, stroking

her head with a wet cloth throughout the process, I reminded her

of scripture verses that she could use as a source of her

strength including "I look beyond the hills from which cometh my

strength. My help comes from the Lord who made both heaven and

earth". (Psalm 121:1-2 KJV)

Being prepared with a CD player or recorder for playing favorite

her favorite music and other inspirational messages can be very

helpful in providing comfort at the most strenuous moments. The

Grandmother's role is pivotal for both the new mom and dad and

she must be physically up to the challenge even in early hours

of the day. The best time to get ready physically is before you

are needed. A nine month low impact aerobic or regular walking

routine will make a world of difference during a 10-20 hour

labor.

Taking time to refresh your knowledge about pregnancy

and birth - Especially if you are going to be part of the child

birthing process, a brief refresher of what to expect would be

helpful. Your daughter will look to you at various points of the

process for your reassurance. It would be helpful if you are

able to use terminology she learned during the birthing

preparation classes to let her know you are aware of what she is

experiencing and can relate with up to date information.

Setting aside at least two to three weeks time - Being

available to spend or be on call to help the new mom during the

recuperation and adjustment period is an invaluable gift your

daughter will never forget. Sleep schedules, adjusting to

feeding, doctor's appointments, stabilizing meal schedules,

addressing unexpected emergencies, doctor's visits, and helping

with general lifestyle changes all make a difference between

smooth and traumatic transition. The significance of your

presence during this time cannot be measured.

Scheduling "readiness" packing--Do not wait until your

daughter is heading to the hospital to pack items as you may be

asked to stay with mom and dad at the hospital overnight. Be

sure to include dried fruit, juice, peppermints, and other light

refreshments you can use during break times. Our team took turns

sleeping and eating during the 17 hours my daughter was in

labor. We prepared a food kit that included toothbrush, wash

cloth, music for her comfort, and fresh fruit. Unfortunately,

hospital machines offer carbonated soda and potato chips that

are uninviting during the early morning hours.

Another preplanning strategy you should consider is talking to

the new mom and dad about what they may need from you after

birth of the child. Often new parents don't consider the need

for help until the issue arises. By initiating this

conversation, new parents have the option to consider whether

there is a need for help for one or two weeks to support a

variety of issues including monitoring phone calls and visitors,

helping with home chores, washing clothes, and preparing meals.

These are a few of their favorite things.

Participating in the birth of your first grandbaby will mark a

moment in your life that can only be matched by your daughter's

birth. Your role is different this time, but it is pivotal to

the joy of your daughter's birthing experience. Congratulations

Grandma!!

About the author:

Theresa V. Wilson, M.Ed. is a Freelance Writer, with over eighty

bylines in several business, family and women on and offline

publications including Guide to Retirement Living, Godly

Business Woman Magazine, The Greater Omaha Parents Journal and a

"healthy eating" contribution Lifetime Magazine. She is owner of

a home based business dedicated to families and caregivers

facing health recovery and crisis related issues. Visit her site

at www.meetingtheneeds.org

Buying Pregnancy stuff on the web

US:

At Motherwear you'll find a complete selection of nursing clothes, nursing bras, pumps, and accessories - everything for a nursing mom!

Aaron's Baby Baskets - gifts for babies and new parents.

UK:

Great Savings at Mothercare.com - for UK shoppers.

Preparing For Baby: Strategies, Tools, and Tips for First Time Grandmothers

Article : Preparing For Baby