Ready, Set, Baby!
Prep for Motherhood: Phase 1—The Essentials Before Baby Arrives
So, you’re about to become a mom? Congratulations! You’ve officially entered a world of excitement, anticipation, and a whole lot of preparation. But before you dive into the deep end of baby names, diaper brands, and color schemes for the nursery, let’s start with the basics.
Phase 1 of prepping for motherhood is about taking care of you and getting the essentials in place—because when the baby arrives, you’ll need to be feeling your best (even if it’s just to enjoy that first cup of coffee in peace). Let’s break it down and make sure you’ve got the basics covered.
Mind the Mental Prep
Sure, you’re probably already planning every little detail, but have you stopped to prepare your mind for the big changes ahead? It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement (and occasional stress) of creating the perfect nursery, but take a moment to check in with yourself.
Consider speaking with other moms, reading books, or even chatting with a therapist about any anxieties or uncertainties. Mental preparation is just as important as physical.
Most importantly, make peace with the fact that there’s no perfect way to do this. Trust your instincts, and remember, you’ve got this.
Start Building Your Support Squad
Motherhood isn’t a solo sport, so it’s time to start gathering your team. Whether it’s a supportive partner, friends, family, or online communities, building your support squad will make all the difference.
Line up any help you can get—whether it’s a partner, family, or even a trusted neighbor who’s offered to cook you a meal. Every little bit counts!
Pro tip: Make sure your squad knows your preferences for baby care. Do you prefer cloth diapers or disposables? Are you planning on breastfeeding, or bottle-feeding? Let your helpers know how they can be most supportive.
Baby Gear—But Don’t Go Overboard
It’s easy to get lost in the baby gear frenzy, especially with all the adorable options out there. But here’s the deal: you don’t need everything. The truth is, babies don’t need much at all—besides love, food, and sleep. But there are some basics you’ll need to survive the first few months.
Don’t get sucked into buying everything you see online. Yes, that bassinet might look adorable, but does it actually make life easier? Will it fit in your bedroom?
The big essentials include a car seat, crib or bassinet, baby clothes, swaddles, and of course, a stroller that suits your lifestyle. If you're wondering which stroller fits your family best, take the Joolz stroller quiz to find your perfect match. Whether it’s the versatile Joolz Hub2 for city living or the spacious Geo3 for your growing family, there's a stroller for every adventure.
Don’t forget the diaper bag! Keep it stocked and ready for action—plus, throw in a few emergency snacks for yourself, because let’s be real: you’ll need them. You’ll be thankful you have them on hand when you’re out and about, running errands or tackling those early morning outings.
Remember, less is more—focus on what’s functional, fits your lifestyle, and will help you feel prepared without breaking the bank or adding unnecessary stress.
Take Care of Your Body
Your body is going through a lot right now, so self-care is a must. That means eating well, staying active (even if it’s just gentle walks), and getting enough rest. Yes, easier said than done, but do your best to treat yourself like the superhero you are.
Hydrate like it’s your job, and don’t skip meals—even if you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the prep.
Get in the habit of stretching, walking, and doing things that make you feel good—your future self (and your back) will thank you.
Don’t be afraid to take naps or have a quiet day if you need it. Rest now while you can!
Conclusion
The countdown to motherhood is officially on, and while there’s no perfect way to prepare, taking the time for Phase 1 prep will set you up for success. Take care of your body, set your mental expectations, gather your support squad, and get those baby basics in place. Before you know it, you’ll be ready to welcome your little one with open arms. Remember, there’s no such thing as 'perfect' prep—what matters most is feeling supported and confident in your own journey. You’ve got this, mama!
