Baby’s Formula for Happiness

This motherhood thing- it’s not always easy. The first six months of Veronica’s life were probably some of the hardest months of my life. Even after taking parenting classes, it felt like no matter what I did, I could not find the formula for happiness.

Luckily, five years and two kids later, I’m starting to feel like I’ve got it all figured out. We now have three seemingly well adjust, smart, happy girls. And with happy girls comes a happy mama. Here are a few things that I’ve learned along this journey.

A schedule is so important! I’m pretty sure this was the problem with Veronica. I had no idea that we should try to have her on a schedule. Don’t worry though, I totally figured it out on the second and third go around! It took a little bit of sacrifice, but as soon as Adri and Juli were on a schedule, it felt like smooth sailing! A routine made it so much easier for me to know about when to expect a nap or feeding to happen.

Playing together has become my favorite method of bonding with the girls. Since they could laugh and smile, tickles and kisses have become the highlight of my day. Really anything that could bring a smile to the girls’ faces, brought one to mine. Peek-a-boo was always a favorite as the girls were laying in front of me after a diaper change. The joy on their little faces was so captivating and contagious.

Soak up the snuggles! I’m guilty of hardly ever putting the little ones down while they’re awake. Baby wearing has made it possible for me to get chores done around the house while also feel close to my baby. The girls won’t always want to snuggle with me and I’ll only be able to pick them up for a few more years, so I’m taking full advantage while I can! This makes me a happy mama with happy babies!

Nap time cures the crankies. Usually. Well rested babies tend to be much happier babies. This holds true for three year olds as well. I’ve learned that at the first sign of tiredness, it’s time to put the little one down. With Juli, this usually means when she starts sucking her thumb. I’ll gently lay her down in her crib and leave the room. Since I put her down when she’s not overly tired, she’ll go down calmly and without a fight. After a few hours she’ll wake up rested and ready to play  and snuggle again.

Speaking of rest, Gerber Good Start is now offering FREE appointments with their new certified baby sleep consultant, or with their nutritionist or certified lactation consultant at gerber.com/experts.