New mum struggling on lockdown 😥

[Stressed80]

Hi, I'm a 40 yo first time mum to a beautiful little girl. At the start of lockdown she was 10 weeks old and we has just started going to things like baby massage etc a couple of weeks before it.

Since this lockdown I have at times felt really isolated and doubting that I'm giving my daughter all she needs in terms of development and stuff. We're in the end stages of the 4th leap and it's been incredibly hard. My partner is great and very supportive but he is working full time, its hard for him too. My relationship with my mum isn't the best so I try not to get into this kind of thing with her. I was wondering how other people are coping?

Honestly, all small babies need is consistency and as much entertainment as their senses are able to cope with. You’ll be doing all of it perfectly well. Baby groups at your DD’s age are really more for the parents to socialise and share and not go stir crazy, than for the babies themselves - and obviously it’s rubbish you aren’t getting that form of outlet for yourself. But your DD won’t be missing out on anything. Get out for a daily walk; read books at her; put some music on and sing and dance. You’re doing great

Aww! Enjoy the time (if possible). She will be fine without baby groups etc. Anything you do will be teaching her. Just normal household activities are enough entertainment for babies. And get out for a walk a day. Honestly, you’re doing fine!

Since this lockdown I have at times felt really isolated and doubting that I'm giving my daughter all she needs in terms of development and stuff.

As ComtesseDeSpair says, baby groups are for parents. You'll be giving your daughter everything she needs right now.

It's shit though isn't it? My friend gave birth 3 days ago and wasn't allowed anyone at the birth, not even her husband.

But just keep doing what you're doing and remember this won't be forever

So sorry you are feeling like this, please don't worry about your babies development as she will be absolutely fine. You can meet one person outside of the home in open space? Do you know any other new mum who might like to meet up for a walk, you could easily do that 2 metres apart and being in the same boat and a chat might do you the world of good?

Thank you all for responding! It has put my mind at ease a little with the comments about the group stuff being more for the mums I hadn't thought about it that way.

DD is generally a happy baby, I'm probably just overthinking and fretting! I've ordered a few new different toys which should make the day a little more interesting for her, and we video call the grandparents weekly so she can hopefully keep recognizing them. And yes, a daily walk is a good idea!!

Thanks again, it helps massively when someone puts it into perspective l, particularly I think when it's someone you don't know ha ha. Xx

All these groups have to make you think you need them for your baby so you part with your cash! But they are a good way to meet other parents. Your daughter will be happy just listening to you. It might sound silly to start but just tell her what you are doing as you do things - Mummy is going to make a lovely cup of tea now etc. Also - you don’t need too many toys if you struggle to get some. Things like a saucepan and wooden spoon can be lots of fun. As is emptying the laundry basket. Pulling all the books off the bookshelf. Maybe not quite yet (18ish weeks?) but soon!

Ha ha, thank you. The weather helps anyway, we go round the garden looking at everything! And for some reason, she loves me singing .

@stressed80. It is really tough right now. Being a new mum can be lonely even without lockdown. You are doing a fab job and the fact you are asking this question shows how much you care about your LO. As others have said all your LO really needs is you right now and baby groups at that age are more about meeting other mums. If you are feeling isolated maybe try some of the mum meeting apps or look on local Facebook groups that are doing virtual meet ups so you have some other mums who probably feel the same to talk to, even if it is virtually for now. My LO is a bit older (6months) and we are really missing our groups so I understand. If you just want someone else to talk to your welcome to PM as well.

You are doing great. All she needs right now is you. Letting her be in the garden is brill.