Daytime routines with a 4 week old

[Cbell]

OK. Starting my new life as a mummy and I'm wondering what the role entails.

So far my days comprise of feeding DD, feeding me, wash DD, wash me, sleep (for her), some play, more sleep and me trying to do a few simple tasks like make a phone call or clean house.

And while I hate to moan I can't help thinking 'Is this it?' What do you do all day with a baby?

I would like to add that I also spend a all day loving and cherishing my DD, so am not being a bad mummy by posing this question.

Your day sounds spot on

Loving and cherishing IS all the need at this age

If you do go to groups, they are more for you to have some company

congrats!

you are doing well.

do what you feel like doing.

the first weeks are bewildering!

if you want to go out, go. of you want to rest, rest.

give yourself a bit of time and you'll fibd your groove.

do baby/parent groups appeal? they are a lifeline for me/

Yes that is about it really for a little one! You're not being a bad Mummy at all but yes it can feel a bit boring and thankless. It does get more varied as they get older and are awake for longer. Oh, and when they start laughing and being more responsive it is lovely!! If you are feeling housebound it's worth remembering that they are quite portable at this age so if you are up to brief outings it can be a good way to get a change of scene, even if only for a walk. Also she is still quite little so getting some sleep yourself is not a bad idea, or just curl up with a cup of tea if she is sleeping. Once she is older you can do lots of things with her - out for walks, baby groups, swimming, to the park, shops, meet up with friends. It's a cliche but this phase really does pass very quickly so try not to wish it away....

Chell, make the most of it...she's going to be a teen sooner than you think. Make the most of that baby smell, those gurgles and smiles and be proud that you're washed and so is she!! You don't need to do anything else, just be a lovely mummy! Not that I'm jealous or anything

Yes, this is it!!

Gradually, as your baby gets a bit older, you will fine it easier to get out and about, pop to the shops, meet friends for a coffee with your new baby sidekick in tow, etc.

Don't set your expectations too high in the first few months.

Congratulations!

That's about all they need at this stage - food, sleep and cuddles. Enjoy! I wouldn't worry about getting too much else done at this stage. My DS is 3.5 months now and I find it much easier to get out and about and do things, but for the first 6 weeks we did very little.

That's it Cbell. Enjoy it. It won't last long

If you can afford (they have discounts for those who don't earn a lot), sign up for NCT post-natal course. You'll meet other local mums and soon you'll be whizzing around the town with your pram or the bub hanging from your sling. There is a whole world of baby massages and swimming, etc (and you can find them for free!). Congratulations!

Oh, and we started doing it from about 6 weeks. No point earlier really, your baby can mainly see your face for now .

What everyone else said. Sounds like you're doing amazingly - at that age, I spent 6 hours a day feeding and 10 hours a day trying to get him to sleep.

Congratulations & enjoy it! :)