Share your advice for first time parents to help build their confidence with Nurofen for Children - £300 voucher prize draw! NOW CLOSED

[AnnMumsnet]

Research by Nurofen for Children shows that, on average, it takes a first time mum an average of six months to feel confident as a parent(i). With that in mind, they'd like to know what words of wisdom you'd pass down to a first time mum to boost their confidence.

Here's what Nurofen for Children says, "Becoming a mum is a wonderful life changing experience, and a huge learning curve. Nurofen for Children understands seeking advice from other mums is an important part of feeling confident in the decisions you make for your new baby, so we’d love to know your best advice for other first-time mums".

Maybe you'd share something your own parents told you that helped when you were embarking on parenthood. Or something you wish you'd been told when you were a new parent. You might have a nugget of advice that you think would really make a difference, and we're eager to hear it.

Everyone who posts on this thread will be entered into a prize draw where one mumsnetter will win a £300 Love2Shop voucher!

Thanks

MNHQ

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Nurofen for Children 3 months to 9 years Orange / Strawberry. Nurofen for Children Orange / Strawberry 3 months to 12 years (weighing over 5kg). Contains Ibuprofen. For relief of fever. Always read the label.

(i) Survey of 2,000 mums by One Poll, commissioned by Nurofen for Children (October 2013)

Take things carefully an slowly - don't always accept your first thoughts or first piece of advice given

Based on how many times I have said 'Go back and wash your hands' children have terrible memories so don't worry about making a few mistakes, they won't remember them anyway :)

Don't worry about the little things, babies are more resilient than they look and don't be afraid to lean on friends & family - loved ones want to support you

Go with your instincts, there is much crap on the raising on kids, but in the end, you will do fine.

Go at your own pace, try not to worry, ask family advise or advise from friends if you need to but always make,it your decision. Enjoy every moment

Other new mums can be a great source of support so do join in those mum and baby groups. But they can also be a source of stress if mums get competitive or judgemental so don't feel you or your baby have to walk to the beat of anyone's drum but your own.

This time will pass so quickly when you look back. Relax and enjoy it and if the housework gets put on back burner that's as it should be.

Trust your own instincts and don't put too much pressure on yourself, forget the things that don't really matter.

Trust your instincts and speak to professionals if you are really worried. Every child is different and individual. Speaking to other new mums is really helpful too though.

Try not to get too stressed when people tell you what to do, try and do what you think is right.

Don't be afraid to make noise whilst your baby is sleeping..I made that mistake! Just do things your way, follow your gut and don't stress over things too much, it goes so fast so just enjoy every second!

Follow your instinct. You might double-guess yourself, but staying calm and following what your heart says is right is the way to go.

My advice would be - don't ask anyone for advice! This is your baby and your parenting journey, and you can do what suits your family dynamic best. If it feels intuitive and right for you, it probably is.

I was afraid to tell people how I felt, I was scared they'd think I wasn't coping or was depressed. I now know that all those worries were normal and would advise new mums to talk to family and trusted friends about the way they feel, it always helps x

Talk to your partner. Lots. As the first person you talk to about anything.

Don't be afraid to ask for help - from RL friends, family, or online

You will gets lots of advice from family, friends and even strangers who are full of good intentions, but only you know your baby and you need to trust your own instincts. I learned to nod and smile politely, and then carry on doing things my own way.

Go with your instincts, every child is different and don't be afraid to ask for advice or help

remember that each and every battle you dont have to win

I would just say trust your instincts, and no question is a silly question - you can be positive that someone else has asked it too. But above all enjoy each and every phase as no two children are the same so it's about finding what works best for you and your baby.

Don't think that you have to do everything on your own. Accept help when it's offered, especially with housework and shopping.

Advice on things such as when to wean, whether to give your baby water inbetween feeds and so much more has changed over the years so remember that your Mum and Mum in Law may give you different advice to that of the clinic and Health Visitor!

Don't compare yourself to other people. Trust your instinct.

Don't forget that CAVEMEN DID IT.

don't try to be perfect parents,.

Just remember that all a baby needs is love, food, warmth, sleep and to be clean. They dont care about anything else and if you do something "wrong" they wont know. And just be clear on the fact that you cannot spoil a baby, its just not possible, their brains are not able to function like that at such a young age. Also, read up on the fourth trimester!!

Best bit of advice is to remember that parenting is not a talent show with marks at the end of it, everyone gets things wrong and as long as you follow the basic safety advice, there isn't a lot of things that cannot be corrected.