Appreciating the Newborn Stage: Finding Joy in the Little Things
The newborn stage can be an exciting and challenging time, but it’s also a period of tremendous growth and development for your little one. Here are 5 reasons why it’s worth celebrating.

I love being a mom. Becoming a mom has been one of the best things that have happened to me, but surviving the newborn stage can be quite challenging in those first few weeks.
So many emotions kick in instantly after you give birth and hold your baby for the very first time. You feel a sense of relief, excitement, anxiety, blessing, sleep deprivation, and scared all at the same time.
It’s no longer just yourself that you have to worry about. You’re now responsible for keeping another human being alive. Now you have this beautiful newborn to provide around-the-clock care for on top of ensuring your body heals itself as it should. And let’s not forget the raging hormones that can take a toll on our physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Whether you’re fastly approaching your due date or in the thick of trying to get through the newborn stage, you’ve landed in the right place. Today we’ll discuss how to appreciate the newborn stage and find joy in the little things.
But first…
What is the newborn stage and how long does it last?
So what exactly is the newborn stage, you ask? The newborn stage is the time immediately following birth until your baby is 12 weeks old. However, it may seem to be the hardest and longest part of motherhood. Not only are you trying to rest so that your body can heal after childbirth, but you also have to provide around-the-clock care and attention for your precious little one.
Why is it deemed the hardest?
The minute your baby is placed in your arms for the first time, you immediately experience all kinds of emotions – from excited to nervous to relieved to blessed. So many changes happen during the newborn stage such as:
- Trying to get to know your baby and their needs
- Managing sleep deprivation
- Prioritizing your little one’s needs over your own
- Dealing with postpartum recovery
- Navigating breastfeeding, pumping, and/or bottle feeding
And if you have other kids, you’re balancing that load on top of it all. Many days you may feel like you’re just surviving. But you’ll get through it. Before you know it, the physical and mental challenges of the newborn stage will be a thing of the past. It’ll get better before you know it.
5 Ways to Embrace and Enjoy the Newborn Stage
When I first become a mom, I didn’t think motherhood would get any better. But I quickly learned that there were a few things I could do to help me embrace the newborn stage and enjoy every moment of it. There are no ways for me to get around the challenges, but I could at least try and make those first few months more manageable and less overwhelming.
Here are five ways that you can do so as well to help you feel more in control:
Enjoy the cuddles
Newborns love to be held and snuggled, and it’s a great way to bond with your baby. Take advantage of this time to enjoy those sweet cuddles and get to know your little one. If you have other little ones, utilize a baby carrier for the best of both worlds – being able to soak up baby cuddles while being hands-free so that you can tend to your other kids.
Some will say that this may spoil the baby, but my doctor always reassures me that babies can’t be spoiled. You are their safe space so naturally they’ll want to spend time safely in your arms.
Embrace the chaos
Newborns are unpredictable and their needs can change from one moment to the next. Try to go with the flow and embrace the chaos of the newborn stage. Remember, this phase won’t last forever. Before you know it, you’ll be sleeping soundly through the night and knocking out that to-do list.
Get plenty of rest
Sleep when the baby sleeps is a phrase that people often tell new moms. During those first few weeks, you’ll be catering to your newborn’s needs every minute of every day. And sleep may seem to be a thing of the past, but sleep is crucial for both you and your baby during the newborn stage. Make sure you’re getting enough rest and don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it.
Take care of yourself
Taking care of a newborn can be exhausting, so it’s important to prioritize self-care. Make time for yourself when you can, whether that’s taking a quick nap or indulging in your favorite hobby. Don’t feel bad for doing so either. You can’t show up as the best mom your baby needs if you’re running on empty.
Be patient
Newborns can be fussy and it can be challenging to figure out what they need. Remember to be patient with yourself and your baby as you navigate this new phase. Giving yourself grace is the best thing you can learn to do as a mom.
In Summary
Overall, the newborn stage can be challenging. But it is a special time that can be rewarding as well. As a new mom, there is a lot to learn, get used to, and explore. Just know that the newborn stage is just that…a stage. The tough times won’t last always and you and your baby will be settled into a routine soon. Embrace the journey and enjoy getting to know your new little one!
Remember, don’t be afraid to reach out to your doctor or your support system if you need any assistance. That’s what they are there for.
If you’re pregnant or recently gave birth, how do feel about surviving the newborn stage? If you’re currently in the thick of it, what has been your biggest challenge? Have you learned anything tips that you can share with a new mom? Let’s chat about it in the comments below.


