Ivana Poku Wondering what a newborn routine looks like after baby arrives?
The honest truth is, every mum and every baby is different.
But here’s the thing – some experiences are universal, especially during those first exhausting, beautiful, unpredictable weeks of motherhood.
When I was pregnant, I had no idea what life after baby would really look like.
I imagined endless magical moments and instant bonding, full of joy and calm.
Spoiler: reality was very different.
And today I know that the more realistic your expectations, the easier it becomes to navigate those early days.
What the First Weeks of Motherhood Look Like
In those early weeks, your baby is the boss.
Most of your day revolves around:
- Feeding – Whether breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or a mix, this takes up most of your time.
- Nappy changes – Frequent, sometimes unpredictable, and part of the daily rhythm.
- Sleeping – Both you and your baby will grab rest whenever possible. Expect irregular naps and some sleepless nights.
- Cuddling and comforting – Soothing your baby is not wasted time; it’s bonding and helps them feel secure.
Some days will feel exhausting. Some nights may feel endless. You may doubt yourself, wonder if you’re doing enough, or feel overwhelmed. These feelings are completely normal—and you are not alone.
Sample Newborn Routine (Realistic & Flexible)
Here’s a comforting example of what a newborn day might look like.
Remember: every baby is different, so this is guidance, not a rulebook.
| Time | Activity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Sleep, wake for feeding | Babies often wake hungry; you may have a short rest between feeds |
| Mid-morning | Feeding & nappy change | Expect 2-3 feeds in a row, each lasting 20-40 minutes |
| Late morning | Nap & cuddles | Use this time to rest or do something small for yourself |
| Afternoon | Feeding & comfort | Some crying is normal; you’ll learn to read their cues |
| Evening | Short nap, play, bonding | Gentle interaction, singing, and tummy time |
| Night | Feeding & sleep | Expect night waking; remember, this is temporary |
Key takeaway: The first weeks are a mix of feeding, sleeping, and comforting. Don’t worry if things feel chaotic and confusing – it’s completely normal.
It Gets Easier – and More Rewarding
As time goes on, patterns emerge.
You’ll feel more confident, find a rhythm, and find small windows of calm and joy.
Life after baby is intense, but it’s also full of incredible moments:
- The first smile that melts your heart
- Soft coos and gurgles that make you laugh
- Those quiet moments when your baby snuggles into your chest, and everything else fades away
- The first time they reach for your hand, or recognise your voice
These moments are proof that you are doing an amazing job, even when it doesn’t feel that way.
Remember: the chaos, the crying, the exhaustion—they’re temporary. They are part of learning, adapting, and growing together. And while the first weeks can feel relentless, they also set the foundation for your relationship with your baby—a bond built on love, patience, and resilience.
Tips for New Mums Surviving the First Weeks:
- Take it one day at a time (this is crucial)
- Rest whenever you can and want to rest
- Ask for help like it’s your job
- Get out and talk to other mum
I promise – with support and self-compassion, those hard early days will be over before you know it.
So, breathe. Don’t focus on anything else for a while. And remember it’s all only temporary.
Life after baby is not about diong everyting “right” – it’s about love, presence, and showing up for yourself and your child every day.
And one day, you’ll look back and realise how far you’ve come!
This article is a good idea! I didnt have a clue what to expect after giving birth. Co-sleeping would solve the night (which seems to be the most demanding part of the day in the story). Many babies just dont want to sleep in a cot and co-sleeping is in our genetic memory as species.