If you’ve opted for a hospital birth you’re probably already aware that you’ll be required to stay a minimum of 24-hours after your baby is born, possibly longer if there are any complications or concerns. If this is your first baby you may not be aware that newborns basically just eat and sleep in those first few days, which can make for a very long 24 hours. Granted visitors consume some time, and I think I spent at least a fourth of my stay staring at my new baby, but the rest of the time when your baby is asleep, you need something to do.
Bring your baby’s book:
I mean your baby’s baby book or journal, of course. You may not have much free time here in the next few months-or years-your hospital stay can be a great time to fill in a baby book or write one of those cool journals for your baby. I shamefully admit both my kids’ baby books never got filled in beyond that hospital stay content.
Down the same line of reasoning you might consider bringing a personal journal if you keep one; lots of thoughts to write down. If you’re much of an artist, you could also remember to bring a sketch pad and pencil to draw pictures of your newborn to share with family as sort of a personalized spin on sharing photos.
Bring a book.
If you’re not into writing, consider reading. Reading aloud to an infant has been shown to increase vocabulary. The idea is that books contain words that you wouldn’t normally use in everyday speech, so your baby is exposed to a wider vocabulary if you read to him or her. After your hospital stay reading while nursing can be a great way to continue the learning.
Bring a laptop:
The TV in my room with both of my babies had horrible reception. A laptop would allow you to watch movies, update family members from your room, post or send photos, write in online journals, check your email, or even just play silly online time killer games if your hospital has WiFi or you have an air-card.
Sleep:
Sleeping may not seem like something to do really, but I seriously recommend sleeping while your baby sleeps. In the first few weeks, unless you’re very lucky, chances are you won’t be getting very much shut-eye. Labor and delivery is a energy intensive process, you should nap as often as you can.
What did you do in the hospital after you had your baby?
You may also enjoy:
Having a Baby: What Happens at the Hospital?
Preparing Your Body for Labor and Delivery
Your Labor and Delivery: Things You May Not Expect