It’s no secret that bringing a baby into the family changes just about everything. From the hours you sleep to what you shop for and where, your baby will have a big impact on what used to be routine. Although these never-ending changes are inevitable, so are the overwhelming joys.

Making the adjustment
You’ll bring to parenthood the same skills and flexibility that have seen you through other life transitions. But for baby-oriented changes, here are some suggestions to help you and your partner ease into your new roles as parents and adjust to the new routine of having a baby in the house:

• Savor the first few weeks, and make them a time of bonding. The birth of your baby is nothing short of a miracle. Focus your attention on your precious baby. It’s perfectly okay to let housework and social obligations take a backseat to enjoying your little miracle.

• Be honest with friends and family. All of a sudden, you’ll be spending more time at home and less time interacting with other adults. After the first exhilarating, exhausting days, this can be frustrating and lonely. If you’d like company, don’t hesitate to ask someone to come over (even if there’s a pile of laundry on the floor or dishes in the sink). Or, if you prefer time alone to rest or just be with your baby, ask your family, friends, and neighbors to take a rain check.

• Be willing to accept help. It’s not always easy to ask for or accept help. But now’s the perfect time to learn. If someone offers to help you around the house or to make dinner–let them! You and your partner can catch up on your rest, and the thoughtful people in your lives will be delighted that they could help you during this special time.

• Venture out with your baby. If you need to run errands but don’t want to be away from your baby, take her with you. Front-fitting packs are available that will keep your baby comfortable and safe. These handy strap-on carriers give you the pleasure of having your baby close by while leaving your hands free for other activities.

• Spend time alone with your husband. It’s natural to want to spend all your waking hours with your baby. But don’t forget about your partner. It will do everyone good to schedule some time just for the two of you away from the baby, even if it’s only an hour or two.

Sources of help
Find out as much as you can about making the transition from "couple" to "family." It will reassure you that many new parents have worked through the same adjustments that you are making. Here are some places to find advice:

• Check out the books at a local library or bookstore.

• Use your computer to explore family-related Websites.

• Join a local parenting group.