Welcome to Newborn Care Adventures:

Your Guide to Thriving with Your New Bundle of Joy!

Hey there, new parents! I’m so glad you’ve landed here. I’m Allison—a newborn care specialist, postpartum doula, and someone who’s spent countless overnight hours rocking, feeding, changing, and comforting newborns (and their parents!). While I’m not a parent myself, I’ve walked alongside hundreds of families through those tender first days and weeks—and that hands-on experience has given me a front-row seat to the beauty and the challenges of new parenthood.

Welcoming Baby #2: Supporting Siblings

Adding a second baby to the mix is exciting—and understandably overwhelming. What I often see is that including your older child in small ways can ease the transition for everyone.

• Invite them to grab a diaper, help with bathtime, or choose baby’s outfit.

• Give them “big sibling” jobs to build their confidence and connection.

These little interactions make a big impact in easing sibling rivalry and building family bonds.

• Make sure not to have too many big changes as you don't want to overwhelm your little one.

  • Don't jump right into potty training.

  • No last-minute cutting of the pacifier.

Getting Out of the House: Baby-Friendly Family Fun

It’s easy to feel like you’re stuck inside those first few weeks. But fresh air can work wonders for the whole family—yes, even baby!

Here are a few activities families I support love:

• Nature Walks or Stroller Strolls: Easy, calming, and good for your nervous system too.

• Local Libraries: Storytime, baby music classes, and quiet play.

• Petting Zoos & Farmers Markets: Great for older siblings with baby along for the ride.

Some parents I’ve worked with make it a weekly tradition to walk to a local market or park—just getting outside helps reset the day.

Potty Training: Trust the Timing

While I don’t potty train infants (of course!), many of the families I support with newborns go on to ask me about potty readiness for their toddlers.

Here’s the advice I give:

• Every child is different—there’s no set age.

• Look for signs of readiness, not pressure.

• Use positive reinforcement (stickers, songs, small rewards) to make it fun.

Take a deep breath—just like sleep and feeding, this is a stage, not a race.

Things I’ve Learned Supporting Families

Here are some truths that have stuck with me after years in the field:

• Self-care isn’t optional—rested parents make better decisions and feel more connected.

• There is no “right way”—only what works for your family.

• Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.

You’re not meant to do this alone, and I’m here to remind you of that every step of the way.

Before You Go: Questions to Consider

As you prepare or adjust to life with your newborn, take a moment to reflect:

• What kind of support would help you feel less overwhelmed?

• Are you feeling confident in your care routines—or still figuring it out?

• Who’s on your team right now—and is it time to expand your village?

  
  

If any of these questions feel hard to answer, that’s okay. You’re not expected to know it all. And if I can support you through overnight care, education, or simply being a reassuring presence in those early weeks—I’m here.

Let’s talk about how I can help you feel more rested, more confident, and more supported in your journey into parenthood.