The experience of becoming new parents for the first time doesn’t have to be affected by your physical disabilities! In this article, we will discuss some priceless tips and product must-haves for one-armed parenting, whether you are partially or wholly unable to use one of your arms!
For parents with one arm, it is important to seek professional help and guidance if you are struggling or worried you will struggle to care for your baby due to your disability. Midwives, health visitors and occupational therapists (OTs) can help with a wide variety of queries and obstacles, such as finding any adaptive equipment you may need to aid you in your parenting journey along with manoeuvres that will help you to move your baby. And rest assured that you will not be the first to ask for disabled parenting advice!
A good tip to prepare parents with disabilities for the arrival of their new baby is to get some practice with a weighted doll before the baby arrives, so you can get used to the movements and try out equipment without the pressure and worry of doing something wrong. Be aware that a doll is completely immobile compared to a real baby, so it might be an idea to have someone around to aid you in the first few weeks of baby care so you can build up your confidence.
Parenting a young child with one arm may feel like it is getting more difficult as they get bigger and heavier, but as they get older, they will also become more responsive and able to communicate, therefore you may be able to encourage them to climb onto your lap or into your arms so you don’t have to bend over to lift them, or you can have them hold onto you while you carry them, helping to make it a little easier for you.
The above techniques of lifting your baby for parents with one arm will provide you with a few simple ways for how to hold your baby as well. But, if you’re keen to be able to hold your baby while moving around your house, whether it is to bond and keep them close to you or perhaps your little one is going through a fussy phase, then having a variety of different slings and baby carriers is the best way to do this. This way your hand is free to do other things aside from cuddles. Speak to your midwife, health visitor or OT about which slings will be best for you and your baby.
For parents with any type of disability, it can sometimes feel like you are trying to achieve the impossible, but we want to assure you that nothing is impossible when you do your research, ask for help and learn some fantastic techniques to help you with everyday baby care. There are also some fantastic products for disabled parents out there, which can help to make your life that bit easier.
Essential things to consider:
Life isn't always easy for parents with one arm, but by keeping the above information and tips in mind you can hopefully make life a little easier for yourself. There are some fantastic products out there for parents with disabilities helping to make one handed parenting less of a struggle.
National Institutes of Health states that expectant mothers need prenatal care so their babies have a greater chance of growing healthy and strong. Regular visits to your OB/GYN allow the doctor to provide advice and medical treatment. Before getting pregnant, moms-to-be should discuss any medical issues they have that might cause complications during pregnancy or childbirth. According to the National League for Nursing, pregnant women with mobility issues have an increased risk of falls, urinary tract infections, and changes in the ability to control bladder and bowel movements.
Before the baby arrives, locate community resources that provide assistance to parents with disabilities. This may involve parenting advice, help with childcare or counseling. All parents need help from time to time, many reach out to family and friends for assistance with babysitting and other necessary tasks. As a parent with a disability, don’t be shy about reaching out for the help all parents need. Get your support network in place so that when you need someone to give a hand, you’ll already know who to call.
Just because you have a disability doesn’t mean you constantly need outside help to care for your child. Use a variety of equipment to help you get the job done. For example, if you are confined to a wheelchair, find a baby crib that has a side opening. This way you can easily place and remove your newborn from the crib without raising your arms over your head.
Change your baby’s diapers on a bed or on the floor. Purchase baby clothing that has velcro, not snaps. This will make it easier for parents with fine motor skill difficulties to change their baby’s clothes. Use baby harnesses that allow you to carry your little one against your chest so you don’t have to use your arms. A boppy baby chair enables you to interact with your baby. The soft chair sits on your lap so you can hold your child close.
Parents who have issues with mobility will find that the Snugglebundl makes moving your baby around much easier, whether lifting them out of the crib, a carseat, or off the floor after playtime. Serving as a wrap, car seat blanket, play mat, and breastfeeding cover, it combines its many uses to not only make childcare tasks easier, but enable you to remain hands-on and involved.
Visually impaired parents can prepare for their baby’s birth by having a place for every item in the nursery. Then you’ll always be able to find fresh diapers and diaper cream quickly. Keep the baby’s bottles and bibs separate from other items in the kitchen. For example, place your baby’s feeding items in a separate drawer from other kitchen tools. Parents that are deaf or hard of hearing might not hear their baby crying. A good solution is to purchase the Babble Band. Similar in purpose as traditional baby monitors, this baby monitor looks like a wristwatch and alerts you to a crying child through flashing lights and vibrations.
Childproof your home to provide your little ones with protection from dangerous things around the house. Keep medications in a locked cabinet, place safety plugs on unused electrical outlets. Put child proof covers on doorknobs so toddlers can’t wander out of the house while you are unaware or unable to physically follow them.
Replace front steps with a ramp to make your home more easily accessible for wheelchairs. Purchase expandable hinges for doorways. Install skid-resistant flooring to prevent slips. All of these home alterations will help keep you and your baby safe.
If you have a disability and you’re expecting a baby, planning is key. Preparing your home with altered baby equipment or alternative methods will allow you to take care of your little one in the best way possible. By consulting with your OB/GYN and discussing any medical issues you have, you will successfully prepare your life and home for the new baby’s arrival.
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