My SD Moms 
(StatePoint) Finding out you’re going to be a parent can be both exciting and stressful. But preparation makes for a smoother transition.
To help, Lindsay Pinchuk, mother of two, and founder and CEO of Bump Club and Beyond, a “mommy hub,” is offering 15 mental and logistical preparation tips:
• Get a bouncer
Decide who’s invited into the delivery room and let the nurses and your loved ones or partner enforce your policy.
• Be CEO of your family
When it comes to parenting decisions, listen to advice, but don’t be pressured into not doing what’s best for your family.
• Bump up your social circle
Friends with kids around the same age as yours can be a valuable asset for parenting advice and get-togethers. Event companies like Bump Club and Beyond help connect moms and moms-to-be.
Bringing a baby into the world is hard work. Accept help from friends and family.
• Shower yourself
When creating a registry, don’t overlook useful items you’ll need the most. Include diapers, like Huggies Little Snugglers, which provide outstanding skin care for your newborn’s delicate skin. Wipes are also essential. Look for ones with Triple Clean Layers that are tough on messes and gentle on skin, such as Huggies Natural Care Wipes.
• Get informed
Take an infant CPR class. Bring your significant other and anyone who will be caring for the baby.
• Learn basics
Find a class that teaches basics, such as how to diaper, swaddle and bathe your baby.
• Read the manual
Babies don’t come with a manual, but their gear does. Be sure to read life-saving information like your car seat manual.
• Hug it out
Skin-to-skin contact with the baby right after birth helps regulate the baby’s breathing and heartbeat, and keeps him or her warm and prepared to nurse.
• Pack Early
Pack your hospital bag a few weeks beforehand. The hospital is no hotel, so don’t forget shampoo, conditioner an extra pillow, flip flops for the shower, a robe and an extra bag.
• Hoard
Many hospitals will send you home with ice packs, disposable underwear and other supplies to help aid recovery. Take what you can!
More tips and expert advice are available at Huggies.com.
Still stressed? Take a deep breath and relax in the knowledge that no matter what happens, the love you’ll feel for your baby is indescribable.
