As lockdown restrictions are being relaxed here in Scotland, I’ve been reflecting on how I’ve spent my maternity leave so far. My days still mostly revolve around my daughter’s feeds and naps but she’s always been very curious and animated, never content to just watch the world from her pram or playmat, and it’s been a fun challenge keeping her entertained without the usual range of playgroups that many parents rely on (though I have signed up for baby massage classes on Zoom).
Unable to go to the library or bookshops during lockdown, I feel like I’ve kept Waterstones in business ordering books for the three of us. My husband and I try to read at least one story to our daughter every day, and we’ve discovered some really lovely picture books (that I’ll review at some point!). Our little bookworm also has a few scrunchy, cloth books that she can gnaw the corners and practise turning the pages.
I’ve always wanted to learn to play piano and started teaching myself last year, but it fell by the wayside and so far all I can play is a passable version of Jingle Bells. As we’ve not been able to join any of the local baby music groups, instead my daughter and I have been plunking away on the piano, and shaking rattles or clapping along to nursery rhymes at home. My husband and I also sing to our daughter (Jason Mraz and Sara Bareilles are favourites in our household at the moment), and bounce her on our knees to the William Tell Overture, Orpheus in the Underworld (the Can Can music) and other jaunty classical pieces.
Our little girl loves getting out for walks and starts grinning as soon as she sees the baby carrier. We avoided parks during the lockdown, but wandered round our local park for the first time in months when it seemed quiet recently, and our daughter saw the resident swans, cygnets and coots in the pond for the first time.
I’ve tried to make the best of it over the last few months, but at times I’ve struggled with loneliness and self-doubt. I’m very aware of all the ordinary experiences our daughter has missed out on, but fortunately she’s too young to understand how strange this year has been and for the most part she’s a lively, cuddly girl who keeps me busy and we have a lot of fun together.
As restrictions are lifted, I’m looking forward to taking our daughter further afield, sharing new experiences together and seeing the world through her bright eyes. Take care, and have a lovely week. X
I think your little girl has had the best start in life with two loving parents, who have introduced her to books, music, nature and love.
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Thank you so much for your kind words. X
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I totally agree with Cathy. She is having a delightful upbringing. X
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Thank you. It’s better now that we can meet up with extended family and friends, and the world is opening up again. X
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I think she has missed nothing being surrounded by such love and care!
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Thank you. I think I felt like we were making it up as we went during lockdown because there’s only so much support family, friends, GP and health visitor could provide over the phone. X
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Sometimes it is best when you follow your own instinct. Others mean well, but you have found your own way!
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Sounds like your little one is having the best possible start in life. I hope you are all well x
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Thanks, I’m trying but I’ve missed having the support and reassurance from the health visitor, etc during this. Apart from that we’re alright, getting out a bit more and seeing people and places which has been a great mood booster. Hope you’re OK, can imagine you’re ready for a break after working through it. X
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