Pregnant and nesting, but feel like you might be forgetting something? Whether you are a first time mom or a veteran mother, we all need a great checklist to make sure that in preparing for a newborn we are not forgetting anything. So whether you split it up into daily tasks like I did, or just conquer it in four weeks, make sure that you, your family, and your baby are ready for this new adventure! So need a preparing for a newborn checklist? We have got you covered!
Over 4 weeks, I will go through how to prepare for a new baby and the basics you need to know and accomplish before the arrival of your newborn. We will discuss everything from having a birth binder to what you might need on your bedside table.
Contents
Week 1
Preparing for a new baby can be a really big job. It can seem overwhelming and with pregnancy brain, it can seem like you are going to forget something… something important. The first 7 steps include everything from why you should get a birth binder and birth plan ready to having a contingency plan. Read more>
Week 2
The new baby checklist is in full swing now! We are on week two of our four week and 28 day journey to prepare for a new baby. Once all four weeks are complete I will compile an easy download and post it on the main page to help you organize and prep for the big days ahead of you! In the meantime, follow along as I make sure that I too am ready for a new baby from the tiny details like washing clothes to more important things like empowering my husband in his role as my birth coach. Read more>
Week 3
Getting closer and closer to your estimated due date can mean feeling an intense urge to nest and prepare for your upcoming labor and childbirth experience. Week 3 of Preparing for a newborn is all about having the supplies you need handy (regardless of if you are having a hospital birth or homebirth) and setting yourself up for comfort and success after the baby is born. Read more>
Week 4
Still working on figuring our how to prepare for birth and a newborn? Here is the fourth and final week. Take a deep breath and know that you’re almost done and you are very well prepared to both give birth and welcome a new little baby into this world! Just 8 more things to do (because I am giving you a bonus one this week, but it’s good. I promise.). Read more>
More resources to help on your preparing for a newborn checklist!
Complete a Childbirth Class
Before we go through the 28 days, have you prepared for childbirth by attending a class? Preparing for childbirth is important for both mom and dad, so go through the basics if you haven’t already. This can be through an extensive class, a one day class, or through reading books and online resources. Find more of my own free childbirth resources by clicking the image below to see my breakdown of the 12 week Bradley Method course, a nutrition guide, and multiple printables. Read More>
Create a Birth Binder & Birth Plan
Part of a successful birth, is a great birth plan and location for important record-keeping. Learn why, how, and what to include in a birth binder and birth plan in your preparations. Read More>
Prepare for Breastfeeding Success
Breastfeeding is not easy, so here are some tips, tricks, and blunt realities of breastfeeding a newborn. Just remember while it’s not always easy or glamorous, it’s worth it in the end! Get my tips, tricks, encouragement, and favorite product recommendations. Read More>
Find our postpartum care guide for more information.

Kat
Excellent list, thanks for putting thia together.
Kara Carrero
Thank you! I am glad you enjoyed it 🙂
Cindy J. Coffey
Great post! So useful for all parents. Thank you so much for sharing it.