Parenting 101

Want less parenting stress? Subscribe to a monthly newsletter. That’s what researchers at Newcastle University in the UK are suggesting after discovering that reading a few parenting tips can help new moms and dads cope better with the anxiety of dealing with a newborn and infant.

In general, mothers that received the monthly newsletter in the study reported fewer "hassles," and were less likely to complain about a crying baby or messy feedings. They were also less likely than mothers in the comparison group to have unrealistic expectations about their babies'  behavior. Researchers also pointed out that these newsletters could offer an inexpensive way to reach a large number of parents in need of help.

And what new parent doesn’t need help? As a first-time mom, I am willing to take any and every bit of advice offered to me. It’s one of the reasons I recently joined Facebook—so that I can connect with friends and family that have kids. It’s like having a mini support system at your disposal 24/7.
 
What do you do to deal with the stresses of new parenthood? Share your tips below. - Linda DiProperzio