Raising royal baby: ‘Fall crazily in love with him’

Are you nervous about being a new parent? Here’s some expert advice for new parents (including Prince William and Duchess Kate): fall in love with your baby, enjoy every moment, and trust your own instincts. As Berry Brazelton, a pediatrician and author of more than 30 books on child development, says, “You know your baby better than anyone else, so follow your instinct, and by watching his responses and his behavior- which is his language- he will tell you how to parent him. Don’t worry about any mistakes for you can learn from them until you hit what works.” It’s important to provide structure and guidance for your children as they grow, allowing them more responsibility and independence with each passing year. Pediatrician Tanya Altmann says that time is the most important gift you can give your children. Communicating with them helps the development of the brain and speech, so take advantage of the time that you have with your little ones. Other tips for new parents include: express your love every day, give lots of hugs and kisses, play all the time, have confidence, and always put family first.

USA Today, 7/23/13