I remember those early days all too well! One thing that really made a big difference for me was a good baby carrier. It was a lifesaver to have my hands free while still keeping the baby close, especially when they were fussy and just wanted to be held all the time. Another thing I found surprisingly useful was a white noise machine. It seemed to help my baby nap a little longer and also drown out the sounds of daily household noise.
In terms of toys, I didn't go overboard, but having a simple play mat with some hanging toys really kept the baby entertained and encouraged tummy time, which is important for development. A decent baby monitor is also invaluable, giving peace of mind when you’re not in the same room. Lastly, something as simple as a set of swaddle blankets was a game-changer for better sleep.
Everyone has different experiences, but these items definitely helped make that first year smoother for us!
