They eat, sleep and cry — pretty simple, right? If only. As new parents find out very quickly, there’s more to taking care of a newborn than just feeding him, changing his diaper and picking him up when he cries. Not that those things aren’t important, but often even well-informed parents can be unprepared for how much care a new baby needs.

Amy Jordan, psychologist and mother of 11-week-old Jillian in Chicago, Ill., describes it as culture shock. “I read a few books, and my mom is even an OB nurse, but no matter how much people tell you, there’s no way to be prepared,” says Jordan. “I still wondered what noises were normal and why she was fussy. The biggest shock was how much time a baby takes. I mean, I already knew that to some extent, but it’s still a surprise to realize what a complete turnaround it is in your life.” The rewards, however, are amazing. Jillian is smiling, pushing herself up on her arms and has rolled over once. Jordan has no doubt that Jillian can already recognize Mom and Dad. (more…)

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