Parenting advice is everywhere – books, blogs, podcasts, strangers in the grocery store aisle. But every now and then, someone shares a piece of wisdom that really sticks. The kind of advice for first time mothers that makes your life easier, your relationship with your kids stronger, and your perspective a little clearer.

As a mom of three, I’ve collected a lot of parenting tips over the years. But there are a few that have truly shaped the way I show up as a parent. Today, I want to share the best advice for first time mothers I ever received…the ones that made me pause, try something different, and realize, wow, this actually works.

Save the Yelling for the Important Stuff

This best advice for first time mothers came from my firstborn’s pediatrician, and I’ll never forget it. He told me to “save the yelling for the important stuff.” At first, I probably gave him a confused look, so he explained: yelling loses its power if you use it all the time.

When you yell constantly, for not picking up toys or spilling juice, your child becomes desensitized. But what if they’re chasing a ball into the road? That’s the moment when you want your voice to stop them in their tracks.

It stuck with me. Now, I reserve the raised voice for those truly urgent situations. And guess what? When I do yell, my kids stop immediately. It’s made the calmer conversations more effective too, because they know I’m really listening and not just reacting.

Get Down on Their Level During a Tantrum

This gem came from none other than the Supernanny (yes, the TV show!). It might sound simple, but getting down on your child’s level during a meltdown is game-changing advice for first time mothers.

I remember being at the mall with my mom and my then 3-year-old. She was riding in one of those rentable car strollers, and after about 40 minutes of shopping, she hit her limit. I could see the meltdown brewing.

Instead of snapping or rushing to distract her, I remembered the Supernanny’s best parenting tips. I got down on my knees, looked her in the eyes, and calmly explained, “I know you’re tired and ready to go. If you can give mommy and grandma just a few more minutes, we’ll go get some lunch.”

The result? No screaming. No dragging a crying child through the store. Just a nod of understanding and a calm ride to the checkout line. I’ll never forget my mom’s face—she was amazed it worked. Honestly, so was I.

Take Care of Yourself First – Baby Can Wait a Few Minutes

I can’t remember exactly where I heard this one, but it changed everything for me, especially after baby #3. The advice? “Take care of yourself before the baby. Baby can wait a few extra minutes.”

It’s so easy to jump the moment you hear a cry or see the hunger cues. But when you’re running on empty, even a simple task like feeding your baby can feel overwhelming.

If you haven’t brushed your teeth, used the bathroom, or even taken a few deep breaths, it’s okay to press pause for a moment. Do what you need to do, then show up for your baby fully present, not frazzled.

This piece of advise for first time mothers gave me so much more peace in those early days. I found that when I allowed myself to take a few minutes for me, I could actually enjoy those sweet baby snuggles instead of feeling pulled in a dozen directions. This type of self-care advice for first time mothers often feels counterintuitive, but it’s so important for your well-being and your ability to care for your little one.

Set Expectations Before You Enter the Store

Here’s one I learned through trial and error: Target trips with littles are inevitable, and so is the spotting of a toy. The best way to avoid a meltdown in aisle 12 is by setting expectations before you even enter the store. This practical advice for first time mothers has saved me countless tantrums and stress.

Get down on your child’s level in the parking lot and have the conversation: “We are going to Target. I know we will pass the toy aisle and you are going to want something. I can’t buy you an expensive toy today, however if you are good while I do my shopping we can go to the playground after.”

This simple conversation works because it acknowledges what they’re feeling (wanting toys is normal!), sets clear boundaries, and gives them something to look forward to. Most of the time, they’ll surprise you by walking right past those tempting displays without a fuss.

Best Advice for First Time Mothers: Give Yourself Grace

If there’s one thing I’ve learned through all the stages of motherhood, it’s that there’s no one right way to do it. But there are little moments, little reminders, that can make it easier, and more joyful.

So whether it’s whispering instead of yelling, kneeling instead of towering, or taking five minutes to breathe before you respond…these small shifts can have a big impact.

And if no one’s told you this recently: You’re doing an amazing job!

Have advice for first time mothers that changed your life? I’d love to hear it – share it in the comments or send me a message. Let’s keep lifting each other up, one piece of great advice at a time.

Each month I participate in a blog circle with other photographers to bring you more fun ideas and tips – take a look at this fun post on how to prepare for a baby milestone photo session.