Sleep when your new baby sleeps, even if it's only for a few minutes at a time.

New parents probably sleep less than pretty much anyone. They're anxious about their new bundle of joy, scared, wired from the excitement, and trying to do everything right, all the time. All of that can be tiring without even considering what it's like for a new mom to have recently given birth. Couple that with breastfeeding and meals at irregular hours, if at all, and it can make for a very tired family.

Even though you might be too scared to sleep, worried about what will happen to your newborn while you slumber, it's best to try to get as much sleep as possible. When your baby naps, you should nap too. Some sleep is better than no sleep. And remember, the well-rested parent is a happier, nicer, more patient parent too.