Parenting books are full of valuable information, but they don't tell you everything. Here are some important tips I've discovered only through good old-fashioned, first-hand experience.

1. Put aside a monthly allowance for batteries. Between swings, vibrating chairs, crib mobiles and more musical toys than you ever imagined, you'll constantly be replacing batteries of every type. So, assemble a good stash now, and be prepared to replenish often. Buy a mini-screwdriver set, too.

2. Soap refills. You may find yourself becoming fanatical about washing your hands once the baby arrives, so make sure your hand soap dispenser is always filled. This will become especially important the first time you burst through the door after work and, before taking your baby in your arms, race to the bathroom saying, "Justletmewashmyhandsjustletmewashmyhandsjustletmewashmyhands."

3. And you thought you felt bad when you cheated on that test in fourth grade. No parent can be perfect all the time, which means there will inevitably be moments in which you almost let your baby slip out of your grasp, accidentally let a few drops of water get in his ears or excitedly applaud something he does only to inadvertently scare him into a crying fit. At these moments there is nothing you can do to assuage the almost unthinkable guilt that will swamp you to your very depths. You will feel it – oh, you will feel it – but it will pass. Usually this occurs the next time your baby smiles at you, letting you know he's already learned an important lesson: You're still his friend even though you're bound to make mistakes now and then.

Content on this site is not a substitute for professional medical or healthcare advice, diagnosis or treatment, and may not be used for such purposes. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical question or condition. Reliance on information presented on this site is at your own risk. This site contains the opinions and views of other users. Given the interactive nature of this site, we cannot endorse, guarantee, or be responsible for the accuracy, efficacy, or veracity of any content generated by our users.