7 Easy Ways to Spot a New Parent

Yawn! Oh, I am so sorry — I didn't get much sleep last night because, well, my 10-month-old hasn't figured out that sleep is amazing yet. I can't remember the last time I had a full night's sleep, but I imagine it was somewhere in the weeks before I found out I was pregnant.

Being a new parent is not easy — even for seasoned parents like me, who welcomed my fourth child. There are so many challenges because each child is different and comes with their own unique issues, and yet it seems the effect new children have on their parents is pretty universal.

{ MORE: What Happens in the Hours After Birth? }

Yes, some parents handle these stresses and challenges better than others, but if you're looking for commonalities, you'll find a lot of them in new parents. In fact, you don't even have to see an adult with a newborn to know they have one at home, because sometimes, the message is all in the signs.

Cupboard Mix-Up

You watched them put the coffee beans into the fridge and the coffee creamer into the cupboard. When you point out their mistake, they really have no idea what you're talking about.

Hourly Facebook Updates

Once, you'd see a Facebook update from your friend every few days at most, but suddenly they've taken over your Facebook news feed.

{ MORE: Start Planning Now! Five Ways to Celebrate Valentine's Day as a New Parent }

The Sway

You would know what I was talking about if you saw it — the way new parents sway back and forth as if they were trying to soothe a crying baby. New parents tend to do the sway even when the baby isn't in their arms because their body has just gotten so used to it.

Phantom Cries

If you see someone turning their heads with a slightly scared/confused look on their face, they're probably hearing phantom cries. Their baby is finally asleep, and yet they swear they hear a cry. When my babies are new, I swear I can hear them the second I get into the tub to have a relaxing bubble bath, but it's not possible because my husband is out with the baby.

{ MORE: The Hardest Time in My Marriage: The Newborn Phase }

The Wardrobe

It's probably what you saw them in yesterday, only a little more dirty this time.

Sudden Interest in Concealer

Those dark circles. They are like a total new-parent giveaway thanks to the complete lack of a sleep schedule. If you hear someone at the makeup counter asking about concealer and which one is the best, there's a real possibility they have a newborn baby at home.

{ MORE: 4 Tips for Cutting Your Newborn's Fingernails }

Over-Consulting Google

Having a kid is kind of scary, especially if it's your first, because you have so many unknowns and questions and, oh my, it's an important job. If someone is overusing the Google search on their smartphone, it's something so many new parents do because, well, all the questions!

{ MORE: Conquering My SIDS Fears }

What is something you see so many new parents do often? Share in the comments!