Congratulations! You are having a baby, arguably the most fulfilling moment of your life. However, there is so much to think about and plenty to consider when bringing a new life into the world that you might be overlooking something. I’m sharing things to consider when having a baby to keep you and your partner on track and ensure your baby arrives with no hiccups.
1. Child care
Not every parent can be a superhero and work a full-time job while also bringing up their new child. Working from home with kids has proved really difficult for a lot of parents, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when schools, colleges, and universities have been intermittently closed.
You and your partner need to think carefully about who is going to look after your baby and whether they will have to make any career sacrifices in order to make that happen. Lots of parents switch to a job that allows them to work part-time or on flexible hours so that parenting can still be made possible. Others will opt for child care services and send their children to a day care/nursery or hire a nanny.
2. Agreeing On a Name
Even if you have only just found out that you are pregnant, it makes sense to start discussing the subject of names with your partner because people tend to feel passionately about what their son or daughter is going to be called.
Naturally, there are always a few names that are written off straight away, so it’s important to get those out in the open before you settle on what that you like. Many couples use a naming book to help them choose, but something that can easily generate names for you is always ideal as you can quickly fly the almost limitless options.
3. Finances
Children aren’t cheap, so having your finances in order for when the baby comes is really important. If you haven’t considered this yet, then don’t wait any longer because as soon as your baby arrives your attention will rightfully be taken elsewhere.
Sit down with your partner and draw up a budget for your finances and roughly calculate how much adding an additional member to your family is going to cost. It’s not just the increase in food and drink that you will need to think about either; the cost of strollers, cribs, clothing, and diapers (etc.) can all add up.
4. Where Your Baby is Going to Sleep
Your newborn is likely going to sleep in your bedroom for the first few months of its life. However, as your child grows older, you will need to think about a permanent bedroom for them. It’s also important to remember safe sleep guidelines.
If you are limited on space in your home and don’t have the luxury of multiple bedrooms, then it might be worth thinking about upsizing in order to allow you and your young family the space you need, especially if you plan on having another child soon after! The best time to prepare for a new arrival is well in advance of your due date, so if you need more space, get apartment/house hunting now!