How to Prepare for a Baby

Falling pregnant can be one of those most exciting times of your life, or perhaps one of the most daunting if it has come as a surprise. Whether you were expecting it or not, the prospect of a baby’s arrival can be overwhelming, so preparation is key. There is plenty you can do to prepare, and by following these steps you will soon feel ready to bring your baby into the world.

Saving

One of the most worrisome aspects of having a baby is the thought of how much it is going to cost you to raise a child. Where possible, make sure you have savings in place especially if you are having a break from work. It is important to keep perspective here and remember that you have plenty of time before they reach an age where they will become a significant financial strain. There are also ways in which you can raise a child frugally and this will only have a positive effect on their attitude towards money when they finally have their own.

Babies are not expensive. If you do struggle at times there are always loans available such as those from gobear.com/sg.  If you’re lucky, you will be able to breastfeed so you won’t need to spend on food, you can use reusable nappies to keep costs down which is also great for the environment, and family and friends are always eager to pass down baby clothes and toys. If not, there are also plenty of these available second hand from thrift shops which you’d simply need to wash before use. The same goes for other equipment like a crib and pram.

Nesting

There are a few key things you need to make sure you have set up before the baby arrives, but it is important to remember that you will still have plenty of time once they have arrived to get anything else you find yourself in need of. Firstly, you will need a crib and bedding for them. You can simply bathe them in shallow water, however a lot of people find it easier to use a moulded baby bath which supports them, either way you will need a gentle soap for them.

When it comes to nappies, you will need a small supply and you will need to integrate topping them up into your routine fairly quickly. You’ll be amazed by how many they go through! A simple changing mat will do the trick and simple cleaning products such as wipes and cream to protect them from nappy rash. You’ll also need a few items of clothing for them including knitwear to keep them warm. In terms of transport, you’ll just need to make sure you have a car seat and pram.

Mental Health

Most importantly, it is crucial that you are mentally prepared for the arrival of your baby. They will require all of your attention and for the first few months they will wake a lot in the night however, they sleep a lot in the day too so try to nap with them where possible and use any remaining time to keep on top of other responsibilities. It is important that life continues post-baby, so make sure you organize plenty of social activities, although it can seem daunting to prepare all the equipment you need for this. You’ll soon become a packing pro and socializing can be the difference between a happy or resentful maternity period.

As long as you are able to live frugally if needed, you have the basic equipment needed for those first few days, you’re mentally prepared for the impact your baby will have on your life, and you know how to make sure your own life does not pale into insignificance, this can be one of the most rewarding experiences you’ll ever have. For more parenting tips, visit our parenting section on Life in a House.