Having a child is said to be one of the most memorable and defining moments in any parent’s life. After all, life as you knew it has now changed forever. Finding out you’re going to be a mother or father can bring a whole new sense of meaning and purpose, however, it can also bring a whole new set of worries and decisions to be made.
Safestore, the UK storage specialist, have shared their wisdom on some of the fundamental considerations in the build up to becoming a parent.
Is your current space big enough? Babies, although tiny at first, require room. You’re going to need space for a cot, toys, a pushchair, baby walker, a high chair… and the list goes on and on. If you can’t currently afford to move home but need more space, look at ways in which you can make some in your current place. Do you have anything currently taking up room which you don’t use day to day? Memorabilia, records, boxes of unpacked stuff. If you don’t have an loft to chuck them into, look at renting some self storage space until you move. Safestore have over 100 centres across the UK and offer flexible storage space.
This can buy you some time and means you don’t have to throw anything out before you’re able to move.
What are your entitlements once the baby comes? It’s best to check with your employer as everyone’s different. You’ll be entitled to the government minimum at least, but some employers will pay full pay for a set amount of time. You could also save some of your holiday pay and take that once the baby arrives if you want more time at home but can’t afford any loss of earnings.
Learn about the birth process. Prepare yourself for what is about to happen. The miracle of birth can be a little daunting, but learning about it will make sure when it comes around you’re a little more prepared. You can never be fully prepared for your first child, but trust us, it will help.
Find a Doctor for your baby before they’re born. This will take a load off your mind in case anything pops up shortly after birth. You don’t want to be stressing about finding a GP whilst dealing with your newborn being ill. Your midwife may even be able to recommend one.
Talk to other mothers and fathers. The best wealth of knowledge will come from those who have been through what you’re about to go through. It can be really beneficial to set yourself up with a little network of support, with people to ask questions or share experiences with.
Know what to do when your waters break and labour starts. Have a plan, know which hospital you’re going to, which route you’re going to take and who you want with you at the birth. You can even draft a message ready to send to let everyone know it’s ‘go time’.
Pack your bag. Have it ready and waiting by the door or in the car. Pack yourself a secondary bag someone can collect for you in case you’re in hospital longer than you thought you would be. Preparation is key, and can really reduce stress.
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Great tips and ideas in this post – I’m 33 weeks pregnant with my second and I feel like I’m starting again as I can’t remember what I did to prepare last time!