Having a baby is one of the most significant moments in your life. It can be daunting and exciting as you look ahead towards the responsibility you’ll now have. However, you can ease this process by preparing carefully in advance. Below, we explore the best ways to prepare for having a baby.
Create a Birth Plan
Creating a birth plan can help you feel more in control of the process. While it’s impossible to predict exactly what will happen, having a plan can give you peace of mind. Consider what type of birth you’d prefer (hospital, home, or birthing centre), what pain relief options you’d like, and who you’d like to be with you during the birth. Share your plan with your midwife or healthcare team, so they can accommodate your preferences, though flexibility is key as things may change during labour.
Start saving
Having a baby is an expensive commitment. Indeed, the average cost of raising a child in the UK up until the age of 18 is £202,660. And that’s before you consider the early essentials like a crib, clothes, nappies, changing board and dummies. As such, it makes sense to try and grow your savings in advance to cope with the extra spending. Start saving early today by opening a cash ISA to prepare you for the future.
Get life insurance
You can never see what’s around the corner in life. The last thing you’d want is sudden death to leave your children in a perilous financial situation. Instead, by getting life insurance, you can have peace of mind that your family’s future will be okay.
Seek Help and Support
Having a baby is a huge adjustment, and you don’t have to do it all alone. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from family, friends, or even a nanny. Preparing for extra support early on can reduce feelings of overwhelm, making the transition smoother as your due date approaches.
Meal prep for the Early Days
Once your baby arrives, time for simple tasks like cooking will be limited. A helpful way to prepare is by meal prepping in advance. Batch-cook and freeze meals so that when you’re too tired or busy to cook, you’ll have healthy, ready-to-eat options. It’s a small amount of effort now that will pay off big during those early, sleep-deprived weeks.
Ensure Your Baby’s Healthcare Needs Are Covered
Your baby’s healthcare is one of the most important aspects to manage before birth. Here’s what to do:
Register with a GP
As soon as your baby is born, register them with a GP. This ensures smooth access to healthcare for check-ups, vaccinations, and medical advice.
Understand Vaccinations
Familiarise yourself with the NHS vaccination schedule to protect your baby from serious diseases. Keep track of these appointments, and discuss any concerns with your GP.
Baby’s First Check-ups
Your baby will have a few essential health checks after birth, including a weight check and developmental assessment. Make sure these are scheduled well in advance.
Health Visitor
In the UK, a health visitor will visit your home to support you with feeding, baby care, and any concerns about your baby’s health and development. They’ll also offer emotional support for you as new parents.
How to Prepare Your Home for Baby
Preparing your home for the arrival of your baby is one of the most important tasks you’ll undertake before delivery. Not only does it provide a safe and welcoming space for your little one, but it also ensures you have everything you need to care for your baby. Here’s what you need to do to prepare your home:
Declutter Your Living Space
Before your baby arrives, you’ll want to ensure your home is organised and peaceful. A tidy space can help reduce stress, especially during the first few weeks when you’re adjusting to your new routine. Start decluttering by clearing out unnecessary items, not only to make space for your baby’s essentials but also to create a calming environment. You’ll appreciate having everything organised and easily accessible when the time comes to pack your hospital bag or find that baby monitor at 3 a.m.
Set Up a Nursery
Setting up a nursery is one of the most exciting parts of preparing for your new arrival. Whether you’re creating a separate nursery or co-sleeping in your room, make sure it’s a comfortable and safe space for your baby. You’ll need essentials such as a crib or bassinet, baby clothes storage, baby monitors, and a changing station. Be mindful of safety by ensuring furniture is secure and that you have all the necessary items ready before baby arrives.
Baby-Proofing Your Home
Before your baby starts crawling and walking, it’s essential to baby-proof your living spaces. This includes securing sharp objects, covering electrical outlets, and locking away any harmful substances. Ensure that your baby’s crib is safe with a firm mattress and no loose bedding.
If you have stairs, consider installing safety gates, and keep small items like coins and choking hazards out of reach. You may also want to install corner protectors on furniture to avoid any bumps or falls.
Essentials to Buy
Here are a few essentials to buy before your baby arrives:
- Crib or Bassinet: Ensure it meets safety standards and has a firm mattress. I also had a Maxi-cosy next to me for the early days.
- Changing Station: A dedicated area for changing nappies, with wipes, nappies, and creams at hand.
- High Chair: A sturdy high chair for when your baby starts weaning. I had the Antilop, which you can improve with accessories for Ikea high chair.
- Baby Monitor: For peace of mind when you’re not in the same room as your baby.
- Car Seat: A safe, rear-facing car seat is essential for transporting your baby safely from the hospital.
- Baby Clothes: Stock up on basics like onesies, sleepers, and hats.
- Nappy Bag: A well-organised nappy bag is a must for carrying all baby essentials when out and about.
- Bottles and Steriliser: If you plan to bottle-feed, ensure you have enough bottles and a steriliser.
- Baby Sling or Carrier: For carrying your baby hands-free and providing comfort.
You might also find that you have less time for shopping when your baby arrives. But by stocking up on your household essentials in advance, you can devote more time to your baby without worrying about running out of critical items.
Having a baby changes your life forever. But by preparing carefully with the guide above, you can ensure that you’re in the best possible position to transition into this new life.
Conclusion
Having a baby is one of the most exciting and transformative events in life, but proper preparation can help ease the transition. By planning ahead in areas like saving, meal prepping, setting up your home, and understanding your healthcare needs, you can be ready to welcome your little one with confidence. Parenthood is a journey, and while no plan is perfect, being prepared will help you face the challenges and joys ahead.
