Pre-Baby Checklist for the New Parents
A new bundle of joy can be exciting, especially for first-time parents. As new parents, you want to give the world to your baby, but with all that excitement, being responsible for taking care of a child around the clock can quickly become overwhelming.
Here’s a checklist for how new parents can be more prepared mentally, emotionally, and financially before the beautiful arrival of their little one:
1.    Equip yourself with knowledge.
Knowledge is power. Instead of watching trashy reality TV in the months preceding the birth—fun as it is—try watching documentaries or educational shows about babies and childcare. You can also read parenting books and look up helpful tips online.
When reading articles online, be sure it comes from credible sources and take each point as a guide, not a rule.
2.    Get medical advice from a pediatrician.
A healthy newborn is every parent’s wish, so before the baby arrives, choose a pediatrician that will take care of your baby’s medical needs. It will include the necessary vaccines and regular check-ups.
You can also ask your friends who are already parents about details or go to your local health center to seek recommendations.
3.    Prepare your emergency hospital bag.
When your baby is ready for the world, it can be a time of utter panic and chaos. Be prepared—always have an emergency hospital bag stowed away in an accessible area where you can reach it in the last few weeks of pregnancy.
Some essential items that should be inside the hospital bag are:
- pajamas, snacks, and nipple cream for mom
- diapers
- wipes
- baby toiletries
- long-sleeved baby grows
- burp cloths
- blanket
- socks
- baby mittens
- pacifiers
- baby wash
- a feeding bottle
Parenting Advice and Tips
The real ride begins when the baby is in your arms. Being a parent can be a rough journey—you will wake up through the night to soothe your crying baby while on constant baby surveillance. There won’t be much time for yourself at first.
Here are some ways to ease the burden of entering parenthood:
1.    Show yourself some compassion.
The likelihood of you making mistakes is exponentially higher as you learn the ropes of parenthood. Despite ensuring that your child is safe and content, go easy on yourself. Raising your child presents unique challenges, but nobody expects you to be perfect.
2.    Cherish your bond, and enjoy the moments.
The first few years are formative in creating a parent-child bond. It may sound like a cliché, but time marches on, so enjoy each moment with your little one because, before you know it, they will be off to college.
Capture special and ordinary moments alike with photographs and a scrapbook—it is precious to have something tangible to remember when it’s over.
3.    Rekindle the fire with your partner.
A new baby in your life can sometimes make your partner feel neglected. Most parents devote all their attention to their children, leaving less time with their partners. Consider reserving a special date with your partner to do something romantic once a month.
4.    Reach out for help.
At times when you are unsure about yourself, reach out to your family and friends. Whether it’s a question about the best way to wean your baby off the bottle or babysitting, your family and friends will support you all the way.
Budgeting for New Parents
A baby can also be financially draining, which is why family planning is important. Making ends meet while you are parents can be tough.
Let’s take a look at some financial tips for new parents:
1.    Have a baby budget.
Raising a baby can cost a pretty penny, from hospital bills to toys. Consider allotting funds solely for the baby, and stick to that budget. Tracking your expenses can also do wonders in making revealing where you spend your money.
2.    Draw up a financial plan.
Thinking of you and your family’s future is just as important as a baby budget. Make sure that you set aside savings for your retirement, toxic debt payments, such as credit card expenses and loans, and cash for emergency funds.
3.    Be practical and cut expenses.
Don’t just focus your energy on saving money. There are many little ways to cut down on expenses. Some excellent examples are lowering your energy consumption by turning the lights off when they’re not in use, investing in energy-saving appliances for lower energy consumption, or even going solar these tips will be sure to lower your Constellation Energy bill
Welcoming a child can be exciting and overwhelming at the same time. The tips above are some ways for new parents to ease the pre-baby anxiety.
