Babies are not cheap (even though they are worth every penny)!

First of all, it is very important to realize that having a child is not cheap. Any couple, or single parent, will need to make sure that their child has food, clothing, shelter and even adequate care when the parent(s) returns to work. These things come at a price and can really add up unless adequate planning takes place before the baby arrives.



a. Cloth or regular diapers? Cloth diapers can decrease the total amount of money that spent on diapers but you will increase your laundry load and this can be difficult to keep up with unless you have someone to help you. In areas where they are available, diaper services are a consideration of total costs for using cloth diapers.



b. Breastfeed or bottle feed? Breastfeeding can save the family money on formula and this money could be spent elsewhere. Since breast milk can be frozen, mothers can pump and freeze ahead as a way to enjoy savings for a long time to come. This is also the best nutritional choice for your child when compared to whole milk and formula! Although there is a cost to pump and store, purchase of a pump and storage accessories are minimal costs compared to bottle feeding and in some areas you can also rent a pump instead of purchasing depending on which is cheaper for your situation.



c. Caregiver or stay at home? Will you be returning to work full time or part-time or will you stay at home after the baby? Many individuals know that a child will make things a little rougher financially but they do not understand just how difficult it can become until they start searching for an adequate caregiver when they return to work.



Daycare can be very expensive and there are times when payments need to be made up front before the child can start. Many times, there are also long waitlists so it is important to start looking before you become pregnant or as soon as you find out. That is why it is always best to start searching for a provider before the baby even arrives as this will give parents an opportunity to decide where the child will go and how much it will cost them. Researching your options can help decide whether it makes better sense for a family member to stay home with the child or if one parent will remain home to stay with the child. This may save money for the family but it also means a loss of income as well so the option has to be weighed carefully. There are many things to consider when it comes to childcare and waiting until the child is conceived will only create stress for the mother.



Exercise

If you plan on becoming pregnant then it is a great time to begin an exercise routine - this might be something as simple as taking a walk each day. Even if you don’t plan on it, starting as soon as you find out is not too late.



a. Before & During Pregnancy: Becoming fit and healthy can increase the chances of getting pregnant and is necessary during pregnancy for restoring energy levels, maintaining a healthy weight gain to avoid complications such as gestational diabetes and preeclampsia. Staying in shape also helps with the birthing process.



b. After the baby: Continuing this routine after the baby arrives will also help a mother teach her child the importance of getting outside, remaining active and enjoying life. This is often hard to do with technology and video games. So, why not be an example for your child and start a healthy habit before you ever get pregnant?



Diet & Nutrition

Before becoming pregnant or as soon as you find out you’re pregnant it is always a good idea to meet with your health care provider. Many women do not get the appropriate amount of vitamins and minerals that they need in order to help reduce the potential of complications and nutritional deficiencies; the right nutrition throughout the pregnancy and more so during the early stages. Meeting with a doctor is crucial so they can start you on prenatal vitamins and other vitamins and minerals that you will want to consider increasing. The main key is to make sure that you are taking in enough folic acid to prevent birth defects.



Everyone knows the benefits of planning, and planning for a pregnancy is no different. In order to have an easier time conceiving and to have a healthier, problem free pregnancy (as much as is within one’s control) it is always best to think of how life will change, what needs must be met and how this can be best accomplished. Life will be crazy enough with a newborn. Considering all options and reviewing available support is the best way to get ready and create a smooth transition into parenthood.



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