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Make a to do list of things that you would like to have ready for your new life as parents. My advice to expectant parents is to get as much as possible done before the new baby arrives. I have heard some people say that they will just wait until the baby arrives to get supplies or decorate the nursery. You may not have as much time as you think because having a baby changes every aspect of your life. Some possible things that may need to be accomplished are the following:
- Buy and assemble crib
- Buy and assemble changing table
- Buy and assemble dresser
- Paint the nursery (have someone else do this; pregnant women should not paint)
- Decorate in the nursery
- Purchase and install car seat
- Purchase clothing
- Wash all clothing in dye free, scent free laundry detergent
- Buy diapers, wipes, baby lotion, baby shampoo, thermometer, and nail clippers
- Arrange for time off work if you are currently working
- Start exploring childcare options if you are planning to go back to work (some places require a six month notice)
- Choose possible baby names
- Contact insurance company to find out the specifics of your labor and delivery coverage
- Choose a pediatrician for your child
- Pack your hospital bag
When I was pregnant with my first child, my husband and I made a list similar to the one above. We worked on completing the items on the list together. This bonding time between us helped make our relationship stronger as our excitement built for the arrival of our beautiful baby girl. During the last two weeks of my pregnancy, I began to experience minor complications. I was put on bed rest and ended up having a cesarean delivery due to these complications. When we arrived home from the hospital, I was so relieved that we had everything that we needed in order. This allowed us to enjoy some bonding time with our new bundle of joy as well as healing time for me after my surgery.
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