How to Prepare For a Newborn Before and After Birth
You’re expecting a newborn into your family. Family members are excited, joyful, and anticipating the arrival of their niece, nephew, grandchild, or godchild.
Expecting parents everywhere are in this joyful phase of preparing to receive their little ones and we celebrate with you.
Before The Baby Shower…
However, you’re not alone if you’re always overwhelmed by all the expected preparations, endless planning, shopping lists, hospital visits, etc. Preparing for a newborn can get stressful and even more so when they arrive — especially if you’re expecting your first child.
Whether you’re a first-time parent or expecting baby three, this article gives essential insights and practical advice to prepare you for your newborn’s arrival, both before and after birth.
So before you plan your baby shower, it’s crucial to understand what to do before and after your baby arrives. From navigating the maze of baby expenses to setting up a secure financial future for your growing family, this guide is what you need.
In this guide you’ll find:
- How to Prepare Before Birth
- Financially
- Physically
- Emotionally
2. How to Prepare After Birth
- Financial Planning
- Physical Care
- Emotional Support
- Parental Services and Support
How to Prepare Before Birth
Financial Preparation
Are you really ready to have a child if you’re not financially prepared?
Taking proactive steps to manage your finances can help alleviate stress as you expect your newborn.
Here’s a breakdown of 3 key considerations for financial preparation before birth:
- Budgeting for Baby Essentials
Of course. Creating a budget tailored to your newborn’s expenses should be done first.
Start by listing all anticipated costs, including medical expenses, baby gear, and nursery essentials. Consider prenatal care, delivery costs, postnatal care, and recurring expenses like diapers, formula, and childcare.
Prioritize them based on necessity and allocate funds according to what you can afford. Look for some things you can cut back or adjust to free up additional funds for baby-related expenses.
Be real and flexible with your family budget to maintain a balance as you grow.
2. Healthcare Costs and Insurance
After creating a budget and listing what’s essential for your newborn, you can look for cost-cutting alternatives with healthcare providers.
Research and review your health insurance coverage to understand what includes prenatal and maternity services. Get familiar with deductible costs, copayments, and coverage limits to avoid surprises.
Consider contacting your insurance provider (if you have one) to discuss additional coverage options or potential out-of-pocket costs.
Some employers offer flexible benefits that can reduce medical expenses related to pregnancy and childbirth. Be sure to take advantage of all benefits available to you.
3. Create a Savings Plan
Full financial preparation includes unexpected expenses too, so you need to build savings — to save you.
You and your spouse should establish a savings plan before your baby arrives for peace of mind during this period. Set specific savings goals and automate contributions to your savings account to make it easier to stay consistent.
Create a separate account for your unborn baby and save towards their expenses. This can help you avoid withdrawing from it for other unrelated expenses. That account can also be used for long-term savings and investment to secure your child’s financial future.
Especially as a new parent, you want to reduce some of the pressure of managing finances during this time.
Physical Preparation
- Set Up the Nursery
A cozy and functional nursery space!
- Select a quiet and well-ventilated room in your home for the nursery.
- Try painting the walls with soothing colors and putting curtains to help your baby sleep better.
- Buy a sturdy crib with a firm mattress and soft sheets.
- Organize the nursery with enough storage like shelves, baskets, and bins.
2. Get Baby Gear
- These include a quality stroller, car seat, and baby carrier for safe transportation.
- Stock up on diapers, wipes, and clothing essentials — get them in different sizes. Babies grow fast!
- Get a breast pump, feeding bottles, and a baby monitor.
3. Prepare for Birth and Postnatal Care
- Attend prenatal classes to learn about childbirth techniques, pain management options, and breastfeeding basics.
- Pack a hospital bag with comfortable clothing, toiletries, and snacks for labor and delivery. — Arrange for transportation to the hospital
For advice, you can also find postnatal care options like lactation consultants, support groups, and pediatricians.
Emotional Preparation
- Build a Strong Support System
In her video, Laju Iren mentioned emotional support as one of the things that kept her going through her last pregnancy. So as the due date approaches, you should surround yourself with a strong support system.
Lean on family members, friends, and healthcare professionals for emotional support and practical assistance. Consider joining prenatal classes or support groups to connect with other expectant parents who can relate to your experiences and offer relatable insights and encouragement.
2. Anticipate Changes in Lifestyle and Routine
Anticipate it because it will happen.
You and your partner should discuss potential adjustments to work schedules, household responsibilities, and rest activities.
Prepare mentally for the shift in priorities and the demands of caring for a newborn, while also finding moments to cherish the journey of parenthood together.
And don’t worry, you’ll be okay.
3. Managing Expectations and Anxiety
The due date is near so it’s natural to experience various emotions, including excitement, anticipation, and anxiety.
Acknowledge and validate your feelings while also practicing self-compassion and mindfulness.
Communicate openly with your partner about any concerns or fears you may have and work together to address them. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to reduce stress and promote emotional well-being.
It’s okay to ask for help and seek professional help if needed. By actively managing expectations and anxiety, you can confidently approach childbirth and parenthood.
How To Prepare After Birth
If you’re a new parent and you probably didn’t plan effectively for your newborn before birth, here are tips under the three preparation categories to help you navigate this new phase:
Read also: Why invest for your child early
Financial Planning
- Manage Immediate Expenses
The period after childbirth comes with many expenses that you must manage effectively. Especially because along with a newborn, there are other financial obligations you cannot neglect.
You should review your budget and prioritize new expenses, focusing on essential items such as medical bills, diapers, formula, and clothing. Make sure your family budget can cover these essentials.
Find out and request any employment benefits to alleviate financial strain during this transition period.
2. Invest for the Child’s Future
You should start planning for your child’s future from the moment they’re born. Start by creating a savings or flexible investment plan to set aside funds for their education, healthcare, and other milestones.
Having a dedicated account for your child is best. Explore different investment options based on your risk tolerance and financial goals.
You can secure a bright financial future for your child by starting early and consistently contributing to their investment accounts no matter the amount.
Open an investment account for your child easily.
3. Adjust Financial Plans
Things are changing so you must review and adjust your financial plans regularly.
You and your partner should schedule check-ins to assess your budget, savings goals, and investment portfolio, making any necessary revisions to stay on track.
Consider everything — changes in your income, expenses, financial priorities, and life events including relocations and emergencies
Think about adjusting insurance policies, and beneficiary designations to reflect your growing family’s needs and ensure their financial security.
Physical Care
- Caring for the Newborn’s Basic Needs
Keep feeding the baby, through breastfeeding, formula feeding, or both.
Diaper changes should be frequent, keeping the baby clean and dry to prevent diaper rash and discomfort.
Create a bedtime routine to help the baby relax and prepare for sleep.
Your baby’s needs will change as they grow so ensure you stay in touch with your family doctor.
2. Postpartum Recovery and Self-Care
It’s equally important for new mothers to prioritize their postpartum recovery and self-care.
This period can be physically and emotionally demanding, and mommies need rest, nourishment, and all the support for their healing and adjustment.
Moms should be patient as they go through their physical changes, and allow themselves time to rest and recover at their own pace.
Gentle exercise, nutritious meals, adequate hydration, and relaxation techniques promote physical and emotional well-being.
Remember to ask family members or friends for help during this time.
3. Transitioning to Parenthood: Tips for New Parents
You and your partner should give each other time as you go through this journey of new roles and responsibilities.
Communicate openly and honestly about your feelings, needs, and expectations, this creates a strong foundation of trust and understanding.
Seek support from family members, friends, and older parents who can offer guidance, encouragement, and practical advice.
Emotional Support
- Bond with the Newborn
Be present! Spend quality time engaging in skin-to-skin contact, cuddling, and talking to your baby to strengthen your emotional connection and bond.
2. Coping with Sleep Deprivation and Stress
Remember, your baby needs you at your best. Prioritize self-care, and rest whenever it’s possible.
3. Seeking Help for Mental Health
If feelings of overwhelm or sadness persist, don’t hesitate to seek professional help and resources for mental health support.
Reach out to therapists, or support groups for guidance and assistance in coping with life’s changes.
Read also: 10 Financial Terms to Teach Your Child
Conclusion
Starting a family is exciting but like everything else, preparation is important.
Of all forms of preparation, financial preparation remains on top.
You can ensure a secure and prosperous future for your growing family by taking proactive steps to manage immediate expenses, save for the child’s future, and review financial plans regularly.
Houseriver understands the importance of financial planning for your child’s future. That’s why we’ve developed a user-friendly app that empowers parents to invest in their child’s future.
With our app, you can start saving and investing for your child’s education, healthcare, and other life milestones, ensuring a bright and secure future for your little one.
Parenthood is a journey worth investing in — let us help you make it a success.
FAQs
- Where can I save money for my newborn?
On Houseriver.
Houseriver enables parents to save and invest money for their unborn and present children.
2. What are the steps to prepare for a newborn before birth?
- Budget for Baby Expenses
- Healthcare Costs and Insurance
- Create a Savings Plan
- Open your newborn’s account on Houseriver
- Set Up the Nursery
- Get Essential Baby Gear
- Prepare for Birth and Postnatal Care
- Build a Support System
- Anticipate Changes in Lifestyle and Routine
- Manage Expectations and Anxiety
3. How do I financially prepare for a newborn after birth?
- Manage Immediate Expenses
- Start Investing for the Child’s Future
- Review and Adjust Financial Plans Periodically
