If you are leaning towards parenting, then use your time wisely! During your pregnancy is a great time to get prepared to be a parent. But if you are going to be a first time parent, you may be lost at what you should be doing to prepare. I have a few ideas below to get you started.

1. Take a parenting class and/or read parenting books and websites. Learn as much as you can about being a parent and newborn care as you can. Many local hospitals and community centers offer parenting classes for parents-to-be so call around and see if there is one offered in your area. This will probably make you feel more confident in your ability to care for a newborn.

2. Begin acquiring the baby items that are needed to raise a newborn. You will need a car seat (required by most hospitals in order for you and your baby to leave), diapers (and the other stuff needed for diapering such as baby wipes, powder, diaper rash cream, etc.), somewhere safe for the baby to sleep(such as a bassinette, crib, cradle, or playpen), and formula and bottles. (Even if you plan to breastfeed you will still need a few bottles.) For some helpful information on places to acquire the needed items at a low cost, check out this post on “baby stuff.”

3. If you are working and plan to take a maternity leave when your baby is born, find out your employer’s rules on how long you can take, when you need to put in for it, etc.

4. Ask friends and family for referrals on a good pediatrician in your area and call to make sure that they are accepting new patients. You could also ask your own health care provider for a referral.
Think about what you are going to do about childcare once you go back to work or school. Will a friend or family member keep your child or will you need to find a day care facility? Begin to think about this and make arrangements.

For more information on parenting, see the posts below:

• Parenting Resources



• Baby Stuff



• How to Educate Yourself about Parenting