Before Planning Pregnancy

Ensure you are healthy and mature enough to have a healthy pregnancy.

Ensure you are emotionally ready for a pregnancy.

Be prepared to give up your freedom to take on the responsibilities of parenting.

Make sure you have met your educational goals.

Ensure having a baby will fit in with your personal life goals.

Have a husband/wife/partner who is supportive and willing to help with the daily needs of a baby.

Have the financial means to provide for a family.

When Getting a Baby

Ask someone close to you to help out while you rest.

Keep visits from relatives and friends short - unless they come to help you out.

Let some things go for a while - the dishes will wait!

Ask for help when you need it.

Do something you really like when your baby is sleeping.

Don't expect to be perfect.

Get out of the house and take your baby along.

Find another parent to talk to and do things with.

Follow your own feelings.

Notes for Moms

Eat three meals a day.

Drink plenty of water, juice, and milk.

Do not drink things that contain caffeine if you're breastfeeding.

Ask for an easy exercise program.

Talk to your doctor about diabetes.

Notes for Dads

Changing diapers and getting the baby dressed are great ways to get to know your baby.

A Dad's love and care make babies feel good and secure.

By taking care of your new baby, you are teaching your children that men make good parents.

Your partner needs your help and support - tell her she's doing a good job with the baby.

Notes for Both Parents

Find some time to be alone together.

Share your feelings about being new parents.

Make a date with each other.

Be good to each other.

Parenting Checklist

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