Preparing for the Baby’s Arrival Chapter 5.2 Notes

Preparing for Parenthood Pregnancy is a time of preparation and anticipation. Time to think about how they will meet the needs of their soon to be baby. How will they handle all of the situations having a baby brings?

Other Children in the Family It is not always easy for children to accept a new baby in their lives. Older siblings may not always be excited about a new member of the family Who can blame them! Big adjustment Preparing sibling ahead of time can help Ideas?

Clothes, Equipment, and Space The list of basic supplies for a baby can be overwhelming. Clothes Bedding Bath supplies Travel equipment Feeding supplies

Baby’s Room Newborns may sleep as many as 18 to 22 hours a day. During the first 6 months 15 to 18 hours a day Parents Room vs. Own Room

The Crib Babies spend countless hours alone in a crib. This means that safety should be high priority. Slats – no more than 2 ½ inches Paint- not contain lead, no flaking Structure Sides- 26 inches when raised, 9 inches lowered Latches- lock securely Mattress- firm and fit exactly Safe Bedding- no soft cuddling bedding End panels Age

Diaper-Changing Area Parents need to set aside a space where the baby can be changed and dressed.

Decisions About Feeding All parents must decide whether to breast or bottle-feed their baby. Breast milk Many benefits Health care recommend it whenever possible Bottle Enables the baby’s father or other caregivers to enjoy time alone Formula- mixture of milk and essential nutrients

Car Seats

Choosing A Pediatrician Before the baby is born, parents should choose a doctor that will care for the baby. Pediatrician: is a doctor that specializes in treating children. -Ask Friends, Family Doctor, etc. -Talk with prospective doctors and find someone you are comfortable with. Location, Hours, Fees, Insurance, etc.

Making a Budget Prenatal care is an important expense. A budget is a spending plan to help estimate your future income and expenses. Allows you to set goals Fixed Expense: is a payment that generally cannot be changed. Mortgage, car payment, insurance, etc. Flexible Expense: is an expense that can be changed. Food, Household items, clothes, entertainment.

Estimating Health Care Expenses Health care costs for pregnancy and childbirth can be very high. Doctor’s fees, Staying in the hospital, etc. Most insurance plans will cover these expenses Only if the woman has these in place before she becomes pregnant. Government programs Financial assistance

Consider Child Care Options Once the expectant parents have developed their budget, they can plan on child care options. Maternity Leave: is time taken off work by a mother after birth of a baby Paternity Leave: is when the father takes time off work after a baby’s birth. Family Medical Leave Act With more than 50 workers must offer 12 weeks of unpaid family or medical leave to new mothers and fathers.

Estimated Other Costs In addition to health care costs, there are other costs that expectant parents should think about: Maternity Clothes. Diapers Clothing Bedding Bathing Travel Formula Feeding Child Care

Make a Plan Once parents have a list of all of their expenses they need to make a plan and stick to it. Guide their spending habits Reduce Expenses Use coupons, bargin sales, mom-to-mom sales, etc.