1 Notes: Parenthood Bring Changes

2 Parenthood – the state of being a parent Notes: Having a child brings dramatic and long-lasting changes to every parent’s life. Some of these changes involve joy and deep satisfaction. Other changes can be difficult to deal with, especially when parents are unprepared for them.

3 Outcomes: GLO# 1: The students will be able to demonstrate knowledge of Parenting and Family Relationships Specific Curriculum Outcomes It is expected that a student will A -describe personal, psychological, physical, financial, and philosophical readiness for parenting. 1.2B -analyze the impact of individual choices of choosing to parent or not to parent. 1.3C -describe and explain the roles and responsibilities and challenges of parenting, (e.g. working parents).

4 Text p “The Changes that Parenthood Brings”

5 Notes: New Responsibilities Raising a child is a life-long commitment including physical care, financial support, love and guidance New parents need to manage their time, money, energy, knowledge and skills in meeting their responsibilities. They may also call on family, friends and community resources for help and support.

6 Changes in Lifestyle Parents face making adjustments in their day-to-day living. Parent’s schedule must revolve around the child’s schedule. Example: newborns need to be feed every couple of hours around the clock, on top of other chores, leaving very little time for parents – Children of all ages need care therefore placing limits on the parents personal freedom. Parents may even have to give up a job outside the home!

7 Emotional Changes It takes time for new parents to sort through their conflicting feelings and grow accustom to their new role.

8 Notes: Emotions of New Parents Anxiety –how to care for the baby Fear – being a good parent Frustration – loss of personal freedom Loneliness – most time spent home with baby Worry – financial issues Jealousy – attention going to baby Depression – related to exhaustion or physical changes

9 Handling Emotions Each new parent’s situation is different, therefore affects of emotions will be different for everyone. Parents that prepare for these changes will cope better than those who don’t prepare - Patience, support and understanding from others will make these adjustments easier. New parents need to understand that these reactions are normal and with some work they will overcome the rough spots and enjoy the positives of parenting.

10 Relationship Changes New parents will find changes in their relationships between partner, family or friends. Most new parents are physically exhausted and under a great amount of stress, all which can place a strain on relationships. (less patience, tempers flare etc.)

11 New Parents can Avoid Conflicts by: Plan carefully in advance Read books and articles on parenting Talk to family & friends who have experienced parenting Take parenting or childcare classes Talk over issues such as budgeting ahead of time Decide on how household tasks will be shared Make time for each other Keep a sense of humor!!!!

12 Many People are affected by the role of new parents! Friends – May not have as much time to spend with them and single friends may feel they have less in common Couple’s parents – They are now grandparents! Increased feelings of closeness but perhaps conflicting feelings (about getting older?) Other children of the couple- a brother or sister may react with jealousy or misbehavior.

13 Rewards In spite of all the adjustments and problems involved in parenthood, it also bring many joys; Happiness, Pride, Enriching a strong relationship, Fun, a sense of Accomplishment and most of all LOVE.