What Does a Man Need to Do to Prepare for a Kid?
Although it can be exciting, preparing for fatherhood might sometimes seem like an overwhelming and frightening task. It's not unusual to question whether you have what it takes to provide and care for your new baby and family. But you're not alone -- this is one of the most common fears faced by expecting fathers, reports BabyCenter. If you're about to be a dad, take a deep breath, relax and try to enjoy the process of preparing for your new arrival.
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Be There For Mom
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Being there for your baby's mom is one of the most important things you can do to prepare for fatherhood. Let her know that you're interested in the entire process. Even though she's probably getting all the attention, becoming involved and being there for her can help you feel more connected to your new baby and your partner. In an interview with WebMD, Family Doctor Paul Woods suggests going to all prenatal appointments, if possible, but especially the first appointment and the ultrasound exam. Pay attention and don't be shy about asking questions. The more you ask, the more you'll know -- and the better prepared you'll be for the delivery.
Learn the Basics
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It's not strange if you feel frightened of changing your first diaper or burping your newborn. After all, these aren't things that people are born knowing how to do -- and if you've never done it before, you can't expect to know it all. Enrolling in a childbirth preparation class can teach you the basics, like how to change a diaper, how to hold your new baby and preparing for labor, says KidsHealth. You can find out about childbirth preparation classes near you from your obstetrician, general practitioner or local hospital. You can also contact the International Childbirth Center for a referral to a qualified provider who offers courses in your area.
Start Saving
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If you haven't already done so, now is the time to start thinking about making a concrete financial plan. Paying for the necessary expenses can cut a huge hole into your current budget, but you can help reduce financial stress by making a plan in advance, says KidsHealth. Think about discussing your plans with a financial adviser. Open a dedicated savings or college fund. Write a will if you don't already have one. And find out what benefits your employer might offer, such as paternity leave or a dependent care account.
Turn Over a New Leaf
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You want your new baby to start out in the most healthy and happy environment possible. Now is the perfect time to kick any bad habits, like smoking, drinking or unhealthy eating -- after all, you've probably been thinking about giving them up for a while anyway. If you need help, ask your doctor for advice, contact a licensed mental health professional or join a self-help group, such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Nicotine Anonymous. Your doctor can help you find the right group. You can also find information about joining a group on the respective associations' websites. Putting your health first is one way you can make your newborn's health and happiness a priority.
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Preparing for a new baby is not only necessary and practical but is an exciting part of pregnancy and new parenthood. While newborns actually need relatively little in regards to material items, some basic products and general preparations will make
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One of the largest expenses about having a baby is diapers, but you can find a way around it and get them for free. You cant avoid it and the diaper companies know it, but the competition is fierce so they are willing to do whatever they can to win y
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As 2012, roughly 64 percent of mothers with young children under the age of 6 were part of the American labor force, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Between the costs of daycare, which BabyCenter notes is a yearly average over $11,6
