Deciding to start a family is a huge step for any couple. It’s exciting and nerve-wracking all at the same time. You probably have a million questions flying around your brain. All of those queries can probably be boiled down to the biggest question of all, “How do we know if we’re really ready to be parents?” Uncertainty is actually a beautiful thing and means that you and your partner are taking this conversation seriously. That’s a great sign! To further put your mind at ease, here are seven signs that you’re ready to start a family.
Looking Forward
What the future holds is mystifying. However, you don’t need a crystal ball to set yourself up for any possible outcome, good or bad. One thing to keep in mind is that your child is going to rely on you as a provider. Of course, that means shelter and food, but there’s also a financial component, too. Taking out a life insurance plan can ensure that your child is protected in the event that something should happen to you or your spouse. If you’re planning a family, search for life insurance with iSelect. This company allows you to easily compare life insurance. All you have to do is give them a few details about you and the life insurance you’re looking for, and they’ll give you options based on your answer, and then you can make an informed decision.
Get your financial ducks in a row.
They say if you wait to be able to afford a child, you’ll never actually have one. Although that may be true in some ways, it’s also still important that you have a steady income in order to support your family. Do you have job security? If you don’t necessarily have job security, how easily could you find another job? Do you have a retirement fund? It’s okay if you don’t have all of those boxes checked, but they’re certainly something to consider and strive for.
There’s a different kind of “the talk” you need to have.
It’s so important to make sure that you have open communication with your partner when it comes to starting a family. Discuss how you would like to raise your children. Talk about how your parents raised you and what you thought worked and needed improvement. Conversing early about the designation of duties, like diaper changing, feeding, and bedtime can set you up for success when it comes time to actually do it. Having everyone on the same page is very useful in having a healthy family dynamic.
Be sure to check-up and check-in.
Going in for a check-up with your doctor before even trying to get pregnant is actually a very important step in family planning. Some medications you are taking may actually be harmful to your child, so your doctor can come up with a plan to keep you healthy and your baby safe. There are some vaccines doctors recommend you get before pregnancy, and taking folic acid a month before conception and during the pregnancy, every day can prevent major birth defects.
Baby Space
You’re going to need a lot of new things to raise a baby: crib, diaper station, etc. Also, you know your parents will be showering their grandbaby with toys and cute outfits. It’s important that you have the space for a new baby and all of the accessories that come along. Moving while pregnant is stressful and definitely not an ideal situation, so make the move now. That way, you’ll be as spatially prepared as possible.
Location, location, location!
Those toddler years are going to fly by. You’ll blink and your child will be starting kindergarten. Make sure you’re in a district with great schooling if your son or daughter will be going to public school. Education has such a huge impact on their future. If you can’t move, and the public schools aren’t great, make sure you start saving for private school as early as possible.
It takes a village.
It really does take a village to raise a child. Your support system doesn’t necessarily have to be your family, but you should at least have reliable friends or people who could babysit if push came to shove. Having people to talk to can do wonders for your mental health as you transition into parenthood. Utilize your personal resources and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
