Overwhelmed with your “before the baby gets here” to-do list and unsure of where to start? Here are 12 simple ways to prepare for your new baby without draining your bank account.
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Declutter and Donate
I know, I know… Why is this at the top of the list!? I totally get it. Tackling your closet clutter may be the last thing on your mind when preparing your home for baby, but simplifying your life by shedding a few unnecessary items can really make a huge impact. Over the next few months, you will start to accumulate all of the baby necessities and probably some extras too. Having an organized and designated space for all of those baby supplies will make your life a lot easier.
Research pediatricians in your area
Choosing the right pediatrician does not have to be an overwhelming task, but you should put some careful thought into your decision. During your baby’s first year of life, they will likely have 6-10 well child check-ups plus any sick visits that have to be added in to the routine appointment schedule. Before making your decision, here’s a list of questions to consider:
- What is the pediatrician’s philosophy?
- Is the office “in network” according to your insurance provider?
- Where is their office located?
- What are their office hours?
- How do they manage “after hour” calls? Do they always have a nurse on call?
- Do they offer office tours and/or interviews for prospective patients and their families?
Ok, this is a really fun one! It’s time to start putting together your registry for your sweet babe. Grab your favorite snack, prop up your feet, and start creating a list of your favorite baby items. Here’s a quick list of the top baby registry sites of 2021:
Schedule a hospital tour
Most hospitals now offer and even encourage expecting families to take a tour before a new baby arrives. The tours are free and usually take less than an hour to complete. You can practice your hospital route without the stress of impending labor, find the best places to park, be confident about where to report once you arrive, and then know what to expect once you are checked in to your hospital room.
Install the car seat
NHTSA’s website offers a lot of helpful advice for choosing the right car seat for your baby. Installing a car seat for the first time can seem a little tricky so I would suggest getting help from a professional in your area. Click here to insert your zipcode and find a car seat technichian near you. Most certified technicians require you to make an appointment, but they will install your car seat and show you how to use it free of charge.
Schedule appointments
The first few weeks following the birth of your baby will be busier than you think. There will be little time for you or your spouse to go to the dentist or to go get a haircut. Do your best to get those appointments in before the baby arrives, so you will not add anything extra to the to-do list.
Research breast pumps
If you are planning to breastfeed your little one, I would highly suggest that you research breast pumps. The Affordable Care Act requires that most health insurance plans cover breastfeeding support and certain breastfeeding supplies for new mothers. You may find that your provider covers only certain breast pump brands. Call your health insurance provider today to see what options are available to you.
Side note: My breast pump arrived before my son was born so I was able to include it in my hospital bag. Our hospital offered one on one support from a certified lactation consultant. She was able to give advice on breastfeeding, and she also showed me how to use the pump before I was discharged from the hospital. So helpful!
Rest
Don’t forget to stop, rest, and refresh! Make it a point to schedule rest for you and your spouse. Once your little one arrives, it may seem that you are always “on call.” Fill your rest tank now even if that means leaving a few things undone. Depending on your personality, you may need to actually write “REST” on your calendar to make sure that it happens.
Research postpartum resources in your area
Ever heard of the fourth trimester? In my opinion, it is the most challenging part of the pregnancy journey. You will have a lot of questions, and you will need a lot of support from family and friends. Ask your doctor if they offer any free postpartum resources or classes. Our pediatrician’s office provided free yoga classes, breastfeeding classes, and a “baby basics” class for new mothers. The classes provided a place for me to ask all of my new mom questions while also learning from other mothers who had “been there and done that.”
Plan for maternity leave
As you start to think through your maternity leave plan, you should consider your rights and the leave policies that your company has in place. Many companies require that you use paid sick days, vacation days, and personal days before you tap into your short-term disability or unpaid days. Do your research, schedule a meeting with your boss, and communicate your leave plan several weeks before your baby arrives.
Create your birth plan
Make a simple outline of your preferences for the labor and delivery of your baby–even if you are a “wing it” kind of person. Talk with your spouse and your doctor about your plan before your baby arrives so that everyone is aware of your wishes. Here are a few questions to consider as you create your plan:
- Who will support you during labor and delivery?
- What kind of atmosphere do you prefer? Dimmed lights? Music? Audio Book?
- Will you request an epidural?
- Who will cut the umbilical cord?
- Who will notify/update family members?
Side note: Even the best-laid plans may need to be adjusted or completely abandoned during the labor and delivery process. Create your plan, but hold it loosely. Remember–the ultimate goal is a happy, healthy mama and baby.
Plan a weekend with your spouse
Ever heard of the term “babymoon”? I’ll admit, it does sound a little strange. Call it what you want, but I would definitely suggest that you plan a fun weekend with your spouse before your little one arrives. Whether it’s a week long cruise, a quick trip to the mountains, or just a nice “staycation” at home, a planned time of rest and relaxation with your spouse will be one of the most important things you do to prepare for your baby’s arrival.
Claim your Freebie!
The “10 Fun Freebies for Moms” contains a unique list of free offers for moms. The freebie also contains detailed instructions on how to easily claim each offer. I’ve even included quick links to make your life easier!
