First time parents often struggle with the task of getting ready for having a child or children.  Maybe that’s why God gave you nine months to get ready for this job.

Speaking with family and friends with kids is often a smart choice in order to help you.  These people represent the voices of experience and can suggest services such as medical  care, child care, and parenting strategies that you might otherwise overlook.

If you don’t have any such resources available, you can check with a local pregnancy center, hospital, church or community organization to find out about resources and / or parenting classes.

Taking a parenting class can teach you and your spouse about the fundamentals of child care and family relationships as they change through the parenting years.

There are also lots of baby products available, just waiting for you. However, there are only a handful which are truly essential.  Some of these essentials include a car seat, since many hospitals require you have one in your car before they will will release the child to go home; diapers, along with powder, lotion and wipes to treat diaper rash; a crib or bassinet, which provides a safe place for your new baby boy or girl to sleep; and formula and bottles, which, especially if Mommy will not be breastfeeding, are immediately essential.

By the way, be sure to learn something about first aid for infants before your parenting begins.  Yes, there are first-aid principles that are specific to the little ones.  You especially want to make sure you’ve learned and been certified for CPR for children and infants.

Remember to consider maternity leave and to let your boss know you’ll need to take it, giving him plenty of advance notice.  Most states, by law, will require your employer to allow Mom (and some, Dad) to take as much as 12 weeks maternity leave.  These 12 weeks are typically un-paid,, but they ensure that your job will be waiting for you when you get back.

The law requiring companies to provide this family leave is known as the Family Medical Leave Act.  To find out more details about specific stipulations and guidelines, visit http://www.tbr.state.tn.us/general_counsel/fmla_questions_and_answers.htm

And finally, before your task as a new parent starts, make sure you’ve lined up child care ahead of time. Figure out who will be taking care of baby when Mom and Dad are both away.

Is there a grandparent or other relative available?  Maybe there’s a friend that you trust, and if not, find out if there is a professional service that you can trust.

Becoming a new, first time parent is an exciting time, but it can also be a bit scary.  By making sure you have everything in place before the day arrives, you’ll take a little bit of the nervousness away, and you’ll ensure that you and your spouse make a smooth transition into the parenting years. Don’t let first time jitters rob you of the joy that should come as you begin raising your brand new baby boy or girl!