Raising a child is full of surprises.

It is really a nice time but can be very discomforting if one does not prepare for it.

Here are some tips to help you know what is ahead of you if you are planning to have a baby

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1.     There is no such thing as a perfect parent

This is the honest truth and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. With so many types of parenting options and research showing none as superior, there is no magic formula to becoming the quintessential parent. Find what works best for you, your children, and your lifestyle.

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2.     You will experience joy deeper than you’ve ever known.

This is natural and instinctive. We all have the utmost desire to protect and nurture our children. We grow a baby with our body. We birth a baby through our body. And we nourish a baby with our body. As mothers (and fathers too), we have so much invested. It seems only natural that our love grows to unimaginable depths for our children.

3.     Making a baby is not as easy as it sounds

Some people are able to reproduce as easily as bunnies, but for others, that’s not always the case. So, if you’re thinking of having a child someday and want to plan the pregnancy for a certain time period, consider giving yourself some extra time and try not to stress out about the whole thing.

4.     Hardship within the first few months

 Babies’ cries are so grating, their sleep so erratic, and breastfeeding so painful just to harden up parents. The first few months are hell if you enjoy sleeping, showering, and functioning well since all these become hard to get. It is impossible to truly convey just what it’s like to wake up at night every two hours for several months. Or try to calm a baby who’s screaming inconsolably. The other thing to know, though, is that as bad as it gets, you’ll get through it. (Just don’t be afraid to ask for help, especially if you suffer from post-partum depression.)

 

5.     Children can incur unplanned expenses

No matter how well you budget or how much you plan, kids can create some of the most random expenses that you most likely didn’t account for. There is one thing you will need a lot of in the first few years: Diapers. A whole lot of diapers. You know that already, but you’re probably still underestimating how many diapers you’ll end up buying (or washing, if you go the cloth route). expensive school supply requirements, and even medical costs for random accidents.

6.     Babies have their own fast way of developing

Don’t be too stressed if you see other children grow or develop faster than yours. Every baby has its unique way of developing. Some do not walk till the 13th month. It may be disturbing to some parents but do not stress too much. Just provide it with the required food and nutrients. Yeah, rude parenting advice from random strangers is also a thing you’ll have to get used to. Do not try not to rush getting your child to talk, walk, run, or read. They grow up all too fast anyway

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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7.     You will never be the same

Parenting changes you. It’s not like you turn into your mom or dad overnight, but your values, perspective, and habits get realigned to one single creature: your child (or your children, if you have more than one).
It also means:

• You will never take free time for granted again.

• Your habits might change for the better. You’ll think more about the nutritional value of your food, driving safely, spending money more wisely, living longer, and exemplifying good ethics.

• You will likely experience a love and a bond that you never could’ve imagined.

• You may have to part with previous entertainment choices. (Play video games and watch TV? Sure, but now it’s Talking Tom and My Little Pony/Voltron.)