Dividing the Mental and Physical Workload
versus needs and looking into second- hand or even borrowed goods can help alleviate some stressors when it comes to money. If finances are tight, consider what baby truly needs and forget about name brands (babies can’t read the tags anyway), newness (pre-loved cloth- ing may even be softer to baby), and don’t be afraid to seek help within the community (there are many resources available to those who need them). With their sweet cherubic faces, endearing coos, and innocence, babies are indeed a blessing. And with a little bit of prep work and planning, parenting as a team can make going from a two- some to “three makes a family” an even more pleasant journey into parent- ing. So yes, having a baby can change relationships, but overall, change can be a good thing. Growing a family means growing together, too, and a little plan- ning, plenty of communication, and a commitment to being a team can make all the difference.
Sleepless nights, work, caring for the house, and raising a new human can all add up to exhaustion. It is easy to lose oneself during the busy hustle and bustle of adding a new member to the family. Be sure to make time for personal hobbies and interests that go beyond drinking coffee while it’s hot or taking an uninterrupted shower. Budget time at least once a month for each parent to have a little bit of child-free time to tend to themselves, and also set aside time to reconnect with each other too. If babysitters are out of the question, take turns watching baby while the other ventures into the world. And time spent together can certainly take place at home! It is more about spending quality time together and connecting than the where or what, anyhow. Todd suggests the conversation and time don’t involve logistics, baby, or the household, even for just 5-10 minutes a day, so that the focus remains on the couple.
Have a chat about who will do what during pregnancy and also once baby arrives. The workload can include household chores and care for baby too. The act of committing to meaningful contributions may help new families avoid feelings of resentment later on. While babies are little, the attention and energy spent on them are big, so divvy up tasks! Todd also mindfully sug- gests splitting up the sleeping routine once baby arrives into bigger shifts so each parent gets four to five hours in a row, and don’t be afraid to call in reinforcements (grandparents, neigh- bors, aunties, uncles, cleaning services, babysitters, etc.) because it definitely does take a village. Looking into Money Matters Sweet little babies simply need so much stuff! Or do they? Budgeting wants
FALL 2026 | PINK&BLUE
17
Made with FlippingBook. PDF to flipbook with ease