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Last Updated on January 24, 2025
As a new mother, preparing for the costs of motherhood can feel daunting and overwhelming, especially if you’ve recently given birth to your first child. From paying attention to your child’s health at all times to providing them with proper clothing, toys, and shelter, there are many aspects of motherhood to keep in mind when it comes time to prepare for the costs. The more financially prepared you are as a new mother, the less likely you are to find yourself feeling stressed and out of your element.
Plan for Your Nursery
Planning for your nursery in advance will help alleviate some of the stressors most commonly associated with giving birth and bringing a new baby into the home. Take time to designate a space in your home for your baby while investing in a proper crib and playard, and car seats that will ensure your child’s safety when driving or at home. If you’re unsure of what to expect when it comes to the cost of a new nursery, visit local furniture stores and shop online to compare nursery furnishings before making a purchase.
Shop for Toys, Clothing, and Diapers Ahead of Time
Before you have your baby, shop for toys, clothing, and diapers in advance. Calculate the monthly costs of diapers ahead of time to better prepare yourself. If you choose to host a baby shower, you can also request diapers, clothing, and toys for your baby to help get you started on the right foot.
Research the Cost of Surrogacy
Each year, thousands of women apply to become surrogates across the United States alone, according to CNBC. If you are interested in utilizing a surrogate program to have your child, you will first want to spend a bit of time familiarizing yourself with the process, what it entails, and ultimately, the costs you should come to expect.
Find the Best Daycare and Childcare Facilities Near You
Choosing the right daycare or childcare facility is a way to ensure your peace of mind when you decide it is time to go back to work or when you simply need a bit of assistance at home. According to PBS, approximately 1.5 million children, or 32% of all three, four, and five-year-olds, were enrolled in an early childhood development course or preschool program in the United States. You might also explore hiring a live-in assistant through an au pair agency. An au pair is a young individual, often from a different country, who lives with a host family and provides childcare and light household assistance in exchange for room, board, and a cultural exchange experience. They can be an invaluable resource for new mothers, offering extra hands to care for the baby, help with tasks like meal preparation or laundry, and provide much-needed breaks for rest and recovery.
Plan for Healthcare and Dental Care
Planning healthcare and dental care for your child is also extremely important, regardless of their age. Taking care of teeth and gums should be prioritized at all times, even if your child’s teeth are still developing and growing. According to Colorado Springs Orthodontics, seeking an orthodontist for a child should be done before the age of seven if orthodontic treatment is warranted, as permanent incisors and molars have already begun growing, which can lead to complications, such as crowding and cross-bites.
Prepare for Potential Emergencies
Having the ability to prepare for potential emergencies can help you remain calm and focused when your child is in pain or requires the help of a local dentist. Knowing what to expect in terms of costs can also help you put aside money ahead of time, which will allow you to face any emergency that occurs head-on. Whether your child hurts themselves while playing outside or if they are in excoriating pain due to a tooth abscess, preparing for emergencies and knowing who to contact in a time of need can go a long way in helping you save for the cost of motherhood even before your child is born.
Knowing how to prepare for the costs of motherhood while prioritizing your health and the health of your child is essential anytime you are pregnant or bringing a new baby into the home. The more prepared you are for the costs of motherhood, the less likely you are to feel overwhelmed when it is time to purchase new clothing or pay for necessary medical expenses.