Preparing for a new baby is probably one of the most exciting times for a couple. It’s better than holidays on white sugar beaches and it’s better than that end of year bonus. A baby is the biggest commitment a couple can dedicate themselves to and being ready for one takes some time. There’s nothing quite like choosing nursery equipment and colour schemes for the newest addition to your family. It’s a rite of passage for parents – especially fathers – to paint the nursery and build the cot.
You can have all the furniture and all the nappies in the world, but if your house isn’t ready for a baby then you need to get on it, and fast. Preparation is about being financially ready for the new little light of your lives and even if you are on a budget, you can make sure you are secure for your new baby. So, how can you prepare your home for a new baby?
Finances. There is never a good time to be ready for a baby invading your home. You could have all your ducks in a row and the perfect circumstances, and have it all snatched from you in a second. Babies are born into a variety of financial situations every day so all you need to ensure is that your rent is covered, the bills and food are covered and you have the appropriate contents insurance sorted online with renterinsurance.co. Insurance for your home when you have a child joining the family is not only going to be helpful to you on the event of a break-in, but when your child grows up and accidentally boots that football into your flat screen television, you’ll be thankful.
Plan for extended maternity or paternity leave by saving up enough money to cover your outgoings while one of you is not working. Draft your baby budget and include emergency funds to cover midnight dashes to the local hospital, car breakdown cover and other sundries that can crop up at the last minute when you have a baby in the house.
Safety. This doesn’t just cover your car seat options, but baby proofing in the home. You won’t need most safety features until your little one is old enough to walk, but that shouldn’t stop you getting things ready early. Your house needs to be appropriately finished so that sharp corners of units and plug sockets are covered safely. A new baby in the home means making changes, like moving ornaments and consoles up and out of reach, and if you have stairs installing stair gates to prevent terrible accidents. Home safety costs money, so don’t be afraid to shop around and add the costs to your savings that we mentioned earlier. Always think ahead for your children and their safety and if you are going to be having family or friends babysit, make sure their houses are also suitably equipped for the safety of your child.
Preparing for a new baby is an exciting and emotional time, but try to think practically about your financial situation and what that means for your family along the way.
So many things to think about!