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As parents-to-be, you've likely discussed baby monitors and hospital bags. However, there's more to parenthood than the essentials. Join us as we delve into important aspects often overlooked, from managing sleep deprivation to setting boundaries.

Curious about the financial costs of having a baby? Explore our guide provided at the end for average expenses and tools to estimate your own. Let's navigate parenthood together!

Topics Typically Discussed Among Parents:

Baby monitors, feeding, car seats, and strollers.
Packing a hospital bag.
Announcing the baby.
Childcare.
Where the baby sleeps.

Some Additional Topics to Consider:

Dealing with Sleep Deprivation: Discuss strategies for coping, taking turns, and supporting each other.
Role of Grandparents and Boundaries: Grandparents can be a tremendous help, but clear boundaries are essential. Discuss expectations regarding visits, advice, and involvement.
Sharing Night Wakings and Feedings. Self-Care: Prioritize self-care to maintain your physical and mental well-being. Rest, nutrition, and emotional support are crucial during this intense period.
Mental Health Checks: Regularly check in with each other about your emotional state. Parenthood can be challenging, and open and healthy communication is vital.
Non-Working Downtime: Find moments to relax together. Even short breaks can rejuvenate you both.
Building a Support System: Connect with other parents, join parenting groups, and seek advice. Having a support network makes a significant difference.
Your Partner’s Role in Daily Routine: Discuss how your partner can actively participate in caring for the baby. From diaper changes to playtime, teamwork matters.

Curious about the average financial costs of having a baby? Check out this document for typical expenses and a tool to estimate your own costs.

Melissa Dotson, CFP®, CSLP®

Financial Planning Associate

Melissa came to Narwhal in the summer of 2018 following the completion of her master’s degree in financial planning from the University of Georgia, where she also earned her bachelor’s degree in consumer economics. Her interest in the field started with learning about consumer behavior, specifically its relation with complex moneymaking decisions. Melissa recently received her CFP® Certification in January 2021. Working with a CFP® professional can help you find the path to achieving your financial goals. Your goals may evolve over the years as a result of shifts in your lifestyle or circumstances such as an inheritance, career change, marriage, house purchase , or a growing family. Melissa is here to help you through that process. When she’s not working, Melissa enjoys cycling, cooking, and spending time with her beagle and two nieces.

Navigating Parenthood: Beyond the Basics

Topics Typically Discussed Among Parents:

Some Additional Topics to Consider:

Curious about the average financial costs of having a baby? Check out this document for typical expenses and a tool to estimate your own costs.

Melissa Dotson, CFP®, CSLP®

Let’s start the conversation.