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The best thing you can do for your child is work on yourself.

Preparing for Parenthood

 

Becoming a parent for the very first time can be an anxiety provoking experience. Most new parents experience the anxiety of wanting to be perfect. Let me remind you, there is no perfect parent. We all have shortcomings. We are human, after all. Transitioning into parenthood is chaotic and beautiful at the same time. There are so many firsts, so many unknowns. So what can you do to prepare for such a special time? The first step is knowing yourself. How were you shown love as a child? What was missing? Are there any generational cycles that you are looking to break? Are there childhood wounds that may affect how you transition into parenthood? These are all questions you should be asking yourself when preparing for parenthood.

 

Preparing for Parenthood

You and Your Partner

There aren’t many greater challenges in a relationship than first-time parenthood, but the right game plan can make all the difference. Having a baby can affect the quality of your romantic relationship, however, there are things you can do to still be close and connected and enjoy this new and joyful time in your life. One of the most helpful things I’ve learned as a Bringing Baby Home Gottman educator is the importance of being very intentional in your interactions with your partner. Making the effort to create a positive, supportive, and collaborative environment will help you not only protect the health of your relationship, but provide a nurturing environment for your baby. Here are some things you can do:
  • Create a habit of praising your partner when they do something right to promote a positive perspective.
  • Seek moments of connection. Something as simple as cooking dinner together can be a bonding experience.
  • Don’t stop behaving like a couple. Date nights can remind you that you’re still partners, not just parents.

Couples Therapy for New Parents

The transition into parenthood can be difficult for even the strongest, healthiest couples. It is a completely new realm for the two of you to navigate, and it is absolutely fine if you need some outside help. If things seem tough and you are having trouble communicating with your partner, don’t hesitate to reach out to a Gottman Method couples therapist for support. Depending on the childhood experience that both partners had, there may be a need for attachment trauma healing in relationships as well. The best thing that you can do to prepare for parenthood is to make sure that your baby is arriving at a happy and healthy home.  Individual therapy can also be incredibly beneficial at this time, as every human experience is different and there may be things that are better addressed one on one with a therapist. You deserve to have a positive transition into this amazing new chapter in your life, don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you need it.