A Reader’s Question….

I was asked to tell how I prepare for a new baby.  Most of you may think this doesn’t apply to you, but wait.

This would be the same preparation I would put into any time I was going to be out for any reason.  If I was having surgery, working a lot, out of town, etc.

The main thing I want to stress is to spend a lot of time with your kids.  Talk to them.  Not just about what’s going to happen, but about their thoughts, dreams, ideas.  Let them pour their hearts out to you.  Knowing you may not be able to give them that kind of attention for a while, they need to feel secure about their relationship with you.

The second most important thing is their training.  I keep a pretty tight ship, but if I knew I was going to be unable to keep up for even a few days I would spend some time being really on top of it.  Watch for troubled spots and work really hard to make sure the kids know what is expected of them.  I will do some practice sessions to make sure we understand each other.

I like to make a box of new things to do that stays in my room.  When they seem to be having a hard time I will pull something out of the box.  These would be things like books, sewing cards, felt stories, rubber stamps, pipe cleaners, maybe a video…..things that don’t make much of a mess.  If they get something from the box, they have to put it back in the box when they’re finished.

Of course I stock the pantry and freeze food.  We don’t care for reheated casseroles, so I just cook up a lot of ground meat with onions.  That can be used for burritos, taco soup, nachos, spaghetti…..then I put a list of meals that are available.  That way, even if I’m still the one making the meals they are quick and I don’t have to think about it.

Lastly, I get the house sparkly clean.  If I’m having a baby it’s easy.   The nesting urge is strong.  If it’s for another reason, I may make a lighter load, like just make sure the kids’ closets and drawers are in good shape.  Whatever I need to feel comfortable.

For a baby I would also be sure the nursery and layette was all prepared.  And having something new for me to wear after helped too.  A cute nursing top or pretty PJ’s are always on my list.  You know what brings you pleasure, so bu sure you have that around.

That’s my main list for preparing for baby or any other time when Mom is not able to work.

And Charlsie, we’re praying for you.