There’s a lot of advice out there for new parents, and it can be overwhelming. To make things easier, I’ve compiled a list of things you wish you knew before you had kids. So, whether you’re a first-time parent or you’re adding to your brood, read on for 5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Having Kids

Having kids is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have in life. It’s also one of the most challenging. Not only are you responsible for another human being, but you’re also responsible for their upbringing and development.

Last year, I gave birth to my fifth child. My home birth experience was the most incredible thing I’ve ever been through. But looking back, I thought about when I was pregnant with my first. No one can prepare you for how having a child will change your life.

#1 Take a childbirth class

Having a baby is a life-changing event, and it is natural to want to be as prepared as possible for labor and delivery. Taking a childbirth class is one of the best ways to do this. I thought I had a pretty good understanding of childbirth and how it worked when we were trying to conceive. I was one of those kids who used to play with dolls and dress them up in my mom’s clothes. Plus, my mom had all of her children unmedicated and would tell us all about her birth experiences.

Childbirth classes cover a wide range of topics, including the different stages of labor, pain management techniques, and what to expect after the baby is born. They also provide an opportunity to meet other expectant parents and build a support network.  These classes help people prepare to raise children before going through the experience.

That being said…I didn’t realize how much I would need to learn. For example, did you know that there’s an optimal position for a baby to be in for birth? Or that baby poop smells like nothing else on Earth? Or that there are different types of baby poop?

There are many different types of childbirth classes available, so it is important to find one that is right for you. Some classes are offered online, while others are held in person. Some are focused on natural childbirth, while others offer a more comprehensive approach. Through tasks, activities, and dialogue participants can get skills and information they will need to parent before they go through with the decision of having children. We have so many providers in this area that can help you and your spouse prepare for the birth of your baby!

No matter what type of class you choose, taking a childbirth class before having kids will help you feel more educated and confident going into labor and delivery.

#2 Surround yourself with support

Having kids is a life-changing experience. It’s one of the most wonderful things you can do, but it’s also one of the most challenging. Before you take the plunge into parenthood, it’s important to make sure you have a strong support system in place.

Your partner should be your biggest ally, but it’s also important to have the love and support of your family and friends. These people can offer valuable advice, help with childcare, and be a shoulder to cry on when things get tough. Being in labor is hard enough, but it can be even harder to do without the support of someone who loves you.

If you’re considering having kids, make sure you have a solid support system in place. It will make all the difference in the world. It’s also nice to have someone there in case something goes wrong, and you need help. If no one is available, don’t worry; there are plenty of other options out there. Doulas are great for helping with any kind of labor support—and they’re not just for those who want natural childbirths!

Various types of support can assist you with the upcoming changes; have a look at this blog post discussing the advantages of hiring a doula.

I’d suggest checking out this blog post about considering hiring a doula.

#3 Simplicity is hard, but important.

It’s easy to get caught up in the notion that you need all the latest and greatest baby products out there. After all, every time you turn around there’s another new product that promises to make your life easier. I wish I would have known how much we didn’t need it all. You’ll spend hours (and dollars) researching the perfect stroller or car seat, only to find yourself overwhelmed with option.s You keep reading about newer, better products on Facebook or Pinterest.

You don’t need all the baby gear. There, I said it.

Now, I’m not saying that you shouldn’t buy any baby gear. If you want to buy a fancy stroller or a breast pump, then, by all means, go ahead. But you don’t need to spend thousands of dollars on baby gear that you’re only going to use for a few months. 

The truth is simple: Your baby doesn’t need all of this stuff. All they need is love and attention from those who love them too. That’s what babies thrive on!

I would highly suggest putting things on your baby registry that will help make your 4th trimester (postpartum) easier and more enjoyable for you! Think about hiring a postpartum doula or getting a meal service for when you need good nourishment but don’t feel like cooking! All those things aren’t “normal” baby registry items but will immensely make those first few weeks with baby so much easier!

#4 You’ll never get this time back.

You’re not just a parent, you’re a memory keeper. I’m reminded of this daily as I see the smile on your face when you see your kids growing up and changing. The little reminders you give them and the lessons that you taught them. You’ll never get a second chance at this — the moments, experiences, and memories will repeat themselves and stretch far beyond what we can imagine in our current state of being.

During these years, your children will grow so fast. I wish I would have known this before I had kids. You’ll blink, and they’re suddenly taller than you. Their personalities will change. They’ll start to look more like their own person instead of just an extension of you. You won’t have time to document every beautiful moment with your camera or phone because there are so many moments happening all at once that it would be impossible to capture them all.

If you want some amazing photos of the first few years of life with your child(ren), I’d suggest investing in a professional photographer who specializes in photographing children; they will be able to capture the moments when they happen without forcing them into poses that don’t fit who they are at this age. It’s well worth the expense!

#5 It can be hard, but having kids is worth it!

Before having kids, I remember romanticizing children and family. While these things may never be “easy”, being a parent has its own rewards that are hard to describe in words. When my children finally grow up and leave home, I will miss them dearly. There are moments you will have with children. Ones that make you wonder if you are made out for it. Being a parent is hard work, but it’s not impossible. If you really want to be with your child and make them happy, there are always good times. Don’t let the bad days take over your life and keep you from enjoying the good ones.

 Look for the other moments. The ones that create joy in your heart. Before having children I saw all the exciting things with kids. I forgot about the work put into that. However, it all melts away when your little one just wants to snuggle you. Or decides to tell you how awesome you are. Those moments make up for the hard. Sometimes, the things I say may seem a little funny but hey everyone has those days and you should not worry about it. Being a parent is no joke and takes dedication, time and patience . Yes, it’s hard work but knowing that this will all be worth it in the end.

Being a parent is hard. There are many times where you will be fighting with your child, or arguing with your partner. But in all of your struggles, remember: there should always be good times too. If you find yourself dealing with an impossible situation but remember that bad times will pass by as they come so keep pushing through them. Eventually, good things will come to you when it seems like all hope has gone – don’t give up!

So there you have it, the 5 things I wish I knew before having kids. And while some seem to be very sefl-explanatory, you’ll find that they are nessicary!