Are You Ready To Become a Parent?

Articles

Tequesta Walker

Are You Ready To Become a Parent?
Jan 14, 2004

The test results are positive. The world stops as you try to see everything in perspective. You've got a lot to think about over the next several months. One's readiness and ability to parent is an important consideration in making a decision to raise a child. Preparation for parenthood is not just a matter of reading books and decorating the nursery.

f you are struggling with the question of what to do after you find you are pregnant, the following are a few questions to ask yourself to determine whether or not you are ready to raise this child.

Are you able to give this child what he or she demands and needs?

The children needs are great today. When they are born you have to give them plenty of love and attention. Then when they grow up you have to pay for them to go the movies and provide them with food and clothing. Finally, you have for them to go to college.

What would I need to sacrifice when this child comes into the world? Am I ready to give up the freedom to do what I please, on my own time?

That is a lot to think about. Freedom is the first thing you give up. You can not go and get back when you are ready.

Do You Have Enough Room In Your Home?

You must have enough bedrooms for a child. Also, you must be able to provide the child with his or her own bed. A child in care may share a bedroom with your child or another child.

Do You Have An Adequate Income To Meet Your Own Family's Current Needs?

While you don't have to be rich to be a parent, you must have enough income to meet your own family's needs.

It's amazing how much of a difference one little person can make. With so many things to think about, a little planning goes a long way.

Being a parent requires a huge commitment. When someone becomes a parent, their life is forever altered. Another life depends on you, and every decision you make must factor in the interests of the child. Parenthood isn't something to be taken lightly. A cooing baby can not be given back when she begins to cry. That fresh-faced infant still needs love and support when he's throwing up. They are not always cute, the responsibility is not always enjoyable. Children are not always easy. But they are always yours.

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Email Tequesta Walker: teewalkertq@aol.com

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