Five Things To Get Ready For Parenthood

Posted on April 27, 2011 
Filed Under Fathering, Focus on the Family Broadcast, Parenting, Personal

If you’ve got a few months – or less! – before the arrival of your first child, how can you possibly get ready for your new role as a dad or mom? Here are five ideas to consider:

1. Engage with quality books and videos about parenting. There are dozens and dozens of good resources from well-regarded experts. I’ve referred to many of my favorite books and videos throughout my own book, First-Time Dad. Take advantage now of the seasoned, wise advice of others. Very soon you’ll be too busy to read, listen and watch as much as you might want.

John holding his young son, Zane, as they left Vladivostok, Russia for the long journey home.

2. Spend time with experienced parents. Watch them. Watch their kids. Make mental notes. Write things down. Launch conversations from their experiences with their kids. Find a mentor couple to walk you through the coming days, someone to offer experienced perspectives to help you as a new parent.

3. Discuss with your spouse your hopes, fears, and expectations about being a new parent. Talk about your pasts. Address your expectations about how you will approach this monumental task. Make sure that, where you have differences, you’ve talked those through and come to a shared understanding of areas of common ground you can agree on.

4. Pray about your new parental responsibilities. Ask God to help you be the parent your child needs, and to supply what you lack.

5. Journal about the road ahead. Gals: You know what I mean. Guys: This is something a lot of men struggle with, as such thinking can lead to . . . feelings. And many men run from emotions. But consider taking the time, even if you are very busy, to think things through to deep levels—and to record those reflections on your computer or in a journal. It can help to express your thoughts and feelings— in real time, as you encounter various situations.

Learn more about parenting here. And if you’re a new dad, give our radio program about my book a listen here or get the free sample chapter as a download here.

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