Tips on welcoming a new baby

Manage the paperwork

Welcoming a new bundle of joy requires a fair amount of paperwork. This is mainly to ensure that you receive the financial assistance the government makes available to parents and families. This is also to gain access to the services you’ll need when returning to work.

Income during leave

You’ll need to fill out applications for benefits that will replace a portion of your income during your leave:

• Employment Insurance (This hyperlink will open in a new tab)
• Québec Parental Insurance Plan (QPIP) (This hyperlink will open in a new tab), if you live in Québec

Your employer's HR department can help you with these forms.

A helping hand for your family budget

You may also be entitled to allowances to help you cover certain expenses related to your child's education and wellbeing, such as:

• Canada Child Benefit (This hyperlink will open in a new tab)
• Family Allowance (This hyperlink will open in a new tab) (Québec)

Support during your studies

Are you still at school? Some programs offer financial support during pregnancy or following the birth of the child.

Reserve a place for your child

Returning to work or school can be difficult after being on leave for any amount of time. Since waiting lists can be long, you’ll want to reserve a spot in a daycare (This hyperlink will open in a new tab) as soon as possible.

Help is available

You don't have to navigate the forms all alone. You can reach out for assistance to:

• Your employer's HR department for questions about parental leave
• Friends who have children and already have experience with this kind of paperwork
• Community organizations and online resources

Stick to your budget

Having a baby comes with a lot of expenses, especially your first child. Fortunately, you have nine months to prepare. Take advantage of this time to spread out your purchases.

Focus on your essential needs

Let's be honest, when you're expecting, it's easy to be tempted by adorable clothes, clever accessories and gadgets that promise to make your life easier. After all, we want the best for our baby.

Before adding to cart, however, take the time to think about what you actually need. Every family is different. Some might not be able to do without a baby monitor, while others will get along just fine without one.

To avoid getting carried away:

• Make a list of essentials
• Separate your needs from your wants
• Prioritize items that you’ll need in the first few months
• Put off purchases you’re unsure about

Plan your major expenses and shop around

Before decorating, it’s best to budget for certain essential expenses. These essentials include:

• Car seat
• Stroller
• Crib
• Changing table
• High chair
• Mealtime utensils

Taking the time to compare and shop around could save your a lot of money. It’s also a good idea to grab second-hand essentials from your brother-in-law or sister-in-law!

Consider buying used

Keep in mind that a baby's needs quickly change during the first few months. Used bedroom furniture, strollers and high chairs tend to be in good condition and available at a fraction of the price of new ones.

Build your starter kit gradually

You’ll need to put together a complete wardrobe for your little one. Fortunately, friends and family are often ready and willing to help you with your starter kit. Think baby shower... it’s tradition!

Your kit should include:

• Comfy clothes
• Towels
• Wipes
• Bedding
• Diaper bag
• Bathing and care products

There are plenty of expenses associated with the arrival of a baby and the bill quickly adds up. Spreading out your purchases ensures a better control of your finances.

Prepare for the unexpected

No one likes to imagine the worst-case scenarios. Preparing a will is one of the most important steps to consider when becoming a parent.

The arrival of a child is often the ideal time to make one or update it.

A will serves to:

• Designate the person who will care for your child when you’re no longer there
• Protect the estate you wish to pass on
• Determine at what age your child will be able to access their inheritance
• Simplify certain procedures for your loved ones
• Protect your spouse, especially if you are in a common-law relationship

Although this is not be the most exciting task on your preparation list, knowing that your child and loved ones will be better taken care of will provide valuable peace of mind.

Estate planning

The arrival of a child is a good time to review your overall financial plan. Do you have enough money to deal with an unexpected event? Would your family be able to maintain its standard of living if one of the parents could no longer work?

Review your insurance coverage and check that it matches your new family situation. Consider evaluating:

• Your life insurance so it provides adequate financial support to your family in the event of your death
• Your disability insurance so it protects your income in the event that an illness or injury prevents you from working
• Your critical illness insurance needs

See also:

• An emergency fund, which can help you pay for unexpected family expenses
• Making sure that your level of debt is compatible with your new responsibilities
• Family savings goals, which include your child's education and other important projects

No need to review everything all at once. But taking the time to assess your situation now means you can build a safety net tailored to your needs and reduce financial stress.

Start nesting

Did you know that newborns can sleep between 14 and 18 hours a day? You’ll be spending a lot of time in their room, especially in the first few months. All the more reason to prepare your nursery before the birth. This will give you time to familiarize yourself with the layout and set up the essentials.

The priority is to create a comfortable, safe space that is tailored to your needs:

• Opt for materials that are easy to clean and don’t collect much dust. For example, wood or tile flooring rather than carpeting, which is harder to clean and can harbour allergens.
• Choose low-emission paints and products whenever possible. Most water-based paints are made with petrochemical ingredients. Some paints are free of harmful emissions that are better suited for a child's bedroom.
• Ensure that the layout is safe and open.
• Keep diapers and care essentials close by.

With social media, it's tempting to give in to trends. It may not be worth investing in a Pinterest-worthy decor. The goal is not to create the perfect room, but a cozy space where you, your child and your family will feel comfortable.

The big day is here

After months of preparation, the big day is finally here. Prepare your overnight bag a few weeks before your expected delivery date. This will make things less stressful. Besides, there’s nothing keeping your baby from showing up early!

Whether the birth takes place in a hospital or birthing centre, you will need a number of items to make this event as comfortable as possible.

For the mother

• Comfortable clothing
• Breastfeeding accessories, if required
• Personal hygiene products
• Hospital card and important documents

For the other parent

To be able to provide good support, a minimum level of comfort is required. Be sure to pack:

• Change of clothes
• Comfortable shoes
• Toothbrush

Handy tips

• Music speaker
• Snacks
• Phone chargers
• Noise-cancelling earplugs

If you’ve decided to give birth in the comfort of your own home, be sure to prepare your delivery room. This way, you’ll have everything handy when you need it.

The important thing is to be ready a few weeks in advance. Take advantage of the nine months of pregnancy to carefully plan you baby’s arrival. By taking care of all the details beforehand, you'll be able to bask in the miracle of childbirth.