When planning a baby, there are a lot of things to consider. One of the main things to consider is the cost. I have four children myself, and I can tell you from experience that having a baby is something that you would not want to consider if you are in a constant bind for money already. There are some key items that you Must have. Diapers, clothes,bottles,"binkies"(or patsies) and toiletries are just a few. Other things that you want to purchase are diaper wipes, toys, diaper storage units, bedding, nursery furniture, burp clothes, a diaper bag (which mot hospitals give out when you go in for delivery)... should I go on.

I would be lying if I said that I purchased everything available for my babies, but I made sure with each child that I had blankets, onesies (t-shirts), clothes, plenty of diapers and wipes, wash cloths, and plenty of Dreft or Snow detergent on hand. The detergents are not a NEED, but those are the best detergents that I have found to get out the tough stains that accompany a new baby and they are sensitive to Baby's skin. Also, you may need to buy formula. Even if you get WIC or some other form of assistance that gives you "enough for a month", there usually is not enough. Take it from me, that alone can get expensive.

Another thing that you will want to have is the name of a very good pediatrician. You would want your child to have the best health care available, right? Be sure that you find one that is willing to listen to your concerns. After all, this is YOUR child.

Also, be sure to have a good car seat. Pay close attention to recalls, and read the packaging carefully to ensure that you are getting the best choice of seat to transport your precious carego. You may also want to consider getting a seat that convert into a carrier for the first few months. I say the first few months because after a while those can get heavy with a ever-growing infant cradled inside.

A good idea is to go into store that specializes in baby-care products or check out the baby department at your local department stores. Look around and make two lists. One list should indicate things that the baby will NEED, and the other should indicate things that you would LIKE to have to help make your child more comfortable. Make sure to list prices and brand names and model. (You can check safety ratings for items on line.) Once you have made these lists combine the things that you KNOW that you will want to purchase onto one list. You can make an early start purchasing these items and keep down a lot of last minute stress.

Having a strong support system helped me a lot. Whenever there was a problem with anyone of my children or whenever I just got too stressed out to handle the pressure of being a parent, I would call my mother or one of my aunts to help me. I even had help from some of my friends that had children before I did to help. Don't be afraid to take advice frofm someone who is already experienced with taking care of babies. Their help can be fundamental!! Having someone there to help with Baby can also help you because even though it is your job to take care fo your child, you also have to take care of yourself.

The most imporant thing to consider is YOU. Are you ready to wake up in the middle of the night to prepare a bottle and/or change a dirty diaper? Be sure that you are prepared for all the changes that will take place in your life when you have a new little life that depends on you for everything.

Think these things over. Check out local stores to see what all it takes to take care of a baby, and don't forget Mom. Prenatal care is just as important as post natal care. Be sure that you have a good OB/GYN. A good book to give you an idea of what to expect during this time is What to Expect While Expecting. You can find it in most places that sell items for babies and toddlers and in most book stores. It is really insightful.

No matter what you decide as far as purchases, doctors, and the like, the most important thing that you must have for a new baby is WHOLE LOT OF LOVE.

I am not a licnesed professional. I am just a regular person who has given birth to four amazing children. My kids are now thirteen, nine, six, and two years of age, and each one has his/her own unique personalities- even from infancy. I learned that there is no set instruction manual, but there is one creed that you must follow: Give and receive love; provide as much as possible for your child financially, physically, and emotionally; teach, guide, and discipline; and enjoy every moment of it.

Tootles!!!!