The last few weeks of your pregnancy are a good time to relax and get some good nights of sleep before your little one arrives. But there are some last-minute things you’ll need to organize to make sure you are prepared. In between naps, try to get some of these things done before the baby is here, so you can relax and enjoy those first few weeks without stress.
1. Buy some birth announcement cards
Even in the age of social media, it’s nice to send a card to say the baby has arrived safely, and some parents also include a photo of the newborn. You should buy some birth announcements before you go into labor, as you won’t have as much time once you have a baby to look after. Birth announcement plaques are also great for baby photos and add a personal touch.
2. Make sure you have everything you need
Babies don’t need as much stuff as you might think, but you should make sure you get stocked up with the essentials before they’re born. Read up on baby products that make your life easier, from an automatic sterilizer to a thermos flask for when you’re on the go.
You should also make sure you have the right clothes for your newborn. This doesn’t mean you need lots of cute outfits, but you do need basic essentials such as:
- Vests
- Babygrows
- Cardigans or jumpers
- Socks or tights
- Trousers or leggings
- Muslin cloths
You’ll often have clothes in the wash, so it’s worth making sure you have plenty of spares just in case of staining, spit-up, or other fluids.
3. Pack your hospital bag
Even if your due date is a few weeks off, it’s worth having your hospital bag packed and ready to go. You simply don’t know when you might go into labor, or how quick it might be, and the last thing you want is to be rushing around trying to find things. Your hospital bag should have everything you need to be comfortable in the hospital and during the birth, as well as basics like baby clothes and a spare outfit for you.
4. Work out your maternity leave entitlement
If you haven’t done so already, you should sit down with your employers and work out what’s going to happen in terms of your job. Take a look at your maternity leave entitlement from the government, as well as what’s in your contract, as some employers will offer more than the basic. You will probably want to consider what you’ll be doing in the long term too. Will you go back on reduced hours or change your work pattern? Speak to your boss about your options.
While you’re kicking back and enjoying the start of your maternity leave, it’s important to get a few things sorted out too. Being organized will make the newborn days much easier and means you can enjoy those early days with the baby without the stress of needing to run around and do stuff.
