And Baby Makes Three: Three Often-Overlooked Preparations for Disabled Parents

So you and your partner are finally considering adding a baby to the family. As you start feathering the nest, or getting your home and yourself ready for your newborn, you’ll want to make sure to consider the multitudes of “to dos” that come along with this exciting time in your life. Sure it’s easy to remember the critical stuff like finding an OB-GYN that’s just right for you, and one who understands your disability if necessary, but what about some of the other things that are often overlooked by soon to be parents.

So you’ll be sure to be ready for your new bundle of joy, we’ve compiled three things that don’t always make the critical “to do” list.

1. Modifying Your Home For Children

While your home may be the perfect set up for you and your spouse, it doesn’t mean it will be a baby-friendly environment. And preparing the home before baby is on the way is a great way to not have to be burdened with this job while your family is expecting. Look around and start seeing what needs to be modified for you to bring your baby home. Experts also recommend an “all fours” inspection where you physically crawl around and look for potential hazards. Here are some basics:

• Make sure the crib you intend to use, whether borrowed or purchased, meets crib safety standards. Be sure to check for any safety recalls at the U.S. Consumer Product Information Safety Commission website. Also, avoid extra bedding in the crib area. Pillows, blankets, and stuffed animals can lead to suffocation.
• Put emergency phone numbers for things such as police, fire, medical and poison control near each phone.
• Check your home’s fire and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Make sure that all the handrails in your home are secured. You will need these to hold onto when transporting your child from floor to floor, so they should be firmly in place.

2. Saving For Infertility Treatments

According to the American Pregnancy Association, infertility affects 6.1 million American couples. While no one likes to think about difficulties conceiving as they start planning for their family, infertility issues can arise. Being prepared will allow you to make the best decisions if you should come up against difficulties with conception.

According to Qunomedical, “The success and availability of in vitro fertilization (IVF) have given hope to many infertile couples who have not been able to conceive. Since 1978, 5.4 million babies have been born worldwide with the help of IVF.“ But payment for this type of treatment is typically not covered by medical insurance. Be prepared by starting to save for any medical interventions you may need in your pregnancy.

Also, don’t forget to do your due diligence when selecting a fertility treatment center. You’ll want to review patient testimonials and compare costs to determine which one is right for you.

3. Finding Resources For Disabled Parents

While being disabled may present some parenting challenges, there are plenty of sites where you can interact with other parents for tips and products. Organizations and manufacturers provide a full range of helpful products such as Velcro bibs for motor skill issues and ground-floor cribs that are easily accessible for wheelchairs.

Bringing your newborn baby home will undoubtedly be one of the most exciting days of your life. You’ll have more time and energy to enjoy the moment if you’ve given time and careful attention to preparation. Be sure to head to your local library or bookstore to pick up some of the great reads for expecting parents. You’ll be glad when the time comes you took the time and care to be prepared in advance.

By Ashley Taylor of DisabledParents.org