The decision to parent is yours. Parenting is hard work. It is also fun to be able to hear your baby's first word or to see them take their first step. You will be important in your baby's life and your baby will be important to you. 

All parents, single or otherwise, need to handle the following:

Lack of Sleep 

Most new parents will talk about how tired they are all of the time. You will have nights of little sleep. You will care for your child all day and all night most of the time. You will care for your baby's needs before your own. It's important that you love and nurture your baby even when your baby is being difficult or you haven't had any sleep. It is extremely important to know how to control your reactions when you feel angry or frustrated, no matter how upset or tired you may feel.

Change in Lifestyle 

You will not be able to do all of the activities that you used to do, as you need to be with your baby. Many new parents feel isolated and/or forgotten. Others feel very satisfied while caring for their baby. It is important to find and ask for the support when you need it.

Stages of Growth 

Babies won't always be babies. Within a year, your baby will be walking around. In five years he or she will go to kindergarten. He or she will soon be in junior and senior high school, busy with their own activities.

To be the best parent for your child, consider the following:

Support from others 

Consider the support you will have from family and friends. For example, do you think that they will be able to help you when you need sleep or extra help because you or the baby is sick and you have missed too many days of work or school? Can you talk with them about your questions or needs as a parent? If you don't think you have the help you need from family and friends find out if there are other resources or people who you could connect with to help you. Early Childhood Family Education is a great parenting resource offered in Minnesota.

Medical and financial needs 

Consider your medical and financial needs. Click here for the budget worksheet. For example, do you need medical coverage or a job? Find out what resources are available to you through your county, city or state. Even if you are currently working do you need additional financial help as you parent, or while you take maternity or paternity leave?

Childcare 

Consider the childcare you may need while you or your partner is at work or school. In Minnesota you can contact your local ChildCare Resource & Referral program to help you find licensed daycare homes or centers. A family member or friend may provide support to you by caring for your child while you are at work.

Again, what you need to be the best parent for your child will be different than what another person may need. Decide what you need, how you need it and where you can find those resources and support in your community.  Regardless of your final decision, CHSFS will be there to support you.

If you are unsure how to contact the resources in your community feel free to call CHSFS at 651-255-2433/1-800-952-9302 or call First Call for Help at 211.