Considering Parenting?
Parenting is the third option available to you when it comes to your unplanned pregnancy. Women and couples who weren’t planning to be pregnant often find the courage and excitement to choose this option, even if they’re scared and uncertain about it initially. Even couples who were planning to get pregnant sometimes struggle with feeling overwhelmed!
If you’re considering parenting, we’re here to help! You may be asking a lot of questions right now, and we’re here to help you navigate and determine whether or not parenting is right for you.
Am I Ready To Be A Parent?
This is a really important question to seriously consider. Many people fear they aren’t ready to be a parent because of where they are in school or their career. But regardless of the timing, parenting is always an interruption to your life. Just because you weren’t planning on it now doesn’t necessarily mean you aren’t ready.
It’s important to take an inventory of the people in your life who would help support you if you choose to parent. Who can help take care of the baby? Who is willing to pick up groceries or run other errands for you? Who can help with childcare? Is there anyone who can help you stock a nursery? As you think about the people in your life, you can probably come up with a good list of people who can help! “It takes a village to raise a child” is true whether you felt prepared to be a parent or not.
Can I Afford To Have A Child?
This is another important question to answer. If you’re in school or have a low-paying job, you may need to pursue another job or look into financial assistance programs. You should also have a conversation with your parents or other family members to see what kind of assistance they can provide. In our experience, if there’s a desire to have a child, there is always a way to figure out how to make it work. We can connect you to resources in the community that can provide assistance as well.
What Should I Do Next?
We offer referrals for parenting classes and other resources to help you feel confident and empowered as you move forward with this option. You should never feel alone as you start or continue your parenting journey.
To learn more about our referrals, resources, and the support we provide, contact us today!