Chapter 2 T-3

Ready for Parenthood?

Before deciding whether to have a child, prospective parents should
ask themselves these questions:
Emotional Maturity
• Are we willing and able to take responsibility for a child?
• How realistic are our expectations of parenthood?
• Can we handle the pressures involved?
• Are we patient & flexible?
Desire for Parenthood
• Do we really want to have a child?
• Are our reasons for wanting a child based on reality or fantasy?
On giving or selfishness?

Health Considerations
Are we both healthy enough, physically & mentally to meet the
Iii

demands of caring for a child?

• Is the prospective mother older than seventeen? Younger than
thirty-five? If not, what are the risks?
111 Is there a possibility of an inherited disorder? What are the risks?

How can we find out more?

Financial Considerations
'
■ How much will prenatal care and the birth cost? Supplies for the
baby?
• What other expenses can we expect over the next 18 years?
• Do we have a spending plan? How does raising a child fit in?
• Are we willing to do without some things, if necessary, in order to
provide for our child's needs of clothing, food, shelter &
education?
Relationship
• Is our relationship stable & happy with unconditional love
42
 The Rewards of P renthood

m T C t ' E ,' , '

II
; * ¦• Happiness, pride, and
love
• -E richment of a strong I if
m rriage
.J
-?
• Rediscovery of the
world IliM
:!i • A sense of accom¬
t'i i i' |
l l $ ::t

«' ii plishment
IIP
II
>*

• A meaningful future

THE DEVELOPING CHILD Copyright © 1988 by Glencoe Publishing Com any Transparency 4