Are you expecting a baby? Congratulations! Becoming a first-time parent is one of the most exciting things that can happen to you. Of course, it can also be incredibly stressful. Preparing for a baby requires a number of important preparations, especially if you have a disability. Thankfully, parents with disabilities have access to all kinds of resources and assistive tools to help with child care and the endless demands of daily parenting life. Check out the following article for help preparing your home and life for your new child!
Seek Help with Difficult Emotions
Becoming a parent comes with a range of emotions. It’s not uncommon for expectant parents to feel overwhelmed by emotion as their delivery date draws near. If you’re struggling to cope with changes in your mental health and emotional well-being, don’t hesitate to contact a professional.
Keep in mind that there are therapists online who can help you work through any difficult emotions you’re dealing with right now. Online therapy is a great option for people with disabilities! Virtual mental health services ensure maximum privacy and security while offering a variety of licensed professionals to choose from. Look for therapists offering free consultations so you can find the best match.
Consider Upsizing Your Home
When you have a disability, more space tends to make life easier. Even if you feel comfortable navigating your home right now, consider how your space needs might change once your baby is born. Adding new furniture and baby gear could make your home feel cramped and cluttered. Consider finding a larger home to accommodate your growing family and make space for the new things you need to buy for your baby.
If you’re a first-time homebuyer, be sure to start the buying process as soon as possible. For example, you’ll need to check your credit score, organize the appropriate paperwork, determine your buying budget, and find a great real estate agent. You may also want to look into assistance programs that can help you fund your home purchase or pay for accessibility modifications.
If you’re not ready to make a down payment on a home or would just prefer to rent, there are many suitable properties available in the LA area. Carefully consider which type of home you require and look for sites that allow you to filter by accessibility.
Make Helpful Home Upgrades
Accessible home modifications can make it easier for you to care for your new baby. For example, installing grab bars in areas like bathtubs and showers can help when bathing your child while using non-slip rugs and mats throughout your home can help you avoid falls when you’re trying to keep up with a crawling toddler. Installing a chairlift in your home can help you safely navigate staircases with a baby in your arms. Think about ways in which your home could better serve you as a parent, and invest in modifications to make your life easier!
If you need to make room in your home for a nursery, you may want to place some items into storage if you’re unsure what to do with them. Storage units in LA can be on the pricey side, but with some research you can find a 5’x10’ unit for under $100.
Look for Adaptable Baby Gear
Today, parents can find all kinds of adaptable parenting products designed to give people with disabilities more control and confidence when caring for their kids. For example, The Mobility Resource lists several adaptable alternatives to traditional cribs, strollers, and car seats:
- Chest harness baby carriers and wraps.
- Side opening cribs.
- Baby carrier attachments for wheelchairs.
- Baby bibs that attach with velcro rather than snaps.
- Breastfeeding slings.
- Nursing pillows.
- Swivel-base car seats.
Many other assistive tools exist, so be sure to do your research! And if you can’t find a solution to one of your childcare challenges, consider creating one yourself. Countless parents with disabilities have come up with creative solutions to daily obstacles, creating everything from braille-labeled baby bottles to wheelchair-accessible baby bathing stations. And be sure to visit Ebaby for the latest high-quality baby furniture, clothes, and products!
Parenting with a disability is much easier today than it was in the past. These days, parents with disabilities have access to assistive technology and adaptive gear that reduce the need to rely on others for childcare help. Get set up with the right tools and resources so you feel confident about your role as a soon-to-be parent, and consider moving to a new home for expanded space.
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