Having a Baby? Why You Shouldn't Look at It That Way

So you're having a baby. That's always such exciting news. You might imagine cuddling with your little bundle of joy, taking them to the park, watching their first steps, etc. You'll likely do all of that. Unfortunately, when people imagine their lives with children, there are things they don't fully understand. Oh sure, you know your child will grow up and leave home some day. You just don't realize how fast that happens. You might not think about your relationship with your child as an adult. No, likely, when people talk about having a baby, they mean a baby. That's probably why we keep having them.

It's your responsibility to turn your baby into a respectable and respectful adult. Too many people completely miss this aspect of parenting. Others know it, but don't take it as seriously as they should. You're not just having a cute, cuddly baby. You are taking on the job of creating a productive and useful member of society. It's completely your responsibility to make sure your baby doesn't break the law, harm others or even just turn into a jerk. Are you up to the task?

You'll get all kinds of advice when you become pregnant. People will tell you what type of diaper to use and whether to breast or bottle feed. They'll advise you on pacifiers and potty training. They may even talk about the terrible twos and teen angst. What they won't talk about is how you're supposed to turn this little bundle of joy into a grown-up you'll be proud of.

This is where you might cite proper discipline. Discipline is vital, but there's so much more to parenting. There's example, for instance. If you don't have your temper under control, don't expect your child to control theirs (as either a child or an adult). If you're a bit lackadaisical, expect the same from your baby when he or she grows up. If you smoke, drink or do drugs, don't be surprised when your child does the same. There is no do as I say, not as I do in parenting.

Will you and your child get along when they are grown? How do you even make that happen? Just how do you turn your baby into someone you'll like, admire and respect? How do you turn your child into a capable parent? These are just a few of the things you should be thinking about when expecting a baby (and hopefully before).

Being a parent is the most serious responsibility you will ever have. You aren't just a parent until your child turns 21. You're a parent for life. Don't think so? Picture your beautiful baby having his or her own baby. Think about the implications. Now you have two generations of people on this earth that you're responsible for creating and nurturing.

What if they move back home? If you don't give your babies the tools they need to support themselves, you may end up supporting them yourself. It's not all about coddling and cuddling. You are responsible for teaching your baby to be financially secure for life. Why? Because if you don't they will be at your doorstep expecting you to support them for the rest of your life (or at least several tortuous years).

Having a baby is a joyful experience. The problem is that many people forget there is a more serious side to parenting. Don't forget that baby will grow up. It seems a long time from now, and hardly worth a thought. Think again. Are you ready for the hardest job you'll ever have? You'll be exhausted, frustrated, overworked and underpaid (unless you count the love). Yes, parenting is rewarding, but only if you know what you're doing. You're not just having a baby, so don't look at it that way. You're creating an adult. Are you up for it?

More from this contributor:

Choosing Co-Sleeping or Crib Sleeping

Top 5 Basic Massage Techniques for Baby

Temper Tantrum Tricks and Tips for Frustrated Parents

Source:

Personal experience