How to Prepare Your Young Teen for Motherhood

There she is, crying and pleading for your understanding. You get mad at first, but she is your daughter, so you can't just turn your back on her. She is barely 17, and she got pregnant by accident. She had no one to turn to - except you. The father of the baby - also 17 - got scared and had refused to own up his child. As a parent, what would be the best thing for you to do?

Abortion is out of the question for you. You do not have any alternative but to accept the fact, and do something positive about it. You hold your daughter's hands and tell her everything will be fine. But in the back of your mind, you're thinking, "My God, what will I do now?"

It's not the end of the world. Who knows? Your grandson might become the president of your country! Here are some tips that could help you prepare your teen daughter for motherhood:

1. Have a heart to heart talk with her.

Tell her that she has to take responsibility for the consequences of her actions. That although you would be there to support her, she still is the mother of the child and as such, she would be the person the baby would be most dependent on. Advise her as a loving mother should, and she'll be more receptive. Don't scold her as she already knows her mistake.

2. Let her attend childbirth classes.

Childbirth classes would prepare her physically and emotionally. She would also be able to interact with other teen mothers. This would make her aware that a pregnancy should be a joyful stage for a soon-to-be-mother. This would motivate her to have a positive outlook about the experience. An optimistic mind would mold her into a better mother.

3. Buy her a good book about pregnancy and motherhood.

Reading could also make her busy and occupied, which would lead to lesser melancholia. The book should talk about the wonderful role of a mother in her baby's life and growth. It should contain the basics of motherhood, like bathing and feeding the baby , pre and post natal care. etc.

4. Have her visit an obstetrician regularly.

Ensuring her health and that of the baby is very essential to a successful childbirth. The visits should be at least once a month or as often as needed. Regular laboratory tests should also be performed to check for her sugar and protein. Her doctor will know what tests to require.

5. Start buying necessary materials for her and the baby.

Your daughter may still be in denial of her condition. By gradually preparing for the coming of the baby, you are simultaneously conditioning her mind of her upcoming responsibilities. More than anything else, your daughter needs you. Show your full support but let her understand that once she can be capable of taking care of things, she would be left more responsible for her baby - your grandchild!

Being a mother is a daunting task, especially for a very young mother; but with your understanding and love, your daughter would have a very memorable pregnancy and childbirth; one she would treasure forever.