The Good List

I know others have posted similar things on their blogs, but I found this comprehensive list of "Things to do While Waiting" on this web site. There are some good things here that I thought worth sharing...

# 10 is a good example. While I'm always in the mood to discuss and dream about names we might choose for our baby, I hadn't even thought about the fact that prospective birth parents might ask about our choice of names. That gives me an extra way to convince the hubs to discuss name choices without making stupid jokes! :) Anyway...I got some good ideas from this list, hope you enjoy it too:

Some Things to Do While Waiting For Baby:

1. Seek support from other people adopting either through local support groups or the IAC forums and adoption support groups.
2. Take a class in newborn care.
3. Take an infant/child CPR & First Aid class.
4. Read about open adoption, parenting and general infant/child care.
5. Talk to your employer and start planning for time away from the office if necessary.
6. Research and select baby furniture (it can take months to order).
7. Research car seats and strollers, with an eye towards a purchase.
8. If you have purchased a car seat already, learn how to install it, then get it checked by a car seat specialist (call your local police department for assistance).
9. Research and select a pediatrician.
10. Select names for each gender (this is a common question from potential birthfamilies).
11. Discuss and research discipline styles/techniques.
12. Research and select a childcare provider (if you are going to work).
13. Research new parenting techniques i.e., baby massage, using sign language, etc.
14. Make some reheatable quick meals and store in the freezer.
15. Research baby announcements, do-it-yourself or order?
16. Start a life book of your adoption journey for your child.
17. Discuss and make decisions about new wills, life insurance and a guardian for your child.
18. Research and request forms to add your new baby to your health insurance plan.
19. Research any parental/family leave policies with your employer.
20. Research and decide about adoptive breastfeeding.
21. Research and decide about cord blood banking.
22. Research and purchase new baby/brother/sister books for the older sibling(s), if applicable.
23. Discuss what type of new baby/welcome home celebration you want to have.
24. Research and learn how to prevent SIDS.
25. Prepare a first aid kit specifically for children (consult your pediatrician or the Red Cross).
26. Tidy up your closets and storage space.
27. Prepare the nursery.
28. Talk to your friends and family about open adoption.
29. Start a journal or blog about your adoption journey. A journal can record the milestones and detours, as well as your first rush of love for your child.
30. Take advantage of special opportunities with your current familly.