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I'm planning to be a stay-at-home parent. What tips do you have that can make it work for me?

If you’re just getting started as a stay-at-home parent, then the best thing you can do is talk to other parents who have been doing it for a while. It could be a friend, family member or even your own parent, if they stayed home with you. Alternatively, you could go online and talk to stay-at-home parents on forums. Wherever you find them they should have some valuable advice for you.
 
Another important thing to remember is that even though you’re a stay-at-home parent, you still need to maintain adult relationships. Join mummy groups in your area or take classes designed for mums with children. Keep professional relationships alive too – especially if you have a feeling you might return to work at some time in the future. Get together with colleagues and work friends every once in a while. Even spending the evening with girlfriends (while your partner watches your child) can help to keep your social life alive. Don’t feel guilty about needing this either – being a happier and better person depends on social interaction, and the happier you are, the better parent you’re likely to be.
 
Don’t isolate yourself either. Even if all you do is head to the park for a walk with your child, getting out of the house is important to keeping your spirits up. Isolation leads to depression and resentment so make sure that you spend at least a couple of hours a few times a week outside of the house too.
 
Finally, make time just for you. Whether it’s a regular class, gym session or even a long bubble bath, taking time out just for you is essential for stay-at-home parents.

More questions

There really is no such thing as starting saving too early for your child’s future. 
When you become a parent it is more important than ever to build a nest egg to cope with any unexpected expenses such as doctor’s bills or expensive car or home repairs.
Updating your will (or putting one together) is a necessity when you have a baby
Applications for Maternity Benefit are handled by the Department of Social Protection.
Although you are entitled to maternity leave, and can qualify for Maternity Benefits, these are subject to specific rules.
If you thought going back to work, or being a stay-at-home parent were your only options, think again.
Plan your weekends well and do the necessary preparation during the week to ensure that there is time for fun – not just chores – on Saturday and Sunday.
It is important to remember that you are only human and it is impossible to have a perfectly balanced work and home life. Unexpected things do happen and it is at times like these that you should simply take a deep breath, relax and accept that you are doing the best you can.
Join up with other stay-at-home moms and dads in your area. Getting together with them regularly will make up for the adult company you are so accustomed to in the workplace.
It’s surprisingly common for stay-at-home mums to resent having to stay home and care for children.

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