When you decide to have a child for the first time, there are many factors to consider. For most, these considerations are usually the monetary, time and emotional investments a couple should weigh before endeavoring to conceive their first born. But there is one thing couples often overlook, and its something that can make the experience of having a child significantly less stressful: it's the number of available babysitters- preferably the ones who work for "free."
I'm talking about a network of friends and family that you can count on either to help you out in a pinch, or give you that all important night off to breathe and refocus. I'm talking Grandma and Grandpa, Nana and Papa, Zaidy and Bubbie, Abba and Ema (of a former generation), and a collection of Aunts and Uncles, both real or in name only.
These are your saviors; your serenity; the unsung heroes that selflessly say: "Take the night off. I've got this." These are the family members that really care, for both you and your child, and would do anything they can to lend a hand. Need a night off to reconnect with your spouse?: Call Grandma. Need a few hours to go to the doctor?: Call "Auntie" Michelle. Sure, she's got a newborn of her own, but she's got you covered. Need an afternoon to regain your sanity?: Call "Uncle Jordy"- sure, he may use your child to pick up chicks at the mall, but who cares. The point is, it really does take
a village to raise a child, and you need as much support as you can get.
