Preparing for baby is an exciting process that can be as unique as childbirth for first time grandmothers. Once you recover from the initial shock that your baby is no longer your baby, its time to get mentally and physically prepared to offer proactive support to both mommy and daddy from the beginning of the pre-birth process until the end of the new moms recuperation phase. It is truly more than preparing for baby showers, opening gifts, and recording cards.

It all begins with the announcement. From the moment youre told you are about to be a grandparent, nothing is the same. My husband and I received our announcement on Christmas Day. Our daughter and son-in-law came to the living room of their home to say the test was positive, congratulations grand mom. A new life had formed, a child was in the wings. The excitement is indescribable. It is one of many times you realize that it is only through the power of God that such a miracle would be possible. The months of preplanning begins by encouraging the mom to eat and sleep properly, initiate planning the baby shower with save the date cards, helping to monitor gift registries and coordinating materials that would be useful after the baby is born. Even selection of what the mom and baby would wear on their first trip home is reminiscent of the bridal planning process.

There are several issues, however, that are often overlooked during the preparation phase. The future Grandmother needs to be proactive about getting ready for the level of hands on input and support that will be needed from her before, during, and after the birth. Essential elements of grandmother preparation should include one of several things:

?Watching your diet, taking vitamins, starting an exercise program  you could be actively involved in the birthing process. I was part of the designated support team and, as such, participated in the breathing exercises, hand holding and offering the gentle conversations my daughter needed while experiencing labor pains. In addition to singing songs, stroking her head with a wet cloth throughout the process, I reminded her of scripture verses that she could use as a source of her strength including I look beyond the hills from which cometh my strength. My help comes from the Lord who made both heaven and earth. (Psalm 121:1-2 KJV)

Being prepared with a CD player or recorder for playing favorite her favorite music and other inspirational messages can be very helpful in providing comfort at the most strenuous moments. The Grandmothers role is pivotal for both the new mom and dad and she must be physically up to the challenge even in early hours of the day. The best time to get ready physically is before you are needed. A nine month low impact aerobic or regular walking routine will make a world of difference during a 10-20 hour labor.

?Taking time to refresh your knowledge about pregnancy and birth  Especially if you are going to be part of the child birthing process, a brief refresher of what to expect would be helpful. Your daughter will look to you at various points of the process for your reassurance. It would be helpful if you are able to use terminology she learned during the birthing preparation classes to let her know you are aware of what she is experiencing and can relate with up to date information.

?Setting aside at least two to three weeks time  Being available to spend or be on call to help the new mom during the recuperation and adjustment period is an invaluable gift your daughter will never forget. Sleep schedules, adjusting to feeding, doctors appointments, stabilizing meal schedules, addressing unexpected emergencies, doctors visits, and helping with general lifestyle changes all make a difference between smooth and traumatic transition. The significance of your presence during this time cannot be measured.

?Scheduling readiness packing--Do not wait until your daughter is heading to the hospital to pack items as you may be a can only be matched by your daughter’s birth. Your role is different this time, but it is pivotal to the joy of your daughter’s birthing experience. Congratulations Grandma!!

About the Author

Theresa V. Wilson, M.Ed. is a Freelance Writer, with over eighty bylines in several business, family and women on and offline publications including Guide to Retirement Living, Godly Business Woman Magazine, The Greater Omaha Parents Journal and a “healthy eating” contribution Lifetime Magazine. She is owner of a home based business dedicated to families and caregivers facing health recovery and crisis related issues. Visit her site at www.meetingtheneeds.org