Becoming Us Bringing home a baby isn’t just growing your family—it’s becoming one. Parenthood transforms who we are and how we relate to each other. Whether it’s your first child or your fourth, here are 8 steps to help you thrive, not just survive. ________________________________________ 1. Prepare Prenatally Build a strong foundation by discussing: • Hopes, fears, and expectations • Mental health, intimacy, and boundaries • Grandparents, finances, and postpartum plans ________________________________________ 2. Build a Nest Create a supportive, restful environment for the fourth trimester. • Line up help ahead of time • Learn about breastfeeding and recovery • Expect some conflict—it’s normal ________________________________________ 3. Manage Expectations Realistic expectations reduce stress. • Talk openly about roles and responsibilities • Let go of “normal” and create a new rhythm together ________________________________________ 4. Know Your Family’s Needs Tune in to each person’s needs—including your own. • Ask what helps each of you feel supported • Show up with empathy, not perfection ________________________________________ 5. Grow Emotional Intelligence Parenthood brings big feelings. • Name emotions without blame • Validate each other, especially when things get messy ________________________________________ 6. Embrace Your Parent Selves Becoming a parent expands your identity. • Let yourselves grow into this new role • Celebrate both strengths and softness ________________________________________ 7. Grow Through Conflict Disagreements are part of the process. • Listen to understand, not just to respond • Differences can deepen connection ________________________________________ 8. Reconnect Through Intimacy Intimacy may shift—but it still matters. • Stay emotionally connected • Be gentle and patient with each other ________________________________________ You’re not alone. You’re growing a family—and yourselves.