During the end of your pregnancy, make a list of items that must be done to keep the family functional after the baby is born. When a caring person asks how they can help, offer a list and let them sign up for a task. Some examples are:

• Bring a casserole for the first night home from the hospital.
• Do a load or two of laundry.
• Take other children to lessons.
• Teach my Sunday school class.
• Watch the baby for 2 hours so that I can be sure of a 2 hour nap.
  

Other things to think about before you bring your baby home might include:

• Purchase and freeze some simple meals that will provide nutrition and use a minimum of effort.
• Keep foods available which are quick and nutritious. For example, cottage cheese, fruits, prepared raw vegetables or cheese slices.
• Buy a box of sanitary pads and one of breast pads for those first days at home.
• Consider paper plates and cups for the first few days or for days/nights of little rest or fussy baby times.
• If you have other children, assign and reinforce those chores that you depend on them to do for the family.
• Teach each family member over the age of 10 how to sort and do laundry.
• Have your partner call you each day prior to coming home to see if he needs to stop for anything on the way.
• Jot down other ways you can help each other to keep life simple and enjoyable.
• Evaluate those things that must be done and those that should be done. Eliminate as many of the "shoulds" as possible.

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