Co-parenting Checklist: Basic Tasks for a Smooth New Arrival

Welcoming a newborn into your family is a joyful event, but it also brings a round
of responsibilities. Effective coparenting from the start can make a significant
difference in ensuring a smooth transition for both parent and child. To help you
get started, here's a checklist of essential tasks for coparenting a newborn. This
list-based approach is designed to guide you through the early stages and create a
solid foundation for successful coparenting. Whether you're wondering "how to
co-parent with a newborn" or looking for ways to share responsibilities, this
checklist will help.

1. Create a birth plan together

 Discuss labor and birth preferences.
 Decide who will be in the delivery room.
 Outline postpartum care preferences.

2. Start a nursery
 Choose a comfortable bed and bedding.
 Arrange necessary furniture such as changing tables and rocking chairs.
 Stock up on diapers, wipes and other essentials.

3. Discuss Feeding Plans

 Decide between breastfeeding, formula feeding or a combination.
 Establish feeding schedules and responsibilities.
 Plan night feedings and support each other.

4. Establish a Sleep Routine

 Create a bedtime routine to calm your child.
  Share nighttime duties to ensure both parents get enough rest.
 Monitor and adjust your child's sleep patterns as needed.

5. Health Care Coordination

 Choose a pediatrician and schedule your first checkup.
 Track vaccinations and medical appointments.
 Discuss how to handle medical emergencies.

6. Divide the chores

 Assign tasks such as cooking, cleaning and laundry.
 Create a rotation plan to share duties evenly.
 Ensure that the home environment remains clean and safe for the child.

7. Communicate regularly
 Set aside time for daily or weekly check-in.
 Discuss any issues or concerns openly.
 Make decisions together to avoid misunderstandings.

8. Plan of financial expenses

 Budget for baby related expenses such as diapers, clothes, and medical bills.
 Open a joint savings account for future expenses.
 Discuss long-term financial goals and planning.

9. Support Yourself Emotionally

 Recognize and address each other's emotional needs.
 Take breaks and offer time for selfcare.
 Celebrate milestones and successes together.
10. Seek external support if needed
 Consider joining parenting groups or classes.
 Ask family and friends for help.
 If necessary, do not hesitate to seek professional help.

By following this coparenting checklist, you can ensure that both parents are
equally involved and supportive, making raising a newborn more enjoyable and
less stressful. Remember that coparenting is about partnership and mutual
support. Thanks to effective communication and shared responsibilities, you can
master the art of coparenting with a newborn and build a loving and caring
environment for your child.