Early stages of parenthood, a challenging phase

By Faten Omar KUWAIT: Becoming a new parent can be an overwhelming experience, and many find themselves grappling with the challenges that come with their first child. Kuwait Times spoke with several new parents to gather insights on how to best prepare for the journey of raising a child to provide valuable guidance for those …

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By Faten Omar

KUWAIT: Becoming a new parent can be an overwhelming experience, and many find themselves grappling with the challenges that come with their first child. Kuwait Times spoke with several new parents to gather insights on how to best prepare for the journey of raising a child to provide valuable guidance for those navigating the early stages of parenthood.

Ahmed Al-Farhoud advised parents to surround themselves with a support network, saying “New parents need old experienced ones like family and friends to provide guidance and emotional support.” He added that the first months of being a parent are tiring if the parents do not know what they are doing, affirming that the financial situation can also be overwhelming because there will always be additional expenses that come with having a child, such as medical costs, diapers, and baby gear.

Haya Al-Bader said that it is important for women to understand her employment rights for her maternity and that will allow her to adjust to the new family dynamics. For the shopping list, Bader said that the main items needed are a crib, stroller, car seat, and baby clothes, advising parents to be mentally ready for sleepless nights and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with caring for a newborn and to understand that every child is unique, and parenting involves flexibility and patience.

Meanwhile, Maha Hatem offered a glimpse into the world of parenthood saying “To successfully raise a child in Kuwait, there are several key considerations to keep in mind. First and foremost, take advantage of the diverse international schools available, which often follow foreign curricula and employ expat teachers. These schools provide a rich educational environment for your child.” She added that in Kuwait, childcare is a thriving part of expat life, especially with the substantial number of expat women raising children.

The community of mothers in Kuwait often comes together for playdates and coffee gatherings once the kids are off to school, creating a network of support and camaraderie, noting “The mother must connect with other mothers in Kuwait, the exchanging of experiences is so helpful for parents to be prepared.” Kuwait places a strong emphasis on supporting expectant mothers and ensuring high-quality prenatal care, Hatem affirmed adding that parents do not have to worry about giving birth in Kuwait.

“Kuwait offers a good service for pregnant women, where insurance typically covers childbirth. But the parents should be aware of the fact that they should apply for a residency permit for their newborn which is a mandatory process and needs to be completed within 60 days of birth. This involves the submission of essential documents, including copies of passports, civil IDs, marriage licenses, work permits, and certificates of employment.”

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