A Planned Parenthood: A Strong Family Foundation
A couple should discuss the impact of planning on family stability, children, and expectations of future goals for an expanded family. Critical areas for discussion are family planning, parenthood goals, financial preparation, and emotional readiness for parenthood—plans for potential health issues and hand healthcare providers.
Couples should discuss traditional and modern gender roles in relationships and encourage open dialogue about each partner’s expectations and responsibilities within the marriage.[1] Stress the benefits of planned parenthood and the need for discussion before marriage. This sets the foundation for a stable and fulfilling family life.
Parenting styles and expectations vary based on cultural, social, and individual factors. Some common parenting styles are authoritarian parenting, authoritative parenting, permissive parenting, and uninvolved parenting. Authoritarian parenting emphasizes obedience and discipline, authoritative parenting balances rules and flexibility, permissive parenting has few rules and boundaries, and uninvolved parenting has low demands and responsiveness. Couples gaining knowledge on the various ways of parenting can navigate the complexities of raising children and preparing them for a balanced and fulfilling life.
Underline the importance of teamwork in parenting. It reduces stress, promotes equality, and strengthens the bond between partners. Couples discussing parenting goals, challenges, and strategies tend to develop more vital communication skills, enhancing the relationship. Couples on the same parenting page teach children valuable life skills and foster collaboration. Teamwork reduces conflict, increases intimacy, gains mutual respect, and builds resilience. Couples should set aside dedicated time to spend quality time together, reinforcing the importance of the relationship. Utilize support from family, friends, or childcare services to create opportunities for time together.
[1] Kristen M. Shockley, Winny Shen, Michael DeNunzio, Maryana L. Arvan, & Eric Knudsen et al, “Disentangling the relationship between gender and work–family conflict: An integration of theoretical perspectives using meta-analytic methods,” Journal of Applied Psychology 102, no. 12 (2017): 1603.
Teamwork fosters collaboration among parents!
Genesis 1:28 (NIV)
“God blessed them and said to them, ‘Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.’