Advice/Help for my Mother?

Question

I recently found out that my mother is expecting a child. I'm happy beyond belief; I can't wait for my new sibling in late March/April.

I know this is quite early to ask, but now I am the only one taking care of my mother and my other two siblings; my father is working in another state, and being the oldest (still in high school), I have to take care of my family.

I'm up to the task; after all, this is what I'm obligated to do. However, I'm worried... I've never had to take care of my mom when she was pregnant before.

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So, this is somewhat open-ended... but I am sincerely hoping that some might provide me with some tips and advice. I really want to do a good job taking care of her...

And also, I am worried to death when the time comes. Should I take my mother to the hospital a week or two before she's due? Should I call the ambulance at the first signs of her going into labor?

I just don't know.

Thanks again for your help.

Thanks you all for your responses so far. I am not sure if I can respond in general, so I am adding this in here to show my thanks.

Also, I am currently 16 (I'll be turning 17 this October). And my father, as I said, is working in another state (Georgia, while we live in NYC). However, he does come a few times during the year, namely in November/December, but otherwise, it's just my family.

And yes, some of you have pointed out that my mother is obviously experienced by this time. However, I need to point something out... I'm also worried because she's fairly old to be having a baby, I believe (39), so I'm also worried about that too.


But again, I can't express my thanks. Thank you all so much for your input.

Answer 1

Your mom has done this before, she'll be able to handle it. She's got her experience and her doctor to draw on for advice.
What you can do right now is talk to your mom and tell her how you feel and let her find the best ways for you to help her.

Answer 2

She is lucky to have a daughter like you. My oldest daughter is nine and I could not have had baby #3 without her. She helped so much. It was just the little things at first, entertaing my at the time 2 year old, fixing drink/plate things like that. When I was sent to bed for the end of my pregnancy, she would tend to clothes, bathe her little sister, she even offered to cook! She was a wonderful help, she still is. The best advice I can give is just be there for your mom and maybe don't over react about things. Your mother's doctor will give very specific instructions about what to do when the times comes. It will be a long road for you and your mother, but with faith and trust in God, it will be a little easier. Good luck and God bless.

Answer 3

Wow, you're a really mature kid. If you live close to the hospital, when she's really feeling the kid (water breakage) take her. And just remember, your MOTHER is having the kid, not you. As much as it may seem it is not your responsibility to raise or the the primary care giver to the kid, though I'm sure you would help out. Also, who is the father of this child? They should be helping you too. The biggest way to help your mother and new sibling would be to help look after your other siblings so she can really take care of the baby, and I'm sure the other kids will love your attention. Good luck, and your mother is a lucky woman to have such a caring kid!

Answer 4

First of all, congratulations to your whole family, and good for you for stepping up your game to look after the family. But, realistically, as others have pointed out, it is not your responsibility to raise this new child. It's your mom and dad's. They are ultimately responsible. Don't sweat it too much, you'll go crazy worrying. A lot of the suggestions offered already look good. Just do what your mom asks you to help out with, and whatever else around the house you notice needs doing. The best thing to do is just be supportive.

Answer 5

Bless your heart for being so caring.
If your mother is otherwise healthy, she should be fine. Able to continue with most of her usual activities through her pregnancy. She may get tired a little easier, but a nap, good nutrition and your support will do her a world of good.
Since you are so interested in what is to come, I would encourage you to go with her to her doctor's appointments. That way, you can understand what's going on, and what's to come. The doctor can also talk to you about what to look for when she's going into labor.
I would also think that your father would try to be home around her due date so that he can be present for the birth.
Your mom is lucky to have you - not just for the help you will be, but because you care so much about her.
Good luck, hun.

Answer 6

You're a sweet kid. Just remember pregnant woman aren't sick but they need help to be comfortable. Try to get her to walk around the block with you. If she has no health problems, she'll need to take it easy but should be up to doing things as normal. Just volunteer to help her out. She'll be sleepier than normal in her 1st 2 and a half and last 2 months. Congratulations and NO need for an ambulance when labor begins, but is that your only ride to the hospital? Set up a ride with a friend, neighbor or relative close to the baby's due date...won't your Dad come back then? Get your answers at http://www.babycenter.com and sign up... they'll send you weekly emails alerting you about what to expect.
Bless your family and just love them lots... you are the son we all wish we could have!!

Answer 7

help her out by doing the laundry and getting other siblings there dinner and such the better of a helper u are and the less stress tht ur mom has the better off her and the baby will be .. bless ur heart for being kinda the man of the house .. the more responisble u at and more mature ur being ur mom is goign to appreachate that in the long run ..

good luck

Answer 8

I would like to know how old you are? I am so highly impressed that a young person today is so caring and concerned about their mother and family! But don't put to much pressure on yourself. Talk to your mom, she will be able to tell you about when she wants to go to the hospital, and all that!
You are so eloquent, your parents are very lucky to have a child like you.

Answer 9

I say just play it by ear, what she wants you try your best and help as much as you can. I love it when my oldest helped, I didn't even have to ask, he just wanted to. Keep up the good work and don't worry about it so much.

Answer 10

Don't worry, your Mom knows how much you can handle. She'll let you know how you can help.

And about the hospital, your Mom's been through this before, talk to her and she'll calm your fears.