Preparing Emotionally for Becoming Parents: Why Taking a Class Matters
When people think about preparing for a baby, they often think about the practical things first.
Birth plans.
Feeding.
Sleep.
Car seats.
Baby gear.
All important, of course. But one of the most significant and most overlooked parts of becoming parents is the emotional and relational transition that comes with it.
This is where emotional preparation matters.
Becoming Parents Changes More Than Your Daily Routine
The transition to parenthood is bigger than many people expect.
It doesn’t just change how you spend your time, it can shift:
Your sense of identity
Your relationship dynamics
How you communicate under stress
How you cope when you’re tired or overwhelmed
How supported (or unsupported) you feel
Many couples are surprised by how challenging this transition can be, even when the pregnancy is wanted and the baby is deeply loved.
Why Love Isn’t Always Enough
Research consistently shows that relationship satisfaction often dips after the arrival of a baby. Over 90% of couples report dissatisfaction in the first year of becoming a parent. Scary I know, but hopefully this normalises what you may be experiencing with your partner. This isn’t because couples don’t love each other, it’s because the transition is intense, exhausting, and emotionally demanding.
Sleep deprivation, changing roles, mental load, and differing coping styles can all place strain on even the strongest relationships.
Without emotional preparation, couples may find themselves:
Misunderstanding each other’s needs
Feeling disconnected or resentful
Struggling to communicate effectively
Feeling unsure how to support one another
This doesn’t mean something is wrong. It means the transition is real.
What Emotional Preparation Actually Involves
Preparing emotionally for parenthood means creating space to explore the parts of the journey that don’t always get talked about.
This can include:
Exploring expectations about parenting
Understanding how each partner responds to stress
Learning communication tools that still work when you’re exhausted
Talking about emotional load and how to share it
Identifying what support each person may need postpartum
Strengthening connection before things feel stretched
These conversations can be hard to have once you’re already exhausted and overwhelmed. That’s why preparing ahead can make such a difference.
What Becoming Us Classes Focus On
Becoming Us classes are designed to support couples emotionally - not just practically as they prepare for parenthood.
Rather than focusing on labour techniques or baby care, these classes focus on:
Emotional readiness for parenthood
Relationship changes after baby arrives
Communication during times of stress
Maintaining connection as a couple
Navigating expectations and unspoken pressures
Building a foundation of understanding before challenges arise
The aim isn’t perfection. It’s awareness, compassion, and connection.
Why This Matters Long After Birth
Emotional preparation doesn’t just support the early weeks of parenthood. It can influence how couples navigate challenges for years to come.
When couples understand each other’s emotional needs and stress responses, they’re better equipped to:
Communicate openly
Ask for support
Reduce conflict
Feel more connected during difficult seasons
Small shifts in understanding can make a significant difference.
Support Is Available
If you value preparation, reflection, and emotional support as you step into parenthood, Becoming Us classes may be a meaningful addition to your pregnancy journey.
I will be offering Becoming Us classes in Tamworth NSW, in 2026, designed to support couples as they prepare emotionally for one of life’s biggest transitions.
Please contact me to register your expression of interest.
