When is the right time to have a child?

Deciding when to welcome a child into your family is a significant step in a marriage and a deeply personal decision. While there’s no universal “right” time to have a child, weighing a few key considerations may help you and your partner make a decision that feels right for your family.   

Below are some important considerations to guide your conversations and planning as you think about starting a family. 

When is the Right time to have a Child?

1. Emotional Readiness
   Being in a helathy and stable relationship will set a good foundation for raising a child. Consider whether you are emotionally ready for the lifestyle changes that comes with a baby.    
2. Financial Stability
   Having a stead income or  a strong saving base will help manage the cost that comes with raising a child. Evaluate if you have any debt that might affect your ability to provide for a child. 
   
3. Health and Age
   Age can affect fertility and pregnancy health, so plan that in mind. Consider if you and your partner are in the best possible health to support a pregnancy.
4. Support System
   Having a support network can provide practical and emotional assistance. Speak with your family and friends to find out their availability to step in with postpartum support. 

Have any questions on parenting or want to find out more about our programmes? Contact TOUCH Parenting at parenting@touch.org.sg today.  
 
TOUCH Parenting aims to strengthen parent-child relationships by providing parents with relevant parenting resources through every stage of their parenting journey. It conducts informative talks and workshops which empower parents with knowledge on preparing for and raising a new-born, navigating the digital age with their child, parent-child communication, and nurturing resilient children and youths. It is also appointed by the Ministry of Social and Family Development as the Parent Support Provider (PSP) for Primary and Secondary schools in Singapore.