By Sanetra Richards
Move over babies number one and two, number three is on the way! Joe Don Rooney of the Rascal Flatts and wife Tiffany Fallon have another treat baking in the oven. According to UsMagazine.com, Rooney confirmed in a statement saying, “We are so thrilled and feel so blessed to bring another little angel into our world.” The couple married in 2006 and has since welcomed two kids, 5-year-old Jagger Donovan and 3-year-old Raquel Blue. The country band’s guitarist went onto say, “Jagger and Rocky are very excited, too. They’re going to make a great ‘big brother – big sister duo’ as the Rooney circus continues.”
How do you prepare for a third child versus the first two?
Cupid’s Advice:
Planning for a child is one of those things in life that cannot be completed successfully without the right tools and advice to guide you — and majority of the time, you still do not have it quite figured out. The first time around was challenging, the second was a tad bit easier, and now you are slightly concerned about the third. Do not panic, Cupid is here to give you a few tips:
1. Be hands-on: A step in preparation for a third child that should be taken into mind is preparing the older siblings as well. Be sure to comfort them before the baby is born. Let them know that yes they may have a new brother or sister, but they will still be important. Involve them in the pregnancy: decorating the nursery, packing the hospital bag, showing the ultrasound photos. They will be more likely to embrace their role as an older sibling (and less likely to develop the ‘middle child syndrome’).
Related: Gwen Stefani Welcomes Third Son with Husband Gavin Rossdale
2. Think responsibly financially: The load will continue to grow as the third child comes along. Set aside funds each week or month for the family’s cost of living. As you may know, baby expenses are far from inexpensive! Do not be afraid to downsize if you have to — baby number three will be well worth it.
Related: Shakira Says She’d Love to Have Eight or Nine Kids with Gerard Pique
3. Better parenting: Continue to find new ways of how to be a better parent along the way. Try new techniques, read parenting books, etc. Maybe even practice perfecting a skill you might have not had with the other two!
What are some ways to brace yourself for a third child? Share your suggestions below.
