Having a baby is a huge adjustment. Suddenly, you're swapping nightlife for nappies and discovering just how little sleep a human can function on. And from the moment you find out you're going to become a parent, you'll be looking at your home with new eyes. You start noticing all the unexpected risks and potential dangers that could harm your precious bundle, so you can baby-proof your living spaces.

A child transforms your life – and your budget will never look the same again, either. If only you could baby-proof your financial well-being the way you do your home, it might make this exciting transition feel less overwhelming.

Here's the good news: to an extent, you can! Financial planning is part of family planning, and forward-thinking budget management can reduce at least 1 of the challenges of starting a family. Here's how to get your finances baby-ready:

1. Start saving early

New parents often underestimate just how many unexpected expenses pop up. From medical bills to baby gear – which you'll need to replace often as your child grows – costs add up fast. Start saving and investing for the cost of raising a child as soon as you decide you want to be a parent – the longer you can leave your money invested before you need it, the more it can grow through compound interest and reinvestment.

Speak to a professional financial adviser about how to structure different funds for your child – starting with the costs of childbirth and raising a fast-growing toddler, a good medical aid or hospital plan, then medium-term and long-term investments to fund quality schooling, hobbies, cultural and sporting interests, and tertiary education. Look at tax-efficient savings products or annuities that align with your retirement and family planning goals so that, when your baby arrives, your financial situation is already secure.

2. Budget, budget, budget

A budget helps you take personal finance management seriously. List your new monthly expenses – like nappies, formula, medical aid contributions, and childcare – and cut back on nonessentials where possible.

But when your child is born, remember that life can't be all about bills and baby wipes. Try to find room in your budget for self-care and fun. A little breathing room and me-time is good for your mental health and helps you stay balanced.

3. Get life insurance

Investigating life insurance when you're planning to have a baby might seem a bit morbid, but in fact it's an act of love. You're accepting the responsibility of caring for a new life and raising that child to adulthood, but you can't predict the future. If you were to pass away unexpectedly, life insurance ensures your family isn't struck by a financial crisis on top of a tragic loss.

Consult an insurance expert and choose a policy that will cover your child's living expenses, school fees, and other costs until adulthood. The amount of cover you need will depend on your income, lifestyle, and financial goals.

4. Baby-proof your home

Yes, of course you will – there's no price tag on your child's safety. But this isn't just about plug covers and stair gates. It's also about protecting your wealth in the long run. Medical bills can pile up fast if your child gets hurt, so taking steps to remove hazards could spare you both trauma and costs. A safe home means fewer accidents, less worry, and more peace of mind.

5. Lean on your village

They say it takes a village to raise a child – and a close-knit parenting community can ease the strain on your wallet and your mental stress, too. Friends and family can help by passing on used baby clothes and toys, or stepping in for babysitting duties. Babies grow out of clothes so quickly that hand-me-downs and thrift finds just make sense. Even simple support, like grandparents babysitting or hosting weekend visits, can save you thousands in childcare costs and give you some alone time and breathing room.

6. Buy in bulk

Bulk buying is one of the easiest ways to make your money go further. Stock up on non-perishables like nappies, wipes, formula, and cleaning supplies whenever there's a special. You can even club together with other parents to share wholesale buys, helping everyone save on essential baby items. Just be sure to compare prices and avoid overbuying products that your baby might outgrow quickly, like newborn nappies or age-specific formulas.

Let Nedbank help you baby-proof your budget

Parenthood changes your sleep patterns, your priorities – and especially, your spending. But with expert help in financial planning, a strict budget, and the right support, you can give your child the best start in life and stay on course for your financial goals. Whether you need budgeting help, insurance advice, or a personalised money management plan, speak to a Nedbank financial adviser to guide you through the financial priorities of family planning.