The first stage of parenthood begins when the desire for having a baby is born in the heart of one or both the parents. In most cases, it is the woman whose maternal instinct begins to assert itself. Women don't feel complete until they become mothers. So, when the biological clock starts ticking, you decide to take the step of ?making babies.?



Stage 2: Conception and Birth

You know you have conceived when the familiar signs begin to show that include missing the period followed by morning sickness. You wonder how you will go through it, but when you feel the living presence inside, you know it is all worth it. The slight flutter turns into a kick, and you love it.

A few months later and you know all about those kicks - and the elbows. Plus backache, piles, swollen ankles, varicose veins - who was responsible for getting you into this state????

Then, you feel the time has come. You reach the hospital puffing and panting, totally oblivious of what lies in store. It seemed it will never be over, yet when it is, it appeared to be over in a jiffy. The excitement of a baby makes you forget the pain as though it never happened at all.

Stage 3: The Novelty of Everything

You go through an entirely new experience when you bring the baby home. The first few days/weeks are marked by sleepless nights, sore nipples, running around to get things done and dieting to lose all those extra pounds.

Every step in development is an occasion for celebration ? the first time she sat, crawled, stood up and took a few steps all on her own! Even the first potty and first solid food or the first tantrum is a major event in your world that revolves around her.

Nursery rhymes and pat-a-cake - crucial for child development but, all too often these days, delegated to the TV.

First kindergarten or school: a mixed blessing. Where did my baby go?

Act 4: Play, School and Parties

The tiny cuddly baby of yours is now ready to go school independently. Now she has another world of friends, peers and teachers. You sometimes regret you have been left out of it. But, you rejoice the fact that your little helpless baby is growing into a confident young lady.

Toilet jokes - everything and anything to do with pooping and peepee is absolutely hilarious!

Their first best friend, and first rejection. Scraped knees in the playground. And, of course, their first "it's not fair!"

You learn to let them go even though it is difficult - but you can't protect them from everything.

Act 5: The Three R's

Time to put the play aside for a moment. There's letters and sums to learn. For some, it is just a walk in the park, for others it is climbing Everest. It is at this time that the differences between children become apparent. Those with easy kids can't see what all the fuss is about, yet for others it is the beginnings of years of stress, worry, tears and heartache.

Even so, there are always the little events to remember - All she wants for Christmas is her two front teeth (along with Barbie and a puppy dog!)

Also, don't forget to discipline your child; she is no longer a baby.

Stage 6 ? On the Eve of Adolescence

Now, the difference between girls and boys becomes apparent. They all go through the phase of discovering changes in their body yet girls will be giggly and boys more cool.

Clothes. You are just SO out of date mom! No one wears that anymore! And why should it matter if my pants are hanging down by my knees? Mom, these clothes are too small!

Language. Well cool.

Help her through her first bra, her first period, her lipstick and makeup, her awkwardness and so on.

Stage 7 ? Dates and Parties

Suddenly boys and girls are not so alien after all. Does (s)he fancy me?

Now, parents take the backseat and friends become all-important. Suddenly, parents know nothing, and they know everything.

This is the stage of late nights and parties, and arguments at home. Your child wants freedom from rules and restrictions. This is also the stage of new trends in fashion and music. Parents belong to a different era. They don't understand.

The good thing is that now your child is a new young adult and you can have a refreshing conversation with her. Make sure you don't sermonize.

Then, as suddenly as it had come, the period of turbulent adolescence is over. There is calm after the storm. You meet your young adult, a complete human being full of dreams and ideals but a bit short on confidence and wisdom.

Phase 8 (well, who said I could count?)

One day, they will leave home! You need to prepare yourself for that day more than them. However, you love them just as much and you miss them.

You repeat the words Robert Munsch said, "I'll love you, forever. I'll like you, for always. As long as I'm living, my baby you'll be."

The years will pass so quickly. Make the most of every one of them along the way.