You and your partner

Communication is the key

Your daily routines, social life and even what you talk about will all be different once your baby's born. Expect some ups and downs as you work out new ways of spending time together.

You will have less time together, more decisions to make and perhaps financial issues to tackle.

How the two of you get on is important for your children, too. They learn about relationships by copying you.

Seven ways to nurture you relationship

1. Spend time alone together. Find time every day to share your thoughts about the little things as well more important things. Every week or so make a date to do something you both enjoy.
2. Make plans together for your family. Organise an outing or holiday or a family celebration.
3. Share your hopes and dreams.
4. Ask for what you want. You can't read each other's minds so be clear about what help you need from each other.
5. Talk about your feelings. There may be times when one of you feels left out of family life, perhaps you're at work and miss the big changes as your child walks and talks, or you can't get to the school play or sports day. Don't assume your partner knows how you feel.
6. Talk about money. Make a realistic budget together.
7. Laugh together.