Staying happy as partners

Life changes dramatically when you become parents. You take on vastly different roles and responsibilities. You may well be short on sleep. You are probably busier than ever before. Your household income may have dropped. One or both of you may be finding things difficult emotionally.

All this can affect your relationship with your partner. It takes commitment and good communication to keep your partnership strong.

Good relationships between parents really matter to children. It can have a big impact on their physical and emotional wellbeing. It will also help to influence their long-term development.

This page shares some thinking on making parenting something you do together.  If your relationship is under extreme stress, check when families split-up

Helpful tips

• Try to share parental control, responsibilities and rewards
• Take the time to each build up your confidence as parents
• Try to praise, support and love one another, every day as well as special occasions
• Talk about how each of your social needs can be met
• Parent Centre or Plunket may be able to help you meet other new parents
• Kohanga reo, kindergarten, Playcentres and early childhood centres can all be places to share experiences.

- If things are getting stressed

• Look after yourself — try to eat well and rest when you can
• Try to share your experiences and concerns with other parents, friends or whānau
• Relationship advice is available from health professionals like your GP, midwife, Plunket nurse or community organisation
• Support organisations like Relationship Services, or someone from your marae, church or faith community may also be helpful.