Helpful Mom

If you have recently had children one of the most important things you can do for them is write a will, specifically one that states who will care for your children.  I know noone ever wants to think about the idea that they may die and leave their children without either of their parents, but as responsible adults it is our job to make sure our kids are cared for in every instance possible.  You would never want your kids to end up in foster care so it is important to set aside your feelings in these matters and face it head on.  It doesn’t take very long, less than a half hour, and typically costs less than $100.

There are many different variables to consider when picking who will care for your child.   One of the major ones you need to consider is not only who would be willing but if they hold the same values as your family.  Will they raise your kids with the same values and disciplines that you want them to grow up with?  Are they a transitory friend or someone permanent?  If transitory you’ll have to be prepared to change your will periodically.  Have you discussed adding this person to your will with them so they aren’t surprised or unwilling, in case the worse happens.

I like this idea that a friend of mine had related to this.  Each year she and her husband go away for a week by themselves, leaving their kids with the couple who would become their guardians.  Not only is it important for their marriage to have that time alone, but also it allows the kids to form relationships with these special people since they live in diffferent states.  I think this is a very wise well thought out idea for dealing with a sensitive topic.