Baby prenups are not legally binding (Shutterstock)

When we think of prenups, the first thing that comes to mind is legal issues surrounding divorce. That they are legally binding agreements reserved for couples who are getting married. On the other hand we have the baby prenups that have gained popularity in recent years. Although not legally binding, they are meant for the delegation of baby duties for the parents-to-be, before the due date.

For couples who are expecting a child, a lot of planning has to be done. They start making arrangements to help them get things organized so that they cope with the parenting life.

One thing that couples think about is who will handle what as far as baby care is concerned. Things like household duties, diaper changing duties and other aspects need a lot of teamwork.

For that reason, the baby prenup was formulated to help couples organize how they will handle certain tasks at certain times.

Although it’s meant for positive change, it has received a fair share of criticism. Here are some of the reasons to get, or not to get, a baby prenup.

It helps organize the household

The reality of parenting after the baby is delivered is something we all take time to get used to. Even for parents who aren’t first timers, things do get a little rough. Organizing ways to help each other through a contract can definitely help keep the house running in a fairer way. It’s a great way to ensure that team work is alive in the house. It also keeps negligent partners on their toes.

It’s a solution for resentment

Parenting is full of ups and downs. Sometimes, arguments and disagreements happen along the way. For many women especially, there is a feeling that men don’t do enough when it comes to handling parenting responsibilities. Arguments often happen especially when men downplay how hard taking care of a baby is. At the same time, we also have men who do most of the work when it comes to such responsibilities. Both scenarios are a recipe for resentment between couples and that’s where the prenups come in handy.

Baby prenup agreements also encourage understanding and promote emotional stability. It’s easy to get overwhelmed and suffer from depression after the birth of a baby. Before things stabilize, it’s important for couples to help each other out. This agreement, therefore, helps both parents stay calm and stress free.

 Baby prenups are meant to help couples organize how they will handle certain tasks (Shutterstock)
Children aren’t chores

Those who have criticized this arrangement argue that babies shouldn’t be treated like a chore. They need to be handled with love and care which requires sacrifice from both parents, without the need for an agreement.

They complicate things

For a long time, parents have dedicated their lives towards their kids. This has always been the standard so these agreements are more or less invalid. When both parents are dedicated, understanding and loving, they are able to do tasks without having to settle scores for things done. Deciding to have a child and being committed to parenting is the sole agreement that is necessary, critics opine.

Nothing works perfectly

Another criticism of the baby prenup is that there is no way to truly equalize parenting responsibilities. It’s not a clear cut journey that is fixed. According to those opposing, things are constantly changing and sometimes, you just go with the flow. Although these types of agreements are helpful in some ways, they are very unrealistic.

 

Which food will you never eat?