Finding out that you're going to be a new parent is exciting and a little terrifying at the same time. As most mums to be I was starting to think about all the possibilities of what my new role would bring, the changes I would experience and how I would cope in general. I think what was unusual in my household was that being Russian we already started to do things differently to some of my kiwi friends.
The expectation from my parents was that we would live with them for the first few months after baby's arrival. We are incredibly lucky to have the support of my parents but I also think this could be a cultural thing. In my house, we have always been together for life's challenges. The thought that we would pick up and leave the nest (even though we own our own home) at a time when we would need the most support was just out of the question.
Secondly collecting resources is not so easy when you are considering two languages. I'm a teacher so finding English speaking resources for me is not difficult. I generally know the go to sites, book shops etc, however, where do I start with the Russian material. I have been lucky to have two relatives go visit Russia in the past few months. Both have come back with books and CDs. What would I do without my family?
The other subject on everyone's mind is how do we ensure that this chid gets equal exposure to Russian and English? We have discussed what language who will speak with bub, we have also discussed kindergartens (baby hasn't even arrived yet and won't do until next year).
So watch this space as I explore the answers to my questions. If you're in the same boat as me maybe we can share resources that have been useful along the way.
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