Parenting While Living With Your Parents

Making the decision to parent when faced with an unexpected pregnancy is a big deal. We are honored to walk along side women who make this choice everyday. One thing you may be considering while making a parenting plan is where you and your baby are going to live. Perhaps continuing to live with, or moving back in with your parents is an option. If so, here are four things to consider if you plan on parenting while living with your parents.

Parenting Communication

Have an initial meeting with your parents to discuss parenting methods such as schedules, discipline, and boundaries. Plan on doing your own research either at the library or online about what approaches you want to take as a parent. Gather as much information as you can. Learn about your child’s safety and medical needs. Don’t assume your parents will have the latest and greatest information. Come to this meeting with them informed and share your thoughts on how you would like the arrangement to work. This will cut down on confusion and potential hurt feelings later. We also recommend you set monthly meetings to keep communication flowing. You can talk about what is going well and what isn’t.

Child Care

Think about your class or work schedule and get a plan for your childcare needs. What kind of facility will you use? Many young moms assume that their parents can be permanent baby sitters. Some may offer this and some may not. Even if you have a great plan for child care worked out ahead of time with your folks, you need to have back up options for if they get sick or aren’t able to watch your child. You want to make sure that you find a facility that is in line with your parenting style as well and understands your parenting situation.

Allow Your Parents to be Grandparents

Schedule time with your parents to allow them to enjoy your child away from the home. Invite them to fun things like trips to the park and zoo. Don’t always assume that they can be there for every doctor’s appointment and check ups. Keeping clear boundaries will help you be the primary decision maker about your child and allow your parents to support and love to your baby as grandparents.

Have an Exit Strategy

Understand going into this arrangement that you need an exit strategy. So set a timetable that works for you. It might be six months, a year, or you may have a while to go before you graduate from school or college. Or, it might be landing a new job or other financial goal. But set a timeline that serves as a goal and share this with your parents. Also, ask for help from other adults around you to help you meet these goals for living on your own. This will help keep stressful times in perspective and give you a timeline to prepare for when your out of your parents home.

Parents can be an amazing support. And we applaud all of those grandmas and grandpas out there who are willing to step in and help make a difficult situation work. But you are your child’s parent and the best advocate for your baby. You will be faced with making hard choices, but we know you can do it! You are brave and strong and the team here at Collage is here to help you—and your extended family when you find yourself parenting while living with your parents.

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My Friends Are Telling Me to Abort, But I'm Not Ready

June 4, 2025

An unexpected pregnancy can leave you with more questions than answers. Especially when friends are urging you to choose abortion, you may be more confused than ever. While their advice might come from care or fear, it’s essential to remember this is your pregnancy, future, and choice. At Collage, we’re here to help you navigate this pressure and find a path that feels right for you so that you can feel informed and confident about your decision. Reach out to us today for no-cost support. Listen to Your Instincts Your friends might be an important part of your life, but your instincts matter most. If abortion doesn’t feel right, take a moment to ask: What’s holding me back? Maybe you’re picturing parenting your child or are curious about adoption. It’s also important to keep in mind that abortion is a serious procedure that your friends may not fully grasp the details of. Physical and emotional risks are involved, making it a more complex decision. Your hesitation is a sign to slow down and explore, not to rush into a choice you’re not ready for. Talk It Out If your friends keep pressing, try a gentle conversation. Let them know you understand they’re worried, you’re not sure about abortion yet. Ask what’s driving their advice. Maybe they’re scared about your finances or future. Maybe they’re simply telling you what they’d do in your situation, but that doesn’t mean it’s right for you. Understanding their side can ease tension without giving in. If they won’t respect your space, set boundaries and let them know you need time to think. You don’t owe them an immediate answer. Find Your Support Surround yourself with people who’ll lift you up, not pull you down. Write down your thoughts or talk to someone neutral. You can find a counselor or even online spaces where you can share your heart with those who won’t push one option over another. Even a trusted family member, a mentor, or a place like Collage can offer perspective without strings. You deserve to make this decision with clear facts and a steady heart, not under pressure. Help is Available If your friends are pushing abortion but you’re not ready, Collage is here with no-cost lab-quality pregnancy testing, limited obstetric ultrasounds, and pregnancy options education to help you decide what’s next. Our trained team offers confidential support to explore parenting, adoption, or abortion without pressure. Contact us for a no-cost appointment today. You deserve to choose your own path.

Hiding My Pregnancy: Would Abortion Be an Option?

May 21, 2025

An unexpected pregnancy can flip your world upside down, and the urge to keep it under wraps might hit hard. Maybe you’re thinking abortion could erase the situation quietly.

What to Do When Friends and Family Are Pressuring You into an Abortion Decision

April 2, 2025

What do you do when those closest to you start pushing you toward a decision that doesn’t feel right? Pressure from family or friends to choose abortion can leave you feeling stuck, unheard, and unsure of what to do next. How can you hold firm in your decision while dealing with well-meaning but overwhelming advice? Here’s what you can do to navigate this difficult situation with strength and resilience. Mental Health and Pressure Your decision should be your own—one that isn’t influenced by guilt or outside expectations. Studies show that women who feel pressured into abortion are more likely to experience guilt, anxiety, depression, and other negative mental health outcomes. Protecting your mental and emotional health starts with making a choice that aligns with what you truly want. Ways to Handle the Pressure Since you understand why this decision needs to be yours, here are some practical steps to help you handle outside pressure. Give Yourself Time You don’t have to decide right away. Take a moment, think through your feelings, and give yourself the gift to reflect without feeling rushed. You're less likely to regret a decision made on your terms. Learn About All Your Options Abortion isn’t your only choice. Parenting and adoption are also possibilities, each with its own forms of support and resources. Learning more about these options can help you make an informed decision you feel at peace with. Set Boundaries It can be tough to stand your ground when others have strong opinions about your decision. Clearly expressing your thoughts by setting boundaries can help you avoid unwanted pressure. Letting others know you need time and space to think can help shift the conversation away from their influence and back to what’s best for you. Advice from a Third Party Getting a different perspective on your situation can be helpful when seeking advice from someone outside your inner circle. This could be a professional counselor, an online support group, or a caring team member at Collage . You deserve people in your life who want to understand you without judgment. You Are Not Alone Even if those around you don’t fully understand, there are people who do. A supportive environment can make all the difference as you navigate this decision. Collage is here to walk with you during this time. We offer lab-quality pregnancy testing, limited OB ultrasounds, pregnancy options information, and more at no cost so you can get informed and have the support you need to move forward with certainty. Schedule a confidential appointment today.