Parenthood changes because there is a new person living in the house who has their own special needs. Expectant parents are aware that life will be different, but how does parenthood change one's person and values?

Perspective, values and habits adapt to the new rhythm of life with the new child. Gradually, views on certain aspects of life change. In general, bad habits improve as parents think more about nutritional values and healthy eating, safe driving, better money management and hygiene in the home. In particular, as the child grows up, they realise that they are role models and therefore need to set a good example.

The changes affect both parents, which is why the relationship between father and mother also changes, because they are no longer just there for each other, but are responsible for another life. 

Babies and children take up a lot of time. All the more reason for parents to learn to appreciate free time without their children. The days of taking rest and free time for granted are over. Unfortunately, this also means that leisure activities have to be adapted to the child. But this leads to another point where parents are changing for the better: Consideration.

Parents quickly learn that they have to be considerate of their children, because children clearly express their likes and dislikes. However, this is a good thing, because consideration makes us better people.

Many parents discover a creative side to themselves that they never thought possible. Whether it's for carnival costumes, painting the pavement with chalk or preparing child-friendly food, parents quickly realise that they have more imagination than they thought and that it can actually be fun to bring out the child in them. 

There is a unique emotional bond between parent and child that cannot be compared to anything else. The love and warmth that parents develop for their children rewards them for much of what they have to endure.

Being a parent makes you stronger and more vulnerable at the same time. While life without children runs more or less smoothly, parents experience clear highs and lows. However, the highs, the moments of complete happiness, far outweigh the nerve-wracking moments.