There's lots to organise, everyone has an opinion, and yes, there's a lot of s**t thrown around.

It's for this reason I believe every child that enters this world should do so carrying a Filofax or laptop.

There are lots of forms to fill out in hospital, followed by organising the birth certificate and joint Medicare cards.

For instance, your child's name must also be listed on your partner's (or joint family) Medicare card or they won't be able to fly together without you.

Then there's childcare. Don't wait until a month before you're due back at work. Most centres (and swanky private schools) will put you on their lists before the baby is even born. We starting ringing around as soon as we knew we were pregnant.

Don't forget to contact each centre every couple of months to find out where you are in the queue.

Immunisation. NSW Health will not ring to remind you when your kids are due for their jabs. Keep your child's blue book handy and keep up-to-date with their check-ups at your local baby health centre.

Play and reading groups at your local library. My local library is as busy as the Opera House forecourt on New Years Eve. Get in early to put your child's name on the list.

Swimming lessons. Most indoor centres will accept children from as early as six months of age. Make sure which ever school you use is accredited to work with babies and children.

Babysitting. There are many private agencies operating in Sydney. Check-out the yellow pages and do a ring around well before you think you will need their services. Most agency sitters charge around $25 per hour at night and $20 per hour during the day.

Holidays. If you are lucky (or brave enough) to take your newborn or toddler away, make sure to book a cot when making your hotel reservation, or, take your own bassinette/portacot.

Taking your own equipment is generally better for baby, but if there's no room in the car, be prepared to pay $20 to hire at cot at smaller hotels/motels. Upscale hotels and resorts generally provide cots free of charge.