In this special column named ‘The Babies Cue x Parenthood Series’ we will be showcasing the incredible stories of parents within our community. Get an exclusive glimpse into their parenting philosophies and daily routines.
Believe in the strength of the community. During those challenging moments when you feel overwhelmed or unsure, you can always rely on your fellow parents. You can seek motivation from their experiences and share your own inspiring tales to uplift others within the community.
Meet Aziel Khoo & Her Son (Aged 1)
Aziel Khoo and Her Family
Tell us a little about yourself.
I’m a mother of 1 year old boy. Despite the tight schedule of motherhood, I will remind myself to focus on self-love first so that I can give my best to my son and family. I work as a freelance music coach and do content creation as a side hustle. The freedom of time flexibility is what I love to enjoy family time with my boy!
How many children do you have? What are his/her/their names?
I have 1 boy and his name is Asher Ng.
Why did you decide to have your child/children? How did you think having children would affect your life?
We let nature take its course. Having Asher was not planned, but he came to celebrate our wedding together! I remember that my partner seemed to be more calm than me when I finally broke the news to him that I was pregnant back then. My heart was pumping fast and all sorts of thinking running in my brain. Let’s be real, it’s a living life growing in me. What am I supposed to do if my partner is not ready for it?!
Moments of silence during that period seemed like a crucial long wait to know his responses. But my partner was super calm. It was just simply pushing our plans forward. Asher has created tons of rainbows in our lives despite the many changes that are required for parenthood.
Mother of 1, Aziel Khoo
Describe your knowledge and/or experiences with children prior to becoming a parent. Did you prepare for parenting? If so, how did you prepare?
I was trained in Early Childhood, so I already have more than 20 babies each year. Knowing how to care for children with different roles can be challenging too because children also see you differently. My only preparation as a parent was to keep myself updated with what’s necessary, but also one step at a time. Follow what gives your heart peace!
My then boyfriend (now husband) didn’t approach any topics about having a baby until a few weeks later when we both were ready to sit down and talk about plans. For us, it started with the financial side. He tends to work overseas, and for that, it was a mental prep that both of us wouldn’t be physically together in this pregnancy journey as he already had a project on hand previously.
When he was absent during this period, I faced some difficulties especially when having unstable emotions at that time. Constant video calls and communications do help at this point slightly. I learned slowly that communication and never assuming the intentions of each other are crucial at this stage.
The next preparation work is attending workshops and courses organized by the hospital to help us have a gauge of what to expect as new parents.
How and where did you learn about pregnancy and childbirth? Were your expectations and knowledge of the prenatal and birth period accurate?
I didn’t know much about childbirth other than the typical natural or c-section. I just go with whatever gives me peace. I didn’t know I was pregnant too and I was still doing risky dance sports. But I have had a blessed pregnancy journey with no morning sickness, that’s also why I didn’t know I was pregnant as I thought I was supposed to have morning sickness.
What has been the most meaningful part of parenting for you?
Seeing my boy’s smile and laughter.
What had been the most difficult part of parenting for you?
Breastfeeding. I can’t imagine doing a second round.
Who inspires you to become a better parent?
My mom!
Mother of 1, Aziel Khoo
What is your personal motto?
One step at a time, focus on yourself first before giving to others.
Do you have any words of advice for other parents who are starting their own family?
Most of the time, things don’t go as you planned. Enjoy all the little processes and adventures. But do plan financially because having babies is expensive!
What do you do in your free time as self-care? How do you unwind?
Dance; music, sleep, eat, whatever that gives me peace.
What is one thing you are grateful for?
The chance to be a mother! But so many other things too!
Connect with Aziel Khoo!
Instagram: https://instagram.com/azielbeloved
Are you a Parent too?
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