Solo parenting by choice

Partner left me when we found out I was pregnant. After a long emotional haul, I have decided to keep this child and be a solo parent.

The ex is aware I have decided to keep the child. I have put forward that the door is open if he would like a relationship with his child. He has not responded to the message (6 months ago). I have no bitterness or alike towards him as it’s no longer about me. This child deserves the very best and his/hers best interests come before mine.

So with all that said. Would love as much information as I can from single parents and those who have done it from the very beginning.

I am a solo parent to a teenager. I previously had support whilst a baby. This time it’s a whole new ball game. I want to keep my sanity whilst I’m on demand 24/7.

As much advice is desired. I want to be prepared for this new beginning in our lives.

Plus Do’s & Don’t’s -
<*> Buying only the essentials: what were your essentials?
<*> Routines that worked for you?
<*> Maternity leave:
- Was the max paid period enough or did you take additional LWOP for 12 months?
<*> Placing an 18+ week baby in daycare and returning back to work:
- Did you go back FT or drop hours and only work a few days a week?
My job is flexible and I am able to cut my hours if need be.
- Child care: What are the estimate costs per day?
<*> Single Parenting Payment.
- Did you apply for this and go back to work or not bothered?
- If applying. When should I apply.
I have 0 idea how this works. Previous relationship breakdown with a 3-yr old I was only entitled to Part A/B which I claimed annually. Now I’ll have a teenager and a baby. With the possibilities of going back to work PT for the first 12 months.
<*> What products you loved / worked for your baby / didn’t work / waste of money
<*> Best ways to bond with baby
<*> Best ways to keep on top of cleaning, cooking etc make bulk meals
<*> Breast feeding advice
<*> Advice on keeping the other child sane. Fortunate to have a well behaved child who has such a calm nature. I stress because he has Asperger's. I’ve seen him around when my family/friends have had a baby and he cringes being in the same room (has a wonderful relationship after 2-years when the child is a toddler but prior it stresses him out). I just want to be able to help him through this new journey, keep him sane but also make sure he is happy and his needs are also met. I don’t want him to feel annoyed.
<*> Further support:
- Mums and bubs group?
- Midwife
- etc
<*> Mental health, self care etc
<*> Anything and everything else that’s relevant.

My questions may seem excessive but I’ve got PTSD and have been suffering with this going on 15 years. I just want to be not only physically ready but mentally.

Thank you. I look forward to hearing everyone’s experiences.