Why Every Parent Needs a Will (Even if You Think You Don’t Have Much)

Becoming a parent shifts your world in ways no one can fully prepare you for. You go from winging your life to suddenly needing a plan for everything—from diaper stockpiles to college savings. And while we work so hard to nurture, protect, and guide our kids every single day, there’s one long-term, essential task that too many of us ignore: making a will.

It’s not just paperwork. It’s love in legal form.

When I became a mom, the idea of not being there for my daughter was terrifying. But what was even more terrifying? The thought of leaving her future up to chance.

1. It’s Not About Money—It’s About Responsibility

A lot of people think a will is for wealthy people, or for when you're older and grayer. But if you're a parent, it doesn’t matter how much money you have. Your child is your most valuable everything—and you need to have a say in what happens to them if something happens to you.

When our daughter was just one or two years old, my husband and I made our will. It wasn’t glamorous. There was no dramatic signing ceremony. But it was one of the most powerful decisions we’ve made as parents.

We also set up power of attorney for each other in case one of us had to make difficult decisions for the other. I wanted us to be protected, all of us, even if it meant thinking about the worst-case scenario. It wasn’t because we had tons of assets—it was because we had her.

2. You Choose Who Raises Your Child

This is the part that stops most parents in their tracks. Choosing a guardian is heavy. Who do you trust to raise your child with your values, your dreams, your love? It’s not easy. It might even be the reason you’ve put this whole thing off.

For us, we chose my husband’s cousin. She’s strong, kind, and grounded—a true boss lady who leads with heart. I know she would raise our daughter with love, independence, and the kind of confidence that helps a young girl grow into her power. That gave me peace.

Because if we don’t choose, the court will. And while the legal system is designed to do its best, it doesn't know your child. It doesn’t know the family dynamics. It doesn’t know who really has the heart to step in.

3. You Ease the Burden for Those You Leave Behind

I’m a planner by nature—and a bit of a pessimist, to be honest. But that’s exactly why I couldn’t ignore the need for a will. I didn’t want to leave my husband or my family scrambling, arguing, or trying to figure out what I would have wanted.

Losing someone is already devastating. Add confusion, stress, and legal headaches to the mix, and it becomes overwhelming. Your will gives your loved ones a clear guide so they can focus on healing, not guessing.

4. Your Voice Lives On

One of the most beautiful things about a will is that it lets your voice be heard, even when you're not there. It’s your final way to nurture, teach, and protect.

Maybe you want your child to receive a certain keepsake, or you have opinions about education, travel, or family involvement. You can include those things in your will. It doesn’t all have to be legal jargon and cold decisions—you can add warmth and guidance.

I felt such a deep sense of calm after we finished ours. Like, okay... if I can’t be there, at least I left her something solid. At least she’ll know I tried to protect her to the very end.

5. You Can Keep It Simple (and Affordable)

If you're imagining hiring a lawyer, spending thousands, and drafting a 30-page document—breathe. A basic will can be simple and straightforward.

There are reputable online tools that walk you through the process affordably. If you want, you can consult with a legal expert to make sure everything is covered—but either way, it's way more doable than most people think.

You’ll need:

• A guardian for your child

• An executor to handle your estate

• Basic instructions for any assets, debts, or sentimental items

• Optional: healthcare directives or power of attorney

That’s it. Don’t let the “legal” part scare you off. You’ve done harder things. Trust me.

Final Thoughts

Creating a will isn't something we do because we’re expecting tragedy. It’s something we do because we love our children fiercely. It’s an act of protection, even in our absence.

When we signed ours, I felt proud. Weirdly proud. Like I had tucked a safety net under my daughter—just in case. I hope she never needs it. I pray we get to watch her grow, and thrive, and live a full life with us cheering her on. But if we don’t? She’ll still be okay. Because we planned.

Let’s Talk

Have you made your will yet? Or have you been avoiding it because it feels too hard, too scary, or too soon?

Who would you choose as a guardian—and how did you come to that decision?

Share your thoughts in the comments or message me privately if that feels easier. I’m always here for real conversations—especially the ones that make us better parents.

-Fabi