How much do you need? As much as you can save. Any funds left over make a great starter for a university fund. If you've amassed a considerable amount well before the due date, you can invest in a Canada Savings Bond or other short-term insured investments. But don't tie up your entire fund. Babies will not sign contracts and they have not agreed to your schedule.

Have a brainstorming session with an experienced parent to figure out all the things you'll need to purchase before the delivery. It will be extremely helpful to have most of what you require before the baby is born. You won't have a lot of spare time for shopping afterwards. And if you still need things after your little darling is born, try shopping online. Nobody on the Internet cares how loud your baby is crying, what you are wearing or what time it is when your baby gives you a free moment to browse.

Here's a starter list for your brainstorming session. This is far from a complete list, but it will help to get you thinking.