How to preparing for a newborn baby.
New parents can become overwhelmed by the abundance of baby products on the market, and confused about which ones they actually need. My essential items list that parents need to buy before the arrival of their baby.
Baby Items You’ll Need before baby arrives:
A safety-approved Car Seat: A car seat is one of the most immediate items you’ll need to buy, for transport your baby home. On my website I provide you the safest models, and take advantage of a free car seat safety check to make sure you’re installing it correctly. Car seats do expire, so check the bottom or back for its expiration date if you’re borrowing one or buying it from second-hand.
A safety-approved Sleep Area: Newborns typically sleep around 16 hours a day, so providing a safe and comfortable place for your baby to sleep is extremely important. The safest place for a child to sleep is in a crib, on the back.
Feeding Supplies: Whether you choose to breastfeed or feed with formula, you’ll need the proper supplies. Those who are breastfeeding will likely want a breast pump and bottles so that other members or caregivers can help feed the baby. Those opting for formula will also need a plentiful supply of bottles, as well as several days of formula on hand.
Diapers and Wipes: Newborns can go through 10-12 diapers a day, so be ready. Whether you choose disposable diapers or cloth diapers, you’ll need to have a generous supply on hand. If you want to stockpile, do so in a variety of sizes rather than buying a mountain of newborn sizes.
Diaper Rash Cream: Rashes can happen very easily, and some babies are more prone to developing rashes than others. A simple over-the-counter rash cream is a great item to have in your house.
Clothing: Babies can go through multiple outfits a day, so be sure to have spare clothes on hand, and also please never travel outside of the house without an extra set of clothing. Keep it simple and be practical, focusing on onesies, pajamas, and socks in the early days.
Burp Cloths and Bibs: Babies are messy and can spit up multiple times a day. Burp cloths, cloth diapers, and bibs are valuable tools to carry with you everywhere – both inside and outside of the house.
Baby Monitor: There will be moments when you’ll find yourself needing to catch up when your baby is sleeping. A baby monitor with a camera will allow you to keep tabs on your baby at all times. Safety is always the #1!
Bathing Supplies: Giving your baby a bath can be made a lot easier with a simple baby tub, cot, or sponge that can fit inside your bathtub or sink. Your pediatrician may recommend you avoid soap for the first few baths, so don’t worry about stocking up on soaps, shampoos and lotions because you will need it.
Stroller: A stroller is a great thing to have when you want to take your baby outside. But it will be several months before your baby can sit up on their own and graduate to the smaller “umbrella stroller” style. Consider a car seat / stroller combo which will allow you to fasten the car seat directly into the stroller without disturbing your baby.
Changing Table: A changing table will make changing diapers easier. You’ll always want to keep your eyes and at least one hand on your baby during a diaper change and when you dressing up your baby!
Diaper Pails: Diaper pails are innovative way to dispose of dirty diapers, while also eliminating odors, is a better way to eliminate odors.
Bouncy Chair: It’s great way to soothe your baby when they’re fussy or have acid reflux. It’s very convenient and portable so you can move them from room to room. It’s will be your Second-hand helper with your baby.
Folding Crib/Playpen Combo: Providing your baby with a safe play area to helping them feel secure from hazards. It’s also good when you have two-story home or if you’re considering travel .
Diaper Bag: It’s true that you’ll need bag to carry bottles, burp cloths, diapers, and a change of clothes for your little one so you will need a diaper bag.
Sound Machine: Many parents like to use sound machines when their babies is sleeping. Babies may be able to fall asleep faster with white or water noise in the background. White noise can block out household noise such as older siblings.
Black and White toys: Bold black-and-white images stimulate the development of the optic nerves. Focusing on such visual stimuli trains newborns' vision, teaching the eye muscles and brain to coordinate and function properly. In the first 3 months, babies can focus on objects that are 8-11 inches away.
Bottle Warmer: Bottle warmers heat up breast milk or cold formula, but some also can defrost frozen milk. Many babies prefer to drinker warmer liquid, mimicking the warm temperature of breast milk babies get when breastfeeding. Also time-saver so you don’t have to constantly check the temperature of the milk when it’s heating up. A thermostat will keep the bottle at this optimal temperature. Owning a bottle warmer is not essential, but it can simplify your life—especially if you have impatient crying baby middle of the night who prefers warm milk over cold and fast.
When buying a baby floor play mat, here are three important factors to consider:
Safety: Look for a play mat that is made of non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and safe materials that are free from harmful chemicals. The mat should also be slip-resistant, providing a secure surface for your baby to play on. Check for safety certifications from reputable organizations to ensure that the product meets safety standards.
Comfort and Design: Choose a play mat that is comfortable for your baby to lie on, with enough cushioning to protect them from falls and bumps. Look for a mat that has a variety of colors, patterns, and textures that can stimulate your baby's senses and support their cognitive development. A reversible mat with different designs on either side can be a great option as it provides a variety of visual stimulation.
Durability and Maintenance: Look for a play mat that is durable and easy to maintain. The mat should be easy to clean, either with a damp cloth or by throwing it in the washing machine. It should also be able to withstand frequent use and wear and tear without losing its shape or comfort. Consider the size and portability of the mat, as well as how easy it is to store when not in use.
Overall, when buying a baby floor play mat, prioritize safety, comfort, and durability to ensure that your baby has a safe, stimulating, and long-lasting play area.
Keeping twins on the same schedule can be beneficial for several reasons:
Easier for parents: It can be challenging for parents to manage different schedules for each twin, especially when it comes to feeding and sleeping. Having twins on the same schedule can make it easier for parents to plan their day, manage their time, and provide care for both twins simultaneously.
Better sleep: Twins who are on the same schedule are more likely to sleep at the same time, which can improve the quality of their sleep. This means that both twins can get the rest they need, which can lead to better growth and development.
Developmental benefits: Twins who are on the same schedule can also benefit from each other's company and learn from each other's behaviors. They can engage in social interaction and develop a sense of routine and structure, which can be beneficial for their cognitive and emotional development.
Reduced stress: Twins who are on different schedules can cause stress for parents who have to manage multiple routines and schedules. By keeping twins on the same schedule, parents can reduce their stress levels and create a more predictable and harmonious household.
Overall, keeping twins on the same schedule can make it easier for parents to manage, improve sleep quality, offer developmental benefits, and reduce stress.