Baby Essentials… Do You Have Them?

Congratulations! Your bundle of joy in the next few months! There are so many emotions and so much to do, so let’s talk essentials!

Is the nursery ready? Do you have the crib, bassinet, bedding, rocking chair, changing pad, and baby monitors? Have you discussed if the baby will co-sleep? Have you decided if you will sleep train and have you really thought through what the first few days will look like logistically?

There are so many gadgets and gizmos for new babies. These range from bottle steamers to wipe warmers to stationary strollers to stroller SUVs! It is a good idea to have a variety of bottles & formulas available because babies will quickly pick their favorites. You will also need bathing essentials, including a newborn tub. You will need toiletries such as mini nail clippers, creams, and ointments, and above all else, you will need DIAPERS!!! Do you know in the first 3 months how many diapers you will use? We attached a guide below, and you may want to get stuck in diapers now!!

Lastly, and most importantly, is safety! You will want to start babyproofing the house once the baby starts scooting around. You will want to ensure you have a first aid kit, thermometer, and fire extinguisher. It is also a great idea to get the house cleaned and your air filters changed. Lastly, you will want to ensure your car seat is installed properly! Car seat installation can be a daunting task for anyone, but it is extremely important that it is installed correctly. (75% are actually installed incorrectly when inspected!) For many years, you could have your car seat inspected for proper installation but not all firefighters are certified as Child Passenger Safety Technicians. To find a certified tech near you search the online directory on the National CPS Certification program website or through your local hospital.

Have you discussed taking some new parent courses at your local hospital? It is always great for a class on the basics like swaddling & how to change a diaper. Hospital education classes are great to help get you ready for baby! Many include sessions that will provide guidance and support as parents go through “on-the-job training”. The general topics covered include infant bathing and dressing, various ways the infant communicates through crying, sleep patterns, signs of illness when to call a care provider, and the needs and adjustments of becoming a family. Some hospitals even provide courses on introducing your pets to the baby.

Rest assured, you have the time & support to make sure you are perfectly prepared for the new boss, uhem, we mean a bundle of joy arrives. Stay tuned for our next edition on how to get organized & prepared financially for the newest member of your family.