Welcoming a new family member is one of the most beautiful events for the entire family! And, at the same time, the greatest of responsibilities. Of course there will be some major shifts in lifestyle. And more importantly, objects from the everyday environment can become hazardous. This is the reason why you need to prepare your home for a new member and make it a safe place to live in. While you cannot expect a little baby to get themselves into trouble, there is a period when they become overly curious. So it is important to get yourself some practical items that will keep them safe. Here is a short checklist of baby must-haves.
For more on this topic, check out the full Baby’s First Year collection
Prams and Strollers
In essence, both of these terms refer to a four-wheeled vehicle pushed by a person. However, there is a small difference in their use. Namely, prams are more convenient for newborns, while strollers are usually used for bigger babies.
- Prams, also known as a baby carriage, are ideal for allowing newborns to lay flat while having their neck and spine secured.
- Strollers are usually used for long walks when babies are a bit older and can keep their neck and head steady, use a harnesses, and can absorb minor jerks easily.
There are hybrid prams and strollers available online and in stores like the ones produced by Little Lou Baby. These are the perfect solution since they will follow a baby through all the stages of their growth. You cannot easily say what is a better option – pram or stroller. But these hybrid models give you a nice experience with both.
Carriers, Slings, and Backpacks
Carriers, slings, and backpacks are a practical way to carry your baby. They allow you to keep them close while your hands are free. When you are choosing between these three, it is important to search for a perfect hip positioning for your baby. Otherwise, you are risking hip dysplasia. Also, you should pay attention to your comfort as well. All of these are different pieces of equipment and are ideal for different periods of your baby’s growth.
Carriers are soft and padded, and most carriers are meant to be worn exclusively on the front. Some models of carriers are adjustable and can be used for wearing babies on the side or hip.
A baby sling is a strip of fabric that is usually wrapped over your shoulder and worn across your front. A baby sling is adjustable and can be worn in various positions. An inward-facing baby carrier allows your little one to explore the world while still feeling the closeness and security of being snuggled against you. Just ensure it provides proper support for your baby’s developing spine and hips.
On the other hand, baby backpacks have rigid frames and are worn solely on the back. It is not recommended to use these backpacks for children under six months, because children under six months cannot hold their necks steady. So it is best to speak with your baby’s doctor or healthcare professional before you allow your baby to use one of these baby backpacks.
High Chairs
This useful piece of equipment is for babies aged six months and up. Highchairs are great for keeping your child in a single place while feeding, and only parents know how much of a daunting job baby feeding can be. These chairs will not only keep your child in one place, but they will help keep your little one safer by allowing them to sit upright – helping to prevent any choking hazards caused by food. Babies are lively and tend to move a lot while eating. So it is best to use this practical item for making the most out of every meal. However, these chairs are quite expensive. But they can be worth the added costs for what they provide.
[Read: 50 New Mom Questions – You’re Not Alone!]
Changing Pad
There are waterproof changing pads available for purchase that are lightweight, and foldable. These changing pads can be used on the go, and they are amazing for your babies when they are still very small and wet accidents are more frequent. Waterproof pads are also super durable. These pads are very easy to clean because of the fabrics used for their production. Changing pads are foldable when not used, and are easily stored in diaper bags. Since almost all restaurants and public places like malls have places reserved for baby changing, it is perfect to use these pads for both sanitary reasons, and the baby’s safety.
[Read: Development Guidelines – Baby’s First Milestones (0-6 Months)]
Nowadays, there are loads of items that will help you to maintain a baby’s well-being and ease parenting. However, not every item is worth the extra space that they take up. But it is desirable to find the items that will give you a hand and can be multi-purpose. So do your research. Ask your other parenting friends what they recommend, and check out what your local stores have out on display.
For more on this topic, check out the full Baby’s First Year collection
