| Choosing Equipment for Baby |
Once
you've completed your first visit with your obstetrician, you'll find your
mailbox inundated with all kinds of baby magazines and ads for every type
of baby equipment you can imagine. This doesn't take into account all of
the people who will happily give you advice, even if you don't
ask.
Although many items are handy and work well, there are many that play upon your fears as a first time parent or are just silly! Here's a brief list of items you'll want to consider purchasing. To save money, you be able to find some of these items at a second hand store or from friends or relatives who have a baby older than yours if you can purchase any items they no longer need.
* A car seat is mandatory, as hospitals won't let you leave with your baby until you show them you know how to buckle the baby in the seat.
They'll often follow you to the car to make sure it's installed correctly in the car. Car seats will be outgrown at least twice before your child no longer needs one. If you're considering a second-hand car seat, make sure it meets all safety requirements.
* A baby monitor is a great device that enables you to hear your baby from any room in the house. Thus you don't have to stay close to their room at all times. At night, you can turn the monitor off because you'll hear every moan and movement the baby makes and this can keep you awake. You need to get your rest to take care of your baby.
* When choosing a baby crib, you need to look for one that has the following features:
- Choose a good quality firm mattress.
-
The mattress should fit the crib snugly on all four sides.
- The
guardrail should be at least 26" above the top of the mattress.
- The
crib slats space should be no more than 2.375".
- The crib bumper helps
keep baby's legs and arms out of the crib slats.
* A bouncy seat is a great place for your baby to be when it's not possible to hold him/her and is a great place to feed them their first meals of rice cereal. They can't usually sit up well enough for a high chair when they begin cereals and the bouncy seat is a great answer to this problem.
* A sling or backpack is great for carring baby if you're careful. If you over use it, however, your baby could possibly have neck or back problems. Choose a sling or backpack that fits you very well and grows with the baby. The Snugli is great for younger babies who can't sit up. For older babies. the Hip Hammock works great.
* A playpen is a great way for you to get your housework done while keeping the baby safe. At about five months a baby can be placed in a playpen, unless it's used as a sleeping area when you're traveling, etc. Containing a baby that can't crawl or roll isn't necessary and you can use a floor gym for entertainment.
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