What is your infant's favorite toy/activity? (Newborn to One year old.)?

Allie

Answer
We use the links a lot. He likes to chew on them and they are multi colored and can be used to attach numerous things to his stroller, crib, and carseat. Other than that, anything that is brightly colored, and like most kids, he likes things that aren't really toys. Things like boxes, plastic wrappers from things(under close supervision only!) because it crinkles, and strings. My mom jokes that we could just buy him a roll of kite string and he would be perfectly happy! We recently bought him so curly shoestrings and he loves to gnaw on them!

Do you use baby slings for your newborn infant?

Child of C

If so, you should probably read this:
http://www.aolnews.com/nation/article/infantino-sling-deaths-prompt-recall-lawsuit/19412819?icid=main|hp-laptop|dl1|link3|http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aolnews.com%2Fnation%2Farticle%2Finfantino-sling-deaths-prompt-recall-lawsuit%2F19412819

It truly boggled my mind. I'm glad my mother never used slings for me or any of my siblings.
Btw, this isn't spam or whatever...Just thought it was an interesting news piece.
Jeez, tough crowd. I was only concerned about that particular brand of slings. Even if you look at its design, it clearly looks dangerous and not made with baby in mind. I've read the entire article, however, any product that is designed in a way that puts the child in harm (such as the Graco high chairs that got recalled because they would collapse and kill infants) is still at some partial, if not total, fault for the harm or fatality of the child.

Answer
ANY item, be it toy or product used for a baby can cause deaths or accidents when not used properly.

Baby could fall off a changing table....
Baby could choke on a toy...
Baby could fall out his buggy...
Baby could suffocate under his blanket...

Slings are brilliant, but like with any item you have to take care and preautionsto make usre they are used safely.

Slings are used all round the world, and have been since time began.
It's only the western world who putr their newborn babies in buggies instead of having them in slings.

These stories are very very rare, and are just used to scare monger the public and tart debates like this.

I will have no hesitations to use slings when I have children.

:-)

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What is your infant's favorite toy/activity? (Newborn to One year old.)?

Allie

Answer
We use the links a lot. He likes to chew on them and they are multi colored and can be used to attach numerous things to his stroller, crib, and carseat. Other than that, anything that is brightly colored, and like most kids, he likes things that aren't really toys. Things like boxes, plastic wrappers from things(under close supervision only!) because it crinkles, and strings. My mom jokes that we could just buy him a roll of kite string and he would be perfectly happy! We recently bought him so curly shoestrings and he loves to gnaw on them!

Do you use baby slings for your newborn infant?

Child of C

If so, you should probably read this:
http://www.aolnews.com/nation/article/infantino-sling-deaths-prompt-recall-lawsuit/19412819?icid=main|hp-laptop|dl1|link3|http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aolnews.com%2Fnation%2Farticle%2Finfantino-sling-deaths-prompt-recall-lawsuit%2F19412819

It truly boggled my mind. I'm glad my mother never used slings for me or any of my siblings.
Btw, this isn't spam or whatever...Just thought it was an interesting news piece.
Jeez, tough crowd. I was only concerned about that particular brand of slings. Even if you look at its design, it clearly looks dangerous and not made with baby in mind. I've read the entire article, however, any product that is designed in a way that puts the child in harm (such as the Graco high chairs that got recalled because they would collapse and kill infants) is still at some partial, if not total, fault for the harm or fatality of the child.

Answer
ANY item, be it toy or product used for a baby can cause deaths or accidents when not used properly.

Baby could fall off a changing table....
Baby could choke on a toy...
Baby could fall out his buggy...
Baby could suffocate under his blanket...

Slings are brilliant, but like with any item you have to take care and preautionsto make usre they are used safely.

Slings are used all round the world, and have been since time began.
It's only the western world who putr their newborn babies in buggies instead of having them in slings.

These stories are very very rare, and are just used to scare monger the public and tart debates like this.

I will have no hesitations to use slings when I have children.

:-)

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Do they make infant mittens in the form of boxing gloves?

Joy

Does anyone know if they make and where I can find infant mittens, )the kind for newborns that you cover their hands with so they don't scratch their face), in the form of boxing gloves?

Answer
Target. Walmat. Toys r us or any other store that sells baby stuff ask if they have it in the baby or toy section
This is the smallest I could find. Try search e-bay too

http://www.halloweenexpress.com/champion-boxer-toddler-p-3803.html
http://www.target.com/gp/detail.html/sr=1-2/qid=1181969038/ref=sr_disc_1_2/602-7738518-0976625?ie=UTF8&asin=B00022M41O
http://www.amazon.com/Kid-and-Youth-Boxing-Gloves/dp/B00068LQ72

Newborn in daycare?

LovinLife

I am a new mom of a 10 week old. I went back to work part time, five hours a day four days a week and I'm looking into childcare. My grandmother watches my son right now but she's 80 and has a very social life so I'm going to eventually move my son to daycare. What should I be looking for in a daycare? It scares me to think of my son being with strangers, I fear they won't care for him like his family would and he would be left to lay in a crib for five hours and cry rather than held and loved. How did you adjust to daycare? What was most important for you?
Get off your pedstals! I'm working 20 hours a week to survive. I would think providing for your child is as important as quality childcare! If I could afford to stay home I would! My son's father and mother love him dearly and WORK to provide not escape. Save your stay at home mom speeches for your bathroom mirror.

Answer
I worked in a daycare with infants for 2 1/2 years. I didn't need any experience either to get a job. Now that scares me to know just anybody would be working there. Make sure to ask about how much experience they must have to be hired. The second daycare I worked at required a year and a half experience, so I was good to go.

I would look to see if they have camera's in the room that somebody monitors. Look at the rooms to see if they look safe. Observe through a window to see how they work in the room. It's good to see the providers on the floor with the kids. If the kids are on the floor and the providers are sitting in chairs chatting with each other....that's not good at all.

Check out the food menu's to see what type of food is served. We had to follow USDA regulations and the food was very good!

You really want to see interactions between the baby's and providers. We weren't aloud to keep the baby's in the cribs if they were awake. We had an area with a soft comforter and infant toys available. We would lay the babies in that area and they were be safe from the bigger kids that walked. We would be down there with them playing.

Our room was from 6 or 9 weeks (can't remember) to 18 months. There would be providers with the infants seperated from the older ones so none of them got hurt. You don't want to see infants laying on a blanket with toddlers walking around or over them. That's scary!

Even for the almost newborns, we had a chart by ages that we had to follow daily for activities.

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Newborn in daycare?

LovinLife

I am a new mom of a 10 week old. I went back to work part time, five hours a day four days a week and I'm looking into childcare. My grandmother watches my son right now but she's 80 and has a very social life so I'm going to eventually move my son to daycare. What should I be looking for in a daycare? It scares me to think of my son being with strangers, I fear they won't care for him like his family would and he would be left to lay in a crib for five hours and cry rather than held and loved. How did you adjust to daycare? What was most important for you?
Get off your pedstals! I'm working 20 hours a week to survive. I would think providing for your child is as important as quality childcare! If I could afford to stay home I would! My son's father and mother love him dearly and WORK to provide not escape. Save your stay at home mom speeches for your bathroom mirror.

Answer
I worked in a daycare with infants for 2 1/2 years. I didn't need any experience either to get a job. Now that scares me to know just anybody would be working there. Make sure to ask about how much experience they must have to be hired. The second daycare I worked at required a year and a half experience, so I was good to go.

I would look to see if they have camera's in the room that somebody monitors. Look at the rooms to see if they look safe. Observe through a window to see how they work in the room. It's good to see the providers on the floor with the kids. If the kids are on the floor and the providers are sitting in chairs chatting with each other....that's not good at all.

Check out the food menu's to see what type of food is served. We had to follow USDA regulations and the food was very good!

You really want to see interactions between the baby's and providers. We weren't aloud to keep the baby's in the cribs if they were awake. We had an area with a soft comforter and infant toys available. We would lay the babies in that area and they were be safe from the bigger kids that walked. We would be down there with them playing.

Our room was from 6 or 9 weeks (can't remember) to 18 months. There would be providers with the infants seperated from the older ones so none of them got hurt. You don't want to see infants laying on a blanket with toddlers walking around or over them. That's scary!

Even for the almost newborns, we had a chart by ages that we had to follow daily for activities.

Returning to school, newborn in daycare?

Q. My baby girl will be 4 weeks old wednesday and sadly i have to go back to school monday. I'm a senior and my school has a daycare for young women like myself.

She is still so young and i don't know what to put in a diaper bag. I will be able to come see her during class changes, and at lunch. But all in all she will be there for about 8 hours a day.

What would you put in a diaper bag? also can you give numbers like ex: 6 diapers, 2 onesies etc.

Thank you

Answer
At 4 weeks I would put in the following. More is better I always say:

10 diapers,
1 Diaper Rash Cream,
1 box of wipes
1 Pacifier,
2 Onsies (In case of accident),
favorite toys maybe 2?,
6 bottles with your milk or formula (6 feedings, just in case)
Burp Rags 2,
1 Thermometer,
Infant Drops Tylenol with instructions for use (if she gets sick)
1 Blanket

That should do it! If you have been keeping count of her feedings diaper changes etc, I would always do a few more of each, just in case. :)

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What is the one thing you couldn't live without when your baby was born?

best newborn infant toys image

VillageGir

I'd love to hear what one (or more) thing (or things) you parents absolutely loved during your child's newborn weeks and the first year. I'm thinking about my baby list and registry. Thanks!
@Andrew: what exactly do you mean? Like, earplugs for dad? Yeah, um, that's not gonna work in our family. We're taking turns getting the baby.

Answer
My twins nursing pillow. I only use it for them one at a time, but if I was stuck on a desert island with them and could only bring one thing... that would be it.

Although without diapers it would get pretty stinky.

You can't take them home without a car seat of course.

For toys the doorway jumper KILLS SLAUGHTERS DESTROYS and ANNIHALATES all other toys. My guys are 5 months and been rocking out on them for 2 months.

ONLY the Graco is worth getting. I got the Evenflo - SUCKS. Worthless in comparison.

Graco doorway jumper cost $30, but worth $300 for fun.

I have all the stuff, all the toys, everything. For toys, Graco doorway jumper. I feel sorry for babies who don't have them.

I got the slings, I got the baby bjorns, I have the infant swings, bumbos, boppys, activity mat (okay, that one is IMPORTANT), I have 3 strollers, I have lots of bottles, pacifiers etc. gotta go with nursing pillow for feeding and for toys that doorway jumper.

I use prefolds and thirsties cloth diapers to. Much Much cheaper than disposables. For cloth get those, but if not using cloth that's fine to.

I change my guys on a waterproof mat on the floor. It is 1000 times better than a changing table. Because we do naked tummy time, play with them before and after changing... we do tons of floor time, and just change a diaper while we are down there.

I didn't have much help with the cleaning. Would have been great, but everyone who came to help me wanted to give them a bottle instead of helping me clean but I was breastfeeding so had to constantly tell them (my mom mostly) no. *sigh* Yes, help cleaning would have been nice.

Oh wait, an infant scale. I found that reduced my worries when breastfeeding. If you start to doubt your supply etc. you just weigh the baby and make sure they are gaining properly. Well worth the money. Pillow trumps it, but it is still a great thing to have for $30 from amazon.com. It also is a standing toddler scale for when they get bigger. Regular scales don't weight things less than 50 pounds very accurately, and infants not at all!

The best gift I got was my double electric breast pump... and the Kiddopotamus swaddlers! That is a tie actually. No, swaddlers win. Those velcro swaddlers will give you an extra couple hours of sleep or so a night. You want those very very much. Just 1 is fine. Costs about $12.

My husband and I have a 2008 Wrangler 2 door. We would like to know what car seats will fit in the back?

Jessica

We have considered selling it, but no takers as of yet. We discovered that a lot of people get by with the 2 doors, and were wondering what brands other have used to fit into the backseat for a newborn on up!

Answer
It is not necessairly the brands of car seats, but the individual car seat itself. You need to find car seats that result in a secure installation. A secure installation is when the car seat moves less than 1 inch from side to side at the belt path. Toys R Us will let you install their car seats with the display model.

Personally I would skip the infant only seats. Infant seats are the type of seats that you see in grocery stores on top of shopping carts (they should never be on top of shopping carts). They are outgrown very quickly because of their short shells and low weight limits. You would be lucky getting a year use out of it. Most kids outgrow them at 6-8 months and by the time your child is 4-6 months old, you will be leaving it in the car (as it is SUPER heavy). Instead of using an infant car seat, you can use convertible car seats from birth. In every rear facing car seat, the harness needs to be positioned at or slightly below the shoulders as in a crash, the child will slide up toward the top of the seat. It is important to find a convertible with low slots for the harness. Some convertibles have infant inserts. These inserts are crash tested- you place them under the cover to lift the baby up for a better harness fit.

I would recommend the:
-Britax Convertibles (only if you were to buy the infant car seat insert as it is sold separately)
-Graco My Ride 65
-Cosco Scenera (their are 2 different Scenera made by cosco; I would get the one with the 40 lb rear facing limit than the one with the 35 lb rear facing limit)
-First years True Fit convertibles
-Diono Radians
-Evenflo Triumph 65 or the Triumph Advance Model
-Evenflo Symphony 65
-Evenflo Symphony 65 e3
-Maxi Cosi Pria

I would go to Toys R Us and find out which ones result in a secure installation. The most important thing that you can do for your growing child is to have a properly installed car seat. Car crashes are the leading cause of both disability and death for children under 12 years old. Statistics show that 95% of car seats are used or installed incorrectly. Car seat manuals are very confusing. I cannot emphasize enough to go get your seat checked by a child passenger safety technician (CPST). It should be absolutely FREE to go get your seat checked. You can find a CPST at http://www.seatcheck.org/

Below are reviews on convertibles by done by CarseatBlog. They are very objective and do list the pros and cons. Of course, never by a car seat without checking if it fits and looking at it yourself. Newborns require the 45 degree angle to keep their airway open. When your child has more head and neck control, the seat can be installed much more upright, as up to 30 degrees from vertical.

Did you know that a rear facing child is 5 times safer than a front facing child? The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all child stay rear facing until they are at LEAST 2 years old...and for a good reason to. Find that reason out on the next 2 links:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kvyIv9QVRBE

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q8gU9zzCGA8

http://www.thecarseatlady.com/
Above link: This website has a TON of info regarding car seats. Please click on the tabs "Rear facing" and "LATCH"

http://carseatblog.com/9557/maxi-cosi-pria-70-convertible-carseat-preview/
Above link: CarseatBlog's Review on the Maxi Cosi Pria 70 convertible

http://carseatblog.com/2813/dorel-cosco-scenera-review-a-true-workhorse/
Above link: CarseatBlog's Review on the Cosco Scenera (the one with the 35 lb rear facing weight limit)

http://carseatblog.com/2312/maybe-the-graco-my-ride-65-could-be-my-ride-a-review/
Above link: CarseatBlog's Review on the Graco My Ride 65

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What things are normal to ask for or register for at a baby shower?

best newborn infant toys image

Shannon

I'm supposed to be registering but I have no idea what a newborn needs or what's appropriate to ask for.

Answer
Well, if you are registering for newborn gifts, that means you are going to have one of your own very soon. It's time to figure out what to do with a newborn infant! You are going to need a ton of disposable diapers, new born clothes, receiving blankets, baby bath towels and wash cloths, baby bath tub, bassinet, crib, car seat, rocking swing, diaper bag, baby bottles (even if you are planning on nursing), baby brush and comb, baby oil, powder and lotion, pacifiers, soft baby toys (with no small pieces that could come off and be choked on), a mobil to go over the crib, baby walkie talkies (let you hear if the baby wakes up when you are in another room), rattles, steamer (if your baby gets the croup) and so much more. Take an online trip through the store and get an idea what they have for babies or call or go to the store and ask for a list of the most requested items. Good luck and best wishes!

How much to sell baby things for at a yard sell?

Mama Dukes

I have a TON of clothes, toys, an exersaucer, cradle swing..etc. I plan on having my first yard sell in October, but I have no clue how to price things. Some of the clothes still have tags and some new without the tags. Obviously the toys and the other baby things have been used, but are in good condition.

Any help?

Answer
I recently had a garage sale, and this is how I priced Hannah's clothes, and they flew out the door!

Basic clothes and brands (Carters, Old Navy, stuff from Kohl's and Target, some Baby gap)
Onsies (nicer ones, not plain white), pants, skirts, tops $ .50 each
One piece outfits $ .75 each

For nicer outfits like Ralph Lauren, Gymboree, Janie and Jack~I put the outfit in a gallon size storage bag, and labeled the brand, # of pieces (pants, shirt, socks) and the size. I priced them between $2.00 and $10.00 an outfit.

Coats I priced from $3.00 - $15.00. I got $15.00 for a Hanna Anderson snowsuit, and $10.00 for a wool baby gap coat.

Shoes: infant crib shoes $ .50 each. Nicer shoes between $2.00 - $5.00

At first I had a hard time letting go of clothes for these prices...I thought, Way too cheap!! But the more I realized that I wasn't getting ANY money for them sitting in my basement collecting dust, the easier it was to part with.

I sold clothes from newborn-2T, plus coats, shoes, books and toys and made almost $400.00.

Make sure you advertise your garage sale on craiglist for free, including the sizes of clothing you have, and brands. I had a TON of people emailing me about them, and they were lined up outside my door before the sale started!

Also, you can also come down on your prices if it isn't moving. We priced everything to move in the sale.

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Do the infant learning games really work?

best newborn infant toys image

due [9/15/

I was at barnes and nobles the other day and being 6 months pregnant of course i went to the parenting secton and say this book (or a couple books) about games you can play with your baby from newborn and up? i mean do they really help? has anyone tried these?

Answer
I haven't read any books on games to play with your children, but I do get e-mails and mailings from formula and diaper companies which include developmental suggestions. Plus, you kind of make up stuff as you go along!

These are the things I do with my almost 3 month old son (who is "highly advanced" according to milestone charts):

* I talk to him constantly. I tell him all the tasks I am doing, and I make up silly stories. This helps his vocabulary development. I also vary my speaking voice and I refer to myself as "mommy" and my son by his name instead of saying "I" and "you" (babies are not supposed to comprehend pronouns at a young age).
* I count to 10 with him on both our fingers in English and Spanish every day. And, I use his toys to introduce the names of colors, also in both languages. When I show him books with pictures of animals or objects, I try to use both languages as well.
* He has a bumble bee toy that I hold a few inches away from his face and allow him to focus on. Then I make a buzzing sound and move the bee in different directions (up, down, left, right) so he practices following it with his eyes. This helps spacial development.
* I sing songs to him, especially ones with hand motions or dances (la manito, itsy bitsy spider, wheels on the bus, etc).
* I place toys in his hand(s) while we are playing together so he works on his grip, or I sit him in his swing with toys attached to the play tray when he wants independant time so he can practice grabbing the toys himself. He also like to play on his play mat and in his bouncy chair where he can bat at and rattle the toys.

I hope these suggestions help. Good luck!

What things are normal to ask for or register for at a baby shower?

Shannon

I'm supposed to be registering but I have no idea what a newborn needs or what's appropriate to ask for.

Answer
Well, if you are registering for newborn gifts, that means you are going to have one of your own very soon. It's time to figure out what to do with a newborn infant! You are going to need a ton of disposable diapers, new born clothes, receiving blankets, baby bath towels and wash cloths, baby bath tub, bassinet, crib, car seat, rocking swing, diaper bag, baby bottles (even if you are planning on nursing), baby brush and comb, baby oil, powder and lotion, pacifiers, soft baby toys (with no small pieces that could come off and be choked on), a mobil to go over the crib, baby walkie talkies (let you hear if the baby wakes up when you are in another room), rattles, steamer (if your baby gets the croup) and so much more. Take an online trip through the store and get an idea what they have for babies or call or go to the store and ask for a list of the most requested items. Good luck and best wishes!

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what is the best gift for an ucle to give his newborn nephew?

best newborn infant toys image

ronny t

my sister just recently had a baby boy, which by my luck was born on my birthday. my sister was already given all the essentials, such as bottles, formula, ect. and since im the uncle and its a boy i want to be the one to get him the best things. i want to spoil him. what would be the best gift for a newborn boy?

Answer
Here are some things I found to be absolutely amazing with a newborn/young infant: (sorry the links aren't clickable, just copy/paste them to see what they are)
www.miracleblanket.com
www.bumboseat.com (I believe these are available at Babies R Us now)
www.signingtime.com
www.babyeinstein.com
www.goo-ga.com OR www.rockinbabyshop.com
I think that's so cool you want to spoil your nephew and be the "cool" uncle. I think you're already on your way. OH-- and as he gets older, and your sister gets more comfortable with being away from him, offer to babysit, spend time with him one on one, or just visit him often. My boys love my husband's brother- he doesn't spend a lot of money on them, but he spends TONS of time with them, and is always willing to go to the park and play in the dirt with them, take them to movies, McDonald's, or the zoo. They worship the ground he walks on, and the world stops when he comes over, simply because he's their favorite toy. :)

What do I need to get ready for a newborn baby this winter?

Jessica

What are the most important items that an expectant new mother would need to get in order to prepair for a newborn baby boy or girl, and when should I start buying these items?

Answer
I have 3 lil ones age 10 years, 5 years and 9 months. These were my top items ...

1. Boppy (amazing for breast or bottle feeding)

2. Swaddler blankets...they make cotton ones or fleece ones depending on the time of year. I've used both and they are GREAT. Make baby feel all wrapped up and comfortable

3. Lots of soft onsies or pajamas. Newborns tend to be even smaller then you think they will be. I would suggest getting at least 1 or 2 preemie size. All my babies were normal average size ..and they still needed preemie size for the first week or 2.

4. Depending on where you are going to have baby sleeping you will need something. My favorite was a bassinet. I could keep it close to my bed for all those late night feedings. Plus i felt better having them near me where i could hear them breathe. Plus most bassinets are moveable so you can move it to a different room if you want to watch them as they nap.

5. DIAPERS DIAPERS DIAPERS. Whether you choose disposable or cloth you should have LOTS of them. If you are going for disposable i would say get 2 packs of newborn size with the umbilical cord cutout spot. Then a few big packs of size 1 and lots of BABY WIPES!! Can't have to many of these ...

6. A diaper bag for all your needs ...diapers, change of clothes, diaper cream..wipes...bottles if you go that route..a pacifier (if you decide to use one) etc...

7. Blankets...receiving blankets, thicker blankets...muslin swaddler blankets...sheets for crib/bassinet...

8. Cloth diapers for everything...i bought the birdseye cloth diapers and used them as spit up rags..chew on rags...whatever you may need them for they are super absorbant and easy to wash!

9. Some type of lil baby tub w/ sling for newborn babies ...washclothes...and some type of new baby wash

10. MUST HAVE INFANT CAR SEAT. You cannot bring baby home from the hospital without a car seat. You can get one that matches and attached to a stroller (travel system) as well if you would like.

The rest is mainly lil clothes you like...the fun stuff just cause you wanna have it =) toys ...adorable lil socks...etc...HATS ..would be good for a winter baby...baby towels...bottles if you go that route...

I loved having a swing for my babies...and a rocker bouncy seat thing...a safe place to set baby when you can't hold them 24/7

its also good to have a "first aid" kit..thermometer...baby nail clippers...nose syringe...they usually come in a kit with hairbrushes and all that.

As far as when to buy these things...you can start as early as you like. I stocked up on a lot throught the pregnancy when i would see things i liked on sale.

HAVE FUN!!!! GOOD LUCK!!!

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what is the best gift for an ucle to give his newborn nephew?

best newborn infant toys image

ronny t

my sister just recently had a baby boy, which by my luck was born on my birthday. my sister was already given all the essentials, such as bottles, formula, ect. and since im the uncle and its a boy i want to be the one to get him the best things. i want to spoil him. what would be the best gift for a newborn boy?

Answer
Here are some things I found to be absolutely amazing with a newborn/young infant: (sorry the links aren't clickable, just copy/paste them to see what they are)
www.miracleblanket.com
www.bumboseat.com (I believe these are available at Babies R Us now)
www.signingtime.com
www.babyeinstein.com
www.goo-ga.com OR www.rockinbabyshop.com
I think that's so cool you want to spoil your nephew and be the "cool" uncle. I think you're already on your way. OH-- and as he gets older, and your sister gets more comfortable with being away from him, offer to babysit, spend time with him one on one, or just visit him often. My boys love my husband's brother- he doesn't spend a lot of money on them, but he spends TONS of time with them, and is always willing to go to the park and play in the dirt with them, take them to movies, McDonald's, or the zoo. They worship the ground he walks on, and the world stops when he comes over, simply because he's their favorite toy. :)

What do I need to get ready for a newborn baby this winter?

Jessica

What are the most important items that an expectant new mother would need to get in order to prepair for a newborn baby boy or girl, and when should I start buying these items?

Answer
I have 3 lil ones age 10 years, 5 years and 9 months. These were my top items ...

1. Boppy (amazing for breast or bottle feeding)

2. Swaddler blankets...they make cotton ones or fleece ones depending on the time of year. I've used both and they are GREAT. Make baby feel all wrapped up and comfortable

3. Lots of soft onsies or pajamas. Newborns tend to be even smaller then you think they will be. I would suggest getting at least 1 or 2 preemie size. All my babies were normal average size ..and they still needed preemie size for the first week or 2.

4. Depending on where you are going to have baby sleeping you will need something. My favorite was a bassinet. I could keep it close to my bed for all those late night feedings. Plus i felt better having them near me where i could hear them breathe. Plus most bassinets are moveable so you can move it to a different room if you want to watch them as they nap.

5. DIAPERS DIAPERS DIAPERS. Whether you choose disposable or cloth you should have LOTS of them. If you are going for disposable i would say get 2 packs of newborn size with the umbilical cord cutout spot. Then a few big packs of size 1 and lots of BABY WIPES!! Can't have to many of these ...

6. A diaper bag for all your needs ...diapers, change of clothes, diaper cream..wipes...bottles if you go that route..a pacifier (if you decide to use one) etc...

7. Blankets...receiving blankets, thicker blankets...muslin swaddler blankets...sheets for crib/bassinet...

8. Cloth diapers for everything...i bought the birdseye cloth diapers and used them as spit up rags..chew on rags...whatever you may need them for they are super absorbant and easy to wash!

9. Some type of lil baby tub w/ sling for newborn babies ...washclothes...and some type of new baby wash

10. MUST HAVE INFANT CAR SEAT. You cannot bring baby home from the hospital without a car seat. You can get one that matches and attached to a stroller (travel system) as well if you would like.

The rest is mainly lil clothes you like...the fun stuff just cause you wanna have it =) toys ...adorable lil socks...etc...HATS ..would be good for a winter baby...baby towels...bottles if you go that route...

I loved having a swing for my babies...and a rocker bouncy seat thing...a safe place to set baby when you can't hold them 24/7

its also good to have a "first aid" kit..thermometer...baby nail clippers...nose syringe...they usually come in a kit with hairbrushes and all that.

As far as when to buy these things...you can start as early as you like. I stocked up on a lot throught the pregnancy when i would see things i liked on sale.

HAVE FUN!!!! GOOD LUCK!!!

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How much to sell baby things for at a yard sell?

best newborn infant toys image

Mama Dukes

I have a TON of clothes, toys, an exersaucer, cradle swing..etc. I plan on having my first yard sell in October, but I have no clue how to price things. Some of the clothes still have tags and some new without the tags. Obviously the toys and the other baby things have been used, but are in good condition.

Any help?

Answer
I recently had a garage sale, and this is how I priced Hannah's clothes, and they flew out the door!

Basic clothes and brands (Carters, Old Navy, stuff from Kohl's and Target, some Baby gap)
Onsies (nicer ones, not plain white), pants, skirts, tops $ .50 each
One piece outfits $ .75 each

For nicer outfits like Ralph Lauren, Gymboree, Janie and Jack~I put the outfit in a gallon size storage bag, and labeled the brand, # of pieces (pants, shirt, socks) and the size. I priced them between $2.00 and $10.00 an outfit.

Coats I priced from $3.00 - $15.00. I got $15.00 for a Hanna Anderson snowsuit, and $10.00 for a wool baby gap coat.

Shoes: infant crib shoes $ .50 each. Nicer shoes between $2.00 - $5.00

At first I had a hard time letting go of clothes for these prices...I thought, Way too cheap!! But the more I realized that I wasn't getting ANY money for them sitting in my basement collecting dust, the easier it was to part with.

I sold clothes from newborn-2T, plus coats, shoes, books and toys and made almost $400.00.

Make sure you advertise your garage sale on craiglist for free, including the sizes of clothing you have, and brands. I had a TON of people emailing me about them, and they were lined up outside my door before the sale started!

Also, you can also come down on your prices if it isn't moving. We priced everything to move in the sale.

Does anyone know of a modeling agency in Houston that represents newborn infants?

Melissa N

I am due to have a baby boy in June and am interested in getting him in some ads or commercials. Daddy and I are both very attractive (so we've been told) and thought this might be a great way to kick start his college fund. He will have blue eyes and either blonde or strawberry blonde hair. Thank you for your input.

Answer
Neal Hamil is the only agency in Houston with a kids division, but it looks like the youngest they represent is 2 years old, not newborns
http://nealhamilagency.com/search_results.aspx?profileCategory=1&profileType=3

But you have to realize there is VERY little work for newborns. Companies like Pampers or Fisher Price use the same visuals on their packaging and ad campaigns for several years, so that baby you see on the toy box is probably 5 years old by now. When they become toddlers, there are more chances for ad campaigns, catalog work, in-store visuals, etc.

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Do the infant learning games really work?

best newborn infant toys image

due [9/15/

I was at barnes and nobles the other day and being 6 months pregnant of course i went to the parenting secton and say this book (or a couple books) about games you can play with your baby from newborn and up? i mean do they really help? has anyone tried these?

Answer
I haven't read any books on games to play with your children, but I do get e-mails and mailings from formula and diaper companies which include developmental suggestions. Plus, you kind of make up stuff as you go along!

These are the things I do with my almost 3 month old son (who is "highly advanced" according to milestone charts):

* I talk to him constantly. I tell him all the tasks I am doing, and I make up silly stories. This helps his vocabulary development. I also vary my speaking voice and I refer to myself as "mommy" and my son by his name instead of saying "I" and "you" (babies are not supposed to comprehend pronouns at a young age).
* I count to 10 with him on both our fingers in English and Spanish every day. And, I use his toys to introduce the names of colors, also in both languages. When I show him books with pictures of animals or objects, I try to use both languages as well.
* He has a bumble bee toy that I hold a few inches away from his face and allow him to focus on. Then I make a buzzing sound and move the bee in different directions (up, down, left, right) so he practices following it with his eyes. This helps spacial development.
* I sing songs to him, especially ones with hand motions or dances (la manito, itsy bitsy spider, wheels on the bus, etc).
* I place toys in his hand(s) while we are playing together so he works on his grip, or I sit him in his swing with toys attached to the play tray when he wants independant time so he can practice grabbing the toys himself. He also like to play on his play mat and in his bouncy chair where he can bat at and rattle the toys.

I hope these suggestions help. Good luck!

What things are normal to ask for or register for at a baby shower?

Shannon

I'm supposed to be registering but I have no idea what a newborn needs or what's appropriate to ask for.

Answer
Well, if you are registering for newborn gifts, that means you are going to have one of your own very soon. It's time to figure out what to do with a newborn infant! You are going to need a ton of disposable diapers, new born clothes, receiving blankets, baby bath towels and wash cloths, baby bath tub, bassinet, crib, car seat, rocking swing, diaper bag, baby bottles (even if you are planning on nursing), baby brush and comb, baby oil, powder and lotion, pacifiers, soft baby toys (with no small pieces that could come off and be choked on), a mobil to go over the crib, baby walkie talkies (let you hear if the baby wakes up when you are in another room), rattles, steamer (if your baby gets the croup) and so much more. Take an online trip through the store and get an idea what they have for babies or call or go to the store and ask for a list of the most requested items. Good luck and best wishes!

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Does anyone know of a modeling agency in Houston that represents newborn infants?

Q. I am due to have a baby boy in June and am interested in getting him in some ads or commercials. Daddy and I are both very attractive (so we've been told) and thought this might be a great way to kick start his college fund. He will have blue eyes and either blonde or strawberry blonde hair. Thank you for your input.

A. Neal Hamil is the only agency in Houston with a kids division, but it looks like the youngest they represent is 2 years old, not newborns
http://nealhamilagency.com/search_results.aspx?profileCategory=1&profileType=3

But you have to realize there is VERY little work for newborns. Companies like Pampers or Fisher Price use the same visuals on their packaging and ad campaigns for several years, so that baby you see on the toy box is probably 5 years old by now. When they become toddlers, there are more chances for ad campaigns, catalog work, in-store visuals, etc.

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What is the proper gift etiquette for a new born baby girl and mother?

Q. What is the proper gift etiquette for a new born baby girl and mother as in what to get them as a gift when visiting them in the hospital, im pretty new to this and dont know what to get my sister who is the mother and what i should get for my little niece, its her first child. I presume a newborn friendly cuddly toy but thats all i can think of. Any ideas of what to get them both?

A. Well, when visiting the hospital I usually just get flowers, balloons, stuffed animal...gift shop sort of things. When you visit her at home you bring a proper gift. You could get the baby a few outfits and some newborn/infant toys.

Original Question

What is the one thing you couldn't live without when your baby was born?

Q. I'd love to hear what one (or more) thing (or things) you parents absolutely loved during your child's newborn weeks and the first year. I'm thinking about my baby list and registry. Thanks!
@Andrew: what exactly do you mean? Like, earplugs for dad? Yeah, um, that's not gonna work in our family. We're taking turns getting the baby.

A. My twins nursing pillow. I only use it for them one at a time, but if I was stuck on a desert island with them and could only bring one thing... that would be it.

Although without diapers it would get pretty stinky.

You can't take them home without a car seat of course.

For toys the doorway jumper KILLS SLAUGHTERS DESTROYS and ANNIHALATES all other toys. My guys are 5 months and been rocking out on them for 2 months.

ONLY the Graco is worth getting. I got the Evenflo - SUCKS. Worthless in comparison.

Graco doorway jumper cost $30, but worth $300 for fun.

I have all the stuff, all the toys, everything. For toys, Graco doorway jumper. I feel sorry for babies who don't have them.

I got the slings, I got the baby bjorns, I have the infant swings, bumbos, boppys, activity mat (okay, that one is IMPORTANT), I have 3 strollers, I have lots of bottles, pacifiers etc. gotta go with nursing pillow for feeding and for toys that doorway jumper.

I use prefolds and thirsties cloth diapers to. Much Much cheaper than disposables. For cloth get those, but if not using cloth that's fine to.

I change my guys on a waterproof mat on the floor. It is 1000 times better than a changing table. Because we do naked tummy time, play with them before and after changing... we do tons of floor time, and just change a diaper while we are down there.

I didn't have much help with the cleaning. Would have been great, but everyone who came to help me wanted to give them a bottle instead of helping me clean but I was breastfeeding so had to constantly tell them (my mom mostly) no. *sigh* Yes, help cleaning would have been nice.

Oh wait, an infant scale. I found that reduced my worries when breastfeeding. If you start to doubt your supply etc. you just weigh the baby and make sure they are gaining properly. Well worth the money. Pillow trumps it, but it is still a great thing to have for $30 from amazon.com. It also is a standing toddler scale for when they get bigger. Regular scales don't weight things less than 50 pounds very accurately, and infants not at all!

The best gift I got was my double electric breast pump... and the Kiddopotamus swaddlers! That is a tie actually. No, swaddlers win. Those velcro swaddlers will give you an extra couple hours of sleep or so a night. You want those very very much. Just 1 is fine. Costs about $12.

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Is it okay to have a second baby shower?

Q. We got pregnant by suprise (bc failed) we have a daughter whos 3, so as you can imagine.. I gave all newborn and little clothes and blankets and rocker, bouncer, swings all to my friends and family who have had babies. we have the crib, and stroller still and some infant toys, but nothing else. We are not sure gender yet either. Do you normally have 2nd baby showers? Is it okay to?

A. Yes, of Course!!! It's called a Sprinkle Baby Shower when a shower is given for the mother of a 2nd, 3rd, 4th and so on baby. A baby shower is not just for the first time new moms. After all, even though you have had children, the new baby will need items just like your previous ones did.

However, with a Sprinkle Baby Shower, the gift ideas are even more plentiful. Ideas, like offering to baby sit for her other children while she and her husband enjoy a nice evening out, or a nice home cooked mean are both excellent gift ideas for the 2nd time around. For more about the baby shower sprinkle parties, you might want to go to http://www.cardsshoppe.com/sprinkle-baby-showers.htm where you can read lots more. Hope this helps, and best of luck to you.

Original Question

How long is it before infants begin to smile and react to you?

Q. My daughter is 2 weeks old and I cannot wait for her to recognize me and to smile and just have reactions to toys and other things. Right now she mostly sleeps,cries,poops and opens her eyes to look around.

A. Every baby is different and i know its hard not to compare, but that should range any where from 2 weeks to 4 months. Which by then they should beable to recognize your voice and turn to you, track you across a room, smile, laugh, etc... But at 2 weeks the majority of babies do exactly what you said, sleep, cry, eat, poop, and look around. Shes still new give her a couple more weeks and before you know it she will be cooing and smiling at you from across the room, enjoy your newborn :0)

Original Question

what is the best gift for an ucle to give his newborn nephew?

Q. my sister just recently had a baby boy, which by my luck was born on my birthday. my sister was already given all the essentials, such as bottles, formula, ect. and since im the uncle and its a boy i want to be the one to get him the best things. i want to spoil him. what would be the best gift for a newborn boy?

A. Here are some things I found to be absolutely amazing with a newborn/young infant: (sorry the links aren't clickable, just copy/paste them to see what they are)
www.miracleblanket.com
www.bumboseat.com (I believe these are available at Babies R Us now)
www.signingtime.com
www.babyeinstein.com
www.goo-ga.com OR www.rockinbabyshop.com
I think that's so cool you want to spoil your nephew and be the "cool" uncle. I think you're already on your way. OH-- and as he gets older, and your sister gets more comfortable with being away from him, offer to babysit, spend time with him one on one, or just visit him often. My boys love my husband's brother- he doesn't spend a lot of money on them, but he spends TONS of time with them, and is always willing to go to the park and play in the dirt with them, take them to movies, McDonald's, or the zoo. They worship the ground he walks on, and the world stops when he comes over, simply because he's their favorite toy. :)

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