Baby Registry
Baby Showers
All over the world people give gifts when you have a baby, some wait till after your baby arrives so they know if its a boy or girl, like me I wanted to wait and have a surprise when my daughter was born.
Friends can also organise baby showers for the mothers to be, which is a fun day of baby games, food and gifts for baby, its always nice to throw in something for the Mum aswell I find. Again if your waiting to find out what your having there are plenty of baby colors that work for both boys and girls.
I like going around after the baby is born to see my friend and their baby of course. Calling first to see what works for the Mum is a good idea, and I always take a plate of food for them, being a mum I know cooking is the last thing on your mind with a newborn. I always offer my help with anything they might need done, and get a cuddle from baby.
Two Dozen (24) Pink GIRL Mini Rubber Ducky Birthday Party or Baby Shower Favors
Baby Magic Starter Wicker Basket Set
Fisher-Price Rainforest Melodies & Lights Deluxe Gym
All over the world people give gifts when you have a baby, some wait till after your baby arrives so they know if its a boy or girl, like me I wanted to wait and have a surprise when my daughter was born.
Friends can also organise baby showers for the mothers to be, which is a fun day of baby games, food and gifts for baby, its always nice to throw in something for the Mum aswell I find. Again if your waiting to find out what your having there are plenty of baby colors that work for both boys and girls.
I like going around after the baby is born to see my friend and their baby of course. Calling first to see what works for the Mum is a good idea, and I always take a plate of food for them, being a mum I know cooking is the last thing on your mind with a newborn. I always offer my help with anything they might need done, and get a cuddle from baby.
Two Dozen (24) Pink GIRL Mini Rubber Ducky Birthday Party or Baby Shower Favors
Baby Magic Starter Wicker Basket Set
Fisher-Price Rainforest Melodies & Lights Deluxe Gym
Pregnancy
Am I Pregnant
When we were first trying to get pregnant, things weren't happening until a doctor told my husband to save up all his sperm, meaning no sex, till the right time that month and it worked. I did a home pregnancy test and the first one came back negative, only to do it a few days later to find out it was positive. My first month was good, but from then onwards I had morning sickness, and couldn't stand any sort of smells, as they made me sick.Also know one mentions the constipation problems you have during pregnancy, not being able to eat probably made mine worse than normal.
Am I Infertile? Choices for Women When Its Hard to Get Pregnant
When we were first trying to get pregnant, things weren't happening until a doctor told my husband to save up all his sperm, meaning no sex, till the right time that month and it worked. I did a home pregnancy test and the first one came back negative, only to do it a few days later to find out it was positive. My first month was good, but from then onwards I had morning sickness, and couldn't stand any sort of smells, as they made me sick.Also know one mentions the constipation problems you have during pregnancy, not being able to eat probably made mine worse than normal.
Am I Infertile? Choices for Women When Its Hard to Get Pregnant
Baby and Pets
My two dogs lived outside before my daughter was born, and we had a good size yard for them to run and play in, so they were happy outside. During my pregnancy I was too sick to walk them so they became used to me just sitting outside with them, instead of their usual activities of walks every day with me.
Planning ahead is important to keeping your pets happy when your baby arrives.
For expected parents who have dogs or any pets living inside, it might be a good time to start leaving them outside for some of the time, so they get used to this different routine, for when the baby arrives. If you have a big yard that’s great, but if you don’t maybe see if you can get a friend to walk your dog, if you were as sick as me, otherwise start getting your dog used to walking a certain times and used to a different schedule, as they just want their exercise to, until you get back on your feet and ready to take baby and dogs out together.
If your dogs are inside dogs, get then a kennel so they have somewhere to sleep and hide if needed while in the house. Babies like routines just like animals do. After your baby arrives you will have less time for your pets, so try and take some time out of your day to play with your dog. Most pets will accept a new baby with no problems, also make sure your pets are up-to-date with all their vaccinations.
After my daughter was born, I introduced my dogs to her a little bit each day from the day we got home from the hospital. You just never leave a baby or child unsupervised with any animal even though I trusted my dogs, it’s just not worth the risk. Our dogs were wonderful with her, letting her sit with them, or lie beside them when she was just starting to crawl around as she got older. It was amazing to watch how good they were with her. Dogs are a man’s best friend.
I also think our dogs were just happy to be going out on walks with me again each day (after such a long time of me being to sick to walk them during my pregnancy) and taking baby along with us, was just a bonus for them, as they were very protective of the pram/stroller when ever my daughter was in it.
It’s amazing really but I’m sure my daughter recognises their barks from when she was in my belly, as she has never been afraid of our dogs, even when they can get loud barking, and loves hugging them now she can walk. All babies are different though just remember that, mine just happens to love all sorts of animals, from lizards and frogs up to dogs and horses. Where as my friends daughter doesn’t like dogs or any animals and runs to her mum whenever she sees a dog coming, so just judge your child’s reaction and take it from there.
As my daughter has gotten older I’ve had to explain to her NOT ALL dogs are friendly, and you MUST ask before patting anyone else’s dog or any sort of pet.
So basically get your dog or pet used to the changes that are coming, so they are not jealous when another person is taking all of your attention away from them. Especially if that pet has had the run of the house up until now. Make sure your pet knows to stay out of baby’s room, you can start practising this early on when you are setting up your baby’s room.
If you have a indoor cat, you might want to start getting it used to being outside, as it’s not good to have cats around you while you are pregnant, and never clean out litter trays or go anywhere near there poo, as they can carry nasty diseases called toxoplasmosis which are harmful to the unborn baby, leading to problems later in life. My husband had outdoor cats before we got married and I wouldn’t even go out an feed them while I was pregnant as doctors had told me all the diseases they might or might not carry, and it was scary to know how it could affect my unborn baby.
Cats especially don’t like change, so plan ahead and try and get them used to what is coming, if you plan on putting them outside during the day and only bring them in at night, that is your personal choice. If their outdoor cats already all the better.
The best advice is to keep all pets outside until your baby is bigger and crawling around in the house, at least then they can get away from something if they don’t like it.
I found my daughter enjoyed watching the fish swimming around in our fish tank, it was relaxing and seemed to keep her occupied for awhile. She also liked me taking her to the pond to watch the koi fish with all their pretty colours and a lot bigger for her to find.
So hold off on getting any animals for children until they are old enough to understand about looking after them, as it will end up just being more work for you Mum, unless your OK with that. I know a cute bunny for Easter sounds great, or a puppy under the Christmas tree, but definitely ask the parents before you get their child one. My daughter and I are on the go and travel a bit, so animals are something for the future for us when she’s older, but that’s ok, we still see plenty of animals including kangaroos on my parents property and my sisters dog. My daughter tells the dog I’m your second Mum.
If you have any baby and pet stories you’d like to share please leave a comment below.
Planning ahead is important to keeping your pets happy when your baby arrives.
For expected parents who have dogs or any pets living inside, it might be a good time to start leaving them outside for some of the time, so they get used to this different routine, for when the baby arrives. If you have a big yard that’s great, but if you don’t maybe see if you can get a friend to walk your dog, if you were as sick as me, otherwise start getting your dog used to walking a certain times and used to a different schedule, as they just want their exercise to, until you get back on your feet and ready to take baby and dogs out together.
If your dogs are inside dogs, get then a kennel so they have somewhere to sleep and hide if needed while in the house. Babies like routines just like animals do. After your baby arrives you will have less time for your pets, so try and take some time out of your day to play with your dog. Most pets will accept a new baby with no problems, also make sure your pets are up-to-date with all their vaccinations.
After my daughter was born, I introduced my dogs to her a little bit each day from the day we got home from the hospital. You just never leave a baby or child unsupervised with any animal even though I trusted my dogs, it’s just not worth the risk. Our dogs were wonderful with her, letting her sit with them, or lie beside them when she was just starting to crawl around as she got older. It was amazing to watch how good they were with her. Dogs are a man’s best friend.
I also think our dogs were just happy to be going out on walks with me again each day (after such a long time of me being to sick to walk them during my pregnancy) and taking baby along with us, was just a bonus for them, as they were very protective of the pram/stroller when ever my daughter was in it.
It’s amazing really but I’m sure my daughter recognises their barks from when she was in my belly, as she has never been afraid of our dogs, even when they can get loud barking, and loves hugging them now she can walk. All babies are different though just remember that, mine just happens to love all sorts of animals, from lizards and frogs up to dogs and horses. Where as my friends daughter doesn’t like dogs or any animals and runs to her mum whenever she sees a dog coming, so just judge your child’s reaction and take it from there.
As my daughter has gotten older I’ve had to explain to her NOT ALL dogs are friendly, and you MUST ask before patting anyone else’s dog or any sort of pet.
So basically get your dog or pet used to the changes that are coming, so they are not jealous when another person is taking all of your attention away from them. Especially if that pet has had the run of the house up until now. Make sure your pet knows to stay out of baby’s room, you can start practising this early on when you are setting up your baby’s room.
If you have a indoor cat, you might want to start getting it used to being outside, as it’s not good to have cats around you while you are pregnant, and never clean out litter trays or go anywhere near there poo, as they can carry nasty diseases called toxoplasmosis which are harmful to the unborn baby, leading to problems later in life. My husband had outdoor cats before we got married and I wouldn’t even go out an feed them while I was pregnant as doctors had told me all the diseases they might or might not carry, and it was scary to know how it could affect my unborn baby.
Cats especially don’t like change, so plan ahead and try and get them used to what is coming, if you plan on putting them outside during the day and only bring them in at night, that is your personal choice. If their outdoor cats already all the better.
The best advice is to keep all pets outside until your baby is bigger and crawling around in the house, at least then they can get away from something if they don’t like it.
I found my daughter enjoyed watching the fish swimming around in our fish tank, it was relaxing and seemed to keep her occupied for awhile. She also liked me taking her to the pond to watch the koi fish with all their pretty colours and a lot bigger for her to find.
So hold off on getting any animals for children until they are old enough to understand about looking after them, as it will end up just being more work for you Mum, unless your OK with that. I know a cute bunny for Easter sounds great, or a puppy under the Christmas tree, but definitely ask the parents before you get their child one. My daughter and I are on the go and travel a bit, so animals are something for the future for us when she’s older, but that’s ok, we still see plenty of animals including kangaroos on my parents property and my sisters dog. My daughter tells the dog I’m your second Mum.
If you have any baby and pet stories you’d like to share please leave a comment below.
Baby & Toddlers
I try to buy some education toys for my daughter as she gets plenty of other things from my family. I have a jigsaw Alphabet train with all different animals on it for each letter, and its fun to say the Alphabet as we put it together. Also great for hand eye co-ordination.
Books for bedtime reading is a must, its part of our nightly routine together. My daughter picks a different book to read each night, of course she has her favourites. It helps to get reading material your child is interested in. Baby Bop Bedtime, she loves, its basically all the steps we do getting ready for bed, and if I miss one she lets me know.
My daughter has been riding a three wheel scooter since she was about 2 years old, and loves it. It really helps with her co-ordination skills, plus easier than a bike to start with. I wasn’t sure how she would go, but was surprised how quickly kids pick things up, especially after watching the other kids at the skate park do it.
We also have a bike that I can push along with a long handle, its great and saves on my back getting sore bending over all the time pushing her. Hopefully she’ll be pushing those peddles around all by herself soon.
Kids really don’t’ need much their first few years, love and attention is the most important thing for me.
Books for bedtime reading is a must, its part of our nightly routine together. My daughter picks a different book to read each night, of course she has her favourites. It helps to get reading material your child is interested in. Baby Bop Bedtime, she loves, its basically all the steps we do getting ready for bed, and if I miss one she lets me know.
My daughter has been riding a three wheel scooter since she was about 2 years old, and loves it. It really helps with her co-ordination skills, plus easier than a bike to start with. I wasn’t sure how she would go, but was surprised how quickly kids pick things up, especially after watching the other kids at the skate park do it.
We also have a bike that I can push along with a long handle, its great and saves on my back getting sore bending over all the time pushing her. Hopefully she’ll be pushing those peddles around all by herself soon.
Kids really don’t’ need much their first few years, love and attention is the most important thing for me.
How big is my BABY
Pregnancy Calendar week by week
Chart your baby’s growth
Your Pregnancy Week by Week, 6th Edition (Your Pregnancy Series)
Newborn Advice
Swimming Lessons: I grow up around the beach and water, so was keen to get my daughter used to the water as soon as possible. I took her to a baby and Mum class when she was 5 months old, she loved the water, a lot of giggles and smiles, being in the water with her was amazing. I’d recommend to any Mum to get their babies used to the water at an early age.
Compared to some babies that don’t even make it into the water the first class, our teacher told me. The teachers show you how to hold and support your baby and eventually put their heads under the water, once their ready and comfortable in their surroundings.
A hoodie beach towel is a must as we spend so much time in the water, and especially when baby is small you need to make sure their heads and ears stay dry and warm. Fit Pregnancy for Dummies
Heading Home with Your Newborn: From Birth to Reality
Real Birth Stories
To say the least I had one of the worst pregnancy’s ever, my doctor said it would get better, but it never did, I threw up morning, noon and night, and couldn’t get out of bed, I ended up in hospital on a drip because I couldn’t keep anything down. So to expect the delivery and birth to go any better was a joke to me, to top it off my doctor was away that weekend, and I had a new doctor who didn’t really know my history, but did an amazing job under the circumstances.
I’d been into the hospital on the Wednesday before with pains in the stomach, I stayed for a few hours so they could check everything was OK with the baby. I’d told the doctors all along that the baby was up to high in my chest, and was this normal, giving me heartburn from anything I tried to keep down.
I was back in hospital Saturday morning with contractions, I was told not to go to hospital till they were 10 minutes apart, but they went from 10 minutes apart down to 2-3 minutes apart on the way to hospital, which wasn’t a good sign either. Doctors in the end had to give me something to stop the contractions as my placenta had detached and was coming out first, which is what keeps the baby alive I now know, and didn’t realise how dangerous it all was at the time. I was rushed in for an emergency C-section, where I lost a lot of blood, but had a healthy beautiful baby girl.
It took me a lot longer to recover from the loose of blood more than anything and stayed in hospital for 6 days. Looking back now, if I had had an ultrasound those last few months the doctors could have seen the problem with my placenta, but everything turned out fine in the end, thank goodness, and I have a beautiful baby girl. The best advice I can give any first time mum is mention everything to your doctor and in the end if you feel that something is wrong get it checked out.
Please add your own real life stories, and share with other mum’s.
Chart your baby’s growth
Your Pregnancy Week by Week, 6th Edition (Your Pregnancy Series)
Newborn Advice
Swimming Lessons: I grow up around the beach and water, so was keen to get my daughter used to the water as soon as possible. I took her to a baby and Mum class when she was 5 months old, she loved the water, a lot of giggles and smiles, being in the water with her was amazing. I’d recommend to any Mum to get their babies used to the water at an early age.
Compared to some babies that don’t even make it into the water the first class, our teacher told me. The teachers show you how to hold and support your baby and eventually put their heads under the water, once their ready and comfortable in their surroundings.
A hoodie beach towel is a must as we spend so much time in the water, and especially when baby is small you need to make sure their heads and ears stay dry and warm. Fit Pregnancy for Dummies
Heading Home with Your Newborn: From Birth to RealityReal Birth Stories
To say the least I had one of the worst pregnancy’s ever, my doctor said it would get better, but it never did, I threw up morning, noon and night, and couldn’t get out of bed, I ended up in hospital on a drip because I couldn’t keep anything down. So to expect the delivery and birth to go any better was a joke to me, to top it off my doctor was away that weekend, and I had a new doctor who didn’t really know my history, but did an amazing job under the circumstances.
I’d been into the hospital on the Wednesday before with pains in the stomach, I stayed for a few hours so they could check everything was OK with the baby. I’d told the doctors all along that the baby was up to high in my chest, and was this normal, giving me heartburn from anything I tried to keep down.
I was back in hospital Saturday morning with contractions, I was told not to go to hospital till they were 10 minutes apart, but they went from 10 minutes apart down to 2-3 minutes apart on the way to hospital, which wasn’t a good sign either. Doctors in the end had to give me something to stop the contractions as my placenta had detached and was coming out first, which is what keeps the baby alive I now know, and didn’t realise how dangerous it all was at the time. I was rushed in for an emergency C-section, where I lost a lot of blood, but had a healthy beautiful baby girl.
It took me a lot longer to recover from the loose of blood more than anything and stayed in hospital for 6 days. Looking back now, if I had had an ultrasound those last few months the doctors could have seen the problem with my placenta, but everything turned out fine in the end, thank goodness, and I have a beautiful baby girl. The best advice I can give any first time mum is mention everything to your doctor and in the end if you feel that something is wrong get it checked out.
Please add your own real life stories, and share with other mum’s.
Family Holidays
Travelling with kids is never as easy as doing it on your own, but with a lot of careful planning it will be a very fun and happy time spent together. I’m a single mum and something I always look for is value for money when planning a holiday with my daughter.
Family holidays on a budget, from travelling with baby’s, toddler’s, and older. Pick the right place, time and accommodation for a wonderful, memorable, stress free family holiday, with the kids in mind to enjoy every minute. Check back for updates on my holiday suggestions as I find them.Travels with Baby: The Ultimate Guide for Planning Trips with Babies, Toddlers, and Preschool-Age Children
Disneyland Family Holiday
I have recently taken my daughter to Disneyland in California, she was still under three years of age at the time, so she got in free, which is always good to save some cash. We stayed at a hotel a friend helped me find and I would recommend this place to anyone needing good, clean, close to Disneyland and affordable accommodation, its nothing fancy but does the job. Del Sol Inn, Anaheim Resort, www.delsolinn.com. Plus not needing to use your car will save on petrol while there. If you are a AAA member you will get even better rates.Everything Family Guide to the Disneyland Resort, California Adventure, Universal Studios, and the Anaheim Area: A complete guide to the best hotels, restaurants, ... attractions (Everything: Travel and History)
We only stayed there 2 nights, but it was just what I needed and included free continental breakfast that we got to enjoy each morning, as we took our time getting ready to be at the front gate when it opened at 8am. Which was only a 5-10 minute walk straight across the street. I could take my daughter right back to the hotel for her nap at 11am and when she woke up gave her some lunch before heading out again, which I have to tell you she really needed. I hated seeing kids crying in Disneyland their tired take them home (hotel) for a nap. Then we would just walk back over to Disneyland to enjoy a afternoon and evening of fun, which ended for us at 7pm with a very tired little girl ready for food and bed. With me not following far behind.
Young kids really do need a rest, and sleeping properly in a bed will help them enjoy the rest of their stay, as well as giving yourself a well deserved break. They will be tired from all the excitement of seeing everything at Disneyland, it really is a lot for little minds to take in. I would recommend not trying to do Disneyland in just one day and stay at least 2 nights with young children. Plus there are park passes that included California Adventure as well as Disneyland, but as my daughter was so young one was plenty.The Unofficial Guide to Disneyland 2010 (Unofficial Guides)
Tip: My friend took me to the Disney Outlet Factory on the way down to Disneyland, where I bought some things for my daughter, Goofy, Lady and The Tramp (stuffed toys), Tinkerbell purse and bag, and Little Mermaid thongs, with the plan to give them to her during the day at Disneyland, it’s a great way to save money, an worked like a charm my daughter thought it was the best. As buying things in Disneyland can get very expensive. If you can’t get to a Disney Outlet Factory (maybe I was just lucky) you can try Target, Wal-Mart or department stores for Disney toys before hand.
I checked out the rides before hand so I knew which ones my daughter would want to see first before she got to warn out, then we could just work our way around Disneyland from there. Tip: Do the Dumbo ride first thing as there is always a line at that ride and try and be at gate when Disneyland opens. I also went across and bought our tickets the night before so we wouldn’t have to get in line the next morning. Check out the fast pass for the rides once you get inside.
My daughter thought Disneyland was a amazing place, very tired but fun. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes for the day of walking, and take food and drink in if you plan ahead. She didn’t like the dark inside rides to scary, but there are plenty of others to enjoy, The Jungle Cruise, Merry-Go-Round, Dumbo, and A Small World were a hit with her. She also got to meet Goofy and wanted to pull his tongue. There is so much to see you definitely need more than one day, the kids just love it.
There are plenty of place to choose from to stay, from cheap affordable to expensive but I’d say the closer to Disneyland the better when you have kids, and definitely get a ground floor room if you have a pram with baby asleep, I just pushed her straight into the room.
Check back soon for my updates or if you have question leave a comment and your email so I can reply to you.
Family holidays on a budget, from travelling with baby’s, toddler’s, and older. Pick the right place, time and accommodation for a wonderful, memorable, stress free family holiday, with the kids in mind to enjoy every minute. Check back for updates on my holiday suggestions as I find them.Travels with Baby: The Ultimate Guide for Planning Trips with Babies, Toddlers, and Preschool-Age Children
Disneyland Family Holiday
I have recently taken my daughter to Disneyland in California, she was still under three years of age at the time, so she got in free, which is always good to save some cash. We stayed at a hotel a friend helped me find and I would recommend this place to anyone needing good, clean, close to Disneyland and affordable accommodation, its nothing fancy but does the job. Del Sol Inn, Anaheim Resort, www.delsolinn.com. Plus not needing to use your car will save on petrol while there. If you are a AAA member you will get even better rates.Everything Family Guide to the Disneyland Resort, California Adventure, Universal Studios, and the Anaheim Area: A complete guide to the best hotels, restaurants, ... attractions (Everything: Travel and History)
We only stayed there 2 nights, but it was just what I needed and included free continental breakfast that we got to enjoy each morning, as we took our time getting ready to be at the front gate when it opened at 8am. Which was only a 5-10 minute walk straight across the street. I could take my daughter right back to the hotel for her nap at 11am and when she woke up gave her some lunch before heading out again, which I have to tell you she really needed. I hated seeing kids crying in Disneyland their tired take them home (hotel) for a nap. Then we would just walk back over to Disneyland to enjoy a afternoon and evening of fun, which ended for us at 7pm with a very tired little girl ready for food and bed. With me not following far behind.
Young kids really do need a rest, and sleeping properly in a bed will help them enjoy the rest of their stay, as well as giving yourself a well deserved break. They will be tired from all the excitement of seeing everything at Disneyland, it really is a lot for little minds to take in. I would recommend not trying to do Disneyland in just one day and stay at least 2 nights with young children. Plus there are park passes that included California Adventure as well as Disneyland, but as my daughter was so young one was plenty.The Unofficial Guide to Disneyland 2010 (Unofficial Guides)
Tip: My friend took me to the Disney Outlet Factory on the way down to Disneyland, where I bought some things for my daughter, Goofy, Lady and The Tramp (stuffed toys), Tinkerbell purse and bag, and Little Mermaid thongs, with the plan to give them to her during the day at Disneyland, it’s a great way to save money, an worked like a charm my daughter thought it was the best. As buying things in Disneyland can get very expensive. If you can’t get to a Disney Outlet Factory (maybe I was just lucky) you can try Target, Wal-Mart or department stores for Disney toys before hand.
I checked out the rides before hand so I knew which ones my daughter would want to see first before she got to warn out, then we could just work our way around Disneyland from there. Tip: Do the Dumbo ride first thing as there is always a line at that ride and try and be at gate when Disneyland opens. I also went across and bought our tickets the night before so we wouldn’t have to get in line the next morning. Check out the fast pass for the rides once you get inside.
My daughter thought Disneyland was a amazing place, very tired but fun. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes for the day of walking, and take food and drink in if you plan ahead. She didn’t like the dark inside rides to scary, but there are plenty of others to enjoy, The Jungle Cruise, Merry-Go-Round, Dumbo, and A Small World were a hit with her. She also got to meet Goofy and wanted to pull his tongue. There is so much to see you definitely need more than one day, the kids just love it.
There are plenty of place to choose from to stay, from cheap affordable to expensive but I’d say the closer to Disneyland the better when you have kids, and definitely get a ground floor room if you have a pram with baby asleep, I just pushed her straight into the room.
Check back soon for my updates or if you have question leave a comment and your email so I can reply to you.
Newborn Parents Checklist
Your newborn will need a place to sleep, a safe car seat, stroller/pram, highchair, clothes, diapers/nappies, reusable cloth nappies is an option, and lotions. This baby basic shopping list will help you figure out exactly what you will need in those first few months and can easily find with online shopping straight to your home:
Clothes
Comfy sleep outfits
Singlets
Bibs
Brimmed hat (summer babies)
Heavy blanket (winter babies)
Warm knit hat (winter babies)
Bedding
Crib/cot
Mattress
Fitted sheets
Blanket
Breast Feeding
Loose shirt
Nipple cream
Nursing bra
Box breast pads
Lansinoh 20265 Disposable Nursing Pads, 60-pack
Comfy pillow
Leachco Cuddle-U - Nursing Pillow And More - Sage Pin Dot
Changing Table
Nappies/diapers
Baby wipes
Baby lotion
Nappy rash cream (chemical free products at Arbonne)
Toys
Changing mat
Diaper bucket
Bath Room
Plastic infant bathtub
Soft hooded towels
Baby washcloths
Baby body wash that doubles as shampoo
Pair of blunt-tip scissors or baby-sized nail clippers
Soft brush and comb
Mild laundry detergent
Medicine chest
A pain-and-fever reducer recommended by your baby's doctor, such as Infant's Tylenol
Cotton pads/swabs
Nasal aspirator
Thermometer
Rubbing alcohol
Car seat
Pram / stroller
Jeep Liberty Limited 3 Wheel All Terrain Stroller
100,000 + Baby Names: The Most Complete Baby Name Book: Including 300+ Fascinating Lists, The Latest Naming Trends, Key to Gender-Neutral Names
Countdown to My Birth: A day by day account from your baby's point of view
Clothes
Comfy sleep outfits
Singlets
Bibs
Brimmed hat (summer babies)
Heavy blanket (winter babies)
Warm knit hat (winter babies)
Bedding
Crib/cot
Mattress
Fitted sheets
Blanket
Breast Feeding
Loose shirt
Nipple cream
Nursing bra
Box breast pads
Lansinoh 20265 Disposable Nursing Pads, 60-pack
Comfy pillow
Leachco Cuddle-U - Nursing Pillow And More - Sage Pin Dot
Changing Table
Nappies/diapers
Baby wipes
Baby lotion
Nappy rash cream (chemical free products at Arbonne)
Toys
Changing mat
Diaper bucket
Bath Room
Plastic infant bathtub
Soft hooded towels
Baby washcloths
Baby body wash that doubles as shampoo
Pair of blunt-tip scissors or baby-sized nail clippers
Soft brush and comb
Mild laundry detergent
Medicine chest
A pain-and-fever reducer recommended by your baby's doctor, such as Infant's Tylenol
Cotton pads/swabs
Nasal aspirator
Thermometer
Rubbing alcohol
Car seat
Pram / stroller
Jeep Liberty Limited 3 Wheel All Terrain Stroller
100,000 + Baby Names: The Most Complete Baby Name Book: Including 300+ Fascinating Lists, The Latest Naming Trends, Key to Gender-Neutral Names
Countdown to My Birth: A day by day account from your baby's point of view
No more nap times
I have been worried about how I will cope once my daughter stops having her day time naps, she is now 2 ½ years old and down to one nap during the day for about 2 hours. It’s great gives me a break to keep going again in the afternoon.
I’m a single mum and like the rest. So after talking to other mum’s about their same worries and how they coped with no naps was interesting. It's Nap Time
I was worried but have to say its working out better for me now my daughter at 3 years old has stopped napping in the middle of the day and is going to bed by 7.30pm most nights, giving me some well deserved time to myself which usually means to bed early for me as well, instead of later around 9.30pm when she was taking a nap. My daughter still naps every few days when she needs it but so far my worries were for nothing.
My daughter sleeps soundly after a long tiring day of activities, which usually starts at around 7am, and just means we get to do more things during the day and finish up earlier. So to all those mum’s out their with worries about nap time ending, it might work out better in the long run, it sure did for me.
Eat, Nap, Play: How to Get Even More Out of Your Child's Day for Less
Baby Einstein - Naptime Melodies
I’m a single mum and like the rest. So after talking to other mum’s about their same worries and how they coped with no naps was interesting. It's Nap Time
I was worried but have to say its working out better for me now my daughter at 3 years old has stopped napping in the middle of the day and is going to bed by 7.30pm most nights, giving me some well deserved time to myself which usually means to bed early for me as well, instead of later around 9.30pm when she was taking a nap. My daughter still naps every few days when she needs it but so far my worries were for nothing.
My daughter sleeps soundly after a long tiring day of activities, which usually starts at around 7am, and just means we get to do more things during the day and finish up earlier. So to all those mum’s out their with worries about nap time ending, it might work out better in the long run, it sure did for me.
Eat, Nap, Play: How to Get Even More Out of Your Child's Day for Less
Baby Einstein - Naptime Melodies
Travelling with a baby
I wasn’t sure about what to expect my first time flying with my daughter, she was only 3 months old. I was worried about her crying on the long flight (13 hours for her first flight) I always hated other kids and babies crying when I was flying before I had my daughter. Since she was still sleeping a lot I just hoped a evening flight would work, and made sure I breast fed her on the take off and landings, so her ears would be ok, that’s why a lot of babies do cry they need something to suck on taking off and landing. My worries were for nothing in the end, she slept the whole way only waking for her feeds, everyone commented on how well she flys, so I just smiled and said thanks. At 3 months most babies will sleep, especially with the sound of the engine humming. The best advice I can give you is be organised and prepared. I took enough nappies for a 14 hour flight, better to be safe than sorry was my thought, and took way to many nappies my first trip, and would know better for next time. I took 2 extra sets of clothes in my carry on, just in case again of any accidents along the way especially with a 3 month old, plus baby wipes and a plastic changing pad to use when needed. Her favourite blanket and toy. Basically I hardly took anything carry on for myself, except a clean top incase of accidents or spills while breast feeding, but that’s just part of being a mum, and travelling on my own with my daughter.
I’ve found some airlines let you take your pram/stroller all the way to the departure gate, which is a great help carrying everything, but a hassle going through the security check but worth it I found, as my daughter could get some sleep in the pram/stroller while we waited.
A change table is often not available in every toilet (some smaller aircraft don’t even have a change table on the entire plane). Taking a plastic diaper bag is a great idea, the scented ones work great I fine, especially if you can’t get to the toilet and need somewhere to store nappies.
Flying with a 2 year old
Now my daughter is older, being organised is still important, I make sure I take food and snacks now as well when I fly, my daughter likes weetabix so I put some in a zip bag, as most flights will give you milk on request, and always carry a sippy cup full of milk (security let you get through with some baby food and liquids) again depending on the airlines. Make sure you request a childs meal when you book your ticket.
Flying with baby
When is it safe to fly with a baby: A newborn can fly at a week old if it's absolutely necessary, but it's better to wait until he's at least four to six weeks if you can. By then you will know whether or not he has any underlying health problems which may make it unsafe for him to travel. Also, babies are so vulnerable to germs during their first month, he may pick up a stray bug if he's cooped up with dozens of strangers breathing recycled air for hours.
It's not a good idea for your baby to fly if he has a cough, cold or ear infection, so do check with your GP before flying if you have any concerns about his health. Don't be alarmed if you hear or read that flying increases the risk of cot death. One study did appear to show evidence of this, but doctors generally agree that the study was flawed and that more research needs to be done. In the meantime, most doctors advise that air travel is safe for babies.
The thought of being stuck in a confined space for over 14 hours with a baby will probably send shivers down the spine of most people. Long haul flying, especially in economy class, is exhausting and stressful at the best of times - let alone with an infant in tow. But it can be done, and without going completely insane.
The key to having a bearable experience is in the planning and preparation of your trip. Choosing the right airline and flight, packing the appropriate equipment and clothing (without overpacking) and adopting an attitude of “expect the worst and hope for the best” (you may be pleasantly surprised!) will help you survive the journey. Travels with Baby: The Ultimate Guide for Planning Trips with Babies, Toddlers, and Preschool-Age Children
Breast feeding info for newborns
The best breast feeding advice and help I ever got was straight off my mum, she told me to drink plenty of water each day (2-4 600ml bottles) and my breast milk would come in with no problems, which it did. I’ve heard a lot of stories about new mums not being able to breast feed. But different things work for different women, I was just lucky I just needed water. Make sure you have a loose fitted top to breast feed in. Bravado Black Nursing Bra Tank - 36 B/C
Tip: brush your nipples with a toothbrush while pregnant so that they don’t crack and hurt when breast feeding. The Breast Feeding Guide - Everything You Need To Know! AAA+++
Lansinoh 20265 Disposable Nursing Pads, 60-Count Boxes (Pack of 4)
Tip: brush your nipples with a toothbrush while pregnant so that they don’t crack and hurt when breast feeding. The Breast Feeding Guide - Everything You Need To Know! AAA+++
Lansinoh 20265 Disposable Nursing Pads, 60-Count Boxes (Pack of 4)
Quality Time With The Kids
There are plenty of ways to increase the amount of quality time you spend with your children
:
Kitchen Fun: A Cook Book For Children
Time spent in the Kitchen, children actually learn a lot by watching and helping you. So set your kids up with small jobs like peeling vegetable (if old enough) to passing your things. At the same time you can be chatting about their day. Before you know it, your meal is ready and you’ve enjoyed some bonding time together. At the table, take it in turns going round the table talking about your day and what you did. Even if its only one parent its still nice to sit down together for a meal.
Bath time, is the perfect time to catch up, as children need supervision in the bath. It’s a good time to connect, discuss homework if they have any, and have a chat together.My Bubbly Bath Time (Baby Einstein)
In the car, is a great place to get to know your children, we spend so much time driving places. So don’t resent this time, enjoy it getting to know your kids. Not having direct eye contact, sometimes helps, in teenagers especially to have more intimate conversations. You can just comment on their moods (good, bad or quiet), just to start a conversation. Also listening to music while you drive can give you an insight into what they’re into and help with conversations along the way.
Doing any odd jobs together around the house, like the washing, come and chat to me while I’m hanging it out or folding it up and help me while we talk, sharing time together is important no matter what it is. Doing the gardening is a great way to spend time together outside, my daughter has been helping me in the garden weeding (weeds and plants all came out at times but it was all fun) since she could walk, while we talked and now she loves making me smell the flowers and talking about her garden with me.
:Kitchen Fun: A Cook Book For Children
Time spent in the Kitchen, children actually learn a lot by watching and helping you. So set your kids up with small jobs like peeling vegetable (if old enough) to passing your things. At the same time you can be chatting about their day. Before you know it, your meal is ready and you’ve enjoyed some bonding time together. At the table, take it in turns going round the table talking about your day and what you did. Even if its only one parent its still nice to sit down together for a meal.Bath time, is the perfect time to catch up, as children need supervision in the bath. It’s a good time to connect, discuss homework if they have any, and have a chat together.My Bubbly Bath Time (Baby Einstein)
In the car, is a great place to get to know your children, we spend so much time driving places. So don’t resent this time, enjoy it getting to know your kids. Not having direct eye contact, sometimes helps, in teenagers especially to have more intimate conversations. You can just comment on their moods (good, bad or quiet), just to start a conversation. Also listening to music while you drive can give you an insight into what they’re into and help with conversations along the way.
Doing any odd jobs together around the house, like the washing, come and chat to me while I’m hanging it out or folding it up and help me while we talk, sharing time together is important no matter what it is. Doing the gardening is a great way to spend time together outside, my daughter has been helping me in the garden weeding (weeds and plants all came out at times but it was all fun) since she could walk, while we talked and now she loves making me smell the flowers and talking about her garden with me.
Early Potty Training
Every one has a different idea on when to start potty training. I started early potty training from the day I got home from the hospital, from advice my mum gave me, and my daughter just loved it, my husband thought I was crazy, but hey as I would be the one doing the potty training one day anyway (as all mum's know) I went ahead and started my early potty training routine. Early-Start Potty Training
Introduce your baby early to the potty and your child will recognise the potty just like they do the high chair, bath, and car seat. Why should a potty be any different to any other object you use to raise your child. Your baby will learn the correct muscles to use to poo with, where a nappy takes this sensation away. I decided to teach my child early to go on the potty instead of in her nappy. Either way they are going to go one is just more pleasant than the other. Take a year or two off your nappy bill, not to mention the extra days of a clean, dry bottom you can give your child.
Easy potty training, babies love having their nappies off and I started by holding her out after each feed. Then to holding her over a baby potty then progressed onto a toilet, she never had a issue with the toilet, I’ve heard some babies are scared of the toilet. I ended up saving on nappies (being a single mum that’s a bonus) and your child will learn from a early age to pee and poo when their nappy is off, being potty trained by 2 years old is great and only needing a nappy for naps and bedtime is wonderful. I’d recommended trying this for sure, my child is happier and so am I.
My daughter hardly ever had nappy rash, from starting early potty training, I used all the Arbonne ABC baby products on my daughter, as being a new and first time mum, I wasn‘t happy about using chemicals on my newborn, my friend put me onto Arbonne and I would recommended it to anyone. I LOVE that they are free from all chemicals. They have helped many of my friends' babies that had terrible eczema. I feel great knowing they have none of the harmful gunk that is common in most of what you get at the chemist. Everything else I'd ever used made her skin so dry. As soon as I started using Arbonne products, she started being smooth again. It's a bit expensive, but it's worth it. If you are interested in buying some, feel free to let me know as I work from home as a rep and love everything I get from them. A Potty for Me!: A Lift-the-Flap Instruction Manual
Introduce your baby early to the potty and your child will recognise the potty just like they do the high chair, bath, and car seat. Why should a potty be any different to any other object you use to raise your child. Your baby will learn the correct muscles to use to poo with, where a nappy takes this sensation away. I decided to teach my child early to go on the potty instead of in her nappy. Either way they are going to go one is just more pleasant than the other. Take a year or two off your nappy bill, not to mention the extra days of a clean, dry bottom you can give your child.
Easy potty training, babies love having their nappies off and I started by holding her out after each feed. Then to holding her over a baby potty then progressed onto a toilet, she never had a issue with the toilet, I’ve heard some babies are scared of the toilet. I ended up saving on nappies (being a single mum that’s a bonus) and your child will learn from a early age to pee and poo when their nappy is off, being potty trained by 2 years old is great and only needing a nappy for naps and bedtime is wonderful. I’d recommended trying this for sure, my child is happier and so am I.
My daughter hardly ever had nappy rash, from starting early potty training, I used all the Arbonne ABC baby products on my daughter, as being a new and first time mum, I wasn‘t happy about using chemicals on my newborn, my friend put me onto Arbonne and I would recommended it to anyone. I LOVE that they are free from all chemicals. They have helped many of my friends' babies that had terrible eczema. I feel great knowing they have none of the harmful gunk that is common in most of what you get at the chemist. Everything else I'd ever used made her skin so dry. As soon as I started using Arbonne products, she started being smooth again. It's a bit expensive, but it's worth it. If you are interested in buying some, feel free to let me know as I work from home as a rep and love everything I get from them. A Potty for Me!: A Lift-the-Flap Instruction Manual
- Supporting your baby with easy potty training tips
- Sit behind the potty and place your baby on from behind with their back leaning against your chest, holding onto their legs. It is easier to control placement this way versus placing from the front with your baby facing you.
- For a baby without head control, while sitting, place a pot or bowl between your legs, or paper on the floor, with your baby's back against your chest, holding onto their legs and supporting their head.
- Record your baby's toilet routine to effect more accurate timing with placing your baby on the potty, which is usually after each feed.
- www.pottytraining.com.au
BABYBJÖRN Potty Chair - Blue
Parents and Divorce
This site is about helping parents, doing it on your own, being single, divorced or married, raising kids is a challenging and rewarding experience to enjoy. Everything you need to know to survive parenthood, from potty training, breast feeding, bath time, bedtime routines, chemical free baby lotions, flying with baby, quality time with the family and pampering yourself mum, you deserve it. The A to Z Guide to Raising Happy, Confident Kids
To all those single parents out there. I’m a single Mum, and would be interested to hear how other single parents handle these situation that come up with their X-partners.
My Ex-husband, her Dad wants to keep our daughters birthday presents at his house, I think this is mean and he‘s not thinking about our daughter at all. We live in different countries my X and I, so I always feel bad for my daughter when he want let her leave with her presents. I don’t mind if he keeps a few things, but I really hope he lets my daughter take her favourite gifts with her. As by the time we come back for another visit she will have out grown the clothes, and probably moved on to different interests.
We have come to an understanding now, he keeps any clothes and shoes that are to big for her till our next visit, and my daughter takes the clothes and shoes that fit her right now and her favourite toys with us.
I'm sure there are a lot of other Mum's out there with some similar situations I would like to hear about them. I can tell or suggest to my X one thing and he'll do the complete opposite or want listen to anything I say, hopefully it gets better with time. The Truth About Children and Divorce: Dealing with the Emotions So You and Your Children Can Thrive
Kids need routine, rules and guide lines, they are happier with routine and set schedules for meal times, naps and bath time. I try and keep my daughter in a routine, as kids do like having a set schedule, as I think its important especially at bedtime. My X says I’m to strict and it’s ok for her to go a few days without her normal routine. Of course that is when he has her, and I’m left with the melt down afterwards as she’s so tired and cranky by then and doesn’t no what to do with herself. I’m sure I’m not alone in this.
To all those single parents out there. I’m a single Mum, and would be interested to hear how other single parents handle these situation that come up with their X-partners.
My Ex-husband, her Dad wants to keep our daughters birthday presents at his house, I think this is mean and he‘s not thinking about our daughter at all. We live in different countries my X and I, so I always feel bad for my daughter when he want let her leave with her presents. I don’t mind if he keeps a few things, but I really hope he lets my daughter take her favourite gifts with her. As by the time we come back for another visit she will have out grown the clothes, and probably moved on to different interests.
We have come to an understanding now, he keeps any clothes and shoes that are to big for her till our next visit, and my daughter takes the clothes and shoes that fit her right now and her favourite toys with us.
I'm sure there are a lot of other Mum's out there with some similar situations I would like to hear about them. I can tell or suggest to my X one thing and he'll do the complete opposite or want listen to anything I say, hopefully it gets better with time. The Truth About Children and Divorce: Dealing with the Emotions So You and Your Children Can Thrive
Kids need routine, rules and guide lines, they are happier with routine and set schedules for meal times, naps and bath time. I try and keep my daughter in a routine, as kids do like having a set schedule, as I think its important especially at bedtime. My X says I’m to strict and it’s ok for her to go a few days without her normal routine. Of course that is when he has her, and I’m left with the melt down afterwards as she’s so tired and cranky by then and doesn’t no what to do with herself. I’m sure I’m not alone in this.
No Bedtime Routines
Bedtime routines can be the key to a good night's sleep for everyone, your baby will be more relaxed if she/he knows what's coming next. The more relaxed she is with her normal bedtime routine, the more likely it will be that she'll go to bed easily and fall asleep quickly without crying or causing problems, babies and toddlers all like routine. Children's Nursery Room Wall Decal - Baby Circus
Even if you need to rearrange your schedule to make bedtime a priority, it’s very important to stick to the same routine every night at the same time. You may call this to strict but it works and makes your life a lot easier. It’s up to you to decided what works best for your child, but once you settle on a routine follow it every night. My daughter’s routine is a fun bath time with us chatting, brush your teeth, and into bed by 8pm for a bedtime story. Children really like routine and knowing what is coming next, it makes going to bed no hassle and more relaxing, which is exactly what you want at bedtime a charming routine. The Random House Book of Bedtime Stories (Random House Book of ...)Disney Bedtime Favorites (Disney Storybook Collections)
When your baby is as young as six or eight weeks old, you can start to follow a routine every night, I did, even though my husband at the time told me I was to strict with my nightly routine. Your baby will quickly come to appreciate the consistency and predictability. It will help her learn good sleep habits forever.
What you include in your bedtime routine is up to you. But remember bedtime is a special time to spend with your baby. There's the standard bath routine, putting on pyjamas, doing your teeth, reading a bedtime story, and having a cuddle, I do this every night with my daughter its our special time together to enjoy. Just make sure you choose something that helps to keep your baby quiet before bed, no wrestling games. And while you can certainly start your routine in the bathroom or where ever, make sure you end it in your baby's bedroom.DaVinci Emily Convertible Baby Crib in Cherry
It's important that your baby's room is a nice place to be, not just somewhere that she's left at bedtime. Making bedtime a pleasurable event, with a lot of attention and plenty of cuddles, means that your baby will love the whole process. If she gets upset as she sees you leave after you tuck her in, tell her you'll be back to check on her in a few minutes, some crying at bedtime is to be expected the first few times, but persistent will pay off, I know its hard to hear them cry but stick with it. She'll probably be fast asleep by the time you return. Remember routine is important for nap times as well. Modern Toddler Cot
Race You to Bed
Animals of the Rain Forest Fisher Price Wall StickersWhen I was trying to find decorating ideas for my babies bedroom, I couldn't find any animal designs in store that I liked, I wish I'd found this site back then. I love it, as it has every baby theme bedding idea you could want and more. Boutique Safari Jungle Animals 10pcs Crib Bedding Set
