Preparing for a New Baby: Needs vs. Wants
Many expecting mothers get nervous about the many aspects involved in preparing for a new baby. Fortunately, there are very few things that the baby truly needs, although there are many things that are nice to have. Here are a few simple ways to help prepare yourself and your home for your baby.
Baby's Needs
Definite baby necessities include nutrition, a place to sleep, and a safe car seat. Mothers can get vital nutrients to the baby through breastfeeding or formula. Breastfeeding may encourage mother and baby bonding and can reduce the risk of some illnesses. Mothers who choose breastfeeding may wish to attend a breastfeeding class in preparation to learn the process and tips for success. Formula feeding mothers should have formula and bottles ready for their children's arrival, but don’t stock up on too much of one brand of formula; some babies may not eat certain kinds so find what your baby likes to eat first.
Babies will spend just as much time sleeping as eating; it is recommended that babies be placed in their own crib or bassinet for sleep because sharing a bed with parents or other adults can be unsafe sleeping conditions. And remember for babies, ‘back is best’
There are a wide range of infant car seats available to choose from. Although it’s tempting to save money, it’s not a good idea to purchase one without first doing your research on what the safety requirements are for infant car seats. With a used car seat, there is no guarantee that it was not in a car accident, which may comprise the seat's integrity. Safe car seat installation can be checked by a trained technician at any police station.
Convenience Items
While the above-mentioned are necessities for a new baby, there are other items that can help make life easier for mom. Lots of loose, comfortable sleeper pajamas are important, as these are an easy item to slip on and off the baby – something mom will want with all the diaper changes! A baby swing or seat is a great accessory to keep babies entertained while showering, cooking, or completing another task.
Preparations for the actual Delivery Day
A birth plan that outlines pain management preferences and other issues that may come up during labor is good to have. Women should also discuss the benefits of things such as blood testing for illnesses and cord blood banking with their doctor, and include such decisions in the birth plan. Blood testing can reveal inherited diseases that may benefit from early intervention treatments, and cord blood banking collects and stores the umbilical cord blood for potential future use.
Although all of these preparative steps may seem intimidating, they also exciting, and sometimes ease anxiety for mom-to-be.
This article was written by Alan Cassidy, an active writer within the blogging community covering maternity and childbirth, and always advocating for infant and children’s health. Connect with him on Twitter @ACassidy22
