From the moment you bring your precious infant home, his or her (or their!) room will become a special place for you and your child. Even if you keep your baby in your bedroom at night for the first few settling-in months, you’ll probably use the baby’s room for ch­anging diapers and other everyday tasks. The sooner you and your child feel comfortable in the nursery, the better. (Yes, you need to feel at home in the baby’s room, too, as you’ll be spending a lot of hours there!)

Once you’ve got the crib, comfy chair, changing table, and optional extra bed in place, the rest is child’s play. If your family includes older ­children who share baby’s room, their needs will obviously dictate a lot of the furnishings and accessories. If the room is for the baby only, you may be tempted to go for broke with decorative treatments. There’s no harm in doing this as long as you avoid items with small parts or cords, but you don’t have to spend a fortune on special effects. Babies can’t really see details or pick out the nuances of color until they’re six months old or so. Until then, bold patterns in black and white serve much better to stimulate their eyes and brains.

If your taste tends toward the lively and modern, a baby’s room in black and white with red accents may be just the ticket. If not, however, you can provide short-term toys and board books that stimulate baby just as well and decorate in a way that better suits your style.

1. Buy storage-friendly furniture
Get a crib with drawers underneath or buy a crib skirt and some under-bed boxes, which are great for stashing all those excess diapers and wipes. Still short on storage? Consider a cube system like the IKEA Expedit, which can grow with your tot and be outfitted with drawers and doors to hold toys and books on the bottom. Plus, you can stash clothes they’re growing into or growing out of on the top.

2. Trick out your closet
Use every inch of space already available in your nursery by maximizing your closet’s storage. Little outfits are short, so double your closet space easily using a double-hang closet rod on one side. Then use a portion of your closet to create flexible shelving by adding a sweater bag. Both can be found at The Container Store.

3. Containerize everything
Find attractive open bins for the shelves of your changing table and give each bin a specific category. Inside your closet you’ll want to use clear, stackable containers so you can see exactly what’s there. Label them with size and season. For example, seeing “12-month, summer clothes” is a lot more helpful than having to take down a huge bin of hand-me-downs from the top shelf and then having to dig through. Important: Whatever you do, skip the toy bin! It just becomes a repository for all the tiny pieces, and ends up with stuff on top of it, so your child will never be able to open it to retrieve those stuffed animals anyway.

4. Go vertical
Have a small nursery? No problem! Utilize your vertical space — backs of doors and even the walls are often overlooked areas. Have excess toiletries or tiny shoes? Put an over-the-door shoe bag with clear pockets on the inside of your closet door so that you can compartmentalize all the small stuff and keep it from cluttering up your surfaces. Stick the thermometer in the top row right next to the Infants’ Tylenol, so next time your baby has a fever in the middle of the night you know exactly how to find it (and it’ll be too high for them to reach as they grow!). Have a ton of pictures or other keepsakes to display? Don’t clutter your dresser — hang floating shelves on the wall to show off your treasures. It will look intentional instead of haphazard, and once your child is more mobile, he won’t be able to destroy them so easily.

5. Toss the junk
Having a baby often means you’re showered with gifts. But that doesn’t mean you have to keep and love everything Cousin Gertrude gave you! Take a picture of your kiddo wearing the item or playing with it, write her a thank-you note and put it in the outbound pile. As a parent you need to constantly manage both the inflow and outflow of stuff in your space, so dedicate a bag or two for things that are no longer in active use, and once they are full, get them out. Store the items that you love that make the cut for a future child, but pass others along to a mommy friend with different taste or donate them. Swimming in excess samples from the hospital? Stash a few in your diaper bag, use up the ones you love and toss the rest! You don’t need random stuff you’ll rarely use.

There is something instinctive about seeing a newborn baby, with his soft skin, and wanting to pick him up and cuddle him. Follow your instinct because cuddling with your baby has a range of benefits. A newborn adjusting to life outside the room enjoys cuddling as a comfort measure. An infant bonds with his parents through cuddling.

It may come as no surprise to parents, but cuddling your baby provides them with social benefits for years afterwards, according to scientists.

They found a clear link between love and attention in the early years and healthy emotional responses in later life.
Even if they are then smothered with love as toddlers, it can be very difficult to repair the damage.Children who have been deprived of physical contact as babies have lower levels of social-bonding hormones, the researchers found.

The research, published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, looked at hormones called oxytocin and arginine vasopressin.

Both play a role in response to stress and social bonding, with levels typically rising after the subject has been comforted with human contact.

Cuddle me, I love you……

There are many ways to cuddle your baby.  First and foremost holding and loving your baby is most important. Swaddling, bathing, massaging, rocking while singing lullabies, and anything that is interactive with your baby that consists of soothing human touch and connection.

Breastfeeding is like a hike through the woods: Natural, but not always simple. In fact, it can be challenging, breathtaking, and full of the unexpected.

The hormones can be intense

Oxytocin:

This powerful hormone is responsible for breast milk “letting down,” or moving to the front of the breasts. And it also happens to be the same chemical released in the brain when a person falls in love, says Laura Viehmann, assistant professor of pediatrics at Brown University and spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatricians. No wonder you couldn’t care less about all that spit-up and poop! You’re too busy swooning.

Breastfeeding helps (some) women lose their pregnancy weight

The nursing weight-loss plan doesn’t work for everyone. Some moms find their metabolism slowing to a frustrating crawl. “I nursed my son for 27 months
In fact, in a poll of BabyCenter moms, 40 percent say breastfeeding didn’t help them drop pounds while 60 percent say it did. Interesting….. and it didn’t help me lose weight. Then I lost 15 pounds within about two weeks after weaning,” one mom reports.

Your breast milk is perfectly tailored to your baby

Imagine if every single time you were hungry, you were served a delectable, satisfying meal that contained the perfect balance of electrolytes, fats, and nutrients for your body at that particular time. Amazingly, your breast milk gives your baby exactly what she needs immunologically as well.  The components of the milk shift so that it always complements whatever antibodies the baby is low on at that particular time. This is why breastfeeding can actually keep your baby from getting sick. Welcome to your baby’s world!

Nursing Pillows help make this experience a more relaxed and comfortable one!

If you’re a new parent, you probably have your child’s diapering area set up appropriately. Diapers and wipes – check. Diaper cream – check. Baby powder – you may want to hold off on. Although baby powder is sold with baby essentials and has that sweet smell that few can resist, it’s one of those items that just isn’t necessary. In fact, baby powder can be possibly harmful, especially to a young infant.

Traditionally, baby powder has been used on infants to keep the skin soft and dry, thus fighting off diaper rash. Even though it feels and smells good, pediatricians do not recommend the powdery stuff and neither does the American Academy of Pediatrics. Since baby powder is expelled into the air, your little one can breathe it in and irritate his or her lungs. This may lead to further breathing difficulties down the road.

Although baby powder isn’t recommended, you don’t have to throw away that bottle quite yet. First, make sure that it is made from cornstarch instead of talc, as many are. Cornstarch is better for the skin and the lungs, and isn’t inhaled as easily. Second, you can use the baby powder in skin folds and creases that may be subject to irritation. Just make sure you don’t let the powder build up in the skin creases and that you don’t shake the powder near baby’s face.

And of course, when setting up your diapering area, you now know that you don’t have to include baby powder into the mix.

If you do have several bottles laying around from your child’s welcome home gifts, consider using the baby powder for other applications. For example, baby powder works great when at the beach and you need something to get the sticky, wet sand off your feet. Or if you’ve skipped a shower (or two), toss some in your hair for a refreshing lift. Baby powder can also be used on oily spots and spills, as it absorbs the oil.

Image: mothersspace.in

Now that we’re settled into summer, your vacation is probably creeping closer. Whether you’re taking a vacation far away from home, or simply adventuring out in your own area, there are plenty of must-haves that you and baby will need. Being prepared to handle messy situations when away from home is the best way to help you feel – and stay – in control. So enjoy your upcoming trip and be sure to pack your bags with these essentials:

Front or Back Carrier – Carriers are a great way to keep baby close, while keeping your hands free. Best of all, they don’t have to be expensive. Many carriers cost less than $30, which means you can buy an inexpensive one just for vacation time. Make sure you handle all the adjustments before you leave home so you’re not fiddling with it at the amusement park.

Portable High Chairs – These portable seats clip right on to any table and fold up when done. There are many different styles, but all fold up compactly and come with a handy carry bag. They serve as a great way to keep baby clean while eating, as well as in a familiar seat. Some chairs hook up to the table and allow baby to eat there, while others have their own tray.

Sun Cabana – Cabanas are super lightweight and can be tossed in any diaper bag for sun protection at the park or beach. Many have UV protection as well and come in fun colors.

Sleep Tents – If your family loves camping, don’t think you can’t take baby along. There are special “sleep anywhere” tents that include an inflatable mattress for baby to sleep. These sleep tents also have UV protection and can be used in place of a cabana. Here’s to naps on the beach!

Umbrella Stroller – Sure, joggers are great, but when you’re vacationing, you’ll want something lightweight. Try an aluminum-framed umbrella stroller that can be tossed in the car with little effort. Some can be expensive, but many cost under $40.

Bottle Warmer – When baby is ready to eat, don’t let him or her wait it out. A bottle warmer can heat up baby’s bottle in a few short minutes. Some use the outlet in the car, while others are made for on-the-go use.

Waterproof Picnic Blankets – They’re soft and colorful and perfect for a sunny day. Plus, waterproof picnic blankets fold up and have their own matching carry cases. One side is for sitting, while the other acts as a waterproof barrier, keeping out moisture.

Insulated Food Packs - Keep food and drinks cool with insulated packs. Trendier than ever, these packs have convenient pockets and carry handles that make versatile and lightweight. They’re great for jars of baby food, sippy cups and water bottles for Mom and Dad.

Image Source: weetravel.wordpress.com

During the hot summer months, you want your preemie or newborn to be comfortable and healthy, especially if you find yourself without air conditioning. Maybe consider purchasing some fans to help keep your rooms nice and cool while your little one adjusts to their new environment. While the temperatures could reach a scorching level, how can you be sure your preemie will be safe? 

Here are some summer safety tips that may help you with caring for your preemie or newborn.

Summer Safety Tips

- If all possible, keep your sweet little one out of the sun. Shade is of utmost importance including a summer hat that will completely shade their face. If you must be in the sun be sure to apply sunscreen (baby safe) to avoid sun damage. If possible, consult your preemie’s pediatrician regarding the usage of sunscreen on preemies.

- Be sure your preemie or newborn is staying hydrated. Water is not the answer. Consider feeding your baby more frequently since babies under 6 months of age should not consume water.

- Be sure there is proper air circulation in your vehicle. 

- Never leave a baby unattended in a carrier for even a minute. Heat temperatures can double very quickly inside a closed vehicle.

- Keep your preemie or newborn protected from insects. It is suggested to cover carriers and strollers with a special netting to avoid bug bites such as mosquitoes.

For more summer safety tips for caring for your little one check out summer tips on madeformums.com.

Source: About

Image: Life123.com

When your little one has mastered baby food, you can start with small pieces of finger foods. Basically, any foods that are cut up small enough to be picked up and eaten by baby are classified as finger foods. This is an important step toward independent eating and also allows baby new tastes and textures. Around 7 to 9 months is when most babies are ready to make this step, and they generally show their desire to eat on their own by grabbing the spoon you’re feeding them from.

So what are some of the best finger foods you can give your little one?

- Bananas are soft and easy to eat, plus packed with plenty of vitamins.

- Avocados are filled with good fat and super soft for little fingers.

- Sweet potatoes can be cut up in small chunks or sliced into fries. They’re sweet and power packed with nutrients.

- Cooked peas are easy to eat and even more fun to play with!

- Shredded, cooked chicken is a lean protein.

- Cheerios contain whole grains and serve as the perfect snack for little fingers. Instead of adding sugar, try the flavored varieties as a treat.

- Cooked lentils are soft and easy to pick up. They contain lots of protein and get baby used to eating beans.

- Garbanzo beans are also easy for baby to grasp and have a sweet taste that kids love! Serve them cold or hot.

- Whole wheat macaroni is filled with whole grains and tastes delicious with a bit of sauce or butter.

- Cubes of tofu are fun and easy to eat, plus absorb flavor. They can also be added to dishes such as macaroni and cheese.

- Pieces of low-mercury fish such as salmon or tilapia are tender and tasty. Cook these filets of fish in a small amount of butter or oil and season lightly for a delicious alternative to meat.

- Small chunks of cheese are tasty for baby and offer good fat and plenty of calcium.

Image c/o: thebabycorner.com

Remember the big, bulky high chairs that would take up too much space in the corner of a kitchen? Not anymore, as today’s high chairs are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Their space-saving properties allow them to take up little space, and some of the newest versions will even blend in well with stainless steel appliances!

Here’s what to look for in your new high chair that will maximize space and function, while giving your little one a cozy place to eat.

Removable Trays – The high chair should have a large removable tray that can be tossed in the dishwasher. This makes it easy to keep clean, and the size offers plenty of room for food and a few toys.

Reclining Positions – High chairs don’t have to be for eating anymore. Look for those that have added features, such as relaxing tunes and different chair settings that allow baby to relax. Some high chairs can even convert to a swing so baby can have his cake and eat it, too – in the terms of a snack and quick snooze that is!

Conversion Chairs – Spending the dough on a chair that your child will only use for a short time can be hard. So why not invest in something that will last a little longer? Conversion high chairs can convert from a standard high chair, to an infant booster, toddler booster and then a young child’s chair.

Swinging Trays – If you’re tired of the gliding trays that seem to get stuck all the time, opt for the contemporary swinging style. These trays lift up and swing open, so it doesn’t matter where you place them. In an effort to streamline the design, these chairs often come with an easy carry handle for portable use.

Easy Cleaning Properties – No one likes a dirty high chair – not even your messy baby. So look for streamlined designs that won’t allow food to get stuck in every groove. Also look for waterproof and tear-resistant materials if the high chair isn’t made from plastic.

Five-Point Harness – Five-point harnesses are commonplace in infant products, but not so much in toddler ones. Yet at the rate that kids grow into toddler products and the squirmy nature of their bodies, a five-point harness is never a bad idea. Look for high chairs that offer these harnesses in the toddler position as well.

Comfort – And finally, you want your little one to enjoy sitting and eating, so choose a seat that’s comfy for him or her. With reclining positions and a cushiony seat, you can find the optimal position for your little one at his or her stage of eating.

Image: highchairsforbabiesguide.com

Although the standards for crib safety are always changing, many parents still use secondhand cribs from previous siblings or other children. After all, cribs are only used for a few short years, if that, so why spend the big bucks on a new one?

While it’s ideal to buy new because of the safety regulations, this isn’t always practical for families. And thanks to the Internet and resale websites, buying used cribs has never been easier. If you plan to buy a used crib, take these precautions to ensure the safe sleeping of your little one.

1. The crib should not have dropside rails. Although once popular, these cribs are being recalled all the time and are actually being banned in upcoming models.

2. The hardware should be secure. Make sure that the bolts are tightened and screws are secured into place. If anything looks loose or eroded, skip it.

3. The mattress should fit snuggly within the crib with no gaps. Kids are known for wrangling their way into tight spaces, so make sure this won’t happen with a tight fit.

4. The width between the crib slats should be 2 3/8 inches apart or less. This prevents kids from getting their head stuck through the posts, yet is large enough that arms and legs won’t become wedged between the bars.

5. Check the recall list. Before you settle for anything new, make sure the crib isn’t one of the millions that have been recalled. A quick search online will do the trick. If possible, get all the paperwork and see if there is an extended warranty.

Of course, buying new is always best, especially as higher standards are implemented into crib safety. A popular alternative are the convertible cribs, which can be converted into toddler and day beds for more use and economic value.

Image c/o: kalanicrib.info

For many parents, adding a baby to the home may feel like a new family is moving in. Between new furniture and oversized toys, you’ll soon find yourself limited on space. Fortunately, there are many simple ways to maximize space without compromising the look and function of the nursery.

First, make a plan for how you intend to arrange your baby’s nursery. You can do this online or by drawing a sketch on graph paper. This will serve as a guide when you shop for baby’s furniture. Prepare the space for your little one by cleaning out the room and closet.

Next, you’ll need to start shopping for baby’s furniture. Look for versatile pieces such as cribs with drawers underneath or combo dressers that have a changing table attached. Many cribs are convertible style, which means they can convert to toddler and day beds. These furniture choices are ideal, as they maximize the years your child can use them.

Remember that when it comes to furniture, it’s always best to start with the essentials. Although some furniture sets may appear attractive in price and design, your baby’s nursery may not be able to fit 4 or 5 pieces. Instead, start with the basic crib, changing table/dresser and rocking chair. Then you can add additional pieces if you choose such as an armoire or hutch.

The closet is another place you’ll have to tackle, as not only will it be storing your baby’s clothes, but blankets, swaddles and crib sheets. Purchase inexpensive bins and hanging shelves to place in the closet, which are great for storing these types of items. Shoe holders work great too.

For storing baby’s essentials such as Q-tips, cotton balls and nail clippers, use small clear containers or decorative mugs to place near the changing table. A small table is also ideal next to the rocking chair for feedings. Install two lights; a dim one over the feeding area and a brighter one for the center of the room.

Thanks to modern decorating, you can enjoy simple furniture and accessories that will keep the nursery looking clean and simple. Toys can be kept in wicker baskets and books placed on shelves.

With a little smart planning, your baby’s space, no matter how limited, can go a long way!

Image: thesweetestoccasion.com