For all you parents to be or those needing gift ideas for new parents, the following list of 13 items are things that have helped me along the parenting adventure. Even though we are all so different in our activities and disciplinary styles, I think this list can get anyone started.
1. Cloth Diapers- If you wish to go the full cloth diaper route, I would recommend
Bum Genius brand. They are one size and work well at keeping in the messes holding up to 12 oz. of fluid There original model has a cloth liner you wash and their new organic line has the liner (made of the organic cotton) attached.
gDiapers are a cloth hybrid innovation and option if you want to try cloth diapers but enjoy disposable convenience. They are composed of three parts, the Little g pant, snap-in liner, and a flushable insert. The flushable insert can be flushed, composted, or tossed. I use these usually for bedtime.
Other well known cloth diaper companies that I have heard good things about are: Fuzzi Bunz, Kissaluvs, and Kushies.
2. Diaper Backpack - There are many backpacks out there that are not meant for being a diaper bag. My recommendation is to find one that is not too large but had several external and internal compartments. One I particularly like is the Dakine girls
mission backpack has great compartments and fits comfortably on a womens frame. The Student and Merit paks from
Jansport are also good options (a lttle bigger). There are tons of packs to choose from at sport supply stores, make sure you try them on and inspect the internal and external systems. Usually womens packs are more comfortable, but not always.
3. Boppy - good for feeding, to train the baby to sit, tummy time, prenatal sleep, bumper in play areas, etc.
4. New Balance running or walking shoes. New Balance has proven to be a great shoe company specializing in hard core support, stability, and cushioning. I ended up wearing a pair of NB 1061 running shoes for the greater part of my pregnancy and still wear the same pair for walking and around the house. The New Balance support system helped to protect my joints while carrying the additional weight. My new pair, the 1224 have helped me get back into running and make me feel super light on my feet. The NB brand is great for post partum because of the extra cushioning as you lose your pregnancy weight. The NB 1224 helps you ease into activity. I felt wobbly when first trying to go for a fast walk , hike, or run. Everyone favors different brands and fits, so my recommendation here is a gift certificate from the local sport store (for mom).
5. New Balance Profile Crop sport bra. The Profile Crop is a nursing friendly, high impact sports bra with
three points of adjustability for a customized fit. The bra is equipped with an adjustable bottom band, removable pads and padded hook & loop straps with internal stabilizers. The Lightning DryTM moisture-wicking liner features engineered pockets to hold a nursing pad while a front locking zipper ensures a secure fit during rigorous workouts and easy access for nursing.
6. Activity Gym - This is a mat that babies lay on with toys dangling above. There are many makes and models. You cannot go wrong with any of them. A must have!
7. Kelty TC 2.1 - This is a large lightweight backpack with a five point baby harness holding a padded adjustable height child seat that can be synched in when not in use. I use this in the kitchen, traveling, walks, nordic skiing, etc. Babies love the constant movement and will suck on the handles. The pack is big enough to store several books, clothing, diapers, groceries, etc. There is also a zip off diaper bag with shoulder straps, mesh side pockets and toy loops. The pack has a sternum strap, padded waistbelt, adjustable padded back panel, and padded shoulder straps. It functions like an external frame hiking pack but is streamlined to fit in small places. It also has an internal aluminum frame enabling you to stand it up on the floor.
8. Exersaucer - I would recommend registering for an exersaucer of any kind. It is great for babies about 3- 4 months and up. When they start holding their head up, they are ready. Sometimes you can get them from friends whose baby is beyond this stage.
9. Bundle Me JJ Cole makes a great line of car seat and stroller liners. It makes it all the more easy to leave the house. Instead of bundling your baby, just put in car seat or stroller and zip up. They are good for when it is snowing or raining. You can simply cover them up with the blanket from head to toe
10. Bumbo The Bumbo will help your baby learn to sit up. At about 8-12 weeks babies usually start holding their head up. The bumbo is the perfect complement to tummy time and they can see the world from another perspective.
11. Super Baby Food book by Ruth Yaron. This book talks all about making your own baby food, age appropriate foods, behavior, nutrition, etc. Even if you are not planning to make your own food, this book is an invaluable resource.
12. Swaddles - I have several (in each size) and they all are the
kiddopotamous brand, though I have heard the
miracle swaddles are great too. I swaddle for nap times and bedtime STILL and my baby is over 6 months.
13. Bottles - My favorite brands, or should I say my baby's favorite brands are Avent and Nuby. The Nuby sippy cup is a great bottle crossover because it has a soft bottle like nipple. Both brands can be found at most supermarkets and are BPA free. Most bottle brands are available in BPA models now.
One last piece of advice, if you are stuck in an airport and out of diapers, the airlines usually have some, just ask an agent. Also, the frequent flier private clubs may have a stash. The only airport diaper retailer I know of is Hudson News and their assortment is pretty slim.
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