What are /r/NewParents' favorite Products & Services?

From 3.5 billion Reddit comments

Nope, it’s the brand name of a diaper rash cream, and both our pediatrician and daycare workers swear by it:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000GCL2B8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_NV5V4411NW5AZKFWME2Q?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

I've really appreciated the Chicco keyfit and caddy combo. It's pretty basic, but doesnt take up much room, and the caddy is pretty cheap (i dont know if youre on a budget). The keyfit car seat is very highly rated and poplular.

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https://www.amazon.com/Chicco-KeyFit-Caddy-Frame-Stroller/dp/B005JDOYF0

My wife and I were very much in the same place. It was important for us to realize that neither of us were wrong. The issue is that a baby is a 24 hour job. If you work 9-5 and then watch the baby all night then then you're working all day without a break, which will burn anyone out. On the other hand, spending all day with a baby is exhausting too. The trap we fell into is that the "fair" thing to do is you take the baby when you get home while she does the house chores. However, guess what, now you're both working all day without a break. So now you're both burnt out (yaaaay kids). Our solution was to hire a babysitter twice a week during the day. Our friend's kid comes over and my wife and her tag team the baby. When one of them is watching the baby the other does household chores. We're still exhausted, but our house is clean now.

In all seriousness, we have a knock off Roomba (Deebot) and it's glorious.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N6QIIEW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_4crVZtU1kUaqG

The plastic cups are much sturdier that I initially thought they would be.

Extra points because they work well during play, too, for hiding smaller toys.

My life got so much easier when I bought this electric nail file. She even giggles when I do it and I never worry about cutting or hurting her.

Babies are weird. Toddlers are nuts. Kids are unpredictable.

You’re probably dealing with either a growth spurt or some mental development burst. Shots can also make the injection site sore for a couple days. Overall I’d do what you can to make you both comfortable and know that it won’t last forever. One day at a time and adopt survival mode until things improve.

Also I highly recommend the Wonder Weeks book (The Wonder Weeks: How to Stimulate Your Baby's Mental Development and Help Him Turn His 10 Predictable, Great, Fussy Phases into Magical Leaps Forward(5th Edition) https://www.amazon.com/dp/9491882163/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_UFldDb2BPV1B0)

I didn’t pick it up until my son was a 6 months or older but it was a huge help to understanding his behavior sometimes.

Good luck Momma. I know it’s hard to trust yourself when you’re sleep deprived but you got this.

Good job sharing the work with your partner! If you are not aware, this is called the third shift.

1st shift - work or childcare during the day. 2nd shift - cleaning, taking children to dentist, cooking. 3rd shift - research, planning, organizing.

When a straight couple thinks it has equally divided the chores it can be something like

1st: 50/50. 2nd: 50/50. 3rd: 90/10.

I found this source in English if someone who reads this is interested: https://www.amazon.com/Third-Shift-Managing-Choices-Careers/dp/0787948543

I also pump and breast feed and had heard of the annoyance beforehand, so I ordered this trolly and it has been a game changer.

No they’re referring to shopping cart covers such as this then you let the baby sit in the shopping cart and push them around like that.

Taco Tuesday playset. Specifically, the avocado. He’s had it since birth but really got into 3mo-6mo.

Fisher-Price Taco Tuesday Gift Set https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DK6QJMM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_87DK8CX95AAMBM29HKPK

Most of the ones I have are text books from university, I was an art history major so I have a lot lol

The one I reach for the most is called 10,000 Years of Art. It’s thick, but small lol. I usually just flip to a page, it’s got small photos of each piece, information about it (year, artist, mediums) and then a small paragraph that I read to him as well. But it’s not really a baby book lol

If you’re looking for baby specific, these look really good

Little Artist Board Book Set https://www.amazon.ca/dp/073535572X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_pGhcGb3BGFH18

This stuff was a life saver for me the first few weeks. I applied after almost every feed and it didn’t bother LO at all.

https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B0011EB814/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_238JND374T6FV06K2EZX?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

Scratch is a language designed to help teach kids programming, aimed at kids 8-16 primarily. For a language that's used for real-world programming as well, I would say python, perhaps with this python for kids book from No Starch Press, a quality tech book publisher.

Ultimately it's not the particular language that's important but learning programming concepts. Picking up a second, third, etc programming language is not nearly as hard as learning the first.

We actually got a little baby bath that has these little wing attachments that fully cover her. They're AMAZING. It was the cheapest baby bath, too. We also play our playtime music during baths, so I think she's always associated it with fun times. We might spoil her a little, but for the first couple of months my husband would fluff her towel in the dryer during the bath and bring it to me warm when we got her out.

Now bath time is her FAVORITE part of the day. We take a bath every night as the start of our wind down bedtime routine.

Edited to add: Summer Bath Sling with Warming Wings https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VFPJUNC/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_ZD91060ZWTMJ4K600CRW

You've got this!

This baby tracker app helped DH and I a lot. Two people can have it on their phones and it syncs between you.

My baby ended up outgrowing her bassinet way faster than I expected. I got this mini crib to keep next to the bed and it’s perfect! Note, I did buy a better mattress for it.

Delta Children Folding Portable Mini Baby Crib with 1.5-inch Mattress, Dark Chocolate https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073YBFQGY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_08J1GJP0QV6XK2ZF32QJ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

Personally I wouldn't trust a used mattress with my kid. We bought this one off Amazon and our girl has slept just fine on it. No need to get something crazy fancy.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004EWG4ZA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_vcopBbJC8M1P8

They make special combs for that. You'll get way more off at a time and flakes won't get stuck in baby's hair so much. Like this: https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.amazon.com/Safety-1st-Cradle-Brush-Comb/dp/B011EVXIIE&ved=2ahUKEwj_g5vGzOnrAhWOUs0KHWbkAMYQFjANegQICxAB&usg=AOvVaw2tCK5OaDkUhiajDZ5OcY-c

Also, Head & Shoulders (maybe other dandruff shampoos too, but this is what I use) works really well as maintenance to keep new patches from forming.

I use this bath support for the baby, and just aim the shower stream to the opposite end of the tub. I can squat down to wash them, and then they can enjoy the mist of the shower while I wash up myself. Started doing this at around 2 months postpartum when one of my babies (boy-girl twins) was a little congested, and it has been so much easier than trying to bathe them any other way!

Edited to add the link I forgot!!

Angelcare Baby Bath Support, Grey

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01M6YVW7B/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_FEDK0RXD39X57WP1XQCC

Swaddling can help with that reflex. Though try as we might we could not swaddle as well as the nurses in the hospital. Someone gave us a velcro swaddle and that helped, though he seemed to always wiggle his arms free. We eventually tried a transition swaddle. It was like a swaddle with arms. It was tight enough on his trunk for him to feel wrapped but he could have his arms free enough that he wasn’t “fighting” the swaddle.

You got this!

Amazing Baby Transitional Swaddle Sack with Arms Up Half-Length Sleeves and Mitten Cuffs, Tiny Elephants, Sterling, Small, 0-3 Months (Parents' Picks https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077669TZ8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_YNdaDODPHj3bX

It will definitely get easier but it will be slow. Keep doing the PT exercises, the torticollis is the cause of the flat head and needs to resolve. A couple of things:

• baby wearing. Have you tried it? R/babywearing can help you fit it if your baby seems to hate it (usually it’s a fit issue). This counts as tummy time, it’ll help with head control and get him off of the flat spot.

• milestonesandmotherhood on Instagram has a nice highlight on torticollis for some other ideas

• if the flat spot is only on the left, it’s ok to still play/talk to him on his back but position yourself so he has to look to the right

• I have seen kids who hate Tummy time have success with these water mats Baby Einstein Octopus Water Play Mat - Safety Fill Line, Tummy Time Activity & Sensory Toy for Babies Newborn and up, Blue https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08V49DHNW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_F9TNP15WM9W59JGHGSQD?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

• have you tried the grass? Or naked? Outside in general, or in water? Some babies are sensitive to textures and clothes and he might dislike the floor or mat. My kid loves to be naked he starts doing things he won’t do with clothes on.

• tummy issues. Sounds like you’re treating reflux which is good. what is he eating? Has a food sensitivity been ruled out? This can cause kids to be fussy for sure.

I mean, it sucks....but basically ferber :/

We used this book to help us, but instead of not touching them, we patted and rubbed her back or head during check-ins. It seemed to work fine! It was one or two nights of hell and then it has been life changing. I was extremely against any kind of sleep training, but my doctor convinced me it was ok to do this method and honestly, we are all happier.

Random thoughts: - If you’re nursing, are you avoiding caffeine? - When you put him down, have you tried both “scooped” (like a snug-a-puppy) and flat (like a bassinet) surfaces? - Have you tried Happiest Baby on the Block soundtrack? (Hair dryer one sometimes works for our second. Always worked for our first.) - Pacifiers? (If you’re not opposed to them and his latch is pretty established) - Have you tried rockers with vibrating motors built in? - Do you have a mobile? (We have a cheap one. The really tinny sound works sometimes, even when top-quality versions of the same songs fail to help when played over our high-end speakers) - Have you checked his temperature? (I’d recommend using a skin thermometer, such as: Braun Forehead Thermometer https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EP1ZLO0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_ElgRBbEK6DAY1) - If he has a low fever, check with his pediatrician to see whether you should give him baby Tylenol. - Does he sleep when you take him for a drive? - When you swaddle, do you make it tight enough that he can’t wriggle at all? (I recommend SwaddleMe, the straight jacket of swaddles)

Hopefully something in here helps? Good luck!

(Edit: my eyes! Formatting.)

As long as you are not a heavy sleeper, you are not intoxicated, you are a non-smoker, and you are not obese, co-sleeping is safe. Make sure to have minimal pillows and blankets and a firm mattress.

If you are breast feeding, I highly recommend co-sleeping for at least the first 3 months and then you can start introducing the crib next to your bed (so you and your partner can get some space and rest, but baby is still very close by).

A lot of recent studies have shown that skin-to-skin and safe co-sleeping is very beneficial to new born babies and may actually reduce the risk of SIDS. It also makes breast feeding much easier and more successful. I will look for a link with more info.

Edit: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0006322311006391 http://babygooroo.com/2011/02/the-case-for-co-sleeping/

These things.

Skip Hop Baby Activity Center: Interactive Play Center with 3-Stage Grow-with-Me Functionality, 4mo+, Explore & More https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01J94K9OY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_ZXCRB074V9KGJ2H19X80?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

Our babe is 3.5 months and always has these in his hands:

Mombella Mimi https://www.amazon.com/dp/B014655KZE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_6HA25N5BT3HWZ08DFQ66

And Manhattan Toy Winkel Rattle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000BNCA4K?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Try curling her legs up underneath her in a fetal position and put a small rolled up towel or something similar underneath her arms and chest. This is a more natural position for newborns and they tend to like it more. Also, tummy time on your shoulder absolutely counts! My baby loved these cards and mirror for tummy time when he was a newborn.

I have the frida nail scissors, frida nail clippers, safety 1st clippers and I’m a certified nail tech and my holy grail has been this e file Baby Nail Trimmer, FANSIDI Baby... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073VBYNH4?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

I can do it when he’s eating or sleeping and it does not bother him. They have different grits for different ages and it works so quick that even if your kid doesn’t like it, it’ll be over before they know it. Good luck!

My daughter was a fountain so we could easily go through a burp cloth every 2 hours most days. We did laundry frequently but it’s nice to have a bunch. I swear by these as burp cloths. Way more absorbent than anything labeled a burp cloth and cheaper too. I think we had two bassinet sheets? For crib sheets we have 5 because two accidents in one night can be stressful otherwise.

ETA: this truncated. I’m working on it!

We had a kiddo with horrific reflux that resulted in projectile vomiting from birth until she was 10months old. Yay.

Things that helped us included:

• Medline Underpads

We put this everywhere! I sat on them during feeds, put her on them for diaper free time, tucked it in along the edges of her crib or bassinet if I needed to shower shortly after a meal.

• Bibs

She wore them constantly.

• Hand towels for burp rags

Easier to clean, cheaper, and so much bigger

• Nakedness

Our child did not wear clothes if she was home. It saved us on loads of laundry. I took to wearing oversized tshirts I could easily swap out.

Just know, this too shall pass. It will suck in the meantime. But this will eventually end.

https://www.amazon.com/Marpac-Hushh-White-Noise-Machine/dp/B01D50RYSC

This is the one I use. It’s got awesome battery life, has withstood many drops on the floor, and plays without stopping. Very portable.

Also, I want to add for your peace of mind - my child received all their shots at their two month appt and there were no adverse reactions besides being fussy and sleeping more that day. Adverse reactions are exceptionally rare! I don’t know what angle you are approaching this from, but something tells me to recommend the book “Brain Health from Birth” by Rebecca Fett. (https://www.amazon.com/Brain-Health-Birth-Nurturing-Development-ebook/dp/B07W6X1RTY/ref=nodl_) Its a great resource that helped me evaluate what was most important for my child when it came to that.

I feel for you. I had some pretty bad pain from my stitches pp. (2nd degree) what helped was LOADING up on the tucks pads (chill them in fridge!!), dermoplast spray and medline perineal pads (they are HUGE and super cold!) Keeping calling your dr and show up if you can, or go to urgent care.

I bite sometimes, but I have an electric file that essentially buffs them down. It’s a life saver. Looks intimidating but it’s perfectly safe and I don’t know if I could live without it.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07B2C8DJD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_G82GZHYTPH3440M479PZ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

This stuff everywhere:

Ortho Home Defense Insect Killer for Indoor & Perimeter Refill 2, 1.33 GAL https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N0TGJW8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_WBPDEKSDSCYVDC8P79C0

I get that lots of people these days want to use DoTerra or oils or whatever shit instead of the big guns, but I don’t have time or patience to test everything out and see what actually works (which I’ve spent too much of my life doing). We have tons of black widows and wolf spiders where I live and having a baby or a dog bitten is not an option!

Press Here (Interactive Book for Toddlers and Kids, Interactive Baby Book) https://www.amazon.com/dp/0811879542/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_0JA9J3MCHJ2PY6TVBGGY

Nerdy Babies: Weather (Nerdy Babies, 4) https://www.amazon.com/dp/1250312329/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_1GQ8TQFS747Y5YCCMJMR

We enjoy both of these. Press here might be a little more fun when he’s a little older, but we enjoy it.

When I nurse on the bed, I nurse on waterproof washable changing pad covers here from Amazon. Literally a massive game changer, they’re soft to lay on, they’re long enough for both my body and baby’s head, it’s a pack of three so don’t have to do laundry too often. I also slept in a nursing bra with nursing pads. It’s rough in the beginning

We have this one and love it.

Not exactly baby gear, but I recommend reading the book Precious Little Sleep now before you are dealing with a newborn. I found it super helpful for understanding infant sleep and knowing what to expect in the newborn days (and beyond really). It's like $15 on Amazon but my library also has it.

Get a really thin muslin sleep sack! We have something like this that’s super lightweight and good for warmer weather - HALO Sleepsack 100% Cotton Wearable Blanket, Aqua Feather, Small https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BMQNWJP/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_4HN0QH8JXVSSHSBJ0RWM?psc=1

This changed my life. Like you I hated washing the pumps and bottles. Found this a few weeks in and it saved me. Sorry no advice for how to reintroduce the bottle, but if you can introduce it early enough then you can always do a bottle or two a day and baby takes it happily.

Another possibility, after reading what you said - we had an issue where LO refused frozen milk because he had fresh his whole life. I ended up making him a cocktail of 1pt fresh, 2pt frozen and he took it fine. Just wanted to let you know because sometimes it's not the bottle they are refusing, its that frozen milk tastes a little different and they want the good stuff.

This has definitely been the go-to monitor for awhile (I also have it), but Anker has released one that is $30 less (see the coupon on product page), bigger screen, better picture. I only mention it because Anker/Eufy has a great reputation for making quality electronics. I would try this one first because the better screen/picture, and it's cheaper. If it didn't work well, Amazon will let you return it easily.

Hey! I have a 4 month old LO, and two indoors only cats that are both 13 years old. They don't and never have bothered the baby. I bought something to stretch over my girl's bassinet during the day to prevent one of the cats from jumping in it when it was empty, and to just prevent them from messing with her while she sleeps in it. I'll try to link the product at the end of my comment.

They were pretty stand-offish for a couple months. They've just recently started sleeping with us again. For awhile, the male cat was purposely pooping in the floor multiple times a week (something he's never done). That was a lot to deal with, but he's nearly stopped now.

I could tell there was some jealousy, just glad they don't bother her. We still don't let them get near her, though, on the rare occasion they try. They're old and grumpy anyway, so I'm just being extra cautious.

It'll get better, but cats are definitely tricky and stubborn, so expect it to possibly take a few months. Best of luck & congratulations ♥️✌️

https://www.amazon.com/Mosquito-Strollers-Bassinets-Carriers-Cradles/dp/B085XTF1SV

>what I can do to help her?

Keep doing what you're doing. Re-assure her there is nothing wrong with bottle and formula feeding. When you get home from work give her some time for herself. The first couple months after birth her hormones are still gunna be out of wack. There's not much you can do to stop her from feeling her feelings.

Fed is best is the right attitude. Does she have relatives that breast fed? Mothers? Sisters? aunts? These are all great resources.

Keep reassuring her everything will work out. At the same time also watch out for postpartum depression. With you going back to work, its going to put a bigger stress on her. Keep a look out for the signs. Get help if you need.

Oh I totally get it. We let out 2 year old watch Disney movie clips when we need to distract her so she’ll take her medicine or occaisionally just to get her to stop wiggling and fighting us during a diaper change.

One other thing I’ll mention though is that the light from electronics has a high proportion of blue light which suppresses the neuro-chemical process that makes us sleepy. There are apps you can get that filter out the blue light to reduce this effect. My wife and I both use f.lux for this, but there are others too.

"Most cervical cancer is caused by a virus called human papillomavirus, or HPV."

https://www.webmd.com/cancer/cervical-cancer/cervical-cancer-topic-overview#1

(This would have been at the top of your Google search if you had bothered to look it up, rather than express doubt.)

How to avoid getting HPV:

"Use latex condoms the right way every time you have sex. This can lower your chances of getting HPV. But HPV can infect areas not covered by a condom – so condoms may not fully protect against getting HPV"

"Get vaccinated."

https://www.cdc.gov/std/hpv/stdfact-hpv.htm

As I said, vaccination is probably just as good a solution or better. From your level of knowledge, I'm assuming you are not vaccinated. Maybe you should look into it.

Common Growth spurt ages (the best I found was a slide here...blah
https://www.slideshare.net/sherryeaxline/indiana-childcare-powerpoint

The common ones I was told (I think form What to Expect the First Year) is 3 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months. That'd be my guess if it isn't teething or environmental changes.

You need this swaddle! I tried quite a few with my baby and this one was a game changer. I was constantly stressed with the other styles and always checking to make sure they weren’t riding up around his face. We’ve all been where you are! The linked one is 100% worth it because it has Velcro in the inside but zips like Jammie’s so they literally can’t get around the baby’s face! It’ll be my go-to baby shower gift from now on. It’s the only way I had enough peace of mind to sleep.

Also, their site usually is cheaper or has deals - it’s from the same company as the Snoo bassinet. But Amazon will be considerably faster shipping and that’ll be worth it.

Have you tried to use the Love To Dream Transition Swaddle? This allows for it to be used as a regular swaddle, unzip for one arm at a time, and then unzip for both arms.

For the scratching, I recommend grinding the nails down to keep them short and dull and then using a onesie with flaps or baby socks instead of mittens. Mittens usually fall off pretty easily, but the socks are nice when the foot part is a little roomy, but the part that goes up the leg would be a little tighter.

We love BIBS pacifiers for this! Pricey but stay in our 7 week old's mouth better than the Mams. She is colicky and difficult to soothe but really took to these.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08FDXM4VX/ref=ppx\_yo\_dt\_b\_asin\_title\_o02\_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I just found these in cute colors and these at a better price

As soon as she could sit up unassisted I bought a cover for the grocery cart, this one to be exact and she comes with me all the time. I did bring her a few times prior to being able to sit up when I only needed a few things that I could fit in the basket of her stroller.

I sterilize once or twice a day...but I use a papablic sterilizer and dryer. Saves me so much time as it's a set it and forget it.

Papablic Baby Bottle Eletric Steam Sterilizer and Dryer https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074M5XZTS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_AGE49WW6SCWS04RK8JDD?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

Maybe look into getting a handheld shower head attachment for your tub? Something like this?

We put old pillows on the ground in front of the tub and kneel on those, way more comfortable than leaning over the tub from the toilet. We also have a plastic tub but never used the sling since it seemed too little.

I bought the book “how to wean your baby” by Charlotte Stirling Reed (UK author) and it has a day by day weaning plan plus recipes which I think is cool. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08DTPKVBJ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_466N0092EFFDTG7FK6JQ

Babyledweanteam on Instagram also have lots of great info and a “100 first foods” plan https://instagram.com/babyledweanteam?utm_medium=copy_link

SnoofyBee Portable Clean Hands Changing Pad. 3-in-1 Diaper Clutch, Changing Station, and Diaper-Time Playmat with Redirection Barrier for use with Infants, Babies and Toddlers (Heathered Grey) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07B3J4CT3/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_3QKZTYP27SVXTJFSWSPF?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

Try clipping the Tiny Love Stroller Arch to your table as a distraction! They’re super handy and available on Amazon. Tiny Love Stroller Arch

They do, you just have to pick the ones that say 'infant and toddler' in the description.

These are great.

Don't worry, I think everything is alright. This is from the baby book by dr Sears on page 188, which has been my go to book for help

Normal noises. Newborns are anything but silent, even when they are asleep. Most

noises are caused by too much air passing too fast through small passages. Here are our

favorite precious sounds: gurgles caused by air passing through pooled saliva in the

back of the mouth; if accompanied by nasal congestion they are a combination of a

snort and a gurgle we call snurgles. A burping sound may pass through mucus in the

mouth or nose and become a blurp or, if accompanied by bubbles, a burble. Normal

breathing may take on a purring quality when air and saliva compete for the same

space. During sleep the already narrow breathing passages relax and become even

narrower, causing each breath to take on either a musical, grunting, or sighing quality.

And don’t forget those delightful birdlike chirps and squeaks. Enjoy these sounds, for

they won’t last long.

here's the link for the book

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0316198269/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0316198269&linkCode=as2&tag=askdcom0c-20

But creative googling can find a pdf also

Hope this helps

We have started using a large washable mat (basically a giant changing pad) on the bed or floor. We have two and always make sure a clean one is ready, rolled up in the diaper caddy.

FYI this is the mat we like - YIVEKO Baby Waterproof Bed Pad... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07YHLVXPC?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Since Father’s Day is coming up, I bought this book for my husband’s first Father’s Day!

Why a Daughter Needs a Dad https://www.amazon.com/dp/1492667838/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_T0NMGBVDDWXY724NSWAJ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

It’s definitely a book for older children, but one you can save a read over and over again. They also have different versions of the same story I believe just different pronouns.

We got ones from cocosand I tried to link it below. They hand a band in the back that is adjustable. They have stayed on my LO head well.

COCOSAND Baby Sunglasses with Strap https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07H19ZCVH/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_3T5CTPNSXTCR9AS62N2A?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

MAM Start Newborn Pacifiers (2 pack, 1 Sterilizing Pacifier Case), Newborn Baby Girl Pacifiers, Best Pacifier for Breastfed Babies, Self Sterilizing Baby Pacifier Case, Baby Pacifiers https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DYOQNKU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_7DZB7Z8Q12KQ3YABXYN1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

I like Janet Lansburies approach. You don’t have to constantly stimulate your baby. Be mindful and attentitive during important activities like eating, diaper change and sleep. That’s when you talk and point and explain important life things. The rest of the time, if your baby is in a safe place/zone and is not crying, then do your own thing. If guilt is the only reason you are considering part-time child-care, then don’t. Think of your child development this way. Let’s say your kid can learn to understand half a word per day. Would you rather this is a play word (“duck goes xxx”) or related to daily activities (“you are drinking milk”)?

Mu favorite toddler book also talks about this “development” anxiety. It brings an example of language development and how parents are reccomended to talk a lot to their kid. And the anxiety of trying to make every moment a lesson. I tried that when my kid was a bit over a year. And it stressed me out to a point that I was avoiding my kids attention, because I didn’t want to talk toddlerees. The book talks how “development” and “developmental toys” is a narrative from the 60s and how it is not based on science but vague suggestions. Yes I know there is plenty of science about how kids who hear more words develop more, but that’s correlation of averages, not causations for your kid.

Be with your kid at important times of the day, the rest of the time, it is ok that he is keeping himself busy like you are.

She’s sleeping on her back on her tummy time matt in our bed. I don’t sleep with her I’ll sleep on the floor or up in the chair. I’m thinking about ordering this https://www.amazon.com/Dream-Me-Foam-Pack-Mattress/dp/B006Z2BZBU/ref=asc_df_B006Z2BZBU/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=198064208285&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=17605276186822670757&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&a...

To me, this is much safer/secure than those sit in floaties and my son loves it. LAYCOL Baby Swimming Pool Float with Removable UPF 50+ UV Sun Protection Canopy,Toddler Inflatable Pool Float for Age of 3-36 Months,Swimming Trainer (Blue, L) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B083TYWB5D/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_4TBM7HTTGQT9SN8TR6X4

Our friend had a sit in ring floatie and her daughter was constantly flipping forward and back and eventually they just had to hold her the whole time. My son was in that inflatable thing and he could float around without a hand on him and I was not worried about him flipping forward or backward. I believe babies have to usually be at least 30 pounds for puddle jumpers.

Obviously always be near them in the water and supervise at all times :) we use tubby todd sunscreen for my son.

We’ve been using this one for our LO for over a year and have been very pleased with it. It has different options for high quality fan sounds and white noise. Lectro Fan

My kiddo liked the ones that vibrate, like this one, but her favorite thing was a silicone straw. 🤷‍♀️

The only way I got any sleep was with a “bedside bassinet.” Might be worth a shot. It really helped with breastfeeding! Bassinet

Does she have wifi? This is kind of expensive, but if you go in on it with family it might not be too bad. It’s a digital photo frame, but anyone with the app can send the photos to it- so you could add baby photos and they will show up on her frame.

https://www.amazon.com/PhotoShare-Friends-Family-Digital-Android/dp/B07VNMTFHQ

I was against co-sleeping but we used this and everyone was able to get some sleep. LO was able to transition out of it around 7-8mos old.

What do you think about a walker? I was eyeing this on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/VTech-80-077000-Sit-to-Stand-Learning-Walker/dp/B000NZQ010/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1488999037&sr=8-2&keywords=baby+walker

Even cheaper without websites I've never heard of. There's a new if different ones on Amazon though. Felicigeely Baby Beach Tent with Pool Pop Up Shade Canopy with UV Protection - Sun Shelter for Infant https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07P9NXFD6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_1ls7Cb2F6SJZC

Have you considered a play gym? It's a mat with a piano at one end and arch that goes over the top with hanging toys. It's WONDERFUL. The piano has stages for different ages and stuff. This one is great: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0793D9WBY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_AulKFbQB69CKN

We started with an Itzbeen and used it for the first couple months, then my wife and I both got android phones to replace our blackberries and we dropped it in favour of the Baby Connect app.

It lets us track and record everything we could ever think of and our favourite part is that it all syncs between our phones so we always have an updated account of what's going on.

I’m sorry your going through this! My husband and I knew family posting pictures without permission was definitely going to be a thing before our baby was born so we set boundaries and now when our family wants to post a picture they know to ask us first.

We also use an app called FamilyAlbum where we can invite only certain family members and post all of our pictures without it being tied to any other social media site at all. If they post something without our permission I’ll just delete their access to the app... Most of the older family members don’t know how to get the pictures from that app to FaceBook anyways.

FamilyAlbum

We have this toothbrush and our daughter loves it. It’s fun for her and I think it also feels good on her gums when she’s teething. Sometimes she lets me get some brushes in while she holds it, but most of the time she just chews on it. But since it vibrates it still cleans her teeth.

I have a toothbrush that vibrates! I'll link it below. It's small and my son loved clamping down on it at first.

What helps is I make it into a fun little game. He's always trying to turn around on the counter and grab at things, so I grab a soap or something and hold it up above my head so he looks at me. I go "say ahhhh" and open my mouth wide. You may need to pretend to stick the brush in your mouth the first couple times. Aim to brush the bottom best you can and take breaks if you need to. Then do the top. Laugh, sing, make faces, do whatever it takes to make brushing a good association.

My son was determined to just suck on the brush for a while or hold it, but after he got that out of his system, he's been a real breeze as long as we take a break after we do bottom teeth. Dad sometimes comes in and gets him laughing if he has a difficult night.

Here's what I'm using: Baby Electric Toothbrush, Toddler Teeth Brushes with Smart LED Timer and Sonic Technology for Infants Ages 0-3 Years (Blue) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07XP17LFJ/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_XYF2W0JYS7RN205QXM6A?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

For cleaning post blowout try this: FOLEX Instant Carpet Spot Remover, 32oz 2 Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CQ52BP8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_4aEZCHvRFb9M3

It’s literal magic. Got set in spaghetti sauce stains out of my husbands white undershirt. Got out set in cat vomit stains from the carpet. And is yet to fail me on a blowout. I spray it very liberally. Blot it with a set of washcloths I have set aside for that purpose then toss the clothes in the hamper to await washing. Wash it like normal and stain never existed.

If my toddler does run into the open road, I will probably shout “No!” And grab her arm and pull her away from the road. Then I would get down to her level and explain why it’s dangerous to run out into the road. Reserving “No” for these situations also gives more gravity to the word and will increase the chance of your child to listen too.

I would recommend this book in regard to discipline:

No Bad Kids: Toddler Discipline Without Shame

I got these: MANGATA CASA Kids Star Blackout Curtains Grommet Thermal 2 Panels for Bed Room,Cutout Galaxy Window Curtain Darkening Drapes for Nursery Living Room(Black 52x84in) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QSSPSWB/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_6SPEXA0Z4W3X6NXQKQE4?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

They let just a little light in but it’s the perfect amount.

My baby girl is the same! You know how most babies dislike tummy time? This girl prefers it to laying on her back, good for her I guess. But same issue as you, sleeps on her tummy 100% of the time. She does know how to flip back and forth. I don’t know how this girl doesn’t wake her self up at night, she’s like a flap jack all night all long. I considered getting this fitted bed sheet that has like Velcro wings to keep baby in place since she moves sooo much: Baby Brezza Safe Sleep Swaddle Blanket for Crib Safety for Newborns and Infants – Safe, Anti-Rollover Blanket in White, by Tranquilo Reste https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07968H54T/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_GEFKPJKVYT949Z6X4Y33

I wear a 38DDD now that I’m nursing, and really like the “Cake Maternity Cotton Candy Wirefree Nursing Bra”. It doesn’t do much for shape, but I found that I sort of spilled out of the top of my nursing bras when I was engorged, creating a quad boob situation. These are pretty full coverage and awesome for sleeping or just wearing around the house.

Cake Maternity Cotton Candy Wirefree Nursing Bra for Breastfeeding, Seamless Maternity Sleep Bra https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B86F0F0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_KYQ56VZDQHWJETGX1XA7?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

The hospital made us watch a DVD and sent us home with a copy called The Period of Purple Crying that goes into how sometimes babies become inconsolable and it can grate on the parents, and the best thing to do is to put your baby down in a safe space and walk away, to prevent Shaken Baby Syndrome.

You did the exact right thing here, don't let anyone tell you differently. Parenting is hard. You kept your baby safe and took care of yourself in a moment of need, which also means you're equipped to set a good example down the road of good self care. Sounds like you're a pretty good parent, in my opinion.

There’s usb-charged fans you can get! 100 is too hot but I take my dude (14 weeks) out if it’s below 85 and he does fine with the fan on him. I got this one: WiHoo Mini Handheld Stroller... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07SN457HS?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

The fifth trimester is one I would recommend for that. A few coworkers of mine recommended it to me. My wife really enjoyed it.

https://www.amazon.com/Fifth-Trimester-Working-Sanity-Success/dp/0385541414/ref=nodl_

We just bought this backpack cooler and with a few ice packs it held up really well on a very hot 6 hour car ride. I had frozen milk with me, and even the smaller 3 ounce bags were still almost completely solid when we arrived.

Fisher-Price Rainforest Music Lights Deluxe Gym Amazon Exclusive, Multicolor https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072LPBHY8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_SZE79M03V96PB3KKDMYM There is a setting such that the tuscan plays music only when the baby hits a toy and I put some extras as she loves kicking with both legs. Also used loops so I can adjust the height of those toys as her reach gets better. Its helping with her development as well. Only thing that worked for us but again every kid is different.

We use this for our VERY wiggly 8 MO. Love it! https://www.amazon.com/Summer-Infant-Bathtub-Backrest-Stability/dp/B078941ZC8/ref=sr\_1\_4?dchild=1&keywords=baby+seat+for+tub&qid=1626810631&rdc=1&s=baby-products&sr=1-4

https://www.amazon.com/SOULWIT-Management-Silicone-Organizer-Fastening/dp/B0928VJDZ3/ref=mp_s_a_1_11?dchild=1&keywords=cable+management&qid=1626721257&sprefix=cable+&sr=8-11

I use this kit for everything. I’ve used it for sprinkler controllers in my garage, cabling by our beds, behind TVs and what have you. Shoot I even use it in the kitchen for my stand mixer, blender and coffee maker.

But it’s adhesive so I do not know if it’s against your rental agreement or not.

They sell them in these little squeeze tubes. This was the first one I found on amazon.

I've seen them also at target in smaller sizes. Drug stores etc. But I'd get a squeeze tube so y'all don't tear each other apart. And yeah, you can also put it in another type of container (but again, I'd just suggest a squeeze tube or something, so I'd save yourself the time/mess of transferring and just buy it but that's me).

Also, fair warning from my personal experience... The "Butt Paste" stuff never worked as well for my little guy as aquaphor. My baby is mixed/Black though and aquaphor can cure literally anything for him or his dad so! Just our 2 cents haha. Best of luck to y'all!

We bought this playpen off of Amazon, not sure if you can get it in your country. It's a very nice size. Two adults can be in there and there's still plenty of room for LO.

https://www.amazon.com/ANGELBLISS-Activity-Anti-Slip-Breathable-Toddlers/dp/B08ZS53T8T/

Toys? Books? Maybe a blanket to put on the floor of wherever you’re staying so he can play there or in case he gets cold in the car? Whatever kind of cup you use for water at mealtimes? Stroller? Sound machine if you use one? This blackout curtain that is super easy to put up? Extra sheets for the pack n play? Baby carrier? Bath supplies? Spoons and bowls for the baby food? Burp cloths if he’s still spitting up?

Also, instead of paper towels, what about water wipes? These are my favorite thing to take on trips because it’s like having a wet paper towel everywhere you go. Great for spit up, snotty noses, food messes, dirt, etc. I keep them in my diaper bag at all times.

Example: LFOTPP Car Window Sun Shade for Mazda CX-5 2017-2019 2020 2021, 6PCS Mesh Cover Curtain Magnet Type, Breathable Mesh Sun Shield, Protect Baby/Pet from Heat https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07F21QR8M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_7KWB5MS356Q0CN3M40KF

Ashtonbee Baby Playpen Activity Area Play Yard with Multicolor Indoor Safety Gates, 16-Panel Portable Play Pens for Babies and Toddlers https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DY76FT1/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_606JJ5RM011C0KQ09D21?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

There's a bunch of recipes on google for rashes but please be careful because the wrong things can make the rash worse. When my baby was first born he had this rash that would not go away with anything for 2 months!! Then I tried the stuff called Pinxav and it cleared it right up. Its on Amazon for like 9 bucks

Of course please do your own research and read reviews. From my personal experience it was amazing diaper cream and it also has this stuff it in that helps with the pain, i think its eucalyptus or clove or something. It smells weird and will stain your clothes but it has pretty good ingredients. Check it out

In the U.K.. they have a double nappy system. Reusable or disposable swim diaper with a neoprene ‘nappy’ over the top. Something like the below. The neoprene over-layer also prevents the diaper underneath from getting huge and saggy. Toddlers have to wear these (or equivalent) for swimming at our local pools until potty trained.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Splash-About-Improved-Vintage-months/dp/B0711C42FR/ref=asc_df_B0711C42FR/?tag=googshopuk-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=310175548777&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=11238422224021930012&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt...

This one. It’s a bit expensive but totally worth it and they go on sale often. We got ours at Kohl’s for around $200 at like a “Memorial Day Sale” or something like that.

This is how I get ready in the morning with baby https://www.amazon.com/Fisher-Price-GGD48-Sit-Me-Up-Floor-Seat/dp/B07FG5XQ49/ref=sr\_1\_2?dchild=1&keywords=sit+up+baby+sit&qid=1623861529&rdc=1&sr=8-2

This is the one mentioned above. Happy manicuring!

Baby Nail Clippers 20 in 1 by Royal Angels Baby | Safe Electric Baby Nail Trimmer, Baby Nail File Kit, Additional Replacement Heads, Newborn Toddler Toes and Fingernails, Trim and Polish (Pink) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077PZYTT8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_A7974JVW082NC665BNHK

This jug saved my life. Okay maybe that’s a little dramatic but it has really helped waste less time making Individual bottles and has made baby waaay less gassy.