5 Tips for Preparing Baby Food at Home

As your baby grows up, their feeding needs will change. If you’re interested in giving your baby home-cooked, healthy first foods and beyond, you’ll want to keep reading to learn some tips on how to safely prepare baby food at home.

1. Be Clean

Babies have sensitive systems that need a lot of care. Just like you wash your hands before you eat, it’s highly recommended that you wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 30 seconds before beginning to cook your baby food. Always wash your hands after touching raw meat, seafood, or poultry. Beyond cleaning your hands, you’ll also need to make sure that all of your surfaces, utensils, and tools are clean. A great way to clean your blender is to half-way fill it with soap and water and turn it on for 15 to 30 seconds before washing out the pitcher with soapy water. This will get your blades totally clean. Remember to always wash your tasting spoon between taste tests. This will help keep your baby safe from unwanted bacteria.

2. Prep Properly

In order to successfully complete the task, you’ll need to properly prepare your ingredients. Grains and cereals should be cooked according to the package instructions before puréeing them. It’s also a good idea to mix cereals and grains with breastmilk or formula to thin it out some. Hard fruits and vegetables should be steamed, baked, or boiled before puréeing or milling. Peel, pit, or strain fruits and veggies as needed. Sweet potatoes, carrots, peas, bananas, peaches, and pears are good simple choices for a baby’s first fruits and vegetables. Meats and poultry should be trimmed and skinned before puréeing them. Minced lamb, chicken, turkey, and beef are popular choices. Water, breastmilk, or formula can be used to reach the desired consistency. Reserve chunkier consistencies for when your baby is a more experienced eater.

3. Add Healthy Flavor

Unseasoned foods are a great start for baby’s first solid eats. Doing so will help protect the still developing taste buds and delay them developing cravings for less healthy food options early in life. When attempting to dial up the flavor of foods, opt for more healthy additions like cinnamon, mint, or basil. Herbs and spices provide some added flavor in a more health conscious way. To sweeten a purée, try adding a little fruit like peaches or pears instead of sugar or agave. Do your best to keep your flavors clean and simple, and your baby will grow up with a taste for healthier food options.

4. Safely Feed and Serve

Before you feed your baby, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water. Food should be kept at the right temperature, and never be left out at room temperature for more than one hour. If you’re ever unsure about the freshness of your baby’s food, throw it out. Use child safe spoons to decrease the likelihood of injuring their mouth. And when your child is old enough for finger foods, be sure to use pasteurized products. It’s also a good idea to make sure that all food items like eggs and meats are cooked to temperature.

5. Store Properly

Your homemade baby food needs to be properly stored for best results. Foods can be kept for one to two days in the refrigerator and up to two months in the freezer. Warm leftovers on the stove and let them cool down to a safe temperature before feeding.

Give your baby a good start with healthy food options straight from your kitchen. As your baby continues to grow and becomes a more confident eater, you can slowly begin to introduce the baby to what the rest of the family is eating.

9 Tips for Taking Care of a Newborn

Welcoming a newborn into the world is a miraculous and transformative experience, but it can also be an overwhelming one. With a whirlwind of emotions and a steep learning curve, new parents face countless challenges and uncertainties. In such circumstances, acute knowledge of what to expect and how to deal with it can be handy.

So, to assist with the proper care of your newborn, we have listed practical advice and proven strategies. Let’s get started.

Understand Your Newborn’s Needs

One of the most crucial aspects of newborn care is understanding and responding to your baby’s needs. From their first cry to their subtlest gestures, babies communicate in various ways. Pay close attention to their cues, such as hunger, sleepiness, or discomfort, and respond accordingly. This attentiveness not only helps you meet their needs but also fosters a strong bond and attachment between you and your baby.

Creating a secure and loving environment is essential for your baby’s emotional development. Spend quality time together, engaging in skin-to-skin contact, cuddling, and soothing them with your voice. These moments of connection help build trust and lay the foundation for a healthy parent-child relationship.

Practice Proper Health Care

Regular pediatrician visits play a vital role in monitoring your baby’s growth and development. These appointments provide an opportunity to address any concerns, track milestones, and administer necessary vaccinations. Ensure you follow your pediatrician’s advice and be proactive in addressing any health concerns. Remember that some health complications, such as cerebral palsy, can have life-long effects on your child, so it’s crucial to take the necessary actions. If you suspect that your child may have cerebral palsy due to medical negligence or you need support and information on managing the condition, don’t hesitate to work with a legal team to get answers.

Additionally, keep an up-to-date record of your baby’s immunizations and medical history, and contact your healthcare provider if you notice any unusual symptoms or behaviors. Familiarize yourself with common conditions, and consult your pediatrician for advice on prevention, identification, and treatment.

Master the Art of Feeding

Feeding your newborn is a significant responsibility and plays a vital role in their growth and development. Whether you choose to breastfeed or formula-feed, it’s essential to establish a consistent feeding routine that meets your baby’s nutritional requirements. Keep in mind that every baby is different, so it may take some trial and error to find what works best for you and your little one.

Breastfeeding offers numerous benefits for both mother and baby, but it can also be challenging, especially in the beginning. Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from a lactation consultant or your pediatrician if you encounter any issues. If you opt for formula feeding, ensure that you’re using the correct type and amount, following the manufacturer’s guidelines. Regardless of your feeding choice, always be vigilant for signs of feeding issues, such as poor weight gain, excessive fussiness, or digestive problems, and consult your healthcare provider when necessary.

Ensure Safe Sleep Practices

Creating a safe sleep environment for your newborn is of utmost importance. To reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related accidents, follow the “ABC” rule: babies should sleep Alone, on their Back, and in a Crib. Avoid using loose bedding, pillows, or stuffed animals, as these can pose suffocation hazards.

In addition to safety, establishing a consistent sleep routine will benefit both you and your baby. While newborns don’t have a regular sleep pattern yet, you can still begin to develop a bedtime ritual, such as a warm bath, gentle massage, or soft lullaby. This routine will help signal to your baby that it’s time to sleep and promote a sense of security and comfort.

Make Diapering a Breeze

Diapering is a crucial part of newborn care, and mastering this skill will make your parenting journey smoother. Start by selecting the right diaper size and type for your baby, considering factors like absorbency, fit, and personal preferences, such as eco-friendliness. Always keep a well-stocked supply of diapers and wipes on hand to ensure you’re prepared for any situation. When changing diapers, follow proper hygiene practices by cleaning your baby’s bottom thoroughly with gentle, fragrance-free wipes. Be sure to change diapers promptly when they’re soiled to prevent diaper rash and apply a barrier cream when necessary. If your baby does develop diaper rash, consult your pediatrician for advice on the best treatment options.

Keep Your Baby Clean and Comfortable

Bathing your newborn can be an enjoyable experience, but it’s essential to approach it with care. During the first few weeks, sponge baths are recommended until the umbilical cord stump falls off. After that, you can transition to tub baths, ensuring the water temperature is comfortably warm (about 100°F or 38°C) and using a gentle, tear-free baby wash.

When choosing baby care products, opt for hypoallergenic, fragrance-free options to avoid irritation. Be diligent in maintaining your baby’s hygiene, paying special attention to their face, hands, and diaper area. Remember to keep their nails trimmed to prevent accidental scratches and keep their ears clean using a soft cloth.

Safeguard Your Home

As your baby grows and becomes more curious about their surroundings, it’s vital to babyproof your home to ensure their safety. Begin by securing large furniture to the walls, covering electrical outlets, and installing safety gates at the top and bottom of staircases. Keep hazardous substances, such as cleaning products and medications, out of reach.

Select age-appropriate toys and gear for your baby, ensuring they’re free of small parts that could pose a choking hazard. Regularly inspect your baby’s belongings for wear and tear, repairing or discarding anything that may cause harm.

Encourage Development and Stimulation

Supporting your newborn’s development starts with understanding their milestones and providing appropriate stimulation. Engage your baby in age-appropriate play and activities, such as tummy time, grasping toys, or playing peekaboo. These activities help strengthen their muscles and develop motor skills, as well as cognitive and social abilities.

Expose your baby to a variety of sensory experiences, incorporating music, reading, and language into their daily routine. This exposure will help build their auditory and language skills and foster a love for learning from an early age.

Trust Your Instincts

As you navigate the world of newborn care, remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Trust your instincts and listen to your baby’s unique needs, adapting your parenting style as necessary. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed at times, but with patience, practice, and perseverance, you’ll gain the confidence to make informed decisions that are best for your baby and your family.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to other parents, healthcare professionals, or online communities for support and advice. Sharing experiences and learning from others can be incredibly valuable as you embark on this incredible journey called parenthood.

Dangers of Feeding Baby Formula to Infants

Breastfeeding an infant is crucial. A mother’s milk comprises much nutritional value, which is vital for the baby’s development. Hence, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has recommended that American mothers exclusively breastfeed their infants for at least the first 6 months.

However, many mothers cannot breastfeed their children for as long as they intend to. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, around 60% of mothers don’t breastfeed their children for the recommended period. There can be many reasons, such as lactation and latching, the mother taking medication while breastfeeding, lack of parental leave, etc.

Hence, many families opt for baby formulas as an alternative to breast milk. The use of such formulas is constantly increasing. According to a market analysis by the Allied Market Research firm, the US baby formula market is expected to reach $6,784.7 million by 2030.

While baby formulas can be an alternative to breast milk, they also pose some dangers to the baby. It’s essential to know the risks associated with feeding your infant formula before making a decision that could impact your child’s health for years to come.

Baby Formulas and Allergies

Formula-fed babies are also more likely to develop allergies, which proteins may cause in cow’s milk, soy, and other ingredients in baby formula. Breastfed infants for at least six months have a lower risk of developing food allergies later in life.

The primary cause of baby formula allergies in infants is the cow’s milk present in those formulas. According to data from the National Health Service (NHS) website, around 7% of babies are allergic to cow’s milk.

Increased Risk of Developing Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC)

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a severe infection that can occur in the intestines of newborns. It can be fatal if not treated and is most common in premature babies. In some cases, feeding formula may play a role in causing NEC, but other factors are also at play here.

For instance, a study published on the NCBI website shows that low-weight preterm babies are at a 2% to 7.5% increased risk of developing NEC, whereas extremely low-weight kids are at an increased risk of between 5% to 22%.

Most cases of NEC occur in premature infants fed formula instead of breast milk. These infants are more likely to develop NEC because the formula does not contain the nutrients needed for proper intestinal development. As a result, their guts are unable to process fats and proteins properly, which causes them to become malnourished and unable to fight off infections.

Manufacturers must warn parents of these risks. However, they have failed to do so. Hence, many parents of children who developed NEC due to baby formula have filed a lawsuit against these manufacturers. If your baby has shared the same fate, you can file the Toxic Baby Formula NEC Lawsuit against the formula’s manufacturer. Hire a professional attorney to help you file the claim, gather the required evidence, and win the lawsuit.

Result in Lower IQ

It’s important to note that formula is not as good for brain development as breast milk. Many studies have been conducted to prove this. A study published in the Frontiers Journal shows breastfed girls’ greater intelligence quotient (IQ) and social intelligence (SI).

The study was conducted on 111 girls aged between 7 to 9 years. The study concluded that 35% of breastfed girls showed above-average IQs compared to 23% of girls who consumed baby formulas.

Baby formula can cause a lot of deficiencies, including protein, vitamin B, zinc, and iron. These deficiencies can impact the brain’s development. Hence, baby formulas can lead to lower IQ and SI.

Increased Risk of SIDS

According to the KidsHealth website, the risk of SIDS is highest in the first 4 months, when babies are most susceptible to infections. Hence, the AAP recommends breastfeeding as the best way to reduce your baby’s risk of SIDS.

However, if you choose not to breastfeed or cannot breastfeed, there are ways to lower your infant’s chances of dying from SIDS:

● Don’t use pre-mixed formula until your baby reaches 6 months old and can sit up unassisted and take food by mouth. If you use these formulas before your baby is 6 months old, make sure they’re made according to label instructions, and don’t add anything else like cereal or juice.

● Don’t give babies any other liquids except water at night, since it can cause them not enough oxygen throughout the night which could lead to death during sleep time due to lack of oxygen supply throughout body organs such as brain tissue, etc.

Baby Formulas Can Increase Risk of Diabetes

In addition to being high in sugar and fat, baby formulas also contain ingredients that can increase your child’s risk of diabetes. Diabetes is a serious health condition that affects over 29 million people in the United States alone. It increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer, kidney disease, and other complications such as eye problems or nerve damage.

High sugar in baby formula can lead to an increased risk of diabetes. On the other hand, breastfeeding can reduce the chances. According to a study published in the BMC Journal, a monthly increase in exclusive breastfeeding resulted in 0.83 times lower chances of diabetes mellitus.

Baby Formulas Can Increase Risk of Heart Disease

When you’re feeding your baby formula, you may be surprised to learn that there are some significant differences between breast milk and baby formula. While breast milk contains more calcium and less sodium than infant formula, it also has less cholesterol and saturated fat, making it less likely to increase the risk of heart disease later in life.

Baby formulas tend to be higher in sodium than breast milk because they’re designed to mimic the nutrients found in cow’s milk but this can lead to long-term health problems like high blood pressure and obesity later on. In addition, some brands

contain added trans fats or excessive amounts of sugar. These ingredients have been linked with an increased risk of diabetes among children who consumed them as infants.

Conclusion

Parents should be aware of the dangers of feeding their babies formula. And despite what some people may tell you, there is no “right” choice regarding feeding your baby. Parents should do their research and make an informed decision based on what they find out about each type of infant food before deciding which one they want to use on their child.

How to Help Your Baby with their Gross Motor Skills

As a parent, you want to do everything you can to help your child grow and develop. One area of development that is important for babies is gross motor skills. Gross motor skills involve the use of large muscles in the body, such as those in the arms and legs. These skills are important for movement and coordination. This blog post will discuss how you can help your baby develop their gross motor skills and also provide some tips on how to make this process fun for both you and your child!

1) Give your baby plenty of tummy time

Tummy time is an important part of a baby’s gross motor development. It helps them develop strength, coordination, and balance while becoming more familiar with their environment. Tummy time should be done on a regular basis to ensure your baby reaches their developmental milestones.

When starting out, you should begin by ensuring that your baby is comfortable during tummy time and look out for baby red cheeks which signals over exertion. Place a soft blanket or mat underneath them and make sure the surface is smooth and free from any debris. Place toys around them that are safe for babies to explore as this can help keep their attention and encourage them to move around. During the first few sessions of tummy time, start by only having it for short periods of 5-10 minutes at a time and gradually increase the length over time as your baby gets used to it.

It’s also important to give verbal encouragement and praise during tummy time so your baby knows that they’re doing well. This can help motivate them to keep going for longer periods of time, as well as build their self-esteem. Additionally, you can use songs or games to make tummy time more fun for your child – this encourages movement while stimulating their minds at the same time!

2) Encourage your baby to move around

Your baby needs plenty of time to crawl, walk, jump and explore their environment. This helps them develop their gross motor skills while also teaching them cause and effect. As a parent, it’s important to create an environment that encourages movement. Invest in toys and activities that will help promote this type of activity such as balls, tunnels or even a small trampoline. When playing with your child, make sure you provide plenty of opportunities for movement by giving verbal prompts such as “Walk over here!” or “Let’s jump together!”

It’s also important to ensure that you’re creating a safe space for your baby to move around in. Place plenty of pillows and soft surfaces around to cushion any falls, as well as any sharp corners that may cause an injury. If you have stairs in your home, use a safety gate or other barriers so your baby doesn’t try to explore them unsupervised.

3) Provide plenty of physical activities

Physical activity is essential for your baby’s gross motor development. This can include anything from walks in the park to playing on swings and trampolines. You should also look for age-appropriate classes, such as swimming, that focus on motor skills and coordination. These types of classes are a great way to introduce your baby to new activities while providing them with plenty of opportunities to practice their skills in a safe environment.

Additionally, you should make sure you’re encouraging physical play at home too. Set up obstacle courses, build towers out of pillows or do some pretend sports like kicking a ball back and forth – these activities will help your baby learn important gross motor skills while also having fun!

4) Make sure your baby gets plenty of rest

Rest and sleep are just as important for a baby’s gross motor development as physical activity. Make sure your baby is getting regular naps throughout the day, as well as nighttime sleep, so they have the energy to explore their environment and practice their skills.

It’s also important to create a calming bedtime routine that helps them wind down before going to sleep. Reading books, playing soothing music or giving your baby a warm bath can all help with relaxation and encourage longer periods of sleep.

In conclusion, helping your baby develop their gross motor skills is an important part of parenting. By providing plenty of tummy time, encouraging them to move around and introducing physical activities into their routine, you can rest assured that your child will be able to reach all the necessary milestones for their age. Doing these things not only helps with your baby’s development but also creates opportunities for bonding and playtime for both you and your child. With a little patience and dedication, you can ensure that your baby is reaching all their developmental goals!

 

The First Year Of Your Baby Is One Of The Hardest, Here’s Why

The first year of having your child is often going to be the hardest. This is not necessarily because of the baby themselves, but more all of the things that come with having them. In fact, the newborn stage is one that a lot of people find the easiest, as they dread the toddler stage. But, that’s a long way off at the moment and you need to concentrate on getting through this first year, where some people struggle more than others. In this article, we’re going to be talking about how you can get through the first year of your new baby, and how you can enjoy it at the same time. Keep reading down below if you would like to find out more. 

 

Poorly Baby

The first problem that you might encounter with your baby is if they get sick. Colds are pretty common in children, but it can be worrying if you have a new baby. You should be taking your baby to see the doctor if they are under three months and have the signs of a cold because it impacts babies differently than the rest of us. In some cases, there is nothing that can be done other than to give them medicine and wait for them to get better as you would with anyone else. However, this can be extremely difficult. It’s not the easiest thing to watch your baby have a snotty nose or a cough and not do anything about it, but it’s something that happens to everyone.

We recommend that you have all of the essentials to deal with a cold, and make sure that they are remaining hydrated. Lots of snuggles are going to be needed here, whether that’s for your sake or for theirs doesn’t matter.

Reflux

Reflux can be tricky to deal with if your baby experiences this. It usually gets better on its own the older your baby gets, so just hang in there because there will come a day where you’re not covered in baby sick! Reflux is where your baby is bringing up milk during or shortly after their feed, and it’s pretty common. In some cases if the reflux is severe then you will need to speak to a medical professional, but usually it’s nothing to worry about.

Reflux will mean that you are doing a lot of laundry for the first couple of months, and that you should always have a muslin handy. It’s just something that you’ve got to get through, and we know that you can do it.

Sleep Regression

Have you found yourself in the situation where your baby was sleeping absolutely perfectly, in a nice routine and then they just stopped? It seems like the world is ending when you are no longer able to get those precious hours of sleep because your baby doesn’t want to sleep for more than 10 minutes at a time, we know. This is likely to happen a few times as your child gets older, and we know that it’s tough but it’s not their fault. For example, the 4-month sleep regression is going to be one of the most difficult, and you are likely to be more exhausted from lack of sleep than you will be by the 12 month mark. 

Sleep regression happens often at key developmental leaps, but not everyone experiences these regressions. Some babies continue to sleep absolutely fine, and some don’t. As with all other things, it will end and your baby will sleep again, we promise. 

Adjusting To A New Life

When you have a baby, you are adjusting to a completely new life. Things have been thrown upside down, and even if you have another child, no two are exactly alike. Adjusting to having more children, or your first child can be tough because it’s vastly different from what you are used to. This in itself is going to be draining, piled on top of everything else that you have got to do and think about, it’s not easy to manage. The best advice that we can give you is to not be afraid to ask for help and support when you feel like you need it. Lean on those around you and let them help where they can. You do not have to do it all alone.

Learning To Communicate

During the first year, you will start to learn what your baby’s cries mean as they can’t talk to you. They cannot communicate through words so they use their voice to scream instead. We know that this can be frustrating, but it’s the only way that they know to get your attention. But, you will notice that each cry sounds slightly different depending on what the problem is. For example, the cry for when they are tired will sound different to when they have soiled their diaper and need a change. 

You should pick this up without thinking about it too much, but some babies make it a little more difficult than others. As such, the learning to communicate period can be difficult, but you will do it, even if you think you can’t.

Constantly Feeling Overwhelmed And Exhausted

Finally, there is the general feeling of being overwhelmed and exhausted all the time. Yes, it’s normal. Yes, it’s okay to feel this way. We know that you likely feel as though you can’t do this, but everything always feels impossible until it’s done. Take breaks where you need to, and remind yourself that parenting is hard, and you’re allowed to be tired. You just need to do your best. 

We hope that you have found this article helpful, and now see some of the things that you should expect in the first year of having your baby. We know it’s not the glamorous picture that has been created of having a baby, but it’s still one of the most wonderful experiences of your life. Even though all of this is possible, it is all worth it when you hold your little bundle in your arms, looking down at them with the unconditional love of a parent. We wish you the very best of luck, and want to remind you that the hard times will always end eventually.

Baby Incoming: Are You Ready For Your New Arrival?

Having a baby is one of the biggest life changes you’ll ever go through, so when you find out you’re expecting it’s worth getting prepared! There are a number of changes you might want to make to ensure your journey into parenthood runs as smoothly as possible. Here are some things to consider. 

Get your home baby ready

It might feel like a long way off until your newborn becomes mobile, but the time flies so it’s worth considering safety from the start. Move things like cleaning chemicals from low-down cupboards into higher ones, or purchase cupboard locks. Secure heavy furniture to the walls so that nothing can be pulled down, and ensure you have keys to be able to lock your windows- if not, you can buy window safety latches. Other ways you can get your home ready is by cleaning and organising, get rid of anything you no longer use so you can make space for the influx of baby items that will be coming into your home! If you have any niggling decorating and DIY jobs that need to be done, aim to have them done before the baby arrives so that it’s one less thing to worry about. One of the most exciting changes you’ll make to your home is setting up the nursery. Even if your baby wont be sleeping there for a while, it’s useful to be able to put away their clothes, toys and keepsakes. If you purchase a comfortable chair it’s a quiet, relaxing space you can sit and feed them, dress them and change them too.

Consider a car upgrade

Is your current car suitable for a baby? Maybe you have a sports car which only has two seats, or perhaps your vehicle is old and doesnt have great safety features. You might already have other children and no space for another car seat. Whatever your situation, a new car might be needed for when your baby arrives. You can browse new and used cars on sites like Edmunds and filter through to narrow them down to find exactly what you’re after. Something with enough space to store a pram and good safety features are a must. If you plan on using an Isofix car seat base you’ll need to ensure the car you’re looking at is compatible. Just because you have a baby on the way, doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice style completely. There are car accessories that you can add to make your car stand out, whether that it a new paint job or private number plates. Having a baby means dialling down on the ‘fun’ things you love like a sports car, but it doesn’t mean stopping completely.

Prepare for postpartum

Finally, you’ll probably do lots of preparations for your baby arriving, from buying them clothes, a safe place to sleep, toys, blankets, a pram and more. But how about yourself? Postpartum is a challenging time, consider some essentials for yourself that will make life easier. This means that you’re able to focus your energy into caring for your baby without too many additional stresses. You could cook and freeze meals so you dont have to cook for a few weeks. You could purchase comfortable loungewear, and invest in some nice pampering products for yourself. You might not have much time for yourself, but you could pop your feet into a foot spa and a face mask on while you’re feeding the baby. Or lather on some luxury bodywash in the shower, even if your showers will be much shorter than they used to be!

Discover the Benefits of Switching to a Natural Wood Crib

When you are preparing to welcome your new little miracle of life into the world, there are numerous things you should be considering. From the types of diapers, you are going to put on your baby to the design of the nursery room.

In that nursery room will be one of the most important pieces of furniture to own—a crib. The crib is often regarded as one of the center pieces of furniture to have and they literally come in all shapes, sizes and materials.

So where do you start when it comes to picking the perfect crib? Well, first it is important to know the differences between your options. And next, it is important to consider switching to a natural wood crib for all its numerous benefits.

First, let’s get into the different hardwoods that cribs are made of and why it matters.

What are Cribs Made From?

In general, cribs are made out of various hardwoods. This includes maple wood, oak wood, cherry wood, mahogany wood and birch wood. Even pine has become popular for baby cribs as of late—specifically for the softer wood option it provides. Some of the best pinewood cribs use pine that is actually sustainably sourced from Brazil!

From here, the cribs are usually stained and pained with various finishes. But it is super important to try and get a crib that does not use any toxic materials. Instead, the natural wood cribs provide a much safer bed option and let the natural wood work its magic.

What are the Different Types of Cribs

There are not only various woods that cribs are made with, but equally numerous designs. Here are some of the various designs to consider that come made with natural wood.

1. The Standard Crib

This is the most common crib design that you will find. The standard crib consists of a design that allows for a standard crib mattress to fit within and is quite basic. There are guard rails so the baby does not fall out while sleeping and are designed to be high enough that the baby also can not climb out of it.

2. The Transformational Crib

While there are many benefits of a standard crib, wouldn’t it be great if a crib could also grow with your kid? The great news is that some of the best natural wood cribs are also designed to be transformational. This means that it is literally an all-in-one crib that will grow with your child.

The crib starts out in the size of a miniature for your infant and is great for their naps or evening sleep. From there, the mini crib can grow into a full-size traditional crib. This means that then the mini crib will be able to fit a full-size crib mattress as your infant grows and grows. Finally, the full crib can also then transition to an actual toddle-sized bed. This means that your two or three-year-olds can enjoy their more sophisticated bed as they conquer their bedtime routine.

How great is it that there is a crib that can actually grow and fit your child for a few years? Not only is it practical, but equally sustainable and cost-effective.

Benefits of a Natural Wood Crib

But the benefits of a natural wood crib do not just stop with the transformational crib perk. There are many additional benefits that come with this great pint-sized solution for nursery furniture too.

Here are just a few that will show you the shift to a natural wood crib is the right decision.

1. Made with the Upmost Safety Standards

One of the best reasons to get a natural wood crib is that some of the best brands to make these equally have the best safety standards. As caring parents, you want the peace of mind that the crib is designed to ensure your child sleeps both soundly and safely at night. The best natural wood cribs are JPMA certified and made by family-run businesses in Brazil—ensuring each detail is treated with care and craftsmanship.

2. Get the Best Warranty

Another great benefit of making the switch to a natural wood crib is that going through the best companies that make them also gives you a nearly two-month trial and up to an 18-year warranty. That means that the crib will not just be under warranty for the span of your first newborn’s childhood, but equally, for all the other kids you have afterwares.

3. No Nasties in the Crib

Finally, the natural wood crib means that there are literally no nasties that are coated over it. This means that the crib is free of toxins and is also phthalate safe. With eco-engineered wood, the crib does not get more natural than this!

Conclusion

So what are you waiting for? Why not make the sift to a natural wood crib today?

7 Baby Bath Must-Have Essentials for Your Newborn

Your baby will be ready for their first bath after their umbilical cord has fallen off. For the boys, if you choose to have them circumcised at birth, it would be best to wait till the circumcision site has fully healed. Ideally, bath time is closely followed by a nap, so making this process as soothing and relaxing as possible is essential. You don’t have to wash your young one every day as thrice every week will suffice. Here are a few must-haves during bath time for your newborn.

Cotton washcloth

It is essential to clean inside all the folds and rolls on your baby’s skin when washing your baby. A soft, cotton washcloth will help you scrub your baby down without hurting them. You could use whatever you have around the house, provided pure cotton.

Baby bathtub

From the time your baby is a newborn up until they can use the shower, you will need to get a baby bathtub. This tub shouldn’t be flat and should be at an angle with a non-slip surface and little safety posts to keep your baby from slipping under the water and possibly drowning. You must never leave a baby in a bathtub unattended.

Baby shampoo

You might find that a bit of soap will find its way into your baby’s eyes while you wash their head. To prevent your newborn’s eyes from becoming irritated or watery, we recommend using tear free baby shampoo. These shampoos balance the natural moisture of your young one’s hair and contain no synthetic fragrances.

Soft hairbrush

Newborn babies are born with scaly patches on their scalp, known as cradle caps. You don’t have to worry if your baby has a cradle cap as it is regular. To get rid of it, use a baby hairbrush with soft bristles every day as you shampoo their head until the scalp is clear.

Unscented moisturizer

You must restore moisture to your newborn skin after they are done taking a bath. Though baby shampoos are mild and gentle on their skin, you will still need to apply a moisturizer to prevent dry and flaky skin. Ensure that the moisturizer you buy is unscented to avoid irritating their skin or causing allergies.

Bath toys

Not all babies enjoy getting wet and will throw a massive tantrum when you put them in their tub. An effective way to lure them in for a bath is to use bath toys. Opt for toys with bright colors and exciting shapes to stimulate their senses and make them look forward to taking a bath.

Hooded towel

While a regular towel is good enough, a hooded towel will keep their tiny heads warm after you have gotten them out of their tub. Ensure you get a hooded towel that is perfectly sized for their height so that every inch of their bodies is covered. It would be best to buy one that is pure cotton.

Wrapping Up

Ensure you start with wiping your young one’s face before you proceed to wash their body. Please don’t forget to clean their ears with a damp washcloth and dry in between their toes. Dress them up in warm and comfortable clothes and rock them to sleep.

How Many Newborn Baby Boy Clothes Do You Need?

Whether you are preparing a gift registry or shopping on your own, making sure that you have enough baby clothes is essential. A naked baby might be cute, but they can’t be naked forever.

Do you or a loved one have a baby on the way and are trying to figure out how many newborn baby boy clothes are necessary? Buying baby clothes is an exciting way to prepare for the arrival, and we’ll go over the details here.

Newborn Baby Boy Clothes

The baby boy is on the way, and his closet needs to be filled before he arrives. Newborn clothes come in all colors, prints, and sizes. So, whatever your style and whatever his size, you can be ready to dress him up to look cute and be comfy and warm.

As your baby grows in your tummy your doctor can estimate their birthweight which is a good start point as to how big they’ll be. Despite what the tag might say, not every baby is going to fit in newborn clothes.

Laundry Day

One major deciding factor for many parents when purchasing clothes for their children is how often will you do laundry. And, let’s be realistic here, no new parent is going to do laundry every single day.

Shoot for once a week, that seems pretty reasonable. So, if you change your baby minimal of once a day due to bathtime, or getting milk or other things on their clothes that is two outfits per day.

Two outfits per day times 7 days in the week, we are looking at a minimum of 14 outfits. For those who want their child to wear a wider variety of outfits, that bumps up the number even higher.

Always Pack an Emergency Change of Clothes

Every parent knows that accidents do happen, and they are never at a convenient time. If you are becoming a parent for the very first time you will soon find out what this means.

Babies have no control of their bodily fluids and therefore are unpredictable as to when they will make a mess. The mess might be minor as a small spot on their shirt, or as major as needing an entire outfit change.

The Changing of the Seasons

Depending on what time of year your baby is born, and how close it is until the next season, you will have to accommodate for weather and temperature fluctuations.

For instance, if your due date is in late summer you will want to have short-sleeved shirts, and possibly some shorts. But the next size up should be long sleeves and longer-length pants.

If you live in an area where it is warm during the day, but cooler at night you’ll need a mixed wardrobe. The same goes for those with busy lifestyles where the baby will be in and out of air conditioning or heated spaces.

Plan to fill the gaps with plenty of baby blankets of different weights.

Hungry Little One

Of course, there is a minimum amount of weight that your baby should be gaining each week, and your pediatrician will tell you what that is. But, each baby is different and some may gain more weight than others.

In addition to weight, babies will also grow lengthwise so you may notice that pants can quickly become capri pants. Onesies should have growing room, as well or you will not be able to snap them after a growth spurt.

Don’t hesitate to pack articles of clothing away when they start to get too tight on the baby. Rejoice in your baby growing and update their wardrobe accordingly.

When in Doubt, Go Big As for sizes of clothing for the baby, the advice of many parents and professionals would be to buy big. When in doubt of whether something will fit the baby or not the clothes should be a bit too big rather than too small.

Babies grow at an alarming rate, so there is no doubt that they will quickly grow into anything loose on them. Something too tight will make the baby feel uncomfortable and make them fussy.

Remember that just as with adults clothing, different brands of baby clothes will run differently with their sizing. And, once an outfit is washed there is a chance that it may shrink.

The Wardrobe Breakdown

Let’s break down each article of the wardrobe into how many of each you will need:

● Bibs – a bunch (at least 7)

● Onesies – seven to ten

● Shirts – seven to ten (less if you will use more sleepers)

● Pants – seven to ten

● Shorts – seven (for summer)

● Sleepers – seven (less if you will use pants/shirts)

● Socks – seven

● Hats – a few

● Sweater – a few (for winter)

● Jackets – one

● Shoes – a few pairs

Newborn babies are often covered up with at least one blanket. So, as long as you can regulate the temperature inside of the home to be relatively warm the baby should not need too many layers of clothing.

There is no right way to dress your child and quite often, parents will let their baby be naked other than a diaper, of course. Or just dressed in a onesie.

Thinking Ahead

Eventually, your baby boy will grow out of these cute outfits. Do you have a plan as to what you will do with the organic baby clothes that your child grows out of?

For parents that plan on having more children, the obvious thing to do with the clothes would be to clean them and pack them away.

People who do not plan to have more children should make some sort of plan. Whether you will give them to a friend or family member that is expecting, donate them to a good cause, or plan to sell them at a yard sale or online.

Dressing the Baby Boy

Now that the details of newborn baby boy clothes have been laid out, it is time to lay out your top picks for outfits.

Put a few more on your gift registry than you originally thought you wanted, then come check out some of our other hot topics and stellar advice.

Exergen TemporalScanner Thermometer Review

Disclosure: I received free product to help facilitate this posts. Affiliate links are included herein.

A good thermometer is an essential in any household, especially when you have kids!  We always had oral thermometers before Thaxton was born, but when we found out about his arrival we got a couple of thermometers for the forehead. (Because you can never have too many thermometers, in my opinion.)  Recently I had the chance to try the Exergen Temporal Thermometer.

This thermometer is #1 in proven accuracy by more than 70 published clinical studies.  Here are few quick facts:

  • It works as the gentle stroke of the forehead captures naturally emitted heat
  • red LED lights and soft beep indicate a correct scan
  • Arterial Heat Balance computes the correct temperature
  • Safe and easy to use

Why & How So Accurate?

Temporal thermometers are said to be more accurate than ear thermometers and at least as accurate as rectal thermometers.  (They are also safer than these two altneratives.)

And we all know that oral thermometers can be inaccurate if the person has eaten or drank something recently; not to mention, it is impossible to get a baby or small child to hold a thermometer in their mouth (or anywhere else).

The Temporal Artery is directly connected to the heart via the carotid artery and has the constant blood flow needed for accurate measurement.

Exergen Vs. My Other Temporal Thermometers

Other forehead thermometers I’ve tried required the thermometer to be placed on a certain spot on the head to get one reading. (I have one that you have to put between the eyebrows and another that goes in the middle of the forehead.  A simple mistake in placement could lead to inaccuracy with those.  Not to mention, I found myself doing 4 or 5 checks each time and getting different results, which is frustrating.) 

Meanwhile the Exergen thermometer is used by running it over the forehead randomly.  As you move it across the forehead it takes 1,000 readings per second, selecting the most accurate.  (I love that!)

I also like that it beeps and lights up when you scan, so you know you it is working.  The light up feature is also great for checking your little one’s temperature at night.  The thermometer also features a silent mode, which is a big plus if you are checking on a sleeping child.

It’s also very easy to use, and again, I love that you scan over the entire forehead and it gives you an average for the reading. This is way better than than touching it to one spot and hoping you hit it right.

Take a lot at the Exergen Temporal Thermometer to learn more!