Being a new parent is one of the most exciting and terrifying stages in life. All of a sudden you are responsible for this amazing little person and his/her well-being. Luckily there are countless parents that have trodden the well-worn path before you, that can offer support and advice.
There are many little tricks seasoned parents have learnt along the way, that make the whole raising a baby stage run much smoother. Here we outline our must-haves:
- Crib – Official guidance is that babies should stay in their parents' room until they are 6 months old. While a gorgeous new cot is a necessity, for the first few months of their life, a cosy crib is perfect for them and for the parents. You can keep the baby close at night and a crib is portable so they can sleep wherever you are within your house.
- Sleepsuits – Many new parents (us included!) buy ALL the outfits because let's be honest babies just look so adorable in them! But...one shocking poo explosion later you are going to wish you had just dressed them in a lovely little sleepsuit and vest. They are much easier to take off and you can put a new one back on in record time.
- Baby Carrier or Sling - Babywearing is one of the loveliest activities as a new parent. Good for the baby's wellbeing as they are being held close to you and good for a parent. Makes shorter outings much easier too. If you have twins, invest in two so each baby and parent reaps the benefits.
- Breast Pump - If Mum is breastfeeding there may come a time where she will want or need a break. Pumping is a good solution so that the other parent and close family & friends can feed the baby while she has a break.
- Portable changing mat - A simple foldable mat that easily fits in the changing bag means baby can be changed anywhere and everywhere. No mad panic looking for baby changing facilities. The beach, the park, even the back seat of a car, when needs must, all become suitable with a thin padded changing mat.
- Muslins - These little cotton lifesavers are an absolute game-changer. They act as a burp cloth, an emergency bib and even a light blanket when needed during the summer months. We've even used one before as emergency pants for a toddler potty training accident. They also make a perfect gift - you can never have too many in the early days and so many ways to use them!
- Travel System - It is easy to get carried away and spend ££££ on a designer travel system. Remember you are looking for a pushchair and car seat that is safe, comfortable and easily portable. Being designer or the latest model is the extras.
- A practical changing bag - One where you can easily pack and grab all the essentials without carrying around a small suitcase you'd normally use for a weekend away!
- Wet Wipes - No new parent can be without these. They've come a long way since their landfill clogging days and now there are many types on the market that are both good for the environment and gentle on a baby's delicate skin. Make sure you always have a pack in your changing bag along with nappies, rash cream, nappy bags and a spare sleepsuit or two.
- Sleep - Lastly this one is as old as time but trust us, as much as newborns love to sleep, you can guarantee it is not when you want to! So remember you "sleep when the baby sleeps!". If you do, you will feel much better for it.
The truth is babies, do not need all the things! The gadgets, the swings, the expensive travel systems and ALL the sensory toys. What they do need is basic: food, warmth, love and comfort. Provide those and you’ll have a very happy baby and very happy parents indeed!