Serious Birth Disorders And Baby Issues

When you're pregnant, you worry about every little thing that could go wrong. Thankfully, most babies are born healthy. There are, however, some serious birth disorders that you should be aware of, in the unlikely event that your baby is affected.

· Spina Bifida – This is a condition where the backbone, which protects the spinal cord, does not close properly during prenatal development. This condition can range from being a minor problem, if the opening is tiny, or can cause paralysis and other serious medical issues if the opening is large, or if the spinal cord itself is protruding. The exact cause is not known, though heredity does seem to play a role. So does nutrition, particularly when the mother does not have enough folic acid in her diet. Obstetricians have begun recommending folic acid supplements for women who are pregnant or who could become pregnant, and this has lowered the rate of this disease. You will probably be tested for spina bifida during your pregnancy. Many times it can be diagnosed in utero using ultra sound. Sometimes, surgery can even be performed on the baby in utero to correct the problem.

· Tay Sachs Disease – This disease is caused by an enzyme deficiency. Simply put, these babies do not break down fatty deposits in the brain and nerve cells. Unfortunately, it is not usually diagnosed at birth. When the child is several months old, this buildup of fatty deposits will clog cells, causing the baby's nervous system to stop working. The child will begin to regress developmentally, always resulting in death. Tay Sachs is very rare, less than one hundred cases are reported in the US each year. It is caused by genetics. Both parents must have the gene for the disease to occur. It is most common in Jewish families of Central and Eastern European descent. If your ethnic background makes this disease a risk for your child, you and your partner can be tested for the gene before you become pregnant. In addition, the disease can be diagnosed in utero via amniocentesis.

· Down Syndrome- Down Syndrome is the term given to a set of symptoms that indicate some degree of mental retardation. Children with Down syndrome have a distinct set of facial features, a large tongue and a short neck. Down Syndrome varies widely in the degree of mental retardation that it causes. Some children are highly functional; others will require constant care. Down syndrome affects about one in 1300 babies in the US. It is most often caused by an extra chromosome coming from the mother or father. Down syndrome is more likely to occur when parents have already had a child with the birth disorder, and when the mother is over 35 years in age. Down syndrome can be detected via amniocentesis, which is why this test is common protocol for most pregnant women over the age of 35.

These are three of the most common birth disorders. To find out about more birth disorders, see my article in "Mommy to Mommy – The Truth about Taking Care of Baby", which can be found at http://www.educatedmother.com.

Diapering 101 - How To Fold And Use Cloth Diapers

Let's skip right past the great diaper debate and assume that you've read what there is to read, done your soul-searching, and made your decision - and for your baby, it's nothing but natural against that tender skin. Whether your decision is ecological, economical, or based on something else entirely, you've decided on cloth diapers for baby. Now it's time for Diapering 101 - how do you turn a rectangle of cloth into a comfy cover for the little cherub?

Wash the diapers first

First things first. Never diaper your baby in a brand new cloth diaper straight from the plastic wrapping. Between the natural cotton and the manufacturing process, new diapers have a 'waxy' coating that cuts down on their absorbency and can irritate baby's skin. Toss all your new diapers into the washer and run them through five or six cycles with detergent, bleach and the hottest water you can muster. If you've got a clothesline and a sunny day, that's the best way to dry them.

Folding Diapers

You thought you had made your last choice when you picked cloth, did you? Think again. There are even more choices in 100% natural cloth diapers than there are in the disposable diapers aisle at the supermarket. Pre-folded, padded, flat-folded, nappy-style, all-in-ones, all-in-twos - it's enough to make your head spin just trying to absorb it all. Add to that the choices in diaper covers - plastic pants? Nappy covers? Wool covers? Velcro, pin or one of the novelty diaper fasteners? For the purposes of this Diapering Baby class, we'll assume that you're using plain old flat-folds - a simple rectangle of absorbent cotton that may have a quilted layer running down the middle for extra absorbency. Here are several different methods of folding diapers, courtesy of moms, grandmas and the DyDee Company.

The Angel-Wing Fold

1. Lay the diaper lengthwise on the changing table. Fold the sides of the diaper in to the middle to form an absorbent pad.

2. Fold a few inches down at the front.

3. Unfold the sides at the back of the diaper, fanning them out.

4. Place the baby on the diaper, and pull the front up between his or her legs.

5. Holding the front against his belly, bring both sides of the back around to the front, and pin in place, pushing the pin through a few layers of diaper. You don't have to go all the way through the diaper so that the pin is against baby's skin.

Bikini Twist High-Cut Fold

1. Lay the diaper flat on the table.

2. Turn ONE END of the diaper completely over, twisting the diaper at the midpoint to form an absorbent pad.

3. Put the baby on the diaper (or the diaper under the baby, whichever is easier).

4. Pull the front of the diaper up between baby's legs.

5. Pull back corners of the diaper around the baby, over the front corners and pin securely.

Double-Diaper For Heavy Wetters

1. Use one regular diaper and one infant size diaper. Lay regular diaper on table. Place infant size diaper in center.

2. Fold sides of infant diaper in, then fold sides of regular diaper in to cover the infant diaper.

3. Fold a few inches of the diaper front up, then fan the back of the diaper out to form angel wings.

4. Plop the baby in the middle of the diaper, and proceed as for the angel wing fold.

Whichever fold you choose to use, cover the whole thing with a diaper cover, smooch the little tyke and send him back off to play with a warm, dry bottom.

Mommy & Baby: Keeping Tabs On Baby’s Growth

Lactation difficulties are not completely prevented by using PDF; you are rested and eating properly, your baby is getting enough food and growing, and your life is relatively predictable. So you might think that you're immune from production issues, right? There are many more factors which play in to milk production that just the ones I listed.

Factors that can affect milk supply include:

 Amount of sleep a mother receives  Mom's diet & nutrition  Her state of mind  Mother's age  Whether this is her first child or sixth  Mom's desire to breastfeed  Her capacity to nurse  A mother's nursing techniques  Her baby's ability to properly latch on

If you're nursing, keeping tabs on your baby's growth is incredibly important—your baby's life depends on it. How will you know if he's getting enough milk or nutrition? Unfortunately, the breast tissue isn't transparent and we cannot see exactly how much milk your baby is drinking or your body is producing. Fortunately, there are other ways to achieve our goal.

In the first week of life, your baby will receive colostrum before your milk comes in. Not only is this rich in antibodies and helps your baby's immune system develop, but it helps him pass his first stool—meconium. This is a black, tarry substance and will be in the first diaper or two after birth. He will transition to a brown substance and then as your milk comes in, to a mustard yellow stool that is watery or loose. A bottle-fed baby will pass stools that are firmer and more clay-coloured than a breastfed baby.

Within 24-48 hours, your baby should start having wet diapers, increasing to two or three per day.

As your baby works at sucking colostrum and then milk, you should hear a pattern of "suck, suck, suck, swallow." This will be rhythmic and there will be no "clicking" noises—clicking indicates that your baby is improperly latched and potentially isn't getting a good amount of milk from you. If you hear this, unlatch him from your breast and re-attach him. If it continues, talk to your pediatrician.

In the second and subsequent weeks of life, you should also notice 6-8 wet diapers a day in addition to at least 3 stools per day. His urine should be clear (not yellow), and he should be gaining alertness as each day passes. He should also be growing and gaining weight—weight gain is the surest sign of healthy growth. Any two days in a row of deviation from the growth indicators listed should be reported to your pediatrician immediately.

Must Have Supplies For A New Baby

All parents have gone through the same apprehensions when a new baby arrives on the scene because no one can prepare oneself beforehand for the baby. It is almost certain that not matter how much how have strived to put into place everything for the new born; a few things might just get missed. But there is always a valid reason behind it. For parents who are expecting the, wait is considerably exciting, and they tend to lose track of the everyday requirements. Welcome to this article, expectant parents, and get a closer look at what you may want to have for your new infant.

When you are making your home ready for your new born, the usual place to start from is the nursery. Typically, the crib will be the first primary object or furniture that you will purchase for your infant. Take care to check that the crib you buy fulfills all the compulsory and legal safety norms. Again, you should spend money on a good mattress for the crib, because your baby would be spending more than seventy percent of his time lying there at least in the first year of his life. Another thing to look for is bedding, and it involves the discretion of your private taste. Remember to get a cover for the mattress too. You can also invest in a changing table if you so desire since its not very critical. A must-have for your baby's nursery is a baby monitor which you should not ignore to buy at all.

Now comes the question of baby supplies. It is true that parents instinctively understand the needs of their babies, yet it will do no harm at all to sometimes take a breath and reflect on the choices now and then. There are so many choices out there and they all are very popular. Always buy soap and shampoo that is gentle on the skin, since chemicals and perfumes can be damaging on a baby's young and new flesh. You should also use a soft, natural and a good quality moisturizer for the baby. A few parents find it necessary to apply powder on the baby's bottom to keep it from getting damp. Get hold of a baby powder that is devoid of talcum powder. Find one with a cornstarch base because otherwise it can be fatal if inhaled.

After you put into place all the required items and the necessary furniture, you can give a thought to the fun and entertainment aspect of the nursery. While it is true that the world itself is as an oyster for the baby, full of new discoveries and wonder, it will do the baby good to have some toys and playthings to keep himself entertained. A mobile would be a good choice for the baby lying for hours in his crib. Soft toys like bears and bunnies can be very interesting and it will be more so if they can provide sensory experiences too. As your child gets older, teething toys would become a part and parcel of his life. Go ahead and splurge on the toys available on the market for your baby, but be sure to check out the safety guidelines and consumer reports for specification about recalls.

Baby Shower Centrepieces - Cunning Beats Creativity

So many ideas for baby shower centrepieces can leave you in a turmoil not knowing what to pick to display on the day. Centrepieces used for baby showers were traditionally flower arrangements. Floral pieces on show would come beautifully arranged in a basket or a crystal holder.

Remember the theme for the baby shower when choosing what flowers to have for the centrepiece. A good idea is to try blending in personal items in and around the arrangement. Colour is another important factor we don't want the table laden with pastel lemons and whites only to throw in a big red bloom. Another issue to focus on is selecting the right flowers.

Flowers are one of natures beauty alongside your newborn, blossoms picked by you for the baby shower will enhance the occasion with an essence so sweet filling the air.

Personal items for the flower basket centrepiece can include baby novelties like cuddly toys these can be bears and bunnies to baby clothes.

Have you considered preparing and making up your own baby shower centrepiece, if this is out of your league then buy one, expect to pay approx 35 pounds upwards all depending on the design and content i.e. whatever goodies you choose to place inside the basket. Baby shower centrepieces can come in edible form such as a baby showers cake. If a diaper cake is your decoration for the middle of the table then you have to remember these are not for consumption. Diaper cake is actually made up of diaper/nappies. It is a fabulous and practical idea for a baby shower centrepiece.

Another tip and cost effective for a centrepiece is to place a plant on display not only does this do the trick but you get to keep the plant for a long while after. Try placing some baby extras around the pot like baby linen, towels what ever you feel is best suited It has been known that fishbowls have been used to decorate the table at baby showers, floating candles, beads or flower petals were added to spice up the look.

Liven up the occasion with colour add balloons they are cheap and ideal for the baby shower party. Try tying a few brightly coloured bows around cuddly toys. Silk flowers scattered around a neat tower of baby linen or candles encompassed by baby soaps and smellies. Do be careful with candles.

Creativity creates a more exciting centre piece I hear, I don't think so not if you are on a budget.

If you are struggling to meet the cost of a baby shower centrepiece then cunning it has to be. Here is how it is done spruce up the table with more colour by adding floating balloons, action the whole content of the table with so many different little gifts brightly gift wrapped. And a definite guarantee to distract eye contact away from the non absent centrepiece is to place plates of cream filled cakes here and there; the centrepiece will not even be missed.

Using a baby hand and footprint as a gift?

I am sure that you have been in a situation where you didn't know what to get for your parents or your mom and dad in law. Maybe it was their birthday or maybe it was for Christmas or maybe you just wanted to give them a present. Nevertheless it can sometimes be a challenge to find a gift that is affordable and one that they will be glad that they got.

If you are a parent yourself (preferably if you have a child of age 0-6 years) then you now have an easy to do, affordable and yet valuable gift to give. And the best part is that you can spend time with your child and he/she will think that it is fun to do.

The gift is to create a unique baby hand and footprint (or a child hand and footprint if your child isn't a baby). It is easy to do if you choose to buy a keepsake kit from a local store or on the internet. If you're going for the internet then be aware that it takes time for the shop to ship the kit to you.

Once you have the kit at home you're ready to start making a baby handprint, a baby footprint or maybe even both. Use your imagination and let your fantasy run wild. Use colors if you're the artistic type or keep it in plain colors if you're the more conservative type.

They great thing about a handprint or a footprint is that it will always be unique. No one can create a print that is exactly the same as your baby's hands and feet are very unique. Secondly I'll bet that your parents or your mom and dad in law will be thrilled to get a little keepsake memory of their grandson or daughter.

If this is the first time that you have ever done a handprint or a footprint you might want to buy more than one kit. It isn't difficult to do as most kits have an explanation inside but if you do something wrong you'll have to run to the store to get another kit or buy another one on the internet (and wait for it to arrive).

A kit is just one way to do a handprint or a footprint but there are other ways that are more creative, fun and unique. Actually the kit solution is kind of "the easy way out". If you feel that you could do more than just a kit print then I invite you to come to my site to see some of the other options that are available to you.

No matter what route you choose to go I can assure you that the baby handprint or footprint will be a gift that the grandparents will want to hold on to for the years to come.

A Baby Shower Really Is A Time for Celebration For Everyone

Celebrating the upcoming arrival of a new baby is exciting but at the same time, it's often a situation in which both parents can feel much anxiety. These feelings of anxiety are especially strong for first-time parents. There is so much to know and so many different items are needed to provide proper infant care.

The idea of the baby shower came about as both a special time for family and friends to be together before the baby's arrival and also to help relieve the financial burden on parents-to-be by supplying them with many of the new gadgets, furnishings and accessories they'll need once their baby arrives.

And even though today most people prefer to break out of the 'traditional' mold, when it comes to a baby shower, these events for the most part still adhere to traditional guidelines. Probably one of the biggest changes to the baby shower format is that they're no longer exclusively for women. Plenty of men make it onto today's baby shower guest list and those who are invited don't come grudgingly. While they might not play in all the baby shower games, men do enjoy the opportunity to give their regards to the expectant mother- and father-to-be.

In some cultures however, a baby shower is considered a sign of bad luck. If there's a chance the expectant mother might feel this way, be sure to check with her before proceeding with the baby shower.

In some parts of the world the baby shower is actually held after the baby is born. This makes sense since a baby shower is a celebration of the baby and guests enjoy actually seeing the one who is being celebrated. It's also easier to select gender-appropriate colors and gifts and should the gift need engraving, guests have all the delivery details they need.

Having the baby shower after the baby's birth does make sense, but it's a very busy time for new parents. Plus, many of the baby items the expectant parent(s) need are needed as soon as the baby arrives home. That's why scheduling the baby shower before the baby's birth is the more common option.

The baby shower itself is traditional and for the most part, every shower involves the same activities. Guest lists and invitations need to be created and mailed. The shower location needs to be decorated. Guests expect to be entertained so food, drink and games need to be coordinated. And because it's a special occasion, there might even be a photographer and/or videographer, musician and other special talent participating in the festivities.

A baby shower can be a big to-do with lots of little details to coordinate and every detail is going to cost money. That's why it's highly advisable for whoever is hosting the shower to put together (and stick to) a workable budget.

Pulling off a successful special event like a baby shower doesn't take special talent, it takes a well-thought out plan that includes a timeline and a budget.

Baby Shower Centerpieces: Tips And Ideas For Planning

Baby shower centerpieces are an important aspect of a baby shower and you should take care when making your decision. The more traditional centerpieces that are usually used for baby showers are floral arrangements. You can place a selection of your favorite flowers and arrange them in a beautiful basket. If you have a theme color, or motif, you can incorporate it to the décor of your flower arrangement.

There are many different sizes and shapes of basket that you can use for your flower arrangements. The best thing about flower arrangements is that they add an element of the outdoors in your home. The freshness and beauty of these flowers would add a delicate touch to your baby shower.

If you want to make your centerpiece fun, and more delightful, you can add baby things in your floral basket such as: washcloth, soft toys, baby bottles, bears and bunnies, teething toys, small colorful socks, etc. This would fit right into the theme of the baby shower.

But if you don't want to make your own baby shower centerpiece, you can always buy these floral centerpieces ready made. The price varies depending on what's included in the pack. The average price of the baby shower basket is around $60. It includes an arrangement of flowers, and baby items such as: rubber ducks, soft toys, blankets, washcloth, rattles and comb & brush sets.

Another centerpiece that is popular in baby showers is a diaper cake. Now, understand that a diaper cake is actually not an edible cake. It is a set of diapers that is arrange in such a way as to resemble a real cake! The great thing about this is that the diapers can then be used by the baby after the baby shower. This a very practical baby shower centerpiece.

But if what you are after is a more festive mood, you can always use balloons! After all, what is a celebration without balloons? Tie a stack of colorful balloons to a weight, then place them on your table. Balloons are very cheap. If you are working on a limited budget, then balloons are a great idea. Plus, they are so easy to find. Just run down to any party store, and voila! Balloons!

Hey! did you know that plants can be centerpieces too? Just add a toy along with a plant, like a tiny bear or a rubber ducky, and place it in a colorful pot. Instantly you have a unique baby shower centerpiece.

Fishbowls work as a great centerpiece too! Decorate your fishbowl with beads, add some water and floating candles. This would make a lovely centerpiece.

A baby shower gift basket also works as a centerpiece too. If you have received such a present in advanced, why not put it out on display. The great thing about this, is that it already follows the theme of a baby shower.

The secret is to get creative. There are no rules when it comes to baby shower centerpieces. You can even use stuffed toys, and tie them to balloons.

Maybe you want to create a beach theme, you can place a small baby blanket, a toy boat, a beach ball, and even a small treasure chest!

The occasion of a baby shower is a happy occasion for a new mother, and the baby on board. Baby shower centerpieces add to the atmosphere of the occasion. So just get creative and have fun with it!

Baby Sleep Tips - Developing Sleep Associations

Everyone who has had the experience of being a parent knows all too well the difficulties of getting your baby to sleep soundly throughout the night. The dark circles around the eyes of new parents are usually familiar to all those that have been around them. In terms of baby sleep tips, one of the most important things you must try and establish as a parent is getting your baby to learn to fall asleep on his own. The process by which your child begins to fall asleep on his own is one that involves a natural transition from falling asleep with the mother to falling asleep in an independent fashion. One of the best ways in which you can speed up this transition is to encourage your child to develop sleep associations that he or she can recreate independently.

Naturally, everyone - and babies in particular - will develop sleep associations. These are the things that you associate with bedtime, and allow you to create an environment in which it is easy to fall asleep. When your baby is at an extremely young age, he will naturally develop sleep associations involving the mother, as he will often fall asleep in her arms. As you attempt to get your baby to sleep in his own, however, it is crucial that you work to change these associations.

If you always put your child to sleep by holding him, or allowing him to use a pacifier, you create a sleep association with these things. Then, when your child wakes up in the middle of then night, he can't go back to sleep on his own because he is unable to recreate his sleeping environment without you: he needs you to feed him or rock him in order to sleep.

As you begin to try and get your child to sleep on his own, you should introduce items into his sleeping routine that he can sleep with, such as a particular blanket or a stuffed animal. What this will do is create associations for your child with these items for sleep. Then, when he awakes in the middle of the night, he will be able to recreate a sleeping environment without your assistance by grabbing his stuffed animal, etc. It can also be beneficial to introduce "transitional items" into your baby's bedtime routine: Allow him to have his stuffed animal or blanket with him during a final feeding and before-bedtime activities, and allow him to take these things with him to bed.

No matter what you do, your child is going to be creating his or her own sleep associations. Your job is to try and create associations with items that are under his or her control. By giving your child as much control over his sleeping environment as possible, you allow him to begin to achieve sleep independently. The most difficult transition in early parenting is the one towards independent sleep for your child, and if you introduce new items into your child's sleeping place, you will hasten this transition, which will soon allow both you and your child to get a good night's rest.

Fun And Funny Baby Shower Invitations

In this day of high technology, you may not even need paper baby shower invitations. In fact, you may just prefer to call your guests and invite them over for cake and presents and call it a baby shower. But if you have the time to invest in choosing baby shower invitations, whether you make them yourself or buy them, or send them online or via snail mail, these little introductions to your baby shower can set the mood and get the party started long before the first guest arrives.

Baby Shower Invitation Inserts

Whether it's a map to the site of the baby shower, a picture of the new little one if he or she has already arrived, or a sticker or magnet with a 'Save the Date' message stamped on it, inserts are a fun way to make the recipient feel like they are getting their own baby shower gift.

Baby Shower Z Fold Invitation

This baby shower invitation unfolds like an accordion and allows the recipient 3 to 6 panels in which information may be included. These are helpful if you don't want to deal with inserts and want to make sure that all the salient information stays together.

Baby Shower Invitation RSVPs

A fun RSVP card can get the baby shower fun started when your guest lets you know that he or she will be able to share the day with you. Leave space for a 'helpful hint for the new mom' or ask them to let you know what food or drink they would like to bring if you're hosting a potluck. Don't forget to provide stamped postcards or envelopes!

Helpful Baby Shower Invitation Hints

* Send your baby shower invitations up to a month before the actual baby shower.

* Be sure that your theme is obvious by the invitation you choose.

* If you opt to design your own, keep it simple! You don't want to get too bogged down before the baby shower begins!

* Don't forget to include map to the baby shower site as well as a cell phone number where guests may get last minute assistance with directions.

* If you're technology friendly, use your email address or one of the many invitation sites to keep track of your RSVPs.

Baby Shower Theme - How to Find the Most Creative Baby Shower Themes that Please the Mom-to-be

So, you need a special unique baby shower theme to make your party different, huh?

A baby shower isn't just about helping parents-to-be get ready for their little arrival, but about fun, encourage and memories for years to come. Why not use an unique baby shower theme to piece together a perfect party time for every invited person?

You can type "baby shower theme ideas"("baby shower themes" or "theme party idea" and "party theme") into internet search engines, such as Google, MSN Search and Yahoo! Search. The smart spider will lead you to the most relevant web sites for those coolest theme ideas.

Also, there are tons of ideas from party handbooks and experiences you already learned from other theme based parties, such as kids' birthday parties and bridal showers.

Somehow, you can't jump out from the endless mind bogging for the best baby shower theme ideas. I guess you just get into the wrong direction.

However creative you could be, don't forget your best friend is about to be a Mommy, and this is the solely reason you want to throw her a baby shower! So chose the baby shower theme more personal to the mom-to-be, than yourself!

Before you run for the best theme idea, ask a few questions about the expecting Mommy:

* What does she like and dislike? * Does she business like, shy, formal, friendly? * Is the she expecting a girl, boy? Twins or More? * How many people she'd like to invite? * Does she plan to invite kids? * Will she like to have her husband and other guys show up? * Do you have a co-host? Does she have any idea?

More questions you ask the mom-to-be, more theme ideas come out with the answers themselves, automatically! And you may not be aware of this: The best baby shower theme lies somewhere in the depths of your imagination.

You can setup a ladies-only tea party in your house at a Sunday afternoon if the mom-to-be only feel comfortable when she stay with a small group of people. You can also throw a Hollywood glamour baby shower for parents-to-be who are super movie fans (so are their closest friends including you).

Or what if she is a second-time mom and her elder kids are Pooh lover? Phew, it couldn't be more exciting than having a Winnie the pooh baby shower and arranging everything in the ways that Pooh-like.

And if you're inviting the new daddy and his buddies to your party, the male guests would love to enjoy a western style BBQ in your backyard with beers and country music.

No matter how you plan the shower party, a good theme always serves as your inspiration when you're picking the location and time for your baby shower.

You can use theme based baby shower ideas run through the invitations, decorations, games and food, especially in preparing a baby shower cake to fit the party setting. When you're preparing the baby shower supplies, gifts and favors, the shower theme will practically tell you the best ideas to pick up.

In fact, baby shower theme can really make planning baby showers a snap.

Stress Out Baby Shower Planning - 6 Golden Tips for Planning A Baby Shower (Part Two)

If you're just starting your baby shower planning and want to make sure it a huge success, you'll probably feel that as you try to take care of everything and hard to even find time to take a break.

The good news is, you're not alone.

Here are some of my useful experiences that I learn through as the guest of other's baby shower.

Sooner or later, you'll be finding out that becoming an experienced baby shower hostess takes a little bit of getting used to.

Just keep a fun attituide and enjoy your baby shower planning.

Golden Tips 4: If You Really in Need of A Baby Shower Book, Buy A E-book.

According to the report, "How Women and Men Use the Internet", published by PEW Internet & American Life Project in December 28th, 2005, there are trends showing that women are catching up in overall use and are framing their online experience with a greater emphasis on deepening connections with people.

So what you can learn from it for your baby shower planning? Definitely a lot!

Not only are most of the print version of baby shower books outdated, these books are not suitable to feed the needs for today's busy and web-savvy women.

I've read almost all the baby shower related books sold on Amazon, some of them are good written. But compare to e-books, they are not able to update with fresh content in a timely manner.

Even more, a busy 9-and-5 Shower hostess is able to organizing party ideas while every and each co-hostess can read the same Shower planning book, exchange ideas, and provide solution using emails.

Of course, this only works with e-books since you can send as many copies to your partners without paying extra money.

Golden Tip 5: Do It or Deliberate It.

Do you understand that how does the 80/20 rule work for baby shower planning?

You're probably be good at creating great Shower games or making delicious food and drink, but you can't be an all-star-team on your own to plan something that please all the family members, close friends, and even co-workers.

The smart way is to do what you're good at and deliberate the rest to your co-hostess.

I have yet to meet a baby shower hostess who's been able to accomplish everything while trying to turn the party into a one man's show. Though Shower hostess must make sure that everything is well-organized, but working with a few partners is a wise decision.

As that, you could focus on only the most important baby shower planning and activities that you've been familiar with."

What's more...if you're a friend to the soon-to-be-mom or soon-to-be-dad, you should ask their family members to help in the planning details like suggesting an invitation list, gift ideas, or providing refreshments.

Golden Tip 6: Build Your Very Own Family Web Site, And Start Showing Off Your Baby Shower Albums.

Even you are a frequent shower hostess, you probably have no idea to remember what you've done for all those oh-so-cute baby cakes and oh-so-funny activities in detail.

It comes to be a problem when you want to reuse them for a coming baby shower, and that's why I suggest people find a way to put their used baby shower planning ideas and photos online.

Imagine this: One day, a friend of you ring your home phone to ask for diaper cake making tips, you can say, "Oh dear, I did make a 4-tier rubber ducky diaper cake months ago, but I really can't remember how many diapers and what baby items I've used, can you visit my website at...".

See how it works?

You don't have to be a computer programmer to create a Web site. If you know how to browser the Internet, you can build a Web site in minutes.

It's full of fun when you're writing your ideas, uploading your photos for people to share and learn from.

A few web site building tools to recommend: Online-hosting services like Namezero.com, and Web album programs like Picasa (owned by Google).

Baby Shower Games Can Be Fun AND Inexpensive

Are you planning a baby shower? Are you trying to figure out what to do? If so, here are a few fun baby shower game ideas for you.

The key to great baby shower games is to be short and fun. The games will serve as ice breakers if the guests do not know each other, and the themes should always be babies. For a typical baby shower in which no full meals are served, expect to be able to play two or three games.

Icebreaker Games

These games will get your guests interacting.

Who Am I, the Baby Version - In this game, players are each given a piece of paper with the name of a famous person on it. They do not look at the name, but tape it to their forehead. They then must figure out who they are by the reactions of the other guests. In the baby version, consider using only famous celebrity mothers, or perhaps cartoon characters. Be creative!

Who Is That Baby? - Before the party, have guests send you photos of themselves as a baby. Have each guest try to match the baby picture with the correct adult. The person with the most matches wins.

Don't Say It - When guests arrive, give them each a pacifier on a ribbon which they can wear over their neck. Instruct them that they are not allowed to say "baby" during the party. If another guest catches them at it, the can take their pacifier. At the end of the party, the guest with the most pacifiers wins.

Word Games

Baby Boggle - Come up with a fun sentence about the baby and the mother-to-be. See how many baby related words guests can make in three minutes from the letters. Everyone reads their list, crossing off duplicates, and the person with the most remaining wins. Use a phrase such as "So there's going to be a new [parents' last name] in the world!"

Advice Poem - Have someone write down a short piece of advice to the new mother. Then have the next person write down a line to create a poem about advice they have for the new mom. Continue with each guest adding a line, but each time, fold the paper so that the only line visible is the last one that was written. At the end, have someone read the finished poem. It is sure to contain lots of good advice in quite a funny way. This can also be done with guests writing a poem about the mother-to-be. This is especially good at a "Pamper Mommy" themed party.

Time Capsule - Have each guest write a short note to the baby. Seal the notes in a plastic bag and place them in a box for the mother-to-be, telling her she can open them with her child on his or her fifteenth birthday.

Games with Gifts

Assuming everyone is bringing a gift, you can easily create a game around them.

Baby Box - Ask every guest to bring a small item such as a rattle or a pacifier. As they arrive, place the items in a box which has a small hole cut in the side. After all the guests have arrived, give each person 20 seconds to touch as many items as they can (no peeking!), then have them write down what they felt. The person with the most correct wins.

Active Games

These games will get the guests up off the couch.

Diaper Tower - Have guests stack as many diapers as they can without the tower falling over. Of course, the mother-to-be gets to keep the diapers!

Tree Planting - Have guests help plant a tree in honor of the baby. This is especially nice if the mother-to-be recently moved into a new home. (Of course, get her input on the type of tree she would like.)

Dirty Diapers - Buy ten different chocolate candy bars (Snickers, Hershey's, etc.). Melt the bars and put each into a separate diaper. Hang diapers along a clothesline before the guest arrive. Give each guest a piece of paper and have them smell all the diapers (take lots of pictures!). The winner is the guest who correctly identifies each candy bar.

Other Games

Are You Hungry? - Before dessert is served, bring in a tray of various baby foods, with the labels removed. Number each bottle and have the guests look at each (no tasting or smelling!) and write down what they think it contains. The winner is the person who identifies the most correct foods.

Pacifier Pass - Have everyone put a pen or pencil (or chopstick) in their mouth. Place a pacifier on the end of one of the pencils. Guests must pass the pacifier around the circle without using their hands. If a guest drops the pacifier, they are out. The winner is the last person still in the circle.

Bottle Race - Time guests drinking juice from a bottle - the fastest time wins! This is best done as a race, with white grape juice or something else that won't stain. And once again, the mother-to-be keeps the bottles.

Gifts for the Winners

Gifts for the winners of the baby shower games can vary, but something inexpensive like shower gel or coffee will do nicely. Or guests can rack up points for each game they play (100 to the winner, 90 to second place, etc.) and at the end of the night the grand prize winner can take home something a little nicer, such as a restaurant gift certificate or bottle of wine.

While you can buy baby shower games from most party stores, the games that are the most fun are those you create with the mother-to-be specifically in mind. A new mother will also appreciate it if any of the games result in baby items she can keep, and the guests will love a door prize. One way to get something every mother needs: tell guests that there is going to be a raffle, and the cost of entry is a pack of diapers. They can enter as many times as they would like. Then either buy or make a gift basket. For instance, the prize could be a bottle of wine, pasta, sauce, parmesan cheese, and some yummy cookies in a basket. It could also be a gift certificate to a restaurant or spa. This will keep the new mother in diapers for quite awhile!

Baby Showers - Fabulous Idea For Bikini Mums To Be

Baby Showers -There has been a time in some of our lives where we have said - if I had my life to live over again there would be no kids, and then you think about the laughter and joy babies bring and those thoughts change to - I would not change my life for any thing. If a new baby is on the way then back into our thoughts they come where friends of the expectant mum gather to hold a Baby Showers party.

Special occasions as such are celebrated between close friends and family of the mother and father-to-be. Baby Showers is a popular way to welcome the good news of a pregnancy. These types of parties differ in many ways because of the host`s preferential taste in what she or he would see as the ideal way to celebrate the new edition on the way.

Baby Showers can be grand or on a more low key - depending on the budget. Common activities or themes on these occasions will always evolve around the baby. The venue or home where the party is being held will be decorated accordingly to a particular topic if there is to be one, Decorations may include balloons, streamers, cuddly toys and baby bits and bobs. You will find at Baby Showers all attendee`s appetite and bellies will be filled with scrumptious edibles laid on by the host - a running buffet or a sit down meal - the choice is yours.

Guests on arrival always have a pre conceived notion before entering the venue on what they think the Baby Showers party is all about. Well to add a touch of uniqueness to this celebration you need to keep the guest guessing and surprise them with something totally different so that their experience when coming into the room is a jaw dropping one.

Shower parties can still have baby knick knacks around the room but not as much if you were to direct the Baby Showers celebration around the expectant mother. You can add a little unique fun by showing home video clips of how mum-to-be looked in her holiday bikini and how those days of looking like a bay watch babe are over for a little while. Decorate the room with gifts of maternity wear this will help the future mum with cost - so instead of having to splash out on her self she can spend it on more important essentials like a pacifier and more pacifiers for those sleepless nights a head.

Even though the Baby Showers party on this occasion is about mum - still have the room bright and colourful.

Remember if the Baby Showers party is to be held while the future mother is heavily pregnant she may tire with so much commotion. Another thing to remind your self of is the choice of goodies laid on to eat which may not be agreeable to her digestive system while carrying her baby. (This does not apply to all)

You can direct all the energies of your Baby Showers party around the expectant mother while at the same time dedicating a corner of the room for the new baby on the way with colourful cuddly teddies - baby bottles and baby care essentials.

Even though happy occasions like Baby Showers are fulfilling and rewarding the new mums have to feel good about themselves - unfortunately this is not the case for some mums - although happy with the new baby on the way they can feel down with losing their figure and other niggly concerns. But there is a way to make mum the happiest person at this Baby Shower party - all you have to do is ask all the guests that their gift favors be a small money donation to help mum get back into that holiday bikini by sending her to keep fit classes - of which I hasten to add she will need to keep up with the demands of a new baby.

This will also save the guest a headache on deciding what to buy for their gift favor.

Remember bikin mums the joy and laughter that a new baby brings will make this all so worth while.

Car Seat Safety Tips For Your Baby

Do you know that according to a report 80% of kids are not properly seated in the car seat and thus many children get unnecessarily injured in car accidents. Still many of us do not bother about using safe car seats for our children. So let us follow some basic tips so that we can avoid our babies from getting involved in an accident.

The biggest mistake that you parents often commit, is not to bother whether the seat is right for your child's age and whether he is facing the right direction.

a) Always remember infants should be in a rear facing infant only seat or convertible seat until they are 1 year old and weigh twenty pounds. Kids whose weight remains less than 20 pounds even after 1 year should also continue to face backwards.

b) When a child is above 1 year in age and weighs more than 20 pounds then he/she can be seated in a forward facing car seat, until they are 40 pounds of weight. Children over forty pounds should be placed into a belt positioning booster seat and they should usually stay in it until they are at least 8 years old.

c) Parents always remember not to use the car's regular seat belts for your child until they fit correctly when your child is about 80 pounds and is 4ft 9 inches tall. Your child should not use regular seat belts until the shoulder strap fits across his shoulder and not his neck, and the lap belt fits across his hips and not his stomach.

d) You should not allow your child to sit in the front seat until he/she is more than 12 years of age

e) Remember! Do not use seat, which has its harness straps too loose or in the wrong position, always lock the seat belt properly with a locking clip, secure the seat belt correctly and do not place an infant seat in the way of an air bag.

f) Always make sure that the harness chest clip of the infant seat is positioned at your child's armpit level, the harness straps are straight, the rear-facing straps are positioned at or a bit below your child's shoulders, the seat is reclined at about a 45 degree angle and never ever place an infant in a rear-facing child restraint in the front seat of a car.

g) When you are using a rear facing convertible seat, see carefully whether the harness straps are positioned at or a bit below your child's shoulders, the harness chest clip is at the armpit level, the harness straps are straight and the seat is reclined at a 45-degree angle.

h) While using a forward facing convertible seat, watch out that the harness straps are positioned at or slightly above your child's shoulder, the straps are straight and the harness chest clip's position is around your child's mid-chest or armpit area.

i) You can only use a forward facing combination seat if the harness straps are positioned at, or slightly above, your child's shoulders and you must stop using a shield booster when your child is 40 pounds.

j) If you want to use a belt-positioning booster seat, first make sure that you are using the lap/shoulder belt combination with a belt-positioning booster. Never use just a lap belt. Secondly, the shoulder belt must rest across the chest and thirdly the lap-belt should remain across the lap or upper thigh area and not across the stomach

Finally, do not use a car seat that: a) was involved in a crash, b) more that 10 years old, c) does not have a label with its date of manufacturing, d) does not have instructions, e) has a crack in its frame or has some part missing. Always follow these instructions to ensure your baby's safety in the car.

Article Written By J. Foley http://your-bay.blogspot.com

Baby Shower Gift Baskets: Tips And Ideas

Personalizing a baby's gift is an excellent idea, making the gift distinct and special and grows into a cherished token through the years. When giving or making a gift sooner, before the baby's due, you are faced with a problem, that is, you are not yet certain of the name and the birth date. An option to consider is by giving a gift certificate for an etching or engraving design along with your gift. This way, when the wonderful day arrives, the parents can take your gift and have it personalized.

Choices for personalized gifts are baby cups, picture frame, jewelry or a cutlery set. There are wide selections of items that can be personalized; all you have to do is look.

A blanket for baby embroidered with the baby's name alongside the name's meaning would make an excellent gift for both mom and baby.

Your labor of love gift basket

Gift baskets are very popular today and indeed a wonderful idea which can either be purchased made-to-order or ready-made. Or, you can do it yourself by putting together all baby items that you like for the baby. Here's how you can make one:

1. Know first the size of the basket that you will use. A very large basket may be difficult to fill, so a medium sized is recommended. Usually, craft stores sell baskets of different sizes, shapes and colors. Shredded tissue paper and raffia make great fillers to be layered at the basket's bottom, alongside with baby towels and blankets.

2. If you do have a large basket, you can easily fill it up by choosing bigger items as well, such as crib comforters, stuffed bunny or teddy, pillows or crib bumpers.

3. Take into consideration the baby's gender, what really the baby needs. For a first baby, there will be many things that he will need. Having to look at a baby registry if the mom to be has one, can help a lot, since you will know what the baby really needs. If there is none, you could always ask the mom what else she needs for the baby.

4. Consider having a theme. You can load the basket with everything pink for a baby girl or everything blue for a baby boy, or everything having a "pooh" or a dinosaur design. A bedtime theme basket filled with story books, music CD, blankets, pillows, pajama, musical crib mobile and a teddy bear can be a wonderful idea. Be creative and let your imagination soar.

5. Another way of being creative is instead of using a basket, a baby tub, a diaper bag, a small laundry basket or a trunk can also be used.

6. For a tub, you can fill it with baby bathing accessories, such as soaps, towels, bubble bath, powder, baby shampoo, lotion and bath rubber toys.

7. For the trunk, you can fill it with baby's keepsake book, monogrammed items, receiving blankets, heirloom items, a picture frame and an inspirational book all about mom and baby. You can also place a little inspirational note containing all your wishes for the baby. This will add a more personal touch to your gift.

8. For the laundry basket, you can fill it with cute slippers, diapers, baby comb and brush, booties, and baby clothes.

Baby Shower Food: What And How To Serve

A baby shower is a traditional way of celebrating the coming (or the birth) of a new baby and welcoming him or her as a new member of the family. They can be hosted and organized by anybody, usually the close friends/group of friends or relatives of the expectant parents. It was once considered improper for family members to host baby showers (because they usually center on the gift giving), but nowadays it is fine for family members to help (and plan) them.

Baby showers are usually held a month or two before the mother's expected due date (some cultures, however, consider it bad luck to hold baby showers before the baby is born). They are intended not only to welcome the baby but also to help the expectant parents by giving them gifts that they will need for the baby.

Planning for a baby shower can be an enormous task. Everything requires a great deal of planning - from the guest list, to handing out invitations, to the decorations, to the games, to baby shower favors - and, most especially, to the food.

Every party cannot be without food, as they are considered as one of the best parts or the highlight of a party. This applies to baby showers as well.

There are numerous types of food that you can serve during baby showers. Some of them are the following:

· Bread or sandwiches · Dessert (cakes, cookies, ice cream, etc.) · Chips or fries · Pasta · Pies (pizzas, etc.) · Salad · Drinks (punch, juice, wine, etc.)

Below is a list of several tips and guidelines on food ideas that will surely delight your guests and the parents-to-be:

1. The baby shower food that you serve will largely depend on the time of day when it will be held. A baby shower that will be held at noon or at dinnertime usually requires a full 'sit-down' meal, while early afternoon or early evening showers can do with appetizers, salads, and finger foods. In addition, the amount of food that you need to prepare will depend on the number of guests you will be inviting.

2. Have multiple snack trays for serving different varieties of food - you can have one with an assortment of finger sandwiches, another with sliced turkey or smoked chicken, and still another with sliced fresh vegetables served with a dip that you can place in the center of the tray.

3. Try to match your food and keep them in-line with the baby shower's theme (if ever there is any). You may consider serving scones and finger sandwiches if your baby shower theme is a tea party. Or, if you are having a nursery rhyme-themed baby shower, cakes and pies that resemble the characters from famous nursery rhyme (such as Humpty Dumpty deviled eggs).

4. Put some 'life' in the baby shower foods that you will serve. Instead of serving your fruit salad in a simple salad bowl, try presenting them in a melon bowl (or better yet, in a baby carriage-shaped melon server).

5. Decorate your food table by tossing baby pacifier candies, chocolate bars, and confetti all over it.

6. Personalize your eating utensils. Match their colors with the color scheme of the entire party. Consider using disposable cups or plates for easy clean up.

7. It is important to take into account the special diet of the mom-to-be, so try to avoid serving food that the pregnant mom herself would not eat. In addition to her allergies and food aversions, avoid the types of food that are prone to contamination and food poisoning, such as soft cheeses, uncooked meat and (most especially) alcohol.

By following these food tips, you will surely be able to pull off a successful (and memorable) baby shower.

Who Should I Invite To A Baby Shower?

It's often a challenge to decide just who to invite to your baby shower. What is the proper etiquette and how do you avoid hurting someone's feelings?

When determining your guest list, it's important to define your target group. Is it your idea to host the traditional women only gathering or will you include children? Today it's becoming increasingly popular to invite couples and/or complete families.

When you decide on the type of shower you are going to be hosting make sure your invitations are precisely worded, such as "women only", "children welcome" and so on based on your decision. If you are planning a specific theme make sure this is included on your invitations as well as any special instructions such as what to bring, how to dress, and directions to the party location. This will save you countless telephone inquiries regarding the specifics of your shower plans.

Always ask your invited guests to RSVP and keep in mind that typically about 20-25% of those confirming will ultimately fail to attend for a variety of reasons.

Baby Showers held at an office, social club or church have a pre-determined guest list of co-workers, club members or fellow church members but make sure that you find out if your shower is the only one being held for the mom to be. If it is, then you may want to extend invitations to her personal friends and family. It may take a bit of discreet probing to find out if there are additional showers planned.

Alternatively, if you are a friend or family member planning the only shower, it's a thoughtful idea to make a call to the prospective mother to be's employer to find out who should be invited from her workplace.

In most cases her husband should be able to supply contact information for her friends and work associates.

Don't forget that if your shower is the sole party planned, you should extend invites to the mom's family as well as her husband's family.

Baby Furniture in Luxury Styles

Baby furniture in luxury styles can be found in many different places. Brand name and big designers of baby furniture can make you feel good about your choices. Knowing you are getting the best furniture and the most comfortable furniture for your baby is important. Many baby furniture designers realize this and want you to have the best for your baby whether it is your first baby or your fifth.

You can buy durable baby furniture in luxury quality. There are many fine brands available to choose from. Well known brands make your shopping easy when you know what brand you are looking for. Your furniture will be beautiful and last for years to come when you choose a brand that is well known and of high quality. A complete matching nursery furniture set will give you everything you want in your infant room. Changing tables and bookcases, rockers and hampers, what more could you want to complete your sweet baby nursery? Add extras like wall hangings and stuffed animals too.

There are many shapes to consider when purchasing a crib. Round cribs are so luxurious and make your little one feel like a princess! Exquisite Cradles can be found in fun shapes also. When choosing cribs, consider one that has a drawer in the bottom to store baby bedding and blankets. Your baby furniture luxury items will be at the delight of your newborn. Do not forget the bedding and linens. The soft luxurious linens available for you to purchase will bring such a softness to their tender skin. Fine Egyptian cottons are excellent for surrounding your baby in luxury.

Baby furniture in luxury styles is one that is easily affordable these days. There are so many stores that carry luxury furniture for babies, that finding one will not be much of a problem. Know that you are getting the best you can for your baby, and feel good about it. Set the nursery up so that it is a comfortable space for you and your baby to come home from the hospital to.

Protect Your Baby - Talc Is Extremely Dangerous

Before using body powder on you or your baby, consider that not all body powder products are baby-safe. Body powders as well as baby powders, having talc as main ingredient may do more harm to you and your baby than good.

1. Talc Is Like Abestos!

Talc is a rock that is mined and processed by crushing and grinding, drying the grinded materials, and then milling them. Through processing, a number of trace minerals are eliminated, but some minute fibers that are comparable to ABESTOS are not separated. Talc, as it is cheap and widely available, is the main ingredient of most baby powders, perfumed body powders and medicated body powders. You put yourself and your baby at risk when you inhale these products. Body powder is used after bath to keep skin smelling good or to relieve irritated skin. Plenty of individuals are still unaware of the inextricable connection between talc and asbestos. In fact, these two chemicals are very much alike.

2. Talc Causes Cancer!

Particles of talc can cause lung and ovarian tumors. Studies have clearly shown that constant and repeated use of powder in the female's genital area lead to cancer! Talc is able to move inside the reproductive system becomes lodged along the ovary lining. Studies show that talc particles are found in the ovarian tumor and researchers say that women with ovarian tumors have the habit of using talcum powder on their genital area.

3. Powder Inhalation Causes Deaths!

Since the early 1980's, records prove that several infants die each year due to accidental baby powder inhalation. Talc is a household hazard. It is used on babies to prevent diaper rash and to absorb moisture in the skin, keeping babies fresh. Evidently, dusting with baby powder endangers your infant's lungs as there is great possibility of inhaling the product. It is dangerous to expose your baby to this carcinogen. Swelling and irritation of the lungs may occur when the powder is inhaled, and therefore may lead to breathing difficulties. Also, if talc gets in contact with baby's rash or broken skin, inflammatory reaction may take place and that could be very uncomfortable.

4. Use A Substitute!

- Instead of powder, use petroleum jelly on babies bottoms every diaper change. It is very effective in preventing diaper rash, because it provides the skin with a film, keeping wetness off the skin. - Use medicated ointments to treat rashes on babies and on your skin. - Ask your pediatrician about other options and products that you can safely use as a baby powder substitute. - Cornstarch mixed with baking soda is a great and safer alternative, to keep you and your baby fresh. It is much coarser than body or baby powder, and you can also add fragrance in it, if you want to smell good after applying it.

5. Products Worth Checking Into

- Neways body and baby powder - Natural body powder - Dermaglow Natural body and baby powder - Lady Emily's Talc-free body powder - Johnson's cornstarch baby powder - Burt's bee dusting body powder - PuriSorb. Very mild, good for all types of skin and formulated with chitosan, aloe vera, tapioca starch, and vitamin E.

6. Guidelines

- Check and read the label. The product MUST be talc-free. - Check the date on the container and make sure that the product is fresh. Powder that is stored too long can breed bacteria and contaminate your or your baby's skin. - Don't apply baby powder directly from the container. Pour it first on your palm and gently pat it unto baby's bottom. Keep powder away from baby's face. - Likewise, be gentle in applying body powder to yourself. Never dust it on your face and neck directly, to avoid inhaling it, as this can lead to throat irritation. - Don't use body powder on both your and your baby girl's genital area, as well as to areas surrounding it. - Avoid putting powder on baby's skin creases, as the powder cakes can build up and encourage bacteria growth and can cause fungal infection. - If you have sensitive skin, an unscented body powder will be best for you. - During diaper change, never let your baby play with the powder; it can accidentally spill on his face, causing him to choke, or that he will inhale too much powder and lead to serious lung complication.

Baby Parenting - Guide Your Baby Everyday

Be a Good Teacher for Your Baby

Babies learn by exploring the things around them. Show your baby how to look at, listen to, touch or smell something new or different. Hold your baby so she (or he) can see things. Help her hold objects like her socks or a rattle. As she grows, give her safe objects to feel, shake or put into her mouth.

· Be your baby's teacher. She (or he) will see how you react to things. When you get excited about a toy or object, she'll get excited too. As she grows, show her how things work—for example, how doors open and close. Talk about what you are doing. For example, "I am putting the food in the pot to cook it."

· When a baby is learning something new, it helps her to try it again and again. With your help and support this can be fun, and your baby will like trying new things.

· Protect your baby from harsh disapproval, teasing or punishment. A baby doesn't understand right from wrong. She doesn't know what things are dangerous for her to do. Watch her to keep her safe. Remove her from situations where she can be hurt or injured.

· Talk and sing to your baby. Even before she is able to speak, this helps her develop language skills. Babies learn best when you talk to them.

· Read to your baby from the earliest months of her life and continue this habit as she grows.

Babies Have People Skills, Too

From the start, your baby is interested in your face. She notices your expressions and tone of voice. She reacts to your emotions. For example, when you say something in a soft and loving way, she will relax and feel more secure.

Scientists have learned that babies show emotions as early as when they are one month old. Something else scientists have learned is that feeling good helps babies learn better.

Why? Happy babies are more alert, attentive and responsive. Babies remember things better when they are happy and at ease. The way you hold and talk to your baby can help her feel happy.

Babies who are alert and feeling good are more likely to look at things, explore and play. They will pay attention more. For example, they will try to make new things happen with toys or make sounds with people. This helps them learn and remember new things.

Brief periods of distress or difficulty will occur. These will not harm a child. Short periods of negative emotions can be helpful for your baby. You should do something quickly to help her feel better. From this she will learn you care about what she tries to tell you. Long periods of negative emotion, like crying, can do harm.

In the first month, the negative emotion that occurs is distress or a response to pain. Later, she will show sadness and anger. Next comes fear. All people have these emotions to protect themselves. Help your baby be at ease with having emotions. Respond to her emotions in a warm and loving way.

You can tell what your baby is feeling by changes in her facial expression. You can also see what she is feeling by her posture, movements and the sounds she makes.

Learning to Communicate

It will be months before your baby says her first word. But babies start learning about language much earlier.

Even in the first few weeks after birth, your baby is learning about language. Very young babies can tell the difference between speech and other sounds. They can tell the difference between the voices of men and the voices of women. They even know the voices of their own mothers. A baby can tell the voice of her mother from the voices of other women. Researchers think babies are able to do this because of the way specific parts of their brains work.

Babies can also communicate long before they speak. They use movements and sounds to let you know what they want or don't want. Some people refer to these as a baby's "signals".

Right now, your baby can tell you if she needs something by fussing or crying. She can also let you know when she likes something or someone by looking intently. Babies learn best how to tell parents what they like or don't like when they begin to see that parents respond to them in positive ways.

Even before she can speak, you need to talk to your baby. Even though there are differences among individuals, babies whose parents talk to them talk sooner. They also have larger vocabularies. Talking to babies gives them language skills that will help them learn more easily when they get to school. Hearing words on the radio or TV is not very helpful to babies learning language. Your baby benefits from having you up close smiling, talking and singing.

Babies Cry for Lots of Reasons

Crying is the way newborns communicate. Your new baby cries to let you know she needs or wants something.

The first thing to try when she cries is to feed her. By noticing when she wants to be fed and when she doesn't, you will learn which cries mean that she is hungry, uncomfortable or wants attention. Sometimes she will want to be held. Sometimes she wants a dry diaper. Sometimes she is tired or bored.

As you and your baby get to know each other, you will sometimes be able to tell the difference between each kind of crying. You can then try to give her what she needs.

Taking care of your baby when she cries will not spoil her. It will help your baby feel loved and secure.

Smile, touch and talk to your baby as often as possible. Do this when you feed her, change her diaper or give her a bath. Your baby will learn that she can rely on you to take care of her.

Ways to Soothe Your Baby

Sometimes babies cry even when they have been fed, have clean diapers and are healthy. If your baby is crying because she needs comfort, there are many things you can do. Every baby is different.

Here are things you can try to find out what calms your baby down.

- Rock your baby in your arms or while sitting in a rocking chair.

- Stroke your baby's head very gently, or lightly pat her back or chest.

- Make soft noises to let your baby know you are there and you care.

- Talk to your baby.

- Softly sing to your baby or play soft music.

- Wrap her up in a baby blanket (but not too tightly).

If your baby keeps crying after you have tried everything, stay calm. Babies know when you are upset. No matter how stressed you are, never shake your baby. Shaking your baby can cause blindness, brain damage or even death.

If you need a break, call a relative, neighbour or friend to help. All babies cry. You will not be able to comfort your baby every time. That does not mean you are a bad parent. Do the best you can to soothe and comfort your baby.

Here's a simple tip to help your baby cry less—carry her. Research shows that babies who are carried more often don't cry as much as other babies.

Baby Strollers Tips and Advice

You have just learned that you are expecting a bundle of joy and now you need to begin getting the things your baby will need. If this is your first baby all the decisions you need to make may seem overwhelming at first. One of the biggest purchases you will need to make is about the type of stroller you will use for your baby.

There are so many different types of strollers to choose from and one of the first things you need to do is determine your budget. There are strollers that can cost as little as $10.00 or as much as $400 and up. The lower end strollers are generally the very light weight umbrella strollers. The advantage to these strollers is the fold nicely and can store almost anywhere. As the price gets higher the features and quality of the stroller may increase.

Strollers can come with a variety of features. What is important to you? Do you want a convertible travel system or a stroller that is just that and a car seat? There are travel systems that include a stay in the car base, an infant carrier/car safety seat, and a stroller frame for the infant seat which it is attached. These are great especially when your baby is newly born.

Strollers have a play tray that has insets for a bottle or juice cup. Many have canopies with a vinyl window so you can keep an eye on the baby. The brake on most strollers now are attached to both rear wheels and is easily applied with your foot and some also have a wrist strap brake that is used in conjunction with the foot break. It gives extra safety when you are stopped and the stroller won't 'roll away' while you have the strap.

There is usually a large storage basket under the seat(s) of the strollers and many strollers now are coming with a parent tray that is place over the handle bar. It has a spot for a cup of coffee or a soda, a place for your cell phone, your keys and a place to hold a snack.

Handlebars are now height adjustable on most strollers and are reversible moving from either the front to back or vice versa. The height adjustable feature is a great saver on the back the reversible handle can help you see your baby while he rides if necessary.

The seat is the next consideration. Does the seat recline and if so will it recline enough so that your newborn can lie almost flat? Is the seat well padded and will it be comfortable for your baby? Is the seat padding removable for washing?

Most upper end strollers come with blankets that can attach to the seat with snaps. These blankets make your baby's stroller like a bunting on wheels. Rain hoods are also detachable and can be used to protect your baby from harsh sunlight and winds.

Here's another twist your decision about a baby stroller. Your friend has an almost brand new stroller that you can have for free. She agrees to have it cleaned and ready for you. Is a used baby stroller a safe choice for your baby? It can be a very good choice for you and your baby, however there are some things you really need to look over before you place your precious one in it.

The frame - there should be no dents, cracks, or gaps in the frame. All bolts and screws must be in place. Anything less could cause an accident and seriously hurt your baby. Are there sharp spots on the frame? Are there any screws loose or sticking out that could cut your baby? Is the handle bar joined properly to the frame?

The wheels - are they solid or do you need to look for leaks in air pressure in them? Are the wheels worn? Do they need replacing? Do the wheels turn, as they should? Are the axels straight? Does the brake operate properly; that is, do they hold when applied?

The seat - does the seat hold its position whether straight or in the reclining position? A seat that does not hold the position well could seriously injure your baby. Is the lining clean or does it fit the frame properly.

There are all kinds of options styles and types of strollers. There are multiple seat strollers for twins, or more children. There are a variety of seating arrangements side by side seating, tandem seating with one seat behind the other, and stadium seating (tandem seating with rear seat raised above the front) allowing the second child to be able to see more than the back of a head. There are jogging strollers (one wheel out in front and two rear wheels). The jogging strollers also come with multiple seating.

Used or new enjoy your outings with your baby or children.

Skin Care Products for your New Baby

As most of you know, a baby's skin is considerably more sensitive than the average adult. For that reason, it is vitally important that you use natural skin care products for your child. Many skin care products contain chemicals and fragrances that can irritate your new baby's skin. By knowing which products to avoid, and which products you should use, you can ensure that your little one grows up with healthy beautiful skin.

Weleda Diaper Care Cream is by far one of the best products we have found to date. Weleda was established back in 1921 by physicians and pharmacists under the guidance of Dr. Rudolf Steiner. The main ingredients in their diaper care cream are almond oil, calendula flower, chamomile flower, lanolin, and lavender oil. These ingredients are contained in a base of zinc oxide. This product provides highly effective treatment for painful diaper rash. It is truly one-of-a-kind.

Lavera Baby Toothpaste is yet another excellent product, with absolutely no harmful ingredients. It contains no fluoride, phosphate, or sugar. It is made with all natural silica, which is very effective at cleaning your baby's new teeth. This toothpaste is also ideal for helping your growing child with learning to brush his or her own teeth, as it is safe to swallow. This product is also certified organic.

Dr. Hauschka's Sunscreen Spray for Children is an incredible product. It has an SPF of 20, and is ideal for day-to-day use. The wonderful thing about this sunscreen is that it is colored, and allows one to see exactly where it has been applied. It has a pure and natural composition, and is safe for use on all skin types. It is also water resistant, so parents can relax knowing their children have the best sun protection on the beach or in the water. Furthermore, the plant-based nutrients moisturize your little one's skin while the sun dries it out.

Lavera Baby Shampoo will transform bath time with your baby into an oasis of fun. As with other products from this excellent company, Lavera Baby Shampoo is comprised of all natural ingredients such as organic almond and wheat extract. This tear-free shampoo is perfect for your baby's sensitive skin, as it helps to maintain the natural moisture balance of your baby's skin. This gentle, mild-foaming shampoo is perfect for children and adults alike.

Regardless of the products you have chosen to use with your children, it cannot hurt to learn more about the other products that are available on the market. While many companies advertise their products as natural, most of them cannot be considered truly natural. The products mentioned above are just a few of the excellent products we have discovered and had the pleasure to use. We hope you check them out for yourself.

Baby Strollers - Frequently Asked Questions

Baby Strollers are one of the major purchases you will make for your baby. There are different types of strollers and in each category there are a variety of models. This may leave you with a variety of questions. Some frequent questions along with their respective answers are listed below. They deal with everything from the handlebars to the wheels and what is appropriate for newborns to older children. Your needs, how and where you will use the stroller as well as your budget will determine the strollers you will have to choose from.

Q. What are the different types of baby strollers available?

There are single, double, and triple strollers. Jogging strollers also have single and multi-seating strollers. Strollers with multiple seats come in Tandem where one seat is directly behind the other. Stadium baby strollers have the rear seat slightly higher than the front enabling both children a view of the scenery. Some strollers actually allow you to place your children in different positions such as facing one another. Another Tandem stroller is the double-decker where the rear seat is significantly higher than the front seat.

Q. What is a height adjustable handle bar?

A height adjustable handlebar on the stroller is one that can be adjusted to the height of the parent or caregiver. This helps prevent bending while pushing the stroller and as a result there are fewer issues with your lower back.

Q. Is this stroller appropriate for a newborn?

When choosing a stroller particularly for newborns, you have to be certain that it is appropriate for your baby. The seat must recline enough to allow your baby to lie flat. A stroller that converts from a stroller, to an infant carrier, to an infant car seat might be an option. It would at least provide you with the knowledge it is good for your newborn.

Q. Are the restraint straps and buckles safe?

When purchasing your stroller make sure the straps are secure. The buckles or fasteners should be easily manipulated but not so easy that your baby could open them and risk injury.

Q. Is a second hand stroller acceptable for my baby?

For the most part yes, a second-hand stroller is acceptable for use. Before you purchase the stroller be sure to inspect all belts, straps, and fasteners. There should be no fraying or tears in the belts or straps and they should be securely in place. All fasteners should be free of cracks and still be easily used. Be sure though your baby won't be able open it. Check the seat and make sure that the back is stable and that it won't collapse under his weight. The reclining positions should also hold your baby's weight. Make sure there are no sharp edges or places where little fingers can be pinched.

Q. Does this stroller come with a parent organizer?

Many newer model strollers come with a detachable tray that has a cup holder, and spaces to hold your keys, your cell phone, and a wallet.

Q, Is this a convertible stroller?

You may want to consider a stroller that has a detachable seat that becomes an infant carrier and/or a baby car seat. This would reduce the continual removal from the car seat to the stroller or to a carrier. This is a travel system and comes with a base that remains in the car.

Q. Will this stroller maneuver on any terrain?

Most strollers are made for the street or for mall walking. There are some models that have different kinds of wheels for different terrain. If you are going to use it hiking, you will want to look for a specific type of wheel. For general walking whether in the street or a mall, a simple stroller like the inexpensive umbrella types strollers.

Q. What kind of brakes does the stroller have?

The preferred type of brake is the brake that is attached to both rear wheels with a bar. This type of brake is preferred because it can be applied or released with one foot reducing the chance that one brake would not be applied and causes the stroller to roll or tip over. Some strollers come with a strap that is called a wrist brake which is worn by the parent to prevent the stroller from rolling when you are stopped for a long period of time.

Q. Where can I find out about recalls on my stroller?

The store where you purchased your stroller should have recall information. You can contact the manufacturer or search the Internet for information. You can contact the Consumer Protection Safety Commission or check consumer magazines dedicated to informing consumers on the ratings of many products.

Q. Are replacement or extra parts available for the model of baby stroller I have chosen?

When you purchase your stroller you might want to ask specifically if the stroller you have chosen has extra parts (i.e. wheels) or replacement parts. This could be helpful if you need to replace the seat liner or an extra stay in the car base for your stroller. The best source for this information would probably be the manufacturer. Check the owner's manual to see if there is information in there on replacement parts and where you can get them.

Q. What can I do to keep my stroller in good condition?

Some of the things you can do to maintain your stroller in good condition includes not leaving it outside in bad weather. Keep the wheels in good shape, check all the belts and fasteners periodically to be sure they are not worn or broken. It is important to keep the seat cover clean. Apply the brake and make sure it holding when fully applied.

In Conclusion

Buying a stroller is very important and must be appropriate for you and your baby. Keeping your baby safe is of the utmost importance and to that end be sure that your baby never exceeds the maximum weight it is meant to hold. The manufacturer is a good source for any questions or concerns you might have about choosing a baby stroller.

Baby Shower Gift Basket - The Best Basket Filler Ever

You will be surprised how much pleasure you give to a person on the receiving end of a personalized baby gift as well as claiming a sense of satisfaction knowing you donated well. To personalize an item is a fabulous way to leave your mark where your gift is lovingly treasured for years to come.

Very popular items given at baby showers are baby beakers, guilt edged photo frames, baby trinkets and silverware also woolly fleeced baby blankets embroidered with the name of baby or their initials. Names and their meaning stitched neatly in coloured cottons onto an item of clothing make an excellent personalized gift for both mother and baby.

Baby Gift baskets definitely take lead in holding top position as the most given gift at a baby shower. Below you will find a few ideas to help you organise your perfect gift basket donation.

Wicker holders can be bought in florists or craft shops and come in different shapes and sizes or better still ready made First you must take into account the size of the basket that is to be used. Warning - the bigger the basket the more to fill thus incurring more costs so consider a medium size gift basket. . To pad or line your basket use shredded tissue paper or scrunched raffia. This can be layered around the sides and at the bottom along with items that you have for the baby.

If you are adamant on having a large basket then fill it the same way only this time stuff and cram in more padding. You need not struggle to fill the basket if you add bigger items like a baby pillow or cushion - one of each if need be.

Knowing the gender of the baby will make your task a slight easier in helping you decide on what is to goe into your gift basket. Ask the pregnant mum for a baby registry list if she has one, this will also help with your content picking. Let your imagination run wild when making selections. Fillers like cloth nappies, disposable diapers, teething rings, and baby feeding bottles are gifts that are welcomed with open arms as they are all useful for mom when raising the baby.

It is to your advantage knowing the gender of the new baby on the way because you now know what colour to work with when personalizing your gift basket. A theme like the forever favourite bedtime topic is very popular - maybe this is because baby sleeps most of the time since birth. Fairy tale books, musical CDs, soft to touch blankets, puffy cushions, music mobiles and cuddly toys are common choices as fillers for this theme.

If you are of a creative nature then make your gift with a difference by filling a baby bath tub, a mummy holdall bag or even a small laundry basket. Baby wash tubs can contain bathing accessories e.g talcum powder, soaps, towels, baby shampoo, and not forgetting the rubber duck.

If you are filling a trunk in place of a Baby Gift Basket then include baby keepsakes. If the laundry basket is your choice of container then pack it with slippers, baby wipes, brush and comb set and baby clothes. What to put into your Baby Gift basket could prove to be a problem because of the endless options. You can always call in an expert for help and guidance.

If you want to be remembered for a long time to come and filling the basket is proving to be an ordeal then pad the Baby Gift Basket with BANK notes then you will never be forgotten.

Planning for Baby Showers - Pregnancy Result and it is all systems go

A positive pregnancy test result sends a signal to close friends and family that it is all systems go for the holding of a baby shower party for the expectant mother. Baby Showers are parties that are held to celebrate the new edition expected at a later date. Shower parties and the planning of them have dramatically changed over the years.

A lot of thought goes behind the event. Through out the early months of pregnancy the expectant mother rests while the party is carefully organized by the select chosen few. In the past Baby Showers were usually arranged by non relatives but that has all changed. Mother-to-be is the only person who does not get involved with the preparations.

Knowing who to invite can be difficult, once upon a time the only inclusion on the invite list was that of immediate family. You can approach mum-to-be on this part but if it is to be a surprise celebration then you will have to scout around and do a little homework on who to invite. The birth of every baby born into the same family is now celebrated with a Baby Shower party. Traditionally it was the first born that was recognised in this manner.

Gatherings for the first born normally had more guests attending the baby shower party than that of the second or third child. Intimacy prevails at baby showers so try your best to keep your friends as close knit as they get. Different ways of sending invitations is best checked out. Email or the telephonel are two ways for inviting but the nicest and more appropriate is to send a personalized invitation card this way the guest gets to keep a little memento of the day.

Guys and dolls in unison work together when making babies but what of the men at baby shower parties. This type of occasion intends to have more feminine evolvement but if guys feel comfortable with this then so be it.

Where the event should be held and celebrated is entirely up to you, a popular choice is in back gardens, but venues like halls, restaurants are as much appropriate for on the day of the baby shower. Depending on your list of guests the size of the venue will have to be taken into account for comfort for all attending.

The best time to throw a Baby Shower party is at least two months before the baby is expected to make his/her appearance. This gives people chance that come bearing gifts enough time to make their donations in hope that mum-to-be has not already purchased the same items.

Baby Showers for expecting mothers are a lovely and thoughtful surprise therefore less stress for the expectant mum when it comes to organizing events as such. A properly coordinated baby shower will leave guests with memories of a phenomenal and everlasting day/night to remember. Memories relate to something that happened in the past that you recall and reminisce about but if they are FOND memories then they will remain in your thoughts every day from that day on.

Baby Shower Supplies: Shower Planning Help

Planning a baby shower can be a very big task. In order to make this process easier, here is a baby shower planning checklist that should make things easier.

Printed cards

The invitation card is the primary element in the baby shower. It should carry the theme of the party to let the guests know what to expect. It will also guide them in buying the baby shower gift. Send the invitations at least a month in advance. Make sure to RSVP so you can plan against the right number of guests.

Depending on your budget, you may choose from a variety of invitations. The Internet offers such a variety, from the free and already printable to the online-purchased customized invitations. If you are computer savvy, you may use your home printer and a desktop publishing software to create-your-own themed baby shower invitation.

While on the subject of invitation cards, prepare the thank you cards at the same time. Ensure that your theme emanates in the layout of the thank you card. Sending out thank you cards provides proper closure to the party and gives your guests a lasting memory of the fun they had.

Games and Activities

While your invitations are being produced, plan for the party activities. Games will enliven each activity and entice participation from the guests. Depending on your theme, choose the games that are suitable to the theme, or customize them to suit. For example, the traditional bring me game can be customized by asking to "bring me" pink colored items, for a baby girl shower theme.

Prizes are as important in making the occasion memorable, so be prepared to give prizes to all game winners and sometimes, even participants.

Prepare or add on to this list as required by the activities that you have planned. Make sure that you have listed all the things needed to make the activity successful and to avoid last-minute paraphernalia substitutes.

Party Venue Set-up

As dictated by the theme, set-up the party place accordingly. If it is a layette party, hang a clothesline all around the room and clip colored paper cutouts of baby clothes and stuffs. For the Hollywood theme, copy the set-up by having a red carpet where guests will walk-in.

Food and Drinks

The other half of a lively party is overflowing food and drinks. Make sure that as you finalize the number of guests, you are able to buy enough food and drink supplies for the headcount. Buy an extra 10% more to make sure that hungry guests get their fill. Like the games and activities list, expand this section to include details on the supplies needed for your specific menu.

Baby Shower Souvenirs

Aside from the game prizes, give your guests a thank you token for attending and participating in the baby shower. Note that this is different from a thank you card, which will be sent to individual guests as a thank you for their gift. Thus, guest who may not have brought gifts can still receive this baby shower souvenir. It does not need to be expensive, especially if there are game prizes given out. Just be sure to have it in-line with your theme to complete the effect.

Celebrate the coming of a newborn in an organized fashion. Use this checklist of baby shower supplies to plan for a successful baby shower.

How Do You Know What To Give For A Baby Shower?

Buying a gift for a baby is especially tough when you don't have any kids of your own. If you've never had children, how in the world are you supposed to know what to do?

Relax, we are going to give you some quick ideas to help take the stress off of you, help you choose an appropriate and useful gift and make the shower an enjoyable experience.

Call the soon to be parents or the host of the baby shower and ask if there is a gift registry for the baby. Many people do this just as brides do for bridal showers. Many times it will be available online. The baby gift registry will tell you what they are asking for and if the desire has already been filled.

Diapers may not seem the fanciest of baby shower gifts, but they may be one of the most useful. Diapers are expensive, and babies use them quickly, so new parents always appreciate a gift of diapers. Even parents who use cloth diapers might like to have a pack of disposable diapers for travel. Diapers are sized by baby's weight. Buy larger sizes instead of newborn diapers, since some newborns grow quickly and don't use many of the smaller sizes. Don't forget to throw in some baby wipes!

Some babies are really picky when it comes to bottles and pacifiers - some babies will only use one particular brand or shape. If the parents-to-be have registered for a particular type of bottles, nipples or pacifiers, it's safe to buy them for a baby shower gift. Otherwise, steer clear of these gifts until you know which type the baby will prefer.

Some parents do not ever introduce their baby to pacifiers or bottles because these items can interfere with breastfeeding.

This is another reason to do some research if you want to buy something like this, I know my son never used a pacifier and some people are touchy about that.

Baby clothes are sized by age and sometimes weight. The smallest sizes don't get a lot of wear since newborns grow quickly. Baby clothes in larger sizes will likely be used more. Use the baby's due date to figure out what season it will be when baby reaches a new clothing size, such as 6 months, and buy seasonal clothes in that size.

If you don't know the baby's gender, a gift certificate is a welcome baby shower gift, allowing the parents to choose an outfit in pink or blue after baby arrives. If you're stumped for a baby shower gift, help boost baby's brain power by choosing a classic baby book, educational DVD or music CD. Studies show that music encourages brain development in babies, so a lullaby CD or some tunes for the car would be a nice gift. Also look for one of the many DVD learning series for infants, such as Brainy Baby or Baby Einstein. Still stumped? A copy of your favorite book from childhood is a meaningful and useful baby shower gift.

The baby shower gift possibilities are almost endless when you give the gift of baby toys. You can buy toys made for older babies for use later in baby's life, but stick with toys for ages 3 and under to avoid small parts that could choke a young baby. Toys have an age range listed on the package. If you want your gift to be used for a long time, look for a wider age range on the package. Fancy doesn't necessarily mean better when it comes to baby toys, either, babies love simple toys, too.

If you want to give a baby shower gift that's out of the ordinary, consider the parents' lifestyle. For environmentally active parents, an organic baby gift is a smart choice. Are the parents into travel or outdoors adventures? A baby backpack carrier or baby bike trailer would get baby involved in family activities. Techie parents might enjoy a titanium stroller with an onboard music system. Other lifestyle gifts might include breastfeeding supplies, baby slings or cloth diapers.

Baby Furniture - Furnishing The Nursery Safely

Babies are such a joy to be around and the feeling of excitement usually elevates during the period where its time to buy and select baby furniture for the baby.

One of the essential pieces of baby furniture that a baby needs is a crib. Though a crib is a common thing needed by babies, the selection process of picking this kind of baby furniture is crucial. Why you may ask? Well, according to recent reports, at least 50 babies experience suffocation or were strangled each year because of accidents that involve cribs that are old and have broken parts. This eventually led to the declaration of U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in 1995. The said declaration was all about the destruction and elimination of old and used cribs. Due to this incident, the safest way to ensure that baby furniture is in good and safe condition is to buy a brand new one. Unfortunately, not all people have the money to buy a new one so the best thing that you could do is to wait for the next best thing

In buying baby furniture, always remember that the safety of the baby is at stake. Do not buy baby furniture just for the sake of saving money because you would risk the safety of the child in return. Be sure to use precaution and examine everything. Here are some tips that would help you in finding the perfect baby furniture for the perfect baby (without compromising your baby's safety as well as your budget).

The first step in choosing used baby furniture is to check the furniture thoroughly. Be sure to check every detail and look for possible missing, loose, broken or improperly installed screws, brackets and other hardware on the baby furniture. Another thing that you should consider is the material that the baby furniture is made of. A few minutes or so of inspection is a wise investment both financially and for the protection of your child.

After checking for obvious visual defects visit the CPSC's website and enter the make and model of the item in their search box, this should bring back any warnings or recall notices.