But if you're like me, and like having all the cool new gadgets and gimmicks for baby, here are some things that I really thought were either necessary or extremely helpful with a newborn.
1. Swaddle-Me by Summer Infant
We originally didn't register or purchase any of these. We received these as a gift about a week before Myles was born. Great gift!
The first week or so we swaddled Myles in a blanket, but after that he was a little Houdini and was always able to get his arms out! Then we tried these and voila! He felt snug and secure and started sleeping much better! We only use them at night, and won't be using them once he can roll over, but for a newborn it's perfect!
2. Aden & Anais Muslin Blankets
We love these blankets! These are the ones we use to swaddle during the day, lay on top of him in the car seat, or put down on the bed/sofa underneath him. The lightweight fabric is very breatheable so he doesn't get sweaty, and they are extra big so you never run out of fabric when swaddling.
3. Cloud B Sleep Giraffe
This sound machine has worked for us perfectly. The giraffe is super cute, and comes with a smaller plush toy to play with. It comes with eight sounds (four nature sounds and four lullabies) and has two different sleep timers built in. Right now it's hanging on the end of the cradle but will make the move with him to the crib when it comes time.
4. Snuza Monitor by Levana
This was the best purchase ever! This little monitor clips right on to the top of his diaper pressed against his belly. We call this his Life Alert. If he doesn't breathe in 15 seconds it will vibrate to try and stimulate him, and if after that there is still no movement a loud alarm will go off to alert us. It has been such an amazing little device that gives me piece of mind in the middle of the night. I totally recommend this product. We found it on Amazon.
5. Wipes warmer
This is not a necessity for everyone, but for us it made a huge difference. In the beginning we were using disposable wipes directly out of the package and he hated his diaper changes. Then, we started using the warmer and guess what...no more complaining! He learned real quick that they were no longer cold and uncomfortable, and just relaxed. We now use cloth wipes with our own homemade solution and roll them up in the warmer...we love them, and think he does too!
6. Glider
This is the glider we purchased, but really any glider that you like will do the trick. There have been times that I'm trying to get Myles to calm down and nothing else works, and as soon as I get in the glider and rock (pretty hard I might add) he slowly rocks right to sleep. We use it for feedings, story time, and to soothe him. Definitely a must have.
7. Mittens
This may seem obvious to many, but I'm just going to reiterate how necessary this is. They're completely necessary unless you don't mind scratches all over your babies' beautiful little face. Their nails are so sharp, and grow very quickly. We've cut Myles' nails at least five times now and it doesn't look like the growing is slowing down anytime soon. Just get them, it's worth it.
8. Cradle or Bassinet
Any type of cradle, bassinet, or co-sleeper that sits right beside your bed is the key. I LOVE being able to get up and just bed over to pick him up in the middle of the night without walking over to the crib. We have a cradle (as pictured) and also really like that it rocks side to side. This has helped him go back to sleep easier in the middle of the night and all I have to do is reach over and give it a little nudge without getting out of bed. (The cradle we have is actually the same one my mom used for both me and my sister. Very nice to be able to use something sentimental to the family.)
9. Wrap/carrier
This is our DIY moby wrap. We went downtown, found a Jersey Knit fabric we liked, bought 5.5 yards, and made a few cuts. That's it! It has been a lifesaver when none of the housework is getting done and he won't let me put him down for long. It's great to be able and have both hands free to do whatever you need to do!
10. Piano play mat with mirror
So remember how I mentioned Myles doesn't like to be put down or be alone for long? That was until we bought this! We lay this inside of his play yard and he is entertained for a good thirty minutes. He loves staring at himself in the mirror and kicking away at the piano keys that play different songs. It's great! Don't worry about buying it too young either, the sooner the better. Plus, it can be used for tummy time on the floor, piano comes apart and can be played on the floor when baby can sit up on his/her own and then used as a travel toy. So far so good, but it's one of his favorite things to do and I recommend it!
There you have it, my top ten things I definitely love and recommend for your newborn. I'm sure some of these are very preferential depending on the baby, but all I can say is how they've worked for us! Good luck and congratulations on your beautiful new baby!
-Heather Ortiz, new mama
No comments:
Post a Comment