Everyone likes to look well-groomed. Once new parents are able to process coherent thoughts and fit into regular clothes, it is suddenly important to be put together all of the time. After all, we all must look nice for the millions of pictures that are now part of everyday life. This is includes the newest family member. But how, parents may wonder, do you show that an infant is in style?

Dressing Well

It’s an interesting phenomenon experienced by mothers everywhere. While new mothers wait for their old clothes to grow back to the right size, they utilize their keen fashion sense on their offspring. Babies suddenly become the best dressed member of the household. Adorable booties match knitted sweaters or baby cable knit layette gowns and entire outfits will be changed if a bit of milk stains a collar.

The most ironic aspect of this, however, is that the most visible aspect of a baby’s attire is often completely overlooked – the blanket. To display a child’s outfit, one must first unwrap the blanket strategically placed to keep out chills or direct sunlight. To truly be coordinated, one must consider the style of baby blanket on a daily basis.

Selecting a Blanket

Selecting the right blanket is a great deal of fun. There are many different styles to choose from including faux fur throws and upscale cotton. Some blankets, such as the hooded fleece stroller blanket are designed especially for outings in cooler weather. Finding an adorable blanket for these occasions demonstrates not only the importance of your baby’s comfort, but a bit of style as well.

The Safety of Blankets

Stylish outings are fun and healthy for both baby and parents, but it is important to think of blankets in the home as well. Many parents prefer to find a soft surface such as chenille baby blankets or a faux fur rug for little ones to practice rolling, sitting and playing. This keeps many of the allergens in carpet away from baby’s sensitive little nose. Of course, hardwood floors necessitate a softer surface and blankets are ideal for this.

With the emphasis on preventing SIDS, many parents are confused as to how to approach bedtime. Obviously loose blankets in the bed are not the answer; in fact some believe they are part of the problem. Many designers have begun offering warm and plush sleeping bags designed to keep little ones warm without the worry of blankets shifting during the night. These baby sleeping bags are available in many adorable colors and patterns.

Of course a new baby’s safety and well-being are paramount concerns to parents. Once these basic needs have been met, however, it is almost impossible to avoid the urge to present their little one in the absolute best light. Finding the right outfit is important, but finding the perfect blanket can be critical to completing an ensemble. Regardless of style, enjoy dressing your little doll – they only let you play this game for a few years.

Toddlers are tricky business. Just when you think you’ve got them figured out, something changes. He will only eat carrots on Monday, but by Tuesday seem to think carrots are lethal. She is willing to let you pick out an adorable outfit, but must pair it with rain boots and a tiara. These quirks are small in the grand scheme of toddlerhood. Some things present far greater challenges and can cause tremendous amounts of strain in a household. Potty training is high on the list, but the number one fear factor of toddler parents is bringing home a new family member.

Bringing Home Baby

From the moment a mother discovers she is expecting a second bundle of joy, her thoughts spend a great deal of time dwelling on the dreaded sibling rivalry. How will her precious first born ever adapt to the intrusion? Will there ever be love in and amongst the squabbles? Will the young family survive? While some form of sibling rivalry is to be expected with the arrival of a second baby, there are ways to help your toddler adjust with little or no damage.

Make the Toddler Special

The moment the new baby arrives, as hard as we try, the toddler in the family seems to suddenly be shoved out of the spotlight. If we are able to let the light shine awhile longer, little boys and girls will be less likely to throw tantrums or accidentally hit their new brother. Every time the new baby gets a gift, offer a gift to your toddler.

The gifts can be fun, yet practical such as a Minimink Fur Hat or B/G Merino Wool blankets by ducduc. Another solution would be to offer something truly special, such as a toy piano. These gifts not only intrigue the older child, but can offer some welcome distraction from the overwhelming amount of baby admiring going on in the house these days.

Build Up a Toddler Reputation

Being a big brother or sister is a very important role. It is crucial to play this up for your reluctant young hero. Big boys and girls get to do so much more than babies. Babies just lie around all day; they certainly can’t do fun things with Mom like make cookies or build a fort. Baby jewelry, such as the “Big Sis” and “Lil Sis” bracelets make it easy to celebrate the difference between the big girls and babies in your household.