Are you ready? Not that it matters a great deal as your baby will arrive whether you are ready or not. Trying to prepare for a new baby’s birth is one of the most stressful, yet enjoyable aspects of pregnancy. As too much stress on an expectant mom can be bad for the baby, it is important to take the pregnancy one day at a time. You can get ready, but be forewarned that no matter how ready you think you are, your baby’s birth is mind-blowing – in the best way possible.

Pregnancy

The first stage of preparing for your new baby is your pregnancy – obviously. Despite the fact that the baby is still inside the womb, he must be lovingly cared for. The only way to do this is to care for the mother. Healthy foods and exercise are a given, but other treats such as the Basq Deluxe Gift Box will not only make her smile, but give mom an excuse to soak in the tub and take a much needed break.

Don’t forget the expectant father. If he is relaxed, he can help mom stay relaxed and healthy. Practical items including diaper bags especially suited for him, such as the DadPad, can help him feel a part of the pregnancy and let him know you’re thinking about him, too.

Newborn

Immediately following delivery, the hospital provides almost all necessities. With the exception of a special “going home” outfit, there is little or nothing required for this brief stay. When you walk in the door at home, however, the game of parenthood starts in earnest. This is not the time to be running to the store for last minute items.

Buying large items such as cribs, high chairs, and swings are all well and good, but they not necessarily the items you will need immediately. Generally speaking, it is the small items that make the biggest difference with a newborn. Burp clothes are necessary from the first feeding for many babies and bibs can catch all manners of things – before solid food even enters the picture.

Some items you might never think of as being lifesavers, but Weeblocks by Sozo and Pee-pee Teepee by Beba Bean can help stem the proverbial tide during diaper changes, and specialized Baby mess kits by Mullins Square have all the clean up answers you will need. Even though baby can’t take a full bath for many days, it’s hard to resist a bit of washing and lotion. The basic baby lotions may be too harsh for your little one. Consider stocking up on baby skin care products that are safe for baby. Vitamin rich skin care is the perfect solution to keeping your little one’s skin as soft as the day he was born.