Reddit mentions: The best baby activity & entertainment products

>Recommendations for the best crib mattress or what to look for and stay away from would be helpful.

I like the double-sided ones: firm side is for infants, soft side is for toddlers and older. As far as materials, many folks are looking into organic mattress material that does not have flame-retardant on it, but that's totally a personal choice you can determine on your own, with Google's help.

>Recommendations on bouncers or something that can be next to my bed for nighttime. I am also looking for something that is easily to move.

This is the bassinet we used next to our bed for the first 3 months of our daughter's life. It's easy to move, easily collapsable for travel and storage, and really easy to travel with. The only downside is that traditional bassinet fitted sheets don't fit the mattress, so I just used a receiving blanket as a "fitted sheet" instead. No biggie - just a mild annoyance.

But, my daughter had reflux so she napped in a Rock N Play and we kept her bassinet mattress inclined. Many parents of reflux babies use the Rock N Play for nighttime sleep as well, and it's very easily transportable.

> Bottle brands - which is best and why?

This is 100% totally up to the baby, not you. You can buy a hundred Playtex Drop-Ins (because that's what we use, and what my mother used with me!) but if your baby doesn't like it, then it's money wasted. I'd recommend buying one bottle of one brand and see if your baby likes it before buying more of them. Also, there are different nipple styles for some brands (Playtex is one of them) so it's not just about your baby liking the bottle style, but mainly the nipple style.

So, what's "best" is completely dependent on what your baby ends up agreeing with.

>What items can mom or dad not live without?

For me...

• video baby monitor
  
• velcro swaddles, because they're so much easier to figure out than plain blanket swaddles
  
• a baby carrier - I'm a huge, huge fan of Lillebaby because it doesn't need an infant insert, it doesn't use loud velcro, and it has lumbar support. Baby carriers are great even if you're not into attachment parenting. I can easily multitask when I wear my daughter, and it's way easier than pushing around a stroller in crowded, public places like museums, supermarkets, malls, etc. - especially places where there are lots of stairs!
  
  >How important are swings and play yards for a newborn?
  
  Depends on the baby. Play yards (I assume you mean this?) are great because you can just plop your baby on/in it and they will stare and eventually swat at all of the dangling toys. It's also great for tummy time. But, my daughter stopped using it at around 5 months and now it just sits in the corner of her play room, folded up.
  
  Swings are great for some babies, but others hate it. My daughter, again, had reflux and it's very common for reflux babies to need a swing to keep them upright and in motion after feedings so they don't get uncomfortable from the acid. But, in general, babies love the motion! We got a super cheap swing and it was one of my favorite things while I was on maternity leave - after her morning bottle, I'd put my daughter in her swing, drag it into the kitchen, and she'd just swing there while I did dishes, made breakfast, and cleaned. I'm glad I didn't spend a ton of money on it, though, because it's just a one-trick pony and she outgrew it by the time she was about 6 months. Friends of ours went off-registry and bought us a MamaRoo and my daughter liked it... but loved our $30 swing way better. I'm glad we didn't spend the $300 on the MamaRoo or else I would've been pissed!
  
  >Are there any items I can wait to get until the baby is a little older?
  
  Exersaucers, high chairs, walkers, doorway bouncers, sippy cups, bumbo seats... those can all wait until around the 4 month mark.
  
  Also, you may want to check out /r/babybumps if you're pregnant, and keep /r/beyondthebump on your radar if you want to ask current moms lots of questions. :)
  
  Congrats!

I get all my fleece from JoAnn stores. They often have fleece at 50% off per yard, so you can buy it in bulk and use it as needed. Any large fabric store will have lots of fleece in stock (I just prefer JoAnn because that's the best one I have in the area I live in). I'm sure you know this already, but just in case, please don't use cedar or pine chips as bedding for your rats; it's harmful to them. You can use fleece or aspen chip bedding (but freeze the aspen for 48 hours prior to use to make sure it's free of parasites).

I buy many rat toys on Amazon, and make some myself. If you're buying any kind of wooden rat toy, do be aware that many of them are made from soft woods like pine and cedar, which are super bad for rat respiratory systems. Hardwood toys are usually safe—just make sure it's not a combination wood that also has pine or cedar in it along with the hardwood. I personally do not buy wood toys on amazon, because the products often don't list what kind of wood they're made of. The only wood product I buy on Amazon is bags of untreated apple branch chewing sticks. I'll link you to some rat-safe toys and accessories I buy on amazon below! :)

Kaytee Lava Ledge
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00176F466/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s03?ie=UTF8&psc=1

15" Chin Spin - Small Animal Exercise Wheel - Handmade in USA (Expensive, but it's the very best and safest wheel for rats.)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GJ6SDBQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Bright Starts Lots of Links Accessory Toy (Great for hanging things up in the cage.)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001ABZGU2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s01?ie=UTF8&th=1

Small Animal Activity Toy Cotton Rope Net For Rat and Ferret Pet Bed for Parrot and Hamster Parrot
https://www.amazon.com/Animal-Activity-Cotton-Ferret-Hamster/dp/B0777NWKT9/ref=sr_1_2?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1519011945&sr=1-2&keywords=rat+rope+net

Kaytee Igloo Hideout, Large
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00068K132/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1

ACCO Binder Clips, Medium, 2 Boxes, 12/Box (A7072050) (If using fleece as the bedding/liner in your cage, this helps to secure fleece to the Critter Nation pans.)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00TQ8FDB8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Dr. Bronner's Pure-Castile Liquid Soap - Baby Unscented, 32oz. (I don't use any scented products with my rats since rat respiratory systems are so fragile, so this is the non-scented liquid soap I use to wash my hands and their non-fabric toys.)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DAI76TC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Pawliss Teeth Grinding Lava Block for Hamster Chinchilla Rabbit
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01HGHA6VW/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Aspen/Booda Corporation BBX56134 Byrdy Cable Cross Bird Toy, Medium
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003WRHTG6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

200g(7oz) Apple Sticks Pet Snacks Chew Toys for Guinea Pigs Chinchilla Squirrel Rabbits Hamster(About 50-70 Sticks) by MAIYUAN (The only wood product I buy on Amazon.)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06WLL641Y/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Ware Manufacturing Fun Tunnels Play Tube for Small Pets (Medium.)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001LUMU9M/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Ware Manufacturing Plastic Scatterless Lock-N-Litter Small Pet Pan- Colors May Vary (Regular size, not jumbo.)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003SLICDA/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

JW Comfy Perch for Birds (Large, 36".)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002AR754/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Lixit Critter Space Pod 2 Large (You can hand these on the ceiling of the Critter Nation. My boys LOVE these!)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002X2NBNQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Lixit Lbg-16 Glass Small Animal Bottle 16 Oz (16oz is always best for rats because of the bigger water spout. I've found that smaller bottles are a struggle for my boys to get water out of, so I only use the small ones for rat carriers/transporter cages. Tip: filtered water is best for rats, so if you can, get a Britta water filter.)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002WYCFK0/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Yummy Time Tiny Small Stoneware Pet/Dog Bowl
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01NAUMYDC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I buy Harlan Teklad (Envigo) food blocks for my rats, which is one of the top two for rats (the other is Oxbow Regal Rat). Harland Teklad is hard to find though, so I buy mine through this animal rescue:
http://weecompanions.org/healthy-food

If you get these blocks, freeze them to extend their shelf life, and take them out from the freezer as needed to fill your ratties' bowls. Harlan Teklad is great because they have several formulas for rats based on their age, which is super helpful for their health. Young rats up to 8 months usually eat Harlan Teklad 2016 (16% protein), and after 8 months they eat Harlan Teklad 2014 (14% protein).

Also, I don't have a link for this, but the best laundry detergents to use to wash your rats' cloth toys or bedding with is one that's non-scented and is sensitive on skins.

Um, if I think of anything else, I'll add it. But for now, it's already a ton. :P Enjoy!

(And feel free to message me if you have any questions!)

Get ready for too much information....

Amazon wants you to put something from every category under the sun, but you can also check "this category is done" or something so it will stop prompting and you can get your welcome box! Tips on getting your welcome box

I really liked Alpha Mom's list because she kind of goes through what you can get and what you can skip and wait until baby comes. It is really helpful to have people buy some of the stuff though! I also liked Lucie's list- I would still just concentrate on one or two categories at first, then come back around once I was less overwhelmed a week or so later.

I wouldn't register for : clothes, blankets, bibs, toys etc unless you have a particular one you really want. You may get a lot of those kinds of things. Ex I registered for 2 cute hooded towels and ended up receiving 5. For this baby that is not bathing everyday.... I did still want the muslin blankets from Aden & Anais (and we use them all the time). They weren't purchased off the registry so I got them myself later on. The only newborn clothes I liked for our summer baby was newborn kimono shirts - very helpful for easy diaper checking, don't have to pull over baby's head and helps you not put something over the cord stump in the first week. She was also swaddled so much of the time or skin to skin that we regulated her temp that way instead of with clothes.

I did register for a starter set of bottles from Dr Browns (baby still won't take a bottle- tried 4 brands so far)- I wouldn't register for a lot of any one brand of pacifiers or bottles- maybe just 1 set to try out. It totally depends on your child, but we got a hand me down swing and we bought a bouncer that can rock itself- both have helped a lot starting around 6 weeks when no sleep was happening (smarter parents might have tried them out sooner!). Bouncer we like Smartbounce. Some kids will love a bounce, hate a swing, and vice versa. Our girl is a movement junky but hates all car rides, so go figure.

I did like having a wrap early on. Baby ktan can be nice for the newborn stage if you're unsure about tackling a wrap, but you have to pick on for your size and I'm not sure how long I'll keep using it. I have a bunch of baby wearing options, but if I had to start with just one I would keep the Boba wrap- it's not as intimidating as it seems to tie once you practice a bit and baby loved skin to skin early. It's just a little annoying to put on, but really was the only sure fire way to make baby sleep, after about 2 min of protest crying.

Crib, changing table or to not changing table, etc all depends on your needs. We did an IKEA crib and chest of drawers with changing pad on top. If you're really tall or have a bad back you may want the changing area taller, but that hasn't been an issue for us so far. I also really like having changing pad liners (lots of options on Amazon)- we get these a little to a lot dirty throughout the week and just wash them as needed- my changing pad cover has only gotten poop-tagged once- so much easier to not wash it all the time.

Someone here mentioned safe spaces to put baby and that really helped. We have a bassinet in our room, crib in her room and a bed, pack n play in the living room with portable napper/changer - this is one of our most used changing stations and an easy safe space for baby to nap early on, especially when she was less sensitive to sound. I like the pack n play we got because you can pop the napper/changer out and use it on the floor of needed. We took it to the in laws for a day trip and that was nice, but not totally necessary. Only $10 more than the "reversible" (not "portable") one- the ones that just say reversible can not be put on the floor. We also have relatively big dogs so we got child safety gates to install on key rooms (ex her nursery, where she might be on the floor while I run to the restroom).

For toys, I would register for an activity mat- I got this hand me down but use it everyday. She's still really enthralled with it.

For carsear/stroller, we went with the Chicco keyfit magic (the hood comes out farther than the other chicco once you unzip the back portion and expose the mesh for air circulation) and the stroller frame because its such a light weight stoller for before they are ready to sit up. But this will depend on what you like. I did a lot of research online and then went to the most overwhelming stores to finalize /change my mind. :)

Other stuff that is stupidly expensive but people will buy so let them IMHO are: diaper bags ($60 or more! My hand me down bag was $200!), travel changing pads (we'll be using these in the living room once she outgrows the changer in the pack n play), diaper organizers for the house (I like the Sarah Bear ones here and here- we have one for living room and one for bedroom. This one has a changing mat too).

Lastly, wipes dont get outgrown, so mega box of those is great to register for. Depending on if you think you'll have a big baby, newborn diapers might be outgrown quick, so 1s might be a better thing to register for. We also got little packs of newborn diapers from people. We didn't need to buy diapers or wipes until about 7 weeks which was nice!

It is so overwhelming to tackle the registry - but I found that 1) having slow weeks at work and 2) taking only 1 category at a time then going baby brain dead before trying to do the next category helped me get through it.

Wishing you luck! I'd be happy to share my registry if you'd like to PM me.

1. The idea of a diaper bag isn't so much just for a place to carry the diapers but a place to carry all of the things your baby might need. We have this Skip Hop diaper bag that I really like. We cloth diaper so we usually just keep it packed with 2 diapers, a wet bag, wipes, a pacifier, swaddle blanket, receiving blanket, and a change of clothes. We also throw in a bottle for whenever we'll be out long enough to need one. It also has an awesome feature of being able to easily clip on the stroller which we love. It worked great when we went walking at the state fair.
   
   
2. Yes, you can go straight to the crib. We tried having our son in a pack and play with a bassinet in our room but we all sleep better with him in his own room. We do like having the pack and play though so we can travel with him if needed and for overnights with grandparents.
   
   
3. We went middle of the road. We wanted a travel system for while he is small since we live in a cold climate and I don't want to have to take him in and out of the carseat in the dead of winter and carry him in/out of places. We went to babiesrus one day (not sure if you have something similar in Canada and played with a bunch of different brands so we could find one we liked in the price range we wanted. We ended up with the Chicco Keyfit 30 and love it.
   
   
4. We did get a glider. I never nurse in it. I pull up a spot on the couch or bed and just do it there. I like being able to watch tv because my son is a slow eater. I think we could have lived without this. I have a boppy and a my breast friend. I hate nursing with the boppy but it's great for having him sit in.
   
   
5. Probably the glider. We could have lived without this.
   
   
6. We got a bouncy chair as a gift that I really like. Our son likes the vibration so it was a great thing especially when he first came home. I have a Moby wrap that I like so I can wear him while I do stuff around the house. Our baby loves being swaddled, it's like a magic way to make him calm down. He's always cold so the fleece sleep sack styles ones are great.
   
   Honestly, for a newborn you don't need much. They basically sleep, eat, and poop. Our guy spends most of his time in onsies unless we're going to see people in which case I'll put a little outfit on him.

Crib mattress - Just make sure it's firm, fits your crib tightly, and highly reviewed. You don't have to spend a ton on one. I think we bought a $50 Sealy and it's gone through three babies without showing any signs of wear.

Bouncer - I used one of these for a reflux baby and it was awesome. My second and third slept in their crib from birth, but it was still nice to have something light and easily transportable to put them in while I was cooking or doing other chores. Lots of parents rave about the Rock N Play for a bassinet substitute. For that, I used a cosleeper type thing. I like it because we travel to visit family a lot and it's easier to carry and set up than a pack n play. It's good to use until they start sitting up or crawling.

Bottles - I personally prefer Dr. Browns. They were the miracle bottle for my babies, and with this specially made dishwasher basket getting them clean is super easy if you have a dishwasher (I wouldn't have them if I had to hand wash every time though, that's kind of a pain). However, you might find your baby prefers something different, especially if you mostly breastfeed. Don't make a big investment in one type of bottle until you know your baby will like it.

Misc. items - If you are formula feeding, do yourself a favor and get one of these pitchers. Also, I don't know how anyone survives without a Boppy pillow. And like /u/glory87 mentioned, skip the glider and go with a rocking recliner, sleep deprived you several months from now will thank you. Personally, I have loved my cloth diapers, but that's a whole other investment and something I'd be happy to talk about if you want to hear about it. If you can spare the money, I love my video monitor. It's one of those things you don't really need, but are wonderful to have.

Swings and play yards - Only one of my three babies liked the swing. And even then, she could have done without it. If you have a colicky baby or one that's otherwise difficult to settle, it might be worth it. So my personal experience says wait and see, and if you do end up finding you need something like that, just go out and buy one then. I've never used a play yard. I liked play mats like this one for tummy time.


The biggest thing is that newborns only really eat, sleep, and poop. If you've got boobs/bottles, a crib/bassinet and some pajamas, and diapers, anything else can come as you find a need for it (Amazon prime shipping is pretty amazing for those instances!).

Here's a list of items I found so useful for myself that I use as my go-to gift options for anyone I know having a baby.

1. Rectal thermometer Not only is this the fastest and most accurate way to check an infant's temperature, but it really helps with constipation. Around 8 weeks, breastfed babies may start to poop only once a week. My kid would get so uncomfortable, but he was too young to have juice or pureed fruit. My doctor recommended a rectal thermometer with Vaseline to stimulate a BM. Works like a charm!
   
   
2. Lots Of Links These are great for attaching toys to the carseat, stroller, and highchair. They're also thin and light, so they're great for really small infants to practice grasping and passing objects from hand to hand.
   
   
3. Coat Hangers - Since everyone insists on loading up your baby with clothes, you need somewhere to put them all. I used all 80 hangers I had - and that's with a boy!
   
   
4. Breastfeeding supplies - No one likes to buy this stuff, but if it's for a close friend or you know they're going to breastfeed, definitely get her some nursing pads (helpful even if she doesn't breastfeed and sometimes even before the baby is born) and lanolin If she is going to use a Medela pump, these membranes will come in handy. I also liked these wipes for cleaning any breastpump where there may not be a sink and these bags for sanitizing pump parts, bottles, paci's, etc.
   
   
5. While this probably won't be used for a while, this play yard is one of my favorite baby purchases ever. It came in handy especially during those 7-12 months where my kid was crawling and learning to walk. It kept him contained and also gave him a safe place to practice walking. My son is 16 months old and we still use this all the time.
   
   
6. No one did this for me, but I wish people had bought me a small package of their favorite generic/store brand diapers. No one wants to look cheap by buying off brand diapers, but in reality, you'll probably end up using them. Huggies or Pampers can run about $0.35 per diaper. It's great when you're getting gifts, but I'd like a chance to experiment with something lower cost without having to buy 15 brands. Target's Up & Up brand work great for me, and they're only around $0.15 a diaper. But babies are all shaped different, so what works for one kid might not work so great for another. You just have to try them out. It'd be nice to get some different brands as gifts.

I agree that baby play mats are great, and you can never have too many books. Lift the flap books are especially good for babies under 1.

For a bouncer/play saucer I really liked the Fisher-Price Rainforest Jumperoo. It is a bit pricey, but my daughter looooved it. Hundreds of hours of entertainment, and a good place to leave the baby while you use the bathroom or whatever. We also got a hand me down non-bouncing play saucer and she didn't like it nearly as much.
http://www.amazon.com/Fisher-Price-K6070-Rainforest-Jumperoo/dp/B000LXQVA4/

For a noise machine I really liked the Munchkin Nursery Projector and Sound System. It is reasonably cheap ($20), it shows a soothing slowly moving projected image, it plays a good variety of sounds, and it is voice activated so you can set it to turn on if your baby wakes up. You can also use just the white noise on a timer with the other features off, so it is like a white noise machine with some good bonuses.
http://www.amazon.com/Munchkin-Nursery-Projector-Sound-System/dp/B006SFUEF2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1417735225&sr=8-1&keywords=munchkin+projector

Since it sounds like you walk a lot, you also might think about getting a baby carrier that will be good for when your daughter gets bigger and heavier. I have found the Ergo really comfortable, and you can keep using it up to 45 lbs. My daughter is 27 lbs and I am 5 months pregnant and it is still comfortable. (I only used the moby a little bit, but it seemed better suited for smaller babies. I might be wrong about that.)

As far as smaller toys go, my daughter's all time favorites were the Kids Preferred Amazing Baby Blanket Teether Bear and the Nuby Bug A Loop.
http://www.amazon.com/Kids-Preferred-Amazing-Blanket-Teether/dp/B000I1Q59G/
http://www.amazon.com/Nuby-Loop-Teether-Bead-Colors/dp/B000J1OOJI/

I feel like you are me. The past version of me and I am the future version of you. Or maybe we just are each other. Anyway... maybe we are just siblings from another mother. Okay here goes. From your not future self to my not past self.

Dear past self,

Remember when our kid was 4 months old (she's 6mos now) and you were wracking your brain trying to find good toys and "things" she could interact with to help her grow, be curious, imaginative - to be less bored? Well, remember all those things you bought from Amazon?

Most of them had a TON of 5 star reviews and she didn't end up giving a shit about. That AMAZING Rain forest Jumper with all the "things" to interact with, that made noise and had lights!!! Yeah, that didn't really last for more than 5 minutes over 4 days... Turns out, the seat seams cut into her legs and she wasn't a fan of that. This, wasn't the only thing you bought with the best intentions that didn't really work out as planned. That's okay, you live and learn, and donate to someone else because maybe their kid will like it.

What did work? A measuring spoon. Specifically the one cup size measuring spoon. She likes to chew on that. I don't ask...

An empty Pampers box. She sits in there and plays with her toes, touches the sides of the box and just has fun moving around. Even though the box doesn't move, she just doesn't seem to care. She laughs and smiles.

A playmat. It's actually just a set of foam pieces that you put together like a jig saw puzzle on the ground. There are no toy bars or mobiles. Just a mat, on the ground, made of foam. She loves that thing. She rolls around on it, scratches the surface with her fingers (she likes the noise it makes), tries crawling, and often just takes a nap. That thing was one of the best investments we made.

Small plastic strainer. She puts it on her head, wears it like a helmet. Apparently, that's very exciting. Again, I don't ask.

And finally, a basic jumper that you attach above the door frame. It looks like a baby seat on a spring. She will sit and bounce in that thing for 30 minutes. Seems to be comfortable. Was pretty inexpensive, no lights or music. Just jumping. She loves it.

Whatever you decide is best for YOUR son. Experiment and have fun with it. Just consider maybe trying some basic things around the house, first. To see how that goes. A good playmat that is expandable that you can both roll around on. is always a good idea. This is the one we purchased: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01NBXX1DX/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

This is the doorway jumper she loves: https://www.amazon.com/Graco-Doorway-Bumper-Jumper-Little/dp/B000WJLKQM/ref=sr_1_5_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1497459338&sr=8-5&keywords=baby+bouncy+chair

I'd send you links for the pampers box, strainer, and measure spoon but pretty sure you've got the idea. :)

CONGRATS ON THE 4 MONTHS! It only gets more amazing.

Oh gosh, you are right in the thick of it right now! Even for one baby, the first 12 weeks of breastfeeding can be a nightmare. And with two it's just that much harder. Is there a reason tandem doesn't work for you? Because you're right, if you don't tandem then you are on a constant cycle of feeding. Maybe you can breastfeed one, and formula feed the other and then switch off at the next feeding?

I know it's not recommended (even though pretty much every twin parent I know has done this) but I would hold one baby to feed and use blankets to prop up a bottle for the other baby. Obviously sitting right there, watching. It helped cut down on the feeding time.

If you don't have these, get them: http://www.amazon.com/Leachco-Podster-Sling-Style-Infant-Lounger/dp/B003HIXOTQ

I love the podster so much. They slept in these every single day of their lives for the first 3 months. And even now at 8 months, I plop them in there and give them each their own bottle, which they can hold up themselves. And I reddit while they drink. It's amazing. :P

I really do think the podsters helped the babies sleep better. It's like a snuggly little nest for them. Also, swaddles and white noise machine. Huge help. All these things combined might help with those middle of the night wakeups.

Also, a trick I found was that if you are QUICK, and you get a bottle or boob into a baby's face asap for those middle of the night feedings, they don't actually fully wake up and they will go right back to sleep after finishing up.

Around 12 weeks that my babies started sleeping much better, so just keep going! Even though every day feels like an eternity, you're inching your way toward some relief.

Your twins are absolutely adorable. I know it's so tough right now, but try and soak in the little moments of peace or cuteness you can snatch up in a day, and with the hard stuff, just know that it will get better eventually.

I have twins - they have physiotherapist consults every month because they were preemie and the dr's wanted to make sure they stay on track (currently just short of 9 months old).

They said jumpers/exersaucers were fine but to

a) limit how long the babies are in it at a time (so like 15 min session then time on the floor and time cuddled and time practicing sitting etc... then back in saucer...) and

b) to make sure that the babies are able to put their foot flat on the ground when standing in the saucer or jumper becasue that helps prevent any tightening of tendons and will help them develop balance better than the way the jumpers often say to set them up for the right height.

We got the saucers for the twins when they were 5 and a half months and they LOVE them. We have this exersaucer activity centre and this jumper centre

its nice becasue we can switch up the toys between the two, and we trade twins time so they get time in each style in between playing on the floor and playing with us and playing with each other

And the physio lady has been super happy with the kids progress - they are really good standers when holding onto stuff, they are good sitters, they are hitting their milestones and have no loss of mobility or loss of desire to tear around on the floor now that they figure out at least how to army crawl lol.

:( That does sound hectic. My registry is kinda all over the place because I've already bought a ton of stuff, but just some suggestions of some things (FTM so no idea really if these are good or not, some were recommendations from friends, some were recommendations from various online resources).

• car seat, extra base if you have more than one car, and stroller
  
• baby carrier - I got the ergobaby 360 with infant insert but the Lillebaby 360 is also super popular.
  
• swaddles - aden & anais seem to be hugely popular.
  
• bathing supplies - washcloths, bathtub
  
• first aid kit supplies - NoseFrida, nail clipper, thermometer
  
• feeding - bottles, sterilizer (some people told me I had to have it, some said it was totally unnecessary), bottle cleaner brush, drying rack (seems like everyone else loves the Boon grass, but I don't have the counter space!) You can get a pump through your insurance if you plan to breastfeed, I ordered mine through Aeroflow. I ultimately chose the Spectra S2 over the Medela PISA because it's a closed system, which apparently means less chances of bacteria getting into the system and thus easier cleaning.
  
• burp clothes - I was told to just get a ton of cloth diapers to use as burp clothes, and to have them everywhere.
  
• diaper pail - I have two friends who say this is good enough, so I went with it. They also said to use doggie poop bags to contain the smelly diapers.
  
• humidifier
  
• Boppy for nursing
  
• Backpack style diaper bag
  
• baby may need a more convenient place to be set down other than the crib, something you can have near you in the kitchen, shower, whatever. Popular options are the rock n play, Boppy lounger, or a pack 'n play. I plan on getting the Chicco FastAsleep pack 'n play because the crib/dresser/changing station is on our 2nd floor, so I figured this could double as a changing station/napper on the first floor.
  
  Lucie's List is probably the best resource I found online.

Try twice a week. My boyfriend and I have a little one, and if he doesn't work overtime on the weekend, we each get one day to sleep in, then 30 min of wake up time before taking the kiddo. He also takes night shift one night during the week - ours is Wednesday night, as I drive kiddo to his aunts house Thursdays and I hate driving tired, hehe. After we did sleep training (he was about 6 months when we started that) we kept with the routine, but I'll give up my nights if my boyfriend is working overtime since kiddo usually sleeps through the night now anyway. It took us about three weeks of sleep training, and it was the HARDEST thing of my life, but I have to say, kiddo sleeps GREAT, I sleep pretty well, and he has had less stomach problems (gassy baby, hehe) and gets over being sick faster since he's been sleeping through the night. Since we've gotten him sleep trained, we've been able to set him a schedule, and we can definitely tell an attitude difference when he doesn't follow his schedule. If that is something you wanted to do, might wanna start this before your husband goes to school, as the first few nights will be long and loud. Baby isn't in pain, isn't scared, just isn't happy because this isn't what they are used to, but once they get used to it.. Well, if my kiddo isn't quite ready for sleep at bed time, he plays with his quiet toys (stuffed bear and stuffed turtle), turns on the music box we have strapped to his crib (he learned early how to turn it on and off himself, and it gets quieter and turns off after about 30 min) because he knows we will be there if needs us but he won't be allowed out of bed to play anyway so may as well play in bed and fall asleep. We also put a spill proof sippy cup in bed half full of water, so he can get a drink if he needs one, and often he'll wake up, find his cup, take a drink and fall back asleep. He never gets bottles or snacks in bed, just water. Sry, that was a lot of info, but I wanted to share all we did in case some part of it works for you! I know every kiddo is different, so I've always thought it's good to hear it all, choose what I WANT to work, then go down the list till we find what DOES work for kiddo, haha! Good luck, and know, you're not alone! That's about the part where I had a bit of a mental break, boyfriend had to stay home and take care of kiddo while I just slept all day. That's when we decided it was time to sleep train - kiddo was ready, all we needed was for me to be tired enough to be willing to let him cry it out. My poor boyfriend, he had to be strong for crying baby AND crying mommy, but he was awesome, and it's been awesome since!!! (this is the music box his grandparents got him. he realized he could turn on the music when he rolled over and bumped the orange starfish button with his noggin before we lowered his crib, and he loves that he has control over music and light when he goes to bed https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Einstein-Sea-Dreams-Soother/dp/B006YBHE6M/ref=lp_2582731011_1_2_a_it?srs=2582731011&ie=UTF8&qid=1503084232&sr=8-2)

edit - we didn't JUST let him cry it out, was a system of a few minutes before checking the first time, calming kiddo down, laying him back down, waiting a minute longer the next time, same routine, then a minute longer, etc. I feel like it came across as we just laid kiddo down and let him cry all night for three weeks, but that wasn't right, so wanted to clarify!

I don't know if it would be too much clutter, that's based of your sister's opinion, size of her home, and storage space so you are a much better judge.

What I would suggest is only buy an activity gym or toys that come off so you can switch them out. My parents house had a used fisher price bouncy reclining seat thing with a bar over it with hanging toys (also useful) but the toys are stuck on so we could never put new ones. New things interest babies just like other people. We have one at home you can take on/off the bar (eeh) and switch the toys (very important).

Also, my daughter favorite toy early on was this thing. It's wood, you can chew on it, shake it and the beads clack, and crush it so the rope changes the shape of the object. She was a bit late on the uptake for toy playing (she loved people/faces/human interaction too much) but got this for Christmas at 4 months and it was good for a few solid months of use and keeping her occupied after that. I would have given it to her earlier given the chance.

I also like the oball products a lot (easy to grab/hold for littles), hanging toys, and toys that make noise for young babies.

These plastic link form together to chain so you can hang the stroller type toys from the stroller, activity gym, ect to the height you want and mix and max products. Also available at target.

A great priced item we got a lot of use out of was this set of toys with a coil to wrap around things. Honestly, it's huge and I did not use it as a whole set. However, each toy comes off and you can velcro it to stuff individually. They are very soft, well made, and all make a diffrent sound. The beach ball has a beautiful little bell inside and the bird can squeak. Even now at one year those two hang on her carseat (which goes into her stroller so as stroller toys too).

Sadly, there's no really tactful way to dictate what people buy for you. Even if you create a handful of registries at different stores, there will always be the people who buy random other things... especially clothing. The best way is to kinda float (through whomever plans your baby shower, or whatever) the idea that you guys have a very limited amount of space, so you're trying to limit the "extras." Hope for gift receipts or attempt to get store credit for items that are really not needed/wanted.

I'm not a huge fan of the Pack 'n' Play type things as a sleeping area... and even though it's not always a popular thing to say, co-sleeping can be dangerous... But as an alternative solution... They make mini cribs which can be used for a good amount of time and look really nice.

You can change the baby's diaper anywhere. I think at a certain point, most parents end up doing it on a bed or the floor or whatever anyway. But if you want a changing table, try getting a dresser... Like this one from IKEA... That way it can do double duty. We just bought a pad and put it on top. It has worked very well and is the perfect height for diaper changes. Bonus: This cart from IKEA also makes a GREAT rolling storage unit for diapers, creams, medicines, etc.

Another thing we found SUPER useful was this pillow. I used it for my daughter ALLL the time until she was like 4-5 months old. We could move it from room to room with us, or put it on the sofa while we were watching television (with her facing AWAY from the screen, of course.) It was a cozy, safe place for her when she was NOT in her crib or being held.

In terms of swings, bouncers, etc... I would personally just wait and see. Every baby is different, and they all seem to like different things... No need to buy several large items only to find out your baby isn't really into swings.

Don't do a "Diaper Party." As much as people rave over them, it's silly to have so many boxes of diapers to have to store until you need them. Not to mention you might find your baby does better with a certain brand, or that another brand is more prone to leaking... Then you are stuck with all these diapers you might not even want to use... Doubly so if you plan to use cloth diapers.

The thing with cosplay is you have to choose whether to go recognizable or not. In some geek circles (like Star Trek) people go out of their way to be obscure characters. Since you're looking at a screening, you could go a bit off the path, but I still doubt there are that many hardcore fans out there (yet?) who know every sigil. For that reason you may want to stuck to more obvious identifiers.

If you go with a House (my recommendation for price and ease), you could make a cheap and comfortable costume based around a tabard. For that you only need some cloth remnants (you can get them cheap from any store that sells fabric) and compatible street clothes. Wear boots of some kind, pants-that-aren't-jeans, and a long-sleeve shirt that ideally is in the right color scheme of your chosen House. If your boots don't look right and/or you can't lace them over your pants, you can use a cloth remnant to wrap around the bottom of your pants, around the boots and just X-lace it to your leg using another strip of cloth. The same trick can be used on your forearms if your sleeves don't look that great. When it's done in matching colors it can look really good for something so simple.

The key to this though is the tabard that'll cover up the rest of the street clothes. It's the only piece requiring real crafting skills. Make a tabard from the cloth remnants; you can cut out a sigil design for the front of it and just sew it. It can be as nice as you want to make it, like contrast-color borders, or a quartered pattern, etc. I just googled up this guide. I'm sure there are many, many more online.

For accent you can belt it with any wide leather belt. If you can get your hands on (or make) a leather ring belt you'll look even better. Any knife/dagger/sword can help complete the look, though a long blade is usually not that comfortable to deal with when sitting in modern public settings. If you do have leather availability, a simply set of vambraces can also cover the ends of your sleeves and look nice.

The beauty of that is the ability to take it off and be wearing street clothes very easily.

Oh and another thought I had a bit ago for cosplay on the cheap, if you want to go the Maester route. These link toys (another example) are in every generic store, Target, Wal-Mart, etc., for next to nothing. They are very lightweight, come in different shapes, and are easy to link to whatever length of chain you want with whatever color combination. They're a little big, but it's hard to beat the price, and an exaggerated chain would help with cosplay identification. The plastic also should take spraypaint very easily if you want a shiny metallic look. The main drawback to Maester though is the robes. Even if you can find or make them, robes can be heavy, bulky, and hot, so fair warning.

Books, books, books! My babies love(d) Look, Look! (three year old loves "reading" it to his brother), Black & White, Art Cards, the Babyfaces series (esp Hugs and Kisses and Smile!. The World Snacks series is also great; they're bright, (mostly) well-written, and not irritating. Plus, My toddler still loves them, and we started reading them to him when he was three months. I like Yum Yum Dim Sum and Let's Nosh! best. Indestructables are great for babies who eat books. And the Leslie Patricelli books have been a huge hit around here since toddlerdude was a wee baby.

Don't forget non-board books good for reading, such as a Mother Goose (there are also "chunky" ones that are kid-safe), Beatrix Potter, The Wind in the Willows, or even Shel Silverstein.

Toys for this age that I like are sensory balls, music makers, rattles (we had to buy two of those because wee babydude likes it so much), stackers, links, these bead things (a large, four-sided activity cube is gold for this age through toddler hood--like this), stacking cups, and baby's first blocks. We have veriations on all of these (or the exact one listed), and they are popular with both our three year old and the eight month old.

Definitely a bouncer with vibrations and a play bar. Baby can sleep in it, play in it and in the beginning, be fed in it. Light and easy to take with you on trips (especially if you get a folding type). Like this

Car seat cover like this if they live in a cold climate. You don't have to bundle baby.

Definitely zip up baby jammies. Snaps suck.

A baby mirror for the back seat so parents can see baby while they're driving. The light up kind are best here Edited to add this to it's even less distraction for the driver to see baby in the mirror on the backseat.

These chains can attach baby toys to nearly anything, can hook on to a pacifier, and the baby can play with them. I love them.

Sleep sacks. I think the swaddlers are a waste of money when you can do it with a blanket and they're only used for a month or two. Ditto with baby gowns. Other than that, I agree with avoiding clothes.

Sun shades for the car, back seat windows.

A stuffy that crunches, rattles and squeaks. Bonus points if it's got teething corners. The crunchy toys really get baby's attention and can distract them from a full on baby fit.

Gift cards, gift cards, gift cards and bring over a batch of frozen meals that are easy to prepare (lasagna, spaghetti sauce with a box of pasta, casseroles). House cleaning gift certificate and offer (and follow through) to come watch baby so mama can shower or go clean the house and make them dinner then leave.

Sure, I'd be happy to give some recommendations.

Now the first thing is, babies don't really care that much about stuff. They don't really do much or play with much for a long time. They'll get more joy out of you just playing peekaboo than any actual toy

That said, it's the thought that counts, so you can pick up a rattle or something. If they don't have one already, you can get a tummy time playmat like this or something similar, that comes with a bunch of toys with it. Alternately, honestly you can just walk down to the dollar store and see whatever cheap stuff they have, it doesn't really matter

On the other hand, you can do something more practical. Baby wipes are a sure thing, they will 100% absolutely be used. You could get similar stuff, like burp cloths or baby soap or whatever. But that stuff isn't really fun, though it's usually appreciated.

Then there's the last category, the one I'd personally go with: Stuff for the parents that makes parenting easier. This is actually a little for your cousin too, because it tends to be stuff that makes the baby more comfortable, which makes the parent more comfortable.

For instance, do they have a baby carrier? You could look into getting them one, or getting them another one (it doesn't hurt to have two), or-- a lot of people don't think about this-- one specially sized for your uncle, because I can practically guarantee unless someone specifically thought about it, any baby carrier they have is going to be sized for mom, not dad.

If you want to go a little more expensive, you can do things like a jumper which the little gal will probably be a little young for, but not by much

or a swing both of those were honestly absolute godsends for keeping my sanity, because i got to put my little guy down and they'd keep him actually quiet, and sometimes even put him to sleep! And for some reason no one ever thought to get us one as a gift.

So anyway, those are some ideas.

But like I said, clothes aren't the wrong choice, just keep in mind that really, any clothes you get the baby now are for you, because you think it'll be cute to dress them up. The baby doesn't care, and I'm sure the baby doesn't really need clothes right now (in a year or so? More likely)

First child? So people are going to get a lot of clothes for you. Onesies are where it's at. Anything else is over the top and not really necessary. You probably won't be taking your child out into the world a lot. A Co-sleeper is really convenient for the first few months, you can attach it to the side of your bed so you don't have to do much when the baby wakes up at night. I recommend having at least 6 SwaddleMe's. Baby's love being swaddled until their a few months old. Also recommend 6-8 bottles at a time to minimize dishes. Anglecare bath support is necessary to give baths in. Don't bath them until they're a few weeks to a month old, then try to start giving him baths before bed to get him into a cycle. These are our favorite bibs for later when he starts to drool a lot. Onesies and bibs is where you will catch yourself doing a ton of laundry, so get a lot of them. Babies soil their clothes easy. Oh sorry, the bibs are kinda 4+ months, but for a newborn please don't forget a cap and mittens, they get cold because they can't regulate their arms and legs. Our son was pretty good. He would wake up ever 3 hours, we'd change him, feed him, and he'd go back to sleep. That went on for about a month and then it went to 4-5 hours and slowly he started to just stay up all day (That's where it gets rough). Let me know how it goes! Congrats!

edit: Oh, a vibrating swing is REALLY good for non-cosleeper comfort when you're in the living room or at the computer, etc.

• Changing Table: I had a c-section and would have been useless without it
  
• changing table organizer
  
• Toys!: Freddie is a favorite. We couldn't live with out these. We really didn't get any, so when my son got interested in toys we were running out to buy them. Also the last thing to add, an exersaucer type deal. My son can sit in it and play on his own for a good hour. I have having a bad evening and wanted nothing more than to relax in the rub. I drug the dam thing into the bathroom for him so he could play while I bathed.
  
• A place for baby to sit/nap. Whether it be swing or rocker. We used this the most.
  
• gas drops, gripes water, and tylenol.
  
• sleep sacks
  
• Aden and Anais swaddle blankets: My spawn could break through most of the velcro swaddles, but use one of these and the russian swaddling method and he was stuck.
  
• covered garbage can for diapers. We use this with just plain shopping bags.
  
• all different kinds of diapers and diapering supplies. It lets you go through the different brands of diapers, butt cream, and wipes to find what works best for your child.
  
• Even if you plan on breast feeding have a small thing of formula and bottles on hand just in case.
  
• Crib soother thingies. We have a giraffe that does music and heart beat sounds. We also just got a Baby Einstein fish soother thingy.
  Seasonally appropriate clothing. I got tons of cute little short sleeved onesies for my Late Dec. baby. He lived in fleece sleepers his first couple of months.
  If you are having a winter baby a car seat cover is a necessity.
  
  Sorry I'm kind of rambling. This seems like a lot, but we bought a lot of our stuff second hand at garage sales and thrift stores.

Are they not falling asleep? Not staying asleep?

I forgot that we actually transitioned from rnps to bassinets THEN to cribs. We were using the rnps for naps and night time up until about 6-7 weeks, when we got the bassinets. (Kept the rnps in the living room for naps and the bassinets in our room for night time). Then around 4 months they were starting to bust out from their swaddles and kick and roll a little, so we moved them cold turkey to their cribs for naps and night. Somehow we got lucky and it went pretty well. It was hard getting them down by myself at times, but one of my boys was a pretty good self soother at that point so I just put him down with a pacifier while rocking the other for a bit. We never really had any issues with the transition. I think it helped that they were on a pretty good sleep schedule and I was really dedicated to sticking to it. So they were tired and ready to sleep when I put them in the crib. Then once they could roll onto their tummies, forget it. They were asleep in minutes.

This is the bassinet we used. Doesn't take up much room and is good for travel: http://www.amazon.com/Fisher-Price-Rock-Play-Portable-Bassinet/dp/B008DDPL32/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1452466145&sr=8-1&keywords=Fisher+price+bassinet

Also, have you tried a mobile? We had these and our boys were OBSESSED. http://www.amazon.com/Manhattan-Toy-Wimmer-Ferguson-Infant-Stim-Mobile/dp/B00009ZIKH

Good luck!

Wow. I really like that babylist website! Never seen it before. Very easy to read and the font is nice too. I used the click connect 35 car seat/stroller for my last baby and was very happy with it. I hope you like it too :)

Edit: can I recommend the boppy newborn lounger? It is my favorite baby gear item. It's a safe place to put down your newborn and they can nap there too (must be supervised though!). Also inexpensive. boppy newborn lounger

Some things that will allow you peace in your time of trials:

Sound machine

Portable sound machine.

[Crazy looking baby swing with a sound machine built in.]
(https://www.amazon.com/Fisher-Price-Snugabunny-Cradle-Swing-Technology/dp/B00IVNEGLW/ref=sr_1_11_s_it?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1522351469&sr=1-11&keywords=swing%2Bwith%2Bsound%2Bmachine&th=1) - Trust me on this. When you want to blow your brains out, just put the kid in that and go have a cigarette.

Cigarettes

Nipple cream

Nipple pads

Nipple cooling pads

Heating pads

Lots of gauze

Take as many of those vaginal cooling pads from the hospital as you can get. My wife considered these invaluable for her healing hooha.

A mountain of diapers - do not run out

A mountain of bottles - instead of stressing about washing them just grab a clean one. Wash when you have time.

Boppy Pillow

Formula - Even if you say you "won't need it" you don't know what the production or flow will be like and your baby's nutrition should come first. Breastfeeding is amazing and everyone should do it, but sometimes things don't work out. Nipples get cracked, infections happen, blocked ducts. My wife filled up so fast she was like a cow in the morning and just begging to get milked. Still we needed formula when she had to take some medication for her recovery, and again when she got a blocked duct.

Freezer bags for milk - if you're overproducing you'll be glad.

A MECHANICAL breast pump. The hand shit doesn't work worth a damn. Get the hands free milkers that just tug it out of you while you watch friends. They'll come with a special bra that let's you strap on the bottles like a damn cow. It's awesome.

Pregnancy pillow. This is a pillow that circumnavigates the lady. She'll give you an appreciation beej for this.

one million burp rags

one million wipes

And that'll do ya.

Basically having a newborn is all about 3 things. Feeding it, getting it to go to sleep, and cleaning its shit up. That's it. Those items above will help facilitate all of that.

Dad of a 20 month old here, newborns sleep 18-20 hours a day. I stayed at home with our baby for the first 3 months of her life because my wife couldnt get off but i was laid off so it worked out and i on average played games 4-6 hours a day during the daytime because all they do at that age is sleep - eat - shit - sleep.

If you havent already get a glider it will keep them entertained for hours while you game, ive linked the one we have below its really great.

http://www.amazon.com/Graco-Glider-Gliding-Swing-Peyton/dp/B00AO083KU/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1457364804&sr=1-1&keywords=baby+swing

Once they start crawling you will want something like the corral below. This is the one i have its great because its completely customizable to fit you're space and when they get bigger you can use it as a gate.

http://www.amazon.com/Giantex-Panel-Center-Safety-Playpen/dp/B00M4SYM2S/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1457364856&sr=1-4&keywords=baby+corral

The key to gaming as a dad is keeping them safe, happy, and contained and most importantly PUT THE WIFE AND THE BABY FIRST! Bad times will be had if you do not!

It depends how often baby will be staying with either parent. Like another user said you may want to get duplicates of certain things like a mattress but the crib can be different. Most babies don't want to sleep in them right in the beginning so maybe 2 bassinets. You can get away with 1 car seat and 2 bases. You may want to get 2 swings. We used a travel swing when my daughter was young to go to places like my in laws. That may be a convenient option instead of two swings. We're also getting a rock n play this time around because it folds pretty flat for easy travel to my in laws. If the baby is spending more time with you and less with their dad at first maybe a pack n play with a bassinet option at first so the person having the baby less initially won't need to buy a crib and mattress right away. You'll end up using the pack n play down the road and it's easy to transport back and forth. You're gonna wanna register for double the amount of bottles unless one of you is def going to return them clean. I'd register for 2 thermometers, nail clippers, etc because those are things you don't want to be out of in case they forget to get returned. You can get away with one diaper bag and one stroller if you want.

I was/am in the exact same boat - first kid, limited funds, starting from scratch, going through reviews and prices drove me insane. It took me probably three months to get my registry together, and, even then, I am still switching things up, lol.

lucieslist.com was invaluable while picking everything out. I highly recommend you check it out.

What we have bought ourselves that fit our tight budget:

Graco Comfy Cruiser Travel System. We had already decided to go with that car seat, given that it seems to be the top-rated budget option, and the stroller ended up being a much-needed bonus. We go on walks a lot, so it works for us. If you don't need the stroller, the seat itself is, I think, only ~$100.

The Pack N Play, which I've heard from literally everyone and their mother is almost a necessity.

Because we don't have an IKEA near us to get our hands on a swanky $99 crib, we bought this DaVinci crib. We still only ended up paying $100 for it, as we found it on sale, however, we would have paid the $200 for it, given that the reviews are good, and, when compared to some other cribs that cost $400 and up, the price isn't bad at all.

As for the rest of the registry, we have on there a Moby wrap (affordable baby wearing, yay!), nail clippers, outlet plugs, nursing pads, a wipes case, a baby tub, baby wash, assorted crib sheets, waterproof crib sheets, Pack N Play mattress, and sheets to go with, crib mattress (we actually bought this one when we found it on sale for $20, and it's just fine), receiving blankets, dirty diaper bags (because we aren't getting a diaper pail, just a small can with a seal-able lid), changing pad, and a cover to go with, pacifiers, Dr. Brown's Gia Nursing Pillow, a bottle brush, bottle warmer, thermometer, booger sucker, camera to monitor the baby, and a few other assorted things that I couldn't really find a definitive "best in class" for, so pick at your own discretion: diaper bag, swaddles (although I've read good things about the Summer Infant brand), bottles (we're going with Phillips Avent), a bouncer (we got this one), and a swing.

I agonized over this stuff for what felt like forever, lol, so I hope it helps you and saves you some hair-pulling. It's all so overwhelming!

Take time for yourself and for your husband. As tempting as it is to stay in the NICU 24/7, dont. Be there for hands on time, but make sure you are taking care of you. See if you NICU has this book available. Its an amazing book that helps you get through the NICU experience. I have to warn you though, its has a ton of information so only read the sections that would apply to you.

Take a ton of pictures! You will not believe how quickly those babies will grow. My twins were born at 28 weeks at first I didn't want any pictures because I didn't want to remember the NICU, but I am so glad that I took so many. As heartbreaking, stressful, and exhausting the NICU was, in a way I am so glad.

Also keep a journal of any questions you might have and also write down the answers! I cant tell you how many times I had a question, but I got so distracted that I forgot to ask the doctors or nurses.

Also you have the right to request a nurse to be your primary nurse. This means that any time that nurse is working she will have your kids. If she isn't someone's primary she will most likely agree to it. Alternatively if you have a nurse that you don't like, you can request not to have her again. I had a nurse that I didn't really mesh well with. Her care was okay, but I hated how she treated me and talked to me, so I requested not to have her again. She was pleasant she just talked to me like I was an idiot and refused to let me change my kids' diapers on my own...I'd only been doing that for at least a month by this point.

Anyway I hope your NICU stay is short and sweet. If you ever want to chat or talk feel free to give me a pm. I had my twin boys at 28 weeks and we were in the NICU for 79 days. We almost lost one, but thankfully they are both healthy and home now. :)

Most importantly: you are a great mother. You are not only caring for your child, but you are making personal sacrifices so he gets the best possible food and care. Go mama!

Maybe you could always set up an Amazon wish list? There's still a few hours to choose next-day shipping on Prime items and have them arrive tomorrow. My son liked these toys a lot a that age, since you asked for suggestions: Toy Car, Book, Rattle, Tummy-time Mat


And Mister Michael is adorable.

My first child was extremely active and really enjoyed her swing when real little, then her bouncer kept her entertained for hours and finally this jumper when she was old enough.

I really enjoyed my Moby wrap and Boba carriers when we went out.

A lot of people also enjoy the Sleep Sheep for white noise (mine didn't seem to care either way).

Oh and my girl LOVED her Sophie the Giraffe teether when she started teething at 3 months.

The Mustela baby care line is great as well (kind of pricey). Worth it if you have issues with cradle cap or diaper rash.

Not a registry item but, if you are going to do disposable diapers, sign up for Amazon Mom and you'll get a 20% discount (not just diapers) and free two day shipping (for a 3m trial).

Car-seat.org has good advice on car seats (e.g. if they fit in your car type, reviews, etc...).

We recently did a trip with our 4-month-old, and it was fine! I brought her chair and SnuggleMe pillow that she sleeps in. I LOVE the sit-me-up chair, and it's lightweight and folds up easily, so it's not a hassle to travel with it. It was good to pop her in when I was getting ready and to bring her in the bathroom with me. The hotel had cribs available and set one up in the room for us. To bring all the stuff up to the room, I used a ring sling and asked for a luggage cart that I loaded up. Backpack on my back. You can unload everything and then put baby back in the carseat and go park.

If you're pumping or using bottles, you might want to have an AC adaptor for your car and bring travel size soap and an on-the-go drying rack and bottle brush. I also brought a small fan for LO, since I've dealt with a lot of wonky AC units in hotel rooms.

Ask for your room to have a microwave and fridge! I would order from Ubereats/GrubHub/Favor or something like that instead of room service. Or if the hotel has a restaurant, call in your order to pick it up downstairs and save some $$$.

Good luck!

Most automatic infant swings on the market are pretty similar, so I think its more about your budget. If you're generally short on space, I'd recommend a smaller one like the Comfort & Harmony Cozy Kingdom Portable Swing or the Graco Glider Lite Baby Swing. Those are nice because they are space-saving, but the downside is that they both run on batteries. This adds to the overall cost as you directly need to buy batteries, and you run the risk of running out (which of course happens at the most inopportune time). If you're short on space and willing to spend the money, the Graco Glider Elite Baby Swing is a good option, because you can plug it in AND use batteries (so, plug most of the time but keep batteries on hand in case the power goes out).

If you've got the space, the Fischer-Price Snugabunny is nice as well, uses a plug or batteries, and has 2 different swinging motions (back and forth "normal" or side to side).

Lastly, there's the Mamaroo, which is very nice and is basically a swing but has more motions - so there's regular swing, plus kind of a bouncing one that simulates them being held and walked around, a "car ride" one, a "wave" one, and then a "rockaby" one which I think is a side-to-side type swing? not entirely sure. Its pricey at $220, and its possible that your baby may hate it. Its also nice because its very space-saving, and has technology upgrades like being able to connect it to your phone.

My recommendation would be to borrow a swing if you can to see if your baby likes it first.

• Not really a physical gift per se, but personal space and not being bombarded 24/7 with messages from people asking to visit and asking to see pictures of the baby.
  
  
• For my husband and I: filling snack food (meals are great too but we weren't always able to sit down with a bowl of something), socks/pajamas/comfy clothes, hair ties/bobby pins, body lotion, grocery gift card to somewhere with delivery or click & collect, amazon gift card
  
  
• For baby: boppy lounger, diapers/wipes. Only one friend brought diapers and food - all other visitors brought clothes mostly. Which of course were appreciated, but in terms of practicality, diapers and wipes would have gotten more use. My daughter has so many clothes, some weren't worn and still have the tags on

Get one of these, seriously. So useful, and cute. People like buying useful and cute:

https://www.amazon.com/Boppy-Newborn-Lounger-Elephant-Love/dp/B014A7MABU?th=1

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I use this diaper pail and like it, it takes any garbage bags and I feel is better looking than some options out there:

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https://www.amazon.com/Ubbi-Saving-Special-Required-Locking/dp/B00821FLSU/ref=sr_1_2_s_it?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1537453291&sr=1-2&keywords=ubbi

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Diapers, wipes, crib sheets, crib mattress pads, changing pad, changing pad cover (depending on the kind of changing pad, some do not require them). Bottles,swing/bouncer, playmat. One of my son's early favorite was a kick and play piano:

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https://www.amazon.com/MooToys-Kick-Play-Newborn-Piano/dp/B07DWTMNKR/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1537453105&sr=1-1-spons&keywords=kick+and+play&psc=1

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Bath supplies, lotions, diaper creme. I would avoid putting clothes on there. If there is something super special you love, just buy it (if you can afford to). People will pick out whatever clothes/toyus/blankets they want. Stroller, carseat. People often refrain from asking for these more expensive things, but I think its fine. If it is something you would buy yourself, it is okay to ask for it. And honestly, the expensive stuff went off my registry first.

I have 2 big boys (11lbs5oz and 10lbs4oz respectively), ages 3 and almost 4 months.

They both slept in a bassinet for about 3 months and transitioned to a pack n play on the bassinet setting. When my oldest started to roll, I moved the bassinet mattress down to the base.

Bouncers and low swings are a better option than anything tall. They have a larger range when it comes to weight and size limits, and when you look over and see a leg hanging out...it's not quite as scary. I have this and a bouncer I got for $5 at a garage sale.


Someone suggested the Mei Tai carrier to me for big babies. It's been a lot more comfortable than the carriers with clasps.


The carseat we have is a Graco click connect with a compatible stroller. Whenever possible, we bring the stroller and lock the carseat into it. My oldest outgrew the bucket seat at around 9 months and has been in a convertible seat since. There are a lot of good convertible seats that grow with even a big kid. I have the Graco MySize65 - I'd get the 4Ever if it wasn't too big for my Honda Fit.


If all else fails, a comfortable floor mat in a safe place works great. I bought a big shaggy fleece rug. My baby loves it because he can see me and everything going on. When he gets more mobile, I can put a baby gate around it.

I'm not sure what your price point is, but there are a few options out there! Fisher Price has the Rock N Play Bassinet at $89.99.. Or similarly there's the Dream On Me Traveler Portable Bassinet at $79.99. If there's a place to put it, something like the Brica Fold N' Go Travel Bassinet for $34.99 might work. If you're wanting to comply with the AAP, look for the words crib, bassinet, or playpen - they're the only ones that have been tested and approved. Words like sleeper and napper are not tested and not approved for use by the AAP.

This said - please excuse me while I observe a moment of silence for my beloved Rock N Play.

I have a 6 month old right now... We have a ton of toys but here are a few examples of the only stuff he plays with right now.

blocks

Monkey teether

Rings

Rattle

He loves anything that crinkles, we have a crinkle book that came with his baby gym, that he doesn't like being under.... But he loves that book.

This can also wait too, but I highly recommend one of these, we started putting him in this thing at 4 months with a box under him so he could reach, he loves this thing and could bounce in it for hours.

I had the rock n play bassinet- not the original reclined one, but they make a green flat one. We loved it because it met all safety standards, our newborn could be swaddled in it, and it was a small foot print. Highly recommend.

Edit to add: we bought it just a few days in when we realized how freaking huge the pack n play was. It seemed way too big for a newborn who wanted to be cozy. Plus it was cumbersome. They work great for older babies, though.

I never had a dock a tot, but we use the shit out of our boppy infant lounger.

We got one for our shower with our first daughter along with the normal C shaped boppy, which we never used. We use it for bottle feeding and just setting her down when need be. As she grows and gets longer, her feet just hang over the age, so we used it with our first daughter until she was about a year old. There were times we let the kids sleep in it, but it's not recommended for sleeping (but you have to do what you have to do). I was always pretty comfortable putting the kids in it to sleep until they started rolling. It seemed to help with our second because she had a bit of reflux and she was propped up a bit.

I've literally washed it a million times, sewn the seams together twice (it gets a lot of use, not that it's cheaply made), it's traveled with us everywhere. We use it inside and outside, etc.

The only downside i've found is that my cat loves it, so we have to kick him off constantly.

You mentioned wishing your baby could entertain herself. Our babies are the same age and I completely hear you. It's exhausting trying to entertain a baby, whenever they are awake. I've started putting my baby in his bouncer [This one - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IVNEFCM/ref=sr_ph_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1474756338&sr=sr-1&keywords=Price+Bouncer] or on his play mat [This one - https://www.amazon.com/Infantino-Twist-Fold-Activity-Vintage/dp/B002DWALTI/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1474756447&sr=1-4&keywords=Baby+Play+Mat]. He's been pretty good at hanging out there for a good while and focusing on trying to reach the dangling toys. So, something like this might help give you a few moments peace and let baby entertain themselves.

Our first and only (so far!) will be two months on the 18th, she has been sleeping next to mom while I'm as close to the wall as I can get, many nights without sleep have prevented our little girl from resting in her crib so we tried the bassinet, she does a little better in that but its not consistent enough for her/us. We'll try her glider tonight, she sleeps good in it I just don't know if that's something we should do, ok to do every night?

It just makes it more difficult when everyone you talk to says co sleeping is the worst thing in the world, people need to do what's best for them and baby but I'm just afraid for her well being and other people don't help matters when they treat it like a death sentence. It definitely helps having real people like yourselves put your two cents in, I appreciate all your replies.

Link below to glider:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00AO083KU/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1420316524&sr=8-1

The Boppy Newborn Lounger is a lifesaver for me. My LO is about 15 weeks and is now starting to grow out of it. It's basically a round cushion with an indent so that LO can nestle in it. It's perfect for interaction or naps (It says not to let them sleep on it, but that thing was the only way I got any sleep the first two weeks. I'd pop her in there and put her in the middle of my bed and curl up around it.). Just an all around good way to keep her close without having to constantly keep her in your arms. But honestly now that she's starting to try to roll onto her belly, I probably will end up giving it to a friend of mine that's having her baby soon!

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B014A7MABU/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1491913749&sr=8-1&keywords=boppy+newborn+lounger

This pillow: https://www.amazon.com/Leachco-Podster-Sling-Style-Infant-Lounger/dp/B003HIXOTQ saved us so many times in the first months. I had two, and could easily bottle-feed them both by tucking a pillow in on each side and holding the two bottles. I was never much able to prop up bottles without it being more work than it was to just feed them.

Sometimes they both cry, and they just do that. I'd pick up one and sing a song to them, then swap out and sing another song, so they both got the same amount of comforting time, and at some point, one would stay calm when I put them down.

And it gets way easier as they get older. We are at 7.5 months now, and they sleep at the same time (for the most part) and not only do they hold their own bottles, they get mad if we try to hold them and feed them.

We also got a lot of good entertainment value out of these: https://www.amazon.com/Wee-Gallery-Cards-Jungle-Collection/dp/B001CBEGCO/ -- we'd just prop them up on the sides of the pack n play and they'd stare at them for sometimes whole minutes at a time! (And every minute totally counts.)

When they get older, you can use a baby gym/mobile holder kind of thing that you can attach stuff to. We just used the ones from Ikea, and swapped in all kinds of things, but until they can hold and turn their heads to look straight up, which takes a bit, just propping stuff up on the wall/against things works just as well. These cards you can just buy and print out: https://www.etsy.com/transaction/1173226584 -- and that shop has some books on infant activities too, that we found pretty fun. Especially the box with Christmas tree lights stuck into it. It sounds crazy, but it sometimes calmed a baby when nothing else would.

It's all trial and error but definitely try the ASMR blow dryer video. It worked best for us, better than any machine. My daughter also loved this and still does at 6 months:

https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Einstein-Sea-Dreams-Soother/dp/B006YBHE6M

Lots of good advice here, but if you want to simply "put your child down", I LOVED the Leachco Podster. It's just a pillow, so he can't outgrow it. I moved that pillow all through the house. He took naps in it on the floor in every room, at grandma's house, there were even a few nights I put it in his crib because he slept SO WELL in it. We called it the magic pillow. That and a play mat with lots of shiny/jingly bits.

With a baby it depends how old. My daughter is about 11 months and so is more mobile with crawling. When they are mobile putting them in a jumpy or cruiser is key to getting anything done around the house wether it be gaming, cooking, or even just taking a shower. The little walker/car things that they sit in and scoot around my daughter loves. There's also the stationary jumpers.

I've got 2, one sits on the ground and looks similar to the cars and the other hangs from a door way.


For a newborn they mostly sleep all the time so it's not too bad. A swing/cradle works wonders. But the biggest key is having a mother that breastfeeds haha. That's ALOT of 1on1 mother/baby time.

Another HUGE key through out the first year, and beyond, is keeping them on a schedule. My daughter gets up around 7/8am, takes a nap around 11, naps again around 2/3, takes a bath around 6/7 and is in the crib for bed before 8. She was/is really good and almost always slept through the night. If she wakes up we just put her pacifier back in and she falls back asleep. Structure/routine is key.

Having a laptop would be a huge plus so you can be in any room. Also the first few months of wow will just be leveling and questing so having a druid/rogue or night elf would allow you to stop, stealth, and walk away for a bit. Being a tank or healer in dungeons is more demanding for attention so that might be more difficult during dungeons.

Oh and by the way, congratulations!! Newborns are a weird experience where you get mixed feelings but after a couple months you see their personalities developing and you really fall in love with them and their isn't a single thing you have a second thought about sacrificing for them!

Swaddle Blankets

Burp Cloths


Bottles. I've had a lot of friends that love the playtex drop-ins

If you're going to breastfeed pick some pads for yourself along with some nipple cream. I liked motherlove.

Swing, rock n play or bouncer so that you have a place to set baby down to accomplish dishes/shower.

activity gym/play mat


That's all I can think of off the top of my head.

First time dad of a 3.5 month-old here. This will be a little off topic, but I think it bears mentioning. I'm sure you'll get plenty of advice on brands and styles here. So instead here are some things to get more of, of those recommended brands, to make your life easier.

Rags, rags, rags. You want rags everywhere you can possibly think to be feeding/nursing him/her. Once your wife sits down to nurse, or you sit down to bottle feed, you will not want to get up and root around for something to wipe his face off with. They make a huge mess of the top of their shirts and face every time they feed. We have rags within arm's reach of all the popular spots around the house. We are so damn tired half the time we do this, midnight feedings etc., that it makes a huge difference to our mood and outlook to not be frustrated by little things.

Extra swaddling blankets. Learn how to swaddle well and it makes a big difference on naptime and nighttime. We now keep one the in the diaper bag and near the crib and near the bouncers, they get dirty quick so it's nice to have backups so you don't have to constantly do laundry. Again, it's the little things that really start fraying at the edges of your sanity, having to do three loads of laundry a day because you only have one of something, is one of those things.

An extra base for your carseat for all the cars that might be used to drive him/her around. Once again, when you haven't slept well in a month, having to constantly un-tether and re-attach that damn base every time you need it in a different car, or forgetting and taking that car to work and effectively stranding your partner with the child, will hurt your brain, and your fingers. My parents keep a base in their car all the time, they don't really use the backseat anymore anyway, but my in-laws keep theirs in the trunk just in case.

He loves this thing

I had a similar concern. So I went with the Rock N Play Bassinet. It worked great for my LO. I could rock it back and forth when needed, but it still had a flat bottom. It was super easy to move to the pack n play and then ultimately his crib.

If this is allowed, I'd love to enter for my sister's baby (my new niece/nephew!). She had a miscarriage about a year ago and we were worried for her. But now she's pregnant again and it's looking good so far! Due date is around Christmas! She finds out the gender in a month ish... I'm so anxious!

ALSO

I'd totally get her this because she loves the color green and animals are awesome! <3

A friend let us borrow this swing and it’s been a huge hit. My fiancé swears it’s the best baby product we have. It’s also the one that pops up again and again when I search for baby swings on Craigslist, so we’ll probably just buy our own from there for the next baby.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MQM7W6M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_Mmy3DbD7CW72F

We also have a few vibrating seats that work but not as well. I usually use those for putting her down if I need to go to the bathroom or quickly unload the dishwasher.

My ktan has also worked really well for us and I bought it around the same time for the same reason. It relieves a lot of the discomfort from walking baby around and frees up my hands for cooking or whatever else. It’s also the only way I can transition from standing to sitting. I have a more structured carrier but when I try to sit in it she wakes up immediately. The ktan is comfortable enough that I can stand up and sit without disturbing her sleep.

I hung toys we already had from the arch on our pack and play to approximate a play mat like that. These rings are inexpensive and endlessly useful and entertaining. My son is 14 months old and still loves to chew on them, try to pull them apart and wave them around.

Electric cradle swing, like http://www.amazon.com/Fisher-Price-Snugabunny-Cradle-Swing-Technology/dp/B00IVNEGLW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1421262806&sr=8-1&keywords=baby+swing

Because you like sleep, right? Long, uninterrupted sleep. It makes you happy, and a happy parent is a better parent.

We are moving out of state shortly after baby is born (if that ever happens, currently 41+2) so we have set up the nursery in our room.

Currently we have a pack 'n play with the napper addition the baby will sleep in and the basinet part it will sleep in once it outgrows the napper. This one came with the changer portion, but it looked really awkward and we plan to change the baby mostly on the bed anyway.

I also have this cubby organizer from Ikea with all of the baby's gear and clothes for the first couple months of it's life. We've taken the minimalist approach to baby stuff so this is the majority of baby junk we have.

Also pictured is one of my two diaper carts, also from Ikea that are a work in progress as the baby isn't here yet and I haven't gotten the chance to see what works and doesn't. Currently the top shelf is NB diapers (not that my 41+ weeker's booty is going to fit in those bad boys) and wipes and a basket for various baby crap such as butt paste and hand sanitizer. Second shelf is swaddle blankets and burp cloths and a spare NB pack of diapers. Bottom shelf are loose size 1 diapers from my diaper cake. I'm sure the contents will change once we start using it. My cart for the living room will have a breastfeeding/pumping shelf.

As back up sleeping options, we also purchased this from Amazon for a co sleeping option as well as a safe couch nap option for the baby. In addition, we have a second hand rock n play for napping but I don't feel comfortable letting the baby sleep overnight in there.

I have quite a few items on my wishlist that are green or have green. This Nail dotting kit comes with a green dotter,This baby bouncer/swing is green my four month old son would LOVE this [Its over a bit but a gc would be loved if possible], Mike from TMNT is green,Thanks for hosting a fun contest!

https://www.amazon.com/Skip-Hop-Treetop-Friends-Activity/dp/B0042RU2SW

We got that one and she loved it. It has like 9 or more places to hang toys so you can rotate them as you want and there are no parts to break or need batteries. Comes with a handy pillow for propping baby up while they scream about tummy time and a unbreakable soft mirror thing to look into on the mat as well. Some crinkly leaf bits to grab onto and a squeaker sewn into a flower. A whole bunch of patterns and fun things for them to stare at along with different textures of fabrics. Also, we love owls in this house and it was full of them :)

My gosh, my SON LOVES this

http://www.amazon.com/Fisher-Price-Rainforest-Melodies-Lights-Deluxe/dp/B000FFL58Q/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1371668591&sr=8-1&keywords=baby+floor+gym

It is amazing, he pulls on everything and looks at the lights. He is 6 months and we sit him on it and loves to play with the butterflies.. BUY IT.

The boys are 3.5mo

The only secret weapon I can really think of is shower-baths. We get the shower going, then plug the drain. One of us then sits in the tub and holds one of them so they can play in the water. We started doing this regularly when they were pretty young. Now they love the water so much that just bringing them into the bathroom puts them in a good mood, even if they are feeling crappy.

The other thing is the podster. It's a cross between a boppy and a bean bag chair. They are super comfy and really secure. These are what they lounge in while waiting their turn in the bath

I have the skip hop forest friends play mat at it's great. Nice colors without being wayyyy too bright

Edit: It's absurdly expensive now, but there are definitely other color options out there that still are skip hop (and the quality is definitely nice)

We got a 600 dollar crib (it was a gift from my grandmother) that looks nice and converts into a twin bed,

An even more expensive matching dresser (A gift from my FIL)

A MamaRoo (A gift from my mother),

A LilleBaby All Seasons (A gift from my brother.)

I haven't had a chance to use any of them (except the dresser) because the larva is still tucked away in her womb apartment.

Hi! I make my own hammocks and my girls used to chew through them so fast I couldn't keep up with making new ones. So, I made a couple of adjustments that seem to help.

1. I sew a big X through the flat sections of hammocks. This keeps them from chewing holes and burrowing in between layers of the hammocks. They used to burrow even in pocket hammocks, but now they reach that seem and stop chewing. Since they've learned that trick I've been able to keep a hammock stockpile and actually wash and reuse them.
   
2. I use plastic baby rings to hang my hammocks. They're an add on item on Amazon and easy to use and replace. I probably have at least 100 of them in rotation. They're cute and colorful and my rats lost interest in chewing them after a couple weeks. I've been using them for a year now with no problems.
   
   Bright Starts Lots of Links Accessory Toy: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001ABZGU2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_qjjMzbVKPZGAQ
   
   You can see in this picture how I just punch a hole in the hammock itself to attach the ring. I used to make loops for hanging the rings but my girls loved chewing through them: https://imgur.com/gallery/ms9rd

oball for sure. LO likes playing with that, and the plastic links https://www.amazon.com/Bright-Starts-Lots-Links-Accessory/dp/B001ABZGU2

Those plus play gym and a few board books propped up = entertained for days.

Keep in mind that as kids grow, they see the same toys in completely different ways. So, although it seems boring to you - she might actually really enjoy things for a long time!

We did just get our 4/5mo LO a jumper. He's an early sitter/loves to stand assisted, so we thought it was time. We only use it for about 10-20 min at a time, but he LOVES it!

Fisher Price makes a rock n play bassinet that someone bought us for our baby shower. That could be a better option because baby lays flat, and it's only a little bit lower than our bed so baby is closer. Our bedroom is teeny and with this bassinet it's a bit cramped, but not as cramped as with a Pack N Play. Also someone gave us one of those bassinets that goes into your bed so baby can safely co-sleep. Will something like that work?

My LO also turned 6 months old at Christmas last year. We definitely try to buy things that will be useful for long-term, so it was important for us to try to get our families on board too. This table is what her dad and I bought as her gift. We still use it as a regular table now at 16 months so it was worth the price! Our list also had
Travel highchair/booster seat combo.
A walker to get her started on pulling up and moving. Lighted/song activities that required more than just pressing a button (turning a dial, pulling a cord etc).

But the best gift we received was a 360 cup because we hadn’t thought of the practical things but definitely started using it right away!

We had to ignore the weight limit on the swings (the things that rock them to sleep). They did wonders for all of us to get the sleep we needed.

At a certain point I just said " we are going to push this thing to the limit, if it dies...it is worth it." It never died. One swing we had in the livingroom just stopped swaying him when he got too big. The one in our bedroom kept on keeping on, so we made the most of it. We just transitioned to the crib after 11 months and he did great.

We had 2 different types of swings. 2 different brands. So maybe just change the swing out.

This one was great...
Fisher-Price Sweet Snugapuppy Dreams Cradle 'n Swing https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MQM7W6M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_u6twDbSXC2MW4

...but didn't handle the weight as well as this one:

Graco Soothing System Baby Glider, Abbington, One Size https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00Y286NXY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_H5twDbG8X6G3X

The beautiful Boppy Lounger is what got us through many many weeks (until baby could roll) in combination with some co-sleeping while side-lying nursing. I personally didn't feel comfortable co-sleeping until I felt like baby was more physically sturdy and her movements would wake me up so I felt confident I could safely sleep next to her. We transitioned her to a co-sleeper (not attached to the bed) and when she could sit up on her own, to her crib. Change was definitely doable as we felt another set-up was more appropriate. Sleep. Please sleep!

https://www.amazon.com/Boppy-Newborn-Lounger-Elephant-Love/dp/B014A7MABU/ref=sr_1_2_s_it?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1518933170&sr=1-2&keywords=boppy+lounger

We bought my son this Graco Bumper Jumper (http://amzn.com/B000WJLKQM) and it is one of our most valued purchases.

I'd often put it in the doorway of the bathroom while I showered and he'd just jump away. He thought it was so funny! He'd just laugh and laugh. And sometimes a little jumping before nap time or bedtime would wear him out a bit and he'd go down easier.

It's not a very big baby item, so it's easy to store under the bed or in a closet.

We used the boppy lounger in the corner of our sectional couch when she was still super tiny. Then I used this travel bassinet because I was paranoid about her being out of sight but wanted her out of the lounger. We eventually transitioned to her being in her bassinet in our room with a cheap baby monitor (sound only) and I'm just now having her nap in her crib at 5mo. Honestly, if we were to have a second, I'd probably start them off in the bassinet in our room - it helps them get better sleep and allows for you to get more done OR actually nap when baby naps since you're not holding them.

An exersaucer is great! My son loves to just jump in it. other than that:

• Fischer price standing table (Like the one in the thumbnail)
  
  
• Plastic Links are perfect for connecting up any toys / teethers to car seats, strollers, high chairs, etc...
  
  
• soft toys that make noise
  
  
• carseat toys that hang from the strap of the carseat
  
  
  
  

THIS. We've had 2 girls and I have bought this for every single expecting parent I know.

Need a second to rest your arms? Podster. Need to take an oh-so-adorable pic of your baby? Podster. Need to go to the bathroom? Podster.

The thing travels well and is more useful than I can explain. It went everywhere in the house we went. Our kids slept in it great, though I'm sure it's not advised without supervision. 10/10!

I really liked our bassinet. We used an Arm’s Reach Co-Sleeper. I liked the wheels so we moved it from living room to bedroom with ease.

We got a crib but didn’t start using it for naps for a few months and overnight got about five months.

We got a swing bouncer combo used, something like this. My kid hated it and it was massive. But some parents swear by them. You never know until baby gets here.

Best prep- Amazon prime and a bunch of gift cards. I have never ordered so much stuff before because I didn’t know what was needed until baby arrived. This meme is true.

You’d have to be more specific by sleeper. In general, there’s bouncers, swings, or rockers. In each one of these you can get them in tons of variations of automatic, manual, vibrating, non-vibrating, etc.

They’re all used for pretty much the same thing—soothing the baby or when you need to be hands free. Which one you use it’s going to depend on what your baby likes. Just be careful about letting your baby sleep in these for extended periods of time—they’re generally not recommended for overnight safe sleep (at least according to the AAP in the US).

I know what you are talking about, the hanging bassinet attachment. I had done some research on it and my husband and I decided that it was still the safest option available, after getting our Pack 'n' Play with the bassinet, we still believe that it's very sturdy and safe. (The Newborn Napper attachment that some PnPs come with is NOT safe for sleep, however.) I understand that it seems like a flimsy design, but it's quite sturdy, the pad stays very firm (as long as you are using it within the weight limit.)

If you are really set on an alternative, another bassinet that is commonly recommended is the Rock'n'Play bassinet. Now, many people will talk about the Rock'n'Play SLEEPER, but that is actually a bit risky for a newborn because it has them sleep at an incline, and that can, in some babies, cause them to slump and have difficulties breathing. Some people do use the inclined sleeper for babies with reflux, but that's up to you and your pediatrician. The RnP bassinet has a nice flat surface and breathable mesh sides, however, so it should be quite safe for a newborn.

I'd look at the recommendations on mamaot.com and candokiddo.com before buying anything. They have a lot of ideas for things you already have at home as well as ideas for purchases that will work for your baby through a few stages of development. At your baby's age we relied on our play mat for most of her entertainment (like this one: https://www.amazon.com/Infantino-Twist-Fold-Activity-Vintage/dp/B002DWALTI?th=1) with a few extra toys and plastic links hung on it. Once she could sit up she could play with the toys that way.

Stuff like jumpers and walkers aren't recommended for too much use but if you do want one, there are usually a ton of jumpers on short plastic stands for less than $20 on Craigslist and at Once Upon a Child. If you're just feeling generally spending on the baby (understandable :) ) but don't want to go crazy go to Once Upon a Child. They have lots of toys and should have some of your basic stacking and other simple toys that will work at this age and hopefully for longer too!

I'm a second-time mom and I'm still freaking out! I didn't know anything the first time, and it's true, I did figure it out. And hopefully some of it actually comes back to me haha. But it's all a blur at this point. I do remember plenty of time with sleepy baby laying on my chest, or laying baby down in the Boppy Newborn Lounger and just talking to her and singing to her and playing with her feet haha. But I do remember the feeling of, "Okay sooooo what do we do now?"

At that age my daughter loved the little plush mirror that she looked at during tummy time and her play mat. She also liked those little mini crunchy books that make sound like crackling paper when you turn the pages...

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01GCH64CC?psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002J4U8M0/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1497471878&sr=8-1&keywords=sassy+mirror+baby&dpPl=1&dpID=51R8Pgj9dDL&ref=plSrch

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002DWALTI/ref=pd_aw_sim_sbs_107_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=EDSMZQ3FK9M11G0W48FK&dpPl=1&dpID=91CItN2WZ9L

Magic baby-sleeping machine.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Fisher-Price-Snugabunny-Cradle-Swing-Technology/dp/B00IVNEGLW/

There's other kinds available but this kind is the one that worked every time on our very-poor-sleeper baby. The combination of lights, sound, rocking motion and visual movement is like hypnosis. We used ours so much that I took the batteries out and wired it up via a DC power supply to the mains.

The one linked above is expensive but there's likely to be loads on ebay. You want the Fisher Price one with two different directions of swinging and a glowing-mobile-thing in the baby's line of sight. They've given it different graphics and names over the years but the basic 'cradle swing' engineering is the same. You want a "cradle swing" not the inferior "cradle'n'swing".

Get one, it's a lifesaver. We had the aquarium one as shown here: https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Fisher-Price-Aquarium-Cradle-Swing/223153307195

I had a pack and play for my first baby and I just sold it to a secondhand store. I think they are too big for their intended use. My daughter never liked it as a sleep device and she hated it as a containment device once she got mobile. We ended up getting a snuggle nest to put in the pack and play for her to sleep in because the pack and play was too wide open.

This time I went with a travel crib to put next to our bed for the first few months. I hope the new baby likes it. I guess we'll find out here in the next week or so.

Another option I considered was the Fisher-Price Rock and Play Bassinet, because as I said the pack and play was just too big.

Oh god, I feel like I could go on forever. There is so much! I think the [Snuza Hero] (https://www.amazon.com/Snuza-Hero-baby-movement-monitor/dp/B008OJ7C6Y) or something similar is a complete lifesaver and will give you lots of sleep and peace of mind. I also really recommend reading The Happiest Baby on the Block well before the baby comes. It will help you put together the baby's room in the most optimal way and it was basically my Bible for getting through newborn. The [mamaroo] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00PK3EO1S/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1497716433&sr=8-1&keywords=mamaroo) is also great but it is expensive and I know all babies don't like it but my girl was obsessed. I could seriously keep going, let me know if you are wondering about something specific!

Thank you! It's called a mamaRoo and it's a Baby swing with various settings and it also plays soothing sounds and music (4moms, mamaRoo, Baby Swing, Grey Classic https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PK3EO1S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_rBbmzb9NT5TJX) I also have the infant insert on it now (4moms, Infant Seat and Swing Insert, Multi/Polka Dot Plush https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VU36Q9U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_dFbmzb7A02JWJ)
The other weird thing next to it on the dresser (the black tech item that doesn't match) is our router. The nursery was previously my DH's Mancave and its smack in the middle of the house. He said that this room is the best place for the router and he had it in there when the room was filled with TV and video game items...ha! He didn't want to move it, so I'm dealing with it...lol

Kids II Bright Starts Lots of Links https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B001ABZGU2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_I4DOCbX64Y7RK

☝️these are the ones I’ve got, rings of plastic that you link together and attach to toys/dummies/bottles and pretty much everything else

Makes it easy to add things to play gyms and stops toys being thrown out of prams

Haha that's what we said. They are sort of expensive new (120?) but we got one basically new off Craigslist for fifty. It's a fisher price snugapuppy cradle and swing. I'll link in a moment when I can reach the computer. For us it was the best purchase we made.

Edit: here is the swing

This thing was the best purchase I have ever made. I hung it in the door between the kitchen and the living room. Awesome.

My baby loves ours! He’s 3.5 months but has loved it for a while already! We have this one: https://www.amazon.com/Skip-Hop-Treetop-Friends-Activity/dp/B0042RU2SW/ref=asc_df_B0042RU2SW/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=198058909844&hvpos=1o2&hvnetw=g&hvrand=8774663139021550983&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9007386&hvtargid=pla-365069349533&psc=1

I currently have a 4 month old and she loves her exersaucer, crinkle books, oball, links, and the small Sophie. Depending, you may be able to get free books from the Imagination Library if you aren't already signed up!

Something like this - https://www.amazon.com/Fisher-Price-Rainforest-Melodies-Lights-Deluxe/dp/B000FFL58Q/ref=sr_1_1_a_it

They key is the shiny vs fuzzy material, it's easy to wipe down, machine washable, and hair may be statically attracted to it (e.g. if the cats decide to rub themselves all over it, don't ask how I know lol) but it doesn't stick to it and in it like a fuzzy material might allow.

The Leachco Podster Sling-Style Infant Seat Lounger
is only $40 bucks. However, I'm not sure if that is better than the boppy because it too is pretty soft and not firm like that Nap Nanny. If you think your daughter likes to be propped up a little more, is there a way for you to put a towel or something under the pad in the co-sleeper? This would keep her upright a little more. If she wants to feel cuddled maybe you could just swaddle her? Also, I know plenty of people who let their babies sleep in their boppies so don't feel too bad about it.

I could totally use these linking rings


I don't know why I don't have these yet. My daughter has played with them before and she loved them. A lot. She doesn't seem to be entertained by any of her toys anymore so I'm trying to add to what we have already.

This has been a lifesaver for me and my 3 week old. She let's me put her there next to me on the couch and will sleep for a few hours in it.

Boppy Newborn Lounger, Elephant Love Gray https://www.amazon.com/dp/B014A7MABU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_qO-Rzb4489R98

That's exactly how I started. Laying around somewhere is a picture of me in my bumper jumper intently watching Jordan and the Bulls beat the Chuck-led Suns in the Finals. Merry Christmas and I hope you have an up and coming Bulls fan on your hands!

Congratulations! Rock n play bassinet - it's a flat surface and rocks. It is not under the rock n play recall because it's completely different.

Two wall powered baby swings. You'll thank me later I promise.

Here's a cheap'ish option that will be your sanity saver, you'll get the much better ones at a $120-150/per price point though if you have the money available. Some of these you can spin the baby sideways while swinging so they're swinging front to back instead of swinging side to side. They were worth the extra cost to us.

Graco Simple Sway Baby Swing, Abbington https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PTL15D6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_kf5Ryb80TAMC1

This is the adjustable one, far better, but more expensive. On the plus side you'll easily sell it away when the babies outgrow them.
Fisher-Price My Little Snugabear Cradle 'N Swing https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01FF8H5Q8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_Ll5RybPMQP7FQ

I'd say activity mat all the way! You can always buy a bouncer/exersaucer second hand. We loved our little mat, especially because it folded up when we weren't using it, creating more space in our apartment. It would even give us time to make coffee and breakfast while LO was busy playing.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01MQM7W6M/ref=mh_s9_acsd_top_bBI65b_c_x_1_w?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=mobile-hybrid-11&pf_rd_r=1JPQKX3PSS56STM6561J&pf_rd_t=1201&pf_rd_p=496181e8-f6c5-5dc0-8880-d3025ea7d10f&pf_rd_i=166853011

this swing is the bomb! Reasons why I like it:

1. Plugs into the wall so doesn't suck up batteries
   
   
2. Can either swing side to side or forward and back. Babies are picky, and it would suck to get a swing that doesn't swing in the direction they prefer
   
   It took R until about..uh...3-6 weeks into her life to dig the swing, but it was amazing once we got to that point.

Oh god I feel your pain.

My son is..well I don't want to say clingy because he's just a baby, he just wants mommy. Mommy can do things like stand him up and hand him toys. He's frustrated, he wants to do more than what he can.

I've honestly just started leaving him a little bit, it is the ONLY way I can get anything done. I've got a ring with toys on it that is a life saver https://www.amazon.co.uk/Fisher-Price-K6070-Rainforest-Jumperoo/dp/B000LXQVA4/ref=sr_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1480698944&sr=8-2&keywords=jungle+bouncer

seriously he loves it. It lets him sit supported and he just bashes the crap out of the toys haha.

We have this one


Fisher-Price Rainforest Jumperoo https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000LXQVA4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_INw4DbTD83RFH

Both my kids loved it. The max weight is 25 lbs and height is 32 inches. So you should be able to get at least a 3-4 months out of it because most kids only gain 1-2 lbs a month.

It looks similar to the Snuggle Me organic cosleeping pillow. I got it for $60 on Craigslist, and I'll sell it on Craigslist soon (return it to the Craigslist library). My LO loved it and slept in it happily until she outgrew it at about 4 months.

My kids both liked the little infant swings when they were tiny. It would settle them to sleep. Something like this.

It will get better though.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00V2LVE5Q Pros: our baby slept like a dream, it was way easier for me to get back to sleep because I wasn't getting out of bed and standing up as many times. Cons: pricey, she outgrew it at 3 mons. But those 3 mos were worth every penny if you can afford it.

We did some bouncer thing that's similar. A friend said hers was a lifesaver when her boys got to be of age to use it.

I have an Infantino Twist and Fold activity mat, and when I am done with it, I just fold it up so the cat and dog don't lay on it. It only takes a few seconds, and is definitely not complicated. It has been working pretty well so far.

my bun chews on the bars, she did so when she was kept in a cage. However, when we transitioned the cage out, she still chews on the bars. I bought some baby chains. they are plastic, I link a few together and I hang them from the bars. She will chew them now and while its probably not the best solution (not chewing would be the best), its better than the metal bars IMO so I guess i'll live with it. They are cheap so it might be worth a shot. For me, its been the best investment that I've made in terms of replacement behavior

http://www.amazon.com/Bright-Starts-Lots-Links-Accessory/dp/B001ABZGU2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1448989844&sr=8-1&keywords=baby+chains

I love the Rock N play. Ours rocks automatically and has sounds that you can turn on. That's where LO is sleeping at night. I use a Boppy and I really like it. I use it as a nursing pillow (in fact LO is nursing on it right now!) and also use it to put him next to me for a second. Some people prefer the MY Breast Friend pillow but the idea of being strapped into something is not for me. We also have a Boppy Newborn lounger that I keep on the floor of our master bathroom so I always have a quick spot to put him down if I have to use the toilet.

I do like your setup. I would suggest getting baby teething rings to hang across the cage and possible a bird rope that they can walk on. Though I have to warn you about that edible hut. If it's one of those snack shack things. They have alfalfa in it, which some people say rats cannot digest. Usually the rats won't actually eat it, but the honey in it can encourage them to ingest it and cannot digest the alfalfa. Plus, depending on what one you got, it might have pine shavings as an ingredient. This is all things that I have heard or read and have never experienced myself because I erred on the side of caution. You make your own decision based on your little ones, I just wanted to give you the information.

Mine is 8 months but she has been using this Skip Hop Activity Center since about 4 months and still loves it!

Both our kids loved this play mat

We finally put in the last few pieces of the nursery, and I’m so excited! Here’s the breakdown:

• Room Color - Thistle by Sherwin-Williams
  
• Crib - Stork Craft Mission Ridge Crib
  
• Bedding - Nojo Love Birds Cotton Crib Sheet
  
• Glider - Stork Craft Hoop Gray Glider and Ottoman
  
• Cart - Room Essentials 3Tier Rolling Cart (I added some blue dry erase tape to bring some color to it.)
  
• Swing - 4moms mamaRoo
  
• Art - ArtQuality on Etsy
  
• Clothes Storage - Sterilite Ultra 2-Drawer Storage Cart
  
  Alright, maybe I can stop nesting.

We've so far gotten nearly 11 weeks of interest out of the Ikea wooden gym. I've been able to keep it interesting by moving the order of the toys around and hanging other toys from it (such as this Firefly), her Taggie Elephant, and these colorful links full of textures. Lately, our DD has taken to sucking on and throwing around an elephant lovey too, which I imagine will grow with her.

[this](Fisher-Price Snugabunny Cradle 'N Swing with Smart Swing Technology https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IVNEGLW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_wsdzzbS1D8NHE) is the swing we have for our 4mo old. Literally a life saver. I hope it helps, and I am so incredibly sorry for what you are going thru. My daughter has nights like that and it is hell, but it is not constant like your LO. Really hope you and your wife make it thru this. You guys really need each other rn.

Mine is just six months old now, but she loves books with touchy-feely things, these plastic links/rings, and anything that crinkles. We're probably going to get her a wooden activity cube thing.

Totally different but a nice baby swing has been a life saver for us. We aren't struggling and have everything we need but that is one thing I didn't expect to be so important. This is also kind of a luxury type item that they may not get in their own. We have this one Graco Simple Sway Baby Swing, Abbington https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PTL15D6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_RICDAbKDXD3DQ I find this important because this has helped us more than anything. This allows us to shower eat and nap. Other than that you can have enough consumables. Diapers and wipes. If you don't know what size get 2s or 3s. We didn't use newborn or 1s for very long and had some left over. Also if you dm me some info I'll chip in on the swing

Yep, these work wonders and Magellan loves crawling through them.

Amazon Baby Rings

Depending on your sleep arrangement, I highly recommend the Snuggle Me bed. It really helped with the "my baby will only sleep on me" issue that pretty much all parents have. I recognize it is a bit pricey, but so worth it! My baby is 4 months now and he still sleeps in it, but we now place it in his Arm's Reach Co-sleeper. (My baby didn't really like the Rock and Play, but he is a rather particular being.)

Just fyi, despite all the advertising, a RNP is not considered a safe sleep surface. Our Daughter almost suffocated in hers, scariest moment of my life.

The Rock n Play bassinet is though, and conforms to the AAP safe sleep guidelines. https://www.amazon.com/Fisher-Price-Rock-Play-Portable-Bassinet/dp/B008DDPL32

You’re going to want 2 of these 100%

Boppy Newborn Lounger, Elephant Love Gray https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B014A7MABU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_d8tkDbPKMSAM8

Ftm here too, I registered and received this one, but it’s flat with no buckles, more like a bassinet. Think this one is recalled too? Are there specific recalled model numbers?

fisher price rock n play portable bassinet

Lily loved her activity mat and her bouncy chair at 2 months old. We would walk around the flat and look at things and we took a walk every day. She napped A LOT on me at the time so we watched A LOT of Netflix and 4OD. My favourite thing to do with her was just to stare at her and copy all of her noises and talk with/to her.

We have this one and my kiddo loves it! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000FFL58Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_2HF0xbYKV5PBS

The newborn stage is so so hard, I am now at 7 months and I promise it gets easier! One thing that helped me was a crib soother, I'll add the link. I let her lie in her crib and watch the soother for about an hour and then she gets her bottle then sleep. That might help with the crying during the witching hour. Link: https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Einstein-Sea-Dreams-Soother/dp/B006YBHE6M

It's on a Fisher Price play mat like this one.

If he doesn’t have 2 of these yet, they are amazing. I get one for every person in my life when they are expecting. Leachco Podster Sling-Style Infant Seat Lounger, Sage Pin Dot https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003HIXOTQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_MRXMAbZRZBGB9

My son has had for awhile and still loves this three piece teether set and the Bright starts links.

Amazon actually has a good description of it with different pictures, too: http://smile.amazon.com/Fisher-Price-Rock-Play-Portable-Bassinet/dp/B008DDPL32/ref=pd_cp_ba_0

1)Swaddle blankets for newborn
https://www.amazon.com/SwaddleMe-Original-Swaddle-3-PK-Busy/dp/B013GYQVCW/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1496771259&sr=8-1&keywords=swaddleme
2) Several different types of pacifiers/bottles (you don't know which they'll like and they do have a preference)
3) Travel swing - because they're smaller/take up less room/ and you can move them from room to bathroom or whatever and less expensive.
https://www.amazon.com/Comfort-Harmony-Kingdom-Portable-Swing/dp/B00E3RKC36/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1496771354&sr=1-1&keywords=travel%2Bswing&th=1
4)Breastfeeding pillow: https://www.amazon.com/Comfort-Harmony-Kingdom-Portable-Swing/dp/B00E3RKC36/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1496771354&sr=1-1&keywords=travel%2Bswing&th=1
5)Carrier:https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Ktan-Original-Carrier-Black/dp/B000UYFULU/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1496771644&sr=1-1&keywords=ktan

This pillow was our most used item. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003HIXOTQ?colid=12QF6OM7K6OQL&coliid=I3GLZOVVIDGW2U&ref=br_ADD_TO_CART_title_link

Its easy to move from room to room when you need to put baby down for a few minutes. We called it LO's 'throne'

We also put a little humidifier on our registry that we're getting a lot of use out of now.

And I second clothes in 6-9m and 12m size.

1. [Pacifier clips] (https://www.amazon.com/Pacifier-Clip-Girls-Liname-Universal/dp/B018AP1WMQ/ref=sr_1_15_s_it?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1484666546&sr=1-15&keywords=pacifier+clip) are magical. No more having to wash a dirty pacifier after falling.
   
   
2. If you have to pump often and your LO is still small, I highly recommend a [Boppy Newborn Lounger] (https://www.amazon.com/Boppy-Newborn-Lounger-Elephant-Love/dp/B014A7MABU/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1484666736&sr=1-1&keywords=boppy+newborn+lounger). I used to try to prop up LO on my knees while pumping so that we could interact. That resulted in her slumping over often. This lounger was a lifesaver. We could still read books, sing etc but this time my hands were free to do whatever I needed to do while pumping.
   
   
3. Pump directly into your feeding bottles. My flanges screwed onto my Avent bottles with no issues. One less bottle to wash.
   
   
4. A [shopping cart cover] (https://www.amazon.com/Boppy-Shopping-Cart-Chair-Cover/dp/B00BOWQB60/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1484667276&sr=1-1&keywords=boppy+shopping+cart+cover) is great to avoid all of the germs on shopping carts and high chairs.
   

Boppy lounger https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B014A7MABU/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1523072597&sr=8-1&keywords=boppy+lounger&dpPl=1&dpID=51VW217S31L&ref=plSrch

And

Rock n Play https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B014D50LCY/ref=mp_s_a_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1523072640&sr=8-3&keywords=rock+and+play&dpPl=1&dpID=41gaUYwVY2L&ref=plSrch

Lifesavers!

I swear by the "baby donut" for daytime naps and when I need to run to the bathroom. Leachco Podster is a lifesaver.

LO is 5 weeks and we've been using it since day one. On nights when he's being especially angry, I will put him in it and lay on the couch with my head next to it (we have a sectional) so I can get some type of sleep with him. Baby straight jackets just turned him into a log and he rolled all over his cosleeper and gave me a heart attack.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003HIXOTQ?pc_redir=1408677822&robot_redir=1

We have this one though I don't think it's any better or worse than anything else. Just pick something you think looks cute because it's going to be out a LOT.

https://www.amazon.com/Fisher-Price-Sit-Me-Up-Floor-Seat-Citrus/dp/B014D4HQBY

And this
https://www.amazon.com/Skip-Hop-Explore-3-Stage-Activity/dp/B01J94K9OY/


Both saved our sanity. Your kiddo is getting a bit old for them tho so they may not work for long. I can’t remember when my kiddo grew out of them...

Plastic links!

Edit: like these https://www.amazon.com/Bright-Starts-Lots-Links-Accessory/dp/B001ABZGU2

I'm honestly having a hard time bringing the idea to fruition since so many pet beds are courdoroy or microfiber suede or such that doesn't seem right for a newborn. I might cave and get the purpose made product, and if so I want Snuggle Me Organic for the way it cradles Baby.

The one we have sits on the floor. It looks like this.

Whether or not you will be able to watch the little one at home yourself is really REALLY going to depend on the baby - some newborns are easy-going while others can be colicky and need more attention.

We had something like this (though it's been updated since our daughter was a baby):

Baby Floor Swing

The rough routine was to feed, change, then swaddle her and place her sleeping little burrito-form into the swing for an hour or so - then rinse and repeat. I just kept her in the room with me.

I don't have a ton of toys, but my baby loves this thing: https://smile.amazon.com/Manhattan-Toy-Sensory-Teether-Activity/dp/B000BNCA4K/

He also really digs his exersaucer/jumperoo (similar to this, but you can pick one up at a yard sale for like $15 or less: https://smile.amazon.com/Fisher-Price-K6070-Rainforest-Jumperoo/dp/B000LXQVA4/), which has different toys all around the rim and allows him to jump up and down endlessly. He hated his swing, is meh on the bouncer seat, but has a ball in this.

we used a combination of the podster and the arms reach co-sleeper. i loved the podster, and was very sad when my little buddy outgrew it.

podster

cosleeper

My 9 month niece is in the 99th percentile. Over 30 pounds and the size of a toddler. She has this jumper, and it’s never betrayed her. Fisher-Price Rainforest Jumperoo https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000LXQVA4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_1lVwDbHYMH2XB

Podster - 3 months. This thing helped us a lot. My daughter never really slept in a bouncer or anything like that but would rack out for hours in this thing.

Lots of links. This and a bucket, she would one by one, put them in the bucket, dump it out, start all over. Hours of entertainment!

I usually use one of these.

Of course I have. I've used it since I was a baby.

https://www.amazon.com/Bright-Starts-Lots-Links-Accessory/dp/B001ABZGU2/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1481388945&sr=1-1&keywords=baby+clips

https://www.amazon.com/Bright-Starts-Lots-Links-Accessory/dp/B001ABZGU2

https://www.buybuybaby.com/store/product/sassy-reg-ring-o-39-links/1016719161?categoryId=30527

FALSE. It's a bouncy seat. Proof.

I got mine on amazon.

A few different ones to choose from.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006YBHE6M/

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NFETDR4/

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000NW5RWQ/

We used this bassinet from the get go (LO was 9lbs 9oz and has always been in 99% for height)

I think it’s 25lb weight limit and is 31 inches long.

link

Note - it can rock or you can flip the feet and it won’t rock

Perhaps a foldable baby bath and a foldable baby swing. Would be light enough for the suitcase and have plenty of room.
http://www.amazon.com/Comfort-Harmony-Portable-Swing-Kingdom/dp/B00E3RKC36/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1417819036&sr=8-5&keywords=Baby+swing


http://www.amazon.com/Summer-Infant-Mothers-Deluxe-Bather/dp/B003BTXSCE/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1417819085&sr=8-11&keywords=Baby+tub

She is on the boppy lounger https://www.amazon.com/Boppy-Newborn-Lounger-Elephant-Love/dp/B014A7MABU/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1521980374&sr=1-4&keywords=boppy%2Blounger&th=1. It's really convenient to have!

My son is the same way and I also have that piano. The only other thing I do with my son is hold him up and try and get him to stand on his own feet. I also have this chair activity thing and he can use his legs : Skip Hop Explore and More Baby's View 3-Stage Activity Center, Multi, 4 Months https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01J94K9OY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_4RNZBbGEWM6DX

Fisher Price Swing $119 - https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B01MQM7W6M/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

The only thing I can think of are the 'activity mats' which have toys and stuff that hang above the baby. Not sure how a dog bed would be an equal replacement in that case though: http://www.amazon.com/Infantino-Twist-Fold-Activity-Vintage/dp/B002DWALTI/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1410185422&sr=8-5&keywords=baby+mat

This is what I used in the beginning. We put it in the middle of the bed and I used the side of it as a pillow. It tricked my daughter into thinking I was holding her.

Leachco Podster Sling-Style Infant Seat Lounger, Sage Pin Dot https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003HIXOTQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_J782BbMD5YM88

If you have a large enough bed (we have a King that barely fits in our tiny bedroom), consider this cosleeping pillow. We used the SnuggleMe in our bed but also on the couch, moving it from room to room for daytime napping so we could keep an eye on our little guy.

It's meant for cosleeping, and as long as baby isn't rolling yet, it's safe. *Do not use it inside a crib, as baby could become trapped between the pillow and slats when he/she rolls.

We have five kids, so things here have lasted at least that long:

Baby Bjourn Babysitter which goes by a new name now.
NoseFrida Snotsucker is the grossest name, but very handy and BIFL
Bumbo floor seat is a plastic seat kids sit on, on the floor
Boppy is a big U-shaped pillow for floor sitting or nursing
Wood stacking toys - either Ikea or Melissa & Doug
Saddleback leather/Love41 bucket bag for a diaper bag

Holy grail item? This swing. My son slept in it exclusively for 4-5 months. It was the only thing that would stop him from crying.

Edit: Also, these Lansinoh Ultra Soft Disposable Nursing Pads were the only things I could bear at first and they are only sold online.

The piranha moments where he hurts me, yes, but the mom guilt from me accidentally hurting him are absolute agony, and I also did that twice yesterday. He has gotten REALLY fast and REALLY curious, and REALLY uncooperative, like, drastically fast, so there is a sharp learning curve for me as a FTM.

We just bought a house so we have to get this one ready to show ASAP because the market is “white hot” according to our agent and the sooner we get it on the market the better, so he’s rushing us. I put him in his little exersaucer while I did some much-needed vacuuming. (We have 3 cats and a dog.) I didn’t think it took me that long and he was happy up there. I kept turning off the vacuum and listening and he was just playing up there in his thing. I was working my way up the stairs to him.

When I got to the top of the stairs I smelled poop. I prayed it had just happened because even 10 minutes of sitting in poop will make his bum red. Even that long and there will be a little fleck of blood or two when I wipe. It clears up fast, and he doesn’t seem to mind, but I still feel so bad the 3 times that’s happened in the last 11 months of his life.

I needed to grab a few cleaning supplies from downstairs, so I decided to just grab a diaper, a handful of wipes from the warmer, and some diaper rash ointment so I could change him upstairs. In the other hand I had a handful of Lysol disinfectant wipes, a vacuum attachment, broom and dustpan. I did have a thought about making sure not to mix the two wipes, what a nightmare that would be, but I was aware of it, and I had them both in hands with objects associated with their respective uses, so it wasn’t really possible for me to mix them, right?

I set things in two piles on the bed up there, then set him in the middle, and started working. It was a bad one, and he must have gone at least ten minutes ago, because his bum looked red. 😞 There was even that horrible little speck of blood in one spot. Major mom guilt.

Of course, he starts his usual flipping, gets poop all over my hand, all over his foot, and I’m frantically wiping. He’s also grabbing at things, so previously neat piles are getting moved around as I’m managing a squirming, poop-covered baby grabbing the various objects within his reach. Dumb, rookie mom; should have seen this coming.

At one point he started screaming and crying. I felt even worse because his bum must really be sore and this thick poop needed a lot of wiping, and the friction must feel awful. I tried to hurry and be gentle. I needed more wipes and luckily there was a bag next to me so I grabbed those. He stopped screaming at that point as I finished up, put some diaper cream on, and set him down.

As he crawled away to his toys, smiling, I looked down at the bed in horror. The Lysol wipes were gone. There were NO wipes on the bed or beside the bed. I used fucking Lysol disinfectant wipes on my baby’s diaper rash. EVEN SCENTED BABY WIPES ARE ENOUGH TO HURT HIS SENSITIVE LITTLE BUM.

I wanted to curl up in a ball and die, but I needed to fix this, and visibly panicking was only going to make him stressed, and he seemed fine now. I just quickly ran him down to the kitchen sink, grabbing head-to-toe baby wash, a towel, a new diaper, and his heavy-duty butt ointment on the way. I stripped him from the waist down and washed his cute bum-bum really well. He actually seemed to enjoy the whole process quite a lot.

Still felt like a monster, but he was fine. Mistakes happen, right? That was a doozy, but they happen. Yeah, had another stupid mom accident just a couple hours later. This is already too long, so I won’t go into it, but it involved a head bonk and a minute of crying. 🥺