If you’re expecting, caring for a newborn, or looking for a gift for someone who is, I have five recommendations for you! I am not sponsored by any of these companies, but these products deserve the hype.
Butt Spatula
People may say that this is an unnecessary gadget, but I think it is SO useful. It makes for super easy and mess-free application of any diaper cream or medication. Just dab it onto the spatula, spread where needed and clean it with a wipe. This makes changes for rashy babies go much quicker. Pro tip: bring this spatula to the hospital and use it to spread a little coconut oil on your newborn before their first poop. The first dirty diaper is especially sticky and frankly, gross, so a light layer of oil will make cleanup much easier. Of course, check with your doctor before doing this!
Activity Center With Footrest
When your baby is old enough, an activity center is a stimulating toy that works as a safe distraction when you need to get something done. There is a lot for your baby to explore on their own but there are also plenty of opportunities for interactive play with caregivers. Activity centers often have a variety of toys and sensory objects for babies to investigate. I specify “with a footrest” because the footrests can aid balance and muscle development. Many activity centers also convert to an activity table when your child is too big for the seat.
Contrast Cards
Black and white photos promote vision development when your baby is still struggling to focus. Their vision is blurry at this stage and high contrast images are the easiest to see. The visual and mental stimulation from looking at these photos is very beneficial for development. Because your baby can detect these shapes more than their other surroundings, they are entertaining and help with concentration. When you’re busy cooking dinner, set your baby up with a contrast book or cards to keep them happy.
Play Gym
I spent countless hours with my nanny kids in play gyms when they were this age. They can’t crawl or even lift their head for some of this time, and the play gym is a great place to build their strength. They usually have a padded mat that is perfect for tummy time and some kind of frame for toys to hang from. This Lovevery Play Gym has a few built in activities and is convertible into a mini tent. As a bonus, it even comes with a few contrast cards!
Boppy Nursing Pillow
These pillows are good for more than just nursing. While they do help with bottle feeding and nursing, they are also great for tummy time and learning to sit up! If your little one is struggling with tummy time and always fussing, try easing them in by propping them up on the Boppy. They also make smaller pillows specifically for tummy time, so you can lay on the bigger one next to them and do the exercise together!
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