Ah, the sweet snuggles. Bringing home a baby is magical. Preparing for a baby and creating a baby registry can be overwhelming; there are so many items to choose from. How do you know which item is best? After having our second baby last year, it’s been easier to narrow down some top essentials. This is purely what worked for us, but I encourage you to talk with others as well. Ask questions, and know you are not alone!
Newborn Essentials
Sound Machine: Sound machines create a comfy and cozy environment for little ones, because it mimics the sound they were used to in the womb. It helps their brains relax and calm. Both of our girls use the Hatch Rest Sound Machine; we love it because it helps us create some routine amidst the chaos. It has different sound options (we use the white noise), but also has different colors, which was key when we recently went through some sleeping issues with our toddler.
Swaddle: We could never perfect the swaddle wrap, but we finally landed on one we love: the Ollie Swaddle. Of course, every baby is different – what works for one may not work for another. However, we learned that swaddles have helped calm our babies; it can help with their startle reflex, and can decrease anxiety.
Wraps: Keeping your baby close is essential as a newborn. Providing skin-to-skin lets baby know you are right there. It regulates their heart rate and breathing, helping them adapt to life outside of the womb. Having a wrap on hand lets you carry baby while having free hands at the same time. We have a couple of wraps and carriers for different purposes, but I love Solly Wraps for ease of comfort.
Nail Trimmer: This one doesn’t need much explanation. Babies have sharp nails, and no one wants to accidentally clip skin. These baby nail trimmers create more of a spa day experience. My favorite thing about these is that they grow with your child. We still use it to tackle our toddler’s nails, and I’ve even taken advantage of it myself!
Snot Sucker: Ok, this isn’t an everyday thing. But, when your babe is sick, it is truly the worst. We all know that being congested makes you feel icky. Enter, Frida Baby SnotSnucker! Used with a combination of saline, this thing has saved us on multiple occasions and it allows everyone to feel a bit better.
Essentials for New Moms
Of course, we want baby to be taken care of in the best and most loving way possible! It is often easy to put ourselves on the back burner, but taking care of YOU and fueling yourself with important nutrients in the postpartum stage is equally important. Here are some of my favorite meals to prep ahead of time and store in the freezer. Taking time to do this ahead of time will mitigate last minute frenzies in the kitchen!
Healthy, Sweet Potato, Black Bean & Avocado Breakfast Burritos: I prepped these before we had our second baby last year. They were ideal to have on mornings where I was feeling a bit all over the place. Plus, this breakfast only requires you to use one hand, which can be advantageous with a newborn.
Southwest Chicken Casserole: This casserole is a must for meal prep! Not only is it delicious, but it is packed with protein which is essential for postpartum healing. It also has a variety of vegetables and is just a cozy, comfy option. Bonus – you can satisfy your family and have leftovers at the same time.
Instant Pot Curried Lentil Soup: Do you have an instant pot? I love ours and use it all the time! This is the perfect comfort food and something you can make very quickly.
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Lactation Cookies: I’ve tried a couple of different recipes for lactation cookies. These are hands down, the best. A combo of flaxseed, brewer’s yeast, and oats can help boost your milk supply if you are breastfeeding. If you aren’t, you should probably still make these because they are just truly delicious.
I hope this helps you in your journey of prepping for baby, or even if you just became a new Mom. Remember that in this season of life, you are exactly where you are supposed to be, and you are the best parents for your babe!
