Gifts at $10 and below
Are you on a tight budget, but have an important baby shower that you dare not miss? Don't worry...here are ten items that you can give as a gift, without breaking the bank.
1.Books. Buy baby board books online for less than $5 a pop (shipping included). Get discounted rates when buying on a bundle.
2.Baby Clothes. Any new Mom will appreciate a set of clothes as a baby shower gift. However, if you plan ahead, you can give the Mom-to-be toddler clothes instead of infant sets. She'll surely appreciate the vision. Another tip is to buy off-season, while the clothes are on clearance. You can surely fit more than a piece for under $10.
3. Engraved Charms. If a silver or gold bracelet is out of your budget, why not give a personalized jewelry charm? Choose from several shapes, with heart as being the most popular. It can be used as a pendant or bracelet charm. Have the baby's name and birth date engraved at the back of the charm.
4. Basket of Goodies. In dollar stores, purchase an inexpensive woven basket and decorate it with leftover holiday ribbons. Line the basket with pastel confetti and fill the basket with goodies, like purse versions of lotion, cologne, powder, diaper pins, wet tissues, anything that the baby needs. Some of these miniature items are grocery give-aways, so the over-all price comes really low.
5. Painted Pots. Paint clean clay pots with pastel colors and use stencils to place simple designs. Give a set of three to give the Mom-to-be a handy desktop storage for cotton balls, Qtips, diaper pins, etc.
6. Hand or footprint kit. These are kits that have materials to imprint the baby's hands or feet onto framed shadowboxes. Most kits are at $10.
7. Framed Cross-Stitch. For a personal touch, buy cross-stitch materials and sew the baby's name and birth date on a rectangle piece of cloth. Have it framed for a lasting gift. If you are short of time, give her a short and sweet note written on a copy of the pattern to say, "gift is work-in-progress, will be done in time for his/ her birth."
8. Plant a Tree. Various government-sponsored companies are promoting tree planting and this is definitely a great gift for a baby shower. Most tree planting gifts come with a certificate complete with the baby's name and a personalized dedication. Some companies offer a dollar for every tree, so your $10 can buy 10 trees. Now that's a guarantee of fresh air for the baby's future.
9. Baby Website. For the tech savvy Mom-to-be, create a free website for the future newborn. This gift will last until the baby grows up and can personally edit his or her website. If you know that the parents already have a web host, why not pay for the domain registration of the baby's name so for the next five years, the future new born will have his or her own e-niche.
10. Pamper Mom, Too! Who says baby shower gifts are only for babies? Be creative by giving the Mom-to-be a gift, instead of the baby. After all, the occasion is, in fact, a celebration of her strength and dedication in carrying another life for nine months. Dollar stores frequently offer pampering gift baskets or customize your own, similar to the basket of goodies described above.
Roger Mitchell has spent lots of years writing informative health articles on baby showers like ideas for baby showers. Other related subjects can also be found at http://www.HealthLifeBook.org/sitemap/index.html.
Showing posts with label baby swing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label baby swing. Show all posts
Friday, February 1, 2008
Planning a Baby Shower
Preparing for any special occasion takes a lot of forethought and organization. A baby shower planning guide is the ideal tool for keeping all of the details in order while working towards creating a very special event. This helpful party organizer should be the very first item you buy. The host of the shower has a lot of responsibilities and a lot of decisions to make. Sometimes having too many ideas and options can be very confusing. In order to streamline the process, the party planner can use a baby shower planning guide to keep focus.
Without the party guide, the planner may find herself swirling around too many different ideas, each of which is equally appealing. However, this may lead to the even wandering off in to many directions. There are so many wonderful details to consider that it takes an organizational tool to keep things in line.
The first thing that the planner will request is a general theme. One problem that many party organizers face is having too many attractive options. For example, the theme of the party might be Precious Moments. This is a lovely theme for such an event but there are also distractions that may occur.
The Precious Moments theme is available in plates, napkins and other baby shower party supplies. An organizing tool can help you keep in line with this theme. Without one, you may find that you are drawn to a number of different party favors and decorations that are appealing but do not fit the general theme.
In addition to keeping with a theme, the baby shower planning guide will also help you make some very important decisions. Some showers are thrown a couple months before the baby arrives while some are given after the baby is born. There are benefits to each of these approaches and it is best to get a feel for what the mother-to-be prefers. Of course, including in the organizational party book is the guest list. This can be a tricky undertaking especially if the celebration is going to be a surprise. Finding addresses and phone numbers can be time consuming. The organizing tool is ideal for keeping this information in order.
The organizer will also help you create a doable menu, choose party favors and work within a realistic timeframe. The very first step in planning this kind of special event is the purchase of a baby shower planning guide.
Baby Picture Frames for everyone. Have a great baby shower. More baby shower ideas at Cobtul.org - Baby.
Without the party guide, the planner may find herself swirling around too many different ideas, each of which is equally appealing. However, this may lead to the even wandering off in to many directions. There are so many wonderful details to consider that it takes an organizational tool to keep things in line.
The first thing that the planner will request is a general theme. One problem that many party organizers face is having too many attractive options. For example, the theme of the party might be Precious Moments. This is a lovely theme for such an event but there are also distractions that may occur.
The Precious Moments theme is available in plates, napkins and other baby shower party supplies. An organizing tool can help you keep in line with this theme. Without one, you may find that you are drawn to a number of different party favors and decorations that are appealing but do not fit the general theme.
In addition to keeping with a theme, the baby shower planning guide will also help you make some very important decisions. Some showers are thrown a couple months before the baby arrives while some are given after the baby is born. There are benefits to each of these approaches and it is best to get a feel for what the mother-to-be prefers. Of course, including in the organizational party book is the guest list. This can be a tricky undertaking especially if the celebration is going to be a surprise. Finding addresses and phone numbers can be time consuming. The organizing tool is ideal for keeping this information in order.
The organizer will also help you create a doable menu, choose party favors and work within a realistic timeframe. The very first step in planning this kind of special event is the purchase of a baby shower planning guide.
Baby Picture Frames for everyone. Have a great baby shower. More baby shower ideas at Cobtul.org - Baby.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Life Changes with a New Baby
It's true, having a baby will change your whole life. However, with each new addition to your family, those changes will change as well. Below are just a few of the changes that will be more easily noticed, and may cause you to do just a bit of pondering of your life.
Your clothing:
1st baby: You begin wearing maternity clothes as soon as the stick turns blue.
2nd baby: You wear your regular clothes for as long as possible, and then your wear your husband's shirts and sweat pants as maternity clothes.
3rd baby: Your maternity clothes are your regular clothes.
Baby clothing:
1st baby: You purchase every item brand new, prewash it in infant detergent, and keep it folded neatly in the dresser.
2nd baby: You bring all the first child's hand me downs up from the basement.
3rd baby: You bleach every item of clothing until it's completely white, but stain free.
Naming:
1st baby: You browse through baby-name books and websites for hours every day.
2nd baby: You visit one baby name site, and then give the baby the name you wanted to use for the first baby, but your husband vetoed.
3rd baby: You let the two older kids pick the name, since they will be calling the baby names anyway.
Getting ready:
1st baby: You have the entire nursery complete and ready 7 months before your due date.
2nd baby: A week before your due date, you put a bassinette next to your bed, and a bag of diapers under it.
3rd baby: You wait until the contractions are 5 minutes apart, and then drag the crib down from the attic.
Concern:
1st baby: At the first sign of unhappiness, the first tear, or whimper, you pick the baby up before she can cry.
2nd baby: You pick the baby up as soon as you finish whatever tasks you were performing for the first-born.
3rd baby: You pick up the baby before his screams can wake up the other two.
Social:
1st baby: You take your infant to Mommy & Me, Infant Massage, and Baby Yoga.
2nd baby: You take your kids to the grocery store and Laundromat.
3rd baby: You take your kids to the baby sitter.
Leaving:
1st baby: The first time you leave your baby with a sitter; you call home every hour, and come home early.
2nd baby: An hour after leaving, you call home to give the sitter a number where you can be reached.
3rd baby: You leave your cell phone number for the sitter, and then you leave the cell phone in the garage.
Daily:
1st baby: You spend most of everyday just looking at the baby.
2nd baby: You spend pretty much all day watching the older child so that he doesn't pinch, poke, or drop the baby.
3rd baby: You spend a good part of everyday hiding from the children and watching out the window for your husband to come home.
Catherine is a mother of three and staff writer/blogger at LikeThatName.com. LikeThatName provides a fast and fun way to discover thousands of interesting baby names, along with a supportive community and information for new parents. To read the latest articles and join our community, visit us online today!
Your clothing:
1st baby: You begin wearing maternity clothes as soon as the stick turns blue.
2nd baby: You wear your regular clothes for as long as possible, and then your wear your husband's shirts and sweat pants as maternity clothes.
3rd baby: Your maternity clothes are your regular clothes.
Baby clothing:
1st baby: You purchase every item brand new, prewash it in infant detergent, and keep it folded neatly in the dresser.
2nd baby: You bring all the first child's hand me downs up from the basement.
3rd baby: You bleach every item of clothing until it's completely white, but stain free.
Naming:
1st baby: You browse through baby-name books and websites for hours every day.
2nd baby: You visit one baby name site, and then give the baby the name you wanted to use for the first baby, but your husband vetoed.
3rd baby: You let the two older kids pick the name, since they will be calling the baby names anyway.
Getting ready:
1st baby: You have the entire nursery complete and ready 7 months before your due date.
2nd baby: A week before your due date, you put a bassinette next to your bed, and a bag of diapers under it.
3rd baby: You wait until the contractions are 5 minutes apart, and then drag the crib down from the attic.
Concern:
1st baby: At the first sign of unhappiness, the first tear, or whimper, you pick the baby up before she can cry.
2nd baby: You pick the baby up as soon as you finish whatever tasks you were performing for the first-born.
3rd baby: You pick up the baby before his screams can wake up the other two.
Social:
1st baby: You take your infant to Mommy & Me, Infant Massage, and Baby Yoga.
2nd baby: You take your kids to the grocery store and Laundromat.
3rd baby: You take your kids to the baby sitter.
Leaving:
1st baby: The first time you leave your baby with a sitter; you call home every hour, and come home early.
2nd baby: An hour after leaving, you call home to give the sitter a number where you can be reached.
3rd baby: You leave your cell phone number for the sitter, and then you leave the cell phone in the garage.
Daily:
1st baby: You spend most of everyday just looking at the baby.
2nd baby: You spend pretty much all day watching the older child so that he doesn't pinch, poke, or drop the baby.
3rd baby: You spend a good part of everyday hiding from the children and watching out the window for your husband to come home.
Catherine is a mother of three and staff writer/blogger at LikeThatName.com. LikeThatName provides a fast and fun way to discover thousands of interesting baby names, along with a supportive community and information for new parents. To read the latest articles and join our community, visit us online today!
A Foolproof Source Of Great Baby Gift Ideas
When you get invited to a baby shower, it's an honor and a lot of fun too. You know there will be the regular baby shower fun and excitement and lots of admiration of the mommy to be and learning what she is in naming the child, learning its gender and all the other "giggly stuff" that is part of the fun of a shower.
But one area of anxiety you might have when getting ready for the shower is what to give for a baby gift. The last thing you want to do is to buy a bassinette only to find she is getting four of those at the shower. And there is that list of general baby gifts that are always given at a shower that you can draw on. But maybe you want your gift to be unique, to be the one that makes that mom to be smile and maybe squeal because it is just the right thing and the thing that before the shower said, "I sure hope someone thinks to give me...." And that thing she hoped for is what you brought.
But how do you go about finding out what that one great gift would be? Well there is one foolproof source of that information and that is the mom to be herself. You could just ask her. That seems to be an approach that is least often used and it might be the one that the expectant mom would most like to see used. If you just pick up the phone to RSVP that invitation to the shower, you can take a few minutes to laugh and enjoy the moment of celebration because of the excitement of the upcoming delivery of her child.
But then during that call, you can just casually ask what she has on hand already and what that really special thing someone who loves her should give. She will get the hint and realize you are the one guest of many who wants to find out what the perfect gift would be. Think of the sense of gratification and joy you will get if you are the one at the shower that gives the gift that is declared "perfect" for the baby soon to be here.
Sometimes an expectant mom is not as easy to read as that and the direct approach only leaves you with the regular list of supplies for baby that anyone can think of. Then you might need to get a little more clever in finding out what the perfect baby gift would be. So an invitation to brunch for you to celebrate her pregnancy and discuss how things are going is a great next step. During that lunch it will be easy to get your friend or relative talking about how the preparation of the baby room is coming along and any anxieties this new mom might be having about taking care of the new baby.
You might discern that the best gift would be a book on what to do when new baby comes. That is a gift that keeps on giving for sure and it might be an excellent gift for the dad to be as well. Or you might find out that there is a certain toy or accessory that the mom to be can remember from her upbringing that she would love to see given to the baby by a very special friend.
You can get a good list of unique gifts that would stand out at the shower and bless the expectant family in a very special way by just being attentive and use good listening skills when you are around the new mom. And by taking good notes well in advance of the delivery or even in advance of the shower, you will grab that one great baby gift idea that will be the gift that makes her cry at the shower. And that's the idea, isn't it?
If you are interested in learning more about babies gifts then visit us at http://www.BabiesGifts.org
But one area of anxiety you might have when getting ready for the shower is what to give for a baby gift. The last thing you want to do is to buy a bassinette only to find she is getting four of those at the shower. And there is that list of general baby gifts that are always given at a shower that you can draw on. But maybe you want your gift to be unique, to be the one that makes that mom to be smile and maybe squeal because it is just the right thing and the thing that before the shower said, "I sure hope someone thinks to give me...." And that thing she hoped for is what you brought.
But how do you go about finding out what that one great gift would be? Well there is one foolproof source of that information and that is the mom to be herself. You could just ask her. That seems to be an approach that is least often used and it might be the one that the expectant mom would most like to see used. If you just pick up the phone to RSVP that invitation to the shower, you can take a few minutes to laugh and enjoy the moment of celebration because of the excitement of the upcoming delivery of her child.
But then during that call, you can just casually ask what she has on hand already and what that really special thing someone who loves her should give. She will get the hint and realize you are the one guest of many who wants to find out what the perfect gift would be. Think of the sense of gratification and joy you will get if you are the one at the shower that gives the gift that is declared "perfect" for the baby soon to be here.
Sometimes an expectant mom is not as easy to read as that and the direct approach only leaves you with the regular list of supplies for baby that anyone can think of. Then you might need to get a little more clever in finding out what the perfect baby gift would be. So an invitation to brunch for you to celebrate her pregnancy and discuss how things are going is a great next step. During that lunch it will be easy to get your friend or relative talking about how the preparation of the baby room is coming along and any anxieties this new mom might be having about taking care of the new baby.
You might discern that the best gift would be a book on what to do when new baby comes. That is a gift that keeps on giving for sure and it might be an excellent gift for the dad to be as well. Or you might find out that there is a certain toy or accessory that the mom to be can remember from her upbringing that she would love to see given to the baby by a very special friend.
You can get a good list of unique gifts that would stand out at the shower and bless the expectant family in a very special way by just being attentive and use good listening skills when you are around the new mom. And by taking good notes well in advance of the delivery or even in advance of the shower, you will grab that one great baby gift idea that will be the gift that makes her cry at the shower. And that's the idea, isn't it?
If you are interested in learning more about babies gifts then visit us at http://www.BabiesGifts.org
Sunday, January 20, 2008
All Hands on Baby
Everyone wants to touch the baby, especially during the pregnancy but no one every asks. If you haven't noticed yet, the minute you start to show a tummy everyone else will gladly show you. The tummy becomes this magnet for hands and everyone wants to handle it. It doesn’t matter if you are walking around in a store, sitting down in a restaurant or walking on your own street, someone is bound to start rubbing all over it.
You aren’t the only one that is being driven nuts by this either, take a look at your husband. Sure he seems like a trooper but deep inside he’s probably ready to put someone’s lights out. Talk with your husband and see how he feels. Even if you don’t mind, he might not like other men’s hands on you. He may not care if it is a female touching your body but he can mind about a man. Think about how you would feel if you saw some woman rubbing her hands all over your husband’s chest. Maybe the two of you can come to an agreement, after all do you have to let everyone touch the baby?
Your belly, clothed or not is a personal space, sure there is someone intruding inside you but that person in welcome. But to actually touch someone else’s belly one should ask before they do it and respect your answer. If you don’t want them to touch it, tell them. While some women don’t mind all the attention, there are other women that don’t want their belly’s touched, let alone them to be showing for the whole world to see. Maybe they’ve gained 10 pounds and feel conscious enough about it, or they could be a very private person.
Children may also want to touch the belly, normally it is because they know someone that has had a baby and they were able to do it. If you don’t like it, let them know. If you don’t mind, you may want to place their hand on your belly. Children tend to get excited and actually smack the belly when they are trying to reach for it.
Forget about the rubbing the belly for a moment, be careful that you don’t get the person that likes to poke at it. That hurts more than anything and half the time they don’t get it. Try explaining to them as nicely as you can that it hurts. They may only be doing it because they want to see the baby move and when you jump they just think it is part of the pregnancy reaction. They may think twice before doing it again to you or anyone else.
If nothing else seems to work and you’ve been polite in letting people know that your belly is off limits, feel free to sick your husband on them or start swatting. You’ve already given fair warning. Don’t feel bad if you smack a person that lifts up your shirt in broad daylight either. This is a normal reaction and people should really think twice before doing it. They wouldn’t do it if you weren’t pregnant.
You aren’t the only one that is being driven nuts by this either, take a look at your husband. Sure he seems like a trooper but deep inside he’s probably ready to put someone’s lights out. Talk with your husband and see how he feels. Even if you don’t mind, he might not like other men’s hands on you. He may not care if it is a female touching your body but he can mind about a man. Think about how you would feel if you saw some woman rubbing her hands all over your husband’s chest. Maybe the two of you can come to an agreement, after all do you have to let everyone touch the baby?
Your belly, clothed or not is a personal space, sure there is someone intruding inside you but that person in welcome. But to actually touch someone else’s belly one should ask before they do it and respect your answer. If you don’t want them to touch it, tell them. While some women don’t mind all the attention, there are other women that don’t want their belly’s touched, let alone them to be showing for the whole world to see. Maybe they’ve gained 10 pounds and feel conscious enough about it, or they could be a very private person.
Children may also want to touch the belly, normally it is because they know someone that has had a baby and they were able to do it. If you don’t like it, let them know. If you don’t mind, you may want to place their hand on your belly. Children tend to get excited and actually smack the belly when they are trying to reach for it.
Forget about the rubbing the belly for a moment, be careful that you don’t get the person that likes to poke at it. That hurts more than anything and half the time they don’t get it. Try explaining to them as nicely as you can that it hurts. They may only be doing it because they want to see the baby move and when you jump they just think it is part of the pregnancy reaction. They may think twice before doing it again to you or anyone else.
If nothing else seems to work and you’ve been polite in letting people know that your belly is off limits, feel free to sick your husband on them or start swatting. You’ve already given fair warning. Don’t feel bad if you smack a person that lifts up your shirt in broad daylight either. This is a normal reaction and people should really think twice before doing it. They wouldn’t do it if you weren’t pregnant.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Tips On Baby Shower Etiquette
Proper baby shower etiquette can lend fun and joy to baby shower party. You can have lots of fun at the party by implying a little knowledge and some baby shower planning . Everyone is sure to enjoy the event and carry lovely memories after a wonderful celebration.The traditional rule with a baby shower is that anyone can throw it except for the couple that are having the baby. The proper baby shower etiquette says that someone who is not related to the couple should throw the baby shower.
The reason for this is that it won't look as though the family are asking for gifts. But this isn't necessarily true and we don't always follow tradition anymore. It should be that anyone who is close to you and willing to plan your baby shower should do so.It is good to do baby shower planning prior to the birth of the child. Hosting a baby shower after the arrival of the baby would not be so much of fun without the pot belly mother. The best time for hosting a baby shower would be somewhere between seventh and the ninth month when the mother has a big round belly.
Take care not to plan the party just before the due date, in case the baby arrives sooner than expected. On the other hand a baby shower party in the first few months would not be as exciting without the bulging belly. Before any invitations are sent out, the mom-to-be needs to decide on a day that would suit her and also go through the guest list to make sure that no one has been left out. If it is for a second or third baby, the guests would normally just be close friends and family.
Normally, for any baby shower, it is just women who are invited. Though men were not normally invited, but it was quite common for the man to show at the end of the party to help his wife with the presents. Now days, it seems that it is fine for men to a part of the baby shower.Baby showers are quite commonly held at country clubs, parks, restaurants, bars or any other place where people are able to get together. It is, however, a bit more personal and more comfortable if it is held in someone's house.It is only fair that the person who is organizing or hosting the baby shower should pay for it. It should be considered as a gift to the mom-to-be. The rest of the gifts should be practical.
As a baby shower could work out quite pricey, multiple people could throw the baby shower, which then helps with splitting the costs.Choice of food can vary depending upon the tastes. While hosting a baby shower, you can take your pick from finger foods, appetizers or having full course at a big restaurant.
Light snacks at such parties have disappeared since long. Nowadays, people often opt for buffet with cold beverages, coffee, wine and other drinks during baby shower planning. A cake is still a standard party etiquette at a baby shower. I think you've learned a lot from the baby shower etiquette above. In the end, remember that baby showers are meant to have fun, so enjoy!
About the Author
Looking for more ideas for baby showers? Qing Gu shares with you loads of helpful articles here for baby shower beginners...plus many advanced topics:http://www.coolest-baby-shower-idea.com/babyshower.htmlAlso sign up with the Planning A Baby Shower FREE eCourse, you'll be enjoying all the fun and innovative ways to make sure your baby shower party a great succes.
The reason for this is that it won't look as though the family are asking for gifts. But this isn't necessarily true and we don't always follow tradition anymore. It should be that anyone who is close to you and willing to plan your baby shower should do so.It is good to do baby shower planning prior to the birth of the child. Hosting a baby shower after the arrival of the baby would not be so much of fun without the pot belly mother. The best time for hosting a baby shower would be somewhere between seventh and the ninth month when the mother has a big round belly.
Take care not to plan the party just before the due date, in case the baby arrives sooner than expected. On the other hand a baby shower party in the first few months would not be as exciting without the bulging belly. Before any invitations are sent out, the mom-to-be needs to decide on a day that would suit her and also go through the guest list to make sure that no one has been left out. If it is for a second or third baby, the guests would normally just be close friends and family.
Normally, for any baby shower, it is just women who are invited. Though men were not normally invited, but it was quite common for the man to show at the end of the party to help his wife with the presents. Now days, it seems that it is fine for men to a part of the baby shower.Baby showers are quite commonly held at country clubs, parks, restaurants, bars or any other place where people are able to get together. It is, however, a bit more personal and more comfortable if it is held in someone's house.It is only fair that the person who is organizing or hosting the baby shower should pay for it. It should be considered as a gift to the mom-to-be. The rest of the gifts should be practical.
As a baby shower could work out quite pricey, multiple people could throw the baby shower, which then helps with splitting the costs.Choice of food can vary depending upon the tastes. While hosting a baby shower, you can take your pick from finger foods, appetizers or having full course at a big restaurant.
Light snacks at such parties have disappeared since long. Nowadays, people often opt for buffet with cold beverages, coffee, wine and other drinks during baby shower planning. A cake is still a standard party etiquette at a baby shower. I think you've learned a lot from the baby shower etiquette above. In the end, remember that baby showers are meant to have fun, so enjoy!
About the Author
Looking for more ideas for baby showers? Qing Gu shares with you loads of helpful articles here for baby shower beginners...plus many advanced topics:http://www.coolest-baby-shower-idea.com/babyshower.htmlAlso sign up with the Planning A Baby Shower FREE eCourse, you'll be enjoying all the fun and innovative ways to make sure your baby shower party a great succes.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Everything You Need To Know About Baby Swings
Baby swings have been life-savers for many parents who could not get their children to fall asleep except for the soothing back-and-forth movement provided by the swing. There are lots of variations on the baby swing concept, from simple swings that the parent pushes back and forth, to swings that can be cranked, and even electric swings.
Basics of Baby Swings
No matter how you swing it, the basic idea is the same for all baby swings. A small chair is held up by rods that connect it to the top of the baby swing. The entire apparatus is usually not more than a few feet tall, and is typically meant to be kept indoors. Unlike the outdoor swings you remember from childhood, these swings have a deliberately slow movement, and cannot move very far out.
Safety Concerns for Baby Swings
Baby swings are safe for babies nine months old or younger who weigh less than 25 pounds. Even newborns can benefit from a baby swing.
Unfortunately, in the US there are few safety standards for baby swings. Every year, about 1,000 babies in the US are taken to the emergency room for injuries received while using the baby’s swing. While this number is not huge, it is cause to be careful. In particular, you should never buy baby swings that have a carrier bed attachment that allows the baby to lie down in the swing. The child can slide to the edge of the carrier and suffocate.
With regular baby swings, the biggest danger is to the baby’s head. The baby’s head can get caught between the edge of the backrest and the bars used to hold the swing up. Another danger is that the child can fall out, especially if the back of the seat collapses. Of course, this is only a danger as long as no one is there to watch the child and put his or her head back where it should be.
That’s why it is especially important for parents to stay with any children who are in a baby swing, and not to leave them alone for a second. Baby swings are not mechanical babysitters. Children are not necessarily safer in them than they would be if left alone on the floor.
Even more so than with other devices for babies, you need to be extra careful to make sure baby swings are assembled correctly and are sturdy. Each time your baby is using the swing, you should take the opportunity to check that all the screws and other fasteners are tight, that the unit is well-balanced, and that the unit is generally in good shape.
When using baby swings, parents should be extra careful to make sure the baby’s head stays upright. With newborns, you may want to roll up a towel to use as a headrest.
Make sure that children in baby swings are securely buckled in with both a seat belt and a crotch strap. Some of the older swings don’t have the crotch strap; don’t use these swings or your baby might slide out or even be strangled.
Still, despite the safety concerns, you just might find yourself one restless night thanking whoever invented baby swings and the sleep they provide.
For lots of helpful information on baby books and other baby related topics, visit Nr1 Baby Products at http://www.nr1-baby-products.com
Basics of Baby Swings
No matter how you swing it, the basic idea is the same for all baby swings. A small chair is held up by rods that connect it to the top of the baby swing. The entire apparatus is usually not more than a few feet tall, and is typically meant to be kept indoors. Unlike the outdoor swings you remember from childhood, these swings have a deliberately slow movement, and cannot move very far out.
Safety Concerns for Baby Swings
Baby swings are safe for babies nine months old or younger who weigh less than 25 pounds. Even newborns can benefit from a baby swing.
Unfortunately, in the US there are few safety standards for baby swings. Every year, about 1,000 babies in the US are taken to the emergency room for injuries received while using the baby’s swing. While this number is not huge, it is cause to be careful. In particular, you should never buy baby swings that have a carrier bed attachment that allows the baby to lie down in the swing. The child can slide to the edge of the carrier and suffocate.
With regular baby swings, the biggest danger is to the baby’s head. The baby’s head can get caught between the edge of the backrest and the bars used to hold the swing up. Another danger is that the child can fall out, especially if the back of the seat collapses. Of course, this is only a danger as long as no one is there to watch the child and put his or her head back where it should be.
That’s why it is especially important for parents to stay with any children who are in a baby swing, and not to leave them alone for a second. Baby swings are not mechanical babysitters. Children are not necessarily safer in them than they would be if left alone on the floor.
Even more so than with other devices for babies, you need to be extra careful to make sure baby swings are assembled correctly and are sturdy. Each time your baby is using the swing, you should take the opportunity to check that all the screws and other fasteners are tight, that the unit is well-balanced, and that the unit is generally in good shape.
When using baby swings, parents should be extra careful to make sure the baby’s head stays upright. With newborns, you may want to roll up a towel to use as a headrest.
Make sure that children in baby swings are securely buckled in with both a seat belt and a crotch strap. Some of the older swings don’t have the crotch strap; don’t use these swings or your baby might slide out or even be strangled.
Still, despite the safety concerns, you just might find yourself one restless night thanking whoever invented baby swings and the sleep they provide.
For lots of helpful information on baby books and other baby related topics, visit Nr1 Baby Products at http://www.nr1-baby-products.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
