1. Diapers (5 -7 is a fairly safe supply).
2. Wipes
3. Cream (like Desitin, A&D ointment, Vaseline).
4. Baby Powder
5. At least one bottle of juice or milk
6. A few jars of baby food
7. At least one clean outfit
8. A few bibs
9. A few cloth diapers to clean up spit and other spills
10. Items to entertain your baby (rattles, books, toys)
11. Baby thermometer
12. Teething rings
13. Biter biscuits or similar type of crackers
14. Medicine for fevers, colds, related symptoms
15. Any prescription medications
16. Measuring device for medications
17. Baby Nail Clippers
18. Phone number of Baby’s Physician
19. Any stuffed animals or favorite blankets your baby needs to fall asleep
20. Any parenting books you refer to frequently to find answers to unexpected questions

Resource Box – © Danielle Hollister (2004)

About the Author:
Danielle Hollister is the Writing Host at BellaOnline and Publisher of BellaOnline’s Writing Zine To subscribe send email to: bellaonlinewriting-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.

As every parent has surely discovered, you are never quite prepared for the arrival of your new baby. No matter how much time and effort you might put into preparing yourselves and your home for your new arrival, there are always a few things that tend to get overlooked. This is not without good reason, mind you. It is such a wonderfully exciting time for expectant parents, so naturally you are going to be less focused on trivial day-to-day matters. For all of the expectant parents our there, this article is for you!

The nursery is the first place to start when you are preparing your home for your new baby. The crib is likely the first major piece of furniture you will purchase for your child. Be sure that the crib you purchase meets all of the mandatory and voluntary safety guidelines. You will also want to invest in a quality crib mattress, as your baby will be spending upwards of 70% of his or her first year on it. Bedding is another consideration, and very much a matter of personal preference. Just don’t forget to pick up a mattress cover! A changing table is another option, but not entirely necessary. Alternately, a baby monitor is an absolute must-have for your child’s nursery.

The next area to focus your attention on is that of baby supplies. While most people have a reasonable idea of what their children’s needs are, it is a good idea to pause and reflect every so often. Baby supplies are very popular, and there are so many choices to make. Be sure you purchase mild baby soap and shampoo, as chemicals and fragrances can have a terrible impact on a baby’s fresh skin. A high quality, all-natural, moisturizer should also be used. Some parents are keen on using baby powder to help keep their baby’s bottom dry. Try to find a baby powder that does not have a talcum powder base. It can be terribly dangerous if inhaled, so be on the lookout for one with a cornstarch base.

After all of the necessary supplies and furniture have been secured, it is time to think about fun and entertainment for your baby. While the world itself will provide hours of fun and discovery for your child, certain toys and playthings can considerably enhance their experiences. A mobile is an excellent toy for new babies, as they spend a lot of time in their crib at that age. Some soft, fluffy toys are also nice, especially if they are designed to provide some sensory stimulation of some sort. Teething toys are an absolute necessity as your child grows older. There are some wonderful toys on the market for young children, just be sure to consult the consumer reports for information about recalls and other possible dangers associated with children’s toys.

About the Author:
Rachel Thompson is the proud mother of two young children, and a regular contributing writer for thebabydepartment.com – a wonderfully informative online resource for parents with information about baby products, nursery accessories, breastfeeding and more.