How to Prepare for Bringing a Newborn Home

You’re excited, yet nervous at the same time. This is the day you have waited for, to finally bring home your little bundle of joy. The nurses and doctors can’t come along with you, since it’s now your turn to practice your parenting skills.

It takes 9 to 10 months for a baby to develop, so use your time wisely during these months and begin preparations early. When the major tasks are completed, you can come home and concentrate on your baby’s care, not where to store diapers.

 

Things You’ll Need

• Crib
• Changing table
• Clothing
• Rocking chair
• Glider
• Baby monitor
• Car seat
• Meals
• Diapers
• Wipes
• Burp cloths
• Towels
• Wash cloths
• Bouncy seat
• Play pen
• Baby bath

 

Complete the Nursery

Decide whether the baby will sleep in his new nursery or in your room when he first comes home. Decorate the nursery according to a theme or use coordinating colors.

Include a crib and changing table. Line the closet with clothing to grow with your little one through the various seasons so you won’t be scrambling to buy clothes as your baby outgrows them.

Place a comfortable, padded rocking chair or glider in the nursery to lounge in while you nurse or rock baby back to sleep. Include a video baby monitor to keep tabs on your newborn during nap time.

 

Install the Carseat

Choose a car seat that meets safety standards and fits the newborn. Find a car seat that suits your lifestyle, like a seat that is part of a stroller travel system.

Install the seat securely in the car, pulling the seat belt tightly to fasten it without movement. Seek the help of professionals in your area to assist with seat installation or inspect the seat to be sure it’s installed correctly.

Take the car seat into the hospital to place your newborn in, carefully without rushing. Remove blankets so that there is no barrier between the baby and the seat. Let a nurse inspect the baby’s seat position.

 

Prepare for Visitors

Set a schedule for visitors to come and see the baby. Ask close family members to stay and help, until you get adjusted.

Recruit family and friends to prepare meals. Freeze the meals to alleviate menu planning and cooking.

Ask your partner to prepare one room that is acceptable for company. Keep this room tidy, to avoid cleaning.

 

Stock Up

Stock up with needed supplies before the baby’s arrival. Shop sales to get the best bargains.

Gather diapers in various sizes from size one and up, since newborns do not typically wear newborn size diapers for long. Buy wipes in bulk and plenty of burp cloths, receiving blankets, towels and wash cloths.

Arrange to purchase larger items like bouncy seats, a play pen and baby bath or borrow them from family and friends.

 

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