pregnancy
Safety first
Before baby arrives, baby-proofing doesn’ t have to be a massive overhaul. Simple steps can make a big difference.“ Start with plug protectors, and make sure there are no hanging lamps over the crib,” Sr Bester suggests.“ It’ s also a good idea to anchor heavy furniture to the walls and move breakables to higher places.”
Other tips include ensuring good cable management and placing corner protectors on sharp furniture edges. These small changes will help ensure that your home is safe when your little one starts exploring.
Then, when it comes to choosing baby furniture, make sure it meets all safety standards.“ Buy from reputable brands,” advises Sr Bester.“ Check that the cot is painted with lead-free paint, and ensure that the mattress is firm and flat, fitting snugly in the crib.”
Getting everyone involved
The nesting phase is a great opportunity for partners and even older siblings to get involved.“ Ask your partner about the colour scheme or any special items they’ d like in the nursery,” suggests Sr Bester.“ Dads can help set up the cot or paint the room, while siblings can choose a special soft toy for the new baby’ s space.”
It’ s a lovely way to make everyone feel part of the process, and it makes the arrival of your baby even more special.
And, it’ s never too early to start getting organised, but most parents begin around the second trimester.“ Aim to have everything in place by your 35th week of pregnancy,” Sr Bester recommends.“ That way, you can enjoy a few weeks of rest and peace of mind before your baby arrives.”
Preparing for your baby’ s arrival is an exciting and sometimes overwhelming task, but with the right advice and a bit of planning, it’ s also incredibly rewarding. As Sr Bester puts it,“ Embrace the excitement, and remember that this is your journey. Don’ t sweat the small stuff.” �
For car seats, safety compliance is a nonnegotiable.“ Car seats should meet South African or European safety standards, and they should be bought new to avoid any risk of internal damage,” she says.
Organising baby supplies for late-night feeds
The night feeds will come, so being prepared can make all the difference.“ Investing in a nappy caddy is a game-changer,” says Sr Bester.“ If you really want to be organised, a storage trolley with wheels is great for rolling everything right to the changing table or crib.”
In your caddy, keep the essentials: nappies, baby bum cream, wipes, burp cloths, clothes, breast pads, and a changing mat. Having everything on hand will save you from stumbling around in the dark in those first few weeks.
Essential baby gear
With so many products on the market, it can be hard to know what’ s truly essential. According to Sr Melissa Bester, the following seven items are must-haves:
1 2 3 4
A good-quality car seat( make sure it’ s brand new, not second-hand)
A cot or co-sleeper for baby to sleep in
Somewhere safe to bath your baby
A reliable baby carrier
7
5
6
A changing mat for nappy changes
A pram that suits your lifestyle needs
Swaddle blankets for that newborn snugness www. babysandbeyond. co. za
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