Things to do before the baby arrives part 2

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Choose a pediatrician if you don't already have one. Your obstetrician might double as one but, if she doesn't, ask for recommendations. Also, bone up on what your insurance covers and what it doesn't so you don't end up paying more than you can afford. Your budget is going to be stretched enough as it is! I've had doctors figure out ways to get me care I couldn't afford otherwise-giving me samples of medications, doing a procedure in their office as opposed to an outpatient testing facility, etc. I'm not saying to try to ask your doctor to violate her ethics or get around the law, but many physicians have connections that can save you a lot of time and trouble.

If you're breastfeeding, you might want to learn how to use a breast pump or look into classes or lactation consultants. Many hospitals have them available before and after the birth.

Do what you can to prepare the rest of the family for the new arrival. I'm not talking about the type of mental preparation that starts long before your due date (although this is very important too) so much as making the rest of your household aware of what should and shouldn't be done with and around a baby. Little children might not realize that playing too roughly with a new baby could hurt them. They'll need to know what the baby can and can't eat/wear/play with/etc. Also, sometimes older siblings will resent the baby for taking attention away from them. If they know why the attention is needed, it might make it easier for them to adjust.

Some people will immediately start trying to get their children into the best preschools and kindergartens before the baby even learns to crawl. While I'm not sure this is necessary, it does help to start vetting nannies and day care centers. The process of finding and procuring the right one can take a while.

Let others know what sort of help you need. When I had hip surgery last year, a lot of people from my church did things like bring food, lend or buy various home supplies, drive me places and stay with me so I wouldn't be alone so much. These things were extremely helpful, especially since my family lives eight hours away. In addition to feedings and diaper changes, you're probably going to need someone to run errands, clean house or babysit your other children while you get some much-needed sleep!

Stock up on diapers, wipes, formula etc. You'll always want to have a good supply of these on hand. A lot of people bring these things to baby showers in addition to their gift, so that will help.

I hope I've been able to help. Congrats again on the baby!

What *To* Put On Your Baby Registry

Our friend Jacklyn gave us ideas about what not to put on a baby registry. But what should you ask for? What kinds of things do you need to put on your registry? Here are some ideas.

Overall, I'd say putting anything you're going to need help paying for on your registry is a good rule of thumb. You don't want to put a lot of expensive things you don't really need on the list (tuxedo from Baby Gap, anyone?), but babies aren't cheap. Since most of us don't have piles of cash lying around, the help will be appreciated.

Cribs. In a previous article, I explored whether or not secondhand cribs are safe for your baby. The verdict was mixed, but leaned strongly toward “no”. If you need a new crib, feel free to put one on your registry. These can be very expensive, so a few people may go in on one together. You could also put crib mattresses on the list, since one size does not fit all.

Portable cribs aka “Pack and Play” are also good things to register for, since you will definitely need them if you are going to travel.

Car seats. Car seats are another thing that shouldn't be bought or used secondhand. Like bicycle helmets, car seats are designed for one accident. It might look fine, but sometimes internal parts that affect the structure and safety of the seat can be damaged, making it less likely to fully protect your child. Many parents like the car seats that have a detachable “carrier” that can be used to transport an infant. Others will ask for convertible child seats that can be re-arranged to suit your child as he grows older. For more information on car seats, check out http://www.babycenter.com/0_buying-guides-infant-car-seats-convertible-car-seats-and-boo_10310502.bc.

Infants will always need a rear-facing seat.

Rockers or gliders. These are chairs you can sit in while breastfeeding or generally holding your baby that allow you to move back and forth, creating a motion that tends to soothe infants. They can be very helpful in getting your baby to sleep. Baby swings are also good for this.

Strollers. These are essentials any time you take your baby out of the house. The exact type of stroller you need will greatly depend on where you live, what you will be using it for (shopping vs. jogging) and how many children you will be carrying. Some strollers are set up to accommodate your baby's car-seat carrier to reduce the amount of “jostling” your baby experiences between settings. Some can be adjusted as your child grows older, and still others carry multiple babies at a time. For more information on strollers, check out http://www.babycenter.com/0_how-to-buy-a-stroller_1427.bc.

Changing tables. You might not necessarily need a table specifically for changing your baby, but it's a good thing to have. If you find one that doubles as a dresser, you can use it in your child's room for years. Even if you don't get a table, though, you will need changing pads that can securely attach to whichever surface you are using. Whichever option you choose, make sure it has straps that are strong enough to accommodate a squirming baby.

These are just a few of the items belong on every baby registry. For more suggestions, visit http://www.babycenter.com/102_baby-registry_10378735.bc.