How To Talk So Kids Will Listen and Listen So Kids Will Talk
In my humble opinion this book is one of the most important lessons in human communication. The title is catchy and makes it sound easy but this is an interactive workbook... and I want to emphasize WORK. This is as enlightening as it is difficult and something I recommend to everyone that has a child, about to have a child, has a partner, wants to be a better listener or anyone that has a pulse. Even if you do not have the energy to tackle a workbook this is absolutely worth a read/ listen to, at the very least, make you aware.
This is available in Book, Audiobook and E-book
It will not only help you with your kid(s) but also your partner, family, friends...
Ok, I haven't read this one yet but it's definitely on the list and I have every bet of confidence it is as spectacular as the first!
Annabel Karmel
Incorporating healthy nutrition at the earliest stages in life is critical to life long health and eating habits. Anabel Karmel has been publishing recipe books for babies and kids for decades and I haven't found one I like better. Some recipes are simple, some are creative and some are elaborate and require some time. Feel free to mix up the ingredients of an easy recipe if it needs to be repeated and when you find the time for a more elaborate recipe, portion it up and throw it in the freezer for later to have a quick homemade frozen dinner!
This is a new book and gives you everything you'll need to know to guide your baby, toddler or kid to enjoy foods of every flavor.
I bought my copy of First Meals essentially when it was first published and I'm still using it. It has tiny post-it notes in all my favorites and food stains on most of the pages. It's a lighter version of the "New Complete Planner" but just as useful. I have taken these recipes and made them strictly as directed but also bent them into something that I know the one that will be eating it will love even more. There's actually a salmon cake recipe in there that I made for myself!! I also think I made it so many times for kids that I started switching out the types of fish to get more creative. Wow, there's actually many memories about specific recipes this this book that are flooding my mind as I write this. Hopefully you'll make your memories with these books as well!
Sometimes original prints just don't need updating! Mine is well used and well loved.
The First 40 Days
This book is excellent for parents-to-be and even for their families! It explains the Eastern approach to the postpartum 40 day period after birth with a calm, encouraging tone. It also includes several recipes filled with the nutrition a recovering mother needs. I love the way this book shines a light on the shadow of the reality of the trauma a mother's body goes through during and after birth. There are Asian recipes, like the all famous postpartum seaweed soup, there are smoothie recipes for the efficient and the snackers and there are also some dessert recipes, because you deserve it!! I do have to warn you that the recipe section leads with meats and if you do not have an Asian parent/ grandparent/ Auntie that you're used to cooking these kinds of recipes it can be a little eye popping. But keep and open mind about what the new mother needs and keep turning the pages, it gets delicious.
Available in Book, Audiobook and E-book
I do wish that everyone in the life of someone that just gave birth would read this. If they did it would create a beautiful, compassionate and supportive environment for the postpartum mother where some situations might be lacking.
The Happy Sleeper
I recommend this book to parents at every stage. This book is amazing at giving an understanding of what the effect of a parents actions can have on a baby's/ child's sleep. Not only does it recommend different types of approaches but it explains the consequences of the "leave them to cry it out" concept.
*If you're still expecting I recommend reading this while you're waiting for baby to arrive, then again when baby is two months so you are ready for a smooth transition into sleep shaping. Then again when they regress!
*If your original sleep plan is not agreeing with your baby and it's time for some ideas, I recommend reading/ listening to the entire book through before you decide which approach to start with. After you've decided, make sure you're ready, with both time and emotion, and follow through.
*If your child is a bit older and you can have a conversation with them, I highly recommend (if in a two parent family) BOTH parents reading/ listening to the entire book, having a conversation with each other about it to make sure you are BOTH on board with the same approach, budget the time, energy and emotion, commit completely and don't look back. IF you commit 100% it will happen faster than you think.
Available in Book, Audiobook and E-book
If you want to build the confidence to shape your child into getting a full, healthy night of sleep, I highly recommend this book!
Meghan Trainor
It seems that most people in the entertainment industry these days think they can write a book. Well as it turns out... the mega hit singer Meghan Trainor CAN! Weather it was her writing it or a team of writing experts hidden under her name this book is an absolute joy to ready/ listen to as well as "getting real" with what's it's like to be pregnant and deliver a baby. FYI if you are a person that interrupts someone saying "T M I !!" then this book might not be for you. However, if you love a good story and don't want any surprises with pregnancy and birth this is a must read/ listen. I also encourage partners to read/ listen if they are up for it, understanding creates patients and compassion!
Available in Book, Audiobook and E-book but the audiobook is narrated by Meghan herself and is sooooooo good. I found myself not wanting to pause when I needed and looking forward to picking up where I left off.
Now Meghan Trainor has even more points with me!
Games for Babies
Stereotypically "everyone loves babies" and "wants to hold the baby" but sometimes when you're alone with your baby... it can be... boring. I get asked the question more often then you'd think, "What do I do with them?" When you're baby can't interact or communicate this can be quite difficult for some personalities (if this is not your personality, don't judge!). This is a book is as simple as it gets and the "Brain Games" title might be a bit of a stretch. What this book is great for is reminding for simple ideas that seem so obvious when they are read but we all do, indeed, need reminding. It has clear directions on very simple interactions and songs that you can swap out objects and/ or words to make your own. Always remember that any kind of eye contact, facial expression, speaking or singing to will stimulate your baby's brain and create a lasting bond between you.
This is available in Book and E-book
When I bought this book I was caring for two month old twins that are, as I type this, now in college. It is a classic but these simple "games" are a winner
Nanit Camera with Floor Stand
Nanit Camera with Floor Stand
Nanit Camera with Floor Stand
This is the camera with a floor stand that safely gives you the perfect view of the entire crib. It also comes with a breathing band that works perfectly with the positioning of the view.
Nanit Camera with "Flex" Stand
Nanit Camera with Floor Stand
Nanit Camera with Floor Stand
This is the camera with what they refer to as a "flex stand". It's compact, great for travel and cheaper than the floor stand! It can get a little tricky when trying to get the right angle if you don't have a place to set it but if you do, and you travel, it's perfect!
Nanit Camera with Wall Mount
Nanit Camera with Floor Stand
Nanit Camera with Wall Mount
This is the camera with a wall mount that can be very convenient if you don't have the space for a floor stand or a shelf for the flex stand. It's great if baby essentially only sleeps in one spot and you can get that perfect overhead angle.
Nanit Breathing Band
Nanit Breating Sleeping Bag
Nanit Camera with Wall Mount
These are the bands that velcro around your baby's body so that the camera can pick up the motion of their breathing. You can also buy them individually but I highly recommend having a few on hand for spit ups and diaper blow outs!
Nanit Breathing Onesie
Nanit Breating Sleeping Bag
Nanit Breating Sleeping Bag
These are a great option for when it's too hot for an additional layer, if your older baby fusses with the band or for newborn naps. They come is a few different colors and several sizes.
Nanit Breating Sleeping Bag
Nanit Breating Sleeping Bag
Nanit Breating Sleeping Bag
To be perfectly honest if you have the breathing bands you can just wrap them around the sleeping bags of your choice but if you don't feel like an extra step or your older baby is fussing with the band these can be a nice option.
Nanit Smart Sheet
Nanit Light and Sound Machine
Nanit Light and Sound Machine
This is a cribs sheet that uses the technology to measure your baby. Now, my experience with it is that a baby essentially needs to be in the position of the baby in the photograph above to get an accurate measurement and some babies don't sleep like that. Don't get me wrong, it can happen and it is accurate but it usually takes placing baby in the crib, positioning and hoping they don't move before the camera can take the reading. I recommend this as something extra, not for a staple.
Nanit Light and Sound Machine
Nanit Light and Sound Machine
Nanit Light and Sound Machine
Admittedly I do not have a ton of experience with this night light/ sound machine and what I had was with a toddler age. I have never dived into the app but what I do love about it is that it is one night light for all ages and can grow with your child. There is a physical button instead of a touch sensor which is just easier when it's in a space that you're constantly moving/ touching everything. This button can also be locked so when little hands get to it they cannot turn it off or change the settings. Another feature that I love for transitioning out of the crib is the color change to signal when it's time to go to be and time to get out of bed. If you set up these colors before you transition into a "big bed" it can be much smoother.
Bumco Diaper Cream Spatula
These guys come in VERY handy. It's, as titled, a spatula to spread diaper cream on your baby's bum! Diaper creams can get very thick and messy, keeping one of these on every diaper station and one for the diaper bag is a lovely alternative to having to scrape diaper cream from under your fingernails and yes, I speak from experience. They come in two different sizes but you might enjoy using one size over the other. They now also come in every color as well as a swirly pattern! These are a great staple for your diaper changing stations.
Muslin Swaddle Blankets
Swaddle blankets... There was a day that the hospital would send you home with a basket full of them, but now you're lucky if you get sent home with one! Hospital swaddle blankets are great for week 1, they are warm and there isn't need for stretch right away. Muslin blankets are a recommended staple for the first years of your baby. These ones are nice and big so they have several uses and you can still get creative. They're great for tiny ones that need a one more wrap for warmth and can grow with your baby to still fit them until they are out of the swaddle for good! Then you can use them to stash in the stroller when it gets breezy or if it gets sunny any you need a light cover. They can be used for privacy when breastfeeding or if when you're out your baby is trying to fall asleep but is too distracted you can put it over your head and have instant alone time with your baby. They come in lots of different colors and patterns and are sure to be used.
Mommyz Love Breast Shells
Now I can't speak from personal experience but the mom's I've worked with love the comfort of this brand. I love the design of the pour spout, it's on one side and you don't have to worry too much about tilting it over in the dark. They come in very handy when feeding on one side and the other side starts trying to compete. I haven't heard much feedback for longer term/ inside the bra wear but even just for feeding and sleeping they can be a great help! Because breasts come in all shapes a different brand might be your perfect fit, but overall, these seem to be the winner.
Breastmilk Storage
There are several disposable breastmilk storage bags on the market these days. Lansinoh is one of my favorite because of the pouring shape. I feel like some of the companies tried to make it easier but wound up... not. When you're pouring liquid gold, you want to spare every single drop and these bags are the most successful for me.
Ok, I've actually never used these before but I am a heavy supporter or reusable items over disposable when possible. Having said that, if mom is a large producer of milk and the freezer starts getting full, this can get expensive! Especially in those early months when baby isn't eating large amounts and you don't want to waist so you freeze in small amounts. I also have no experience with the pour out which if you read the paragraph to the left, is a deal breaker for me. I wanted to include this on the list to encourage reusable items when possible so if you do commit, please do let me know your experience with them
LaVie Lactation Massager
The LaVie lactation massager is an added luxury to prevent a very serious discomfort and possible infection. It is a terrible day when you have a clog in your milk duct so regular massaging can help keep the pipes from getting clogged. Sometimes it can get a little tiring pushing the heel of your hands and your knuckles around your boobs. This is lovely alternative that vibrates to keep the lines flowing and preventing build up. It is made for every size and shape of breast and if you're a leaker it's waterproof so you can massage in the shower, that is, if you have time to take one. Not a MUST HAVE but can be extremely helpful.
I've never met this model but I quite like the two pack and this one has HEAT. If you've ever had a clogged milk duct you know... heat = good so I felt obligated to included it on my list. If you pick one up please send some feedback with what you think and why, I do really want to know the truth!
Dapple Bottle Washing Soap
Dapple wins the bottle washing soap competition with me. Compared to other brands I can both see and feel a difference with the way it cleans. Particularly breastmilk is beautifully rich with fats that can get tricky to get completely clean. This is the soap that does the trick!
I swear they used to make refills in a soft pack that was more environmentally friendly, but this is all I could find now. Unless you have separate bottle washing stations you only need the one pump bottle and you can just refill it.
MOMCOZY Bottle Washer
Now I actually have mixed feelings about this item but I wanted to include it because it can indeed be a life saver, especially if you are gifted multiples. My absolute favorite thing about this bottle washer is that... you don't have to wash bottles. And for someone that has washed a (literally) countless amount of bottles in her lifetime, it made the favorites list. Not only bottle parts but you can throw pump parts, pacifiers, teethers ultimately spoons and plates. I also love that is an all in one, it washes, sanitizes and (mostly) dries. Just like a standard dishwasher it misses some spots and leaves puddles so you still need to shake and dry out the bottle and pump parts before reassembling for storage but it sure does help. The drawbacks are that it's expensive and to get all the residue off you still need to swipe the bottles and nipples with a brush before running through the washer. Hmmm.... wait a minute... what I haven't tried is Dapple dishwasher pods. I might have just solved that problem. However, the Dapple pods are for a full size dishwasher so they might need to be cut down for this little washer. I'll have to give that a try when I come across a family that is using one of these and write an update!
So these are the detergent tablets for the bottle washer, again, just like a dishwasher they need the detergent tablets. I'll have to see about the Dapple dishwasher detergent tablets for this little guy.
Frida Nose Sucker
Oh man, if you've never heard of this you are in for treat! When breast/ bottle feeding babies cannot breath through their nose they cannot eat. We don't want that. This is by far the best solution/ innovation for this crucial problem! It's so simple and incredibly affective, as the photo to the left shows, you place the suction end gently into the nostril then the mouth piece into your mouth.... and suck away! There is a little sponge that prevents the mucus from coming up the tube and into your mouth. It's important so don't forget to make sure it's there. The bulb aspirator coming at a baby's face can be a bit much so by the time you get it to their nose they're already unhappy! With the NoseFrida, the piece that enters into the nose is slim and nonthreatening so you're already ahead and get it placed properly. The shape is key so it creates a proper seal. Then you can control the amount and strength of the suction with your inhale. Genius, really. I met a parent once that just couldn't get past the concept of a tube connecting nose snot to their mouth and I can definitely appreciate that! However... if your baby is struggling with congestion for any reason, allergies, common cold or something more intense, this is your best bet to getting as much out as possible. I've never tried it on myself but don't think for a moment I wouldn't!!
Baby Bargains Book
It's a sad time that the author(s) of the long running "Baby Bargains" book retire :( The last edition was from 2021 so although it's pushing it, it still can help and it certainly helps with mindset! Especially when you have your very first baby all of us wants them to have everything and some of us splurge on things like expensive mattresses and jammies that are so soft but cost as much as a gown. This book give you permission to stay within your budget for those kinds of things and allows you to put it towards something that is truly needed. If you're baby isn't sleeping it is not because the mattress is too uncomfortable and/ or their jammies aren't soft enough. This book is officially out of print but you can still grab it used, and as of now, it can still be worth it!
Triangle Drooling Bibs - Muslin
My absolute/ only favorite bib for drooling is the triangle bib. Not only do they snap in the back for security but they generally have two snaps for sizing and security. The triangle bib scrunches up just right to catch those dollops of drool and even inadvertently can do a quick wipe when they look down and turn their head. It even comes down to a point which is convenient to keep their hands and arms clear from being covered! I love the muslin because it is light weight and doesn't distract baby as well as dries a bit quicker in case you're out, only have two and need to rotate!
This is a link to a 10 pack because you might as well stock up from the beginning. When they get going they'll need a fresh one every 30 minutes! They can also transition into feeding bibs but I have a different favorite for that.