Essential newborn items… where do I begin. As a mom myself, I found it was incredibly overwhelming when I went to Target/ Babies R Us to do my gift registry. They handed me a packet of items they said were essential. My husband and I looked at one another and thought, “We need a bigger house if these are truly essential.” Good news, we survived the first year without ALL of the items, however, I did find a handful of favorite items. And, a few of these items are used in my studio during my newborn sessions. And, the majority of the time I have parents asking, “Where can I get that? We need to get one.” So, here is my list of items I love, use, and recommend to new parents:
1. The book, “The Happiest Baby on the Block” by Harvey Karp, MD. (can be purchased where books are sold)
This book educates on how to soothe a baby. If you are in my photo studio for a newborn session, you will see me using these techniques to soothe your baby. They work quite well!
2. Cloud B Noise Maker. (Can be purchased at Target)
This noise maker comes in all sorts of varieties. I have the giraffe in my studio and use it during every newborn photo session. This giraffe has 4 different sounds, but my favorites are the Relax and Sleep settings.
3. Aden and Anais Swaddle Blankets (Can be purchased at Target and online)
I LOVE LOVE these blankets. They are large and soft and strechy, yet thin. They are absolutely perfect for swaddling your newborn but can also be used as your baby grows. The bamboo ones are to die for…. they are EXTREMELY soft. I don’t use these blankets during photo sessions, but recommend them to new parents.
4. Udder Covers Nursing Cover (can be purchased here: www.UdderCovers.com ; Use coupon code 431CFE to receive a free nursing cover)
I used these covers myself when I was nursing, and I can’t say enough about them. They are terrific. Lightweight, stylish, and washable. Plus, you can get one FREE by using the coupon code listed above. I have these available for use in my studio, and have always heard great feedback from others.
5. Nursing Pillow (can be purchased here: www.NursingPillow.com ; Use coupon code 431CFE to receive a free nursing pillow)
This was another product that I used ALL THE TIME when my son was a newborn/infant. It takes the strain off of supporting your baby during those frequent nursing sessions…. AND it is comfortable for Baby and Mom. I like to keep a nursing pillow in my studio for moms to use and everyone loves it. Be sure to snag your free one with the coupon code listed above.
While there are a million baby products on the market, I have to say these are some of my absolute favorites and I would recommend them to any and all parents of newborns/infants. I hope you find this helpful and enjoy these products as much as I do.
