TudorII Posted June 3, 2009 Posted June 3, 2009 So as a first time dad to be I find myself wondering what all do we need to get. But more importantly than what all the books say, what are the things that you have found to most helpful, useful, not necessary, etc. This is anything from bottles to bedding, etc. Seems like there are so many list out there which include the basics but I'm really looking for for some feedback on things that maybe aren't on the standdard lists.
2sure Posted June 3, 2009 Posted June 3, 2009 A really good sense of humor and willingness to be humbled.
Author TudorII Posted June 3, 2009 Author Posted June 3, 2009 A really good sense of humor and willingness to be humbled. Indeed!
Touche Posted June 3, 2009 Posted June 3, 2009 Congrats, Tudor! I agree with 2 sure. Its been so long since we've had a baby in the house but as I recall you can never have enough of those little diaper/burping rags...forget what they're called. They're to put over your shoulder when you're burping your baby. Also, bibs. And diapers of course. That's all I remember, sorry. Our "baby" just turned 13 recently. Enjoy! Do you know whether it's a boy or girl yet? Or maybe you want to be surprised?
sb129 Posted June 3, 2009 Posted June 3, 2009 Congratulations! We are having a baby and we found out this week that its a little girl. I think you need a good awareness that things may not go exactly as you are planning them to! The "stuff" you can buy now for a new baby is overwhelming- you can go totally nuts if you are so inclined and have the money. My H bought his own little book for first time dads which has been really good- its got more practical advice in it, like what to look for in a carseat/ stroller etc, what NOT to say to your W. Its quite funny, its called "Call Me Dad" and you can get it on Ebay. Some of the pregnancy books written by women can be a little patronising towards new dads i think. We have made a huge list of all the stuff we think we will need, and have put the costs of buying each thing new next to it. We then went looking on Ebay, and there is SO much good quality second hand stuff out there. Some things you need new, like the cot mattress etc, but other stuff it isn't so important. (eg furniture for baby room etc) Don't forget- people will buy you lots of stuff too, having a new baby is exciting for everyone in the family!
sb129 Posted June 3, 2009 Posted June 3, 2009 PS the two things that most of my new- mum friends have said were "essential" for them were 1. A changing table (so you don't have to bend down onto the floor, better for your back and knees) 2. A front baby carrier/ sling- allows you to be hands free and gives baby alot of body- to body contact which is comforting for them.
Author TudorII Posted June 3, 2009 Author Posted June 3, 2009 Thanks Touche & sb129. We are having a little girl as well. We already bought the baby furniture..grib, dressor & changing table. We are planning on registering either this weekend or next which is driving my question. I have heard the front baby carrier is a bonus to have so that is on the list. I guess was hoping to hear about some item that parents had no idea to get until the got and then couldn't imagine life with out it. I know there is standard list of things you jut have to have and that is daunting in of itself. I'm just looking for those unique items that made your life easier when it cames to babies. We are super excited though, espeically after trying for 2 years and having to go through fertility treatment just to get here.
Trialbyfire Posted June 3, 2009 Posted June 3, 2009 Baby on the way, what all do I need? Patience.Ear plugs.Learn the art of living through sexual and sleep deprivation.
anne1707 Posted June 3, 2009 Posted June 3, 2009 Learn the art of living through sexual and sleep deprivation. Don't forget financial deprivation
Trialbyfire Posted June 3, 2009 Posted June 3, 2009 Don't forget financial deprivation As well as learning to read fecal matter, as it relates to general health. It's similar to how the Romans read animal entrails!
anne1707 Posted June 3, 2009 Posted June 3, 2009 As well as learning to read fecal matter, as it relates to general health. It's similar to how the Romans read animal entrails! That's true. But I have got to say congratulations to Tudor on his news . And good luck on the biggest journey of his life - I am sure it will be the best thing he has ever done
Author TudorII Posted June 3, 2009 Author Posted June 3, 2009 I can handle a little sex deprivation but not much. Fortunately after trying for two years I did get a little spoiled in that arena. We are fortunate the finances are a non issue, it will be hard not to spoil this kid. Aw the fecal matter, I like to think I have strong stomach but we will soon find out. But I'm sure I have much to learn as far as learning to read it.
Author TudorII Posted June 3, 2009 Author Posted June 3, 2009 That's true. But I have got to say congratulations to Tudor on his news . And good luck on the biggest journey of his life - I am sure it will be the best thing he has ever done Thanks Anne! I'm excited to begin the journey. I have decided that this wait is worse then waiting for x-mas or birthdays as a kid. Better work on that patience.
sb129 Posted June 3, 2009 Posted June 3, 2009 I am impatient too, esp as we now know the sex. When is yours due?
boldjack Posted June 5, 2009 Posted June 5, 2009 Great news, Tudor!! The first thing (large) I would buy is the best car seat/stroller you can get. Actually two, if you have two vehicles, that way you can leave them in all the time. All of the baby wipes you can get. A puppy. Your baby and this puppy will grow together and be best friends. The mess is tolerable, after you have changed a few diapers, a little puppy poop won't matter. We gave all of our kids their own pet and it helped in their development. One cautionary note: After your baby has started on baby food, Never ever give your baby fresh fruit!!! The fumes are worse than nerve gas, especially grapes, or berries. The stench will knock you down.
hotgurl Posted June 8, 2009 Posted June 8, 2009 a good stroller was a must have for me. My daughter loved the rocking motion and that's how I lost the baby weight. Also an electric breast pump if your wife is going t o breast feed. I had a hand pump and it was terrible. Also giving myself permission to take a break was big. It can be frustrating and sometimes you just need a second to take a deep breath and calm down.
lab_brat Posted June 9, 2009 Posted June 9, 2009 Congratulations! Its a beautiful (yet hellish) journey Lots of over-the -shoulder burp cloths/rags etc. Cloth nappies are really good to have as a backup, even if you're using disposables, as on occasion you will inevitably run out and be too tired to go to the store. Also, children tend to bond to a special toy/blankie early. If she does, and you can, go out and buy an identical toy or two to keep in the cupboard (once we left my sons blankie interstate after a holiday = 40hours of no sleep and one very expensive express courier service). Freezing meals in advance is good, because noone feels like cooking. Also, stocking up on necessities - cereal, canned goods etc is a good idea as it sucks carrying a crying baby and heavy shopping bags all at once. Also, tell her she's beautiful. Lots. Even when shes puffy and red and bloated and miserable. Especially when shes puffy and bloated and red and miserable. Coz she's just as scared and uncertain as you, plus she's turning into a walrus at the same time. Be sympathetic. Babies are so life-changing, but so worthwhile. Have fun big daddy!
Meaplus3 Posted June 9, 2009 Posted June 9, 2009 Fist off Congrat's on your news. You know you really don't know what it's like to be a parent untril you are one. So, just sort of take things in stride and enjoy this new journey as it's a most wonderful rewarding experience, even with all the challenges. Best of luck. Mea:)
blind_otter Posted June 9, 2009 Posted June 9, 2009 Hey Tudor, congrats! I know you guys have been planning and preparing for years. With your sense of humor, you'll do great. There is a lot of useless and completely unnecessary crap out there for babies. Also, there is a lot of stuff you really don't need until your little tater tot is walking or crawling, which takes at least 6 months. IMO there is no need to clutter your house storing stuff that your baby cannot use - playpen, for instance. anyways gotta run baby crying PM me for more information i have lots, esp. about breastfeeding. I'm thinking of becoming a lactation consultant.
Author TudorII Posted June 12, 2009 Author Posted June 12, 2009 Thanks for all the great replies and congrats! Off to register this weekend for the baby shower and have a good list going. We got the baby room mostly finished, it is pretty cute if I may toot my own horn. So here are a couple of practical tips I also heard...t-shirts, the baby's belly button or cord is tender for a couple weeks and better to have t-shirts that don't rub the belly button instead of just all oneses. Also sleep sacks or dress type bottoms make for easy changing diapers in the night. I'll keep you posted but thanks again for all the tips!
blind_otter Posted June 12, 2009 Posted June 12, 2009 this is a weird one - before putting on baby's first diaper, coat the bottom with olive oil - it makes it much easier to clean off the meconium, the first poos, which are very sticky. VERY sticky. You can also use burt's bees apricot baby oil. That smells nicer.
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