What to Look For in Baby Cribs

When you are buying a baby crib, there are a number of safey features to look for to keep your baby safe.

Check that the side railings go down low enough to allow you to pick up your baby easily - this can be on one or both sides of the crib

Check if the crib allows you to adjust the mattress height - this is important when your baby starts to stand up in the crib. You don't want them toppling out.

The distance between the slats should be no more than 2 3/8" apart so that your baby can't put their head between the slats.

Also avoid baby cribs with decorative cut-outs where an adventurous baby may stick their head or limbs.

NOTE: And just keep in mind that many used or antique baby cribs, as beautiful as they are, do not meet these standards.

Here is an example of a crib that does meet the US safety standards

DaVinci Jenny Lind Baby Crib - Baby Blue

Double Strollers

Are you expecting twins or do you have two toddlers that still need a stroller? Then you are in need of a double stroller.

There are basically three different types of double strollers. The first comes with one seat behind the other. This type of stroller is better suited to children of different ages.

The second type of double stroller is where the seats are side-by-side. This is more appropriate for twins as they as they age there is no competition as to who sits in the front and who sits in the back.

Although with the one shown below the toddlers face each other so they can keep each other amused.

Biposto Domino Twin Stroller

This a versatile multiple stroller that starts off with two seats for twins or two children of similar ages. You can purchase another seat unit to convert this stroller to a triple stroller.

What to look for when buying a stroller - P 2

More tips on what to look out for when buying a baby stroller:

1. How soft is the fabric?
2. Will you need a canopy?
3. How far back does the seat recline?
4. Can you hang your handbag over the stroller without it tipping over?
5. Can you open out the stroller with just one hand?
6. Is the seating area removable and washable?

What to look for when buying a stroller - P1

1. Safety features - ensure you are buying from a reputable manufacturer with a good safety record.
2. Look for a stroller that has at least a 3 point harness. A 5 point harness is a little better particularly for a jogging stroller as it provides for a more secure ride for your toddler.
3. How heavy is the stroller? - Look for one that you can easily pick up out of the boot of your car.
4. Will the stroller fit in your car boot?
5. Is their storage in the stroller?
6. Look for a stroller with a reclining seat so your toddler can sleep comfortably.

Baby Shower Gifts

Some great gifts for a baby shower include:

- gift basket
- baby bedding
- baby jewelry and silver gifts
- keepsake boxes
- baby blankets
- personalized gifts
- baby clothes

Jogging strollers will get you out and about

Whoever invented the jogging stroller should be congratulated. It has given parents and their children a convenient way of getting out and about. Remember the old days when strollers were clunky heavy things and going out with one was a chore? Not any more with the jogging stroller.

These strollers are easy to fold and will fit into the back of most vehicles and they are light enough to easily lift out and set up.

Jogging strollers can now be purchased with seating for up to 3 children so there is no longer any excuse not to take the kids out and get some exercise!