<p>As you probably know, baby expense should be high on your list of things to plan for, before the baby comes. There is no cheap way to have and raise a baby: it takes sweat, work, lots of cash, patience, and more to have a happy, healthy baby. Some studies suggest that you will spend anywhere between $150,000 and $200,000 for your kids by the time they are 18 years old, not including private schools, special lessons, or college.
But if you waited until you had enough money, time and energy to have your baby, you would probably end up without any children. Here you'll find a few ways to ease the finances, so that you can enjoy your new bundle of joy.
<b>1. Get health assistance</b> - if you don't have health insurance, and can't afford it, doctor's bills can ad up really easy. But there are options out there for people just like you. This baby expense will probably be one of your biggest, so don't be afraid to ask for assistance if your family needs it.
<b>2. Breastfeed your baby</b>, if possible. It's free, it's convenient, and it might help against breast cancer. It's recommended as being the best form of nutrition for baby.
If you can't breastfeed, don't feel guilty. Try to apply for WIC (Women, Infants, and Children): <a href="http://www.fns.usda.gov/wic" target="_new">http://www.fns.usda.gov/wic</a>, a program designed to help middle and low income families with educational resources and food. You can also save money by buying formula in bulk, clipping coupons, and accepting free samples whenever they are offered. This is a baby expense you can't do without.
<b>3. Diapers</b> - Some diapers are better than others, but most are basically the same. Store brand disposable diapers can be just as good as the name brand, for several dollars less than their name brand counterparts.
You can save even more, if you use cloth diapers instead of disposable. As with breastfeeding, it's a little more work involved, but well worth it.
<b>4. Diaper Rash Prevention</b> - instead of taking action after your baby got a diaper rash, prevent it with a drop of olive oil applied to their bottom every time you change their diaper: it works wonders (you should check with your doctor first).
<b>5. Baby food</b> - When it comes to baby food, a blender is your best friend: it will help you keep this baby expense at its lowest. Not only is it much cheaper, but it's so much healthier! Save the little baby food jars for quick trips, or special occasions, and give your baby pureed food made by you. You can cook a week's supply on the weekend, put the blended vegetables in the ice cube tray, for a few hours, and then place them in a freezer bag. Depending on your baby's appetite and age, you can microwave one, two or three cubes before meal time. It's quick, healthy and inexpensive.
<b>6. Clothing</b> - There is no need to buy expensive designer clothing for you little one. Do you think anyone will really notice that your baby is wearing Tommy Hilfiger? Babies look cute in anything: don't waste your money! You can get most of your baby clothing at yard sales or second-hand stores.
<b>7. Toys</b> - they are big business, but you don't have to feel pressured to get the latest and most expensive models. My kids were happy with everyday items as their toys: empty shampoo bottles (make sure they are cleaned and rinsed very well before handing them to your baby), plastic bowls, plastic containers from food products (margarine, sour cream , etc.) that they could stack up, etc. Also, buy some toys that will help with your baby's development, are durable, and are age appropriate: a baby expense worth the money.
<b>8. Wills</b> - Get a will or update your old will. Name a guardian for your child and the trustee of your child's inheritance (often but not always the same person). Without a will, the court will name these individuals and also split up your assets in accordance with state law which may not be the way you would wish. Please don't try to avoid this baby expense: your kid's future might depend on it. A simple will that includes a trust for minor children costs between $150 and $250.
Minggu, 15 Januari 2012
Baby Dream Crib
A Baby Dream Crib, with adorable bedding and accessories to match, is one way of ensuring a comfortable, nurturing nursery. With more than 15 years experience behind it, the company is committed to continue the tradition of quality craftsmanship, as seen in every Baby Dream Crib. Located in Buena Vista, Georgia, the Baby's Dream Crib manufacturer is an integral part of the community.
The Baby Dream Crib collection is versatile, with cribs manufactured to accommodate conversion to a toddler bed later on. With the addition of optional rails, the crib even becomes a full-size bed. The superbly adjustable mattress heights maximize functionality of these cribs.
The Generation Next, with classic sleigh bed lines, is one range in the Baby Dream Crib Collection. A convenient drop-gate front allows you to reach your little one with ease. Beautiful decorative feet have dowel reinforcements, adding to the robustness of the crib.
The Generation Next Baby Dream Crib meets safety standards as set out by the CPSC. A selection of furniture pieces, such as Drawer Chests and mirrors, complement the crib. Finishes are available in a variety of colors, such as amber, cherry, honey, and white.
A Baby Dream Crib with an elegant touch, is featured in the Georgian line. Lenga wood, with exquisite detail in the design, adds to the beauty of this range. A safety feature is that both latches of the drop-gate front has to be engaged or loosened simultaneously. At the same time, the design also prevents little fingers from getting pinched. Non-toxic cherry-colored finishes rounds off the picture.
The Kathryn Crib is a Baby Dream Crib in the sleigh style. The delicate, soft curves of this cozy crib converts into a full-size bed that will enhance any teenager's room. A choice of additional pieces, such as the Belle 6-Drawer Chest, adds stylish storage space.
In the tradition of Baby Dream Cribs, a crib in the ebony finish of the Infinity line, will grow with your baby. This range is suitable for a boy or a girl, and has a number of options as far as add-on pieces are concerned. An Infinity Grand Armoire, or Double Dresser, are only two examples.
Your baby will love naps and nights in his or her comfy Baby Dream Crib...
The Baby Dream Crib collection is versatile, with cribs manufactured to accommodate conversion to a toddler bed later on. With the addition of optional rails, the crib even becomes a full-size bed. The superbly adjustable mattress heights maximize functionality of these cribs.
The Generation Next, with classic sleigh bed lines, is one range in the Baby Dream Crib Collection. A convenient drop-gate front allows you to reach your little one with ease. Beautiful decorative feet have dowel reinforcements, adding to the robustness of the crib.
The Generation Next Baby Dream Crib meets safety standards as set out by the CPSC. A selection of furniture pieces, such as Drawer Chests and mirrors, complement the crib. Finishes are available in a variety of colors, such as amber, cherry, honey, and white.
A Baby Dream Crib with an elegant touch, is featured in the Georgian line. Lenga wood, with exquisite detail in the design, adds to the beauty of this range. A safety feature is that both latches of the drop-gate front has to be engaged or loosened simultaneously. At the same time, the design also prevents little fingers from getting pinched. Non-toxic cherry-colored finishes rounds off the picture.
The Kathryn Crib is a Baby Dream Crib in the sleigh style. The delicate, soft curves of this cozy crib converts into a full-size bed that will enhance any teenager's room. A choice of additional pieces, such as the Belle 6-Drawer Chest, adds stylish storage space.
In the tradition of Baby Dream Cribs, a crib in the ebony finish of the Infinity line, will grow with your baby. This range is suitable for a boy or a girl, and has a number of options as far as add-on pieces are concerned. An Infinity Grand Armoire, or Double Dresser, are only two examples.
Your baby will love naps and nights in his or her comfy Baby Dream Crib...
Baby Cribs Safety Checklist
Congratulations! You’ve got a baby on the way!
Once your baby has arrived, one of the most important parts of your new life together will be getting a good night’s sleep — you in your bed, the baby in a safe and comfortable crib. At first, you may want your newborn to sleep in a bassinet by your bed, making it a little easier for breastfeeding moms, but have a crib ready by the time your baby can roll over.
Your baby will spend more time in the crib than anywhere else, so safety is of utmost importance. What makes a crib safe?
* The bars or slats of the crib railing should be no more than 2-3/8" apart, close enough together to prevent your baby’s head from slipping through or getting stuck. That crib in the attic may be a beautiful antique, but it probably does not meet this safety standard. Secondhand older cribs may also have splinters or lead paint as well as slats that are too far apart.
* Cribs with cutout designs along the rail may look pretty, but your baby’s arm or neck could get stuck in them.
* The crib must be sturdy. Your child will sleep in a crib until it’s time to move into a regular bed between the ages of 2 and 3. When shopping for the crib, give it a good shake to see if it wobbles or rattles.
* Construction materials should be stained or painted hardwoods like maple, ash, beech or oak. The use of inferior woods can potentially weaken or warp the slats. Some metal cribs are also very sturdy and secure. All finish materials must be lead free and non-toxic.
* For safety, the dropsides must be at least 9" above the mattress support when lowered. When the side is raised, the top must be at least 26" above the support at its lowest position.
You should have no trouble quietly raising and lowering the side rail easily with one hand, since chances are you’ll have a sleeping baby in your arms.
* Make things a little easier on your back by choosing a crib with an adjustable height mattress. A newborn can rest higher in the crib, while a baby who can sit up needs a lower mattress so he can’t climb out. You can change the height of most mattresses by simply raising or lowering the mattress support.
* Check the hardware on the crib for sharp edges or points or anything else that could hurt your baby.
* The mattress should fit snugly into the crib. If you can fit two fingers between the side of the mattress and the crib, it is too small. Keep an eye on foam mattresses; over time, they may break down at the edges and leave gaps. Check the mattress support to make sure there are safety clips that lock the hangers into their notches.
* Use nonflammable and hypoallergenic bumper padding attached to the inside railings of the crib to cushion all four sides and prevent your baby from sticking an arm or leg through the railings. Securely fasten the bumper pads to the sides of the crib in at least six places. Be sure to remove bumper pads when your baby becomes more active.
* Follow assembly instructions carefully. Periodically tighten all nuts, bolts, and screws and check teething rails for cracks. Check the mattress support hooks regularly.
* Don’t place a crib against a window, near curtains or drapery cords, or near furniture that could help your baby climb out.
* Crib toys need to be removed from the crib when baby is sleeping. And remove mobiles when baby is able to grab at objects.
Federal safety guidelines went into effect in 1973, but only since 1991 do most cribs meet all mandatory safety standards (16CFR part 1508) as set by The Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) and the voluntary standards (ASTM F966 and F1169) as set by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). The Juvenile Products Manufacturers’ Association (JPMA) certifies cribs that meet the safety standards.
Once your baby has arrived, one of the most important parts of your new life together will be getting a good night’s sleep — you in your bed, the baby in a safe and comfortable crib. At first, you may want your newborn to sleep in a bassinet by your bed, making it a little easier for breastfeeding moms, but have a crib ready by the time your baby can roll over.
Your baby will spend more time in the crib than anywhere else, so safety is of utmost importance. What makes a crib safe?
* The bars or slats of the crib railing should be no more than 2-3/8" apart, close enough together to prevent your baby’s head from slipping through or getting stuck. That crib in the attic may be a beautiful antique, but it probably does not meet this safety standard. Secondhand older cribs may also have splinters or lead paint as well as slats that are too far apart.
* Cribs with cutout designs along the rail may look pretty, but your baby’s arm or neck could get stuck in them.
* The crib must be sturdy. Your child will sleep in a crib until it’s time to move into a regular bed between the ages of 2 and 3. When shopping for the crib, give it a good shake to see if it wobbles or rattles.
* Construction materials should be stained or painted hardwoods like maple, ash, beech or oak. The use of inferior woods can potentially weaken or warp the slats. Some metal cribs are also very sturdy and secure. All finish materials must be lead free and non-toxic.
* For safety, the dropsides must be at least 9" above the mattress support when lowered. When the side is raised, the top must be at least 26" above the support at its lowest position.
You should have no trouble quietly raising and lowering the side rail easily with one hand, since chances are you’ll have a sleeping baby in your arms.
* Make things a little easier on your back by choosing a crib with an adjustable height mattress. A newborn can rest higher in the crib, while a baby who can sit up needs a lower mattress so he can’t climb out. You can change the height of most mattresses by simply raising or lowering the mattress support.
* Check the hardware on the crib for sharp edges or points or anything else that could hurt your baby.
* The mattress should fit snugly into the crib. If you can fit two fingers between the side of the mattress and the crib, it is too small. Keep an eye on foam mattresses; over time, they may break down at the edges and leave gaps. Check the mattress support to make sure there are safety clips that lock the hangers into their notches.
* Use nonflammable and hypoallergenic bumper padding attached to the inside railings of the crib to cushion all four sides and prevent your baby from sticking an arm or leg through the railings. Securely fasten the bumper pads to the sides of the crib in at least six places. Be sure to remove bumper pads when your baby becomes more active.
* Follow assembly instructions carefully. Periodically tighten all nuts, bolts, and screws and check teething rails for cracks. Check the mattress support hooks regularly.
* Don’t place a crib against a window, near curtains or drapery cords, or near furniture that could help your baby climb out.
* Crib toys need to be removed from the crib when baby is sleeping. And remove mobiles when baby is able to grab at objects.
Federal safety guidelines went into effect in 1973, but only since 1991 do most cribs meet all mandatory safety standards (16CFR part 1508) as set by The Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) and the voluntary standards (ASTM F966 and F1169) as set by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). The Juvenile Products Manufacturers’ Association (JPMA) certifies cribs that meet the safety standards.
Baby Cribs
It is a sad fact but one we have to come to grips with, not all baby cribs are safe. Baby cribs are supposed to keep your baby safe during sleep but did you know that when badly constructed or improperly assembled a baby crib can be a serious hazard to your child? No matter how expensive the baby crib is parents should use caution when choosing a crib for the nursery, and should follow instructions to the lette
It is a sad fact but one we have to come to grips with, not all baby cribs are safe. Baby cribs are supposed to keep your baby safe during sleep but did you know that when badly constructed or improperly assembled a baby crib can be a serious hazard to your child? No matter how expensive the baby crib is parents should use caution when choosing a crib for the nursery, and should follow instructions to the letter.
One of the biggest mistakes some people make is they "assume" that all cribs are safe, but whether you are using a brand new baby crib that you just bought a couple of months ago from a reputable store or recycling the one that you used for your older kids, or a second hand one from a garage sale it is important that you closely inspect the crib for hazardous possibilities as they may be lurking in places that you would not even consider remotely dangerous! Here are some tips that can help keep your child safe in a baby crib.
<b>Close inspection</b>
When buying a baby crib or when you are about to use one, make sure that everything is in place and there are no broken or bent parts. Sharp edges, missing joints and small removable parts in baby cribs can also be dangerous as they can be choking hazards.
..............Side edges and protrusions can also become strangulation hazards as blankets, necklaces and shirts can be caught. Never buy or use cribs that have these flaws.
<b>Follow the instructions</b>
Never believe that for one-minute you know everything about baby cribs just because you have used one before. And no matter how much knowledge you think you have, it is still imperative that you read the manual and instruction guide.
In addition to providing the step-by-step guide on how to set-up the baby crib from the box, the manual will also contain some tips on how to properly care for your crib and to avoid accidents while using it.
<b>Non-toxic finishes</b>
The baby cribs finish should be made with non-toxic materials that are recommended for young children. As babies’ body systems, especially the immune systems are still developing, it is important that they be protected from chemicals and toxins in the environment. When buying a used baby crib, make sure that the finish is sound and not flaking or peeling, also if it looks like it has been refinished you may want to find a different crib as it would be impossible to know for sure whether it was refinished with a child safe non-toxic material.
<b>Drop sides</b>
Though the dropside mechanism in baby cribs can be very convenient, it can also spell disaster if not working correctly or the latches are not secure. Be sure that when you do put your baby inside the crib, you have raised the drop side and the latches are secured. Some parents may remember to raise it up but forget to secure it, which can lead to accidents.
<b>Keep the crib uncluttered</b>
Remember that the more things inside the baby crib, the greater the chances of an accident, I'm sure you're generally aware that anything can be a potential choking and strangulation hazard. To help avoid this, keep the baby crib to a bare minimum, only placing things that are absolutely necessary like a pillow and a blanket. Toys inside the crib are okay if your baby is awake and playing under supervision, but always remember to remove them when sleeping. Parents are also advised to avoid placing dangling toys on the side of the crib as loose straps may capture your baby and create a strangulation hazard.
<b>Check for alerts and call-backs</b>
The Consumer Product Safety Commission lists safety tips, alerts and call-back warnings on baby cribs on their website at www.cpsc.gov and should be followed.
It is a sad fact but one we have to come to grips with, not all baby cribs are safe. Baby cribs are supposed to keep your baby safe during sleep but did you know that when badly constructed or improperly assembled a baby crib can be a serious hazard to your child? No matter how expensive the baby crib is parents should use caution when choosing a crib for the nursery, and should follow instructions to the letter.
One of the biggest mistakes some people make is they "assume" that all cribs are safe, but whether you are using a brand new baby crib that you just bought a couple of months ago from a reputable store or recycling the one that you used for your older kids, or a second hand one from a garage sale it is important that you closely inspect the crib for hazardous possibilities as they may be lurking in places that you would not even consider remotely dangerous! Here are some tips that can help keep your child safe in a baby crib.
<b>Close inspection</b>
When buying a baby crib or when you are about to use one, make sure that everything is in place and there are no broken or bent parts. Sharp edges, missing joints and small removable parts in baby cribs can also be dangerous as they can be choking hazards.
..............Side edges and protrusions can also become strangulation hazards as blankets, necklaces and shirts can be caught. Never buy or use cribs that have these flaws.
<b>Follow the instructions</b>
Never believe that for one-minute you know everything about baby cribs just because you have used one before. And no matter how much knowledge you think you have, it is still imperative that you read the manual and instruction guide.
In addition to providing the step-by-step guide on how to set-up the baby crib from the box, the manual will also contain some tips on how to properly care for your crib and to avoid accidents while using it.
<b>Non-toxic finishes</b>
The baby cribs finish should be made with non-toxic materials that are recommended for young children. As babies’ body systems, especially the immune systems are still developing, it is important that they be protected from chemicals and toxins in the environment. When buying a used baby crib, make sure that the finish is sound and not flaking or peeling, also if it looks like it has been refinished you may want to find a different crib as it would be impossible to know for sure whether it was refinished with a child safe non-toxic material.
<b>Drop sides</b>
Though the dropside mechanism in baby cribs can be very convenient, it can also spell disaster if not working correctly or the latches are not secure. Be sure that when you do put your baby inside the crib, you have raised the drop side and the latches are secured. Some parents may remember to raise it up but forget to secure it, which can lead to accidents.
<b>Keep the crib uncluttered</b>
Remember that the more things inside the baby crib, the greater the chances of an accident, I'm sure you're generally aware that anything can be a potential choking and strangulation hazard. To help avoid this, keep the baby crib to a bare minimum, only placing things that are absolutely necessary like a pillow and a blanket. Toys inside the crib are okay if your baby is awake and playing under supervision, but always remember to remove them when sleeping. Parents are also advised to avoid placing dangling toys on the side of the crib as loose straps may capture your baby and create a strangulation hazard.
<b>Check for alerts and call-backs</b>
The Consumer Product Safety Commission lists safety tips, alerts and call-back warnings on baby cribs on their website at www.cpsc.gov and should be followed.
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