What Gear Does My Newborn Need?

Mothers-to-be are faced with many decisions to make about their pregnancy, birth and newborn child. We are bombarded with ads, commercials and a society that says we “must have” certain items for our new babies. Strollers, playpens, cribs, bottles, pacifiers are among the very long list. It can be overwhelming (and expensive!) to live up to this expectation. But do we really need these things?

The truth is that most of these things are not only unnecessary but, even more importantly, hinder the parent-child relationship. They are actually substitutes for the important things that we, as parents, should be giving our children. For instance, bottles and formula replace breastfeeding. Swings and bouncers substitute playtime between mother and child. Pacifiers replace non-nutritive nursing. Cribs take the place of co-sleeping; playpens and strollers replace holding or wearing your baby.

This is why most of these things result in a crying baby. Their primal instinct is to be held; be close to the body most hours of the day; sleep with you; nurse in mom’s arms (for food and comfort!). When we attempt to oppose nature and the babies natural instincts, we are met with consequences such as an unhappy, tearful baby.

So what items should you have for your baby? All you must do is ask yourself, “will this enhance my relationship with my baby?” and you’ll know whether or not you need it.

So what material things does baby need? Clothing & diapers & diapering accessories (unless you're choose elimination communication) and a good baby sling.

These most important gifts, breastfeeding, co-sleeping, babywearing and loving attention are all that you need to provide and they cost nothing.