I came across this video that shows you the top baby gear for 2010.  If you are expecting, know someone who is expecting or just love to look at the new baby gear (wishing it were around when you had kids), then watch this video.  It’s less than 4 minutes long and shows some of the best gear on the market today.

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So, you and your husband have decided that it was time to get pregnant.  Now what?

• Start taking a prenatal vitamin.  They will have folic acid in them, which will help your growing baby ensure a healthy start.
• If you have a pre-existing condition that requires medication, take the time to discuss with your doctor how the medication will affect the baby and what you can do to minimize those effects.
• Quit smoking as smoking can cause low birth weight babies and also raises the risk for a baby with Down Syndrome and other birth defects.  If you cannot quit, do your best to cut as far back as possible.
• Quit drinking alcohol as it may reduce your chances of conceiving.  Drinking during pregnancy may cause a number of birth defects, especially during the first few weeks.
• Go to the dentist.  Good dental health is important.  Why you ask?  Gum disease and other oral infections can increase your risk of premature birth, and other health issues.  Also it can lead to poorer maternal nutrition.
• If you have a cat, prepare your husband to begin cat care duty, as you should not be scooping the kitty litter during pregnancy as it can cause health risks to you and your baby.
• Start exercising if you don’t already.  The more fit you are, the easier your pregnancy and labor will be.  It also helps relieve stress, boost your energy levels and helps you to maintain proper body weight.

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Babies need all kinds of gear as they grow. Many parents buy used baby products or borrow them from friends in order to save money on the items that will only be used a short period of time.  Are these practices safe?  They can be if you are a smart consumer and are aware of product recalls before you make these purchases or borrow items.

Some of the most popular used baby gear products are cribs, high chairs, strollers, baby carriers, baby swings, play yards and of course car seats.  These items tend to be quite expensive, and purchasing them used allows parents to spread their funds further.  First and foremost, we want your baby to be safe.   Protect your baby by being a smart consumer and following the tips below.

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So your baby is growing up and is ready for solids.  Now the decision needs to be made as to whether to purchase pre-made baby food or make your own.  When it comes to making your own baby food, it really is very easy.  Most of what you cook for yourself, your baby can enjoy too.  A few things to have on hand to make this process easy is a blender or food processor, extra ice cube trays, and a can do attitude.

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I’ve been invited to a baby shower for my cousin in a few weeks.  Since my children are getting older, I decided spend some time browsing the baby departments of both my favorite local and online stores to see what products are out there today.

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Materials:

4 infant socks
Sticker Letters
Double Sided Tape

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Babies:

Experts agree that babies can benefit greatly from playing and using toys. Little ones rely solely on their senses to explore the world. For the first few months of life, babies enjoy exploring the world with their ears and eyes. Toys can stimulate thinking and learning. For the best toys for infants and newborns, choose the following:

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One of the major milestones in your infant’s first year will be the development of his baby teeth. There is just something exciting about discovering those first pearly whites peeking through your little one’s gums. You’ll have to tell everyone! Of course, by the time your baby celebrates his second birthday, he’ll have a mouthful of teeth. Until then, what can you expect, and how do you take care of your darling’s teeth?

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Becoming a parent for the first time can be a bewildering experience. Here are some tips to help you through those hectic first few months:

help you through those hectic first few months:

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You know to cover the electrical outlets, but other hazards in your home are less obvious. Here’s how to recognize the trouble spots and make them safe for your little daredevil.

1. Pet Food
Dry kibble is a choking hazard. Keep the dish in an enclosed area that Speedy can get to but your baby can’t. Otherwise, stand guard as your pet chows down, and take the dish away as soon as he’s done.
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