The Crib: A Blog for New Parents

As the day approaches that your baby is scheduled to arrive, you may notice that your nervousness and excitement cause you to be just a bit forgetful and easily distracted from every day thoughts and tasks. It is common and perfectly normal, and it should pass after the baby the born, when you are finally able to relax your mind as well as your body.

Packing your “delivery bag” ahead of time is a good idea, so that nothing important is left behind at home. There are some items that are absolutely necessary for you and baby, and then whatever comfort items you want to bring, plus whatever things Dad (or whoever is going to be there for you during the delivery) want to have.

What you need and what you might want

For the baby

· Car seat

· A few Diapers

· Receiving blanket

· Onesie

· Pair of socks

· “Going home outfit”, a one-piece jammie is easiest

· Warm blanket if the weather is cold, to cover baby on the way to the car

Most hospitals give the new family a gift diaper bag that has free samples of formula, wipes, diapers, etc. included. The hospital will also give you a few bottles of the formula they were feeding baby, with nipples,(unless you’re going to breastfeed). Also the newborn hat and t- shirt they put on baby, and pacifier.

For Mom

· A comfortable set of clothes to wear home

· Toiletries, (toothbrush, make up, sanitary pads, shampoo, etc.)

· Some hospitals will allow you to wear your own robe, nightgown, and slippers, but some will require you to wear hospital garments.

· Warm socks

· Nursing bra and pads if you’re going to breastfeed

You may want to bring along a book to read, or CD player with music that soothes you, in case you have a long labor. Or other comfort items, like a favorite pillow or blanket, or a photo of your family or a favorite memory.

For Dad, or your labor partner

· Magazine or book to read

· Change of clothes if he or she is staying overnight with you

· Money for the vending machines or cafeteria

· Cell phone to call people

· List of phone numbers for people you want to notify

· Watch to time the contractions

· Toiletries (razor, toothbrush, etc.)

Most hospitals make it possible for you to pre-register, so that all of the paper work is taken care of before you arrive on delivery day. If you are not able to do this, then you will need to bring insurance information, and identification.