o       Microwave Bags: These bags allow you to place the pump parts that need sterilization into the microwave for quick, mess-free steam cleaning.

 

o       Lanolin Ointment: Using a breast pump can leave your nipples feeling sore, and lanolin ointment is an all-natural way to heal them and is safe for baby, too.

 

o       Pumping Band: This band that wraps around your body and holds the collection bottle in place frees up your hands during pumping.

 

o       Storage Bags: After you have pumped your milk, you may wish to store it in the refrigerator or freezer in airtight storage bags. You can store your breast in the refrigerator for up to five days and in the freezer for up to six months. 

 

Despite how heavenly being rocked to sleep may sound to most, some babies do not care for the swing. If you have a chance, try out a swing on your baby before you make the purchase.

 

o       Wind-Up vs. Battery-Operated: It is a matter of personal choice when considering a wind-up swing versus a battery-operated swing. Some parents prefer the wind-up swing, because after a period of time it gently slows to a stop. If baby has fallen to sleep, mom and dad don’t risk waking baby up to turn off the swing. Also, wind-up swings only run out of swinging power when the parents run out of energy to keep winding. However, if the parents need to re-crank the wind-up swing, it can be noisy and disturb a baby who is just about to drift off to dreams. Battery-operated swings can continue to rock baby for a longer period of time while wind-ups need to be attended to every few minutes. Battery-operated swings can be a little more costly, especially when you add the expense for the number of batteries you need to purchase to keep the swing in operation, but do save the parent some extra energy.

 

o       Open-Top: An open-top swing is designed so that the parent can remove baby from the top of the swing without risking the bumping of baby’s head on any bars or mobiles that are in the way. This new type of design is becoming more and more popular as parents appreciate the ease and convenience of removing a sleepy baby.

 

o       Swinging Motion: Most swings rock back and forth in a typical swinging motion. However, there are swings that rock side to side like a cradle, and there are even some swings that have the option of both types of motion.

 

o       Options: Some swings come with a few options to keep baby happy through his different stages of development. There are swings that come with adjustable speeds, which can be helpful when an older baby wants to swing faster than a newborn. There are also battery-operated swings that come with timers that gently shut off when time has run out, and swings that play different types of music. Music can be a nice addition when trying to calm down a fussy baby, but keep in mind that some babies prefer their peace and quiet.

o       Sturdiness: The most important concern when shopping for a swing is finding one with a wide base so that the swing will be as sturdy as possible. The wider the base, the less chance of the swing toppling over.

 

o       Smooth Surfaces: When shopping, feel around the swing for sharp edges that could poke baby. Also, check that there are no small parts that could come unattached and pose a choking hazard. You should also look for hinges or pinch points that could be in baby’s reach and catch baby’s fingers.

 

o       Safety Straps: Always purchase a swing with safety straps. The 5-point harness is the best and most secure. This harness stretches across both of baby’s legs and over both of baby’s shoulders as well as the belly.

 

o       Reclining Seat: A reclining seat is very important, especially when buying your swing while your baby is still an infant. The more the swing can recline, the more comfortable your newborn will be when he is ready for a nap. The seat can be adjusted upward as the baby develops more and more muscle coordination.

 

o       Removable Seat Cover: Finding a swing with a removable seat cover is very convenient for cleaning up the spit up, drool or overflow from the diaper that will inevitably occur.

 

o       Canopy: If you think you may ever use your swing outdoors, consider purchasing one that comes with a canopy. A canopy can shield baby from the sun’s harmful rays as well as protect their eyes.

 

o       Activity Tray: Some swings come equipped with an activity tray that can serve as another source of entertainment for your baby. These trays can hold attached toys that baby can grasp while in the swing, and oftentimes the toys can be interchangeable. Most trays are removable and allow for an easy removal of baby.

 

o       Padded Seats: Choose a swing that comes with ample padding around baby’s head and on the seat so that baby will be comfortable enough to fall asleep.

 

o       Since some babies can be apprehensive of anything that is not their mother’s arms, try not to put a crying baby in the swing initially, or else you will probably end up with a crying baby! Get your baby used to the swing by trying it out when he is awake, alert and happy to get him used to the idea. Follow baby’s cues for whether or not he is enjoying the experience.

 

o       A swing can be a calming place for baby, but it will never replace the contact and stimulation he receives from being held. Use the swing sparingly so that baby will not tire of it and so that the time spent in the swing does not hamper his time spent learning new skills and bonding with the parents.

 

o       All swings come with weight limits that usually range between 15 and 20 pounds. Be sure and check the manual to see what the weight limit is for the swing that you purchase, and remove the swing from the play area once these limits are met.

 

o       There are a few safety tips to follow when using your swing:

o       Always buckle the safety straps so that baby cannot fall out. Also, babies have been known to try and stand up or crawl out on their own, so keep them strapped in at all times.

o       Swings are designed for young babies. Stop using the swing when your baby exceeds the weight limit to prevent the swing from tipping over. Also, when baby gets big enough he can start to grab for objects outside of the swing to bring him to a halt. Be sure and discontinue use of the swing before the baby is able to accomplish such a trick.

 

Sources:

1.    “Baby Swing Buying Guide”: www.babyproducts.about.com/od/swingssauversbouncers/bb/bbswing.htm

2.    “Choosing the Right Baby Swing”: www.pagewise.com/guides/choosing-baby-swing.htm

3.    “The Lowdown on Infant Swings”: www.babycenter.com/refacp/baby/babygear/436.html

4.    “Baby Swings Buying Guide”: www.thenewparentsguide.com/choosing-a-baby-swing.htm

 

 

·        Window Type: Before you can purchase a window guard, you have to know what type of window you have. Is it a casement, double hung, or sliding type window? Everyone is different. There are different procedures for installing each one.   

·        Measure Window: After you know the type of window you have, you need to measure it so as to get the right size guard. If you don’t get the correct measurement, your window guard will not fit.

·        Installation and Removal: Will the window guard install easy or do you need a scientist to figure out how to install it? What about removing the guard? Is there a way to remove it without any hassles?

 

·        Casement: Casement windows have more than one separate window panel to work with. They either crank open, push open, or you just pull the windows in. In order to protect the child properly, the entire opening of the window has to be covered with the window guard. Therefore, measuring the window is most important. Here is what you need to do:

o       Step 1 – Take the tape measure and measure the interior height inside the window frame from top to bottom. The type of window guards you will need for this type will be vertical.

o       Step 2 - After measuring from top to bottom, measure the overall window width from left to right at the bottom of window. By getting this measurement, you will know how many bars you will need.  

·        Double Hung: Double hung windows are designed with two window panels that move or slide up and down. However, single hung windows have one window that moves up and down and one that is stationary. To measure this type of window properly, follow these steps carefully:

o       Step 1 - Take the tape measure and measure the width inside the window frame from the left to the right.

·        Sliding Windows: Sliding windows are different in that two window panels slide horizontally to open, unless the one you have is made with a stationary panel, then only one will slide. For this type of window, there specific instructions you need to follow to accurately measure this one correctly:

o       Step 1 - Take a tape measure and measure the height of the window from the inside of the frame, going from top to bottom. Since this window will require vertical bars, you need to know how high the window goes to make sure the bars will fit.

o       Step 2 – After taking the measurement in step 1, measure the window width. If you have a double sliding window system, you have to measure the whole window. But if you only have one window that moves, just open the window and measure the opening.

 

·        Guardian Angel II: Your child’s safety and protection are at risk. Why take a chance with anything else. This window guard will keep your child’s nursery and your entire home safe, as well as your child. This guard is tough. It can with stand up to 150 pounds of pressure when in a locked position. It comes with a quick release that allows for easy removal. It comes in various sizes to fit most windows. The price ranges from $45 to $270.

·        Window Gate: This window gate fits windows at are 24 ¾ inches to 43 ½ inches wide. It also comes with extensions. The price for the window gate is $72.

·        Sliding Window Guard: The sliding window guard is built to allow four inches of ventilation space. To lock window guard place lock on track and push lever to lock latch. Price is $2.95.  

·        Window Guard: This type of window guard is designed for double-hung type windows. It comes with a child-resistant safety latch to protect your child from harm. It comes in a size of 18 inches high by 24 inches wide with an adjuster so it can stretch out to 42 inches wide. It is made of heavy-duty steel for toughness. The price for this guard comes to $35.

 

 

Step 1: Make sure the telescoping grid is snapped securely into the side posts, otherwise you will have problems.

Step 2: Next, take the whole assembly and position it inside window frame. After you have it in position, mount the side post, making sure any logos are on the left hand side of window. Make sure to leave at least four inches for work space.

Step 3: Take four screws provided in kit and fasten the guard to the window frame. Please make sure the guard is level with the window frame or you will be crooked and have alignment problems. If you have a steel frame window, you will need to drill a 9/64 inch hole. If the metal is aluminum, make a 1/8 inch hole to accommodate the screw.

Step 4: After you install the windows guard, test it to be sure it works by pressing the release mechanism to make sure it can be removed easily.

 

 

Step 1: Make sure the telescoping grid is snapped securely into the end post; otherwise you will have problems with the unit.

Step 2: Next, take the whole assembly and position it inside window frame. After you have it in position, mount the end post, being sure any logos are on the bottom of the window frame. Make sure to leave at least four inches for work space.

Step 3: Take four screws provided in kit and fasten the guard to the window frame. If you have a steel frame window, you will need to drill a 9/64 inch hole. If the metal is aluminum, make a 1/8 inch hole to accommodate the screw.

Step 4: After you install the windows guard, test it to be sure it works by pressing the release mechanism to make sure it can be removed easily.

 

 

Step 1: Make sure the telescoping grid is snapped securely into the end post otherwise you will have problems holding it in place.

Step 2: Next, take the whole assembly and position it inside window frame. After you have it in position, mount the end post, verifying any logos are on the bottom of the window frame. Leave at least four inches for work space.

Step 3: Take four screws provided in kit and fasten the guard to the window frame. If you have a steel frame window, you will need to drill a 9/64 inch hole. If the metal is aluminum, make a 1/8 inch hole to accommodate the screw.

Step 4: After you install the windows guard, test it to be sure it works by pressing the release mechanism to make sure it can be removed easily.