The Crib Catalogue:

You’re pregnant! And it’s a sea of pink or blue bliss, with friends and family just as excited, and only about 10% of the time they are lecturing you on what’s ahead. There is a time for squealing excitement, and a time for being prepared and getting those must-have essentials. This is that time.

1. You must have a stroller

Strollers are a no brainer, right?

Well, it’s not as easy as picking the prettiest one out of the catalogue. Research needs to be done and even a test drive if you can get some wheeling done. Make sure your decision is based on mobility and meets the needs of your baby and lifestyle. Is this stroller only going to be used when you meet with your friends a couple of times a year, or are you using this 3 times a day?

2. You must have a changing table or mat

What’s it going to be, a changing mat or a changing table?

Clearly, a table is great - it’s there for that very purpose and contains the mess - yes there will be mess. A changing mat is a great option if you don’t necessarily have the space and can see yourself bring the mat with you to BBQ’s, shopping and really anywhere with a flat surface. Let practicality and your personal circumstance lead that decision.

3. You must have a cot

When you bring the cot into the house - that’s when things become real!

Whether you want to go for a ready-made, or build your own, this is a vital purchase and one you want to research. Ask around and see what it’s important, remembering that when babies grow they grow - so choose a cot that you won’t have to replace too quickly.

4. You must have a car seat

This is a no nonsense must have.

Finding a car seat that is safe, reputable and going to last the distance should be your highest concern. Never buy a second hand car seat and don’t shy away from an expensive price, because ultimately it’s your baby’s life we are talking about.

5. You must have a breast pump

If you think you don’t need a breast pump, unfortunately you are wrong.

This will be your best friend (breast friend?) on those early mornings when you need milk and it’s just not happening. If all of your peers are telling you that they can feed naturally, consider how useful they are for bringing in supply and storing in the fridge for when dad is on shift.

6. You must have a nappy plan

Plastic or cloth? No I am not talking about your bag preference at the supermarket, we are talking nappies. Plastic are easy in the sense that you use them and then they are thrown away. Cloth can be rewashed, used again and sometimes the cloth feels better on a child then all that plastic. There is also the environmental benefits so make sure you have done your research.

This isn’t a time to panic, it’s a time to be excited and most importantly - a time to get organised. Ask new parents and older parents and get the idea on what works, what doesn’t work and what makes that transition into parents that much smoother.