How to Create a Newborn Kit
Are you or someone you know expecting a baby? Congratulations! Now, what to buy for that new bundle of joy? If you’ve wandered down baby aisles or scrolled through products online, you know there’s a lot of stuff. But as a mom of two (not too far removed from the newborn stage), I can attest to the fact that much of the “stuff” is super cute, but not always practical. Stuffies and blankets – adorable!
But will they help with a case of diaper rash? Not so much. And does one little human really need 10 of each of them? Read on for some of our favorite products as you prep (or help others prep) for a new journey.
Recommended essentials for a newborn baby:
- Diapers: Generally avoid buying too many newborn diapers. The average baby is in them for less than a month! Better to stock up on sizes 1+.
- Wipes (water-based and fragrance-free or unscented)
- Lotion (fragrance-free, hypoallergenic)
- Sunscreen (at least 15 SPF). Note that sunscreen shouldn't be used on a baby that is less than at least 6 months, so plan on having some sort of a cover when needed!
- Nail Clippers or File
- Digital Thermometer: According to the American Pediatric Association, rectal temperatures are the most accurate followed by forehead temperatures.
- Nasal Aspirator
- Vitamin D Drops: Exclusively breastfed infants or infants getting less than a certain amount of vitamin D-fortified formula per day need a supplement. Speak with your pediatrician for guidelines. I loved the ones that have your recommended amount in just one drop.
- Bottles: Even if baby is exclusively breastfed, it’s nice to have bottles on hand for times when mom and baby may be apart (or for when mom needs a break). Have a few different types available to experiment with the nipple shapes. Some babies have a preference.
- Pacifiers: This is a personal decision based on what you feel is right for your family, but pacifiers can be soothing for babies who want to suck beyond what nursing or bottle-feeding provides. (Pacifiers also help reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome if given at nap time and bedtime.) My kids both are/were big fans!
Lastly, don’t forget about mom or parent(s)! Caring for a newborn can be exhausting (especially if you just carried that baby inside of you for months and are also recovering from delivery). I love Epsom salt baths, face masks, lotion or favorite snacks to help a parent feel acknowledged and cared for. The following Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Energy Balls recipe is also an easy no-bake snack to have on hand for a quick source of energy.
Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Energy Balls
Serves 25 (Serving size = 1 Energy Ball)
All you need:
- 1½ cups quick oats
- 1½ cups peanut butter
- ½ cup vanilla-flavored protein powder
- ½ cup semisweet chocolate baking chips
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 pinch of salt
All you do:
Combine oats, peanut butter, protein powder, chocolate chips, honey and salt in a medium bowl. Use a tablespoon measure to scoop dough; roll into balls. Store, covered, at room temperature for a few days. Best stored in the refrigerator afterwards.
Dietitian's Tip: Double the recipe and store half in your freezer!
It’s never too early to start thinking about healthy eating habits for your child. Hy-Vee Dietitians offer a variety of children’s programs, including Little Chefs and Junior Chefs cooking classes and also Kids Food Group store tours.
*The blog articles, recipes and recommendations found on this site are not intended as medical advice and should not replace consulting with your medical provider. Please consult a medical professional for individual advice.