Babies R Us "MUST HAVES" list?

Gianas mom

Babies R Us "MUST HAVES" list?
What will i honest to god actually need that i shouldnt expect to get at the baby shower? below is the list of stuff Babies r us says i need-i posted it just so you can see why i'm questioning how much of it is legit. (as you can tell this is my first, lol)

Infant car seat
Car seat base for 2nd car
Convertible car seat
Booster car seat
Car seat toys
Shopping cart cover
Car seat comfort & accessories
strollers
Travel system
Full-size stroller
Lightweight stroller
Mid-size stroller
Jogger stroller
Double & triple stroller
Stroller comfort & accessories
Stroller toys 6 Stroller diaper bag
backpacks & carriers
Backpacks
Front & back soft carriers
Sling & wrap carriers
play yards/travel yards
Play yards/travel yards
Play yards/travel yards sheets (Qty: 2-3)
activity
Stationary entertainers
Walkers
Gyms & playsets
Bouncers
Swings
Door jumpers
Infant positioner
baby gear
feeding & nursing
Warmers & sterilizers
Burping cloths (Qty: 6-12)
Cloth diapers (Qty: 6-12)
Lap pads (Qty: 6)
Bibs (Qty: 8-12)
breastfeeding
Breastpump
Breast pads, shields & cream
Breast milk storage
Containers or bags
Nursing pillow & stool
Nursing wrap/cover
bottle-feeding
Bottles for formula (Qty: 6-8)
Bottle nipples
Bottle drying rack
Bottle brush
Dishwasher caddy
Insulated tote
solid feeding
Feeding sets
Training cups
Infant spoons (for home)
Baby food processors & accessories
high chairs
High chairs
High chair cover
Splat mat
High chair toys
Extra high chair pad
booster seats
Booster seats
Splat mat
feeding accessories
Feeding accessories
infant care
bath & potty
Bathtub & seat
Washcloths (Qty: 8-12)
Hooded bath towels (Qty: 4-6)
Bath robe
Gentle shampoo & body wash
Baby lotion
Bath accessories
Bath toys
Step stool
Travel folding potty set
Stand alone potty seat
Toilet training seat (ring)
baby care & grooming
Nail clippers
Brushes & comb
Digital thermometer
Ear thermometer
Grooming kit
First aid kit
Humidifier/vaporizer
Baby mittens
Lotion
Baby oil
Cotton swabs
Cotton balls
Petroleum jelly
Gas relief drops
Teethers
Pacifiers
Pain relief products
diapers & formula
Diapers
Baby wipes
Diaper pail refills
Wipe warmer
Diaper pail
Formula*
Diaper bags
Baby changing mat
Diaper ointment
Travel wipes
safety
Audio monitor
Video monitor
Cabinet/drawer latches
Safety gates
Outlet covers
Corner guards
Edge guards
Smoke & carbon monoxide alarm
infant care (continued)
nursery
cradles/bassinets
Cradle, bassinet or portable crib
Bedding sets
Cradle, bassinet or portable crib sheets (Qty: 2-3)
Cradle, bassinet or portable crib toys
nursery furniture
Crib**
Crib toys
Changing table
Armoire/chifforobe**
Dresser/chest**
Drawer linens
Hutch**
Glider or upholstered rocker**
Ottoman**
Blanket chest
mattresses
Crib mattress
Crib mattress pads (Qty: 3)
Vinyl mattress cover
Cradle, bassinet or
portable crib mattress
bedding
Crib bedding set
Fitted crib sheets (Qty: 4-6)
Blankets (Qty: 4-6)
Receiving blankets (Qty: 4-6)
Waterproof pads (Qty: 4-6)
Sheet savers (Qty: 4-6)
Changing table covers (Qty: 2-4)
Changing table pads 6 Sleep positioner
room décor
Wall hanging
Switchplate cover
Crib mobile
Lamp
Wall border
Window treatments
Diaper stacker
Rug
Hamper
Waste basket
nursery storage
Storage solutions
Organizers
Shelves
Baskets/storage bins (Qty: 2-4)

layette
Bibs (Qty: 8-12)
Burp cloths
Washcloths (Qty: 12)
Towels (Qty: 4)
Bodysuits (Qty: 9-12)
Gowns (Qty: 4-6)
Layette sets
bedding
Bedding sets
Blankets (Qty: 4-6)
Sheets (Qty: 4-6)
bath & healthcare
Wipes
Lotion
Massage lotion
Shampoo
Diaper cream
Stretch mark fading cream
Just for mom gift sets
Homecoming quilt
Matching sets
Cap & bootie sets (Qty: 2-4)
T-Shirts (Qty: 4-6)
Cotton overalls (Qty: 3-6)
Gowns (Qty: 4-6)
Socks (Qty: 9-12)
Wearable blankets (Qty: 2)
Clothing hangers (Qty: 12-24)
Snow suit or bunting
Sweaters**
One-Pc. coveralls (Qty: 4-6)
Outfits (Qty: 4-6)
Bodysuits (Qty: 9-12)
clothing and layette
infant toys
Rattles
Teethers
Soft toys
Toys 0-12 months
Toys 12-24 months

Answer
Yaaaa...you don't need 95% of that stuff...lol

Okay....so here is what I needed and used in the 1st week

Infant car seat
Stroller (I actually had 2...1 regular and 1 jogger..but the jogger was borrowed...I didn't need it, but was super glad I had it as it was easier to work with on hills and in the park etc)
Diaper bag
Diapers and wipes
Sleepers/onesies/socks/pants/shirts any other clothing you want/need
Crib and crib sheets
Monitor
Bassinette or playyard or cradle...whatever you want to use while baby is in your room beside your bed - i still don't own a playyard, we used a borrowed cradle and that was fine...my son is 16 months...sometimes I wish I had a playyard, but you definitely do not need one
Breast pump and storage bags
Bottles/nipples (if you are breastfeeding, you only need 1 or 2 bottles...I had 3 and never opened the 3rd bottle...I only used 1 and left 1 at my mom's house so that if she was watching him she could put frozen breastmilk in the bottle...hence the breast pump
They don't need toys for some time...they don't play with toys in the first week...but it is nice to have some car seat toys for entertainment
A play mat is very nice to have
Soothers (2 or 3)
Soother clip
Vitamin D drops
Bouncer/swing...I had both, but only needed 1..he would sleep in the swing, it was awesome!
Breast pads and cream (For sore nipples)
Burp cloths...but you can use old towels too
Infant Bathtub (very cheep...just a regular one, you don't need the ones with hoses/showers etc)
Wash cloths/towels..again you can use regular ones
Mild baby bath soap
Gripe Water (excellent for gas etc) non-alcoholic
Cornstarch (Not peneten etc for diaper rash) this works way better and is much milder on skin!

Hmmmm...that is about it!!

There are things that are nice to have...and you can totally decide and ask for those things too...but the must haves are above!

Hope this helps!

Babies R Us "MUST HAVES" list?

Gianas mom

What will i honest to god actually need that i shouldnt expect to get at the baby shower? below is the list of stuff Babies r us says i need-i posted it just so you can see why i'm questioning how much of it is legit. (as you can tell this is my first, lol)

Infant car seat
Car seat base for 2nd car
Convertible car seat
Booster car seat
Car seat toys
Shopping cart cover
Car seat comfort & accessories
strollers
Travel system
Full-size stroller
Lightweight stroller
Mid-size stroller
Jogger stroller
Double & triple stroller
Stroller comfort & accessories
Stroller toys 6 Stroller diaper bag
backpacks & carriers
Backpacks
Front & back soft carriers
Sling & wrap carriers
play yards/travel yards
Play yards/travel yards
Play yards/travel yards sheets (Qty: 2-3)
activity
Stationary entertainers
Walkers
Gyms & playsets
Bouncers
Swings
Door jumpers
Infant positioner
baby gear
feeding & nursing
Warmers & sterilizers
Burping cloths (Qty: 6-12)
Cloth diapers (Qty: 6-12)
Lap pads (Qty: 6)
Bibs (Qty: 8-12)
breastfeeding
Breastpump
Breast pads, shields & cream
Breast milk storage
Containers or bags
Nursing pillow & stool
Nursing wrap/cover
bottle-feeding
Bottles for formula (Qty: 6-8)
Bottle nipples
Bottle drying rack
Bottle brush
Dishwasher caddy
Insulated tote
solid feeding
Feeding sets
Training cups
Infant spoons (for home)
Baby food processors & accessories
high chairs
High chairs
High chair cover
Splat mat
High chair toys
Extra high chair pad
booster seats
Booster seats
Splat mat
feeding accessories
Feeding accessories
infant care
bath & potty
Bathtub & seat
Washcloths (Qty: 8-12)
Hooded bath towels (Qty: 4-6)
Bath robe
Gentle shampoo & body wash
Baby lotion
Bath accessories
Bath toys
Step stool
Travel folding potty set
Stand alone potty seat
Toilet training seat (ring)
baby care & grooming
Nail clippers
Brushes & comb
Digital thermometer
Ear thermometer
Grooming kit
First aid kit
Humidifier/vaporizer
Baby mittens
Lotion
Baby oil
Cotton swabs
Cotton balls
Petroleum jelly
Gas relief drops
Teethers
Pacifiers
Pain relief products
diapers & formula
Diapers
Baby wipes
Diaper pail refills
Wipe warmer
Diaper pail
Formula*
Diaper bags
Baby changing mat
Diaper ointment
Travel wipes
safety
Audio monitor
Video monitor
Cabinet/drawer latches
Safety gates
Outlet covers
Corner guards
Edge guards
Smoke & carbon monoxide alarm
infant care (continued)
nursery
cradles/bassinets
Cradle, bassinet or portable crib
Bedding sets
Cradle, bassinet or portable crib sheets (Qty: 2-3)
Cradle, bassinet or portable crib toys
nursery furniture
Crib**
Crib toys
Changing table
Armoire/chifforobe**
Dresser/chest**
Drawer linens
Hutch**
Glider or upholstered rocker**
Ottoman**
Blanket chest
mattresses
Crib mattress
Crib mattress pads (Qty: 3)
Vinyl mattress cover
Cradle, bassinet or
portable crib mattress
bedding
Crib bedding set
Fitted crib sheets (Qty: 4-6)
Blankets (Qty: 4-6)
Receiving blankets (Qty: 4-6)
Waterproof pads (Qty: 4-6)
Sheet savers (Qty: 4-6)
Changing table covers (Qty: 2-4)
Changing table pads 6 Sleep positioner
room décor
Wall hanging
Switchplate cover
Crib mobile
Lamp
Wall border
Window treatments
Diaper stacker
Rug
Hamper
Waste basket
nursery storage
Storage solutions
Organizers
Shelves
Baskets/storage bins (Qty: 2-4)

layette
Bibs (Qty: 8-12)
Burp cloths
Washcloths (Qty: 12)
Towels (Qty: 4)
Bodysuits (Qty: 9-12)
Gowns (Qty: 4-6)
Layette sets
bedding
Bedding sets
Blankets (Qty: 4-6)
Sheets (Qty: 4-6)
bath & healthcare
Wipes
Lotion
Massage lotion
Shampoo
Diaper cream
Stretch mark fading cream
Just for mom gift sets
Homecoming quilt
Matching sets
Cap & bootie sets (Qty: 2-4)
T-Shirts (Qty: 4-6)
Cotton overalls (Qty: 3-6)
Gowns (Qty: 4-6)
Socks (Qty: 9-12)
Wearable blankets (Qty: 2)
Clothing hangers (Qty: 12-24)
Snow suit or bunting
Sweaters**
One-Pc. coveralls (Qty: 4-6)
Outfits (Qty: 4-6)
Bodysuits (Qty: 9-12)
clothing and layette
infant toys
Rattles
Teethers
Soft toys
Toys 0-12 months
Toys 12-24 months

Answer
HOLY CRAP! 90% of this is ridiculous. Things you'll actually need:

Infant car seat
Car seat base for 2nd car
A stroller (you pick what kind you want, but you don't need four different styles!)
Some toys - you'll get a ton of these as gifts, too.
Clothes - you'll get two tons of these.
Breast pump if applicable; bottles and nipples if applicable. Unless you have a preemie, sterilizing isn't necessary.
Basic medical stuff - bulb syringe, nail clippers, thermometer, and some Tylenol.
Some burp cloths, or just use towels.
A few blankets.
Diapers.

The rest, you can do without or pick up in 2-3 years when you actually need it!

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"Toy store" dream?

voidedlive

What is your interpretation: I'm in a toy store as an adult. For some reason, the store gives the impression of being a cluttered london used book store (ala Harry Potter). I'm looking for some unusual toys I remember from my youth. I'm with someone, but I'm not sure who. I squeeze through a cluttered aisle into a seldom traveled section of the store. I hear revelry coming from a small darkened hallway to the left. It's all wood, and has a small fountain on the left. There is a small wooden door at the end on the right. In front of the door is a heavyset usher. He opens the door, exposing what appears to be a small private theatre with folding chairs, filled with 30 or so people. They were watching something funny, but it's over now, and they begin to stand up and file out. Whatever it was, I appear to have missed it.

Answer
>> Maybe, being in the toy store, looking for the unusual toys from your youth ~ could mean that you are searching for some aspect of yourself from your childhood you feel you may have lost, or something ~ maybe a hobby from your childhood ~ which made you happy then. ~ It may be a carefree sense of childhood fun that you feel may be lacking lately in your life or on a more concrete aspect, a hobby you enjoyed participating in.
The fountain on the left could represent the fountain of youth (or, your childhood & whatever it is that you were searching for in the toy store.) & be pointing the way toward gaining a more relaxed/fun attitude to life, you may feel unconscioiusly has been missing.
The heavyset usher may be an atitude you possess
(maybe your fear that the people you associate with on a daily basis will think differently of you if you follow your true happiness.)
that is blocking your way from gaining your happiness. Through the door is where you will regain whatever it is you may feel has been lacking lately.
What are you waiting for!
Find what it is you are looking for & go through that door!
Hope this helps. Ciao!

How to ensure seat in toy train from Mettuplayam to Ooty and back?

rahul c

I heard advance booking is not required in toy train from Mettuplayam to Ooty but when i checked IRCT site, there is no space available even two months in advance. Can anyone please advice how to get a confirmed advance booking in this train. Thanks for your time.

Answer
http://search.yahoo.com/search?p=seat+in+toy+train+from+Mettuplayam+to+Ooty+and+back&ygmasrchbtn=web+search&fr=ush-ans

http://prabhukrish.net/2007/05/28/mettupalayam-to-ooty-toy-train-travelogue/

http://www.ooty.com/travel.htm

By Train Train Timing at Coimbatore Train Timing at Mettupalayam

Nearest broad gauge railway head is Mettupalayam (46 kms). Major broadgauge railway junction is Coimbatore. It is connected with all major cities. Mettupalayam to Ooty, is connected by a Mountain Railway which is 4 hours journey.
At a height of 2,600m stands Udhagamandalam (Ooty) the Queen of Hill Stations. The 'Nilgiri toy train' connects Ooty to Mettupalayam, at the foot of the Nilgiris.

The construction of this line was a big challenge as the terrain is rather tricky. It was in 1854 that the first plans were drawn to build a mountain railway from Mettupalayam to the Nilgiri Hills. But it was a good 45 years later in 1899 that the first train chuggd up this track. This itself is a charming blue and cream with wooden coaches and large windows. It is hauled uphill by steam engines, designed and built by the Swiss Locomotive Works. Twelve of such locomotive engines survive even today.

The train covers the 46 km to Udhagamandalam in four - and -a half hours. There are five stations between Mettupalayam and Coonoor - Kallar, Adderely, Hill Grove, Runnymede and Kateri - and, at one time, there were five between Coonoor and Ooty too. Though Wellington, Aruvakkadu, Ketti, and Lovedale are still functional, Fern Hill, the last one, was closed down a few years ago.

Extensive rice fields surround the 7km stretch between Mettupalayam and Kallar. Soon after is an impressive 21 km section through truly rocky terrain. The track passes over 26 viaducts, and twists and bends through 13 tunnels. After a steep climb, the train enters Coonoor, the little hill station known for its tea plantations. From here, the track is uphill till you reach Fern Hill at a height of 2,218m, the highest point on the railroad. Shortly before Ooty, the line dips downhill. If you enjoy taking pictures, keep your camera ready for a few shots of the viaduct between Kallar and Adderley.

This ride is sure to turn the most hardened rail critic into an avid fan. You'll delight in the edge - if -the - seat twists and turns as the train runs across tall girder bridges, and over green hills before gently meandering through rolling tea estates. The exhaust beat of the loco never falters, maintaining a deafening staccato which can be heard for miles around. Truly a journey to remember.

By Road Road Distance from Ooty

Ooty is well connected by good roads. It is 535 km from Chennai (via Salem), 89 km from Coimbatore, 18 km from Coonoor (via Gudalur), 155 km from Mysore, 187 km from Calicut, 290 km from Bangalore, 281 km from Kochi (via Coimbatore and Palakkad), 236 km from Kodaikanal (via Coimbatore and Palani)

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What do you think of the Baby Trend brand stroller/car seat travel system?

wonderingi

Particularly the "Venture" style. And, did anyone order it direct from the website? If so, where can you take it if there is a problem?

Answer
Love the stroller, hate the car seat, would never buy the travel system.

You can try out the strollers or at least some of the models at Target and Toys R Us/Babies R Us. I love them, they're comfortable for my kids, easy to maneuver, easy to go through sand, dirt, grass, whatever, and I haven't tried out a nicer stroller. I love the large wheels that are bicycle wheels so that it's easy to fix them and for them to go over obstacles. :)

However, I don't like the car seat because you can try them at Target as well, and you have to put the two hooks together then push them into the seat-belt latch, and when working with a restless baby that would be a nightmare. Graco and other infant seats let you push in one side then the other, which makes it a lot easier when you're working with a restless baby.

I also don't like people putting the baby in a car seat outside of the car. It makes the car seat at risk for knocking against things and becoming damaged, as well as it curves the baby. SIDS research says over and over that we need to lay the baby flat or be carrying the baby, and research has proven that while car seats save their lives in an accident you should limit their time in a car seat (or anything that tilts them) to less than 3 hours in a day and no more than 1 hour at a time, and basically not use it in anything but the car.

So the stroller is nice, get the stroller, but order it through something like Target or Walmart's or babies r us so that you can take it there if there's a problem. Skip the car seat, get one that is better and will work better. Carry the baby for the first 4 months, either your arms or a Moby Wrap for a cheaper alternative to something like an Ergo, it's really not hard. Do a search on car-seat breathing and you'll find the studies done about the dangers.

Add: Looked at the stroller. It's not the jogger that I prefer. If you're going to go with that style of stroller, look at the Chicco strollers. They lay completely flat, so it's better for the SIDS aspect, and have better reviews. I honestly wouldn't get a Baby Trend stroller that's not the jogger because they don't push well, don't maneuver, don't move well. It's all about the wheels and those little wheels always are a pain in the neck on strollers.

This is one similar to what I thought you were talking about. They're approved for babies about 2 months up.

Which company has a better product? Safety 1st or Graco?

nikkirwhee

I am looking to purchase a Travel System for my first child, and I want to know which is the better brand to buy. Graco seems to be a little more expensive but Safety 1st seems to be very popular. What do you mothers think?

Answer
Chicco. Much better car seat, much better stroller (lays fully back so you can use it safely from newborn up. Graco and Safety 1st don't lay fully back so they should be avoided for use on a newborn.) Also, even though they're made for it, you don't want to put the car seat in the stroller and push them around like that. The car seat doesn't lay flat back, and that can compress the chest and cause breathing difficulties. So really there's no point in getting a travel system, at least safety wise it's not good. But if there was a travel system, then Chicco looks the best.

Second best would be Baby Trend in my opinion. Their 3 wheeled jogging strollers use bicycle tires and are much easier to maneuver than any other stroller I've tried yet. They go up and down curbs without an issue, and they go through sand and dirt and such without any problems. Their car seats are also top rated for safety, though the buckle is annoying in my opinion.

Really though, I would suggest getting something like a Graco-35 Infant car-seat, as it looks very safe from my point of view (side-impact, the angle adjuster on the base, the high weight limit, etc) and then get the stroller separately when you have time to try them out. Forget the travel system. For the first 6 months, unless it lays fully flat, then it can cause breathing difficulties anyway, so it's better to just put them in a baby carrier (not a sling, those can also be dangerous). Car seats are for car travel, not for riding in strollers or sleeping.

Add: For the record, I got the Graco Snugride system with my daughter 2 years ago about. The car seat was alright, but only went to 20lbs. That was fine for US, but most babies are bigger than my daughter is, and she was uncomfortable by a year old anyway, so we had to go to a convertible car seat at that time. I really like their Snugride-35 that they have now. The design is much better.

The stroller was a monster. It wouldn't fit in the trunk (and for the record, the trunk of my car is LARGE) so we had to put it in the seat next to her. It wouldn't fit in my husband's car at all, not on the seat not in the trunk, nothing, so we couldn't take it anywhere with his car. It was difficult to push and had a T harness (just across their waist and between the legs) which at one point my daughter fell through and hung by her neck when we were trying to go over a curb (it didn't handle curbs, cracks, or anything.) It wouldn't fit in stores, was very wide, and the fence gap at my local park was too thin for it to go through so we had to go around the long way to get to anything fun. The wheels were small and would dig into sand so that it was impossible to deal with. It was recalled about a month ago though, so I dumped the thing at Toys R Us and got 25% off the new baby's crib. I was never so glad to get rid of something in my life.

The Baby Trend jogger we replaced it with was much easier to push. It's so much lighter. It's still very large, but if you take off the back wheels it fits in either of our cars which is a huge improvement. The wheels are bicycle wheels so they handle curbs and sand and dirt and everything I've thrown at them. It's thinner than I am, so any doorway or gap in a fence that we come to, if I can go through it so can the stroller. :) I was beyond delighted to be able to walk right to the park, right through the dirt, the sand, the grass, and not have any issues. We have taken it on dirt mountain trails, and the harness held her tightly so she wouldn't fall out even if we were going up and down at bad angles. She loves the cup holders, loves the safe feeling of not falling out, and loves the stroller. While we had both sitting out there she never once asked to go back in the Graco, but would run to the Baby Trend.

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tips for mom traveling w 2 yr old?

marlene

family trip to Mexico in late May. it's my first time traveling w our almost 2yr old. she will be in our laps! are there any mom's who have done this and any tips from past experience?! please help! we are going from Houston to Mexico city airport (2 1/2hrs or so?) and then from that airport to Cuernavaca (another 2 hours on the greyhound/bus) ANY suggestions will help thanks : )

Answer
i havnt done the airplane thing with kids but i did greyhound bus.
3 1/2 days on the bus with two kids ( 1 year old boy and 2 year old girl) all by myself!
Try to take a portable dvd. coloring books. crayons. little toys like dora . My daughter loved looking out the window of the bus for the first day. try to save all that fun stuff for the end of your trip when your daughter is really bored. try wrapping up little surprises so when she gets frustrated and bored she can unwrap them!4 hours is not so bad.

Flying with a 3 1/2 yr old! Help!?

gracious

We are leaving from Texas and flying to New Jersey to see family next month. I have a 3 1/2 yr old daughter who is very active with a vivacious personality. Any ideas out there to quiet her down during a 4 hour flight? There are only so many toys and games you can give her. Also, don't suggest benedryl. It wires her up like a rat on acid. LOL Please help!

Answer
I've been flying internationally & domestically with my children since they were each 2 months (now 8&6,&5 months). At least three trips a year are the children & I traveling internationally (14+ hours each way) alone. We do another 8-10 international and domestic flights a year as a family. I have never had any problems with my children. Here are a few tips and suggestions:

1.) Pack plenty of things to entertain your child: a few books, toys, a portable DVD player (be sure to bring extra batteries) or let her use your laptop (make sure it's fully charged) with a few movies, & one or two comfort things such as a favorite blankie or stuffed animal. I always bring a small pillow & blanket from home for my children (even now) because I know 100% that they are clean, and my children are accustomed to them.

My children bring along their own coloring books, a Doodle Pad, their Leap Pads (with a few booklets), scrap paper that they can make their own drawings with & play games such as tic-tac-toe. My daughter used to like to bring along a doodle bear when she was younger so that she could draw on that as well, & my son likes to bring along some action figures to play with. I found that buying a Rose Art kit is great! It has crayons, markers, coloring books, coloring sheets, & stickers that they can color. It definitely keeps them entertained!
http://www.megabrands.com/en/products/description.php?product_id=1031&brand_id=36&cat=4&age=
I take the contents of the kit out of the box & place them in something a little travel pack. Here is what my sons looks like:
http://photo.ringo.com/259/259570458O312385888.jpg - outside
http://photo.ringo.com/259/259570434O294017000.jpg - inside

You can also play games like pat-a-cake, or I-spy, & tell stories to your child as well. If you tell a story, try to make it an interactive one where she has a part in it so she stays interested.

You might also consider going to the store & letting your child (I let my children start this at the age of one) pick out her own carry on bag & a few inexpensive toys that will be used only once you are on the plane. Be sure to pick out a few toys without her seeing so that she has an extra surprise when she opens her carry on.

2.) Bring Snacks! just add water packets of food, cheerios, goldfish, animal crackers, dried fruit, etc. are great. New regulations also allow you to take beverages (including water) from home as long as they are less than 3oz (100ml), -OR- beverages (including water) of any size that you have purchased from inside the security area onto planes. You can also bring a limited amount of baby food, yogurt, cheese, puddings, etc. with you also as long as they are in containers less than 3oz (100ml)
http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm#10

As long as your child is with you, you are able to take as much milk, juice, and/or baby food that you will need for you child for the duration of the time you will spend in the airport and on the flight (as long as it is within reason).And no, you will NOT have to taste any of it.

All that you must do is:
1. Separate the milk from the liquids, gels, and aerosols in your quart-size (1 liter) zip-top bag.
2. Declare you have the items to one of the Security Officers at the security checkpoint.
3. Present these items for additional inspection once reaching the X-ray. These items are subject to additional screening
http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/children/formula.shtm

Save your money when it comes to buying water though because the Flight Attendants will provide you with hot or cold water (or any other drink) free at any time that you request, no matter how many times you request it.

3.) Keep your diaper bag well stocked with plenty of wipes, ointments & other essential things. Just remember the new law regulating liquids, gels, &pack accordingly. http://www.tsa.gov/311/index.shtm You can usually find travel size baby products in stores & they are wonderful for plane use. One thing I always like to carry with me is hand sanitizer! I always wipe the trays down with that (followed by a baby wipe) & use it for my kids after taking them to the bathroom (even though they wash their hands). I know that airplane bathrooms are not the cleanest, so that is why I try to be vigilant.

Be sure to pack 2-3 changes of clothes for your child. You will need this in case She gets sick, spills something on herself, or in case your luggage gets lost.

Bring any medications that you might need for your child should she get sick or that she takes regularly. Remember that if they are not prescription medications, the 3oz (100ml) rule applies to them and they must be kept in a clear plastic bag.
http://www.tsa.gov/311/index.shtm

Try to have your daughter use the restroom as close to boarding as possible. This will help to make your child feel fresh & more comfortable for take-off (which could also mean less problems).

4.) Not all children have a problem with the pressure changes in their ears. If yours does however you'll want to know how to help. For take-offs and landings (the WHOLE way up, and starting from the BEGINNING, or TOP of descent), the best ways to alleviate ear pressure are to:

*Give her something to drink (milk, water, juice - it doesn't matter)
*Give her a pacifier to suck on
*Tell her to yawn
*Give her gum to chew
*Give her hard candy or mints to suck on
*Pinch her nostrils shut, have her take a deep breath in through the mouth, then tell her to (gently) blow as if trying to blow her nose
*Place hot damp towels (usually like the ones distributed to first and business class before take-off and landing to freshen up with - just ask a flight attendant for them) or paper towels that have been soaked in hot water and wrung out, at the bottom of two paper or styrofoam cups, then hold the cups over the ears
*Gently but with some pressure, rub her neck repeatedly from the chin to the base of the neck. This will cause a swallowing motion that will relieve pressure build-up in the ears.

5.) Your daughter is at the age where she has to have her own seat. The airlines suggest that children under 40lbs use a child safety device - a CRS (Child Restraint System) - because it is safe for the child (especially during turbulence), makes them feel secure, is more comfortable for both parent and child, will help your child sleep, and gives both of you the opportunity to relax a bit.

Also, if your child is under 40lbs, the regular seat belts will be too loose and will not restrain her properly.

A CRS is a hard-backed child or infant or child safety seat that is approved by the government for use in both motor vehicles and aircraft.

In order to be certified for use on an airplane, the car seat has to met the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Check the labels on the side of your car restraint for a sticker (words will be printed in red) for verification that your seat is safe for airplane use. Almost all car seats pass this requirement.

There is also a new device that is approved by the FAA for airline use ONLY. It is called CARES (Child Aviation Restraint System) and costs $75. It weighs 1 pound, is certified for all phases of flight (taxiing, take off, turbulence & landing), adjusts to fit ALL size airplane seats, & is approved for kids 22â44 lbs.
http://www.kidsflysafe.com/

There are many products out there designed to help the traveling family. Here's a product that can attach to most car seats so that you can use it as a stroller & get it through the airport more easily. http://www.gogobabyz.com/products/gogo_kids.html

6.) Before you travel, I suggest preparing your child for what to expect so that she is not caught off guard & scared on the day of travel. You want to make sure that you tell her what is going to happen from the time you get to the airport until the time you arrive at your destination. You don't need to go into any great detail here, but give her something that she will be able to reference when actually traveling. If you are able to, I suggest doing a dry run of the airport. This provides you with an opportunity to explain to her what is going to happen while she can see first hand what it looks like. Here are links that talk about what to expect when flying (also includes information about what to do at the airport) that may help you out a bit:
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=AlxCY2D7gKazfods9sO.hnbty6IX;_ylv=3?qid=20080524223044AA3cjUR&show=7#profile-info-ssBL3Kakaa
http://jamiehassen79.angelfire.com/plane_travel_basics.html

I wrote a small article about flying with children that goes more in-depth, gives security rules & regulations for the US, EU, UK, & Australia, offers tips & tricks for the travel, etc. http://www.angelfire.com/jamiehassen79/flying_children.html

If I can be of any more help or assistance, please feel free to contact me.

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Has anyone flown with a toddler?

Q. Especially lately with the new rules? We are taking an 7-8 hour plane trip cross country with my son who will have just turned 2 for the trip and was wondering if anyone had any good suggestions or tips for the plane ride? Things to keep them occupied? Ways to get the car seat through the airport? Can we bring our own juice cup and snacks with the new regulations? Any advice and wisdom is greatly appreciated!

Answer
I'm a former Flight Attendant and I fly a lot of long haul alone with my three kids.

We always bring a car seat. They sell gizmos which attach to seats to take through airports but save your money and use a small, foldable, metal luggage cart and an extra bungee cord to secure it in place. One trick I used to do is NOT bring a stroller and my toddler could sit in this contraption if she got tired.

If there are two of you traveling, one can pull the car seat and the other push the stroller. JFYI, here are some of the gadgets sold to help with this situation.

http://www.gogobabyz.com/products/gogo_kids.html
http://www.amazon.com/Traveling-Toddler-Attach-Rolling-Carry/dp/B000JHN3AS
http://www.onestepahead.com/product/osa/363756.html

You could also see if your stroller can transport the car seat. Try it at home and either wedge it into the seat or attach it to the back. Careful of tipping, especially with the latter.

Bravo for taking the car seat on board. You are smart to not check a car seat as luggage. The airlines lose and break them ALL THE TIME and it's too important a piece of safety equipment to leave it up to fate and baggage handlers. Bringing it on board means it gets to your destination with you, in good shape.

Instead of a diaper bag, use a backpack (or a backpack style diaper bag). This will free up your hands. You may want some sort of small bag for essentials. I don't take a purse when I fly.

For entertainment, get him a new toy, anything, and it doesn't have to be expensive. Keep it and give it to him once you're on the plane. I found that stickers, coloring stuff, simple plastic toys (like animals, cars, etc.) and books were better at occupying them at this age. No one will mind if you read to him.

Be sure to buy one or two new toys to give him at critical periods. One is when the plane is pushing back from the gate. Everyone has to be seated and this is tricky for toddlers. Hopefully the toy will keep him occupied, at least until you're in the air!

I actually don't recommend a portable DVD player *unless* he can watch it without sound. I doubt he'll wear the headphones at this age but you can try it at home. If you opt to bring it, make sure it either has a battery life of at least 5 hours or you have a second battery. Bring a recharger and an adapter in case of any delays.

Just some other small tips;
-Bring a change of clothes
-Bring way more diapers than you think you'll need
-Learn to change him standing up (don't try to fit him on one of those tiny baby changers and toddlers hate to lie down in strange places)
-Bring an empty sippy cup to fill during the services. This will prevent spills in the air.
-Get up and move around with him but keep an eye out. Those carts the F/A's use are the perfect height for hiding little ones
-Bring snacks. Don't fret security. I've never had anything taken away (yes, water but not snacks) and that's the only risk. If you have something not allowed, they simply remove the item. No scenes, no speeches, no arrests!
-Try to sit in a bulkhead seat so that there's no one in front of you
-Bring slippers for him, especially if you're not in the bulkhead!

Please shelve any potty training projects until you're on the ground again. Children understand this special situation and putting them back in diapers does not really upset the process. You can't always get a toddler to facilities when traveling and they don't give you a lot of notice. Don't risk an accident.

The 3oz. limit on liquids is not enforced for those flying with children and babies in most countries so bring what she needs. There are no specific food restrictions.

http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/children/formula.shtm

It's actually a myth that they have to drink on take-off and landing. If he falls asleep on take-off, please don't unnecessarily wake him up!

The BEST way to avoid ear issues is to take your little guy to the doctor a few days before flying. My son was good at getting symptomless ear infections. Make sure yours' doesn't have one of those! The doctor will look in his ears and make sure they're clear and infection-free. Healthy ears can handle pressurization changes.

For more information, I wrote an article on this subject. It's based on both my personal and professional experience of flying with kids. It's totally non-commercial and other parents have contributed;
http://flyingwithchildren.blogspot.com

Have a good flight!

What is the longest distance you would travel by car with a 19 month old?

Q. We are not huge travelers. We drive to my dad's once or twice every few months and its a 3 hour drive one way, but we stay the night, so its broken up, time wise. My husband wants to go somewhere on vacation and he asked me how long our son could ride in the car without getting too fussy, and honestly I don't know, because 3 hours has been the max.
How far have you driven with your toddler, and how well did they do?

Answer
I am keeping an eye on this question. Our son will be 19 months this month, and we are planning a trip over Memorial day. 6-7 hours in the car. He has done it before, but he was only 9 months when we took the last trip.

i am planning on books, toys, children's cds, and snacks to keep him occupied. I am also hoping to travel when he usually takes his nap!

Edit: I looked on Amazon.com and saw this travel tray you can put on your child's lap that attaches around the carseat. I am thinking of buying one so I can put my son's snacks on it and then he can play with toys and books without them falling. it is only $20, and I think it might be worth it.

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Is it ok to wait on the toddler bed transition?

Q. My son had to move to a toddler bed right when he was turning 2 because he was jumping out of the crib. It was rough though. Lots of screaming and crying and sleeping on the floor and running to our bedroom, etc. My daughter turned 2 a couple months ago and is still doing well in her crib. Would it be bad if we waited till she was 3 or so to avoid or postpone the drama? Have you ever done that?

Answer
Here's an alternate solution that worked well for us. Our daughter has never slept in a crib. We started our daughter off in a bassinet, and then upgraded her to a travel-lite pack n' play until she got too big for it; about 9 months. At that point we moved her to a full size mattress-- how? By using a BED TENT.

You can buy them on Amazon or other major websites many different styles. Our daughter had the "Secret Princess Castle" made to fit a full sized bed for about $40, but they sold for as little as $20 for twins. The main requirement, if you want to use it as a crib is to get one with zippers, or else sew them on after you buy them (we bought three zippers at Johanne's fabric and did this by hand in about and hour, even though our sewing skills are minimal). Velcro won't cut it if your child is anything like ours.

Our daughter threw a fit the first night (though no more than when we put her in her pack n' play, but by the end of the week was comfortable sleeping in the tent. We didn't use a bed frame until she was older (just set the mattress on the floor), so we could choose to unzip it after she fell asleep so she could choose when she got up after her naps. When we felt it was time, we put the mattress on a box spring, then a frame. For a while, we left only one side zipped at night (the side closest to her head, so she wouldn't roll out).

By the time she was old enough to figure out how to open the zippers, she was totally comfortable with both the tent, the idea of a big bed, and being able to not roll off the bed onto the floor. The transition was gradual, and the idea was completely safe (no bars to slip or slide between and no possibility of her falling). A couple of friends asked me about the following, so I'll add this 1) it was very well vented with large sections of mosquito-netting type material for the top and sides, 2) the tent was able to accomodate a plastic sheet for accidents (we used a very thin shower curtain), and regular sized bed sheets 3) It was overall very cost effective for us as we were able to use it for a complete transition, as the mattress is adult sized, so there was no need to buy multiple pieces of furniture, bedsheets, etc.

Traveling with toddler, pack-n-play, need a tent to fit!?

Anna T

We are on the Gulf Coast in Alabama. Family is traveling out of state for a wedding. Call me crazy, but after seeing a "Dateline" on using cribs provided by the hotel, I am not willing to go without taking our own pack-n-play. However, I can not seem to find the "safety net/ tent" to fit our graco. I have heard that they do exist, but haven't been able to locate it. HELP!!!! Am desparate! We leave in two weeks.

Answer
try babies r us...or call graco directly. Yes..they do exist...

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Travel Bed for Toddler?

Dalchase

My husband and I will be traveling for the holidays and our 20 month old son has gotten too big for his pack and play. Any suggestions of other options we can use?

Answer
There are some great blow up bed/sleeping bag combos. They pack up small, blow up easily w/ a foot pump, and are self contained. Being that it is winter, you may want an extra blanket. You may also want to try at home for a few nights before you take so your son is use to it. They are available at the big discount stores (Target, Wal-Mart, etc) for under $20.

Traveling with a toddler?

hellothere

My son is 2 1/2 years old. He still sleeps in a crib, but is small for a portable crib. We would like to take him to the beach this summer. But what should I do about the sleeping? I know he could sleep in my bed, but I would like him to sleep in his own. Are there any good traveling beds for toddlers? Any suggestion?

Answer
You can get toddler air beds with attached sleeping bag. They are usually about £30ish, and come with different designs that I'm sure your son would love (cars, toy story ect..)
I advise you get an electronic pump though, as blowing them up by mouth can be a bloody nightmare!

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Which US airlines offer the most seat space/leg room?

betsy b

I'm going to be traveling with a wiggley toddler, so I need a lot (even though she's getting her own seat).

Answer
Seat pitch (the distance from headrest to headrest, which gives you a rough idea of legroom) depends not just on which airline you're flying but also what model of aircraft you're on. Probably you're best bet is when you start getting ready to book the flight, look to see what type of aircraft you'd be on, then go to www.seatguru.com - they list the amount of seat pitch for every aircraft for just about all US carriers.

What type of car seat are you using for your baby and what are the pros and cons of it?

Hope

I am trying to decide on a new car seat so I was wanting to get some ideas.

Answer
Are you looking for an infant bucket seat, or an infant to toddler rear to forward facing seat?

If it's a bucket seat, don't waste your time doing excessive research...they are all the same, they meet safety standards, and with an infant seat, there is really no way to add any bells an whistles. I guess with the bucket seats, just make sure that the carrying handle, when it's folded in the car, doesn't stick out too far past the seat that it causes the passenger in the front seat to have to jack their own seat really far ahead, making it uncomfortable. Evenflo bucket seats are bad for this, while Safety 1st's handles are pretty compact when folded down in the car.

For rear to forward facing, I have two, one for each car. The first one is an Evenflo Triumph DLX. http://www.evenflo.com/product.aspx?id=21&pfid=2787 It's heavy, sturdy seat. I find with lighter seats, even when they're installed properly, you can still shift them around by pushing and pulling. This seat stays put. It's upholstered very nicely and provides a good amount of comfort. The harness belt straps are better on this seat than any seat I've ever seen. The shoulder straps adjust just by pulling upward, rather than unhooking the entire seat and adjusting in the back of the seat. The harness adjusts evenly on each side by turning a knob on the side of the seat...so no pulling on a strap between the kid's legs.

Really, the things that I like the most about this seat is the fact that both sides of the harness adjust evenly. Most seats get tighter on one side and looser on the other...not this one...and it is SO comfy. I have no negatives to say about this seat, it's great, and I love it.

The second rear to forward facing seat I have is a First Years True Fit. http://www.learningcurve.com/thefirstyears/Car+Seats+and+Travel+Gear/True+Fit+Convertible+Car+Seats

It is VERY comfortable, and the shoulder straps slide up from the front, somewhat similar to the Evenflo. It is a seat that comes in two pieces...the main body of the seat, and a removable head extender.

When the seat is rear facing, and the child is an infant, you can minimize the extra room that a convertible car seat can take up in the backseat and remove the headrest. There is a line for height on the carseat that says when the child's head reaches that height, you should add on the headrest.

To be honest, the headrest option and the comfort are the only two things I like about this seat. It's also a heavy seat, so it doesn't rock around, but the harness is very annoying to have to adjust. So if your child is wearing slightly different thickness clothes from the last time they were in the seat, you'll have to readjust. Which is not a big deal in itself, but it is VERY hard with this seat to make the straps tighter. I find the only way you can actually tighten the straps, for some reason, is if the child isn't actually buckled up. I've learned that I can snap the chest buckle to get an idea of what it will adjust like, but I can't buckle between the legs until the appropriate tightening is done.

Had we known this seat was going to be so hard to use, we would have just bought a second Evenflo Triumph.

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Traveling with a toddler?

Jo

I'm going on an 18 hour flight with my daughter who will be 2 in a couple of months. Insane, yes, I know. Any ideas of what to bring with me to occupy her during the waking hours? I'll be bringing some books, and videos on an iPod, and thinking of a travel magna-doodle. I'm looking for ideas that have worked with you and your kids.

Answer
The best thing to do for your toddler is to get her prepared for the flight. Tell her about the plane , takeoff, noises to expect etc. Bring her pajamas to sleep in and favorite toys etc. It's a good idea to have a variety of toys and games so that she is constantly excited about new things. You might even like to bring some phenergan which is a mild analgesic sedative ( not sure what you call it in the US) that a lot of parents give to their children to help them relax inflight. There can be so many distractions that it can be difficult to settle them.
You might like to invest in some eye shades and air plugs not only for her but for yourself. Have a favorite pillow etc and all the things you will need in a handy carry on bag that you can have at your feet (under the seat in front of you).
Also you might like to get some assistance to board the plane. They pre board a lot of mums and wheelchair bound passengers which will give you time to settle into your set well before the other passengers get on board.
Good luck it won't be as bad as you think. Other people around you will help out if the see your struggling.
PS I was an international flight attendant with Air New Zealand for 25 years

Traveling with a toddler?

cece

So in about two months I will be flying with my 18 month old from Massachusetts to Texas. The flight is a little over three hours. My toddler is very wriggly and hasn't even been in a car for longer than two hours (in which she got fussy towards the end). Im traveling by myself with her and I'm just a little nervous that she's gonna freak out on the plane. I have pretty bad anxiety and claustrophobia so the thought of being inclosed on a plane with my screaming child all by myself sounds incredibly overwhelming. anyone flown with their toddler and have any good tips? Did your toddlers cry?

Answer
Traveling with a toddler can be stressful but in my experience it goes better than you might think. Try and make sure your toddler has a nap before the flight if possible. During the flight, make sure you change things up so your toddler doesn't get bored. Play for 20 minutes, then walk him down the aisle to the bathroom and back. Have a snack. Then go for another short walk. My toddler could stand in front of the chairs so she doesn't have to sit all the time - as long as the seatbelt sign isn't on.

Here are some items to bring on the plane: stickers, small toys that aren't choking hazards, notepad and crayons, lots and lots of NEW snacks that you can bring out one at a time, your iPhone or Ipad if you have one, or other electronic device. You can also use the plane TV if your plane has individual screens. Just alternate things and if he cries, walk her up and down the plane. To help with ear pain, bring chewy snacks to help pop the ears.

It is tough but they are all strangers that you'll never see again. Do your best and you'll be ok.

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