Baby gear has undergone significant changes since we had kids, and there are some great new items on the market! My niece Caitlin had a baby this year, and my sister-in-law, Susan, loves babysitting for her. She even recently traveled to Florence with the family to provide trusted care, allowing the parents to enjoy a multi-day wedding stress-free. Here are the items that both Caitlin and Susan highly recommend. They also make great gifts for new parents.
For strollers/’equipment’, my niece says ‘anything by Uppababy‘, but in particular, the MINU travel system is terrific for travel.
Skip Hop Baby Activity Center: “This is a MUST HAVE”.
Skip Hop Baby 4-in-1 Convertible High Chair: My sister-in-law says, “I’m getting this for us as well, as it is one and done for a few years, and easy to store.”
Foldable Play Tumbling Mat: “This mat is awesome. It’s expensive but well worth every dollar. The memory foam is what makes the difference. I think it could double as a bed! And it’s really big so other kids/parents can play on it as well.”
Tushbaby Hipseat Carrier: My sister-in-law said, “I could not have survived my babysitting duties without this one!” With extra lumbar support, this allows you to carry your baby and belongings without straining your back or hips. For an infant to a three-year-old.
For Stroller Bags, Baby Bags, and Backpacks, anything from minicotton is recommended. This stroller bag is awesome.
Fisher Price Baby Playmat Kick & Play Piano Gym: For newborn to toddlers, this play mat comes with musical and sensory toys attached. You can reposition toys in ways that work best for you. Susan says, “She loves to lie down and kick the piano, and the noise just delights her.”
Misting Stroller Fan Attachment: “This was a lifesaver in Florence. The misting was great, and she loved watching it too.”
Teething Toy: This Manhattan Toy Winkel soothes and engages babies with soft, continuous teething tubes that promote clutching and auditory stimulation. “She loves to chew on it!”
Tummy Time Toy: “She loves this toy – it’s great on an airplane, train, or car ride.”
Suction Cup Spinner Toys with Suction Cups: “Another great one – for airplane it suctions to the tray table.”
Flip Fish Tummy Time Toy: Cuddly, multi-textured fish toy perfect for tummy time and early development, with bright colors, crinkly scales, and squeaky tail.
llama llama red pajama book: “There’s something about this book she loves – I think it’s the eyes!”
Where’s the Duck? Book. ” It’s a hit!”
Fun ‘Nice to Have’s that aren’t ‘needed’ but make great grandparent gifts:
Monogrammed Chair: Fun for book time in their bedroom!
