There's more and more to it – but what's really important? We at the Bremen family network are giving you simple tips today that can make your everyday life as new parents easier.
These five things are easy to do without in the early days with a baby, and some even help to protect the environment and your wallet:
1. New clothes
Babies grow quickly, and it's such a shame when an expensive designer bodysuit has only been worn a few times and is already worn out. If siblings are on the way, it can easily be reused. But especially for those on a tight budget, secondhand shops, online marketplaces, and local flea markets are worth checking out. If you're buying in bulk, keep the seasons in mind so your child doesn't suddenly need a snowsuit in July.
Or you could visit the children's second-hand shop "Klamöttchen" at the SOS Children's Village Center ! There you can donate clothes and/or buy them cheaply.
2. Duvet & Pillow
During the first two years of life, children sleep safely and warmly in a sleeping bag on their backs. A blanket is easily kicked off, and duvets and pillows also increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Suitable sleeping bags are available for summer and winter months, as well as year-round use. Good quality used sleeping bags are also available – ask your friends, neighbors, and acquaintances!
3. Baby walker
First on their back, then on their tummy, then sitting up and crawling. Every child develops differently, and this includes their first steps. As parents, you can easily do without baby walkers! The German Federal Association "More Safety for Children" points to numerous accident risks, such as falls and burns . Motor development also slows down in children who frequently use walkers because their muscles are far too weak to support their weight. This improper weight distribution often leads to health problems affecting the feet, hips, and spine.
4. Fragrances
Babies smell like… babies! And that's exactly how it should be. Your child doesn't need anything like fabric softener, soap, shampoo, powder, or perfume at first. Even though advertising promises and offers a lot, a washcloth and water are perfectly sufficient. Olive oil can help with dry baby skin. If you're unsure about anything, it's best to ask your midwife or pediatrician. Or you can get information from an early intervention center.
5. Toys & Media
Even at just a few months old, babies begin to explore the world. A ball to grasp, a soft doll, or a cuddly blanket is often sufficient in the early stages. Simple motor skills toys that stimulate the senses, such as grasping toys and rattles, then complement the growing interests of babies.
Be careful with small parts that babies can easily swallow. Therefore, you should avoid cuddly toys with sewn-on or attached eyes or ears. Ideally, all toys should be free of harmful substances and meet safety requirements, i.e., have a test mark or seal.
Anything that makes loud noises, flashes, or beeps is unnecessary. It overwhelms a baby's sensory perception. This includes smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs, even though many apps are designed for very young children. You can read more about "media perception" here.
Things you shouldn't do without:
Seek advice and help when you need it, for example at one of the six early intervention centers in Bremen.
Whether you have worries and don't know what to do, you simply need some tips and suggestions for your (new) family life, or you are looking for contacts with other parents – the early counselling centers in Bremen can help you!
Simply make an appointment for a consultation. You can also attend a midwife consultation or a nutrition consultation and ask your questions. Or you can visit an open event at an early intervention center, such as a parent-child group, a baby group, or a breastfeeding café. They also regularly offer courses like infant care, PEKIP (Prague Parent-Child Program), or baby massage.
Our “Welcome to the Family” page offers lots of information and an overview of advice and contact points for the first period with your baby.
Barbara Peper is responsible for consulting, public relations, social media and online editorial work at familiennetz bremen and is herself a mother of a daughter.