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Baby Shower Themes |
by:
Cathy Cripps |
Once the type of shower has been decided on, the fun begins in creating a theme. Sometimes, the shower will be very elegant, sometimes more casual, and sometimes, just downright fun. The theme of the shower should be a direct reflection on the expectant parents’ personalities and lifestyle. Therefore, when hosting, it is important that they have input into the final decisions.
Again, you can do anything you like, as long as it coordinates with what the couple wants. If you will be the host, take this opportunity to use your imagination, borrow ideas, and allow the creative juices to flow. You want the baby shower to be enjoyable, full of laughter, and a memorable occasional regardless of the theme. The following are a few popular recommendations:
SUPPERTIME
Typically, a baby shower consists of games, food, and presents. However, why not take the idea one-step further by including frozen dinners, preferably homemade. If the couple has room, have each guest bring something that can be frozen or is already frozen.
Whether the shower is before or after the birth of the baby, this means the couple does not have to spend tired nights trying to cook. Instead, they can simply pull out one of the frozen dinners, pop it in the oven or microwave, and in a short time, have a nutritious homemade meal.
You would be amazed at how much this sentiment is appreciated. Just be sure everyone labels the food with the name, date, and any cooking instructions. Finally, if possible, try to provide some meal ideas for guests so they know what types of food the couple enjoys. By offering a little guidance, this will also help reduce the chance of duplication.
IOU
This theme baby shower is not only fun but also a tremendous help to both the expectant mother and father. With this, every guest would bring a handwritten, signed, and dated IOU that would provide a service after the birth of the baby. Similar to task coupons, the mother can call upon the IOU when needed and the family member of friend complies. Some of the things you would expect to see include:
- One home cooked dinner
- One night of babysitting
- Four hours of house cleaning
- One week of laundry
- One week of running errands
BEDRIDDEN
Unfortunately, pregnancy is not a breeze for every mother. Some women have complications that can keep her bedridden at home or even at the hospital. For the expectant mother, waiting for the birth of a child from bed is lousy. A baby shower can be customized around her situation to brighten her day, giving her hope while lifting her spirits.
Instead of waiting on the birth of the baby, go ahead and plan the shower with close family members and friends, bringing the shower to her. Remember, after the baby is born, a full-scale shower can always follow. However, for this type of shower, guests should create a miniature gift box or basket. Great ideas of what might be offered include:
- Craft projects that can be worked on in bed are good choices. This might include cross-stitch, needlepoint, simple paintings, and even handmade ornaments.
- Books are also excellent ideas but it is important to choose books that she likes. Ask her or her family what types of books she enjoys reading.
- Puzzles are also a great way for the expectant mother to pass the time. This might include crossword puzzles, other puzzle books, or a flat tray with a small piece puzzle, perhaps of a baby.
- Video tapes or DVDs are nice in that she can watch her favorite television shows or movies while still getting the rest needed.
- A day spa certificate to include massage, facial, pedicure, and manicure for after her baby is born would provide her with something to look forward to but you might also go in with other people in having a reflexologist or masseuse come to her.
- Care package for after the birth, again to help her think about the future. This could include a trip to the beauty parlor, dinner out with her husband or friend, housecleaning service for two to four weeks, three to six-month supply of diapers, and so on.
- Body lotion, perfume, balloons, flowers, and other similar things are always nice to help brighten the room and put her in a better mood while waiting for her new bundle of joy to arrive.
©2004 Babyshowermoments, All rights Reserved
About the Author
Cathy is the owner of http://www.babyshowermoments.com and the Author of Baby Shower Moments A to Z Guide for hosting that perfect Baby Shower Party. Visit Cathy for all your baby shower ideas tips and tricks |
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©2005 - All Rights Reserved
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Baby Shower Hostess Etiquette
Baby Shower Party Decorations to Liven u
Baby Furniture Buyers Guide
Baby Proof Your Home Frequently Asked
Baby Monitor Technology and Buyers Guide
Baby Car Seats Safety Frequently Asked
Baby Gift Registry
Baby Shower Cake as the Centerpiece
Baby Shower Invitations Ideas
Baby Shower Recipes
Welcome an Adopted Baby into the Family
Baby Bedding Information for your all yo
Baby Names Choosing Trendy or Traditio
Baby Shower On a Budget
Baby Crib Safety Frequently Asked Ques
Baby Shower Game Distraction
Benefits of Making your Own Homemade Bab
Baby Shower for Second Baby
Baby Shower Invitation Wording
Baby Clipart for all your Baby Shower Pr
Baby Girl Clip Art
Baby Girl Shower Invitations
Baby Shower Food Items
Planning a Baby Shower
Baby Shower Games
A Surprise Baby Shower Can Be the Perfec
Baby Crib Advice and Tips
Baby Room Decor Tips Hints
Baby Expense What To Do When Baby
Baby Poems for Saying Whats On Your Hea
BABY SHOWERNOVEL WAY OF ARRANGEMENT
Is Your Baby Necessarily Need Shoes
Baby Boy Clip Art to liven up your Baby
Baby Clothes Daywear Nightwear And Sp
Baby Sleep Tips
Baby Shower for Mom and the Ladies
Baby's First Month at a Glance
Unusual Baby Boy Names Finding Exotic
Baby Shower for Twins Or More Peas in
How to deal with a baby that has colic
Baby Shower Favors to Spice up Your Baby
Buying Gently Used Baby Clothing
Baby Clothes For All Seasons
Baby is Coming Are you ready
Baby Shower Centerpieces That Double as
Baby Shower Decorations
Baby Showers For Adopted Children
Budgeting for Baby
Baby Clothes for Your Baby Shower Gift
Baby Shower Checklist for Planning a Bab
White Noise for Baby Stops Colic Crying
Baby Clothes You Can Use All Year
Using Music To Calm Your Baby
Baby Clothes On The Cheap
Baby Shower Invitation Cards
Baby Shower Party Game Ideas to Keep You
Baby Strollers Tips and Advice
The Baby Stroller How To Choose
A Daddy Baby Shower New Twist on the o
How To Teach Your Baby Sign Language
8 Simple Tips for Taking Great Baby Phot
Baby Shower Themes
Baby's First Days at Home
How To Save Money On Wedding And Baby Sh
Baby Jewelry Infant Fashion as Keepsake
Baby Name Story Fyodor Given by God
Baby Strollers and Carriers Know What
Baby Strollers Frequently Asked Questi
A Baby Is Born With Several Reflexes
Selecting a Baby Shower Theme Easy as O
America�s best Graco baby products
Baby names and how to pick one
Baby Shower Gifts Are Not All The Same
Baby Shower Guide 10 easy steps
When Your Baby Arrives
Index Pages: 1 2
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How to Choose a Car Seat That Meets The Needs of Your Baby
There are many types of car seats available on the market today. In order to be able to make an informed decision it is best to check out car seat manufacturers. You can also check any consumer guide for information on recalls, seats that have been crash tested, the best type of restraint systems for your child. Before that even starts be aware of the fact that there are many types of car seats. The choice you make will be based on your prior research and your child's needs. A note of caution: before you purchase a car seat check the manufacture's recommendations and be sure the seat is compatible with your vehicle.
One type of car seat is the infant only car seat. This seat comes with a detachable base, comes with higher weight and height limits, harness slots that will help to change the seat from rear facing to front facing. The multiple slots can be adjusted to fit your baby. They also have handles that can be folded down while the child is in the car. They can be raised to make carrying your baby easier.
Convertible car seats are bigger and heavier and may not be appropriate for some newborns. The reclining position and ease of adjusting the harness are important assets. A convertible seat can be used rear facing for most newborns and front facing for older babies over twenty pounds. The American Pediatric Association recommends a child stay rear facing until s/he reaches the maximum weight and height listed by the manufacturer. The straps and are adjustable to a child's size, the seat should be moved to the proper position for the weight and height of your baby. The seat belt should be threaded through the seat belt path.
Forward facing seats cannot be used in the rear facing position. They are only for children over a year old and over twenty pounds. They can be used with either a lap only or lap/shoulder belt system.
Combination seats also cannot be used in the rear facing position and are also only for babies over a year and over twenty pounds. It has an internal harness for children whose weight is between forty and fifty pounds. It can convert to a belt position booster seat by removing the harness for larger children. They can be used with lap only or lap/shoulder belts.
Booster seats come in different types. Some come with shield boosters that are padded bars that lock into position much like the handlebars on carnival rides. There are booster seats that come with a high back to support your child as s/he rides in a car. Some booster car seats are built into vans and some cars. Check with your vehicle manufacturer to be sure the seat will accommodate your child's size. There are travel vests that attach to the seats with lap only belts.
Now that you know the types of car seats, there are things that must be considered in order to ensure the safety of your baby. Is the seat safe? How did it fare in crash testing? Is the restraint system easy to manipulate? If they are difficult to buckle your child in or remove him from the seat your child's safety could be compromised. In an accident, a sudden stop, or quick swerve will the seat hold your child? If the seat moves in any way in these situations your baby could be at risk. The car seat should attach snugly to the seat if properly installed. With seats that have multiple belt slots to accommodate your child be sure you use the right one. The belt should be at your child's shoulder level or just above.
Most newer car seats come with the LATCH (lower anchor and tethers for children) system. Installation is supposed to be easier but they are difficult to use and are not always safe. Parents complain that upon installing seats with this system there is too much slack, the seats have a tendency to move or slide out of position. In an emergency situation this could have seriously disastrous results. A company has created a tool called Mighty Tite that is used to pull in the slack and it has been safety tested and is recommended.
As previously stated check consumer guides and online sites for recalls. This is especially important if you have a used car seat. If you purchase your seat second-hand you need to inspect it thoroughly. Check that all belts and buckles are in good shape and working as recommended. Make sure the belts aren't frayed or the buckles cracked. Check the frame for any breaks or gaps that your little one could get fingers stuck in or that are sharp. If you find such things don't use the seat until you can get it repaired or replaced. If the seat comes with removable covers it is suggested that you remove them and wash them well. If it doesn't have cloth covering you might want to buy some. A vinyl seat, could in the summer, burn your little one's tender skin. In a desperate attempt to remedy this when my own child was an infant, I found a large towel and cut holes in it and place it on the seat so that anywhere my son's skin would meet the seat, it was protected at least with the towel. If you are really creative you could make your own.
Be practical in purchasing your car seat. If you have an infant buy a seat that will convert to a front facing seat as your child grows. Infant seats also come with a base that remains installed while you are able to remove a sleeping child from the car without disturbing him too much. Some such infant seats can also attach to a stroller frame. This multi-use seat is practical and will save all the bending and unbuckling and buckling of seat belts and then stroller belts. The internal harness keeps your child appropriately restrained.
Let's go over some important considerations in purchasing car seats. Keep in mind compatibility with your vehicle's specifications. Check for recalls and safety testing- how did the seat fare in these situations? Is it the proper seat for the size of your child? Can the seat be converted from a rear and front facing seat - it is more economical to buy a convertible seat. Is the installation easy or does the seat seem to move around in the belt system? There is a tool called Mighty Tite that can take up any slack and make the seat secure in its position, thus enhancing your baby's safety. Choose carefully and choose wisely, you are carrying very precious cargo.
About the Author
Declan Tobin is a successful freelance writer providing advice for parents and consumers on purchasing a variety of baby products which includes baby crib bedding, strollers, and more! His numerous articles provide a wonderfully researched resource of interesting and relevant information.
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