How to Prep for Baby Amidst COVID-19: 35+ Tips To Help you Feel Calm + Confident going into Mommyhood
Last week I held a Instagram Live with Molly from Bump Bestie to chat about prepping for baby during the coronavirus. Things to think about like cancelled baby showers, limited to no access to family and other support systems, and delayed shipping. We hit 35+ Qs that you submitted. Here’s a recap of the convo. Just reminder that Bump Bestie is offering virtual sessions for $20/15 min. Her knowledge is invaluable especially during this crazy time.
Prepping for baby during Coronavirus
I’m prepping for the 4th Trimester without in-person help, what are my options?
Virtual lactation support:
Meal Delivery: find options that are nutrient dense
EDP fam gets $100 off their first month of Home Chef with code ASHLEYT100
Think about meal prepping ahead of time and freezing meals - there’s tons of great ideas on Pinterest.
Virtual postpartum doula - most doula’s have moved their services to zoom and other platforms
Get references from moms in your network
Check national Doula websites
Ask OB
Virtual sleep consultations - check out Taking Cara Babies for sleep classes and consults
In general, think about taking the following classes:
Childbirth Ed
CPR
Breastfeeding/infant feeding
Babycare basics
After: Mommy and Me
Online Classes + Resources:
Check with your OB
Books to read:
Baby Prep Books
Should I have formula on hand before delivery just in case I can’t breastfeed or need to supplement? Any suggestions on best kind of formula?
Yes! Stay away from the European brands because they are not FDA approved and most aren’t shipping during COVID-19
Good alternatives:
Breastmilk Formula Supplement
Baby Shower - what to do if not having one re: registry and baby essentials?
Check out this post for tips on creating your registry.
E-mail is a great way to get your registry out. It is a weird time, so don’t feel strange or awkward about announcing baby-to-be and sharing your registry link with family.
MUST- have essentials to have on hand to bring baby home:
Clothes (see below for list)
Bassinet
Diapering station
Stroller
White noise
Activity Mat
Somewhere to put baby down like a dock-a-tot or boppy
Nursing essentials - if breastfeeding
Bottles
Nursery Set-up
Baby medicine cabinet
Developmental toys
How many clothes should we have prepped in sizing/ total #?
When adding clothes to your registry or shopping list, pick a few newborn items and then focus on 0-3 months sizes. This size option will usually fit babies up to around 12 or 13 lbs.
Newborn layette:
1-2 Coming Home outfits (size preemie (up to 6 lbs), newborn (6-9 lbs), 0-3 months (9-12.5 lbs)
4-6 footed pajamas
2-3 stretchy pull on pants - after cord falls off
2-3 hats - plus sun hat (no sunblock)
Is putting strollers and other expensive things OK to do on registry?
Nursery furniture is not a very common thing to put on registry
Car seats and strollers are totally OK to put on
newborn Gear + clothing essentials
What to pack in your hospital bag
What should I pack in my hospital bag?
See the essential list on this post!
Any tips for my ONE support person in the hospital?
Read The Birth Partner
Partners need to be extra vigilant during this time
Utilize technology to virtually bring in Doula or partner if needed
How do I pick a stroller/crib if I can’t see it/ try it in person?
Make sure the return policy is good
Things to think about before deciding:
Lifestyle (city dweller, traveller, suburbs, runner, hiker, etc.)
Family size
Features to review with your partner:
Handlebar adjustability
Weight
Single to double
How do I pick a pediatrician and when do I need to do this by?
You should have your pediatrician by 30 weeks. Check to see if they will do online interviews to answer questions and learn more about their practice and philosophy.
Questions to ask:
What's current take on COVID re newborns? Visitors after quarantine is lifted, office visits, etc.?
How many physicians are in the practice?
Will we always see the same one or different ones?
Do sick and healthy kids sit in the same exam rooms and same waiting area? - Do you have late or weekend hours?
How long is the wait for an apt typically (when you call in)?
Do you do walk ins?
What is your opinion on vaccinations?
Is there after hours phone lines?
How do you handle school forms?
Get references from friends + OB , confirm that your insurance covers
Don’t forget to think about distance from your house (early morning drives w/ baby in the beginning can be very tough- finding one less than 20 min away is fab)
Missing my maternity shoot, how can I re-create these moments?
There are 8 tips for shooting on this recent Instagram post
Here’s a whole Pinterest board of inspiration
Here are 10 outfits ideas (most your probably already own!)
Are you seeing moms opt out of hospital births and having at-home births instead?
Depending how far along you are, at-home births take a lot of planning. If something goes wrong at the home-birth it’s going to be hard getting into the hospital right now for help. Please chat with your OB about.
Can you I have a doula post birth?
Yes, there’s birth doulas and a postpartum doulas. There is also a “full-spectrum” doula that is there through it all.
Other Tips:
Journaling is so key during this time and don’t forget “first year” baby journals
Don’t forget about mom: join virtual moms clubs and utilize local Facebook groups for mama support and information
The EDP Mamas Facebook group is also a great resource!