5 things your baby needs for Spring
As the days start to grow longer and begin getting warmer, it’s time to start venturing further afield with your family. Here are five of my baby gear essentials for spring adventures!
1. Carrycot for pram
A carrycot attachment for your pram or buggy allows your baby to sleep soundly and safely on their back while you rediscover the joys of being outdoors. If you don’t have a Moses basket or bassinet, your baby can also have their daytime naps in a carrycot attachment at home, the benefit being that you can easily move the carrycot around the house, thus keeping a close eye on your little one. Some carrycots have been tested for safe use as your baby’s first bed, so can replace the Moses basket altogether. Not all brands have been tested though, so do your research if you’re looking into this!
2. Car window shade
Because we Kiwis spend a lot of time in our cars it’s possible your baby can inadvertently be exposed to direct sunlight for long periods of time. A car window shade is useful all year round but is especially helpful in spring and summer for protection against harmful UV rays and keeping the sun out of your baby’s eyes. It will also help to keep your baby’s carseat from getting too hot when the car is empty and parked in the sun.
3. Lighter sleeping bags or muslin wraps
With the days warming up it’s time to think about transitioning your baby to lighter swaddles. Layering is key for spring, as the weather tends to be warm during the day but still cool at night. Dress baby in natural, breathable fabrics which will help keep him cool if it’s hot and warm if it’s cold.
4. Pram sun cover
If your pram’s manufacturer offers a sun cover I do recommend you buy it. As we all know, the sun’s UV rays in New Zealand are especially harsh so it’s important to protect our little ones from direct sunlight as much as possible. A sun cover, especially if it has UV protection, offers invaluable extra protection from sunburn.
5. Hat
Look for a hat that has a wide brim or flaps that protect your baby’s ears and also their neck. Make sure you use it!