Moms: What are things that I should absolutely register for?

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Betrdz

for my baby shower. In other words, what will I not be able to live without. So far, I have:

high chair
travel system
breast pump
baby monitor
safety gate
thermometer

diapers and wipes go without saying but I don't think people actually register for them.

Answer
well, u can go to babies r us website and they have a list for ppl who are going to register..of course it has a lot of things on there that you don't need, but if you weed through you can get what you need out of it...the things i liked;found most useful, etc......

.i would def recommend:
a diaper genie 2; idk why ppl don't like them, there is NO smell in my dd 's room
changing table..will save your back, good for diap changes, clothes changes, sponge baths, etc and you have shelves to store your new baby must haves....i have canvas bins on the shelves to store things that are good to have in reach or easily available...
monitor--i like the graco imonitor, recently bought a second one for another room in the house bc i liked the other one so much, it has been working well for over 8 mos now, and it has good range, battery life, and i can hear EVERYTHING; never any interference....it works great..
boppy pillow with cotton covers, soft ones don't fit as well for some reason
lots of baby hangers, and baby hangers with clips to keep outfits together
primo euro bathtub
prince lionheart diaper depot and wipewarmer; ours works well and the wipes are still very warm when we get them to out dd's bottom; and she doesn't freak out when we are out and they aren't warmed, but seems to appreciate it when they are..
health kit: brush, comb, thermometer (not an ear one, not as accurate), nail clippers, etc.
baby meds, generic is just as good and a lot cheaper...desitin(or plain zinc oxide if you can find it)..not creamy, has less zinc ox in it....infant mylicon and tylenol
lots of diapers , make sure wherever you buy them will let you exchange them for a diff size if you need to even after the return period...brus let me do that, and buy a small pack of a couple brands to see which you prefer before you open the big boxes...wipes, lots of them, without alcohol or fragrance! we use swaddlers diapers and pampers sensitive wipes; no rashes, no reactions to their ingredients, diapers hold a lot when they have too and the netting tends to keep the wet off her bottom...
lots of baby washclothes, you may have to use them on baby's bum if it is really sensitive and gets a rash....and baby towels, but you could use your reg towels if money is an issue

swing, pref swings two ways and plugs in instead of batteries
bouncy seat
infant travel system! easy, easy, easy--we got the graco tour deluxe; it is great, folds with one hand, several seating positions, lays flat for sleep; has a big basket underneath and cup holders for mom and dad, one for baby , place for snacks for baby, and a 'pocket' up top for keys, cell phone, whatever you wanna put there...
play yard, get one with bassinet feature if you want to, easier to keep baby in your room for a while before putting them in crib in their room=we have chicco discovery and it is awesome, has more padding than most, easy to wash..machine wash, most are wipe down...very sturdy, has nightlight, vibration, etc and a flip up change table, has wooden slats that slide in under mattress for support...not that much more exp than the others and much better in my opinion
passys--she loves soothies and that is all she will take..
baby wash, again frag free, dye free
frag free , dye free laundry detergent
clothes hamper or basket
lingerie bag for socks, mittens, anything little so they don't get lost in the wash...
something to put baby toys in
extra toy links
lullaby cd and small cd player; my dd has come to love white noise, she naps with a fan and a womb bear; sleeps at night with a fan....
oh, mosquito cover for your infant carrier..it's where you can see in , baby can see out, but strangers cant just walk up and touch your baby, and they will!!!!!
all i can come up with now...LOL
diaper bags; big one for everything you may need, leave in car unless you will be somewhere a long time, and a small one to stick what you will need for a short run in so you don't have to haul the bigger one

if ffing:
avent formula dispenser; has better review than the ones made by sassy, and convert to a snack cup later...i loved it so much i bought a second one!
bottles--really liked playtex ventaire advanced when she was young, more pieces but it's easy to get them clean when the top and bottom comes off...and they vent through the bottom instead of the nip so no bubbles or foam going back up into baby's milk; they will leak if you don't put them together correctly, but we have had no probs with them and have never had to replace any parts on them..if u decide on them and have leaks, email me and i will explain how to keep them from leaking...:O)
bottle and nip brushes--i really like the ones by munchking that don't have a sponge on the end of the brush, they come in diff colors mixed with white and have a great nip brush in the handles....
drying racks--again, i really like munchkins...
formula mixer: i like dr brown's formula pitcher bc you don't shake it it is only abo

How much money did you spend preparing for baby?

Between all the equipment and baby supplies how much did you end up spending getting everything ready for a new baby? Did you have a baby shower? Get lots of things as presents?
Thanks!

Answer
I did have a baby shower and got quite a few things for my daughter (Crib & mattress, baby bath, baby towels, clothes, walker, bouncy seat, books & toys, breast pump & bottles, diapers and wipes and probably a few other things I can't think of at the moment). But I also purchased quite a few things as well. I bargain shopped and got almost everything on clearance or on sale and with coupons so I spent much less than I could have. Before my daughter was born I bought a travel system, pack-n-play, crib bedding, stocked up on diapers and wipes (it turned out to be 8 months worth), clothes for the first 6 months, paint and a few other things to fix up her room and it was maybe around $500. That's nothing compared to what I would have paid if I paid full price for everything. The travel system and pack-n-play alone would have been $500 had I not shopped smart.

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Anyone else pregnant and have insane in-laws?

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Mommy of 2

When i got married my mother and father said to my hubby, She yours now and i'm budding out. Honestly they have. Even my husband can not complain. My mother never comes to our house uninvited and when i do invite her over even if it the house is the worst mess you ever seen she doesn't say a word.

My in-laws are insane. My husband and i dated for about 4 years before we got married. We are only married one year now. So i guess they do not know me as well as my family does. I hate being told what to do. I am very independent. I moved out of my parents house when i was 22 years old with a 5 month old baby. Even before then i was independent. If someone TOLD me do something i did the opposite. I will take advise but can not be told what to do.

I'm 17 weeks pregnant now. Me, my husband, and my 7 year old daughter are very very happy. My Parents are happy for us too. My in-laws are mad at for no reason. When we told them i was pregnant, my father in law slapped my husband and called him and ass hole, my mother in law didn't even congratulate us until the next day.

Our next visit i showed my mother-in-law the picture of the travel system (stroller, car seat) that i want to PURCHASE MYSELF. Its very expensive ($900) but it the infant travel system i want. She had the nevre to tell me that i should be happy with a Kmart stroller. I have an ok job and i've been saving to open up my own business for over a year. I've plan on putting the new money i'm saving to my stroller. On this same visit my father-in-law was telling my husband to never let me quit my job that i should give birth like they did in the old times in a field, stap the kid to my back and continue working. Even though we will struggle very much. i really want to be a SAHM. I have worked every day of my life since i was 16. My mother in law hasn't work a day in 35 years. When she got married she quit and has been home since.

Our lastest visit, I walk in the door and my father-in-law hand me a baby name book. And then continues to lecture us for 20 minutes on how we can not name out child Vincenzo because 1) he hates it and secondly because its italian. He is italian! My married last name is ITALIAN! Trying explain how my child will never get a job if i name an "ethic" name. If its a girl he doesn't like the name we picked either, Savannah. He wants us to pick a name that is more comman. Something i want to stay far away from. I would hate to have my child in school and be consider Christine S. because there are 2 other Christines in school.

These people are still not happy for us and we told them i was pregnant over 10 weeks ago. They act like we are gonna ask them for money or something. I'm not like that and i would never ask for money from anyone.

These are just the tip of the ice berg. Its a constine battle.

I really don't want to go to thier home any longer because i feel like i'm attacked the minute i walk in front door. I havent felt well since i found out that i'm pregnant and i don't need any added stress from these two people.

Anyone have in-laws even more insane than mine? Can you explain?
two things... Who in the world said i live these people? I don't live with them. I've had my own apt for 7 years! I taken care of myself for years.

Secondly, They knew about my daughter and the situation before me and my husband started dating. We have been friend since we 14 years old. So if they had problems with that they would have said something before we were serious.Plus his mom, and sister say i'm the best thing to happen to him

Answer
I wouldn't honestly know, my in-laws are SO wonderfuls I think they're insane because of it... lol

But quick question.... why in the hell hasn't your husband told them to shut it with the rude comments?

As your husband, its his job to stand up to them, especially if they are speaking ill of you.

If your husband has an issue with standing up to them, its time to throw the b*tch card in.... I would be in their faces telling them until they showed me some respect, they wouldn't see me or their grandchild...

Only you can allow them to speak to you the way they do... I am independent and I sure as hell wouldn't have put up with half te crap they've said to you.

Time to either have your husband step up or you need to do it yourself.

Air travel with baby who needs a car seat (not part of a travel system)?

Cathy

we are taking our 10 month old to a couple of air trips coming up. We used to carry his car seat and his stroller to the gate and get the car seat and the stroller checked in at the gate. However, he has outgrown his 'travel system car seat' and now uses a Britax Marathon for a car seat. Now that we are taking him traveling to see relatives, how do I take the car seat with us? The Britax Marathon is big and heavy so we don't necessary want to carry it onto the plane with us. But if we check it in, I worry that it will get bumped and scratched and get dirty. Any tips?

Answer
We have traveled on the airplane with our Marathon. It installs super easy on the plane and our daughter was very comfy and slept the whole way.

I would never check a carseat. The baggage handlers are way too rough with everything and it could get damaged.

You could go to Walmart or Kmart and get the Cosco Scenera (5 point harness NOT overhead shield) for about $40. It rearfaces to 35lbs, then forward faces to 40lbs. It's much lighter than the Marathon too.

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can mamas & papas pliko p3 be forward and rear facing?

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lisa b

i got a mamas and papas pliko p3 secondhand from my friend and was wondering if it can face both ways? thanks!
she has moved away and this is the first of me using it

Answer
Why not just ask your friend? She should know.

I'm not familiar with the brand, but I'll look it up online and find the answer for you.....

*All I've found online is talking about the travel system with the stroller. If its just a carrier (has the handle on it so that you can carry baby while he/she is still fastened in), then no, you cannot turn it around. It is strictly rear facing. There should be warning stickers on the car seat that say "Rear Facing Only" or "Forward facing after 20 lbs and 1 year of age" or something similar.

which would be best for my daughter?

Q. I am 14 and my daughter is coming up to 4 weeks old now, however, i am still yet to buy her a pram, as my guardian has not been able to give me the money until she got paid. Which type of pram do you think would be best?
1. http://www.boots.com/en/Hauck-Apollo-4-Trioset-Black-_1037860/
2.http://www.boots.com/en/My-Child-Orbital-Travel-System_1039113/
3.http://www.boots.com/en/Mamas-Papas-Pliko-Pramette-Mimi_1035803/
4.http://www.boots.com/en/Baby-Jogger-City-Mini-Single-Black_32164/
based on how easy it is to take on public transport aswell? I have not got a clue about this type of thing? I also dont mind having to buy another pram in a few months or so is she grows out of t, because my guardian said she will support me for anything i need for my baby. So which do you think would be best and why?
Another question:
I also need to get a car seat for when i travel with my gaurdian and my daughter, i again have a few options, which do you think would be best for a premature baby, that is almost 4 weeks old?
1.http://www.boots.com/en/Britax-Baby-Safe-SHR-car-seat-nicolas_1036744/
2.http://www.boots.com/en/Britax-First-Class-Plus-car-seat-bella_1035594/
3.http://www.boots.com/en/Mamas-Papas-Primo-Viaggio-IP-Mimi_1035813/
4.http://www.boots.com/en/Maxi-Cosi-Priori-SPS-car-seat-stone_859170/
Again price doesnt matter, i can alwasy update it at a later date is she out grows it i just need to know which one would be more suitable for her and provide maximum comfort and support which in a moving car.
Sory this is so long but anothier question:
After i gave birth i didnt bleed at all only on the day of the birth but now i have started to bleed extremely heavy, it is also very painful, so whch pads would you recommend to ensure that there are no leaks? if you just send me a link of where i can buy them and the price that they are that would be great :) thankyou i would really appreciate a detailed answer to this question even if it i a bit long, SORRY!

Answer
Hi your best option would probably be to buy a travel system type pram (buggie & car seat together) you can get these from mothercare, mamas and papas, boots etc. The choices of prams you've chosen are good but you've got to find a pram that's comfortable for you as well as your baby.
As for the bleeding your best option would be to get "maternity pads" you can get these most supermarkets but I used boots brand.
I hope this helps

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When should i start registering for my baby shower?

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Jamie

I'm having my baby shower June 12th when should i decide where to register and when?

Answer
Go ahead and register now, I am due June 29th and my showers are sometime in May, there isn't even proper dates set up but my MIL started telling me to make them three weeks ago, I haven't even given out my registry information yet and people have still got online and searched for my information on babiesrus to see if I had made one yet and already bought some stuff. People do check to see if you made one before they get their invitations, I always try to find them first so I can get first dibs on what gifts I want to buy.

Last Sunday my dad bought me a double electric breast pump and a baby bath tub that was better than the one I registered for and sent me an email telling me to take the baby bath tub off of my registry and told me the one he got me. My sister asked me for my home address yesterday and told me to take my swing off of the registry because she is ordering it for me off of amazon and it will be delivered to my house. My mother in law started asking around for what pack n play we like so that means someone on my husband's side of the family wants to buy that, we told her we have one picked out on our target registry so most likely they already have it pulled up. My stepmom called dibs on buying the play activity mat already and asked if I can take the one I have off of my registry so no one else buys it. MIL bought us a eddie bauer travel system before I was even three months pregnant because she found it brand new on sale at sears for $90 and that is our babyshower gift from her.

So you see registering earlier can not hurt at all, it is better to in my own opinion. There are plenty of times when I found the registry before I had got the invitation that I picked a big ticket item and asked if some other people can go in together and we can split the cost of the item to make sure they get at least one big ticket item and they can still buy a small gift. The worst thing that can happen is no one buys anything off of your list until you send out your invitations. I find it easier to just work on it a little each day anyways so you don't forget to put certain things on your list that are often overlooked like thermometers and baby medicine.

Hey when do we start buying baby items?

Hunnie_bun

My best friend is having a baby, im so HAPPY!
Okay she is almost 2 months, is it wayyy to early to start buying little things like a few packs of onesies and neautral color stuff, like pacifiers bottles, care kits, n stuff?
Also i found a brand new winnie the pooh baby swing on craigslist, for 30 bucks,
im no baby whiz,so is that a good price?

THANKS!

Answer
You can start shopping whenever you would like. I found out i was pregnant the 2nd week of august and by sept. me and the hubby already went out and got the travel system i wanted because it was on sale. I would ask your friend how she feels about used items....but if she doesnt mind then 30 bucks is a good deal for a swing if it runs fine and looks in good shape. Although for 30 more dollars you can buy a new one.

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Can a cold sore turn into genital herpes if...?

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Noah Benja

(I'm 13 weeks pregnant.)

Ok.. I guess I have a cold sore, but I didn't know it until today... I had a bump on my lip yesterday, but I thought it was just a pimple growing on my lip.. Now it's quite obviously a cold sore. I gave my boyfriend oral sex yesterday and now I'm worried that he'll get genital herpes from it. How likely is this to happen? Also, can the cold sore affect my unborn baby?

Answer
First, you have to understand there are several types of herpesviruses, namely HSV-1 and 2. HSV-1 was more commonly associated with the 'waist up' while HSV-2 was traditionally seen from the 'waist down.' If your boyfriend is seronegative for HSV-1 (that is, he has no antibodies for it), it is possible that he could contract HSV-1 on his genitals. Hopefully, he washed himself after receiving oral sex; that can greatly reduce the liklihood of transmission. As far as your baby, since you most likely already have HSV-1 you are seropositive for it (that is, you have antibodies for it) and you will pass these antibodies to your baby through the placenta. It runs a 1-3% chance of becoming infected with HSV-1. So, because you already have it and have developed an immune response, you will transfer this to your baby and it will probably be safe. Concerning your boyfriend, if he has had cold sores in the past or is sero-positive for HSV-1 as well, it's very well possible that he could be protected too, as people seropositive with HSV-1 on the mouth should not be able to contract HSV-1 on their genitals.

I'm sure you know that once you have the herpesvirus, you're stuck with it forever. This is true for all the herpesviruses, and there are many of them that exist. Many herpesviruses in animals cause respiratory diseases that will come and go, but never be cleared from the animal. This is because the virus resides in your nervous system, and the immune system has no access to it here. It will lie dormant for the the majority of the time, but during times of stress you may develop a papule. Often times, the papule will develop in the same spot as the virus will travel down the same nerve to reinfect at the same spot.

If you would like to read more information on this, a simple wiki passage can also tell you a lot:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herpes_simplex

I am a microbiologist and work with viruses and bacteria, not a medical doctor, so don't take my advice and accept it as the end-all be-all. Since you are in a very sensitive situation here being pregnant and all, it is very important for you to talk to your doctor and get any recommendations from him. Just remember many, many people have cold sores. I would try not getting too worked up over this. I believe the statistic is 1 in 4 females are positive for some herpesvirus.

Good books for the ages 16-20?

LST

I enjoy reading and I was wondering what books I should read.
thanks.

Answer
His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman
http://www.philip-pullman.com/pages/content/index.asp?PageID=36
Lyra and Will, children from different worlds, share two common bonds, the loss of parents and the possession of objects which give them unique access to knowledge. One is an object which communicates truth about any situation to any person wise enough to be able to read it and the other an instrument which can cut open windows to other worlds.

Inheritance series by Christopher Paolini
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inheritance_cycle#Synopsis
Fifteen year-old Eragon discovers his destiny as a Dragon Rider. With only an ancient sword and the advice of an old storyteller for guidance, Eragon and his dragon must navigate the dangerous terrain and dark enemies of an Empire ruled by a king whose evil knows no bounds.

Xanth Series by Piers Anthony
http://www.amazon.com/Xanth-nbsp-Series/lm/RDF5340JWQCTW/ref=cm_srch_res_rpli_alt_3
Fun series full of fantastic creatures, a unique parallel world and a magic system based on puns. Yes I said puns! These are a light read and funny as heck (by the rules of the Adult Conspiracy if I say the other word really bad things will happen.) Anthony has taken puns sent to him over the years by readers and woven them into a tongue in cheek universe where babies are actually delivered by storks and children are kept innocent at all costs. Fun reads.

Dragon Riders of Pern by Anne Mcaffery
http://www.iblist.com/series130.htm
Anne Mcaffery is one of those authors whose books just leave you feeling good once you read the last page. While a combination of Sci-fi and Fantasy (the argument continues about which one it is) they sit on my fantasy shelf. Anyone who has ever dreamed of riding a dragon should read these.

The Belgariad (5), The Malloreon(5), The Elenium (3), The Tamuli(3) by David and Leigh Eddings
http://www.eddingschronicles.com/index.html
I can't say enough good about these books. They are full of rich content, fantastic worldbuilding and plenty of sorcery. One of my biggest draws is the humor, the interaction between characters can be side splitting at times. They are rift with dry wit, affectionate banter and personal quirks. My favorite books hands down.

Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mists_of_Avalon
I've always loved her writing, even her Sci-fi books and I'm not a huge Sci-fi fan. In this book she gives a feminist light on the Celtic era where Merlin reigned supreme. In a topic that has been done to death, somehow she manages to make it all fresh and new, and a great read. there are more books in this series that she wrote with Diane L. Paxton including a prequel called Forest House.

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams and the sequels.
http://books.google.com/books?as_auth=Douglas+Adams&sa=X&oi=print&ct=title&cad=author-navigational&hl=en
These books are a riot and considered a Sci-fi classic. If you want space travel with a heavy dose of irony and humor I suggest these.

Darkover series by Marion Zimmer Bradley
http://mzbworks.home.att.net/works.htm#darkover
This is a huge series that can be read in any order since each was written to be a stand alone novel.
Darkover is a planet that is in a state of permanent Ice Age. The ruling class or Comyn, possess different types of Laran which are psychic powers. There are several unique cultures and alien races. Great reads.

Forgotten Realms books by R. A. Salvatore
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forgotten_Realms
There is no easy way to summarize these books, the scope is just too large. Best I can do is say they are full of adventure, elves, magic, and alternate worlds. Once you start reading these you will find yourself hooked.

Valdemar series by Mercedes Lackey
http://www.mercedeslackey.com/biblio_series.html
This is a large collection and every book in it is excellent. The concept of being *chosen* by a companion, which is essentially a telepathic horse with amazing powers, is delightful. Once chosen you become one of the elite heralds, protectors of the realm. Start with Arrows of the Queen.

The Wheel of Time (11 in print, 12th book to be written by Brandon Sanderson) by Robert Jordan
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Wheel_of_Time
This huge sage takes place in a medievil type world where magic is called the One Power and can only be used by women. Men who are born with this ability are fated to go insane, if they live that long as once found are usually killed first. The saga centers around one man who, born with the One Power, is fated to save the world, while trying to save himself from insanity. The first book takes off slow as the extensive worldbuilding begins to take shape but once you get past that part you will never regret it.

The Chronicles of Thomas Covenant, the Unbeliever by Stephen R. Donaldson (1 and 2)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_Covenant
Thomas Covenant is a leper, outcast and misunderstood his disease makes everybody treat him with fear and mistrust. As a result he lives alone, shunning all human contact as much as possible. When he is suddenly transported to a world where he is healthy, where health is a very tangible force, he refuses to believe, afraid that if he does he'll cease to focus on the rituals that keep him alive. This series had a profound effect on me. The angst of Thomas Covenant, the force with which he refused to believe what was happening to him, the tragic events that have shaped his life were all heart wrenching. The first 6 books definitely changed how I looked at things, both inside and outside of myself. (Note I don't care for the new ones written recently, long after the first 2 sets, but thats me.)

Bone Doll's Twin, Hidden Warrior, Oracle's Queen (Tamir Trilogy) by Lynn Flewelling
http://www.amazon.com/s/?ie=UTF8&keywords=tamir+trilogy&tag=googhydr-20&index=stripbooks&hvadid=1155787541&ref=pd_sl_80btvzk9eq_e
In this story the boy twin is killed at birth and its body imprinted onto the girl twin in order that one day the girl could rule the kingdom (prophecy involved). Something goes wrong and the boy twin ends up haunting his sister (who doesn't even know she is a girl). This book is a really well crafted mix of ghost story (plenty of those), coming of age, with a twist and traditional fantasy with magic, warriors, witches and of course a well hated villain or 2.

A Song of Ice and Fire Series (4 in print, 3 planned) by George R. R. Martin
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Song_of_Ice_and_Fire
A ruthless story about a ruthless world where harsh winterlike conditions make for harsh and gritty characters. This series has all the typical elements of sword and sorcery; wars, prophecy, dragons (later in the series), invading creatures from another land, treason, betrayal, love, death and loyality. Martin tells this tale from the viewpoint of many different characters, each bringing a unique perspective on the unforgiving land in which they live. This series is rift with sex and violence and I do not recommend for younger teens.

Pre-history (meaning times before recorded history)

Jean M. Auel's series Earth's Children.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Earth%27s_Children
This is a series of historical fiction based on archaeological and paleontological research. The magic in these is shamanic based and they are good reads.

The People's books by Kathleen O'Neal Gear and W. Michael Gear
http://www.tor.com/Gears/index.html
Prehistoric North America based on archaeological and paleontological research.These are fictional stories based on what the authors imagine things were like but also based on evidence collected at actual archaeological sites. Each book covers a different site and a different tribal culture.

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What's the best car seat or Stroller System for new borns?

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laura

Hi.

I'm having my baby girl in couple weeks, and i haven't bought the car seat, I'm looking a comfortable one for her, could you please help me making this decision by your own experience with the brand.

Thanks.

Answer
Congratulations!

There are two types of car seats that a newborn baby can ride in. One of those types is the infant car seat. This seat comes with a base; the base is installed in the car and the carrier can be clicked in and out of the base. Most infant car seats also come with a travel system, where the carrier can be clicked in the stroller. In other words, this makes the infant car seat transportable. A downside to an infant car seat it that it may not last as long as expected. An infant can outgrow this car seat really quickly (around 6 months for huge babies and 18 months for those petite ones). An infant car seat with a 35 lb rear facing weight limit may not last until a child is 35 lbs. It may last until they are 25 lbs and have outgrown it by height. They are also really heavy. Bring a 12 lb bag of something with you to the store. Place it in the carrier and practice carrying it around.

A car seat needs to protect an infant during a crash, so as a priority, it is important to find an infant car seat that can be correctly installed in your vehicle.

Some infant car seats I recommend based on its features that make it easy to install:
-Graco Snugride 30 (or the 35 model)
-Safety 1st Onboard 35
-Cosco Comfy Carry Elite (must be the "Elite" or "Elite Plus" model)
-Chicco KeyFit 30
-Britax B-Safe
-Britax Chaperone
-Cybex Aton

All of these infant car seats above allow the handle to be left "up" in the carrier postion. I would never recommend a car seat made by BabyTrend or Evenflo because these manufacturers require the handle to be moved after the infant carrier has been clicked in. It is just one more thing to remember and a pain.

An infant needs their car seat reclined at 45 degrees. This can take up a ton of front-to-back space in the vehicle. Britax infant car seats take up the most room. Then Graco takes a little less. Then Chicco takes less Graco. The Cybex Aton takes the least amount of front-to-back space, but it is expensive for how long it lasts.

The Comfy Carry Elite Plus as a lot of features and is really affordable (about $70). Here is a review of it: http://carseatblog.com/10346/dorel-safety-1st-comfy-carry-elite-plus-infant-carseat-review/

Another type of infant car seat is a convertible car seat. A convertible car seat stays installed in the car, which doesn't make it transportable. When a child is rear facing, the harness straps need to be adjusted at or slightly below the child's shoulders. This means that the lowest set of harness strap slots need to be low enough to fit a newborn's torso. Slots less than 7 to 8 inches will fit most full term newborns. Look at lower slots 5 to 6 inches to fit smaller babies. Some convertibles come with infant inserts that are placed either under or over the cover. These are used to lift a baby up so that the harness fits them better.

Parents who use a convertible car seat use an infant carrier such as a sling, wrap, or the ergo to carry their baby around. Like Bobbi said, having a stroller that folds flat is best. It is best for a baby to lie flat instead of in a reclined position.

Convertible car seats that will fit full-term newborns (some will fit even preemies):
-Chicco Next Fit
-Evenflo SureRide
-Graco My Ride 65 (or 70 model)
-Maxi Cosi Pria 70 (must be with the tinyfit system)
-Peg Perego Primo Viaggio
-First Years True Fit
-Evenflo Symphony 65 e3
-Evenflo Triumph 65

Besides the Graco My Ride 65, these convertible car seats could last a child from birth to age 5 to 6. The Graco My Ride 65 might last to age 4 to 5, depending on your child's height (too many variables to determine).

Besides these convertibles, the Cosco Scenera, Cosco Apt, Safety 1st Onside Air, Evenflo Tribute and Graco ComfortSport also fit newborns great; however, they will not be a child's last car seat with the harness as these will only last to a child to approximately age 2 to 3.

what type of stroller travel system is best?

tender_hea

trying to find a travel system for first baby-- can't figure out what to get. Graco, evenflo, safety first? any help is appreciated. needing one that can recline and is easy to get into a compact car. ANY IDEAS?

Answer
I'm pretty happy with my Graco travel system, but this particular stroller is a bit bulky when folded.
Go online to Target, Wal-mart, etc or another place you can buy travel systems and read the reviews! It helped really me when I was trying to find one.


Here's the one I got: http://www.walmart.com/ip/Graco-FlipIt-Travel-System-Emery/13060515
It says it's not sold in stores but the Wal-mart in my area had it on clearance for $80! Ridiculous! There's nothing wrong with the travel system though..they were just clearing out and rearranging the store.

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Baby Registry: Gender Neutral or Gender Specific?!?

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Crash

I just found out on Friday that I am going to be having a baby girl. After the stress of choosing a store to register at and finally coming to a conclusion, (AlbeeBaby), I've now got another problem. Since I plan to have more children in my future, it would be logical to register for nuetral big-ticket items (travel system, convertible carseat, high chair, etc.) but OH the pink. I absolutely adore the pink carseats, the pink strollers, the pink high chairs, but if i have a boy in a few years I'll have to buy all new everything. Or will everything be so used that they'll need to be replaced anyway? So my main question is, what did YOU do when you were creating your baby registry? Did you register for gender specific or gender nuetral items? Are the cutesy pink pricey baby gear items just an outlet for big buisnesses to make more money? Thanks!

Answer
Clothes wise, i'd say pink it up. Their going to get too stained most likely to reuse anyways. Carseat issue, i'd say get the design you want also, quite frankly, these get so dirty with food, leaky bottles, leaky diapers etc....that you will probably want to re-buy that item again with a future one. Bed set, depending on how fancy you go, these can be relatively inexpensive, i'd say also get what you want. Plus you'll get so sick of seeing the design you'll prob want a new one with another child also. But the bigger items like playpen, high chair, swing, walker, bouncy seat etc... I would go with a more functional design and color scheme, these are pretty expensive and can usually be reused without a problem. just pick one with a design that will hide stains well and you should be set.....oh yeah, and on a personal note, when it comes to picking out a stroller/travel system for your registry or to buy yourself, dont skimp on it. Not saying get the most expensive, but dont go for the cheapest. I went for the cheaper stroller and ended up HATING it, it was just harder to push and had a crappy overall design. If you know any other people that have had babies in the past couple of yrs, try to recruit them to go along and show you what they used alot of during the first year, it'll help alot with making your registry so you'll get stuff you'll actually use, not just all the cute crap that catches your eye :) good luck!

Babies R Us "MUST HAVES" list?

Gianas mom

Babies R Us "MUST HAVES" list?
What will i honest to god actually need that i shouldnt expect to get at the baby shower? below is the list of stuff Babies r us says i need-i posted it just so you can see why i'm questioning how much of it is legit. (as you can tell this is my first, lol)

Infant car seat
Car seat base for 2nd car
Convertible car seat
Booster car seat
Car seat toys
Shopping cart cover
Car seat comfort & accessories
strollers
Travel system
Full-size stroller
Lightweight stroller
Mid-size stroller
Jogger stroller
Double & triple stroller
Stroller comfort & accessories
Stroller toys 6 Stroller diaper bag
backpacks & carriers
Backpacks
Front & back soft carriers
Sling & wrap carriers
play yards/travel yards
Play yards/travel yards
Play yards/travel yards sheets (Qty: 2-3)
activity
Stationary entertainers
Walkers
Gyms & playsets
Bouncers
Swings
Door jumpers
Infant positioner
baby gear
feeding & nursing
Warmers & sterilizers
Burping cloths (Qty: 6-12)
Cloth diapers (Qty: 6-12)
Lap pads (Qty: 6)
Bibs (Qty: 8-12)
breastfeeding
Breastpump
Breast pads, shields & cream
Breast milk storage
Containers or bags
Nursing pillow & stool
Nursing wrap/cover
bottle-feeding
Bottles for formula (Qty: 6-8)
Bottle nipples
Bottle drying rack
Bottle brush
Dishwasher caddy
Insulated tote
solid feeding
Feeding sets
Training cups
Infant spoons (for home)
Baby food processors & accessories
high chairs
High chairs
High chair cover
Splat mat
High chair toys
Extra high chair pad
booster seats
Booster seats
Splat mat
feeding accessories
Feeding accessories
infant care
bath & potty
Bathtub & seat
Washcloths (Qty: 8-12)
Hooded bath towels (Qty: 4-6)
Bath robe
Gentle shampoo & body wash
Baby lotion
Bath accessories
Bath toys
Step stool
Travel folding potty set
Stand alone potty seat
Toilet training seat (ring)
baby care & grooming
Nail clippers
Brushes & comb
Digital thermometer
Ear thermometer
Grooming kit
First aid kit
Humidifier/vaporizer
Baby mittens
Lotion
Baby oil
Cotton swabs
Cotton balls
Petroleum jelly
Gas relief drops
Teethers
Pacifiers
Pain relief products
diapers & formula
Diapers
Baby wipes
Diaper pail refills
Wipe warmer
Diaper pail
Formula*
Diaper bags
Baby changing mat
Diaper ointment
Travel wipes
safety
Audio monitor
Video monitor
Cabinet/drawer latches
Safety gates
Outlet covers
Corner guards
Edge guards
Smoke & carbon monoxide alarm
infant care (continued)
nursery
cradles/bassinets
Cradle, bassinet or portable crib
Bedding sets
Cradle, bassinet or portable crib sheets (Qty: 2-3)
Cradle, bassinet or portable crib toys
nursery furniture
Crib**
Crib toys
Changing table
Armoire/chifforobe**
Dresser/chest**
Drawer linens
Hutch**
Glider or upholstered rocker**
Ottoman**
Blanket chest
mattresses
Crib mattress
Crib mattress pads (Qty: 3)
Vinyl mattress cover
Cradle, bassinet or
portable crib mattress
bedding
Crib bedding set
Fitted crib sheets (Qty: 4-6)
Blankets (Qty: 4-6)
Receiving blankets (Qty: 4-6)
Waterproof pads (Qty: 4-6)
Sheet savers (Qty: 4-6)
Changing table covers (Qty: 2-4)
Changing table pads 6 Sleep positioner
room décor
Wall hanging
Switchplate cover
Crib mobile
Lamp
Wall border
Window treatments
Diaper stacker
Rug
Hamper
Waste basket
nursery storage
Storage solutions
Organizers
Shelves
Baskets/storage bins (Qty: 2-4)

layette
Bibs (Qty: 8-12)
Burp cloths
Washcloths (Qty: 12)
Towels (Qty: 4)
Bodysuits (Qty: 9-12)
Gowns (Qty: 4-6)
Layette sets
bedding
Bedding sets
Blankets (Qty: 4-6)
Sheets (Qty: 4-6)
bath & healthcare
Wipes
Lotion
Massage lotion
Shampoo
Diaper cream
Stretch mark fading cream
Just for mom gift sets
Homecoming quilt
Matching sets
Cap & bootie sets (Qty: 2-4)
T-Shirts (Qty: 4-6)
Cotton overalls (Qty: 3-6)
Gowns (Qty: 4-6)
Socks (Qty: 9-12)
Wearable blankets (Qty: 2)
Clothing hangers (Qty: 12-24)
Snow suit or bunting
Sweaters**
One-Pc. coveralls (Qty: 4-6)
Outfits (Qty: 4-6)
Bodysuits (Qty: 9-12)
clothing and layette
infant toys
Rattles
Teethers
Soft toys
Toys 0-12 months
Toys 12-24 months

Answer
Yaaaa...you don't need 95% of that stuff...lol

Okay....so here is what I needed and used in the 1st week

Infant car seat
Stroller (I actually had 2...1 regular and 1 jogger..but the jogger was borrowed...I didn't need it, but was super glad I had it as it was easier to work with on hills and in the park etc)
Diaper bag
Diapers and wipes
Sleepers/onesies/socks/pants/shirts any other clothing you want/need
Crib and crib sheets
Monitor
Bassinette or playyard or cradle...whatever you want to use while baby is in your room beside your bed - i still don't own a playyard, we used a borrowed cradle and that was fine...my son is 16 months...sometimes I wish I had a playyard, but you definitely do not need one
Breast pump and storage bags
Bottles/nipples (if you are breastfeeding, you only need 1 or 2 bottles...I had 3 and never opened the 3rd bottle...I only used 1 and left 1 at my mom's house so that if she was watching him she could put frozen breastmilk in the bottle...hence the breast pump
They don't need toys for some time...they don't play with toys in the first week...but it is nice to have some car seat toys for entertainment
A play mat is very nice to have
Soothers (2 or 3)
Soother clip
Vitamin D drops
Bouncer/swing...I had both, but only needed 1..he would sleep in the swing, it was awesome!
Breast pads and cream (For sore nipples)
Burp cloths...but you can use old towels too
Infant Bathtub (very cheep...just a regular one, you don't need the ones with hoses/showers etc)
Wash cloths/towels..again you can use regular ones
Mild baby bath soap
Gripe Water (excellent for gas etc) non-alcoholic
Cornstarch (Not peneten etc for diaper rash) this works way better and is much milder on skin!

Hmmmm...that is about it!!

There are things that are nice to have...and you can totally decide and ask for those things too...but the must haves are above!

Hope this helps!

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good modern songs i can play on acoustic guitar for camping ? please help?

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The Oracle

i need a number of good songs (crowd pleasers) im climbing kilimanjaro and we will be camping each night so i would like to learn some songs everyone knows/likes

Answer
1. House of the Rising Sun â The Animals
2. Let It Be â The Beatles
3. Ainât No Sunshine â Bill Withers
4. Time of your Life â Green Day
5. Blowinâ in the Wind â Bob Dylan
6. Our House â Crosby, Still Nash & Young
7. Donât Dream Itâs Over â Crowded House
8. Something Inside so Strong â Labi Siffre
9. Love Song - The Cure
10. True Colours â Cyndi Lauper
11. Hotel California -The Eagles
12. In the Ghetto â Elvis Presley
13. Leaving On A Jet Plane â Frank Sinatra
14. Day-O (The Banana Boat Song) â Harry Belafonte
15. Fire and Rain â James Taylor
16. Hallelujah â John Cale
17. Working Class Hero â John Lennon
18. Take me Home, Country Roads â John Denver
19. Wandering Star â Lee Marvin
20. California Dreaminâ â The Mamas and the Papas
21.Redemption Song â Joe Strummer & Johnny Cash
22. Talkinâ About a Revolution â Tracy Chapman
23. Daydream Believer â The Monkees
24. Down in Albion â Baby Shambles
25. Forever In Blue Jeans â Neil Diamond
26. Only Love Can Break Your Heart â Neil Young
27. Come As You Are â Nirvana
28. (Sittinâ on) the Dock of the Bay â Otis Redding
29. Baby, I Love your Way â Peter Frampton
30. Wish You Were Here â Pink Floyd
31. Dirty Old Town - The Pogues
32. King of the Road â The Proclaimers
33. Everybody Hurts â R.E.M.
34. Killing Me Softly With His Song â Roberta Flack
35. Vincent â Don McLean
36. Handbags and Gladrags â Rod Stewart
37. Wonderwall â Ryan Adams
38. Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head â Sacha Distel
39. New Slang â The Shins
40. Mrs. Robinson â Simon & Garfunkel
41. There is a Light That Never Goes Out â The Smiths
42. Grazed Knees â Snow Patrol
43. Lost In Hollywood â System of a Down
44. Just My Imagination (Running Away With Me) â The Temptations
45. Africa â Toto
46. Handle with Care â Traveling Wilburys
47. All I Want Is You â U2
48. Island in the Sun. â Weezer
49. Sheâs Not There â The Zombies
50. There She Goes â The Las

What are your Top 5 (or more) favorite songs?

xxSNGxx

I just wanted to know what are your top songs:
They can be oldies, hip-hop, rap , rock, punk
anything except country or jazz.
Give at least your top 5 or more if you can. Whoever gives the most gets the most points.
Also, i would like umm. Those songs with the loud piano playing?? (people i know call them devil song)
Like the really creppy songs.
Ex.
( Orochimaru theme song )
(Akatsuki theme song)
yeah ..
well thanks guys!!
Please use this format:
SONG-ARTIST

Answer
1. In Bloom - Nirvana
2. Ticket To Ride - the Beatles
3. Free Bird - Lynyrd Skynyrd
4. Go With the Flow - Queens of the Stone Age
5. Last Kiss - J. Frank Wilson & the Cavaliers

more...

6. Have A Cigar - Pink Floyd
7. Revolution - the Beatles
8. Come As You Are - Nirvana
9. While My Guitar Gently Weeps - Beatles
10. Layla - Eric Clapton
11. Layla (unplugged) - Eric Clapton
12. Anna Is A Speed Freak - Pure
13. Can't Seem To Make You Mine - the Seeds
14. Don't Worry Baby - Beach Boys
15. Sound of Silence - Simon & Garfunkel
16. California Dreamin - Mamas & the Papas
17. Maybe Baby - Buddy Holly
18. Only The Lonely - Roy Orbison
19. Got My Mind Set On You - George Harrison
20. Whiskey In the Jar - Thin Lizzy
21. Midnight Rider - Allman Brothers Band
22. Tequila Sunrise - the Eagles
23. You Know I'm No Good - Amy Winehouse
24. Self-Esteem - the Offspring
25. Master Of Puppets - Metallica
26. American Pie - Don McLean
27. The Kids Aren't Alright - the Offspring
28. Aerials - System of a Down
29. All Along the Watchtower - Jimi Hendrix
30. Sunday Morning - No Doubt
31. Head Over Heels - Alanis Morisette
32. Instant Karma - John Lennon
33. End of the Line - Traveling Wilburys
34. When You Were Young - the Killers
35. Simple Man - Lynyrd Skynyrd
36. Little Sister - Queens of the Stone Age
37. Scar Tissue - Red Hot Chili Peppers
38. Anna (Go To Him) - the Beatles
39. If You're Going to San Francisco - Scott McKenzie
40. Black Hole Sun - Soundgarden
41. Sexual Healing - Marvin Gaye
42. Crimson & Clover - Tommy James & the Shondells
43. Til I Kissed You - Everly Brothers
44. Mrs. Robinson - Simon & Garfunkel
45. Fallen Leaves - Billy Talent
46. Fortunate Son - Credence Clearwater Revival
47. Somebody's Crying - Chris Issak
48. Sleepwalk - Santo & Johnny
49. Come Softly To Me - the Fleetwoods
50. Don't Bring Me Down - ELO
51. Heart of Gold - Neil Young
52. Honky Tonk Women - Rolling Stones
53. Cecilia - Simon & Garfunkel
54. Lithium - Nirvana
55. Toxicity - System of a Down
56. Adam's Song - Blink-182
57. Burning Love - Elvis
58. The Hurricane - Bob Dylan
59. Learning To Fly - Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers
60. Young Lust - Pink Floyd
61. Kashmir - Led Zeppelin
62. Brian Wilson - Barenaked Ladies
63. 50 Ways to Leave Your Lover - Paul Simon
64. Operator - James Taylor
65. My Sweet Lord - George Harrison
66. Sunshine Of Your Love - Cream
67. People Are Strange - the Doors
68. The Mighty Quinn - Manfred Mann
69. Uncle Albert/Admiral Halsey - Paul McCartney
70. Fade To Black - Metallica
71. Smoke On The Water - Deep Purple
72. Can't Buy Me Love - the Beatles
73. Dream Lover - Bobby Darin
74. Stay - Maurice Williams & the Zodiacs
75. Casey Jones - Grateful Dead
76. Love Is All Around - the Troggs
77. The Lion Sleeps Tonight - the Tokens
78. Excuse Me Mr. - No Doubt
79. Got The Life - Korn
80. American Woman - the Guess Who
81. Wish You Were Here - Pink Floyd
82. Wonderful Tonight - Eric Clapton
83. My Name Is Jonas - Weezer
84. November Rain - Guns & Roses
85. Where Is My Mind - the Pixies
86. Sleep Now In The Fire - Rage Against the Machine
87. My Boyfriend's Back - the Angels
88. The Last Fight - Velvet Revolver
89. Jealous Guy - John Lennon
90. Loser - Beck
91. Time of the Season - the Zombies
92. Peace Train - Cat Stevens
93. Jenny Don't Be Hasty - Paolo Nutini
94. You've Really Got a Hold On Me - Smokey Robinson & the Miracles
95. The Way - Fastball
96. Girl, You'll Be A Woman Soon - Urge Overkill
97. Creep - Stone Temple Pilots
98. I Go To Pieces - Peter & Gordon
99. Steady As She Goes - the Raconteurs
100. Stairway To Heaven - Led Zeppelin
101. Never My Love - the Association
102. Sex & Candy - Marcy Playground
103. Swallowed - Bush
104. Mr. Crowley - Ozzy Osbourne
105. No Reply - the Beatles
106. Magic Man - Heart
107. I Am A Rock - Simon & Garfunkel
108. In The Still Of The Night - Five Satins
109. Sunday Bloody Sunday - U2
110. Glycerine - Bush

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mums & dads that have used Steelcraft Cruiser Travel System?

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Jasmine

hey i am wanting to buy a Steelcraft Cruiser Travel System for my second child love everything about it all the reviews are really good but my question is can you get the stands so your other child can stand on it as you walk with ur pram?

Answer
Firstly you are not going to get as many answers as you could because most Aussie mums are using Yahoo! Australia with the filter for Aussie questions only turned on- you've asked on Yahoo! America.

Second- I like the cruiser stroller- the car seat on the other hand I do NOT like as it has a LOW weight limit and you may find your child has outgrown it by three months or so. I would recommend getting a car seat that has a rearfacing capacity of at LEAST 12 kg- the cruiser car seat only goes to 9kg.

If you want to get a stand for an older child to stand on, the Valco Hitch hiker attaches to the cruiser, although if your older child is on the taller side it makes it hard for the parent to push it. I personally prefer a Swiss Strolli Rider or a Buggy Pod, which fit MOST strollers and have the older child either beside the parent or beside the main part of the stroller.
I'll give links for the three devices in the sources section.
If you want a travel system with a good car seat, get the Hipod one (Available from Target) or a safety first one (from GOOD baby stores) ALL the steelcraft ones only go to 9kg, so I would NOT recommend ANY steel craft travel system, the strollers and prams are amongst the best avaliable in Australia but I wouldn't touch their car seats with a barge pole!

Infant Car Seat Safety Standards?

Q. I'm pregnant with my first child, and recently purchased a travel system for my unborn baby. I bought the Graco Infant Safeseat, because I had heard and read alot of good reviews about it online. But then today I saw on the news that the seat didnt pass all safety test for the government standards, along with many other name brand seats. Did anyone else see this? What is your opinion? I want my child to be the safest possible. Has anyone else used this infant seat?

Answer
Call your local police/fire departmant. Someone in your area should be able to help you locate the appropriate seat for your infant and help you intstall and use it safely.

Just FYI... the handle on the infant seat... it should always be DOWN when your seat is in the car and in use!!!! I know everyone else in the whole world has theirs up, but trust me... it should ALWAYS be down!

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convertible car seat vs infant car seats?

baby travel systems vs convertible car seats image

I was wondering if I could get some insight on purchasing a convertible car seat rather than an infant car seat for my baby. The convertible seat we are looking at can be rear facing and forward facing and sits from 5-65lbs. Or do you think we should just purchase the infant seat? Thank you in advance!

Answer
I bought a travel system with an infant seat. Itwas handy because I could move my baby in and out of the car without waking him. We moved him into the convertible seat (a Britax Boulevard, my son still loves that seat! He's 3 now) at about 9mths, rear facing, and he was a lot more comfortable in there than he was in the infant seat at that point. The infant seats have a lot of positive while your baby is young, but once they hit about 9-12months, you'll find your baby's head getting close to the top of the seat (the baby's head should be completely below the seat and within the side wings for maximum safety), and you might want to change. In the long run, it's cheaper just to buy a convertible now, but if money's not an issue and you want the convenience, then an infant seat is definitely a good investment.

Graco Travel System vs Snugride stroller frame?

Stephie

I am a First time mom and can't decide if I need a travel stroller system or if I just need the snap and go style system with infant car seat? Help!!!!!! Do I need both?

Answer
Don't get both!

You should get the snap n go style travel system until you decide what kind of stroller you want once your baby is a little bit older. You'll discover more what sort of lifestyle you will have with your baby, because, as you know, it will change in ways you cannot imagine. Then you'll have a better idea of what you want.

Do you exercise a lot? Then an all terrain or jogger stroller would be best for you, if you don't mind a bit of bulk.

Run errands and want something lightweight? Then an umbrella or lightweight stroller is best and there are LOTS of excellent choices.

Have a bigger budget and want something really nice? Oh my gosh, your options are huge. Start with the convertible strollers where you can have baby face you or face the world in a reversible seat.

I'm just saying that you have many more choices besides Graco, although this brand is very nice. I like their new Trekko all terrain stroller, and the new UrbanLite or FastFold are getting rave reviews.

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"My Son's Story" by Nadine Gordimer?

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IraqForeve

What is this book about? Please tell me everything that happens in this book cause I read and I got lost so I need help!

Answer
My Son's Story is a complexly woven tale of struggle and disillusionment that begins with a painful discovery and travels through time to paint the portrait of a South African family fighting against the divisive power of apartheid. More specifically, it is the story of a lie that turns a young boy into a writer and the story of a man's evolution as a political activist. Will, the narrator, tells the story of his father, nicknamed "Sonny," once a "colored" schoolteacher and later a hero in the struggle against South African apartheid. The story is a retrospective account of Sonny's life. It follows roughly chronological order; however the spark for Will's story is an event that happened at age fifteen that changed his perspective on his father.

The opening sections describe this catalytic event. Playing hooky from school, Will goes to a movie theatre near Johannesburg and is shocked to see his father there with a white woman, Hannah Plowman. Plowman is a white woman who works for the International Organization for Human Rights; like Sonny, she is a fellow-militant against racism and State violence in South Africa. She provided emotional support to Sonny's family during his trial for anti-government activities. Later, she stayed in touch with him during his incarceration. At the doorway to the theatre, Will realizes, with confusion and bitterness, that he is seeing his father for the first time (but by no means for the last time) in the company of his mistress. Sadly, Sonny asks his son Will to cover for him, to lie about what he has seen. Will agrees and from then on his guilt about conspiring in a lie and anger at his father's deception combine to embitter Will and to color his retrospective account of his father's life.

Born the gifted son of an upholsterer, Sonny is victimized by the patently unequal educational system of South Africa. His mixed parentage lets him attend slightly better schools than his black counterparts, but the fact he is "colored" bars him from even using public libraries. Driven by his thirst for knowledge, Sonny buys what books he can and constantly peruses them. His library includes novels by Franz Kafka and the complete works of William Shakespeare. Because he intelligent and well read, Sonny gains a position as a schoolteacher in a respectable school.

Sonny's wife Aila is also colored -- of mixed African and Indian descent -- and is exquisitely beautiful. The attractive, intelligent couple earns the respect of their community through their hard work (he in teaching, she in charitable society work). They have two children -- Baby, Sonny's favorite, and Will, named after Shakespeare. Although he is not allowed to teach in the best schools or universities, Sonny is relatively content in his middle-class life and he believes that, gradually, education will create a more just South Africa.

When his children grow, the seeds of resistance are sown in Sonny's mind. Sonny wants to raise his two children to feel equal to whites and finds himself becoming more vocal in protest. As a schoolteacher, Sonny observes boycotts and eventually joins in a student protest march. He is fired in consequence, although he wins celebrity in the march.

Like a wild fire through the grasslands, news about Sonny spreads. "People in communities like his own, in other areas of Transvaal," Gordimer writes, "got to hear of him -- probably it was the newspaper photograph that started it" (p. 31). Eventually, because Sonny cannot get his teaching post backhe is hired by a shadowy underground political organization to make illegal speeches throughout South Africa (p. 32).

During one of his father's speaking tours, Will skips school and goes to the theater. This is where he sees Sonny and Hannah together. Will recognizes instantly that many of his father's absences are often trysting times for Plowman and Sonny.

Will is greatly insulted, both personally and for the sake of his family, but has to suffer in silence. Gradually, however, Will notices that those whom he has tried to shield from pain -- his mother and sister -- already know. Throughout the novel, Will is torn between love and hatred, admiration and disdain for his heroic father, until he wakes to the painful reality that his sister and mother have also been drawn into the vortex of political action. His sister, who had seemed oblivious to her father's activism, joins the military wing of his father's anti-apartheid organization, and his mother is forced into exile from the country when she, like Sonny, is arrested for subversive activities. Will is left in to write the story of his father and family down, to make this story into his own.

I'm moving back to south Africa at then end of the month ill be traveling with my 1 year old son and fiance.

Q. ITS HIS 1ST TIME ON A PLANE. CAN ANY1 GIVE ME TIPS ON HOW TO KEEP HIM OCCUPIED AS HE DOESNT LIKE 2 SIT WHEN HES AWAKE(HE JUST STARTED WALKIN).AND DOES ANYONE KNOW WERE I CAN GET A BATTERY OPERATED BOTTLE WARMER IN AUSTRALIA.

Answer
I've been flying internationally and domestically with my children since they were 2 months (now 8&5 and baby number 3 was born 23 December). At least three trips a year are the children and I traveling internationally (14+ hours each way) alone. In addition to that, we do another 8-10 international and domestic flights a year as a family. I have never had any problems with my children on any of the flights. Here are a few tips and suggestions:

1.) A car seat is not mandatory, but a CRS (Child Restraint System) is highly recommended for children under 40lbs to use on airplanes because it is safe for the child - especially during turbulence, makes them feel secure, is more comfortable for both parent and child, restrains them properly, and gives both of you the opportunity to relax a bit. A CRS is a hard-backed child or infant safety seat that is approved by the government for use in both motor vehicles and aircraft. A booster seat is NOT approved for use in an airplane. In order to be certified for use on an airplane, the car seat has to met the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Check the labels on the side of your car restraint for a sticker (words will be printed in red) for verification that your seat is safe for airplane use. Almost all car seats pass this requirement.

There is also a new device that is approved by the FAA for airline use ONLY. It is called CARES (Child Aviation Restraint System) and costs $75. It weighs 1 pound, is certified for all phases of flight (taxiing, take off, turbulence and landing), adjusts to fit ALL size airplane seats, and is approved for kids 22â44 lbs.
http://www.kidsflysafe.com/

Many airlines offer half-price tickets so parents can be guaranteed that their child can travel in a CRS device (car seat). You should call your airline to ask for a discount.

2.) Make sure to pack plenty of things to entertain your child, such as a few books, toys, a portable DVD player (be sure to bring extra batteries) or let him use your laptop (make sure it's fully charged) with a few movies, and one or two comfort things such as a favorite blankie or stuffed animal. I always bring a small pillow and blanket from home for my children (even now) because I know 100% that they are clean, and my children are accustomed to them.

My children like to bring along their own coloring books, a Doodle Pad, their Leap Pads (with a few booklets), and scrap paper that they can make their own drawings with and play games such as tic-tac-toe. My daughter used to like to bring along a doodle bear when she was younger so that she could draw on that as well, and my son likes to bring along some action figures to play with. I found that buying a Rose Art kit is great! It has crayons, markers, coloring books, coloring sheets, and stickers that they can color. It definitely keeps them entertained!

You can also play games like pat-a-cake, or I-spy, and tell stories to your children as well. If you tell a story, try to make it an interactive one where your son has a part in it so he stays interested.

You might also consider going to the store and letting your child (I let my children start this at the age of one) pick out his own carry on bag and a few inexpensive toys that will be used only once you are on the plane. Be sure to pick out a few toys without him seeing so that he has an extra surprise when he opens his carry on.

3.) Bring Snacks! just add water packets of food, cheerios, goldfish, animal crackers, dried fruit, etc. are great. New regulations also allow you to take beverages (including water) from home as long as they are less than 3oz (100ml), -OR- beverages (including water) of any size that you have purchased from inside the security area onto planes. You can also bring a limited amount of baby food, yogurt, cheese, puddings, etc. with you also as long as they are in containers less than 3oz (100ml)
http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm#10

As long as your child is with you, you are able to take as much formula, breast milk, or regular milk that you will need for you child for the duration of the time you will spend in the airport and on the flight (as long as it is within reason).And no, you will NOT have to taste it - no matter what form you bring it in.

All that you must do is:

1. Separate the milk from the liquids, gels, and aerosols in your quart-size (1 liter) zip-top bag.
2. Declare you have the items to one of the Security Officers at the security checkpoint.
3. Present these items for additional inspection once reaching the X-ray. These items are subject to additional screening
http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/children/formula.shtm

Save your money when it comes to buying water though because the Flight Attendants will provide you with hot or cold water (or any other drink) free at any time that you request, no matter how many times you request it.

4.) Keep your diaper bag well stocked with plenty of wipes, ointments and other essential things. Just remember the new law regulating liquids, gels, and such and pack accordingly. http://www.tsa.gov/311/index.shtm You can usually find travel size baby products in stores and they are wonderful for plane use. One thing I always like to carry with me is hand sanitizer! I always wipe the trays down with that (followed by a baby wipe) and use it for my kids after taking them to the bathroom (even though they wash their hands). I know that airplane bathrooms are not the cleanest, so that is why I try to be vigilant.

Be sure to pack 2-3 changes of clothes for your son. You will need this in case he gets sick, spills something on himself, or in case your luggage gets lost.

Bring any medications that you might need for your child should he get sick or that he takes regularly. Remember that if they are not prescription medications, the 3oz (100ml) rule applies to them and they must be kept in a clear plastic bag.
http://www.tsa.gov/311/index.shtm

Do NOT give your son medicine with the hopes of it making him sleep. This is not only cruel, but dangerous as well. I have also seen where it backfires; a parent gives their child a dose of Benedryl to make them sleep, but instead it gets the child more hyper and the parents get absolutely no rest on the flight (and neither does anyone else).

Try to change your sons diaper as close to boarding as possible. This will help to make your child feel fresh and more comfortable for take-off (which could also mean less problems).

5.) Not all children have a problem with the pressure changes in their ears. If yours does however you'll want to know how to help. For take-offs and landings (the WHOLE way up, and starting from the BEGINNING, or TOP of descent), the best ways to alleviate ear pressure are to:

*Give him something to drink (milk, water, juice - it doesn't matter)
*Give him a pacifier to suck on
*Tell him to yawn
*Pinch his nostrils shut, have him take a deep breath in through the mouth, then tell him to (gently) blow as if trying to blow his nose
*Place hot damp towels (usually like the ones distributed to first and business class before take-off and landing to freshen up with - just ask a flight attendant for them) or paper towels that have been soaked in hot water and wrung out, at the bottom of two paper or styrofoam cups, then hold the cups over the ears
*Gently but with some pressure, rub his neck repeatedly from the chin to the base of the neck. This will cause a swallowing motion that will relieve pressure build-up in the ears.

You can also try using a decongestant. It is always best to check with your doctor before using any type of medications though, to make sure you are using the one best suited to your childs needs. I personally have found pain relief medications don't really help, and at least in my experience, decongestants are a waste of money.

6.) Before you travel, I always suggest preparing son for what to expect so that he is not caught off guard and scared on the day of travel. You want to make sure that you tell him what is going to happen from the time you get to the airport until the time you arrive at your destination. You don't need to go into any great detail here, but give him something that he will be able to reference when actually traveling. If you are able to, I always suggest doing a dry run of the airport. This provides you with an opportunity to explain to him what is going to happen while he can see first hand what it looks like.

Here is a link that talks about what to expect when flying (also includes information about what to do at the airport) that may help you out a bit:
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=AoNbNcE8sjrr0zYCWcY9Jgnty6IX;_ylv=3?qid=20080128182201AARbdSv&show=7#profile-info-3Oxpfqegaa
http://jamiehassen79.angelfire.com/plane_travel_basics.html



I wrote a small article about flying with children that goes more in-depth, gives security rules and regulations for the US, EU, UK, and Australia, offers tips and tricks for the travel, etc. http://www.angelfire.com/jamiehassen79/flying_children.html

If I can be of any more help or assistance, please feel free to contact me.

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Travelling on a plane with a three year old?

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seashelly1

I Need some serious advice!!! I will soon be traveling 8 hours on a plane for the first time with my three year old daughter. Please can anyone give some advice on how to make this smoother and simpler for me and my child. Also how can i help lessen the pain and pressure on a three year olds ears during take off and landing thanksss to hear from you all.

Answer
I've been flying internationally with my children since they were 2 months (now 7&5), and here are some tips and advice that have always worked for me:

1.)Since you already have to buy a seat for your daughter, I advise using a CRS (Child Restraint System) because it is safe for the child, makes them feel secure, is more comfortable for both parent and child, and gives you the opportunity to relax a bit.

A CRS is an airline-approved alternative to using a hard-backed seat and is approved for use on aircraft and for use in motor vehicles. Many people confuse it with a regular car seat, which it is not.
http://faa.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/faa.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=29&p_created=1071174367&p_sid=mn66D6wi&p_lva=&p_sp=cF9zcmNoPTEmcF9zb3J0X2J5PSZwX2dyaWRzb3J0PSZwX3Jvd19jbnQ9NCZwX3Byb2RzPSZwX2NhdHM9MCZwX3B2PSZwX2N2PSZwX3BhZ2U9MSZwX3NlYXJjaF90ZXh0PWNoaWxk&p_li=&p_topview=1

This website talks about approved CRS devices and their ratings: http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/CPS/CSSRating/Index.cfm

Many airlines offer half-price tickets so parents can be guaranteed that their child can travel in a CRS device. Parents should call their airline to ask for a discount and/or ask what the airline's policy is for using empty seats.

Ask your airline if they can provide a CRS for your child. If so, you may not be permitted to bring your own CRS on board, and may need to check it as baggage.
http://www.faa.gov/passengers/fly_children/crs/


2.) The best time of day to fly is whenever you are comfortable. If you can find a flight that will take off around your childs nap or bedtime, that would be easier, but of course we all know it doesn't always work out that way. The main thing is that you pick a day that you are comfortable with and try to be as relaxed as possible because your daughter will be able to pick up on any anxiousness or anxiety you might have.


3.) For take-offs and landings, the best thing you can do is give her a drink (milk, water, juice - it doesn't matter) or a pacifier.

New regulations allow you to take beverages (including water) from home as long as they are less than 3oz, OR beverages (including water) of any size that you have purchased from inside the security area onto planes. You can also bring a limited amount of baby food onto the plane with you. http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm#10

Save your money when it comes to buying water though because the stewards/stewardess' will provide you with hot or cold water (or any other drink) free at any time that you request, no matter how many times you request it.

Another trick is that if your daughter is not taking to the pacifier or wanting to drink, gently rub her neck from the chin down to the chest several times - this will cause a swallowing motion which will help with the ears popping.


4.) Make sure to pack plenty of things to entertain your daughter. A few of her favorite toys, books, a portable DVD player and one or two movies if you have one, and any comfort things such as a blankie. The Fa's will also provide you with a toy or coloring book for your daughter also.

5.)Take your daughter to the store and buy her a small carry-on bag of her choice. Let her pick out a few new (but inexpensive) toys that will be used only once she is on the plane. Be sure to buy a few without her knowing so she will have a surprise when she opens up her bag.


6.) Pack a few instant hot/cold cereals, instant rice, and other just-add-water packets (age appropriate, of course). The stewards/stewardess' will provide you with hot or cold water upon request. You can also bring a limited amount of baby food and a few other non-perishable snack items. Dried fruit make a wonderful snack (and they're healthy too!). Drinks will be provided free at any time that you request, no matter how many times you request.


7.) Be sure to pack 2-3 changes of clothes for your daughter. You will need this in case she gets sick, spills something on herself, or in case your luggage gets lost. Also bring any medications that you might need for her should she get sick. Do NOT give your daughter medicine with the hopes of it making her sleep. This is not only cruel, but dangerous as well.


8.) Last but not least, if help is offered to you, take it.


I hope you have a great trip, and if I can be of any more assistance, please feel free to contact me.

Any tips for traveling on air plane domestic flight with a 3 year old?

Bailey

I will traveling with my 3 year old to Little Rock, AK from Jacksonville, FL does anyone have any tips to make sure she does not get uncomfortable as far as her ears popping etc? Also do I need any special ID for her to get on the plane? I asked Delta via email and waiting for them to get back to me. I want to make this fun and comfortable for her.

Answer
I've been flying internationally with my children since they were 2 months (now 7&5), and here are some tips and advice that have always worked for me and I hope will help you:


1.) You will need to have all your babys documents in order. Generally do not need an ID for a child when traveling domestically, but it is always good to keep a notarized copy of her birth certificate with you. There is no other special ID you will need for her to get on the plane other than her ticket. Verify what travel documents you will need in advance to make sure you have everything.

2.) Since your daughter is at an age where you have to buy her a seat, I advise using a CRS (Child Restraint System) because it is safe for the child - especially during turbulence, makes them feel secure, is more comfortable for both parent and child, and gives both of you the opportunity to relax a bit.

A CRS is an airline-approved alternative to using a hard-backed seat and is approved for use on aircraft and for use in motor vehicles. Many people confuse it with a regular car seat, which it is not. http://faa.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/faa.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=29&p_created=1071174367&p_sid=mn66D6wi&p_lva=&p_sp=cF9zcmNoPTEmcF9zb3J0X2J5PSZwX2dyaWRzb3J0PSZwX3Jvd19jbnQ9NCZwX3Byb2RzPSZwX2NhdHM9MCZwX3B2PSZwX2N2PSZwX3BhZ2U9MSZwX3NlYXJjaF90ZXh0PWNoaWxk&p_li=&p_topview=1

This website talks about approved CRS devices and their ratings: http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/CPS/CSSRating/Index.cfm

Many airlines offer half-price tickets so parents can be guaranteed that their child can travel in a CRS device. Parents should call their airline to ask for a discount and/or ask what the airline's policy is for using empty seats.

Ask your airline if they can provide a CRS for your child. If so, you may not be permitted to bring your own CRS on board, and may need to check it as baggage. http://www.faa.gov/passengers/fly_children/crs/

3.) For take-offs and landings, the best thing you can do to help with the ear popping, is give your child a something to drink (milk, water, juice - it doesn't matter) or a pacifier.

New regulations allow you to take beverages (including water) from home as long as they are less than 3oz, -OR- beverages (including water) of any size that you have purchased from inside the security area onto planes. You can also bring a limited amount of baby food onto the plane with you. http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm#10

Save your money when it comes to buying water though because the stewards/stewardess' will provide you with hot or cold water (or any other drink) free at any time that you request, no matter how many times you request it.

Another trick is that if your child is not taking to the pacifier or wanting to nurse or drink, gently rub her neck from the chin down to the chest several times - this will cause a swallowing motion which will help with the ears popping.

4.) Pack a few instant hot/cold cereals, instant rice, and other just-add-water packets. The stewards/stewardess' will provide you with hot or cold water upon request. You can also bring a limited amount of other non-perishable snack items, such as cheerios, dried fruit, goldfish, etc.. Drinks will be provided free at any time that you request, no matter how many times you request.

5.) Make sure to pack plenty of things to entertain your child. A few of her favorite toys, books, and any comfort things such as a blankie.

You may also consider taking her to the store and letting her pick out her own carry-on back. Buy her a few inexpensive toys that will be used only once you are on the plane. Be sure to buy a few without her knowing so she will have a surprise when she opens her bag.

6.) Be sure to pack 2-3 changes of clothes for your child. You will need this in case she gets sick, spills something on herself, or in case your luggage gets lost.

7.) If you still use a diaper bag, be sure to keep it well stocked with plenty of diapers, wipes, ointments and other essential things. Baby nail clippers and scissors are not allowed though. Just remember the new regulating liquids, gels, and such and pack accordingly. You can usually find travel size baby products in stores and they are wonderful for plane use.

8.) Keep your doctors name and number with you. Also get the name and number of a doctor where you are visiting in case an emergency should come up.

Also it is a good idea to have a check-up with your doctor before leaving to make sure your child is healthy enough to fly. If she has even a slight cold, the pressure in her ears during take-off and landing (even if you do the precaution methods) could leave his ears aching for days after the flight.

Most doctors recommend that if anyone is sick (such as being stuffed up or already having an earache), not to take the flight because of the potential damage to the ears. I know my husband and other pilots do not work if they are sick because of this danger.

9.) Bring any medications that you might need for your child should she get sick or that she takes regularly. Remember that if they are not prescription medications, the 3oz rule applies to them and they must be kept in a clear plastic bag.

Do NOT give your child medicine with the hopes of it making her sleep. This is not only cruel, but dangerous as well.

10.) Last but not least, if help is offered to you, take it.


I hope they have a great trip, and if I can be of any more assistance, please feel free to contact me

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What's the best car seat or Stroller System for new borns?

baby travel systems maxi cosi image

laura

Hi.

I'm having my baby girl in couple weeks, and i haven't bought the car seat, I'm looking a comfortable one for her, could you please help me making this decision by your own experience with the brand.

Thanks.

Answer
Congratulations!

There are two types of car seats that a newborn baby can ride in. One of those types is the infant car seat. This seat comes with a base; the base is installed in the car and the carrier can be clicked in and out of the base. Most infant car seats also come with a travel system, where the carrier can be clicked in the stroller. In other words, this makes the infant car seat transportable. A downside to an infant car seat it that it may not last as long as expected. An infant can outgrow this car seat really quickly (around 6 months for huge babies and 18 months for those petite ones). An infant car seat with a 35 lb rear facing weight limit may not last until a child is 35 lbs. It may last until they are 25 lbs and have outgrown it by height. They are also really heavy. Bring a 12 lb bag of something with you to the store. Place it in the carrier and practice carrying it around.

A car seat needs to protect an infant during a crash, so as a priority, it is important to find an infant car seat that can be correctly installed in your vehicle.

Some infant car seats I recommend based on its features that make it easy to install:
-Graco Snugride 30 (or the 35 model)
-Safety 1st Onboard 35
-Cosco Comfy Carry Elite (must be the "Elite" or "Elite Plus" model)
-Chicco KeyFit 30
-Britax B-Safe
-Britax Chaperone
-Cybex Aton

All of these infant car seats above allow the handle to be left "up" in the carrier postion. I would never recommend a car seat made by BabyTrend or Evenflo because these manufacturers require the handle to be moved after the infant carrier has been clicked in. It is just one more thing to remember and a pain.

An infant needs their car seat reclined at 45 degrees. This can take up a ton of front-to-back space in the vehicle. Britax infant car seats take up the most room. Then Graco takes a little less. Then Chicco takes less Graco. The Cybex Aton takes the least amount of front-to-back space, but it is expensive for how long it lasts.

The Comfy Carry Elite Plus as a lot of features and is really affordable (about $70). Here is a review of it: http://carseatblog.com/10346/dorel-safety-1st-comfy-carry-elite-plus-infant-carseat-review/

Another type of infant car seat is a convertible car seat. A convertible car seat stays installed in the car, which doesn't make it transportable. When a child is rear facing, the harness straps need to be adjusted at or slightly below the child's shoulders. This means that the lowest set of harness strap slots need to be low enough to fit a newborn's torso. Slots less than 7 to 8 inches will fit most full term newborns. Look at lower slots 5 to 6 inches to fit smaller babies. Some convertibles come with infant inserts that are placed either under or over the cover. These are used to lift a baby up so that the harness fits them better.

Parents who use a convertible car seat use an infant carrier such as a sling, wrap, or the ergo to carry their baby around. Like Bobbi said, having a stroller that folds flat is best. It is best for a baby to lie flat instead of in a reclined position.

Convertible car seats that will fit full-term newborns (some will fit even preemies):
-Chicco Next Fit
-Evenflo SureRide
-Graco My Ride 65 (or 70 model)
-Maxi Cosi Pria 70 (must be with the tinyfit system)
-Peg Perego Primo Viaggio
-First Years True Fit
-Evenflo Symphony 65 e3
-Evenflo Triumph 65

Besides the Graco My Ride 65, these convertible car seats could last a child from birth to age 5 to 6. The Graco My Ride 65 might last to age 4 to 5, depending on your child's height (too many variables to determine).

Besides these convertibles, the Cosco Scenera, Cosco Apt, Safety 1st Onside Air, Evenflo Tribute and Graco ComfortSport also fit newborns great; however, they will not be a child's last car seat with the harness as these will only last to a child to approximately age 2 to 3.

What do you do with the travel system for an infant when flying?

loki_only1

So... my 6month old and i are flying cross country. I know we need the car seat base when we get to cali, and i'd really like to have the stroller in the airport. i know they can put the carseat under the plane once we get to the gate... but do i have to pack the car seat base in my luggage?!

I have NO idea what i'm doing on this one. I know what to take for the baby, just dont know what to do about the car seat/base/stroller.

Answer
Actually, you probably don't even need your car seat base! I did the same thing when I first traveled and even went as far as to ship the base to my destination. then found out later I never needed my base! But most likely, your car seat can be placed in your car using a seat belt. There should be instructions for how to do this, either on your car seat or look online. I know Graco, Peg Perego and Maxi Cosi car seats can be used without their bases.
If your carseats fits into your stroller, you can bring them both thru security but they may have to do a special check on the equipment so leave yourself some time. if they are separate, there may be an issue, but I'd call the airport you are going to for more information on how to get through security.

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