• Interview Questions for Babysitters or Nanny’s (PDF)
• The Peep, Poop, Feed & Sleep Chart (PDF)
• The Gift & Borrowed Item Checklist (PDF)

Hospital Bag Checklist

1. Important Paperwork-This includes your insurance card, birth plan and other information that the hospital staff will find useful.
2. Something To Read- Nothing makes the time fly by faster then some  trashy magazines and a good book to read.
   
3. Toiletries-Pack a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, hairbrush, moisturizer and for an instant pick me up, your make-up bag!
   
4. Drinks & Snacks-Many times by the time you are in labor the hospital cafeteria is closed. Typically that’s when your spouse gets hungry!. Bring your own stash of goodies so you won’t have to rely on hospital food!
   
5. Your Own Pillow- Nothing is better then your own comfy pillow from home. You may also want to consider bringing your favorite blanket as well.
   
6. Comfy Sweats or PJ’s-Wearing your own clothes will make you feel more comfortable, not to mention sparing your rear end from being flashed to the world!
   
7. Cell Phone & Address Book- Your cell phone and address book will keep you connected with your friends and family so you can share the good news!
   
8. A Going Home Outfit For Baby- Don’t forget booties and mittens, some new baby’s fingernails come out long and the mittens will prevent scratches.
9. A Going Home Outfit For You- Bring something that is comfy and will make you feel good about yourself!

5 Must Do’s Before The Baby Arrives

1. Install The Car Seat- Most hospitals will not let you take the baby home without it. Don’t wait until the last minute, have it installed several weeks before. You may also consider having it installed by a certified safety expert. Many fire departments or local police stations offer to check the car seat installation for free or a nominal charge. Call the fire/police department beforehand or call 1-866-SEAT-CHECK to find an expert in your area.
   
2. Write A Birth Plan-Many women have certain expectations of how they would like their labor and delivery to go, but you can’t control
   
3. Stock Up On Baby Stuff- Load up on diapers, wipes, formula and bath products. Try buying supplies several months before the arrival to help budget instead of buying it all at once.
   
4. Stock Your Fridge & Freezer- Once the baby arrives, finger foods and microwaveable meals are the majority of preparation most new parents can handle. Make it easy on yourself by having a freezer full of food and prepared meals so you can forget about grocery shopping for at least a week.
   
5. Get Help- Don’t be afraid to ask family, friends and neighbors to  lend a helping  hand. Most will probably be more then happy to help and you’ll get a short break!
   

5 to-do’s during the 3rd Trimester

1. Write As Many Thank You Notes as Possible-Once the baby arrives you’ll have your hands full! Get those notes from the baby shower and any pre-baby gifts done now, one last thing to think about when you are doing the round the clock feedings & diaper changes.
   
2. Find A Pediatrician-Research doctors before the baby arrives and find one who you’ll feel really comfortable with.
   
3. Indulge a Little-Pamper yourself now with a mani/pedi. As soon as the baby arrives it will probably be one of the last things you think about.
   
4. Get Some Sleep-By the end of pregnancy you are probably having a tough time sleeping. Use a body pillow or sleep on your left side for some much needed rest.
   
5. Get In The Know-Sign up for childbirth classes, take a tour of the hospital and you may even want to take an infant CPR class.