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Baby's First Year Community

Crib Safety Tips

CRIB SAFETY TIPS if you have a used crib or are considering buying one: Make...

Posted by AmandaMcNall

CRIB SAFETY TIPS if you have a used crib or are considering buying one:

Make sure it has no corner posts. older infants can catch clothing on these.
Check that the crib slats are no more than 2 3/8 inches apart. Never put a baby in a crib that has missing slats.
Make sure that the mattress is firm, and that it fits tightly within the crib rails, with no more than a 1-inch space (two fingers width) between the rails and the mattress.
Assure yourself that all guide rods and support brackets are firmly in place and secure, and that no screws are missing.
Check the locks and latches on the crib. They should be smooth, and tight enough to prevent accidental release.
Be certain the paint used on the crib is lead-free. If it isn't, the old paint should be removed. if you're pregnant or nursing, have someone else do the stripping, preferably away from your home, or at least outside the house and away from any play or garden area. New paint should be a high-quality, lead-free enamel recommended for children's furniture. Some babies do chew on their cribs, and ingesting lead can cause brain damage.
If your crib is new, remove and discard all plastic packaging materials, including the thin plastic mattress cover. As with a used crib, check the guide rods, support brackets, locks, and latches, and make sure no screws are missing.
With any crib, new or old, place the crib out of reach of any cords, electrical sockets, or other hazards.
Keep crib rails up at all times when the baby is unattended.
As soon as your baby can pull himself or herself up, move the mattress to the lowest position. There should be at least 22 inches between the mattress and the top of the rail.

If you plan to use a bassinet or cradle instead of a crib, many of these same safety tips will still apply.
Some Basics about FeedingExpectant parents know they will have a lot to learn after their babies arrive. They know it will take time to feel confident about diapering, bathing, and soothing a baby. Most have been told that feeding, too, will be a learning experience. It is not until after the birth, however, that the true meaning of this is dear. Parents often say they had not anticipated that the baby, too, would need to learn to feed. Also unanticipated is the profound concern parents have that their babies be adequately nourished.

Even as adults, many people are greeted by their mothers with the questions "Are you hungry? Do you want to at?" These are questions you will find yourself asking your baby. It is natural for you to feel somewhat anxious when the baby's answers are not as clear as you might like. Following are some basics about feeding that can guide you as you gain experience.View Thread

Posted byAmandaMcNall

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