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Baby Cribs
Parents may have widely varying expectations about how they will use baby cribs and it's safe to say that reality is often a surprise! Most young babies can sleep anywhere that is safe, and may nap in carseats (both in and out of the car), Booster Seats, Bassinets, Cradles, slings, chest carriers, strollers, and laps as well as cribs. Some babies, it seems, sleep anywhere besides their cribs, especially in the first months. And more and more parents are co-sleeping with baby at least some of the time. But as baby grows and develops a more settled and predictable sleep schedule, it's possible for baby to sleep for longer stretches in the crib and for parents to relax, knowing that the baby monitor or simply the unamplified baby will let them know when they are needed.
When buying a baby crib, note that crib mattresses are sold separately, although they may be offered as part of a purchase package. They should fit snugly into the frame, with no gaps where a baby might become wedged. Crib mattresses also fit most "toddler beds," the smaller, lower starter beds that often come in fun shapes like racecars and fire engines. There are also convertible cribs that turn into toddler beds when your child is ready for a big-kid bed (usually sometime around 2 years old, though it varies). Round cribs (with round mattresses, of course!) are growing in popularity. Note that if you buy a round crib, you will have to buy round fitted crib sheets as well, so be sure that you can find a pattern you like. For safety, never use pillows or fluffy quilts in a crib. See the Baby Safety Center for more information about sleeping safety.
Baby Gifts
So you want to buy baby gifts for a long-anticipated baby and his or her proud parents! But what to choose? There are baby gifts that are immediately useful, like clothes, supplies, Baby Swings, Baby Toys and Baby Blankets, as well as flowers, gift baskets, and gift certificates that can be used for anything the parents still need (including meals delivered to the house!). Many of these will get used and appreciated early on, but won't survive for posterity, except in pictures and memories. Then there are baby gifts that have little relevance to daily baby care, but enormous sentimental and keepsake value, like silver or pewter cups and spoons, picture frames and other long-lasting presents. Which best suits you and the baby and parents you want to please? Check to see whether the parents have set up a baby registry online or in a store. You may realize that something they still need is the perfect present to come from you.
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