Acelleron Medical Products

Category: Baby

  • The Best Outdoor Games & Toys for Summer

    The Best Outdoor Games & Toys for Summer

    There’s so much to love about summer: trips to the beach, backyard barbeques, bike rides, fireworks, s’mores… the list goes on. Longer days mean there’s more time to get outside and play, and you don’t have to wait until your baby can crawl or swim to take full advantage of the fresh air. Studies have shown that the health benefits of nature for infants include the development of language and basic motor skills as well as the promotion of healthy sleep patterns, giving us all the more reason to get outdoors. Even just a walk around the block can do wonders for both baby and you, so investing in a quality stroller is an absolute must. And if there are older kids at home, you’ll want to have a bunch of activities on hand to get them outside as well (and avoid the inevitable groans of “I’m bored” over the coming months). Here, we’re rounding up the best outdoor games and toys for summer that children of all ages will enjoy.


    By Land or By Sea: Outdoor Fun for Babies & Toddlers

    While your little one may not be ready to swim just yet, the Baby Spring Float Sun Canopy by SwimWays is designed to help both babies and parents relax during the water introduction experience. Plus, its removable canopy has mesh sides and offers UPF 50+ sun protection.

    If you’re staying on land, the compact, lightweight folding frame of the Pop N’ Jump comes fully assembled and sets up in seconds while still providing important sun protection. And with its spinner ball, rattle, teether, mirror book, and jumping feature, your baby is sure to be entertained wherever you go.

    Splash mats are a great way for kids to keep cool in the heat, and this one by SwimSchool is designed specifically with babies in mind. Recommended for ages 6 to 18 months, the extra-wide inflatable mat also features a backrest and removable canopy to keep your little one upright and in the shade while splashing.

    No matter where you live, this duel sandbox and water table will transform your backyard or patio into your toddler’s very own beach. Holding both play sand and water, it’s guaranteed to become an instant outdoor favorite of kids and parents alike.

    Baby on the move? This wooden lawnmower push toy promotes the development of gross motor skills, and is perfect for new walkers. Plus, it is handcrafted with solid cherry and birch wood, and the balls are painted and sealed with a non-toxic, food-grade coloring.

    Take your little one for a bicycle ride in the 2 Seat Kids Bike Trailer by Burley. Its hammock style seat design means your child is not sitting on the floor of the trailer, and it folds flat for easy transportation and storage.


    Summer Cool Down: Backyard Activities for Kids

    For the smallest of green thumbs in your family, this Melissa & Doug gardening set is the perfect introduction to planting and growing. The five-piece set includes a sturdy tool belt with adjustable self-stick closure and pocket, gardening gloves, trowel, watering can, and plant pot.

    Don’t have a pool? No problem. The H2OGO! Fun Sketching Art Splash Blobz is more than just a cool surface for kids to play on and slide across. It also comes with five erasable crayons to use for coloring on the exterior of the blob for double the fun and creativity.


    Play Ball: Outdoor Games for the Whole Family

    Whether playing on grass or sand, this Rollors Outdoor Game combines the best parts of horseshoes, bocce ball, and bowling all into one. Our suggestion? Host a neighborhood tournament for a full afternoon of friendly competition.

    Baseball is America’s favorite pastime for a reason. Nothing beats a classic game of wiffle ball on a summer evening, and this complete set has everything you need to get started.

    Summer is finally here! Get the entire family outside with games and toys that encourage movement, creativity, and endless fun—just don’t forget the sunscreen!

    This post contains affiliate link(s). If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a penny more, but we will get a small commission. These affiliate links help our business continue to provide the best services possible. Thanks!

  • Most Popular Baby Names of 2018

    Most Popular Baby Names of 2018

    With 2018 long behind us, one of our favorite things to do is take a look back at the most popular baby names of the year. For 2018, we’ve got some new kids on the block and a few making a comeback. But what they all have in common: super cuteness.

    Top Names for Boys Top Names for Girls
    Liam Emma
    Noah Olivia
    William Ava
    James Isabella
    Oliver Sophia
    Benjamin Charlotte
    Elijah Mia
    Lucas Amelia
    Mason Harper
    Logan Evelyn

     

    With royal names like William and Charlotte continuing to top the list, something tells us that we might want to keep a lookout for Archie in the coming months…

    Can’t decide on a name? Find out the meaning, origin, popularity, and related names for your favorite baby names.

  • Best Diaper Deals and Steals!

    Best Diaper Deals and Steals!

    Whether your little one is a newborn, or just learning to potty-train, it’s a good idea to stock up and ensure you have plenty of diapers on hand. Lucky for you, we’ve done the research and collected the best diaper deals, so all you have to do is pick your favorite brand and start saving!

    Disposable Diapers:

    If you use disposable diapers, you can save money by buying in bulk! Plus, those diapers won’t be going to waste! On average, a newborn will go through 70 diapers a week, a 3-6-month-old will go through 49 diapers a week, and a 6-12-month-old will go through 35 diapers a week. That’s a lot of diapers (2,457 in the first year, in fact)! It’s important to stock up and save where you can.

    Target:

    Target is a great option for saving on diapers. With their new digital coupon program Cartwheel, all you have to do is to sign up for a free account on cartwheel.target.com, refine the type of coupon you are looking for (diapers), and add the offers you want to your list. You can find amazing prices on Pampers, Huggies, and more! While these coupons were previously only redeemable in store, now when you check out on the Target App you can apply your coupons directly there and save on your online order.

    As if that couldn’t get better, when you have a REDcard, you can add your standard 5% discount on top of the coupons you apply to save even more! Also, Target provides amazing bundle deals and subscriptions, so you can stock up and feel awesome knowing you’re saving money.

    Amazon:

    Amazon has become a household name for getting you what you need, fast. But, have you been taking full advantage of what Amazon has to offer? You may not even know what you’re missing out on!

    If you are an Amazon Family member, you can save major money. Not an Amazon Family member yet? Don’t worry! We’re hooking you up with a free 30-day trial so you can try it out and see if you like it. You’ll have access to subscribe and save for 20% off your diaper purchase. Plus, through Amazon Family, you have access to exclusive coupons and deals, as well as free two-day shipping, which will come in handy when you realize you’re running low on diapers, but don’t want to purchase full-price diapers from the store.

    Costco / BJs:

    If you’re ready to buy in major bulk, Costco or BJs is your go-to. Costco and BJs provide huge bundles at amazing prices. While it may seem like a hassle to have to drive to your closest store and purchase in-person, the deals just may be worth it for you!

    Huggies:

    When you buy directly from Huggies, you have access to their current coupons, as well as their rewards program. Huggies provides a page designated for easily finding their latest deals on their diapers, all you have to do it click “coupons” in their navigation bar and you’re quickly on your way to saving money! Plus, when you sign up for Huggies Rewards Points you can start earning points when you purchase diapers and wipes. As you accumulate more points, you can redeem them for a range of perks such as gift cards and even diaper donations!

    Pampers:

    Similarly to Huggies, Pampers also has an easily accessible rewards program that allows members to “turn diapers into rewards.” With these points, you can get discounts to your favorite stores, free Pampers products, and much more! While you’re checking out Pampers’ rewards program, click on their offers page for access to all of their coupons and special offers to save even more!


    Cloth Diapers:

    If you prefer to use cloth diapers, there are plenty of options that offer quality items at great prices! When purchasing cloth diapers, it’s important to make sure that you invest in quality cloth diapers that are comfortable, leak proof, and durable. You won’t just be tossing these diapers in the diaper pail once your little one goes potty in them, so you want diapers that will last.

    GroVia:

    GroVia is a top name when it comes to cloth diapers. Not only do they sell high-quality diapers, they’re also cute and trendy! You can pick and choose from a variety of cute colors and patterns, as well as absorbency levels and diaper type.

    While you’re not stocking up on as many cloth diapers as you would disposable diapers, GroVia still provides the opportunity to stock up and save with “a bundle of benefits.” When you bundle, you benefit. Just choose how many cloth diapers you want (the more you get, the more you save), customize the look and feel, choose your cloth diaper inserts, and get ready to save! Plus, if this is your first time purchasing from GroVia, sign up and save 10% off your first order.

    Amazon:

    If you’re new to cloth diapers and aren’t sure which style or fit your baby needs, a one-size-fits-all cloth diaper from Mama Koala will do the trick! Get a pack of six of these cloth diapers in a variety of prints and patterns and feel confident that these diapers will provide amazing, leak-proof protection. And, as an Amazon Family member, you’ll have access to additional perks so you can save even more!

    Whether you’re looking for disposable or cloth diapers, you end up spending a good chunk of money on your baby’s diapers needs, which is why it’s important to save when you can. By taking advantage of coupons, discounts, and subscription deals, you don’t need to worry about paying full price on diapers.

    This post contains affiliate link(s). If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a penny more, but we will get a small commission. These affiliate links help our business continue to provide the best services possible. Thanks!

  • Preparing for the First Week Home with Your Newborn

    Preparing for the First Week Home with Your Newborn

    Once you come home with your little one, you’re going to be exhausted from the labor and delivery process. We recommend planning ahead so the first week home is as easy as possible.

    Keep in mind, there will be things that may be useful down the road. For now, focus on what you absolutely need for these initial seven days.

    For Transporting Baby:

    You’ll need a car seat to leave the hospital, of course. As well, unless the weather is really inclement, you may enjoy taking the baby out for short strolls. You can also consider a travel system that allows you to click the car seat into the stroller without having to remove baby from the car seat.

    For Changing Baby:

    Ever heard the phrase “little stinker?” Prepare yourself for changing lots of stinky diapers by arming yourself with the following:

    For Feeding Baby:

    Something you’ll be doing even more than changing diapers is feeding your newborn. On average, you will be providing your baby with milk every two to three hours. To make this as comfortable as possible for both you and your little one, we recommend having these items:

    • 1-2 nursing pillows
    • Soft and absorbent bibs and burp cloths
    • Ice packs for soothing your breasts
    • Cream for potentially sore/cracked nipples
    • Breast pads
    • Access to a lactation consultant for additional support

    For the healthy term baby, pumping is not recommended until breastfeeding/milk supply is well established, or there is a medical indication to do so. But if you are pumping during this first week, we recommend being prepared with these additional items:

    For Cleaning Baby:

    A daily bath won’t be needed for a while. In fact, until the umbilical stump heals (typically between one and four weeks after birth), the baby will only be able to take a sponge bath. To help baby maintain her body temperature, wash her face, head, and hair while she is still wrapped up. Then move on to her body, uncovering one arm at a time, then the trunk of the body (see below for the umbilical cord) and back, her legs and feet, and finally her diaper area.

    For the umbilical cord, dip a cotton swab in warm water, squeezing the tip to remove excess water. Gently clean around the base of the cord and then the surrounding skin. Hold the stump with a clean absorbent cloth to dry it completely. The umbilical cord must remain clean and dry until it falls off naturally.

    • Several soft clean cotton hand cloths
    • Cotton swabs

    For Dressing Baby:

    For the first week with your newborn, the primary focus should be comfort! Pro-tip: don’t buy a lot of newborn sized clothing – babies grow quickly and those newborn sized items won’t fit for very long!

    For Sleeping Baby:

    In addition to your crib, you’ll need a few additional bedding supplies. Below are important for ensuring that your baby sleeps safely and soundly.

    Getting ready for the first week is a big deal. By focusing on just these items, you can take a deep breath and feel better prepared for the big day!

     

    This post contains affiliate link(s). If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a penny more, but we will get a small commission. These affiliate links help our business continue to provide the best services possible. Thanks!

  • How to Manage Sleepless Nights – Parenting as a Team

    How to Manage Sleepless Nights – Parenting as a Team

    After bath-time is over, lullabies have been sung, and everyone has said “goodnight Moon,” it’s time for some well-deserved sleep. Just as you’re settling in to bed next to your already sleeping partner, your baby (who was sleeping soundly just moments before) begins crying. The early newborn nights are challenging, and the sleepless nights can take a big toll on the whole family, especially when there isn’t a clear plan in place for what happens next.

    We’ve compiled our best tips.

    Take Turns with the Night Shift

    Establish an alternating pattern for which parent will get the night shift and write down the agreed schedule on your calendar. For example, one of you is responsible for Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, while the other person is responsible for Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday. When on call, you are responsible for feeding, changing, and getting the baby back to sleep for that night. This strategy will allow the other person to sleep through the night since he/she will not be on call. The premise here is that it is easier to get through a night of limited/no sleep if you know the next night will be your turn to sleep. Be aware that if you are nursing, you may need to adapt this plan in the early weeks. It’s important to note that for the healthy term baby, pumping is not recommended until the breastfeeding/milk supply is well established, or there is a medical indication to do so – usually, this is around 3 to 4 weeks post birth. In this scenario, we recommend that on mom’s day “off” dad will get baby from their crib and bring him/her to mom, allowing her to nurse in bed. Once baby is done nursing, dad can change baby, rock him/her to sleep, and put the little one back into their crib. When mom’s milk supply is established, dad should be able to feed baby with expressed milk that mom has pumped before going to bed. Parents who do this swear by the approach.

    Split the Night into Shifts

    Another approach is to split the night into two shifts One parent takes the first few hours, and the second parent takes the later hours. For example, the early parent takes care of all the wake-ups that occur from 9 PM to 2 AM. The second parent takes wake ups calls from 2 AM to 7 AM. The schedule will vary based on your schedule, and you might decide to switch off who gets the early vs the late shift. The main point is that each parent is guaranteed some number of hours when he/she will get some quality sleeping.

    With both options assigning shifts, it’s important to be as specific as possible when devising the schedule. It’s also important to work these decisions before the baby arrives, as it can be very difficult to make calm, rational decisions when one or both parents are sleep-deprived.

    Sleep When You Can

    Take a nap when your baby falls asleep. It might feel like there is an endless list of things to do, but taking care of yourself IS a priority. Getting those extra zzz’s will allow you to be more productive and present, so set the chores aside when your little one falls asleep and take that much-needed rest.

    When both you and your partner are home, take turns spending one-on-one time with your baby so that one of you can get some alone time. While your partner reads to your baby, go to a separate room in the house and silence your phone. Sleep, read, watch TV, or do whatever you need to re-energize. For extreme luxury, consider investing in noise cancelling headphones to truly escape any chaos. 

    Communicate Openly and Be Easy on Each Other

    Schedules and priorities shift with a newborn, and it can feel like you and your partner aren’t on the same page. Be open about how you’re feeling and discuss decisions frequently with each other. Having a baby is a significant event and you need to know that you and your partner can lean on each other for support. Everyone forgets things and makes mistakes, so be easy on each other. When you’re sleep-deprived or just need a break, politely ask your partner if he/she can take the baby for an hour so that you can rest. Be willing to make compromises and allow for space and time for your partner to rest as well.

    Accept Help

    Accepting help can be one of the hardest things to do, but trust that people want to help you and spend time with your newborn. Your friends and family will find joy in helping with chores as they get to be a part of the beginning of your newborn’s life. Learn to be a flexible and allow grandparents some one-on-one time with your baby so that you and your partner can sleep.

    Consider hiring a babysitter or night nanny to help you get some extra rest. Relax knowing your newborn is in the hands of a professional, while you and your partner can both get the sleep you desperately need.

    Whether this is your first or your fourth child, getting through those newborn sleepless nights is difficult for every parent. Trust that you and your partner are doing everything you can for each other and for your newborn. Ask for help and support from your partner, family, or friends when you need it, and be sure to make sleep a priority, as this will benefit both you and your baby.

     

    This post contains affiliate link(s). If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a penny more, but we will get a small commission. These affiliate links help our business continue to provide the best services possible. Thanks!