Q: How & What to prepare for baby's arrival?

1) Prepare a space for the baby

This can be in your room or a separate room. You need to consider the distance between your bed and the cot. Also between the cot and the diaper changing area and the place where the clothes are stored.

If the bedroom is air-conditioned, set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature e.g. 25 Degrees Celcius. Also ensure that your baby is kept warm. Open the windows at least once a day and put up bright pictures to provide stimulation to your baby.

2) Clothes for the baby

Do not buy too many clothes as baby will outgrow them. It is convenient during the newborn period to have a singlet opening in front for easy changing.

Those with snap-open buttons at the bottom are easy for changing diapers. Choose quick-drying, machine washable fabrics such as cotton.

3) Nappies / Diapers

Buy either cloth diapers or small disposable diapers. If your are getting cloth diapers, buy 24 of them would be sufficient.

Disposable diapers are more convenient and being absorbent, they reduce incidence of nappy rash.

4) Bibs

These are pieces of cloth or plastic which are used to protect clothes from saliva or food regurgitated by baby. These are optional as a small towel will do just as well for newborn babies.

5) Mittens and socks

Mittens are fingerless gloves that can help prevent baby's fingernails from scratching her face. Socks which keep the feet warm are optional unless baby sleeps in an air-conditioned room.

6) Feeding Bottles / Tongs / Steraliser

Do get two to three feeding bottles. The smaller bottles are useful for water and fruit juices. You can get a steraliser to steralise the bottles. There are many types available on the market. Check out which suits your needs best.

Get a bottle brush to clean the bottles and a pair of tongs to pick up the hot steralised bottles and teats.

7) Breast Pump

Choose from electric, syringe or manual pump breast pumps. Electric pumps are more effective but cost more.

8) Bag for Baby's things

Choose a bag that can be easily cleaned and can withstand wear and tear. A detachable changing mat is good for changing diapers. You might want to get a backpack for the times when your hands might be occupied.

9) Slings

There are many types of slings available on the market. Some are for breastfeeding purposes and others are just for carrying baby. It is best to choose darker colours so in case there are stains, it is not easily visible.

10) Strollers or prams

Some points to consider before buying are:-

• Is it light enough to carry while alighting from public transport?
• Is it easy to fold, preferably with one hand?
• Do the wheels lock tightly?
• Is the handle high enough for you to push the stroller without slouching?

11) Car seats

New born babies should be placed in a basket when travelling in a car as they do not have adequate neck and back support.

From about 6 to 7 months, a baby can seat upright in a car seat with restraints on. Use a booster seat when the child is above 3 years old.

12) Toys

Many toys for the baby will come as gifts. If you choose to, just get a musical toy with bright colours.