15 things every mother needs to get through the first two years.

By JO ABI

Everyone tells you how quickly that first year with your baby goes, but it’s not until you watch your little one pulling themselves up into standing position on your coffee table that it really hits you. Soon they’re running around and you’re running around after them, getting everything out of their reach.

Every time your child does something new you can’t help but reflect back. Remember when they used to just lie there, still, while you changed their nappy? Now, changing a nappy becomes an adrenaline sport. Remember when they’d fall asleep in the exact position you laid them down in? Now they get themselves to sleep by using their cot as a trampoline before slumping, exhausted in strange sleeping positions.

Motherhood is a constant adventure from birth until, well, forever and you’ll need a lot of products, especially for those first two years to get you through.

So we’ve listed the 15 essentials you’ll need for babies from birth, to two years old. Share it with every mum you know.

Just as an FYI, you should know that this post is sponsored by Big W. But all opinions expressed by the author are 100% authentic and written in their own words.

Approaching motherhood:

1. Maternity bras

Wearing good maternity bras is a must because you might possibly be wearing them for over a year. So consider them an investment. Try on a few and choose the ones that are comfortable, supportive and easy to use.

2. Cloth nappies

Cloth nappies have so many uses. They are excellent spew rags to toss over your shoulder while nursing your baby, they are great last-minute nappy changing mats, they are good for drying your baby’s small amount of hair while they stay wrapped up in their towel, and they are easy to clean so you don’t feel so badly about going through 20 per day.

3. Nappies and wipes

It’s essential to choose nappies and wipes you’re happy with and the only way to discover your preference is to try a couple out. Once you find the ones that are effective, easy to use and have cute pictures on them, stock up.

0-3 months

1. Pram or stroller

There are so many different kinds of prams and strollers to choose from. There are ones that double as baby capsules and those that convert from baby carriage to stroller. You don’t have to spend a fortune and you really need to test drive a few around the store to see what your preference is.

2. Car seat

Your child will stay rear-facing for up to a year before you flip them around. You can invest in a baby seat that converts to a toddler seat or simply upgrade once they reach the required weight and height. Every car seat has the ideal age and weight printed on it so read the labels.

3. Baby monitor

You’ll need a baby monitor long after they grow out of that baby stage so invest in a good one. The best ones allow you to carry them around with you, by clipping to your clothing. That way you can do what you need to do without worrying that you can’t hear your baby calling out to you.

3-6 months

1. Black out blinds

These are an absolute godsend for babies of all ages. There’s no better sleeping cue than a lovely dark room and during summer, they really help to keep some of the heat out of your child’s room.

2. High chair

A good high chair can support your baby as they learn to sit properly and then withstand their newfound wriggly freedom as they get older and start wriggling and banging around in them.

3. Activity centre

These are great. They are a good alternative to a play pen and help your child learn to use their legs. They are fully adjustable so as your baby grows and learns to use their legs, you can adjust it.

6-12 months

1. Baby gates, playpens and locks

Baby proofing becomes incredibly important once they start to crawl and walk so make sure you have this all set up before hand. Baby gates should be installed at every set of stairs and at the doorways of rooms you don’t want them to have access to. While you’re at it, get that baby proofing happening on all draws and cupboards too. And set up a safe play area with a playpen so they have their special place to go.

2. Snack containers and drink bottles.

You’ll go through quite a few of these. I found it helpful to colour code. I had a certain colour container for snacks and others for meals. Then I made sure to have a few of their favourite drink bottles for use at various locations.

3. Lots of socks

It’s always so sad when you see one lone sock at the shops. They just fall off babies, and then as your child gets older they become quite expert at pulling them off. So stock up on socks, preferably ones that are reinforced at the top to prevent them from coming off too easily.

12 months – 2 years

1. Thermometer

Investing in a good thermometer is essential to check your child’s temperature and to know when they need to go to the doctor or need medicine. You can get many different kinds, and can take it with you to the doctor so they can show you how to use it properly.

2. Sunscreen

You’ll need lots of sunscreen every time you head out the door. Make sure to use the right one for your child’s age. The roll-ons are great for little ones and as they get older, you can use the spray variety.

3. Toys

Age-appropriate toys are your secret weapon when it comes to raising happy kids. Good toys are fun and teach your children something. Then there are the toys you’ll keep at home, ones for the pram, some for the car and a couple in your handbag and in your nappy bag for emergency entertaining purposes.

Anything we’ve missed? What do you think is essential for a baby?

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