Decorating a room just for your baby can help you feel connected and prepared to welcome them home. But to start, you’ll actually be roommates ♥️ 

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends sleeping in the same room for the first six months, as it can reduce the risk of SIDS. Room sharing also makes round-the-clock feedings and diaper changes a little more manageable. 

More than a picture-perfect room for your new baby, what you really need is a functional bedside set-up so you can care for them as you recover yourself. In addition to a safe place for your baby to sleep, here’s what to keep within arm’s reach:

Diapering

• Stock a basket, bin, or diaper caddy with a generous supply of diapers, wipes, hand sanitizer, diaper ointment, and baby lotion. 
• Secure a dedicated changing pad to the top of a low dresser you already have or tuck a foldable changing mat into your diaper caddy. Some old towels will work, too. 
• Keep a few swaddles and changes of clothes handy—you may need several on some days 🙃
• Include an airtight container or bag you can toss used diapers into in the middle of the night.

Feeding

• A portable cart to store your supplies can be helpful, as you’ll likely feed your baby in more than one spot. 
• Nursing triggers powerful thirst—imagine the biggest glass of water you want on your thirstiest day, then double or triple that. Water is a key ingredient in breast milk, so staying hydrated is really important for your milk supply. Consider getting a large cup or water bottle with a handle and a straw so you can drink one-handed, plus a pitcher for refills. 
• Stock snacks to keep you going when you can’t easily get to the kitchen. Nuts, dried fruit, granola bars, and energy bites are all good options. 
• Stash piles of burp cloths in your cart or anywhere you might feed your baby.
• Whether you feed from your breasts, bottles, or both, see what you can do to make it easier on yourself. For example, nipple cream and a manual breast pump to catch extra milk may be helpful additions if you plan to breastfeed.

Playing 

In the shuffle and sleeplessness of learning to care for a baby, new parents often underestimate the importance of early play. Some development happens on its own, of course. But the language and sensory stimulation you introduce from birth can have a significant impact on your child. Research shows again and again that exposure to the right experiences at the right times makes a world of difference. 

At first, your baby will only be awake and alert for brief periods. You can make the most of these wake windows and help them build rich neural connections with The Looker Play Kit as part of your bedside nursery. Learn more about how to support your newborn’s development here:

If you have any concerns about your newborn’s development, consult with your child’s pediatrician.

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