Before Gabriel arrived, I spent hours reading "essential" baby lists.
Lists with 40 products. Lists with things I'd never heard of. Lists clearly written by people who didn't have babies.
Here's my version — from a dad who lived through the first 6 months with a real infant and learned to tell the difference between what we need and what we buy out of panic.
1. A good bouncer or swing
In the first few months, babies can't sit up, can't stand, and can't be laid flat all the time. The bouncer becomes the best friend of the whole family. It allows you to safely put the baby down while you eat, do the dishes, or take a two-minute break.
What to look for: adjustable recline, a 5-point harness, washable materials. The rest (vibrations, melodies) is a bonus — nice, but not essential.
2. A sleeping bag (grobag) adapted to the season
A baby's sheet ending up on their face at night is every parent's nightmare. The sleeping bag definitively solves this problem. Baby stays warm without the risk of dangerous swaddling.
Choose the correct thermal TOG rating for the season: 0.5 TOG for summer, 2.5 TOG for winter. And go one size up — they grow fast.
3. A stimulating play mat
From 2 months old, babies start following objects with their eyes, waving their arms, and becoming interested in contrasts.
A good play mat with hanging toys becomes a real developmental tool. Criteria: sturdy arches, varied textures and sounds, contrasting colors (black/white/red are particularly stimulating for young infants whose vision is still developing).
4. A reliable forehead thermometer
The thermometer is the product you quickly buy at the beginning and regret on the first feverish night at 39.5°C. An infrared forehead thermometer takes the temperature in one second without waking the baby. It's a priceless comfort at 3 AM.
Look for a model with memory for the last readings — handy for showing the doctor the progression.
5. An ergonomic baby carrier
Not essential for everyone — but for many parents, an ergonomic baby carrier (which holds the baby in a frog-leg position, with hips well spread) radically changes daily life. Free hands, a calm baby against you, easier mobility.
Caution: not all baby carriers are ergonomic. Avoid models that let the baby's legs dangle — it's not good for developing hips.
What we didn't include in the list (and why)
The high chair, playpen, travel cot, baby bath: useful later or depending on your situation, but not urgent for the first 6 months. Prioritize immediate comfort and safety; the rest can wait.
Find all these products at Gabriel & Compagnie
All products selected for the store go through the same filter: would I use it for Gabriel?
0 comments