As your child clutches your leg when you drop him at the child-care center you have chosen, you are probably fervently hoping you have chosen well. When narrowing down choices, it’s not easy to make a selection, knowing someone else will be responsible to care for your bundle of joy the better part of each day. You know asking, “Do you have any openings?” is probably not enough research; but, doing a background check on everyone from the provider to the guy who delivers their newspaper is going a bit far. Still, keeping a few basic principles in mind should help you select a good child care provider and give you peace of mind.

The legal nitpick

Surprisingly, many moms are embarrassed to ask licensure questions of child-care centers, especially home providers. This isn’t prying, it’s good sense. A license indicates that the state has guaranteed a provider has been checked and certified to provide adequate, safe child-care. This will give you profound peace of mind when you pull away from the child-care center each day. And, don’t just ask if there’s a license, ensure it matches the type of center being run. If the provider is licensed to care for only a small number of children, and the center is hosting a posse, look elsewhere.

Staff questions

Ask about the staff that works at the center and about their qualifications to work with children. Also, ask about the staff turnover rate, as this may indicate a problem with the center’s management. Question the volume of staff on shift for various points in the day and the number of adults assigned to each child. This is also a good time to ask for references—and be sure to check them. Be wary of a center that either does not give references or whose references are negative or do not check out.

Training and emergency plans

Find out what training the child care center’s staff has that qualifies them to respond to emergency situations for children. CPR or choking rescue procedures for babies and children differ from those for adults. If no one on the staff is trained in basic first aid, look elsewhere. Ask about what emergency response plans the center has in place in case of various disasters like fires, tornados or attacks.

The center’s schedule

Ask questions about the center’s scheduled closures and days of non-operation for holidays or planned vacations, as you’ll need to make other arrangements in advance. You will also want to know the center’s daily routine schedule. This will help you prepare your child in advance to fall in step with the center without feeling too disrupted. You can adjust his meal and nap times a few days or weeks in advance of entry into a new child-care center in order to help ease his transition.

Observation and visit options

The child-care center you select should allow pop-in visits from you at the time of your choosing. If they request you schedule visits, question what they are cleaning up or hiding before your arrival. You should feel free to observe your child at will.

Sick child and provider policies

Find out the center’s policy on sick children. Some child-care centers allow the sniffles but not fevers. Others draw the line at vomiting and diarrhea. And, if you select an in-home provider, ask what the backup plan is for when he/she falls ill and cannot provide the normal care schedule.

Extra fee schedules

If your child is ill or you go on vacation, do you have to pay for unused days? What about days the center is closed? Some centers offer part-time and flextime schedules. You should find out about them before you sign up, especially if you don’t plan on working full-time. Also, some charge fees for early drop-offs or late pickups, even down to the minute. You might ask about traffic patterns, to alter your schedule in order to avoid these pesky fees. If the center provides its own transportation, perhaps picking your child up from school, you will certainly want to know the fees attached to this convenience. And, most centers operate on a very fixed budget when it comes to supplies; so, find out if you will be contributing to their rotating supply of tissues and crayons.

Discipline and other policies

If you have established a firm, no hand-slapping policy, you will want to know if the operators of the center employ this discipline method when telling the children not to touch something. And, if you don’t allow television, you will want to know if 3 p.m. is television hour. Or, you may want to pack a nutritious option if they serve sugary snacks. Whatever is important to you, find out whether the child care center has a policy that doesn’t mesh with your at-home policy.

Choosing someone else to care for your child is never easy. It means letting someone into your child’s life, taking a role that you’d rather fill yourself. But, in a world with mortgages, car payments and just the need to get out to feel fulfilled outside the home as well as within it, finding adequate child care is a necessary reality. By researching your options and following your gut, you should be able to find a solution that works for your family.

Note from Mommy.com : Need help finding babysitters, nannies, tutors and other providers near you? We’ve partnered with Care.com to help you. Use the form in our local section to search for providers in your area, and find profiles of prospective caregivers to meet your specific needs. With Care.com’s prescreened profiles, videos, references, background checks, an more, it’s like having a human resources department right in your home! Click here now.

Let your baby make the ultimate statement

Are you a mom with a unique style who can’t bear to see her precious newborn become another advertisement for mass consumerism? Do you hate all the stuffy, traditional pinks and blues for your new bundle of joy? Where can you go to find baby clothing that will help your child learn to walk to the beat of their own drum? We’ve scoured the Internet and have found several unique places to find baby clothing that is definitely not out of the big box or the famous mall boutiques.

Threadless.com

For moms who identify with the artsy crowd, this is the site for you. They offer unique, alternative art on one-of-a-kind baby clothing. Some of the art is quite abstract and some is just plain silly and fun. New designs are released every Friday, so you can visit often and never get bored. Kids’ T-shirts are $17 and onesies are $20. This company is very hip with the campus crowd across America and offers a message board to post comments and discussions. Spend some time browsing the comments posted by the artists. It will give you some insight into the designs you purchase. This site was a bit difficult to navigate, but the designs won’t be found anywhere else, so it’s worth the extra trouble to figure it out.

Cafepress.com

If quick, affordable and witty is your cup of tea, then you’ll want to check out Cafepress.com, which offers more than a million designs to choose from. You’ll find the traditional “I’m the big brother/sister,” and other cutesy sayings; political statements, pop culture icons, and tons of family-related quotations. If you don’t see what you want here, the site lets you can create a design yourself. Two minutes and 5 or 6 clicks of the mouse and you can have your own designer item featuring your child’s picture or artwork. Any jpg or png files can be used for your design. Available items for baby clothing are bodysuits, bibs, and tees. Most items are under $15. Caution: This site can be addictive and time consuming!

Babywit.com

At Babywit.com their tag line is: You may not be cool, but your baby can be. This site features hip, irreverent designs, from punk and alternative themes to classic rock, pirate, cowboy and outlaw pop-culture items. Their designer section features hand-sewn appliqués, which are priced as higher-end products. They have a larger choice of baby clothing items than most other sites, including shoes and slippers (the cowboy boot slippers are awesome!), diaper bags, and diaper covers. Most items start at around $21 and go up from there. This site even has a gift registry, so expecting moms and dads can choose their favorites and keep track of their gifts.

Crazybabyclothing.com

Just want something plain in basic black? You’ll find find the solid black onesies and tees that you need to coordinate with baby’s other fashions. They also offer green or pink camo designs and the ever popular pirate skull choices. Their line of cool pacifiers offers something out of the ordinary, and are sure to draw comments from your baby’s adoring public.

Sandboxcouture.com

This site caters to the fashionista and celebrity watcher crowd, with a collection of designer baby clothing for the preschool set. See designs worn by children of the stars, like Madonna and Jennie Garth, featuring Sweet Potatoes, Kate Mack, Roxy Girls, Quicksilver, No Fear and Flowers by Zoe, among others.

Babyrockapparel.com

Finally, for those hardcore rockers who just can’t turn off the tunes now that baby has arrived , this site has baby-friendly versions of your favorite hard rock songs. Preview the music while you shop for your little rocker. Rock On!

Hipbabyclothes.net

The name of this site is actually Tot Rocket: Where cool babies can wear what they think! So you get the idea. The site offers funny tees and onesies, with sayings like, “I only cry when ugly people hold me,” “Breastfed baby - enjoy the show,” “My mom’s too lazy to make a bottle,” “Hung like a five year old,” “Topic of conversation,” and “Been there - broke that.” Some of the bibs with cute sayings: “Being Republican means never having to say you’re sorry,” “Bill Clinton for First Lady,” and “My whole life is being blogged.” They have baby clothing with rock star sayings, tattoo-like graphics, skulls, and sports and punk logos. All the logos are available on tees, onesies, and bibs, and they even have the ever-popular hoodies for babies. They have a great selection of items for only $10.99. Your baby will definitely get a second look sporting one of these products!

Pokkadots.com

This site has a great selection of really cute boutique-style baby clothing, not as hardcore as Tot Rocket’s. They carry sizes from 0-5t for girls, and from 0-8 for boys. They even have cool shoes, cozy pajamas, books, toys, furniture, decor, organic clothing, and items for mom and dad. Their baby clothes are scaled-down replicas of what trendy teens are wearing - all the latest styles in little kids’ sizes! I especially like the layered-look shirts, the pirate cap, the rain gear, the leggings, and the Paul James blazer. The clothes were adorable, and I found the prices to be very reasonable.

Retrobaby.com

For cute, tongue-in-cheek baby clothing, visit Retro Baby. They offer hoodies, tees, dresses, bibs, onesies, and accessories in infant and toddler sizes. Their logos include sayings like “I’m kind of a big deal,” “It’s okay, I’m with the band,” “For good luck, rub my tummy,” and my favorite, “Does this diaper make my butt look big?” The latest craze for teens is a tee displaying an old rock band’s picture and logo, and Retro Baby has them for little kids. They have Led Zeppelin, the Ramones, Jimmy Hendrix, Bob Marley, Iron Maiden, Guns ’n Roses, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. I also loved the rubber duckies in the form of Mr. T, Gene Simmons of Kiss, Alice in Wonderland, and Buddha. Very cool. Many items were under $20.

Uncommonlycute.com

These baby clothing articles really are uncommonly cute, and they come in toddler sizes, too. Uncommonly Cute specializes in onesies and short- and long-sleeve tees. Some of their tee shirt sayings are “freshly baked,” “brand new,” “miso cute,” “king of the little people,” and “Elmo is my homeboy.” They even have shirts with peace signs. They also have baby clothing for twins that says things like “perfect pair.” I love the twin shirts that say “copy” on one and “paste” on the other! The onesies and short-sleeve tees are $22, and the long-sleeve tees are $24.
Do a little “window shopping” for some hip baby clothing. If you just buy department store clothes for your child, she’s going to look just like all the other little tykes. Dare to be different! Even if your baby can’t talk, he can still make a statement by sporting a trendy outfit.

Well new mommy, you’ve graduated from toting your baby around in your tummy, and now need something more practical to carry your bundle of joy. Welcome to the wonderful world of stroller shopping. There are literally thousands of strollers to choose from, and to figure out which one is right for you you’ll need to do a little research and a little soul searching.

Strollers run the gamut, from fold-and-go models to travel systems that clip the car seat right to the stroller. Each type has a range of models, from base to extravagant, and you’ll likely be able to find one to fit your budget.

Fold-and-go

These strollers are often called umbrella strollers because folded up, they look like an umbrella, taking up minimal trunk space. Weighing less than twenty pounds they’re great for errands and day trips. Usually they’re inexpensive, but designer brands can run higher. Materials, like titanium can run up the price, but can also make them more lightweight and durable.

Jogging

Jogging strollers are a pricier investment, with handgrip brakes and all-terrain suspension. Really think about this model before purchasing, because if you’re looking at a jogging stroller, you should be using it for serious jogging. If your not a serious jogger, but like this model for it’s style, invest in one with a smaller front wheel. The bigger front wheels are primarily for heavy running or rougher terrain. Smaller, swivel front wheels are better for walking and smooth surfaces and are easier to turn. If you are going to jog, get a fixed wheel.

Multiple kiddies

Parents with multiple children can find multi-seat strollers too. For children of different ages, there are stand-and-rides, which allow the older children to stand on the back while the younger ones sit up front. Or you can purchase stroller clips, which will allow you to clip two lightweight strollers together.

Safety

All strollers have a rear brake. Make sure it works. When the stroller is stationary, keep it locked.
Look for a five-point harness that goes over the baby’s shoulders. Don’t underestimate your mommy-panic factor on this one. When you see your little one all strapped in, you’ll want to know he’s secure.

A reclining seat is safer for newborns with weak neck muscles, but not all fold-and-go strollers recline enough, and you may need to add additional support. A travel system that lets you use the car seat clipped in will be safest for newborns. Jogging strollers shouldn’t be used for babies under six months.

Two issues to be concerned with are weight distribution and back wheels. To test the sturdiness, hang your purse on the handlebars and see if it tips. Try walking fast and see if you kick the back wheels, sending it tipping sideways.

Convenience features

Adjustable, cushioned handlebars for a short mommy and a tall daddy are nice. Cup holders, snack trays and undercarriage baskets are all bonuses.

Remember, extra features may be something you can purchase later, so don’t focus on them too much. For example, after market rain covers are readily available; so don’t base your decision solely on that.

At the end of the day it isn’t about designer labels and expensive price tags, it’s about what works for you, your children, and your budget. Decide what’s important and find a stroller that’s safe, easy to use and fits your needs.

Whether you’re expecting your first baby or your third, finding out that you’re pregnant is always an exciting moment. From this point on, you’ll have to make numerous decisions that affect your new baby, you and the other members of your family.

Money is one of the biggest concerns of new parents. The cost of the first year of an infant’s life can add up to as much as $10,000, depending on your geographic location and other personal factors. And though that amount may seem like a lot, it’s important to remember that the price of things like diapers, formula, clothing, baby wipes and toys can add up quickly! Save as much as possible now—before the baby is born—so you have more savings when your new infant arrives.

But you don’t need to sweat over your finances if you want to save money during this special time of your life. Instead, just avoid some of the common spending traps that new parents face—and utilize a few smart shopping tricks—and you’ll save a bundle of cash before your bundle of joy arrives.

Money-spending trap: Buying new

Many new parents believe that their baby needs new items. But outfitting your infant in brand new clothing, furniture and accessories can easily cost thousands of dollars!

Saving tip: Your infant won’t realize that she’s wearing used onesies or sleeping in a used crib. Buying secondhand at thrift stores or yard sales is a great way to spend less on many big-ticket items.

Hint: Occasionally, infant items get recalled for safety reasons. Before buying any secondhand item, check to make sure the item hasn’t been recalled. Avoid buying used items that may have had their safety compromised because of misuse or accidents, such as car seats, high chairs and strollers.

Money-spending trap: Buying unnecessary items

Do you really need that matching quilt and bumper set? Is a diaper organizer truly necessary? Many new parents go overboard buying items that are completely unneeded.

Saving tip: Browse message boards and online forums—or ask friends and family—which items they found invaluable after the birth of their baby. Most parents are happy to discuss which accessories were essential and which simply collected dust.

Hint: Every infant is different. Some love musical swings, others prefer bouncing chairs. Use the advice of other parents to guide your purchases, but remember that your baby’s reaction might be different.

Money-spending trap: Buying too much for one short period of time

When it comes to spending during pregnancy, many new parents focus too much on the early months. Diapers and clothing meant for newborns will get quickly outgrown. In some cases, larger newborn babies won’t even fit into traditional newborn sizes.

Saving tip: Wait until after your baby shower to purchase any newborn-sized items, since you’ll probably get plenty of tiny clothes and diapers from friends and family. If you must purchase newborn items before your infant arrives, buy just enough to last a week or so. It’s generally unwise—and potentially wasteful—to “stock up” before your baby is born.

Hint: If you get an overload of newborn items at your baby shower, consider exchanging them for a larger size. Your baby will grow quickly, and in no time at all you’ll have a need for those bigger sizes.

Saving money during pregnancy may seem impossible, especially if you’re spending lots of time in maternity and baby stores. But with a little creativity and frugality, you can save a bundle before your baby arrives.

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