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Baby Schedule: 11 months old (feedings, wake times, nap/sleep times)

noreply@blogger.com (The Lindsay Ann) — Mon, 04 Apr 2022 04:13:00 +0000

My FLEXIBLE Baby Schedule I used for both my daughter and son, at 11 months old. Including feeding times, wake times, and nap/sleep times.

Set yourself and your baby up for SUCCESS!

I am a firm believer in a "flexible daily schedule/routine". Children thrive on consistency. Providing a predictable daily pattern they can come to expect, helps them to feel safe, reduces anxieties of unexpected changes and unfamiliar expectations and helps them feel happy and secure. A baby and mama that are well rested and well fed, is the goal and what helped me raise happy babies. A daily routine also helps cultivate a calm household where everyone can help pitch in, knowing the expectations for the day at particular times. It can provide structure and give your family more freedom, as you know when you can schedule different things throughout the day, which I found particularly helpful when I had my second baby, with a toddler eager to get to the park and be on the go.

I have achieved success with these schedules, with both of my children. Both, very different children, were notable happier babies once we got on a good schedule/routine around 2 months.

Both of my children were going 5 hours between feedings over night at 5 weeks old... 6-7 hours by 7 weeks, old... 8 hours by 8-10 weeks old... and 12 hours overnight by 14 weeks old and continued 12 hours overnight the entire time they were in the crib.

They were fed, put in a sleep sack, given a paci (my daughter used a paci from 2-4 months old before she found her fingers to suck on instead. We introduced the paci to my son at around 6 weeks old as he was much fussier due to reflux when he was young) and put into the crib to fall asleep on their own once they were just about ready to doze off, but not completely put to sleep by being rocked or nursed to sleep.

I felt strongly about this as sleep is THE most important key to success in my opinion. Well rested babies are able to feed better and "play" better, making them happier, in turn, making your life easier! Both my kids were great sleepers once we got a routine going. It was hard at first, but I resisted the urge to let them nap on me for every nap, rock them to sleep in my arms every time or use a motorized baby swing or something that rocked them to sleep (all, with the occasional exception), so they would not have to rely on these methods and be able to create positive sleeping habits from an early age... I also do not believe in letting them cry it out. If your baby is upset and crying, I urge you to follow your instincts and be there to help them, at this early age. I followed this mindset with both of my children, who have extremely different temperaments, and was successful in getting both to eat, play and sleep happily and easily.

I try and follow a “feed-wake-sleep” routine pattern!

A baby that isn't well fed, won't be able to have a quality wake time, because they will be hungry and cranky. If the baby doesn't get efficient wake times, they won't be able to have long quality sleep time, resulting in a not fully rested baby. If they aren't rested, they are not able to get quality feeding times, because they will be falling asleep at the breast/bottle and not sucking efficiently... so then they are not well fed, and the cycle then continues.

Remember, always follow your baby's cues and feed/let them sleep as needed, even if off schedule if that's what baby needs (if they are going through a growth spurt, sick, etc). Never deny them sleep or food, if that is what they need! This is just a flexible routine. I also don't recommend waking a sleeping baby, just to stay on schedule. This will mean they are not fully rested and not be able to feed efficiently, resulting in not a quality wake time, meaning they will not have a quality sleep time, and the cycle continues... defeating the entire purpose of the schedule.

Be forgiving to yourself and your baby as you both navigate this new journey of parenthood together. And don't forget LOTS of talking, singing, kissing and cuddling your baby :) They need you. Ultimately, do what feels right for you and your baby. The below is just what worked for me and my family, so I hope by sharing what we do, it can help you and your family too!

Ultimately, do what feels right for you and your baby. The below is just what worked for me and my family, so I hope by sharing what we do, it can help you and your family too! You can adjust the times accordingly if you like to wake up earlier or later, just move the whole schedule up or down as needed.

Baby Schedule: 11 months old

Ryker:

7:00am	NURSE/BOTTLE → Waketime
8:00am	Breakfast & water in straw cup
10/10:30am - 11:30am	MORNING NAP
12:00pm	Lunch & water in straw cup
2pm - 3/3:30pm	AFTERNOON NAP
3:45pm	COW'S MILK IN STRAW CUP / Snack → Waketime
5:00pm	Dinner & water or cow's milk in straw cup
7:00pm	NURSE/BOTTLE → Crib

7:30pm

Down for the night

Kinsley:

7:30am	Milk in straw cup & Breakfast → Waketime
9:00/9:30am	MORNING NAP
10/10:30am	Snack & water in straw cup
12:30pm	Lunch & milk in straw cup
1:30/2pm	AFTERNOON NAP
2:30/3pm	Snack & water in straw cup → Waketime
5:30pm	Dinner & milk in straw cup
7:30pm	Milk in straw cup → Crib

7:35pm

Down for the night

*FEEDINGS

This was when I nursed or pumped and bottle fed my son or gave my daughter milk in a straw or sippy cup. We followed a 3 or 4x/day milk feeding schedule as they started taking less milk at this age. I started introducing cow's milk during the day at this age and swapped the afternoon bottle for a straw cup of breastmilk or cow's milk.

*SOLIDS

At this age they were both eating table foods. Breakfast, Lunch, Snack, and Dinner, with milk or water in a straw/sippy cup.

*NAPS/SLEEP

I aim for around ~1-2h naps, 2x a day, that total around 2.5-3 hours. They wore sleep sacks, and were free to roll back and forth. Both would roll to their side or stomach to sleep a lot of the time by this age. I had plenty of paci's in the crib for my son to be able to roll into and put in his mouth himself to sooth if he needed, while my daughter sucked her fingers to self soothe. Black out shades drawn and a sound machine with nightlight on. I transitioned to 1 nap a day around 15-18 months old.

*WAKE TIMES

I aim for around minimum of ~2.5-3 hours (including feeding time), and around 4 hours before bed, but always follow baby's cues!

MY ULTIMATE NEW BABY GUIDE

The notes, spreadsheet and schedules below that I put together along the way are my ultimate go-to guides that I hope you find helpful (and share with your friends)! From what to pack in your hospital bag, to sleep schedules (so they actually sleep), easy recipes to feed your baby for their first solid foods or homemade play dough to keep them entertained... I hope these resources help prepare and guide you through your journey through parenthood.

@THELINDSAYANN NEW BABY GUIDE RESOURCES:

{VIDEO} My Story: If you want some background behind my first baby's pregnancy announcement and our infertility journey

Ultimate Baby Registry Checklist & Notes 2021 (with links!) - What you NEED and DON'T need for your new baby

Minimalist Hospital Bag (for New Baby, Mom and Dad/Partner): What you NEED and DON'T need for labor, delivery and recovery

Nursery Reveal: Pink & Gold Baby Girl Room Tour
Nursery Reveal: Black & Natural Baby Boy Room Tour

Ultimate Baby Schedule List (2 months - 2 years old): feedings, wake times, naps and sleep times

Nanny Guide: Info to leave for your baby's nanny, babysitter, grandparent or care giver while you are away

Easy Homemade Stage 1 Baby Food - Quick Fruit and Vegetable Purees (Green Bean, Butternut Squash, Sweet Potato, Carrot and more!)
Kale Spinach Applesauce For Kids (Healthy Veggie Apple Puree Baby/Toddler Food)
Healthy Fruit & Veggie Muffins For Babies, Toddlers & Kids (NO refined sugar, salt free, gluten free + kale, broccoli, zucchini, carrots & more!)
The Best Play Dough (easy homemade playdough)

Baby Schedule: 10 months old (feedings, wake times, nap/sleep times)

noreply@blogger.com (The Lindsay Ann) — Tue, 22 Feb 2022 05:54:00 +0000

My FLEXIBLE Baby Schedule I used for both my daughter and son, at 10 months old. Including feeding times, wake times, and nap/sleep times.

Set yourself and your baby up for SUCCESS!

I have achieved success with these schedules, with both of my children. Both, very different children, were notable happier babies once we got on a good schedule/routine around 2 months.

I try and follow a “feed-wake-sleep” routine pattern!

Baby Schedule: 10 months old

7:00am	NURSE/BOTTLE → Waketime
8:00am	Breakfast & water in straw cup
9:30/10am - 11/11:30am	MORNING NAP
12:00pm	Lunch & water in straw cup
1:30/2pm - 2:30/3:30pm	AFTERNOON NAP
3/3:30pm	NURSE/BOTTLE → Waketime & Optional Snack
5:00pm	Dinner & water in straw cup
7:00pm	NURSE/BOTTLE → Crib

7:30pm

Down for the night

*FEEDINGS

This was when I nursed or pumped and bottle fed. We pulled back from one bottle during the day at this age, and followed a 3x/day milk feeding schedule as they started taking less milk at this age. I exclusively breastfed and introduced a (glass) bottle with pumped (down to about 2-5oz for my daughter, and 5-7oz daytime bottle plus 9-10-oz before bed, for my son both who started drinking less, as we introduced solids) breastmilk, as needed.

*SOLIDS

I slowly introduced solids at 6 months old. I did purees with my daughter and experimented with a mixture of purees and baby led weaning with my son. At this age they were both on mostly table foods. Breakfast, Lunch, Snack, and Dinner, with water in a straw/sippy cup.

*NAPS/SLEEP

I aim for around ~1-2h naps, 2x a day, that total around 3 hours. They wore sleep sacks, and were free to roll back and forth. Both would roll to their side or stomach to sleep a lot of the time by this age. I had plenty of paci's in the crib for my son to be able to roll into and put in his mouth himself to sooth if he needed, while my daughter sucked her fingers to self soothe. Black out shades drawn and a sound machine with nightlight on.

*WAKE TIMES

I aim for around minimum of ~2-3 hours (including feeding time), and around 4 hours before bed, but always follow baby's cues!

MY ULTIMATE NEW BABY GUIDE

@THELINDSAYANN NEW BABY GUIDE RESOURCES:

{VIDEO} My Story: If you want some background behind my first baby's pregnancy announcement and our infertility journey

Ultimate Baby Registry Checklist & Notes 2021 (with links!) - What you NEED and DON'T need for your new baby

Minimalist Hospital Bag (for New Baby, Mom and Dad/Partner): What you NEED and DON'T need for labor, delivery and recovery

Nursery Reveal: Pink & Gold Baby Girl Room Tour
Nursery Reveal: Black & Natural Baby Boy Room Tour

Ultimate Baby Schedule List (2 months - 2 years old): feedings, wake times, naps and sleep times

Nanny Guide: Info to leave for your baby's nanny, babysitter, grandparent or care giver while you are away

Easy Homemade Stage 1 Baby Food - Quick Fruit and Vegetable Purees (Green Bean, Butternut Squash, Sweet Potato, Carrot and more!)
Kale Spinach Applesauce For Kids (Healthy Veggie Apple Puree Baby/Toddler Food)
Healthy Fruit & Veggie Muffins For Babies, Toddlers & Kids (NO refined sugar, salt free, gluten free + kale, broccoli, zucchini, carrots & more!)
The Best Play Dough (easy homemade playdough)

Baby Schedule: 9 months old (feedings, wake times, nap/sleep times)

noreply@blogger.com (The Lindsay Ann) — Sun, 20 Feb 2022 07:12:00 +0000

My FLEXIBLE Baby Schedule I used for both my daughter and son, at 9 months old. Including feeding times, wake times, and nap/sleep times.

Set yourself and your baby up for SUCCESS!

I have achieved success with these schedules, with both of my children. Both, very different children, were notable happier babies once we got on a good schedule/routine around 2 months.

I try and follow a “feed-wake-sleep” routine pattern!

Baby Schedule: 9 months old

7:00am	NURSE/BOTTLE → Waketime
8:00am	Breakfast
9:30am - 11am	MORNING NAP
11:00am	NURSE/BOTTLE → Waketime
12:00pm	Lunch
1:30pm - 2:30/3:30pm	AFTERNOON NAP
3:30pm	NURSE/BOTTLE → Waketime
5:00pm	Dinner
7:00pm	NURSE/BOTTLE → Crib

7:30pm

Down for the night

*FEEDINGS

This was when I nursed or pumped and bottle fed. I felt breastmilk is still the #1 source of nutrition, so finishing the bottle is more important than finishing the solids at this age. I followed a 4x/day feeding schedule but started taking less milk at this age. I exclusively breastfed and introduced a (glass) bottle with pumped (down to about 4-5oz for my daughter, and 4-5oz plus 9-10-oz before bed, for my son both who started drinking less, as we introduced solids) breastmilk, as needed. I used a 4 feed, every 4 hour schedule.

*SOLIDS

I slowly introduced solids at 6 months old. I did purees with my daughter and experimented with a mixture of purees and baby led weaning with my son. At this age they were both on mostly table foods.

*NAPS/SLEEP

I aim for around ~1-2.5h naps, 2x a day, that total around 3 hours. They wore sleep sacks, and were free to roll back and forth. Both would roll to their side to sleep a lot of the time by this age. I had plenty of paci's in the crib for my son to be able to roll into and put in his mouth himself to sooth if he needed, while my daughter sucked her fingers to self soothe. Black out shades drawn and a sound machine with nightlight on.

*WAKE TIMES

I aim for around minimum of ~2-3 hours (including feeding time), and around 4 hours before bed, but always follow baby's cues!

MY ULTIMATE NEW BABY GUIDE

@THELINDSAYANN NEW BABY GUIDE RESOURCES:

{VIDEO} My Story: If you want some background behind my first baby's pregnancy announcement and our infertility journey

Ultimate Baby Registry Checklist & Notes 2021 (with links!) - What you NEED and DON'T need for your new baby

Minimalist Hospital Bag (for New Baby, Mom and Dad/Partner): What you NEED and DON'T need for labor, delivery and recovery

Nursery Reveal: Pink & Gold Baby Girl Room Tour
Nursery Reveal: Black & Natural Baby Boy Room Tour

Ultimate Baby Schedule List (2 months - 2 years old): feedings, wake times, naps and sleep times

Nanny Guide: Info to leave for your baby's nanny, babysitter, grandparent or care giver while you are away

Easy Homemade Stage 1 Baby Food - Quick Fruit and Vegetable Purees (Green Bean, Butternut Squash, Sweet Potato, Carrot and more!)
Kale Spinach Applesauce For Kids (Healthy Veggie Apple Puree Baby/Toddler Food)
Healthy Fruit & Veggie Muffins For Babies, Toddlers & Kids (NO refined sugar, salt free, gluten free + kale, broccoli, zucchini, carrots & more!)
The Best Play Dough (easy homemade playdough)

Baby Schedule: 8 months old (feedings, wake times, nap/sleep times)

noreply@blogger.com (The Lindsay Ann) — Wed, 22 Dec 2021 07:33:00 +0000

My FLEXIBLE Baby Schedule I used for both my daughter and son, at 8 months old. Including feeding times, wake times, and nap/sleep times.

Set yourself and your baby up for SUCCESS!

I have achieved success with these schedules, with both of my children. Both, very different children, were notable happier babies once we got on a good schedule/routine around 2 months.

I try and follow a “feed-wake-sleep” routine pattern!

I used a 5 feed/day, every 3-3.5 hours for my daughter and a 4 feed, every 4 hour schedule for my son, who needed more per feed, less often, to get him to finish more milk per feeding. Below are their schedules I followed.

Baby Schedule: 8 months old (4 feed/4hr schedule)

7:00am	NURSE/BOTTLE → Waketime
8:30am	4T/2oz solids

9:00 - 10:30/11am	MORNING NAP
11:00am	NURSE/BOTTLE → Waketime
12:00pm	4T/2oz solids
1:00/1:30 - 2:30/3:30pm	AFTERNOON NAP
3:00pm	NURSE/BOTTLE → Waketime
5:00pm	4T/2oz solids
4:30/5:00pm	OCCASIONAL CAT NAP IF AWAKE BEFORE 3PM
7:00pm	NURSE/BOTTLE → Crib
7:30pm	Down for the night

Baby Schedule: 8 months old (5 feed/3-3.5hr schedule)

7:00am	NURSE/BOTTLE → Waketime
8:30am - 9:30/10:30am	MORNING NAP
10:00/10:30am	NURSE/BOTTLE → Waketime
11:00/11:30am	2T/1oz solids
1:00pm	NURSE/BOTTLE → Waketime
1:30pm-3:00pm	AFTERNOON NAP
3/3:30pm	2T/1oz solids
4:30pm	NURSE/BOTTLE → Waketime
5:30/5:45pm	4T/2oz solids
7:00/7:15pm	NURSE/BOTTLE → Crib

7:30/7:45pm

Down for the night

*FEEDINGS

This was when I nursed or pumped and bottle fed. I felt breastmilk is still the #1 source of nutrition, so finishing the bottle is more important than finishing the solids at this age. I followed a 5x/day feeding schedule for my daughter and 4x/day schedule for my son (both my kids dropped the middle of the night feed naturally at 10 weeks old), 3-4hrs apart, with both of my children at this age (but always follow baby's cues!). I exclusively breastfed and introduced a (glass) bottle with pumped (down to about 4-5oz for my daughter, and 4-5oz plus 9-10-oz before bed, for my son both who started drinking less, as we introduced solids) breastmilk, as needed.

*SOLIDS

I slowly introduced solids at 6 months old. I did purees with my daughter and experimented with a mixture of purees and baby led weaning with my son. Here are some of the first pureed foods I fed my kids: Easy Homemade Stage 1 Baby Food

*NAPS/SLEEP

I aim for around ~1-2.5h naps, 2x a day, that total around 3 hours, and dropped the evening cat nap (unless he really needed it), but always follow baby's cues! They wore sleep sacks, and were free to roll back and forth. Both would roll to their side to sleep a lot of the time by this age. I had plenty of paci's in the crib for my son to be able to roll into and put in his mouth himself to sooth if he needed, while my daughter sucked her fingers to self soothe. Total naps for the day was usually around 3 hours. Black out shades drawn and a sound machine with nightlight on.

*WAKE TIMES

I aim for around minimum of ~2-3 hours (including feeding time), and around 4 hours before bed, but always follow baby's cues!

MY ULTIMATE NEW BABY GUIDE

@THELINDSAYANN NEW BABY GUIDE RESOURCES:

{VIDEO} My Story: If you want some background behind my first baby's pregnancy announcement and our infertility journey

Ultimate Baby Registry Checklist & Notes 2021 (with links!) - What you NEED and DON'T need for your new baby

Minimalist Hospital Bag (for New Baby, Mom and Dad/Partner): What you NEED and DON'T need for labor, delivery and recovery

Nursery Reveal: Pink & Gold Baby Girl Room Tour
Nursery Reveal: Black & Natural Baby Boy Room Tour

Ultimate Baby Schedule List (2 months - 2 years old): feedings, wake times, naps and sleep times

Nanny Guide: Info to leave for your baby's nanny, babysitter, grandparent or care giver while you are away

Easy Homemade Stage 1 Baby Food - Quick Fruit and Vegetable Purees (Green Bean, Butternut Squash, Sweet Potato, Carrot and more!)
Kale Spinach Applesauce For Kids (Healthy Veggie Apple Puree Baby/Toddler Food)
Healthy Fruit & Veggie Muffins For Babies, Toddlers & Kids (NO refined sugar, salt free, gluten free + kale, broccoli, zucchini, carrots & more!)
The Best Play Dough (easy homemade playdough)

Baby Schedule: 7 months old (feedings, wake times, nap/sleep times)

noreply@blogger.com (The Lindsay Ann) — Wed, 22 Dec 2021 07:16:00 +0000

My FLEXIBLE Baby Schedule I used for both my daughter and son, at 7 months old. Including feeding times, wake times, and nap/sleep times.

Set yourself and your baby up for SUCCESS!

I have achieved success with these schedules, with both of my children. Both, very different children, were notable happier babies once we got on a good schedule/routine around 2 months.

I try and follow a “feed-wake-sleep” routine pattern!

Baby Schedule: 7 months old (4 feed/4hr schedule)

7:00am	NURSE/BOTTLE → Waketime
8:30am	4T/2oz solids

9:00 - 10:30/11am	MORNING NAP
11:00am	NURSE/BOTTLE → Waketime
12:00pm	4T/2oz solids
1 - 2:30/3pm	AFTERNOON NAP
3:00pm	NURSE/BOTTLE → Waketime
5:00pm	4T/2oz solids
4:30/5:00pm	OCCASIONAL CAT NAP
7:00pm	NURSE/BOTTLE → Crib
7:30pm	Down for the night

Baby Schedule: 7 months old (5 feed/3-3.5hr schedule)

7:00am	NURSE/BOTTLE → Waketime
8:30am - 9:30/10:30am	MORNING NAP
10:00/10:30am	NURSE/BOTTLE → Waketime
11:00am	2T/1oz solids
12/12:30pm - 1:30/2pm	AFTERNOON NAP
1:30/2:00pm	NURSE/BOTTLE → Waketime
3:45/4:00 - 4:15/4:45	CAT NAP
4:30pm	NURSE/BOTTLE → Waketime
5:30/5:45pm	4T/2oz solids
7:00/7:15pm	NURSE/BOTTLE → Crib

7:30/7:45pm

Down for the night

*FEEDINGS

This was when I nursed or pumped and bottle fed. I felt breastmilk is still the #1 source of nutrition, so finishing the bottle is more important than finishing the solids at this age. I followed a 5x/day feeding schedule for my daughter and 4x/day schedule for my son (both my kids dropped the middle of the night feed naturally at 10 weeks old), 3-4hrs apart, with both of my children at this age (but always follow baby's cues!). I exclusively breastfed and introduced a (glass) bottle with pumped (about 4.5-5.5oz for my daughter and 5-6oz and 9-10-oz before bed, for my son who started drinking less, as we introduced solids) breastmilk, as needed.

*SOLIDS

*NAPS/SLEEP

I aim for around ~1-2.5h naps, 2x a day, plus a cat nap, but always follow baby's cues! They wore sleep sacks, and were free to roll back and forth. Both would roll to their side to sleep a lot of the time by this age. I had plenty of paci's in the crib for my son to be able to roll into and put in his mouth himself to sooth if he needed, while my daughter sucked her fingers to self soothe. Total naps for the day was usually around 3 hours. Black out shades drawn and a sound machine with nightlight on.

*WAKE TIMES

I aim for around minimum of ~2-2.5 hours (including feeding time), but always follow baby's cues!

MY ULTIMATE NEW BABY GUIDE

@THELINDSAYANN NEW BABY GUIDE RESOURCES:

{VIDEO} My Story: If you want some background behind my first baby's pregnancy announcement and our infertility journey

Ultimate Baby Registry Checklist & Notes 2021 (with links!) - What you NEED and DON'T need for your new baby

Minimalist Hospital Bag (for New Baby, Mom and Dad/Partner): What you NEED and DON'T need for labor, delivery and recovery

Nursery Reveal: Pink & Gold Baby Girl Room Tour
Nursery Reveal: Black & Natural Baby Boy Room Tour

Ultimate Baby Schedule List (2 months - 2 years old): feedings, wake times, naps and sleep times

Nanny Guide: Info to leave for your baby's nanny, babysitter, grandparent or care giver while you are away

Easy Homemade Stage 1 Baby Food - Quick Fruit and Vegetable Purees (Green Bean, Butternut Squash, Sweet Potato, Carrot and more!)
Kale Spinach Applesauce For Kids (Healthy Veggie Apple Puree Baby/Toddler Food)
Healthy Fruit & Veggie Muffins For Babies, Toddlers & Kids (NO refined sugar, salt free, gluten free + kale, broccoli, zucchini, carrots & more!)
The Best Play Dough (easy homemade playdough)

Coco Village Wooden Dollhouse

noreply@blogger.com (The Lindsay Ann) — Wed, 08 Dec 2021 21:05:00 +0000

Welcome to Kinsley's new dollhouse! Get 10% OFF at Coco Village with code "lindsayann10"!!! And, if you order by Dec 15th, 2021, you will get it before Christmas!

We were gifted the wooden dollhouse from Coco Village, and ooommmggg you guys, this thing is beautiful! I am obsessedddddd. I had way too much fun decorating it for Christmas after she went to bed, to be able to surprise her with it for Christmas morning. I put lights up on the dollhouse before our real house haha!

One side is open, with 3 bedrooms, a bathroom, a kitchen, a dining room, a living room and a garage!! In addition of being spacious and stylish, the dollhouse is large enough so multiple children can play at the same time.

The other side is the gorgeous front of the house, that, let's be real, is what I wish our real house looked like, hah. It is made of wood and sooo beautiful. Talk about #housegoals. I can't wait to decorate it for all the holidays with her!! I highly recommend. The quality is amazing and it is beautiful on display.

Get 10% OFF at Coco Village with code "lindsayann10"

Healthy Fruit & Veggie Blueberry Muffins For Babies, Toddlers, and Kids (NO refined sugar, salt free, gluten free + kale, broccoli, zucchini, carrots & more!)

noreply@blogger.com (The Lindsay Ann) — Tue, 09 Nov 2021 04:02:00 +0000

These muffins can be whipped together in the blender, they are easy, healthy, freezer-friendly, gluten free, salt free, refined sugar free, full of fruits and veggies... and most importantly, your babe will love them!

These are the perfect snack for picky eaters or for getting more fruits and veggies into your child's diet. These muffins are jam packed with broccoli, spinach, kale, zucchini, carrots, apple and banana. They are gluten free, made with whole grain oat flour, have loads of fiber, vitamins and minerals, and have no added refined sugar or salt, so your little one is getting a lot of nutrition in one little muffin!

I like to use all organic ingredients whenever possible! Greek yogurt and egg adds protein, but I give dairy and egg free alternatives if needed. You can also adjust the sweetness as your child gets older, if needed, and even add some mini chocolate chips or raisins on top if the green color turns them off.

I almost always make a double batch and store them in the freezer. The night before, I pop one in the fridge to thaw over night to give to Kinsley in the morning. You can also thaw them straight from the freezer in the microwave for about 30 seconds.

You can also, skip the blueberries, for a more simple version, for little ones. I take any left over greens and blend them up with some steamed apples for a sweet power green applesauce!

Healthy Fruit & Veggie Blueberry Muffins

Yield: 12 standard or 24 mini muffins, recipe easily doubles (use organic ingredients when possible)

Ingredients:

8oz/.5lb old fashioned rolled oats (or use 2 1/2 cups oat flour)
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup roughly chopped broccoli florets
1/2 cup (about a handful) baby spinach or baby kale
1 small/medium zucchini, cut into chunks
1 large carrot, peeled and cut into chunks OR 8 baby carrots
1 large, very ripe banana (the riper it is, the sweeter)
1/2 medium apple, cored and cut into chunks (peel on is ok, or replace with an extra half banana)
1/4 cup oil (avocado oil, olive oil, coconut oil)
1/4 cup greek yogurt (may sub milk: almond, cow, soy, oat, rice, etc. OR apple sauce for a dairy-free alternative)
up to 1/2 cup sweetener (you can leave this out or cut in half if making for babies/toddlers): agave, maple syrup, honey (if over 1 year old)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 large eggs (or vegan flax eggs)
optional: 1-2 tablespoons additional mix-in, like: flax seed meal, wheat germ, chia seeds, oat bran, peanut butter, almond butter, tahini, etc.
1 cup fresh or frozen berries (may also sub dried fruit like raisins, chopped prunes, dried cherries, shredded coconut, chocolate chips, pumpkin seeds, etc.)

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350℉ and spray a muffin tin with non-stick spray.

Add oats, baking soda and cinnamon to a blender and blend until the oats resemble a flour. Pour into a large mixing bowl and set aside.

Add broccoli, spinach/kale, zucchini, carrot, banana, apple, oil, yogurt, sweetener (if using), vanilla and eggs to the empty blender. Pulse until everything looks uniformly ground, into a liquid/paste like consistency.

Pour fruit/veggie mixture into the mixing bowl over the oat flour mixture, and mix with a spatula or wooden spoon until incorporated. Gently fold in blueberries. Divide the batter between 12 muffin tin holes.

Bake until a toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs: 15-20 minutes for mini-muffins OR about 24-28 minutes for regular sized muffins. Let cool for 15 minutes before removing from the pan.

Allow the muffins to cool completely before transferring to an air-tight container. Store in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Let thaw at room temperature for about an hour or overnight in the refrigerator. Rewarm gently in the microwave or toaster oven, if desired.

MY ULTIMATE NEW BABY GUIDE

@THELINDSAYANN NEW BABY GUIDE RESOURCES:

{VIDEO} My Story: If you want some background behind my first baby's pregnancy announcement and our infertility journey

Ultimate Baby Registry Checklist & Notes 2021 (with links!) - What you NEED and DON'T need for your new baby

Minimalist Hospital Bag (for New Baby, Mom and Dad/Partner): What you NEED and DON'T need for labor, delivery and recovery

Nursery Reveal: Pink & Gold Baby Girl Room Tour
Nursery Reveal: Black & Natural Baby Boy Room Tour

Ultimate Baby Schedule List (2 months - 2 years old): feedings, wake times, naps and sleep times

Nanny Guide: Info to leave for your baby's nanny, babysitter, grandparent or care giver while you are away

Easy Homemade Stage 1 Baby Food - Quick Fruit and Vegetable Purees (Green Bean, Butternut Squash, Sweet Potato, Carrot and more!)
Kale Spinach Applesauce For Kids (Healthy Veggie Apple Puree Baby/Toddler Food)
Healthy Fruit & Veggie Muffins For Babies, Toddlers & Kids (NO refined sugar, salt free, gluten free + kale, broccoli, zucchini, carrots & more!)
The Best Play Dough (easy homemade playdough)

Easy Healthy Fruit & Veggie Baked Oatmeal (carrot, zucchini, banana oatmeal)

noreply@blogger.com (The Lindsay Ann) — Wed, 20 Oct 2021 04:27:00 +0000

Super easy make-ahead, baked oatmeal, packed with fruit and veggies! I used carrot, zucchini, banana and blueberries in these breakfast bars.

It comes together in a snap, with the help of a blender. I like to freeze the bars in individual portions, and you've got a hearty and wholesome, nutritious, grab-and-go breakfast, anytime!

Best part, is you can make these dairy free with dairy-free milk, vegan, by using flaxseed eggs, gluten-free, with gluten-free oats, and add any kind of mix-ins you want, from raisins, to berries, to chocolate chips!

I give one to Kinsley for breakfast in the morning before school!

Healthy Baked Oatmeal

Ingredients

8 cups (about 1 cup less than 2lbs) old fashioned rolled oats
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 very ripe bananas (may sub apple sauce or pumpkin puree)
2 large carrots
1 medium zucchini
4 large eggs
4 cups milk of choice (may sub water)
optional sweetener: up to 1/2 cup agave or honey or brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 cups mix-ins (blueberries, raisins, chocolate chips, chopped apples, etc.)

Directions

Line a 9x13-inch pan with foil or parchment paper for easy removal and spray with non-stick spray. Prettiest oven to 350ºF.

Mix together the oats, cinnamon, nutmeg and baking powder in a large mixing bowl. Add the banana, carrot, zucchini, eggs, milk, sweetener if using, and vanilla to a blender and puree until smooth. Pour on top of oat mixture and stir with a spatula or wooden spoon until combine. Fold in the mix-ins.

Pour into prepared baking pan and smooth with spatula. Sprinkle with cinnamon and drizzle of sweetener, if desired. Bake for ~60 minutes.

Let cool and cut into bars. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. If freezing, wrap each cut bar in plastic wrap and place in a gallon freezer bag. To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1 minute or bake in the toaster oven at 350ºF for 5-10 minutes.

Baby Schedule: 6 months old (feedings, wake times, nap/sleep times)

noreply@blogger.com (The Lindsay Ann) — Thu, 14 Oct 2021 03:53:00 +0000

My FLEXIBLE Baby Schedule I used for both my daughter and son, at 6 months old. Including feeding times, wake times, and nap/sleep times.

Set yourself and your baby up for SUCCESS!

I have achieved success with these schedules, with both of my children. Both, very different children, were notable happier babies once we got on a good schedule/routine around 2 months.

I try and follow a “feed-wake-sleep” routine pattern!

Baby Schedule: 6 months old (5 feed/3-3.5hr schedule)

7:00am	FEEDING → Waketime
8:30 - 10/10:30am	MORNING NAP
10:00/10:30am	FEEDING → Waketime
12:00/12:30 - 1:30/2pm	AFTERNOON NAP
1:30/2pm	FEEDING → Waketime
3:45/4 - 4:30pm	OCCASIONAL CAT NAP
4:30pm	FEEDING → Waketime
5:30pm	2T/1oz solids
7:00/7:15pm	FEEDING
7:30/7:45pm	Down for the night

Baby Schedule: 6 months old (4 feed/4hr schedule)

6:30/7:00am	FEEDING → Waketime
8:30/9 - 10:30/11am	MORNING NAP
11:00am	FEEDING → Waketime
12:00pm	OPTIONAL 2T/1oz solids
12:30/1 - 2:30/3pm	AFTERNOON NAP
3:00pm	FEEDING → Waketime
5:00pm	2T/1oz solids
5:30pm-ish	OCCASIONAL CAT NAP
7:00pm	FEEDING
7:45pm	Down for the night

*FEEDINGS

This was when I nursed or pumped and bottle fed. I felt breastmilk is still the #1 source of nutrition, so finishing the bottle is more important than finishing the solids at this age. I followed a 5x/day feeding schedule for my daughter and 4x/day schedule for my son (both my kids dropped the middle of the night feed naturally at 10 weeks old), 3-4hrs apart, with both of my children at this age (but always follow baby's cues!). I exclusively breastfed and introduced a (glass) bottle with pumped (about 4.5-5.5oz for my daughter and 6-7oz and 10-11oz before bed, for my son) breastmilk, as needed.

*SOLIDS

I slowly introduced solids at 6 months old. I started by serving one or two teaspoons of food once a day and work my way up to 2 tablespoons (1oz) at dinner. The first food I introduced for both kids was mashed avocado with breast milk and vegetable purees. I did purees with my daughter and experimented with a mixture of purees and baby led weaning with my son. Here are some of the first pureed foods I fed my kids: Easy Homemade Stage 1 Baby Food

*NAPS/SLEEP

I aim for around ~1-2.5h naps, 2x a day, plus a cat nap, but always follow baby's cues! I stopped swaddling and used a sleep sack by this age, as they were rolling back and forth. Both would roll to their side to sleep a lot of the time by this age. I had plenty of paci's in the crib for my son to be able to roll into and put in his mouth himself to sooth if he needed, while my daughter sucked her fingers to self soothe. Total naps for the day was usually around 3 hours. Black out shades drawn and a sound machine with nightlight on.

*WAKE TIMES

I aim for around minimum of ~2-2.5 hours (including feeding time), but always follow baby's cues!

MY ULTIMATE NEW BABY GUIDE

@THELINDSAYANN NEW BABY GUIDE RESOURCES:

{VIDEO} My Story: If you want some background behind my first baby's pregnancy announcement and our infertility journey

Ultimate Baby Registry Checklist & Notes 2021 (with links!) - What you NEED and DON'T need for your new baby

Minimalist Hospital Bag (for New Baby, Mom and Dad/Partner): What you NEED and DON'T need for labor, delivery and recovery

Nursery Reveal: Pink & Gold Baby Girl Room Tour
Nursery Reveal: Black & Natural Baby Boy Room Tour

Ultimate Baby Schedule List (2 months - 2 years old): feedings, wake times, naps and sleep times

Nanny Guide: Info to leave for your baby's nanny, babysitter, grandparent or care giver while you are away

Easy Homemade Stage 1 Baby Food - Quick Fruit and Vegetable Purees (Green Bean, Butternut Squash, Sweet Potato, Carrot and more!)
Kale Spinach Applesauce For Kids (Healthy Veggie Apple Puree Baby/Toddler Food)
Healthy Fruit & Veggie Muffins For Babies, Toddlers & Kids (NO refined sugar, salt free, gluten free + kale, broccoli, zucchini, carrots & more!)
The Best Play Dough (easy homemade playdough)

{VIDEO} Easy Kale Fruit Popsicles for Kids (dairy-free, gluten-free, healthy!)

noreply@blogger.com (The Lindsay Ann) — Tue, 24 Aug 2021 03:40:00 +0000

Easy Kale Fruit Popsicles for Kids! These are dairy-free, gluten-free, and an easy healthy treat, the kids can join in making for themselves.

The great thing about it is that you can’t taste the kale at all, there is no added sugar, and it is literally just fruits and vegetables.

All you need is 3 easy ingredients and a blender. I also use this recipe to make smoothies! If you have a high power blender, the kale gets bended down so much that you can't see any green in the popsicles, so they are a great way to get kids who are skeptical of green food, to eat their veggies!

You can add a little liquid if the mixture seems too thick, or even adjust the kale to your taste. I always use organic produce and like to stick with water, to cut down the sugar, for a healthy, perfect treat you feel good about giving your kids!

This is also a perfect recipe to get kids involved in, because it is so simple and they love making food they made themselves! So if they know they put in kale, and it still turned out sweet and delicious, they may be more interested in trying it in the future, in other dishes!

Kale Fruit Popsicles

Yield: 6 pops

Ingredients

1 cup water (may use orange juice if desired)
2 cups baby kale
2 cup frozen fruit (we used a bag of frozen peach, mango, pineapple, strawberry blend, but frozen berries also work great!)
1/2 of a very ripe banana (the riper, the sweeter)

Directions

Blend all of the ingredients until smooth. Pour into popsicle mold, add sticks and freeze for 3-5 hours, until frozen. Enjoy!

Baby Schedule: 4-6 months/16-24 weeks old (feedings, wake times, nap/sleep times)

noreply@blogger.com (The Lindsay Ann) — Tue, 17 Aug 2021 02:23:00 +0000

My FLEXIBLE Baby Schedule I used for both my daughter and son, from about 16-24 weeks old. Including feeding times, wake times, and nap/sleep times.

Set yourself and your baby up for SUCCESS!

I have achieved success with these schedules, with both of my children. Both, very different children, were notable happier babies once we got on a good schedule/routine around 2 months.

This is around the time you will run into the "4 month sleep regression", so good luck and remember, it is only temporary!

They were fed, swaddled, given a paci (my daughter used a paci from 2-4 months old before she found her fingers to suck on instead. We introduced the paci to my son at around 6 weeks old as he was much fussier due to reflux when he was young) and put into the bassinet to fall asleep on their own once they were just about ready to doze off, but not completely put to sleep by being rocked or nursed to sleep.

I try and follow a “feed-wake-sleep” routine pattern!

Baby Schedule: 16-24 weeks old (5 feed/3-3.5hr schedule)

6:30/7:00am	NURSE/BOTTLE → Waketime
8:00 - 9:30/10:00am	MORNING NAP
10:00am	NURSE/BOTTLE → Waketime
12:00 - 1:30pm	AFTERNOON NAP
1:30pm	NURSE/BOTTLE → Waketime
3:15/3:30 - 4/4:30pm	LATE AFTERNOON NAP
4:30pm	NURSE/BOTTLE → Waketime
6pm-ish	OCCASIONAL CAT NAP
7:30pm	NURSE/BOTTLE → Bassinet
8:00pm	Swaddle & down for the night

Baby Schedule: 16-24 weeks old (4 feed/4hr schedule)

7:00am	NURSE/BOTTLE → Waketime
8:30/9 - 10:30/11am	MORNING NAP
11:00am	NURSE/BOTTLE → Waketime
12:30/1 - 2:30/3pm	AFTERNOON NAP
3:00pm	NURSE/BOTTLE → Waketime
5/5:30pm-ish	OCCASIONAL CAT NAP
7:00pm	NURSE/BOTTLE → Bassinet
7:45/8:00pm	Down for the night

*FEEDINGS

I followed a 5x/day feeding schedule for my daughter and 4x/day schedule for my son (both my kids dropped the middle of the night feed naturally at 10 weeks old), 3-4hrs apart, with both of my children at this age (but always follow baby's cues!). I exclusively breastfed and introduced a (glass) bottle with pumped (about 4.5-5.5oz for my daughter and 6-10oz for son) breastmilk, as needed.

I chose not to start solids until they were 6 months old (see the next schedule for more on this)

*NAPS/SLEEP

I aim for around ~1-2h naps, 2-3x a day, plus a cat nap, but always follow baby's cues! Black out shades drawn and a sound machine with nightlight on.

I try and not have them sleep on me as much as possible after around 7-8 weeks old, and be able to be content sleeping on their back in the bassinet or Dock-a-tot as much as possible. I try and create an environment where they can learn to happily self soothe themselves to sleep, with a little help from my hand on their chest, paci, or a soft shushing. At night, white noise and swaddle.

*WAKE TIMES

I aim for around ~2 hours (including feeding time), but always follow baby's cues!

MY ULTIMATE NEW BABY GUIDE

@THELINDSAYANN NEW BABY GUIDE RESOURCES:

{VIDEO} My Story: If you want some background behind my first baby's pregnancy announcement and our infertility journey

Ultimate Baby Registry Checklist & Notes 2021 (with links!) - What you NEED and DON'T need for your new baby

Minimalist Hospital Bag (for New Baby, Mom and Dad/Partner): What you NEED and DON'T need for labor, delivery and recovery

Nursery Reveal: Pink & Gold Baby Girl Room Tour
Nursery Reveal: Black & Natural Baby Boy Room Tour

Ultimate Baby Schedule List (2 months - 2 years old): feedings, wake times, naps and sleep times

Nanny Guide: Info to leave for your baby's nanny, babysitter, grandparent or care giver while you are away

Easy Homemade Stage 1 Baby Food - Quick Fruit and Vegetable Purees (Green Bean, Butternut Squash, Sweet Potato, Carrot and more!)
Kale Spinach Applesauce For Kids (Healthy Veggie Apple Puree Baby/Toddler Food)
Healthy Fruit & Veggie Muffins For Babies, Toddlers & Kids (NO refined sugar, salt free, gluten free + kale, broccoli, zucchini, carrots & more!)
The Best Play Dough (easy homemade playdough)

Watch My Show On YouTube!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 26 Jul 2021 22:36:00 +0000

CLICK HERE TO SEE ALL OF MY VIDEOS!

I created my youtube channel in Nov. 2013, sharing my favorite baking recipes, so now, 5 years later, I am switching it up a little and expanding, to not only my usual recipe videos, but adding some home DIY videos, crafts, makeup and beauty, challenge videos with my friends and family, and so much more... so I officially welcome you to "The Lindsay Ann" YouTube channel. I hope you find something that inspires you to get creative and shine :)

What do you want to see on the channel?! Let me know in the comments and find me @TheLindsayAnn on social media & say hi or tag YOUR re-creations!

♡♡♡ MY FAVE PRODUCTS! ♡♡♡

Links to my favorite products from my videos: https://www.amazon.com/shop/thelindsayann

♡♡♡ SAY HI @TheLindsayAnn! ♡♡♡

YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/TheLindsayAnn

INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/TheLindsayAnn

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/TheLindsayAnn

PINTEREST: https://pinterest.com/TheLindsayAnn

TWITTER: https://twitter.com/TheLindsayAnn

BLOG (recipes, tutorials, etc): www.TheLindsayAnn.com

✨BUSINESS/COLLAB INQUIRIES: LindsayAnn@LindsayAnnBakes.com

♡♡♡ ABOUT ME! ♡♡♡

Hey guys, I'm Lindsay, Recipe/DIY/Lifestyle YouTuber & Blogger from Los Angeles. I'm so happy you're here, because this is where I'm sharing my award-winning, whimsical dessert recipes, my fave DIY tutorials to totally glam up your home on a budget, the best beauty hacks and more. I hope you find something you love! Shine on, babes! ♡L.

Baby, Family, Pregnancy

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 26 Jul 2021 22:36:00 +0000

Check out my pregnancy story, baby tips and tricks, family life and more!

Home Decor, DIYs, Crafts & Inspo

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 26 Jul 2021 22:36:00 +0000

Check out my step-by-step home diy tutorials and inspiration below, perfect for transforming your space on a budget!

Beauty: Makeup, Nails, Hair & More

noreply@blogger.com (The Lindsay Ann) — Mon, 26 Jul 2021 22:36:00 +0000

Check out my step-by-step beauty tutorials below, perfect for my fave hair, nail, makeup and fashion tricks!

{VIDEO} How To Make a Drip Cake (or Cupcakes) | easy 2-ingredient recipe & tutorial)

noreply@blogger.com (The Lindsay Ann) — Fri, 09 Jul 2021 19:08:00 +0000

Here's my easy 2-ingredient ganache drip recipe, for creating a Drip Cake or Cupcakes, like a pro!

CLICK HERE TO WATCH THIS VIDEO AND MORE ON MY YOUTUBE CHANNEL!

I've used this technique on so many cakes, cupcakes and desserts!

No-Bake Rice Krispies Treat Candy Drip Cake: https://www.lindsayannbakes.com/2018/04/video-ultimate-no-bake-rice-krispies.html

Chocolate Fudge Sundae Drip Cake: https://www.lindsayannbakes.com/2018/03/video-chocolate-hot-fudge-sundae-layer.html

No-Bake Funfetti Cake Batter Cookie Dough Pie: https://www.lindsayannbakes.com/2018/01/video-no-bake-funfetti-cake-batter.html

Mini Layer Cake Cupcakes: https://www.lindsayannbakes.com/2017/10/video-mini-layer-cake-cupcakes.html

Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes: https://www.lindsayannbakes.com/2018/02/video-chocolate-covered-strawberry.html

Chocolate Funfetti Cookie Dough Cupcakes: https://www.lindsayannbakes.com/2018/03/video-chocolate-funfetti-cookie-dough.html

Chocolate Fudge Sundae Cupcakes

THE BEST Ultimate Vanilla Drip Cake: https://www.lindsayannbakes.com/2019/05/video-best-ultimate-vanilla-drip-cake.html

Ganache Drip

Yield: Enough to cover the top of a 6-12" cake or 1 dozen cupcakes

Ingredients

Dark/Semisweet/Bittersweet chocolate ganache has a chocolate:cream weight ratio of 1:1

4oz chocolate, chopped or 2/3 cup chocolate chips
4oz (1/2 cup) heavy whipping cream

Milk chocolate ganache has a chocolate:cream weight ratio of 1.5:1

3oz chocolate, chopped or 1/2 cup chocolate chips
2oz (1/4 cup) heavy whipping cream

White chocolate ganache has a chocolate:cream weight ratio of 2:1

(Note- for a white drip, I usually always use bright white candy melts, using the candy melts ratio, instead of white chocolate, because white chocolate has a yellow-ish tint to it and is more temperamental to work with)

4oz chocolate, chopped or 2/3 cup chocolate chips
2oz (1/4 cup) heavy whipping cream

Candy Melts ganache has a candy:cream weight ratio of 3:1

6oz candy melts
2oz (1/4 cup) heavy whipping cream

Directions

Heat cream in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, on high, in a microwave safe measuring cup or bowl with a spout (or on the stovetop, just until it starts to simmer and little bubbles start forming). Add the chocolate and let sit for a minute. Stir until smooth. Let sit, to cool and thicken slightly, before dripping over cake. If it gets to thick and firm, microwave 10 seconds at a time, stirring, until a thick pourable consistency is reached.

Additions

Add 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, in with cream, for rich flavor, perfect texture and shine
Add 2 tablespoon corn syrup, in with cream, for a pretty shine and perfect drip consistency
Add 1-2 tablespoons liqueur of choice, after mixture is slightly cooled
Add 1/2-1 teaspoon vanilla extract or flavoring of your choice, after mixture is slightly cooled

CAKE SUPPLIES: https://www.amazon.com/shop/thelindsayann

Bake Easy spray or Cake Release: https://amzn.to/3fzcgpe
Cake flour: https://amzn.to/2OQD7O2, weighed or spooned into cup and leveled
Pure vanilla extract: https://amzn.to/2LPUkc0 OR Vanilla bean paste: https://amzn.to/2M6Vcpq
Bake even strips: https://amzn.to/2OzBiF0
6" pans: https://amzn.to/3g29M1Q
turntable, cake scraper, off-set spatula, piping tips: https://amzn.to/2AtiQuT
more supplies: https://www.amazon.com/shop/thelindsayann

Watch my VIDEO on How To Frost A Smooth Cake (The Easy Way!) before you get started, for Tips & Tricks for a Perfectly Frosted Buttercream Cake as your base for the drips!: https://www.lindsayannbakes.com/2021/06/video-how-to-frost-smooth-cake-easy-way.html

Also, be sure to check out my VIDEO on How To Bake Flat Cakes before you start!

CLICK HERE FOR The 5 Tips for Baking Layer Cakes

Here are my favorite frostings for cake decorating:

Classic Vanilla American Buttercream: http://www.lindsayannbakes.com/2016/07/video-best-vanilla-buttercream-frosting.html

CLICK HERE FOR THE STEP BY STEP RECIPE

Classic Chocolate American Buttercream: http://www.lindsayannbakes.com/2016/09/video-best-chocolate-buttercream.html

CLICK HERE FOR THE STEP BY STEP RECIPE

MORE CAKE & FROSTING RECIPES:

THE BEST Vanilla Cake

THE BEST Chocolate Cake with Chocolate Frosting

THE BEST Homemade Funfetti Layer Cake From Scratch

THE BEST Yellow Birthday Cake with Chocolate Frosting

Best Box Yellow Cake Mix Comparison: Pillsbury vs. Duncan Hines vs. Betty Crocker

Ultimate Baby Schedule List (2 months - 2 years old): feedings, wake times, naps and sleep times

noreply@blogger.com (The Lindsay Ann) — Thu, 01 Jul 2021 20:21:00 +0000

My FLEXIBLE Baby Schedule List (by age) I used for both my daughter and son, for a consistent flexible daily routine for their feedings, wake times, naps and sleep times, from 2 months - 2 years old. Before 7-8 weeks old, I just follow baby's cues and hold them/feed them/snuggle them as much as they need.

Both of my (very different) children, were going 8 hours between feedings over night at 8-10 weeks old and 12 hours overnight by 14 weeks old and continued 12 hours overnight the entire time they were in the crib.

Baby Schedules

Flexible Daily Routines for Your Baby by Age: feedings, wake times, nap times

2 months/8-11 weeks old
3-4 months/11-15 weeks old
4-6 months/16-24 weeks old
6 months old
7 months old
8 months old
9 months old
10 months old
11 months old
12 months old/1 year old
12-18 months old 1-1 1/2 years old
18 months old/1 1/2 years old
18-24 months old/1 1/2-2 years old
24 months old/2 years old

Baby Schedule: 3-4 months/11-15 weeks old (feedings, wake times, nap/sleep times)

noreply@blogger.com (The Lindsay Ann) — Thu, 01 Jul 2021 19:17:00 +0000

My FLEXIBLE Baby Schedule I used for both my daughter and son, from about 11-15 weeks old. Including feeding times, wake times, and nap/sleep times.

Set yourself and your baby up for SUCCESS!

I have achieved success with this schedule, with both of my children. My daughter, very independent, not an easy child to nurse, but a great sleeper. My son, more needy/less independent, and loves to be held. Both were notable happier babies once we got on a good schedule/routine around 2 months.

SLEEPING:

FEEDING:

Nursing was a painful nightmare for 12 weeks with my daughter who had a hard time latching. It was excruciatingly painful for me every time for months and I had clogged ducts weekly. She lost weight at the beginning and wouldn't wake to eat (girl loves to sleep), so we had to supplement with formula for her first week of life. I was determined to breastfeed, so I powered through and nursed for 6 months and then pumped the next 6 months until she was a year old and bottle fed while I was at work, and nursed when I was home with her. My son, on the other hand latched with no problem hours after delivery and nursing was 10000x easier, with both of us knowing what we were doing. He, however was very reflux-y the first 6 weeks, ended up not gaining on track and I started pumping to bottle feed!

Either way, fed is fed! But keep in mind, you may need to adjust the schedule if you are dong formula, as breast milk is metabolized quicker than formula.

I try and follow a “feed-wake-sleep” routine pattern!

Baby Schedule: 11-15 weeks old

6:30/7:00am	NURSE/BOTTLE→ Waketime
7:30 - 9:30am	MORNING NAP
9:30am	NURSE/BOTTLE→ Waketime
11/11:30 - 12/12:30pm	LATE MORNING NAP
12:30pm	NURSE/BOTTLE→ Waketime
2/2:30 - 3/3:30pm	AFTERNOON NAP
3:30pm	NURSE/BOTTLE→ Waketime
5/5:30 - 6/6:30pm	EVENING NAP
6:30pm	NURSE/BOTTLE→ Low Key Waketime
8pm - 8:30pm	CAT NAP (may eventually drop this)
9:00pm	NURSE/BOTTLE→ Bassinet
9:30/10:00pm	Swaddle & down for the night
Some babies may still wake naturally, anywhere between 2:30-4:00am	(FEEDING: if they are still waking in the middle of the night to feed, you can try making it shorter and shorter until they don’t need it anymore. Making sure to make up for the missed calories during the day)

*FEEDINGS

I followed a 6x/day feeding schedule (7x/day if they woke up in the middle of the night for a dream feed, but both my kids dropped this feed naturally at 10 weeks old), 3hrs apart, with both of my children at this age (but always follow baby's cues!). I exclusively breastfed and introduced a (glass) bottle with pumped (about 3.5oz for my daughter and 4.5-5oz for son) breastmilk, for the last feed of the night (9 pm) around 4 weeks with my daughter and 8 weeks old with my son, so they would get used to eating from a bottle, for when I eventually had to go back to work (at 6 months with my daughter and 4 months old with my son).

*NAPS/SLEEP

At 8-12 weeks old, I aim for around ~1.5-2h naps, 4-5x a day (14-17hrs sleep total in 24hrs). From 12-15 weeks old, I aim for around ~1-2h naps, 4x a day, plus a cat nap at night (13-16/17hrs sleep total in 24hrs), but always follow baby's cues! My daughter dropped the cat nap at 8pm around 13 weeks old and got over tired and cranky until she adjusted.

*WAKE TIMES

I aim for around ~1-2 hours (including feeding time), but always follow baby's cues!

MY ULTIMATE NEW BABY GUIDE

@THELINDSAYANN NEW BABY GUIDE RESOURCES:

{VIDEO} My Story: If you want some background behind my first baby's pregnancy announcement and our infertility journey

Ultimate Baby Registry Checklist & Notes 2021 (with links!) - What you NEED and DON'T need for your new baby

Minimalist Hospital Bag (for New Baby, Mom and Dad/Partner): What you NEED and DON'T need for labor, delivery and recovery

Nursery Reveal: Pink & Gold Baby Girl Room Tour
Nursery Reveal: Black & Natural Baby Boy Room Tour

Ultimate Baby Schedule List (2 months - 2 years old): feedings, wake times, naps and sleep times

Nanny Guide: Info to leave for your baby's nanny, babysitter, grandparent or care giver while you are away

Easy Homemade Stage 1 Baby Food - Quick Fruit and Vegetable Purees (Green Bean, Butternut Squash, Sweet Potato, Carrot and more!)
Kale Spinach Applesauce For Kids (Healthy Veggie Apple Puree Baby/Toddler Food)
Healthy Fruit & Veggie Muffins For Babies, Toddlers & Kids (NO refined sugar, salt free, gluten free + kale, broccoli, zucchini, carrots & more!)
The Best Play Dough (easy homemade playdough)

Ultimate Baby Registry Checklist & Notes 2021 (with links!) - What you NEED and DON'T need for your new baby

noreply@blogger.com (The Lindsay Ann) — Tue, 29 Jun 2021 20:19:00 +0000

My Ultimate Baby Registry Checklist & Notes 2021 (with links!) - What you NEED and DON'T need for your new baby!

After having my daughter and my son, I compiled a list of items that I hope you find helpful in creating your baby registry! It is on the minimalist side, as I don't care to have a bunch of stuff I don't need, especially since they grow out of stuff sooo quickly!

BASICS

Bassinet: You will use this next to your bed the first few months, before you transfer the baby to the crib overnight. I used it for the first 6 months, even though they were sleeping through the night before then.

Halo Bassinest Swivel Sleeper Essential and a fitted sheet (I tried out the infant insert in it, but it wasn't see through, so I returned it and just used it as it came. Also, get an extra sheet for blowouts.): https://amzn.to/3wDn4ZE

3-4 Swaddles: I don't use blankets as swaddles, because I feel like they are too easy for the baby to break out of. These days there are a TON of options, from velcro, to zippered swaddles to full body suits. I highly recommend the Miracle Blanket swaddle for overnight sleep, until you transition to a sleep sack. I used the velcro Swaddle Me swaddles as back up or for naps, for a quick easy alternative. The Miracle blanket swaddle had both babies sleeping 8hrs at 8-10 wks old. We tried the Halo sleep sack swaddle which I did not like for either baby. a few other zippered ones, the arms up ones, and velcro ones that weren't great either. Miracle Blanket was the best swaddle out of all the ones we tried- make sure to google a video or look at the directions on how to use it and put it on the right way. I've heard there are other great ones on the market too now, like merlin's magic sleep suit, but I haven't tried it.

Miracle Blanket Swaddle Wrap: https://amzn.to/3vB8EI0
Velcro Swaddles: https://amzn.to/3xrdRDJ

3-5 Blankets: A few light muslin blankets, a warm blanket and a few receiving blankets. I didn't use blankets a lot, but some people do. I always have one light muslin swaddle blanket on the carseat or stroller to block the sun or shield from people. I also have one in the diaper bag, to put down if we go somewhere and need to cover the surface. Another 1-2 around the house to place on the baby if you want them covered during a nap next to you or on the couch for some tummy time. Warm blanket as needed.

Cotton Muslin Swaddle Blankets: https://amzn.to/2S7SPec
Cotton Flannel Receiving Blankets: https://amzn.to/3q6vt5r
Double Sided Minky Blanket: https://amzn.to/3gBSWYN

Baby Swing, Bouncer or Rocking Lounger: Basically something to put the baby down in for when you shower, make dinner, eat, clean the house, work, etc. I got all of these items handed down to us. Kinsley liked the Baby Bjorn and Ryker liked the cradle shaped swing. I honestly don't really recommend electronic bassinets or swings, as they can create negative sleep associations and the baby can become dependent/not learn how to self soothe, when they are reliant on the swinging or rocking motion to be able to relax. But... I hear great things about the mamaRoo, if an electronic swing is needed/wanted.

BabyBjörn Bouncer: https://amzn.to/3wBuZ9T
Fisher-Price Dreams Cradle 'n Swing: https://amzn.to/3zAf25D

Lounger and/or DockATot Deluxe+: I used both a lot! Nice to just have the baby next to you, slightly propped up to lounge or nap in. I used the DockATot mostly, for day time naps next to me on the bed or couch while I worked for Kinsley and didn't use it much for Ryker after the first month or two. Prob not 100% necessary, if you have the lounger, because it's pretty expensive, but it is a really great, snug place for them to feel secure in.

Recalled ~~Boppy Original Newborn Lounger: https://amzn.to/3gCGVT6~~
DockATot Deluxe+ Dock Baby Lounger: https://amzn.to/3gMcNmX

Play Mat: If you don't have a carpeted living rooms or family rooms or places where you will be hanging out with baby, one of these if great. We have the Baby Care Reversible Playmat and it's nice and thick and large. I don't recommend the foam floor tiles mats because they are not very shock resistant, hard to keep clean between nooks and crannies where they attach, and once the baby starts moving and grabbing, they pull them apart.

Baby Care Play Mat: https://amzn.to/3vvR0p6

Optional: Play yard: We had the Ingenuity Smart & Simple Playard. We used the changing station on this in the living room for months until they out grew it, and just had a little changing pad on a desk in our room. The bassinet part we used while we put them down to wash our hands after changing, and occasionally to nap, but not often enough, so I would just get one with a changing station on top and that's it. Then it transitions to a infant and toddler portable crib/play yard which we used for naps at other people's house- but both grandparents ended up getting just the play yard for naps at their house, so we never really brought this anywhere. It's not a total must have, but nice to have a place to put them down in a confined space.

Playyard with bassinet and changing table: https://amzn.to/3vCBO9S

ON-THE-GO

Stroller (with Stroller accessories): We got the UPPAbaby CRUZ. I chose this over the UPPAbaby vista , which comes with the bassinet and also converts into a 2 seater when you buy the second seat attachment, but after talking with many friends who have this, verdict was, the cruz is smaller and more lightweight so much easier for me to get in and out of the trunk and be on the go quickly, you really only use the bassinet for a veryyy short time, so basically not worth it either, plus instead of buying the second seat for your second kid, you can add a piggy back ride along because a toddler isn't going to be wanting to be strapped into a stroller by the time the next baby comes anyway. You can always get a cheap light weight umbrella stroller if you need one for the toddler. Or have baby in a structured carrier on your chest with toddler in stroller, if you need an alternative. Also, don't forget a stroller organizer and a purse/diaper bag hooks- just somewhere to put your phone and water bottle/keys and a little fan for baby if it gets hot! Side Note: I had the UPPAbaby Snack Tray too but never ended up using it.

TIP: Put all UPPAbaby stuff on an Amazon registry, even if you don't share this registry with anyone, because they will offer 15% off completion discount, that you can just buy yourself (buybuybaby does not offer coupons or discounts on uppa baby!)

UPPAbaby CRUZ V2 Stroller: https://amzn.to/3wGAVhQ
UPPAbaby VISTA PiggyBack Ride-Along Board: https://amzn.to/35CcOoG
Baby Stroller Organizer with Insulated Cup Holders: https://amzn.to/3vFUANB
Purse Hook for Strollers: https://amzn.to/2SfmjqM
Stroller Fan: https://amzn.to/3qaA06B

Car Seat: Make sure that it is the same brand as the stroller, so it just clips right into your stroller- if you're not getting the same brand car seat and stroller, you will need to get adapters. Also get a 2nd base for your partners' car if they will also be driving baby. Around 1yr+ you will need a convertible car seat that will last you until they're like 10 yrs old, because it turns into a booster seat. I suggest just registering for it now, because it'll save you money, if someone gets it for you now. Note that carseats have an expiration date! So if you are using a hand-me-down, make sure it is up to date and safe.

UPPAbaby MESA Infant Car Seat: https://amzn.to/3iZeyzU
Extra base: https://amzn.to/2TOG3Sc
Graco 4Ever DLX 4-in-1 Convertible Car Seat: https://amzn.to/3gBQwJK

Other Stuff: We got for each car

Back Seat Car Mirrors: https://amzn.to/2TGjYW6
Car Window Shades to block the sun: https://amzn.to/3q6SlBP
Carseat Toys: https://amzn.to/3q8opVO
Hanging Rattles: https://amzn.to/3iQuQuW
Portable Sound Machine: https://amzn.to/2TJ6QzE

Diaper Backpack: Honestly, pretty much anything will do, but I do reccomend a backpack over a purse. It is easier to be hands free with a backpack and if you get a black or neutral color, men can wear it too ;) I have the Ju-Ju-Be® Be Right Back Backpack Style Diaper Bag, that comes with a changing pad inside. It works fine, but there are probably cheaper versions that work just as well.

Diaper Bag Essentials:

4-8 diapers, a pack of wipes
a few disposable changing pad covers
hand sanitizer (one travel size Purell for adults and one Babyganics foaming or wipes hand sanitizer for kids)
baby sun screen (Made Of or Babo Botanicals brand for low toxicity ratings): https://amzn.to/2UFPB2r
snacks for mom (and baby once old enough)
cash for emergency
my allergy meds for emergencies
extra nursing pads
extra baby outfit(s) onesie/pants/socks
muslin blanket
burp cloths
extra pacifiers
a nursing cover
surface sanitizing wipes
a toy/book
teether
extra Mom shirt in case of spit ups
small portable battery operated hand fan

1 Wrap Style Carrier: I didn't use this much for Kinsley because she was fine just hanging out on her own on the boppy. But Ryker always needed to be held, and I needed to be able to chase a toddler around the house, cook dinner, etc, and this made him feel cozy like I was holding him up against my chest, while I was hands free. I liked the K'tan over the traditional wraps, because it was a lot easier to put on quickly because it's "pre wrapped" already for you! I never used a sling because the K'tan was secure and grew with the baby with different position options.

Baby K'tan Original Baby Wrap Carrier: https://amzn.to/3gDuXIZ

1-2 Structured Carriers: I used the Becco Gemini to take Kinsley grocery shopping while I pushed the cart. It was a little tall for front facing because it covered her chin/mouth until she got taller, but the X cross straps in the back were definitely more comfortable than the regular backpack type straps with the clip across the top of your shoulders on the ergo baby I have, which I am not a fan of. Also heard good things about the Tula. There are honestly a zillion brands and types. You can try them on and read reviews that are good for your height and body type online as well, before deciding.

cheap alternative with lots of good amazon reviews: https://amzn.to/2TNep89
cross back straps: https://amzn.to/3cSvgNI
popular for men or women: https://amzn.to/3wzJF9n
cute designs: https://amzn.to/3qbVcJM

FEEDING/TEETHING

5-10, 4oz glass bottles and newborn slow flow nipples: I used glass bottles and feel strongly about not using plastics whenever possible, in my baby's feeding products- Especially when putting hot liquids, like milk in them, and feeding to your baby (google the effects of plastic, if you want). Try 3-4 different types to see what works best and what your baby prefers. We ended up using "dr brown options +" the first year. The Dr. brown bottles do have a lot of pieces to clean which is annoying, but Kinsley liked the these the best by far- the nipple was soft and the anti-colic pieces made it easy for her to drink. Don't forget to get the different level nipples as they get older (but don't go too fast, because they can refuse the boob, since it's so easy to get milk from the bottle). For reference, we tried Avent, Comotomo, Nuk and Dr. brown- No need to register for large bottle packs, this is the same as diapers, your baby will decide what bottle works for them. We never needed the 8oz bottles with Kinsley because she never ate that much in one feeding, the most she ever drank was 5 1/2 oz in a feeding. They say to introduce bottle/paci around 3-5 wks after milk supply is in and breastfeeding is going well, but not too late, to avoid bottle refusal- then offer 2-3x/wk after that. I gave Kinsley a bottle with my pumped breastmilk once every night around 1 month, since I was pumping anyway, and didn't start with Ryker on a bottle until 2 months old- it was a nice way for CJ to get to feed her too. (Kinsley had a paci from 2-4 months old and we introduced a paci to Ryker at 5-6 weeks old).

Dr. Brown's Options+ Wide-Neck Bottle, Level 1 Nipple, 5 Ounce (4 Count): https://amzn.to/3vIZUQa

Bottle Warmer: We started with Kiinde Kozii Breastmilk Warmer and Bottle Warmer and the water sitting in it was gross and hard to clean. We switched to The First Years Quick Serve Bottle Warmer, which was cheap and good, and also warmed solids in small pyrex cubes when she was on solids, but can make the milk way too hot very fast. Also had the Dr. Brown's Milk Spa. Not something you'll use forever, don't need to invest a ton, but waaaay easier than trying to heat bottles in boiling water from a pot.

Bottle Warmer: https://amzn.to/3cRQpHW

Cleaning: I used all natural dish soap/dishwasher soap/all-purpose cleaner for the baby dishes. I never ended up using dishwasher, just did the dish soap and super hot water all by hand, but I didn't want the chemicals of regular dish soap in the baby's stuff (I read this article to help make a decision). I recommend using the brands Better Life or Made Of, for our soaps- they're easy to find and not too expensive

Better Life Dish Soap, UNSCENTED: https://amzn.to/35BH8Qg
Better Life UNSCENTED Dishwasher Gel: https://amzn.to/3iTQLSe
Better Life All-Purpose Cleaner (and their other cleaning products): https://amzn.to/2UjyvY7
Bottle Drying Rack: https://amzn.to/2TN0uiI
Bottle Brush: https://amzn.to/3zFbYVE
Dishwasher basket: https://amzn.to/3gFtB0s

Sterilizer: Def do not need. Basically, it sterilizes and drys all the bottles, pacifiers, pumping parts, etc before the first time use. If you shake up the bottle or pumping parts with soap, rinse it and throw it all in the sterilizer right away, then it's clean and dry quickly and you don't have to spend so much time washing everything if your pumping... but it's not necessary if you just use pot of boiling water, since it's so temporary and expensive.

Electric Steam Sterilizer and Dryer: https://amzn.to/3q8PLel

Breast Pump: If you're breastfeeding, I recommend the Spectra S2 over the Medela. It is a closed system and works great. In CA it's free through insurance! Just order it no sooner than 30 days before due date. I just called Edgepark: 1-888-394-5375 to place the order.

Vitamin D Drops: The now recommend this for infant supplement if breastfeeding. Your pediatrician will tell you when to start and for how long/how much

https://amzn.to/3cRbwKv

Formula (if needed): I was able to breastfeed both kids, so didn't need to do formula. Fed is fed, but please read the ingredients of formula, if you have to give it to your baby. The kind they give you in the hospital or pediatrician's office are usually made with the first ingredient being something like corn syrup... I read this article to find a better option when I had to supplement for a week when Kinsley was first born.

First choice: Hipp Organic Formula (not available on amazon)
If you need something quick from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3cRbPVF

Nursing cover: I used this when I pumped at work or in public

Boppy® Infinity Nursing Scarf: https://amzn.to/361Zf20

Nursing/Pumping Bras: I clipped the Bravado piece on to my amazon nursing bra and it was perfect for pumping! Don't get Lansinoh Simple Wishes Hands Free Breast Pump Bustier, I had it and it is strapless and falls if you have big boobs- annoying.

Seamless Nursing Maternity Bras: https://amzn.to/2Tk66AT
Bravado Designs Clip and Pump Hands-Free Nursing Bra Accessory (I clipped this onto my cheap amazon nursing bra, but they make nursing bras too to go with it): https://amzn.to/362R6Ks
Nursing Cami tank: https://amzn.to/361QaGg

Breastmilk storage bags: For when you pump. Lay filled bags flat in freezer, so they are easier to stack and store. Don't store in the door of the freezer, because this is the least cold place from the temperature fluctuating every time you open the door.

Lansinoh Milk Storage Bag: https://amzn.to/3w4PcDY

Disposable Nursing pads: I never used the re-useable ones I had bought. These were good. Keep extra pads in your purse, just in case! The Avent brand ones were a little too scratchy.

Lansinoh® 60-Count Disposable Nursing Pads: https://amzn.to/3AaYRvH

Nursing pillow: I always used a nursing pillow when I nursed. Some women don't need one, but I found it really helpful, less stree on my wrists and arms, and also easier to be on your phone etc when the baby is propped up on the pillow, instead of holding them up.

Classic Boppy: https://amzn.to/3xjan6J
Structured- My Breast Friend: https://amzn.to/3qBufiw

Burp cloths: I used these mainly to catch leaking milk as they nursed, so it didn't drip all over me. Neither kid really spit up too much. Honestly any towel or washcloth works.

Burt's Bees Organic Cotton Burp Cloths: https://amzn.to/2ThlZrO
Muslin Burp Cloths: https://amzn.to/3dsllie

Nipple cream: I honestly only used a few times, but wanted something without chemicals and organic. Some women get really bad cracking and bleeding the first week.

Earth Mama Organic Nipple Butter: https://amzn.to/3qLVEPf

High Chair: You won't need this until ~6months old. We have the Graco Blossom LX 6 in 1 Convertible High Chair. This had a lot of parts and was kind of hard to clean and food gets trapped in the padding, and is big and clunky compared to the minimalistic ones, buuuuut we used the wheels on bottom to roll it around all the time and the booster seat it came with. I also used it as a place to put Ryker down in the kitchen, because the seat reclines, so he could lay back, while I roll him around the kitchen as I cooked or cleaned or fed Kinsley (He loved being up high and closer to me and I loved having a place to put him, instead of having to wear him, which was hard when I wanted to do dishes or cook near the stove). Honestly just get one that works with your space.

Convertible Highchair With Wheels and Booster: https://amzn.to/3zC2rij
Minimalist with Clean Look: https://amzn.to/2UhlePP
Cheap and Portable: https://amzn.to/3qazndC

Baby Feeding Supplies - Plates, Bowls, Utensils, Cups: Once on solids around 6 months. I used silicone plates/bowls and spoons because we don't use plastic stuff for our feeding products. I started with silicone utensils and as she got older got the metal utensils. For a sippy cup, I started with a glass straw cups from green sprouts and then transitioned to the silicone training cup from Bumkins - lindsayann15 for 15%off the bumpkins website! Kinsley loved using a mesh feeder when she first started solids! We introduced peanut butter and other allergens at 6 months and often- Read more about introducing allergens and first food recipes in my blog post here.

Bumkins feeding supplies: https://amzn.to/3gNXoTv
Mesh Feeder: https://amzn.to/3vze5aB
Spoonful One: https://amzn.to/3iO8o5P
Read more about introducing allergens and first food recipes in my blog post here: homemade-stage-1-baby-food

3-8 Bibs: If you get the wipeable Bumkins bibs, you should be fine with a 3 pack. If you are doing washing cloth bibs, you will need a ton- feeding time is messy. The Bumkins water, stain and odor resistant material is so much better than the fabric ones you have to wash, that we started with the first few months of solids. the colth ones all got stained and were gross and so much extra laundry- lindsayann15 for 15%off the bumpkins website!

3-Pack SuperBibs: https://amzn.to/3cUM0E9

3-6 Pacifiers: Wait ~1 month to introduce if breast feeding (if possible, to avoid nipple confusion, unless your baby doesn't have any issues with nursing). We tried avent soothies with both kids, but they would fall out of their mouth and we had to keep putting it back in. We switched to Mam and they both loved them. We used a paci at 2 months old with Kinsley, and by 4 months she refused them and switched to her fingers. We introduced it early with Ryker at 5 weeks, because he was a lot more fussy and didn't have any issues breast feeding, like Kinsley did.

Mam Paci: https://amzn.to/3xwCX3V
Paci clips and case for on-the-go: https://amzn.to/3wEKgGZ

2-3 Teethers: We used one or two for a tiny bit with Kinsley, but she never really had a bad time teething and wasn't super interested in them. We had Sophie Giraffe which she never used, a liquid filled ring and a Mam silicone one. Can't recommend any specific kind unfortunately.

BATHING

Baby Bathtub: We used this for a few months, then you have a huge plastic tub to store... prob do without and use the soft flower things that go in the sink, but it definitely was handy at the time to have their own little bath and not have to put them in the sink where we do dishes. I also used it with the newborn sling in, in the bathroom, empty, to put the baby while I brushed my teeth or showered.

Fisher-Price® 4-in-1 Sling 'n Seat Bath Tub: https://amzn.to/3xBV74z

Baby shampoo/wash & lotions: I use either the brands Made of or any Babo Botanicals Sensitive Fragrance-Free products. We used the newborn foam and then the baby wash/shampoo. "Made of" also got good reviews- EWG verified and unscented, all-natural was important to me after reading this article. I never really used the lotion. I don't really like the idea of rubbing anything to penetrate into their skin if it's not necessary.

Babo Botanicals Sensitive Fragrance-Free Newborn Foam Baby Wash: https://amzn.to/3qb0Ifn
MADE OF Fragrence Free Organic Baby Wash and Shampoo Foaming: https://amzn.to/3xADsKf
Babo Botanicals Sensitive Baby 2-in-1 Shampoo & Wash: https://amzn.to/3cQsJU4
Babo Botanicals Sensitive Baby Daily Hydra Lotion: https://amzn.to/3iN3y8W
MADE OF Organic Baby Lotion: https://amzn.to/3cTJzl1

3-4 hooded baby towels: some organic cotton ones and some cute animal ones too :)

https://amzn.to/3xyz0vC

8-12 baby washcloths: For bath and for meal time!

https://amzn.to/2SC7gaV

Bath Books and Toys:

https://amzn.to/35BKHG4

TOYS

Activity Mat: We loved the Fisher-Price Deluxe Kick & Play Piano Gym! (But be prepared to know all the words to every song it plays, real fast haha.) We also have the Lovevery one, but it is expensive and honestly, not super exciting. Our Skip Hop Unicorn Activity Gym was way too boring for Kinsley and we rarely ever used it.

Fisher-Price Deluxe Kick & Play Piano Gym: https://amzn.to/3iRGOoe

Baby Toys: Don't forget you will get a lot of stuff at their 1st birthday, so start off slow. Toys accumulate and take over your house very quickly. Don't underestimate the fun of an empty water bottle or remote control ;)

https://amzn.to/3vJldAZ

CLOTHES

Don't get too much newborn stuff, because some babies are born already grown out of it and straight to the 0-3m size. You aren't leaving the house too much the first few months so you really don't need too much at the beginning. We loved getting hand me downs- they grow out of stuff sooo fast and our kids didn't end up wearing half the stuff they had in the drawers. People love to give baby clothes as gifts.

kimono tops (this is what they wear with only a diaper on bottom at the hospital. You can take a few home with you too!)
short sleeve onesies/bodysuits (can wear alone or with pants over)
long sleeve onesies/bodysuits (can wear alone or with pants over)
Zippered one-piece footie pajama sleepers or open-bottom gowns (zipper or gown is key in beginning. don't bother with buttons at night at the beginning- so annoying).
sweaters or jackets
elastic waist pants/sweats/leggings
socks & booties
soft beanies
seasonal hats (broad-brimmed for summer, soft cap that covers ears for winter)
headbands, accessories, etc

LAUNDRY & TOILETRIES

Wooden Baby Hair Brush Set (I got the natural and not synthetic bristles. If you don't care, you can just take the one from the hospital: https://amzn.to/2xiBMey
Baby nail clippers- NailFrida The SnipperClipper: https://amzn.to/3dqZCqY
Mesh delicates wash bag for little items, velcro, headbands, loveys, etc
Gentle laundry detergent & stain remover (We used FIT Organic Free & Clear Laundry Detergent and shout Stain Remover on stains. I Don't recommend Dreft, it is sooo popular, BUT got a 5-8 on ewg! More about it here.
Baby thermometers: 1 Exergen Temporal Artery Thermometer and 1 Rectal Thermometer for first 3 months
Infant Tylenol (Dye-Free): https://amzn.to/3jrWdfq

NURSERY

Crib:

Any crib will do, really. They grow out of it after 2-3 years, when they transition to either a big kids bed, or you can get the kind that transition to a toddler bed. I got the toddler guard rail when I bought the crib, just in case they discontinue the one for the crib we got. Kinsley's crib felt like it was way better quality than Ryker's... but ultimately, didn't make a difference.

(Kinsley) Ti Amo Catania 4-in-1 Convertible Crib, Snow White: https://amzn.to/2UaNSQb
(Ryker) Fisher-Price Glendale 4-in-1 Convertible Crib, Frost White: https://amzn.to/3q9GJxW

Crib Mattress:

It was important to me to get a natural organic mattress and sheets because they spend so much time in their crib, basically inhaling whatever chemicals are in the mattress with their head right on top of it all night, so we spent a little more on this. Make sure you get a firm, flat mattress that fit snugly in crib (less than two fingers should fit between mattress and crib)

Naturepedic No-Compromise Organic Cotton Classic 150 Crib mattress: https://amzn.to/2xVlmZX
Naturepedic Waterproof Fitted Crib Pad: https://amzn.to/2y0JJpk

2-4 Crib Sheets: These were the softest. Get a few in case of blowouts/spit up.

Burt's Bees Baby100% Organic Cotton Crib Sheet: https://amzn.to/3cPHZkb

Storage/Toy Baskets: Get clear plastic bins for under crib, for extra storage!

Under Crib Storage: https://www.target.com/p/sterilite-28qt-clear-plastic-under-bed-storage-bin-clear-with-white-lid/-/A-13794483
(Kinsley) Pillowfort Rope Toy Storage Basket with Fringe Large: Target
(Kinsley) Pillowfort Rope Toy Storage Basket with Fringe Medium: Target
(Ryker) Rectangular Black & White Storage Basket: https://amzn.to/3wC9C8f
(Ryker) Tall Black & White Storage Basket: https://amzn.to/3q9I8oc

Dresser/Changing station/Diapering: We just used the top of the dresser to put the changing pad and kept diapers and wipes in the top drawer. We didn't find a need for the topper that is made for dressers to convert to a changing station. I liked the wipe clean kind, instead of the ones that need a cover you have to wash. I also loved having the cheap disposable changing pad covers to put on top and just throw away when pee or poop got on it, so I didn't have to wash the changing pad as often. Keekaroo peanut changer is another option but way more expensive. I also used folding storage boxes to separate clothes inside the dresser.

Disposable Changing pad covers: https://amzn.to/2S3G30p
Changing Pad: https://amzn.to/3j0DWpl
Foldable Cloth Storage Boxes: https://amzn.to/2xjTkHy
Dekor Plus Hands-Free Diaper Pail: https://amzn.to/2wsXlcr
diaper cream/Ointment: I recommend Made Of or Babo Botanicals brand (after reading this). Neither kids got diaper rashes really, so we only used it a handful of times:
4 large boxes of disposable newborn and size 1 diapers pampers pure - don't buy too many bc you don't know what size you will need!
Diaper pail and liners: https://amzn.to/3h6rbrT (we used the Dékor Plus Diaper Pail- ubbi, diaper genie, dekor all got good reviews. they all smell like poop if they are on formula, and once they start eating solid food... just wait. Breast milk baby poop doesn't really smell at all first few months)
Wipes: https://amzn.to/3x8IAFL (We used waterwipes after reading this. Honest wipes were thicker but too dry. Only complaint about water wipes is the are more difficult to get out of the package.
Dresser (we just put the changing pad right on top, without the special changing table dresser topper tray)

(Kinsley) Ti Amo 6-Drawer Double Dresser in Snow White: https://amzn.to/3beckpp
(Kinsley) Dresser Crystal Knobs: https://amzn.to/2WAtF7K
(Ryker) Storkcraft Moss 6 Drawer Dresser in White: https://amzn.to/2SE7BcZ
(Ryker) Dresser Black T Knobs: https://amzn.to/3vuH2nT

Baby Monitor: We used the nest on our phones for when we were away from home and used the one with a screen to have on all night, next to our bed, for when we were home, or for grandparents/babysitters to use. We also used the nest thermostat sensors, so see the temperature in the kids' rooms.

Baby Monitor Camera Corner Shelf: https://amzn.to/2QC45M0
Infant Optics DXR-8 PRO Video Baby Monitor: https://amzn.to/3xiBDBW
Nest

Nightlight/White noise machine: NEED a sound machine! We have the skip hop elephant one and use the white noise sound on it (they have a few different sounds and melodies), the nightlight, and star projector on the ceiling. I like the projector it has, so if they wake in the middle of the night, they see the stars and know it is still sleep time. Heard great things about the Hatch, for when they are around 2-3yrs+, that has the redy or green night light to note to the child if it is time to get up or not, yet.

Skip Hop Moonlight & Melodies Nightlight Baby Sleep Soother - Elephant: https://amzn.to/2JaQqHq
Battery operated, portable Sound Machine for if the power goes out one night, so you have backup (this happened to us a few times): https://amzn.to/2TJ6QzE
Optional, "shusher". Some people swear by this. We didn't get it and managed fine. You can also download a free shushing app on your phone in a pinch, if your baby particularly likes the shushing sound.

Cool mist humidifier: (warm mist can breed bacteria in the humidifier) We used this when Kinsley got sick a few times. It helped her sleep/breath better.

Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Drop Shape Humidifier (also get the Crane Demineralization Filter Cartridge): https://amzn.to/3x9MZIK

Seating: I suggest getting a glider and not a rocking chair. It's safer too because kids can't get stuck under the rocking chair bottom

This is the one we have- Delta Children Harper Nursery Swivel Glider in Flax: https://www.deltachildren.com/products/harper-nursery-glider-swivel-rocker-chair?variant=3426667135000
Ottoman: I got a decorative one at Home Goods for under $15 and sprayed the legs gold. Here is a similar one- https://amzn.to/2Uw9xBh

Windows: We used blackout shades in both kids' rooms- Definitely helped create a dark cozy environment for better sleep! Kinsley's had decorative curtains over it.

Cordless Blackout Shades
optional curtains

Lighting: If you need an overhead light fixture in the room, or a bedside/table top lamp

Decorative Pieces/Details on Kinsley and Ryker's Nursery (with links!):

Nursery Reveal: Pink & Gold Baby Girl Room Tour
Nursery Reveal: Black & Natural Baby Boy Room Tour

Closet:

Baby Closet Size Dividers: https://amzn.to/2U96eAQ
Closet Headband Organizer: https://amzn.to/2UtO7o9
Child hangers

OTHER

Books for kids: Ask for books instead of a card at your baby shower. You can google cute rhyming quotes to put on the invitation, noting this request. This will help you build your library for your little one and have a special note in the cover from all of your guests.
Meals: Ask for meal delivery gift cards (like uber eats, postmates, instacart, etc), or to have dinner sent, instead of flowers or newborn clothes once the baby comes. We found that a great meal was wayyy more appreciated than some flowers that require more work than you want to do.
Resources for parents: get the book "Babywise" and watch "Happiest Baby on the Block Streaming Video", and google... everything
Pediatrician: find one and set up a meet and greet before the baby is born. Make sure they work with the hospital you are delivering at.
Apps: Download "baby tracker" app for feeding/diapering, etc - so helpful in beginning! Also download The wonder weeks app (for after they are born) - it calculates developmental leaps based on their due date this was so on target with Kinsley and gave peace of mind if her behavior changed and we saw she was going through a leap, we knew it would be over soon. Wasn't as helpful with Ryker. Not a must have, but helpful info on where they are at developmentally.
For Mom: I bled about 6 wks with both vaginal and c-section births.

If you have a vaginal birth: Always Discreet Incontinence & Postpartum Underwear for Women. Basically grown up diapers, but in my opinion these were easier than a giant pad and mesh underwear from the hospital- but still take home a bunch of the mesh undies and giant pads just in case, anyway! Or wear the diapers with a pad, so you don't have to buy giant grannie panties you will never wear again or don't stain your own with blood etc. Also, take home the peri bottle and dermoplast from the hospital if you have a vaginal birth.
If you have a c-section: thin pads or panty liners should be fine.
Stool softener for c-section or vaginal birth! They give them to you in the hospital, but you want to keep taking them when you get home!

THINGS I NEVER USED

Used this a few times- shopping cart cover Boppy® Baby Chevron Pattern Shopping Cart Cover

on the go changing pad Skip Hop Pronto Signature Changing Station- don't really use this often, can do without, diaper bag has one in it anyway or bring disposable changing pad sheets

wipe dispenser or warmer OXO Tot® Perfect Pull™ Wipes Dispenser in Grey amazon just put wipes in the top drawer of the dresser, with the changing pad on top. heard the warmer dries out wipe. we never used the wipes dispenser and takes up more space

Nose frida target never used this- the bulb syringe we took from the hospital was fine for the very few times she got a cold and was stuffy the first year

activity center SKIP*HOP® Silver Lining Cloud Activity Center and Exerciser target we didn't end up using this to sit her in after reading about the negative side of putting babies in sitting positions before they are ready (see article in link here) but we used the table for her to pull herself up on and put toys on when she was older

MY ULTIMATE NEW BABY GUIDE

@THELINDSAYANN NEW BABY GUIDE RESOURCES:

{VIDEO} My Story: If you want some background behind my first baby's pregnancy announcement and our infertility journey

Ultimate Baby Registry Checklist & Notes 2021 (with links!) - What you NEED and DON'T need for your new baby

Minimalist Hospital Bag (for New Baby, Mom and Dad/Partner): What you NEED and DON'T need for labor, delivery and recovery

Nursery Reveal: Pink & Gold Baby Girl Room Tour
Nursery Reveal: Black & Natural Baby Boy Room Tour

Ultimate Baby Schedule List (2 months - 2 years old): feedings, wake times, naps and sleep times

Nanny Guide: Info to leave for your baby's nanny, babysitter, grandparent or care giver while you are away

Easy Homemade Stage 1 Baby Food - Quick Fruit and Vegetable Purees (Green Bean, Butternut Squash, Sweet Potato, Carrot and more!)
Kale Spinach Applesauce For Kids (Healthy Veggie Apple Puree Baby/Toddler Food)
Healthy Fruit & Veggie Muffins For Babies, Toddlers & Kids (NO refined sugar, salt free, gluten free + kale, broccoli, zucchini, carrots & more!)
The Best Play Dough (easy homemade playdough)

New Baby Guide: Registry Tips, Sleep Schedules, Nanny Guide, Allergies, First Foods, and more!

noreply@blogger.com (The Lindsay Ann) — Thu, 17 Jun 2021 03:21:00 +0000

Everything you need to be prepared for a new baby! From your Baby Registry, to Sleep Schedules, a Nanny/Babysitter Guide, Allergies, First Foods, and more!

The notes, spreadsheet and schedules below that I put together along the way are my ultimate go-to guides that I hope you find helpful (and share with your friends)! From what to pack in your hospital bag, to easy recipes to feed your baby for their first solid foods and homemade play dough to keep them entertained... I hope these resources help prepare and guide you through your journey through parenthood.

@THELINDSAYANN

NEW BABY GUIDE RESOURCES:

{VIDEO} My Story: If you want some background behind my first baby's pregnancy announcement and our infertility journey

Ultimate Baby Registry Checklist & Notes 2021 (with links and notes!) - What you NEED and DON'T need for your new baby...with tons of thoughts and tips.

Minimalist Hospital Bag (for New Baby, Mom and Dad/Partner): What you NEED and DON'T need for labor, delivery and recovery

Nursery Reveal: Pink & Gold Baby Girl Room Tour
Nursery Reveal: Black & Natural Baby Boy Room Tour

Ultimate Baby Schedule List (2 months - 2 years old): feedings, wake times, naps and sleep times

Nanny Guide: Info to leave for your baby's nanny, babysitter, grandparent or care giver while you are away

Easy Homemade Stage 1 Baby Food - Quick Fruit and Vegetable Purees (Green Bean, Butternut Squash, Sweet Potato, Carrot and more!)
Kale Spinach Applesauce For Kids (Healthy Veggie Apple Puree Baby/Toddler Food)
Healthy Fruit & Veggie Muffins For Babies, Toddlers & Kids (NO refined sugar, salt free, gluten free + kale, broccoli, zucchini, carrots & more!)
The Best Play Dough (easy homemade playdough)

Nursery Reveal! | Black, White & Natural Wood Baby Boy Room Tour

noreply@blogger.com (The Lindsay Ann) — Thu, 17 Jun 2021 03:18:00 +0000

A little peek into Ryker's bedroom! I am sharing every detail that I put into this room to make it the absolute sweetest boy nursery, he can grow into.

It was important for me that the room be something he can grow into and not too cheesy or "baby-ish"... even though he is a baby. I got most of the stuff on amazon or from small shops. It feels very calming and warm with all the neutrals and minimalist decor to me.

I chose to go with classic black and white with natural accents. I did white furniture with black hardware and pops of light wood for the decor. I love the way it turned out and how I can customize it as he grows to incorporate any theme he is into.

Below I am sharing all the links to all the items in the room. Even though he slept in a bassinet in our bedroom for the first 6 months, we did lots of time, nursing, napping, tummy time and playing in his room, until he transitioned there over night.

Ryker's Nursery

Crib:

Fisher-Price Glendale 4-in-1 Convertible Crib, Frost White: https://amzn.to/3q9GJxW

Halo Bassinest Swivel Sleeper Essential in our room the first 6 months: https://amzn.to/2J3uHkH

Nook Sleep Pure Organic Crib Mattress for Ryker and Naturepedic No-Compromise Organic Cotton Classic 150 Crib mattress for Kinsley: https://amzn.to/2xVlmZX)
Burt's Bees Baby100% Organic Cotton Crib Sheet: https://amzn.to/3cPHZkb

Storage/Laundry/Toy Baskets:

Rectangular Black & White Storage Basket: https://amzn.to/3wC9C8f
Tall Black & White Storage Basket: https://amzn.to/3q9I8oc
Under Crib Storage: https://www.target.com/p/sterilite-28qt-clear-plastic-under-bed-storage-bin-clear-with-white-lid/-/A-13794483

Decor:

Sheep Skin Rug in Ivory
Name sign: My Custom Timber
11x14 Natural Picture Frames: https://amzn.to/2Sx0cfF
Wood/Black Floating Shelves: https://amzn.to/3gvoaAN

Dresser:

Storkcraft Moss 6 Drawer Dresser in White: https://amzn.to/2SE7BcZ
Dresser Black T Knobs: https://amzn.to/3vuH2nT
Foldable Cloth Storage Boxes: https://amzn.to/2xjTkHy
Black/White Table Lamp: https://amzn.to/3q3VzFT
Disposable Changing pad covers: https://amzn.to/2S3G30p
Changing Pad: https://amzn.to/3j0DWpl

Other:

Dekor Plus Hands-Free Diaper Pail: https://amzn.to/2wsXlcr
Skip Hop Moonlight & Melodies Nightlight Baby Sleep Soother - Elephant: https://amzn.to/2JaQqHq
Baby Monitor Camera Corner Shelf: https://amzn.to/2QC45M0
Infant Optics DXR-8 Video Baby Monitor: https://amzn.to/2QFwm4q
Wooden Baby Hair Brush Set: https://amzn.to/2xiBMey
Baby Closet Size Dividers: https://amzn.to/2U96eAQ

I plan to do this same set up I did with my daughter for the drawers:

Top drawers: diapers, wipes, disposable changing pad covers, brush, soft rattle, paci, thermometers, baby tylenol, diaper cream, etc. on the left and and newborn-3 month clothing on the right.

Second drawers: burp cloths, beanie hats, long sleeve kimono shirts, socks and booties on the left, and 3-6 month clothes on the right.

Bottom drawers: blankets on the left and 6-9 month clothes on the right.

Click here to see my daughter, Kinsley's room tour with details!

MY ULTIMATE NEW BABY GUIDE

@THELINDSAYANN NEW BABY GUIDE RESOURCES:

{VIDEO} My Story: If you want some background behind my first baby's pregnancy announcement and our infertility journey

Ultimate Baby Registry Checklist & Notes 2021 (with links!) - What you NEED and DON'T need for your new baby

Minimalist Hospital Bag (for New Baby, Mom and Dad/Partner): What you NEED and DON'T need for labor, delivery and recovery

Nursery Reveal: Pink & Gold Baby Girl Room Tour
Nursery Reveal: Black & Natural Baby Boy Room Tour

Ultimate Baby Schedule List (2 months - 2 years old): feedings, wake times, naps and sleep times

Nanny Guide: Info to leave for your baby's nanny, babysitter, grandparent or care giver while you are away

Easy Homemade Stage 1 Baby Food - Quick Fruit and Vegetable Purees (Green Bean, Butternut Squash, Sweet Potato, Carrot and more!)
Kale Spinach Applesauce For Kids (Healthy Veggie Apple Puree Baby/Toddler Food)
Healthy Fruit & Veggie Muffins For Babies, Toddlers & Kids (NO refined sugar, salt free, gluten free + kale, broccoli, zucchini, carrots & more!)
The Best Play Dough (easy homemade playdough)

Baby Schedule: 2 months/8-11 weeks old (feedings, wake times, nap/sleep times)

noreply@blogger.com (The Lindsay Ann) — Thu, 17 Jun 2021 00:05:00 +0000

My FLEXIBLE Baby Schedule I used for both my daughter and son, from 8-11 weeks old. Including feeding times, wake times, and nap/sleep times. Before 7-8 weeks old, I just follow baby's cues and hold them/feed them/snuggle them as much as they need.

Set yourself and your baby up for SUCCESS!

I am a firm believer in a "flexible daily schedule/routine". Children like consistency. Providing a predictable daily pattern they can come to expect, helps them to feel safe, reduces anxieties of unexpected changes and unfamiliar expectations and helps them feel happy and secure. A baby and mama that are well rested and well fed, is the goal and what helped me raise happy babies. A daily routine also helps cultivate a calm household where everyone can help pitch in, knowing the expectations for the day at particular times. It can provide structure and give your family more freedom, as you know when you can schedule different things throughout the day, which I found particularly helpful when I had my second baby, with a toddler eager to get to the park and be on the go.

I have achieved success with this schedule, with both of my children. My daughter, very independent, not an easy child to nurse, but a great sleeper. My son, more needy/less independent (reflux for the first 6 wks), but a great eater and sleeper. Both were notable happier babies once we got on a good schedule/routine around 2 months.

SLEEPING:

FEEDING:

Nursing was a painful nightmare for 12 weeks with my daughter who had a hard time latching. It was excruciatingly painful for me every time for months and I had clogged ducts weekly. She lost weight at the beginning and wouldn't wake to eat (girl loves to sleep), so we had to supplement with formula for her first week of life. I was determined to breastfeed, so I powered through and nursed for 6 months and then pumped the next 6 months until she was a year old and bottle fed while I was at work, and nursed when I was home with her. My son, on the other hand latched with no problem hours after delivery and nursing was 10000x easier, with both of us knowing what we were doing. He, however was very reflux-y the first 6 weeks, but a great eater! Either way, fed is fed! But keep in mind, you may need to adjust the schedule if you are dong formula, as breast milk is metabolized quicker than formula.

I try and follow a “feed-wake-sleep” routine pattern!

Baby Schedule: 8-11 weeks old

6:30/7:00am	FEEDING → WAKE TIME
7:30/8:30am - 9:30am	MORNING NAP
9:30am	FEEDING → WAKE TIME
10:30/11am - 12/12:30pm	LATE MORNING NAP
12:30pm	FEEDING → WAKE TIME
1:30/2pm - 3/3:30pm	AFTERNOON NAP
3:30pm	FEEDING → WAKE TIME
4:30/5pm - 6/6:30pm	EVENING NAP
6:30pm	FEEDING
7:30/8pm - 9/9:30pm	SHORT NAP
9/9:30pm	FEEDING
9:30/10:00pm	Swaddle & down for the night
Usually they will wake naturally, anywhere between 2:30-4:00am	FEEDING

*FEEDINGS

I followed a 7x/day feeding schedule, 3hrs apart, with both of my children at this age (but always follow baby's cues!). I exclusively breastfed and introduced a (glass) bottle with pumped (about 3oz) breastmilk, for the last feed of the night (9pm-ish) around 4 weeks with my daughter and around 3 months with my son, so they would get used to eating from a bottle, for when I eventually had to go back to work (at 6 months with my daughter and 4 months old with my son).

*NAPS/SLEEP

At 2-3 months old, I aim for around ~1.5-2h naps, 4-5x a day (14-17hrs sleep total in 24hrs), but always follow baby's cues!

*WAKE TIMES

I aim for around ~60-90 min (including feeding time, usually 10-30 minutes), but always follow baby's cues!

MY ULTIMATE NEW BABY GUIDE

@THELINDSAYANN NEW BABY GUIDE RESOURCES:

{VIDEO} My Story: If you want some background behind my first baby's pregnancy announcement and our infertility journey

Ultimate Baby Registry Checklist & Notes 2021 (with links!) - What you NEED and DON'T need for your new baby

Minimalist Hospital Bag (for New Baby, Mom and Dad/Partner): What you NEED and DON'T need for labor, delivery and recovery

Nursery Reveal: Pink & Gold Baby Girl Room Tour
Nursery Reveal: Black & Natural Baby Boy Room Tour

Ultimate Baby Schedule List (2 months - 2 years old): feedings, wake times, naps and sleep times

Nanny Guide: Info to leave for your baby's nanny, babysitter, grandparent or care giver while you are away

Easy Homemade Stage 1 Baby Food - Quick Fruit and Vegetable Purees (Green Bean, Butternut Squash, Sweet Potato, Carrot and more!)
Kale Spinach Applesauce For Kids (Healthy Veggie Apple Puree Baby/Toddler Food)
Healthy Fruit & Veggie Muffins For Babies, Toddlers & Kids (NO refined sugar, salt free, gluten free + kale, broccoli, zucchini, carrots & more!)
The Best Play Dough (easy homemade playdough)

Nanny Guide: Info to leave for your child/baby's nanny, babysitter, grandparent or care giver while you are away

noreply@blogger.com (The Lindsay Ann) — Wed, 16 Jun 2021 22:27:00 +0000

Important information for you to print out and have at home, for when you have to leave your child with the nanny, babysitter, grandparent or care giver. A full guide to your home and how to care for your child(ren) when you are at work for the day or just out of the house for a few hours, to provide peace of mind for all.

I hope you find this as a helpful resource for a baby or child of any age, for when you are at work, out to dinner, or not at the house. I put this together went back to work when Kinsley was 6 months old. It definitely helped to make myself and the care giver feel more comfortable and prepared. (Especially as new parents away from our first baby!)

In an emergency, people can get distracted or panic and forget basic info, like your address or other important info. Having everything printed and on the fridge or in plain sight, makes it easily accessible, if needed.

Also, having info like how to use the thermostat, or where the thermometer is kept, is always helpful, so they don't have to try and reach you for every little thing that comes up.

Make sure to walkthrough and read the entire list below before the first time the caregiver will be alone with the baby. I went over it with my babysitter and her grandparents before their first time watching her for the day, and then left them on the fridge just in case.

Do a walkthrough of the home, going through each room, drawer and closet, to show them where everything is if needed. Even things like where you keep the broom are important for if a glass breaks, etc.

This is just a guide that I used at my home. (edit, add, delete and fill out the below as needed)

Nanny Guide

<You and your partner's first and last names (may seem unnecessary, but the more info the better, just in case of emergency)>

In an emergency call to 9-1-1, give them the following info:

1. "I need a PEDIATRIC PARAMEDICS for a <__> month old baby to <city>"

2. Address:

3. Apartment # (if applicable):

4. BUZZ xxxx to enter building (if applicable):

Fire extinguisher is located <___________>
Stairs in case of emergency (if you live in a building with an elevator) <___________>
Flashlight is located <___________>
Closest Drugstore is located <___________>
Medications (baby & adult) are located <___________>
Thermometer is located <___________>. Temporal Artery Thermometer: Hold down as you swipe across the forehead or behind ear for a few seconds, let go to read temperature. 100.4’F and above is a fever, 97’F-100.3’F is normal for infants. Call Mom if there is a fever. Do not give tylenol without calling Mom first.

EMERGENCY CONTACTS:

You can ALWAYS call or text me for anything. My phone will always be on me!

Mom Cell:
Mom Work:
Dad Cell:

<Grandparent/Other Full Name and Relationship> (ex: Jane Doe, Grandmother/Lindsay's Mom) Cell: <Phone number>
<Grandparent/Other Full Name and Relationship>: <Phone number>
<Grandparent/Other Full Name and Relationship> : <Phone number>

Pediatrician <Name of Dr., Company>: <Phone number>
(if applicable) Apartment property manager, <Name>: <Phone number>
Non-Emergency Police, <City>: <Phone number>
Poison control: 800-222-1222
Hospital: <Name of Hospital>, <Phone number / address>

ALLERGIES:

<list of allergies if applicable, potential reactions and action plan/what to do>

Call mom if baby gets any allergic reactions:

Allergic reactions usually occur quickly, within minutes, while other reactions to foods may be delayed, even a few hrs later. Look out for:

Minor Rash around the mouth or on the face or body
Stuffy or runny nose with itchy watery eyes
Itching
Vomiting and/or diarrhea

Call 9-1-1 if signs of a severe allergic reaction occur and then call me immediately:

Swollen lips, mouth, tongue or face
Hives that are spreading
difficult/noisy breathing
difficulty swallowing
hoarse voice or cry
repetitive coughing
wheezing
Pale or blue color of the face or lips
Faintness
Floppy/limp
weakness or passing out

NOTES:

Bottle warmer: (instruction manual in bottle cabinet if needed) Take bottle from the fridge, swirl it around and put it in warmer. Heat bottle. Do not remove the bottle until the timer has clicked and is finished. Remove bottle and swirl to mix milk. Test a few drops on your inner wrist, over the sink, to make sure it is not too hot. Keep swirling around to cool milk, if it feels too warm and re test until it is blood temperature, so you can’t feel the heat on your inner wrist. Wipe water on outside of bottle off on towel next to warmer when it’s ready.

Bottle feeding: Put on bib, and hold bottle for her in your arm or lay her on the Boppy lounger <edit this part as needed>.

Burp if she swallow too much air or seem uncomfortable. Always burp after bottle!
You can try and heat the bottle ~5-10min before she wakes up. If she is up and crying, bring her with you to heat the bottle, milk good for 1hr after heated
Once heated, milk is good for 1 hour and then has to be thrown out. Do not reuse for next feeding
Extra milk in freezer for emergencies/if needed. Run closed bag under warm water to thaw milk. Pour into a clean bottle and warm milk in bottle warmer.

Baby food purees (“solids”)

Breastmilk is still the #1 source of nutrition, so finishing the bottle is more important than finishing the solids. (milk/food is good for 1hr after it is heated, then throw away any leftovers.)
Heat food bottle in warmer, stir with her silicone feeding spoon and test temperature on clean finger to lip or hand/wrist. Doesn’t need to be warm, just take the chill off.
Bring food and a damp washcloth over to the highchair for when she is finished.
Buckle her into highchair and push tray towards her until it snaps in place (make sure her legs aren’t trapped and don’t put her in high chair before it’s time to eat)
Put on bib, or have her in just a diaper, for easier cleanup.
Put a tiny bit on tip of spoon in front of her mouth and let her grab the spoon or open her mouth to eat, suck the spoon or chew on it. She likes to grab the spoon with her right hand and put it in her mouth herself, while you hold the end. Don’t ever force spoon into her mouth or force her to finish. It’s ok if she just plays with it in her hands or mouth. It’s ok if she gets cranky and doesn’t want to finish. We just want to make sure it is enjoyable and for practice.
Throw away any leftover- do not put back in the fridge. Wipe her down with a wet washcloth. Use baby foam soap and water by the sink, if needed on her hands/body/face. It is ok to let her get messy.

Wake Time: 2 hours. Wait at least an hour after eating to do tummy time.

current favorites when cranky: _____

Nap routine:

change diaper
put on sleep sack
close shade & turn on the sound machine
lay her down in crib on her back- (Put her down on her back)
say good night, leave room and turn on baby monitor

1hr-2hr naps typically
No blankets, stuffed animals, toys, etc in crib
she can sleep without her sleep sack if it’s wet/dirty- just put on a long footed sleeper (2nd drawer on right) instead for her nap, then you can take it off after, if hot)
If she cries: give her 5 minutes to see if she falls asleep, if she is still crying, go in and (flip her to her back if she is on her stomach), shush her, gently rub her head or chest. Say good night again, walk out. Wait 7-10 mins until you go in and do it again. Repeat until she falls asleep. (She has never cried no more than 15mins total, after you put her down with this method, but normally doesn’t cry at all or only for a minute. She usually does better if you just put her down and let her cry for a minute or two, rather than trying to rock her to sleep, which usually makes her cry more/longer.)
Try and let her lay in her crib if she wakes up earlier than the scheduled time, so she can at least rest or try and go back to sleep or just talk to herself (if she is crying, then you can go get her- usually means she is hungry). Sometimes she wakes up early and squirms around for 10-20mins, then falls back asleep, so if she is not really crying loud, wait and see what she does.
Don’t wake her from any nap, unless she has been asleep for 2 1/2hrs, (which never happens, so let me know because it may mean she is not feeling well, overheated, etc).

Baby monitor: hold down button on top to turn on/off. Short press button on top to put screen to sleep/turn back on. Use arrows to move camera if needed. Press Menu for everything else. Charge if needed. Camera is in closet on the left side, so keep the closet door open on that side.

Diapers: We just use water wipes, no ointment unless otherwise noted. Blue line on diaper means wet. Her poop should be all yellow like mustard. If there is any color other than yellow, let me know! Put her in the play yard or crib while you wash your hands in the bathroom, after changing her.

Blowouts: if she wets her clothes or has a poop blowout, wipe her down with the water wipes and new clothes are in the top right drawer of her nursery dresser. You can just rinse the soiled clothes in the bathroom sink and spray stain remover (under the sink) on the poop stain and leave it in the hamper behind the door.
Put on fresh clothes- top drawer on right
Spit up: she doesn’t “spit up” milk typically. If she vomits milk or spits up a lot, let me know
Bibs and burp cloths in second drawer on left.
Fresh crib sheet with pink flowers on it, in the bottom left of closet in a plastic bag.

Please no strong perfume/lotion

Bathroom: If she is awake when you need to use the bathroom, you can put her in the play yard next to the changing station, or put her in the stroller and bring her in with you, if you need.

Bandaids, toilet paper, under the sink in the bathroom

AC/heat using the Nest Thermostat: “hey google, turn the temperature down/up 1 degree”, she will say “cooling down/heating up the living room” OR twist the silver ring on the outside of the thermostat left or right. If you want to switch from AC to heat, vice versa, push the thermostat screen in towards the wall, Turn the ring to select an option, Press the ring again to confirm your selection.

Wifi: <name of wifi>, password: <______>

Music: “hey google, play ____ (song name, artist name, genre, etc.)”

TV: we don’t watch tv during her awake times, but feel free during her naps. We also don’t let her have any screen time (tv, phone, computer)

Kitchen: You can put her in the stroller/swing/baby seat, and bring her in there with you, when she is awake. Yellow soap/white scrub brush for baby stuff on the right, blue soap/blue sponge for regular dishes on the left. Extra dish towels above sink. Broom on side of fridge.

Walks: Don’t forget your keys and cell phone. Buckle her in the stroller. Use blanket on top of the stroller to shield her if the sun is in her eyes or too bright, and blanket underneath stroller can go over her legs/feet if needed. hat and sunglasses underneath stroller if needed (more hats in the second drawer on left in her room).

Walkthrough of home

MY ULTIMATE NEW BABY GUIDE

@THELINDSAYANN NEW BABY GUIDE RESOURCES:

{VIDEO} My Story: If you want some background behind my first baby's pregnancy announcement and our infertility journey

Ultimate Baby Registry Checklist & Notes 2021 (with links!) - What you NEED and DON'T need for your new baby

Minimalist Hospital Bag (for New Baby, Mom and Dad/Partner): What you NEED and DON'T need for labor, delivery and recovery

Nursery Reveal: Pink & Gold Baby Girl Room Tour
Nursery Reveal: Black & Natural Baby Boy Room Tour

Ultimate Baby Schedule List (2 months - 2 years old): feedings, wake times, naps and sleep times

Nanny Guide: Info to leave for your baby's nanny, babysitter, grandparent or care giver while you are away

Easy Homemade Stage 1 Baby Food - Quick Fruit and Vegetable Purees (Green Bean, Butternut Squash, Sweet Potato, Carrot and more!)
Kale Spinach Applesauce For Kids (Healthy Veggie Apple Puree Baby/Toddler Food)
Healthy Fruit & Veggie Muffins For Babies, Toddlers & Kids (NO refined sugar, salt free, gluten free + kale, broccoli, zucchini, carrots & more!)
The Best Play Dough (easy homemade playdough)