Keep it simple

A recent article in the Boston Globe, titled "Easing Parent-to-be overload" discusses a new trendy consulting business called babyplanner (which is similar to a wedding planner). These expensive consultants target those mothers and fathers who do "not want to buy anything without first assessing safety, usefulness, and developmental appropriateness." I strongly recommend that parents pay close attention to product safety, usefulness, and appropriateness. Taking care of your children definitely includes watching out for their safety and avoiding products that are not beneficial. You should do research before you purchase products for anyone in your family. Yes, the number of baby-related products has skyrocketed, just as for any other age of child...there will always be one more thing your child "must have" throughout life. However, you can go overboard in this direction just as surely as you can go overboard in not paying attention to these factors.

First, consider the use of your money. I think its unrealistic to pay a fee of $250 to have someone walk through the baby superstore with you to offer advice on the pros and cons of various products. Look at this list of prices for other services: "Perfecting Expecting charges $100 for baby registry consultation and $500 for putting together a complete registry, $100 for help maternity shopping and $500 for baby shower preparation. The Baby Coordinators charge $250 to compile a baby registry, $300 to arrange and set up a nursery, and $200 to baby-proof a home." Wow.

One person in the article said, "To be a really good mom, you want to pick the best for your baby, and that takes a while." What this person seems to be misunderstanding is that babies really need time and attention, not THINGS. Not having the newest, best, most expensive crib or stroller will not ruin your child's life. But not getting your undivided attention, time and love will definitely impact their development.

Given the ever-growing number of products that are being marketed to pregnant women, you probably do need some help researching products. Ask other mothers about their experiences with the products they own. Read reviews from actual users online (instead of only reviews from review companies). There are several highly-recommended books that can help you...take them with you when you go shopping.