Childcare

Your first NYC apartment had a bathtub in the kitchen. But even if the living arrangements have improved post-baby, not everyone’s getting a good night’s sleep (forget it if you’ve got twins sharing what used to be, literally, a closet).

Dream Team Baby’s infant and toddler sleep consultancy will give your new family a little snooze support. For little ones up to 2 years old, they will come to your home and stay overnight to work through a child’s “sleep challenges” — including that 2am crying fit. And if your walk-up doesn’t have room for an extra body, a phone consultation may be enough (the advisory board includes a pediatrician and psychotherapist).

You’ll rest easier.

Visit dreamteambaby.com.

You can’t help but describe your in-laws with a lot of “o” words — overbearing, over-involved, overwhelming. Throw those endearing qualities into the mix once your baby is born and the postpartum chaos escalates.

UB spoke with NY-area psychotherapist and parenting coach Tammy Gold about tips for preemptively (and politely) clamping down on the in-laws before bringing baby home from the hospital:

• During the pregnancy, or soon thereafter, design as a couple a “parental plan” and “parental philosophy” to navigate the postpartum period and beyond. The plan covers who is going to do what when (night feedings, grocery shopping, greeting visitors). The philosophy deals with all the emotional stuff such as family issues and house rules.
• Respectfully communicate your rules on everything from naps and pacifiers to bottle feedings to your in-laws. Perhaps even give them a written list.
• Be clear about when they’ll visit, whether they’ll bunk in your 700-square-foot apartment and what they’ll be doing (caring for the baby? running errands?).
• Outline your philosophy on baby presents and the fact that you don’t want weekly deliveries from FAO.
• Get on the same page regarding the bris/baby naming/christening and your preferences for the size and tone of the event.
• Have a response ready for any unsolicited (translation: undermining) parenting advice they may hurl your way. Verbalize your opinion and explain that you’re trying to figure out things on your own.
• Decide on a secret password to use with your sig-o when you want to bid adieu to your in-laws (or any other guests overstaying their welcome).

We told you so.

For more information, visit goldparentcoaching.com.

You’re used to getting things delivered – laundry, Thai food, DVDs. Especially now that baby is on the way, you tear up at the thought of leaving your comfy apartment.

Gifted at Birth has launched a weekly delivery service of newborn care supplies that come right to your door. After answering basic questions (breast or bottle? green or disposable?), a postpartum doula will walk you through the initial package of goodies before the baby arrives. Then, sign up for 11 weekly packages that evolve with your needs (shampoo for baby’s first bath, receiving blankets, slings), and add items from the virtual store as you see fit.

Next stop? Netflix.

For more information, visit giftedatbirth.com