As if you don’t already have enough to shop for when you’re expecting, you need to know what to look for in an infant car seat and select the best car seat option for your new baby, too. Knowing what to look for in an infant car seat is tough, especially when all of the brands, safety features, and carrier types are so diverse. However, once you familiarize yourself with some of the car seat basics, you’ll have a much better grasp of what features to look for and how to go about the car seat process of elimination.

Here are some examples of what to look for in an infant car seat:

Safety standards that meet or exceed—Many car seat models meet or exceed the federal safety standards, and this will typically be specified upfront in the product description. Look for models that have specialized safety technology, including technology that protects from side and front impact and that works to reduce physical exertion in the event of a crash.

Proper size—When it comes to car seats, be aware that one size does not fit all. Depending on the size of your vehicle, that fancy car seat with all of your favorite bells and whistles might not fit. For example, some car seat models offer excellent cushioning and padded protection, but they are large and bulky, and overall too wide to fit your car.

5-Point Harness Feature—Some car seats have a 3-point harness, but it’s best to opt for a 5-point harness if at all possible. A 5-point harness design will restrain it all—shoulders, hips, and crotch.

Rear-facing capabilities—Keeping your child in rear-facing position for as long as you can is much safer than a forward-facing position, so consider a convertible car seat that can accommodate your infant as he or she grows.

Keep these qualities in mind as you determine what to look for in an infant car seat for your new baby.

Learning to care for your baby’s mouth is actually quite simple, but many parents are unaware of the need. Often, this results in poor gum health and cavities at a very early age. Find out what you need to know and fight poor dental health early on by learning tips that will help you care for your baby’s mouth.

Birth to Teeth

Care for your baby’s mouth should start right after they are born. Use a wet washcloth daily on your baby’s gums. A gentle rubbing motion is efficient. Make sure that the washcloth is clean and never use toothpaste or other cleansers in your baby’s mouth at this early age.

If your baby develops thrush, a yeast infection that looks like a white coating on the teeth, gums or tonsils, call your pediatrician. An antibiotic can be administered to clear up the infection. If you are breastfeeding, you may also need medication to prevent reinfection of your baby’s mouth.

Baby Teeth

Once teeth start emerging, it is time to start brushing. A soft bristled child’s toothbrush is adequate in helping you care for your baby’s mouth at this time. Many dentists recommend a fluoridated toothpaste during this stage, but parents should do their research. Not everyone agrees, and some studies have linked fluoride to brain damage later in life. If you are nervous about the potential dangers of fluoride, find an alternative toothpaste that is safe for infants. In the end, use your own best judgment.

Snacks and Juices

Sugary snacks and fruit juices can wreak some serious havoc in your baby’s teeth. As such, proper care of your baby’s mouth should include limiting sugary snacks, fruit drinks, soda and other sugary items. Limiting these items is also important for your child’s overall health. Opt for healthier snacks like fruits and vegetables. And as you care for your baby’s mouth, don’t forget that some foods can pose as choking hazards for infants and toddlers.

If you’re looking for girl baby name ideas with unique summer flair, you’ve come to the right place. When it comes to naming a baby after a season, it can be hard to find names that stand out. This is especially the case when it comes to summer-themed names. For example, most summer-inspired names include options like May, June, July, or you guessed it….Summer. Pretty, but not very original, right? If you want something a little more unique, check out these girl baby names with unique summer flair:

Kai—Want something really trendy? Then this is a good option. Kai is a Hawaiian name, and it means “sea.” It’s often used for both baby boy and girl names, but it’s especially popular as a baby girl name.

Morwenna—When it comes to girl baby name ideas with unique summer flair, Morwenna really takes the cake. It’s not often you hear this name, and while it is more popular in Europe, it’s quickly becoming a favorable choice for moms around the globe who want a girl baby name with summer flair. Morwenna is an ancient Cornish name, and like Kai, it is rooted in a meaning that has something to do with the water. It means “waves of the sea.” Beautiful, right?

Nerida—This is a beautiful, exotic girl baby name idea with unique summer flair. Nerida is a Greek name that means “mermaid.” If you love the beach, the ocean, or swimming in the pool, you can pass on your love for the water to your new baby girl with this special name.

Oceane—Many summer days are spent in the sun at the ocean, and the name Oceane is a girl baby name idea with unique summer flair and some authentic French flavor. It has been a popular name for girls in France for some time now, and it continues to gain ground on the top lists for baby girl name ideas. Out of all the girl baby name ideas with unique summer flair, this is one of our favorites!

Disney-inspired baby name ideas have a lot to offer for a number of reasons. One of the most appealing things about them—aside from the fact that they are easily recognized—is that they offer a combination of classic and unique style. Many Disney-inspired baby name ideas are popular because of the movies they come from, but the names themselves are traditional with endearing meanings behind them.

Aurora—Disney lovers have cherished this name for years. Aurora is the name of the princess from the famous film favorite, Sleeping Beauty. Aurora means “dawn” and has Latin and Spanish roots. If you’re looking for a name fit for a princess but can’t quite bring yourself to name your daughter after a Disney princess name that is really out there, like Cinderella, Aurora is a safe, beautiful choice.

Belle—Similar to Aurora, Jasmine, and Ariel, the name Belle is based off of another famous Disney princess, from the movie Beauty and the Beast. It is a diminutive of the name Annabel and has a number of origins, including French, Hungarian, Scottish, and Spanish.

Sebastian—If you’re looking for a colorful, solid boy name idea, Sebastian is a Disney-inspired baby name idea that won’t let you down. Inspired by the loveable crab character from The Little Mermaid, Sebastian means “majestic” and is Greek in origin.

Maurice—Maurice is another nice Disney-inspired baby name idea for a boy. Meaning “moor” or “dark skinned,” Maurice is Greek in origin and is the name of Belle’s father in the Disney movie Beauty and the Beast.

Other Disney baby name ideas to consider for your little one include Oliver, from Oliver and Company, and Peter, from Peter Pan. You can also consider Bianca, from The Rescuers, and Marie, from The Aristocats. Flora and Fauna from Sleeping Beauty are also nice Disney-inspired baby name ideas.

If you’re in the process of baby name hunting, it’s a good idea to have some common baby name faux pas on hand so you know how to avoid them. While you can name your baby anything you want, does it always mean you should? Celebrities are notorious for choosing unique, bold names, many of which are completely “out there” in the common folks’ eyes. Experimenting is good, but when is far too far?

To help choose the best name for your little one, familiarize yourself with these common baby name faux pas:

Choosing a random name without doing your homework—There’s nothing wrong with picking a random name just because you like the sound of it, but did you stop to check the meaning of the name? Have you considered whether or not the name will produce any nasty nicknames for your child in the future? What about the way it blends with the middle or last name you have picked out? See what we mean? Do your homework—your child will thank you someday!

Choosing a long-winded name—Choosing a long name can be tough for your kid in the early years and as they grow older. The longer the name, chances are it will be harder to spell or pronounce. Try to avoid names that will elongate your child’s name, particularly if their last name is already a mouth full.

Choosing an over-the-top name—Thinking outside the box is great. But jumping twenty feet from that box until you’re over the fence and beyond? Not so much. Get creative, be original, and have fun when coming up with name ideas. But deliberately choosing an odd, unusual name for the sake of being trendy isn’t worth putting your child through a potential awkward childhood. Experiment away, but don’t get too crazy or your name choice might end up being too over the top for your little one to handle! Keep this common baby name faux pas in mind as you name hunt.

There are certain comfort items to have on hand when you’re expecting a baby. Not every mom has the same kind of pregnancy, and some comfort items can help soothe you and make you feel more at ease if they are nearby. Because every pregnancy is different, it’s hard to guarantee the same comfort items will work for every mommy-to-be. However, these items are versatile and can help relax and soothe just about any expectant mom.

Here are some comfort items to have on hand when you’re expecting a baby:

Soothing creams and moisturizers—Before you use anything on your skin, it’s crucial to talk to your doctor. He or she can help you address any products that might not be good for your skin or for the baby while you’re pregnant. Some beauty creams and moisturizers, once approved by your doctor, can provide soothing stress relief. For example, many have aromas and therapeutic effects that can help calm you and make you more comfortable at all hours of the day or night.

Layered clothing and bedding—As you get closer to delivery, you’ll likely experience a number of hot flashes and other uncomfortable temperature changes. One minute you’ll be too cold, and the next you’ll feel like you’re sitting in a sauna. Counteract this discomfort by having an extra blanket or two nearby at all times, and keep a small bag packed with layered attire choices, such as a light hoody and shirts or tanks that can be easily worn on top of one another.

These are just a few examples of comfort items to have on hand when you’re expecting a baby. Talk to your doctor to find out which products and items you should have nearby as you get closer to your delivery date. Having certain comfort items on hand when you’re expecting a baby can greatly influence your comfort level in those final days of your pregnancy.

Baby name ideas with nature themes give every nature-loving parent the opportunity to pass on their love for wildlife and Mother Earth to their child. Whether you have a green thumb, love animals, or are passionate about the outdoors, check out these baby name ideas with nature themes for your new baby:

Ivy—While the first thing you might think of with the name Ivy is poison ivy, the name means much more. It is very beautiful and works well with a number of middle and last names. It is derived from the plant name and means “faithfulness,” with a Greek origin.

Fauna and Fawn—These two names are some of the most popular baby name ideas with nature themes, and it’s easy to see why. They’re both beautiful and have direct roots to nature-inspired themes. With Latin, French, and English origins, the name Fauna means “young deer” and “lover of Hercules,” but it also refers to the Greek mythological deity of fertility and nature, who was known for chastity. The name Fawn shares the same meanings and is another great name for a new baby girl.

Forrest—No, this one isn’t only inspired by the movie Forrest Gump. In fact, the name Forrest has been around for a while and is a popular baby name idea with a nature theme. It has French, English, and Latin roots, meaning “dwells in the forest,” “from the woods,” and “woodland.” It’s a great first name for a baby boy and blends nicely with a number of last names.

Birch—This boy name not only refers to the birch tree, it’s also an English name that means “bright” and “shining.” It makes a good, strong first name, but can be used for a middle name just as well. This is one of the best baby names with a nature theme for a boy.

For some new parents, baby name idea sources aren’t necessary. Some parents know exactly what they want to name their new baby right off the bat, or at least have a few name ideas picked out to choose from. Whether you have no idea what you’d like to name your new baby or you’re overwhelmed with the variety of choices out there to choose from, baby name idea sources can help point you in the right direction.

Even if you don’t find the exact name you’d like to give your new baby from baby name idea sources, you can at least use these sources to draw inspiration for name ideas. Baby name idea sources can often give you a good idea of which names appeal to you and can suggest variations of certain names you’re interested in.

Try the following baby name idea sources to help you choose a baby name:

Baby name search engines—This is one of the most popular baby name idea sources to turn to when in need of new name inspiration. Many on-line search directories specialize in providing the history, variations, and origins of names, and they also allow you to search by letter and sex to help give you some suggestions.

The family tree—Another baby name idea source that has proven to be a favorite when searching for a baby name is the family tree. Whether you have direct contacts to study your family tree or you consult a genealogy service, turning to your family names and their history can be very satisfying and can help you choose a family name that will carry on your legacy.

Hobbies and interests—Unlikely places to find baby name ideas include your hobbies and interests. Get creative and come up with name combinations that represent you or your partner’s passion. Looking to your personality can provide another great baby name idea source to help you choose a baby name.

Looking for some creative tips for preserving your baby pictures so that you can preserve your child’s memories in a way that will be fun for both you and your child? You’ve come to the right place! These tips are sure to spark your creative streak and give you an idea that is both unique and fun.

Scrapbooking

Scrapbooking is one of the most popular creative tips for preserving your baby pictures, but it can also be the most unique. This is because everyone scrapbooks differently. Different photo layouts, designs, decals, and messages are found in each and every book. And don’t worry if you’ve never done scrapbooking before. There’s no learning curve, just creativity and fun.

Photo Movie

If you err on the side of the digitally challenged, then making a photo movie will probably be your favorite creative tip for preserving your baby pictures. Most computers now come with a movie maker program already installed, but even those who don’t have the program can find one easily on-line, often for free. Once you have the program, you simply scan or transfer the photos into your computer and create your movie. You can change the photo to black and white for a more nostalgic feel, or you can add a background or written message. Your creative genius is your only limitation!

Collage

If you want something you can hang on your wall but want something more creative than a photo frame, a collage may be exactly what you’re looking for. Much like scrapbooking, collages are made up of a montage of various fabrics, colors, materials, and photos. Messages can be written and decals can be placed strategically to express a special thought or idea. Once the collage is complete, laminate it. This will ensure that your collage, the last of the creative tips for preserving your baby photos, will stand the test of time.

Trending baby names for twins can be even more difficult to find than trending baby names for a single child. This is partially due to the lack of twin births in the trendsetting population, but there is another factor. Some parents who have twins want the names to be similar–rhyming, with the same meaning, anagrams, etc. Others want each name to be unique, giving each child their own personality. Because of these two opposite spectrums, soon-to-be parents of twins might have a difficult time finding names to fit their personal preference. Thankfully, no matter which end of the spectrum you fall, you are certain to find something you like in our list of trending baby names for twins.

Trending Baby Names for Twins – Girl/Girl

For parents having twin girls, trending rhyming names include Ava and Emma, Ella and Emma, Gabriella and Isabella, Jayden and Jaylen, and Olivia and Sophia. For parents who want to mix it up a little and give each girl a unique name while still celebrating their unique connection, Faith and Hope are at the top of the trending list. And for parents who want to give each girl a unique name and unique personality, the top trending names are Addison and Avery.

Trending Baby Names for Twins – Boy/Boy

The list of trendy rhyming names for boys is substantially shorter than it is for girls, with Elijah and Isaiah being the only set to make the list. Names that start with the same first letter seem to be more popular with boys, including names like Isaac and Isaiah, James and John, Logan and Landon, Lucas and Logan, Matthew and Michael, and Ethan and Evan.

Trending Baby Names for Twins – Girl/Boy

For a boy/girl twin set, names that start with the first letter are the only trendy twin names to be found right now. Included in this list are Adrian and Adriana, Caleb and Callie, Jayden and Jordan, Madison and Mason, Samuel and Sophia, Hunter and Hayden, and Aiden and Ava. If you look closely, however, you will notice that some of the sets of trending baby names for twins can be taken apart to create new pairs, giving rhyming parents exactly what they’re looking for.