New baby on the way? Is the right answer to remodel your home or move to a new one? Remodeling expert Dan Fritschen, author of the book Remodel Or Move: Make the Right Decision, has this advice to help parents-to-be make the best decisions that will accommodate this major lifestyle change.

Finances • For most people, this is usually the first concern when adding a new family member. Many double income households drop to a single income if one parent elects to stay home with the new baby. There’s also the cost of day care to consider. If you have an hour-long commute, this adds up to more time and cost for your new baby at the day care center, and less time for you to spend together. This situation lends itself to a move to a home closer to your work, and benefits you remarkably by giving you more time with your child, and less time and money in day care and commuting costs.

Size of Your Current Home • Is your current home large enough to add a nursery that can later be easily converted to a child’s bedroom or a playroom? Couples just starting a family should also consider how many children are in their future. Thoughtful planning about the ultimate family size is an important factor in the remodel or move equation. If the size of your home is cramping your style now, and the thought of a nursery or play room imposing upon the existing space isn’t appealing, then you should considering making a change.”

Neighborhood • Do you like your neighbors? How are the schools in the area? Many parents buy homes in neighborhoods with the best schools and lots of kids around. If you love your neighborhood and plan to stay in your home for at least five years, then remodeling may be the better option for you. If you aren’t satisfied with the neighborhood and feel that it is not the best place to raise your kids, then moving may be the right decision.

Timing • Many newborns sleep in their parents’ rooms for at least the first few months. This temporary arrangement can give you time to start adjusting to the change. You may have preconceived notions about what your nursery should look like before bringing your baby home, but after the baby’s arrival, your experience will show the practical side of nursery management. The ‘hands on’ approach is probably the best way for new parents to decide how to update their homes to fit the needs of a growing family. Knowing in advance how to design the nursery or playroom based on your child’s unique needs is really a bonus. Those first few months of having the baby in your own room helps parents better plan a nursery.

Safety • Can your home easily be made safe for babies and children? Does it require extensive remodeling to create a safe environment for your child? Stairs, exposed hot water pipes and heaters, low windows, and lead paint are just a few of the potential hazards in a home for a small child that should be considered as you make your remodel or move decision.

Back to Top

To reduce the risk of cavities, please read the following:

• The sippy cup is designed to be a training tool to help children transition from a bottle to a cup. It should not be used for a long period of time. The sippy cup is not a bottle and it is not a pacifier.

• Unless being used at mealtime, the sippy cup should be filled ONLY with WATER. Remember, frequent drinking of any liquid, even if diluted, from a bottle or no-spill training cup should be avoided.

• Sippy cups should not be used at naptime or bedtime unless they have only water in them. Always remember to clean your child’s teeth before placing them in bed.

• Schedule regular visits with your pediatric dentist to help keep your child cavity-free.

Provided by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry

Back to Top

Love Me Baby Me

This unique company focuses on meeting the needs of a new generation of aware parents. Featuring the gentlest, purest, all-natural preservative system available today, the full line of products includes Bubbly Wash, Smoothy Shampoo, Creamy Cream, Hair Putty and the miraculous Butt Balm, formulated to pamper the most sensitive skin. Become a part of the new generation of aware parents with baby care products that do not contain parabens or other harsh preservatives, propylene glycol, artificial colors, synthetic fragrances or petroleum-based ingredients. SRP 8oz $19.99.

Back to Top