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Buying For Baby, Dad-to-be?
Fasten Your Seatbelt!
By Julia Rosien
Convertible Car Seats
Want to save yourself from buying several car seats? Buy a convertible car seat. It can be used for the newborn, infant and toddler by flipping to a front facing car seat after the first year. Look for one with good padding and a removable neck support to use while Baby is small.
The five-point harness system protects Baby most. Find one that allows you to adjust the buckles and position of the seat at the front. Little fingers can't manipulate most stiff buckles, but check anyway. Choose a seat with a removable liner for frequent washing. Read installation instructions before buying and find one that's easy to install and remove. Expect to spend between $80 and $200 (U.S.).
"We men act like hunters when shopping. We take our spear, choose the target, kill one and drag it home," says Terry Burns, father and grandfather. "We don't buy strollers the same time we buy car seats unless the need presents itself."
Strollers
As strange as this sounds, decide what you need a stroller for. Will you be strolling indoors or out, taking long walks or short trips? Will it be for one child or more? Decide how important looks are to you and whether you want metal or plastic components. The more expensive the stroller, the more metal used to construct it, and generally the heavier it is to maneuver in and out of the car. Do you want one that reclines, or one that is lightweight and easy to fold up and pack away?
Want to see more?
- Get tips on surviving baby's first year financially in Having the Baby Without Breaking the Bank
- Check out the iParenting Recalls section to make sure your baby equipment has not been recalled.
- Read Clip This: How and Why to Use a Locking Clip for more car seat safety information.
- Read Read Carseat Safety Tips for more car seat safety information.
- Learn about stroller safety
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