The urban carrier's checklist
Here you are setting out to attack the city, your baby snuggled in its stroller and your bag slung over your shoulder! Is there something to consider to ensure the adventure goes well? We have prepared a little checklist so that you can just enjoy! A baby carrier in good condition and well adjusted Because comfort is fundamental! In the city, carrying needs are very varied, and you may need to carry both for short periods and for longer trips, and these are often very recurring needs.The right adjustments of the carrying system are the guarantee of your future consistency: no matter how practical it is, no one uses long-term a tool that causes pain. Neobulle Tip: We recommend checking once a week roughly that the settings of your baby carrier are still adjusted to your child's growth (and yes, they grow quickly!). Don’t hesitate to check the good condition of your equipment. Comfortable outfits for carrying In the comfort category, you’ll also find clothing! Whether for your little heart or for yourself, plan an outfit in which you feel comfortable to move… Soft clothing, the right size, that does not constrict the body, does not pinch and does not ride up with movement should be prioritized when you plan a carrying trip with your baby. Between stairs, sidewalks, and construction sites, the terrain is not always stable for walking, so we invite you to wear practical shoes: no heels or high shoes, prefer sneakers, trainers, and other sneakers! We also think of seasonal classics: A hat and slippers for winter A hat and sunglasses for summer Neobulle Tip: Be careful with decorations on some adult clothing (pearls, zippers…), which can sometimes irritate or hurt your little one. Baby essentials! What ranks 3rd on this list and not 1st? A moment of distraction, perhaps… We are obviously talking about the comforter and the little head! NEVER forget! Never! Like if it happens to you, turn back, even if you risk being very late for work afterwards. We invite you to take them first, check during preparations that you have packed them properly, then before leaving the house, and again before exiting the building (you never know!). Neobulle Tip: Plan a backup set in the diaper bag. Be prepared for all emergencies, even outside carrying Parenting Murphy's Law is just like that: no matter the duration of a trip, the diaper will always leak RIGHT on the day where you haven't planned for something to change your baby.Ward off bad luck by always having on you a diaper, some cotton, a small lotion bottle and a clean onesie in your diaper bag. Yes, even for a short outing!Neobulle Tip: Remember to regularly check that the spare onesie is still the right size! Food and Drink! As long as your little one is breastfeeding, managing outings is quite simple since the breasts are always ready to provide meals and drinks as desired.When this is not or no longer the case, we advise you to always bring a bottle in advance in the bag (or for older children, a packet of biscuits and a small water bottle), to prevent the small hunger pangs that are sure to occur during the metro ride. Neobulle Tip: Having food ready is always useful in case of an incident during travels (like a stuck train), even later with older children! You can also use this little "emergency bag" in the car and supplement it with a survival blanket in winter. A diaper attached to the baby carrier Not all trends are good to follow, the "milk stone" perfume popular among new parents is actually one of them. Especially once your work routine resumes!The morning rush, a quick snack or bottle in haste, and suddenly your little one takes advantage of the 10-minute walk between your house and the daycare to give you a nice vomit of some of their milk… on your clean shirt? No! Because being prepared, you had attached a diaper to your baby carrier, and sensing the "wet" burp, you had time to protect your clothes!Hats off to super parents!Neobulle Tip: We never have enough diapers… Don’t hesitate to leave some everywhere — in the diaper bag, the car, on the baby carrier, etc. An activity suited for carrying your baby Whether in the city or in the countryside, it remains essential to adapt your daily life and your leisure activities to your child's presence, especially when carrying himIf you can definitely resume a bit of walking or other gentle physical activities with your baby in a baby carrier, more intense practices such as jogging should obviously be avoided! Neobulle Tip: There are now dancing classes in carriers! Don't hesitate to look around if this activity is offered near you? Getting around in the city: when baby carriers are prohibited! Sometimes you see baby carriers in the city in places where they shouldn't be found!A quick reminder about safety AND legislation: on the road, during transport in a vehicle, the highway code states that babies must be secured in approved seats, which baby carriers are not.Subject to the highway code: cars, but also bicycles!Therefore, it is not only highly discouraged, but also illegal to use a carrying system to transport a child in a car, or on a bicycle (or an electric scooter by the way…).Neobulle Tip: If you need to get around by bicycle with your child, we recommend choosing a suitable seat and getting advice on this subject at a specialized store… Or walking on foot alongside your bicycle while dropping off baby at their childcare!
Which carrying system should be used for a short trip?
We often talk about the choice of carrying systems for hikes and walks... But less so when it comes to carrying over shorter distances. Yet, it is also a real issue! And yes... Quick trips, school/nanny/crèche runs, and other short errands punctuate the parents' daily life. So which baby carrier to choose? Can we use the same as for hikes? We tell you everything! What is my main need for carrying my baby? To choose the right carrying system, it’s a bit like when you want to buy a pair of shoes or clothes: you need to be clear about your main need, to avoid ending up stuck on the beach in flip-flops. Most often, when you want to carry over short distances, you will look at the following criteria: Practicality: the baby carrier must be easy and practical to put on in all circumstances (including in the middle of the street)Quick donning/doffing: the baby carrier should be put on (or taken off) very quickly, possibly in a waiting room or in a parking lotNo straps dragging on the ground: the baby carrier must be able to be installed in the middle of the street, for example after getting out of the carThese criteria are, of course, not exhaustive but already help to get a sense of the overall situation.In daily life, unlike during a walk where once properly adjusted and fitted you don’t touch anything for a long time, you need to imagine that the baby carrier will be frequently put on and taken off, sometimes a bit "on the fly" (not to say completely haphazard!), so it’s really important to choose a model that is not a headache and that truly makes your life easier! If it takes too long to put on (meaning more than the travel time itself), it can quickly become frustrating and discouraging.Then, you will find several configurations depending a bit on your lifestyle and whether you have other carrying systems to complement or not. I just want a model to carry my baby during my short urban trips If you only want a small carrier for short trips: the sling is your friend!This is THE portable baby carrier par excellence. Set up over the shoulder on one side, it pre-installs and can be kept on you, for example in the car while the baby is in the car seat, ready for easy installation as soon as you arrive at your destination. He adjusts easily and detaches with one hand: tensions are self-blocking in the rings and do not require any knot at the end.Since it is quite compact, it easily slips into the diaper bag to stay, for example, at the daycare in the baby bag during the day.By offering off-center carrying, the sling allows you to show your little one many things and to share many beautiful moments with them. Off-center carrying is also appreciated when you have a bigger one to manage because it frees up a bit more space in front! At the "expert" level: the sling is the only carrying system that does not require you to lay down your baby to be able to install it! Bonus? The most skillful among you will also be able to breastfeed their little one while walking (not too fast!).Disadvantage: carrying on one shoulder is not suitable for long-term carries, where it will become quickly uncomfortable. I also want to go hiking with it! Want to combine the needs inherent to both small and large movements? Why not opt for a preformed baby carrier? The Neo range is the ideal solution for parents who like to alternate between metro rides and café terraces, and open spaces. Installed in 2 clips, preformed carriers blend into daily life and provide both comfort and freedom.Like the sling, the preformed can simply stay clipped at the waist while waiting to welcome your child, and even then , it doesn’t drag on the ground and stays clean, which is all the more appreciable when it rains.At the "expert" level, the baby will do the shopping with you on your back and will show you all the vegetables and fruits they want to put in the basket!Disadvantage: when changing carriers, there are a few adjustments (quick ones!) to be redone. My toddler is walking When the child walks, the needs change and often carrying becomes less and less necessary… Especially since toddlers love exploring their environment on their own and playing superheroes as soon as they find a nice stick!Nevertheless, even the most enduring superheroes are entitled to be tired and need a super-parent to rescue and carry them during a more challenging journey than usual.This obviously happens when you no longer have a backup baby carrier with you. We recommend all parents to have a hip seat carrier support of the Hop-la type on hand in their bag! Ultra-compact, the hop-la fits in a handbag, designed to support your child's bottom and relieve your arms. It does not replace a real baby carrier but can save your day in many everyday situations and proves to be a wise choice for many small trips with a "small-big"! And the other carrying systems? What about other carrying systems? Indeed, we did not mention slings and mei-tai in this article. These tend to be a bit more time-consuming to set up (especially for the sling) and/or have significant fabric lengths, making them less suited for quick uses than a sling or a preformed carrier, and we would not recommend those for specific quick-use scenarios. However, if you already own them, do not hesitate to experiment with many different configurations to see for yourself and in your daily life whether they suit you, before considering other purchases!As always in carrying, there is no single truth and it is up to each individual to choose based on their feelings.You are now equipped for your small trips with babies! So, which baby carrier will you choose?
Lice alert!
“Lice have been reported in the classroom, please check your children's heads.” This little note in your child's notebook triggers a tachycardia attack doubled by a furious urge to scratch your head and disinfect the entire house to get rid of the invader? Don't panic, put away that hair clipper, and let's take the time together to see how to face the situation! 1 – Some general information about lice Lice (Pediculus humanus capitis for their scientific name), are parasites of humans. As for us, we will only talk here about those that live in the hair, but some can also live in body hair (morgellons) or on the body (less common). They measure about 2 to 4mm and feed on blood, their bites causing significant itching (related to their saliva). If an infestation does not pose a danger to health by itself, prolonged situations where scratching occurs can eventually lead to infection. During its life cycle, the lice go through several stages of development: J0 : laying an egg (the nit) at the root of the hair J7-8 : hatching Between J10 and J17 approximately : the larva goes through 3 successive molts J17-18 : first possible mating From J18 until the end of its life around J50 : females can lay up to 8-10 eggs per day We spare you the calculations: During its lifetime, a single female louse can lay up to 300 eggs! Each egg once laid can generate a mature louse capable of mating in about 3 weeks. Dizzying, isn't it? It quickly becomes clear why it is better to take the problem in hand as quickly as possible! 2 – Identifying the infestation How to tell if your child has lice? Often at the beginning, there is not much visible, and you have to wait until proliferation has started to realize that your little one scratches his head a bit frantically, mainly around the neck or behind the ears. A more careful examination of the scalp can reveal small red spots on the skin of the scalp, nits (about 0.5 to 1mm, yellowish or grayish in color while the egg is full, then white once the larva has emerged), or even lice that are walking around… Distinguishing between nits and dandruff is sometimes not easy. Dandruff are not attached to the hair, and can be easily removed with your fingers or a brushing. Nits, on the other hand, are firmly glued to the hair. In case of lice alert in a setting frequented by your child, it is highly recommended to check their scalp, or even preventively use a fine-tooth comb throughout their hair to remove any unwanted lice before they start reproducing! It should be noted that, contrary to popular beliefs, an infestation is not at all related to poor hygiene. 3 – What to do if you find lice on your child? The time when they shaved their head is fortunately over! And chemical and aggressive products are now forbidden (potentially harmful, lice have developed resistance anyway…) Smother nits and lice with an appropriate product At Nébulle, we offer a lice treatment lotion, made from ingredients derived from coconut oil. It contains no insecticides, fragrances, or essential oils, and its primary action is mechanical: it blocks the respiratory openings of lice and nits, suffocating them. During rinsing, lice and nits lose their fluids, which kills them through desiccation. Applied carefully over the entire scalp (not wet), it is enough to leave it on for 1 hour before using a fine-tooth comb and rinsing. Attention: the application time is calculated from the moment the lotion dries, you can use a blow dryer to speed up the process. Use a fine-tooth comb The fine-tooth comb is a comb with very close teeth that allows you to remove lice and nits from the hair. For an effective pass, it is recommended to thoroughly comb the entire hair and to start from the scalp. You can use clips or hairpins to identify areas remaining to be combed. Regularly passing the comb is also an effective technique to get rid of lice, but it requires a bit of patience. ! Indeed, this requires using it long enough to have: Eliminated all adults capable of laying eggs Eliminated all larvae from previously laid nits before they are able to reproduce If you followed the above, the development cycle of the lice taking about 3 weeks, this means you should commit to daily treatment for at least this period… This also requires being sufficiently diligent not to miss any areas. Treat the environment Lice do not survive very long away from a head (about 36 hours), and they do not detach from hair when still alive. Environmental transmission is therefore quite limited. Nonetheless, it is recommended to wash bed sheets and pillowcases at 60°C, the same goes for other surfaces in contact with hair : car seat covers, hats… You can also consider disinfecting the hairbrush to prevent recontamination, using for example our Deo Couches spray! Note that if something cannot be washed at 60°C, it can be replaced by either placing it in the freezer for 8 hours or leaving it in a sealed bag for 48 hours. Inspect the whole family Since family cohabitation is a major factor of infestation, it is strongly advised to inspect and comb all heads in the household when one of the residents shows signs of lice! Lice can colonize everyone and not just children: babies, teenagers, adults, elderly… As long as there are hair, lice can be present. Sooth the scalp Bites and scratching can cause scalp irritations. Alongside treatment products, using a soothing shampoo can help relieve discomfort! 4 – Avoid lice! Better to prevent than to cure… Although it can sometimes be difficult to completely eliminate, we can significantly reduce the risk of infestation with a few simple gestures: Tie long hair in a ponytail or braids Use different brushes and combs for each of your children Encourage your children to not exchange hats with friends Apply a little of preventive anti-lice oil behind the ears on school mornings Regularly inspect your children’s heads who attend group settings, even if there are no reports currently in the class. If your children have "a head full of lice" and catch them easily despite all prevention advice, it may be helpful to use the comb regularly (at least once a week) to immediately stop any new infestations! Lice are able to survive in water, so swimming pools can also be a place of contamination. It is recommended to wear a swim cap while swimming. There you go, you now know everything about these infernal creatures! Stay strong, parent team, and we wish you encounter them as little as possible!
The benefits of aloe vera for the whole family
Stretched, itchy, prickly, peeling skin... Does that sound familiar? Have you also tried applying fifty-two creams, sold for 4 arms and 6 kidneys to fund them, and all for a at best mixed result (when it doesn't end with allergic reactions)? And what if you tried aloe vera? We're about to tell you everything! 1 – What exactly is aloe vera? Aloe vera is a succulent plant (from Latin suculentus meaning full of sap) cultivated for a long time in Mediterranean regions, North Africa, the Canary Islands, and Cape Verde. It is mainly found in arid environments, where it grows by storing water in its leaves. Besides its aesthetic appeal, aloe vera is appreciated in cooking, as well as in cosmetics and dermatology. Don't have a green thumb? It's a plant that is generally easy to care for (except that, like cacti, you shouldn't drown it!). 2 – In what form should you use it? In culinary form, aloe vera can be found in many different forms: yogurts, drinks, desserts, dietary supplements... Rich in proteins and vitamins, it can be recommended to aid digestion or even regulate bowel movements. However, be careful: only the pulp is edible! Preparations using the whole leaf can cause poisoning and are classified as carcinogenic due to the significant proportion of aloe latex it contains. For internal use, aloe vera is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women as well as children under 6 years old. Cosmetic uses have been documented since antiquity. Again, it is the pulp that is used. You can simply cut a leaf directly from the plant and press the pulp onto the skin; however, since it oxidizes quickly, this limits its use as it is delicate to preserve once extracted. Many attribute virtues to aloe vera, including: Hydration of the skin Assistance in healing Soothing of irritations and redness 3 - Aloe vera for the whole family So that the whole family can enjoy the virtues of aloe vera safely and without having to dig up flower pots around the house, at NéoBulle we have designed a ready-to-use gel : The Aloe Caresse Gel. We use for its production an organic Aloe Vera juice, directly sourced from a Spanish producer (Andalusia). Organic polyculture farming allows the soil to maintain its natural organo-mineral balance. Water needs are met by a pollution-free source and rainwater collection reservoirs. The harvest is done manually on leaves that have reached maturity, and the juice is then extracted from fresh leaves. The manufacturing process is artisanal and the processing unit is located within the plantation (short supply chain). Leaves are brushed, washed, and peeled meticulously to eliminate aloe latex, a laxative substance contained in the skin. The pulp (called mucilage) is crushed and pressed to extract the juice, following a specially studied protocol. Fresh and whole, the juice then retains all its properties. The quality of the juice mainly depends on how the plant was cultivated, the type of soil, climate, and care it receives. An organic Aloe Vera plant is mature between 4 and 5 years, and at that point, the juice has its potential nutritional components. It is at this stage of maturity that leaves are harvested to extract their juice. The rest of the formula? A natural thickener (to achieve the desired texture), glycerin (a powerful moisturizer), and a natural extract for preservation. The only one on the market to have been tested and approved for babies (from birth) and pregnant women (from the 1st month of pregnancy), it is a true must-have that can save you in many everyday situations. 4 – Little Neobulle Tips! Focus on hydration: For daily skincare, Aloe Caresse gel pamper your skin by providing real hydration but without greasing it! Ideal for oily skin that also needs water… It also pairs very well with our Radiance Face Oil : enhance your morning routine by mixing a small amount of gel with a few drops of oil. before application on the face. Recommended for very dry skin, aloe caress gel can also help relieve discomfort caused by eczema. Do not hesitate to seek advice from the health professional who follows you to assess its relevance for your case. A dream hair: Aloe not only nourishes the skin; it is also an excellent hair care! Applied as a mask, it nourishes dry, brittle ends, regulates scalp sebum, itching, and helps fight dandruff. Ouch ouch ouch, that burns! A missed spot of sunscreen? Aloe vera gel can help soothe the burning sensation from a sunburn and stimulates skin repair cells. Don't hesitate to place your bottle in the fridge before application for an extra refreshing effect! A pretty scar A scar that remains ugly, swollen, and pulls? You can try to massage it for a few days with a hazelnut-sized amount of aloe caress gel to help resorb and soften it. Be careful not to apply the gel on a fresh scar! 5 – Aloe in summer! Sanding friction that gets into clothing and the layer Sea salt or pool chlorine that irritates the skin Friction of clothes made sticky by sweat Sunburn (even without a sunburn) Summer is clearly not the friend of your skin: aloe vera can help you effectively soothe all small aggressions. An opportunity to establish a new beauty routine with a daily application on clean skin to keep it well hydrated? Now you know everything about aloe vera! And you, how will you use it?
The essentials of family hiking
Long live holidays! The fresh air of the countryside, the little paths lined with flowers and wild strawberries, the beautiful panoramas… You're eager to share your passion for hiking with baby, and we understand you! But planning baby’s gear can sometimes be a real headache, so how about we help you not forget anything before departure? 1 – A baby carrier Have you already imagined taking a stroller on a steep trail? Forget right away this ridiculous idea! Some have tested it (yes, we’ve already seen it at Néobulle!), and frankly, it’s a no-go. The baby carrier is by far the ESSENTIAL accessory for all hiking parents, whether their child walks or not (because even good walkers, little ones tire quickly, and carrying them by the arms along with the bags is not very practical). Want to know more about how to choose your ideal baby carrier? Here it is! Otherwise, know that our new version of the Néo+ has been specially designed to support family adventures, with lots of little details (thumb rests, loops for attaching accessories…) that make a difference! 2 – Things to protect It’s difficult (impossible) to ensure you’ll stay in the shade throughout the trip… So it’s essential to plan how to protect baby from the sun: A hat, ideally that covers the neck Sunglasses suitable for their size and with a good protection (at least category 3) Comfortable and lightweight clothing but covering (which also protects against insects) Depending on your child's age, also consider sunscreen (SPF 50 and apply every 2 to 3 hours). And because the weather can sometimes turn bad and/or cool down unexpectedly, a light jacket and waterproof clothing can complete the equipment! 3 – How to stay hydrated This is obvious, but we still remind you! Always carry plenty of water, for both adults and children. Plan for an ultra-large amount, and add another 1 or 2 liters for safety to these generous estimates, so you will have the right quantity! Children do not always realize If they are thirsty too, don't hesitate to take frequent breaks to offer them a few sips of water. Note that a child is perhaps simply slightly dehydrated! If your baby is still exclusively breastfeeding, no need for water (which is less hydrating than your milk!), but small snacks. 4 – Things to treat minor injuries Even if it’s not necessary to carry the entire house, it is always recommended to have the basic essentials on hand to treat the most common minor inconveniences: An antiseptic and some gauze, to clean scratches Our 2 emergency sticks badaboum and p’tits bobos, to help absorb small wounds and bruises Bandages An analgesic suitable for all family members and easy to administer (99% chance it will be unnecessary but it takes up little space and we’re glad to have it when needed!) A tick remover Our Adoupik stick to relieve insect bites and falls into nettles! 5 – Time to eat! Hiking with an empty stomach, by default, is already a bad idea… With kids, it becomes more than critical! If usually the little one nibbles on their plate with difficulty, be assured that fresh air will open their appetite and it’s highly likely they will turn into a bottomless pit. So now is not the time to forget snacks or to worry about quantities! Focus on everything that provides energy but remains digestible: dried fruits, cereal bars… off? A little convoi struggling to move due to fatigue? Now is the perfect time to boost the troops with a small snack! 6 – How to change the baby A few diapers, some wipes, and a spare onesie… The basics of all outings with a baby! We also recommend adding a small bag that will serve as a trash bag, which you can throw away upon your return. Nothing worse than ending up with a messy diaper overflowing in your hands and nothing to store it in until the end of the walk! 6 – And how do we carry all this? Once the child is strapped into their baby carrier, how do you easily carry all that without turning into a Sherpa? Thanks to our 2 new accessories! From changing to clothing to pharmacy items, the wandering swaddle will allow you to store everything related to baby. Attached directly to the neo+ V2 baby carrier, its load distributes perfectly and it takes up very little space for the carrier, while avoiding accumulating XXX bags and straps that get tangled. On the meal side, the wandering bib as its name suggests can keep the bottle water warm… but not only! It can just as well be used to keep a small water bottle or the baby's meal at the right temperature. It too attaches directly to the neo+ V2, or if not, to your shorts' loop… You're ready to go on an adventure with baby!
The essentials of summer
It's almost time for vacation departures… and packing suitcases. You know yourself that the amount of stuff to transport is to the size of the child. And your partner doesn’t hesitate to remind you in parallel that the family vehicle is not a semi-trailer and that no, really, bringing their crib is unnecessary and IT WON'T FIT in the trunk (even disassembled). At Néobulle, we work for family peace, and we have put together a small list of essentials to slip into your luggage! 1 – A baby carrier More compact than a stroller (which frees up a LOT of space in the trunk for other things), the baby carrier is the true ally of travelers! Thanks to our Neo range, you can move around freely without getting stuck in a cobbled alley or a restricted access to a historic monument (holiday memories at Mont Saint-Michel and its forbidden to strollers abbey...). Also ideal for nature walks, it’s a great way for baby to discover the landscapes at a good height. The Néobulle tip: Discover the Lange and the Bib en Vadrouille, the perfect accessories for easily carrying baby’s belongings and skipping the stroller and diaper bag! 2 – Protect yourself from the sun We can never say it enough, the sun is not a friend to our little ones’ delicate skin. Besides the usual advice to avoid the midday sun and prefer outings during the cooler hours (before 11 am and after 5 pm), we invite you to pack in your bag: Sun cream with SPF 50 (ideally safe for marine life if you’re heading to the sea) A hat or a cap Well-fitting sunglasses for the face An anti-UV top The Néobulle tip: UV-protective clothing effectively shields baby and reduces the amount of sunscreen needed (and the risk of forgetting to reapply it) 3 – Say no to unwanted guests! The little monster that grows, grows, is cute in the nursery rhyme, but much less in real life. Mosquitoes and other unwelcome guests can quickly turn a pleasant stay into a scratching hell. Do you know our anti-sting range ? Repellent oils and sticks to easily fit in your bag and naturally keep six- or eight-legged invaders away. Similarly, we highly recommend doing a full inspection (including hair) upon returning from a walk in the forest to check for ticks, and so also keep a tick remover in your bag. Neobulle Tip: Anti-sting repellent oils also help repel ticks, and the roll-on adé pik is also very useful in case of a wasp sting or falling into nettles… 4 – The first aid kit While it’s not necessary to carry your entire pharmacy, and although in theory it’s always easy to get specific treatment if needed at your holiday location, having a few supplies with you remains reassuring and practical (especially since we know that children tend to fall ill at night or on weekends when everything is closed)! Bandages, compresses, and supplies to disinfect a small wound. An analgesic / antipyretic (to be prepared in baby/child doses but also for adults…) Physiological saline solution Hydration solution Our emergency kit with roll-ons suitable for big accidents and all little bumps! Tissues And of course all ongoing family treatments (making sure beforehand that you have enough to finish the trip peacefully before the next renewal) Neobulle Tip: Pack at the bottom of your suitcase a pouch containing prescriptions for ongoing treatments and health records 5 – The essentials for swimming No joke: don’t forget your swimsuits! Another must-have: our Aquabulle! It’s no bigger than a pair of socks, and with it you can cross the beach with baby and your bags, as well as introduce the waves to your little one in complete safety. Want to learn more about swimming with baby? ? Find here our article dedicated to this topic! Neobulle Tip: the aquabulle is also very practical for taking a shower with baby at the campsite 6 – Water bottles and flasks Nothing is more disagreeable than planning a family outing and discovering when preparing the picnic that we forgot the water bottles… If it's hot, you need to ensure that baby drinks often and in sufficient quantities to avoid dehydration. If your baby is exclusively breastfed, your milk is more hydrating than water thanks to the sugars and minerals it contains (equivalent to a rehydration solution). Neobulle Tip: offer your baby a drink or a breastfeed each time you take a few sips of water yourself. 7 – THE DODOU!!! Last but not least… The ultimate comfort for baby, his companion at every moment, his precious ally for naps and nights, (almost) more important than you, I call it: THE DODOU! Forgetting this one exposes you to consequences similar to those of a world war. Same for the little head if baby has one, by the way. Really, don’t do that. Neobulle Tip: plan a backup doudou and some spare tétines in advance at the bottom of the suitcase, just in case. Now you are ready for the big departure! All that remains is to wish you a fantastic holiday full of beautiful moments with family.
10 original ideas for baby shower gifts
Your little one will soon be showing up, and your family keeps asking you what you need or what you would like to receive as a gift. You are desperately trying to make a birth list but, if you generally know very well what you DON'T want (you've already declined Aunt Cunegonde's offer and her old baby walker), you have no idea what you could possibly ask for! We help you with some ideas. – The anti-list: no plush toys, clothing, and Co Let's start with the gifts that should BE REMOVED from the possible choices. Plush toys: A plush toy is cute. The problem is that generally, you receive more than one, rather 10! All this so that in the end, baby ends up choosing a pacifier, a sheet, a duvet, or balloons (dedication to dear son) and the pile of plush toys ends up in a box in the basement. Clothing: In 3 or 6 months, you often receive enough to dress quintuplets (meaning: you won't even have time to put everything on him before baby has already outgrown it)... Often these are very pretty clothes but also very uncomfortable: frilly little dresses, slim jeans, beautiful for souvenir photos but much less for your little heart and his comfort. Larger sizes are more durable and less often given, but there remains the risk that when baby reaches the right size to wear them (which is hard to predict), the clothing will not be suitable for the season. Snaps and headbands: Similar to plush toys, it's a "easy" and inexpensive gift, as long as baby has a head which is not guaranteed! Dangerous objects: We repeat and reiterate: in a baby's bed, you put NOTHING. Bed canopies and crib bumpers are very Instagrammable but pose a serious risk of suffocation. Babies always move much more than you think and can get stuck inside, and the materials sold as "breathable" are just as problematic as their counterparts (marketing hello...). In general: you do not give a parent a tool that you know is "against" or that does not match their values. (We know, it sounds basic but unfortunately, this notion is not understood by everyone! 1 – The cocoon bath: the original towel-bib You don't know it yet, but taking your little frog out of the bath, all wet, slipping, crying, and struggling because she would rather stay inside, is sometimes a bit like catch and everyone ends up soaked! The apron design allows the parent to have free hands to pick up their little one, and to be able to wrap them very quickly in the towel as soon as they are out, to quickly keep them warm against them while staying dry. Big, fluffy, and incredibly soft, the cocoon bath is definitely a must-have! 2 – Parenting workshops Carrying, baby massage, wrapped bath, sign language… The offer is increasingly developed and allows learning a lot about your baby in an atmosphere that is generally relaxed and warm. More than a material gift, it is time spent with your family and helps strengthen bonds. It is also useful, which adds to the pleasure! 3 – A baby carrier Sometimes a bit expensive for one person, the carrying system can be the subject of a group purchase. It is a useful gift that will serve daily to make life easier for the whole family by meeting the needs of the baby while freeing the parents' arms. We always recommend having the main carrying system at home before the baby is born, even if you buy it yourself and get reimbursed afterward (possible when it is a gift from a close person, for example): this allows to be sure to have it right away and not to have to wait to see people when you would have needed it earlier. If you already have your main baby carrier, the gift registry can allow you to be offered a secondary system (for example, a sling to complement the already owned wrap). If you're still unsure about what will suit you, don't hesitate to prefer a small fund for later financing! 4 – Baby care products Well-being oils, to soothe digestive troubles and colic or to help with sleep… We always appreciate having something to massage the baby and it allows for a privileged contact with them and to strengthen the bond. Care products also come in many other ranges focused on bath time (soap, shampoos, bubble bath…), everyday minor injuries (bruises, small wounds…), winter viruses, or insect bites. Always useful to have on hand in case of need. Can't decide? Opt for gift sets offering carefully selected skincare assortments based on your needs! Bonus: Neobulle oils are delicately scented and crafted in France from organic and natural ingredients. 5 – Chewable toys Made of natural rubber and free from toxic substances, we love Oli and Carol toys, and so do children! Shaped like fruits and vegetables and just the right flexible, they are a must-have that babies will love to chew on when their gums start to tickle. The range also includes bath toys WITHOUT HOLES that won't mold (those who know...). A personal favorite is the flycatcher anemone for its slightly rebellious vibe, but we leave it up to you to discover their entire range! The fruit and vegetable ranges can then be recycled into a play kitchen, making them very durable toys! NB: Want a targeted gift for teething? You can pair a calming gum oil with the rattle! 6 – The practical "you can never have too many" The "you can never have too many" category includes everything you can buy AND be given as duplicates or triplicates because, as the name suggests, you can never have too many! Among the items on the list are: - Diapers: these large muslin fabric squares are absolutely useful for EVERYTHING! Including: for reflux and vomit, milk overflowing during feeding, isolating baby from the floor when placed somewhere, swaddling, as a light improvised blanket... You quickly get used to losing a few everywhere (in every room of the house, stroller, car, diaper bag...), and they also have a pretty interesting potential to be turned into a comforter. - Washable wipes: an easy substitute for disposable cotton and wipes used for cleaning baby's bottom during diaper changes, washable wipes do just as good a job AND are eco-friendly since they prevent a lot of waste. Easy to maintain, they also remain very useful later for wiping the face. or rinse the little hands full of chocolate. Want something more complete than just a few wipes? Opt for kits that combine washable wipes and care products that can complement them and easily fit into the diaper bag! 7 – Little dishes This gift is a bit separate, but fully in line with the parenting support necessary postpartum. Having one or more dishes brought to be frozen is taking full advantage of the visit from a loved one because then you won't have to prepare a meal once they leave! And it's also appreciated to have advance preparation for the difficult days when fatigue and baby’s cries mix. This also works for hours of cleaning or babysitting as needed! 8 – A portable diaper bag We all know the bottomless diaper bag that allows you to bring half of the house with you. Reassuring for first outings where we tend to pack it a bit "just in case," but ultimately quite quickly cumbersome, especially for short trips… The portable diaper bag easily slips under the stroller or into a large handbag, and allows you to have all the essentials for changing the baby within reach and with minimal bulk. It’s also a real asset for parents who love to travel and hike! 9 – Simple toys By simple toys, we mean anything that doesn’t contain batteries. Whether for your nerves (and your eardrums) or for your baby’s, simpler toys are better. Say goodbye to blinking noise-making gadgets (always too loud and without adjustable settings), which overstimulate and excite the baby! Prefer wooden or fabric toys, which gently stimulate the senses (notably touch). It also applies to mobiles: an object that spins with light and music just above the baby’s head is more like a disco ball in a nightlight than a soothing lullaby! 10 – A portable carrier blanket / sleep sack Did you know? Thick clothing (coat, snowsuit…) is not recommended in car seats (safety risk because the strap is no longer properly adjusted on the child) and baby carriers (impossibility of properly adjusting the system in particular). On the market, there are carrying blankets and footmuffs for strollers or cars. Neobulle makes your life easier by combining the 2 needs into a single product A blanket designed to accompany carrying in protecting baby from the elements thanks to its water-repellent and windproof exterior, AND that can be used as a footmuff thanks to the opening allowing the strap to pass through. Your little one can thus switch from the carrying system to the car seat while staying warm. The list is obviously not exhaustive but we hope it will give you and your loved ones some ideas! Note that some needs may also arise later in the baby’s life and cannot be anticipated: gift cards or crowdfunding can help avoid buying lots of "useless" items because "you have to", and to enjoy the thoughtful gestures of loved ones at different times! For a gift card, click here!
A little slump in your parent role?
Do you also feel it, this routine that exhausts us, this daily grind that bores us? Everything is fine, we lack nothing, baby is in good health. And yet, between diapers, bottles or breastfeeding, laundry, meal preparations, school schedules, and obligations, we can feel that this routine puts us to sleep. So we love them dearly, huh! All of them: the little ones, the big ones, my partner... And despite this powerful love and these countless tirelessly repeated tasks, with baby snug on the hip in a sling , we get bored... and sometimes even, we feel guilty for not doing enough, for not being enough... While we don't stop for a minute! Rest assured: You are not the only person feeling this way This does not diminish your parenting skills The love you have for your family is not questioned You can join a parent support group And yes, I know... We all dream of a bit of adventure, travel, big meetings, our fulfilling great job... But motherhood and cocooning sometimes have this little imprisoning side, which could trap us in feelings of devaluation! Indeed, the society of doing, of doing quickly and showing everything to everyone, does not help to highlight the background work, invisible and repetitive, of a parent, and I would even say, of a mom... The amazing dads, I haven't forgotten you, but I am sure you will agree with me that all these daily tasks are unfortunately still not shared enough within households, and are far too often the domain, not always chosen, of women. This is all the more true during maternity or parental leave. And surely, it doesn't help either, to: Not have time to get dressed before 3 p.m., because baby keeps you busy Have dark circles under your eyes because you haven't had a full night's sleep in months Wear your maternity sweatpants because you haven't found the time to buy new pants Forget the last visit to the hairdresser... Take a shower quietly at 11 p.m. when everyone is finally asleep Never have 10 minutes alone, not even in the bathroom And I forget others! So, when you catch yourself mumbling for the umpteenth time "I still haven't had time to do anything today", know that it's not true! I invite you to list everything you accomplish and achieve during the day, believe me, you will be positively surprised by the result! Think to ask for help from your surroundings Call a resource person who will tell you how fantastic you are And when you start doubting your skills because you just broke the record for changing the 2000th diaper, don't forget that : You are the best person for your child Try to set achievable short-term goals and see them come true And of course: carrying your child can help you (see article all the times carrying saved my life) But giving birth and raising a little being, love and education, takes time! Nature does things without rushing, and yet everything is accomplished. Lao Tzu And in a system where everything goes very fast, where everything changes all the time, we sometimes tend to forget it. Let's try to cultivate values of patience, perseverance, resignation, and ... humor, always. "You are annoyed to launch a new layette machine because baby decided to redecorate all these pajamas in vomit color? Tell yourself that in 15 years, you will be hanging football socks or crop tops to dry!" And ... We can also look at this monotony from a positive angle. Because this dense and ritualized way of life allows us to juggle multiple tasks. A bit of perspective helps us see that we are getting there, come what may, day after day, without failing. And finally, when we realize that not everyone has the chance to live this cozy purr, it becomes much softer, even precious. Cooking is the factoryWhere the day is preparedWe hum, we bottle-feedThe coffee is willing to passBread slices, bootsWe do everything at the same timeWe dress one or two girlsThe day has begunMechanical workIn the morning gesturesThe gestures we know wellIt's nothing, it's daily happiness Anne Sylvestre
All the times babywearing saved my life!
Single mom in the city, parents on the go or with a large family: Babywearing makes everything easier! For me, babywearing means: Giving him time to sleep , allowing me to share quality time with his brothers and sisters, and yes, no jealousy , we think of everyone! Cook on time so that the siblings don't turn into a gang of hungry little monsters. Have a telephone appointment without interference (You know, the endless 45 minutes with the Caf or social security...) Spending time with my friends and avoiding being isolated, half the evening, in the baby's room . Allowing myself a relaxing break , nestled deep in my favorite armchair, without falling asleep of course Offer my baby a safe space in the crowd and protect him from street stimuli: noise, smell, color (see article on carrying facing the world ) If it can prevent him from having his cheek pinched by the annoying little Grandma "how cute is this baby!" Accompany me during the long nighttime trips up and down the hallway , trying to get the baby back to sleep after a nightmare. You know, when you're so sleepy that the only strength you have left is to move your pelvis to rock the baby and hum a lullaby, which you hope will be effective! It's cheaper than driving around the block, and I even have the luxury of staying in my pajamas ... "Actually, by carrying my children, I did everything" - Camille Have both hands free to: Accompanying my eldest to school without risking a "I don't want to go to school" turnaround Validate the bus ticket and hold on to the bar, while watching over the stroller ! Carry shopping bags and diaper packs (no need to go to the gym!) Continue my hobbies , while spending time with my baby. Go fishing (yes, yes…) Strolling through the undergrowth and picking mushrooms, hiking and reaching the summit via stony paths. Board games with friends, Reading, writing, drawing, Knitting . Volunteer at my local library or community center. Save the price difference with a "high-tech-multifunction-super-plus" stroller, while still allowing for lots of cool tricks. Save space , and allow me to move “light” (compared to the bulky stroller mentioned above) On public transport: train, bus, plane In his apartment In the trunk of the car – no more complicated stroller folding instructions! Facilitate Obstacle crossings Stairs Door openings Sidewalks And even going to the toilet at the station snack bar!
