# Preparation Mom > Taking the Guesswork Out of Being a New Mom ## Posts - [7 Non-Negotiable Boundaries to Set When Dating as a Single Mom ](https://preparationmom.com/single-mom-dating-boundaries/): Looking for single mom dating boundaries? These are the seven non-negotiable boundaries I’ve set to protect my kids, my body, my time, and my peace while getting to know someone new. Dating as a single mom can be complicated enough without giving someone you barely know unlimited access to your time, your body, your home, your kids, and your peace. After learning more than a few dating lessons the hard way, I’ve realized that having clear boundaries from the very beginning makes it a whole lot easier to figure out who actually deserves a place in my life, and who absolutely - [Casual Preschool Boy Outfit Idea Your Little One Will Adore](https://preparationmom.com/casual-preschool-boy-outfits/): Looking for a casual preschool boy outfit? Check out this adorable idea that combines comfort and style—your little one will love it! Shop the look below. Button Up Shirt / Cargo Shorts / Boat Shoes This post is all about casual preschool boy outfits. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure here. Preschool Boy Outfit Idea: 1. Button Up Shirt 2. Cargo Shorts 3. Chambray Boat Shoes This post was all about casual preschool boy outfits. - [18 Affordable Preschool Supplies Under $10 for Your Little Girl](https://preparationmom.com/affordable-preschool-supplies-online/): Get your preschooler ready for an A+ school year without breaking the bank with these affordable preschool supplies online! Shop the supplies below. Backpack / Lunch bag / Ice Pack / Water Bottle / Folder / Notebook / Pencil Sharpener / Pencils / Block Erasers / Topper Erasers / Pencil Box / Glue / Glue Sticks / Wet Wipes / Blunt Tip Scissors / Crayons / Colored Pencils / Kleenex This post is all about affordable preschool supplies online. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost - [Preschool Boy Outfit Idea, Summer Friendly, for the Start of the New Year](https://preparationmom.com/preschool-boy-outfit-ideas-summer/): Perusing for a summer-friendly preschool boy outfit idea? Try this perfect look for the start of the new school year. Shop the look below. Monkey Tee / Plaid Shorts / High Top Shoes This post is all about preschool boy outfit ideas summer. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure here. Preschool Boy Outfit Idea: 1. Monkey Tee 2. Plaid Shorts 3. High Top Sneakers This post was all about preschool boy outfit ideas summer. - [Trendy Preschool Girl Outfit Your Little Girl Will Love](https://preparationmom.com/trendy-preschool-girl-clothes/): Looking for trendy preschool girl clothes? Add this stylish outfit to your little girl’s school year wardrobe. Shop the look below. Jacket / Dress / Shorts / Shoes This post is all about trendy preschool girl clothes. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure here. Preschool Girl Outfit Idea: 1. Denim Jacket 2. Tiered Dress 3. Bike Shorts 4. Sneakers This post was all about trendy preschool girl clothes. - [Trendy Preschool Boy Outfit Your Little Boy Will Love](https://preparationmom.com/trendy-preschool-boy-clothes/): Looking for trendy preschool boy clothes? Add this stylish outfit to your little boy’s school year wardrobe. Shop the look below. ABC Tee / Hoodie / Jogger Pants / Boots This post is all about trendy preschool boy clothes. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure here. Preschool Boy Outfit Idea: 1. ABC Graphic Tee 2. Hoodie 3. Jogger Pants 4. Lace Up Boots This post was all about trendy preschool boy clothes. - [Affordable Preschool Girl Outfit That Won’t Break the Bank](https://preparationmom.com/affordable-preschool-girl-outfits/): Shopping for affordable preschool girl outfits for your little one? Snag this cute and stylish outfit that won’t break the bank. Shop the look below. Dress / Sandals This post is all about affordable preschool girl outfits. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure here. Preschool Girl Outfit Idea: 1. Floral Halter Dress 2. Gladiator Sandals This post was all about affordable preschool girl outfits - [Affordable Preschool Boy Outfit That Won’t Break the Bank](https://preparationmom.com/affordable-preschool-boy-outfits/): Shopping for affordable preschool boy outfits for your little one? Snag this cute and stylish outfit that won’t break the bank. Shop the look below. Cool Kind Tee / Chino Shorts / Running Sneakers This post is all about affordable preschool boy outfits. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure here. Preschool Boy Outfit Idea: 1. Cool Kind Tee 2. Chino Shorts 3. Running Sneakers This post was all about affordable preschool boy outfits. - [Must-Have Preschool Supplies Under $10 for Your Little Boy](https://preparationmom.com/back-to-school-preschool-supplies/): Ensure your preschooler is ready for an A+ school year with these must-have back-to-school preschool supplies! Shop the supplies below. Backpack / Lunch Bag / Ice Pack / Water Bottle / Folder / Notebook / Pencil Sharpener / Pencils / Block Erasers / Topper Erasers / Pencil Box / Glue / Glue Sticks / Wet Wipes / Blunt Tip Scissors / Crayons / Colored Pencils / Kleenex This post is all about back-to-school preschool supplies. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read - [Preschool Girl Outfit Idea, Summer Friendly, for the Start of the New Year](https://preparationmom.com/preschool-girl-outfit-ideas-summer/): Perusing for a summer-friendly preschool girl outfit idea? Try this perfect look for the start of the new school year. Shop the look below. Ruffle Tank Top / Twill Shorts / Flower Sandals This post is all about preschool girl outfit ideas summer. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure here. Preschool Girl Outfit Idea: 1. Ruffle Tank Top 2. Twill Shorts 3. Flower Sandals This post was all about preschool girl outfit ideas summer. - [Undeniably Cute Back to School Outfit for Your Preschool Boy](https://preparationmom.com/back-to-school-outfits-for-boys-preschool/): Getting your preschooler ready for the school year? Grab this adorable back to school outfit for your preschool boy’s wardrobe. Shop the look below. First Day Tee / Khaki Shorts / Sneakers This post is all about back to school outfits for boys preschool. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure here. Preschool Boy Outfit Idea: 1. First Day Tee 2. Khaki Shorts 3. High Top Sneakers This post was all about back to school outfits for boys preschool. - [Casual Preschool Girl Outfit Idea Your Little One Will Adore](https://preparationmom.com/casual-preschool-girl-outfits/): Looking for a casual preschool girl outfit? Check out this adorable idea that combines comfort and style—your little one will love it! Shop the look below. Tie-Front Top / Denim Shorts / Doodle Sneakers / Sunglasses This post is all about casual preschool girl outfits. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure here. Preschool Girl Outfit Idea: 1. Tie-Front Top 2. Denim Shorts 3. Doodle Sneakers 4. Rainbow Sunglasses This post was all about casual preschool girl outfits. - [Cool Preschool Boy Outfit to Kick Off the New School Year](https://preparationmom.com/cool-preschool-boy-outfits/): School shopping for your preschool boy’s wardrobe? Start the new school year with a cool preschool boy outfit! Shop the look below. School Bus Tee / Camo Shorts / Sneakers This post is all about cool preschool boy outfits. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure here. Preschool Boy Outfit Idea: 1. School Bus Tee 2. Camo Shorts 3. Low Top Sneakers This post was all about cool preschool boy outfits. - [Undeniably Cute Back to School Outfit for Your Preschool Girl](https://preparationmom.com/back-to-school-outfits-for-girls-preschool/): Getting your preschooler ready for the school year? Grab this adorable back to school outfit for your preschool girl’s wardrobe. Shop the look below. First Day Tee / Skimmer Shorts / Slip On Sneakers / Purse This post is all about back to school outfits for girls preschool. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure here. Preschool Girl Outfit Idea: 1. First Day Tee 2. Skimmer Shorts 3. Slip On Sneakers 4. Unicorn Purse This post was all about - [Stylish Preschool Boy Outfit Your Little One Will Love](https://preparationmom.com/stylish-preschool-boy-outfits/): Preparing for your preschool boy’s first day of school? Keep your little one looking sharp with this stylish preschool boy outfit. Shop the look below. Button Up Shirt / Plaid Shorts / Slip On Shoes This post is all about stylish preschool boy outfits. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure here. Preschool Boy Outfit Idea: 1. Button Up Shirt 2. Plaid Shorts 3. Slip On Shoes This post was all about stylish preschool boy outfits. - [Stylish Preschool Girl Outfit Your Little One Will Love](https://preparationmom.com/stylish-preschool-girl-outfits/): Looking for a stylish and adorable preschool girl outfit idea perfect for any occasion. Here’s a cute, comfortable, and trendy look your little one will love! Shop the look below. 2-Piece-Outfit Set / Sandals This post is all about stylish preschool girl outfits. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure here. Preschool Girl Outfit Idea: 1. 2-Piece Outfit Set 2. Gladiator Sandals This post was all about stylish preschool girl outfits. - [Adorable Preschool Girl Outfit Your Little One Will Love](https://preparationmom.com/cute-preschool-girl-clothes/): Looking for adorable and fashionable preschool girl clothes? Here’s a stylish outfit perfect for your little fashionista’s first day of school! Shop the look below. Dress / Heels This post is all about cute preschool girl clothes. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure here. Preschool Girl Outfit Idea: 1. Apple Flutter Dress 2. Low Heels with Bow This post was all about cute preschool girl clothes. - [Adorable and Stylish Preschool Boy Outfit Idea for Any Occasion](https://preparationmom.com/cute-preschool-boy-clothes/): Looking for the cutest preschool boy outfit idea for any occasion? You’ll adore this super cute look that your little one will love! Shop the look below. Dino ABC Tee / Jogger Shorts / Sneakers / Sunglasses This post is all about cute preschool boy clothes. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure here. Preschool Boy Outfit Idea: 1. Dino ABC Graphic Tee 2. Pull On Jogger Shorts 3. Low Top Sneakers 4. Dino Sunglasses This post was all - [Adorable & Trendy Preschool Girl Outfit Idea Perfect for the First Day of School](https://preparationmom.com/preschool-girl-outfits/): Preparing for your preschool girl’s first day of school? Keep your little one looking sharp with this stylish preschool girl outfit. Shop the look below. Butterfly Tee / Twill Shorts / Sneakers / Sunglasses This post is all about preschool girl outfits. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure here. Preschool Girl Outfit Idea: 1. Butterfly Graphic Tee 2. White Twill Shorts 3. Slip On Sneakers 4. Heart Sunglasses This post was all about preschool girl outfits. - [Trendy and Comfortable Preschool Boy Outfit Idea for the First Day](https://preparationmom.com/preschool-boy-outfit/): Looking for a stylish and comfortable preschool boy outfit idea perfect for the first day of school? You’ll love this casual, trendy, back-to-school look for your little one! Shop the look below. Shark Tee / Khaki Shorts / Sneakers / Sunglasses This post is all about preschool boy outfit. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure here. Preschool Boy Outfit Idea: 1. Shark Backpack Graphic Tee 2. Khaki Pull On Jogger Shorts 3. Mid Top Sneakers 4. Shark Sunglasses - [41 Trendy Christmas Nails Designs You'll Love](https://preparationmom.com/christmas-nails-designs/): Looking for holiday glam Christmas nails designs? From festive sparkles to winter wonders, here are 41 trendy Christmas nails designs to adorn your nails with seasonal cheer. ‘Tis the season to deck your nails with festive flair! As the holiday spirit fills the air, it’s time to indulge in the merry world of Christmas nails designs. From glittering snowflakes to whimsical winter scenes, here is your guide to the most enchanting and stylish nail art for the festive season. Whether you’re into classic red and green or prefer a touch of winter sparkle, I’ve compiled a list of Christmas nails designs - [39 Ridiculously Cute Toddler Boy Christmas Outfits You Won’t Be Able to Resist](https://preparationmom.com/toddler-boy-christmas-outfits/): Looking for the cutest toddler boy Christmas outfits to make the holiday season even more special? Here are 39 insanely cute Christmas outfits for toddler boys to help you find the perfect festive attire. The most wonderful time of the year is almost here, and there’s no denying the pure magic that Christmas brings, especially when it comes to our little ones.  As the holiday season approaches, parents eagerly anticipate the joyous moments and traditions that come with it. One such tradition is selecting the perfect Christmas outfit for toddler boys.  Whether it’s their first Christmas or one of many, dressing - [41 Irresistible Toddler Girl Christmas Outfits She Needs This Holiday Season](https://preparationmom.com/toddler-girl-christmas-outfits/): Looking for some adorable toddler girl Christmas outfits? Here are 41 cute and festive Christmas outfits for your little girl that’ll turn heads at every gathering! The holiday season is just around the corner, and there’s something undeniably magical about watching little ones light up with joy during Christmas. It’s a time when traditions come alive, twinkling lights adorn every street, and the aroma of freshly baked cookies fills the air (…at least that’s how it’s depicted in the Nightmare Before X-mas lol). Amidst all the festive cheer, one heartwarming tradition is finding the perfect Christmas outfit(s) for our little sweeties. - [17 Adorably Glam Christmas Dresses for Toddlers Perfect for the Holiday Season](https://preparationmom.com/christmas-dresses-for-toddlers/): Looking for the cutest Christmas dresses for toddlers that will make your little one shine as brightly as the star on top of the tree? Here are 17 adorable toddler girl Christmas dresses perfect for celebrating the holiday season! Christmas is the perfect excuse to get your little girl all dressed up, whether you’re taking family Christmas pictures, visiting Santa, heading to a holiday party, or just looking for something extra cute for Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. And there are so many adorable Christmas dresses for toddlers to choose from! From classic red and green Christmas dresses to plaid, velvet, - [$5 Halloween Costumes for Kids You’ll Want to Get Before They’re Gone](https://preparationmom.com/halloween-costumes-for-kids/): Looking for some cheap Halloween costumes for kids this holiday season? Check out these $5 Halloween costumes for kids before they’re sold out! As a mom of three little ones, I’m on a tight budget and prefer not to shell out an abundance of money on things, like Halloween costumes for kids, that my little ones will only use minimally, or grow out of in record time. Don’t you agree? I’m always looking for the best deals, so I was super excited to discover these $5 Halloween costumes for kids that I’m sure will not last long. If any of these - [31 Adorable Halloween Movies for Toddlers to Watch Every Day in October](https://preparationmom.com/halloween-movies-for-toddlers/): Looking for Halloween movies for toddlers? Here’s a list of 31 adorable Halloween movies for toddlers the whole family can watch for free! Halloween is approaching! That means it’s time to turn off the lights, curl up under the blankets, and watch some spooky (but not-so-scary) adorable Halloween movies for toddlers with your little ones. And I’m talking HALLOWEEN MOVIES. Not just something spooky and kid-friendly. I’m talking about films with a genuine Halloween premise. You can watch all these on one fantastic free streaming site, TubiTV! These movies are adorable, all about Halloween, essentially all G-rated (for the most part), - [74 Cute and Unique Baby Girl Middle Names for Elena](https://preparationmom.com/middle-names-for-elena/): Looking for the perfect middle name for Elena? Whether you’re looking for something traditional or modern, you’ll find it here. Parents often spend hours poring over baby name books, considering dozens of different baby name ideas before finally settling on the perfect name for their child. However, they may not put quite as much thought into choosing their child’s middle name. Elena is, without a doubt, the perfect first name, but what about her middle name? While it’s not as important as your baby’s first name, a middle name can help to create a strong sense of identity for your child - [Top 20 Most Popular Maverick Middle Names for Boys and Girls](https://preparationmom.com/maverick-middle-names/): Looking for some unique Maverick middle names for your new baby? Then consider one of these popular middle names.  When it comes to choosing baby names, Maverick parents often look for something a little out of the ordinary. Maverick middle names are somewhat out of the ordinary but still stylish and trendy. They’re perfect for parents who want their child to have a unique name but don’t want to go too far off the beaten path.  If you’re searching for some Maverick middle name inspiration for your little boy or girl, check out this list of the top 20 most popular - [5 Easy Ways To Kick Your Smoking Habit to the Curb As a New Mom](https://preparationmom.com/smoking-habit/): Are you a new mom eager to put an end to your smoking habit? Then try these five easy ways to kick the habit for good.  Breaking your smoking habit can be quite a challenge. Despite all we know about the adverse health effects and the dent it puts in our pockets, it’s still just not an easy habit to break. It can feel like quite the stress reliever, boredom blocker, appetite suppressant, and sometimes, it’s just dang delicious. When I was younger, and before my days of motherhood, I found it rather therapeutic to go on long country drives, think - [10 Insanely Important Essentials You Need to Battle and Conquer Toddler Cold Symptoms](https://preparationmom.com/toddler-cold-symptoms/): Do you have a toddler sick with a cold? Relieve toddler cold symptoms fast with these 10 essentials you should always have on hand.  Having a sick little one with overwhelming toddler cold symptoms is absolutely dreadful. It is alarming and unsettling to see your little sweetheart experiencing any discomfort as a loving mother.  All you want is for them to feel better and get back to their usual bubbly, energetic self as quickly as possible!  As a mom of three young children, I have had my fair share of sleepless nights with an ailing toddler. Unfortunately, there’s no magic wand - [Four Issues You Must Address for Success at Balancing School, Work, and Family](https://preparationmom.com/balancing-school-work-and-family/): Are you a parent who wants to go to college, but need help balancing school, work, and family? Stabilize these four things to do just that. I went back to college when my firstborn started preschool, and it was essential for me to be efficient at balancing school, work, and family. From personal experience, I know that sometimes as a first-time parent, or a parent in general, you may not have the chance to get as well prepared or established as you’d like before the birth of your child.  However, this in no way means that you can’t get prepared a - [5 Important Things You Need to Prioritize When Becoming a Single Mom By Choice](https://preparationmom.com/becoming-a-single-mom-by-choice/): Are you considering becoming a single mom by choice? These 5 things will help you navigate your way through your new reality.  I know firsthand that becoming a single mom by choice can be a terrifying, overwhelming, anxiety-inducing whirl of a stressful time. After ten long, tumultuous years of not being one (technically), I decided to leave my children’s father and found myself immersed in single motherhood. Though, I will admit it was long overdue. I say “technically” I wasn’t a single mother because he was THERE, but that was pretty much it. All financial obligations were mine to bear alone. - [9 Insanely Important Things You Need to Create a Toddler Car Sickness Kit](https://preparationmom.com/car-sickness-kit/): Have a toddler struggling with car sickness? Here are 9 essentials you need to create the ultimate car sickness kit to combat their illness.  When my second child was 15 months old, we made a semi-long distance commute to the nearest major city for a much-needed doctor appointment for our little guy. The trip to the city ran us about 55 minutes, mainly because we got lost. Before this particular trip, our toddler wasn’t on the road very often at all. Typically he stayed home with Daddy while I worked or ran any necessary errands. Aside from an occasional 10-minute trip - [7 Truly Necessary Hospital Bag Essentials You Don’t Want to Forget](https://preparationmom.com/hospital-bag-essentials/): Prepare yourself for your delivery day by packing these 7 hospital bag essentials that you truly need for a smooth delivery.  As I prepared for the birth of my first child and gathered my hospital bag essentials, I followed a SUPER EXTENSIVE hospital bag checklist that I received from a child birthing class. I had a LONG physical copy and checked off every.single.box on the list, striving hard to be sooo well-prepared and ready to go for delivery day. Now, I fully understand the philosophy “better safe than sorry” and genuinely do abide by that more often than not, but in - [5 Failproof Ways to Get Good Grades in College While Raising a Family](https://preparationmom.com/good-grades/): Looking to make kickass grades while knocking this thing called parenthood out of the park? Here are five ways you can do precisely that. If you want bangin’ good grades in college while juggling the demands of going to work and raising a young child, it is ABSOLUTELY possible.  I know for sure. I did it! After taking five years off from college due to my son’s arrival and uncertainty about whether or not I wanted to be bothered with college anymore, I decided there was no better option for me than returning to school. And failure was NOT an option. - [How to Get Paternity Leave: 4 Best Ways to Get Time off With Your Newborn](https://preparationmom.com/how-to-get-paternity-leave/): As a new parent, time off for the birth of your new baby is a given for the mother, but what about the father? Here are four options regarding how to get paternity leave for the birth of your newborn. As an expectant mom, you’re probably thinking ahead to those first few weeks with your baby—and wondering how much help you’ll actually have. It’s expected that moms take time off to recover, but when it comes to dads, things suddenly feel unclear. You may be wondering, “Can my husband go on paternity leave while I’m on maternity leave?” And honestly, it’s - [19 Things to NOT Do to Experience an Extremely Healthy Pregnancy](https://preparationmom.com/things-to-not-do-while-pregnant/): Concerned about what to avoid during pregnancy to aid in healthy development for your baby? Here are 19 things to NOT do while pregnant.  As an expectant mother, one of my most significant concerns was about the things I should do and things NOT to do while pregnant to support my new baby’s health. I had a precious little angel due to grace this world with her amazing presence. I desperately wanted my sweet angel, who did not ask to be here, in the most excellent physical health possible. All ten fingers and toes – Check Two eyeballs – Check Strong - [14 Potty Training Essentials That’ll Help Your Toddler Use the Potty Like a Boss](https://preparationmom.com/potty-training-essentials/): Figuring out how to potty train a toddler is no easy feat, but it can be much less of a challenge with these 14 potty training essentials.  As a first-time mom who is new to potty training a little munchkin, you may be wondering what potty training essentials will make the process easier for you (and everyone involved). If you’re feeling uncertain about precisely what you need to successfully potty train your toddler, you’re in the right place. In this post, we’ll explore 14 necessities that will help get you through your potty training journey with your child smoothly (and sanitarily). - [23 Insanely Important Breastfeeding Essentials Every Nursing Mom Should Have](https://preparationmom.com/breastfeeding-essentials/): Wondering how to best prepare for breastfeeding as a new mom? Cover all your breastfeeding bases with these 23 breastfeeding essentials.  With my firstborn child, I was ill-prepared for the demands of breastfeeding when he arrived, and (initially) lacked some very key breastfeeding essentials that would’ve made life so much easier. There were nights of waking up drenched in milk-soaked sheets, hot pink sore nipples, and at times, rock hard, painfully engorged breasts. Phew…glad we made it through. When it comes to breastfeeding, you’ll need to prepare for unexpected public feeding sessions, leaking nipples, dry nipples, overly full breasts, storing breast - [24 Best School Supplies for College for Moms Going Back to School](https://preparationmom.com/best-school-supplies-for-college/): Preparing for a kickass school year while raising a preschooler? Here are 24 best school supplies for college mom students for academic success.  As a mom who returned to college when her son was 3 years old, I know all about some of the best school supplies for college you will absolutely need for an organized, successful school year.   Having these supplies ensure that you can complete your coursework, correct errors, correspond with your school and professors, and make your completed assignments look professional. All of these items will help you reduce stress, do what you need on your own - [16 Changing Table Essentials You Absolutely Need for a Perfect Diaper Changing Station](https://preparationmom.com/changing-table-essentials/): Want to ease the strain of changing diapers on a squirmy, (sometimes uncooperative) baby? Do so with these 16 changing table essentials.  Okay, mamas, let’s establish what changing table essentials we need in our arsenal when facing inevitable, daily diaper-changing battles! When it comes to the never-ending battle of the diapers vs. the resistant, squirmy baby, we can arm ourselves to achieve SWEET VICTORY! A well-equipped changing area will keep you prepared for any unexpected mishaps that are sure to occur at any moment. Things such as urination mid diaper change, diaper blowouts, unforeseen diaper rash, stinky booty, and soiled items - [35+ Borderline Genius 2 Year Old Outdoor Toys to Spark Endless Summer Joy](https://preparationmom.com/2-year-old-outdoor-toys/): Want your little ones to have an awesomely enjoyable summer despite the restrictions of COVID-19? Get ready to do just that with these borderline genius 2 year old outdoor toys.  As spring and summer approach, you can begin preparing a backyard full of endless fun and festivities for any toddler with some awesomely unique and affordable 2 year old outdoor toys! COVID-19 has been such a drab (to say the least), and we’re so looking forward to some outdoor excitement while still staying extremely safe at the same time.  Though we long for the days of amusement parks and pools, we’re - [How to Get Poop Stains Out of Baby Clothes in 5 Insanely Easy Steps](https://preparationmom.com/how-to-get-poop-stains-out-of-baby-clothes/): Wondering how to get poop stains out of baby clothes? These five easy laundry techniques will keep baby’s clothes looking new.  As an infant mama, it’ll be necessary to get acquainted with how to get poop stains out of baby clothes. Children grow at an astounding rate, especially when they’re babies. You’ll more than likely want your baby’s wardrobe to look new (and maybe want a somewhat minimalist wardrobe) since they’ll only be wearing their clothes for a short while before they’re on to the next size up. But what about when they soil their laundry? Who has the time (or - [10 Pregnancy Essentials You Need to Sleep Luxuriously While Pregnant](https://preparationmom.com/pregnancy-essentials/): Wishing of nothing more than sleeping comfortably during pregnancy? Sleep like an angel with these 10 pregnancy essentials.  Comfort is sooo necessary but hard to come by when it comes to sleeping comfortably during pregnancy UNLESS you have the right pregnancy essentials to tackle the job. The further along you get, the more aches and pains will follow. Getting a chance to come home, wind down for the day, and lay in a blissfully comfortable bed in a blissfully comfortable environment should go without saying. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. In my first pregnancy, I had the most uncomfortable bed - [Best Toddler Girl Capsule Wardrobe for Your Little Girl’s 1st Year of Preschool](https://preparationmom.com/toddler-girl-capsule-wardrobe/): Wondering what you need to build a perfect toddler girl capsule wardrobe for your preschooler? Here’s everything your little sweetheart needs. As you build a toddler girl capsule wardrobe for a preschooler, first consider the changing seasons, the season it will be when they first head to school, and the fact that they don’t necessarily need the vastest wardrobe. These considerations will make decision-making easier regarding what to buy and what not to buy. With the changing seasons, bear in mind that it’s unnecessary to buy their entire wardrobe all at once unless you really want to get all that shopping - [Best Toddler Capsule Wardrobe for Your Little Boy’s First Year of Preschool](https://preparationmom.com/toddler-capsule-wardrobe/): Wondering what you need to build a perfect toddler capsule wardrobe for your preschool boy? Here’s everything your little boy needs.  With the beginning of your preschooler’s first school year approaching, it will be time to prepare a nice little toddler capsule wardrobe for their first schooltime endeavor. Keeping the changing seasons in mind, what season it will be when they first head to school and the fact that they don’t necessarily need the vastest of wardrobes will make decision-making easier regarding what to buy and what not to buy. With the changing seasons, bear in mind that it’s unnecessary to - [9 Easy Ways to Save Money & Live Better While Raising A Toddler](https://preparationmom.com/save-money-live-better/): Are you a parent looking for ways to save money & live better? Try these 9 simple tips to help you save some extra bucks effortlessly.  As a new mom, some tips to save money so you can live better may be just what you need. You may sometimes find yourself struggling to make ends meet. Or you may just be open to the opportunity to maximize your earnings and spending by saving some dollars here and there so they can better be spent elsewhere (or saved up). As I started providing for my baby, who became a toddler far too - [6 Insanely Easy Ways to Remedy Troubles with Your Toddler Not Sleeping through the Night](https://preparationmom.com/toddler-not-sleeping-at-night/): Having trouble with your toddler not sleeping through the night? Put these six practices into a consistent routine so your toddler can start sleeping like an angel.  Are you struggling with your toddler not sleeping through the night? I feel your pain.  If your toddler is anything like mine was, then supposed “bedtime” could make for long, anguishing nights instead of the peaceful slumber it is intended to be. Night after night, he would wake up constantly. And he wouldn’t have the decency to wake up and just relax in his crib. He made sure to move toward us as close - [Baby Needs vs Wants | 65 Items You Will Need in Baby’s First Year](https://preparationmom.com/baby-needs-vs-wants/): Having a baby soon and interested in determining your baby needs vs. wants? Here’s everything you will need to survive year 1 with your baby. Unsure about your baby needs vs. wants? With the constant release of new products and must-have gadgets and gizmos, it’s easy to find yourself lost in a sea of the latest “gotta-haves.” When you finally manage to come up for air, you may find yourself scratching your head wondering, “What EXACTLY does my baby need?”   This comprehensive guide (from a mom of 3) will take a look at exactly what you’ll NEED (and what’s nice - [7 Things to Put on Your Postpartum Care Plan To-Do List](https://preparationmom.com/postpartum-care-plan/): Devising a postpartum care plan? Be sure to put these 7 things on your to-do list for a guaranteed comfortable recovery.  After the birth of your baby, it’ll be time for you to bask in some highly anticipated and much-deserved recuperation time. Having a postpartum care plan will help you establish a safe and comfortable recovery.   You can put some different methods into action to help you prepare to indulge in as much R&R as humanly possible. Here are some of the things I recommend you do to aid in your postpartum recovery that helped me get through mine. This - [8 Best Ways to Organize Baby Clothes Efficiently in ANY Space](https://preparationmom.com/how-to-organize-baby-clothes/): Wondering how to organize baby clothes? Whether you’re short on space or organizing a massive nursery, here are 8 best ways to organize baby clothes.  With the arrival of your baby on the horizon and your “nesting” phase in full overdrive, you’re sure to be concerned about how to organize baby clothes. It’s certainly time to get your new baby’s clothes organized as best as possible. Visual appeal, neatness, and functionality are key elements for successful organization. Whether your goal is to save space, maximize space, or maybe you’re limited on space, there is guaranteed to be a solution that will satisfy - [10 Ways to Survive Financially While on Maternity Leave](https://preparationmom.com/how-to-afford-maternity-leave/): Due to have a baby, but feeling concerned about how to afford maternity leave? Here are 10 ways to help you survive financially on maternity leave. After delivering your baby, you’ll be faced with the daunting reality of determining, “How will I pay my bills while I’m not working?”  Having a plan of action will help you get through maternity leave peacefully and free of financial ruin so you can enjoy the birth of your child, recuperation time, and bonding time.  Let’s take a look at some of the best options and actions you can take to get prepared to tackle - [33 Sexy Maternity Dresses That’ll Make You Turn Heads at Every Occasion](https://preparationmom.com/maternity-dresses-for-baby-shower/): Looking for sexy maternity dresses to show off your baby bump? These gorgeous pregnancy dresses include flattering styles for baby showers, maternity photos, date nights, weddings, and other special occasions. If you’re looking for sexy maternity dresses that show off your beautiful baby bump, look no further! I’ve compiled 33 of the prettiest sexy pregnancy dresses for expecting moms, from fitted and glamorous maternity dresses to romantic lace, floral, satin, and flowy styles. Whether you need a sexy maternity dress for your baby shower, maternity photos, a wedding, date night, work event, or another special occasion, there’s something here for you. - [Maternity Wardrobe | Everything You Need for Maximum Comfort and Insanely Easy Outfit Pairing in ALL 3 Trimesters](https://preparationmom.com/maternity-wardrobe/): Mom-to-be in need of a maternity wardrobe? These maternity clothes essentials provide the comfort and versatility you need for all three trimesters.  When it comes to pregnancy and a maternity wardrobe, you’ll find your wardrobe’s most valued characteristic to be undoubtedly…COMFORT!  You CANNOT overlook comfort because you will soon embark on what will be some of the most uncomfortable (yet beautiful and unique) moments of your life! During these lovely days of sleepiness and swollenness coupled with the joyous feel of your developing bambino fluttering about, easy-to-pair outfits that look cute and feel cozy will be an absolute necessity. Here are - [10 Insanely Easy Ways to Save Money on Baby Clothes](https://preparationmom.com/save-money-on-baby-clothes/): Do you want to save money on baby clothes? Here are ten ways you can get your baby an awesome (and complete) wardrobe without breaking the bank.  When it comes to clothing your tiny little humans, you’ll want to do so as low cost as absolutely possible, making sure to save money on baby clothes as you shop. Why, you might ask? Because they grow so stinking insanely fast. Especially when they’re babies, it’s like the smaller they are, the faster they grow.  Since each of their small clothing items will likely only last them a short while, why spend loads - [11 Insanely Genius 2 Year Old Birthday Gift Ideas They Will Love](https://preparationmom.com/2-year-old-birthday-present/): Looking for two year old birthday gift ideas they’ll actually want to play with? Here are 11 genius toddler toys they’ll want to play with again and again! If you’re on the prowl for some awesome two year old birthday gift ideas, you’ve come to the right place! Two-year-olds can have a bit of a short attention span. They may be interested in a toy for about two uninterrupted minutes before they’re off getting into things (other than toys, like refrigerators and cabinets) they shouldn’t be. Well, I experimented with different toys and some real-life (or close to it) alternatives for - [17 Insanely Easy Ways to Start Losing Weight After Baby Number 2](https://preparationmom.com/losing-weight-after-baby-number-2/): Interested in losing weight after baby number 2? Try any combination of these 17 techniques to lose weight effortlessly.  Are you a mom of multiple babies, and eager to start losing weight after baby number 2? When it comes to carrying, growing, and nurturing a tiny human being inside your body, you can be sure to grow some extra pounds while you’re at it.  One of the first recommendations a nurse provided me after finding out I was pregnant with my first child was to increase my calorie intake by at least 300 calories in the first trimester. A pregnant woman - [6 Aids to Stop Your Toddler’s Thumb Sucking Habit Dead in Its Tracks](https://preparationmom.com/how-to-stop-toddler-from-putting-fingers-in-mouth/): Wondering how to stop your toddler from putting their fingers in their mouth? Here are 6 products to help stop thumb sucking.  Desperate to figure out how to keep your toddler from putting their fingers in their mouth? If you have a toddler anything like mine, then you have a die-hard little thumbsucker on your hands.  At the ripe old age of *2 weeks* (lol), he discovered his little thumb and was HOOKED EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. thereafter.  The closer he was to becoming a toddler, the more frequently he sucked his thumb. The next thing I knew, he was officially sucking - [101 Insanely Cute (2 Syllable) Girl Names You Don’t Hear Every Day](https://preparationmom.com/2-syllable-girl-names/): Here’s a list of 2 syllable baby girl names to help spark some inspiration when you’re choosing that perfect name for your sweet, little, angel-faced newborn.  Since finding the right name can be *seriously* challenging, I wanted to be of assistance.  I’ll let you know from experience; it can be SO HARD to find a name that seems to be just the right fit or the music to your ears that you expect to hear every time you say the name out loud. It is undoubtedly one of the first (and biggest) challenges you’ll face when having your new baby. Even - [How Many Baby Clothes Do I Need in Each Size? | Complete Guide](https://preparationmom.com/how-many-baby-clothes-do-i-need-in-each-size/): If you’ve been finding yourself thinking, “how many baby clothes do I need in each size?” then you’ve come to the right place. Here’s everything your baby needs from 0-12 months. Preparing for a new baby can be both super exciting and majorly nerve-racking, especially when the “nesting” phase of pregnancy starts to kick in. We become all too eager to prepare and organize EVERYTHING at home for the baby’s arrival.  Babies grow at an astonishing rate in their first year. From birth to 6 months, a baby might grow ½ to 1 inch a month and 5 to 7 ounces - [16 No-Brainer Essentials for a Perfect Toddler Room Setup](https://preparationmom.com/toddler-room-setup/): Wondering what you need for your toddler room setup? Make your toddler’s room a perfect, cozy haven with these 16 essentials.  The day will come when your sweet little infant will outgrow their nursery, and it will be time for a more fitting toddler room setup with all the fixings.  Frequent escapes from their crib in the middle of the night will be a telltale sign that the time has come for the transition. So when the time comes to prepare your toddler’s new room for the big kid they are becoming, there are some specific items to set up their - [Best Preschool Supply List for Your Preschooler’s First Day of School](https://preparationmom.com/preschool-supply-list/): School shopping for a preschooler? Here’s a preschool supply list that covers your little one’s needs for their first day of school.  When your sweet baby is ready to begin school, you’ll want to make sure your little bundle of love has all the school supplies they need for a seamless day of classwork. There are certain supplies they will need to complete daily tasks and assignments, plus other items they may need for little mishaps. Here are all the toddler school supplies you should pack for your preschooler to have a stellar 1st day of school and beyond. This post - [DIY First Aid Kit for Toddlers | 22 Staple Items for Boo-Boos and Illnesses](https://preparationmom.com/diy-first-aid-kit-for-toddlers/): Want to be prepared to nurse your little ones injuries and ailments? Here’s everything you need to create a DIY First Aid Kit for Toddlers.  A day in the life of a mom of a rambunctious toddler (or toddlers) is sure to bring about many twists and turns that may result in needing a DIY first aid kit for toddlers to have on hand. At any given moment it may be necessary to provide toddler wound care or alleviate illnesses. I never knew what my toddlers were going to get into, especially the littlest boy. He’s sooo wild. He harnesses an ## Pages - [Cookie Policy](https://preparationmom.com/cookie-policy/): This site uses cookies – small text files that are placed on your machine to help the site provide a better user experience. 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Please - [Resources](https://preparationmom.com/resources/): If you find yourself feeling unprepared or even just less prepared than you would like to be when it comes to taking on the challenges of parenthood, it’s okay – it happens to us all.  Use any of these resources that apply to your situation to help prepare yourself to be the independent, thriving parent you want to be for your child. They are in place to help you achieve your full potential. Here is a list of resources that can help you better prepare yourself for the needs, wants, and demands of your child and parenthood until you feel prepared - [Privacy Policy](https://preparationmom.com/privacy-policy/): Who we are Our website address is: https://preparedmamas.com. What personal data we collect and why we collect it Comments When visitors leave comments on the site we collect the data shown in the comments form, and also the visitor’s IP address and browser user agent string to help spam detection. 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