Perfect for Small Rooms

Scandinavian Child Cariboo Classic Changing Table - Mahogany Changing Tables

MOM TIME: 0 - But May Help Your Sanity (A place for everything, and everything in its place!)
AGE: Birth and Up
NECESSITY SCALE: Need It!

BONUS: Can Be Used To Store Toys After Babies Are Potty-Trained

Hmmm, was someone not exactly planned? Not enough room in your apartment or house for a "real" nursery? Eh, it's a baby for goodness sakes! They don't need that many things, but having somewhere to change their stinky diapers is probably a good idea, for both the baby and your sanity.

That's why I'm particularly fond of this little table. Unlike most changing tables, which are great because you can organize everything into neat rows and drawers but take up a large section of any room, this compact changer is perfect to squeeze into a corner. Depending on your situation, it may even fit nicely in your bathroom...and if not, then your living room or bedroom as well.

I'm warning you, this model is on the pricey side! It's made of mahogany wood, is imported, and is considered very stylish. However, the idea is there, and you may be able to find something a bit cheaper if you scout around. Still, I love this piece anyway...and since it can be used for other things, it may be worth the investment.

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Floor Activity Mats - Need It!

Activitot Tropical Isle

MOM TIME: 10-50 Minutes
AGE: 1-8 Months
NECESSITY SCALE: Need It!

Floor activity mats are a bit like crib mobiles, they're supposed to entertain wee-ones with brightly colored things dangling in their faces or just out of their reach. From an adult's perspective, neither of those options sound like much fun.

Do you like having things dangling in your face? Probably not! You'd probably try to swat it away, or tear it to pieces...And that's exactly what your tiny tot will try to do as well! Except, well, they LIKE it. Crazy, I know!

In fact, all that batting and swatting is great for their development (hand-eye coordination, muscle tone, brain activity, etc.). Trust me, when they're beating all their friends at PlayStation 7 in a few years, they'll thank you for giving them this jump on the competition.

So, depending on just how involved your infant gets with one of these, they could entertain themselves for quite a while! And you don't have to feel guilty while going about your other business, because it's good for them.

Drawbacks: Some babies don't seem all that interested in their environment until around 3 months, and this can only be used until they start to crawl (7-10 months about), so your baby may only use this for a few months.

Is it worth it for that little amount of time? It depends on how much you think your time is worth...After all, an hour of happy time for them is an hour of productive time for you! Do the math!

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6 months, activity center, baby, baby gift, gift, infant, mischievous moms, mom, playset