family blog

  There is a myth that once your child turns 1 (or their legs touch the seat), you should turn them forward. Please don't. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends keeping children rear-facing as long as possible (often until age 4). Why? In a crash, a rear-facing seat cradles the head and spine. Forward-facing, the neck snaps forward (Internal Decapitation is a real risk). The Problem: "Where do their legs go?" Parents turn kids around because they think their legs look cramped. Kids are flexible. They cross their legs. They don't mind. The Seat: Graco Extend2Fit This is the #1 seat for this. The Panel: It has a pull-out footrest that gives 5 inches of extra legroom. The Limit: It allows rear-facing up to 50 lbs (most seats stop at 40 lbs). It costs half the price of luxury seats but offers superior safety features.

  Raising a child is expensive. It is tempting to scour Facebook Marketplace or thrift stores for every single item on your baby registry. Buying used is great for your wallet and great for the planet—most of the time. However, safety regulations change fast, and some baby items degrade over time. While a vintage onesie is cute, a vintage car seat can be deadly. Here is your safety guide on what to buy used and the 3 things you must always buy brand new. 1. Car Seats: ALWAYS Buy New This is the number one rule of baby safety. The Risk: You cannot see internal damage. If a car seat has been in even a minor accident, the foam inside could be compromised, meaning it won't protect your baby in a crash. Expiration Dates: Yes, car seats expire! The plastic degrades over time in the hot sun. Verdict: Unless you are getting it from a trusted family member who can swear 100% it has never been in a crash and is not expired, buy a new one. 2. Crib Mattresses: Buy New The Risk: Used ma...