Wednesday 11 May 2005

Camping with Your Baby

Summary:
So getting outdoors used to be one your favorite pass times. But now shouldering your backpack has been replaced by shouldering your baby carrier. Never fear! Getting back outdoors and introducing your baby to it is not as complicated as you might think. You might not be the minimalist packer that you once were, but just add a few things to your packing list and you will be on your way.

  • Choose a familiar campsite and try a practice run in your backyard
  • Layer your baby's clothing to accomodate varying temperatures
  • Arrive with lots of daylight to account for a longer set up time for the camp
  • Bring the same bedding that you use at home so your baby will have something familiar, sleepsacks work especially well. Try to duplicate your home bedtime routine.

    Enjoy the beauty of nature with your little one!
To read our full article and get a sample packing list visit Trailpeak

Saturday 7 May 2005

Why Fleece?

Originally created by Malden Mills in the 1970's as an alternative to wool, fleece has some wonderful technical qualities developed for the outdoor apparel industry.

Contrary to what people may think, good quality fleece is breathable and will not impede a baby's breathing since it was designed to accomodate individuals participting in high energy activies where persperation had to be able to escape through the fabric.

Some of the great qualities include:
• Quick drying - moisture will dry quickly as the fibers will not absorb it.
• Wicking - any moisture is moved away from the skin along the fibers.
• Durablility - fleece is durable and this product is designed to be passed on.
• Easy care- small accident? No problem, simply sponge off or throw in the washer/dryer.
Fleece is naturally stain and water resistant
Aside from being incredibly soft and warm, it will also appeal to your baby's sense of touch.

Sleepsacks and SIDS Prevention

Sleep sacks, just making their appearance in North America in the last 5 or so years, have been standard in Europe and the U.K. for many decades.

Sleep sacks help to eliminate loose bedding from your baby's sleep area, which removes the danger of the blanket blocking free airflow. Re-breathing carbon dioxide has been identified as a leading cause of SIDS. It is important to keep the air around your sleeping baby as fresh and clean as possible, and to eliminate any potential for their face to come in close proximity to items that might block fresh air flow, especially once they begin moving around during sleep.

Sleep sacks are simply put on over your baby's pyjamas in place of a blanket.