We're so grateful for our local retailers, they provide a spot where you can walk into a store and get individualized support to help you choose the best baby carrier for you. Family-oriented and full of heart, Baby & Kids 1st provide hands-on help for expecting parents. Look for one near you and be sure to pay them a visit. Join their community here. [gallery display="slider2" size="wcfixedheight" link="file" ids="9772,9773,9771"]
How do you choose items for your store?
At Baby’s & Kid's 1st, not only are we a family owned business but we like to think of our staff as well as our customers as our extended family. Seeing our customers on a regular basis and getting to know them and their families helps us when we are deciding what products to add to our stores. We build relationships with the people we are surrounded by on a daily basis and their opinions are not only valued, but are important.
What was the inspiration to begin your business and open your store?
Two years ago, our very own family grew when baby Eleanor was born – the 1st girl in our family in 35 years! She just turned 2, and it is so much fun to find, explore and use new products that she enjoys and/or that make mom & dad’s life a little easier. We’ve always felt that not only selling products, but using them ourselves is what makes our business stand out from the rest. For example, before we chose to add Ergobaby to our store, we wanted our staff to try the product at home with their own children. Then, when baby Eleanor was born, we became our own customers and tried it with her at home, at the grocery store, around town and whenever else we felt we needed two free hands or whenever she felt the need to be held or close to us. That is what is great about Ergobaby. They say it’s heart to heart and it truly is. As a newborn, babies desire to be close to you, they desire to feel your skin and hear your heartbeat and Ergobaby allows for that. As your child gets a little older and maybe wants to explore a little, the Ergobaby carriers give you the option of facing your child outward, or wearing baby on your hip or even on your back. The Ergobaby carrier is so versatile and offers so many different options, it’s impossible for your baby not to find a position that they enjoy as well as continually keeping close to you. With all the colors and designs to choose from, you’ll want all of them. Ergobaby is one of our top registry items. It ranks right up there with the infamous Sophie the Giraffe. Although, Ergobaby just recently released a limited edition carrier that combines both! It’s a Sophie Giraffe carrier that has a small embellished Sophie on the carrier as well as an attached “leash” to help keep Sophie close to the baby without the chances of getting dropped or lost.
What is the most challenging part of owning a retail store? And the most rewarding?
We truly can’t imagine not being in the baby business. It’s been our passion for 29 years now and the feeling we get when newly expectant first-time parents walk in the door is still pure joy! We not only feel proud that they chose us to shop with, but also lucky that they are sharing this exciting time in their lives with us! These are the customers who walk in the store feeling so overwhelmed and by the time they leave, they are feeling a little more educated and a little less stressed. We hope to achieve these goals by sharing with them our experiences, helping to guide them to the products we feel are the most helpful, and just simply answering any questions they may have. Again, we’re building relationships with our customers and value the time we spend with them. We hope we can continue to grow our business form many years to come , and use Baby’s 1st as a platform to grow and build life-long friendships.
Emotional Benefits of Getting Outside
Spending time in nature with your baby can strengthen the bond between you. The simple act of holding your baby close, feeling their warmth, and sharing new experiences together can create strong emotional connections. It’s also a wonderful way to reduce stress and improve your mood. When my littles were extra fussy, I’d take a walk around the neighborhood. Even though I don't live in an area with trails and surrounded by nature, simply behind outside changed everything. A little vitamin D does wonders!
Cognitive Development
Nature is a sensory wonderland for babies. The different sights, sounds, and smells can stimulate your baby’s senses and promote cognitive development. Watching leaves rustle, hearing birds chirp, and feeling the texture of a tree bark can all contribute to their learning and development.
All About Baby Carriers for Nature Adventures
Choosing the Right Baby Carrier
When it comes to selecting the best baby carrier for summer adventures, there are several options to consider.
Types of Baby Carriers:
- Wraps: Perfect for newborns, providing a snug and secure fit.
- Slings: Ideal for quick and easy use, offering good ventilation.
- Soft Structured Carriers: Versatile and comfortable for both parent and baby, suitable for longer trips.
Factors to Consider:
- Baby’s Age and Weight: Ensure the carrier is appropriate for your baby’s size and weight. For example, Ergobaby’s Embrace Newborn Carrier is perfect for the fourth trimester where baby is small and you’re looking for an easy way to stay close. As they grow, you’ll want to upgrade to an all-position carrier that’s meant for growing babies.
- Parent’s Comfort and Ergonomics: Look for carriers with padded shoulder straps and lumbar support if you’re planning on longer outings.
- Ease of Use: Choose a carrier that is easy to put on and take off.
- Climate and Breathability: Opt for carriers made of breathable fabrics to keep you and your baby cool in hot weather.
Safety Tips:
- Proper Positioning: Ensure your baby is seated correctly, with their legs in an "M" position and their head should be close enough to kiss.
- Checking for Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect your carrier for any signs of damage.
- Ensuring Adequate Support: Make sure the carrier provides proper support for your baby’s head and neck.
Exploring Nature with a Baby Carrier
Ideal Spots for a Nature Walk with Baby
- Parks and Gardens: Great for leisurely walks and picnics.
- Nature Trails and Forests: Perfect for more adventurous outings.
- Beaches and Lakesides: Wonderful for enjoying the water and sand, with the right carrier.
Activity Ideas
- Hiking: Enjoy a scenic hike with a hiking baby carrier that offers support and storage.
- Bird Watching: Use your carrier to keep your baby close while you explore and observe wildlife.
- Picnics: A carrier can free up your hands, making it easier to carry picnic supplies.
Advantages of Using Strollers for Nature Adventures
While baby carriers are fantastic for mobility and closeness, depending on the adventure of choice you might want to be a stroller along too.
There are a LOT of baby stroller options on the market. So we understand how confusing it can be to choose the one that’s right for your family. Not only are there a variety of brands, but a variety of strollers that serve different purposes.
There are a few types of strollers on the market:
- Full-sized stroller: This is typically the stroller parents thing of buying for all its versatility.
- Lightweight or umbrella stroller:These compact strollers are perfect for on-the-go adventures.
- Jogging stroller: Designed for parents who want to combine fitness with outdoor adventures.
- Double stroller: Designed for parents with multiple kids, especially twins.
- Car seat carrier: These strollers connect to a specific car seat. We don't typically recommend these as they can be unsafe for baby and uncomfortable for parents who are pushing.
Learn more about the types of strollers and which one would be best for you.
Benefits of Bringing a Stroller
- Storage Space for Gear: Ample room for carrying all your essentials like a diaper bag, beach toys and more.
- Shade and Weather Protection: Built-in canopies to shield your baby from the sun when they are lounging.
- Options: If you have more than one kid, you can stroll with one and carry the other. Or, if you’re getting warm or your little one is getting fussy, you can switch up their position from stroller to carrier or vice versa.
Safety Tips for Strollers
- Ensure your stroller is in good working condition. Make sure buckles are still buckling and that there are no rips or holes that could compromise your baby’s safety.
- Use sunshades or bug nets to protect your little one’s skin.
- Securing the baby properly: always buckle up your baby for safety even if you think they are old enough to go without the buckle.
Combining Baby Carriers and Strollers
For the ultimate flexibility, consider using both a baby carrier and a stroller on your outings.
Combining both options allows you to adapt to different situations. Use the carrier for more rugged trails and switch to the stroller for smoother paths or when your baby needs a nap.
Transition Tips
- Smooth Transitions: Plan stops where you can easily switch from carrier to stroller.
- Pack Light: Only bring essentials to make transitions easier.
Tips for a Successful Adventure
Planning Ahead
- Route Planning: Choose baby-friendly trails and parks. Check local mom groups or outdoor groups and get recommendations for the best outings for kids.
- Check Weather Conditions: Avoid extreme heat or unpredictable weather. Even with our most breathable carriers, when it’s hot, it’s hot. And having two bodies against each other in the heat will be naturally hot and sticky already.
- Packing Checklist: Include diapers, snacks, water, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit. These all-position carriers have storage pockets where you can fit some of the items easily!
- Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Pack healthy snacks to keep energy levels up and bring plenty of water for both you and baby.
Summer adventures with your baby are a wonderful way to create lasting memories and enjoy the beauty of nature together. From baby carriers to strollers, Ergobaby products are designed to provide comfort and ease for both you and your little one. So, gear up, get outside, and explore the world with your baby by your side.
Ready to embark on your own summer adventures? Check out Ergobaby’s range of baby carriers and strollers to find the perfect match for your family’s needs. Visit our website today and start planning your next outdoor excursion!