Baby Essentials for Natural Families

Read any parenting magazine or walk through any baby department, and you will find long lists of things that babies absolutely need, and that parents must have if they don't want to be overwhelmed, sleep deprived or (gasp!) too attached to their baby all the time.

There are wonderful devices to comfort the baby, lull the baby to sleep, and even feed the baby so that parents never even have to touch their children. Crib mobiles, stuffed toys with human heart beats, plastic inflatable baths, bottle props to hold the bottle for you, even an imitation arm meant to simulate the feel of being cuddled are all there for a price.

Those who embrace the philosophies of attachment parenting and natural family living, however, know that what a baby really needs is human touch and affection. When mom and dad accept that their newborn is a human being to be nurtured instead of an inconvenience to be managed, the baby registry dwindles and the true cost of raising a child is measured in time and love instead dollars and cents.

So, what DOES a baby need? Almost nothing. Practically everything, even on this list, is for the convenience of the parents.

1. A car seat (click here for the American Academy of Pediatrics' guidelines)

If you do not have a car, and never intend to bring your baby in a car, ever, then you don't need this. Otherwise, this is critical. If you give birth in a hospital, they won't let you leave with your baby unless you have one. If you give birth at home, you'll still need one for the occasional doctor visit, mommy groups and date nights with your beloved.

You will see many warnings against used car seats. Often the car seats you find at garage sales are missing parts and instructions, or have been recalled. Also, if they have been involved in a severe car accident, they are no longer reliable. New, inexpensive car seats are perfectly fine. The more expensive models are not necessarily better. If you really want a designer car seat, set aside the money you would have spent on wipe warmers and a baby swing.

2. Diapers and Wipes

A sample of the author's own essentials in preparation for an upcoming birth, including a home sewn hemp cloth diaper.

Credit: Alisa Terry

Copyright: Alisa Terry