Why didn't someone tell me?

Help for expectant and new parents for the nursery

You know the second you tell people you're expecting people start pouring on the advice. Of course they're trying to be helpful, but a lot of their "helpful tips" may turn out to be the last kind of wisdom you want. So we've started a series we call "Why didn't someone tell me...?" that includes feedback from other parents who have "been there and wiped that"! From buying a stroller to treating teething, each month we'll hit on another topic of parenting that you may be wondering about, offering words of wisdom from at least five moms and dads who survived the frustrating maze of parenthood. This month, the topic is the baby's nursery. The following is advice for you from those who want you to learn from their mistakes.

Tip #1: Never put off buying a crib or decorating the baby's room (if you really want to be involved in that) because you never know when the baby is going to come or if you won't be able to do it yourself. (this came from a mother who was put on bed rest at five months and spent the last two months in the hospital)

Tip #2: Don't believe everything you read online about what paint colors can do to your baby. Some suggest your child will have jaundice if you use the color yellow, or be angry if they have red in their room. If you love those colors, it's ok for you to use them in your child's room. Follow your gut.

Tip #3: It's totally fine to use a bassinet or Moses basket for the first few weeks. However, just like the crib, it's important to make sure it's not filled with stuffed animals or fluffy blankets so your child is still safe.

Tip #4: Your baby is going to spend a ton of time in the crib that you pick (remember, they spend about 16 hours a day sleeping!) so be sure you pick a good, sturdy one, and give the mattress as much attention as the crib.

Tip #5: Lots of people make the nursery so wonderful it's their favorite part of the house. It's ok to splurge on a chandelier or extra comfy chair to make you and the baby feel fabulous while you are in there. Odds are they will be things your child will consider favorites for years to come.

Remember we stock all kinds of wonderful things to help with your nursery and we'd love to talk with you about your ideas for the dream room for your baby. We hope these tips help make life a little easier for you when your baby arrives, or if he or she is already here, maybe you'll find some great ideas for the next few years in the suggestions. If you have a "Why didn't someone tell me ..." suggestion, please tell us the next time you're in the store and we'll try to include it in a future post. We wish you all the best!

4201 Miller Rd, Wilmington, DE. 19802, 302-764-7787, www.closicsfurniture.com