Baby Gear for the First Year

Elizabeth Levin is a professor of psychology at Laurentian University.

The title of this book is somewhat misleading, since only about half of
it is devoted to baby gear; baby care issues such as breast versus
bottle feeding, health, and childcare occupy the rest of the book, which
is designed as a practical resource.

The baby gear section covers setting up the nursery, diapers,
traveling, toys, and clothes. The text is interspersed with interesting
anecdotes and practical tips on such topics as evaluating second-hand
purchases. Some of the information is conflicting; for example, a crib
mobile is described as a nonessential item, but also as one of the best
baby gifts you can receive. The suggestion that egg cartons can be used
as toys for infants is highly questionable: not only are most cartons
easily chewed, but they may be contaminated. The best feature of the
book is the inclusion of Canadian resources for mail-order purchases of
clothing, books, and toys. Information on special needs associations is
also provided.

The second half of the book is less consumer-oriented. Intended to
teach one how to use the recommended baby gear, it provides tips on
bathing baby, doing baby’s laundry, introducing solid foods, and so
on. Prospective buyers should keep in mind that this book does not
attempt to replace more thorough baby care guides.