New Baby Preparation Checklist
Complete guide to preparing for your new baby from pregnancy through the first few months.
Schedule First Prenatal Appointment
Book appointment with OB/GYN or midwife as soon as pregnancy is confirmed
Start Taking Prenatal Vitamins
Begin taking folic acid and prenatal vitamins daily
Review Health Insurance Coverage
Understand maternity benefits, deductibles, and add baby to policy
Make Healthy Lifestyle Changes
Stop smoking/drinking, limit caffeine, eat healthy foods
Start Budget Planning for Baby
Calculate baby-related expenses and adjust monthly budget
Schedule Anatomy Scan
Book 18-20 week ultrasound to check baby's development
Plan Nursery Layout and Design
Choose room, color scheme, and furniture layout
Create Baby Registry
Register for essential items at stores for baby shower
Research Childcare Options
Look into daycare centers, nannies, or family care options
Plan Maternity/Paternity Leave
Understand leave policies and plan time off with employer
Plan Baby Shower
Organize baby shower with family and friends
Pack Hospital Bag
Prepare bag with essentials for labor, delivery, and recovery
Create Birth Plan
Discuss preferences with healthcare provider and partner
Install Car Seat
Install infant car seat and have it inspected for safety
Complete Nursery Setup
Assemble furniture, organize clothes, and prepare sleeping area
Stock Up on Baby Supplies
Buy diapers, wipes, formula/bottles, and other essentials
Choose Pediatrician
Research and select a pediatrician for baby's care
Take Hospital Tour
Tour the hospital or birthing center where you'll deliver
Prepare Birth Certificate Paperwork
Understand process for obtaining birth certificate
Schedule Newborn Screening Tests
Ensure baby receives required health screenings
Apply for Baby's Social Security Number
Complete application for baby's SSN
Add Baby to Health Insurance
Contact insurance company to add baby to policy
Schedule Postpartum Checkup
Book 6-week postpartum appointment with healthcare provider
Begin Baby-Proofing Home
Install safety locks, outlet covers, and secure furniture
Establish Support Network
Connect with other parents, join groups, arrange help
- • Start early - many items take time to research and arrange
- • Focus on high-priority items first
- • Don't feel pressured to buy everything new
- • Ask experienced parents for advice and recommendations
- • Keep receipts and packaging until after baby arrives
- • Consider your specific needs and lifestyle
- • Every pregnancy and baby is different
- • Don't stress about completing everything perfectly
- • Ask for help when you need it
- • Focus on safety essentials first
- • Remember that babies need very little initially
- • Trust your instincts as a parent
Medical Contacts:
- • OB/GYN or Midwife
- • Hospital Labor & Delivery
- • Pediatrician
- • Insurance Company
Support Contacts:
- • Partner/Family Members
- • Childcare Provider
- • Lactation Consultant
- • Postpartum Support