A Pediatric PT’s Top 5 Baby Registry Picks For “On The Go”

By: Jena Schultz, PT, DPT, PCS – Driving Development

Listen, I get it. Each diaper bag is different. Each person is different but as a pediatric physical therapist and a mother of two…I know WELL which items get used on a regular basis and which are just not practical when you’re in the real world. In addition, I know which products are going to benefit your child’s development, grow with your family and help make your outings a more peaceful and easy experience.

I do a series every week where I narrow it down to only 5 items I would recommend per section of registry (check previous posts for top 5 registry picks for sleep and purposeful play). This was a hard one to narrow down, but aside from the diaper bag, car seat and stroller–I was able to narrow it down to the five items I thought were most useful, beneficial and best for your child’s development. So, without further ado…

Number 1: Storage containers for formula & snacks.

These storage containers are a favorite for a few reasons. They can be used for formula & purees when baby is younger. As baby ages, they can be used for snacks and can double as a stacking toy when baby is out at restaurants.

https://rstyle.me/+5sOfCqVGxYf4XrUVTGsRgw

Number 2: A portable sound machine.

Before these were invented I would play a white noise sound over my loudspeakers in my car while I drove my baby around. Thank GOD someone invented this. The portable sound machine will help baby get rest while you’re out and about and will keep your stress and anxiety levels down.

https://rstyle.me/+kJ854mM4CYfx73c-WR53kg

Number 3: Diapering Essentials

I know I know. This one seems obvious. However, one thing caregivers often over look is the doo doo bags. We used these for soiled clothes (always pack a change of clothes for blow outs), dirty diapers when there wasn’t a trash can around (it happens more than you think!) and just on the go trash. I also have a Hello Bello discount for you and their diaper cream is by far the best I’ve ever used.

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Number 4: A portable diaper changing pad large enough to double as a portable play time mat.

A portable diaper changing pad is key, but you definitely want to make sure it is large enough to serve a dual purpose. After you’ve changed the diaper and wiped down the surface (we sanitized after each outing) then it can be used as a portable play surface as well.

https://rstyle.me/+ksY2xiM1ikUJjcdGa3Vkzw

Number 5: A Hip Healthy Baby Carrier.

When on the go, a stroller is a good choice but a baby carrier can take it a step further and help to off weight the back of the head and encourage bonding. I look for a few things: a carrier that can grow with your baby from newborn phase to older infant. I also look that it is considered a hip healthy swaddle by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute. See below for my pick!

https://rstyle.me/+qLO-XYA29fQz3nHLiBokxw

There are always other items we may need to pack out littles: pacifiers, bottles, etc. I find those additional items are up to caregiver and baby preference and needs but the ones above are the most consistent I’ve found each family could benefit from.

Have a question? Leave a comment! Follow @drivingdevelopment on Instagram for more!

*This post contains affiliate links that are eligible for commission. I am a Hello Bello affiliate partner but I am not affiliate with the other companies.*