Parenting Checklists

Packing For The Hospital

For Mommy

• ¨     Birth plan (if you have one)
• ¨     Health insurance forms
• ¨     Hospital preregistration forms
• ¨     Nightgown or large t-shirt for giving birth if you prefer not to wear a hospital gown
• ¨     Extra pillows to keep you comfortable during labor
• ¨     Magazines, books, etc if you wish to read
• ¨     Any CDs or music you wish to listen to during labor
• ¨     Focal point object
• ¨     2-3 nightgowns (with a front close if you plant to breastfeed)
• ¨     Bathrobe
• ¨     Slippers
• ¨     A few pairs of socks
• ¨     Several pairs of underwear
• ¨     Toothbrush, toothpaste
• ¨     Soap
• ¨     Shampoo, conditioner
• ¨     Deodorant
• ¨     Contacts/glasses
• ¨     Hair brush
• ¨     Cosmetics you might want such as makeup or hair products
• ¨     Lip balm, hard candies, or lollipops to keep mouth moist
• ¨     Body lotion
• ¨     Your own sanitary pads (if you prefer those over the ones the hospital gives you)
• ¨     Nursing bra
• ¨     Breast pads
• ¨     Journal, diary to document this time
• ¨     Loose, comfortable clothing for the trip home (you will still look 5-6 months pregnant)

For Daddy or Coach

• ¨     Camera or camcorder
• ¨     Extra batteries and film for camera or camcorder
• ¨     Oils to massage your partner during labor
• ¨     Tennis ball or back massager
• ¨     Watch with a second hand to measure contractions
• ¨     Magazines, books, etc. to read during the early stages
• ¨     Phone numbers of people you will want to call
• ¨     Telephone card or change for pay-phones
• ¨     Snacks or change for vending machines
• ¨     Change of clothes
• ¨     Basic toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, etc.)
• ¨     Bathing suit (in case your partner takes a bath or shower during labor and you wish to accompany her)

For the Baby

• ¨     Receiving blanket
• ¨     Extra diapers
• ¨     Warm blanket if it is cold outside
• ¨     Outfit to wear home
• ¨     Socks or booties
• ¨     A cap (usually given to you at the hospital)
• ¨     Safe car seat and car seat directions