Safe Sleep Space

A safe and comfortable sleeping space is essential for your newborn. Most parents will sleep with baby in their room for the first few months. Whether you choose a traditional cot or a cosy bassinet, make sure it meets current safety standards and provides a firm, flat surface for your baby to sleep on. You might be surprised by how firm baby mattresses are, but be reassured that that's what's safest for baby.

You might want to consider a bassinet with wheels or handles so that you can move baby around for sleeps in different parts of the house during the day. 

Car Seat

A car seat is one of the most important purchases you'll make for your baby's safety. In you won't be allowed to leave the hospital without a car seat for your baby. Choose a rear-facing car seat that meets all safety regulations and is appropriate for your baby's age, weight, and height. If you purchase your car seat fro corporateescapade one of our trained team members will install it correctly in your car for you. 

Stroller

A reliable stroller is a huge help for parents on the go. Look for one that's lightweight and easy to manoeuvre. A parent-facing seat is a huge bonus. Consider your lifestyle and terrain when choosing which stroller suits you best.

Nappies, Wipes, and Wash Cloths

Choose from disposable or washable options based on your preferences and lifestyle. Babies go through a lot of nappies in the first few weeks, so keep that in mind when you're stocking up your changing supplies. 

Feeding Supplies

Whether you're breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, having the right feeding supplies can help with the journey. Breastpads can help with those leaky boobs, and Nipple Balm helps with cracked nipples. You might also want to invest in bibs, burp cloths, a steriliser, and a feeding pillow.

Swaddle Blankets

Swaddle blankets are versatile essentials that provide warmth, comfort, and security for your newborn. Choose soft, breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo. Swaddling can help soothe your baby to sleep and prevent them from startling awake during the night.

Baby Monitor

A somewhat controversial addition to the list, as many parents will sleep with baby in their room and therefore not need a baby monitor. However, a reliable baby monitor can be helpful if your baby naps in a different room to you during the day. With a baby monitor you have peace of mind and are able to keep an eye on your baby from anywhere in the house and garden. 

Baby Carrier or Wrap

Babywearing is a convenient and comforting way to keep your baby close while still being hands-free. Choose a baby carrier or wrap that's ergonomic, comfortable, and suitable for your baby's age and weight. Look for options with adjustable straps, padded shoulder straps, and breathable fabrics for maximum comfort. 

A wrap might look difficult to use, but with a bit of practice they're quite easy and very comfy!

Health and Safety Essentials

As baby grows, and depending on the style and design of your home, you may need to look into baby-proofing and safetly products like safety gates and window stays. You might also want to consider covering electrical sockets, and installing kiddy-proof locks on cupboards.

Check out our range of baby products at corporateescapade.com

Thoughtful Gifts for Mums-to-be

1. You Simply Can't Spoil a Newborn by Dorothy Waide - $39.90

Brittney G.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"My favourite baby book! Three babies deep and I still find myself reaching for it. Full of practical tips, everything from breastfeeding positions to what to pack to go on holiday or how to structure your day."

Kate⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"This book is so practical and not overwhelming with large bodies of text. It’s so easy to pick up and put down and you can easily find information on each topic. I find the pictures really useful. Importantly its also non-judgemental."

2.Write to Me Baby Journal - Grey - $54.90

Hannah G.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"It’s been the perfect gift to myself to keep track of special milestones. I can’t wait to share it with our babe, as my parents did with me!"

Sage A.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Beautiful book which I gave as a gift for a baby shower."

Annelise H.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Beautiful book with appropriate questions to last a lifetime. Can’t wait to write in it more after baby is here!"

Helpful Gifts for New Mums

3. The Lactation Station Lactation Cookies - $12.90

4. The Lactation Station Boobie Brew - $28.90

5. Ohbubs Baby Wrap - $79.90

Going Places Made Easier

6. Pretty Brave 'The Roundabout' Change Mat / Clutch - $59.90

7. Pretty Brave Stella Bag - $149.90

8. Rechargeable Rockit Portable Baby Stroller Rocker - $99.90

VK⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"The Rockit has been a lifesaver for us as new parents, leaving us hands free to enjoy a much needed break when our little one is asleep in his pram: it has saved many a lunch out as well as being a godsend during an early patch when our son would only fall asleep in the evening when being rocked in his pram. Highly recommend!"

Kate G.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I take this with me everywhere! I couldn’t rate this product any higher! Such a useful gadget to have when baby is unsettled and just needs a little jig whilst you need your hands free! I’ve recommended it to all my mummy friends and will continue to do so. It’s bracket (now with the stronger replacement) really does attach to different prams.

Looking for more gift ideas? Browse our range of gifts for mothers for inspiration, or contact us for more recommendations.

I'm always looking for ideas for blog posts and videos, so I said perfect, I'll write the list next week, and here it is!

You never knew that something so little, could require so much stuff, right? Well the good news is that your new baby doesn't need that much stuff, or at least not all at once. Of course we're a retail store, so we'd love it if you bought everything from us, but the truth is you won't need to - you'll probably be given newborn baby gifts by family, friends, neighbours, and colleagues. Whatever you buy, keep the receipt so that you can return it later if you get double ups.

Stroller 

When to buy: Start looking during your pregnancy and purchase before the due date.

Our Stroller Collection

Strollers/push chairs/prams, are a bit like wedding dresses in that most shops don't keep many in stock, so you may need to order ahead of time. The stroller will probably be one of your biggest purchases, and we think it's quite a fun one too! You could start doing some online/ in store research about half way through your pregnancy. We think that it's best to have purchased the stroller by about 36 weeks, just in case the baby arrives early.

Option B - Full disclosure here - some people skip the stroller and just get a carrier (like a front pack) We still think that the stroller is essential.

Bassinet/Moses basket

Essential

We recommend: Snuzpod4 bedside crib

Your baby will sleep in a bassinet at night, usually in your bedroom for the first six months. Having the baby in the bedroom next to you makes night time feeding a little easier, and it's safer too. You'll need the bassinet from the day you bring baby back from hospital.

Option B - if your bedroom is big enough you could put the cot in there and skip the bassinet altogether. 

Wrap/Baby Carrier/Front Pack

Essential

We recommend: Ohbubs Baby Wrap

You can use one of these handy wraps right from birth. They're nowhere near as difficult to use as you'd think, and babies love to be close to you and feel your heartbeat. I gave one to a friend who had a newborn that wasn't sleeping well during the day, and she says it's amazing - she can put him in the wrap and get a few things done around the house, walk down to the shops and wallah! He sleeps through the whole thing. 

Capsule/Car Seat

Essential

We recommend: Maxi Cosi

You won't be allowed to leave the hospital without a capsule or car seat for your baby to travel in. It's a good idea to install the capsule a couple of weeks before due date, just incase baby arrives early. All the capsules that we sell can be used up until 13kg, although most babies will grow out of their capsule in length before weight, somewhere around a year old.

Cot

Essential

We recommend: Babyhood Riya Cot

When to buy: It's up to you

If you opt for a bassinet, baby probably won't use the cot until around six months old, so you could put this purchase off. That said, if you're thinking of 'doing' a nursery, you'll probably be more in the mood for it before the baby arrives, rather than when they're six months old and ready to actually use the nursery. We recommend looking for a cot that will convert to a toddler bed, which you'll probably use until baby is around 3 years old, or when their new younger baby brother or sister needs the cot. 

Change Table

Nice to have

When to buy: Before baby is born

You don't really need a change table, it's a big piece of furniture, when you could just use a foam pad on top of a chest of drawers, on a bed, or on the floor. Change tables are pretty handy though! They're a good place to store all your nappies and creams, and little babies need their nappies changed many, many times a day, so you'll use it lots.
We recommend Babyhood Ultimate Change Pad instead. 

Nappy Bag

Nice to have

We recommend: Storksak Luxe Black Scuba

When to buy: Before baby arrives, if at all

Nappy bags are great things to have, they have lots of space for bottles, food, changes of clothes, and of course nappies, but they're not completely necessary. You could just use a big handbag. We're big fans of The Roundabout Clutch from Pretty Brave, which can carry some spare nappies and wipes, and fit inside your nappy bag or big handbag. 

Baby Mirror

Essential

When to buy: Before baby is born

We recommend: Two Nomads Baby View Mirror
A baby mirror attaches to the headrest in the car, just above where baby's car seat is installed. It'll allow you to see baby in your rear view mirror, and we think it's a great little thing to have, you'll use it until you turn your baby's car seat around to forward facing when they're about two years old.

Breast Pump

Nice to have, but maybe essential, depending on your situation

You could go for anything from a double electric pump, for many hundreds of dollars, right down to a silicone breast pump, for less than $30. We recommend waiting until baby is here and you know where your breastfeeding journey is heading before investing in one of the more expensive pumps. Some hospitals rent high-powered pumps too. 

Breast Pads

Essential

When to buy: Before baby is born

We recommend: Ohbubs - Washable Breast Pads (3 Pairs)

You'll need breast pads to prevent milk soaking through your clothes, it's true!! At the start you'll probably want something more absorbent like the Haakaa Disposable Nursing Pads, and when baby gets a little bit older you could start using something like our corporateescapade Cotton Washable Breast Pads.

Pads 

When to buy: Before baby is born

We recommend: Stocking up on the free ones while you're in hospital.

I remember asking a colleague, before I had my first baby, if I would really need the pads. She laughed and said 'yes, you definitely will'. LOL. They're kind of like sanitary pads, but a bit thicker and without the pretty packaging. It's mean because at the supermarket they're usually right down on the bottom shelf (no one's impulse buying them right?) Buy them before you have the baby because it'll be pretty hard to bend down to that shelf afterwards. You'll probably need to use them for a few weeks after the baby is born.

Baby Monitor

Reasonably essential 

When to buy: When baby moves to their own room

We recommend: Owlet Cam2

If the baby is going to sleep in the room with you for the first few months you probably won't need the monitor straight away- unless where they're having their day sleeps is out of earshot. Our daughter is three and we still use the monitor each night, it was especially useful when she moved into her big bed and realised that she could climb out.

Comfy chair

Essential 

When to buy: Before baby is born

You're going to spend a lot of time sitting in a chair, feeding baby, rocking baby, reading to baby... It's great to have a comfy chair somewhere in the house- it doesn't need to be in the baby's room, but it's nice if it is. We recommend chairs that aren't too low, and are easy to get in and out of without using your hands (because you might be holding the baby).

Nappies

Essential

When to buy: Before baby is born

Start stocking up on nappies a few weeks before baby is born- but don't buy too many- you might find that you don't like that brand, or that your babe grows out of the newborn size quickly.

Travel cot/ portacot

Nice to have

When to buy: after baby is six months old

We recommend: Maxi-Cosi Swift 3-in-1 Portacot

If you travel out of town or go on holiday a bit you might need a portacot, but if your stroller has a carry cot, or if you've got a bassinet/ moses basket/ snuzpod, you should be able to use that for day/ night sleeps when you're away from home, until baby is about six months old. Some hotels have cots that they will set up in your room for free or a small charge, so you might be able to get away with postponing the portacot purchase for a while. Portacots tend to not be used very often, so second hand ones are usually in quite good condition, you might get lucky and be given a used one from a friend or family member. 

High Chair

Essential

When to buy: Later

We recommend: Kaylula Ava High Chair

Most babies start solids when they're around six months old, you can hold off purchasing the high chair until then. We love highchairs like the Kaylula Ava Highchair, because the tray can be removed, and the height adjusted, so that the child can sit at the table with you. You'll end up using it for years and years. 

Other Stuff

Don't rush out and buy all the things in the list below, yes you'll need them, but you might be given them at your baby shower, when the baby is born, or you might be given hand me downs. 

When I was researching what to put on this list I was surprised by how many items of clothing some lists were suggesting. One list said 16 onesies! Seriously! In most mums get to stay home with their babies for at least the first few weeks, so we have plenty of time for washing! You'll probably do a load of washing every day or every second day, so your baby really doesn't need that many items of clothing. 

Clothes- natural fibres like cotton and merino wool are good, you'll need singlets, long sleeve tops (the ones with snaps at the crotch are good), pants, onesies. After a few weeks you'll might find that you enjoy using some styles and not so much the others, that's a good time to go out and buy more.

Face cloths- you can never have enough

Hats

Socks

Booties (you might be given these, if you're lucky enough to know someone who likes knitting)

Blankets- you'll probably be given these as gifts

Sheets for bassinet

Sheets for cot

Baby book

Baby towel

Pacifier/ dummy

Nipple cream

Baby wipes

Nappy cream 

Buy when you need them (like, later)

Hair brush, tooth brush, nail file

Bibs

Toys

Books

Shoes

Baby gym

Bath toys

More clothes

Breastfeeding tea

We hope that you've found that helpful! Let us know if you think we've missed anything from our list! Contact us here.

In , all drivers must ensure that passengers under the age of 7 (while vehicle is in motion on the road) are properly restrained in an approved child restraint appropriate for that passenger. This law extends to a child's 8th where there is a suitable car seat present in the car.

So children under 7 must be in a car seat, and children aged 7-8 need to be in a car seat if there is one available in the car.

All child restraints (car seats) sold in must meet an approved standard. We have a unique situation in NZ, as our law allows car seats from different parts of the world to be used. The car seats must meet one of the following standards:

• /Australian standard
• European standard
• USA standard (must also display a yellow 'S' marking, issued by Bureau Veritas to show that the product has been approved for use in ).

What car seat should I get?

This depends on your child's weight, height, age, physical development, behaviour and also the type of vehicle you own.

The main types of child restraints are:

1. Infant capsules-

• Rear-facing
• Usually have a weight limit of 0-13kg
• Can easily be taken in and out of the car with baby inside
• Designed specifically for new born and young infants

• Rear and forward-facing
• Usually have a weight limit of 0-18kg

Take a look at our other posts if you're interested in learning about our top selling convertible car seats: Which car seats are best for a 1 year old?

3. Forward facing child restraint and booster –

• Usually have a weight limit of 9-36kg
• Can be used from a younger age than a regular booster and lasts until they are ready to come out of a restraint

Here's a link to our blog post titled Which are good car seats for 3 year olds? if you're interested in reading more about our forward facing restraint range.

4. Booster seat –

• Usually have a weight limit of 15-36kg
• Legally your child needs to be in an approved child restraint from birth up until the age of 7. However we highly recommend keeping your child in a child restraint until they are over 148cm tall.

How long should I rear-face my child for?

Where is the safest place in the car for my child to sit (in a car seat)?

Are half boosters safe?

We don't recommend using a half booster as it does not offer support for your child to properly fit the vehicle's safety belt and offers no head and body protection in a collision. We do not sell half boosters here at corporateescapade.

In some situations however, a half booster may be the only option, and in those cases a half booster is better than nothing. A half booster will still lift the child up and help to position the lap belt across the child's legs instead of their tummy.

How can I tell if my child has outgrown their car seat?

Are second hand car seats OK?

Is my child ready to come out of a booster?

• Do they sit all the way back against the car seat?
• Do their knees bend comfortably at the edge of the car seat?
• Does the safety belt cross the shoulder between the neck and arm?
• Is the lap belt as low as possible, touching the thighs?
• Can they stay seated like this for the whole trip?

Most children will be at least four or five years old before they can do all of the above.

Why do some capsules not require a tether strap?

Can I fit 3 car seats across the back seat of my car?

What is ISOFIX?

Installing a car seat correctly is important. At corporateescapade all our team members undertake training to ensure that we have the skills and knowledge to install your child's car seat safely in your car.

Our training covers car seat legislation and standards, crash dynamics, car seat selection, and installation. It is based on the Child Restraint Technician's Manual, produced by Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency. 

We have excellent relationships with the brands who supply us, and we work closely with the brands to ensure our team are experts at installing their seats.

One of our trained team members can install your car seat for free, when you purchase from corporateescapade.

Check out our range

Check out our range of car seats, from some of the best brands, like Maxi-Cosi, Cybex, and Britax.

10 Minute Install

We have a '10 Minute Install' philosophy. We don't think that car seats should take any more than 10 minutes for parents to install at home (it might take us a little longer the first time, while we get everything set up for your child and your car). We are careful to stock a range of car seats that are easy for you to install at home. You'll notice that our range is smaller than other stores, that's because we've curated it to only include car seats that are both safe, and simple.

Complimentary Install for the life of the seat

At corporateescapade it's important to us that we're able to ensure your car seats are installed securely and your children are safe on our roads. We include complimentary installation with every car seat we sell. No worries if you need help with your seat a few months or years after you purchase from us, just give us a call, then visit our store at VIALE BIANCA MARIA, 25, 20122.

Where to Find Us

Visit us at our flagship store at VIALE BIANCA MARIA, 25, 20122, Auckland. We have free parking right outside the door, and more parks around the back. Read more about the parking here. 

Sorry, we're unable to install seats that we didn't sell, but you can find someone on the NZTA website.

There are products on the market that will slide over the buckle so that the child can't press the button, kind of making them kiddy proof. We don't sell those products because we worry that the average person in the community wouldn't know how to work them at first, potentially slowing things down if you were involved in an accident and someone else needed to remove your child from the car. There are a couple of hacks that we recommend that are free, we recommend that you use one of these techniques along with working on your child's behavior, you'll find some tips on how to do that below too.

Turn the buckle

Take the buckle part near its base and turn it around so that the red button part is underneath. That's going to make it a little bit more difficult for your child to press the button.

The paper cup hack

Cut a long narrow hole in the bottom of a paper cup, then turn it up side down, and slide the metal part of the seat belt through the hole. Now you can buckle the seat belt as normal, then slide the cup over the buckle. This will make it difficult for your child to unbuckle their seat belt without using both hands.

We think that paper cups are better than plastic, because they can be ripped easily in an emergency, however we spoke to an expert and they said that emergency services would probably cut the straps, or the seat belt, in a real emergency.

You can also do this trick if you have car seats that are installed using the seat belt, to prevent other passengers in the car accidentally unbuckling the seat.

Other tips

Ideally you wouldn't need to do the cup trick forever, once your child understands the importance of wearing their seatbelt. Here are a few tips that we've gleaned from the web, and other parents.

Stop the car

Tell your child that they can't travel if their belt is unbuckled. Be prepared to go through with it, and maybe even turn the car around and go home if you're on your way somewhere that you can easily cancel on.

Talk to them

Explain the importance and purpose of a seat belt, not in a scary way that could give them issues with travelling in the car at all, just a gentle way that covers the facts, and the law.

We all have to do it

Remind them that everyone has to wear a sealt belt, mum and dad, their siblings, friends, and even strangers.

Positive reinforcement

Praise them when they keep their seat belt buckled for the duration of the trip.

Give them responsibility

For an older child it might help to give them the 'job' of buckling their own seat belt, then keeping it buckled until the end of the trip, when you say that they can unbuckle it.

Yes it's tough if children keep unbuckling their seat belts, and we hope that those tips have been helpful for you, please do let us know if you have any other tips to add!

• Layer with thin warm layers (eg, cotton and thin fleece layer, 2 merino layers, cotton/merino layer)
• Accessorise with a hat, mittens and socks
• Then place a blanket OVER the top of their harness to keep them warm

If a clothing item is too bulky – remove it.

Our ultimate goal is to have them warm, comfortable AND safe.

The Oscar M2 is an updated and refreshed version of the super popular Oscar Mx.

Edwards & Co is a brand, specialising in strollers and travel systems that are easy to use, and make getting outdoors with your family fun!

Let's take a closer look at the differences between the Oscar M2 and the Oscar Mx.

Differences

You asked and we listened! There are more colour options available with the Oscar M2 as it is now available in Sand, alongside the original colours: Red Rust, Slate Grey along and classic Black Luxe

This best selling stroller has received some great upgrades!

Oscar M2 is our strongest three-wheeler yet, with increased weight capacity in the seat and basket. We've increased the basket capacity to 10kg and the seat capacity to 22kg (or until your child is practically at school!) 

With new technology, Edwards & CO completely re-tailored the seat making it luxuriously soft and comfortable for your child.

Your New Oscar M2 is now fit out with UPF50+ DOPE dye canopy on Black Luxe giving you incredible fade resistance over the years to come, in even the harshest NZ sun.

Similarities

Both Mx and M2 are compatible with existing accessories including the Carry Cot Mx, Carry Cot 2, Newborn Insert Cushion and Avery Capsule.

Oscar is ready for adventure, wherever the day takes you!

Lets Chat Sustainability
The Oscar M2 uses dope-dyed fabric for Black Luxe, this is an improvement on the Oscar Mx and means, as well as being a more environmentally-friendly process, dope-dyed fabric has a higher sun-fade rating. Black canopies will be loved for years and years!

FAQ’s

Will my Carry Cot fit in the M2?

Carry Cot Mx and Carry Cot 2 both click directly into the M2.

What about my Avery capsule?

Our Avery capsule is compatible with our new M2 Stroller.

Will my Oscar Mx be compatible with the new accessories?

Yes, it will be compatible with our new accessories such as the Carry Cot 2.

Will you have an Oscar M2 Bundle too? 

Yes, you can shop the Oscar M2 bundle Here.

 I really enjoyed this chat with Mark, and I learned quite a lot about his brand. I hope you enjoyed it too. I'm aiming to make Brand Stories series a monthly thing, so keep an eye out for the next one.

xx

Anita

Three Wheels V Four Wheels

The first thing to notice is very obvious, is that the Mutsy Nio has four wheels and the Oscar Mx has three wheels. What that's going to mean, if you're walking somewhere bumpy, the Mutsy has four points of contact with the ground and the Edwards & Co has three. So the Edwards & Co might go a bit better if you're walking on really bumpy ground because there's only three points that need to touch the ground. 

The Wheels 

• Both strollers have foam-filled wheels (no punctures, because no inner tubes).
• Both have 22cm front wheels, but the Nio has larger back wheels.
• The front and back wheels of the Nio are closer together, meaning that the turning circle is smaller and it will be easier to manoeuvre in small spaces, like shops and cafes.

The Basket

The Edwards & Co Oscar MX has a larger basket, and it also has two little pockets for your drink bottle and wallet, or whatever.

The Seat

Both strollers have a reversible seat. I always love a reversible seat because it means that you can talk to baby while you're walking, and not all three-wheeled strollers have one, so that is a bonus for the Edwards & Co compared to other three wheelers.

Both strollers have an adjustable infant foot rest, and a toddler foot rest when the seat is forward facing as well.

The Nio seat back is 48cm, and the Oscar MX seat back is 54cm. So the Edwards & Co has a larger seat. The Nio canopy is extendable and is therefore larger, and the Nio has a peekaboo window when the Oscar MX doesn't.

One of the big differences is the seat and the way it reclines. With the Nio, you've got the stepped recline, and then when they're lying down, they're pretty much lying flat there. Whereas with the Oscar Mx, it's a tilt, so when they are lying down, they're still kind of in a seated position.

Handlebar

The handlebar with the Nio, you've got the telescopic adjusting. And then, with the Oscar Mx, it's a tilt. Both of them have the lovely tan accents.

Stroller Weight

The weight of the stroller is 12.4kg for the Mutsy Nio and 10.3kg for the Edwards & Co Oscar Mx. So the Nio is lighter.

The Fold

• Both of them, can be folded  in one piece if the seat is facing away from you.
• No parts of the Mutsy frame touch the ground when you fold it.
• The Mutsy is slightly higher when it's folded.
• The Edwards & Co is slightly longer when it's folded.

Capsule

I think the Edwards & Co really comes into its own when it comes to the capsule because you can attach it without adapters.  With the Mutsy Nio, we would recommend using a Maxi-Cosi capsule. You do have a few other brand options (see the list here).

For the Edwards & Co, you will probably use the Edwards & Co Avery capsule, which just clicks in, with no need for adapters. Sometimes our customers have been given or loaned a Maxi-Cosi capsule, in that case they can purchase Maxi-Cosi adapters to use with the Oscar MX.

Weight of the Child

The Nio is rated to 15kg and the Oscar MX is rated to 22kg.

Hopefully the video and blog post has helped you to compare the two strollers. The most important thing is that you choose the stroller that's right for you, your family and your lifestyle.

1. Change your passwords and hide the remotes

We changed the passwords on our phones, 'lost' the ipad at Nanny and Poppy's house, and started keeping the remotes on a high shelf. 

2. Talk to the older children about what the new screen time limits will be

We decided to stick to the Ministry of Health's guidelines of 2 hours for our primary school aged child, and 1 hour for our pre-schooler (none for the baby)

3. Cut back on your own screen time

As adults, we had to acknowledge that we were on our phones way too much, and we were setting a bad example for our children. Our children absolutely would not be happy to not go on a screen if they saw that we were on ours. I decided that I would cut my recreational screen time to two hours. We stopped watching breakfast TV.

4. Set screen-free times

We have a few screen-free times that are non-negotiable. No screens before 6am- everyone needs their sleep, and we had found that children were waking up too early in order to watch a screen. Aargh!!!!! During term time we are also strictly screen-free from 7am until everyone is ready to leave. They need to be dressed, bags packed, teeth brushed, hair brushed, and shoes on before they can have a screen. To be honest it rarely happens and in reality we're screen free from 7am until they leave the house. We are also screen free from dinner time until bed time. 

We also agreed that we would not go on screens when we were travelling in the car. Personally I find this part hard because when my husband was driving I would use the time to catch up on my messages! 

I really enjoy the screen-free time between dinner and bed, we often play with toys or play games and it is a nice time to connect with our children after the day. If the younger ones are scratchy I will start bath time early and they'll have a 30 minute bath.

5. Monitor screen time

This is the boring bit, but as they say, 'you manage what you measure'. I use the screen time function on my phone to monitor how much screen time my daughter and I are having. I also try to limit her to just the one device, so it's easier to keep track of screen time. It's difficult to keep tabs if she uses my phone, then my husband's phone, then the TV. 

6. Spend time connecting with your children

Cutting back on screens is a big and difficult transition for children, especially if they had unrestricted screen access before. It's good to spend time connecting with them, doing things that they like to do, listen to them and really try to build your relationship. It's amazing how much connection the screens take away. 

7. Focus on the good stuff

I wonder how many times an hour I smile when I'm hanging out with my children, compared with how many times an hour I smile when everyone is watching a screen. Yes sometimes looking after children is stressful and hard, especially if they're fighting, but sometimes you get to a sweet spot where everyone is content and connected and it is so so good.  

8. Reflect and reassess

Sometimes we'll have a difficult day, someone will have a meltdown, there was fighting, or hurt feelings. It's helpful to think back over the day, was there too much screen time? Not enough sleep? Not enough quality connected time? Or something else. Often too much screen time goes hand in hand with not enough connected time. It's helpful to look back and try to figure out if there is something that you'll do differently tomorrow.

9. Don't use screen time as a punishment or a reward

I don't know where I got this idea, but it probably goes along with my other parenting beliefs. I try not to glamorise screen time, our children don't get extra screen time if they're good, and it isn't taken away if they're naughty. I don't want them to develop a scarcity mindset, and I don't want to use screen time as a reward and reinforce the idea that screens are the best thing ever. I'm not an expert though, you do you, boo.

10. Go easy on yourself

I'm aware reading through this that I sound very regimented, so I've added this last one in. I probably sound like I have things more together than I actually do. Cutting back on screen time for children is really hard! Apps that children use are designed to be addictive to keep children on there for longer. Sometimes it feels like it's you up against all of Silicone Valley! Don't be too hard on yourself if it's hard or you feel like you're not succeeding. 

These are some of the things that work for us, after over six months effort cutting back on screens. Every day is still a challenge though. It is hard. Sometimes someone is sick and they end up on screens more, or we get busy and don't monitor as carefully. We're not perfect and I don't want to pretend we are. Go easy on yourself and know that this is a very difficult thing that you're doing. 

I hope you found these ideas helpful. I know cutting back on screens is difficult, stressful, and hard. It is an ongoing process and I suspect we will continue working at it for years. The screens have a way of creeping back in! Good luck.

As part of our commitment to cutting back on screentime I took Rachel McFedries Smart Approach Course, which I wholeheartedly recommend. 

xx

Anita

How to choose the right adapter?

Usually the brand that makes your stroller will also make a car seat adapter. For example, a Bugaboo pram would require a bugaboo adapter.

The bottom part of the adapter is specific to the make and model of your pram. The image below illustrates Maxi-Cosi adapters for different pram models.

The top part of the adapter is specific to the capsule brand. In the image below you can see some of the adapters that are available for the Bugaboo Fox.

Most stroller brands make adapters to fit their strollers. So you'll purchase the brand of adapters to suit your stroller, and your capsule. For example for a Bugaboo stroller you'll purchase bugaboo branded adapters. 

Maxi-Cosi Adapters

Many car seat brands use the Maxi-Cosi system. So your Maxi-Cosi adapters will fit a range of capsules, not just Maxi-Cosi ones.

These capsules will fit using Maxi-Cosi Adapters:

• Maxi-Cosi
• Nuna
• Cybex
• Mountain Buggy
• Phil & Teds

We hope that has made things a little clearer! We know that all this stuff can be a bit confusing at the start! 

Adapters are handy for short trips, for longer trips we would recommend that you put baby into their carry cot, as it is not recommended that babies stay in their capsules for extended periods of time. 

About Mutsy

We love the Mutsy brand, and have been stocking it at corporateescapade for over eight years! Their strollers are really cool, their accessories always fit perfectly, and their quality is top-notch.

Reversible Seat

We have a reversible seat. I always advocate for reversible seats. Your baby's favourite thing to look at in the whole world is your face! Walking with your baby in the pram facing you is a lovely way to build your connection. I think it's nice to be able to look at your baby's face while you're walking with them too. Some babies go through a separation anxiety stage, so it can be really helpful to have them facing you.

On a practical level, when baby is facing you and you're walking somewhere loud you will see if they're crying, or if they've dropped a toy.

Seat Features

There are three level slots on the harness. Suitable from infant to pre-schooler. The harnesses is easy to use. A few years ago there was a Mutsy model which had a harness that was difficult to click, but they have fixed that problem now and this one is really user-friendly.

There's a little infant foot rest integrated into the seat. Leaytherette accents on the seat match the handlebar and make the Mutsy Nio look super-stylish. There's a  peekaboo window in here in the hood, which you would only use when the baby's facing the other way. There's a generous extendable canopy, to help protect baby from the wind and the sun, plus the Mutsy Nio seat has an amazing recline, Mutsy's flattest ever seat.

The seat is generous in size, especially across the shoulder area, where it is 27.5cm wide.

Handlebar

The handlebar can be extended telescopically, making the Nio ideal for different parents to push. Mutsy is a Dutch brand, and if you've been to Holland you know that the people who live there are quite tall! We find that the Nio handlebar is suitable for tall, and petite people.

Moveable Bumper Bar

The bumper bar has a button which makes it quite easy to swivel to the side. Toddlers may enjoy climbing into the stroller themselves, if you swivel the bumper bar and engage the break. 

Basket

The Mutsy Nio has a good basket, it's quite enclosed, with high sides. So you can pop all your things in there and they won't slide out while you're walking.

The Fold

The Mutsy Nio has a folding system which is quite typical for their brand. It is a two hinge system and means that the stroller is quite compact when it's folded. There's a little bonus too, because when the stroller is folded you can pull the handle out and wheel the stroller along like a trolley!

The Wheels

The Mutsy Nio has quite large wheels (front 22cm, back 28cm) and lovely suspension in the front wheels. Because of the large wheel size this is a stroller that will handle reasonably bumpy ground. As with all Mutsy Strollers, the front and back wheels are close together, what that means is when you go into little places like cafes or shops, it's quite easy to spin around in those little spaces. The wheels are foam-filled, which means they're lightweight and you'll never get a puncture.

Carry Cot

For a newborn baby you might like to add a carry cot, which is available to purchase separately. The carrycot looks so sweet on this pram! And laying flat is a really good position for new babies.

Adapters

Turn your stroller into a travel system with the addition of adapters. They're simple to snap in, and then you can click in your capsule. They'll fit a Maxi-Cosi Capsule, and several other brands (find the list here).

This is a really great option for new babies, especially in the first 12 weeks or so, when they fall asleep all the time. If bubs falls asleep in the car you don't need to disturb them, you can simply lift the capsule from the car to the stroller. It's ideal if you're just popping into the supermarket or somewhere quickly. If you were going to be out all day, for example going for a walk and then out for lunch, then we would recommend using the carry cot because baby will be lying flat, which is a better position for baby to be in for a long periods of time. But for short trips, the adapters are a great option.

Watch the Video Here

Walls

I fell in love with this wallpaper as soon as I saw it. The style is Bombora, and it's from A New Wall. I purchased it online a couple of weeks before the first lockdown in 2020. The other three walls are Resene Double Alabaster. 

Cot 

The cot is the Babyhood Lulu Cot from corporateescapade. I love the simple look of the cot, and it goes perfectly with our beachy theme. When he is older we'll be able to remove the dropside to create a toddler bed.

The Lulu Cot is also available in White.

Change Table

We decided not to get a change table, partly because I've repurposed our old one as an art and craft supplies shelf in the garage. We have the Babyhood Ultimate Change Pad which we tuck under the cot when it's not being used. I keep the nappies and wipes in the bottom of the wardrobe and I find that system is OK. I don't really miss having a change table.

Kid's Table and Chairs

This is the Oohbubs Kid's Table and Chairs, which we've flipped over to be used as a desk. It's a super handy piece of furniture, and it matches pretty nicely with the cot!

Art

I've been re-using picture frames from our last house, and I now have a stack in the garage which I pull from when I need to frame a picture. Our seven year old daughter created the Maui Dolphin artwork at school last year, perfect for this beach-themed room. The Cetacea picture is one that we used to sell at corporateescapade, but don't anymore (You can find something similar here). I took the frame to a framer and he cut a new mat so that the image could fit the slightly oddly shaped frame.

Family Photos

By coincidence, we had a family mini shoot at the beach, with The Content Catchers, and the photos look perfect here! I collected the bunny tails from the beach and attached them to the wall with some thread, a bead, and a ball of blu-tac. 

Blinds

I ordered double blinds from Budget Blinds, and we installed them ourselves. The colour of the sun shade blind is Ice White, and the blockout blind, which has a little more texture and colour, is called Matka Thermal Blockout/ Alabaster.

Still on my list

I still want to make a mobile, my seven-year-old and I were planning on doing it over the school holidays, but we only got as far as collecting a piece of driftwood and a couple of shells. I love how this one pictured, from Kids of the Wild is attached to the wall, not hanging over the cot. Maybe it will be a fun activity next school holidays. 

I enjoy making changes to all the rooms in the house, I'm always moving things from one room to another, and tinkering with this and that! Eventually I'd like to put a couple of floating shelves up in this room, but I'm super happy with it as it is, and every time I walk past Sonny's bedroom door I get a little ping of joy.

I've been thinking about first birthday baby gifts (it's just a couple of weeks away so I should get organised). After a few years working at corporateescapade, and as a mum of three, I think I know one year old's pretty well! Here's a list of things that I think the one year old you know will love. 

Solvej Baby Toddler Swing

Love the simple, hand made look of this swing! It can be used inside and out, and if there's one thing I noticed at the playground yesterday, one year olds love swinging. Made in NZ too.

Miniland Doll

It is just the cutest thing when toddlers start playing with their dolls, cuddling them, talking to them, and even putting them to bed. Miniland Dolls come in a variety of ethnicities and genders, reflecting the multicultural societies in which we live. Miniland Dolls also smell amazing!!

Djeco Multicoloured Tent

We already have one of these tents at home (though ours is a older design and different to the one available in store) and I can vouch for the fact it's played in all the time. Our almost one year old baby loves it, our toddler loves it, and I often find our seven year old in there reading! When we have children over to play they ALWAYS end up playing in the tent.   

Over The Dandelions Silicone Divided Plate

Here's a gift idea that parents will like, and one year old's are so young they won't mind getting something super practical! Silicone divided plates from Over the Dandelions, they're available in a range of colours, and we have matching bibs too! At one year old children will be starting to eat a variety of foods, not just puree, so this is the perfect age for this gift.

Le Toy Van London Bus

The London Bus is a popular toy with parents who have lived in the UK. It's a substantial size, and is so detailed, we're in love with it too.

Petite Eats Silicone Teething Ball

At one year old children will still have teeth coming through, so they'll love this as a teether, but they'll also love rolling it to you, and throwing it as a ball. The large holes in the ball make it easy for little hands to catch.

Oohbubs Kid's Table and Chairs

These are a popular gift that children can use for years. The clever design means that the table flips over to become a desk, and the chairs flip to suit different sized children. 

Little People, BIG DREAMS books

We have a huge range of these books in store. For a one year old you could select either the board books, or the hard cover books. 

 So many ideas! Happy birthday baby!!

If you're pounding the pavement on a regular basis, you might want to look at a sportier stroller, like the Edwards & Co Oscar MX, Bugaboo Fox2, or Mutsy Nio. If you prefer a gentle walk to the café for a latte then take a look at the Mutsy Nexo, or Bugaboo Lynx.

Edwards & Co Oscar MX

Where will you walk?

Choose the correct wheels and suspension for the terrain you will be walking on, for example if you walk the dog every day at the dog park, or live on a farm, or even in a suburb with cobbles, you might want to consider a three wheeled stroller like the 

Edwards & Co Oscar MX, or a stroller with larger front wheels and integrated suspension, like the Mutsy Nio. The larger wheels will give baby a smoother ride, and make pushing easier for you. At the other end of the spectrum, if you live in town and plan on walking along the footpath and the glossy floors at the mall, you might find the Mutsy Nexo more suited to your needs. 

How old is Your Baby?

For a new born baby we always recommend a bassinet, lying flat on their back is the best, safest position for baby to be in. Look for a bassinet that can be removed from the stroller and used as a day bed, which will make it easier to transfer baby from the stroller if you get home from walking and she is asleep, and is a nice familiar place for baby to sleep in when you visit friends and family.

A separate bassinet (as opposed to one that shares a frame with the stroller seat) really comes in to its own around the 6 month mark, when baby becomes more alert and is able to sit up, she may be awake and want to be sitting in a seat and looking around one day, but may be due for a sleep the next. The Mutsy Nio has the option of adding on a lovely carry cot, and Edwards & Co also make a carry cot to fit their Oscar MX.  

Mutsy Nio

How Big is Your Car? (Or How Strong Are You?)

Firstly check how small the stroller is once it's folded down, if you're worried that it won't fit into your car ask if you can try it out. It may be a matter of taking the seat off and putting it in the boot separately, or it may be that the stroller just doesn't fit, best you find out before you buy! If you'll be looking after baby on your own and using the car, check that you can lift the stroller into the boot by yourself, there are strollers out there that weigh 10kg and can be difficult for some people to lift.

Have you thought about parent facing seats?

We are big fans of parent facing seats, especially for babies under one year old. You can chat while you walk, see when baby is upset, and a parent facing seat can help ease that separation anxiety stage. Almost all of the strollers that we sell at corporateescapade have parent facing/ reversible seats.

How Much Do You Want To Spend?

Let's not beat around the bush, you probably have a budget in mind, so try to be honest with yourself and stick to it. Check what is included with the stroller, does it come with a rain cover, bumper bar, adaptors, suncover, shopping basket, canopy? When it comes time to compare strollers, it's best if you can compare apples with apples and those little extras can really add up.

Which Stroller Do You Like The Look Of?

Bugaboo Fox2

Here are some questions that our customers often ask us:

I want to go running with my baby, which stroller is best?

I want to have a second child, do you have a stroller that converts to a double?

What is better, air tyres or EVA tyres?

Firstly an explanation, air filled (or pneumatic) tyres are just like the tyres on your car or bike with an inflatable inner tube. EVA tyres are the more modern alternative and are filled with foam. Both have their advantages and disadvantages.
Air tyres absorb some of the bumps in uneven terrain, giving a cushioning effect, however if the stroller has independent suspension the EVA tyres will perform on uneven terrains almost just as well.

Some people prefer air tyres for nostalgic reasons, and we don't blame them! The drawback of air tyres is that you need to maintain them, when they are a too flat the stroller will feel heavier to push, so you'll need to pump them up with a hand pump (never at the petrol station, the pressure is too high), you also run the risk of getting a puncture and needing to take your stroller in for repair.
EVA tyres are lighter and are maintenance free. In the last few years we have seen almost all stroller manufacturers move to EVA tyres.

What sort of warranty do you offer?

Here’s what to do;

'How many years do you use a cot for?'

'When do toddlers move into beds?'

These are questions we're asked often at corporateescapade. The answer depends on a few things; your family, your child's physical capabilities, and your child's size. There's no set age, but most children will move graduate from the cot between 18 months and 3.5 years.

There are benefits to sleeping in a cot:

• Safe from falls
• Less distractions- toddlers in a cot can't get up and play with their toys when they are supposed to be going to sleep.
• Better, longer sleeps
• Safe from other hazards in their bedroom, choke hazards, fall hazards, and electrical hazards.
• Can't get up and wander around the house at night, or early in the morning.
• Promotes good sleep habits.

Reasons for moving out of a cot

Growing Family- Some families move their toddler out of the cot because there is a new baby on the way. In this case we would recommend trying to keep the toddler in the cot for as long as possible- past two years old if you can. Consider keeping the toddler in the cot until the baby has outgrown their bassinet and making the switch then. Moving into a big kid's bed, and having a new baby in the family are two HUGE transitions for your toddler, ideally they wouldn't both happen at the same time. 

Climbing out of the cot- This is a significant safety risk, we would recommend moving your toddler out of the cot if they're a climber. Cots like our Babyhood Riya Cot are good in this circumstance, as they come with a toddler rail which will prevent your toddler rolling out when they're sleeping. 

Too big- It would be unusual for children to grow out of the cots that we sell at corporateescapade, as they are a larger size they will fit most children in width and length well past three and a half years old.

Too old- This one is up to you! We think that there are loads of benefits to sleeping in the cot. When you move your little one out, be prepared for more time spent getting to sleep at night, more wake-ups during the night, and earlier mornings! Hopefully all three things won't happen for you, and I'm not trying to scare you!

Lastly, moving into a bed is a significant transition for your child. Be mindful of making the transition near other big life events, like the birth of a sibling, changing childcare centres, or moving house. I speak from experience about moving house! LOL!

 xx

Anita

Edited to add: Our three year old has decided that she doesn't want to wear a night nappy anymore. There have been quite a few accidents, but we're sticking with it because she's so keen. I'm really happy that she's still in a toddler bed and not a single bed, it is soooo much easier to change the sheet and mattress protector on a toddler bed!!

 The thing is, our children are comfortable in positions that would be uncomfortable for us. I've been prompted to write this blog post because last night I was bathing my daughters, who are aged 6, and 2. We have a bath in our house, but they prefer to bathe in a flexi bucket each, inside the shower. I noticed how scrunched up their legs were inside their buckets, and I thought 'that really doesn't look comfortable'. I'm sure if there was an adult-sized flexi bucket, I wouldn't like it at all!!

But that's my point. Children are flexible, children are comfortable in positions and places that we wouldn't find comfortable. Children lie on the couch with their bodies at funny angles, they sleep in their cots with their legs sticking out between the bars. 

Some children rear-face until they're five or six years old, at this age they have the language skills to tell us that they're uncomfortable, but it rarely happens.

When it comes to travelling in the car, we know that rear-facing car seats are a lot safer. This is because the majority of car accidents happen at the front of the car, so the child's body will continue to travel towards the front of the car after impact.

A rear-facing seat will support a child’s head, neck and spine, in a way that a forward-facing seat doesn't.

If the child is still within the weight and height limits of their rear facing car seat, and they're not complaining, we recommend to keep them facing backwards. The safety benefits of rear-facing outweigh the perceived comfort benefits of forward facing.

xx

Anita

At corporateescapade we have a team of qualified child restraint technicians. We're qualified to install your child's car seat in your car. Installation is free with every seat we sell.

Maxi-Cosi Base and Capsule Compatability Guide.