Ok so if you or someone you know has just found out they are pregnant here are some tips / facts / links and info that they need to know about all in one place. I have written this as apparently January is THE month to get a positive pregnancy test after all the Christmas celebrations.... :wink:
As soon pregnancy is confirmed, join the Boots parenting club HERE This gets you 10 x advantage card points on baby and maternity purchases until the baby reaches age 3 and they send you offers tailored to each stage of pregnancy and baby age such as FREE folic acid and vitamin D tablets, money off clothing and 25% off Mum to be products.
Sign up to Emma's diary HERE You get £200 money off vouchers for Argos, photo book offers and 3 bags full of samples and vouchers tailored to each stage of your pregnancy. Some people have suggested setting up a different email address for this and other freebies to avoid junk emails in your main email account.
You are now entitled to FREE prescriptions from now until the baby is 1 - Ask your midwife for form FW8 which gives the exemption INFO HERE
You are now entitled to FREE NHS dental treatment. Ask your midwife for form MATB this covers you until the baby is 1 INFO HERE
Join the Mothercare club and get 10% off carseats, 20% off maternity clothes, £10 off a £100 spend, £5 off a £50 spend on footwear and clothing, 20% off toys for your childs birthday and tips, milestones personalised to you child MORE INFO
You may be eligible for a £500 Sure Start maternity grant to help with the cost of a new baby. Only available if it is your first baby or you are expecting a multiple pregnancy and if you are on certain benefits and the payment will not affect your benefits. Check you eligibilty HERE
You could also qualify for Healthy Start vouchers which is £3.10 a week in pregnancy towards, fruit, veg and milk - if you are on income support, child tax credit you could qualify CHECK HERE
Check your maternity rights and look at your SMP pay projections by putting your dates and wages in the calculator. You are entitled to paid time off for antenantal appoinments and while you are off on maternity leave you also accrue holidays and are also eligible for pay rises that other employees are getting. HERE
Don't forget the Dads! Check out what he is entitled to paternity pay wise and they are also entitled to attend 2 maternity appointments as well HERE
Childcare vouchers are also a great way to save money on childcare. As soon as the baby is born, either parent or both parents can pay up to £55 a week in through their wages and you will not pay tax or NI on this so if one parent pays in the maximum of £243 a month (£55 a week) over the course of the year you will save £933 or if you both pay in you could save £1866 a year. They are deducted through salary sacrifice through your employer and can be used for any registered childcare provider or holiday club up until the child reaches 16. More info HERE
You are going to go through an AWFUL lot of nappies be it disposable or reususable - you will go through loads. Whichever method you choose you can get free samples of Aldi nappies and baby wipes to try through NetMums using this link HERE
We went down this route, having a kid to get all the free stuff on offer, but believe me, not worth it, biggest money pit I ever, 6 years later I have never had a proper nights sleep or a relaxing holiday and reduced to a barely functioning alcoholic. Oh, how I curse these deals..... :disappointed::disappointed:
Ncos
24 Jan 1711#102
1. I second ignoring most advice people choose to give you before giving birth. Listen and take it in but follow your own baby. Yours will have TOTALLY different needs and habits to anyone else. What works for someone else will not neccassarily work for you.
2. You will be a first time mum/dad snob ie only buying brand new items, branded goods etc. But once in a while try other own brand things like nappies etc. You may find some are just as good but without the price tag.
3. You don't need a top and tail containter - or a baby bath. The real thing will do.
4. You don't need the full 'travel system' when it comes to buying buggies etc. A buggy and maybe a carry cot but that's it.
5. Baby Jogger City Mini - best buggy I have ever owned. You can fold and open with one hand.
6. Your relationship will be last of all priorities. Ride it through - it does get better once you all find your own routine. Sleep deprivation is a killer but hang on in there.
7. NCT is worth doing and was invaluable for the first year for me, there were 8 of us with the same thing in common and helped each other out all the time.
8. If something doesn't 'feel' right then go with your instinct and see your doctor. Don't wait or ask other people for their opinon.
9. Organise yourself and your home as much as you can before getting heavily pregnant - by 7 months I found it very difficult to walk any more than 10 mins anywhere. I pictured my month of maternity leave that I would be out buying things and doing lots of different things, I couldn't even walk to the bathroom!
10. Gap newborn/1st year elasticated/stretchy socks were the only ones that EVER stayed ON.
There are so many more things, just thinking at the top of my head, not sure if it helps.
Have a wonderful and very happy journey to those wishing to conceive or are already pregnant.
pink_elephant
24 Jan 174#59
The best thing I did to save money was ditch Huggies & Pampers and bought Aldi's Mamia range of nappies and wipes. I was a "nappy snob" when I had my 1st child and wouldn't buy anything but Huggies but when I was pregnant with my 2nd we had to tighten the purse strings so I started using Aldi's own & I've never bought Huggies since. My little one has just gone 2 and we've saved a fortune! They last so much longer & I really can't fault them!
if you work full time and taking the year's maternity leave you still accrue your usual amount of holiday leave due to you that same year PLUS every single bank holiday you missed. eg 25 days hol plus 5 Bank holidays = 30 days owed.
Then when you do go back after maternity you will have those 30days owed to you PLUS your usual 25 on top for the upcoming year = 55days.
so depending on your company and cant afford to go part time, ask to work 4 days, eg Mon-Thurs or whatever suits you and take those 55 days for every Friday off.
it means you still get your full time salary, tell them you will do it on a trial basis to see if it works for both parties and employers mostly will oblige. just make sure you get the worke done so there is nothing they can find fault with.
doing it this way without dropping your salary if you cant finacially but only working 4 days is brilliant, makes a huge difference.
some companies may say you can only take the accrued holidays at the end of your mat leave instead.
I found all this out on my own, nobody at my company bothered informing $e that you accrue bank hols and I had these options how to use up my holiday leave. so wanted to point out.
Jonwilkie
7 Feb 17#132
Cold its going to be vestel :laughing:
matthewnunn1986
5 Feb 17#131
A girls want to get kicked the Crown Jewels. Giving birth doesn't even come close to that
FrostbiteXIII
5 Feb 171#130
It really does! I recommend the gas and air. They wouldn't let me have the Pethidine!
I mean she grips your had so frikking tight when she had those stupid contractions! :disappointed:
Too many snowflakes these days. It's out of control.
Necrotix
30 Jan 17#127
Good suggestion.
Should also try the Tesco own brand nappies - We find them absolutely amazing and better than the major brands that's for sure. These ones don't leak and the 3 packs for £10 is good value.
I think the most important tip in this entire thread is simply to trust your instincts with your baby and do what YOU think is best. I was disgusted at what women have to go through while in hospital. Completely exhausted and being told to do this and that a certain way. Don't be pressurised into breast feeding either - Your body, your baby, your rules.
jaydeeuk1
30 Jan 171#126
Don't call pregnant women, 'Mothers'. You might offend a snowflake
Agreed. my first never had one, so a 'dummy' wasn't one of my first "go to's" when number two was unhappy. It took a while for me to figure out it was a dummy she wanted. and it became a pain. she was waking every 2 hours crying after she'd dropped her dummy. I tried taking it off her (cold turkey as read it was the only way) first night was a nightmare for us all, second to fifth night: Amazing, but then it slowly started again, she wasn't happy and wanted that comfort no matter what i did, and I'm not one to deny a baby comfort, so the 2 hour waking began agai (as I couldn't bear to put her though the cold turkey again, and couldn't bear to see her so upset when the solution was there), until I found the wonder that is the ""dummy teddy", we became a happy well slept household again and have ever since.
r33mma
26 Jan 17#122
as long as you have a sick note it doesn't eat into your maternity leave. if it is pregnancy related they can make you take mat leave at 28 weeks, but I've never known that to happen I suppose it depends on induvidual companies
keveh
26 Jan 17#121
That's the only thing I'd disagree with, I'd try to not use a dummy at all (or at least only in emergencies when nothing else will do)
Zanous
26 Jan 17#120
perfect timing! have some heat!
si121
26 Jan 17#119
I could have done with this thread appearing a few months ago as my wife is 38 weeks pregnant today and we've already purchased everything we need (to our very inexperienced knowledge).
TotalAwesome
26 Jan 17#118
Heat op great thread :smile:
check out the below they are tried and tested :smile:
Excellent range of advise for mum as well as dad. Very well put together. <3
cainer1
25 Jan 17#116
just remembered to add some Durex to my shopping list
ReflexReact
25 Jan 17#115
Childcare allowance is changing this year - you should definitely add that at the top. You won't be able to register for the existing tax efficient scheme past a certain date, so my advice would be to get onto that scheme NOW before it closes for new entrants.
daskapital
25 Jan 17#114
>Don't forget the Dads! Check out what he is entitled to paternity pay wise and they are also entitled to attend 2 maternity appointments as wel
We have shared paternity now too. So you can share the time the mother gets off if she's the breadwinner it might make sense.
Spakkle
25 Jan 172#113
My advice - relax and enjoy it. it doesn't last long (always remember that when you've had 6 hours sleep in 4 days). "This too shall pass..." was my mantra. I had 2 under 2.
The people who said "don't buy everything the corps tell you to..." I do disagree slightly here [except where the price comes in sometimes, someone tell me why a Bugaboo pushchair can cost £1,000+!, does it have diamonds in the wheels?) , in fact, I genuinely sometimes question how mums did it without a full scale breakdown (ha) back in the day before [most of] these fantastic gadgets that actually help - shoot me but by this I mean things like the perfect prep machine [used correctly], our 2nd didn't have to scream inconsolably for half an hour every 4 hours when hungry like the first, which makes life seem incredible compared.
Our travel system was a life saver (Joie £129.99), lasted for both children, I also bought the car seat base a few weeks later (<£50) so i didn't have to worry it was belted in correctly each time, I didn't have to lift either baby out of car seat waking her, nor worry about what the toddler was doing whilst strapping the baby in etc it simply clicks in and out. A life saver!
High chairs that clip to the actual table (circa £35) that fold away small in a bag so portable, baby is actually at the table with you, great space saver, and they still sit in them now.
Baby baths that fold down flat.
Do try all the nappy brands (dont be a brand snob, unless you can afford it). I sure did, and you'll be surprised over the ones you actually prefer. I did use pampers for the very first few weeks with both, but then went straight to my favorite after trying them all. The same with baby wipes. [though I will say don't bother with Huggies, unless you want a fight with the packet when dealing with a poo explosion] I prefer Asda's own brand (thicker and softer than any I've tried) and asdas Supreme Protection Nappies, I do like Ocados own brand nappies too, but Asda Supreme protection win hands down for me.
Don't spend £100+ on a video baby monitor. just get an ip camera (like the Motorola Hubble (around £39 ish). it just uses your phone, one less thing to charge, or find the batteries flat, works on your internet, and on mobile so you can access the camera even when you are not home., it also send you push notifications if sound/movement is detected. I would get a basic cheap audio one too, for when internet isn't available (holiday, or internet goes down).
3-4 months in - Get a dummy teddy! wow! type that in amazon and buy it. Don't think just buy it. itll be the best tenner you'll spend until they're 3 years old.
When they're 3... Groclock. Don't think just buy. it will then be the best £20 you've ever spent - my 3 year old & 1yr old went in their own room late Dec and stays in her room till 7.15 after explaining the clock and making her promise to come and wake me when she sees Mr. Sunshine. She lets her sister out of her cot and comes bursting through the door, I've never, ever, ever had so much sleep). She still wakes at 5am but happily just plays, waiting for Mr. Sunshine
I guess what I'm saying is look at these things, don't buy straight away, just add them to a list and think about whether they would actually get used, then buy if you think its worth it.
dark_shadow
25 Jan 17#112
Thanks, this will be really useful for ours due in a few months! Please keep up the comments and suggestions, incredibly useful for first time parents
dr_raff
25 Jan 171#111
Don't forget about this handy booklet, free at your local doctors office
emribena
25 Jan 17#110
Congratulations! The official advice is to take it up until 12 weeks for the babies spine development and if you haven't already been taking it to start taking it now - link to NHS advice HERE
Gollywood
25 Jan 171#109
As a budding photograph, I am happy to take photos of you as glide through your pregnancy. Something, you & your child will cherish forever.
Here's some of my portfolio. I can be PM'd if you would like to arrange a photoshoot...
Remember, PM me....
zombrex
25 Jan 17#108
Just found out her indoors is now with baby (7 weeks) , still waiting on appointment with midwife so the folic acid is it upto 12 weeks or is it full term? the thread has conflicting info.
last child now 8 years old, she couldn't keep folic acid down used to suffer really bad sickness so was told to stick to broccoli peas etc.
Yes i'm still **** myself despite going through it all at the age of 19 previoisly but really excited :laughing:
boyband
24 Jan 17#107
If you have Aviva health insurance (I do through work), you also get a cheque for £100 just for having a child. Just ring them up and they post it out. Deadly serious!
Nujol
24 Jan 17#106
You are saying that everything I have said, from 2nd hand clothes for free, through baby carriers and to nappies, and so on, is utter nonsense??
Happy for you to visit my beautiful, amazing 3 and 6yo kids who are thriving, having followed what I said.
New babies is one of the biggest cons out there where corporations convince people they need to spend £000s on new stuff which they either don't need or is unnecessary.
Look forward to you making any sort of meaningful contribution to the thread, Troll.
bikerclaire
24 Jan 17#105
Yes! I've now got loads of baby oil that's been given for free in baby packs etc. but was told at local free baby massage class that vegetable oil is best and contails beneficial compounds whereas baby oil actually dries skin out more in the long run.
bikerclaire
24 Jan 17#104
RE the dental fillings - I'm having root canal and was offered resin or gold cap free on NHS but if I wanted ceramic (recommended by the dentist) it would cost £500. I chose resin. :wink:
I'd add to general thread that our LO didn't take to the moses basket at all, and talking to others I've heard the same over and over. We ended up with a snuzpod (attaches right onto the side of your bed) and it's been amazing, would recommend but are £200. Chico next to me are a bit cheaper and there are loads of 2nds on ebay.
Nujol
24 Jan 17#103
What on earth do you mean by that??? Just passing on the wisdom from having two kids now 6 and 3. The main advice being that corporations try to convince new parents to spend £000s on totally unnecessary new stuff when barely-used everything can be got for free.
Fully agree with the comment someone made about travel systems etc. Car seat needed of course but none of the other nonsense like buggies prams etc.
Ncos
24 Jan 1711#102
1. I second ignoring most advice people choose to give you before giving birth. Listen and take it in but follow your own baby. Yours will have TOTALLY different needs and habits to anyone else. What works for someone else will not neccassarily work for you.
2. You will be a first time mum/dad snob ie only buying brand new items, branded goods etc. But once in a while try other own brand things like nappies etc. You may find some are just as good but without the price tag.
3. You don't need a top and tail containter - or a baby bath. The real thing will do.
4. You don't need the full 'travel system' when it comes to buying buggies etc. A buggy and maybe a carry cot but that's it.
5. Baby Jogger City Mini - best buggy I have ever owned. You can fold and open with one hand.
6. Your relationship will be last of all priorities. Ride it through - it does get better once you all find your own routine. Sleep deprivation is a killer but hang on in there.
7. NCT is worth doing and was invaluable for the first year for me, there were 8 of us with the same thing in common and helped each other out all the time.
8. If something doesn't 'feel' right then go with your instinct and see your doctor. Don't wait or ask other people for their opinon.
9. Organise yourself and your home as much as you can before getting heavily pregnant - by 7 months I found it very difficult to walk any more than 10 mins anywhere. I pictured my month of maternity leave that I would be out buying things and doing lots of different things, I couldn't even walk to the bathroom!
10. Gap newborn/1st year elasticated/stretchy socks were the only ones that EVER stayed ON.
There are so many more things, just thinking at the top of my head, not sure if it helps.
Have a wonderful and very happy journey to those wishing to conceive or are already pregnant.
gr8t1
24 Jan 17#101
Have I somehow managed to land on mumsnet?
OMG we've been infiltrated.
MrPuddington
24 Jan 17#100
Most of the free stuff is useless, and trying to get you hooked on overpriced or harmful products (such as Johnson's stuff - it all contains perfumes that can irritate sensitive skin).
Better: ignore most advice you are given.
Find an affordable supply for the basics.
Use second hand items to keep the initial expense down.
Monkeyface
24 Jan 17#99
@oscarkeri Dads are really 2nd class citizens in the whole baby game sadly. If we're self employed we don't even get any sort of time off unless we go without pay and you'll see when it comes to the actual birth hospitals most hospitals don't even let us drink the tea or stay with the baby overnight, its just like "bye, you're not part of this any more". :P
One thing is for sure though - don't let the world tell you what to do. The first couple of weeks are pretty much 24/7 intensive care and its really stressful and hardcore. Imagine you've got to do 30 school exams in 1 week and half of them are in the middle of the night - its that kind of intense. Mothers shouldn't have to go through that alone, its really a 2 parent job. Figure out a way to get the time off somehow.
oscarkeri
24 Jan 17#98
well that's fun! Now I have realised I'm not entitled to paternity pay as father or are we entitled the the £500 grant. Can't afford to be off work so guess I'm not off at all!!! Baby born, straight into work.
Scorpion
24 Jan 17#97
Also worth noting for those who are having trouble conceiving is that NHS Clinical Commissioning Groups are tightening up on the eligibility criteria (e.g. age ranges they'll accept/number of cycles) for IVF treatment. As funding for the NHS is decreasing this is the kind of thing they're likely to cut further.
dizzer
24 Jan 171#96
I would also highly recommend Sears and Sears, The Baby Book. I great reference for any parent that wishes to practice attachment parenting. Our copy has been through four family members and it is so useful.
@ OP: Worth adding that things like vitamin supplements for kids can be got from health visitors FOC (IIRC!). Also worth adding something about preparing your finances before starting a family, it's irresponsible to bring kids into the world if you can't afford to provide for them.
tonyspoons
24 Jan 17#94
The advice about cod liver oil is correct; I didn't realise that 'seven seas trying for a baby' was a product name due to how it was written and incorrectly assumed that you were referring to cod liver oil, the product that Seven Seas are most widely associated with.
Yes, you are correct regarding Folic Acid; however, there are often unbranded versions of these conception support products that are cheaper and produce the same effect.
(also updated my first post for clarification)
superpanda
24 Jan 17#93
Too many brats in the world already.
Qazar
24 Jan 17#92
Hot from me, but i dont think boots give the change bag anymore :disappointed:
but there are also lots of private/voluntary agencies that can arrange adoptions
AlpineMeadows
24 Jan 17#87
Interested in the trip to Canada and the beer? How can I get this? First baby is due in June!
alexlea88
24 Jan 171#86
Brilliant stuff. Keep the advice coming people, almost at the 29 week scan!
sparklehedgehog
24 Jan 171#85
You're scary and should be monitored
kimhowgill
24 Jan 17#84
yep they still offer them, I was offered one for Feb, but I'd rather pay for white.
jaypee24
24 Jan 17#83
*YAWN*
Donna25
24 Jan 17#82
Really? Didn't know that ...
Good thread OP for those first time mums out there
asiot
24 Jan 17#81
can you still even get them black fillings? i pay for dental treatment but just the standard NHS charge and white fillings have been standard at my dentist for a good number years now they done away with black ones completely
Caroline_1993
24 Jan 17#80
Sorry but your wrong - seven seas trying for a baby is folic acid.
OMG I can't get the Star Wars scene out of my head now.... I am your father
bigbak
24 Jan 172#75
Create an email address for them when they're born and email them your thoughts and pictures.
When they're old enough to appreciate it, give them access so they can read it all.
Not that I've had time to do this though.
tonyspoons
24 Jan 17#74
For clarification of all: the product is "Seven Seas - Trying for a Baby".
Seven Seas' most famous product, Cod Liver Oil, should be avoided when conceiving and while pregnant.
I ddnt say i know her background i gave advise that worked for me
amzzzzyyyy
24 Jan 17#72
Nowonder i get loads of calls telling me about an accident i never had as i dont even drive lmao i just block them
ssc1
24 Jan 17#71
saved deal when the time comes.
amzzzzyyyy
24 Jan 172#70
Yes but bringing them up with good upbringing is difficult
cgap
24 Jan 171#69
For cheap nappy offers use: http://www.bumdeal.co.uk/ - they have an app too. You choose the size and brand and they show show you current prices in all the major supermarkets. Has saved us a lot over the last 2 years!
Nujol
24 Jan 17#68
Wow.... good idea for a thread...
To cut a long story short, my advice is...
You do not need to buy new almost anything that your are told by the corporations you have to buy. From birth - following all the usual safety advice - baby can sleep on Mum's chest or thereabouts. A sturdy box is also fine. Moses baskets etc a waste of time as are cots, cot beds, toddler beds etc.
Clothes just ask around, anyone with young children will have hand me downs you can have. Never need to buy any for a baby. Nappies I would use reusable some of the time and disposable when needed for convenience.
Pram certainly not needed (get a good carrier), buggy maybe but we've had success going from carrier to walking / balance bike.
Basically if mothercare etc state that it's essential it probably isn't!
Sudacrem a must!!
AT1
24 Jan 171#67
Or try washable nappies, good tips on https://www.thenappylady.co.uk/. We have been using bumgenius for 1 year now and they are great.
dannyjones106
24 Jan 17#66
cold - not 10bit.
Velete
24 Jan 17#65
If HUKD is your hub of parenting then yo is doing it wrong :smile:
(should pay the rest of us NOT to have kids instead of free stuff for kids lol)
^_^
kimhowgill
24 Jan 17#64
if its white, she needs to be a bit more specific! she said they don't do fillings, when they do.
beeb123
24 Jan 171#63
I've been at it all night since I read this thread! Off to get a pregnancy test now... wish me luck! :smiley:
edyotic
24 Jan 17#62
I wish someone told me this when I was pregnant! Good job!
Mentos
24 Jan 17#61
Perhaps she was having white fillings? I know all standard care was covered for my wife, but elective options such as white fillings weren't. Also she ended up switching dentist as she got the distinct impression her previous Dentists attitude had changed a little. All of a sudden he wanted to wait and see what happened, where in a similar case previously he was eager to resolve the issue.
debadwolff
24 Jan 17#60
A good idea is to set up a new email account especially for when signing up for all these freebies. I loved all the freebies given by all the companies but the amount of spam emails was insane!
Also unfortunately if Gd forbid you lose the pregnancy then trying to stop receiving emails is basically impossible and can be a hurtful reminder.
pink_elephant
24 Jan 174#59
The best thing I did to save money was ditch Huggies & Pampers and bought Aldi's Mamia range of nappies and wipes. I was a "nappy snob" when I had my 1st child and wouldn't buy anything but Huggies but when I was pregnant with my 2nd we had to tighten the purse strings so I started using Aldi's own & I've never bought Huggies since. My little one has just gone 2 and we've saved a fortune! They last so much longer & I really can't fault them!
pink_elephant
24 Jan 17#58
Best of luck!!! :confused::smile:
kimhowgill
24 Jan 17#57
yes it does, I'm on maternity leave at the minute and I'm having a filling in Feb.
kimhowgill
24 Jan 17#56
how can you give advice like its that simple? that's quite naive! you don't know her back ground!
sparklehedgehog
24 Jan 17#55
Be aware the dental treatment doesn't include the cost of fillings! Proper scam that is
Athravan
24 Jan 171#54
Thanks for the deals, 7 months pregnant so pretty useful right now :smile:
chadders06
24 Jan 171#53
Even if they don't you can request the Doctor signs you off! My wife couldn't but the Docs signed her off. After 3 rounds this was finally the one that worked. Its important to take that time IMO.
Suggs84
24 Jan 17#52
This isn't a deal
ag248
24 Jan 17#51
thanks
gazEE
24 Jan 17#50
I use a separate email for Emma's diary. Also my maiden name so any post in that name goes in the bin.
adnan1002
24 Jan 17#49
Thanks op for the information really appreciated
iamdes
24 Jan 17#48
Any tips on a cheaper baby? The last one cost a trip to Canada and a lots of beer...
p-e-t-e
24 Jan 174#47
Best Tip I was ever given.....
Never be quiet around your baby, never turn any volume down, just act as you would without the baby.
Neither of my boys were ever woken by a phone ringing/visitors/TV etc...they slept like logs and still do 20+ years later
Caroline_1993
24 Jan 17#46
Make duplicate email accounts for emmas diary. Ones your not going to use again.
Print off the vouchers, head to different argos, boots stores.
means the sure start maternity grant we'll get for every subsequent baby as there is multiples in the family :wink:
MrsRedHead
24 Jan 17#44
And worth pointing out that you have to apply for tax credits based on your previous income (which may be too high to benefit) but then they contact you and you give them a projection for your income this year. Especially useful if you are no longer working this year after baby.
DontRun
23 Jan 173#43
Mothercare have a baby event coming up in February. You have to sit and listen to a talk on car seats and pushchair but get 10% everything in store of attending. We did this back in October saving of loads on an Icandy Twin.
Twins due in 6 days!
AVOID EMMA'S DIARY !!! I have never had anything free off them, just cerca 200 phone calls where they sell details to 3rd party. One particular was an insurance company that actually told me it was emmas diary that had given them my details.
Bounty packs are good considering they are free and other than the odd email i have never had hassle. We did have the photoshoot in hispital but they are expensive and don't tell you prices until after taking the photos. We declined to buy any but was sent some free small prints 6 months on so that worked out okay in the end.
Sainsburys sales are ace for baby clothes as they are good quality and always at least half price in the sales. Can usually pick up packs of 3 leggigs for £3 and tops for £1.25 each when the sale is on. Same with mothercarw if you get the typical vouchers... buy the bigger sized, out of season, sale stuff, with vouchers to make them go further. In June i paid £7 for a snowsuit that should have been £27 amongst other things. Has come in handy this week!
chemeng
23 Jan 172#41
'' Pregnancy and baby Megathread - all the things you need to do and know ''
Does it tell you who the father is???
gaijintendo
23 Jan 17#40
I did a bunch of the bounty box stuff for the last kid, and am now not as keen to sell my child's info to marketers. Not sure why I changed my feelings on free stuff.
Mentos
23 Jan 17#39
WRT child tax credit bare in mind they will only backdate by a month. Therefore even if you may be over the household salary limit, it may be worth applying anyway and repaying it.
This was the advice of my accountant and since I file a self return every year anyway it had little impact on me. But it is worth considering for anyone else who's household income may vary (for example Mrs may decide to take longer maternity leave, you may not be on fixed hours, commission related pay, etc).
boostii
23 Jan 172#38
Back in the day, Gordon Brown would chuck you a cold hard £500, no grubbing around after discount vouchers for us, we went straight out and bought a free bugaboo :man:
1on4
23 Jan 17#37
I'm such a misery guts :disappointed: When I saw this thread my first reaction was to suggest links to The Miscarriage Association and SANDS.
DonkeyKonk
23 Jan 173#36
Any single pregnant ladies out there want to share their maternity / paternity leave with me ?
nazzurro19
23 Jan 171#35
The £200 pounds worth of vouchers is only on certain products and more of a gimmick for example £5 off a tommy tippee machine
luckyf
23 Jan 17#34
Sign up to hip baby club for baby weaning freebies & samples
M0nk3h
23 Jan 173#7
Now if only I could get pregnant :disappointed:
amzzzzyyyy to M0nk3h
23 Jan 173#9
Have pregnacare conception tablets for some months and check when you are mostly ovulated ( there is a calender online for this you type last period etc) good luck
jellybeans12 to M0nk3h
23 Jan 17#25
Speak to your doctor if you've been trying for a year or thereabouts, so they can start ball rolling for any investigations that may be necessary
All the very, very best
Caroline_1993 to M0nk3h
23 Jan 17#33
Try seven seas trying for a baby, cant recommend these highly enough. One tablet a day.
Caroline_1993
23 Jan 17#32
Also point out that mums can share their maternity with dads, either both together (but only one will recieve payment) or mum goes back to work early dad can take some paid time off.
When they give you many, many little brochure/magazines about parenting and babies - flick through them (rather than just chucking them!). There's tons of money off vouchers (like £5 off a £15 baby clothing spend in Tescos etc) and free baby food later on. Agree with OP - worth doing Boots, Emmas Diary and Bounty packs as you do get a few nappies, wipes, mini Johnsons products and mini trial versions of nappy creams etc. Sometimes a branded towel, baby socks, spoon or food packs later on.
Only other piece of advice I would give is - if your soles of your feet itch or palms of your hands itch in late pregnancy get your bloods checked for OC (Obstetric Choleostasis) - not a lot is generally known about this as it's a fairly recent find, but it's really, really important even if you only have a morning of itching (as I did). Happy ending for me but isn't always. Worth knowing about.
Oneday77
23 Jan 17#30
Don't for get NCT and Jack and Jill sales. Why buy New when barely used goes for pennies second hand.
matthewnunn1986
23 Jan 17#29
Giving birth hurts
boostii
23 Jan 1719#28
We went down this route, having a kid to get all the free stuff on offer, but believe me, not worth it, biggest money pit I ever, 6 years later I have never had a proper nights sleep or a relaxing holiday and reduced to a barely functioning alcoholic. Oh, how I curse these deals..... :disappointed::disappointed:
m1cr4
23 Jan 17#27
thanjs
Coffee100
23 Jan 17#21
What happens if u get sick during mat leave? My mate has fractured both her legs and is 4 months into mat leave!
Not to do with pregnancy but don't forget about marriage tax....
Are you married or in a civil partnership? If so you may be entitled to a £432 tax break called the marriage tax allowance. Yet 3.1 million of the 4.2 million eligible couples are still missing out. It's free money, so worth checking.
.
They still do that thing where you get some freebee packs? But the people come and try to take pictures and charge stupid prices as the mum is laid up in bed looking awful.. lol
Aldi, asda, & tesco baby event now on, great time to stock up on essentials like nappies etc
elche286
23 Jan 17#20
great info. May be worth pointing out that (from memory) the law uses the word 'reasonable' in relation to paid time off for ante-natal appointments for the mother. This is most likely relevant where an employee works part time yet appointments always seem to fall in working hours - of course this could the only time the maternity department has available in which case it would be fine.
Fathers of babies born now may also be entitled to shared parental leave which could be particularly useful if the fathers employer pays enhanced ShPL pay and the mother was not planning on returning to work.
brooky_agn
23 Jan 171#19
Pregnacare is a massive expensive con. Just eat well and take folic acid. Save the money to buy daddy beers.
casanova2020
23 Jan 171#18
Informative, Well done!!
magicmagicj
23 Jan 171#17
EMMA'S DIARY ABSOLUTELY SPAMS THE HELL OUT OF YOU. it's a massive con
everything else on this thread is great. well done !
BerlinBear
23 Jan 17#16
Nice one thanks for putting it all together, have some heat :smiley:
frozenreyn
23 Jan 17#15
*accrue
joetootell
23 Jan 17#14
Having kids is easy.
mumba
23 Jan 174#13
Just in case anyone is contemplating / are already going through Ivf treatment....check with your employer as most (of the bigger) companies allow an additional 2 weeks paid time off at embryo transfer time...to give it the best chance :smiley: ....
Roofi
23 Jan 174#12
I know you would all come to know about the do's and do nots but i still feel that i should tell you that you should pay every bit of attention to the movements of the baby. Never ignore the baby not being as active as he usually is.
Always follow your instincts and do not shy away from calling the hospital straight away. It is always better to be safe than sorry. If at all any of you have any questions please feel free to ask.
samzam
23 Jan 171#11
Great bit of info for all parent to bes.
Roofi
23 Jan 172#10
And the most important of all the things, please do not stop taking folic acid till your delivery. Better to take pregnacare because it has all you need during your pregnancy.
Good luck.
taker920
23 Jan 174#8
Best info I was given - don't buy the things everyone else tells you that you need, work it out for yourself as every baby is different
K0YS
23 Jan 173#6
Surely this should be in misc
Sassy05
23 Jan 172#5
Also TAMBA club if you have a multiple pregnancy like me! Twins!
![Fresh Breakfast Meat Box (Using code) @ Campbells Meat [Haggis / Lorne Sausage / Bacon / Black Pudding & More]](/images/topics/208684_1.jpg)
![[Xbox One] Q. u. b. e: Director's Cut on Deals with Gold](/images/topics/208716_1.jpg)
Opening post
As soon pregnancy is confirmed, join the Boots parenting club HERE This gets you 10 x advantage card points on baby and maternity purchases until the baby reaches age 3 and they send you offers tailored to each stage of pregnancy and baby age such as FREE folic acid and vitamin D tablets, money off clothing and 25% off Mum to be products.
Sign up to Emma's diary HERE You get £200 money off vouchers for Argos, photo book offers and 3 bags full of samples and vouchers tailored to each stage of your pregnancy. Some people have suggested setting up a different email address for this and other freebies to avoid junk emails in your main email account.
You are now entitled to FREE prescriptions from now until the baby is 1 - Ask your midwife for form FW8 which gives the exemption INFO HERE
You are now entitled to FREE NHS dental treatment. Ask your midwife for form MATB this covers you until the baby is 1 INFO HERE
Join the Mothercare club and get 10% off carseats, 20% off maternity clothes, £10 off a £100 spend, £5 off a £50 spend on footwear and clothing, 20% off toys for your childs birthday and tips, milestones personalised to you child MORE INFO
You may be eligible for a £500 Sure Start maternity grant to help with the cost of a new baby. Only available if it is your first baby or you are expecting a multiple pregnancy and if you are on certain benefits and the payment will not affect your benefits. Check you eligibilty HERE
You could also qualify for Healthy Start vouchers which is £3.10 a week in pregnancy towards, fruit, veg and milk - if you are on income support, child tax credit you could qualify CHECK HERE
Check your maternity rights and look at your SMP pay projections by putting your dates and wages in the calculator. You are entitled to paid time off for antenantal appoinments and while you are off on maternity leave you also accrue holidays and are also eligible for pay rises that other employees are getting. HERE
Don't forget the Dads! Check out what he is entitled to paternity pay wise and they are also entitled to attend 2 maternity appointments as well HERE
Childcare vouchers are also a great way to save money on childcare. As soon as the baby is born, either parent or both parents can pay up to £55 a week in through their wages and you will not pay tax or NI on this so if one parent pays in the maximum of £243 a month (£55 a week) over the course of the year you will save £933 or if you both pay in you could save £1866 a year. They are deducted through salary sacrifice through your employer and can be used for any registered childcare provider or holiday club up until the child reaches 16. More info HERE
You are going to go through an AWFUL lot of nappies be it disposable or reususable - you will go through loads. Whichever method you choose you can get free samples of Aldi nappies and baby wipes to try through NetMums using this link HERE
Top comments
2. You will be a first time mum/dad snob ie only buying brand new items, branded goods etc. But once in a while try other own brand things like nappies etc. You may find some are just as good but without the price tag.
3. You don't need a top and tail containter - or a baby bath. The real thing will do.
4. You don't need the full 'travel system' when it comes to buying buggies etc. A buggy and maybe a carry cot but that's it.
5. Baby Jogger City Mini - best buggy I have ever owned. You can fold and open with one hand.
6. Your relationship will be last of all priorities. Ride it through - it does get better once you all find your own routine. Sleep deprivation is a killer but hang on in there.
7. NCT is worth doing and was invaluable for the first year for me, there were 8 of us with the same thing in common and helped each other out all the time.
8. If something doesn't 'feel' right then go with your instinct and see your doctor. Don't wait or ask other people for their opinon.
9. Organise yourself and your home as much as you can before getting heavily pregnant - by 7 months I found it very difficult to walk any more than 10 mins anywhere. I pictured my month of maternity leave that I would be out buying things and doing lots of different things, I couldn't even walk to the bathroom!
10. Gap newborn/1st year elasticated/stretchy socks were the only ones that EVER stayed ON.
There are so many more things, just thinking at the top of my head, not sure if it helps.
Have a wonderful and very happy journey to those wishing to conceive or are already pregnant.
Latest comments (134)
Then when you do go back after maternity you will have those 30days owed to you PLUS your usual 25 on top for the upcoming year = 55days.
so depending on your company and cant afford to go part time, ask to work 4 days, eg Mon-Thurs or whatever suits you and take those 55 days for every Friday off.
it means you still get your full time salary, tell them you will do it on a trial basis to see if it works for both parties and employers mostly will oblige. just make sure you get the worke done so there is nothing they can find fault with.
doing it this way without dropping your salary if you cant finacially but only working 4 days is brilliant, makes a huge difference.
some companies may say you can only take the accrued holidays at the end of your mat leave instead.
I found all this out on my own, nobody at my company bothered informing $e that you accrue bank hols and I had these options how to use up my holiday leave. so wanted to point out.
I mean she grips your had so frikking tight when she had those stupid contractions! :disappointed:
Sadly the NHS does not offer it & will cost £35.
http://gbss.org.uk/information-and-support/about-gbs/what-is-gbs/for-pregnant-women/
Should also try the Tesco own brand nappies - We find them absolutely amazing and better than the major brands that's for sure. These ones don't leak and the 3 packs for £10 is good value.
I think the most important tip in this entire thread is simply to trust your instincts with your baby and do what YOU think is best. I was disgusted at what women have to go through while in hospital. Completely exhausted and being told to do this and that a certain way. Don't be pressurised into breast feeding either - Your body, your baby, your rules.
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/uknews/doctors-told-not-to-call-pregnant-women-mothers-over-fears-they-might-offend-transgender-people/ar-AAmmPVw
check out the below they are tried and tested :smile:
https://www.borngifted.co.uk/baby-gifts/resource/Free-Baby-Stuff
https://www.cgbabyclub.co.uk/register
http://www.pampers.co.uk/offers-pages/samples-on-demand
http://www.toysrus.co.uk/babiesrus/content/motherbabyclub?ab=BRU_Global:FooterBox5:MotherBabyClub
https://www.hipp.co.uk/hipp-baby-club/
https://www3.sainsburys.co.uk/littleones/index.html
http://www.heinzbaby.co.uk/babyclub/login.aspx?returnUrl=%2Fbabyclub
Now the below I dont know if any Good, or just a con to Spam your inbox??? just came up on a simple google search for baby freebies uk
http://www.latestfreestuff.co.uk/free-baby-stuff/
http://www.wowfreestuff.co.uk/free-baby-stuff/
https://www.magicfreebiesuk.co.uk/free-stuff/s/free-baby-samples-and-baby-stuff
Hope everyone is Well xx
We have shared paternity now too. So you can share the time the mother gets off if she's the breadwinner it might make sense.
The people who said "don't buy everything the corps tell you to..." I do disagree slightly here [except where the price comes in sometimes, someone tell me why a Bugaboo pushchair can cost £1,000+!, does it have diamonds in the wheels?) , in fact, I genuinely sometimes question how mums did it without a full scale breakdown (ha) back in the day before [most of] these fantastic gadgets that actually help - shoot me but by this I mean things like the perfect prep machine [used correctly], our 2nd didn't have to scream inconsolably for half an hour every 4 hours when hungry like the first, which makes life seem incredible compared.
Our travel system was a life saver (Joie £129.99), lasted for both children, I also bought the car seat base a few weeks later (<£50) so i didn't have to worry it was belted in correctly each time, I didn't have to lift either baby out of car seat waking her, nor worry about what the toddler was doing whilst strapping the baby in etc it simply clicks in and out.
A life saver!
High chairs that clip to the actual table (circa £35) that fold away small in a bag so portable, baby is actually at the table with you, great space saver, and they still sit in them now.
Baby baths that fold down flat.
Do try all the nappy brands (dont be a brand snob, unless you can afford it). I sure did, and you'll be surprised over the ones you actually prefer. I did use pampers for the very first few weeks with both, but then went straight to my favorite after trying them all. The same with baby wipes. [though I will say don't bother with Huggies, unless you want a fight with the packet when dealing with a poo explosion] I prefer Asda's own brand (thicker and softer than any I've tried) and asdas Supreme Protection Nappies, I do like Ocados own brand nappies too, but Asda Supreme protection win hands down for me.
Don't spend £100+ on a video baby monitor. just get an ip camera (like the Motorola Hubble (around £39 ish). it just uses your phone, one less thing to charge, or find the batteries flat, works on your internet, and on mobile so you can access the camera even when you are not home., it also send you push notifications if sound/movement is detected. I would get a basic cheap audio one too, for when internet isn't available (holiday, or internet goes down).
3-4 months in - Get a dummy teddy! wow! type that in amazon and buy it. Don't think just buy it. itll be the best tenner you'll spend until they're 3 years old.
When they're 3... Groclock. Don't think just buy. it will then be the best £20 you've ever spent - my 3 year old & 1yr old went in their own room late Dec and stays in her room till 7.15 after explaining the clock and making her promise to come and wake me when she sees Mr. Sunshine. She lets her sister out of her cot and comes bursting through the door, I've never, ever, ever had so much sleep). She still wakes at 5am but happily just plays, waiting for Mr. Sunshine
I guess what I'm saying is look at these things, don't buy straight away, just add them to a list and think about whether they would actually get used, then buy if you think its worth it.
Here's some of my portfolio. I can be PM'd if you would like to arrange a photoshoot...
Remember, PM me....
last child now 8 years old, she couldn't keep folic acid down used to suffer really bad sickness so was told to stick to broccoli peas etc.
Yes i'm still **** myself despite going through it all at the age of 19 previoisly but really excited :laughing:
Happy for you to visit my beautiful, amazing 3 and 6yo kids who are thriving, having followed what I said.
New babies is one of the biggest cons out there where corporations convince people they need to spend £000s on new stuff which they either don't need or is unnecessary.
Look forward to you making any sort of meaningful contribution to the thread, Troll.
I'd add to general thread that our LO didn't take to the moses basket at all, and talking to others I've heard the same over and over. We ended up with a snuzpod (attaches right onto the side of your bed) and it's been amazing, would recommend but are £200. Chico next to me are a bit cheaper and there are loads of 2nds on ebay.
Fully agree with the comment someone made about travel systems etc. Car seat needed of course but none of the other nonsense like buggies prams etc.
2. You will be a first time mum/dad snob ie only buying brand new items, branded goods etc. But once in a while try other own brand things like nappies etc. You may find some are just as good but without the price tag.
3. You don't need a top and tail containter - or a baby bath. The real thing will do.
4. You don't need the full 'travel system' when it comes to buying buggies etc. A buggy and maybe a carry cot but that's it.
5. Baby Jogger City Mini - best buggy I have ever owned. You can fold and open with one hand.
6. Your relationship will be last of all priorities. Ride it through - it does get better once you all find your own routine. Sleep deprivation is a killer but hang on in there.
7. NCT is worth doing and was invaluable for the first year for me, there were 8 of us with the same thing in common and helped each other out all the time.
8. If something doesn't 'feel' right then go with your instinct and see your doctor. Don't wait or ask other people for their opinon.
9. Organise yourself and your home as much as you can before getting heavily pregnant - by 7 months I found it very difficult to walk any more than 10 mins anywhere. I pictured my month of maternity leave that I would be out buying things and doing lots of different things, I couldn't even walk to the bathroom!
10. Gap newborn/1st year elasticated/stretchy socks were the only ones that EVER stayed ON.
There are so many more things, just thinking at the top of my head, not sure if it helps.
Have a wonderful and very happy journey to those wishing to conceive or are already pregnant.
OMG we've been infiltrated.
Better: ignore most advice you are given.
Find an affordable supply for the basics.
Use second hand items to keep the initial expense down.
One thing is for sure though - don't let the world tell you what to do. The first couple of weeks are pretty much 24/7 intensive care and its really stressful and hardcore. Imagine you've got to do 30 school exams in 1 week and half of them are in the middle of the night - its that kind of intense. Mothers shouldn't have to go through that alone, its really a 2 parent job. Figure out a way to get the time off somehow.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/d/Books/Baby-Book-Revised-Everything-Parenting/0316198269
@ OP: Worth adding that things like vitamin supplements for kids can be got from health visitors FOC (IIRC!). Also worth adding something about preparing your finances before starting a family, it's irresponsible to bring kids into the world if you can't afford to provide for them.
Yes, you are correct regarding Folic Acid; however, there are often unbranded versions of these conception support products that are cheaper and produce the same effect.
(also updated my first post for clarification)
Your local council will have lots of information and events: https://www.gov.uk/apply-to-adopt-child-through-council
but there are also lots of private/voluntary agencies that can arrange adoptions
Good thread OP for those first time mums out there
https://www.weldricks.co.uk/products/seven-seas-trying-for-a-baby-pack-of-28?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=GoogleShop%22&gclid=CJGatuTj2tECFcEp0wod0LMH8Q
All you 'Now' need to know if you missed this
http://www.hotukdeals.com/deals/durex-pleasure-ultra-thin-extra-safe-pack-6-condoms-for-1-25-boots-2593493
When they're old enough to appreciate it, give them access so they can read it all.
Not that I've had time to do this though.
Seven Seas' most famous product, Cod Liver Oil, should be avoided when conceiving and while pregnant.
http://www.nhs.uk/chq/Pages/1757.aspx?CategoryID=54&
To cut a long story short, my advice is...
You do not need to buy new almost anything that your are told by the corporations you have to buy. From birth - following all the usual safety advice - baby can sleep on Mum's chest or thereabouts. A sturdy box is also fine. Moses baskets etc a waste of time as are cots, cot beds, toddler beds etc.
Clothes just ask around, anyone with young children will have hand me downs you can have. Never need to buy any for a baby. Nappies I would use reusable some of the time and disposable when needed for convenience.
Pram certainly not needed (get a good carrier), buggy maybe but we've had success going from carrier to walking / balance bike.
Basically if mothercare etc state that it's essential it probably isn't!
Sudacrem a must!!
(should pay the rest of us NOT to have kids instead of free stuff for kids lol)
^_^
Also unfortunately if Gd forbid you lose the pregnancy then trying to stop receiving emails is basically impossible and can be a hurtful reminder.
Never be quiet around your baby, never turn any volume down, just act as you would without the baby.
Neither of my boys were ever woken by a phone ringing/visitors/TV etc...they slept like logs and still do 20+ years later
Print off the vouchers, head to different argos, boots stores.
I remember taking advantage of emmas diary glitch at argos -
http://www.hotukdeals.com/deals/babystart-deluxe-travel-cot-natural-19-99-was-62-99-argos-2498408
Twins due in 6 days!
Mothercare baby event
Bounty packs are good considering they are free and other than the odd email i have never had hassle. We did have the photoshoot in hispital but they are expensive and don't tell you prices until after taking the photos. We declined to buy any but was sent some free small prints 6 months on so that worked out okay in the end.
Sainsburys sales are ace for baby clothes as they are good quality and always at least half price in the sales. Can usually pick up packs of 3 leggigs for £3 and tops for £1.25 each when the sale is on. Same with mothercarw if you get the typical vouchers... buy the bigger sized, out of season, sale stuff, with vouchers to make them go further. In June i paid £7 for a snowsuit that should have been £27 amongst other things. Has come in handy this week!
Does it tell you who the father is???
This was the advice of my accountant and since I file a self return every year anyway it had little impact on me. But it is worth considering for anyone else who's household income may vary (for example Mrs may decide to take longer maternity leave, you may not be on fixed hours, commission related pay, etc).
All the very, very best
Classed as shared parental leave - more info here
https://www.gov.uk/shared-parental-leave-and-pay/overview
Only other piece of advice I would give is - if your soles of your feet itch or palms of your hands itch in late pregnancy get your bloods checked for OC (Obstetric Choleostasis) - not a lot is generally known about this as it's a fairly recent find, but it's really, really important even if you only have a morning of itching (as I did). Happy ending for me but isn't always. Worth knowing about.
Are you married or in a civil partnership? If so you may be entitled to a £432 tax break called the marriage tax allowance. Yet 3.1 million of the 4.2 million eligible couples are still missing out. It's free money, so worth checking.
.
Read up
http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/family/marriage-tax-allowance
and apply
https://www.gov.uk/marriage-allowance/how-it-works
Simple as that!!
Edit - looks like it http://www.bounty.com/about-bounty/bounty-packs/pregnancy-information-pack
Fathers of babies born now may also be entitled to shared parental leave which could be particularly useful if the fathers employer pays enhanced ShPL pay and the mother was not planning on returning to work.
everything else on this thread is great. well done !
Always follow your instincts and do not shy away from calling the hospital straight away. It is always better to be safe than sorry. If at all any of you have any questions please feel free to ask.
Good luck.
thank you thank you thank you