With only four weeks to go until my baby girl’s due date, I was so happy and relieved when my Baby Box was finally delivered to our new address just a few days ago. In Scotland, every newborn baby due on or after 15 August 2017 is entitled to a free baby box from the Scottish Government. When you’re around 20-24 weeks pregnant, your midwife will help you fill in a registration card at your antenatal appointment. This is then sent away and you receive a text, email or letter which gives you the exact date and time slot it will be arriving. I’d heard amazing things about this initiative but tried not to have a sneak peek at what was inside as to not spoil the surprise.
It’s not just about the goodies inside. The box itself is a safe place for your baby to sleep, whether it be for a quick nap or all night. It actually comes with a mattress, protector, fitted sheet and blanket. Later, it can be used as a memory or toy box. I love how Penny can get involved decorating the outside too! She’s already been using the huge outer cardboard box as a den for all her cat toys. Never underestimate the entertainment value of an empty cardboard box!
So what’s actually inside? I have to admit, the contents really surprised me. It got me a little emotional to be honest. I felt so thankful and blessed to live in a country that puts so much effort, thought and priority into looking after expectant mothers and newborn babies. It really is incredible the attention to detail that goes into the Baby Box and I can’t emphasise enough my appreciation toward the Scottish Government and NHS Scotland for their support and generosity throughout my pregnancy so far. Okay, let’s take a look inside…
A poem for your wee one written by Scotland’s National Poet, Jackie Kay.
White scratch mittens (1 pair, newborn)
Short-sleeved vest (x1, newborn)
Long-sleeved vest (x1, newborn)
Long-sleeved side buttoning vest (x1, newborn)
Cotton hat (x1, 0-3 months)
Long-sleeved vest (x2, 0-3 months)
Long-sleeved sleepsuit (x1, 0-3 months)
Jersey trousers (x2, 0-3 months)
Pair of socks (x1, 0-3 months)
All-in-one day suit (x1, 0-6 months)
Jersey trousers (x1, 3-6 months)
Long-sleeved sleepsuit (x1, 3-6 months)
Pair of socks (x1, 3-6 months)
Fleece jacket with hood (x1, 3-6 months) – Grey zip-up top with teddy bear ears on the hood.
Mattress with protector (x1)
Fitted sheet (x1)
Cellular blanket (x1)
Baby wrap (x1) – A grey wrap with instructions on how to use and carry your baby safely.
Hooded bath towel (x1)
Infra-red digital ear thermometer – a quick, accurate and easy way to take your baby’s temperature.
Bath sponge – a super soft yellow duck sponge for the bath.
Brother Max bath and room thermometer – Floats on water or stands on a shelf with a high-temperature warning and LCD display.
Teething ring soother (x1)
Baby books – Usborne Baby’s Very First Black & White Book and Twinkle, Twinkle. Little Star.
PlayTalkRead floor mat (x1)
Emery boards (x3)
Bib (x1)
Muslin cloth squares (x3)
Comforter toy – An adorable soft giraffe design.
Travel changing mat (x1)
Pack of disposable nursing pads – Ultra thin stay dry pads from Lansinoh.
Pack of 12 maternity towels (x1) – These went straight into my hospital bag. First-time mums may overlook these and let me tell you they are essential.
Box of 3 Pasante condoms – Two boxes of condoms in Regular and Naturelle.
As I said, incredible generosity from the Scottish Government and an amazing help for new mums. The clothes don’t feel cheap or scratchy at all, on the contrary, they feel incredibly soft and very high quality. I love the gender neutral colours and elephant design. They really have thought of everything! There’s even a postcard inside that directs you to a free app for your phone by Scotland’s National Orchestra with a selection of free music to help soothe your baby before bedtime.
What do you think or the Scottish Baby Box?
Don’t forget to read my hospital bag checklist post here.
9