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Welcome to your third trimester! Now that you're counting the weeks (even days!) until baby's arrival it's time to take care of a few things before that little one arrives.
Read below our suggestions for final preparations in your third trimester, and then use our Newborn Checklist to make sure you've got all the essentials on hand.[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="16" spacer_tablet="24" spacer_desktop="24"][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="16" spacer_tablet="24" spacer_desktop="24"][vc_column_text]
Make a birth plan
An important part of your preparation is making a birth plan with your midwife, obstetrician, doula or specialist doctor. The plan should describe your wishes for the labor, birth and any additional support you may require. A birth plan is also useful if your midwife can't be with you during labor, as backup support will know what your wishes are.
Some things to consider when writing your plan:
Where you want to give birth – at home, in a birthing center or in hospital
Who you want with you during the birth
How you would like to give birth
What pain relief you would like, if any
What you would like to do with the afterbirth/placenta
If you're a first time parent, you may like to take a newborn care class to run through the basics of caring for you and baby. Such as How to Change a Diaper, swaddling, soothing and feeding.[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="16" spacer_tablet="24" spacer_desktop="24"][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/2"][common-image image="6121"][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/2"][common-image image="6135"][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="16" spacer_tablet="24" spacer_desktop="24"][vc_column_text]
Schedule maternity photos or art
While the end of your pregnancy might feel like a long time coming, the final trimester will sneak up on you. You may like to organize a creative way to document your final stages of pregnancy, such as a maternity or family photoshoot, getting a cast taken of your bump, or creating a keepsake. Find more inspiration on our Pinterest board.[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="16" spacer_tablet="24" spacer_desktop="24"][vc_column_text]
Get comfortable
The third trimester of pregnancy can get pretty uncomfortable as your baby (and belly!) grows and as your body starts to prepare for childbirth. You may experience abdominal pain, lower back and hip pain, restless legs, even insomnia.
Quick tips to helping you get comfy:
Take a warm bath
Sit in chairs with good back support, or try an exercise ball
Get a prenatal massage
Try a body pillow for extra back, hip and tummy support at night
[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="16" spacer_tablet="24" spacer_desktop="24"][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="16" spacer_tablet="24" spacer_desktop="24"][vc_column_text]Diaper rash, or diaper dermatitis, is a rash in the diaper area. Your baby's skin may look red, raw and even a bit spotty at the edge of the rash. The severity of diaper rash can range from mild irritation to extremely sore.
While diaper rash is a common baby skin condition that can often be treated at home, seeing your little one in pain is difficult and the problem can be quite persistent. So how can parents best prevent diaper rash in the first place, or best manage it once it appears?[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="16" spacer_tablet="24" spacer_desktop="24"][vc_column_text]
Quick tips to treat diaper rash:
Use sensitive baby wipes, ointments and water to keep the area clean and dry
Change your baby's diaper every two to three hours
Choose diaper products that are safe on sensitive skin
Prevention is the best medicine in this case. The best and most simple way to keep diaper rash from appearing is to keep your baby in clean, dry diapers. Every two to three hours is a good rule of thumb for change-frequency, but if you find that your little one is messy again after just an hour, make sure to change it right away.
When cleaning the area, pay special attention to any folds in the skin. Bacteria can easily get trapped here, causing rashes and irritation. Use an unscented baby wipe or wetted cloth to clean the diaper area. Rascal + Friends sensitive wipes are pH balanced, made with a 99% natural formula and are dermatologically certified to be safe on sensitive skin.
Applying a gentle, unscented lotion with each diaper change can ensure that the area stays healthy. Just be sure the skin is completely clean and dry before applying any lotions or ointments.
Frequent change routine
When a diaper rash appears, changes can become more challenging as cleaning the area may cause pain and discomfort for your little one. It's important, now more than ever, to keep your change routine frequent, so they stay in a fresh diaper with clean skin. Continue to generously apply a diaper ointment, and water can also be a great gentle solution for cleaning the area - just avoid using soap as it can dry out the skin and cause further irritation.
Allow the skin to completely air dry before putting on a new diaper. You may also like to try 'no diaper time' to let skin completely dry and breathe.
Find products that are safe on sensitive skin
Diaper rash can also be caused by a sensitivity to diaper products, whether that be diapers, ointments, or baby wipes. Start by ensuring that all of the products you're using are unscented, as fragrances are a common sensitivity and could be causing the irritation of the skin. Using sensitive baby wipes, minimum ingredient lotions, and diapers made for sensitive skin can also improve the state of a little one's rash.
If the problem persists after you've taken all these measures or progresses to the point of open sores or bleeding, consult your pediatrician.
Choose a diaper for sensitive skin
Rascal + Friends premium diapers, training pants and sensitive wipes are made with sensitive skin in mind. Certified by world leading organizations to be safe and ultra gentle on sensitive skin, our premium products are made with no nasties, just love.
We are proudly:
Toilet training is simply the next step up from potty training - that is, using the actual toilet instead of a potty. While every child is different, most are ready to start the toilet training process between 20 months and three years old.
Let's discuss the signs you can look out for, which indicate your little one may be ready to start toilet training. We'll also cover toilet training tips and how to handle mishaps.[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="16" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]
Signs your child is ready:
Your child can feel when they are wet or dry, and will sometimes tell you.
Your child is starting to do things on their own without your help.
They feel like they want to wee and can hold on long enough to make it to the toilet.
[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]Even if your child shows signs of being ready, they may still be nervous about using the toilet and it will take some time to adjust. Encourage them by being positive, calm and patient.[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]
Get started with these toilet training tips:
Calm their nerves about using the toilet by showing them how it works. You can start by emptying their potty into the toilet and letting them flush it so they become familiar with the motions and sounds.
A step stool and toilet training seat are great additions to keep your little one safe and comfortable.
Introduce training pants or underpants so they can undress themselves.
If possible, you may want to ditch the layers so your child has fewer items to remove when they need to go. Not only does this reduce their chances of having accidents, but it gives them a sense of independence.
Take your child to the toilet at regular times. Give them enough time to try to go, but don't leave them there for too long.
Praise your child for trying, even when they don't succeed. Reward them with hugs, claps, stories or a star chart.
Be prepared for times when they don't make it to the toilet. Involve them in the cleaning process and talk through ways they can improve next time.
Teach them how to wash their hands after going to the toilet, and make the sink, soap and hand towel within their reach.
It's one thing to master daytime potty or toilet training, but staying dry overnight is another learning process.
It can take some time for toddlers to sense that their bladder is full or hold their urine overnight. In fact, most children's systems don't develop enough to stay dry all night until at least age 5, 6 or even 7. Bed wetting through to age 7 is considered normal and not a problem to worry about.
Once toilet trained, it's normal for your toddler to be dry during the day but still need a diaper at night. Rascal + Friends premium training-pants make change-time easier with easy-tear sides and an extra stretchy waistband. They're easy to pull up, like underpants, and are a great transition from a diaper to underpants. Also made for potty training, our premium training pants are made with up to 12 hour leak protection and will keep your jumping junior comfy and dry, day and night. Learn more and find the right size[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]
What to do if your child starts wetting their pants again:
If you've successfully gone through the toilet training process and your child starts to wet their pants again, don't give up. There are a number of reasons as to why they've taken a step back, such as:
Adapting to a new environment, such as a new house or being on holiday
Experiencing the birth of a sibling
Transitioning from a crib to a bed
Being weaned from breastfeeding
Starting at daycare or preschool
Not making it to the toilet several times and feeling discouraged
While this can be a bit frustrating, remember that they are also adapting to a new routine. The experience will be different for each child, and ultimately you want to build their confidence and independence.
Try to approach the situation with these tips in mind:
Try to understand what caused their change in behavior
Change your child in a calm manner, and encourage them to explain what went wrong
Remind your child to go to the toilet - busy kids can often forget!
Introduce fun incentives around the topic of going to the toilet, such as choosing the toilet paper or hand soap at the shops or a sticker chart
Talk about the toilet in casual conversation, such as when you're going to the toilet throughout the day
Every child will be different and the real secret behind successful toilet training is waiting until they're ready. There's no deadline, so try not get too caught up in the timing of it all.
Keep it fun, positive and enjoy watching them take another step in their growth and independence!
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Let your child know what is happening. It can be daunting for them to suddenly start using a potty, so talk them through it.
The learning process will take time, so be patient, especially when they have accidents.
Don’t ditch the diapers right away. Instead, choose ones that are easy to get in and out of like Rascal + Friends premium training pants. Made with an extra stretchy waistband and pull-up design to make change-time easier, they're perfect for potty training.
Encouragement and positive reinforcement go a long way in helping them adapt. Read below for ways you can make potty training fun.[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="32" spacer_tablet="48" spacer_desktop="48"][vc_column_text]
When to start potty training
[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]Knowing when to start potty training is a common question with an answer as simple as: when your child is ready, there's no one size fits all approach. Sometimes this starts as early as 18 months, in other cases it doesn't happen until age 4. That said, most children typically start potty training between 18 and 30 months.
Potty training is more than simply using the potty. It involves the steps you take in teaching your little one how to use the potty and the cues you learn from them. For many kids, this is the first big step in their maturity and development, so you want to make this an enjoyable experience for all.[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]The following signs may indicate that your child is ready to start potty training:[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]
They try to remove their diaper after urinating, or when they are uncomfortable.
Communicating that they need their diaper changed.
They stay dry in their diaper for at least two hours during the day, or are dry after naps.
They start to show interest in underwear or "big kid" pants.
They can follow simple instructions, like walking to the bathroom, sitting down and removing their clothes.
[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]Successful potty training requires consistency and patience. As mentioned, timing is important - so try to avoid times where there could be major distractions or environmental changes, such as moving house.
Introduce the idea of a potty
Even before using the potty, there are a number of fun ways you can introduce it, such as reading children's books, teaching your little one what it looks like, or using craft activities like this coloring maze. Find more fun activities on our News + Resources hub.
You may also like to involve them in purchasing the potty, making the process fun from day one! This is also a good way to check that they sit comfortably on it.
Normalize the idea of going to the potty by introducing it into everyday conversation; saying things like: "I wonder if JJ (or your child's favorite character) needs to go potty" or "I have to go pee pee, I'm going to use the potty." The idea is to raise awareness about going potty and make your child comfortable with the concept before introducing action. These techniques may also pique their interest and get them excited by the potential of trying it themselves.[/vc_column_text][spacer_e5a9 spacer_mobile="24" spacer_tablet="32" spacer_desktop="32"][vc_column_text]
Make it a habit
You may like to follow a schedule or introduce key times throughout the day that they should go to the potty. For example, first thing when they wake up, every couple of hours, before leaving the house, before and after nap time and the final step in your bedtime routine. Even if they object to "not needing to go," the ritual of going to the potty and through the motions involved with this process, reinforces the habit. Eventually, it should become part of their routine.
Make a habit of the routine by asking them to remove their pants then diaper, and sitting on the potty for a few minutes. Switching from diapers to Rascal + Friends premium training pants help make change-time easier and are perfect for potty training. Made with up to 12 hour leak protection, an extra stretchy waistband and easy-tear sides, learn more about our seriously good features and find the right size.
Teach good hygiene habits early on, and stick to them. The final part of "going to the potty" should include using toilet paper to clean, proper disposal and washing up. Make the sink, soap and hand towel accessible to them (you could use a stepping stool), and help them wash their hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
Make hand washing fun with colorful soaps and singing their favorite song with them. With time, they may like to start doing this independently.
Essential to the potty training process is positive reinforcement and patience. It will take time for their body to adjust to using the potty, and accidents are part of the learning process. Try not to react to these occasions with frustration. Instead, offer reassurance, help them change into a clean diaper, and explain why we use the potty and what we can try do next time.
When they use the potty successfully, offer gentle praise or a small reward like a sticker chart. Positive reinforcement of their behavior and what they did successfully also helps them learn.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
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Tiny humans poop (a lot!), so have a good supply of diapers at the ready. Choose size 1-2 Rascal + Friends premium diapers for your little one. Made with seriously good features, such as feather soft materials, no nasties and up to 12 hour leak protection, they're the perfect addition to your newborn nursery.
Changing mat or table
Baby ointment or lotions
Plenty of baby wipes for your changing table, around the house and your diaper bag. Rascal + Friends sensitive wipes are perfect for cleaning those little (and not so little!) messes. Made with a plant-based cloth and 99% natural formula, they're dermatologically certified to be safe and ultra gentle on sensitive skin.
Clothing
Your little one will grow in and out of clothing sizes, fast! Rather than buy everything at once, you may like to have these basics on hand:
8-10 undershirts or onesies (a mix of short and long sleeve)
5 pairs of pants
2 newborn hats
8-10 pairs of socks or booties
3 pairs of scratch mittens
3 cardigans or jackets
Feeding
If you're breastfeeding:
Lots of bibs
Burp cloths
Breast pump
Milk storage containers
Nursing pillow
Nursing bras (if you're buying before the baby is born, purchase one cup size larger than your pregnant bra size)
Breast pads (disposable or washable)
Lotion for sore nipples
If you're formula feeding:
Lots of bibs
Burp cloths
Bottle and nipple brush
Formula
Thermal bottle carrier
Setting up the nursery
Crib, mattress and fitted crib sheets
Waterproof mattress covers
Sleep sack
Baby monitor
Coat hangers
Night light
Rocking or reclining chair for feeding
Pacifiers
10+ muslin cloths
Bathtime
12 washcloths
Baby soap or cleanser
Baby soft-bristled hair brush
3 soft-hooded towels
Other essentials
Infant safety car seat
Sun shade for car windows
Stroller
Medication in case of fever
Medicine spoon
Baby thermometer
Nail clippers or scissors
Preparing for the hospital
As your due date approaches, start preparing a bag for your hospital stay. While you want to be prepared, less is more. Most of the essentials will be provided for you at the hospital. A plan/map of the best route to the hospital is also a helpful step in your preparation. That way there's no need to panic when the time comes!
Our guide to preparing for your baby's arrival in your third trimester. Including suggestions for enjoying your final stages of your pregnancy and getting prepared with newborn essentials.
Diaper rash, or diaper dermatitis, can be a frustrating challenge for parents. Seeing your little one in pain is difficult, and sometimes the problem can be quite persistent. Let's discuss what you can do to prevent and help treat it.
Potty training can seem a bit intimidating no matter how many times you’ve done it. No worries - we’ve got you covered! Here’s what you need to know before you get started on your potty training journey.
Our ultimate newborn essentials checklist. Everything you need to prepare before your baby arrives, and our guide to final preparations in your third trimester.
Plant-based, water resistant and breathable biofilm
Soft and breathable backsheet
Soft and breathable plant-based backsheet
Soft recyclable packaging
Home/commercially compostable packaging
3D core containing sustainable pulp
Core containing sustainable pulp
Double leak guards
✓
Soft leg cuffs for a comfortable fit
✓
No lotions, fragrance or latex
✓
Highback Waistband
✓
Custom designed grip tabs
✓
Up to 12 hours leakage protection*
✓
*Hours may vary according to individual baby’s urine amount
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