Try before you buy

Having a baby is probably one of the most expensive things in life.

Whilst you can get away with the bare essentials – for those practicing elimination communication, breastfeeding, cosleeping and baby wearing you really only need a few clothes, a decent sling and a whole lot of love – the reality is that most parents will choose a more materialistic way of life.

A pushchair, a cot, a car seat and some clothing generally feature on the majority of lists. Further common items that many a parent-to-be wants include a baby swing or rocker, baby carrier or sling, reusable nappies, changing bag, additional nursery furniture and a moses basket or crib.

And don’t forget the toys, of course! Although Bubby D is extremely fond of her wooden spoon, she does equally like her brightly coloured built for purpose baby toys with various plastic chewy bits and interesting crinkly patches.

So, given this list of new-baby (and already got a baby and want some stuff for the next stage lists too – think highchairs, baby walkers, bouncers, books, potties and ride-ons…) there’s really only one place to go – and that’s the Baby Show at the NEC in Birmingham!

Between 18th and 20th May 2012, nowhere else will you find such a large selection of baby products and services all under one roof, ready to be compared, tried and tested; and then – if you decide you like them – bought at discounted show prices. Some of my favourite brands will be there, including Mamas and Papas, Marks and Spencer, Mothercare and Fisher Price to name but a few. It’s mummy and baby gadget heaven!

Not only that, but up on the Prima Baby Stage you can hear advice from a whole range of experts on topics such as sleep, feeding and breastfeeding, as well as watching maternity fashion shows, or learning some vital paediatric first aid skills.

And should you be thinking of visiting with your little one in tow, then don’t forget the Fisher Price creche, with free sessions on offer throughout the day. Great baby changing facilities are provided too, and feeding areas for both breast and bottle feeding (I’m looking forward to giving those oh-so-comfortable feeding chairs another go!).

‘But I’ll buy so much, I wont be able to carry it all!’ you may be thinking.

Fear not! The lovely Emma’s Diary people operate a collect by car service, so you can stash your stuff for pickup when you leave. And should your worry be that your car isn’t big enough, even if you could collect it all later, then again, huzzah! They can arrange for it to be delivered for you, too.

So with tickets for only £12 in advance, or two for £20, you really can’t afford to miss it!

For more information and the latest news about what’s on, how to get there, or just to snap up some lovely tickets (they’d only be lovelier if they were chocolate flavoured…mmm…) have a little clicky here 🙂

Go on, you know you want to!