What activities help develop fine motor skills in kids?
Thread penne pasta through a straw.
Placing letters on a letter board. I discovered this one by accident, but I love how it keeps my 4-year-old sitting quietly for long stretches of time while he tries to get the plastic letters to stay in my felt letter board.
What were you glad you packed in your hospital bag?
Disposable toothbrush: a toothbrush I'm willing to use for a couple nights then throw away at the hospital before I return home.
Cozy socks
What babyproofing tips do you have for new parents?
I discovered that a heavyweight hairband looped around both door handles was just as effective (if not more!) at keeping my cabinet doors shut than those cabinet latches made specifically for baby proofing. Plus, they were way easier (and less annoying) for me to take on and off, making it more likely that I'd always keep it on. This only works on certain handles, though, like pull bars and knobs.
Sturdy stair guards at the top and bottom of the staircase are a must once baby starts moving around!
