 Baby monitor: very useful item to hear your baby and not need to be right by her room at all times. At night, I recommend turning this off, as it will magnify every turn and moan your baby emits, keeping you awake. Your baby needs you to get your rest!

 Car seat: absolutely mandatory. Hospitals won't even let you go home until you bring the car seat in and demonstrate an ability to strap your baby in safely. Your baby will outgrow the infant seat you initially buy for her and will go through another 2 seats by the age of 8, but as long as they meet safety requirements, buying 2nd hand is safe and fine.

 Crib: when deciding on a crib, look for these features:

o Mattress should fit snugly on all 4 sides o Mattress should be firm and good quality o Guardrail should be at least 26" above the top of the mattress o Space between the crib slats should be no more than 2.375" o A crib

 Bouncy seat: highly useful item both for protection and containment of baby when you cannot hold her, but also for feeding of rice cereal at about 6 months of age. At this age, babies typically don't have the upper body strength to support themselves in a high chair.

 Sling or backpack: if used with caution and good sense, this is a safe item and will not cause neck or back problems. If used too much, these problems can plague your baby. Choose one that fits you well and will grow with your baby. For young babies, I recommend the Snugli, and for older babies that are able to support themselves sitting up, I recommend the Hip Hammock.

 Playpen: a wonderful tool to permit yourself to get things done and keep your baby safe. I recommend using a playpen once your baby is 5 months of age or older, unless you use it for temporary sleeping quarters. Containment of a baby that cannot crawl or roll in to danger is largely unnecessary; a floor gym will entertain your baby so you can accomplish tasks as well.
About the Author

Kirsten Hawkins is a baby and parenting expert specializing new mothers and single parent issues. Visit http://www.babyhelp411.com/ for more information on how to raising healthy, happy children.