Prospective parents must prepare a place in their home and consider what equipment they will need for their new baby.  They must also choose a first name, and perhaps a middle name, for their baby.  Baby nursery and baby transport equipment can be selected at both local and online baby stores; many of these feature baby gift registries where parents can create baby shower wish lists for interested family and friends to shop from.  Baby product choices are virtually limitless, but parents who are fortunate enough to know the gender of their baby ahead of time, via an ultrasound, can at least limit their choices to gender-specific items!

Before their baby is born, Dads and Moms may wish to consider some names and browse through this name meanings website, which lists about a thousand of the most common first names, along with their meanings and ethnic backgrounds.  Parents who know (or think they know) the gender of their expected newborn child can visit these boy name and girl name websites, where they can choose names they like before the baby boy or baby girl is born.

Selecting a baby crib can take some time, because there is a wide selection of styles, materials, and colors from which to choose.  Safety issues may be a consideration before you decide to use an older crib.  Crib bedding sets and baby blankets are available in many fabrics and styles.  A personalized or handmade baby blanket can be a welcome baby shower gift.

A backpack-style baby carrier is useful for treks through the countryside, but most baby transport needs can be addressed by means of strollers and protective car seats.  Baby strollers come in various colors for boys or girls, and some strollers can be configured for one or two babies.  Some lightweight strollers fold compactly, while other strollers have larger wheels for all-terrain access.  Laws require car safety seats for all babies traveling in motor vehicles.  As babies become toddlers, they will need to sit in booster seats while riding in a car.  Statistics show that these car seats do save lives.

Alphabetized lists of, and links to, baby product manufacturers throughout the United States are available on this manufacturer directory.

Baby-related video resources include a baby boy watching a mobile and a father pushing a baby stroller through a park, accompanied by his daughter and a little black dog.