Many other countries go above and beyond for babies and their expectant parents. For example, in Finland, there is a baby box. Let’s look at it.
What Is The Baby Box?
Since the 1930s, the state of Finland has offered every expectant mother a box. This box is a little starter pack that includes essential items needed for every new baby. At the bottom of the box is a small mattress, and the box can be used as a bed.
Alternatively, a new mother can choose a cash grant, but baby boxes for newborns are worth way more, so most mothers pick the boxes.
The baby box is available to any mother of Finland regardless of income. Initially, it was for lower-income families, but in the late 1940s, baby boxes for newborns became available to all mothers.
When the baby box was introduced, Finland had a high infant mortality rate, and the box (along with various other healthcare options) was said to be what led Finland’s infant mortality rate to take a turn. Now it’s one of the lowest in the world.
The Contents Of The Box
So, what do you get in the box? Quite a lot. Here’s a list.
As said before, the box can be used as a crib. You get a mattress, cover, sheets, blankets, and a few other sleep items.
You’ll get various clothing items, including winter clothes to keep your baby warm when it’s colder outside. Bodysuits, rompers, the list goes on and on.
You get some hygienic equipment like a towel, nail trimmer, toothbrush, hairbrush, cream, washcloths, and more.
Some diapers too that are made from cloth.
A toy for when your baby starts to teeth.
An entertaining picture book for your baby.
Things for the parents as well, like condoms and pads for your bra.
What If I’m Not Finnish?
Chances are, you don’t live in Finland. However, you can find boxes online that are great starter packs for you or someone you know. Sadly, you will have to pay for this box, but it’s still a good deal. They go for less than $500, and the stuff you get in the box makes it worth it.
These baby boxes for newborns make excellent baby shower gifts, or just a way to kickstart your parenthood if you want to get the essentials.
Also, the baby box idea is slowly catching on in the US. In 2017, New Jersey offered their own baby box. A few other states carried the torch-like California and Ohio. These boxes can be obtained if you fill out a survey and watch a video that gives more information.
If you don’t live in those states, promote the idea to your government. It’s a good idea that needs more people supporting it.
Is Sleeping In A Box Better Than A Crib?
The Finnish baby box sounds like a great idea, but one aspect of it you may wonder about is the crib. Your baby sleeps in a box, and that may sound a little bit ridiculous to parents who live here. Sleeping in a box rather than a crib seems like a cheap, and possibly dangerous idea.
However, these boxes do include a mattress. So for the baby, it’s just as comfortable, and the four walls in the box keep the baby safe. The box is usually decorated as well, so it’s not like you grabbed some random cardboard box for your baby to sleep in.
However, there are a few safety concerns about sleeping in a box. You have to look directly inside a box from above, so seeing your baby is hard. Also, boxes have less airflow than they are. A box could easily fall over as well.
If you let your baby sleep in a baby box, you need to put it in an area where no one will trip over it or your pets can’t mess with it. Putting it in an area where it won’t fall over is a good idea too.
When it comes to sleeping, you should use the baby box as a temporary substitute until you buy a real crib. A crib keeps the baby much safer and allows for better airflow as well.
Some people say that sleeping in the box itself gives Finland its low baby mortality rate. But it’s mainly due to the healthcare and education the country has.
However, despite the safety concerns, sleeping in a box can be safe if you know what you’re doing.
Tips For Using A Baby Box For Newborns To Sleep
If you must let your baby sleep in a baby box, here are a few ways to ensure the best possible experience.
Make sure it’s firm. If it’s too plush, the baby may suffocate. Just use a firm mattress, and don’t be too extra about it. Don’t put any bumpers or padding on it either, and instead use what the box comes with.
The box should be in the parents’ room. Put it next to your bed in case if something happens to the baby.
Read up on all the safety precautions. Baby boxes do come with educational tools for new parents, and by reading them, you can make sure that your baby stays safe and sound.
Conclusion
Baby boxes are one interesting idea that we believe more countries should try. Anyone can get pregnant, and if a baby is raised by parents who don’t have the resources, it can affect their quality of life. A baby box gives every parent a boost and allows them to have a little starter pack that gets them all the goodies.
While you should upgrade to a crib at some point, a box may be a good substitute in the meanwhile as long as you do your homework and educate yourself. Luckily, the baby box can help keep you educated so you and your baby can live a happy, healthy life.
FAQs On Baby Boxes For Newborns
The baby box program was launched to help low-income expectant and new mothers in raising their babies safely and healthily. Included in the baby box are blankets, some clothes, diapers, bibs, towels, and other personal care stuff.
Last Updated on January 31, 2023 by Rejie Salazar
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