When you baby starts to babble, echo the sounds he makes to develop his language skills.

If you're using cloth diapers, you'll need to stock up with at least 3 dozen diapers and three pairs of plastic pants.

Pamper yourself in the last trimester with soothing bubble baths and relaxing walks.

Be sure to burp your newborn after every 3 ounces of formula or after each breast to avoid gas and spitting up later.

Make time for exercise so you can boost your energy after giving birth.

When cleaning your baby's teeth for the first time, you may notice a tiny bit of bleeding from her gums. This is normal and should clear up after a few days. If it doesn't, call your pediatrician.

Don't take your baby out of the car seat to breastfeed, even for a few minutes, while taking a car trip. Take the time to pull over and prevent any accidents before they happen.

Include your doctor's phone number in the list of emergency numbers near your phone.

If your infant is slouching in the car seat, stuff some diapers or rolled blankets along the sides and between the baby's legs for a snug fit.

It's a good idea to buy duplicates of your child's favorite stuffed animal or blanket. That way, you can avoid tantrums when you need to repair or wash it.

Don't let your baby fall asleep with a pacifier because she may wake up and start crying if it falls out.

If you're having trouble getting pregnant, try waiting a few months. Studies have shown men tend to have higher sperm counts in the fall.

Talk in complete sentences early on to your infant. They will respond to your tone of voice and eventually understand what you're saying.

Babies love to play peek-a-boo. Look for ways to bring this game into your daily routine: hide behind a diaper at the changing table or a towel at bath time. Even your own hands work like magic.

If your newborn develops cradle cap, rub some baby oil onto her head before shampooing to loosen the dry skin flakes.

Before you bring your newborn home from the hospital, make sure the baby is screened for hearing loss. Early detection can prevent language problems later.

Read to your children even when they are too young to understand the words, or old enough to read by themselves. That special time between parent and child is especially effective at bedtime. It also helps develop a love of reading and warm memories that will be long remembered.

Ignoring is the best cure for tantrums in children. Follow up with loving attention when they stop screaming.

Never use a heating pad for an infant or young child.

For earaches in children, put a few drops of warm - not hot! - cooking oil in ear.

Always give children lots of fluids when they have a fever.

Take your regular vitamins, including folic acid, while trying to become pregnant.

Let older children help care for your new baby, even if it takes longer, so they can bond with their new sibling.

Keep a small plastic bag with wipes and a spare diaper in your purse so you can be prepared for emergencies without lugging the entire diaper bag.

Until your child is toilet trained, don't buy any pants unless they have snaps on the legs.

Housework can wait; childhood won't.

Keep a special baby book on display at your home, with photos and special mementos, so your grandchildren will know they are always in your thoughts, even if you live far apart.

When your child is crawling and trying to climb, tape pieces of foam to sharp furniture legs to prevent bumps and bruises.

Comfortable clogs or a good pair of sneakers make great footwear during pregnancy.

If you're planning to become pregnant soon, you'll want to buy shoes that are about one size larger than you normally wear.