Parents and babies bond more easily when they can see each other. Being transparent, the polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA or acrylic) Magic Crib Giuli (1) means that the baby and parents are able to see each other without the obstructive bars associated with traditional cribs. Although this crib is only suitable for the baby until 6 months, it can be transformed into a desk or bookshelf. As it is created from a single material, it can be easily recycled when it comes to the end of its useful life, making it suitable for parents wanting to follow an eco-friendly lifestyle.
When feeding an infant, having clear bottles and feeders allow the caregiver to see how much milk and foods are being consumed. The amount of food taken in by a child is an indicator of their healthy development. Appetite or lack thereof can also be a gauge of the child’s overall well-being. Loss of appetite being an indicator of pain or ill health.
The Nuk bottle (2) has a specially shaped silicone teat designed to mimic a mother’s nipple during breastfeeding. The teat shape encourages latch on and aids the transition between breastfeeding and bottle-feeding. The Dr Brown bottle (3), has an internal vent system to reduce colic, burping, and wind. The system works by allowing air to enter the bottle collar and route directly through the internal vent, the air channels through the vent tube in the centre of the bottle, bypassing the milk, to the end of the bottle. The vent prevents aeration of the milk, vacuum pressure, and teat collapse. The Avent bottles (4) also have an anti-colic valve system. As the baby drinks, the valve flexes to allow air into the bottle instead of the baby’s stomach. It is also designed to prevent leakage during feeding.
The feeders with integral spoons are used for weaning babies from liquids to soft food. The 1960s version (5) has a measuring cup that doubles as a lid. The modern version (6) has a fitted spoon cover.
