249 Chapter 11 Providing for the Infant’s Developmental Needs
From three months to the end of
the fi rst year, babies move more with
each passing week. Therefore, they
should wear comfortable and roomy
clothing. The basic points given in 11-8
can be used to select baby clothing.
Style and Color
The style and color of baby
clothes is a personal choice.
Almost any style has advantages
and disadvantages. For example,
two-piece outfi ts (tops and bottoms)
often can be worn longer because
they do not get as tight in the crotch
as one-piece outfi ts. Two-piece outfi ts
make changing the diaper easy, too.
One-piece outfi ts, such as jumpsuits
and overalls, look neater on crawlers
because they do not separate. These
outfi ts are also warmer.
Shoes
Shoes are not needed until
a baby begins to walk outdoors.
Shoes protect and cushion the feet
from outside dangers. Indoors,
babies should walk without shoes
to prevent fl at-footed walking. Most
shoes worn in the fi rst year are for
decoration. These shoes have soft,
cloth soles. Babies need to wear
socks or footed clothing in cool
weather to keep their feet warm.
Points to Consider When Choosing Baby Clothes
Feature Examples
Safety
Fire retardant
Not tight or binding
No loose buttons or other fasteners
No loose trim
No drawstrings
Comfort
Soft (made of knitted fabric)
Nonirritating clothes (fl at seams and fasteners)
Garments without too much extra fabric, so that baby does not rest
on the bulk
No fuzzy trims that tickle
Neck openings large enough for easy dressing
Right weight for needed warmth (Several layers of lightweight
clothes, such as an undershirt, a t-shirt, and a sweater are warmer
and more comfortable in warm weather than one heavy garment.)
Roomy for active body movements
Antistatic
Absorbent (Manufactured fi bers, such as polyester or nylon, should
be blended with cotton to increase absorbency.)
Easy Care
Machine washable
Can be washed with other clothes
Soil-release fi nish (to make stain removal easier)
Shrinkage control
Little or no ironing needed
Easy to mend
11-8
Babies need clothing that meets their special needs.