9 Empowering Products for Brand-New Parents

Rather than attempting to fit a solo workout session into your busy parenting schedule, why not bring baby along for the ride? BOB has built up a reputation for creating functional strollers that last. I’ve had a BOB stroller for a decade, and I still use it regularly with my one-year-old. The brand’s Wayfinder Jogging Stroller has dual suspension and air-filled tires to allow you to run or jog over sidewalks and uneven terrain with your child, keeping them comfortable along the way. The five-point harness and removable UPF 50+ canopy keeps baby safe, while there’s plenty of storage space underneath and behind the seat for gear.

Body positivity goes hand in hand with empowered parenting. In the past, new moms struggled to “bounce back” after giving birth or hid away under layers of oversized clothing, but these days women are celebrating the beauty of their pregnant and postpartum bodies. Luckily, many maternity fashion brands now recognise the need for clothes that work with your changing shape. Take the Ultimate Before, During and After Leggings by HATCH Collection, for example. The leggings—which come in four colors—are C-section friendly and have a soft feel, with a sculpting fit that feels comfortable whether you’re pregnant or postpartum. The fit is adjustable; simply roll the waistband up or down as needed. Plus, the moisture-wicking fabric will keep you dry and comfortable, no matter where your day takes you.

Fact: Motherhood can get messy. No matter how you give birth, postpartum bleeding is to be expected. You also may deal with increased discharge during pregnancy and light bladder leaks after you give birth. Basically, you need upgraded underwear to help see you through this time. Modibodi’s maternity briefs absorb pee, blood and sweat, and have a unique design to keep you comfortable while you wear them. There’s even a V-waistline that won’t irritate a C-section scar. So you can get on with your day feeling fresh, comfortable and confident.

Universal Standard approaches fit and sizing differently from other brands. The company offers sizes 4XS to 4XL, and has a special “Fit Liberty” program where Universal Standard will replace your clothes for free if your size changes (up or down) within a year. How good is that? We’re obsessed with this pullover with an asymmetrical zip across the front that provides visual interest and easy nursing access. It’s also available in four chic shades.

Everyone has those days when you feel like the worst parent on the planet. But There Are Moms Way Worse Than You is sure to ease the inevitable “mom guilt” and give you a giggle. The book offers a hilarious look at the wild things animal mothers do to their young. Giraffe moms kick their babies to encourage them to walk, while koala moms feed their babies their own poop. Feel better yet? This page-turner is good for a laugh, whether you’re feeling down on yourself or not.

Social media influencers may portray their kids as little angels, but the truth is that even the most well-behaved toddler can be trying at times. (Or all the time!) Let people know what to expect with your little one thanks to this tongue-in-cheek tee. It reads, “Predictably Irrational,” with a grumpy storm cloud and happy sun next to a rainbow. The graphics are fun for kids, while those who can read will get a chuckle out of the relatable messaging. Choose from three color combinations, all in raglan styles.

Dinnertime can feel like a battlefield if your toddler refuses to eat your lovingly prepared meal. Fortunately, the Fred Dinner Winner Plate is a genius solution for picky eaters, and those who seem to prefer to survive on a diet of air. The plate features nine sections, laid out like a board game. Each has fun graphics and encouraging messages to keep your child going. At the end, there’s a covered finish section (which can be a small treat).

In fact, Daniel Carroll, associate director of e-commerce content for The Bump, used this plate with his own child. "Almost since the moment she could talk, my daughter's favorite phrase at mealtime has been, 'can I be finished and still have dessert?' We used the Dinner Winner plate to make a game out of getting to her sweets, and she loved it. She'd shout 'I win!' when she got to the end." Aside from the fun design, we like that the BPA-free plate is made from sturdy melamine and is dishwasher safe.

Pumping no longer means having to whip off your bra and strap on a nursing bra, only to repeat the process again in a few hours. This bra by Kindred Bravely can be used for nursing and hands-free pumping, with enough support to wear it all day. The bra has a special EasyClip feature to provide access to your breast on demand, and it fits securely with all standard breast pump flanges. It’s also free of underwire and has removable padding. The beauty of a hands-free pumping bra is that you can replenish your milk stores while completing other tasks, whether that be journaling, online shopping, reading or even calling a loved one to catch up.

“I used and loved this bra during both of my pregnancies,” says Ashlee Neuman, content director of The Bump. “The freedom to get work done on my computer while I pumped five, six times a day was a game-changer (and big stress-reliever) for me. And the fact that I could comfortably wear this all day, whether I was nursing, pumping or just going about my life, without having to change bras saved me a ton of time and hassle!”

Getting outdoors for some fresh air is incredible for your mental and physical health during pregnancy and beyond. And this versatile coat by Seraphine can be worn every step of the way. The six-in-one design is suitable for all climates thanks to the interior fleece and the exterior waterproof jacket, both of which can be worn together or separately. Then once baby’s on the scene, simply attach the babywearing panel, which fits over your baby carrier or sling to keep your little one cozy inside.