Great news, parents-to-be! If you’re in New Jersey, you can now simplify your shopping list as the state rolls out an initiative to distribute Baby Boxes filled with essential newborn items. The New Jersey Child Fatality and Near Fatality Review Board has announced a partnership with a company based in Los Angeles, Baby Box, to provide these handy cardboard boxes. Each box includes must-have items like diapers, wipes, a onesie, breast pads, and nipple cream, making your pre-baby preparations a little less daunting.
But that’s not all! These Baby Boxes are ingeniously designed to serve as a safe sleeping space for your little one during those crucial first months. This means you can potentially skip the costly bassinet purchase.
The Origin of Baby Boxes
The concept of baby boxes originated in Finland nearly 80 years ago, aimed at addressing the country’s high infant mortality rates. Thanks to this initiative, Finland now enjoys one of the lowest infant mortality rates in the world, recorded at just 1.3 deaths per 1,000 births. In contrast, the U.S. holds the 23rd position globally, with an infant mortality rate of 6.5 per 1,000 births, many of which are linked to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). In 2016, a staggering 93% of SIDS-related deaths were tied to sleep complications. The New Jersey Child Fatality and Near Fatality Review Board hopes this program will make a significant difference in reducing these tragic statistics.
How to Get Your Baby Box
Thanks to funding from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, New Jersey aims to distribute approximately 105,000 Baby Boxes in 2017. To receive your complimentary box, new parents just need to complete a straightforward three-step process: register online, read educational materials on newborn care, and then take a brief quiz. After passing the quiz, parents can choose whether to pick up their box or have it delivered directly to their home. Easy-peasy!
For Expectant Parents Outside of New Jersey
For expectant parents outside of New Jersey, purchasing a Baby Box may be necessary for now. However, here’s hoping that New Jersey’s pioneering effort will inspire other states to follow suit. After all, a simple cardboard box filled with essential baby items can provide families with a solid start during those first few months.
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Conclusion
In summary, New Jersey’s Baby Boxes are a fantastic initiative for new parents, offering essential items and a safe sleep space for infants. This program aims to reduce infant mortality rates and set families on a positive path from the start.