I can’t believe Willow is already 3 weeks old! We are happily adjusting to life as a family of 4. The first week at home was super challenging (a blog post on that is coming soon) but things have really calmed down since then. With Willow being our second baby I thought I had a better idea of what we did and didn’t need. But every child is so different and some of the things that were my go-to with Piper haven’t worked at all for Willow. Especially when it comes to sleep!
A few months back while I was still pregnant I reached out to DockATot and they generously gifted me the Dockatot Deluxe docking station. It’s something I have been so curious about. I didn’t even know it existed when I had Piper three years ago. It’s meant for babies ages 0-8+ months old and the website states that it “offers a safe and comfy spot that lets baby rest, lounge, play, cuddle, do tummy time and get diaper changes.”
Check out my review of the Binxy Baby Hammock
Just like any baby item, it’s hard to know what will end up being essential and what will sit in the closet unused. I have to tell you that it has been one of our most used baby items. Willow loves it!
So how and when do we use our DockATot?
Co-Sleeping
I know this isn’t for everyone, but during the first two weeks we co-slept with Willow in our bed. She had some issues with shallow breathing at birth and during our hospital stay so it made me feel so much better to have her sleeping right next to me. That way I could easily check on her throughout the night. I loved that she had her own defined space in the bed with a barrier to keep her safe while still being (less than) an arm’s-length away.
After the first two weeks we transitioned her out of the DockATot and into a bassinet beside our bed and that’s been working really well for us. But I can honestly say having the ability to have her so close by during those initial weeks really helped alleviate some of my anxiety. I’m so thankful we had it!
Play
Let’s be honest, Piper is usually the one doing the playing 🙂 But Willow is along for the ride! We pop her into the Dockatot on the floor while big sister reads books or does activities. It’s a great way for them to spend time “together” and Piper has even started reading stories to her which is just the sweetest thing. This bonding time has become one of my favorite parts of the day.
Rest/Lounge
Willow will often chill in the DockATot on the main floor with us. Sometimes she will fall asleep (if she does, she stays within arms reach of me so I can always see her).
Our curious French Bulldog often likes to come over and check on her 🙂
Have you ever used a Dockatot? What were your newborn essentials? Let me know in the comments!
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Jenni LeBaron says
These are so great. My brother and his wife used one for my niece up into her toddler years. It’s such a great thing to be able to pack for trips as well!
Megan Joy says
That’s great! I’ve seen the larger size one work really well for transitioning toddlers from a crib to a bed as well!
Becca says
Oh my gosh, this is so useful! Why did I not have one of these for my kids when they were babies??
Megan Joy says
I had no idea this existed when I had my first daughter and I wish I had!
Erin @ Platings and Pairings says
I’ve never seen one of those but I have to say that she looks so cute and comfy in there!
Megan Joy says
Haha she definitely loves being cosy and snuggled up that’s for sure!
Hillary Knudsen says
This is perfect! Definitely recommending this to my sister-in-law who is having a baby girl in July 🙂 Willow and Piper are so precious!