Consumer Reports Best Baby Products giveaway (and money-saving coupons)

When the Rhino was born, he didn't want to breastfeed. I don't know why; I just know that even the lactation consultant at the hospital couldn't get him to "latch on".

We kept trying, because we'd heard that breast is best for baby, but after several trips to the pediatrician in the first few weeks, where he weighed in the tenth percentile and we heard scary terms like "failure to thrive," we decided that just supplementing with the bottle wasn't going to cut it. So we switched completely to formula.

Even then, it wasn't easy going. We actually were under orders from the pediatrician to wake the Rhino up every two hours to feed him. Which led to many exhausted hours with the Engineer and I earnestly debating whether the two hours started from the moment we introduced the bottle, or when he finished up with the bottle, because the difference between the two options meant the difference between walking zombies and parents who could actually function on a few hours sleep a night.
Last month, a new Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program initiative reduced infant-formula subsidies by up to 26%. Well-intentioned, the initiative was designed to promote breastfeeding. But it also means that parents who in the past had most of the cost of their babies' formula paid for by WIC now have to cover those costs on their own.

In conjunction with Team Mom, I'm putting up some links for money-saving coupons for baby formula for anyone who has a financial need (or is just a thrifty, frugal Mom!). Buying store-brand formula, which Consumer Reports Best Baby Products confirms is as nutritious for babies as nationally advertised brands, can help Moms say up to 50% over the cost of the national brands.

In addition, one lucky reader will receive a copy of Consumer Reports Best Baby Products (a $16.95 value)! This booklet would make an excellent gift for an expectant parent this holiday season, or can be used to help you shop for that perfect gift for baby.

To enter, just leave a comment below this post. Additional entries (optional) for tweeting about this contest and/or blogging about the giveaway on your own site or Facebook page.

Good luck!

I did not receive any compensation for this post, which was made as part of a blog tour with Team Mom, and the booklet will be sent directly to the winner from them.