This post was sponsored as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central and all opinions expressed in my post are my own. I’m partnering with them and LittleLungs.com to bring you these free Printable Car Seat signs for babies and preemies and to discuss our experience with RSV.
I had never heard of RSV until becoming a mom. I vividly remember taking my daughter to the doctor when she was about six months old. It was winter, and she had been sick for a few days. The doctor called us later than evening to tell us that her culture came back positive for RSV. Like most parents, I googled the illness (which can be a terrible move, by the way!) and didn’t like what I read. My husband and I were scared at what could happen to our sweet baby.
My triplets were preemies born in late winter. I kept them at home for months until the primary RSV season of November to March had passed. They all contracted RSV the next February, but by then they were over a year and were able to handle it a little better. But no matter what age or circumstance, RSV is scary for parents. While RSV is common, many parents are like my husband and me, never even hearing of the illness until becoming parents.
National RSV Awareness Month kicks off prior to the beginning of the contagious RSV season. Since most infants contract RSV before by the age of two, it is important for parents to be aware of the symptoms. In most cases, this respiratory syncytial virus exhibits as the common cold or flu. However, being a parent of a preemie is a huge (scary!) task, and RSV can lead to serious infections for premature babies.
Signs and Symptoms of Severe RSV:
- Coughing or wheezing that does not stop
- Fast or troubled breathing
- Gasping for breath
- Bluish color around the mouth or fingernails
- Unusual lethargy or tiredness
- Fever
Even with all of today’s medical advances, there is still no treatment for RSV. Preventative measures are the only way to go. I was meticulous with anyone who entered the house to wash their hands. I cleaned their toys more frequently in the winter. I kept the triplets away from large crowds for a long time. I had the pediatrician’s number taped on the fridge. Luckily, none of my children’s RSV cases lead to hospital stays, but I know other parents who have had to go through that. We did have to use at-home breathing treatments during the course of the illness. Giving a breathing treatment to a one year old is not an easy task!
While prevention techniques may sound simple, they can be complicated when having an adorable new baby that everyone wants to cuddle. I discovered that many people are not mindful of germs or the impact that they may have on a little one. I always struggled with saying an outright “Don’t Touch!” for fear of sounding rude. If that is the case for you, as well, these Printable Car Seat Signs can do the job for you.
I’m including two types of signs. One may be used for any baby while the other is specifically for preemies. Each one comes in pink, blue, or mint. To print, right click on the one below that you want. Save it to your computer. Print it out using your home printer. Punch a hole in the top and secure to the car seat with a cute ribbon. Optionally, you may laminate the printable in order for it to hold up longer.
Find out more regarding RSV at LittleLungs.com.
I love this idea. These are some really great designs, for such an important cause. I hate that anything that harms babies, exist. I will be printing a few of these. Thanks for sharing!
This is such a fun idea! I haven’t seen anything like this before. I love it – I need to show my sister in law! She’d love them. They came out great – such a fun printable idea.
As a person who adores babies, I know I am drawn to them like a moth to a candle. These printables are a great reminder for well-meaning baby snugglers to stand back.
What a fun idea! I love these printables. All of this information is so important for parents and caregivers. Well honestly, everyone!!! We have to keep those little ones safe and healthy!
There were so many things I had not heard of prior to motherhood. RSV was one of the ones we were scared of too. My son was also premie but luckily he pulled through without catching it. I’m glad you pointed out the signs. It’s the first thing I always look at!
What a neat and cute idea to keep them safe. My oldest was sick with respiratory issues as a baby and it was so hard on him and me with all his hospital visits. I could not imagine it x 3. You listed some very good information that is so helpful to parents dealing with RSV.
Super cute signs. Especially important and especially when out and about as seniors to almost every one loves to coo over baby.
Such adorable signs – I absolutely love them! I didn’t have premies (if anything they were all late), but I have lots of friends who had preemies
Great idea. Prevention is so important. When my son was born I was weird about having people to come and visit. I needed sleep and did not need any germs around him. Love your printables because they are cute but get the message across
Thank you for this wonderful idea! My youngest had RSV 20 years ago…breathing treatments and all. It’s very scary! His older brother & wife are about to become parents of TRIPLETS! I’m going to make a lot of these tags to use.
Any other great triplet advice?
btw….I love the name of your site!
Blessings to you and yours!
Dawn