May 2025 | Doulas of Baltimore

Nanit Pro Baby Monitor: Essential or Overhyped?

With a sea of baby monitor options, it’s easy to feel like you’re drowning. The Nanit Pro Camera was named NYT’s Wirecutter Best wifi video monitor so it’s not surprising the name surfaces at the top! With promises of advanced tracking, lowered anxiety, and crystal clear images, parents often wonder, “Is the Nanit Pro Camera the best baby monitor?”. Let’s break down what it is, the pros and cons, and our final opinion.

What Exactly is the Nanit Pro Baby Monitor?

The Nanit Pro is far more than just a camera you point at the crib. It positions itself as a “do-it-all”, high tech nursery hub that includes an app connected to your phone that is analyzed by AI to offer you insignts into your baby’s growth, sleep, and development. Here’s the core idea:

With a high definition camera it streams crystal-clear 1080p HD video and audio to your smartphone (iOS/Android) or tablet, day or night (thanks to excellent night vision with illuminating LEDs). Unlike tabletop monitors, the Nanit is designed to be securely mounted above the crib (or on a floor stand), giving a top-down, unobstructed view of the entire sleep space. This perspective is key to its advanced features.

The big selling point for Nanit is its AI-powered analytics. Using sophisticated computer vision (no wearable sensors needed!), it analyzes your baby’s movements and sleep patterns. This data is then added to the Nanit app where you can also watch the live stream and receive alerts. The camera comes with a 6 month free trial to Insights which is important in unlocking the full power of the analytics (sleep tracking, trends, personalized tips). After that, it is a paid subscription with mixed reviews.

In short: The Nanit Pro is a premium, wall/ceiling-mounted smart baby monitor that uses AI to not just show you your baby, but to help you understand their sleep patterns and development.

Is the Nanit Pro Baby Monitor Safe?

We’ve all heard the stories of baby monitors being hacked on the internet. Safety has to be a top priority when it comes to baby monitors, especially internet-connected ones.

Online Safety

According to Nanit, all video streams and data transmitted between the camera, Nanit’s servers, and your app are encrypted using industry-standard protocols (TLS/SSL). This makes it extremely difficult for unauthorized parties to intercept. Additionally, access to your camera feed requires logging into your Nanit account with your credentials. Two-factor authentication is highly recommended and adds a significant extra layer of security. Unlike some older monitors, the Nanit stream isn’t discoverable on the open internet. You must be logged into your specific account.

Nanit Pro Camera Safety

Physical safety is also important, nobody wants a camera falling into the crib! The provided mounting system is excellent when installed correctly according to instructions. Like all items, ensure it’s securely attached well out of baby’s reach.

When it comes to privacy, there are also many features. The Nanit Pro has a physical, sliding shutter you can close when the camera isn’t in use, physically blocking the lens if you choose. There is also an audio-only mode where you can choose to stream only audio for times when video isn’t necessary. Privacy zones are able to blur chosen areas within the camera’s view in the app.

Data Safety

When it comes to your private data, Nanit states they prioritize user privacy. While sleep data is processed to provide insights, they claim not to sell personal user data to third parties. We suggest you review their Privacy Policy for full details.

The Verdict on Safety and Privacy: Nanit takes security and privacy seriously, employing strong industry-standard measures. No system is 100% unhackable, but Nanit is considered one of the more secure options. Practicing good security practices that you’d use for any online data (strong, unique password, enabling 2 factor authentication, closing the shutter when not in use) further minimizes risks. To date there haven’t been major, widespread security breaches reported for Nanit.

What Are the Benefits of Using the Nanit Pro?

This isn’t an inexpensive device and there are many options out there that offer video directly to your phone. What sets Nanit apart?

Nanit App

Personalized insights do require a premium subscription (a new device comes with a 6 month free trial) and reviews overall are mixed on whether it’s worth if or not. Some parents say these premium features helped their peace of mind while others say there’s no point. Nanit accurately and automatically tracks when your baby falls asleep, wakes up, and duration of sleep sessions/naps. For data nerds and new parents alike, these are excellent details and can also work well for those who are sharing night duties with their co-parent, family, or Postpartum Doula.

Data collected can create charts and graphs over time (nights, weeks, months) identifying patterns, regressions, and improvements. These can help you understand total sleep, night wakings, nap consistency, and sleep efficiency. Nanit also offers data-driven suggestions tailored to your baby’s age and sleep patterns to help improve their sleep (and yours!).

Using a special patterned band worn on baby’s pajamas or sleep sack Nanit can monitor breathing motion and alert you if no motion is detected for a set period (e.g., 20 seconds). Some parents find this helped their peace of mind.

Nanit Pro Baby Monitor Camera Features

The top-down, wall-mounted view eliminates blind spots and gives a perfect view of the entire crib. 1080p HD video is sharp, and the night vision (with its own LEDs) is among the best.

The camera also features two-way audio that allows you to talk and soothe your baby clearly through the app. The audio stream can continue playing on your phone even when the app is minimized or your screen is off. You can also choose to be notified on your phone if your baby is crying or there’s significant movement.

With other features like temperature & humidity sensor, nighlight & white noise, and multi-user access, Nanit Pro offers a host of features that many parents will find useful.

The Bottom Line: The Nanit Pro Camera is an exceptional, feature-rich smart baby monitor for parents who value deep sleep insights, top-notch video quality, and high-tech peace of mind. The AI-powered sleep analytics (via the Insights subscription) are a great feature if you’re data-driven and want to analyze your baby’s sleep without manual recording.

What Should I Consider Before I Purchase?

Before making a purchase, it’s important to consider how it might impact your family! We think you should consider the following items before diving in:

The first is the price. This camera is a significant investment, both for the hardware and the required Insights subscription for full functionality. On the topic of Insights, the best features (sleep tracking, breathing monitoring alerts, personalized tips) live behind a paywall. This increases the overall cost of the device as you’ll need to factor in the ongoing fees.

The camera also requires installation (drilling for wall/ceiling mount). This is not ideal for renters or those who want portability as the primary setup. While travel mode does exist, it adds limits to the function of the camera and may impact the data collected.

The final thing to consider in our opinion is the limitations of generalized sleep suggestions. While an app may be able to use an algorithm to deliver you a set of suggestions, there truly isn’t anyhing that can replace an expert’s touch when it comes to addressing sleep or safety concerns.

Let’s put a bow on this! If you want the most advanced insights into your baby’s sleep and well-being and prioritize crystal-clear monitoring with strong security, the Nanit Pro Camera is a great option. For simpler, audio-only monitoring or basic video, it’s overkill. It also lacks the personalized touch of a sleep expert and the promise of “eliminating sleep training” seems a little far-fetched. If you want a high-tech partner in navigating baby monitoring, the Nanit delivers impressively.

Flying During Pregnancy: Air Travel Through the Trimesters

Pregnancy

Be it for work trips or baby moons, flying during pregnancy presents a whole new world of details to consider. Walking through security and radiation exposure, the risk for increased swelling, and remaining well hydrated, are all concerns for pregnant people who use air travel at any stage of pregnancy. Here are some specific tips and additional things to consider before you plan and pack.

Flying during pregnancy and the TSA:

If you have concerns about going through TSA’s security scanners because of exposure to x-rays, we’ve got good news. Their scanners do not use x-ray, but instead, use non-ionizing electromagnetic waves that get reflected off the body. They are considered perfectly safe for all passengers. However, you can still opt out of the scanner, and ask for a pat down instead. A female TSA agent will perform the search, and you can continue to your gate.

Also, you can ask for as much help for lifting, and getting through the line as you need. No one is labeling you a person in distress. Instead, how about a savvy flyer who knows what resources are available for use!

1st Trimester

Compression stockings/socks: can help reduce swelling of your lower extremities, and promote blood flow.
Nausea remedies: The change in elevation may cause internal gasses to expand, making your tummy even more vulnerable to sickness. Try having easy to digest foods, like crackers, available in your carry on to nibble throughout the flight. Some find relief from peppermint or ginger candies.

Radiation Exposure: there is some evidence that extreme exposure to radiation between the 8th and 15th week of pregnancy may affect IQ, but the level of inflight radiation is low. There is little risk for the average traveler, but it is something to be aware.

No one will feel bad for you: One of the hardest parts is the lack of empathy you will garner from most people. You will be tired, and everything will feel harder, and most people do not have external signs they are expecting.

2nd Trimester

In the second trimester, most are generally feeling better than they were in the 1st trimester, with more energy restored. At the beginning of your 2nd trimester, you may still not have any noticeable physical changes, whereas when you finish the 2nd trimester, you will most likely have grown considerably. See compression socks above.

Snacks: While you may start to feel less nauseous, you will want to continue to carry snacks and water.
Getting up and moving while in flight will help with overall discomfort in your back, hips, and legs. If you are not permitted to stand or walk, try to stretch as best you can.

Airline Policy: Some more significant things to consider are your airline’s policies on traveling while pregnant, and possibly restricting yourself on destinations. Most pregnancies are considered viable after 24 weeks, so in the event of an unplanned birth, consider if the place you will travel to have the medical resources to support you and your babe until you are well enough to go home.

3rd Trimester

Check with Your Doctor: With all air travel, talking with your doctor is recommended, but in the 3rd trimester, it is especially important. Most physicians discuss limiting air travel at week 36, but your specific pregnancy may have particular needs. If you are traveling between weeks 28- 36, be ready for lots of restroom breaks, low back pain, and fatigue creeping back in. To help with all that:

Bring a pillow: Not a neck pillow. A real pillow. Having the ability to support your body in various ways on flights may seem like a luxury. If you can have get an aisle seat (even better if there is extra leg room), we recommend it. You won’t have to maneuver around as many for your trips to the restroom, and if the seatbelt sign goes off, merely standing and swaying will be a comfort.

Travel Insurance: Consider getting travel insurance during pregnancy. In the event you need to get home quickly you can make arrangements without the additional pain of a hefty bill, or make cancellations should they be necessary.

Panty liners: it may have happened before the 3rd trimester, but you may be surprised by a small release of urine when you cough or sneeze. The pressure your bladder and pelvic floor are under in the 3rd trimester make minor incontinence a very common occurrence. Having extra protection is much more comfortable than needing to bring a complete change of clothes.

Whatever trimester you are in, you can stay safer and more comfortable while flying during pregnancy!

Top 10: Summer Fun for Baltimore Families (updated for 2025)

Baltimore, Family

Looking for summer fun for Baltimore families?

We are so excited that summer is upon us! Baltimore is a hot spot for summer fun to do with your children.

See what we did there? ;-)

Doulas of Baltimore is here to share with you 5 great outdoor activities to do with the whole family. And we’ve got 5 great indoor suggestions to do on those days when you want to cool down. Here we go:

1. Summer Sounds at the Square

Baltimore families love this concert series at Belvedere Square in north Baltimore City. Food, music, and lots of kid-friendly activities! There are four Friday evening concerts this summer – The Betty White Stripes on June 20, Mambo Combo on July 18, Rufus Roundtree & the BMore Brass Factory on August 15, and The New Romance on September 19.

2. Flicks from the Hill

American Visionary Art Museum hosts “Flicks from the Hill” on Thursday summer nights. There are food trucks and pre-film activities. Plus the museum is open to enjoy for free from 5-9pm on flick nights!

3. WTMD First Thursday Concerts

If it’s more live music you’re craving, head downtown to WTMD’s First Thursday Concert series! WTMD hosts live family friendly concerts on the first Thursday of the month at Canton Waterfront Park, all summer long. This year will be kicked off on June 5 by Craig Finn, Brandi & the Alexanders, Rex Pax Bring a picnic and enjoy!

4. Waterfront Parks around the Inner Harbor

Downtown features several waterfront parks around the Inner Harbor. West Shore Park features a great law and “splash pad” for the kids to enjoy. There are free waterfront wellness classes, too!

5. The Maryland Zoo

You can never go wrong with a visit to the zoo. The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore is a delight! There is much to learn about the animals, the park, and the many ways the zoo participates in conservations efforts. This summer the Zoo is hosting a Summer Solstice Twilight Stroll – bring the whole family for an evening walk or check out the Wild Water Splash Days!

Had enough of the Baltimore heat? Head inside to these great locations!

6. The Walters Art Museum

The Walters Art Museum is a fun and educational place for the little ones! Rooms full of armor, mummies and Egyptian artifacts, and much more. Don’t miss the Chamber of Wonders – hours could be spent there alone!

7. National Aquarium

The aquarium is the perfect way to cool down on a hot summer day! It’s a bigger investment than many of our favorites. And so worth it if you can make a day of it! Pop in for a showing of Shark: A 4D Experience to meet some of the world’s strangest sharks up close. From the reefs of Australia, up to the beautifully updated upland rainforest, and down the dark ramp with sharks – let’s just say everyone will sleep well at the end of the day!

8. Enoch Pratt Free Public Library

With locations across the city, in addition to the gorgeous downtown main branch, Baltimore’s free public libraries also offers special events including computer basics, chess, and parent/child reading groups. Join them for Summer Break Baltimore, a fun and free reading program to encourage literacy all summer long!

9. Maryland Science Center at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor

Great for a day trip (you can even head right over to the West Shore Park for some splashing when you’re done!). The Science Center also offers tons of fun summer programs!

10. B&O Railroad Museum

Last but certainly not least with the preschool set – A historic museum that includes kid zones and train rides! Fun for everyone!

What do you recommend for summer fun for Baltimore families??

For more suggestions, check out our Baltimore Summer Bucket List from a few years ago!

Ways to Help Your Older Child Adjust to the New Baby

Newborn care, Parenthood

Welcoming a baby into your family is a joy, but it’s natural to have concerns too. If you’re expecting baby number two, you might be worried about how your older child will adjust to a new sibling. Jealousy is a natural emotion for kids, especially during the ages when they are particularly attached to their parents. They’ll notice you are taking time to care for baby and that people are excited about baby. Are there ways to ease this transition?

How can I help my older child adjust to a new baby?

One of the ways that parents can help older children adjust to a new baby is by involving siblings in newborn care, to the extent that they want to be involved. If they are a little older, they might want to help with feeding or bathing. If they’re younger, you can have them get a pacifier or a diaper.

Especially for toddlers, it can be helpful for parents to acknowledge the difference between them and the baby. You might find yourself telling the older child to wait while you feed baby or change a diaper. On occasion, you can tell baby that they have to wait while you do something with your older child. You can also remind your older child that they are a big kid and doing something or have something that baby can’t. Emphasizing that they are special can help with feelings of jealousy.

How do I keep my older child from feeling overwhelmed by the new baby?

Having a baby can throw everyone’s schedules off, from sleep to meals. One tip to help your older child adjust to a new baby is by keeping their schedule as consistent as possible. If they go to daycare three days a week, keep them at daycare even if you or your partner are home with baby.

Babies do need a lot of attention! This can create feelings of jealousy in your older child or a certain level of unpredictability. When you feed your baby it can help to find something calm and special that the older child can do. While you are trying to have a calm moment for feeding, you can let your older child watch a special show or read a book.

How can friends and relatives help with the adjustment?

One of the easiest things friends and relatives can do to help your older child or children adjust to baby is acknowledge the sibling first. When they come over to meet baby, have visitors prioritize the sibling. It is so easy for everyone to get excited about the new baby, and your other child can notice this excitement. Have friends and family ask the older sibling if they want to introduce baby or share something special about their new sibling.

If you have someone who can help you during the postpartum period–whether it is a doula, a family member or friend–you have a great opportunity to prioritize each child on their own. They can take care of baby so that you have quality time with the older sibling. Or, they can take care of the older sibling so you can either rest or take care of baby.