What parent wouldn’t relish one room in the house that doesn’t scream “baby?” I know my husband wishes there were more places in our home that weren’t all about kids–from toys spilling out of otherwise-concealed storage bins, to outlet covers galore, there is clear-cut evidence that yes, we have young children living here. Because we consider our dining room a prime entertaining spot, with our fireplace and seating area, it’s one space that begs for practicality, but that must still be safe for prying hands. Jamboo Creations takes the sting out of childproofing with HearthSoft, a makeshift fireplace cover that doubles as a comfortable seating area. It’s made from a flame-retardant poly-foam material that slips right over a hearth, without requiring any special assembly. It wipes clean, which you’ll really appreciate when your little one manages to spill her juicebox. But what you’ll really love is how much it’ll make you feel…well, like a grown-up. And some days, that’s frankly all you’re asking for.

In a Nutshell: Say goodbye to those useless foam rubber safety corners that are always popping off, and enjoy a fireside story safely with your kids.

How many times have you heard the phrase, “Better to be safe than sorry?” The words never ring more than true than when you’re traveling and you’re at the mercy of others who are, shall we say, “interested” in your stuff. Grab Guard is one device worth having if you’re extra concerned about keeping your belongings secure. Think of it as a miniature padlock for your backpack, purse..even a diaper bag. Remember fumbling with your high school locker? This simple device makes up for all those frustrating moments. Simply select a two-digit combination, punch in the numbers, pull the lock and you have access to your all your personal items. Did we mention that this doesn’t look like your old school lock either? The Grab Guard comes in  a variety of colors, including lime green which my daughter loves it. Hey, with the “G” right on the lock, let her think it stands for Gucci. Yes, safety can be fashionable, too.

In a Nutshell: You can never be too careful. You’ll thank yourself later for taking this extra step.

When I’m out shopping alone (whenever the moon is blue, that is), I’m naturally able to pay more attention to my surroundings. At times, I’ll see a mom walking with her child on a leash and of course, I think to myself, “Isn’t that a better idea for your dog?” While I can appreciate her attempt to keep her unruly child contained (hey, that’s what shopping carts are for), there must be a better way. I like the thinking behind the reisenthel motherchildbag, a reusable shopping bag that features three handles: two for you and one for your child. It’s a great way to hit the store for a few quick items with a young child in tow. What’s really genius is that I can use it as we walk from the store to our car, and not worry that my 5-year-old will be unattended as we cross the busy parking lot. Plus, it’s inconspicuous enough that I don’t have to inspire pity from childless onlookers.

In a Nutshell: Running in the grocery store for a few things with your kid? This shopping accessory will keep you from spilling the beans and keeping your little one closeby. The Motherchildbag will be available later this month.

You can’t be too safe when it comes to traveling with your kids, especially in the car. If you are looking for the latest development in car seat safety, you’ve found it: Britax is enhancing its line of convertible booster seats with the Frontier 85, a combination booster seat that offers the greatest height and weight capacity currently available. Now, your child can weigh up to 85 lbs. and be 20 inches high (in a seated shoulder position) when secured with a 5-point harness. When using the belt-positioning booster, those numbers jump up to 120 lbs. and 65 inches. What does all that mean to you? Your child can remain in his safety seat longer–perhaps much to his chagrin, but as parent, you know that safety always comes first. Frontier 85 offers tremendous versatility, with 10 harness and 3 buckle strap positions. You’ll also appreciate those little extras like the no-re-thread harness and the color-coded belt guides (if you’re like me when it comes to figuring out  gear, a little ‘cheat sheet’ that can get my kids buckled up and ready to go faster is a big plus.)

In a Nutshell: We’re just plain “wowed” by the Frontier 85’s functionality. Anything that keeps our kids safe and secure gets our attention in a big way. Look for this Britax car seat in stores later this month.