Mar 062012
 

During bathtime the other night, my 7-year-old asked me what life was like before her little sister “hogged up all the tub toys.” Ah yes…I remember those days like they were yesterday. When my now-3-year-old was an infant, I had no choice but to lay her on a blanket just outside the bathroom door, while I washed her then-4-year-old big sister. As she became more mobile, my biggest dilemma was about how to keep her clean after being bathed and dressed for bed. That was when I had one of those lightbulb moments, realizing I could secure her in an entertaining spot and not have to worry about her running amok in our family room. That “safe spot” was none other than her Exersaucer. While some moms complained of its tremendous size, lamenting yet another piece of grown-up furniture lost to the arrival of baby gear, I took great pride in the fact that I had found a solution to a parenting logistics problem. For the time being, my daughter’s activity center was a safe haven–for both of us.  The bobbing toy knight, mirrored castle and other playthings  that entertained her were music to my ears. It’s why I get a little jolt whenever I see a new stationary activity center hit store shelves, including the latest from Baby Einstein. The Baby Neptune Activity Saucer is well-stocked with eight ocean-themed toys, a piano, mirror and toy tray to keep your little one happily bouncing along. The pivoting seat lets her turn her around completely as she plays, so she can easily keep on eye on you (and you on her) when you’re not right on top of the action. For me, that meant a cleaner, happier baby–and one less thing to stress about.

In a Nutshell: Let your little water baby go under the sea and explore her surroundings…without getting wet. The Baby Neptune Activity Saucer is available now.

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Jul 212011
 

In my family, if you were said to have ‘thick skin,’ it meant you didn’t let things get to you. I’d like to think that over the years, I’ve developed quite a few layers that have enabled me to withstand criticism…at least for the most part. Growing a protective shell doesn’t happen overnight unless, of course, you’re a turtle. And when you’re a new parent shopping for baby gear that will stand up to wear and tear, this animal’s tough exterior comes to mind. How fitting that Kolcraft’s TurtleTot Activity Center is centered around this very creature. The newest stationary activity center to come to town, it features Toby TurtleTot who sits amidst a group of playful pals–a worm, butterfly, bee and rattle–inviting your little one to experience sounds, lights and movement. Much like the turtle itself, the TurtleTot center is durable and strong, designed to be folded up and taken with you. If you’re in the market for a safe spot for your baby to enjoy and explore, then take this turtle along for the ride.

In a Nutshell: Baby gear designed to withstand hours of play and travel, the TurtleTot Activity Center is ready for action.

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May 112011
 

When you’re a new mom, you become the relentless target for products that “grow with your baby.” From the crib that converts to a big-kid bed, to a potty seat that becomes a step-stool, there’s an onslaught of baby gear destined to save you time and money for that precious college fund. I don’t know about you, but by the time my kid reaches the next stage of development, I’ve forgotten that the product she’s using has a life beyond its intended purpose! Well, newbie moms, don’t be like me and try not to miss the boat on this one: everyone’s favorite product for the ready-to-play baby has plenty of room to grow. The ExerSaucer Triple Fun Activity Learning Center is a playmat/stationary center/activity table all in one. I remember we didn’t take our ExerSaucer out of the box until well past the newborn stage. With this model, you can use it as soon as you like as a safe, comfy place for baby to lay on and be stimulated by her surroundings. Once she can hold up her head, turn it into an ExerSaucer with plenty of exploratory activities. And after your little toddler has become more active, she can show off her newly developed motor skills via the S-shaped activity table. Now, that’s one product that keeps on giving.

In a Nutshell: The life of a baby product doesn’t have to be short and sweet. This all-encompassing playtime item will become a playroom mainstay for longer than most of those other baby shower gifts.

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