Gearing Up for Baby

New Products Make Toting Tots a Breeze

By Alison Marek
January 2008

Tiny people need special care ... and lots and lots of stuff! Innovative moms, dads and other entrepreneurial spirits have looked at the day-to-day gear that goes with baby and devised some new twists to keep everyone comfy, cozy and stimulated — even in the womb.

BabyBeeCool Window Shade by BabyBeeCool

The BabyBeeCool Window Shade not only works in conjunction with the Car Seat Cooler Pad, but also keeps your child cooler while you drive! It screens out the sun and the heat and is easy to install. 12/27/2007 (MSRP: $6.99)

Minky Binkie Bungee – Brownie Dot Ballet by Z. DAISY LLC

This soft bungee clip for a pacifier is 100 percent polyester and machine washable. It comes in a 2” galvanized pail. Several designs are available. 12/26/2007 (MSRP: $14.00)

BabyBeeCool Car Seat Cooler Pad by BabyBeeCool

This product is made of an insulated fabric and sold along with reuseable ice blocks that are placed within lined pockets of the padding. The cooling protection lasts up to 10 hours in extreme heat. The BabyBeeCool Car Seat Cooler Pad was designed in the heat of the Arizona desert. Interior car temperatures can reach in excess of 185 degrees Fahrenheit, and the BabyBeeCool Car Seat Cooler Pad can make a car seat up to 100 degrees cooler. BabyBeeCool received The Toy Man Seal of Approval in 2008. Warning: Do not place child on top of cooler pad when child is in the car seat. Do not cover child with cooler pad. This product is for use on car seat only. 12/27/2007 (MSRP: $29.99)

Baby Zabu by WAGAMAMA BABY

Baby Zabu by WAGAMAMA BABY The innovative and multi-use floor cushion features sides that can be tied up, allowing the cushion to transform into a cozy and portable nap mat. A larger cushion is available with an MSRP of $118. “The Baby Zabu’s patent-pending design combines stylishness with functionality and can be used as a cool floor cushion, a portable and cozy crib or an integrated mattress pad and bumper system for your baby’s playpen or travel crib,” Yuki Mese of Wagamama Baby told TDmonthly. Launch date: September 2007. 12/18/2007 (MSRP: $88.00; Age: 0 to 5)

Rockabye Baby! Lullaby Renditions of The Rolling Stones by ROCKABYE BABY!

The lullaby rendition of The Rolling Stones replaces guitars and drums with mellotron and bells. The record tunes the volume down from an 11 to a 2, making it soft and relaxing for the ears of little ones. "Our CDs are modern and unique and enable you to share your favorite music with the littlest rock star in your life!" Toni Swann-Pardigno, national account manager of special markets at Rockabye Baby! told TDmonthly. This product is a 2007 iParenting Media Award winner. Launch date: September 2007. 12/18/2007 (MSRP: $16.98; Age: All Ages)

The Potty DVD, Book and Doll Package for Girls (Hannah Edition) by BARRON'S EDUCATIONAL SERIES

This kit includes a storybook of one toddler, Hannah, learning to use the potty, a plush Hannah doll, a small, stuffed teddy bear and an animated DVD. The DVD includes a live-action segment of toddlers dancing to the song, "Bye-Bye Diapers" and an informative segment from a pediatrician. A "Henry" version of the kit for boys is also available. Launch date: September 2007. ( Watch Video) 12/14/2007 (MSRP: $24.99; Age: 1 to 4)

Baby's First Robe – “Nice Hoodie” by Daydreamers Inc.

Baby The 100-percent woven cotton terry robe features multiple embroideries available in three varieties: choo-choo trains with blue trim, butterflies with pink trim and puppy dogs with yellow trim. The hooded robe is available in one size only and fits infants weighing up to 34 pounds. Blank robes are also available by special order, with trims in blue, pink, yellow or black with white contrast. Launch date: December 1, 2007. 12/7/2007 (MSRP: $25.00; Age: 0 to 3)

Classical Naptime For Tots by TELARC INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION

The record is composed of peaceful classical music, each song hand-selected by parents who just happen to be top recording producers. The soft musical program soothes little ones to sleep and then provides colorful stimulation for their minds as they dream. “Quality matters,” Nancy Johnson of Telarc International Corporation told TDmonthly, emphasizing the record’s “exceptionally clear, natural sound” and “world-class performances.” Launch date: March 2008. 12/7/2007 (MSRP: $5.98; Age: 0 and Up)

Flip Book "World of Dragon" by HABA USA/HABERMAASS CORP.

Thanks to the magnetic flipping effect, these innovative fabric books will be real clutching fun for babies. The cute illustrations, shimmering foil and fumbling net guarantees even more pleasure. Made of foam and cotton/polyester. Approximate size is 5" x 5" x 2". Available titles are "World of Dragon," "Summer Day" and "Let's Get Going." 12/7/2007 (MSRP: $14.00; Age: 1 to 3)

Lavender Dreams – Slumbersong Baby by GOLDBERGER DOLL MFG. CO. INC

Simply pull the baby’s musical nightcap and a soothing lullaby will begin. The battery-free, 12” baby is incredibly soft and huggable and smells of lavender, a soothing scent that has been known to naturally calm and relax fussy children. ( Watch Video) 11/5/2007 (Age: 0 and Up)

Baby Mats - Giraffe by BESTEVER INC.

The mat gives babies a comfortable surface to play on while they explore their new world. The mats feature a non-skid backing and extra cushioning to make it ideal for floors. The 31” mat rolls up easily for smooth transport. Launch date: February 2008. 11/5/2007 (MSRP: $36.00; Age: 0 to 3)

Giselle Chocolate Brown w/ Polka Dots by PEDIPED

The American Podiatric Medical Association-approved shoes are designed for active, growing preschoolers and early school-age children. The soft, rubber soles are suitable for running, jumping and playing indoors and outdoors. It features shock-absorbing air cushion technology, as well as an ultra-flexible pedi flex-zone to support natural foot motion. Mary Janes, open-toe sandals and white patent shoes are available for girls, while runners, slip-on sneakers and flip-flops are available for boys. The shoes are available in sizes 6 to 12. Launch date: February 2008. 10/26/2007 (MSRP: $38.00; Age: 2 to 5)

Pixel Organics - Refill Crib Mattress by PIXEL MODERN PIECES

This removable and washable quilted cover is made of certified organic cotton and wool and features a naturally flame-resistant core. The cover is entirely designed and manufactured in the United States. Launch date: January 15, 2007.
— “Our patented process creates a high-performance, inner-mattress core from discarded consumer bottles,” Chris Svensrud, designer, inventor and president of Pixel Organics, told TDmonthly. “Each crib mattress core uses approximately 80 recycled bottles.” 12/28/2007 (MSRP: $150.00; Age: 0 to 5)

Pixel Organics – Kitten Tee by PIXEL MODERN PIECES

Pixel Organics – Kitten Tee by PIXEL MODERN PIECES From the Organic Layette Collection, the baby tee is made of 100 percent certified organic cotton (no pesticides or herbicides) and made entirely in the United States. Products in the Organic Collection have MSRPs between $9.00 and $48.00. Launch date: January 15, 2007.
— “We believe that being domestic is important, too!” Chris Svensrud, designer, inventor and president of Pixel, told TDmonthly. 12/28/2007 (Age: 0 to 2)

Warm As A Lamb - Winter Stroller Coat Cover by T&C INNOVATORS INC.

The all-in-one safety shield keeps children warm and protected without being over-bundled. The shield features an easy-access window with a detachable thermal panel that can be used as an additional blanket or diaper changer, a two-minute recordable voice module that allows parents to teach as they stroll, a concealed rear storage compartment and more. The shield even glows in the dark. Launch date: April 2007.
— “Warm As A Lamb is the only fully thermally insulated safety stroller shield designed to give parents piece of mind during those cold winter months,” T&C Innovators Inc. CEO Christina Kosteas told TDmonthly. 12/28/2007 (MSRP: $99.99; Age: 0 to 3)

Tiny Paws Crib Bedding by LITTLE FERN LLC

Tiny Paws Crib Bedding by LITTLE FERN LLC These stylish baby-bedding sets are made from pure cotton and use only hypoallergenic dyes. Each bed-in-a-bag set includes a cribsheet, a skirt, a bumper, a diaper stacker and two pillows with pillowcases. Launch date: September 2007.
— “The extra large comforters and pillows included in each set allow easy conversion to toddler bedding ... setting us apart and making your bedding selection a super-smart investment!” Little Fern Founder Ameesha Batheja told TDmonthly. 12/28/2007 (MSRP: $350.00; Age: 0 and Up)

Reversible Stroller Liners by CARSEAT COUTURE INC.

Reversible Stroller Liners by CARSEAT COUTURE INC. The padded stroller liners are comfortable, soft, stylish and machine washable. They slip easily onto most strollers, with reinforced slots for the safety harness. The cushion prevents scratchy surfaces from rubbing against a child’s legs. Available in a variety of fabrics, this product is intended for children over the age of three months.
— “Some of our covers are cotton and cool for warm climates, [while] some styles reverse to a warm and cozy mink or chenille,” Ann vonBehrens of Carseat Couture Inc. told TDmonthly. 12/28/2007 (MSRP: $54.00; Age: 0 to 6)

My NapPak by MY NAPPAK, INC.

My NapPak by MY NAPPAK, INC. Great for on the go, My NapPak is an all-in-one pillow, comforter and fleece blanket set. Launch date: Summer 2007.
— “Our fabric is 65-percent polyester and 35-percent cotton, which gives our products much more durability, especially when they are being washed weekly,” My NapPak President Beth Clampitt told TDmonthly. 12/28/2007 (MSRP: $48.00; Age: 0 to 8)

Day Tripper Diaper Bag by BOOGALOO TOYS

Day Tripper Diaper Bag by BOOGALOO TOYS Each fashionable diaper bag allows Mom to carry just what she needs for short trips. The bag opens quickly and easily to form a handy changing station with all necessary baby essentials at hand. It comes with an insulated bottle holder and a “binky-link”. Other designs are available. Launch date: 2007.
— “It’s not just a bag, it’s a changing station on the go,” Jonathan Rimington of Boogaloo USA’s public relations and advertising department told TDmonthly. 12/28/2007 (MSRP: $24.95; )

Expecting Big Sister Announcement Cards - Big Sister Butterfly by BUDDING FAMILY PUBLISHING

These 5” x 7” cards are keepsakes that will help celebrate siblings-to-be and announce the baby-on-the-way. The cards are easy to personalize and frame. Other big sister and big brother announcement cards are also available. Launch date: January 1, 2008.
— This is “a unique, forward-thinking product that helps parents prepare only-children for a new baby and a new role in the family,” Budding Family Publishing Founder and Writer Renee Raab Whitcombe told TDmonthly. 1/2/2008 (MSRP: $3.75; Age: 1 to 6)

Pressions for Kids by PRESSIONS

Pressions for Kids by PRESSIONS Pressions is a kit that allows anyone to make beautiful raised prints of a baby’s or child’s hand or foot. It is made in the same frame that it is later displayed in. The finished product has a beautiful sand finish and will be treasured for years to come. Launch date: August 2007.
— “Pressions allows multiple attempts at getting the perfect print — you can even put it away and pull it out weeks later,” Pauline Leach of Continual Inspirations told TDmonthly. “The finished product is a raised rather than indented print and looks so professional and unique that you won’t believe it was that easy to make.” 1/2/2008 (MSRP: $43.00; Age: 0 to 10)

The Tuffet by MADE BY A MOM LLP

The Tuffet by MADE BY A MOM LLP The Tuffet protects a baby’s head if he falls over while attempting to sit up. The Tuffet also features two handles and two pockets that can be used for diapers and wipes or toys. Launch date: September 2007.
— “There is not another product out there for infants that is as versatile as The Tuffet,” Wendy Evegan of Made By a Mom LLP told TDmonthly. “It can be used for all ages.”
Awards: 2010 Creative Child Magazine; 2008 iParenting Media Award; 2009 Mom's Best Award. 1/2/2008 (MSRP: $47.00; Age: 1 and Up)

Holiday Bibs by STEPHAN BABY

Holiday Bibs by STEPHAN BABY Embroidered and appliquéd, the three-piece Holiday Bib sets make babies ready to celebrate any month. The soft cotton is backed with vinyl to keep babies dry, and the colorful motifs make for good clean fun for any occasion. Varieties include Easter, Mother's Day, Father's Day, Valentine's Day, St. Patrick's Day, Memorial Day, 4th of July, Grandparent's Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's. Launch date: January 2008. 1/2/2008 (MSRP: $20.00; Age: 0 and Up)

Numbers & Fun by KNOW A BABY LLC

The video features numbers, shapes and specially-created original characters, all set to a lively musical soundtrack to help teach kids numbers in a fun and original way. The enjoyable sights and
sounds permit each child's mind to learn and expand at its own pace. Launch date: December 25, 2007.
— “Children respond to ‘Numbers & Fun’ because it is designed to nurture in positive ways the joy every child feels when their mind is actively engaged, “Know A Baby LLC President Sari Harner told TDmonthly. 1/3/2008 (MSRP: $14.99; Age: 1 to 5)