Baby Buggy Bumper

Breasfeeding and Cancer in the News

2010-03-26T11:36:00.000-07:00

Several new outlets are reporting on a new study that states the long term brestfeeding my be tied to more aggressive kinds of breast cancer.

Long-Term Breast-Feeding Tied to More Aggressive Cancers Though nursing is thought to reduce risk, more advanced tumors noted in study.

According to the article;

Women who breast-feed for six months or more face a higher risk of developing the most aggressive types of breast cancer, but it's not clear whether there's a cause-and-effect relationship, a new study finds.

Maria Cheng of The Associated Press, writes in an article titled Experts debate merits of breast cancer screening;

At a breast cancer conference Friday in Barcelona, experts discussed how to implement mammogram screening programs across Europe, balancing fighting cancer with the goal of targeting only those women who need to be screened.

Breast-Feeding varies by race and place.

2010-03-25T23:07:00.000-07:00

According to an article titled CDC: Breast-feeding varies by race, place in USA Today.com;

A new study confirms that Hispanic women generally breast-feed more than white and black women do. But it finds surprising regional differences in U.S. breast-feeding rates.

Baby Slings Recall

2010-03-24T06:46:00.000-07:00

NPR is reporting More than 1 Million Baby Slings Are Recalled.

And ABC News.com is reporting Baby Slings to Be Pulled From Market.

Consumers looking for a replacement are urged to "contact Infantino at (866) 860-1361 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's Web site at www.infantino.com."

Graco Strollers Recalled

2010-01-20T10:08:00.000-08:00

Over at MSNBC.com they are quoting from an AP story about the recent Graco Stroller Recall in an online article titled Fingertip amputations prompt stroller recall.

About 1.5 million Graco strollers sold at Wal-Mart, Target and other major retailers are being recalled after some children's fingertips were amputated by hinges on the products.

The recall by Graco Children's Products Inc. includes certain model numbers of its Passage, Alano and Spree Strollers and Travel Systems. The Exton, Pa., company received seven reports of children placing their fingers in a stroller's canopy hinge as the canopy was being opened or closed. Five children had their fingertips severed and two children received cuts on their fingertips.

You have to wonder how this could happen, but sadly because I worked in a manufacturing plant at one point in my life I understand the design process and what it takes to get complex goods to market. Safety of the end user is not always the focus, though it should be. I just hope this causes all those who design products for children to put safety first, as so many of them claim that they do.

For more information about the recalled strollers, consumers can call 800-345-4109 or visit http://www.cpsc.gov.

Wilde and Clarke: "I Had a Little Dog"

2009-11-19T08:56:00.000-08:00

Wilde and Clarke singing "I had a Little Dog"

Notes from YouTube;

I Had a Little Dog, a Children's song written & performed by Key Wilde & Mr. Clarke

Baby Food Recalled

2009-10-20T08:42:00.000-07:00

MSNBC.com is reporting that there is a national Baby Food Recall.

Plum Organics is recalling some of its apple and carrot portable pouch baby food because of concerns over possible botulism contamination. The product was sold individually throughout the country at Toys-R-Us and Babies-R-Us stores.

Consumers should not use these products, even if they appear to be normal, because of the possible health risk.

The recalled product is sold in 4.22-ounce pouches, with a "best by" date of May 21, 2010, and UPC 890180001221.

Dancing babies top viral video chart

2009-08-28T14:59:00.000-07:00

Evian water's latest marketing campaign appearing to show a group of babies rollerdancing has become a viral hit on the internet.

New Suit Monitors Baby's Temp

2009-08-27T14:50:00.000-07:00

A baby sleep suit that changes color when an infant's temperature reaches a dangerous level is the latest product set to hit the ever trendy child safety market.

Children's Book in the Spot Light - Where the Sidewalk Ends

2009-08-17T00:01:00.000-07:00

Where the Sidewalk Ends 30th Anniversary Edition:
Poems and Drawings

I remember buying this book for my daughter like it was yesterday, even though it was almost twenty years ago. But neither she or I have out grown this, or any of the other Shel Silverstein books that we own. This one being the first in our collection it is the most magical.

If you are a dreamer, come in,
If you are a dreamer,
A wisher, a liar,
A hope-er, a pray-er,
A magic bean buyer . . .

Come in . . . for where the sidewalk ends, Shel Silverstein's world begins.

Book Details

Reading level: Ages 9-12

Hardcover: 192 pages
Publisher: HarperCollins; 30 Anv edition (January 20, 2004)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0060572345
ISBN-13: 978-0060572341
Dimensions: 8.9 x 6.9 x 1 inches

Children's Book in the Spot Light - The Very Hungery Caterpillar

2009-07-27T00:01:00.000-07:00

The Very Hungry Caterpillar

With its lovely, humorous illustrations and wonderful narrative about a hungry caterpillar growing up to be a beautiful butterfly, Eric Carle's story touches anyone who still has some growing to do. Along with reassuring repetition--"He was still hungry ..."--the book includes some wonderful interactive moments: what youngster can resist sticking a finger through that hole in the page as his ravenous friend makes his way through various delicacies?

Book Details

Reading level: Ages 4-8

Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Philomel; Deluxe edition (September 18, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 039925045X
ISBN-13: 978-0399250453
Dimensions: 17.1 x 13 x 1.4 inches

Children's Book in the Spot Light - A Light in the Attic

2009-07-06T00:01:00.000-07:00

A Light in the Attic

Last night while I lay thinking here
Some Whatifs crawled inside my ear
And pranced and partied all night long
And sang their same old Whatif song:

Whatif I flunk that test?
Whatif green hair grows on my chest?
Whatif nobody likes me?
Whatif a bolt of lightning strikes me?...

From the creator of the beloved poetry collections Where the Sidewalk Ends and Falling Up, here is another wondrous book of poems and drawings. And I really can't recommend these books any more highly then I do. If I could I would give this series of books to every kid. And I'm willing to bet that most kids will love them.

Awards

Notable Children's Books of 1981 (ALA)
Best Books of 1981 (SLJ)
Children's Books of 1981 (Library of Congress)
1981 Children's Books (NY Public Library)
1981 USA Children's Books of International Interest
Winner, 1983–84 William Allen White Award (Kansas)
Winner, 1983 Garden State Children's Book Award (New Jersey Library Association)
1984 Garden State Children's Book Award for Non-Fiction (New Jersey Library Association)
1984 George C. Stone Center for Children's Books (Claremont, CA) "Recognition of Merit" Award

Product Details

Reading level: Ages 9-12

Hardcover: 176 pages
Publisher: HarperCollins; 1st edition (October 7, 1981)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0060256737
ISBN-13: 978-0060256739
Dimensions: 8.8 x 6.6 x 1.1 inches

Children's Books @BabbyBuggyBumper

Friday Baby Funny - Baby Bad Words

2009-06-12T00:01:00.000-07:00

So what do you do when your toddler uses inappropriate language. Well you laugh, probbly and then correct them. LOL.

This little girl was asked what she would do about a monster, this was her response.

Friday Baby Funny - Serious Baby - Sometimes

2009-06-05T00:01:00.000-07:00

This little guy is learning how to make facial expressions, might come in handy in his acting career.

Fathers Supporting Breastfeeding

2009-05-30T00:01:00.000-07:00

Fathers Supporting Breastfeeding is an FNS project targeted to African American fathers so that they may positively impact a mother’s decision to breastfeed. The project is part of a continual effort to increase breastfeeding initiation and duration rates among African American women by involving fathers in breastfeeding promotion efforts.

Materials can be ordered online @Fathers Supporting Breastfeeding. Materials include: 2 posters, 2 educational brochures, and a video with a discussion guide. The accompanying materials are designed to promote breastfeeding awareness and to support and strengthen the role of fathers in the family.

Friday Baby Funny - Hahahaha haha ha

2009-05-29T00:01:00.001-07:00

Did you ever laugh this hard. Man I wish I could be this joyful. LOL.

Children's Book in the Spot Light - Math Curse

2009-05-25T00:01:00.000-07:00

Math Curse
This book was a case of me as a dad trying to sneek some math ideas into my duaghters head. I noticed early on that she did not enjoy math, so I had to get subversive, and trick her into having fun with math. This book really helped, and when she became older she accepted some of the concepts that the book introduced her to.

The illustrations are very well done, and help make the points being made by the text perfectly. The book is fun for young and for older children. It is obvious and subtle at the same time. There are a lot of ideas in this book, so much so that as your child grows they will begian to vew the book in different ways. I am sure that this book helped my daughter have more fun with math, she never really learned to like math, but this book helped.

Book Details

Reading level: Ages 4-8

Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Viking Juvenile (October 1, 1995)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0670861944
ISBN-13: 978-0670861941
Dimensions: 11.3 x 11 x 0.4 inches

Math Curse

Friday Baby Funny - Baby Talks on Phone

2009-05-22T00:01:00.000-07:00

I find it very funny this little lady talking on the phone. She has got hi and bye down. LOL.

Children's Book in the Spot Light - Falling Up

2009-05-18T12:01:00.000-07:00

Falling Up

All the things that I love about Shel Silverstein's other books, I also love about this one. I bought these books as much for our daughter as I did for myself. And it makes me laugh saying that, but it is true. And now that our daughter is grown I am still enjoying them.

This book with its silly ryhems and wonderful ink drawings is sure to delight your child as much as it does me. And who knows you may like it as much as I do.

Book Details

Reading level: Ages 9-12

Hardcover: 184 pages
Publisher: HarperCollins; First Edition edition (April 25, 1996)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0060248025
ISBN-13: 978-0060248024
Dimensions: 8.8 x 7 x 1 inches

Children's Books @BabbyBuggyBumper

Friday Baby Funny - Harry Mr. Tickles

2009-05-15T00:01:00.000-07:00

It is my hope that your baby is as happy as young Harry is here.

A Book for Parents - 100 Best Books for Children

2009-05-11T00:01:00.000-07:00

100 Best Books for Children
This is the book that made me decide that I had to try to create my own list of 100 books for children. Not that I can do better then what is offered here by Anita Silvey, a longtime children's book specialist and literature lover, but this book is just so interesting that you have to see if you can come up with your own list. This book however is much more than just a list, it gives the background on many of your childhood favorites and many of the books that will be the favorites of your children.

One reviewer states,

When I first saw this book, I was expecting a list and not much more. But the depth and research that went in to this book is extraordinary! Anita Silvey even knew most of the authors and illustrators for these books personally - you can't get much closer to the sources than that! A delight to read, and full of insightful, delightful historical information and personalized anecdotes, this book would be a perfect addition to anyone's bookshelf, no matter what age!

Book Details

Hardcover: 208 pages
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (April 9, 2004)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0618278893
ISBN-13: 978-0618278893
Product Dimensions: 8.6 x 5.8 x 0.8 inches

Books for Parents @BabyBuggyBumper

Mother's Day and Father's Day Facts

2009-05-10T00:01:00.000-07:00

The Census Bureau's Facts for Features and Special Editions consist of collections of statistics from the Census Bureau's demographic and economic subject areas intended to commemorate anniversaries or observances or to provide background information for topics in the news.

The first Mother’s Day observance was a church service in 1908 requested by Anna Jarvis, of Philadelphia, to honor her deceased mother. Jarvis, at an early age, had heard her mother express hope that a day to commemorate all mothers would be established. This and other interesting facts about Mother's day are presented in this interesting and fact filled web site.

Check it out here;

Census Bureau Facts for Features on Mother's day.

The idea of Father’s Day was conceived by Sonora Dodd of Spokane, Wash., while she listened to a Mother’s Day sermon in 1909. Dodd wanted a special day to honor her father, William Smart, a widowed Civil War veteran who was left to raise his six children by himself on a rural farm.

Read more facts about Father's Day here;

Census Bureau Facts for Features on Father's day.

Friday Baby Funny - Best Baby Laugh

2009-05-08T00:01:00.000-07:00

Sounds like little Morgan is going to have a jolly laugh when he grows up. LOL.

Clear Info on Birthmarks

2009-05-05T17:11:00.000-07:00

In an articled titled Holy Mole-y Bare Naked Birthmarks author Allison Ford discusses the possible causes of your baby's birthmarks. She provides an overview of various types of birthmarks, like Mongolian Blue Spots, Moles, Vascular Birthmarks, Macular Stains, Hemangiomas, and Port Wine Stains among others.

The author states;

There are many different types of birthmarks, which can appear on almost every part of the body. I sometimes felt self-conscious about my own, but growing up, very few of my friends didn’t have some sort of birthmark, whether it was a brown smear on an arm, a red port wine stain on the face, or in one friend’s case, a single purple toe. Birthmarks are extremely common, and luckily, they’re usually harmless. It’s not clear why some people get them and some don’t, but they occur most often in Caucasian children and up to five times more often in girls. They are sometimes apparent at birth, but some types of birthmarks develop soon after.

A book that may be helpful to parents of children who have facial birthmarks might be Buddy Booby's Birthmark by Donna and Evan ducker. Click image below for more information.

Various reviewers said;

"A colorful, thought-provoking story about self-acceptance and sensitivity to others' appearances...heartwarming. Concisely and honestly written...This book will open up many valuable discussions between adults and children in houses where a birthmark-or any physical difference-is an issue." --Stephanie Cale, Birthmarks.com Book Review

"Parents will enjoy the book as much as children...Rich illustrations by Mike Motz give an almost 3-D effect to the animated cast of characters. In addition to the story itself, the book offers little-known animal facts, a description of real-life endangered species unique to Galapagos and an animal search--one of which is quite a challenge...Entertainment for children, easily read by adults, education for all, the work (Buddy Booby's Birthmark) will be a stand-out in any children's book collection."- --Richard Walker/Times and Democrat Book Review

This book is incredible and I can't wait to buy some copies for my office. It will be a wonderful resource for children and their parents. For children, it emphasizes the importance of gaining acceptance. For parents, it's a great aid in explaining and demonstrating how to help their child to know that their personality is their most important gift to others. A book like this is long overdue. Every parent of a child with a birthmark should consider buying this book." --Dr. Milton Waner, Vascular and Birthmarks Institute of New York

Some birthmark web sites

Vascular Birthmarks Foundation

Birthmarks.com

Book Details

Reading level: Ages 4-8

Hardcover: 36 pages
Publisher: E & D Books, Ltd. (August 1, 2007)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0979441307
ISBN-13: 978-0979441301

Children's Book in the Spot Light - Where the Wild Things Are

2009-05-04T00:01:00.000-07:00

Today in the "book in the spot light series," I want to spot light a book that my daughter really loved when she was a little girl (I also loved it when I was a little boy), it is the 1964 Caldecott Medal recipient Where the Wild Things Are, by Maurice Sendak.

Over the years Mr. Sendak has won several other awards, including the 1970 Hans Christian Andersen Award for children's book illustration, and in 2003 he shared the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award with Christine Nöstlinger, the first time it was awarded.

Where the Wild Things Are

Where the Wild Things Are is one of those truly rare books that can be enjoyed equally by a child and a grown-up. If you disagree, then it's been too long since you've attended a wild rumpus. Max dons his wolf suit in pursuit of some mischief and gets sent to bed without supper. Fortuitously, a forest grows in his room, allowing his wild rampage to continue unimpaired. Sendak's color illustrations (perhaps his finest) are beautiful, and each turn of the page brings the discovery of a new wonder.

The wild things--with their mismatched parts and giant eyes--manage somehow to be scary-looking without ever really being scary; at times they're downright hilarious. Sendak's defiantly run-on sentences--one of his trademarks--lend the perfect touch of stream of consciousness to the tale, which floats between the land of dreams and a child's imagination.

book details

Reading level: Ages 4-8

Hardcover: 48 pages
Publisher: Harper Collins; 25th Anniversary edition (November 9, 1988)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0060254920
ISBN-13: 978-0060254926

Books by Maurice Sendak @Amazon.com

Children's Books @BabbyBuggyBumper

The emphasis of this post is the book (as described above), but here are a couple of pieces of related video that I thought you and your kids might like.

This clip below of President Obama reading Where the Wild Things are is so cute. I recommend sitting your kid on your lap and watching this with them. It is funny too, I love the secret service man in the background. Very serious, LOL.

And the below clip is the trailer for the upcoming movie. My daughter says, "They better not mess this up." We will probably go and see it and give it a review here.

It's the Birthday of Doctor Benjamin Spock

2009-05-02T00:01:00.000-07:00

Doctor Benjamin Spock was born on May 2, 1903. He was an American pediatrician whose book Baby and Child Care, published in 1946, is one of the biggest best-sellers of all time.

Dr. Spock's Baby and Child Care: 8th Edition

Its revolutionary message to mothers was that "you know more than you think you do." Spock was the first pediatrician to study psychoanalysis to try to understand children's needs and family dynamics. His ideas about childcare influenced several generations of parents to be more flexible and affectionate with their children, and to treat them as individuals, whereas the previous conventional wisdom had been that child rearing should focus on building discipline, and that, e.g., babies should not be "spoiled" by picking them up when they cried. Dr. Spock was also an Olympic gold-medallist in rowing.

Dr. Spock: An American Life

Friday Baby Funny - Twin Baby Boys Laughing

2009-05-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

Kind of makes you wonder how cool it would be to have a twin to make you laugh.

April's Recommended Books, Toys and DVDs

2009-04-30T00:01:00.000-07:00

So here is a recap of all the Books, DVDs and toys that were recommended this month.

Books

Dr. Spock: An American Life

Dr. Spock's Baby and Child Care: 8th Edition

Sleeping with Your Baby: A Parent's Guide to Cosleeping

The Happiest Baby on the Block: The New Way to Calm Crying and Help Your Newborn Baby Sleep Longer

Crying Baby, Sleepless Nights: Why Your Baby Is Crying and What You Can Do About It

DVDs

The Happiest Baby on the Block - The New Way to Calm Crying and Help Your Baby Sleep Longer (DVD)

The Happiest Baby on the Block DVD + CD COMBO By Dr. Harvey Karp The New Way to Calm Crying, and Help Your Baby Sleep Longer

Toys

Safety 1st Rocking Jitter Buggy

Fisher-Price Deluxe Jumperoo

Esentials

Stokke Tripp Trapp High Chair - Classic Collection

Dear Mom Thank You For Everything

2009-04-29T00:01:00.000-07:00

The First Sentence of Dear Mom Thank You For Everything got me; "Mom, the other day I was rubbing my belly button and it really made me stop and think-what a funny little reminder of such an important connection."

Sometimes it's hard to find the right words to tell Mom just how you feel. How can you adequately thank her for all her selfless acts of love and tireless devotion? Bradley Trevor Greive's new book, Dear Mom, will help children of all ages (especially those who call themselves grown-ups) express those special thoughts and feelings in tenderly honest words and pictures.

A poignant tribute to mothers everywhere, Dear Mom artfully combines touching animal photographs with gentle humor and heartfelt words of thanks. This sweet volume will let moms know just how much all their efforts are appreciated and how much they are truly loved.

About the Author - Bradley Trevor Greive hails from the untamed island state of Tasmania. During his life, he's worked as an artist, cartoonist, furniture and toy designer, animation director, screenwriter, and paratroop platoon leader. His previous book, The Blue Day Book, also featuring animal photography, is an international best-selling keepsake. BTG currently lives in Sydney, Australia.

Book Details

Hardcover: 80 pages
Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing; 3rd Pntg. edition (January 25, 2001)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0740715283
ISBN-13: 978-0740715280
Product Dimensions: 6.3 x 6.3 x 1.1 inches

Dear Mom Thank You For Everything

Sumertime Lullaby

2009-04-28T00:01:00.000-07:00

Summertime is a famous lullaby from the Porgy and Bess musical of 1935. Sometimes it is also referred to as the Gershwin Lullaby. Although many of the jazz improvizations of this song have "wild chromaticism", the original is quite soothing, and somewhat slow and melancholy.

Gershwin was inspired to write the song after hearing a Ukrainian lullaby, Oi Khodyt Son Kolo Vikon (A Dream Passes by the Window) in 1926. The recurring gentle rocking back and forth between A-minor 6th and E-seventh, in the orchestral strings version, is simultaneously both sad and comforting.

Summertime, and the living is easy
Fish are jumping, and the cotton is high
Your daddy's rich, and your ma is good looking
So hush little baby, don't you cry.

One of these mornings, you're gonna rise up singing
You're gonna spread your wings and take the sky
But till that morning, there is nothing can harm you
With your daddy and mommy standing by.

Heavenly Skies and Lullabies:
Illustrated Songbook & CD

click image for more info

Sleeping With Your Baby

2009-04-27T00:01:00.000-07:00

In a recent article titled Sleeping with baby not best idea by By Liz Atwood of the Baltimore Sun.com the point, as per the title of the article, sleeping with baby may not be the best idea.

According to the article;

Allowing babies to sleep with their parents is a bad idea, say the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Consumer Product Safety Commission, which note that the arrangement poses a risk of suffocation and strangulation.

Still, sleep-deprived parents who can't get their babies to sleep in a crib often ask Dr. Terry Nguyen, a pediatrician at Greater Baltimore Medical Center, for her advice on co-sleeping.

There seems to be a bit of difference of opinion out there about sleeping with your baby. We personally did not sleep with our daughter, she had a crib in her own bed room. That worked best for us, but I do believe for some parents it might be a better solution to sleep with your babies.

I think the most important thing is to be informed, no matter what your choice is. For those parents who want to sleep with their baby I recommend Sleeping with Your Baby: A Parent's Guide to Cosleeping.

One reviewer stated;

Providing photos that clearly illustrate the dangers of entrapment and that caution parents against other situations that would make bedsharing a poor choice (e.g., if one or both parents is significantly obese, if the parents smoke or if the mother smoked during pregnancy, if one or both parents have consumed alcohol, if the sleeping surface is not suitable for bedsharing, if pets or older children share the bed, etc.), McKenna clearly maps out the do's and don'ts of cosleeping. He also explains that there's a difference between bedsharing (sharing a bed) and cosleeping (sleeping with your baby in close proximity to you). He stresses that it's important to specify the nature of the cosleeping arrangement when we're talking about cosleeping so that we don't muddy the waters further on this already controversial issue. "There is no one right way to cosleep, nor does cosleeping occur in one correct configuration. While some ways of cosleeping are safer than other ways, some are not safe at all," he notes.

Sleeping with Your Baby: A Parent's Guide to Cosleeping

Book Details
Paperback: 128 pages
Publisher: Platypus Media; 1 edition (January 1, 2007)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1930775342
ISBN-13: 978-1930775343

Fisher- Price Jumperoo

2009-04-26T00:01:00.000-07:00

Fisher-Price Deluxe Jumperoo

Info:

Size (in inches): 7.50 x 27.50 x 30.50
Batteries: 3 AA batteries required.
Dimensions: 7.50 inches x 27.50 inches x 30.50 inches

From the Manufacturer

Encourages and rewards baby's jumping with music& lights in a safe freestanding platform for use anywhere in the house. Baby can jump safely without doorway. Jumping activates lights,sounds & music in removable toy tray. Features 5 position height adjustment. Portable with legs that fold in. Machine washable seat.

It is going to be hard to not like this because your baby will love it!

Shaken Baby Syndrome is Not Funny

2009-04-25T00:01:00.000-07:00

In my search to find a news story that had some relavance to the high tech parents out there I came accross this story about a new iPhone App called Baby Shaker.

CNET. com has an online article titled Apple approves 'Baby Shaker' for App Store where you can read all about it.

According to the article;

If you needed any further proof that Apple's App Store approval process is horrifyingly out of whack, consider one of the latest additions to the App Store: Baby Shaker.

A company called Sikalosoft is currently selling a $0.99 iPhone application called Baby Shaker, as of Monday. The object of Baby Shaker is to stop the incessant crying of an infant pictured on screen by violently shaking the iPhone, at which point two red "x" marks appear over the baby's eyes. "See how long you can endure his or her adorable cries before you just have to find a way to quiet the baby down!" reads the sales pitch for Baby Shaker.

This made me think about the sense of humor that some people have, or in this case don't have. This is not humor, it is just wrong.

Which led me to the web site Dont Shake a Baby.com, which is devoted to stopping this kind of child abuse.

Child abuse has been the leading cause of death to children admitted to The Children's Hospital trauma service every year since 2003. A significant majority of the children who died exhibited signs of Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS). SBS is a serious brain injury that occurs when an infant or toddler is violently shaken. Shaking a baby can cause severe brain damage, blindness, learning problems, seizure disorders, cerebral palsy, paralysis, and even death.

calming your baby resources

Calming a Crying Baby @Don't Shake A Baby.com

The Happiest Baby on the Block: The New Way to Calm Crying and Help Your Newborn Baby Sleep Longer

Crying Baby, Sleepless Nights: Why Your Baby Is Crying and What You Can Do About It

The Happiest Baby on the Block - The New Way to Calm Crying and Help Your Baby Sleep Longer (DVD)

The Happiest Baby on the Block DVD + CD COMBO By Dr. Harvey Karp The New Way to Calm Crying, and Help Your Baby Sleep Longer

Stokke KinderZeat: A Different Kind of High Chair

2009-04-24T00:01:00.000-07:00

STOKKE KinderZeat: "Not your Mom's High Chair"

Stokke Tripp Trapp High Chair - Classic Collection

Last year I was on a forum devoted to mothers and they mentioned the KinderZeat. And I have to admit that at that time, I had never heard of it. But as a gadget it is really cool and now I understand why they all spoke so highly of it.

This chair is so cool. It has a weird name, which is STOKKE KinderZeat (what ever that means?). But despite the name, this is a "valuable transitional seating solution for kids who are too big (or think themselves too big) for a highchair," even though they might not be ready for a chair at the kitchen table. The chair is shaped like a triangle, and is very adjustable. The seat and foot rest can be adjusted to fit your growing little one. The foot rest act as a kind of ladder that kids can use to get up into the chair.

And this chair is very strong, it is capable of supporting 300 pounds. Which means an adult male could be held up by this chair. And any chair that can take the weight of an adult should be able to handle the out put of a toddler.

Different Mom's said in online reviews;

"At first, I thought the seat might be too hard, but she seems very comfortable sitting in this chair."

"A MOST EXCELLENT PURCHASE."

"It is really a practical chair because they can use it later at their desks in their rooms."

Stokke Tripp Trapp High Chair - Classic Collection

Manufacturer's age: 18 months and up

From the Manufacturer: Having trouble sitting through a meal? This comfortable seat improves mealtime as the unique award winning design provides special support and the solid footrest alleviates discomfort from dangling feet. Seat and footrest are completely adjustable in height and depth, so it really "Grows With Your Child" from 18 months through adults. Solid beech wood, the KinderZeat holds up to 300 pounds. Meets US Highchair Safety Standards. Fits standard tables 30-33. As seen presented by Parenting, Parents, Child, American Baby, Baby Talk, Fit Pregnancy, New York Times, CNN Headline news and more. The Original STOKKE KinderZeat. The Chair After The Highchair.

Stokke Tripp Trapp High Chair - Classic Collection

click images for info @Amazon.com

The Rockin' Jitter Buggy Baby Toy

2009-04-23T00:01:00.000-07:00

Today I'd like to present to you is the Rockin' Jitter Buggy

Manufacturer's age: 4 months and up

The Rockin' Jitter Buggy from Safety 1st features 7 electronic toys: 7 electronic toys,honking horn, dial me cell phone, jiggle start ignition, 2 speed shifter, flashing blinkers, baby power steering, premium sound system. It also includes 4 manual toys: busy bead rail, cup holder, clicking mirror, changing traffic light. 2 level volume adjustable, snack try, on/off switch, a removable & washable seat pad. The seat spins 360 degrees and the legs can bounce and the base rocks! For infants from 4 months of age to walking. Maximum weight: 32 pounds.

It is just the type of high tech toy that the modern baby needs.

Safety 1st Rocking Jitter Buggy

click image for more info

The BBC Reports on Bresatfeeding

2009-04-22T00:01:00.000-07:00

Breastfeeding has been in the news a lot lately. One recent story from the BBC's Health section titled Breastfeeding 'protects mother', makes the case that not only do babies benefit from breastfeeding but doctors are finding that mothers also receive health benefits.

Women who breastfeed their babies may be lowering their own risk of a heart attack, heart disease or stroke, research suggests.

A US study found women who breastfed for more than a year were 10% less likely to develop the conditions than those who never breastfed.

How To Find Recalled Baby Products

2009-04-21T09:55:00.000-07:00

We are fortunate that we have a government agency that protects the public from harm that can be caused by more than 15,000 different kinds of products. Some surveys place the cost of damage caused by unsafe consumer products at more than $700 billion per year.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has worked to lower the injuries and deaths from consumer products in the last 30 years by 30%. The CPSC's website list recalls and is an excellent source for parents who want to be sure that products that they use for their babies are safe.

You can visit the CPSC on the web here; Consumer Product Safety Commission website.

From there you can browse their list of recalled products. You can compare product numbers on your items with those listed to see if any have been recalled. If some of your children's toys, furniture or other items have been recalled than you can read the Remedy section. This section provides instructions on what to do with the recalled item as well as contact information. Recalled items can have a full refund, you may be provided with replacement parts or you may be able to exchange your defective item for a new one.

You can also report unsafe products or damage to a person or property, by going to this link;

Report Unsafe Products! If you have a product, recalled or otherwise, that has caused damage to a person or to your property, and would like to report it to CPSC, use the online forms at Consumer Product Incident Report.

How Often Should You Breastfeed?

2009-02-05T10:15:00.000-08:00

Check out this video where my online friend Jessica answers the question: "How often should I breastfeed my baby?"

Breastfeeding Video - Breastfeeding Tips On Scheduling

You can check out her blog where she answers many other questions about breastfeeding. Or you can watch other videos that she has online at her YouTube Page.

Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child

2009-01-28T01:00:00.000-08:00

Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child

Please click image for info @Amazon.com

One of the country's leading researchers updates his revolutionary approach to solving--and preventing--your children's sleep problems

Here Dr. Marc Weissbluth, a distinguished pediatrician and father of four, offers his groundbreaking program to ensure the best sleep for your child. In Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child, he explains with authority and reassurance his step-by-step regime for instituting beneficial habits within the framework of your child's natural sleep cycles. This valuable sourcebook contains brand new research that

- Pinpoints the way daytime sleep differs from night sleep and why both are important to your child
- Helps you cope with and stop the crybaby syndrome, nightmares, bedwetting, and more
- Analyzes ways to get your baby to fall asleep according to his internal clock--naturally
- Reveals the common mistakes parents make to get their children to sleep--including the inclination to rock and feed
- Explores the different sleep cycle needs for different temperaments--from quiet babies to hyperactive toddlers
- Emphasizes the significance of a nap schedule
-

Rest is vital to your child's health growth and development. Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child outlines proven strategies that ensure good, healthy sleep for every age. Advises parents dealing with teenagers and their unique sleep problems

The Happiest Baby on the Block: The New Way to Calm Crying and Help Your Newborn Baby Sleep Longer

2009-01-21T01:00:00.000-08:00

The Happiest Baby on the Block: The New Way to Calm Crying and Help Your Newborn Baby Sleep Longer

Click image for info @Amazon.com

According to Publishers Weekly;

Karp, a pediatrician in Santa Monica, Calif., and assistant professor at the School of Medicine, UCLA, offers a new method to calm and soothe crying infants. While nursing or being held satisfies some babies, others seemingly cry for hours for no reason. These babies suffer from what Karp calls the Fourth Trimester. When you bring your soft, dimpled newborn home from the hospital, you may think your nursery is a peaceful sanctuary.... To him, it's a disorienting world part Las Vegas casino, part dark closet! Karp recommends a series of five steps designed to imitate the uterus. These steps include swaddling, side/stomach position, shhh sounds, swinging and sucking. The book includes detailed advice on the proper way to swaddle a child, the difference between a gentle rocking versus shaking and more. According to the author, virtually all babies will respond to these strategies although some trial and error may be needed to find the most effective calming method. A number of the steps letting kids nurse more frequently or encouraging babies to use pacifiers, for instance contradict other childcare experts. However, parents who are at their wits' ends because of a baby's incessant crying will find this book invaluable. In fact, expectant parents may want to read it before they bring their newborns home from the hospital.

Nursery Rhymes - Good Night, Sleep Tight

2009-01-16T01:00:00.000-08:00

Good night, sleep tight,
Wake up bright
In the morning light
To do what's right
With all your might.

Good night, sleep tight,
Don’t let the bedbugs bite.
And if they do
Then take your shoe
A nd knock ‘em ‘til
They’re black and blue!

Fisher-Price Smart Cycle

2009-01-15T01:00:00.000-08:00

Fisher-Price Smart Cycle

please click image

Fisher-Price Smart Cycle

please click image for info @Amazon.com

What to Expect the First Year

2009-01-14T01:00:00.000-08:00

Is our baby eating enough? Is this much crying normal? How do I know when she is really sick? This hefty, 671-page guide to your baby's first year is brought to you by the creators of the bestselling What to Expect When You're Expecting. The three authors, all mothers themselves, are calm, clear, and encouraging as they tackle the first year of child-rearing, month by month. The easy-to-absorb, chronological format includes sections such as "What Your Baby May Be Doing," "What You Can Expect at This Month's Checkups," "Feeding Your Baby This Month," "What You May Be Concerned About," and "What It's Important to Know."

Part Two addresses special concerns such as illness, first aid do's and don'ts, the low-birthweight baby, the adopted baby, becoming a father, and sibling relationships. You'll also find discussions of breastfeeding and bottlefeeding, selecting a physician for the baby, diapers and clothing, safety, and many ways of stimulating the baby's development. The recipes for babies and toddlers in Part Three are useful, as are the recommended home remedies; charts on common childhood illnesses; height and weight; and the thorough index. (A particular strength of the book is the authors' careful attention to diet and nutrition for both mother and baby, incorporating the American Academy of Pediatrics' latest recommendations on infant nutrition.) While some of the authors' perspectives are controversial (such as whether to let your baby "cry it out" or not), this book remains one of the most comprehensive resources for new parents as they toddle through their baby's first year.

How To Create a Baby Blog

2009-01-10T01:00:00.000-08:00

The Basics of Blogging

I have many blogs, as a friend recently pointed out to me, I narrow cast as opposed to broadcast. By that he meant that I have many different blogs on many different subjects. And as someone who blogs often, I thought I would share some of my ideas about how to create a baby blog.

- So now what exactly is blogging and what is a Blog?

(n.) Short for Web log, a blog is a Web page that serves as a publicly accessible personal journal for an individual. Typically updated daily, Blogs often reflect the personality of the author.

(v.) To author a Web log.

Other forms: Blogger (a person who blogs), blogging (the act of maintaining a web log or blog).

Blogging is just writing. That's all it is. So the first thing that any aspiring blogger should do is think a bit about just what they will be writing about. In this case you probably will be writing about your baby, and your experience as a parent.

Many other parents are doing it, so it has become a popular way to share and communicate with friends and family. Write ups, letters, photos, even video clips can be shared via a blog.

A blog can also be a way of collecting resources that you need and use to be a parent. If you find a web-site that you like, then just link to it from your blog. Then when you need to find it again, you have the link.

A blog can be a way of connecting to others who are just like you. As you blog about your baby, you will meet online and probably become "on-line friends" with other bloggers. Who knows, some of your on-line friends may become real world friends.

Software and hardware needs

-- Blogging platforms - To blog, you need some kind of blogging software, also called a blogging platform. There are many, too many to mention. But a very nice post over at Mashable.com titled Baby Blogging: 8 Trendy Tools Compared gives a nice overview of some of the platforms that are out there.

You can also start your new baby blog at blogging web sites like blogger.com and wordpress.com.

Obviously if you are reading this you have a computer. But there are other hardware tools needed to be an effective baby blogger. You will at least need a digital camera preferably something that also can do video.

The Flip Video Ultra Series 60-Minutes Camcorder is a perfect video camera for a parent who wants to use it to take video of their children for a blog.

Flip Video Ultra Series Camcorder, 60-Minutes (Black)

Some features that you might want in a camera;

- Simple to use, pocket-sized camcorder with one-touch recording and digital zoom

- Holds 60 minutes of full VGA-quality video on 2GB of built-in memory; no tapes or additional memory cards required

- Convenient USB arm plugs directly into your computer for easy viewing and sharing

- Built-in software lets you easily e-mail videos, upload to YouTube and AOL, and capture still photos from video

- Ability to watch videos instantly on TV with included cable

Blogging is also reading other blogs.

Finally to maintain a active blog that is updated often and read by others, you will also have to read the blogs of others. This will also help you get ideas about how to blog better.

And remember that blogging is fun, it is about sharing information with friends and family. It will help you keep track of your baby's growth, and could be something that you share with them when they are older.

Books About Blooging

Sleep Is for the Weak: The Best of the Mommybloggers Including Amalah, Finslippy, Fussy, Woulda Coulda Shoulda, Mom-101, and More! (Blogher Book)

Blogging For Dummies (For Dummies (Computer/Tech))

The Huffington Post Complete Guide to Blogging

ProBlogger: Secrets for Blogging Your Way to a Six-Figure Income

Books @ Amazon.com about blogs

Baby Shower Gift Ideas

2009-01-08T01:00:00.000-08:00

There are never ending options for buying gifts for a baby shower. I want this post to help friends and family choose gifts for babies and mothers when attendeding a baby shower.

New babys can use and need all kinds of things, from bibs, burp cloths, baby gear storage solutions, fornature, car seats, and the list goes on. Gifts can cost from $100.00s to less than $25, so there is a large range of items that you could buy.

Please consider the following suggestions for baby shower gifts;

1. BurpCatcher Burp Cloths

The Original Burp Catcher:
The Burp Cloth With a Pocket! Pink Dots

click image for info @Amazon.com

BurpCatcher has an ingenious pocket that hangs open to catch baby's spit up every time. Put it over your shoulder or across your arm BurpCatcher stops the spit up before it makes a mess! Made of soft flannel or cozy fleece, BurpCatcher is totally washable and versatile, with no hard parts or hardware. It can be scrunched into a diaper bag and used just like any other burp cloth. Only it's much better.

JJ Cole Burp Cloth Set

please click image

2. New Blue Minky Dot Chenille 10pcs Baby Crib Bedding Set

New Blue Minky Dot Chenille
10pcs Baby Crib Bedding Set

please click image for info @Amazon.com

(1)Crib Quilt
(1)Crib Bumper
(1)Fitted Sheet
(1)Crib Skirt (Dust Ruffle)
(1)Diaper Stacker
(2)of Window Valances
(1)Toy Bag
(1)Baby Pillow
(1)Baby Bib
This set fits all Baby cribs and Toddler Bed!

3. Dunstan Baby Language -- Learn the universal language of newborn babies

Dunstan Baby Language -- Learn the universal language of newborn babies

Please click image for info

As announced in an exclusive interview on the Oprah Winfrey Show, Australian mother Priscilla Dunstan has the world talking with the discovery of the secret language of babies. This breakthrough in infant care is the result of one mother's intuition that began nearly a decade of investigation and international research.

The Dunstan Baby Language DVD teaches parents the 5 cries all newborns use to communicate their everyday needs from day 1. You will know when your baby is hungry, tired, needs burping, has lower wind or is simply uncomfortable. By learning this System parents are able to settle their baby faster, resulting in happier babies who sleep longer and cry less - something every new parent would wish for.

Sarah Palin's daughter gives birth to son named Tripp

2009-01-02T01:00:00.000-08:00

The Associated Press is reporting the birth of Sarah Palin's daughters baby in an article titled "Palin's daughter gives birth to son named Tripp".

People magazine reports that Bristol Palin gave birth to Tripp Easton Mitchell Johnston on Sunday. He weighed 7 pounds, 4 ounces.

Turtle Cloud b Twilight Constellation Night Light

2009-01-01T01:00:00.000-08:00

Cloud b Twilight Constellation Night Light

please click image for info @Amazon.com

FeaturesColor Name: Turtle

Twilight Turtle gently transforms nurseries and bedrooms into a starry sanctuary that comforts and calms children.

From within his plastic shell, Twilight Turtle projects a complete starry night sky onto the walls and ceiling of any room.

Choose any one of three soothing color options blue, green, and amber to create magical, tranquil environments that are ideal for helping children of all ages fall asleep easier.

Auto shut-off — 45 minute sleep timer

Three AAA batteries included

Cloud b Twilight Constellation Night Light

please click image

Woodstock Percussion Recalls Toy Drums

2008-12-31T01:00:00.000-08:00

Another lead paint recall is in the news, the U.S. CPSC and Woodstock Percussion, Inc. have announced a Calypso Steel Drum recall because of excessive levels of lead paint on the drums.

The toy drums are made of steel and have a wooden stand with two wooden drum sticks. The sides are painted red and the drum pan is black, with silver markings showing the locations of the musical notes. The rim is stamped with #5 or #6. Some of the drums with #5 are not affected by the recall.

The toy drums were made in Trinidad and sold for between $50 and $100 by mail order catalogs, websites and retailers nationwide from December 2006 through December 2007.

Consumers have been advised to immediately stop using any of these recalled products and to contact the manufacturer for replacement products. You can read the CPSC's recall notice here.

Facebook Breastfeeding Photos

2008-12-30T09:07:00.000-08:00

As a father I'll admit I don't fully understand the battle going on over at Facebook about the breastfeeding photos.

If you are not aware of the story. Some breast-feeding mothers, who have the support of many online followers, is protesting Facebook's removal of breast-feeding photos that reveal the nipple or areola.

The Palo Alto social networking site says that they are removing the photos to maintain a safe, secure and trusted environment. Because they are a private company, they can set the rules.

On Saturday, a group of about 30 mothers did a three-hour protest in front of Facebook's Palo Alto, Calif., headquarters. The mothers marched, chanted, and even nursed their children in a show of defiance. Though the "nurse-in" itself was a small gathering, more than 78,000 people have joined an online group called "Hey, Facebook, breastfeeding is not obscene!"

Here is what I know and or believe;

1. It is legal for mothers to breastfeed their babies in most places in the US.

2. Breastfeeding is not obscene (this is my opinion).

3. Some woman want to be able to share pictures of themselves breastfeeding their babies.

Here is what I am confused about;

1. Why is there a need to share your photos on Facebook. You could just start your own blog, here on blogger.com for example. Then you don't have to worry about someone eleses rules.

2. Why do we still have the double standard for men and woman. Did we not just witness the mainstream media go crazy over photos of the president elect topless while on vacation. One news web site that I frequent even did an layout of past presidents going shirtless.

So what is the big deal here.

Munire Recalls Baby Cribs Due To Lead Paint

2008-12-29T08:59:00.000-08:00

Munire Furniture, Inc. issued a recall for their Newport Rubbed Black 4-in-1 baby cribs, and all matching furniture pieces sold in the United States since April 2006.

The red paint which is under the black finish on the cribs and furniture exceeds federal lead levels. According to the U.S. CPSC, at least one child has been diagnosed with lead paint poisoning after ingesting paint from the crib.

The children’s furniture recall applies to;

Munire’s Newport Lifetime Crib (Model 7900)

Hutch for Combo and Double Dresser (Model 7918)

Mirror (Model 7915)

Combo (Model 7908)

Nightstand (Model 7902)

Conversion Kit for Lifetime Crib (Model 7907)

5 Drawer Dresser (Model 7905)

Armoire (Model 7929)

Guardrail for Lifetime Crib (Model 7975)

Double Dresser (Model 7906)

Bookcase (Model 7914)

Newport OldeWorld Crib (Model 7901)

If you have this crib or any furniture from this line, then you are advised to immediately stop using it and to contact the manufacturer for replacement products.

You can see the cpsc posting here. And contact Munire at 866-586-9639 or visit their website, MunireFurniture.com. They will send a coupon that allows you to exchange your crib or recalled furniture free of charge.

Helpful Check List for New Parents

2008-12-25T01:00:00.000-08:00

Having a healthy baby doesn't start when mom delivers the baby. There are a lot of steps to be taken prior to the baby's birth and after the baby is born. In an attempt to provided parents who read my blog with good useful information, I have collected some sites from around the Internet that give good check list.

Breast Feeding Checklist from Laborcompanions.com.

Workingmom.com Babysitter Checklist from Working mom.com.

Positioning and Attachment checklist from the association of breastfeeding mothers.

Signs of Labor from Parent's Nest.com.

Nursery Necessities from the Expectant Mothers Guide.

As I find more interesting and well written checklist I will add to this list, so check back often. I hope this helps.

Merry Christmas to You and Yours

2008-12-24T01:00:00.000-08:00

May this Christmas find you and yours in good cheer and good health.

Merry Christmas to you and yours
from me and mine.

Fitzgerald

Graco Baby Einstein Discover & Play Activity Center

2008-12-23T01:00:00.000-08:00

Graco Baby Einstein Discover & Play Activity Center

click image for info @Amazon.com

Features

It has 9 interactive toys to help develop sensory and motor skills
Introduces bi-lingual language into child's learning vocabulary in a fun and interactive way
Item has a gentle rocking motion with a 360* swivel seat
3 position height adjustment
Stationary stands inhibit mobility for play and snacks

Description - Babies love to play, and the award-winning Baby Einstein Circles Discover and Play from Graco is made to keep them entertained for hours. This unique, engaging collection of toys and real world imagery develops important sensory and motor skills, and even introduces bi-lingual learning.

Kushies Award Winning Musical Toy Bundle

2008-12-22T01:00:00.000-08:00

Award Winning Musical Toy Bundle

click image for info @Amazon.com

Features

Award winner
Helps baby build her imagination, balance, and dexterity
Boa Stack and Squeeze Toy
NooBoo Pound A Sound Toy

Description - Our award winning Musical Toy Gift Bundle is just great for baby. This gift bundle helps baby build her imagination, balance, and dexterity. It includes a Boa Stack and Squeeze Toy and the NooBoo Pound A Sound.

6 - Piece Kimono Bodysuit and Blanket Bundle in Ocean

2008-12-21T01:00:00.001-08:00

6 - Piece Kimono Bodysuit and Blanket Bundle in Ocean

click image for info @Amazon.com

Features

organic baby clothes and blanket
Machine wash, tumble dry will not shrink or fade
50% soybean fiber, 50% organic cotton
Ideal baby shower gift

Description - Our 6 - Piece Kimono Bodysuit and Blanket Bundle In Ocean by Babysoy is designed for easy mix-and-match; it's so easy to co-ordinate baby's outfit! The wonderful ensemble is a great value and includes a kimono bodysuit with snap buttons, our signature blanket (it's double layered), and a matching pair of pants, socks, a tasseled hat and bib. It's the perfect starter set for baby.

Safety 1st Essentials Child Proofing Kit

2008-12-20T05:00:00.000-08:00

Safety 1st Essentials Child Proofing Kit- 46 Piece

click image for info @Amazon.com

Product Features

Four grip n' twist door knob cover
Twelve wide grip latches
30 press n' pull plug protectors

Discription - The Safety 1st Essential Child Proofing Kit is designed for targeted key areas of your home and offers solutions to help create a more secure home for your child. It has a four grip n' twist door knob cover, twelve wide grip latches and 30 press n' pull plug protectors.

Bath Necessities Gift Bundle

2008-12-19T01:00:00.000-08:00

Bath Necessities Gift Bundle

please click image for info

From the Manufacturer; Bathe baby in our best! We have combined all the basic necessities for the perfect bath and Little Twig brings them to you. Their products use only all natural ingredients and are safe even for the most sensitive skin. In fact, dermatologists recommend each item in the gift set. And, just for fun, how about a bath toys from Boon. Each item sold separately would cost over $55. But our bath bundle, along with free gift-wrapping, is $49.95.

Online Shopping a Way To Save Time

2008-12-18T01:00:00.001-08:00

As a new parent one of the most valuable resources that you have at your disposal is your time. Time spent with your new child, time spent with other family members and of course time spent shopping is at a premium for most of us.

One of the main ideas that I want to present is ways maximizing time savings and time management methods that are of value to parents. I want to offer new parents a time saving way to get some shopping done.

Online shopping is one method that new parents can use to save time and money. By shopping online you can compare prices from retailers all over the world.

A very good place to search for and buy books and many other retail items online is Amazon.com. Amazon has a great selection of all kinds of items that a new parent could use.

I've been working really hard to get the Baby Buggy Bumper Amazon Store up running and organized to help save you time and money.

Another time saving and money saving place to shop online is eBay. eBay offers a range of items that the new parent can use for their babies and home. Like Amazon.com they offer a range of items that range from toys, books, electronics and other gadgets. One great thing about eBay is that you can even find your childhood favorites for some items. There is nothing like buying things from your childhood to share with your new baby.

There are many other places to shop online. Many of my affiliate partners offer a good online shopping experience for the new parent. And while most online merchants want you to shop with them, there is no reason that you can not do your research on line. And it really helps to be able to compare prices. I think that the more places you visit the better idea you get about the product and figure out the best prices and best shipping cost.

Britax Recalls Car Seats

2008-12-17T01:00:00.000-08:00

Due to the harness straps that can slip off their connections on the back of the car seat Britax has decided to recall their Britax Frontier combination car seats. This problem happens when the straps are adjusted one at a time.

Affected models are;

E9L54E7 (Red Rock)
E9L54H6 (Rushmore)
E9L54H7 (Pink Sky)
E9L54M6 (Canyon)
E9L5490 (Sahara)
manufactured between April 1 and Sept. 18 2008

Britax will provide a repair kit of two rubber caps that can be placed on the seats to keep the straps in place. The company will mail the caps with an instruction sheet to all registered customers who bought the seats. You can get more details at www.FrontierRecall.com. If you haven't registered your Frontier yet, you can call 800-683-2045 to do so. The repair kits are expected to start shipping in mid-January.

Britax, which designs and manuractures car seats and strollers, is owned by Britax International of the United Kingdom.

Here Come the 123's - They Might Be Giants

2008-12-16T05:00:00.000-08:00

Here Come the 123's

click image for info @Amazon.com

According to a review by a buyer

The songs on this album are fantastic, but the real gem is the DVD with videos for all of the songs. The kids love the videos, and what's great about TMBG's kid music (including No! and Here Come the ABCs) is that it's fun for parents too (not annoying like much kid music). So the MP3s are a good buy, but try to get your hands on the DVD for a real treat.

Good Night, Gorilla (Board book)

2008-12-15T05:18:00.000-08:00

Good Night, Gorilla

click image for info @Amazon.com

According to Publishers Weekly

Universally understandable subject matter and a narrative conveyed almost entirely through pictures mark this as an ideal title for beginners. A zookeeper makes his nightly rounds, bidding good night to a gorilla, a lion, a giraffe and so on. He doesn't know that the gorilla has procured his keys and is unlocking each animal's cage; a jungly crowd files quietly behind the keeper as he walks home and crawls into bed. When his wife says, "Good night, dear," seven voices reply, "Good night," and it's up to the missus to return the mischievous menagerie. Although Rathmann's illustrations lack the artistic ingenuity she displayed in Ruby the Copycat and Bootsie Barker Bites , the author/artist connects with her audience on several levels. Children can identify with the animals, who have toys in their cages (the elephant has a plush Babar) and resist being left alone in their "rooms" all night; they will also enjoy some minor subplots. Some details prove questionable (for example, one overdrawn visage of Mrs. Zookeeper seems blurry, particularly because she's rendered with a few simple lines elsewhere), yet these considerations take a back seat to Rathmann's comic exuberance. Ages 3-6.

Columbia Sportswear Pigtail Hat for Toddlers

2008-12-14T04:52:00.000-08:00

Columbia Sportswear Pigtail Hat for Toddlers

please click image

Product Features

100% MTR Fleece
Double layer ear flap
Hook and loop chin strap
Warm and comfortable
A favorite of OutdoorKids!

Product Description - Columbia Sportswear Pigtail Hat for Toddlers: Columbia Sportswear's Pigtail Hat for Toddlers is back with the warmth, comfort and fit that has made it one of our favorites here at OutdoorKids. Made of 100% polyester Maximum Thermal Retention Fleece, the Pigtail Hat also features a double layer ear flap and a hook and loop chin strap so you won't lose it as you're speeding down the slopes!

Saturday is for Safety: Stranger Safety

2008-12-13T05:00:00.000-08:00

I want to introduce a new series of post that I plan on doing here at Baby Buggy Bumper. I call it Saturday is for Safety, it will be a series of post where I will present a product or service that is related to child safety.

I hope you like it.

Stranger Safety DVD

click image for info @Amazon.com

According to Tami Horiuchi

Kid safety is an important, yet often difficult topic of discussion between parents and children. The Safe Side's "Safe Side Super-Chick" is a decidedly zany host who successfully combines slapstick humor with serious, practical safety tips for kids. "Safe Side Super-Chick" breaks the population down into three quickly discernable categories: "Safe Side Adults" that kids know well and can always trust to keep them safe, "Don't Knows" like the mail carrier or the lady at the park and "Sorta Knows" like a coach or a schoolmate's parent. As "Safe Side Super-Chick" interacts with "Don't Knows" and "Sorta Knows", she offers seven specific safety tips to keep kids safe and, with the help of real kids, details simple, concrete actions and phrases that empower kids in a variety of potentially dangerous situations. Best of all, the presentation is never scary, but always extremely funny--that means that kids ages 2 to 10 will actually enjoy learning about safety. Kudos to Julie Clark (creator of Baby Einstein) and John Walsh (host of America's Most Wanted) for creating a safety video that's highly entertaining, informative, and practical.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar (Board book)

2008-12-12T05:03:00.000-08:00

The Very Hungry Caterpillar

please click image

According to Karin Snelson

"In the light of the moon a little egg lay on a leaf." So begins Eric Carle's modern classic, The Very Hungry Caterpillar. More than 12 million copies of this book have been sold in its original, full-sized edition, and the beloved tale of science and gluttony has been translated into 20 languages. This five-by-four-inch miniature edition is truly tiny, with tiny type, but it is a nice size for small hands to hold and flip through the pictures. Despite its diminished state, the book is complete in every detail, following the ravenous caterpillar's path as he eats his way through one apple (and the pages of the book itself) on Monday, two pears on Tuesday, three plums on Wednesday, and so on, through cherry pie and sausage--until he is really fat and has a stomachache. And no doubt you know what happens next! Kids love butterfly metamorphosis stories, and this popular favorite teaches counting and the days of the week, too. A fun gift package for caterpillar fans. (Baby to preschool)

The Very Hungry Caterpillar

click image for info @Amazon.com

Columbia Sportswear Santa Peak Set for Infants and Toddlers

2008-12-11T04:40:00.000-08:00

Columbia Sportswear Santa Peak Set
for Infants and Toddlers (Size 6 MONTHS - 4T)
click image for info @Amazon.com

Product Features

Snow jacket and snow bib set
100% nylon Dobby Rainstop shell
100% polyester Maximum Thermal Retention fleece lining
Bibs adjust at your child's shoulders for a great fit
Zippered crotch for easy diaper changes

Product Description - Columbia Sportswear Santa Peak Set for Infants and Toddlers (Size 6 Months-4T): The Columbia Sportswear Santa Peak Set is a great snow jacket and bib combination that is functional for kids and parents alike. Constructed with a 100% nylon Dobby Rainstop shell and a 100% polyester Maximum Thermal Retention fleece lining, these bibs and jackets will keep your child warm and dry in wintery conditions. The bibs adjust at your child's shoulders for a great fit and the jacket sleeves are radial cut so your kids can have the freedom of a full range of motion. Perhaps the best part about the Santa Peak set is the zippered crotch on the bibs that makes for incredibly easy diaper changes! A sure bet for snow loving parents and kids that don't want to spend too much time in the restroom, the Santa Peak set offers unbeatable performance warmth and wetness protection and convenience.

Vtech - Baby's Learning Laptop

2008-12-10T04:02:00.000-08:00

Vtech - Baby's Learning Laptop

click image for info @Amazon.com

Product Features

Three modes of play teach shapes, common objects, feelings and music
Light-up screen interacts with colorful keyboard
Moveable mouse sized for little hands
Volume control switch for quieter play

Product Description - Your little one will be wired for learning with Baby's Learning Laptop! The colorful keyboard interacts with the bright light-up screen to teach shapes, common objects and feelings. Entertaining sound effects, melodies and a moveable mouse round out the fun! Three modes of play teach shapes, common objects, feelings and music Light-up screen interacts with colorful keyboard Moveable mouse sized for little hands Volume control switch for quieter play.

Vtech - Baby's Learning Laptop

click image for info @Amazon.com

Childproofing Your Home During The Holidays

2008-12-07T10:59:00.000-08:00

We celebrate Christmas at my house, but I'll have to admit that I have never been a big Christmas tree fan, nor have I been a fan of lots of Christmas decorations. But over the years we did sometimes decorate our house.

When our daughter was small, we had to be on the look out to make sure that she was safe around holiday decorations. If your children are small and there is a chance that they could place things in their mouths or could possible pull the tree or other decorations down on themselves then it is best to follow these general rules.

1. As with everything that you do with your children, to protect them during the holidays you need to know and consider your children. How old are they, how tall are they, do they understand concepts like hot, sharp, danger. If you say "no," will they listen and understand.

Are your children or any small children that might come to your house, jumpers or climbers? By thinking about how children will interact with your holiday decorations you will be well on your way to keeping them safe.

2. Know and understand the dangers associated with the decorations that you are using.

- Are your decorations breakable?
- What are they made of? Glass, paper,
- Are they a choking hazard?
- Can your decorations be pulled down on top of your children?
- Could your child burn themselves?
- Are there electrical hazards?

Just take a few moments to think about the above hazards and ways to keep your child safe from them and you should be fine.

3. One way to keep small children away from your tree is to buy a smaller tree and install it on a small, stable, well-secured table. Place the tree (what ever the size) in the safest spot you can find. For bigger trees a corner works well or you could put the tree inside a playpen and keep your kids out. Make sure that you remove furniture that a child can use to climb and reach unsafe items.

4. Make sure your kids don't have access to candles and other items that could burn them, like hot Christmas tree lighting, and decorated fire places.

3. Secure all items in a manner that does not let your child grab them or pull items off of tables or mantel pieces.

4. Think of it as less is more, with decorations. Consider rather or not items could become a chocking hazard for your child.

5. Make sure that you properly weigh down and secure your tree so that it is not a tipping hazard.

Fisher-Price Rainforest Jumperoo

2008-12-05T17:00:00.000-08:00

Fisher-Price Rainforest Jumperoo

click image for info @Amazon.com

Promotes Comfort and Security
The Rainforest Jumperoo is a safe and comfortable place for baby to sit and play, whether he stays for just a moment or for several minutes. Two soft leaves extend from the frame to create an overhead canopy with soft toys that dangle down for fun bat-at play. It also features a rotating seat with soft spring covers that keep little fingers safe from pinching, and three-position height adjustment for a custom fit.

Product Features

Tons of safe jumping fun (which will activate Rainforest music & lights!), but now there are toys all around-and overhead--with a spinning seat that helps baby explore them all
A bobbing elephant, swinging monkey, spinning lizard and more that baby will just "go wild" for
Baby spins drum to activate lights & music
Soft spring covers keep little fingers safe
3-position height adjustment ensures a custom fit for your child

Fisher-Price Rainforest Jumperoo

click image for info @Amazon.com

HealthyToys.Org: Christmas Resource

2008-12-05T02:50:00.000-08:00

Here is a great resource for parents buying toys for their children this Christmas. www.healthytoys.org.

From their web site;

The Ecology Center, a Michigan-based nonprofit organization, and partners across the country today released the 2nd annual consumer guide to toxic chemicals in toys at www.healthytoys.org. Researchers tested over 1,500 popular children's toys for lead, cadmium, arsenic, PVC and other harmful chemicals in time for this year's holiday shopping season. One in three toys tested were found to contain "medium" or "high" levels of chemicals of concern.

Unusual Baby Names

2008-11-21T18:38:00.000-08:00

Maybe giving your baby an unusual name will not stigmatize them as much as you think. In an article, over at MSNBC.com titled Bronx Mowgli? Can celeb tots survive their names?, the new name that singer Ashlee Simpson-Wentz gave her new born son is discussed.

The article goes on to review other people who are the children of celebrities and how they handle their unusual names.

Baby Names @BabbyBuggyBumper.

LeapFrog Learn & Groove Musical Table

2008-11-21T05:00:00.000-08:00

LeapFrog Learn & Groove Musical Table

click image for info @Amazon.com

Product Description - Provide a world of learning and musical fun for your child with the LeapFrog Learn & Groove Musical Table. Designed for children ages six months to three years, this innovative toy is chock full of learning and musical activities designed to provide visual and auditory stimulation and motor skill development, as well as opportunities to learn about colors, the alphabet, and opposites for older children -- and much more.

According to a review at Amazon.com

My son has had this toy since he was 6 months old (He is 17 months now). We recently had to remove the legs from it, as he learned at 11 months to climb on top of it and then onto whatever was nearby, so beware if you have a climber!

Otherwise he was very entertained by the many sights and sounds on this toy. I really liked the fact that you can remove the legs. When he was a baby we left the legs off so he could play on the floor with it, and then when he was cruising and walking we could put the legs back on to keep him entertained. There's music and words and things to spin and flip open - so much to keep little hands and ears busy. A good toy for a baby that will last into toddlerhood.

LeapFrog Learn & Groove Musical Table

click image for info @Amazon.com

What's An Obama Baby

2008-11-19T05:00:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure if this is a joke, or not.

Newsweek.com has an article titled Change You Can Conceive In Could euphoric Obama fans be sparking a baby boom? The article goes on to say;

In the hours and days since Obama's victory, many of his exhilarated supporters have been, shall we say, in the mood for love. And though it's too soon to know for sure, experts aren't ruling out the possibility of an Obama baby boom—the kind of blip in the national birth rate that often follows a seismic event, whether it's scary (a terrorist attack) or celebratory (the end of World War II). "The mood of the country and the optimism about leadership is always somewhat related to birth rates," says Dr. Manny Alvarez, chief of reproductive science at Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey. "I'm gearing up for a healthy increase."

Is it me or is it a little premature to be talking about this. But I guess we will be able to check nine months from now.

Reuters ask the question in an article titled An Obama baby boom? And gives the following definition;

The online Urban Dictionary has added the entry “Obama Baby” — “A child conceived after Obama was proclaimed President by way of celebratory sex, or any baby born under Barack Obama’s term(s).”

Fisher-Price Brilliant Basics Baby's First Blocks

2008-11-18T14:18:00.000-08:00

Fisher-Price Brilliant Basics Baby's First Blocks

click image for info @Amazon.com

Product Features

Baby can sort and stack and learn to identify and match shapes
Filling the bucket with blocks, dumping them out, and starting over is great for eye-hand coordination and other early skills
Ten bright blocks are ready for baby to drop into the open bucket or through the shape-sorting lid
Learning Blocks
Interactive learning aid

From the Manufacturer - Ten bright blocks are ready for baby to drop into the open bucket or through the shape-sorting lid. Filling the bucket with blocks, dumping them out, and starting over is great for eye-hand coordination and other early skills. Then baby can move on to sorting and stacking, learning about identifying and matching shapes while having fun!

Product Description - Ten bright blocks are ready for baby to drop into the open bucket or through the shape-sorting lid. Baby will love filling the bucket with blocks, dumping them out, then starting over again. Great for eye-hand coordination and other early skills. Then baby can move on to sorting and stacking and learning about identifying and matching shapes. Includes plastic shape-sorting box with take-anywhere handle and ten colorful blocks.

According to one reviewer @Amazon.com

As my 14 month daughter works on getting the right shape in the right hole. It's true that sometimes she just gets frustrated and picks up the lid and throws the shapes in the bucket instead of sorting them, but when I play with her talk to her and ask her where each shape goes she really focuses and we get them together. She looks so proud of herself when she gets them right, too! But even when she is playing by herself and taking the lid off, it's still a very fun toy for her to put them all in, take them out, and do it all over again!

New Baby Name: Barack Obama?

2008-11-06T15:42:00.001-08:00

I had not thought about the fact that my name Fitzgerald, comes from the fact that when I was born JFK was the president, in a while. So when I read Obama Victory Sparks Baby Naming Frenzy it jogged my memory, of my mother explaining where my name came from.

It is funny how just a few days ago, most people would have thought of Obama's name as being a strange one to give to your child. And now that he is the president elect, probably many of mothers will do just that.

I can't wait to see what some of these babies become when they grow up.

American Academy of Pediatrics Raise Vitamin D Recommendations

2008-10-17T15:29:00.000-07:00

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recently published new vitamin D guidelines. They are suggesting that children should get much more vitamin D.

No Cold Remedies for Children Under 4

2008-10-07T20:48:00.000-07:00

According to recent news reports drug companies are reccomending that parents not give their young children cold and cough medications.

The makers of cold and cough medications announced yesterday they are voluntarily warning parents not to give their products to children younger than 4, a move negotiated in private with federal drug regulators over the past six months.

You can read an article in the Washington Post.com Drugmakers Issue Warning.

Fans Lower Risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

2008-10-06T19:33:00.000-07:00

According to a story in the Associated Press;

Using a fan to circulate air seemed to lower the risk of sudden infant death syndrome in a study of nearly 500 babies, researchers reported Monday. Placing babies on their backs to sleep is the best advice for preventing SIDS, a still mysterious cause of death.

Experts also recommend a firm mattress, removing toys and pillows from cribs, and keeping infants from getting too warm.

Read the full story here, Fan use linked to lower risk of sudden baby death By Carla K. Johnson.

Babies May Have Vitamin D Deficiency

2008-08-25T23:44:00.000-07:00

According to an interesting article in titled Vitamin D Deficiency May Lurk in Babies on the NY Times.com web site mothers need to watch for Vitamin D Deficiency with babies who are being breastfeed;

Some experts fear that vitamin D deficiency, which can be asymptomatic, may be more common than pediatricians realize and that rickets — perceived to be a 19th-century scourge that was wiped out with the fortification of milk — may be going undetected.

Physicians have known for more than a century that exclusive breast-feeding may be associated with vitamin D deficiency and rickets, and that the condition is easily prevented and treated with inexpensive vitamin drops or cod liver oil. But doctors are reluctant to say anything that might discourage breast-feeding.

Amazon.com Promotes Green Baby Products

2008-08-14T19:05:00.000-07:00

Amazon.com has come out with a new program to promote green products called Amazon Green.

They list all kinds of products that customers have selected as the most environmentally-friendly. The list includes cleaning supplies as well as computers and personal solar chargers.

But most important to new parents is the Amazon Green Baby Section.

Right now they are offering deals on diapers, see the "Shop Your Registry and Get Free Diapers for Six Months" page for full details.

"Let's Go Crazy" #1 Video

2008-08-11T10:12:00.000-07:00

Here is one way to get some exercise for your baby;
"Let's Go Crazy" #1

Should Clebs Pimp Their Babies Photos

2008-08-06T02:11:00.000-07:00

I've been trying to avoid the whole celebrity baby photo thing, but after reading this article Celebrity Baby Photos and Net Worth: Does Less Income Make Pimping Your Baby More Moral?, it got me to thinking.

I guess it is a case of sometimes it is a good thing, and other times it is not. I wonder what effect it will have on the children.

What do you think, leave a comment.

Blogger Buzz: Blogger Babies

2008-08-05T11:47:00.000-07:00

As someone who likes blogger, reads Blogger Buzz and writes about babies I found this post in Blogger Buzz interesting. Congratulations to all the new parents at the blogger team.

Blogger Buzz: Blogger Babies

Types of Baby Strollers

2008-08-03T05:00:00.000-07:00

In my last Post I blogged about things to consider when buying a stroller. Today I want to talk about the different types of strollers out there.

Standard Strollers

Much of the info from yesterdays post applies to standard strollers, they are the larger and heavier type of strollers. At least when compared to lightweight ones (see below). They have larger wheels, storage space, bigger seats and even come with extras like music systems.

They are built to perform in most conditions and are very popular. They fold up for those times when you need to get on the road. But they are not suitable for some types of cars and for some places that you may want to go with your baby. For example on a city bus or in a crowded supermarket.

Amazon.com Widgets

Lightweight Strollers

Back in the old days lightweight strollers were your basic umbrella style. But now there are some very light strollers that have some of the same features found in the standard size strollers. The whole point of lightweight strollers is being able to take your baby places that may not work for a standard size stroller.

Lightweight strollers that can be purchased today have many of the same features as standard strollers, like reclining seats (needed for diaper changes and in-stroller naps), storage racks and sun and rain shades. I recommend that you own at least a standard stroller and a lightweight one too, for those times when you need to take your baby places that a standard stroller will not work.

Amazon.com Widgets

Jogging Strollers

Fist of all jogging strollers should not be used for infants not yet 6 months old. But other than that restriction they are a good choice for parents who like to take their babies outside. The biggest feature that they offer is their all-terrain suspension systems, which allow you to take your baby on most surfaces. They also have larger sturdy tires, sleek frames, and hand-grip brakes. They may not collapse easily or fit into a small car as well as standard models.

The main factor in choosing this type of stroller is your lifestyle. If you or your spouse runs with your baby, then this type of stroller can work well in conjunction with a light weight stroller or a standard stroller as a back up.

Amazon.com Widgets

Travel Systems

In a nutshell travel systems are a car seat that can be easily placed into a baby stroller. These systems have various designs and features, but the point is to allow parents to quickly and easily go from in the car to in the stroller.

Many travel systems come with a car seat base that stays in your car so parents can snap the infant seat into the base and not have to buckle and unbuckle the seat into the car (I got tired just typing that). When your baby out grows the car seat, a travel system acts like a standard stroller.

Amazon.com Widgets

Strollers for More Than One Child

There are strollers that can handle two and even three children. These types of strollers come in the above types, standard, lightweight, and jogging as well.

If you have more than one small child, strollers that can carry more than one child are a must. You will need to consider the age and size of your children carefully when buying this kind of stroller. If one of your children is an infant, then you will want a stroller that has reclining seats, to help with diaper changes, naps and other infant needs.

If one of your children is a toddler and is transitioning away from strollers there are models that allow the older child to stand and ride. With the lightweight models some can be clipped together to use as a single unit or used them separately.

Amazon.com Widgets

Places to shop for Strollers

BabyUniverse: FREE Standard Shipping on Select BOB Jogging Strollers - Limited Time

Enter Coupon Code: YG05 and Take 5% Off Your Order at TheBabyOutlet.com

Dreamtime Baby: Bugaboo Strollers & Accessories

Things to Consider When Buying Baby Strollers

2008-08-01T11:29:00.000-07:00

I was doing some research this morning on what to consider when buying a baby stroller. And this article caught my eye, Monster strollers an issue on public transit. The article states that;

Larger, more identifiable priority seating sections are in the works for city buses, but transit riding seniors are concerned “SUV” baby strollers will dominate those seats.

As my wife and I go about our day, we often take note of the various strollers that we see, and some times we even wish we had the option to buy some of the cool strollers that are on the market right now.

I think that strollers are a necessary part of having a baby, they are tools of the trade of parenthood. They can work for you or sometimes as in the story above they can work against you.

The first thing to consider when buying a baby stroller is what are you going to be doing with it. What is your life style, where do you go with your baby? There is probably a stroller for every lifestyle out there.

Are you going to be riding the bus, as in the article above. If so that calls for one type of stroller. Do you carry your baby for long walks or do you even run with your baby. If so then there are strollers for you.

This is such a complicated process that if you are a brand new parent, I recommend that you make a list of all the things that are important for you to have in a stroller, then go online and look for a stroller that meets your needs.

Here are some features to consider;

Safety Features - This is a big one, and probably the top thing to consider. But it is also a function of your life style. As in the article if your stroller is too large to fit on a city bus, that is not safe. A safe stroller in one situation may not be safe one in another situation.

Safety features or things like stability. What happens when you load your little bundle of joy and all the other items that parents carry like diaper bags, bottles, lunch bags, purses, and changes of clothes? Your stroller may not stay stable, so you want to check this prior to buying.

What type of restraint system does the stroller have, what is holding your baby in the stroller. You will want to make sure you understand the harness and how many points it has. Just like seat belts in your car, your stroller needs a safe harness.

One safety feature to remember is to use a stroller that is best for the weight of your baby. This is not such a big deal when you baby is small, but as she grows this can become a factor. How many times have you seen a baby, maybe a toddler who is in a stroller that is too small for the baby. This too is an unsafe situation.

Adjustment Features and dimensions - These features involve how adjustable your stroller is. There are numerous parts of a typical baby stroller that are adjustable. Starting with the basics, height, handles, and wheels are usually adjustable. Check these adjustment prior to buying so that you get a stroller that can be adjusted to fit you and your baby.

Dimensions are important, because you want to consider how large the stroller is when putting it in and taking it out of your car. Will you be going to the wide open space of the park or will you be taking your baby down tight grocery store isles. You will probably be doing both of these things, but the idea is to consider the dimensions that are needed most often.

With dimensions also comes the weight of the stroller. There are new strollers that are made out of light weight aluminium and other materials that make the stroller light weight but durable.

Folding and Collapsing -This could have gone in the adjustments section, but it is I think important enough that it needs its own section. How easy is it to fold the stroller should be considered. It can be a complex and time consuming affair if every time you get out of the car you have to spend ten to fifteen minutes loading and unloading a stroller. I know this may sound like an exaggeration but I have seen parents actually take this much time setting up their strollers.

How much trunk space does the stroller take up when it is folded. This is important to consider before you buy the stroller.

Other Features -This is a catch all section where I am placing things that you may or may not want to consider depending on your lifestyle. I have to admit these are the things that I think about when I see new strollers. But that is only because back when our daughter was a baby many of these features did not exist.

The kind of stuff that I am talking about are basket underneath, parent organization trays, toy bars, snack drink holders, rain hoods, sun shades, music systems. These items can be purchased as part of a stroller or they can be bought as accessories separately. It is really up to you and your budget when it comes to gadgets like this.

But they are important to consider and to understand how they can fit into your lifestyle and the amount of comfort that you think is important for you and your child to have.

The main point of this post is to get new parents who need to buy a baby stroller to consider various features of strollers such as safety, adjustments and other features. If you think about what you want and what you need in a stroller before you buy it that can make all the difference in how satisfied you will be with what you buy.

The Case for Disposable Diapers

2008-07-31T05:00:00.000-07:00

I had no idea that the disposable diaper business was worth roughly $5.7 billion dollars. I was also surprised to read that cloth diapering are making a comeback. Again my age is showing, I remember when there were only cloth diapers. My daughter and most of her cousins all wore disposable diapers though, but that was some twenty years ago. That was also back when we did not know any better and washers were not energy efficient enough to really make a difference.

But with new washers and some different types of diapers it might be worth it. Brendan I. Koerner explains in an article in Slate.com, titled Should My Baby Wear Huggies?

Where he states;The bottom line is that cloth diapers are greener than run-of-the-mill Pampers and Huggies, as long as you're committed to an energy-efficient laundry regimen. But that commitment takes more than just an EnergyStar washing machine and a clothing line for air drying. It also takes time, a commodity which will be in startlingly short supply once your offspring drops. And thus we must delve into the ceaseless conflict between idealism and reality.

Another good read on the subject is Time Magazine.com Diapers Go Green;

Cloth converts are a mix of environmentalists, earth mamas, cost-conscious parents and those who argue that cloth diapering is healthier, resulting in fewer rashes and allergies. "I feel like my baby is getting the best as far as his skin is concerned," says Natalie Brown, a mother of three in Fort Washington, Md. She tried old-fashioned cloth diapers with her first child and gave up on them because they were too messy. "When she was soiled, there was major spillage. It wasn't pretty," Brown recalls. "But the new kinds are much more functional. I'm not a huge green fan, but I love that I'm leaving less of a footprint."

Some green baby items from Amazon.com

Seventh Generation Baby Wipes

Seventh Generation Newborn Diapers

Seventh Generation Training Pants

The Princess and the Frog: Disney Movie

2008-07-30T12:27:00.001-07:00

According to Wikipedia;

The Princess and the Frog is an upcoming animated musical feature film currently being produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios and based upon the classic fairy tale The Frog Princess. It will be the first traditionally animated (2-D) feature film in Disney's animated features canon since 2004's Home on the Range. When finished, it will take its place as the 48th animated film by Walt Disney Animation Studios. It is being directed by John Musker and Ron Clements, directors of The Little Mermaid and Aladdin, with songs and score composed by Randy Newman and starring the voice talents of Anika Noni Rose, Keith David, John Goodman, Jenifer Lewis, Angela Bassett and Peter Bartlett. Dreamgirls star Anika Noni Rose is providing the voice for the lead character, Tiana.

The film, which began production under the working title The Frog Princess, will be an American fairy tale musical set in New Orleans during the 1920s Jazz Age, and Tiana will be the first Black Disney Princess.

Controversy

There is a bit of a controversy over this new movie, but I'm not sure what that is all about. As a black person myself I am delighted that Disney has chosen to make this new movie and I hope that children like it.

The Heroine of the movie, who is the first Black American Disney Princess, caused some controversy when she was given what some people perceived as a stereotypically lower-class "black name" "Maddy" and was made a chambermaid, an occupation some felt not in keeping with the image of a Disney Princess - despite the fact that Snow White and Cinderella both had similar occupations.

On April 20, 2007, E! reported that the title of the film could possibly be changed from The Frog Princess to The Princess and the Frog, and that the lead character Maddy may be getting a name change as well.

On May 4, 2007, USA Today published an article regarding the film in which they referred to it under the aforementioned title, The Princess and the Frog, and referred to the lead character as "Tiana" rather than Maddy, supporting the earlier reported name change possibilities.

On May 8, 2007, BET and other online sites reported that Disney spokeswoman Heidi Trotta stated that some of the original release information was incorrect, and confirmed the USA Today names "Princess Tiana" and The Princess and the Frog to be correct. Tiana will no longer be a "chamber maid." Trotta stated "Princess Tiana will be a heroine in the great tradition of Disney’s rich animated fairy tale legacy, and all other characters and aspects of the story will be treated with the greatest respect and sensitivity."

My mother worked as a maid, so I don't have a problem with that, and I am old enough to have known a couple of lovely ladies who were named Maddy. It kind of seems silly to me to complain about a movie before it has been made. I really don't know who the complaints are coming from either. I think with this kind of creative effort it is just best to make the movie and let the chips fall where they may.

The Case for Reading: Your Baby Can Read DVDs

2008-07-29T05:00:00.000-07:00

I think that one of the best things that a new parant can do for their baby is to teach them to read. My mother taught me to read and it gave me such an advantage back when I started school, in turn I taught our daughter to read early and it has made a big difference in her life.

As seen on CNN, Good Morning America, The Learning Channel, & hundreds of news programs! An ILC Bestseller! All 5 DVDs in the "Your Baby Can Read!" series: Starter, Vol. 1, Vol. 2, Vol. 3, & Review. Long-term research shows that children who are taught to read by age four, read better than same-IQ, same-socioeconomic status children who are taught at ages 5 or 6. • Teaches babies, toddlers, and preschoolers written language during the window of opportunity for learning language. • Promotes the learning of "natural phonics"! • Also includes news stories, testimonials, and remarkable footage of babies reading. Review: Reviews Starter through Volume 3. Specifically designed to be viewed only after children are familiar with the first four videos in the series.

A mother left the following review at Amazon.com;

When I first watched the Starter Video, I was shocked by the low budget nature of the DVD. But the quality of the video and audio isn't what matters. The quality of the content is the important thing. Baby Einstein looks and sounds much better than Your Baby Can Read (YBCR) but it has less educational value.

YBCR shows a word, the word is spoken twice and then an image or action related to that word is shown. Each word is shown between two and four times throughout the approximately 21 mins run time. The DVDs include songs and poems and introduce numbers, colors and shapes.

Babies and toddlers will at first learn word recognition. They will associate the shape of the words with an action or object. According to Dr. Titzer, once a child has seen and learned dozens of words they will start to connect the shape of a letter with it's corresponding sound. For example, a child who has learned a lot of words starting with b will learn that b makes a buh sound. So, the child learns to sound out words and master phonics.

According to the instructions on the DVD, you should play YBCR twice a day. Dr. Titzer suggests watching with your child and helping them do the actions. He also recommends, if possible, making your own video using the same concept, making flashcards and pointing to words when you read to your child. The more words you can expose your child to the better.

I recommend having items, such as books, bibs, rattles and keys, when watching the DVDs. When the word book is shown you can show the book to your child. When the word bib appears show the bib to your child and so on. This creates a real world connection between the words and objects.

I started showing these videos to my daughter at 7 months. She was able to read her first words at 9 months. At 19 months, she has already moved beyond the word recognition stage. She can now sound out words she has never seen before.

Update to my original review: my daughter just turned 2 and can now read simple sentences. I'm still amazed that these DVDs actually worked but they did.

Reader's Feedback about Online Shopping

2008-07-28T08:54:00.000-07:00

I recently wrote a post about online shopping for parents. I got some interesting feedback on that post and wanted to share a comment from one of my readers.

Carl said;

I agree with the above in regards to shopping online. But there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing the right online store. First, check their security. Do they have a certificate (https) or hacker proof? Then, read their policies...don't just click "agree". Some policies are not clear and very misleading. Then, look for a purpose! I found that many sites give you ways to shop that are very rewarding. Take a look at www.goodwillmall.com, you can shop while giving to charities (up to five). plus you get great rebates, access to brand name stores such as Land's End, Office depot, etc... and you also accumulate points (for other purchases or donations). This is online shopping at its best!!!

I think that carl makes some good points and wanted to let others see what he had to say.

Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown

2008-07-27T05:00:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite all time books. My daughter loved this story when she was a small child. We read it to get her ready for bed. It is a classic story that most kids and parents will enjoy as they get ready for bed. Goodnight Moon is a short poem of goodnight wishes from a young rabbit preparing for, or as we all tried to do, delaying bedtime by saying good night to everything in the room. Even the moon.

Google's New Site May Be a Source of Knowledge For New Parents.

2008-07-26T05:00:00.000-07:00

Google recently started a new web site called Knol. It should be a resource of knowledge for young parents.

I spent a few minutes looking for articles that might be of interest to parents and found the following;

Toilet Training by Larissa Hirsch.

Infant Sleep by Larissa Hirsch.

Teething by Larissa Hirsch.

Temper Tantrums by Larissa Hirsch.

Fever In Children by Charles Pollack.

Vomiting In Infants by David Hackam.

There should be more formal articles coming out soon. I will try to keep you up to date on the best and latest entries in Knol that pertain to parents and babies.

New Zeland Judge Changes Child's Name

2008-07-25T05:00:00.000-07:00

Because my first name is different but not totally strange it gets mispronounced sometimes. Some people get it and others just call me what is familiar to them.

My first name is Kelvin. Not Calvin, or Kevin, but it is OK if you call me either one. I joke that as long as you don't call me late for dinner, it is OK. I have always loved my name, but I wonder about people who have names that they do not like. I think that is why I am fascinated with what parents name their babies.

This story of a Judge in New Zealand who made a 9-year-old girl a ward of the court so that her name could be changed caught my eye. At first I thought that no Judge should do that, but after reading the article I understood why a judge might do that. You can read the full story here. I agree, "Talula Does The Hula", won't do.

Quality Online Shopping

2008-07-24T05:00:00.000-07:00

In a comment to my last post a reader made a great point about buying online from eBay, but she also made an assumption that needs to be made clear. Her comment made me think about several of my past post on various retailers here at Baby Buggy Bumper.

Her comment was;

"You can't guarantee the origin of car seats on ebay nor can your be assured that these are brand new car seats. You should only buy a new car seat, unless you can guarantee that your car seat has NEVER been in an accident. Car seats also have expiration dates, and you can't confirm the manufacture dates of a car seat on ebay. Buy new from a reputable dealer. It's worth the extra cash for your child's safety."

I agree that you need to make sure that you buy safe and new items items for your baby. I think this reader does not feel safe buying online (or at least buying from eBay), and I want to address her fears in this post.

1. Buyer beware - The maxum that the buyer needs to beware is so true. But not only when buying online because you can get scammed in a retail store as well.

No matter where you shop for your baby, you need to be digilant. Some items that you can buy at your nearest retail store have been recalled, are the wrong size, the wrong color, and what is more the merchant may not want to give you a refund or replace the item. So it is up to you to know what you are getting yourself into when buying items for your baby.

It is possible to buy things from a store and not know the stores return policy, refund policy or other important details. I am advocating that no matter where you shop, online or retail, beware.

cautions;

Know the origins of the item you are buying.

How do you do this online? You communicate with the buyer, ask questions. You look at the buyers feedback and only buy from an online seller who has a history of providing quality goods and services.

Many of sellers on eBay and Amazon.com are small business that sell brand new, never taken out of the original box items for your baby. Look for these sellers.

Avoid buying used, damaged, or unclean items from both online and retail stores. Notice that some stores resell their returns, be on the look out for this practice. Thoroughly inspect any item that you purchase for your baby prior to using it.

Know the expiration dates of all items that you buy. Again this applies to items bought online as well as those bought in retail stores.

I can't say it enough, know and understand the conditions of the sale when ever you buy anyting anywhere. I think that covers online and retail stores.

Important conditions to be aware of;

- good communications
- dispute resolution system
- return policy
- refund policy
- shipping cost

2. Buying online versus buying from stores. As a person who buys and sales items online in various online settings I can tell you that buying online has some advantages.

-time - In the modern world free time is a premium for almost everyone. You can do much more shopping online then you can do by packing up the kids, driving to the mall or retail store, walking from store to store looking at items. Many online stores make it easy for you to shop without all the time wasting that go along with shopping in stores.

-money - In the economy that we are in right now money is also at a premium for almost everyone. Food cost, the cost of gasoline, the mortgage melt down and other problems are making us all have to stretch our dollars as far as we can. And anyone who has a small child does not need to be told that you need to find ways to get more for what you spend your money on.

-security- Shopping online can be just as secure if not more so than shopping in retail stores. The volume of people shopping online has caused it to become more secure. Most online sites have security measures such as a resolution system, a online communication system, and security via the method of payment (Paypal, credit cards).

-research - Even if you do not buy the item online, shopping online allows you to view items, see data about the item. Make informed decisions about the item prior to buying it. I personally love the experience of actually touching and feeling the things that I buy. Sometimes the interaction with the sales person can also be rewarding. But I almost always do research online first.

-gas prices - It may not have always been the case but right now the price of gas can make shopping at retail stores difficult. So why not give online shopping a try. If done correctly it can be just as safe and secure as shopping at a store and can save you money on your cost of gas.

3. Affiliations (truth in advertising) - I am a member of the affiliate programs for some of the merchants mentioned in this blog and so I want to make that clear. I want to assure my readers that I provide information about online shopping that helps and is in the readers best interest.

I do not favor one affiliate over the other. I think if you do your home work and research the item that you want, you can have a great shopping experience at all of my affiliates. Who are;

eBay.com
Amazon.com
Montgomery Wards Kids
LinkShare
National Geographic for Kids
SitterCity.com
MiniTots.com
AllPosters.com
BabyUniverse.com
DreamtimeBaby.com
MagicCabin.com
Motherhood Works, Inc.
Sensational Beginnings
The Baby Outlet

Feel free to click on any of their links that you find here at Baby Buggy Bumper.

Baby Car Seats on eBay

2008-07-23T00:29:00.000-07:00

eBay has a very large selection of quality baby car seats at a bargain price. If you are looking for a bargain then you might want to give eBay a try.

Baby Names: Now and Then

2008-07-08T23:54:00.000-07:00

In an atricle over at Yahoo's science section, titled Most Popular Baby Names Change Dramatically senior writer Jeanna Bryner states that names have changed a lot between now and the 1950s. But they don't seem to have changed as much as I thought they would. Take a look at the lists;

Most popular boy/girl baby names in 1950:

1. James / Linda
2. Robert / Mary
3. John / Patricia
4. Michael / Barbara
5. David / Susan
6. William / Nancy
7. Richard / Deborah
8. Thomas / Sandra
9. Charles / Carol
10. Gary / Kathleen

Most popular names from last year:

1. Jacob / Emily
2. Michael / Isabella
3. Ethan / Emma
4. Joshua / Ava
5. Daniel / Madison
6. Christopher / Sophia
7. Anthony / Olivia
8. William / Abigail
9. Matthew / Hannah
10. Andrew / Elizabeth

New Baby promotions and coupons for July

2008-07-01T22:25:00.000-07:00

The following items are listed as promotions for Dreamtime Baby;

Dreamtime Baby: $50 off ALL Maxi- Cosi Quinny Travel Stroller Systems (ends 7.7)

Dreamtime Baby: 15% off JJ Cole Baby Bedding (ends 7.15)

Dreamtime Baby: Clearance Sale on Select Baby Bedding (while supplies last)

The following items are listed as promotions for BabyUniverse;

BabyUniverse: Save $50 on a Maxi-Cosi Quinny Travel System (ends 7.7)

BabyUniverse: 10% off ALL BebeSounds Products (ends 7.15)

BabyUniverse: 15% off Carter Bedding & Accessories (ends 7.31)

BabyUniverse: 10% off Storkcraft Baby Furniture (ends 7.31)

BabyUniverse: Save $10 on any Kalencom Diaper Bag (ends 7.31)

The following items are listed as promotions for eToys;

eToys: FREE Standard Shipping on Hundreds of Select Items (ends 7.7)

eToys: HUGE Selection of BOGO Items, Gift with Purchase and Value Packs (see details, ends 7.7)

eToys: FREE Standard Shipping on Select Super Soakers (ends 7.7)

eToys: Up to 25% off Select Pretend Play (ends 7.7)

eToys: Buy One, Get One FREE when you purchase a Select Take Along Thomas Set (see details, ends 7.7)

eToys: Up to 50% off select Games (ends 7.7)

The following items are listed as promotions for Montgomery Ward;

1) Free Shipping on ALL Jewelry at Montgomery Ward with code MWAFJ78! (7/1/08 - 7/8/08)

Free Shipping on ALL Jewelry at Montgomery Ward with code MWAFJ78!
Disclaimer: *Minimum $50 purchase required online at www.wards.com. Cannot be combined with other offers. Offer expires 7-8-08 and may be used only once. Free shipping applied only to jewelry. Shipping fees will apply to any additional items purchased during checkout. Telephone and mail orders are not included. Cannot be used on previously placed orders.

2) $10 off a purchase of $100 or more at Montgomery Ward with code MWAFJULY8! (7/15/08 - 7/31/08)

$10 off a purchase of $100 or more at Montgomery Ward with code MWAFJULY8!
Disclaimer: Minimum purchase of $100 required online at wards.com and cannot be combined with other offers. Offer expires 7-31-2008 and may be used only once. Discount applies to merchandise only, not shipping & handling or taxes. Telephone and mail orders are not included. Cannot be used on previously placed orders. Promo code not valid on gift card purchases or redemptions.

3) $10 off a purchase of $100 or more at Montgomery Ward Kids with code WKAF78! (7/1/08 - 7/31/08)

$10 off a purchase of $100 or more at Montgomery Ward Kids with code WKAF78!
Disclaimer: Minimum purchase of $100 required online at wardskids.com and cannot be combined with other offers. Offer expires 7-31-2008 and may be used only once. Discount applies to merchandise only, not shipping & handling or taxes. Telephone and mail orders are not included. Cannot be used on previously placed orders. Promo code not valid on gift card purchases or redemptions.

4) Save up to 40% at Montgomery Ward's Summer Sale! (7/7/08 - 7/31/08)

*please note URL will not be live to reflect this sale until the start date

Save up to 40% at Montgomery Ward's Summer Sale!

Kindness Framed Art

2008-06-27T15:57:00.000-07:00

Kindness Framed Art Print

Buy at AllPosters.com

Plastic Baby Bottles are in the News

2008-04-16T14:16:00.000-07:00

Many news outlets are reporting that chemicals in the plastics used in some baby bottles may be harmful.

Chemical in food cans, baby bottles cited as health risk. From Marketwatch.com.

Safety of Baby Bottles Questioned From WJLA.com.

Chemical in Plastic Baby Bottles Linked to Hormonal Problems From WBKO.com.

Chemical in plastic baby bottles poses risks From Chicago Tribune.com.

Baby Age is Offering New Coupons

2008-04-07T18:40:00.000-07:00

Baby Age one of the merchants that Baby Buggy Bumper is an affiliate of is running the following coupons. Just click on the banner below and enter the coupon code at check out.

Current Promotions & Coupons
NEW! Free Shipping on orders over $99!*

Use code: APRILBABY at checkout. Valid until 4/30/08.
* Promotion excludes all furniture. (Brands included but not limited to: DaVinci, Giftmark, Sorelle, Angel Line, Lipper, Simplicity, Bratt Decour, Dutalier, Shermag, Jennifer Delonge)

NEW! Free Shipping on 2 or more packages of diapers! Limited time only!
Use code: DIAPERS2 at checkout for free shipping. Valid until 4/15/08 only.
* Promotion includes: Luvs, Huggies, Seventh Generation & Pampers

Save 5% (over $20) on all orders over $400!*

Speaking of Faith's The Spirituality of Paranting Interview.

2008-04-03T19:47:00.000-07:00

In an interview with Rabbi Sandy Sasso, Krista Tippet of Speaking of Faith has a very interesting conversation about "The Spirituality of Parenting."

Rabbi Sandy Sasso, a noted author, says that the spiritual life, begins not in abstractions, but in concrete everyday experiences. And children need our questions as much as our answers.

More and more people in our time are disconnected from religious institutions, at least for part of their lives. Others are religious and find themselves creating a family with a spouse from another tradition or no tradition at all. And the experience of parenting tends to raise spiritual questions anew. We sense that there is a spiritual aspect to our children's natures and wonder how to support and nurture that. The spiritual life, our guest says, begins not in abstractions, but in concrete everyday experiences. And children need our questions as much as our answers.

This frank discussion will give parents ideas about how to deal with the spirituality of parenting. I listened to the mp3 file and thought you all might enjoy hearing it.

State Summary of Breastfeeding Laws

2008-03-31T19:12:00.000-07:00

I was not aware that different states have different laws regarding breastfeeding. I recently surfed on the the National Conference of State Legislatures website whre I was surprised to find a summary of the various laws by state.

For example;

Health professionals and public health officials promote breastfeeding to improve infant health. Both mothers and children benefit from breast milk. Breastfeeding helps prevent diarrhea and infections in infants. It also provides long-term preventive effects for the mother, including an earlier return to pre-pregnancy weight, reduced risk of pre-menopausal breast cancer and osteoporosis. According to the New York Times, about 70 percent of mothers start breastfeeding immediately after birth, but less than 20 percent of those moms are breastfeeding exclusively six months later. Healthy People 2010 objectives for the nation include increasing the proportion of mothers who breastfeed their babies in the early postpartum period to 75 percent.

Thirty-nine states have laws with language specifically allowing women to breastfeed in any public or private location (Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Utah, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, and Wyoming).

Please click on the link above to learn about many other laws regarding breastfeeding in your state.

Top 10 Baby Car Seats

2008-03-28T20:57:00.000-07:00

The below slideshow is of the the top 10 baby car seats on Amazon.com.

Amazon.com Widgets