Booster Seats: Safety First



A booster seat is a simple concept and it has a very simple function. This simple function is this: it is there to save the life of your child. A car accident is not something that anyone really wants to think about, especially where children are concerned, but to be prepared for the eventuality is one of the best things you can do for the safety of your child.

A booster seat is easily added to a standard automobile, and they are relatively inexpensive. And yet they can save your child’s like or save him or her from serious injury.

But what’s wrong with a normal seat, I hear you ask. After all they have seat belts, which are great life savers. True, they do, and seat belts are a lifesaver. But the problem is that seats are designed with primarily adults in mind. The same goes for seat belts. In fact, using seatbelt on a child can actually be more dangerous than it is effective at protecting the child, since the belt can become entangled with the child and cause injury.

Most injuries to adults are caused by the adult not putting on the seatbelt in the correct way. And since seatbelts are not designed for children, but for adults, then the seatbelt will automatically be put on in the wrong way, putting the child at risk, and possible great risk in the event of a car accident.

All this is why you need a booster seat. These are seats which fit into a normal car seat, and allow the child to sit properly. They allow the seatbelt to be used properly, and they give support to a child’s body. This is essential if there were to be an accident.

So before you even contemplate taking your little one out for a ride in the car, think booster seat. It could be one of the best purchases you ever made for your child.

Guide To Baby Toy Shopping



When thinking of a gift for a baby, the first thing that usually comes to our minds is toys. And why not, toys are sure to bring shrieks of laughter or at least a smile to the little tot's face. But in choosing that toy, one must consider if it is fun, educational and most of all, safe. Babies are the most gullible and naïve persons yet and have absolutely no inkling on whether that multi-colored fluffy plaything may be harmful to him or not. As grown-ups we have the responsibility in making sure that they are always out of harms way, and thus our toy gifts must not only be entertaining but positively harmless too. So how do you choose on whether that infant toy that you are eyeing on the baby shop window may make a good present for the baby?

With the rise of online baby stores, it is not far off that you may want to purchase your baby present via the internet. That is not so surprising especially if you are a busy businessman constantly traveling on business trips and would not want to miss sending a lovely present of well wishes for your godson that is being christened in Sydney, Australia. Australian online baby merchants are more than willing enough to cater to your gift needs for your newborn godsons. So here are a few tips for you to consider on purchasing that cute cuddly teddy bear through the internet.

Probably the initial thing to look for is on whether the infant toy is able to meet the established safety standards. For your part, you should make sure to abide by the recommended age that is noted by the manufacturer on the toy's box or label. Toys that are meant for children ages three years old and up should not be given to infants at six months old. This should be strictly followed even if you should think that the child is brilliant enough to understand the toy's mechanism. There is a reason for the age labels and it is meant to ensure safety. To be specific, avoid giving the toys to infants with the small parts as there is a greater risk and chance that it might be swallowed by the child. Remember that a baby has a tendency to place everything he touches inside his mouth thinking that it might be food. Also do not go for those toys with sharp pointed parts. The toddler is pretty reckless and could easily get hurt from these spiky, piercing things.

As previously mentioned, the toy should not only be safe for the baby but it should be educational and fun at the same time. Look for a toy that is sturdy enough to endure for a long span of time. There are a lot of toy choices available in the market which can be used in a variety of ways in which the child can grow and learn from. It might be helpful to choose toys which aid in nurturing the child's key developmental areas. These areas include the spatial awareness, hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, gross motor skills and of course, choose toys that ignite the senses: sense of vision, sense of touch, sense of smell and sense of sound. Toys with brilliant vivid colors and unique distinctive textures are much preferred. And do not forget about the rubber ducky that makes a cute little sound every time it is pinched.

7 crucial Cot Safety Tips for a baby-loving cot and bed mattresses



If you are a mother-to be planning your baby nursery furniture and decor, the thought foremost in your mind is probably that you should make sure that you create a safe environment for your precious new tax. The cot bed is where the child will be a substantial part of the day. What are the biggest baby crib safety tips, you must keep in mind when decorating a nursery?

Organizations such as minors Products Manufacturer's Association has a certification program and seal that reassure parents that a product has been thoroughly tested. Products only eligible to receive the seal, they meet or exceed the standards set by industry watchdog, ASTM International. Always check for this seal of certification before making a purchasing decision.

1. Spacing slats

All beds cot that are certified will have slats that are more than 2 3 / 8 inches. This is an extremely important aspect of Cot security. If you want to put in an ancient legacy, make sure it has the spacing between the slats, otherwise not in use. It is not just worth the risk. You should check the slats from time to time to ensure they are safe. Never use a cot if some of the slats are missing. Many furniture for babies older versions have cuts in the head or foot. It is an absolute no-no. The bar must be 26 inches above the mattress when it is in its lowest position.

2. Crib Mattress measures

Do not use a mattress below which corresponds roughly to the base of the bed. The adjustment should be fairly tight and tense. Cot clear safety rules that you should not be able to adapt more than two fingers of adults (about 1 inch) between the mattress and the edge of the cot. The record must also be a good tight and you must be sure he will remain in place. Rather struggle a bit with the crib bedding. It is much better than exposing your baby is likely to remain blocked. Move the mattress to the lowest position that your baby becomes more mobile. Never use any form of plastic to cover a mattress. This is extremely dangerous.

3. Beware of stores

Position of this piece of furniture maternal, as far as possible away from windows with blinds, curtains or shutters with long strings. An accident occurs in an instant. Do not forget to keep an eye open for potential dangers around the bed. Do not focus solely on safety infant crib itself.

4. Reduce the corner

A cot with corner posts more than 1 / 16 inch above panels will never spend the JPMA inspection. It is a strangulation risk, as a baby clothes can get caught. Delete these dangerous lengths to make sure that the area of soft sand. Of course, if there is hedged positions that are more than 16 inches in length above panels, it should be good as far as baby crib safety is at stake.

5. Finishes and finery

Check all the equipment regularly to ensure that everything is tight and secure. Vis brackets or danger. The arrival on the wood should be non-toxic. Handle with care to avoid chipping and peeling. Do not use abrasive cleaners or toxic. Make sure the wood is still good. Fragmentation or damage to the edges can injure your baby.

6. Nap Time-No-No's

Remove all stuffed toys, pillows, comforters or stuffed quilts or other items during nap-time. All these elements can become a choking hazard when you turn your back. Cover your baby with a light reception coverage if necessary. Pull it only in the chest and stay away from the child's face. Tuck in any security around the mattress. Make sure the baby is not too hot. For baby crib safety in the interests May you are thinking of seeking alternatives as a sleeping bag. Using this, you can avoid using blankets.

7. Bye-bye Crib bumpers

Bumpers and mobile are fine until the baby is old enough to pull himself in a standing position. At that time, it is safer to remove. Also try to ensure that bumpers are not stuffed they look like pillows. These May be dangerous. Keep bumper securely fastened at all times.

If the baby comes furniture with a drop, always check it is in place and secure before leaving your child. When you put your baby for a nap addition, make sure it is never on a soft surface like a couch or beanbag. If you travel and use a bed in a hotel, make a thorough check to make sure it is safe. Ask your pediatrician the safest on the sleeping position of your baby.

Rather spend a few dollars more and get the best you can afford. You can never pay too much attention to child safety manger.

Keep Up With Sock Fashion



Socks are increasingly becoming an important part of your fashion wardrobe. Don’t overlook sock trends when it comes to putting together your look for each season.

It might be the colours, the patterns or the length, but there’s always something that makes the next sock more fashionable than the last. For girls, bright over-the-knee socks have been the thing to wear, whilst a resurgence of 1980s fashion brought back legwarmer socks.

For men

Watch out for socks from leading designers. Never leaving a sartorial stone unturned, designers like Paul Smith make sure that there are eye-catching socks available to make an impact alongside his dramatic linings and classic cuts. Take a lead from this and, even if Paul Smith socks are out of your price range, try and find socks that follow the same principle – contrasting stripes and solid colours, or using bright colours and bold patterns.

For ladies

Socks, stockings and tights all change with the seasons. Patterned tights, or knee high hold-ups; tiny trainer socks or funky toe-socks, all have their place in the average underwear drawer. In the winter, the fashion for ankle or long boots means that ladies have to find something comfortable to wear inside the boots, and while bare feet and sandals is all the rage in the summer, there are times when they need feminine breathable socks for sports or travel.

For kids

With limited scope during term time because of uniform rules, kids love to have colourful, funky socks when it comes to leisure wear; and because kids’ feet grow as often as fashions change, it’s easy to keep up with the latest fashions in smaller socks. Character socks are consistently popular, depending on the latest film releases or TV programmes and socks that sparkle or make a noise are always fun. High street shops are usually well-prepared as far as children’s socks go, so you’ll have no trouble finding a great range of socks when you need to stock up.

Whether you’re a fashion expert or not, socks are a cheap and easy way to keep up with current and future trends.

Baby Photo Contest – 5 Good Reasons To Enter Your Baby Or Toddler



You think your child is the cutest thing on the planet, but so does every other parent. While that may be your sole purpose in entering a child into a photo contest, here are 5 other reasons you should considering entering your baby or toddler into a baby photo contest.

#1 – Most baby photo contests offer prizes. Most of the time, the Grand Prize is Cash. That is the easiest money you could ever make. This would be a great way to save money for college. #2 – If you are looking to get your child into modeling, pageants, TV or magazines, baby photo contests is a great way to start. Some baby photo contests even send your baby photo entries to modeling agencies if they like what they see. This is great exposure for your child. #3 – It’s a fun and exciting thing to do for you baby. Imagine your child’s surprise when they know how much you thought of them that you entered them into a baby photo contest. #4 – You have tons of baby photos. Do something different with them. Scrapbooks and photo albums are wonderful, but entering your baby into a baby photo contest is exciting! #5 – Satisfaction of winning! You know your baby is a cutie pie. Winning would be proof! Some baby photo contests even offer prizes to all children whether they place in the top 3 or not. Some baby photo contests are free to enter and others you may need to pay for. I have found that those with fees offer the better prizes and have less competition for your baby and toddler. Be savvy in choosing the baby photo contest you enter. The less popular the site and contest, the less competition you will have. There are also some baby photo contests that offer online voting. With those contests, you have more control of your child's chances at winning. Remember that baby photo contest are a form of entertainment that can benefit your child, however you musn't take them too seriously. Otherwise you miss out on the fun of the whole experience. Good Luck in finding a great baby photo contest.


How To Choose Baby Strollers



One of the more important accessories for a parent is a baby stroller. With the many choices of strollers available in the stores today, it proves to be difficult to choose the right baby stroller for your baby. It has to be basically safe and comfortable for you and the baby and easy to open, close, maneuver and store.

There are many types of baby strollers found today like the carriage stroller which is a great first stroller and the umbrella stroller which is easy to fold and thus convenient as a secondary stroller to be used for jaunts and trips. The standard stroller is usually the primary baby stroller that comes with many features like storage basket and bumper tray.

Lightweight strollers are also great for traveling purposes but are generally high priced than its typical counterparts. The car seat/stroller combo is a great baby stroller to be used for those using the car regularly. You can go jogging taking your baby with you in the jogging stroller while tandem and side-by-side strollers are best for those having children close in age, twins or triplets. In these types of strollers, the seats are fixed next to each other, on a large, single frame.

When choosing the right baby stroller, make sure that it is sturdy, and is of quality construction. It should have all terrain wheels so that it can be used on all surfaces. There should be some safety features in the baby stroller and be comparatively easy to use by all parents. Make sure the stroller can fold and unfold easily and is rather maneuverable.

It is better to choose baby strollers that are easy to clean with removable and machine washable seat covers. Choose baby strollers that accommodate the baby as it grows and those that have storage baskets that are generously sized.

Affordable Ideas For Baby Shower Gifts



Just how many baby showers have you attended this year already? Quite a few and your budget is suffering? Here are some ideas for inexpensive baby shower gifts.

Inexpensive baby shower gifts idea #1: Give the gift of time. If you enjoy spending time with babies give the mom-to-be a coupon book that she can redeem for hours of childcare.

Inexpensive baby shower gifts idea #2: Search websites for the best deals. You will often be able to find some excellent inexpensive baby shower gifts online and sometimes the shipping is even free!

Inexpensive baby shower gifts idea #3: Go to baby sales and stockpile your finds. Most department stores have really good sales two or three times a year. This is the best time to shop for inexpensive baby shower gifts. Buy clothing for baby boys and girls in newborn, 6 and 9 months sizes and you will be ready with inexpensive baby shower gifts every time you are invited to a shower. You might also want to purchase a few things in white or yellow for those inexpensive baby shower gifts when you don’t know if the baby is going to be a boy or a girl.

Inexpensive baby shower gifts idea #4: If you are creative you may be able to make inexpensive baby shower gifts yourself. You could offer to make the baby shower invitations and thank-you notes as your gifts. Other inexpensive baby shower gifts ideas for the creative might include nursery painting or decorating, making the christening outfit, or designing a scrapbook for the new baby.

Inexpensive baby shower gifts ideas #5: A good way to find inexpensive baby shower gifts is to keep your eyes open for stores that are closing. Inexpensive baby shower gifts can be found at stores that feature baby clothing, toys and books. When these stores close there are often magnificent sales and this is the time to purchase several items and keep them until you need them.

If you plan ahead you will be able to come up with many possibilities for inexpensive baby shower gifts.

Shopping For Furniture For Nurseries

Not all people who go shopping for furniture for nurseries are expecting the birth of a baby in their home in the very near future. They might be the child's future grandparents or the neighbor that lives up the street from the happy couple. Anyone can go shopping for furniture that will be placed in a nursery and with a little communication with the happy parents they can shop with a considerable amount of confidence in the purchases they make.


The happy parents might not have to spend any amount of money to get the nursery ready for the new arrival. Many modern day parents have chosen to use the baby registry in many baby stores to help friends who are buying gifts for the nursery. A few people might get together and share the expense for a new crib, and another might buy a changing table that is fashioned in the same wood. Entering all baby furniture needs in the registry will also help to make sure that duplicate buying does not occur.

Even relatives that live in other States can get in on the shopping for baby furniturer. Some couples who are having multiple births will list two or three cribs in a baby registry and if a long distance relative has not gotten the word on the twins or triplets that are expected on or around a certain date, the information in the baby registry might clarify it for them a bit. They might go shopping for furniture for the nursery and have all the items shipped by private carrier.
Some new parents will fill in extra information on the baby shower invitations just to inspire people when they go shopping for baby furniture. They might announce the names of the child or the names for several. When shopping for triplets, it is a given that three cribs will be needed but coordinating the purchase might require some additional information such as the nursery color scheme and whether the parents want real wood, or canopied beds for the angels that will spend their days there.

There are many attachments to nursery furniture that will have to be considered too. Some parents are fearful about installing mobiles in a crib and might convey that fact to family and friends. This might motivate some to purchase gifts with moving images on them and some friends might be crafty enough to fashion wood chunks in the shapes of animals that can sit on top of the dresser or the changing table. All furniture in a baby's room is certain to be safe no matter what woods are chosen.

When shopping for furniture for a child, some parents are very organized. They go shopping for furniture styles that can be used by an infant but are expandable to youth beds at a later date. Some of these styles of baby furniture seem to grow with the child and one day the parents will be quite thankful that the child can climb into bed without any help from them at all. Furniture shopping trips for the nursery could include items like steps one day, and at a certain point, a desk can be added to give the child a place to study and learn about the amazing animals in the world.

Why Should You Use Cloth Diapers?


diapers are the best, indeed the only, diapering choice for their baby. But, not too long ago cloth diapers were the only option. Parents used them with no problem. Here is a look at why cloth diapers are a better choice than disposable diapers.

Disposable diapers have chemicals in them. They are treated to make them super absorbent, but these chemicals against your baby's skin 24 hours a day for the first two and a half years of their life cannot be good. Cloth diapers are made of fabric that is not treated with chemicals that could be harmful. This makes them a healthier choice.

Cloth diapers are a more economical choice in the long run. If you invest in quality cloth diapers and use them properly, they can last you through several children. Over one child's lifetime it costs an estimated $2,000 to keep them in disposable diapers. Reusable cloth diapers can cost as little as $400-$500 including washings. Although the upfront cost is more, the overall cost is much less.

Cloth diapers cause a lot fewer diaper rashes. Because parents who use cloth diapers change their baby much more often, there is less chance for bacteria to build up. This results in fewer painful diaper rashes, and much happier babies.

Cloth diapers are much better for the environment. Millions upon millions of disposable diaper are dumped in landfills each year. The repercussions of this will be felt for generations to come. Cloth diapers can be washed and reused many times. Even after it's life as a diaper, it can be used for other things like dust rags or burp clothes.

Some people argue that cloth diapers are not effectively better than disposables for the environment due to repeated washings. First, the water that is used to wash the diapers can be recycled for other uses. The cost in terms of electricity to wash and dry them is much less than the cost to build new and bigger landfills.

If you don't want to bother with washing them, you can get a diaper service that delivers clean diapers to your door every week. You simply send the dirty ones back with them and they wash them for you. You don't even have to use pins anymore. The new diaper covers hold them in place for you. This is cloth diapering at it's most convenient.

Cloth diapers are so much cuter than disposables. You can get cloth diapers and diaper covers in any fabric pattern that you so desire. There are so many out there to choose from, that even the pickiest parent can find a great look. This way your baby can be well dressed right down to his or her diaper.

There are so many great things about cloth diapering, it's hard to get them all in. From the cost to the environmental factors, cloth diapers really are the way to go. If you still don't believe me check it out for yourself. There is lots of great information out there.

Many parents also report that their child is potty trained sooner than average when they have used cloth diapers. Perhaps it is because parents who use cloth diapers change them more often so the learns to recognize when they are wet.

Many parents are realizing the benefits of cloth diapers. This great economical solution to diapering your baby is coming back into fashion as more and more people are choosing it.

Tips For Buying Baby Gear




Buying baby gear can be a frustrating experience for new parents who want to have the best for the baby, yet they still have to watch their budget. They need to buy baby furniture, such as a crib or bassinet, a change table and a playpen. Parents also like to purchase a baby swing and a stroller for taking the baby for a walk. A cheaper alternative to a stroller is a baby sling where you can carry the baby comfortably and still keep him/her nestled close to you.

Other supplies that you need include baby clothes. When you are buying for the new baby, just remember that although an outfit may look cute, you have to think about how comfortable the baby feels in it. Babies grow a lot in the first few months, so it is really a waste of money to buy a lot of outfits in newborn sizes. You are better off buying in the 3 - 6 month range at first. You will find that the baby will quickly outgrow even these. You also have to look at the material to make sure it won't shrink after the first wash. Also buying clothes that suit either a boy or a girl is a good choice, because the chances are great, the baby will grow out of it long before it is worn out. Then you can pack it away for the next baby.

You have to decide whether you will start with a rocking bassinet or a full size crib. There are many bassinets combined with a playpen so this will save you money. Some bassinets convert into a change table and most of them are portable, making them great for travel. A crib is necessary for when the baby gets older, but for a newborn a bassinet is a good choice to make.

You also have to look at bottles pacifiers, toys and later on a high chair. All of these come in many makes and models, but before you buy make sure that they are rated according to safety standards.

Even with all this, you won't be allowed to take the baby home from the hospital without a car seat installed in the back seat. For this you need to look at ones that convert from rear to forward facing and that you can use a booster seat when the child gets older.

Tips For Christmas Shopping For Babies And Infants




A baby's first Christmas will always be treasured by his parents and when it comes to gift-giving this is a perfect time to start your own tradition, like buying a special holiday ornament representing the events of the year - either personally or something from world events or special celebrations, like the Olympics or a World Series or Super Bowl-themed ornament.

Here are some other can't-miss gifts for Christmas for a newborn:

Piggy Bank: A piggy bank can be so much more than a place to hold loose change - a hand-painted and personalized bank is a collectible gift that will be treasured for a lifetime. It will also come in handy when the child is older as a great way to teach a young child how to start saving and managing his money.

Classic Baby Toys: Nostalgia is the new "new." Parents love to see their kids play with the toys of their own youth. Shop around for old-school Fisher Price people and buildings, wooden ABC blocks, shape sorters, Care Bears, jack-in-the-boxes. If you know the parents well it should be fairly easy to figure out what classic toys they enjoyed as children.

Diaper Cakes: If you ask new parents what they spend the most money on they will almost always tell you it is diapers. A diaper cake is a thoughtful gift - the cakes are made up of either disposable or cloth diapers and resemble a tiered cake - think wedding cake for babies. They almost always include other accessories such as toys, bibs, clothes, socks, pajamas, rattles or blankets and often a keepsake as a little gift for mom. Diaper cakes are also perfect for baby showers or to present on arrival home from the hospital.

Educational Toys: Every parent loves educational toys. Why not maximize playtime by learning a motor skill? There are
plenty of toys geared toward fine motor development or that have striking contrasting patterns for baby to look at and talk to. Teethers and blankets with tags or a satin stripe of a blanket offer various sensations when baby rubs them or puts them in his mouth.

Books: Another great idea, and something I always buy for new babies, is a book. Parents are swamped with toys and clothing on the birth of a baby and at Christmastime - toys break or children get bored with them, but you can start building a library that the whole family can enjoy for years. Soft, squeaky or washable books are perfect for babies and real little kids, but don't be afraid to buy books that are a little ahead of where baby is - he will grow into it soon enough and it will live on his bookshelf longer.

Spend some time thinking about the baby and his parents and family life and try to tailor your decisions to what is important to them - is the family religious or spiritual? are the parents musically inclined? is mom a writer? is dad a NASCAR fan or a hockey fan? You are sure to come up with a perfect gift every time if you strive to make it personal and meaningful.

Educational Toys to Improve Attention Deficit Disorder

Children with attention deficit disorder often struggle in school because of their short attention spans. Many quickly decide that they are "dumb" or "stupid" when the simple truth is that their condition is causing them to fail in the traditional school setting, which requires children to focus on one activity for an extended period of time. If you are a parent of a child with ADD or ADHD, you can actually use toys to help improve your child's attention span and, in turn, performance in school. Here are some ways to use educational toys to improve attention deficit disorder.

What Your Child Needs from You

As you consider toys to use to help improve your child's attention span, keep in mind that your child needs to be able to focus on one activity or task for about 25 minutes in order to survive the first year of school. This number increases as the child advances through the educational system. If your child is a preschooler, take the time now to help her increase her attention span so that she can succeed in kindergarten. If she is an older student, talk to her teacher to learn what her attention span should be, and work slowly towards that goal.

Remember, your child needs to feel as though play time is play time. While you can, and should, reward good attention, you need to avoid making play time into school time. Keep it fun, even as you focus on improving the signs of attention deficit disorder.

Use Books to Help with ADD

One of the best educational toys to use with children with ADD is a book. Choose books that are interesting to your child. Even if you do not like a particular book, use it if it appeals to the child with ADD. Even if your child is old enough to read, read aloud to him. Read as long as his attention allows, and then let him move to another activity. Gradually try to increase the amount of time spent reading.

Play a Game with Your Child

Another way to improve ADD with educational toys is to play games with your child. Any game that your child can understand is a great way to improve attention span. Your child will love the play time, as she likely relishes special time with mom and dad. Be sure the games require some thinking or concentration, rather than just allowing the child to move a piece after spinning a wheel or rolling a pair of dice.

Pretend with Your Child

Because pretend play allows them to get up and move while focusing on one thing, it is perfect for children with ADD. Buy educational toys that will encourage your child to pretend. Fake food, doctor's kits, and dress up clothes are great additions to the ADD child's toy box. These do not have to be complicated. Simply choose toys that will get his imagination flowing.

Puppets are more great toys to use with these kids. Because they allow the child to use his imagination and create crazy scenarios, puppets are very appealing to an ADD child. Also, you can stretch your child's attention span with puppets, as it takes time and effort to put on a puppet show. Be a good audience and reward and praise the effort!

Parenting a child with attention deficit disorder is frustrating at times. The energy level of these children is simply exhausting for most adults. By finding ways to play with your child that require him to focus for longer and longer periods of time, you can help curb the energy a little while still enjoying one on one time with your child. In this way, both of you win, and your child will also benefit from increased performance in school!

Baby Monitor Hidden Camera Gives Peace Of Mind



Having a new baby is all about stress and maturing as adults and parents. It is arguably the most difficult thing, especially for newly weds, a married couple can do. It is hard enough making the adjustment to living together. Then throw in a baby and you have major league stress.

Learning the ins and outs of raising a newborn is a real challenge in and of itself. Add to the mix two sets of parents, assorted relative and friends who all have the best advice. Well you see what I mean.

How about the first time you hire that kid down the street to watch the baby while you and your spouse go out to enjoy a movie? You may physically be in the theatre, mentally you are at home. You sit there worrying about the baby.

Mom doesn't want to leave baby's side but she can't be with the baby 24/7. Or can she?
Well not exactly but close.

There is a new tool in the arsenal of techno goodies that can solve most of your problems and give you some valuable peace of mind. It is a hidden camera inside a cuddly little puppy dog. It is as cute as can be and useful-well let me tell you.

This little gadget not only has a hidden camera and speaker but the signal is transmitted to a hand held LCD monitor that is portable. The puppy dog is powered by a 9 volt battery while the LCD is powered with 3 AAA batteries.

You can use it to see what is going on when you are not in the room with your baby to keep an eye on the nanny.

Imagine being able to walk around the house and actually having some freedom and still being able to watch your new baby from the screen in your hand-absolutely liberating!

To find out more about some effective spy and hidden cameras check out the links below.

Jack Krohn is the #1 author of Home Security Articles in the country according to EzineArticles. He owns SECURITY SOLUTIONS a one stop resource that provides solutions and answers for all your self defense and home security problems.

By: Jack Krohn Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=179097&ca=Family+Concerns



Buying Baby Furniture Tips And Tricks















There is little doubt that a large portion of Young Parent's budget will be spent on Baby Furniture for the Baby Nursery. However, there are many ways to save money by purchasing your Baby Nursery Furniture and other Baby Items used, or new at discounted prices.

In most cases Baby Items of all types and descriptions can be purchased for pennies on the dollar if you know where to look. Babies cost a fortune and it is wise to think used especially for the items that your baby will out grow fast.

Yes, Baby Nursery Furniture can be very expensive when bought new, however I will be giving you ideas and tips on where to shop that will help you save a bundle, and still outfit your Baby Nursery in style.

Before I get into telling you where find great bargains on Baby Nursery Furniture and other Baby Items, I want to caution you about a few things first. If you are looking at used Baby Nursery Furniture you need to check for scratches, dents, peeling paint, missing parts, and always keep your baby's safety in mind. Older Baby Furniture may have lead paint so you need to check it out closely.

Wholesale Outlets:

If you want to buy new Baby Nursery Furniture you may want to check out the local Wholesale Outlets and see what inventory they have in stock. Sometimes they will offer Name Brand overruns or discontinued models at very good prices as compared to normal Baby Furniture retail stores.

Consignment Stores:

I have found several great buys at the local consignment store including Changing Tables, as well as Baby Playpens. You just never know what you will find in this type of store. Many times I have bought nice hardly used Name Brand Baby Items at stores like these, and saved a bundle.

Used Furniture Stores:

Used furniture stores are much like the consignment stores, but at times you may find Baby Furniture items that you may not find at other stores. I just thought it worth mentioning so you would know to check it out.

Yard Sales and Flea markets:

I have found quite a few good buys at both the Yard Sales and Flea Markets. The biggest inconvenience is you MUST get up early in the morning if you want to find the real bargains. There are so many people that shop this way, and you will simply have to beat the crowd if you want the best deals.

Newspaper Classified Ads:

If you get the newspaper early you can catch quite a few bargains on Baby Furniture, but again you need to be fast and call the sellers and ask questions about the item you are shopping for.

Online Classified Ads:

I like the online classifieds because it is easy to find Baby Furniture for sale close by. The online classified ads are usually organized by State and City, so it is easy to find items close to where you live. It is also easy to email sellers and ask questions about the item.

Online Auctions:

I will tell you now, this is my all time favorite place to buy Baby Furniture because the selection is great and for the most part the selection is almost endless. I can buy new and used Baby Furniture as well as other Baby Items all at the same place online. The largest of these Auctions is Ebay. You will need to read the information given by each Ebay Seller carefully so you don't miss any important details. Ebay Sellers are usually very honest and will let you know if there are any problems, missing pieces, scratches, or dents and such. If you have any questions about an item you will want to email the seller before bidding.

With this information you should be able to find many great deals on Baby Furniture as well as other Baby items for your Baby Nursery.

By: Sally Jean Myers
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=213964&ca=Womens+Interest


A Guide To Buying Baby And Toddler Shoes














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hoosing the correct shoes for infants and younger children can be a bit daunting, hopefully this guide will make you a little more confident when it comes to making your purchase.

Babies which are not yet crawling or walking really do not need shoes, and it is advisable to let them keep their feet free so they can move and develop naturally. Wearing a pair of soft knitted of fleece material baby booties are a good idea to keep their feet warm when the temperature is cooler. If you would like your baby to wear shoes when you go out, opt for a very soft breathable material and make sure that the shoe is plenty big enough to allow for natural movement of the foot and toes.

When your baby starts crawling, again they do not really need shoes but with all of the rubbing across the floor that the top of their foot will endure it is advisable to purchase a soft pair of shoes for some protection when the terrain is a bit rough. Although very delicate, babies feet are also very tough, and can naturally withstand the chaffing caused by crawling. Socks are adequate, but generally will end up trailing behind their feet most of the time! At home try to let your baby crawl around with bare feet or just socks, as the constant wearing of a shoe will inhibit their ability to develop the use of their feet.

Once your baby has taken their first steps it is time to buy their first pair of walking shoes. Although bear in mind that the more time spent walking bare foot the better, as it helps your baby to figure out how their feet work and also helps the foot develop naturally.

There are times when going bare foot is not practical or it is unsanitary so you need a good pair of shoes to protect their feet from harm.

The shoes you select need to be soft and flexible and have a non slip sole. Ensure that the sole is not thick so that your baby can feel the floor beneath them. It is not necessary to buy high tops for ankle support, high tops could restrict the movement of the ankle which will hinder your babies walking progress. Make sure the material is soft and breathable to help keep their feet cool and comfortable.

To check the fit of your baby’s shoe, you should be able to fit your little finger between the heel of your baby’s foot and the back of the shoe, also there should be a thumbs width gap between the big toe and the front of the shoe.

Baby shoes do not need to be “broken in” so get them to have a little walk around the shop with them on and watch to see if the shoes hinder their walking, then remove the shoes and check for any signs of pressure from the shoes on your babies’ feet.

Whether you choose Velcro or lace ups is a personal choice for you. Remember that the shoes will be taken on and off a lot, so many people opt for Velcro for convenience. If you select laced shoes, do not over tighten the laces or just as importantly do not tie them too loose.

Something to remember is that when the weather is hot, and also towards the end of the day, children’s feet swell just as adults do, so when shopping for shoes it might be an idea to go later in the day.

Check the fit of your baby’s shoes once a month, as children’s feet grow at different rates there is no set period to purchase a new pair, but expect to buy a new pair every three to six months. Check the shoes often for signs of wear or damage, for example cracks on the bottom or holes or flapping parts on the top.

By: Lucy Bartlett
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=72786&ca=Family+Concerns