Kids' Room Thermometer & One Cool Company

Grobag Egg by Keen Distribution

Every once in a while I find a product that I love so much I want to buy a bunch of them and immediately give to all of my friends and then buy stock in the company. Actually, I should probably invest in the stock first... Anyway, the Grobag Egg is so cool that I've decided to re-name my "Top Shopping Picks" to "Coolest Stuff Ever" (as soon as I get around to it) in it's honor. It not only displays room temperature but glows different colors telling you if the room is too hot, cold etc. Unfortunately, my egg has been red (too warm) since we put it in my daughter's room, prompting us adjust the clothing situation (i.e. sleep in a diaper). I plan on getting a 2nd egg for my son's room too. The company that gives you this gem, Keen Distribution, also sells the Mommy Hook which is now how I carry my diaper bag on the back of the stroller. You can hang anything from it (bags, groceries) and the Mommy Hook won't slide around. Look for more reviews on Keen Distribution in the future because I really do love their stuff!

Cool Giveaway: Enter to win a Grobag Egg of your own by leaving a comment on this post. Click here to find out how to increase your chances of winning. An email address is needed to contact the winner. Contest ends 7/28/08. Contest rules apply.

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The Grandest Play Kitchen of All

Lifestyle Grand Walk-In Kitchen by Step 2

I know what you're thinking...that looks expensive. I won't kid you, it's not super cheap, but I had to share because it's my daughter's #1 favorite toy. The Lifestyle Grand Walk-In Kitchen, while you do need a bit of room for it, and we've already covered the price, really is fantastic! I bought it for Christmas last year and Bella (now almost 2) plays in it everyday. It's holds her attention for more than five minutes which is a lifesaver when my 3 month old needs some attention. Cool Baby Kid brings you the coolest products and resources we can't live without, and this kitchen definitely falls into that category! Check out reviews and buy it here.

Cool Tip: It comes with 103 pieces, and after I used my handy dandy toilet paper tube to check for choking hazards, recommended age is 3 because of small parts, I also bagged up about half of the pieces and rotate them. It's hard enough to pick up 30 or so from around the house everyday...103 would be a nightmare!

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Total Sun Protection for Kids

Sun Protection Zone

Simply put, Sun Protection Zone is a great site. If I thought protecting my baby from the sun was an ordeal, imagine my surprise this year harnessing a toddler for SPF application. They will get your kid covered from harmful rays. The long sleeve suit pictured (with diaper snaps & zipper in smaller sizes) is now our everyday pool-wear of choice. These cute suits (and similar rash guard tops) offer total protection and are effortless. Other products at Sun Protection Zone have quickly become favorites too such as the Solar Safe wristbands that alert you when the SPF has worn off, as well as Sea & Ski SPF protection which comes out as foam (my daughter loves that!) making it simple to apply and lasting for 8 hours! Only available from dermatology offices and Sun Protection Zone, I think you'll quickly find this is one of your favorite online stores too.

Cool Giveaway: Talk about a giveaway! Sun Protection Zone is making it easy to cover your kid from top to bottom with a Total Sun Protection Package including a long sleeve suit, hat, pair of sunshades, box of SolarSafe Wristbands and can of Sea & Ski valued at over $75.00! Click here to find out how to increase your chances of winning. An email address is needed to contact the winner. Contest ends 7/28/08. Contest rules apply.

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Tori & Dean: Cool Mom, Fun Show

Tori & Dean: Home Sweet Hollywood

Since CBK is a resource for moms, babies & kids...this one is for moms. You absolutely must check out Tori & Dean: Home Sweet Hollywood. I've seen an episode here or there of previous seasons, but I'm telling you, every mom will love this one; it's hilarious and so comforting to know all moms (even famous ones) deal with similar issues. I easily related to this mega star mom in an episode where she was pregnant, exhausted and planning a 1st birthday party. Just last summer I was in the same boat and remember the worries when things didn't always go according to plan (rain!) Tori is engaging, funny and surprisingly real...just one warning, you'll be addicted...non-Tivo customers need not apply.

Cool Tip: Tori & Dean are on Oxygen Tuesday night at 10 p.m. EST.

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Newborn Night Wakenings Just Got Easier

Stuk On U Sleepers

I wish I could tell you the creator of Stuk On U figured out how to get your newborn back to sleep for the night and I'm sharing that gem of information here on Cool Baby Kid. Sorry to get your hopes up, but newborns are supposed to wake up at night...that's where this simple, ingenious idea comes in. Stuck On U sleepers are unlike any other, using a soft Velcro closure rather than zippers or buttons, making nighttime changes a breeze. Choose from adorable footed or footless rompers from newborn to 18 months in patterns like "Jellybean" and "The Rosebud." Another great mom idea I didn't think of...

Cool Tip: Use the code "coolbabykid" to receive 10% off your order!

Cool Giveaway: Win a Stuk On U sleeper by leaving a comment about what you like or would change about their website. Click here to find out how to increase your chances of winning. An email address is needed to contact the winner. Contest ended. Congratulations Doreen! Contest rules apply.

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Planning for Kids' Birthday Party

Birthday in a Box

This is the 2nd year in a row I've used Birthday in a Box to buy party supplies. As I do with any purchase, I researched, compared, debated and finally decided on them for a few reasons. First, I like things to match. While I'll buy the bulk of the plates, napkins etc. at the $1 store, the "themed" stuff must coordinate. And here's what I like about Birthday in a Box...they have personalizable invitations and banners in each theme that are adorable and made well (i.e. don't look cheap). I can do invites myself on Photoshop, but their customized ones look just as good and take way less time. Their prices are competitive, and the themes are super cute. "Hula Girl" is our theme this year, while "The Big One" was last year's choice. If you're planning a b-day party, check them out!
Cool Tip: Use this link for a special discount...

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Kiddies Want to Rock Out Too!

Crib Rock® Couture

I'm a sucker for anything cool and famous; Crib Rock Couture certainly fits the bill. If Maddox loves Crib Rock then so do we! "An original children’s brand of clothing and nursery decor inspired by classic children’s literature and good old rock n’ roll," these couture clothes are not only unique but also made in the USA! Not limited to apparel, in August "Cheap Sticks," (re-usable wall stickers) will make their debut in the Legends line making not just your kids cool but their walls too. From infant and toddlers to kids and tweens, the entire family can rock out with Crib Rock Couture.

Cool Pick: Their new tee line "Legends" featuring legends of lore from around the globe will make an appearance in the upcoming movie The Mummy. And the infant triplets of The Mummy director Rob Cohen are the first Celebrity Babies to sport Crib Rock's Legends onesies. How cool is that? Which Legends design is your favorite?

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Hot, Hip Clothes for Kids

Hipster Hugs

In the world of baby/kid apparel, it's hard to stand out. The advent of sites such as Cafe Press have made tees with cute sayings easy to find (though still often adorable). Luckily, I have discovered for my loyal CBK readers truly unique clothing for your wee ones called Hispter Hugs. Create by a mom, this line for babies, kids and moms looks like none other. Quality clothing with super cute appliques, Hispter Hugs is worthy of a "Where'd you get that?" from other moms. Even better, they personalize (you pick the tee, fabric etc.) with your initial...how cool is that? On a side note, when you visit out their webpage which is really nice, check out the favicon (little graphic in the address bar at the top)...it is the cutest ever! Let me know if you love Hipster Hugs as much as I do.

Cool Giveaway: One lucky Cool Baby Kid reader will receive a free tee from Hipster Hugs! Click here to find out how to increase your chances of winning. An email address is needed to contact the winner. Contest ended. Congratulations Andrea! Contest rules apply.

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Coolest Baby & Kid Books Ever!

Begin Smart Book Series

As an English teacher, I can appreciate the time, effort and research that is apparent behind the absolute coolest line of books ever. Written by an author and former educator, Begin Smart is a developmental book series for babies and toddlers. The "Faces" book pictured (newborn-6 months) is a permanent fixture in our diaper bag. A cute cloth book about expressions from sad to sleepy, the top face is a rattle too! My three month old son loves to eat it...I mean read it. Other books such as "Woof" and "Meow" also go beyond your basic book experience by including nifty sound effects for 6-12 month olds. Begin Smart is one of those rare finds that makes you want to buy two every product they have--one for your kids and one as a gift for all the kids you know. I love the idea behind the line, the products themselves and the webpage which after visiting you'll see why I'm so enthusiastic about these books!

Cool Giveaway: One lucky Cool Baby Kid reader will experience my excitement first-hand by receiving two of their very own Begin Smart books! Click here to find out how to increase your chances of winning. An email address is needed to contact the winner. Contest ended. Congratulations Kristina! Contest rules apply.

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A Baby Book...for Adults

Babies Are Boring by Jon Ritchie

An English teacher by trade, one thing I know for sure is that reading can never go out of style. Always on the lookout for fun new books for the little ones, I was thrilled to discover Babies Are Boring by Jon Ritchie, illustrated by Alex Ritchie. "If you look back, there's a life you used to know. The time, the time, oh wherever does it go?" What parent can't relate to remembering a time before "the never-ending bottle making" or "...the changing and the wiping and the endless hours of singing." Beautifully illustrated, the fun part about Babies Are Boring is that not only with kids love it, their mom and dads will enjoy reading it as well. Good news since we all know what happens when kids like a book. You'll have it memorized in no time!

Cool Tip: Buy Babies Are Boring at the Cool Baby Kid Amazon Store.

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Messy Eaters Beware

Wupzey Floor Protector

I'm convinced my toddler lives to create messes for me to clean. In our epic "keep the house clean" battle I've found a great weapon for my arsenal. The Wupzey foor protector does exactly when it says, protecting your floor from everything to stray food to even sippy cups! Unlike floor mats, clean up is easy and best of all, Wupzey is machine washable. When you stop by Wupzey's website also check out their line of bibs and coveralls which also easily wipe clean and are machine washable too! Created by a mom, Wupzey makes sense and solves one of parents' mess problems...if only it could pick up toys too.

Cool Tip: Use the code "CBK" for 20% off your order at Wupzey. Expires July 14, 2008.

Cool Giveaway: One lucky Cool Baby Kid reader will be able to keep their kitchen floor clean with a Wupzey floor protector of your choice just by leaving a comment on this post. An email address is needed in order to contact the winner. Click here to find out how to increase your chances of winning. Contest ended. Congratulations Tangie!

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Stroller Covers: Rain or Shine

Protect-a-Bub Stroller Covers

If you're a family on the go, you know rain and sun covers are a necessity. Not that you plan on taking your children out strolling in the rain, but weather events usually sneak up on you when you're unprepared. (I learned this the hard way.) Looking for a double stroller rain cover, I didn't want the same brand as my single. After one use it "folded up" to about the same size as the stroller itself. This time, I luckily found Protect-a-Bub. Only actual moms would know enough to create lightweight covers kids could breathe and see through but that fold nicely into a provided sack. The cover also protects diaper bags etc. attached to the back (nice touch). With other products that help protect kids such as their extensive line of UPF 50+ sun shades, swimwear & hats and lip balm, Protect-a-Bub comes in handy just in time for summer.

Cool Tip: Cool Baby Kid readers enter code "protect4spring" for 10% off your purchase!

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Travel With Baby In Style

Change Purse by Goober Baby

Seated in a restaurant with my hubby and two small kids, I reached for the baby with one hand and the wipe case and diaper in the other and set off for a change. Not wanting to carry the entire diaper bag, I instead imagined everyone staring as I traipsed around the restaurant with a diaper in my hand. That night I looked online for a product I wasn't sure existed...and there it was...the Change Purse by Goober Baby. Super stylish (check out Water Fall) with soft plush lining, it was exactly what I was looking for. Change Purse holds a wipe case and a few diapers, perfect for a quick change. Lucky for us, Goober Baby also carries other perfect products like Tote Bags and Change Mats as well as "Gents" made just for the guys. Goober Baby is everything I love: mom-created, stylish, and practical. They are without a doubt one of my all-time favorite baby companies!

Cool Tip: Cool Baby Kid readers enter the code "CBK" for free shipping on Goober Baby.

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Nurse in Public Privately

Slurp & Burp Nursing Wrap

I had a hard time with the title because I didn't know if I should call the Slurp & Burp a wrap, cover or something else because it really is unlike anything I've ever seen. It is the most discreet way I've found to nurse baby in public. Because the Slurp & Burp is worn like a sash and the baby is not completely covered, it looks like you are simply holding your baby. But the innovative design allows the material to part with just enough room to feed without being exposed. Choose from a variety of stylish materials like "Bubble Gum" pictured. Slurp and Burp makes it easy to nurse in private even in public. Another great mom invention!

Cool Tip: Receive a special 50% discount for 2 days only (6/18-6/20) on the "Naturally Organic" Slurp & Burp.

Cool Giveaway: Two Cool Baby Kid readers will receive a Slurp & Burp of their choice. To enter, just leave a comment on this post answering the question, "Where would be a good place to use the Slurp & Burp?" An email address is needed in order to contact the winner. Click here to find out how to increase your chances of winning. Contest ended. Congratulations Kristinia & Belinda!

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Little Hats for Little Ones

Little Fit Hats

If you want your child to be hip, you simply have to get them at least one (if not more) of these hats by Little Fit. Trust me on this one. They are specially designed for wee ones and the flex hats even grow with them. Because of their special design, little flexy hats fit most 1-3 year olds while the big flexy hats fit 3-5 year olds. Little Fit hats are just as stylish as they are practical. Choose between classic hats in a variety of colors (even pink!) or more edgy trucker hats with sayings like "Skate or Cry." The basic black or brown work great with a variety of outfits, while the funky ones make perfect gifts. As with many CBK picks, these were created by a mom & dad which is why they make so much sense. Little Fit hats are big on style. Let me know if you love them as much as I do!

Cool Giveaway: Little Fit is letting one lucky Cool Baby Kid reader choose their favorite hat! To enter just leave a comment on this post with which hat(s) you like best. Click here to find out how to increase your chances of winning. Contest ended. Congratulations Lynn!

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Cool, Kid-Proof Sunglasses

My First Shades

Sunglasses are meant to protect, but some need protection from themselves, especially from toddlers. My First Shades thought of everything in their design with a band that is less dangerous than regular sunglasses and also helps them stay put. They're also rustproof, waterproof, shatterproof and sun proof with 100% UVA and UVB protection. My First Shades are also stylish, with fun colors and designs from floral and ladybugs to frogs and sports, so there's something for every kid (and outfit.) Even my infant can look cool this summer with special shades designed for little ones from 0-36 months. Drop me a note if you get these shades and love them too!

Cool Tip: Enter the code "coolbaby" for a 10% discount on My First Shades through July 31st.

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Fun, Funky Designs for Kids

Bored Inc.

Stinky Poo...Save Our Sushi...these are just some of of the lines created by Bored Inc. Irresistibly fun, these are the kind of clothes that will elicit comments like, "That is too cute!" Their designs are incredible and not just reserved for onsies and tees. A mom and daughter team, they also design accessories and jewelry as well as the unique Decorama decals that look like custom painted designs on your walls, furniture etc. Check out Bored Inc. and let me know if fall you in love with the Stinky Poo line too (including Poo-quito, Grumpy Poo, & Smarty Poo) among other beautifully designed creations.

Cool Giveaway: You could win a collection of goodies from Bored Inc. including a tee or onsie, one Decorama and a pin just by leaving a comment on this post. An email address is needed in order to contact the winner. Click here to find out how to increase your chances of winning. Contest ended. Congratulations Tina!

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Pacifer and Plush Toy Together

WubbaNub Pacifier

WubbaNub solves a common pacifier problem simply but expertly. Dealing with a waking baby due to pacifier pop outs, the creator of WubbaNub sewed together a pacifier and plush toy for baby to hang on to allowing it to stay put. My daughter never used a pacifier, but happily my son does, and the WubbaNub is by far the cutest and most efficient one we own. You'll want one for home, diaper bag and everywhere baby takes a pacifier. Buy WubbNub at Mom4Life for free shipping.

Cool Giveaway: WubbaNub is giving a three-pack of pacifiers to one Cool Baby Kid reader. Just leave a comment on this post to win. Click here to find out how to increase your chances of winning. Contest ended. Congratulations Debby!

Couture Sneakers for Kids

Hotsy Totsy Designs

I love being involved from at the start of something new and exciting. Hotsy Totsy Designs is an up and coming company that creates the cutest couture sneakers like the ones pictured. The customer can even choose the style and help to create a custom pair. Contact the designer to get ideas or choose from their best-sellers and help create a unique blinged-out pair of Hotsy Totsies for your little one.

Cool Giveaway: Hotsy Totsy Designs is giving away a free pair of customized sneakers to one lucky Cool Baby Kid reader. In order to enter, just leave a comment on this post. Click here to find out how to increase your chances of winning. Contest ended. Contest rules apply. Congratulations Naomi!!

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Resource for Family Travelers

Child to Go Website

Preparing for an overseas trip with a baby and toddler is a bigger undertaking than I first imagined. After putting together a list, I set out to find some of the travel gear. I found Child To Go which is a packing mother's best friend. With an extensive inventory of travel necessities, the site is well-organized and even offers a search by age. Child To Go carries items from car and air travel to accessories and gear. Whether your planning a trip or arejust a family on the move, you will love this site!

Cool Tip: Cool Baby Kid readers should enter the code "5412105001" for 10% off your order!