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.

Like this post? You may enjoy this too...

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.

Like this post? You may enjoy this too...

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?

Like this post? You may enjoy this too...

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!

Like this post? You may enjoy this too...

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.

Like this post? You may enjoy this too...

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!

Like this post? You may enjoy this too...

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!

Like this post? You may enjoy this too...

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.

Likethis post? You may enjoy this too...

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!

Like this post? You may enjoy this too...

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!!

Like this post? You may enjoy this too...

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!

Hip Hats for Kids of All Ages

Jamie Rae Hats

The name is deceiving; this company's cuteness applies to more than just hats, though I will admit the sunhats are my favorite. (My daughter has the "Candy Pink w/ Lime Dots.") They also create headbands, hair flowers and seedling sets. Jamie Rae Hats are unlike anything you can buy in a store. The unique factor is Cool Baby Kid's favorite product trait, and these hats and scream "Where did you get that?" They fit well, stay put and make your little one look like a gem. And all moms love another mom-built business and success story which makes this company even more the rage.

Cool Tip: Cool Baby Kid readers should enter "free ship" for guess what?? Free shipping!!

Like this post? You may enjoy this too...

Organic and Fun: Clothing, Bath & Bedding

Kate Quinn Organics for Baby & Kids

As soon as you visit Kate Quinn Organics website and see the cute slideshow on their homepage, you'll immediately want every single item they sell. So let me narrow it down for you...check out the Kimono bodysuits, wraps and shirts. When you're done there, move on to some of their other fun styles from adorable dresses to sunhats & sunsuits for summer. One of my favorites, though, are the bodysuits like this one with vanilla piping that I just gave for a birthday present. All of their items are made with 100% certified organic fabrics which should make you feel good about all that shopping you'll do!

Cool Tip: Use the code "thanks" to receive 15% off any order over $60.

Diaper Bag Review: I Found a Good One!

Fleurville Lexi Tote

Any mom of multiple kids knows, another baby is an opportunity to change up the old diaper bag and start shopping! My search was extensive; after all, I would be carting this around everywhere and had high standards as a 2nd time mom. Fleurville delivered. I LOVE my Lexi Tote for these reasons: it's stylish, can be wiped down and therefore won't ever look worn, has a waterproof main compartment, comes with the "SlipNot" stroller attachment (very cool), and the outside compartments are convenient for anything you need quick. The hardest decision you'll have is choosing your bag style!

Cool Tip: Buy bags for kids and baby at eBags and get free shipping. (Look for "Fleurville, Diaper Totes" for the Lexi)

Clippies, Bitties and Bows, Oh My!

The Bowtique: Clever Name for a Clever Shop

My readers know I'm a fan of making my own simple bows. But outside the realm of the basic bow, I'd prefer to leave it to the experts. One said expert is the owner of The Bowtique. (Don't you adore that name?) Cute "clippies" for girls big and little, "felt fuzzies," "Pony-Os" and other cool stuff, this place carries the cutest girls accessories you'd never want to make yourself. And believe it or not, they are affordable! Put it all together and how could The Bowtique not make Cool Baby Kid's top picks list?

Cool Pick: Gift sets! Enter code "coolbabykid" for 10% off your purchase.

Stylish Bib Solution for Messy Toddler

Kipiis Bib Clips

These exact Kipiis bib clips pictured here currently reside in my diaper bag where they've found a permanent home. Problem: messy toddler demolishes regular wipeable bib while eating out. After semi-wiping it down, you stuff it in your bag with good intentions to clean it up at home. As if that ever happens. Solution: rather than carting a yucky bib from place to place, use these bib clips! They are great. Attach a napkin or whatever is handy and remove and toss when you're done. Another "Why didn't I think of that?" perfect product.

Cool Tip: Buy Kipiis Bib Clips at Mom4Life for free shipping.

Diaper Bag & Changing Station All in One!

OskerBee Portable Changing Station

It's official--I have two diaper bags. I was never one for changing purses with outfits which is why I'm surprised by my willingness to move baby items back and forth between bags, but this product makes it worthwhile. Quite simply it's everything you need for baby in one place...a diaper bag with a portable changing station that can be used anywhere (even in the middle of a guided tour of the Colosseum where I got stuck last year without a place to diaper change.) But it also has three insulated pockets for bottles, sippy cups, or anything else you need to keep cold. If you are heading anywhere for any length of time, this is the bag to take. I can't wait to travel with it this summer and not have to worry about running to the ladies room for every diaper change in the airport, on the plane, and during our travels. I'll let you know how it goes.

Cool Pick: The "Combo" is the only way to go. Click Here to purchase at diaperbags.com OR purchase at OskerBee where you can get $10 off the combo by entering promo code "0B21."

Cool Customized Creations

Hoohobbers: Toddler Towels, Moses Baskets & More...

I mention toddler towels because that is what I was looking for when I discovered Hohobbers. Clinging to the idea of a hooded towel, maybe because I don't want my little girl to grow up, I realized the infant ones just didn't cut it any longer. Hoohobbers immediately impressed me with their large selection, much of it personalizable, which is great for gifts. Reading about the company I found they actually got started with their Junior Director's Chair, another neat-looking product. This is one cool company!

Cool Pick: It wasn't easy, but I'm picking the Moses Basket...it's machine washable!!

Infant, Toddler and Girls' Hair Accessories

Bows and Barettes That Don't Break the Bank

I realize I advocated in an earlier post making your own bows. However, a basic bow is one thing...extra adorable hair accessories that require extra time and creativity are another. That's why I was thrilled to find Baby Janes hair accessories ; not only are they super cute, they're actually reasonablly priced! Amazing, I know. You can thank me anytime for this incredible find as I know you'll love Baby Janes as much as I do. Take advantage of the Spring Sale with 10% everythig and free shipping!!

Cool Pick: Ladybug and Baby Bumble Bees...enter promo code "coolbabykid" for 10% off all items!