Dec 21, 2009

The must read book for new Dads!

THE HISTORY, HUMOR AND EMOTIONS OF HOW NEW DADS EXPERIENCE CHILDBIRTH!
"I was ignored in the delivery room!"
Some new fathers may feel that way today, but as historian Judith Walzer Leavitt writes in her critically-acclaimed new book, the roles of expectant fathers have undergone dramatic changes since mid-century and are still evolving today.
Make Room for Daddy: The Journey from Waiting Room to Birthing Room (The University of North Carolina Press, 2009) looks at the process of childbirth through the eyes of expectant fathers and chronicles their decades-long journey from waiting room to the birthing room.
Leavitt takes readers through historical twists and turns and brings together fathers" personal accounts in letters, journals and interviews along with medical literature, film, television and magazines to tell the real experiences of fathers across the country. She demonstrates the significant role that popular culture (ie. I Love Lucy and All in the Family) played in reflecting and reinforcing changing norms and the role it plays (ie. TV personality Dr. Phil) in speaking to today"s expectant dads. And she exposes the raw history of the impact race and class has had on childbirth in America.
Years ago, as popular image would have it, dads-to-be nervously paced the floor of hospital waiting rooms, often going through too many cigarettes as they waited to hear that their child had been born. But during those countless hours of waiting, many wrote down their feelings in journals known as "father"s books" or "stork room jottings." Frequently left in waiting rooms in the 1940s and "50s, the journals provided an outlet for the apprehensive, often exasperated men.
"In these books, the men wrote entries in which they poured their hearts out with the emotion of the time," says Leavitt, the Rupple Bascom and Ruth Bleier Professor of Medical History and Women"s Studies at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. "These books made me realize the importance of men"s roles in childbirth and enticed me to write their stories, and the stories of expectant fathers since the 1940s. I knew these stories would be important for today"s dads, but I never expected the tremendously emotional and meaningful reactions I frequently get from those who have read the book or hear me talk about it."
Leavitt, a prolific researcher and writer of women"s history, shows that these men in the 1940s and "50s, and those that came through the hospitals in the decades after them, played an important role in changing American childbirth practices, a fact often pushed aside in the history of the women"s movement.
"Men in the waiting rooms mid-century were bonding and plotting a more active role for themselves at the same time they were worrying about their wives, babies, and financial security of their families, not to mention their concerns about the atomic bomb and the cold war," Leavitt explains. "And today"s men, though faced with different circumstances, are forging a new future that is part of this evolving story of dads in America."
Telling much of the story using fathers" and mothers" own voices, Make Room for Daddy is striking a chord for men across the country reminding them of their own experiences, whether recent or in the distant past, even as it offers important new insights into childbirth in modern America.
Press contact: Adam J. Segal at (202) 422-4673 or adam@the2050group.com

Nov 10, 2009

Maclaren Recall - Fingertip Amputation and Laceration Hazard

This applies to all Maclaren Strollers which include the Volo, Triumph, Quest Sport, Quest Mod, Techno XT, Techno XLR, Twin Triumph, Twin Techno and Easy Traveller. The stroller’s hinge mechanism poses a fingertip amputation and aceration hazard to the child when the consumer is unfolding/opening the stroller. Immediately stop using Maclaren strollers and contact Maclaren USA, Inc. to receive free hinge covers at: (877) 688-2326 or visit http://www.maclaren.us/recall

Oct 12, 2009

What has Dyson invented now?

Sometimes the best way to improve an old technology is to completely change the way it works. In 1993, Dyson engineers created the first vacuum cleaner to use cyclone technology instead of bags – because bagged vacuums don’t work properly.

Now we’ve turned our attention to another familiar device - and made it work better by removing something you might have thought was essential. This is a new machine for Dyson. It won't be launched for a few more days, but you can get an idea what it might be on our website.

Click here to watch a video and see if you can guess Dyson's next product innovation! Click here to purchase a Dyson or to learn more.

Sep 25, 2009

Sunshine Kids Has Unveiled New Convertible Car Seat with Unparalleled Safety

SUMNER, WA – September 24, 2009 – Sunshine Kids, manufacturer and marketer of travel solutions for the children of today's families, just introduced at ABC Kids Expo 2009, its newest launch – the Radian SL™. Radian SL (which stands for SuperLATCH™) is the first seat that accommodates children rear-facing to 45 lbs and the first seat to use lower anchors / LATCH use beyond 48 lbs, all the way to 80 lbs. It is also the first car seat tested far above government standards to secure a child from birth up to the highest weight limits; 45 lbs. rear-facing and 80 lbs. forward-facing.

63% of unsafe child seat installations are caused by the seatbelt not properly securing the child seat. In 2002, vehicles and child seats began to incorporate the LATCH attachment system (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) as a way to simplify and improve the safety of child seat installations. But limitations of child seat design and hardware prevent LATCH installations with children over 48 lbs. As demand continues for higher-capacity seats (i.e. for children above 48 lbs), a growing number of child seats cannot be installed with LATCH, once again requiring the use of seatbelts.

The Radian's steel alloy frame combined with SuperLATCH allows installation for a child up to 80 lbs using LATCH - either vehicle lower anchors alone, or with top tether. No seatbelt is ever required. The Radian's steel alloy frame and new SuperLATCH system are both NCAP crash tested up to 80 lbs which makes Radian not only the strongest car seat, but now the easiest to install for any weight child.

"The Radian SL convertible car seat was designed to fit today's lifestyle, not the over-priced, over-sized excess of yesterday,” stated Brad Keller, president, Sunshine Kids Juvenile Products. "We're a no-nonsense car seat and you'll find our best features ‘under the hood' but our testing methods are never hidden. We'll share all our protocols and results, proving we go beyond what any other manufacturer does.”

The Radian SL will be available in the following models:

In addition to the new Radian SL launch, Sunshine Kids also introduced 14 new car seat fashions at the recent ABC trade show as part of a comprehensive makeover for the 2010 seats. All the Radian seats have a new look, as well as the Monterey booster seat. See these new seats at US retail stores in early October or visit SunshineKidsBaby.com to learn more.

Sep 11, 2009

New product from Zaky - nurturing w/ a touch of technology

For 8 years The Zaky (a pillow that simulates the shape, weight, touch, scent of the parent's hands) has help babies feel comfortable, protected and secure allowing them to bond with the parents, fall and stay asleep, cry less, and manage any pain/colic better. It even works in car seats and soon becomes the "safety blanket" for babies.

This year at the ABC Show in Vegas the Zak's Sack will be introduced (the top for parents to Kangaroo their healthy and preemie babies) and the Zak's Collection (clothing and accessories for preemies and healthy newborns, plus the sensitive issue of burial clothing).

Click here to learn more about the Zaky Bonding Pillow

Sep 10, 2009

New bugaboo wheeled board

Bugaboo is happy to announce the launch of its new wheeled board. The new wheeled board can be attached to the Bugaboo Cameleon, Bugaboo Bee, Bugaboo Frog and Bugaboo Gecko. It makes it easy to roll with two by attaching to the axle of a Bugaboo stroller with just two clicks.

Click the link to learn more about the Bugaboo Wheeled Board

Sep 3, 2009

Orbit Baby Update to Consumer Reports

This past Tuesday, NHTSA tested the Orbit Baby Infant Car Seat for compliance with all crash testing requirements of FMVSS 213. NHTSA confirmed that the Infant Car Seat passes these tests. Below is the email letter Orbit sent out to all registered Orbit Baby owners to inform them that our Infant Car Seat passed NHTSA's own testing.

Dear Orbit Baby parent,

As I mentioned in my last letter to you in regards to the Consumer Reports testing of the Orbit Baby Infant Car Seat,  we referred this matter to NHTSA, the government agency responsible for car seat safety.  I am pleased to share the following information:

Update September 1, 2009: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tested the Orbit Baby Infant Car Seat for compliance with all crash testing requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard(FMVSS) 213. NHTSA confirmed that the Infant Car Seat passes these tests.

NHTSA also independently verified:

The middle shoulder harness slot is the appropriate slot for the size of the official CRABI 12 test dummy.
The knob on the car seat Base should be turned to engage the StrongArm(tm) tightening mechanism to achieve the regulated seat belt tension for compliance testing.
Therefore, our Infant Car Seat not only passes our own tests in independent labs, it also passes tests conducted by NHTSA, the government agency that regulates traffic safety.

Orbit Baby maintains that Consumer Reports did not properly follow the Infant Car Seat instructions when they conducted their tests.  (Our full response can be found here.)  As an Orbit Baby parent, I believe that this issue highlights the importance of following car seat instructions, as well as the need for parents to educate grandparents, babysitters, and other caregivers on proper car seat usage.

Please be sure to take advantage of these helpful resources on our website:

Thank you for your support of Orbit Baby.

Sincerely,

Joseph Hei

CEO and Co-founder of Orbit Baby

Aug 31, 2009

Introducing new products from Stokke

Stokke is launching a compact changing table with custom-fit baskets and a new bumper and it still grows with the child. The new CARE™ changing unit is smaller, complementing the compact size of the SLEEPI™ oval crib. The new CARE™ also comes with two large organizing baskets that will fit perfectly into each shelf. Based on user input, we have removed the wheels. There is no need to move the unit from room to room like the crib.

In October, Stokke will introduce classic white, playful dots and animal patterns designed for newborns, babies and toddlers. The new textiles have Oeko-Tex® Class 1, making it suitable for baby’s soft skin. The new STOKKE® bedding also features ribbon-tie bumpers for a softer look.

DwellStudio™ has just recently added two new sets to its existing bedding line for the STOKKE® oval crib: the ever-popular Transportation and the Organic Embroidered Circles.

In addition to the current organic mattresses, we will have 4 new items available by October 1st: two organic mattress protectors and two organic fitted sheets, available in crib and mini/bassinet sizes.

Introducing the new blue color makes our modern classic stay on top of fashion trends. Blue is the new black for the upcoming seasons. On October 1st, 2009, STOKKE® will launch a new Blue TRIPP TRAPP® into our Trend Collection. Orders will be taken starting September 21st. Consumers can now choose between the hot fashion shades of blue, pink, yellow and green in the Trend Collection or natural, white, gray, black, cherry, walnut and red from the Classic Collection. The turquoise color is being discontinued. A blue/brown version of the popular Tales pattern cushion and a matching blue Baby Set™ will also be launched to fit the chair perfectly!

Click the link to learn more about Stokke baby products.

Aug 27, 2009

Orbit Baby's response to Consumer Reports

Dear Parent,

A recent Consumer Reports article showed that the Orbit Baby Infant Car Seat failed one of their safety tests. These results were very surprising to us. Because we make products for children, nothing is more important to us than the safety and well being of children.

Orbit Baby has run extensive and regular compliance testing in the same independent lab that Consumer Reports uses, and every test has passed. When we were notified about Consumer Reports’ results, we immediately conducted more testing -- simulating their unique test conditions – and every one of those tests also passed. We also receive reports of real-life accidents from Orbit Baby parents, and we have never had a report of a separation or injury with an Orbit Baby car seat.

We are very concerned that Consumer Reports did not follow our product instructions when they conducted their testing. Any deviation from a safety product's proper usage instructions can result in unpredictable testing conditions, and we believe this is reflected in Consumer Reports' inconsistent results. Our greatest concerns are that they used a harness position that was too high for the size of the dummy, and that they did not turn the Base’s knob to engage the StrongArm™ self-tightening mechanism. It is extremely important to follow all instructions with safety products like car seats, both in testing and in the real world. Consumer Reports strongly recommends that all instructions be followed for safe car seat use, and we encourage you to consult your product manual, watch our installation videos, or read our FAQs.

We have pro-actively referred this matter to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and will work with them on any further recommendations they may have.

If you have any questions, we encourage you to contact us directly at 1-877-672-2229, or email us at support@orbitbaby.com.

Best, Joseph, Bryan, and The Orbit Team

Learn more about the Orbit Baby Stroller System by clicking this link

Aug 24, 2009

SafeGuard Go Hybrid Booster bought by Safety 1st

On September 13th 2009 at the ABC Kids Expo show in Las Vegas, Dorel Juvenile Group, the largest child restraint system manufacturer in the world, will re-introduce SafeGuard Go under it's Safety 1st brand as the Go Hybrid Booster Car Seat. Per licensing agreement, Dorel will be the manufactuer of the product and IMMI (the parent company of Safeguard) will supply product components.

Aug 19, 2009

Below is a great Britax Blink stroller review by Mamanista.

Blink and You’ll Love It

Posted by Candace on Aug 13, 2009

Not content to just innovate in producing safe, convenient car seats, Britax is turning its engineering genius towards making strollers. Since I’m a dedicated babywearer, a stroller has to be something special to get me excited about it and I really enjoy the Britax Blink Stroller.

A priority for a compact stroller is its size. At 16 lbs, the Blink is not the lightest weight stroller on the market but it is light enough to carry in the included shoulder bag and offers some design innovations you will not find in other strollers in its price range. The fold is very compact and even unfolded the Blink has a small footprint. In fact, when I asked my husband to stow it in our car, he thought it was already folded and just placed it in the back seat. My favorite, why-didn’t-someone-think-of-this-before feature is the fold release mechanism allows me to fold the stroller without scuffing my shoes.Well-spaced wheels with all-wheel suspension makes the Blink sturdy and maneuverable. A fivepoint harness keeps your child secure. Behind the canopy is a convenient storage pouch. There is also a storage basket beneath the seat, which is accessible though it could be larger and easier to access.

Britax again sets the bar high for weight limits–the Blink carries a child up to 55 lbs. My skinny-mini 30 lbs 3 year-old daughter likes to walk everywhere but that’s certainly a nice option to have for larger toddlers, preschoolers who will actually nap when they are out and about, or other children who have a need for a stroller. Speaking of naps, the Blink seat reclines fully and has an adjustable footrest. And the ample sun shade with canopy and side panels means that drowsy little ones will be able to drift off without bright sunlight or harmful UV rays. The canopy also has a little window so you can keep an eye on your child while strolling.

Click this link to learn more about the Britax Blink Stroller.

Jul 22, 2009

Increased Rear-Facing Limits On Existing Radian Models

Due to the recent advice from the American Academy of Pediatrics to keep children rear-facing until their second birthday, rear-facing capacity has gained some renewed interest.

Sunshine Kids has recently completed additional crash testing and Radian's rear-facing capacity has been increased to 40 lbs. The Radian seats meet all the rear-facing crash test performance standards in FMVSS213, even at 40 lbs (Note: such performance is not required by law for RF seats above 22 lbs). As well, Radian seats were successfully NCAP crash tested (35 mph / 47 g's impact force — almost twice the forces — compared to 30 mph / 25 g's impact in FMVSS213 crash tests). This new change will be reflected in new manuals later in the year. In the meantime, please note this increased rear-facing capacity is now retroactive to all U.S. model Radian seats made after September, 2008.

Click here to learn more about the Sunshine Kids Radian Car Seats

Models: U.S. models only - Radian65(16500), Radian80(18500) and RadianXT(19500)

  • Rear-facing capacity for these Radian models has been increased to 40 lbs.
  • This change will be reflected on future Radian manuals and stickers.
  • This change is now retroactive and applies to U.S. Radian models manufactured in or after September, 2008.

Jul 13, 2009

Sunshine Kids’ Radian65 Proves It Won’t Crack Under Pressure

SUMNER, WA – July 8, 2009 – Last week’s freak collapse of the five-story Centergy parking deck in Midtown Atlanta left onlookers, bystanders and victims alike stricken with awe as it was revealed that not a single person was harmed in the crumble that damaged or destroyed a total of 38 vehicles.
But for Sarah Maglione, whose vehicle was among those destroyed, the spectacle had only just begun. Her SUV was parked on the structure’s second level when the incident occurred; it was the thirtieth vehicle pulled from the wreckage. "I had three floors of a parking garage collapse on top of my car," Maglione said. "It is flattened beyond belief." The particular that astounded her further: the fact that her child’s car seat, a Sunshine Kids Radian65 positioned on the passenger side of the back seat in her SUV, completely withstood the force of the collapse and upheld its section of the car, as well.
"Amazing," Maglione said. "That thing did not bend an inch," referring to her Radian65 car seat. "They are built using steel alloy frames, and I always heard they were the strongest. Now I know it."
Radian®, by Sunshine Kids Juvenile Products, is constructed with an exclusive steel alloy frame for superior impact protection. Seven-inch-deep, high-impact-grade engineered sidewalls reinforced with EPS foam provide superior side impact protection, absorb crash energy and protect the child from intrusions making it the strongest car seat available. Radian is a convertible car seat built to protect children between 5 and 65 pounds.
Click here to learn more about the Sunshine Radian Car Seats.

Jul 3, 2009

Sunshine Kids Radian's featured on TLC Jon & Kate + 8

Sunshine Kids Radian's were given for the sextuplets on TLC Jon & Kate + 8 after someone from carseat.org noticed the kids were outgrowing their Graco Comfort Sports. Click the link to see pictures and watch the Radian car seats on TLC Jon & Kate + 8.

Jun 19, 2009

Good Morning America discussing safety of Britax Roundabout

Just wanted to share a couple of videos that surfaced last week. There was a young boy riding in a Britax Roundabout when the family’s van was struck by a train doing approximately 55 miles per hour. The boy came out of the accident without a scratch and a police officer and the child’s father are recovering from injuries sustained while trying to rescue the child and his mother from the van prior to impact.

The 1st link is from Good Morning America last week and the 2nd link is from a local network in Wisconsin.

Click here to learn more about the Britax Roundabout Car Seat

Jun 1, 2009

Bugaboo Bee brackets to correct brake failure.

Recently, Bugaboo received 121 reports of brake failure on the Bugaboo Bee stroller. This occurred in less than 1% of the total Bugaboo Bees sold. No injuries have been reported. Since safety is Bugaboo’s number one priority, we have taken extra precautions to ensure the brakes on the Bugaboo Bee work properly at all times. Bugaboo designers and engineers developed a set of Bugaboo Bee brackets that guarantees the functioning of the Bugaboo Bee brake over time.

Bugaboo is addressing this situation with the following measures:

  • As of April 27, 2009, all Bugaboo Bees shipped from Bugaboo warehouses have been re-fitted with the brackets and labeled “RW-2721”. This label can be found on the outside of the carton next to the serial number.
  • Bugaboo Bee owners who registered the warranty with their stroller will automatically be sent a set of brackets. The brackets are easy to attach and require no tools to mount. The bracket kit also includes an instruction guide for simple assembly.
  • A notice will be published on bugaboo.com informing all Bugaboo Bee owners of the details needed to order a set of brackets at no charge.
  • You may also order bracket kits free of charge to provide to your customers in the event that they visit your store with a Bugaboo Bee and do not have the brackets fitted yet. To place an order, contact salesus@bugaboo.com and use item #58100BS01 - Bugaboo Bee brackets.

May 26, 2009

Great Combi Coccoro Review on Car-Seat.org

I was too embarrassed to take pictures in the store or while installing ... I'm not generally one to care but it was just awkward today. Etta was having an especially "floppy" day and I wasn't prepared for the stares while I worked with her and the seats. ("floppy" = low tone and very slouchy) I've been on the search for a shorter RF seat. I have MAs to date and while I love them I can't see well enough to the right side of my car. I've been in a side impact crash in the past and am so jumpy about having blocked vision.. also, we are a very bicycle friendly town and I NEED to make sure I can see the cyclists (I live off of a very popular riding street) with extreme ease. So, I saw the Coccoro in person and LOVE it... I was so hoping to hate it as I know it will not be the seat to take me to the optimal limits - but it's so perfect for today and at least another year RF. And, I'll always have the MA when it's time to move up (and, it will be easier in a year to have the girls crawl into their MA ERF... so I can move the seats to the back row of the van and avoid the whole blocked vision issue then) but the cost for an interim car seat. Oh why does it have to be such a great seat . It feels so nice and sleek and cushy without going overboard (I wasn't using the infant insert) and the harness adjuster was very easy with my DD in it. Easier than the MA. But, hands down - the MA is much simpler to install. Not that the Coccoro was challenging, it just wasn't as straight forward as a MA. My low-tone/hypermobile DD, Etta, fit like a gem in it - I didn't realize she could be supported so well. The MA is nice but she ends up slouching a lot. The support she has in the Coccoro is enough for me to justify buying HER the seat... but not her twin sister. My only excuse to buy two is that I want them to coordinate I also tried the Scenera. It did take up less height than the MA. But my heart is completely with the Coccoro and I'm having a hard time looking back. Even switching to a RA seems silly because I'm sure Etta will have the same slouching issue. I still want to try the TF and an Avenue and am calling to find a local store for tomorrows adventure. I played with a MR and wasn't as impressed as I had hoped to be (it was a contender for my older DD). For fit: Etta is 20lbs even, and 29.75". Her torso appears to be near 12" (slightly under). In a MA she is flush with the first slot and in the Coccoro she was flush with the second slot from the bottom.

http://www.car-seat.org/showthread.php?t=84635

Click here to learn more about the Combi Coccoro Infant Car Seats!

May 8, 2009

Beaba Babycook on the CBS Early Show!

Did you catch the CBS Early Show’s BEST NEW BABY GEAR AND GADGETS segment? (VIEW SEGMENT HERE) Showcased with select products designed to make life easier for you and your little one, the Babycook is one of the most buzz-worthy baby products for new parents.
The Beaba Babycook now includes Beaba Multiportions. The Multiportions are designed for freezing and storing a la carte baby food. Made from BPA FREE silicone, Beaba Multiportions are freezer, microwave and dishwasher safe.
Click on the link to learn more or to purchase the Beaba Babycook.

May 5, 2009

The Zaky Pillow - A Promise for Preemies by Melissa Wilson

HOUSTON - Dr. Yamile Jackson, PhD, was working for an oil and gas company in the Houston area, when she went into premature labor. Her baby was born 3 months early. She made a promise to herself that when her baby got out of the hospital, she would help other "preemies."

Seven years later, she has lived up to that promise.

Her son, Zachary, is doing very well and has no signs or symptoms of every being prematurely born. Jackson developed a pair of hands called "The Zaky" that wrap around a baby, when the parent can't be there to hold them.

Doctors say this has been an effective tool in Neo-Natal ICU's around the world. It helps preemies realize that touch doesn't mean "pain", because so many procedures and needle sticks are needed to keep a premature infant alive.

In hospitals: The Zaky is used in very controlled environments like the Intensive Care Units since they are supervised by a healthcare professional and/or a family member constantly.

Jackson says, "The Zaky is great to take to the hospital when your baby is born. Scent it with your own scent and help your baby when he/she is on the bassinet next to you or give it to the nurse when the baby is taken to the nursery. This way you give your baby your hand with your scent and the nurse can use it to support and position the baby."

She says for sick babies, the Zaky comforts them so they can rest and use the calories to get well and not to look for protection.

The same Zaky fits all children, from premature babies that weigh less than one pound to healthy babies and toddlers, to children with special needs.

For babies at home: The Zaky is made to provide the baby with the optimum environment to fall sleep.

Jackson says, "Once babies fall into a deep sleep, the Zaky is removed and used when the baby wakes up again. The Zaky assists with the transition from womb to world, and then to different environments."

She says they do not recommend leaving the Zaky in the crib after the baby is asleep, unless is recommended by the baby's doctor. For babies and toddlers older than 6-8 months old, the Zaky may remain with the child at night."

To learn more about the Zaky bonding pillow or to purchase click here.

Apr 30, 2009

Mountain Buggy has just been purchased by Phil & Teds!

Mountain Buggy has just been purchased by Phil & Teds. I think this is great news for the Mountain Buggy brand and should positively impact on the overall Phil & Ted's USA operation. Stay tuned for more information...

UPPAbaby is getting some huge national PR this week and next!

UPPAbaby will be featured on "The Baby Shower Show" episode of the Martha Stewart Show today (April 30).! The UPPAbaby company, products and a big product give-away (our G-LUXE stroller) to all audience members will all occur toward the end of the show. Click here and then type your zip in the Local Show Schedule box on the left side of the page to see your air time. To learn more about the UPPAbaby line of strollers visit http://uppastroller.com/.

Apr 23, 2009

Cookie Magazine deems the Micralite Toro as the “Dream Stroller for Urban Parents”!

Cookie had suburban/urban parents test 19 of the top selling strollers and the Micralite Toro received an overall score of 5 out of 5 according to performance and value. According to Cookie, “It’s practically made for stairs and public transportation.” Click on the link to learn more about the Micralite Tora stroller and see all available color options.

Apr 19, 2009

Britax Diplomat & Boulevard received “top picks” in Consumer Reports

I just received information this week that the Britax Diplomat & Boulevard received “top picks” in the Consumer Reports “Shop Smart” Magazine, April/May 2009 Issue.

Micralite Toro Stroller is now compatible with the Peg Perego infant car seat

Did you know that the #1 Consumer Reports rated Micralite Toro Stroller is now compatible with the Peg Perego infant car seat? Arriving next week, the Peg adaptors now allow Toro owners to have THREE different options for infant car seats. Graco, Maxi Cosi* and Peg Perego infant car seats can all fit the Toro Stroller using their accessory adaptors.

Apr 1, 2009

Baby Jogger Summit wins two major third party testing awards!

The PTPA Seal of Approval: As a winner, the Summit 360 has received one of the greatest honors in the juvenile industry - the statement that this stroller is "Parent Tested and Parent Approved." The winners were selected based on value, functionality, quality and appeal of the product. One test mother is quoted as saying "[The Summit] is so smooth... bumps are a thing of the past. It is easy to set up and use and such a joy for me and my baby! I cannot say enough great things about this stroller!"
The NAPPA Gold Award: The NAPPA is the most comprehensive awards program for Children's Products and Parenting Resources. Their independent panel of judges are experts in their fields with extensive professional experience working with children and parents. The NAPPA Gold Award was bestowed upon the City Mini last year, and we are thrilled to win this award two years in a row.

Trista Sutter with Baby Jogger City Elite Double

Trista Sutter is shown here with the City Elite Double during her OK Magazine and MomLogic baby shower. This all-terrain deluxe swivel wheel stroller can be customized from birth and beyond, allowing you to pamper your child with comfort and style from day one. The City Elite promises the most comfortable ride for your precious cargo with unsurpassed quality and safety standards. Click the link to learn more about the Baby Jogger City Elite Double!

Mar 31, 2009

April/May issue of Fit Pregnancy Magazine featuring the Inglesina Zippy

The Inglesina Zippy won the Traditional Minimalist Category as a Light Weight Luxury Item!!!

Mar 19, 2009

Toxin Compliance in all Sunshine Kids Radian Car Seats

By US law, all car seats and booster covers have to be flame retardant. Sunshine Kids Radian car seats and Monterey boosters comply with US, European and Canadian regulations regarding toxic substances such as bromides and PBDE. More than this, Sunshine Kids has made ultra-low toxicity a high priority in each step of our manufacturing process. Sunshine Kids, utilizes a unique, flame-retardant treatment that virtually eliminates toxic out-gassing. The exact formulation remains proprietary, but we are very confident that parents will be very pleased with the results. Stringent, third-party tests by different organizations have rated Radian and Monterey seats as among the lowest in toxicity and toxic out-gassing.
Click here to read the Stamford Times article about toxicity levels in car seats rates the 'safest car seats' of which two are the Sunshine Kids Radian and Monterey seats
Click on the link to learn more about the Sunshine Kids Radian car seats and Monterey booster seat.

Mar 17, 2009

ERGObaby is featured as a "Dad Pack" in March's issue of Pregnancy Magazine!

By the Editors of Pregnancy"

Babywearing is more than just a trend, it's a lifestyle. Devotées of 'Attachment Parenting' consider a carrier an essential tool in raising secure and confident children. But that doesn't have to mean shrouding yourself in a sling of woven hemp until your baby's ready to walk on his own--unless, of course, you want to. And sure, every family needs a stroller and an infant car seat, but we suggest there's a better vehicle for a walk around a crowded farmer's market or keeping baby near while you put in a load of laundry. Baby carriers are more versatile, stylish, and practical than ever. We've picked the standouts--carry on!,..."

Dad Packs"

What's bound to get a dad wearing baby? A carrier as soft and simple as his favorite tee, like the ERGObaby Carrier, made with durable canvas, plush padding, and 400-thread-count cotton lining. It's as versatile as a tee, too: Wear baby in the front, back, or on the hip. And chances are it will be as hard to destroy as that worn-out shirt from his college days."

Click here to view the Ergo Baby Carriers

Mar 10, 2009

KidCo Press Release regarding their compliance with the new CPSIA law!

Here is an excerpt from a KidCo press release regarding their compliance with the new Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act that had many juvenile product manufacturers scrambling. "One of the main issues this law addresses is lead content in toys and other children’s products. It dictates that lead content in all children’s products be reduced dramatically over the next few years. Specifically, the allowable level of lead in paint on children’s products be 600 ppm (parts per million) by February 10, 2009, 300 ppm after one year, and 100 ppm after three years, if possible.

As the government scrambles to address their own new requirements, the manufacturers of these products are left to figure things out for themselves. However, KidCo wants to assure you that our compliance not only with product element levels but with the administrative orders directed are being handled and completed within the original timeframe designated, even if that time frame has been re-assigned to a future date.
In addressing the lead issue specifically, we want to assure you that KidCo gates, because they are certified to more stringent European standards are already LESS THAN 65 ppm! That’s right! At this very moment, as they always have been, KidCo safety gates already greatly exceed the allowable minimum of lead content set to go into effect by 2011! Our compliance with product certification (also mandated by the CPSIA) is also present as you can view product certificates by clicking here. These certificates assure you that our products have been tested to the full extent of the law and have passed.
Is KidCo ahead of our time? We always have been. We were the first to introduce metal safety gates to the U.S. 16 years ago; we are constantly striving for more stringent U.S. testing practices, and we are the first manufacturer to have products already far below the final government regulations regarding lead content.
KidCo takes child safety very seriously and in doing so stretches this commitment beyond safety gates. The BabySteps line of home-made baby food accessories is and always has been BPA free-another very hot topic around the world and also addressed in the CPSIA. The new line of PeaPods also comes with a PVC-free, polyester, self-inflatable mattress."
Visit http://kidcosafety.com/ to view the full line of KidCo products.

Mar 4, 2009

New Reduced Bugaboo Frog Price!

With the ever-changing financial and competitive landscape, in the baby stroller industry Bugaboo just announced a price reduction of their Bugaboo Frog stroller to better balance their product offering and provide a better competitive price point. Click here to learn more...

Feb 24, 2009

NaturePedic "top pick" in this years Baby Bargains!

NaturePedic crib mattress recieved "top pick" in this years Baby Bargains. Naturepedic is an organic mattress and bedding company founded by parents, grandparents and scientists. Understands the potential harm that can come from toxic chemicals in most mattresses, Naturepedic created a line of all natural and organic baby crib mattresses. Naturepedic products are certified by CPSC and are regularly tested to meet the strict GreenGuard® certification standards. Click here to see the NaturPedic line of mattresses and bedding.

Feb 23, 2009

Bugaboo Cameleon can now be dressed with the Bugaboo + Paul Frank special collection

Beginning February 2009, the Bugaboo Cameleon can now be dressed with the Bugaboo + Paul Frank special collection. This exciting collaboration between Bugaboo and Paul Frank has resulted in a special collection starring many signature Paul Frank characters. The collection consists of two tailored fabric sets, two footmuffs and two blankets which blend beautiful with the versatile Bugaboo Collection. Click here to learn more...

Feb 9, 2009

Consumer Products Safety Commission Extends Compliance Deadline

The Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) has recently announced standards mandated by the Consumer Products Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA) that establish certain banned levels of Phthalates and Lead in children’s products to include strollers and infant carriers. Additionally the CPSIA prohibits retailers from selling any non-compliant strollers and infant carriers to these standards. The formal deadline for compliance with the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) was extended past the original February 10, 2009 deadline. This allows all retailers to continue selling products that have not yet been certified to comply with the new CPSIA guidelines.

Feb 2, 2009

Safety for Your Child - Birth to Six Months

Did you know that hundreds of children younger than 1 year die every year in the United States because of injuries — most of which could be prevented.

Often, injuries happen because parents are not aware of what their children can do. Children learn fast, and before you know it, your child will be wiggling off a bed or reaching for your cup of hot coffee.

Car Injuries Car crashes are a great threat to your child's life and health. Most injuries and deaths from car crashes can be prevented by the use of car safety seats. Your child, besides being much safer in a car safety seat, will behave better, so you can pay attention to your driving. Make your newborn's first ride home from the hospital a safe one — in a car safety seat. Your infant should ride in the back seat in a rear-facing car seat.

Make certain that your baby's car seat is installed correctly. Read and follow the instructions that come with the car safety seat and the sections in the owners' manual of your car on using car safety seats correctly. Use the car safety seat EVERY time your child is in a car.

NEVER put an infant in the front seat of a car with a passenger air bag.

Falls Babies wiggle and move and push against things with their feet soon after they are born. Even these very first movements can result in a fall. As your baby grows and is able to roll over, he or she may fall off of things unless protected. Do not leave your baby alone on changing tables, beds, sofas, or chairs. Put your baby in a safe place such as a crib or playpen when you cannot hold him.

Your baby may be able to crawl as early as 6 months. Use gates on stairways and close doors to keep your baby out of rooms where he or she might get hurt. Install operable window guards on all windows above the first floor.

Do not use a baby walker. Your baby may tip the walker over, fall out of it, or fall down stairs and seriously injure his head. Baby walkers let children get to places where they can pull heavy objects or hot food on themselves.

If your child has a serious fall or does not act normally after a fall, call your doctor.

Burns At 3 to 5 months, babies will wave their fists and grab at things. NEVER carry your baby and hot liquids, such as coffee, or foods at the same time. Your baby can get burned. You can't handle both! To protect your child from tap water scalds, the hottest temperature at the faucet should be no more than 120°F. In many cases you can adjust your hot water heater. If your baby gets burned, immediately put the burned area in cold water. Keep the burned area in cold water for a few minutes to cool it off. Then cover the burn loosely with a dry bandage or clean cloth and call your doctor.

To protect your baby from house fires, be sure you have a working smoke alarm on every level of your home, especially in furnance and sleeping areas. Test the alarms every month. It is best to use smoke alarms that use long-life batteries, but if you do not, change the batteries at least once a year.

Choking and Suffocation Babies explore their environment by putting anything and everything into their mouths. NEVER leave small objects in your baby's reach, even for a moment. NEVER feed your baby hard pieces of food such as chunks of raw carrots, apples, hot dogs, grapes, peanuts, and popcorn. Cut all the foods you feed your baby into thin pieces to prevent choking. Be prepared if your baby starts to choke. Ask your doctor to recommend the steps you need to know. Learn how to save the life of a choking child.

To prevent possible suffocation and reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), your baby should always sleep on his or her back. NEVER put your baby on a water bed, bean bag, or anything that is soft enough to cover the face and block air to the nose and mouth.

Plastic wrappers and bags form a tight seal if placed over the mouth and nose and may suffocate your child. Keep them away from your baby.

The information in this in this post should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on the individual facts and circumstances.

This article is courtesy of the American Academy of Pediatrics

Jan 26, 2009

Side-impact safety with car seats

Sunshine Kids has gone where no other car seat company has yet to go by releasing behind the scenes video footage of their car seat safety test. In these test you will notice that the body of the "dummy" is completely contained, the head is totally protected and the neck is fully supported. Even with all the safety precausions they have taken to ensure your childs safety, it is chilling to watch what happens to a baby and childs body during a side impact collision. While side-impact events make up only 25% of all accidents, they account for a majority of the most severe injuries that occur. Click on the link and scroll to the bottom of the page to view the videos http://sunshinekidsbaby.com/info_side_impact_safety.asp.