I know first hand how sign language can bridge the communication gap with a baby who is not yet talking.  I used sign with all three of mine and avoided a lot of tantrums because of it.  The Signing Time line of DVD’s is a fantastic learning tool for emerging talkers through pre-school and beyond.  From letters, to colors, fruit, feelings and more,  the adventures with Alex and Leah are educational, colorful and full of super catchy songs.  Parents will enjoy the episodes right along side their little ones.  You can purchase the complete line which includes the DVD’s as well as CD’s and flash cards.  Individual products can also be purchased separately.  Learn more at www.signingtime.com.

Now ya’ll can show your southern pride (and sense of humor) with the littlest members of your family.Introducing Southern Brand, a line of creative and comical onesies and tees that are fun southern schtick with style.  With fun adages like “Baptized in Muddy Waters”, “A Lil’ Bit Country”, “Southern Belle” and more, these super soft pima cotton tees will turn heads for sure.

This line comes with an extra weathered look to give it that worn vintage appeal. An added bonus: Southern Brand eco-friendly design practices printing with vegetable inks and low impact dies.  Onesies are available in sizes 3-18 months; tees 6 months-4T. Southern Brand also carries adult sizes too! Available online at www.southernbrand.com.

Move over paper dolls!  Melissa and Doug magnetic dress-up sets are fun for ages 3 and up. The Best Friends Forever set comes complete with 4 wooden dolls and 51 magnetic pieces for a complete head to toe wardrobe. Doll stands also included for a runway ready experience. $30 at www.melissaanddoug.com.

Perfect for an upcoming occasion on your little diva’s summer social calendar! Check out Carter’s Black and White collection of toddler dresses. These little numbers have just the right amount of girlie frill and accents to make a sweet impression. They are available in sizes 2T to 5T and retail online for $14. View the whole collection and find retail locations at www.carters.com.

Perfect for tummy time or a cozy nap, Bestever baby mats are a plush floor option for any activity. Available in 8 cute animal styles, these soft mats are machine washable too!  Celebs like Jennifer Lopez and Salma Hayek have some for their A-list tots.  $50 online or at many Bed Bath and Beyond locations.

Cloth diaper fans take note! Kushies now has a new washable version with a clever waterproof exterior. This diaper includes a built-in flap liner that you can custom fold for a boy or a girl. Single diapers, in infant and toddler sizes, start at $12.  Diaper packs retail about $33.  Trendy girl, boy and unisex styles available at www.kushiesonline.com.

Let baby practice self-feeding with Tiny Tongs!  This chopstick-styled spork helps little hands pick up food with its handy non-slip grip. Our 18-month old tester liked to explore with it and caught on fairly easily. Tiny Tongs are BPA-free and are dishwasher safe. $8 at www.tinytongs.com.

Created by a doctor, Belli Skin Care is a chemical-free line of body products for mom and baby. From body firming lotion and facial wash, to stretch mark protection, diaper rash cream and more.  Many of the products contain natural ingredients. No overwhelming perfume smells, each product has a simple, clean scent.

My fave is the All Day Moisture Body Lotion.  When you live in the desert, you appreciate a product that can go the distance. Select products available at Pottery Barn Kids locations.  Check out the entire line at www.belliskincare.com.  Prices range from $14 – $52.

What parent can’t use an extra hand every now and then?  The Help Yourself Feeding Solution is a convenient companion to mealtime. Just pop your baby food containers into the tray, a handy tool when you’re feeding more than one baby at a time!  The slim BPA free tray slides easily into a diaper bag when you’re traveling.  Prices start at $12.99 at www.feedingsolution.com.