Here’s a step up from a traditional sippy as your big kid gets even bigger! This cup, by Born Free, has a built-in soft silicone, reusable straw that works on the go and keeps spills at bay. BPA free, easy to clean, and the parts are interchangeable with other Born Free products. About $15 for a set depending where you buy. Learn more at www.newbornfree.com.
Because a girl needs room for her sidekick – especially when in transit! Inspired by the Aussie Wallaby, myWallaby is part doll carrier, part purse, and has pockets for other girly gems. These cute bags, complete with suede-like adjustable straps, convert to a doll carrier in seconds with its hidden pouch. Works with a variety of doll sizes too and is machine washable. Available in “Isle of Capri” blue and “Cotton Candy” pink, $40 at www.mywallaby.com.
Here’s a nifty idea for day care – a Nap Sack! This combo pillow-blanket conveniently rolls up to tote anywhere, complete with shoulder strap. Lightweight enough for your little guy or gal to carry on their own, cute styles too! $40 at www.craftybaby.com.
Just in time for back to school, these adorable lunch boxes from Frecklebox. No matter how unique your name, you can customize the spelling right when you order. Lots of cool styles to choose from. The cute clincher – a clever chalkboard interior that allows mom and dad to leave loving notes. Talk about a sweet personal touch! About $30 at www.frecklebox.com.
This is one fun bouncer! The Gymini Bouncer is a one-stop shop of entertainment and stimulation for curious infants. The bouncer has interesting baby-activated features and sounds to help with developmental milestones. It also has a calming vibrating setting fussy babies may like and can adjust to two sitting positions. $50 at www.tinylove.com.
Green and rad, these water bottles by U-Turn 2 tap are a slick way to reduce waste. With original kid-friendly designs, reuse them during outdoor outings or include them in your lunch bag. Each bottle comes with a BPA free sports cap and stainless steel screw cap. Prices start at around $16 at www.uturn2tap.com.
Road trip with the kiddos? Connect this Belkin Rockstar to any portable DVD player and you have an instant movie experience, while mom and dad can jam to 80′s music up front. This multi-headphone splitter lets you plug in to 5 other headphones! Works great with iPods, MP3 players and other portable devices too – so the kids can opt to skip Mom’s “Best of Journey” car karaoke sessions. I know – the nerve! $20 at www.belkin.com.
Newbie moms and dads may love this! The Shutter Buddy is a snapshot sidekick to help you score that priceless shot. Since infants see bold, contrasting colors and patterns like black and white best, this attachment is a smart way to grab their attention. The Shutter Buddy attaches to most point and click cameras. It’s light and folds for compact storage. Happy snapping! $20 at amazon.com.
Here’s a neat green on-the-go option! Saky Sacks are resusable bags that can hold up to 25 pounds of stuff. They are cute enough to compliment your outfit – compact enough to carry those last minute purchases. Find a style you like at www.sakysacks.com. Each sack will run you about $25.
For a family camping or beach trip, check out this cooler and stereo in one! The Lil’ Buddy by Burton has a built-in water resistant speakers complete with headphone jack to connect to your iPod, MP3 player, CD player and more! Lots of great styles to choose from, currently $60 at www.burton.com. Works with AA batteries. The stereo portion even detaches for an instant boom box!