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Milestone blankets make a great backdrop for chronicling your newborn’s growth over the first year. Now there’s a fun way to incorporate your favorite show into your baby’s monthly pictures. BATZkids sells two limited-edition customizable blankets inspired by the hit TV show, Friends.
The soft fleece blanket features the iconic yellow frame from Rachel and Monica’s door along with the quote, “Can I be any cuter?” Make sure you say that with Chandler’s inflection.
The blankets are available in two colors, white and purple. They're available in 3 different sizes - small 40" by 30," medium 60" x 50," and large 80" x 60" and vary in price from $44 to $80.
Whether decked out with the latest technology or small enough to travel with, there are more options than ever for this must-have baby gear. Read on for eight of the best baby swings out there, from brands you love like Graco, Nuna, 4moms, Fisher-Price and more.
The Simple Sway has all the features of a classic baby swing. The side-to-side sway has six speeds and the vibration features two speeds, so you can customize your baby’s movement experience. Engage your little one’s eyes and ears with a hanging mobile and a choice of 15 sounds and songs. It can run on battery or plug in for your convenience.
For the latest in high-tech baby gear, the Munchkin swing uses Bluetooth to stream baby’s favorite playlist from your phone to the swing’s speaker system. Or you can play preloaded ambient sounds and classical music to soothe your newborn. The swaying motion mimics the natural motion of parents. It can all be controlled by the sleek digital touch display or by remote. The lightweight design makes it easily to move around, and it breaks down for quick storage.
This Ingenuity Comfort swing offers both portability and affordability with all the features you need. It has eight melodies, three nature sounds, and a removable hanging toy. The reclining seat adjusts to two positions. The six-speed swinging action features TrueSpeed Technology that keeps the swinging speed consistent as baby grows. It runs on batteries and folds up compactly so it's great for travel.
With the classic head-to-toe rocking or the soothing side-to-side motion, this swing has an option sure to please baby. The mobile is motorized and includes a dome mirror. The seat pad and plush insert are machine-washable, so you don’t have to worry about messes. It includes foldable legs for storage and traveling and has plug-in or battery power to make it a versatile baby product.
The Nuna is a motor-free swing that grows with your child from newborn to toddler. A gentle nudge will set the swing silently swaying for up to two minutes. The three-point harness can be removed to turn the baby swing into a comfy toddler seat. The fabric insert is certified organic and free of harmful substances. The chair can lock into place for use in feeding or playtime.
The WhisperQuiet technology on this swing makes for a quiet ride, unless you want to play one of six tunes. The toys that hang from the removable toy bar are detachable for takeaway play, and the seat includes tags for extra play and soothing. The lightweight design allows for easy folding, storage and transport. The swing adapts to baby’s changing weight, so the six speeds never feel too slow or fast.
The futuristic design of the mamaRoo4 seat will fit in with any modern baby’s lifestyle. The five unique rocking and bouncing motions comfort little ones just like parents do. Listen to the built-in sounds or connect to any MP3 devices for baby’s musical favorites. The three fabric options—a soft plush, smooth polyester, or breathable fabric—are all machine-washable.
Similar to sitting in a nursery glider with you, the motion of this swing is a smooth ride for baby. In addition to different gliding speeds, there is a two-speed vibration mode. A timer makes sure the glider is on only when you want it to be, and it can be plugged in or run on batteries. Music and an overhead toy bar all help keep little ones entertained.
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These structured and hybrid baby carriers are filled with features you’ll love, like pockets, breathable material and elements borrowed from wraps. As a bonus, we’ve included our favorite carriers and wraps from previous years, so you’ll have no problem finding the baby carrier best suited to your lifestyle and baby. From the Colugo baby carrier to new releases from MOBY, Tula, Solly Baby, Ergobaby, Graco, LÍLLÉbaby, BABYBJÖRN and more, you’re sure to find your fave. Read on for the best baby carrier for newborns and older kids.
Reduce infant crying, increase connection, and enjoy hands-free wearing in our buttery-soft and breathable Solly Wrap. Even weight distribution makes the Solly Baby Wrap so comfortable for both baby and the wearer, year round. Available in multiple colors and prints!
Babies can be carried facing in or out in this easy-to-put-on carrier. All the buckles are in front, so you don't need to reach back to adjust or remove it. It fits petite wearers and sixes up to XL, and it fits baby from 8 to 30 pounds. There are two zippered storage pockets for all your essentials, and the adjustable head support flips up or down as needed to support baby's head. Machine-washable for easy cleaning.
3D mesh fabric keeps you and your baby cool and comfortable in this new soft-yet-sturdy carrier from BABYBJÖRN. As your child grows, you can adjust the length, seat area and leg position for maximum comfort. And three head positions give your child the head and neck support needed. For the wearer, two height positions let you adjust the waist belt to either the waist (for newborns) or the hips (for older kids) to better distribute the weight. Babies can be carried facing in, facing out or back carry.
Keep your baby (and yourself) cool and comfortable with this new carrier from Ergobaby. The Omni Breeze is made with mesh fabric to maximize airflow in key areas, including the waist belt. The shoulder straps are cushioned and crossable for a close, cozy fit and there's lumbar support in the waist belt for longer strolls and hikes. Reflective areas on the front and back of the carrier add safety, and the built-in side pockets store essentials. There's also a detachable pouch for larger items, like your phone, keys and credit cards. Babies can be carried facing inward, outward and on your back.
The name says it all. Created with the help of NICU experts and parents of premature babies, this baby carrier envelops your newborn in a soft, comfy hug. It's designed for babies 5-20 pounds and has a size-inclusive design that makes it comfortable for petite and plus-size caregivers. There's a soft, structured center panel and yoga-inspired wraps that hold baby securely and comfortably. A removable bolster keeps the littlest babies in the right position. Babies can be carried facing in, with either legs in frog position or legs out.
Keep cool with this lightweight carrier designed with airflow and comfort in mind. The soft, flex-knit fabric has breathable mesh panels that supports babies as they grow, and the softly structured design supports baby's neck and torso whether facing inward or outward. There's an integrated side pocket for keys and money and a pacifier clip. This carrier is designed for babies 8-33 pounds and adults of all shapes and sizes. Machine-washable.
The Aerloom baby carrier from Ergobaby makes it easier to get out and about with your baby. At 1.45 pounds, it's one of the lightest structured baby carriers on the market, and the streamlined design folds down small. The eco-friendly fabric (it's made with 87% of post-consumer recycled polyester; that's about 26 water bottles!) is stretchy, supportive and features built-in airflow to keep you and your child cool. Kids can sit facing in, facing out and back carry in this machine-washable carrier designed for kids 7-35 pounds.
Designed both for pregnancy and motherhood, this soft wrap is a game-changer. Wear it like a t-shirt during pregnancy to support your belly and back, and then slip your newborn in the soft, stretchy wrap to cradle them close. The breathable fabric helps regulate baby's temperature, and the carrier's shape is designed to support nursing and skin-to-skin contact. Babies can be carried up to 19.8 pounds, and the wrap is machine-washable and comes in plus sizes.
We're all more aware of cleanliness these days, and for good reason. This Omni 360 baby carrier from Ergobaby is made with a soft, anti-microbial fabric for an extra hygiene barrier between you and baby. The anti-microbial protection also eliminates stinky odors by neutralizing odor-causing bacteria, and the non-toxic material is safe for babies to chew. Babies, from newborns to 4 years old, can sit four ways: facing in, facing out, hip carry and back carry. This carrier comes in both cotton (pictured above) and Cool Air Mesh and includes a matching face mask for adults.
This clever carrier grows with your family: Use it first as an infant carrier, then baby can sit inward-facing or outward-facing in the hip seat carrier. For older kids who like to hop on and off, you can remove the straps and use it as a hip seat only. And if another baby comes along, they can use the infant carrier while your older child sits on the hip seat. The hip seat carrier comes with padded lumbar support to evenly distribute a child's weight and protect your back. It also contains a zippered pocket for your valuables. The infant carrier is designed for kids 7.5-33 pounds; the hip seat carrier is for kids 6 months-33 pounds; and the hip seat is meant for kids 4 months-33 pounds.
Looking to pack light for travel or daily errands? This budget-friendly, ultra-compact carrier can be tucked away into its own hip pouch, while still leaving room for your essentials. The woven ripstop material is lightweight, durable and and quick-drying, and there's a detachable hood you can pull up for naps and shade. Kids can be carried on your front or back, facing in, between 12-30 pounds, and mesh padding on the leg, waistband and shoulder straps means comfort for you.
LÍLLÉbaby has upgraded and relaunched its SeatMe carrier with improved padding on the straps, a longer waistbelt and an inner-front waistbelt for improved comfort on the wearer. This soft-structured carrier converts to a hip seat when your baby gets older for easy on/off carrying. There's also a roomy zippered pocket to fit all your necessities. Kids can sit inward-facing, outward-facing, back carry and on your hip. An infant pillow, sold separately, is required for babies up to 3 months, and the carrier is designed for kids 7-45 pounds.
Great for city strolls and nature walks, the Journey GO is made from breathable 3D mesh and moisture-wicking fabric and is machine-washable. It also sports reflective trim for safety and has a zippered pocket for essentials. It holds kids 8-45 pounds and kids can sit inward-facing, forward-facing, hip carry and back carry; no infant insert required. There's a UPF 25+ sunshade that can be removed or tucked into a zippered pocket when not in use.
Also from Contours, the Cocoon hybrid carrier is soft and cozy like a wrap with the secure fit of a buckled waistband. It is made from knit fabrics with air vents for comfort and fits babies 8-33 pounds. This carrier adjusts easily for different wearers and as your child grows; kids can sit inward-facing, forward-facing, hip carry and back carry. There's reflective trim along the shoulder straps for safety, and there are four storage pockets for your and baby's essentials. Attach a toy for baby on the toy loop to keep them entertained. Machine washable.
This hybrid baby carrier has soft, stretchy knit fabric and cross-back straps like a wrap carrier but with the buckles and waist belt of a structured carrier. It's machine-washable and rolls up compactly so you can easily pack it in a diaper bag or suitcase for outings and travel. Babies can sit inward-facing or forward-facing, and the carrier is intended for babies between 7 and 25 pounds (no infant insert required).
This four-position carrier (inward-facing, forward-facing, hip carry, back carry) has only one set of adjustments to give a growing baby the perfect, cozy fit. The waist belt incorporates lumbar support for added comfort for the wearer, and there are padded shoulder straps and padded head and neck support for baby. Breathable mesh fabric keeps you both cool, and the carrier is machine-washable. Designed for babies from 7 pounds to 45 pounds without an infant insert, the carrier also features two storage pockets and a UPF 45+ hood to block the sun.
This lightweight, machine-washable carrier features breathable mesh between you and baby to keep you both cooler, and magnetic buckles that make it easier to get baby safely situated. It supports both inward-facing and outward-facing seating and has pockets big enough to store diapers, wipes, keys, wallet, phone and more. There’s also a UPF 50+ hood for sunny outings. It’s suitable for kids from 7 pounds (without an infant insert) to 30 pounds. And because this is a direct-to-consumer company (meaning you buy directly from Colugo), you’ll get a great price and stellar customer service with your purchase.
Also from LILLEbaby, the Pursuit comes in the All Seasons material with a zipdown panel and breathable mesh, along with a water-resistant shell, as well as Pro material, which is made from a durable, soft-knit fabric. There's also a Sport version with water-resistant ripstop fabric. They all boast seven storage pockets, reflective details and multiple seating positions: Kids can sit inward fetal, with legs tucked in; inward-facing; forward-facing; hip carry; and back carry. This carrier is designed for use between 7 and 45 pounds.
If you need to stand for extended periods, like at an older child’s sports games, the Mamapod carrier is one to check out, thanks to its optional support pole you can attach to alleviate pressure on your neck, back and shoulders. This machine-washable carrier features a cozy hood, soft mesh for breathability, and a hip seat that folds down when not in use. Baby can sit facing inward or forward, and you can remove the front panel and just use the hip seat to prop baby on. The support pole weighs less than 1 pound and can be folded up and stored in the seat pocket when not in use. Designed for babies 12-44 pounds.
Safety, function and impeccable style are just a few reasons we can’t get enough of Cybex. And their newest carrier, the Maira.Tie, epitomizes everything we love about this brand. The carrier offers an ergonomic seating panel and a multi-functional head and neck rest for newborns to toddlers. With padded shoulder straps for crossed and parallel wearing, this carrier can be tied for front, side and back carrying.
—copy by Erin Lem & Eva Ingvarson Cerise; photos courtesy of each retailer
The only thing better than a snuggly pair of pajamas on a cold winter night is knowing that somewhere a child in need is staying warm too because of your good deed. The Carter’s Pajama Program is back this year to help keep kids across the country stay warm and cozy this winter.
Carter’s is celebrating the 12th year of its partnership with the incredible Pajama Program. Now through Dec. 24, 2021, customers can make a donation in-store at any Carter’s location or online to provide kids everywhere the comfort of new jammies.
The Pajama Program is a national nonprofit organization that promotes and helps to provide a comforting bedtime routine for children in need. In addition to your own contribution, Carter’s its continuing its tradition of donating 100,000 pairs of PJ’s. Since the partnership, the brand has donated over 2 million pajamas!
To make your donation online, simply click the monetary amount you’d like to donate on the checkout page when you place your order.
If you plan to donate in store after picking up your kiddos own jammies, simply let the cashier know upon checkout.
While finally getting to snuggle your baby may be gift enough, many new moms revel in getting a push present too! These gifts don’t just mark the special day but also recognize the hard emotional and physical work involved in birthing a baby. Read on to discover some inspo for great push presents.
Baby Jogger
A Splurge Is there something the new mom really wanted but didn't get at her baby shower? Now is the time to give her that coveted item. Strollers and diaper bags are great choices you can use right away. A Baby Jogger City Select 2 is a sought-after stroller because of its versatility, including the ability to grow with a family to two and even three children. And the new mom will probably be using her diaper bag for at least a couple of years, so it makes sense to start off with one that she loves and that will last. Check out our guide to stylish and functional diaper bags.
Names for Good
Jewelry Personalized jewelry is among the most popular push presents for good reason. Necklaces from Nokona can be personalized with birthstones and initials. Necklaces from Tiny Tags can be personalized with names, birthdates, birthstones and more. Other moms opt for a necklace with their child's birth flower like these from Glazd Jewels or an ode to their child's name, such as an arrow necklace for a baby named Hunter. Or, a bracelet from Names for Good (above) with the baby's name makes a great push present. Even better, get a set including the baby's birthdate and a Mama bracelet!
Forbidden Foods It's no surprise moms are hungry after spending hours working to bring a new life into the world. Add in that mom may have spent the last nine months avoiding her favorite foods, like soft cheeses, sushi and anything with caffeine, and it becomes clear that a feast of her favorites makes a great push present. Send a box of Wisconsin Cheese full of delicacies she couldn't have while pregnant. Luxe tea from Tea Runners is also a good choice, especially if you choose a flavor that will give her a caffeine boost to help her function after late nights with a newborn. If she's still avoiding alcohol, toast to a job well done with Mingle mocktails so the new Mom can celebrate her new baby without thinking about whether it's safe to take a drink.
Make Her Life Easier A pair of upscale wireless earbuds like these from Sony are a worthy splurge. No wires for baby to pull on, and extreme noise cancellation works to block out distractions whenever the new mom manages to get some alone time. Add on a BioLite Charge back-up battery so that even when mom is too tired to plug in her phone she can keep scrolling. Or, go low-tech and get her a Yeti tumbler that will help keep her well hydrated throughout the day. New moms also spend a lot of time holding their newborn with one hand. A Kindle Paperwhite will allow mom to read during all of those hours she is blissfully trapped under her baby. Adjustable warm light and dark mode mean that she can flip pages without disturbing her little one's nap. If mom prefers to watch TV, a new 4K Alexa-enabled Firestick is a great choice. Mom just needs to ask Alexa to turn on her favorite show or she can use the Alexa built into the included remote.
Cozy Comfort After having a new baby, day can become indistinguishable from night. A Bearaby knitted weighted blanket is the perfect gift for new moms to make the most of the time they have to sleep. These blankets are incredibly soft and just heavy enough to provide enough weight to help people get to sleep faster and sleep more deeply. They even come in luxe fabrics like velvet. Or, try a Verve Culture Moroccan blanket that's big enough (and soft enough) for the entire family to snuggle under. Since new moms spend a lot of time at home, a pair of Dooey's house loafers keep her comfy at home without looking frumpy.
KYTEbaby
Mommy & Me Outfits Let her revel in her new role with matching mommy-and-me clothes. A KYTEbaby lounge dress is comfy enough to sleep in whenever mom is lucky enough to get some Zzz's but cute enough to wear out for a quick errand or walk around the block. Get a matching romper for baby for impromptu, Insta-worthy photoshoots.
Help Her Glow Level up her skincare and beauty game by splurging on skincare products made with truffles. Truffoire luxe skincare will make her feel like she has had a trip to the spa, even when she hasn't left the house in days. Or, give her a way to quickly look her best when company arrives with lip tints from Eleve Cosmetics. Tired eyes? Give her the gift of looking not as exhausted as she feels with Holos, a serum made with soothing aloe vera and cucumber. Add an Oura Hydroglove so she can quickly exfoliate and go!
Get It Together A new baby comes with a lot of responsibility. Mom now needs to juggle feedings, diaper changes and somehow fit in sleep, showers and meals. A Skylight Calendar helps keep a new mom organized. She will love being able to integrate the family calendar, color-code tasks, access her shopping list and even display photos of her new bundle of joy. A Fitbit watch tracks both sleep and steps. Best of all, she can read her texts and and answer calls right from her wrist on some Fitbit models, meaning she can continue to stay in touch without putting down her newborn.
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With the holiday season comes an onslaught of (unavoidable) events like school performances, family dinners, Christmas parties and more. The last thing you need is to try and squeeze shopping for fancy clothes into your hectic schedule. The good news? We went ahead and did it for you. From holiday dresses to the sweetest baby boy Christmas outfit, we’ve found the sweetest holiday clothes for your little ones, all of which are available to buy online, right now. Keep reading to see them all.
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For a kiddo who isn’t quite a toddler, this adorable set that includes a onesie with a bowtie and suspender pants is perfect. You can even choose six different styles!
For your especially dapper little person, this tailored mod suit from Appaman is a real treat. The best part is that it comes in almost 20 colors and prints, so there’s a look for every kid.
Janie & Jack always has something special for this time of year, and 2021’s offerings don’t disappoint. Choose from holiday dresses, blazers, baby outfits and accessories that all perfectly coordinate with one another.
Whether you’re looking for Thanksgiving dresses for girls or just want a sweet holiday dress, this handmade knit version comes in four seasonally-appropriate tones.
Family photos to Dallas families are like Tex-Mex cuisine—sacred. With the holidays on the horizon (get in while you can!), we decided to make a list of some of our favorite photographers in the metroplex. From studio portraits to outdoor mini sessions, keep reading to discover 10 photographers ready to capture your memories.
A Denton-based photographer, Brittney will travel to you and does everything from family photos to senior portraits. She loves scouting out unique locations, and her passion drives her to learn more and more about the art of capturing memories.
Recently named “Best Family Photographer in Dallas” by D Magazine, you can’t go wrong with the exquisite work of Jayme Okerblom. She has a studio but will do on-site sessions as well.
Robin Thompson is a member of Dallas PPA (Professional Photographers of America), and she’s been taking photography classes at Collin College for over a decade. She even has a dark room and offers workshops!
Flower Mound-based Tonia Laferriere fell in love with photography when her teenage boys were young, and that passion drove her to start her start capturing precious memories of families all across the metroplex.
Rachel is a Plano-based photographer whose work has been featured in Modern Luxury and People magazine, among other locations. She specializes in newborn, maternity, child and family portraits, so you’ll be in good hands.
Whether you’re hanging out at home this year or planning a night of trick or treating, you need a pair of cozy jammies to celebrate the season. From glow-in-the-dark skeletons to Mickey Mouse, to matching family pajamas, here are 10 adorable sets perfect for Halloween night.
Known for their simple but oh-so-comfy clothes, Primary has an adorable family pajama set for Halloween! All material is made from 100% GOTS certified organic cotton in an environmentally sustainable and socially responsible way.
Your Hogwarts-obsessed tween won’t think she’s too cool to hang with the family when she’s got a pair of these Marauders Map fitted pajamas from Pottery Barn Teen.
How fun is a set of family ghost pajamas? Pick a Halloween movie, hide candy around the house, make a Halloween-themed dinner and call it a successful night!
If you’re looking for costume ideas more unique than what you’ll find at Target or on Amazon, may we suggest Etsy? Not only will you get a quality kids’ Halloween costume, but you can find everything from Halloween costumes for 9-year-olds to dinosaur costumes and even some of the most popular Halloween costumes of the year. We’ve searched the Etsy Halloween Shop and found 13 adorable costumes for kids, scroll down to see them all.
Thinking about doing a Little Red Riding Hood theme this year? This beautiful grey wolf costume can be bought as an entire outfit or you can go with the furry hood and tail and add matching pajamas or pants and a shirt yourself.
You know that they're the ones feeding your Starbucks addiction so why not have your little one decked out as your favorite beverage this Halloween. Bonus: the onesie can be worn even after Halloween.
Not only are there several different colors to choose from, but you can have this costume customized as well. Maybe your tot is going at Chef Louie from The Little Mermaid, or maybe your grade school kid worships the Food Network. Either way, this is a fun costume idea that will get play well after Halloween is over. Sizes range from 2T - 14Y.
The Mistress of All Evil would approve of this Halloween costume for kids. You can start with the cape and add on other things like the horns and dress for an added cost. Sizes range from 2T - 12Y.
This sweet sweatshirt comes in black or white, and sizes range from baby to adult, which makes it easy to create a Game of Thrones, Mother of Dragons costume. Plus, it’s super comfy, so little ones won’t be pulling or complaining about itchy sequins or polyester. Sizes range from 1T to adult.
A gorgeous version of a classic kids’ Halloween costume, you’ll get the bodice, tulle skirt and hat. We can see this being a popular addition to your kids’ dress-up bin! Sizes range from newborn to 9Y.
Who doesn’t love Charlie Brown and the Peanuts gang? This simple shirt needs only to be paired with pants and a little curl drawn on the forehead, and is especially cute on a bald baby. Throw in a Snoopy costume, and you’re ready to go. Sizes range from newborn to 6T.
Salute the health care workers who have been on the front line of the pandemic with a set of scrubs. You can have it customized, and there are several colors to choose from. Sizes range from 2T - 16Y.
One of literature's most beloved protagonists comes to life with the adorable Madeline costume. You can opt to buy the dress only, or buy the dress and hat as a combo.
Boppy products are super popular with new parents, but the company is facing a massive recall due to reports of eight infant deaths since 2015. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has announced the recall of the Boppy Original Newborn Lounger, Boppy Preferred Newborn Lounger and Pottery Barn Kids Boppy Newborn Loungers.
In total 3.3 million loungers are under recall, which have been sold since 2004 for between $30 and $44. This recall involves all loungers produced, no matter the style or color option. Eight infants reportedly suffocated after being found on their side or on their stomach in the loungers.
“These types of incidents are heartbreaking,” said Acting Chairman Robert S. Adler. “Loungers and pillow-like products are not safe for infant sleep, due to the risk of suffocation. Since we know that infants sleep so much of the time – even in products not intended for sleep – and since suffocation can happen so quickly, these Boppy lounger products are simply too risky to remain on the market.”
Boppy noted that the lounger was not marketed as an infant sleep product and the CSPC continues to emphasize that the best place for an infant to sleep is on a firm, flat surface. If you have one of these loungers or know someone who does, immediately stop using it and contact The Boppy Company for a refund.
––Sarah Shebek
Image courtesy of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission